Printing apparatus, computer program product including a printing data generation program

Abstract

Provided is a printing device, a computer program product including a print data generation program, and the like, which are intended to solve the problem that the position of image data printed on a backing sheet is fixed and usability is not taken into account. A printing device having a printing section includes an operation section having a display section, and a print control section that controls the printing section based on print conditions acquired via the operation section. The print control section is capable of executing a cover arrangement mode in which a cover is arranged for each stack of media that is a stack of media after printing, and the print control section prints a title on the cover based on a print position acquired via a user interface.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a printing apparatus for performing printing. Additionally, this invention relates to a printing data generation program. Background Technology

[0002] The technique of inserting backing paper between multiple printed materials is known in the past. In the printing apparatus described in Patent Document 1, backing paper printed with image data is positioned on each of the multiple printed materials being discharged to a discharge tray. The image data printed on the backing paper in Patent Document 1 includes a group name, the names of absent members, the number of copies printed, and the date.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-182714.

[0006] In Patent Document 1, the position of the image data printed on the backing paper is fixed, so usability is not taken into consideration. Summary of the Invention

[0007] To address the aforementioned issues, the printing apparatus of the present invention is characterized by comprising a printing unit for printing on media, the printing apparatus comprising: an operation unit having a display unit for displaying various information and accepting various operation settings; and a printing control unit that causes the display unit to display multiple user interfaces and controls the printing unit based on printing conditions obtained via the operation unit. When multiple stacks of media as printed media are discharged, the printing control unit is capable of executing a cover configuration mode for configuring covers on each stack of media, the cover configuration mode being capable of printing a title on the cover. The printing control unit is capable of accepting settings for the printing position when printing the title on the cover via the user interface and printing the title based on the obtained printing position.

[0008] Furthermore, the printing data generation method of the present invention is characterized in that printing data is generated based on the obtained printing conditions, and the printing data generation method causes a computer to perform the following steps: displaying a user interface on a display device, the user interface handling the setting of the printing position of the title when the stack of media, which is a stack of printed media, is configured with a cover and the title is printed on the cover; and generating printing data by including the printing position obtained via the user interface in the printing conditions. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 This is the front view of the printing apparatus.

[0010] Figure 2 This is a block diagram showing the structure of the printing control section.

[0011] Figure 3 This is the main view of the operation panel.

[0012] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating the process performed by the printing control department.

[0013] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing the UI displayed on the touch panel.

[0014] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the UI displayed on the touch panel.

[0015] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing the UI displayed on the touch panel.

[0016] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing the UI displayed on the touch panel.

[0017] Figure 9 This is a diagram showing the UI displayed on the touch panel.

[0018] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing the UI displayed on the touch panel.

[0019] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the output sequence of printed materials.

[0020] Figure 12 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the output sequence of printed materials.

[0021] Figure 13 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the output sequence of printed materials.

[0022] Figure 14 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the output sequence of printed materials.

[0023] Figure 15 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the output state of a printed product during misaligned printing.

[0024] Figure 16 This diagram shows an example of the output state of the printing section when the cover orientation is changed.

[0025] Figure 17 This is a block diagram showing the structure of a computer capable of communicating with a printing press.

[0026] Symbol Explanation

[0027] 1. Printing apparatus; 2. Operation panel; 2a. Rotary shaft; 3. Touch panel; 4. Power button; 10. Printing unit; 12. Scanner unit; 14. Main body; 16. Media storage unit; 17A. First media cassette; 17B. Second media cassette; 17C. Third media cassette; 17D. Fourth media cassette; 18. Line head; 20. Printing control unit; 22. Body discharge unit; 23. Body discharge tray; 24. Relay unit; 30. Post-processing unit; 32. Main body of the apparatus; 33. Main tray; 34. Stapler; 36. Processing tray; 40. CPU; 41. RAM; 42. I / F; 43. Non-volatile memory; 44. Various control programs; 45. Printing data generation program; 46. Printing setting information; 61 62, 63, 64, 65, UI; 71, Execute button; 72, Basic settings label; 73, Application settings label; 74, 75, Icon; 76, Copies setting label; 77, Organizing label; 80, Icon; 100, Computer; 101, Operation unit; 102, Display unit; 103, Information processing unit; 104, CPU; 105, RAM; 106, ROM; 107, I / F; 108, Memory; 109, OS; 110, Application program; 111, Printer driver; 112, Printing settings information; P1a, P1b, First medium; P2, Second medium; P3, Third medium; Pa1, Pa2, Pa3, Pa4, Cover; Pt1, Pt2, Pt3, Pt4, Media stack. Detailed Implementation

[0028] The present invention will now be described in a general sense.

[0029] The printing apparatus according to the first method is characterized by having a printing unit for printing on media, the printing apparatus comprising: an operation unit having a display unit for displaying various information and accepting various operation settings; and a printing control unit that causes the display unit to display multiple user interfaces and controls the printing unit based on printing conditions obtained via the operation unit, wherein the printing control unit, when discharging multiple stacks of media as stacks of printed media, is capable of executing a cover configuration mode for configuring covers on each stack of media, the cover configuration mode being capable of printing a title on the cover, the printing control unit being capable of accepting the setting of the printing position when printing the title on the cover via the user interface, and printing the title based on the obtained printing position.

[0030] According to this method, the printing control unit can accept the setting of the printing position when printing the title on the cover via the user interface, and print the title based on the obtained printing position. Therefore, the title can be printed in a position that is convenient for the user, which can improve ease of use.

[0031] The second method is a method subordinate to the first method, characterized in that the printing control unit prints the title on the surface of the upper surface of the cover when the cover is placed on the media stack.

[0032] According to this method, the printing control unit prints the title on the surface of the cover, which is the upper surface of the cover, while the cover is placed on the media stack, thus making it easy to visually confirm the title. Furthermore, the term "the state where the cover is placed on the media stack" means not only that the media stack is ejected first and the cover is ejected from the media stack, but also that the cover is ejected before the media stack, and the media stack and the cover are flipped over together from the state where the media stack is placed on the cover.

[0033] The third method is a subordinate method to the first method, characterized in that the vertical and horizontal writing of the title text can be selected via the user interface. According to this method, since the vertical and horizontal writing of the title text can be set via the user interface, usability is further improved. Furthermore, this method is not limited to the first method described above, but can also be subordinate to the second method described above.

[0034] The fourth method is a subordinate method to the first method, characterized in that the size of the title text can be set via the user interface. According to this method, since the size of the title text can be set via the user interface, usability is further improved. Furthermore, this method is not limited to the first method described above, and can also be subordinate to the second or third method described above.

[0035] The fifth method is a subordinate method to the first method, characterized in that the font of the title text can be set via the user interface. According to this method, the font of the title text can be set via the user interface, thus further improving usability. Furthermore, this method is not limited to the first method described above, and can also be subordinate to any of the second to fourth methods described above.

[0036] The sixth method is a method subordinate to the first method, characterized in that multiple printing positions can be set via the user interface. According to this method, since multiple printing positions can be set via the user interface, ease of use can be further improved. Furthermore, this method is not limited to the first method described above, and can also be subordinate to any of the second to fifth methods described above.

[0037] The seventh method is a method subordinate to the first method, characterized in that the cover configuration mode is capable of staggered discharge in which the discharge positions of the media stack are alternately staggered, and the printing control unit is capable of accepting the area shifted due to the staggered discharge as the printing position via the user interface.

[0038] According to this method, since the title is printed in the area offset due to the misalignment, it is easy to visually confirm the title, further improving usability. Furthermore, this method is not limited to the first method described above, but may also belong to any of the second to sixth methods described above.

[0039] The eighth method is a method subordinate to the first method, characterized in that it further comprises: a first media box, which stores the media with its short side along the feed direction; and a second media box, which stores the media with its long side along the feed direction, wherein the cover configuration mode can discharge the cover and the media stack in different orientations by distinguishing between the use of the first media box and the second media box, and the printing control unit can, via the user interface, accept the area in the cover that does not overlap with the media stack as the printing position.

[0040] According to this method, since the title is printed in an area of ​​the cover that does not overlap with the media stack, the title is easily visually confirmed, further improving usability. Furthermore, this method is not limited to the first method described above, but may also belong to any of the second to sixth methods described above.

[0041] The ninth method is a method belonging to any of the first to eighth methods, characterized in that the printing control unit can accept settings for multiple main groups, multiple subgroups belonging to one of the main groups, and the number of copies of printed materials corresponding to one of the subgroups via the user interface. When the printing control unit receives a printing execution instruction based on the cover configuration mode after one of the multiple main groups is selected, it uses the stack of printed materials belonging to one of the subgroups as the media stack and configures the cover on the media stack.

[0042] According to this method, when printing based on the cover configuration pattern is performed after selecting one of the multiple main groups, the stack of printed materials belonging to one of the subgroups is used as the media stack, and the cover is configured on the media stack, thus further improving usability.

[0043] The printing data generation method involved in the tenth method is characterized in that printing data is generated based on the obtained printing conditions, and the printing data generation method causes a computer to perform the following steps: displaying a user interface on a display device, the user interface handling the setting of the printing position of the title when the stack of media, which is a stack of media after printing, is configured with a cover and the title is printed on the cover; and generating printing data by including the printing position obtained via the user interface in the printing conditions.

[0044] According to this method, since the printing position of the title can be set, the title can be printed in a position convenient for the user, thereby improving usability.

[0045] The present invention will now be described in detail. Hereinafter, a printing apparatus 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the figures, the X-axis direction is the depth direction of the printing apparatus 1. The +X direction, indicated by the arrow, is the direction from the back of the apparatus towards the front surface of the apparatus, and the -X direction is the direction from the front surface of the apparatus towards the back of the apparatus. Additionally, the X-axis direction is an example of the width direction of the medium. The Y-axis direction is the width direction of the printing apparatus 1. The +Y direction, indicated by the arrow, is the left direction when viewed from the user's perspective relative to the front surface of the apparatus, and the -Y direction is the right direction. The Z-axis direction is the height direction of the printing apparatus 1, which is the vertical direction. The +Z direction, indicated by the arrow, is vertically upward, and the -Z direction is vertically downward. In the following description, the +Z direction will sometimes be simply referred to as upward, and the -Z direction as downward. Furthermore, in Figure 1 In this context, the +A direction is the normal direction relative to the mounting surface of the main tray 33, which is described later, and it includes the +Z direction component. The +B direction is the direction parallel to the mounting surface of the main tray 33 and it also includes the +Z direction component.

[0046] Furthermore, the embodiments described below illustrate an example of the printing device 1 being installed in a school office for printing printed materials, including those for teachers, to be distributed to students by school staff. However, the uses of the printing device 1 are certainly not limited to this. For example, it can also be installed in homes, businesses, home offices, public facilities, shops, and other places for various purposes.

[0047] like Figure 1As shown, the printing apparatus 1 includes a printing unit 10 and a post-processing unit 30. The printing unit 10 in this embodiment is an inkjet printer that performs printing on media such as printing paper by ejecting ink, which is a liquid, and includes a line head 18 as an example of a printing section. Furthermore, the term "printing" can also be changed to "recording." Additionally, the printing unit 10 is a so-called multifunction printer with a scanner unit 12 on its upper part, which performs copying, scanning, and faxing functions. In the case where the copying function is specifically implemented in the printing apparatus 1, the printing operation of the printing unit 10 is accompanied by this operation. However, the printing unit 10 is not limited to an inkjet printer; it can also be a structure that performs printing by other means, such as a laser printer, a thermal transfer printer, or a click-to-print printer.

[0048] The printing unit 10 includes a main body 14, a media storage section 16 for storing media, a media conveying section (not shown) for conveying media, a printing head 18, a media discharge section 22 for discharging media, and a relay unit 24 for conveying media to the post-processing unit 30. Additionally, the printing unit 10 includes a printing control section 20 for controlling the entire printing apparatus 1, and an operation panel 2 for handling various setting operations and displaying various information.

[0049] The media storage unit 16 includes, from top to bottom, a first media box 17A, a second media box 17B, a third media box 17C, and a fourth media box 17D. The first media box 17A stores a first medium P1a. For example, A4-sized paper is stored with its short side aligned with the feed direction. The second media box 17B stores a first medium P1b. For example, A4-sized paper is stored with its long side aligned with the feed direction.

[0050] The third media holder 17C contains a second medium P2. For example, the second medium P2 is an A4-sized sheet of paper, stored with its long side aligned with the feed direction. Furthermore, for example, the second medium P2 is a different type of medium from the first medium P1b; specifically, it is a different color than the first medium P1b, and when present between printed materials, it serves to indicate the boundaries between them. The second medium P2 is primarily used as a cover or backing paper, as described later.

[0051] The fourth media holder 17D contains a third medium P3. For example, the third medium P3 is an A4-sized sheet of paper, stored with its long side aligned with the feed direction. Furthermore, for example, the third medium P3 is a medium of a different type than the first medium P1b and the second medium P2. Specifically, the third medium P3 is a different color from either the first medium P1b or the second medium P2, and when present between printed materials, it serves to indicate the boundaries between them. The third medium P3 is primarily used as a cover or backing paper, as described later.

[0052] Furthermore, either the first medium P1a or the first medium P1b can be used as the cover or backing paper, as described later. Alternatively, either the first medium P1a or the first medium P1b can also be used as printed material other than the cover or backing paper. Additionally, multiple media boxes are not necessarily required; it is sufficient to store at least one of the first medium P1a or the first medium P1b used for printing.

[0053] A medium transport path is provided inside the main body 14. Symbol T1 indicates a feed path that feeds the medium from each medium cartridge to a position opposite the linear head 18 described later. Symbol T2 indicates a discharge path that discharges the recorded medium. Symbol T3 is a path for feeding the medium when recording on both sides of the medium, and is a rotation path for rotating the medium. Symbol T4 is a path for feeding the medium from the rotation path T3, and is a reversing path for flipping the medium.

[0054] The line print head 18 has a plurality of ink ejection nozzles (not shown) arranged corresponding to the entire area of ​​the medium in the X-axis direction, i.e., the width direction. The line print head 18 performs printing on the medium by ejecting ink supplied from the plurality of ink ejection nozzles (not shown) toward the medium from an ink tank (not shown).

[0055] The medium printed in the printing unit 10 is discharged to the relay unit 24 via the discharge path T2, and then transported to the post-processing unit 30 via the relay unit 24. The post-processing unit 30 includes a device body 32. The device body 32 includes: a processing tray 36 and a stapler 34 as an example of a post-processing unit; a discharge section (not shown) that discharges the post-processed medium to a main tray 33; and the main tray 33, which is disposed on the outside of the device body 32. The main tray 33 is an example of a discharge tray that receives the discharged medium. Furthermore, the printing apparatus 1 according to this embodiment has a structure in which the relay unit 24 is provided in the body discharge section 22 and the medium is transported to the post-processing unit 30. However, it is also possible to omit the relay unit 24 and the post-processing unit 30 and load the medium on the body discharge tray 23 provided in the body discharge section 22.

[0056] The medium transferred from relay unit 24 to device body 32 is conveyed in transport path T5 inside device body 32 and fed into processing tray 36. The medium is temporarily loaded on processing tray 36, and after necessary post-processing, it is discharged to main tray 33 through discharge section (not shown). Furthermore, a rear end alignment section (not shown) is provided in post-processing unit 30 to align the rear end (rear end in the +Y direction) of the medium on processing tray 36. Additionally, a side cursor (not shown) is provided on processing tray 36, and the side ends in the width direction (X-axis direction) of processing tray 36 are aligned by the side cursor. Furthermore, the side cursor also enables staggered discharge, where the width direction position of the medium is alternately staggered when being discharged to main tray 33. Main tray 33 is movable in the vertical direction and descends as medium is loaded.

[0057] The printing control unit 20 controls the entire printing apparatus 1, including the line head 18, based on the printing conditions obtained via the operation panel 2. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the printing control unit 20 includes a CPU 40, RAM 41, I / F 42, and a non-volatile memory 43 as an example of a storage medium. The CPU 40 expands various control programs 44 stored in the non-volatile memory 43 and the printing data generation program 45 (described later) into the RAM 41, which is volatile memory, and executes them. The various control programs 44 include various programs for controlling the printing unit 10 and the post-processing unit 30. In addition, the non-volatile memory 43 stores printing setting information 46 obtained by accepting input via the operation panel 2. In view of the above functions, the printing control unit 20 can also be called an information processing device or a computer.

[0058] Various functions of the printing apparatus 1 are implemented by the CPU 40 executing various control programs 44. Furthermore, printing data for printing by the printing unit 10 is generated by the CPU 40 executing a printing data generation program 45. For example, when utilizing the copying function of the printing apparatus 1, this printing data is generated based on image data generated by reading the original document by the scanner unit 12 and printing setting information 46. I / F 42 is a communication interface for connecting the printing apparatus 1 to a LAN (Local Area Network).

[0059] Next, refer to Figure 3 The operation panel 2 will be described below. The operation panel 2 is an example of an operation unit that has a touch panel 3 serving as a display for various information and accepts various operation settings. The operation panel 2 is mounted on the main body 14 of the printing unit 10 via a rotation axis 2a, and is configured to allow adjustment of the tilt angle by rotating around the rotation axis 2a. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the rotation axis 2a is configured as a free-stopping pivot, capable of maintaining any tilt angle.

[0060] The surface of the operation panel 2 is made of cover glass, with a touch panel 3 on its lower layer, and a liquid crystal display (not shown) on its lower layer. The touch panel 3 is known to be of various types, including capacitive, resistive, optical, and electromagnetic induction, but in this embodiment, a capacitive touch panel is used. User operation of the operation panel 2 is primarily based on touch operation of the touch panel 3 in this embodiment. The operation panel 2 has a housing 2b, within which a power button 4 for turning the power to and off the printing apparatus 1 is located on the lower side of the touch panel 3.

[0061] The user interface is implemented on the touch panel 3 under the control of the printing control unit 20. For convenience, the term "user interface" will be referred to as "UI" hereafter. Various control programs 44 (see...) Figure 2 The document contains programs for implementing various user interfaces (UIs). Hereinafter, the processing and operation of the printing apparatus 1 based on various UIs will be described, assuming that the aforementioned processing and operation are implemented by the printing control unit 20 executing various control programs 44 and the printing data generation program 45 (described later). In particular, the cover configuration mode (described later) is implemented by the printing control unit 20 executing the printing data generation program 45. Figure 3 The UI shown is the home screen, displaying icons with names such as "Copy", "Scan", and "FAX". Users can touch any of these icons depending on their subsequent actions.

[0062] Next, refer to Figure 4 The general process performed by the printing control unit 20 will be described below. The printing control unit 20 displays various UIs on the touch panel 3 (step S101). When the user inputs information through the various UIs ("Yes" in step S102), the printing control unit 20 updates the printing setting information 46 (step S103). Then, when the printing control unit 20 receives a printing execution command ("Yes" in step S104), it reads the printing setting information 46 (step S105), generates printing data based on the printing setting information 46 (step S106), and executes printing (step S107).

[0063] The following is based on Figure 3 Let's take the example of selecting "Copy" on the homepage to illustrate the UI transition. When the copy function is selected, as shown... Figure 5 As shown, the printing control unit 20 displays a UI 61 that includes a basic settings label 72 and an application settings label 73. The UI 61 displays the basic settings label 72 by default, but... Figure 5The UI 61 shows the selected application settings tab 73. Although the illustration of the basic settings tab 72 is omitted, it allows for basic copying settings such as color or black and white printing selection, print density settings, paper settings, and print magnification. Additionally, in the lower right corner of the UI 61, there is an execution button 71 for performing copying, i.e., reading and printing the original document. Clicking the execution button 71 is equivalent to... Figure 4 The printing execution instruction shown in step S104.

[0064] In the application settings tab 73, items other than those that can be set using the basic settings tab 72 can be set. For example, an icon 74 for setting up group printing and an icon 80 for setting up the endpapers and cover are displayed. Furthermore, icon 80 can also be displayed in other UI elements that appear when icon 74 is clicked. Additionally, in the application settings tab 73, although... Figure 5 The illustrations are omitted, but the binding process utilizing the post-processing unit 30 and the icons for storing the data read in the scanner unit 12 are shown.

[0065] Icon 74 is the icon used to enter the group printing settings, indicating the name of the currently selected main group among the multiple main groups described later. Figure 5 In the example, "Grade 1" is displayed as one of the selected main groups. When the execute button 71 is clicked in this state, group printing is performed according to the "Grade 1" setting described later. Furthermore, if none of the multiple main groups are selected, "Close" is displayed instead of "Grade 1", and the group printing function is turned off.

[0066] When icon 74 is clicked, go to Figure 6 UI62 is shown below. In UI62, multiple main groups are displayed in the registration list. Figure 6 The example lists four main groups: "Grade 1," "Grade 2," "Grade 3," and "All Year." Long-pressing the icon of any main group redirects to the name input UI (not shown), allowing users to enter and change the group's name. Additionally, briefly tapping an icon selects it. Conversely, briefly tapping a selected icon deselects it. Only one icon can be selected across multiple main groups.

[0067] exist Figure 6In the example, the icon 75 representing the "Grade 1" main group is selected. When a main group icon is selected, it changes from a light color to a dark color, making it distinguishable from other unselected icons. Additionally, each main group can be set to "unregistered" by clicking the "Delete" icon. Furthermore, clicking the "Register / Overwrite" icon while any of multiple main groups are selected will transition to... Figure 7 UI63 is shown. Additionally, when in... Figure 6 When multiple main groups are selected, clicking the "Delete" icon will delete the settings of the selected main groups and set them to "Unregistered". Additionally, when... Figure 6 When the "OK" icon is clicked, the printing settings information 46 is updated with the previously set content (see reference). Figure 2 ), return to Figure 5 UI61. Additionally, when in Figure 6 When the "Stop" icon is clicked, the previously set settings are discarded without updating the printing settings information 46 (see reference). Figure 2 ), return to Figure 5 UI61.

[0068] exist Figure 6 The right side of the registration list displays the settings for the selected main group, specifically the subgroups (described later) and the corresponding number of copies and sets. Additionally, the total number of copies for the selected main group is displayed. In this state, the number of copies and sets are grayed out; clicking the "Direct Edit" icon allows direct editing of these numbers. Figure 6 The UI62 also displays an execute button 71. When the execute button 71 is clicked, the group printing will be executed according to the currently selected "Grade 1" setting.

[0069] exist Figure 7 In UI63, the copy setting tab 76 and the sorting tab 77 are displayed, with the copy setting tab 76 displayed by default. The copy setting tab 76 displays multiple subgroups and the corresponding number of print copies and print sets for each subgroup. When the number representing the number of print copies is clicked, that number becomes selected, and the number of print copies can be set using the number keys (not shown). Similarly, when the number representing the number of print sets is clicked, that number becomes selected, and the number of print sets can be set using the number keys (not shown). Furthermore, the name of a subgroup can be entered via a long press on the subgroup name, similar to the name of the main group, and can be set to any name.

[0070] Here, the number of print copies and the number of print sets will be explained. For example, regarding the number of print copies "30", in a setting where the number of print sets is "1", one print copy of "30" is printed. Or, for example, in a setting where the number of print copies is "30" and the number of sets is "2", the 30 print copies are printed in two sets, that is, 60 copies are printed for the selected subgroup. In this embodiment, the printed matter obtained by printing the specified number of print copies with the specified number of print sets becomes a "media stack" with a configurable cover. Hereinafter, when referred to as a "media stack", it means a collection of printed matter that can be configured with a cover. For example, regarding the number of print copies "30", when printing is performed based on the cover configuration pattern described later with a setting where the number of print sets is "1", one cover is configured as a media stack of printed matter with a print copy of "30". Furthermore, when the main group is set to "Grade 1" as in this embodiment, it is easy to intuitively determine by considering each subgroup as a class constituting Grade 1.

[0071] When click Figure 7 When the "OK" icon appears, update the printing settings information 46 with the previously set content (see reference). Figure 2 ), return to Figure 6 UI62. Additionally, when clicking... Figure 7 When the "Stop" icon appears, do not update printing settings information 46 (see reference). Figure 2 And return to Figure 6 UI62.

[0072] then, Figure 8 This indicates that the sorting label 77 is selected in UI63. In sorting label 77, users can select any of the following options via radio buttons: "No backing paper and cover," "With backing paper," or "No cover." When "No backing paper and cover" is selected, neither backing paper nor cover is configured. When "With backing paper" is selected, backing paper is configured between multiple media stacks. That is, the printing control unit 20 executes a backing paper configuration mode that configures backing paper between multiple media stacks. When "With cover" is selected, cover is configured for each of the multiple media stacks. That is, the printing control unit 20 executes a cover configuration mode that configures cover for each of the multiple media stacks. Alternatively, a drop-down menu can be displayed to allow selection from... Figure 1 Which of the following media cartridges shown—first media cartridge 17A, second media cartridge 17B, third media cartridge 17C, and fourth media cartridge 17D—supplied with backing paper or cover paper?

[0073] Additionally, in arrangement label 77, when "with cover" is selected, users can choose between "Untitled Printing" and "with Title Printing" via radio buttons. Furthermore, when "with cover" is not selected, the "Untitled Printing" and "with Title Printing" options and the radio buttons become grayed out and unselectable. Also, in arrangement label 77, users can select whether to enable or disable misaligned paper layout via checkboxes. When misaligned paper layout is checked, the misaligned paper layout described later is executed.

[0074] Additionally, in label arrangement 77, pressing the binding setting button allows access to a UI (not shown) for binding settings. These binding settings utilize the post-processing unit 30. Figure 1 The binding process can be set to include or exclude certain elements, and to determine the binding position. Additionally, in label arrangement 77, pressing the title printing setting button will switch to... Figure 9 UI64, as shown, allows for setting the title printing. Additionally, when clicking... Figure 8 When the "OK" icon appears, update the printing settings information 46 with the previously set content (see reference). Figure 2 ), return to Figure 6 UI62. Additionally, when clicking... Figure 8 When the "Stop" icon appears, do not update printing settings information 46 (see reference). Figure 2 And return to Figure 6 UI62.

[0075] exist Figure 9 In UI64, a checkbox allows you to select whether or not to print the title. When title printing is checked, the title printing process described later is performed. Additionally, in UI64, a dropdown list allows you to select the text orientation for title printing using either "horizontal" or "vertical." Furthermore, a dropdown list allows you to select the text size for title printing. Also, a dropdown list allows you to select the font for the text for title printing. Finally, in UI64, a checkbox allows you to select printing in the extended area when misaligned layout is selected. When this checkbox is checked, the title is printed in the extended area described later.

[0076] Additionally, in UI64, the cover image is displayed as indicated by the symbol Gu, and the printing position of the title on the cover is further displayed as a region. The regions for displaying the printing position are located at the top, bottom, center, right, and left of the cover, and can be selected with a short click. Furthermore, as an example, the direction from the bottom to the top of the display corresponds to the paper ejection direction. The selected area is displayed in darker color. Figure 9In the example, as indicated by the symbol As, the area on the right is selected. When each area is clicked for a longer period, the selection is moved to... Figure 10 UI65 is shown. Furthermore, when printing to the protruding area is selected under misaligned paper layout, the cover image turns gray, and the printing area cannot be selected. In this case, the printing area is automatically set. Additionally, when clicking... Figure 9 When the "OK" icon appears, update the printing settings information 46 with the previously set content (see reference). Figure 2 ), return to Figure 8 UI63. Additionally, when clicking... Figure 9 When the "Stop" icon appears, do not update printing settings information 46 (see reference). Figure 2 And return to Figure 8 UI63.

[0077] In UI65, the content for the printed title can be set. For example, you can select the main group name, subgroup name, number of copies, date, or any option by checking the checkboxes. The selected item will be printed as the title. Additionally, when the "Any" checkbox is checked and the adjacent text input box is long-pressed, a text input UI (not shown) will appear, allowing you to enter any text. The text entered here will also be printed as the title. UI65 displays a preview button; clicking the preview button allows you to preview the title printing. Furthermore, clicking... Figure 10 When the "OK" icon appears, update the printing settings information 46 with the previously set content (see reference). Figure 2 ), return to Figure 9 UI64. Additionally, when clicking... Figure 10 When the "Stop" icon appears, do not update printing settings information 46 (see reference). Figure 2 And return to Figure 9 UI65.

[0078] Figure 11 This illustrates the case where the printed side of the cover is facing down when the media is discharged into the main tray 33; that is, the cover is discharged face down. Symbols Pa1, Pa2, Pa3, and Pa4 represent the cover. Additionally, symbols Pt1, Pt2, Pt3, and Pt4 represent media stacks. Media stack Pt1 is, for example... Figure 7 The printed materials of "Subgroup 01" shown, i.e., 30 copies, have the same media stacks Pt2, Pt3, and Pt4 as described below. Additionally, cover Pa1 is the cover configured for media stack Pt1, and covers Pa2, Pa3, and Pa4 are also the same as described below.

[0079] exist Figure 11 In the case shown, the cover corresponding to the media stack is discharged before the media stack itself. In the case shown... Figure 11With the media stacks and covers arranged as shown, the entire contents on the main tray 33 are flipped over so that the printed side of the cover Pa1, i.e., the title, faces upwards. Additionally, Figure 11 In this state, the nearest printed surface in each media stack is the bottom side, just like each cover, but it can also be the top side. Figure 12 This indicates that the items were misplaced during the sorting process.

[0080] Figure 13 This illustrates the case where the cover is discharged onto the main tray 33 with the printed side facing upwards, i.e., the cover is discharged face up. Figure 13 In the case shown, the cover corresponding to the media stack is discharged after the media stack. Figure 13 In the case shown, the printed side of each cover is on the top, so the entire contents on the main tray 33 can be visually confirmed, i.e., the title, without flipping the entire contents over. Furthermore, in Figure 12 In this state, the nearest printed surface in each media stack is the top side, just like each cover, but it can also be the bottom side. Figure 14 This indicates that the items were misplaced during the sorting process.

[0081] Alternatively, it can be specified through the UI. Figure 11 , Figure 12 The loading sequence of the cover and media stack shown is as follows: Figure 13 , Figure 14 Which of the following is the loading order of the cover and media stack shown? Alternatively, the UI can be used to specify which side of the cover will be used for printing the title. Furthermore, the UI can also specify whether the title will be printed on one or both sides of the cover.

[0082] Furthermore, printing towards the protruding area when staggered paper layout is selected (see reference). Figure 9 When this option is checked, the title is printed in the area that was offset due to misalignment. Figure 12 , Figure 14 In the diagram, the symbol Wa represents the area that has shifted due to misalignment, i.e., the protruding area. The protruding area Wa is the region that is not obscured by other media stacks when they are overlapped on the cover. Figure 15 It shows Figure 14 The printed material shown includes cover Pa4, media stack Pt4, cover Pa3, and media stack Pt3, as shown in the figure. The title is printed in the protruding area Wa.

[0083] In addition, it can also be used to replace printing in the protruding areas caused by misaligned paper layout, such as Figure 16 As shown, the cover and media stack are discharged with different orientations, and the cover is printed in an area that does not overlap with the media stack. Figure 16As an example, media stack Pt4 and cover Pa4 are shown. The symbol Wa represents the area in cover Pa4 that does not overlap with media stack Pt4. Without staggered paper arrangement, the area Wa in cover Pa4 that does not overlap with media stack Pt4 is the area that is not obscured by other media stacks even if further loaded on top of it.

[0084] As described above, the printing apparatus 1 includes an operation panel 2, which is an operation unit with a touch panel 3 serving as a display for various information and accepting various operation settings. Additionally, the printing apparatus 1 includes a printing control unit 20, which displays multiple UIs on the touch panel 3 and controls the printing unit based on printing conditions obtained via the operation panel 2. When multiple stacks of media are dispensed as printed media, the printing control unit 20 can execute a cover configuration mode for configuring covers on each stack of media. The cover configuration mode allows printing titles on the covers, and the printing control unit 20 can accept settings for the printing position when printing the title on the cover via the UIs, and print the title based on the obtained printing position. Furthermore, a printing data generation program 45, which generates printing data based on the obtained printing conditions, causes the printing control unit 20 to perform the following steps: displaying UIs on the touch panel 3 (see reference...). Figure 9 ) steps ( Figure 4 In step S101, the UI handles the setting of the printing position of the title when the cover is configured as a stack of media after printing and the title is printed on the cover; and generates printing data by including the printing position obtained via the UI in the printing conditions. Figure 4 (Step S106). This allows the title to be printed in a convenient location for the user, improving usability.

[0085] Furthermore, the printing control unit 20 prints the title on the surface of the cover, which is the upper surface of the cover, while the cover is placed on the media stack. Therefore, the title can be easily visually confirmed. In addition, the state of having the cover placed on the media stack means not only that the media stack is ejected first and the cover is ejected onto the media stack, but also that the cover is ejected before the media stack and the media stack and cover are flipped over together from the state of having the media stack placed on the cover.

[0086] In addition, in this embodiment, the vertical or horizontal format of the title text can be selected via the UI (see reference). Figure 9 The difference between vertical and horizontal writing includes the difference between "vertical writing" and "horizontal writing," as well as the difference between "vertical writing" and "horizontal writing." Additionally, in this embodiment, the size of the title text can be set via the UI (see [reference]). Figure 9 Additionally, in this embodiment, the font of the title text can be set via the UI (see [reference]). Figure 9 Furthermore, in this embodiment, multiple printing positions can be set via the UI (see [reference]). Figure 9 Based on the above content, this implementation method can further improve usability.

[0087] In addition, the printing control unit 20 can perform staggered discharge in cover configuration mode, which alternates the discharge positions of the media stack, and can use the UI to receive the area shifted due to the staggered discharge as the printing position (see reference). Figure 9 Therefore, printing the title in the area that is offset due to misalignment makes it easier to visually confirm the title, further improving usability.

[0088] Furthermore, the printing apparatus 1 according to this embodiment includes: a first media container 17A, which stores the media with its short side along the feed direction; and a second media container 17B, which stores the media with its long side along the feed direction. In cover configuration mode, the printing control unit 20 can discharge the cover and media stack in different orientations by distinguishing between the use of the first media container 17A and the second media container 17B. Moreover, the printing control unit 20 can handle areas in the cover that do not overlap with the media stack via the UI (user interface). Figure 16 The protruding area Wa in the cover is used as the printing position. This allows the title to be printed in an area of ​​the cover that does not overlap with the media stack, making it easy to visually confirm the title and further improving usability.

[0089] Furthermore, the printing control unit 20 of this embodiment can accept settings for multiple master groups, multiple subgroups belonging to a master group, and the number of copies of printed materials corresponding to a subgroup via the UI. Then, after one of the master groups is selected and the printing control unit 20 receives a printing execution command based on the cover configuration mode, it sets the stack of printed materials belonging to a subgroup as a media stack and configures the cover on the media stack. As a result, usability is further improved.

[0090] In the above embodiments, an example of performing the copying function via the operation panel 2 of the printing device 1 was described. However, in the computer 50 (see reference 1) that can access the printing device 1, the copying function is also described. Figure 17 It can also achieve the same functions as the above-mentioned printing data generation program 45.

[0091] Figure 17The computer 100 includes an operation unit 101, a display unit 102, a CPU 104, RAM 105, ROM 106, a memory 108, and an I / F 107. The memory 108 is composed of HDD (hard disk drive), SSD (solid state drive), etc. The memory 108 stores the operating system (hereinafter referred to as "OS") 109, application programs 110, printer driver 111, and printing setting information 112.

[0092] CPU 104 expands various programs stored in ROM 106 and memory 108 into RAM 105, which is volatile memory, and executes them. Operation unit 101 consists of a keyboard, mouse, touchpad, and other pointing devices. Display unit 102 consists of a liquid crystal display (LCD). Various user interfaces (UIs) are implemented on this display unit 102 through OS 109, application programs 110, printer driver 111, etc. I / F 107 is a communication interface for connecting computer 100 to a communication network, such as a local area network (LAN).

[0093] Application program 110 is a program that operates under OS 109, such as document editing software. Printer driver 111 is a program that performs the same functions as the aforementioned print data generation program 45, and is an example of a print data generation program. Printer driver 111 generates print data that can be sent to printing device 1 based on the data generated by application program 110 and print setting information 112.

[0094] The UI implemented on the display unit 102 via the printer driver 111 can be set to match... Figures 5-10 All UIs shown are identical. That is, the printer driver 111, which generates printing data based on the obtained printing conditions, causes the computer 100 to perform the following steps: The display unit 102 displays the UI (see reference). Figure 9 ) steps ( Figure 4 In step S101, the UI handles the setting of the printing position of the title when the cover is configured as a stack of media after printing and the title is printed on the cover. Figure 4 Step S101); and the step of generating printing data by including the printing position obtained via the UI in the printing conditions ( Figure 4 (Step S106). Based on the above, the user of computer 100 can print the title in a convenient location, which improves usability.

[0095] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments and variations described above, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the invention as described in the claims, which are also included within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A printing apparatus, characterized in that, It has a printing section for printing on media. The printing apparatus includes: The operation unit includes a display unit for displaying various information and accepting various operation settings; and A printing control unit that causes the display unit to display multiple user interfaces and controls the printing unit based on printing conditions obtained via the operation unit. When the printing control unit discharges multiple stacks of media that will be printed, it can execute a cover configuration mode to configure a cover for each stack of media. The cover configuration mode enables the title to be printed on the cover. The printing control unit is able to accept the setting of the printing position when printing the title on the cover via the user interface, and print the title based on the obtained printing position.

2. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The printing control unit prints the title on the upper surface of the cover when the cover is placed on the media stack.

3. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The user interface allows users to select whether the text of the title is written vertically or horizontally.

4. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The size of the title text can be set via the user interface.

5. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The font of the title text can be set via the user interface.

6. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, Multiple printing positions can be set via the user interface.

7. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cover configuration mode enables staggered discharge, which alternates the discharge positions of the media stack. The printing control unit can use the user interface to process the area that has shifted due to the misalignment as the printing position.

8. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also has: A first medium box, wherein the short side of the medium is contained along the feed direction; as well as The second medium box is configured to hold the medium with its long side aligned with the feed direction. The cover configuration can discharge the cover and the media stack in different orientations by distinguishing between the use of the first media cartridge and the second media cartridge. The printing control unit can, via the user interface, select the area in the cover that does not overlap with the media stack as the printing location.

9. The printing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The printing control unit can, via the user interface, accept settings for multiple master groups, multiple subgroups belonging to a master group, and the number of copies of printed materials corresponding to a subgroup. When the printing control unit receives a printing execution instruction based on the cover configuration mode after one of the multiple main groups has been selected, it uses the stack of printed materials belonging to one of the subgroups as the media stack and configures the cover on the media stack.

10. A computer program product including a print data generation program, characterized in that, The printing data generation program generates printing data based on the obtained printing conditions. The print data generation program causes the computer to perform the following steps: The step of displaying a user interface on a display device, the user interface handling the setting of the printing position of the title when the stack of media is configured with a cover as a stack of printed media and the title is printed on the cover; as well as The step of generating printing data by including the printing position obtained via the user interface in the printing conditions.

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