Computer-readable storage media

Abstract

This invention relates to a computer-readable storage medium. A computer-readable storage medium stores computer-readable instructions for a terminal device including a processor. When executed by the processor, the computer-readable instructions cause the terminal device to: generate multiple label datasets for creating multiple print labels, each label dataset including print data and attribute specification information; acquire multiple media type information sets for multiple printing devices, each media type information set indicating the type of print media installed in the corresponding printing device; determine multiple output destinations for the multiple label datasets from among the multiple printing devices based on the multiple label datasets and the multiple media type information sets; and send each of the multiple label datasets to its corresponding output destination.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a computer-readable storage medium for storing a computer-readable instruction set and a printing processing method. Background Technology

[0002] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2012-254566 describes a technique for creating multiple overlapping printed labels. In this technique, an operating terminal outputs print data to multiple printing devices that use different types of printing media.

[0003] When multiple print labels are created by generating print data and outputting it to multiple print devices, as in the conventional techniques described above, the type of print media actually installed in the print devices must be suitable for creating multiple print labels.

[0004] However, the aforementioned traditional techniques do not specifically consider whether the type of printing media is suitable for creating printed labels. Therefore, if the printing media installed in any printing device is incompatible with the printed labels to be created on that device, the operator may need to change the output destination of the print data, adjust the print data, or replace the printing media installed in the device. In such cases, it is not easy to easily create multiple printed labels that are to overlap each other in a short period of time. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of this, the purpose of this disclosure is to provide: a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer-readable instruction set for reliably and quickly creating multiple printed labels in a desired form for use in an overlapping state; and a printing processing method for reliably and quickly creating multiple printed labels in a desired form for use in an overlapping state.

[0006] (1) To achieve the above and other objectives, according to one aspect, this disclosure provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer-readable instruction set for a terminal device, the terminal device including a processor and a communication interface, the communication interface enabling the terminal device to communicate with a plurality of printing devices, in which printing media can be installed. When executed by the processor, the computer-readable instruction set causes the terminal device to: (a) generate a plurality of label datasets for creating corresponding print labels among a plurality of print labels overlapping each other in their thickness direction, each label dataset including print data indicating the print content of the corresponding print label and attribute specification information specifying the attributes of the print media used to create the corresponding print label; (b) obtain, via the communication interface, a plurality of media type information sets for the corresponding print devices among the plurality of printing devices, each media type information set indicating the type of print media installed in the corresponding print device; (c) determine, based on the plurality of label datasets generated in (a) and the plurality of media type information sets obtained in (b), a plurality of output destinations for the corresponding label datasets among the plurality of label datasets from the plurality of printing devices; and (d) send each of the plurality of label datasets to the corresponding output destination determined in (c).

[0007] (2) In the computer-readable storage medium according to aspect (1), preferably, the determination in (c) includes: (e) for each of the plurality of media type information sets, determining whether any of the attribute specification information included in each of the plurality of label datasets satisfies a matching condition with the media type information; and (f) when it is determined in (e) that a matching condition is satisfied between one of the plurality of media type information sets and one of the attribute specification information included in each of the plurality of label datasets, determining the printing device corresponding to one of the plurality of media type information sets as the output destination of the print data included in the label data containing one of the attribute specification information.

[0008] (3) In the computer-readable storage medium according to aspect (1), it is preferred that, whenever an output destination of one of the plurality of labeled datasets is determined in (c), one of the plurality of labeled datasets is sent to the output destination determined in (c) in (d).

[0009] (4) In the computer-readable storage medium according to aspect (1), it is preferred that, after all the multiple output destinations of the corresponding label datasets in the multiple label datasets are determined in (c), each of the multiple label datasets is sent to the corresponding output destination determined in (c) in (d).

[0010] (5) In the computer-readable storage medium according to aspect (2), it is preferred that when it is determined in (e) that a matching condition is satisfied between one of the attribute specification information set and one of the multiple media type information sets, and in (e) it is determined that a matching condition is not satisfied between another attribute specification information set and any of the multiple media type information sets, the printing device corresponding to one of the multiple media type information sets is determined in (c) not only as the output destination of the print data included in the label data containing one attribute specification information set, but also as the output destination of the print data included in the label data containing another attribute specification information set.

[0011] (6) In any of the aspects (1) to (5) of the computer-readable storage medium, it is preferred that the computer-readable instruction set, when executed by the processor, causes the terminal device to further perform: (g) via a communication interface, acquire a plurality of print resolution information sets of corresponding print devices among a plurality of print devices, each print resolution information set indicating the print resolution of the corresponding print device; and determine a plurality of output destinations from a particular print device among the plurality of print devices, the particular print devices having equivalent print resolutions.

[0012] (7) In the computer-readable storage medium according to aspect (6), preferably, when the number of specific printing devices is insufficient for the number of multiple label datasets generated in (a), the printing devices in (c) whose absolute value of the deviation of the printing resolution indicated by the corresponding printing resolution information is greater than a predetermined threshold are identified as output destinations. The deviation of the printing resolution of the printing devices is calculated by subtracting the average of the group consisting of the printing resolution of the printing devices and the printing resolution of the specific printing devices already identified as output destinations in (c) from the printing resolution of the printing devices.

[0013] (8) In any of the aspects (1) to (5) of the computer-readable storage medium, it is preferred that the print data includes at least one of the following: characters or patterns or images; print colors to be used when printing; and print resolution to be used when printing; and each media type information set includes at least one of the following: the width of the print medium; the color of the print medium; and the material of the print medium.

[0014] (9) In any of the aspects (1) to (5) of the computer-readable storage medium, it is preferred that: the printing device includes a mounting section in which a media container capable of supplying printing media is detachably mounted; and each media type information set is container type information indicating the type of the media container mounted in the mounting section of the corresponding printing device.

[0015] (10) In a computer-readable storage medium according to any of aspects (1) to (5), it is preferred that: the terminal device includes a display unit; and the computer-readable instruction set, when executed by a processor, causes the terminal device to further: (h) acquire, via a communication interface, a plurality of device identification information sets of corresponding printing devices among a plurality of printing devices; and (i) display on the display unit the device identification information of each printing device determined as the output destination in (c).

[0016] (11) In the computer-readable storage medium according to aspect (3), preferably, when the computer-readable instruction set is executed by the processor, the terminal device further performs: (j) after one of the multiple tag data sets is sent in (d), displaying on the display unit the attribute specification information included in the tag data, which includes the printed data that has not yet been sent through (d).

[0017] (12) In the computer-readable storage medium according to aspect (6), it is preferred that: the terminal device includes a display unit; and the computer-readable instruction set, when executed by the processor, causes the terminal device to further perform: (k) displaying an inquiry as to whether the use of a printing device with a different printing resolution than the printing resolution of the particular printing device is permitted when the number of particular printing devices is insufficient for the number of multiple label datasets.

[0018] (13) According to another aspect, this disclosure provides a printing process method for creating a plurality of printed labels that overlap each other in their thickness direction using a plurality of printing devices, the printing process method comprising: (a) generating: first label data for creating a first printed label, the first label data including first print data and first attribute specification information, the first print data indicating a first print content of the first printed label, the first attribute specification information specifying a print media attribute for creating the first printed label; and second label data for creating a second printed label, the second label data including second print data and second attribute specification information, the second print data indicating a second print content of the second printed label, the second attribute specification information specifying a print media attribute for creating the second printed label; (b) acquiring first media type information indicating the type of print media installed in the first printing device; (c) acquiring second media type information indicating the type of print media installed in the second printing device; (d) sending the first print data to the first printing device when the first media type information matches the first attribute specification information; and (e) sending the second print data to the second printing device when the second media type information matches the second attribute specification information.

[0019] (14) According to another aspect, the present disclosure provides a computer-readable storage medium that stores a computer-readable instruction set for a terminal device, the terminal device including a processor and a communication interface. When executed by a processor, a computer-readable instruction set causes the terminal device to: (a) generate: first label data for creating a first printed label, the first label data including first print data and first attribute specification information, the first print data indicating a first print content of the first printed label, and the first attribute specification information specifying print media attributes for creating the first printed label; and second label data for creating a second printed label, the second label data including second print data and second attribute specification information, the second print data indicating a second print content of the second printed label, and the second attribute specification information specifying print media attributes for creating the second printed label; (b) acquire, via a communication interface, first media type information indicating the type of print media installed in the first printing device; (c) acquire, via a communication interface, second media type information indicating the type of print media installed in the second printing device; (d) send the first print data to the first printing device when the first media type information matches the first attribute specification information; and (e) send the second print data to the second printing device when the second media type information matches the second attribute specification information. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Specific features and advantages of the embodiments, as well as other objects, will become apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0021] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of a printing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0022] Figure 2 This is a functional block diagram showing the functional configuration of the terminal devices and label printers included in the printing system;

[0023] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of an ink cartridge that can be installed in a printing device;

[0024] Figures 4A to 4D This is an illustrative diagram showing an example of creating a print label by overlapping three print labels. Figure 4A This shows how three printed labels overlap to form the topmost printed label. Figure 4B This shows another printed label that forms the middle layer when three printed labels overlap. Figure 4C This illustrates how three printed labels overlap to form the bottommost printed label. Figure 4D This illustrates a composite label created by sequentially overlapping three printed labels;

[0025] Figure 5 This is an illustrative diagram showing how print data is distributed and sent to a corresponding label printer suitable for creating print labels by means of a method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0026] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the control process executed by the CPU of the terminal device according to an embodiment;

[0027] Figure 7 This is an illustrative diagram showing how print data is distributed and sent to a corresponding label printer suitable for creating print labels in a modified example where the output destination of certain print data cannot be set.

[0028] Figure 8 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of how print data is distributed and sent to a corresponding label printer suitable for creating print labels, in a variation of setting the output destination while taking print resolution into account.

[0029] Figure 9 This is an illustrative diagram showing another example of how print data is distributed and sent to a corresponding label printer suitable for creating print labels, in a variation of setting the output destination with consideration of print resolution.

[0030] Figure 10 This is an illustrative diagram showing yet another example of how print data is distributed and sent to a corresponding label printer suitable for creating printed labels, in a variation of setting the output destination while taking print resolution into account; and

[0031] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating the control process executed by the CPU of the terminal device according to a variant example. Detailed Implementation

[0032] Next, an embodiment of this disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0033] <Overall Structure of the Printing System>

[0034] Figure 1 The overall structure of the printing system 1 according to this embodiment is shown. Figure 1In the example, printing system 1 includes an operating terminal 2 and multiple label printers 3. For example, the operating terminal 2 is configured as a smartphone. Multiple label printers 3 are all connected to the operating terminal 2. In this example, three label printers 3a, 3b, and 3c are wirelessly connected to the operating terminal 2. Each of the label printers 3a-3c can exchange information with the operating terminal 2. Alternatively, the operating terminal 2 can be configured as a general-purpose personal computer, etc. The label printers 3a-3c are configured to create printed labels L in response to user actions performed on the operating terminal 2. For convenience, label printers 3a, 3b, 3c, etc., are simply referred to as label printer 3. The operating terminal 2 is an example of a terminal device. The multiple label printers 3 are an example of multiple printing devices.

[0035] <Operating Terminal>

[0036] like Figure 2 As shown, the operating terminal 2 includes a CPU 11, a memory 12, an operating unit 13, a display unit 14, a communication control unit 15, and a large-capacity storage device 16. For example, the memory 12 includes RAM 12a, ROM 12b, etc. The CPU 11 is an example of a processor. The communication control unit 15 is an example of a communication interface.

[0037] The user inputs commands and information on the operation unit 13. The display unit 14 displays various information and messages. Note that the operation unit 13 and the display unit 14 can be configured as a touchscreen that has the functions of both the operation unit 13 and the display unit 14. The communication control unit 15 controls the exchange of signals (information) with the label printer 3.

[0038] Mass storage device 16 stores various programs and information. ROM 12b of memory 12 stores data for execution by CPU 11, as described later. Figure 6 and Figure 7 The steps in the flowchart describe the printing process. Alternatively, the printing process can be stored in a mass storage device 16. Note that the mass storage device 16 is not limited to internal memory, but can be a suitable external storage device (such as an SD card). The ROM 12b storing the printing process is an example of a computer-readable storage medium.

[0039] The CPU 11 performs various processes and exchanges various signals (various information) with the label printer 3 using the temporary storage function of RAM 12a according to the program pre-stored in ROM 12b and mass storage device 16.

[0040] <Label Printer>

[0041] like Figure 2As shown, each of the label printers 3 includes a control circuit 21, a cartridge holder 22, a cartridge sensor 31 disposed in the cartridge holder 22, and a communication control unit 23. The control circuit 21 includes a ROM 21a, a RAM 21b, and a CPU 21c. The cartridge 101 is detachably mounted in the cartridge holder 22. The cartridge 101 is an example of a media container. The cartridge holder 22 is an example of a mounting portion.

[0042] The cartridge sensor 31 is configured to detect the type of cartridge 101 installed in the label printer 3 (cartridge holder 22) by means of suitable methods known in the art, such as mechanical detection or optical or magnetic detection.

[0043] When the control circuit 21 is connected to the communication control unit 15 of the operation terminal 2 via the communication control unit 23, the label printer 3 can exchange information with the operation terminal 2.

[0044] <Ink cartridges and cartridge holders>

[0045] Figure 3 The detailed structure of ink cartridge 101 and the related structure of ink cartridge holder 22 are shown. Ink cartridge 101 has a housing 101A, a first roller 103, a second roller 105, a ribbon supply roller 107, a ribbon take-up roller 108, and a ribbon feed roller 109.

[0046] The first roller 103 is formed by winding the base strip 102 around the roll member 103A and is arranged in the housing 101A. For example, the base strip 102 is configured with a bonding adhesive layer, a base layer, a mounting adhesive layer, and a release layer. These layers are stacked sequentially from the inward side of the wound base strip 102 that forms the first roller 103 toward the opposite side.

[0047] The second roller 105 is formed by winding a transparent cover film 104 around a roll member 105A. The transparent cover film 104 has the same width as the base tape 102. Note that although depicted as concentric circles for simplicity in the figures, the first roller 103 and the second roller 105 are actually wound in a spiral shape.

[0048] As described above, by installing the ink cartridge 101 in the ink cartridge holder 22, the cover film 104, baseband 102, etc. are indirectly installed in the ink cartridge holder 22 (label printer 3).

[0049] The ribbon supply roller 107 releases the ink ribbon 106. The ribbon take-up roller 108 takes up the ink ribbon 106 that has been used for printing. Note that if the cover film 104 is a thermal tape that can produce a specified color when heated, the ink ribbon 106 is not required. The base tape 102, cover film 104, and ink ribbon 106 are examples of printing media.

[0050] The feed roller 109 is rotatably supported near the tape discharge section of the ink cartridge 101. The feed roller 109 pressurizes the base tape 102 to the cover film 104 to form the printed label tape 110, while simultaneously conveying the printed label tape.

[0051] The ribbon take-up roller drive shaft 27 and the ribbon feed roller drive shaft 28 are disposed in the cartridge holder 22. The ribbon take-up roller drive shaft 27 is configured to take up the portion of the ink ribbon 106 that has been used for printing. The ribbon feed roller drive shaft 28 is configured to convey the aforementioned printed label tape 110. When the driving force of the conveyor roller motor (not shown) is sent to the ribbon take-up roller drive shaft 27 and the ribbon feed roller drive shaft 28, the ribbon take-up roller 108 and the ribbon feed roller 109 are driven to rotate in conjunction with each other.

[0052] The cartridge holder 22 is also provided with a printhead 29, which prints the desired content on the cover film 104 as it is conveyed.

[0053] Fixed blade 25 and movable blade 26 are disposed on the downstream side of the feed roller 109 and pressure roller 24 along the conveying path of the printed label tape 110. The movable blade 26 is configured to cooperate with the fixed blade 25 to cut through the printed label tape 110 in the thickness direction.

[0054] <Summary of Label Printer Operation>

[0055] In the label printer 3 with the above structure, when the ink cartridge 101 is installed in the ink cartridge holder 22, the cover film 104 and the ink ribbon 106 are inserted between the print head 29 and the pressure roller 30 opposite to the print head 29. At the same time, the base tape 102 and the cover film 104 are inserted between the belt feed roller 109 and the pressure roller 24 opposite to the belt feed roller 109.

[0056] When the ribbon take-up roller 108 and the feed roller 109 are driven to move along the ribbon... Figure 3 When the pressure roller 24 and the paper pressure roller 30 rotate synchronously in the directions indicated by the corresponding arrows B and C, the base tape 102 is released from the first roller 103 and supplied to the tape feed roller 109, and the cover film 104 is released from the second roller 105. The printhead 29 prints on the cover film 104 via multiple heating elements in the printhead 29 energized by a print drive circuit (not shown). The ribbon take-up roller drive shaft 27 drives the ribbon take-up roller 108 to take up the ink ribbon 106 already used for printing on the cover film 104.

[0057] The printing portions of the base tape 102 and the cover film 104 are integrally combined between the feed roller 109 and the pressure roller 24 to form a printed label tape 110, which is then conveyed out of the ink cartridge 101. Through the coordinated operation of the fixed blade 25 and the movable blade 26, the portion of the printed label tape 110 that has been conveyed out of the ink cartridge 101 is cut off, thereby producing a printed label L.

[0058] <Compound Label>

[0059] In this embodiment, multiple uniquely different printed labels L overlap and bond with each other in the thickness direction. In their bonded state, the printed labels L are then pasted onto the desired object. In this example, three printed labels L are created on label printers 3a-3c. More specifically, as described above, in this embodiment, different types of ink cartridges 101 are installed in label printers 3, and these label printers 3 are used to create multiple uniquely different printed labels L to be overlapped with each other. Reference will be made below. Figures 4A to 4C Here are some examples to describe these printed labels L.

[0060] Figure 4A This illustrates the topmost printed label LA formed when three printed labels overlap. In this example, a red prohibition mark M1, featuring a circle with a diagonal line running through the middle, is formed on each longitudinal end of the printed label LA. Figure 4B This illustrates another printed label LB that forms an intermediate layer when three printed labels overlap. In this example, a blue cigarette icon M2 depicting a smoker is formed at each vertical end of the printed label LB. Figure 4C This illustrates another printed label LC that forms the bottom layer when three printed labels overlap. In this example, black text T1 containing the string "No Smoking" is formed along the central area of ​​the vertical axis of the printed label LC.

[0061] In this example, used to create Figure 4A The print label LA in the middle has 110 and is used for creating Figure 4B The printed label LB in the middle has transparent label bands 110. Therefore, as described above, it is created by sequentially overlapping the printed label LA as the top layer, the printed label LB as the middle layer, and the printed label LC as the bottom layer. Figure 4D The printed label LL is shown below. In the following description, the printed label LL will be referred to as the "composite label LL". In addition, the printed label LA will be referred to as the "top label LA", the printed label LB will be referred to as the "middle label LB", and the printed label LC will be referred to as the "bottom label LC".

[0062] By overlapping the printed labels LA-LC, the prohibition marks M1 and cigarette icons M2 on the two vertical ends of the corresponding top label LA and middle label LB overlap to configure the composite no-smoking mark M12 in the composite label LL. Furthermore, the aforementioned text T1 is arranged between the two no-smoking marks M12. For ease of explanation below, the prohibition mark M1, cigarette icon M2, and no-smoking mark M12 will be simply referred to as "mark M," and these marks M and text T1 will be referred to as "printed objects."

[0063] Note that in this example, the top label LA, the middle label LB, and the bottom label LC all have the same width and the same length. Therefore, by overlapping... Figure 4A The top label LA shown Figure 4B The middle label LB shown Figure 4C The bottom labels LC shown are precisely aligned with each other to create the composite label LL.

[0064] As described above, ink cartridge 101 is used in label printer 3 by installing it in ink cartridge holder 22. Therefore, various printed labels L can be created by appropriately using various ink cartridges 101 installed in label printer 3. Here, for example, printed labels L with different band colors can be created by selectively using multiple types of ink cartridges 101 that produce printed label bands 110 with different colors. The color of the printed label (i.e., the band color of the printed label band 110) is an example of the color of the printing medium.

[0065] Similarly, by selectively using various types of ink cartridges 101 with different colored ink ribbons 106, printed labels L with different printing colors for printing the aforementioned printed objects can be created. Note that if the ink ribbon 106 is changed, at least one of the cover film 104 and the base tape 102 used to create the printed label can be interchangeable, and if the base tape 102 is changed, at least one of the cover film 104 and the ink ribbon 106 used to create the printed label can be interchangeable. These cases are equivalent to using printing media of different types.

[0066] <Features of this embodiment>

[0067] One feature of this embodiment with the above configuration is that multiple label printers 3 share the process of creating multiple printed labels L. Next, the case where the top label LA, middle label LB, and bottom label LC are assigned to and created by three label printers 3a-3c will be described in detail as an example.

[0068] <Print Data>

[0069] In this embodiment, the top label LA, middle label LB, and bottom label LC are created by printing corresponding printed objects on the cover film 104 in three ink cartridges of different types 101. To create these labels, print data representing the print content of the top label LA, print data representing the middle label LB, and print data representing the bottom label LC are generated on the operation terminal 2, and these print datasets are distributed and output to label printers 3a-3c. The print content includes characters, patterns, icons, images, etc., printed by the corresponding printhead 29. The print data also includes the specifications of the print colors of the ink ribbon 106. That is, each print dataset specifies the print colors used to create the corresponding print label L. It is sufficient for the print data to include at least one of the following: the characters, patterns, or images to be printed; the print colors used when printing; and the print resolution used when printing (described below).

[0070] <Attribute Specification Information>

[0071] Each print dataset is associated with attribute specification information specifying the print label tape 110 and ink tape 106 used to create the corresponding print label L. The attribute specification information includes specifications for the tape width and tape color of the print label tape 110 used to create the corresponding print label L. The attribute specification information also includes specifications for the print color of the ink tape 106 used to create the corresponding print label L. That is, each attribute specification information set specifies the attributes (hereinafter referred to as "cartridge attributes") of the ink cartridge 110 used to create the corresponding print label L. This attribute specification information is generated on the operation terminal 2, similar to the print data described above. In this embodiment, the specifications of three ink cartridge attributes—tape width, tape color, and print color—are included in the attribute specification information as described above. However, the attribute specification information may also include specifications for the material composition of the cover film 104, base tape 102, etc. Furthermore, it is sufficient for the attribute specification information to include at least one of the specifications for tape width, tape color, print color, and tape material (i.e., material composition).

[0072] <Applicability of Installed Cartridge Type to Tag Data>

[0073] As described above, the generated print data for each of the top label LA, middle label LB, and bottom label LC is output to label printers 3a-3c, and each label printer 3 creates one of the assigned top label LA, middle label LB, and bottom label LC individually. Therefore, before outputting the above print data, it is important to determine whether the type of ink cartridge 101 actually installed in each label printer 3 is suitable for creating the corresponding top label LA, middle label LB, and bottom label LC.

[0074] As described above, the cartridge sensor 31 in each label printer 3 detects the type of the cartridge 101 installed therein. Furthermore, the type of cartridge 101 is pre-correlated with the types of the cover film 104, ink ribbon 106, base tape 102, etc. (i.e., the attributes of the cover film 104, ink ribbon 106, base tape 102, etc.). Therefore, the attributes of the cover film 104, ink ribbon 106, base tape 102, etc. (i.e., cartridge attributes such as the aforementioned tape width, tape color, printing color, tape material, etc.) are detected by using the cartridge sensor 31 to detect the type of cartridge 101. For convenience, in the following description, the top label LA, the middle label LB, and the bottom label LC will be referred to simply as "Label LA-LC".

[0075] To determine the above applicability, in this embodiment, after generating label data for creating each of the labels LA-LC (i.e., after generating label data for creating the top label LA, label data for creating the middle label LB, and label data for creating the bottom label LC), the operating terminal 2 obtains the cartridge type information corresponding to the detection results of the cartridge sensor 31 of the label printers 3a-3c.

[0076] Each label dataset includes: print data used to create the corresponding print label L; and attribute specification information associated with the print data. That is, the label data for the top label LA includes the print data for the top label LA and the attribute specification information associated with the print data; the label data for the middle label LB includes the print data for the middle label LB and the attribute specification information associated with the print data; and the label data for the bottom label LC includes the print data for the bottom label LC and the attribute specification information associated with the print data.

[0077] The cartridge type information indicates the type of cartridge 101 installed in the cartridge holder 22 of label printers 3a-3c. Specifically, the cartridge type information corresponding to the detection result of the cartridge sensor 31 of label printer 3a indicates the type of cartridge 101 actually installed in label printer 3a; the cartridge type information corresponding to the detection result of the cartridge sensor 31 of label printer 3b indicates the type of cartridge 101 actually installed in label printer 3b; and the cartridge type information corresponding to the detection result of the cartridge sensor 31 of label printer 3c indicates the type of cartridge 101 actually installed in label printer 3c. Therefore, the cartridge type information includes cartridge attributes such as the band width, band color, print color, and band material described above. This is because the type of cartridge 101 is pre-associated with the cartridge attributes described above. The cartridge type information is an example of media type information and also an example of container type information. The band width included in the cartridge type information is an example of the width of the print media. The band color included in the cartridge type information is an example of the color of the print media. The band material included in the cartridge type information is an example of the material of the print media. Ink cartridge properties are examples of print media properties.

[0078] <Distribution and Sending of Printed Data>

[0079] Based on the label data for each label in the LA-LC and the cartridge type information obtained from each of the label printers 3a-3c, the operation terminal 2 distributes and sends the print data to the corresponding label printers 3a-3c suitable for creating the LA-LC. Next, refer to... Figure 5 An example describing this distribution and sending.

[0080] <Ink cartridge type information obtained from each label printer>

[0081] exist Figure 5 In the example shown, the cartridge type information obtained by the operating terminal 2 from the label printer 3a indicates that the cartridge 101 installed in the label printer 3a has a 12mm band width, a transparent band color, and a blue printing color. For convenience, this cartridge 101 will be referred to as "Cartridge B" in the following description. This symbol will be used in all figures.

[0082] The ink cartridge information obtained by the operating terminal 2 from the label printer 3b indicates that the ink cartridge 101 installed in the label printer 3b has a tape width of 12mm, a white tape color, and a black printing color. For convenience, this ink cartridge 101 will be referred to as "Ink Cartridge C" in the following description. Similarly, the ink cartridge type information obtained by the operating terminal 2 from the label printer 3c indicates that the ink cartridge 101 installed in the label printer 3c has a tape width of 12mm, a transparent tape color, and a red printing color. For convenience, this ink cartridge 101 will be referred to as "Ink Cartridge A" in the following description.

[0083] <Tag data generated by the operating terminal>

[0084] In the label data generated by the operating terminal 2 for the top label LA, the attribute specification information specifies a 12mm band width, a transparent band color, and a red printing color. The printing data in the label data of the top label LA includes the image of the aforementioned prohibition mark M1, and specifies the red printing color used to form the prohibition mark M1 as red.

[0085] Similarly, the attribute specifications in the label data of the middle label LB specify a 12mm band width, a transparent band color, and a blue printing color. Furthermore, the printing data in the label data of the middle label LB includes the image of the cigarette icon M2 mentioned above, and specifies a blue printing color for forming the cigarette icon M2 as blue.

[0086] Similarly, the attribute specifications in the label data of the bottom label LC specify a 12mm band width, a white band color, and a black printing color. Furthermore, the printing data in the label data of the bottom label LC includes the aforementioned text T1, and specifies a black printing color for forming the text T1 as black.

[0087] <Set the output destination for print data>

[0088] Based on the information in the example above, since the ink cartridge A installed in the label printer 3c matches the cartridge attributes specified by the attribute specifications information ("band width: 12mm", "band color: transparent", and "print color: red") in the label data of the top label LA, the operating terminal 2 sets the label printer 3c as the output destination for the print data of the top label LA. When the operating terminal 2 sends the print data to the label printer 3c, the label printer 3c creates a transparent print label tape 110 with a red prohibition mark M1 formed therein, and cuts the created print label tape 110, thereby creating the top label LA.

[0089] Similarly, since the ink cartridge B installed in the label printer 3a matches the ink cartridge attributes specified by the attribute specification information ("band width: 12mm", "band color: transparent", and "print color: blue") in the label data of the intermediate label LB, the operating terminal 2 sets the label printer 3a as the output destination for the print data of the intermediate label LB. When the operating terminal 2 sends the print data to the label printer 3a, the label printer 3a creates a transparent printed label band 110 with a blue cigarette icon M2 formed therein, and cuts the created printed label band 110, thereby creating the intermediate label LB.

[0090] Similarly, since the ink cartridge C installed in the label printer 3b matches the ink cartridge attributes specified by the attribute specification information ("band width: 12mm", "band color: white", and "print color: black") in the label data of the bottom label LC, the operation terminal 2 sets the label printer 3b as the output destination for the print data of the bottom label LC. When the operation terminal 2 sends the print data to the label printer 3b, the label printer 3b creates a white printed label tape 110 with black text T1 formed therein and cuts the created printed label tape 110, thereby creating the bottom label LC.

[0091] In the relationship between the top label LA and the middle label LB, the top label LA is an example of a first printed label, and the middle label LB is an example of a second printed label; the label data of the top label LA is an example of first label data, and the label data of the middle label LB is an example of second label data; the print data included in the label data of the top label LA is an example of first print data, and the print data included in the label data of the middle label LB is an example of second print data; the attribute specification information included in the label data of the top label LA is an example of first attribute specification information, and the attribute specification information included in the label data of the middle label LB is an example of second attribute specification information; label printer 3c is an example of a first printing device, and label printer 3a is an example of a second printing device; and the cartridge type information obtained from label printer 3c is an example of first media type information, and the cartridge type information obtained from label printer 3a is an example of second media type information.

[0092] In the relationship between the intermediate label LB and the bottom label LC, the intermediate label LB is an example of a first printed label, and the bottom label LC is an example of a second printed label; the label data of the intermediate label LB is an example of first label data, and the label data of the bottom label LC is an example of second label data; the printing data included in the label data of the intermediate label LB is an example of first printing data, and the printing data included in the label data of the bottom label LC is an example of second printing data; the attribute specification information included in the label data of the intermediate label LB is an example of first attribute specification information, and the attribute specification information included in the label data of the bottom label LC is an example of second attribute specification information; label printer 3a is an example of a first printing device, and label printer 3b is an example of a second printing device; and the cartridge type information obtained from label printer 3a is an example of first media type information, and the cartridge type information obtained from label printer 3b is an example of second media type information.

[0093] In the relationship between the top label LA and the bottom label LC, the top label LA is an example of a first printed label, and the bottom label LC is an example of a second printed label; the label data of the top label LA is an example of first label data, and the label data of the bottom label LC is an example of second label data; the print data included in the label data of the top label LA is an example of first print data, and the print data included in the label data of the bottom label LC is an example of second print data; the attribute specification information included in the label data of the top label LA is an example of first attribute specification information, and the attribute specification information included in the label data of the bottom label LC is an example of second attribute specification information; label printer 3c is an example of a first printing device, and label printer 3b is an example of a second printing device; and the cartridge type information obtained from label printer 3c is an example of first media type information, and the cartridge type information obtained from label printer 3b is an example of second media type information.

[0094] <Control Process>

[0095] Reference Figure 6 The flowchart in the diagram illustrates an example of a control process executed by the CPU 11 of the operating terminal 2 to implement the above-described method. The CPU 11 executes this control process based on a printing process included in a program stored in ROM 12b. By executing this printing process, the CPU 11 implements the printing method described below according to this embodiment.

[0096] In S5, the CPU 11 receives editing operations via the operation unit 13 for creating the print content of the top label LA, middle label LB, and bottom label LC. Based on these editing operations, the CPU 11 generates label data for each of the top label LA, middle label LB, and bottom label LC.

[0097] In S10, CPU 11, based on the label data generated in S5, identifies the attribute specification information included in the label data for each identifier in the labels LA-LC. In other words, CPU 11 identifies the attribute of each specified cartridge in the labels LA-LC, such as band width, band color, and print color. In this embodiment, in S10, CPU 11 specifies the band width, band color, and print color for each identifier in the labels LA-LC based on the attribute specification information included in the corresponding label data generated in S5.

[0098] Based on the above example, the specified cartridge attributes are identified as a 12mm band width, a transparent band color, and a red printing color from the label data of the top label LA; the specified cartridge attributes are identified as a 12mm band width, a transparent band color, and a blue printing color from the label data of the middle label LB; and the specified cartridge attributes are identified as a 12mm band width, a white band color, and a black printing color from the label data of the bottom label LC.

[0099] In S15, CPU 11 sets search criteria to search for a label printer 3 suitable for creating the LA-LC label. The search criteria are that the cartridge type information obtained from the label printer 3 satisfies a matching condition related to any set of attribute specification information identified in S10. That is, the search criteria are satisfied when a matching condition is met between the cartridge type information obtained from the label printer 3 and any set of attribute specification information identified in S10. The matching condition is that the cartridge attributes indicated by the cartridge type information completely match the cartridge attributes specified by the attribute specification information.

[0100] In S15, the CPU 11 sets the search range for label printers 3 that meet the search criteria set above. Initially, for example, in S15, the CPU 11 sets the search range to all label printers 3 that can communicate with the operation terminal 2. Alternatively, the CPU 11 can set an initial search range to limit these label printers 3 that can communicate with the operation terminal 2 to products from a specific manufacturer.

[0101] In S20, CPU 11 searches the search range set in S15 for label printer 3 via communication control unit 15. In S25, CPU 11 determines whether a label printer 3 falling within the search range has been found. If a label printer 3 falling within the search range has been found (S25: Yes), CPU 11 proceeds to S30. On the other hand, if no label printer 3 falling within the search range has been found (S25: No), CPU 11 returns to S20. That is, CPU 11 repeats steps S20 and S25 until a label printer 3 falling within the search range is found or until a predetermined time period has elapsed (i.e., a timeout occurs). Note that CPU 11 terminates when the predetermined time period has elapsed while CPU 11 is repeating steps S20 and S25. Figure 6 The processing shown.

[0102] In S30, CPU 11 obtains cartridge type information and printer information from label printer 3 located in S20 via communication control unit 15. That is, CPU 21c of label printer 3 sends cartridge type information indicating the type of cartridge 101 installed in cartridge holder 22 and printer information to operation terminal 2 via communication control unit 23.

[0103] The ink cartridge type information indicates the type of ink cartridge 101 installed in the label printer 3. The CPU 11 can obtain the ink cartridge attributes of the label printer 3, namely, the aforementioned tape width, tape color, printing color, etc., by the correlation between the type of ink cartridge 101 and the types of cover film 104, ink tape 106, etc.

[0104] The printer information includes the model name and serial number of the label printer 3, the capacity of the printhead 29, etc. The capacity of the printhead 29 may include the print resolution. Alternatively, it is not necessary to obtain the printer information along with the cartridge type information in S30. That is, the CPU 11 can obtain only the cartridge type information in S30. In this case, the printer information can be associated with the obtained cartridge type information in some other form, and the CPU 11 can use this association to obtain the printer information at an appropriate time. The model name information included in the printer information is an example of device identification information. Similarly, the serial number included in the printer information is an example of device identification information.

[0105] In S35, CPU 11 determines whether the label printer 3 found in S20 meets the search criteria. That is, if the cartridge type information obtained in S30 matches any set of attribute specification information identified in S10, CPU 11 determines that the label printer 3 found in S20 meets the search criteria. Conversely, if the cartridge type information obtained in S30 does not match any set of attribute specification information identified in S10—that is, if the cartridge type information obtained in S30 does not meet the matching criteria related to all sets of attribute specification information identified in S10—CPU 11 determines that the label printer 3 found in S20 does not meet the search criteria.

[0106] In this embodiment, in order to determine whether the label printer 3 found in S20 meets the search criteria, the CPU 11 determines whether the cartridge type information obtained in S30 meets the matching criteria associated with any of the following: attribute specification information included in the label data of the top label LA; attribute specification information included in the label data of the middle label LB; and attribute specification information included in the label data of the bottom label LC. More specifically, CPU 11 determines whether the tape width, tape color, and print color indicated by the cartridge type information obtained in S30 exactly match any of the following (1), (2), and (3) identified in S10: (1) “Tap width: 12mm, tape color: transparent, and print color: red” as specified by the attribute specification information in the label data of the top label LA; (2) “Tap width: 12mm, tape color: transparent, and print color: blue” as specified by the attribute specification information in the label data of the middle label LB; and (3) “Tap width: 12mm, tape color: white, and print color: black” as specified by the attribute specification information in the label data of the bottom label LC.

[0107] For example, if the tape width, tape color, and print color indicated by the cartridge type information obtained in S30 completely match the attribute specification information (3) "Tap width: 12mm, tape color: white, and print color: black" specified by the attribute specification information in the label data of the bottom label LC, the CPU 11 determines that the cartridge type information obtained in S30 and the attribute specification information included in the label data of the bottom label meet the matching condition LC. Furthermore, in this case, the CPU 11 determines that the label printer 3 found in S20 meets the search criteria.

[0108] Note that it is not a perfect match as described above; the matching conditions may allow slight differences or deviations in the dimensions of at least one of the band width, band color, and print color.

[0109] If the label printer 3 found in S20 does not meet the search criteria, i.e., the cartridge type information obtained in S30 does not meet the matching criteria related to any attribute specification information set identified in S10 (S35: No), then CPU 11 returns to S20. However, if the label printer 3 found in S20 meets the search criteria, i.e., the cartridge type information obtained in S30 matches any attribute specification information set identified in S10 (S35: Yes), then CPU 11 sets the label printer 3 found in S20 as the output destination for print data included in the label data, which includes attribute specification information that has been determined in S35 to be a complete match with the cartridge type information obtained in S30. Afterward, CPU 11 proceeds to S40. For example, if the CPU 11 determines in S35 that the tape width, tape color, and print color indicated by the acquired cartridge type information are exactly matched with (3) "tape width: 12mm, tape color: white, and print color: black" specified by the attribute specification information in the label data of the bottom label LC, the CPU 11 will set the label printer 3 found in S20 as the output destination of the print data included in the label data of the bottom label LC.

[0110] In S40, the CPU 11 stores the ink cartridge type information and printer information obtained in S30 in an appropriate location, such as the aforementioned large-capacity storage device 16.

[0111] In step S45, CPU 11 sends print data included in the label data to label printer 3, which is set as the output destination in step S35. This label data includes attribute specification information that the cartridge type information obtained in step S30 has been determined to be a complete match in step S35. The CPU 21c of label printer 3 receives this print data via communication control unit 23.

[0112] In the example above, CPU 11 sends the print data of the top label LA to label printer 3c, where cartridge A is being installed, matching the cartridge attributes of 12mm band width, transparent band color, and red printing color specified in the label data of the top label LA. Alternatively, CPU 11 sends the print data of the middle label LB to label printer 3a, where cartridge B is being installed, matching the cartridge attributes of 12mm band width, transparent band color, and blue printing color specified in the label data of the middle label LB. Alternatively, CPU 11 sends the print data of the bottom label LC to label printer 3b, where cartridge C is being installed, matching the cartridge attributes of 12mm band width, white band color, and black printing color specified in the label data of the bottom label LC. Through this process, the operation terminal 2 assigns the creation of top label LA, middle label LB, and bottom label LC to label printers 3a, 3b, and 3c based on its own cartridge type information sent in S30, and each creation of label printers 3a, 3b, and 3c constitutes one of the assigned top label LA, middle label LB, and bottom label LC of the composite label LL.

[0113] In S50, the CPU 11 displays on the display unit 14 identification information, such as model name information or serial number, for each label printer 3 to which the print data was sent in S45, based on the printer information stored in S40. In other words, in S50, the CPU 11 displays on the display unit 14 the identification information for each label printer 3 determined as the output destination of the print data in S35. In addition to the identification information, in S50, the CPU 11 displays on the display unit 14 the serial number, etc., of each piece of print data sent in S45. Here, the identification information is displayed cumulatively each time a "yes" determination is made in S35. Therefore, each time a label LA-LC is printed sequentially by the corresponding label printers 3a-3c, the label printer 3 that performed the printing is added to the display on the display unit 14.

[0114] The above Figure 5The display status on the display unit 14 of the operation terminal 2 is shown after all print data for labels LA, LB, and LC has been sent. As shown, the information displayed on the display unit 14 indicates that print data for the top label LA, with serial number "001", has been sent to label printer 3c, identified by "machine-c". Similarly, the information displayed on the display unit 14 indicates that print data for the middle label LB, with serial number "002", has been sent to label printer 3a, identified by "machine-a", and print data for the bottom label LC, with serial number "003", has been sent to label printer 3b, identified by "machine-b". By displaying all label printers 3 that have sent print data to the display unit 14 in this way, the user can easily identify which label printers 3 have performed printing.

[0115] return Figure 6 In S55, CPU 11 updates the aforementioned search criteria. More specifically, CPU 11 excludes attribute specification information included in the label data from the search criteria; this label information is contained in the print data sent in S45. For example, if the print data included in the label data of the top label LA has already been sent in S45, in the next and subsequent determinations in S35 regarding whether the found label printer 3 meets the search criteria, CPU 11 does not determine whether a matching condition is met between the cartridge type information and the attribute specification information included in the label data of the top label LA.

[0116] In S55, CPU 11 further updates the aforementioned search range. More specifically, CPU 11 excludes label printers 3 that met the search criteria determined in S35 (i.e., label printers 3 whose cartridge attributes have been determined in S35 to be exact matches of the specified tape width, tape color, and print color generated in S5 and identified in S10, and whose print data has been sent in S45) from the search range (search target). Subsequently, CPU 11 proceeds to S60.

[0117] In S60, CPU 11 determines whether all the print data generated in S5 has been sent. In this example, CPU 11 determines whether the print data for the top label LA, the middle label LB, and the bottom label LC has all been sent. If all print data has been sent (S60: Yes), then CPU 11 terminates. Figure 6 The processing continues. If the remaining print data has not yet been sent (S60: No), CPU 11 proceeds to S65.

[0118] In S65, CPU 11 displays the search criteria updated in S55 on display unit 14. In other words, CPU 11 displays the ink cartridge attributes (i.e., specified tape width, tape color, and printing color) generated in S5 and identified in S10 for use in the next and subsequent determinations in S35. At this time, an example of a label printer 3 that meets the updated search criteria (i.e., meets the displayed ink cartridge attributes) is displayed along with its identification information as described above. In this way, the user can clearly see which type of label printer 3 the operating terminal 2 is searching for. From this display, the user can prepare the applicable label printer 3 and ink cartridge 101. After the processing in S65, CPU 11 returns to S20 as described above.

[0119] according to Figure 6 As shown in the flowchart, CPU 11 generates print data for each of the top label LA, middle label LB, and bottom label LC. Subsequently, whenever a label printer 3 suitable for any print dataset is found, CPU 11 sends the corresponding print data to the label printer 3. In other words, whenever an output destination for a print dataset is determined in S35, a print dataset is sent to the determined output destination in S45.

[0120] <Effects of the Example>

[0121] In the above embodiment, the CPU 11, based on the ink cartridge type information of the ink cartridge 101 installed in the label printer 3 and the label data generated in S5, Figure 6 In S35 of the flowchart, the output destination for the print data is set for each printed label L. In this way, for each print dataset, the CPU 11 sets the output destination of the print data to a label printer 3 whose cartridge type information is suitable for the attribute specification information included in the label data; that is, a label printer 3 whose installed cartridge 101 has a cover film 104, ink ribbon 106, and baseband 102 compatible with the print label L to be created. In S45, the CPU 11 then outputs each print dataset to the corresponding label printer 3 set as the output destination.

[0122] According to the above embodiment, each print dataset used to create a print label L can be reliably output to a label printer 3 having a cover film 104, ink ribbon 106, baseband 102, etc., suitable for the print data. Therefore, multiple print labels L in the desired form, used in an overlapping state, can be reliably and quickly created.

[0123] As a specific feature of this embodiment, in S35, when a matching condition is met between the ink cartridge type information of the label printer 3 and the attribute specification information included in the label data, the CPU 11 sets the label printer 3 as the output destination. Therefore, each print dataset can be output to the label printer 3 equipped with the appropriate ink cartridge 101 more reliably.

[0124] like Figure 6 As shown in the flowchart, another feature of this embodiment is that whenever an output destination is set for print data associated with a print label L, the print data is output to the label printer 3 set as the output destination. In other words, while confirming the existence of a suitable label printer 3 as the output destination in S35, each print dataset is output in S45.

[0125] This method is suitable for situations where the type of ink cartridge 101 installed in a nearby label printer 3 is unknown, or where it is unclear whether the installed ink cartridge 101 is suitable for the form of the print label L to be created. In such cases, multiple print labels L can be created faster and more reliably compared to methods that output print data for all print labels L after setting the output destination of the print data. (See later for further details.) Figure 11 The latter method is described with a variation.

[0126] Another feature of this embodiment is that the ink cartridge 101, capable of supplying the cover film 104, baseband 102, ink ribbon 106, etc., is detachably installed in the ink cartridge holder 22, and ink cartridge type information indicating the type of ink cartridge 101 is used as media type information. Therefore, in S35, the CPU 11 sets the label printer 3 as the output destination of the print data based on the aforementioned label data and the ink cartridge type information related to the type of ink cartridge 101 installed in each label printer 3. As a result, the CPU 11 can set the output destination of the label data (more specifically, the print data) to the label printer 3 having an ink cartridge 101 compatible with the print label L to be created.

[0127] Another feature of this embodiment is that... Figure 6 The process in S50, executed in the flowchart, involves the CPU 11 displaying on the display unit 14 of the operation terminal 2 identification information of each label printer 3 that has been set as the output destination for print data and to which print data has been sent, such as model name information, serial number, etc.; and the serial number of the print data sent. In this way, the user can easily identify the label printer 3 to which print data has been output.

[0128] While specific embodiments of this disclosure have been described in detail, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many modifications and variations can be made therein. Some of these variations will now be described in detail, wherein similar parts and components are denoted by the same reference numerals to avoid repetition.

[0129] (1) There are label printers that do not meet the search criteria.

[0130] Since S35 confirms whether the acquired multiple cartridge type information sets meet the matching conditions related to the attribute specification information sets, some attribute specification information sets may not meet the matching conditions. In this case, the operation terminal 2 cannot set the output destination for the print data included in the label data, which includes attribute specification information that does not meet the matching conditions. Here, reference will be made to... Figure 7 The description describes a variant designed to handle this situation, which differs from the embodiments described above. Figure 5 correspond.

[0131] exist Figure 7 In the example shown, with Figure 5 As in the example, ink cartridge B, with a 12mm band width, a transparent band color, and a blue printing color, is installed in label printer 3a, and ink cartridge A, with a 12mm band width, a transparent band color, and a red printing color, is installed in label printer 3c. Therefore, label printer 3a is compatible with the printing data included in the label data of the middle label LB, which contains attribute specification information specifying a 12mm band width, a transparent band color, and a blue printing color. Furthermore, label printer 3c is compatible with the printing data included in the label data of the top label LA, whose attribute specification information specifies a 12mm band width, a transparent band color, and a red printing color.

[0132] However, the ink cartridge D, with a 24mm band width, a transparent band color, and a black printing color, is installed in the label printer 3b. Therefore, the label printer 3b is not suitable for any of the following: the attribute specifications for the middle label LB specifying a 12mm band width, a transparent band color, and a blue printing color; the attribute specifications for the top label LA specifying a 12mm band width, a transparent band color, and a red printing color; and the attribute specifications for the bottom label LC specifying a 12mm band width, a white band color, and a black printing color. Therefore, unlike the embodiment described above, the CPU 11 cannot set the output destination for the print data for the bottom label LC because the bottom label LC requires a 12mm band width, a white band color, and a black printing color.

[0133] In this variant, operator terminal 2 does not send any print data for the top label LA, middle label LB, or bottom label LC to label printer 3b. Instead, assuming the user will replace ink cartridge A in label printer 3c with ink cartridge C, operator terminal 2 sends the print data for the remaining bottom label LC to one of the remaining label printers 3a and 3c, specifically... Figure 7 The example is the label printer 3c.

[0134] Therefore, label printer 3c first receives print data including the label data of the top label LA and creates the corresponding top label LA while ink cartridge A is installed in label printer 3c. Then, label printer 3c displays a message on its display unit prompting the user to replace ink cartridge A with ink cartridge C. Subsequently, the user removes ink cartridge A and installs ink cartridge C in label printer 3c. While ink cartridge C is installed in label printer 3c, label printer 3c receives print data including the label data of the bottom label LC from operation terminal 2 and creates the corresponding bottom label LC.

[0135] In the relationship between the top label LA and the bottom label LC in the above variation, the top label LA is an example of a first printed label, and the bottom label LC is an example of a second printed label; the label data of the top label LA is an example of first label data, and the label data of the bottom label LC is an example of second label data; the printing data included in the label data of the top label LA is an example of first printing data, and the printing data included in the label data of the bottom label LC is an example of second printing data; the attribute specification information included in the label data of the top label LA is an example of first attribute specification information, and the attribute specification information included in the label data of the bottom label LC is an example of second attribute specification information; the label printer 3c is an example of a first printing device, and the label printer 3b is an example of a second printing device; and the cartridge type information obtained from the label printer 3c is an example of first media type information, and the cartridge type information obtained from the label printer 3b is an example of second media type information.

[0136] <Effect of Variation Example (1)>

[0137] As described above, an anomaly may occur where the output destination cannot be determined for the print data included in the label data of the bottom label LC. As a remedy for this anomaly, the CPU 11 in the modified example sets the output destination of the print data of the bottom label LC to the label printer 3c, whose cartridge type information matches the attribute specification information of the top label LA. In other words, the label printer 3c is set as the output destination for both the print data of the top label LA and the print data of the bottom label LC. As a result, when the user replaces cartridge A with cartridge C, the top label LA and bottom label LC can be created on the label printer 3c using the corresponding print data of the top label LA and bottom label LC.

[0138] (2) Case where the output destination is set considering print resolution

[0139] Reference will be made to the above embodiments Figure 5 corresponding Figures 8 to 10 To describe this variation.

[0140] Output to a label printer with a universal print resolution.

[0141] exist Figure 8 In the example shown, with Figure 5 As in the example, the ink cartridge installed in label printer 3a is cartridge B, which has a 12mm band width, a transparent band color, and a blue printing color. Furthermore, cartridge C, with a 12mm band width, a white band color, and a black printing color, is installed in label printer 3b, and cartridge A, with a 12mm band width, a transparent band color, and a red printing color, is installed in label printer 3c.

[0142] Therefore, label printer 3a is compatible with the print data included in the label data of the middle label LB, whose attribute specifications specify a 12mm band width, a transparent band color, and a blue print color. Similarly, label printer 3b is compatible with the print data included in the label data of the bottom label LC, whose attribute specifications specify a 12mm band width, a white band color, and a black print color. Furthermore, label printer 3c is compatible with the print data included in the label data of the top label LA, whose attribute specifications specify a 12mm band width, a transparent band color, and a red print color.

[0143] exist Figure 8In the illustrated variation, printer information, including print resolution information for the print head 29 in addition to width, color, and print color, is sent from each label printer 3 to the operation terminal 2. In this example, the print resolution information for the print head 29 in label printers 3a and 3c is 300 dpi, while the print resolution information for the print head 29 in label printer 3b is 180 dpi. Therefore, the print resolution of label printer 3b is different from that of label printers 3a and 3c. Here, as in this embodiment, the print data for the middle label LB and the top label LA are sent to label printers 3a and 3c, respectively. However, if the print data for the bottom label LC is sent to label printer 3b as in this embodiment, the bottom label LC will have a different print quality than the top label LA and the middle label LB.

[0144] Here, in Figure 8 In the illustrated variant, a label printer 3d is provided in addition to label printers 3a-3c. Label printer 3d also sends its cartridge type information and printer information to the operating terminal 2. The cartridge type information indicates that the cartridge 101 installed in label printer 3d has a tape width of 12mm, a white tape color, and a black printing color. The printer information includes printing resolution information indicating that the print head 29 in label printer 3d has a resolution of 300 dpi. In this way, operating terminal 2 obtains both printer information and cartridge type information from label printer 3d.

[0145] The 3D label printer is compatible with the print data included in the label data of the bottom label LC, and its attribute specifications specify a 12mm strip width, white stripe color, and black print color. Furthermore, the 300dpi resolution of the 3D label printer is equivalent to that of the 3a and 3c label printers.

[0146] In this scenario, terminal 2 sends the print data of the bottom label LC to label printer 3d, which has an equivalent resolution of 300 dpi, instead of sending it to label printer 3b, which has a resolution of 180 dpi, a resolution different from that of label printers 3a and 3c. Note that the print resolution of label printer 3d does not need to be exactly the same as that of label printers 3a and 3c, and can be slightly different, as long as the resolution is substantially equivalent. In the following text, completely equivalent and substantially equivalent print resolutions will be referred to as "approximately equivalent." Label printers 3a, 3c, and 3d in this variation are examples of specific printing equipment.

[0147] In the relationship between the top label LA and the middle label LB in this variant example, the top label LA is an example of a first printed label, and the middle label LB is an example of a second printed label; the label data of the top label LA is an example of first label data, and the label data of the middle label LB is an example of second label data; the printing data included in the label data of the top label LA is an example of first printing data, and the printing data included in the label data of the middle label LB is an example of second printing data; the attribute specification information included in the label data of the top label LA is an example of first attribute specification information, and the attribute specification information included in the label data of the middle label LB is an example of second attribute specification information; the label printer 3c is an example of a first printing device, and the label printer 3a is an example of a second printing device; and the cartridge type information obtained from the label printer 3c is an example of first media type information, and the cartridge type information obtained from the label printer 3a is an example of second media type information.

[0148] In the relationship between the intermediate label LB and the bottom label LC in this variant example, the intermediate label LB is an example of a first printed label, and the bottom label LC is an example of a second printed label; the label data of the intermediate label LB is an example of first label data, and the label data of the bottom label LC is an example of second label data; the printing data included in the label data of the intermediate label LB is an example of first printing data, and the printing data included in the label data of the bottom label LC is an example of second printing data; the attribute specification information included in the label data of the intermediate label LB is an example of first attribute specification information, and the attribute specification information included in the label data of the bottom label LC is an example of second attribute specification information; label printer 3a is an example of a first printing device, and label printer 3d is an example of a second printing device; and the cartridge type information obtained from label printer 3a is an example of first media type information, and the cartridge type information obtained from label printer 3d is an example of second media type information.

[0149] In the relationship between the top label LA and the bottom label LC in this variant example, the top label LA is an example of a first printed label, and the bottom label LC is an example of a second printed label; the label data of the top label LA is an example of first label data, and the label data of the bottom label LC is an example of second label data; the printing data included in the label data of the top label LA is an example of first printing data, and the printing data included in the label data of the bottom label LC is an example of second printing data; the attribute specification information included in the label data of the top label LA is an example of first attribute specification information, and the attribute specification information included in the label data of the bottom label LC is an example of second attribute specification information; the label printer 3c is an example of a first printing device, and the label printer 3d is an example of a second printing device; and the cartridge type information obtained from the label printer 3c is an example of first media type information, and the cartridge type information obtained from the label printer 3d is an example of second media type information.

[0150] <Output after obtaining permission to use different print resolutions>

[0151] exist Figure 9 In the example shown, with Figure 8 Similar to the example, the ink cartridge installed in label printer 3a is cartridge B, which has a 12mm band width, a transparent band color, and a blue printing color, and the printhead 29 has a resolution of 300 dpi. Furthermore, the ink cartridge installed in label printer 3c is cartridge A, which has a 12mm band width, a transparent band color, and a red printing color, and the printhead 29 has a resolution of 300 dpi. Furthermore, the ink cartridge installed in label printer 3b is cartridge C, which has a 12mm band width, a white band color, and a black printing color, and the printhead 29 has a resolution of 180 dpi.

[0152] In this variant, there are two label printers 3 with approximately equivalent print resolution (i.e., label printers 3a and 3c), while the number of print labels L to be created is three. Therefore, if the operating terminal 2 follows the rule described above of only sending print data to label printers 3 with approximately equivalent print resolution, it is impossible to set an output destination for at least one print dataset (one set in this example). In other words, there are insufficient label printers 3 with approximately equivalent print resolution for the number of label datasets. Specifically, one label printer 3 with approximately equivalent print resolution is missing. Label printers 3a and 3c in this variant are examples of specific printing devices already identified as output destinations.

[0153] Therefore, assuming that the operating terminal 2 cannot set an output destination for the print data according to the above rules, in this variant, the operating terminal 2 sets the output destination of the print data to the label printer 3, whose print resolution differs significantly from that of an approximately equivalent print resolution. Therefore, in this example, the operating terminal 2 sets the output destination of the print data for the bottom label LC to label printer 3b. Note that the criterion for determining whether the print resolution is "significantly different" can be whether the absolute value of the deviation in print resolution is greater than a predetermined threshold, such as 30 dpi. The deviation in print resolution of the label printer 3 determined above is calculated by subtracting the average of the group consisting of the print resolution of the target label printer 3 and the print resolution of the label printer 3 already set as the output destination from the print resolution of the target label printer 3. Figure 9 In the example shown, the deviation of the printing resolution of the label printer 3b determined above is calculated by subtracting the average printing resolution of label printers 3a-3c from the printing resolution of label printer 3c.

[0154] In this example, the operation terminal 2 displays on the display unit 14 a message indicating that the print quality of the bottom label LC will be lower when created on the label printer 3b because the label printer 3b has a different print resolution than the label printers 3a and 3c; and a query asking whether permission is granted to use the label printer 3b, whose print resolution differs from that of the label printers 3a and 3c. When the user inputs permission to use the label printer 3b and the operation terminal 2 receives this input, the operation terminal 2 sends the print data of the bottom label LC to the label printer 3b.

[0155] In the relationship between the top label LA and the middle label LB in this variant example, the top label LA is an example of a first printed label, and the middle label LB is an example of a second printed label; the label data of the top label LA is an example of first label data, and the label data of the middle label LB is an example of second label data; the printing data included in the label data of the top label LA is an example of first printing data, and the printing data included in the label data of the middle label LB is an example of second printing data; the attribute specification information included in the label data of the top label LA is an example of first attribute specification information, and the attribute specification information included in the label data of the middle label LB is an example of second attribute specification information; the label printer 3c is an example of a first printing device, and the label printer 3a is an example of a second printing device; and the cartridge type information obtained from the label printer 3c is an example of first media type information, and the cartridge type information obtained from the label printer 3a is an example of second media type information.

[0156] In the relationship between the intermediate label LB and the bottom label LC in this variant example, the intermediate label LB is an example of a first printed label, and the bottom label LC is an example of a second printed label; the label data of the intermediate label LB is an example of first label data, and the label data of the bottom label LC is an example of second label data; the printing data included in the label data of the intermediate label LB is an example of first printing data, and the printing data included in the label data of the bottom label LC is an example of second printing data; the attribute specification information included in the label data of the intermediate label LB is an example of first attribute specification information, and the attribute specification information included in the label data of the bottom label LC is an example of second attribute specification information; label printer 3a is an example of a first printing device, and label printer 3b is an example of a second printing device; and the cartridge type information obtained from label printer 3a is an example of first media type information, and the cartridge type information obtained from label printer 3b is an example of second media type information.

[0157] In the relationship between the top label LA and the bottom label LC in this variant example, the top label LA is an example of a first printed label, and the bottom label LC is an example of a second printed label; the label data of the top label LA is an example of first label data, and the label data of the bottom label LC is an example of second label data; the print data included in the label data of the top label LA is an example of first print data, and the print data included in the label data of the bottom label LC is an example of second print data; the attribute specification information in the label data of the top label LA is an example of first attribute specification information, and the attribute specification information included in the label data of the bottom label LC is an example of second attribute specification information; the label printer 3c is an example of a first printing device, and the label printer 3b is an example of a second printing device; and the cartridge type information obtained from the label printer 3c is an example of first media type information, and the cartridge type information obtained from the label printer 3b is an example of second media type information.

[0158] <Printing while changing ink cartridges on a label printer>

[0159] exist Figure 10 In the example, with Figure 8 Similar to the example, label printer 3a is compatible with the band width, band color, and print color specified by the attribute specifications included in the label data of the middle label LB. Furthermore, label printer 3c is compatible with the band width, band color, and print color specified by the attribute specifications included in the label data of the top label LA. Additionally, label printer 3b is compatible with the band width, band color, and print color specified by the attribute specifications included in the label data of the bottom label LC. (As in...) Figure 8In the label printer, the 3b has a printing resolution of 180 dpi, while the 3a and 3c have a printing resolution of 300 dpi.

[0160] and Figure 8 The examples are different, in Figure 10 In the example shown, label printer 3d is not set. Therefore, because the resolution of label printer 3b is different from that of other label printers 3a and 3c, the operating terminal 2 cannot output the print data of the bottom label LC to label printer 3b, and thus the operating terminal 2 cannot set the output destination for the print data of the bottom label LC.

[0161] Therefore, similar to the above variation (1), the operating terminal 2 in this variation does not send any print data for the top label LA, middle label LB, or bottom label LC to the label printer 3b. Here, it is assumed that the user will replace one of the ink cartridges B in label printer 3a and A in label printer 3c with ink cartridge C, and the remaining print data for the bottom label LC will be sent from the operating terminal 2 to one of the other label printers 3a and 3c. In this variation, it is assumed that the user will replace ink cartridge A in label printer 3c with ink cartridge C, and the print data for the bottom label LC will be sent from the operating terminal 2 to the label printer 3c.

[0162] Specifically, label printer 3c first receives the print data included in the label data of the top label LA while ink cartridge A is installed, and creates the corresponding top label LA at a print resolution of 300 dpi. Afterwards, the user removes ink cartridge A and installs ink cartridge C in label printer 3c. Then, label printer 3c, while ink cartridge C is installed, receives the print data included in the label data of the bottom label LC from operating terminal 2 and creates the corresponding bottom label LC at a print resolution of 300 dpi.

[0163] In the relationship between the top label LA and the middle label LB in this variant example, the top label LA is an example of a first printed label, and the middle label LB is an example of a second printed label; the label data of the top label LA is an example of first label data, and the label data of the middle label LB is an example of second label data; the printing data included in the label data of the top label LA is an example of first printing data, and the printing data included in the label data of the middle label LB is an example of second printing data; the attribute specification information included in the label data of the top label LA is an example of first attribute specification information, and the attribute specification information included in the label data of the middle label LB is an example of second attribute specification information; the label printer 3c is an example of a first printing device, and the label printer 3a is an example of a second printing device; and the cartridge type information obtained from the label printer 3c is an example of first media type information, and the cartridge type information obtained from the label printer 3a is an example of second media type information.

[0164] <Control Process>

[0165] Reference Figure 11 The flowchart in the diagram describes an example of a control process executed by the CPU 11 of the operating terminal 2 according to this variant to implement the above-described method. As in this embodiment, the CPU 11 performs this control process by executing a printing process according to this variant. The printing process is included in a program stored in ROM 12b. By executing this process, the CPU 11 implements the printing method according to the variant described below.

[0166] In completing and Figure 6 After the same steps S5, S10, and S15, CPU 11 proceeds to... Figure 11 The new step S17 involves the CPU 11 receiving a setting from the user via the operation unit 13, which indicates the minimum search quantity. As described above, when multiple printed labels L are created on multiple label printers 3, this minimum search quantity is set to be equal to the number of printed labels L. The minimum search quantity is used to search for label printers 3 whose printheads 29 have approximately the same print resolution.

[0167] Next, as Figure 6 As described above, CPU 11 searches for label printer 3 in S20 and then proceeds to the next step S22. Figure 6 Similar to S65, in S22, CPU 11 displays the search criteria on display unit 14. Therefore, as in this embodiment, CPU 11 displays an example of a label printer 3 with specified tape width, tape color, and printing color, as well as suitable for these cartridge attributes, generated in S5 and identified in S10. Therefore, similar to... Figure 6 Similar to step S65, CPU 11 can clearly show the user which type of label printer 3 the operating terminal 2 is searching for, and the user can prepare the relevant label printer 3 and ink cartridge 101.

[0168] The processing in S22 and its connection Figure 6 After the same processes in S25, S30, and S35, CPU 11 proceeds to the new step S52. Note that the print resolution information for printhead 29 is always included in the printer information acquired in S30 of this variant example. In S52, CPU 11 updates the number of label printers 3 that have been retrieved (i.e., the number of label printers 3 that meet the search criteria determined in S35). Figure 6 The processing is different. Whenever the CPU 11 finds a label printer 3 that matches the width, color and printing color mentioned above (i.e., a label printer 3 that meets the search criteria), the CPU 11 in this variant increases the number of label printers 3 in S52 instead of sending the printing data to the label printer 3.

[0169] Next, with Figure 6 Similar to the previous example, CPU 11 updates the search scope and search criteria in S55. In this variation, CPU 11 updates the search scope to exclude label printers 3 that were already added in S52. Furthermore, in this variation, CPU 11 updates the search criteria to exclude attribute specification information already determined in S35, to perfectly match the cartridge type information of the label printers 3 that were already added in S52. Subsequently, CPU 11 proceeds to the next step, S70.

[0170] In S70, CPU 11 determines whether the number of retrieved label printers 3 updated in S52 is greater than or equal to the minimum search number set in S17. If the number of retrieved label printers 3 does not reach the minimum search number, CPU 11 returns to S20 above, and if the number of retrieved label printers 3 is greater than or equal to the minimum search number, CPU 11 proceeds to S75.

[0171] In S75, CPU 11 determines whether the number of retrieved label printers 3 with approximately equivalent printing resolution is greater than or equal to the minimum search quantity. If the number of retrieved label printers 3 with approximately equivalent printing resolution is greater than or equal to the minimum search quantity (S75: Yes), CPU 11 proceeds to S95. Furthermore, in S75, CPU 11 sets the retrieved label printers 3 that have been determined in S35 to meet the matching conditions (i.e., matching all specified band widths, band colors, and printing colors) and that have been determined in S75 to have approximately equivalent printing resolution as the output destination for print data.

[0172] When moving from S75 to S95, and Figure 6 Similar to S45, CPU 11 sends the corresponding print data to the label printer 3, which is set as the output destination. The CPU 21c of label printer 3 receives the print data from the operation terminal 2 via communication control unit 23. In this way, label printer 3, set as the output destination, creates multiple labels for the created labels. In the example above, label printer 3 creates the label LA-LC.

[0173] In S100, with Figure 6 As described in S50, CPU 11 displays on display unit 14 the identification information (such as model name information or serial number) of each label printer 3 to which print data has been sent in S95, the serial number of each sent print dataset, etc. Then, CPU 11 terminates... Figure 11 The processing in the process.

[0174] On the other hand, if CPU 11 determines in S75 that the number of label printers 3 with approximately equivalent printing resolutions retrieved is less than the minimum search quantity (S75: No), then in S80, CPU 11 displays on the display unit 14 a query asking whether printing with label printers 3 having different printing resolutions is permitted. (This is consistent with the previous...) Figure 9 As described above, this is because the number of label printers 3 with approximately equivalent printing resolutions retrieved is insufficient at this time. If the user operates on the operation unit 13 to input an accepted response to the query (S80: Yes), the CPU 11 proceeds to S95 to create label LA-LC. In other words, in this case, label printers 3 with different printing resolutions are included as output destinations for the print data.

[0175] However, if the user does not respond to the query by operating unit 13 (S80: No), then in S85, CPU 11 displays a query on display unit 14 regarding whether it is permissible to print two or more of the multiple printed labels L on a label printer 3. As mentioned above, this is because the number of label printers 3 retrieved with approximately equivalent printing resolution is insufficient at this time. In this example, CPU 11 displays a query on display unit 14 regarding whether it is permissible to print all of the multiple printed labels L on a label printer 3.

[0176] If the user does not perform an operation on operation unit 13 to input an acceptance response to the query (S85: No), CPU 11 proceeds to S92. However, if the user performs an operation on operation unit 13 to input an acceptance response to the query (S85: Yes), in S90, CPU 11 sets the minimum search quantity to 1 and returns to S20. In this case, in S90, CPU 11 resets the current search range and search conditions and returns them to the search range and search conditions initially set in S15. Then, when CPU 11 proceeds to S95 after returning to S20, CPU 11 sends all the print datasets generated in S5 to a printer 3. Thus, all print labels L corresponding to all sent print datasets are created on a label printer 3, while the user replaces ink cartridge 101 sequentially with the corresponding ink cartridge.

[0177] In S92, CPU 11 receives from the user via operation unit 13 the specifications for the print resolution used to create the print label L (label LA-LC in this example). Upon receiving the print resolution specifications, CPU 11 resets the current range and search criteria, returning them to the search range and search criteria initially set in S15. Furthermore, CPU 11 adds the user-specified print resolution received in S92 to the search criteria. Further, CPU 11 sets the minimum search quantity to a number greater than or equal to two (2) and less than the number initially set in S17. In this example, CPU 11 sets the minimum search quantity to two (2).

[0178] After completing the processing in S92, CPU 11 returns to S20. For example, after returning to S20, if CPU 11 finds two label printers 3 with a print resolution approximately equivalent to the user-specified print resolution and proceeds to S95, CPU 11 sends two of the three print datasets generated in S5 and sends the remaining print dataset to the other of the two label printers 3. Therefore, two print labels L corresponding to the two sent print datasets are created on one of the two label printers 3, while the user replaces the ink cartridge 101 with the corresponding ink cartridge. Furthermore, one print label L corresponding to the one sent print dataset is created on the other of the two label printers 3.

[0179] The above description is provided to identify at least two label printers 3 whose printheads 29 have approximately the same print resolution. Figure 10 This illustrates the case where two label printers, 3a and 3c, both have a print resolution of 300 dpi. Figure 10 In the example, two printed labels L are created on label printer 3c, specifically the top label LA and the bottom label LC, while the remaining middle label LB is created on label printer 3a.

[0180] <Effect of the variation>

[0181] This variation achieves the same effects as described in the above embodiments. Furthermore, this variation achieves the following effects.

[0182] Specifically, when setting the output destination for multiple print datasets in this variant, in S75, the CPU11 sets multiple label printers 3 with approximately the same print resolution as the output destination. Since the label printers 3 receiving the print datasets in S95 create printed labels L with approximately the same print resolution, the print quality of all printed labels L can remain approximately consistent.

[0183] Here, as mentioned above, while it is a general rule to set label printers 3 with approximately the same print resolution as the output destination for print data, in some cases, the number of such label printers 3 may be insufficient for the number of print labels L to be created. Assuming the user inputs acceptance in S80, this variation addresses this situation by setting an additional label printer 3, whose print resolution is not considered approximately equivalent, as the output destination when outputting print data in S95. In this way, all print labels L can be reliably created by sacrificing only some uniformity in print quality among the multiple print labels L.

[0184] In this variation, such as Figure 11As described in S20-S80 and S95, CPU 11 first sets the output destination for the print data provided by all print labels L, and then outputs the print data to each corresponding label printer 3 in S95. In other words, after determining all output destinations for all print datasets, each of the print datasets is sent to its corresponding output destination. Therefore, in S20-S70, CPU 11 first confirms whether there is a suitable label printer 3 as the output destination for all print datasets, and then outputs the print dataset in S95.

[0185] Therefore, this method is ideal when there are a large number of label printers 3 in which multiple ink cartridges 101 are installed, or when it is known in advance that the ink cartridges 101 installed in a nearby label printer 3 are roughly suited to the form of the printed label L to be created. Therefore, compared with using, for example... Figure 6 Compared to the method shown where the CPU 11 outputs print data to the output destination whenever a print label L is set, this method can create multiple print labels L faster.

[0186] (3) Other variations

[0187] In the above description, the matching condition is met when the tape width, tape color, and printing color of the label printer 3 match the tape width, tape color, and printing color specified by the attribute specification information included in the label data. In addition, the matching condition may require that the printing resolution of the print head 29 in the label printer 3 match the printing resolution pre-specified by the label data. In this case, when the tape width, tape color, printing color, and printing resolution of the label printer 3 match the tape width, tape color, and printing color specified in the attribute specification information of the label data and the printing resolution specified in the printing data of the label data, the CPU 11 sets the label printer 3 as the output destination for the printing data.

[0188] Furthermore, the number of labels and label printers used for printing is not limited to the number used in the examples above.

[0189] This embodiment describes a lamination method in which printing is performed on a cover film 104 separate from the baseband 102, and the cover film 104 and the baseband 102 are bonded together. However, this disclosure can be applied to methods of printing on a printing tape layer disposed in the baseband (non-laminated type).

[0190] also, Figure 6 and Figure 11The flowchart shown does not limit this disclosure to the steps indicated therein. Steps may be added or deleted, or their order may be rearranged, without departing from the spirit and technical idea of ​​this disclosure.

[0191] In addition to what has already been described, the methods according to the above embodiments and their variations can be used in suitable combinations.

[0192] Furthermore, although not shown separately, this disclosure can be implemented through various modifications.

Claims

1. A computer-readable storage medium storing a computer-readable instruction set for a terminal device, the terminal device including a processor and a communication interface, the communication interface enabling the terminal device to communicate with a plurality of printing devices, among which a printing medium can be installed. The computer-readable instruction set, when executed by the processor, causes the terminal device to perform: (a) Generate multiple label datasets for creating corresponding print labels among multiple print labels that overlap each other in their thickness direction. Each label dataset includes print data indicating the print content of the corresponding print label and attribute specification information specifying the print media properties used to create the corresponding print label. (b) Through the communication interface, obtain multiple media type information sets of the corresponding printing devices among the multiple printing devices, each media type information set indicating the type of the printing media installed in the corresponding printing device; (c) Based on the plurality of label datasets generated in (a) and the plurality of media type information sets obtained in (b), determine the plurality of output destinations for the corresponding label datasets in the plurality of label datasets from the plurality of printing devices; as well as (d) Send each of the plurality of labeled datasets to the corresponding output destination determined in (c). This includes specifying the printing colors to be used in creating the corresponding print labels within each label dataset, and the printing colors specified by each set of printing data are different from each other. Each media type information set includes the printing colors of the printing media installed in the corresponding printing device. This includes the attribute specification information in each print dataset that specifies the colors used to create the corresponding print labels, and Each media type information set includes the color of the printing media installed in the corresponding printing device.

2. A computer-readable storage medium storing a computer-readable instruction set for a terminal device, the terminal device including a processor and a communication interface, the communication interface enabling the terminal device to communicate with a plurality of printing devices, among which a printing medium can be installed. The computer-readable instruction set, when executed by the processor, causes the terminal device to perform: (a) Generate multiple label datasets for creating corresponding print labels among multiple print labels that overlap each other in their thickness direction. Each label dataset includes print data indicating the print content of the corresponding print label and attribute specification information specifying the print media properties used to create the corresponding print label. (b) Through the communication interface, obtain multiple media type information sets of the corresponding printing devices among the multiple printing devices, each media type information set indicating the type of the printing media installed in the corresponding printing device; (c) Based on the plurality of label datasets generated in (a) and the plurality of media type information sets obtained in (b), determine the plurality of output destinations for the corresponding label datasets in the plurality of label datasets from the plurality of printing devices; as well as (d) Send each of the plurality of labeled datasets to the corresponding output destination determined in (c). The computer-readable instruction set, when executed by the processor, enables the terminal device to perform the following further actions: (g) Through the communication interface, acquire multiple sets of print resolution information for corresponding print devices among the plurality of print devices, each set of print resolution information indicating the print resolution of the corresponding print device, and Specifically, the plurality of output destinations are determined from a specific printing device among the plurality of printing devices, wherein the specific printing devices have equivalent printing resolution. Where the number of specific printing devices is insufficient for the number of the plurality of label datasets generated in (a), in (c) the printing device whose absolute value of the deviation of the printing resolution indicated by the corresponding printing resolution is greater than a predetermined threshold is determined as the output destination. The deviation of the printing resolution of the printing device is calculated by subtracting the average of the group consisting of the printing resolution of the printing device and the printing resolution of the specific printing device already determined as the output destination in (c) from the printing resolution of the printing device.

3. The computer-readable storage medium according to claim 1, in, The determination in (c) includes: (e) For each of the plurality of media type information sets, determine whether any of the attribute specification information included in each of the plurality of tag datasets satisfies a matching condition with the media type information; and (f) When it is determined in (e) that the matching condition is satisfied between one of the plurality of media type information sets and one of the attribute specification information included in each of the plurality of label datasets, the printing device corresponding to the one of the plurality of media type information sets is determined as the output destination of the print data included in the label data containing the one of the attribute specification information.

4. The computer-readable storage medium according to claim 1, in, Whenever an output destination for one of the plurality of labeled datasets is determined in (c), the one of the plurality of labeled datasets is sent to the output destination determined in (c) in (d).

5. The computer-readable storage medium according to claim 1, in, After determining all of the plurality of output destinations for the corresponding label datasets in the plurality of label datasets in (c), each of the plurality of label datasets is sent to the corresponding output destination determined in (c) in (d).

6. The computer-readable storage medium according to claim 3, in, When it is determined in (e) that the matching condition is satisfied between one of the multiple media type information sets and one of the multiple media type information sets, and it is determined in (e) that the matching condition is not satisfied between another set of attribute specifications and any of the multiple media type information sets, the printing device corresponding to the one of the multiple media type information sets is determined in (c) not only as the output destination of the print data included in the label data containing the one set of attribute specifications, but also as the output destination of the print data included in the label data containing the other set of attribute specifications.

7. The computer-readable storage medium according to any one of claims 1 to 6, in, The printed data includes at least one of the following: Characters, patterns, or images; The printing colors to use when printing; as well as The print resolution to use when printing, and Each media type information set includes at least one of the following: Width of the printing media; The color of the printing medium; as well as The material of the printing medium.

8. The computer-readable storage medium according to any one of claims 1 to 6, in, The printing device includes a mounting section, and a media container capable of supplying the printing media is detachably mounted in the mounting section. Each media type information set is a container type information indicating the type of the media container installed in the mounting section of the corresponding printing device.

9. The computer-readable storage medium according to any one of claims 1 to 6, in, The terminal device includes a display unit, and The computer-readable instruction set, when executed by the processor, enables the terminal device to perform the following further actions: (h) Obtain multiple device identification information sets for corresponding printing devices among the multiple printing devices through the communication interface; and (i) Display on the display unit the device identification information of each printing device identified as the output destination in (c).

10. The computer-readable storage medium according to claim 4, in, The terminal device includes a display unit, and The computer-readable instruction set, when executed by the processor, enables the terminal device to perform the following further actions: (j) After one of the plurality of label datasets is sent in (d), the attribute specification information included in the label data, which includes the printed data that has not yet been sent through (d), is displayed on the display unit.

11. The computer-readable storage medium according to claim 2, in, The terminal device includes a display unit, and The computer-readable instruction set, when executed by the processor, enables the terminal device to perform the following further actions: (k) If the number of the specific printing devices is insufficient for the number of the multiple label datasets, display an inquiry regarding whether to permit the use of the printing devices with a different printing resolution than the specific printing devices.

12. A printing process method for creating a plurality of printed labels overlapping each other in their thickness direction using multiple printing devices, the printing process method comprising: (a) Generation: First label data for creating a first printed label, the first label data including first print data and first attribute specification information, the first print data indicating the first print content of the first printed label, and the first attribute specification information specifying the print media attributes used to create the first printed label; as well as Second label data for creating a second printed label, the second label data including second print data and second attribute specification information, the second print data indicating the second print content of the second printed label, and the second attribute specification information specifying the print media attributes used to create the second printed label; (b) Obtain first media type information indicating the type of printing media installed in the first printing device; (c) Obtain second media type information indicating the type of printing media installed in the second printing device; (d) When the first media type information matches the first attribute specification information, the first print data is sent to the first printing device; as well as (e) When the second media type information matches the second attribute specification information, the second print data is sent to the second printing device. Wherein, the first print data specifies the print color to be used in creating the first print label, the second print data specifies the print color to be used in creating the second print label, and the print colors specified by the first print data and the print colors specified by the second print data are different from each other. The first media type information includes the printing color of the printing media installed in the first printing device, and the second media type information includes the printing color of the printing media installed in the second printing device. Wherein, the first attribute specification information specifies the color used in creating the first printed label, the second attribute specification information specifies the color used in creating the second printed label, and The first media type information set includes color-coded printing media installed in the first printing device, and the second media type information set includes color-coded printing media installed in the second printing device.

13. A computer-readable storage medium storing a computer-readable instruction set for a terminal device, the terminal device including a processor and a communication interface. The computer-readable instruction set, when executed by the processor, causes the terminal device to perform: (a) Generation: First label data for creating a first printed label, the first label data including first print data and first attribute specification information, the first print data indicating the first print content of the first printed label, and the first attribute specification information specifying the print media attributes used to create the first printed label; as well as Second label data for creating a second printed label, the second label data including second print data and second attribute specification information, the second print data indicating the second print content of the second printed label, and the second attribute specification information specifying the print media attributes used to create the second printed label; (b) Obtain first media type information indicating the type of printing media installed in the first printing device through the communication interface; (c) Obtain second media type information indicating the type of printing media installed in the second printing device through the communication interface; (d) When the first media type information matches the first attribute specification information, the first print data is sent to the first printing device; as well as (e) When the second media type information matches the second attribute specification information, the second print data is sent to the second printing device. Wherein, the first print data specifies the print color to be used in creating the first print label, the second print data specifies the print color to be used in creating the second print label, and the print colors specified by the first print data and the print colors specified by the second print data are different from each other. The first media type information includes the printing color of the printing media installed in the first printing device, and the second media type information includes the printing color of the printing media installed in the second printing device. Wherein, the first attribute specification information specifies the color used in creating the first printed label, the second attribute specification information specifies the color used in creating the second printed label, and The first media type information set includes color-coded printing media installed in the first printing device, and the second media type information set includes color-coded printing media installed in the second printing device.

Images