Printing device and control method of printing device

Abstract

The present application provides a printing device and a control method of the printing device, which can solve the problem of feeling noisy due to the buzzer ringing when printing. The printing device comprises: a communication unit capable of communicating with an external device and capable of receiving printing data and a cutting command; a connector capable of connecting with any of a first peripheral device and a second peripheral device; a head capable of printing the printing data on a recording paper; a cutter capable of cutting the recording paper based on the cutting command; and a control unit for controlling the head and the cutter. When the communication unit receives reception information containing a plurality of printing data and a plurality of cutting commands again after not receiving within a predetermined period, the control unit sends a driving command to the first peripheral device via the connector and drives it based on at least one cutting command contained in the reception information, and does not send a driving command to the first peripheral device based on other cutting commands.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a printing apparatus and a method for controlling the printing apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] A printer is known that outputs a signal from an interface used by the cash drawer to a notification device and causes a buzzer to sound when an invoice is issued.

[0003] However, the printer described in Patent Document 1 makes a buzzer sound every time an invoice is issued, which can be noisy for some workers, depending on the situation.

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-138811 Summary of the Invention

[0005] The printing apparatus includes: a communication unit capable of communicating with an external device and receiving printing data and cutting commands; a connector capable of connecting to either a first peripheral device or a second peripheral device; a head capable of printing the printing data onto recording paper; a cutter capable of cutting the recording paper based on the cutting commands; and a control unit controlling the head and the cutter. When the communication unit receives a message containing multiple sets of printing data and multiple cutting commands via the communication unit after a predetermined period of non-reception, the control unit sends a drive command to the first peripheral device via the connector based on at least one cutting command included in the received message and drives it, and does not send the drive command to the first peripheral device based on other cutting commands.

[0006] In the control method of the printing apparatus, the printing apparatus includes: a communication unit capable of communicating with an external device and receiving printing data and cutting commands; a connector capable of connecting to a first peripheral device; a head capable of printing the printing data onto recording paper; and a cutter capable of cutting the recording paper based on the cutting commands. In the control method of the printing apparatus, when the communication unit receives reception information containing multiple sets of printing data and multiple cutting commands after not receiving any data within a predetermined period, a drive command is sent to the first peripheral device via the connector based on one cutting command included in the reception information, and the first peripheral device is activated. Furthermore, the drive command is not sent to the first peripheral device based on other cutting commands. Attached Figure Description

[0007] Figure 1 A block diagram illustrating the structure of a printing apparatus connected to a first peripheral device.

[0008] Figure 2 A schematic diagram showing the structure of the main parts of a printing apparatus.

[0009] Figure 3 This is a circuit diagram showing the main parts of the first peripheral device and the printing device when the first peripheral device is connected.

[0010] Figure 4 This is a state change diagram illustrating the control method of a printing apparatus when it receives reception information containing multiple printing data and multiple cutting commands.

[0011] Figure 5 To indicate that it has been executed Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the printing results when the control method of the printing apparatus involved is used.

[0012] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating the state changes of the control method for the printing apparatus when it becomes unreceived.

[0013] Figure 7 To indicate that it has been executed Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the printing results when the control method of the printing apparatus involved is used.

[0014] Figure 8 This is a state change diagram illustrating the control method of a printing apparatus when it receives the next received information after becoming silent.

[0015] Figure 9 To indicate that it has been executed Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the printing results when the control method of the printing apparatus involved is used.

[0016] Figure 10 This is a circuit diagram showing the main parts of the second peripheral device and the printing device when the second peripheral device is connected. Detailed Implementation

[0017] 1. Implementation Method

[0018] 1-1. A printing device connected to a first peripheral device

[0019] like Figure 1 As shown, the printing apparatus 1 is configured to include a first control unit 11, a first storage unit 12, a communication unit 13, a printing unit 14 including a head 15a and a roller 15b, a shearer 16, a drive circuit 17, a connector CN18, and a power supply 19. Hereinafter, the connector CN18 will be simply referred to as CN18.

[0020] The printing apparatus 1 can be connected to the first peripheral device 2 via CN18 and can communicate with the external device 4 via the communication unit 13. The printing apparatus 1 according to the embodiment is used, for example, in a POS (Point of Sale) system.

[0021] The first control unit 11 is configured to include a CPU (Central Processing Unit) for overall control of various parts of the printing apparatus 1, a UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver Transmitter) for managing input and output, and an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) or PLD (Programmable Logic Device) as logic circuitry. The CPU is also called a processor.

[0022] The first storage unit 12 is configured to include flash memory (ReadOnly Memory), HDD (Hard Disk Drive), RAM (Random Access Memory), etc., which are non-volatile memory that can be rewritten.

[0023] The CPU of the first control unit 11 reads the firmware and other programs and setting information stored in the non-volatile memory of the first storage unit 12, and uses the RAM of the first storage unit 12 as the working area to execute it.

[0024] The printing unit 14 is configured to include a head 15a and a roller 15b. The recording paper PA, described later, is, for example, a strip of thermal paper. The head 15a is, for example, a line-type thermal head. The first control unit 11 rotates the roller 15b to transport the recording paper PA and drives the head 15a to perform printing on the recording paper PA.

[0025] The cutter 16 has a movable cutting blade. The first control unit 11 moves the cutting blade to cut the recording paper PA. The printed and cut recording paper PA is issued as a receipt delivered to a customer in a store, a form for instructing cooking in a restaurant kitchen, etc.

[0026] In addition, the first control unit 11 can adjust the distance by which it moves relative to the movable range of the cutting blade of the shearer 16.

[0027] Therefore, the first control unit 11 can perform a so-called full cut, in which the cutting blade moves sufficiently relative to its movable range to completely cut the recording paper PA. Furthermore, the first control unit 11 can perform a so-called partial cut, in which the cutting blade moves relative to its movable range to a midpoint to partially cut the recording paper PA.

[0028] The fully cut receipt becomes a form that is easy for staff to deliver to customers. On the other hand, the partially cut document is partially attached to the long strip of recording paper PA, so it will not fall off the printing unit 1, and even if the staff does not remove it, it will not be scattered on the kitchen floor.

[0029] The communication unit 13 includes circuitry, a substrate, and other components capable of communicating with external devices 4 such as computers and tablet terminals. For example, the communication unit 13 may be a component with a connector and corresponding to USB (Universal Serial Bus), a wired serial communication method. Alternatively, the communication unit 13 may be a component with an antenna and corresponding to Ethernet (Ethernet, IEEE 802.3), a wireless network communication method.

[0030] As will be described later, when the first control unit 11 receives printing data via the communication unit 13, it controls the head 15a and roller 15b of the printing unit 14 to print on the recording paper PA.

[0031] Furthermore, when the first control unit 11 receives a cutting command via the communication unit 13, it controls the cutter 16 to cut the recording paper PA.

[0032] CN18 is, for example, a modular socket with six pins, a connector known as RJ-11. CN18 can be connected to either the first peripheral device 2 or the second peripheral device 3, which will be described later.

[0033] As will be described later, the drive circuit 17 can transmit or receive predetermined information or signals relative to the first peripheral device 2 via CN18. Similarly, the drive circuit 17 can also transmit or receive information or signals relative to the second peripheral device 3.

[0034] The first peripheral device 2 is able to operate by receiving power from the printing apparatus 1 via CN18. Similarly, the second peripheral device 3 operates in the same manner.

[0035] Power supply 19 is capable of generating and outputting voltages such as approximately +24V and approximately +3.3V. Furthermore, in the following text, +24V will be simply referred to as 24V, and +3.3V will be simply referred to as 3.3V. Also, when indicating current and voltage, the designation "approximately" will be omitted.

[0036] Power supply 19 can supply 24V to drive actuators, including the printing section 14 (head 15a, roller 15b), shear 16, and drive circuit 17. Furthermore, power supply 19 can supply 3.3V to logic circuits such as the first control unit 11, the first storage unit 12, and the communication unit 13. Additionally, power supply 19 can supply 24V to the first peripheral device 2 and the second peripheral device 3 via CN18.

[0037] In addition, Figure 1 In the example shown, the printing device 1 is configured to print a form in the kitchen that provides instructions for cooking. In this case, the first peripheral device 2 is preferably a sounding device, for example, that has a sounding function. The printing device 1 enables the first peripheral device 2 to sound.

[0038] By sounding an alarm via the first peripheral device 2, staff can be notified that the printing device 1 has printed a form. Thus, if the printing device 1 is configured to also sound an alarm via the first peripheral device 2 when printing forms, staff can easily notice that a form has been printed. Staff can then immediately remove the form from the printing device 1 and proceed with cooking. Furthermore, at this time, the printing device 1 preferably performs partial cutting of the form.

[0039] exist Figure 2 The diagram shows the arrangement of the head 15a, roller 15b, shear 16, etc., which constitute the printing section 14. A strip of recording paper PA is wound into a roll of paper PB. Roll 15b is located opposite the head 15a across the recording paper PA and is also called an impression roller.

[0040] The recording paper PA is held between the head 15a and the roller 15b. Under the control of the first control unit 11, the roller 15b pulls the recording paper PA out of the roll paper PB and conveys it in the conveying direction FF.

[0041] A head 15a, a roller 15b, and a shear 16 are arranged from upstream to downstream in the conveying direction FF. The head 15a and the shear 16 are located separately and are spaced apart by a distance GP along the conveying direction FF.

[0042] Because of this interval GP, the recording paper PA printed via the first 15a needs to be cut after being fed to the position of the cutter 16. This is because if the printed recording paper PA is cut before being fed to the position of the cutter 16, it will be cut in the middle of the printed recording paper PA, resulting in the inability to form the body of a receipt or document.

[0043] Next, refer to Figure 3The structure by which the printing apparatus 1 drives the first peripheral device 2 will be described. Furthermore, for ease of explanation, the view of the printing apparatus 1 will be centered on the drive circuit 17 and CN18.

[0044] The printing device 1 is connected to the first peripheral device 2 via CN18 through a modular cable or the like.

[0045] The first peripheral device 2 is configured to include a second control unit 21, a second storage unit 22, a buzzer 23, and a voltage converter 24. The second control unit 21 is configured to include a CPU, etc., similar to the first control unit 11, and the second storage unit 22 is configured to include non-volatile memory, volatile memory, etc., similar to the first storage unit 12.

[0046] Alternatively, the second storage unit 22 may also be integrated into the second control unit 21. Furthermore, the buzzer 23 may also be integrated into the second control unit 21.

[0047] The voltage converter 24 of the first peripheral device 2 can convert the 24V supplied from the printing device 1 to 3.3V and supply it to the second control unit 21, which is a logic circuit, and the second storage unit 22, etc.

[0048] Furthermore, when the buzzer 23 is driven by 3.3V, it is configured to receive a 3.3V supply from the voltage converter 24. Alternatively, when the buzzer 23 is driven by 24V, it is configured to receive a 24V supply from the printing device 1. If the second control unit 21 and the second storage unit 22 are also driven by 24V, the voltage converter 24 may not be necessary.

[0049] Thus, the first peripheral device 2 can receive power from the printing device 1 and be driven.

[0050] The first control unit 11 of the printing apparatus 1 has output ports P1 and P2, and an input port IN.

[0051] The second control unit 21 of the first peripheral device 2 has output ports OUT and S, and input ports R and CLK. The second control unit 21 can output a sounding signal from the output port OUT to the buzzer 23, thereby causing the buzzer 23 to sound.

[0052] The driving circuit 17 of the printing apparatus 1 has transistors TR1 and TR2. Transistors TR1 and TR2 can be driven using 24V.

[0053] The bases of transistor TR1 and transistor TR2 are connected to the output ports P1 and P2 of the first control unit 11, respectively. The first control unit 11 outputs a clock signal from the output port P2, and synchronously outputs predetermined information as a data signal from the output port P1.

[0054] The data signals and clock signals input to the bases of transistors TR1 and TR2, respectively, are amplified using 24V and transmitted from their respective collectors to the first peripheral device 2 via CN18.

[0055] In addition, the data signal contains a drive command, and if the first peripheral device 2 is a sounding device, it contains a sounding command.

[0056] CN18 is a connector with six terminals, each terminal being numbered 1 to 6.

[0057] Terminal 1 of CN18 is connected to the ground of both the printing device 1 and the first peripheral device 2, so that their potentials are aligned.

[0058] Terminal 2 of CN18 sends an amplified data signal from the printing apparatus 1 to the first peripheral device 2. At the same time, terminal 5 of CN18 sends an amplified clock signal synchronized with the data signal from the printing apparatus 1 to the first peripheral device 2.

[0059] Terminal 3 of CN18 sends a status signal from the output port S of the first peripheral device 2 to the printing device 1. The status signal is input to the input port IN of the first control unit 11. The status signal is, for example, a signal indicating that the buzzer 23 is sounding. The first control unit 11 can determine that the buzzer 23 is sounding by the status signal input to the input port IN.

[0060] Terminal 4 of CN18 supplies 24V from the printing apparatus 1 to the first peripheral device 2. Terminal 6 of CN18 connects to the ground of the printing apparatus 1 and the ground port G of the second control unit 21 of the first peripheral device 2, so that the ground levels of both are the same.

[0061] The second control unit 21 of the first peripheral device 2 receives data signals and clock signals sent from the printing apparatus 1 from input ports R and CLK, respectively. The second control unit 21 can receive data signals from input port R based on the timing of the clock signal received from input port CLK, and obtain a ringing command from the data signals. In this way, the printing apparatus 1 and the first peripheral device 2 can implement so-called serial communication, which involves communication synchronized with the clock signal.

[0062] The second control unit 21 can generate a sound signal based on the obtained sounding command and output it from the output port OUT to the buzzer 23 to make it sound.

[0063] Alternatively, the first peripheral device 2 can be configured to use a voltage converter 24 to convert the data signal and the clock signal into 3.3V.

[0064] 1-2. Control method for a printing device connected to a first peripheral device

[0065] Next, refer to Figure 4 , Figure 5 The printing, cutting, and control methods for driving the first peripheral device 2, performed by the printing apparatus 1, will be described. The first peripheral device 2 connected to the printing apparatus 1 is, for example, a sounding device.

[0066] First, assume that a series of dish order information is input into external device 4. Based on this information, external device 4 generates a series of printed data, including printed data A (instructions for dish A, i.e., "Cooking A0…A9"), printed data B (instructions for dish B, i.e., "Cooking B0…B9"), printed data C (instructions for dish C, i.e., "Cooking C0…C9"), and printed data D (instructions for dish D, i.e., "Cooking D0…D9"). Furthermore, external device 4 attaches cut commands to each printed data entry and generates transaction information.

[0067] Here, transaction information refers to information involved in a series of processes. In this embodiment, transaction information includes the aforementioned multiple print data and multiple cut commands.

[0068] External device 4 sends transaction information to printing device 1 along with the instructions for cooking. Printing device 1 receives the transaction information via communication unit 13. The transaction information received by printing device 1 is referred to as received information.

[0069] In addition, Figure 4 For the sake of specific explanation, it is assumed that external device 4 sends the multiple print data and multiple cut commands contained in the transaction information in the order described above. Furthermore, it is assumed that printing device 1 receives the multiple print data and multiple cut commands contained in the received information in the order described above.

[0070] like Figure 4 As shown, firstly, the external device 4 sends the printing data A and the cutting command A contained in the transaction information to the printing device 1 (S101).

[0071] The first control unit 11 of the printing apparatus 1 receives printing data A through the communication unit 13 and executes printing DA (S102) by printing printing data A on recording paper PA through the printing unit 14.

[0072] Next, the first control unit 11 receives the cutting command A through the communication unit 13, and executes the cutting CA to cut the recording paper PA through the cutter 16 (S103). At this time, the first control unit 11 generates an alarm command BA in conjunction with the execution of the cutting CA, and sends it to the first peripheral device 2 via CN18 (S103).

[0073] The second control unit 21 of the first peripheral device 2 receives the sounding command BA via CN18 and executes the sounding A (S104) to make the buzzer 23 sound.

[0074] Thus, the first control unit 11 of the printing apparatus 1 generates a sounding command BA in conjunction with the execution of the cutting CA, and sends it to the first peripheral device 2, causing the sounding command A to be executed. Therefore, the external device 4 does not need to send a command equivalent to the sounding command BA to the printing apparatus 1.

[0075] Similarly, next, the external device 4 sends the printing data B and the cutting command B to the printing device 1 (S105). The first control unit 11 of the printing device 1 executes the printing DB of the received printing data B through the printing unit 14 (S106).

[0076] Next, the first control unit 11 executes the cutting of CB via the shearer 16 based on the received cutting command B (S107). At this time, the first control unit 11 generates an alarm command BB in conjunction with the execution of cutting CB and sends it to the first peripheral device 2 (S107).

[0077] The second control unit 21 of the first peripheral device 2 executes the sounding command BB to make the buzzer 23 sound (S108) based on the received sounding command BB.

[0078] Similarly, next, the external device 4 sends the printing data C and the cutting command C to the printing device 1 (S109). The first control unit 11 of the printing device 1 executes the printing DC of the received printing data C through the printing unit 14 (S110).

[0079] Next, the first control unit 11 executes the cutting CC via the shearer 16 based on the received cutting command C (S111). At this time, the first control unit 11 generates an alarm command BC in conjunction with the execution of the cutting CC and sends it to the first peripheral device 2 (S111).

[0080] The second control unit 21 of the first peripheral device 2 executes the sounding C (S112) to make the buzzer 23 sound based on the received sounding command BC.

[0081] Next, the external device 4 sends the printing data D and the cutting command D to the printing device 1 (S113). The first control unit 11 of the printing device 1 executes the printing DD of the received printing data D through the printing unit 14 (S114).

[0082] Here, external device 4 enters a state of no data transmission because the transmission of transaction information has ended (S115).

[0083] When the first control unit 11 detects that there is no next reception and no received information in the communication unit 13, it temporarily holds the execution of the cut CD based on the last cut command D of the received information (S116). Furthermore, the first control unit 11 does not send the sounding command BD to the first peripheral device 2, which is linked to the execution of the cut CD. Additionally, the cut command D is the last cut command contained in the received information.

[0084] like Figure 2 As shown, there is a gap GP between the head 15a and the shearer 16. Therefore, when the first control unit 11 performs the printing DD, as described later... Figure 5 As shown, the print result DD printed on the recording paper PA is not conveyed to the position of the cutter 16. If the cutting CD is performed in this state to cut the recording paper PA, it will result in the cutting occurring in the middle of the print result DD.

[0085] Therefore, when the first control unit 11 detects that there is no next received information, the execution of cutting the CD is retained.

[0086] Figure 5 Indicates that it has been executed. Figure 4 The printing result AD on the recording paper PA is obtained by controlling the printing device 1. Figure 5 The diagram illustrates a situation where the worker fails to remove the document, and the printed result AD remains on the printing unit 1. A shear 16 is located at a position shifted from the head 15a towards the transport direction FF. The distance between them is the interval GP.

[0087] in addition, Figure 5 For example, the result of printing data A, namely "Cooking A0...A9", on the recording paper PA is represented as printing result DA. Similarly, printing results DB to printing results DD are represented below.

[0088] Furthermore, for example, the result of performing shearing CA on the recording paper PA and implementing the shearing is... Figure 5The result is denoted as CA. Similarly, the results CB through CC are denoted below.

[0089] Additionally, for example, for ease of explanation, in Figure 5 The case where the sounding command BA is sent and sounds in conjunction with the cut CA is indicated by the position of the cut result CA as the location of the sounding command BA being sent. Similarly, the sending of sounding commands BB through BC will be indicated below.

[0090] Moreover, such as Figure 5 As shown, since there is a gap GP between the head 15a and the shearer 16, the position of the printing result DD does not cross the position of the shearer 16 after the first control unit 11 performs the printing DD.

[0091] Therefore, after executing the printing DD, the first control unit 11 retains the execution of the cutting CD corresponding to the received cutting command D. Furthermore, the first control unit 11 also retains the transmission of the beep command BD. Additionally, in the received information, the printing data D becomes the final printing data, and the cutting command D becomes the final cutting command.

[0092] Next, as Figure 6 As shown, assuming no order information for the next dish is input to the external device 4, the state of no data transmission continues (S201).

[0093] When the first control unit 11 of the printing apparatus 1 determines that the state of no further reception and no received information in the communication unit 13 (S202) continues and a predetermined period has elapsed (S203), a flag is established (S204). In addition, the predetermined period is, for example, about two seconds.

[0094] At this point, the first control unit 11 can determine that the reception of information, i.e., the transaction information, has come to an end.

[0095] Specifically, establishing a flag means that the first control unit 11 stores information indicating that the state of no information reception continues and a predetermined period has elapsed in the first storage unit 12.

[0096] For example, the first control unit 11 writes a value of "1" as a flag when the initial value of the predetermined area of ​​the first storage unit 12 is "0".

[0097] Subsequently, when the first control unit 11 reads the predetermined area of ​​the first storage unit 12, if the value is "1", it can determine that a flag has been established and that the state of no information reception continues and the predetermined period has elapsed.

[0098] Alternatively, it can be configured such that after the power supply 19 of the printing device 1 is turned on, the first control unit 11 also establishes a flag if it determines that the state of no reception or no information reception in the communication unit 13 continues and a predetermined period has elapsed.

[0099] That is, in such a case, the first control unit 11 has not received the reception information containing the aforementioned printing data A to printing data D and various cutting commands beforehand. If the first control unit 11 has not received the reception information beforehand, it may also establish a flag and perform the same processing as described later if the communication unit 13 has not received the information and a predetermined period has elapsed.

[0100] The first control unit 11 uses roller 15b to transport the recording paper PA in the transport direction FF by a distance equivalent to a predetermined distance, i.e., the distance of interval GP (S205).

[0101] The result is expressed as Figure 7 The printing result DG. The position of the printing result DD on the recording paper PA can extend beyond the position of the cutter 16. In this case, since the position of the printing result DD only needs to extend beyond the position of the cutter 16, the first control unit 11 can also transport the recording paper PA a distance greater than the interval GP. In addition, Figure 7 For ease of explanation, only the printed result DD is shown in the image.

[0102] Then, the first control unit 11 executes the retained cut CD (S206). Figure 7 As shown, the printed result DD is cut at a position past the cutter 16, becoming the cut result CD. Since the printed result DD is not cut midway, it can be printed as a document.

[0103] At this time, the first control unit 11, in conjunction with the execution of the cut CD, sends the retained sound command BD to the first peripheral device 2 (S206), and causes the first peripheral device 2 to execute the sound D (S207). Figure 7 The position of the cutter 16 indicates the cut result CD and sends the beep command BD.

[0104] The staff can know that the printed DD has been printed by the sound D of the first peripheral device 2, and can take the cut printed result DD out of the printing device 1.

[0105] Furthermore, at this time, the area of ​​the interval GP on the recording paper PA becomes a blank area that is not printed as the paper is being transported. Alternatively, the first control unit 11 may generate blanks instead of transporting the interval GP, and instead print the meaning of the transaction information ending through the printing unit 14.

[0106] Next, assume that the order information for the following series of dishes is input into external device 4. For example... Figure 8 As shown, based on the order information for the following series of dishes, external device 4 generates printed data E indicating cooking E (i.e., "Cooking E0...E9"), printed data F indicating cooking F (i.e., "Cooking F0...F9"), printed data G indicating cooking G (i.e., "Cooking G0...G9"), and printed data H indicating cooking H (i.e., "Cooking H0...H9"), respectively. Furthermore, external device 4 attaches a cut command to each printed data to generate the next transaction information.

[0107] With the above Figure 4 Similarly, in Figure 8 In this case, external device 4 also sends the next transaction information to printing device 1. Printing device 1 receives the next reception information, which is the next transaction information, through communication unit 13.

[0108] exist Figure 8 For the sake of illustration, it is assumed that the external device 4 sends the multiple printing data and multiple cutting commands contained in the next received information in the order described above.

[0109] Furthermore, it is assumed that the printing device 1 receives and processes the multiple printing data and multiple cutting commands contained in the next received information in the order described above.

[0110] like Figure 8 As shown, the external device 4 sends the initial printing data E and the cutting command E contained in the next transaction information to the printing device 1 (S301).

[0111] The first control unit 11 of the printing apparatus 1 receives printing data E and cutting command E through the communication unit 13.

[0112] At this time, the first control unit 11 reads the value written to the predetermined area of ​​the first storage unit 12, which is marked. The first control unit 11 performs a flag check (S302), which checks whether the value is "1" indicating that the flag has been established. When the first control unit 11 reads the value "1" indicating that the flag has been established, it determines that the state of no information reception continues and a predetermined period has elapsed.

[0113] The result of this determination is that the first control unit 11 performs the following process: based on at least one cut command contained in the next received information, it sends a sound command to the first peripheral device 2 via CN18 and causes it to sound. The first control unit 11 will not send a sound command to the first peripheral device 2 based on other cut commands contained in the next received information.

[0114] In this example, it is assumed that the first control unit 11 identifies a cut command as the initial cut command, i.e., cut command E, contained in the next received information and processes it. Furthermore, the first control unit 11 identifies cut commands other than cut command E as other cut commands.

[0115] Furthermore, when the first control unit 11 reads the value of "0" indicating that the flag has not been established, it determines that the state of no information reception has not lasted for the predetermined period. The first control unit 11 is able to determine that no action has been taken. Figure 6 The processing is shown.

[0116] In this situation, after executing the printing DE of the initial printing data E contained in the next received information, the first control unit 11 executes the previously retained cut CD and beep command BD. Afterwards, based on the cut command contained in the next received information, the first control unit 11 performs the aforementioned... Figure 4 The same treatment applies to other cases.

[0117] The instructions for handling flags were further established. For example... Figure 8 As shown, the first control unit 11 of the printing apparatus 1 receives printing data E through the communication unit 13, and executes printing DE (S303) by printing the printing data E on the recording paper PA through the printing unit 14.

[0118] Next, the first control unit 11 executes a cutting CE to cut the recording paper PA via the cutter 16 based on the received cutting command E (S304). At this time, the first control unit 11 processes a cutting command set as cutting command E. Specifically, the first control unit 11 generates an alarm command BE in conjunction with the execution of cutting CE, and sends it to the first peripheral device 2 via CN18 (S304).

[0119] The second control unit 21 of the first peripheral device 2 receives the sounding command BE via CN18 and executes the sounding E (S305) to make the buzzer 23 sound.

[0120] Next, the external device 4 sends the printing data F and the cutting command F to the printing device 1 (S306). The first control unit 11 of the printing device 1 executes the printing DF of the received printing data F through the printing unit 14 (S307).

[0121] Next, the first control unit 11 executes the cutting CF via the cutter 16 based on the received cutting command F (S308). At this time, the first control unit 11 determines that the cutting command F is another cutting command and processes it. Specifically, the first control unit 11 does not generate an alarm command in conjunction with the execution of the cutting CF, nor does it send it to the first peripheral device 2 via CN18.

[0122] Next, the external device 4 sends the printing data G and the cutting command G to the printing device 1 (S309). The first control unit 11 of the printing device 1 executes the printing DG of the received printing data G through the printing unit 14 (S310).

[0123] Next, the first control unit 11 executes the cutting CG via the cutter 16 based on the received cutting command G (S311). At this time, the first control unit 11 determines that the cutting command G is another cutting command, and does not generate an alarm command or send it to the first peripheral device 2.

[0124] Next, the external device 4 sends the printing data H and the cutting command H to the printing device 1 (S312). The first control unit 11 of the printing device 1 executes the printing DH of the received printing data H through the printing unit 14 (S313).

[0125] Here, external device 4 enters a state of no data transmission because the transmission of transaction information has ended (S314).

[0126] When the first control unit 11 detects that there is no further reception and no received information in the communication unit 13, it temporarily retains the execution of the cut CH based on the received cut command H (S315). In addition, the cut command H is the last cut command included in the next received information.

[0127] Furthermore, under such circumstances, the first control unit 11 and Figure 6 Similarly, in the case shown, if there is no next reception and the predetermined period has elapsed, the reserved cut CH is performed after the interval GP has been delivered.

[0128] When the first control unit 11 determines that the shearing command H is another shearing command and executes the reserved shearing CH, it does not generate a beeping command or send a message to the first peripheral device 2.

[0129] Alternatively, at this time, the first control unit 11 can also be configured to be linked with the execution of the cutting CH, generate a sound command BH, and send it to the first peripheral device 2 to make the first peripheral device 2 sound.

[0130] Since the predetermined period has passed, the staff is less likely to feel disturbed. Instead, as in the case of the printed result DD mentioned above, the staff can know that the printed result DH has been printed and can remove the cut printed result DH from the printing unit 1.

[0131] Here, the first control unit 11 sets a cut command as the initial cut command, i.e., cut command E, contained in the received information. The first control unit 11 can assign cut commands in any order as a single cut command. For example, the first control unit 11 can set a cut command as the second cut command, i.e., cut command F, contained in the received information. Furthermore, the first control unit 11 can also set a cut command as any combination of two or more cut commands contained in the received information.

[0132] In this way, the first control unit 11 can make the buzzer 23 of the first peripheral device 2 sound only once or a specific number of times when printing a document. The first control unit 11 will not make the buzzer 23 sound every time a document is printed, thereby suppressing the situation that would bother the staff.

[0133] Figure 9 The execution was performed. Figure 8 The control method of printing apparatus 1 for printing results EH on recording paper PA to be consistent with Figure 5 The printing results of AD are shown in the same way.

[0134] exist Figure 9 In this section, the result of printing DE, which involves printing data E, namely "Cooking E0...E9", performed on the recording paper PA, will be shown as printing result DE. Similarly, printing results DF to DH will be shown below.

[0135] Furthermore, the result of shearing CE performed on the recording paper PA is shown as shearing result CE. Similarly, shearing results CF to CG are shown below.

[0136] Additionally, in conjunction with the execution of cut command CE, which corresponds to cut command E as a cut command, a beep command BE is sent. For clarity, this will be represented as the sending of the beep command BE at the position of cut result CE. No beep command is sent in cut results CF and CG, which correspond to other cut commands F and G as cut commands.

[0137] Because there is a gap GP between the head 15a and the shearer 16, the position of the printing result DH does not exceed the position of the shearer 16 after the first control unit 11 performs the printing DH.

[0138] Therefore, after executing the printing DH, the first control unit 11 retains the execution of the cutting CH corresponding to the received cutting command H. Furthermore, when the cutting command H is a single cutting command, the first control unit 11 also retains the transmission of the beep command BH.

[0139] Here, the method of issuing a sound command will be explained. As a first example of a sound command, there is a method of specifying the waveform of the sound signal that causes the buzzer 23 of the first peripheral device 2 to sound. Specifically, the sound command includes information specifying the ON and OFF times for which the buzzer 23 sounds. In this case, the sound command may also include information specifying the number of times the ON and OFF times are repeated.

[0140] The first control unit 11 of the printing apparatus 1 generates a data signal as a sounding command based on the waveform related to the on-time and off-time of the buzzer 23, which causes the buzzer 23 to sound. This data signal is then sent to the first peripheral device 2. In this case, the first control unit 11 may not output a clock signal.

[0141] The first peripheral device 2 can directly turn the buzzer 23 on and off and drive it to sound by receiving the waveform as a data signal. In this case, the second control unit 21 of the first peripheral device 2 may not need to perform the processing of generating the sound signal. Furthermore, the first peripheral device 2 may not even have a second control unit 21.

[0142] Alternatively, in the first example of the ringing command, it can also be set to a fixed disconnect time without including the disconnect time.

[0143] As a second example of a sounding command, there is a way to include the pitch information and timing information involved in the sounding of the buzzer 23 of the first peripheral device 2.

[0144] The first control unit 11 of the printing apparatus 1 generates a data signal as a sounding command by generating pitch information and time information based on the sounding command, and sends it to the first peripheral device 2 in sync with the clock signal.

[0145] In this case, the second storage unit 22 of the first peripheral device 2 stores information of the drive signal corresponding to the pitch information involved in the ringing of the buzzer 23. The second control unit 21 can read the information of the drive signal corresponding to the specified pitch information from the second storage unit 22 based on the received ringing command, generate the drive signal, and make the buzzer 23 ring according to the specified time information.

[0146] In the second example of the sounding command, compared to the first example, the first control unit 11 of the printing apparatus 1 does not need to generate complex waveform information to make the buzzer 23 sound. Furthermore, the first control unit 11 does not need to continue sending sounding commands while the buzzer 23 is sounding. The first control unit 11 can quickly end the processing involved in the sounding and execute the next process.

[0147] As a third example of a sounding command, there is a way to include melody information related to the sounding of the buzzer 23 of the first peripheral device 2. For example, the melody information includes information specifying the melody.

[0148] The first control unit 11 of the printing apparatus 1 generates melody information as a data signal as a sounding command based on the sounding command, and sends it to the first peripheral device 2 in sync with the clock signal.

[0149] In this case, the second storage unit 22 of the first peripheral device 2 stores in advance a series of detailed information such as scales and timings that correspond to the melody information and cause the buzzer 23 to sound.

[0150] The second control unit 21 can read detailed information corresponding to the specified melody from the second storage unit 22 based on the received sounding command, and generate a drive signal to make the buzzer 23 sound.

[0151] In the third example of the sounding command, compared to the first example, the first control unit 11 of the printing apparatus 1 does not need to generate complex waveform information to make the buzzer 23 sound. Furthermore, the first control unit 11 does not need to continue sending sounding commands while the buzzer 23 is sounding. The first control unit 11 can quickly end the processing involved in the sounding and execute the next process.

[0152] Furthermore, in the second example of the sounding command, when the first control unit 11 of the printing device 1 wants to make the buzzer 23 sound a melody, the first control unit 11 of the printing device 1 needs to generate information specifying a series of scales and lengths involved in the melody and send it to the first peripheral device 2.

[0153] In the third example of the sounding command, the first control unit 11 only needs to specify the melody; it does not need to send information about the series of scales and timings involved in the melody. The first control unit 11 can quickly end the processing involved in the sounding and execute the next process.

[0154] 1-3. Printing apparatus connected to a second peripheral device

[0155] In POS systems, there are sometimes drawers for storing money and other items, which also serve as a second peripheral device 3 for the cash register.

[0156] exist Figure 10 In the middle, it is shown that the alternative is... Figure 3 The first peripheral device 2 is connected to the second peripheral device 3 and the printing device 1.

[0157] Reference Figure 10The structure in which the printing apparatus 1 drives the second peripheral device 3 will be described. The printing apparatus 1 is connected to the second peripheral device 3 via a modular cable or the like through CN18.

[0158] The second peripheral device 3 includes a drawer (not shown), plungers L1 and L2, a hook (not shown), a spring (not shown), and a switch SW. Plungers L1 and L2 are actuators containing electromagnets and are connected to the hook. The drawer is locked by the hook when closed. The drawer is configured such that when an operator pushes it in to close, it is locked by the hook. At this time, the spring is compressed by the closed drawer.

[0159] The device is configured such that when the plungers L1 and L2 of the second peripheral device 3 are actuated, the hooks locking the corresponding drawers disengage, and the drawers are opened by the force of spring extension. Furthermore, in the following text, actuating the plungers L1 and L2 will also be referred to as actuating the second peripheral device 3.

[0160] Furthermore, in a shop, there are sometimes two staff members who each use separate drawers and manage the same second peripheral device 3. Therefore, in this example, the second peripheral device 3 has two drawers, each with corresponding plungers L1 and L2.

[0161] The driving of plungers L1 and L2 requires, for example, approximately 24V and 1A of power. The power supply 19 of the printing unit 1 has the power to drive plungers L1 and L2. Therefore, in the POS system, the second peripheral device 3 is connected to the printing unit 1.

[0162] Furthermore, since the second peripheral device 3 is located near the printing device 1, the shop staff can deliver the receipts printed by the printing device 1 to the customers and open and close the drawer of the second peripheral device 3 to receive cash from the customers.

[0163] When a drive command for the second peripheral device 3 is received from the external device 4 via the communication unit 13 of the printing apparatus 1, the first control unit 11 generates drive signals T1 and T2 for driving the plungers L1 and L2, and outputs them from the output ports P1 and P2. Drive signals T1 and T2 are signals with high voltage levels for periods T1 and T2, respectively. Furthermore, the first control unit 11 does not output drive signals T1 and T2 simultaneously, but outputs either one based on the instruction for the drive command for the second peripheral device 3. The periods T1 and T2 are, for example, 100 ms to 200 ms.

[0164] The drive signals T1 and T2 output from the first control unit 11 use 24V and are amplified by transistors TR1 and TR2, respectively, and are sent from their respective collectors to the second peripheral device 3 via terminals 2 and 5 of CN18.

[0165] Terminals 2 and 5 of CN18 are connected to one end of each of plungers L1 and L2. The other end of each of plungers L1 and L2 is connected to terminal 4 of CN18 and is supplied with 24V from the printing device 1.

[0166] Pistons L1 and L2 are driven by drive signals T1 and T2, which open the corresponding drawers. At this time, a current of 1A flows in pistons L1 and L2, for example, at 24V, for a period of 100msec to 200msec.

[0167] In addition, terminal 1 of CN18 is connected to the ground of both the printing device 1 and the second peripheral device 3, so that their potentials are consistent.

[0168] The switch SW is configured to be in the open state when either of the two drawers is opened, and in the closed state when both drawers are closed.

[0169] One end of switch SW is connected to the ground level of printing apparatus 1 via terminal 6 of CN18. The other end of switch SW is connected to the input port IN of the first control unit 11 of printing apparatus 1 via terminal 3 of CN18.

[0170] The input port IN is pulled up to 3.3V. Therefore, when the first control unit 11 detects a high-level voltage of 3.3V through the input port IN, it can determine that the switch SW is in the open state. That is, the first control unit 11 can determine that one of the two drawers is open.

[0171] On the other hand, the first control unit 11 detects a low-level voltage (ground level) at the input port IN, and can determine that the switch SW is in the closed state. That is, the first control unit 11 can determine that both drawers are closed.

[0172] According to the above embodiment, the first control unit 11 of the printing apparatus 1 receives transaction information, i.e., reception information, containing multiple printing data and multiple cut commands, from the external device 4 via the communication unit 13. After receiving the reception information, if no further reception occurs within a predetermined period, the first control unit 11 sends a drive command to the first peripheral device 2 via CN18 to activate it based on at least one cut command contained in the reception information. On the other hand, the first control unit 11 does not send drive commands to the first peripheral device 2 based on other cut commands contained in the reception information.

[0173] With this structure, when the first peripheral device 2 is a sounding device, the printing device 1 does not make the first peripheral device 2 sound every time a document is printed, thereby suppressing the situation that would bother the staff.

[0174] Although the embodiments have been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings, the specific structure is not limited to these embodiments. Changes, substitutions, deletions, etc., can be made as long as they do not depart from the spirit of the present invention.

[0175] Although the head 15a of the printing apparatus 1 has been described as an example of a line-type thermal head, the printing method is not limited. For example, it could also be an inkjet head.

[0176] The first peripheral device 2 can be configured to make the buzzer 23 sound in a self-excited manner, or it can be configured to make it sound in a separately excited manner.

[0177] Although the first peripheral device 2 has been described as an example of a sounding device, it could also be a display device. Furthermore, although the second peripheral device 3 has been described as an example of a cash register, it could also be a change machine.

[0178] In the above embodiment, the first control unit 11 of the printing apparatus 1 establishes a flag when no communication is received in the communication unit 13 and a predetermined period has elapsed. Instead of the flag, a memory switch is set in a predetermined area of ​​the first storage unit 12, and the first control unit 11 writes a "1" into the memory switch based on a command specifying "1" from the memory switch of the external device 4; this process can be performed similarly. In this case, the value does not have to be "1" and can be any value that the first control unit 11 can recognize.

[0179] Symbol Explanation

[0180] 1… Printing apparatus; 2… First peripheral device; 3… Second peripheral device; 4… External device; 11… First control unit; 12… First storage unit; 13… Communication unit; 14… Printing unit; 15a… Head; 15b… Roller; 16… Shearer; 17… Drive circuit; 18… Connector CN; 19… Power supply; 21… Second control unit; 22… Second storage unit; 23… Buzzer; 24… Voltage converter; FF… Conveyor direction; GP… Spacing; L1, L2… Plungers; P1, P2… Output ports; PA… Recording paper; T1, T2… Drive signals; TR1, TR2… Transistors.

Claims

1. A printing apparatus comprising: The communication unit is capable of communicating with external devices and receiving printed data and cutting commands. A connector capable of connecting to either a first peripheral device or a second peripheral device that are separate from the printing device; A head that can print the printing data onto recording paper; A cutter that can cut the recording paper based on the cutting command; A control unit that controls the head and the shears; Storage Department When the control unit determines that there is no next reception in the communication unit and the state of no received information continues for a predetermined period, it stores information indicating that the state of no received information continues for the predetermined period in the storage unit. When the control unit receives a message containing multiple printed data and multiple cutting commands through the communication unit after the communication unit has not received any data within the predetermined period, it sends a drive command to the first peripheral device via the connector and drives it based on at least one cutting command contained in the received message, and does not send the drive command to the first peripheral device based on other cutting commands.

2. The printing apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein, It includes rollers that can transport the recording paper. If the communication unit does not receive a message within the predetermined period, the control unit cuts the recording paper based on the last cutting command contained in the received information after the recording paper has been conveyed a predetermined distance by the roller.

3. The printing apparatus as claimed in claim 2, wherein, The predetermined distance is the distance between the head and the shear.

4. The printing apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The cut command is the initial cut command contained in the received information.

5. The printing apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The connector can connect to a second peripheral device that is different from the first peripheral device. When the control unit receives a drive command for the second peripheral device through the communication unit, it generates a drive signal and sends the drive signal to the second peripheral device via the connector to drive it.

6. The printing apparatus as claimed in claim 5, wherein, The first peripheral device is a sounding device, and the second peripheral device is a cash register.

7. A method for controlling a printing apparatus, wherein, The printing apparatus includes: The communication unit is capable of communicating with external devices and receiving printed data and cutting commands. A connector capable of connecting to a first peripheral device separate from the printing device; A head that can print the printing data onto recording paper; A cutter that can cut the recording paper based on the cutting command; Storage Department In the control method of the printing apparatus, When it is determined that there is no next reception in the communication unit, and the state of no received information continues for a predetermined period, information indicating that the state of no received information continues for the predetermined period is stored in the storage unit. When the communication unit does not receive any data within the predetermined period, and then receives a receiving message containing multiple sets of the printed data and multiple sets of the cutting commands through the communication unit, Based on at least one cut command contained in the received information, a drive command is sent to the first peripheral device via the connector and the device is driven, and the drive command is not sent to the first peripheral device based on other cut commands.

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