Information processing device, shear control method, and shear control program product

Abstract

The invention provides an information processing device, a cut control method, and a cut control program product, which can solve the problem that when images are arranged and printed in a manner that no redundant blank is generated, the blank is narrowed, so that the processing of a subsequent process cannot be executed. An information processing device is provided with: an image reception unit that receives an image to be printed; a shear designation unit that receives shear designation information, which is information relating to a shear for shearing the medium; and a configuration setting unit that restricts a region on the medium on which the image can be configured on the basis of the shearer designation information.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an information processing device, a cutting control method, and a cutting control program. Background Technology

[0002] Nested printing, in which images are arranged and printed in a main scanning direction that intersects the paper transport direction, has been known for a long time (e.g., Patent Document 1). In Patent Document 1, a method for arranging and nesting printed images in a main scanning direction that intersects the paper transport direction is described.

[0003] However, there are cases where, when images are arranged and printed in a way that does not produce extra blank space, subsequent processing cannot be performed due to the narrow blank space.

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2024-14317 Summary of the Invention

[0005] An information processing apparatus for solving the above-mentioned problems includes: an image receiving unit that receives an image that is to be printed; a shearing machine designation unit that receives information related to a shearing machine used for shearing a medium, namely shearing machine designation information; and a configuration setting unit that restricts the area on the medium on which the image can be configured based on the shearing machine designation information.

[0006] The shearing control method for solving the above-mentioned problem includes the following process: an image receiving unit receives an image that is to be printed; a shearing machine designation unit receives information related to a shearing machine used for shearing the medium, namely shearing machine designation information; and a configuration setting unit limits the area on the medium on which the image can be configured based on the shearing machine designation information.

[0007] The cutting control program for solving the above problems enables a computer to function as an image receiving unit, a cutting machine designation unit, and a configuration setting unit. The image receiving unit receives images that are intended for printing, the cutting machine designation unit receives information related to the cutting machine used to cut the medium, namely cutting machine designation information, and the configuration setting unit limits the area on the medium on which the image can be configured based on the cutting machine designation information. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 A block diagram representing the overall structure.

[0009] Figure 2 A diagram illustrating an example of the maximum shearing range of a shearing machine.

[0010] Figure 3 A block diagram illustrating the structure of a shearing machine.

[0011] Figure 4 A diagram showing an example of printed material.

[0012] Figure 5 A block diagram illustrating the structure of a printing apparatus.

[0013] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating an example of an application's screen.

[0014] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating an example of an application's screen.

[0015] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating an example of an application's screen.

[0016] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating an example of an application's screen.

[0017] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating the printing control and cutting control processes.

[0018] Figure 11 A diagram illustrating an example of image configuration. Detailed Implementation

[0019] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in the following order.

[0020] (1) Overall structure:

[0021] (1-1) Structure of the shearing machine:

[0022] (1-2) Structure of the shearing terminal:

[0023] (1-3) Structure of the printing apparatus:

[0024] (1-4) Structure of the printing terminal:

[0025] (2) Printing control and shearing control processing:

[0026] (3) Other implementation methods:

[0027] (1) Overall structure:

[0028] Figure 1The overall structure of a system including a printing terminal 100, which is an information processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention, is shown. The printing terminal 100 receives an image of a printing object by executing a RIP (Raster Image Processor) application 111, generates printing data for printing an image configured for the medium by the printing apparatus 200 based on printing conditions and cutting conditions, and then causes the printing apparatus 200 to perform printing. Furthermore, the printing terminal 100 generates cutting action data representing a cutting action command based on the image of the printing object by executing the RIP application 111, and sends it to a cutting terminal.

[0029] The printing apparatus 200 of this embodiment prints an image on a sheet-like (roll paper) medium. A shearing machine cuts the medium with the printed image based on shearing action data generated according to the shape of the image. Depending on the type of shearing machine, the maximum shearable range in the medium's transport direction or width direction (the width direction being the direction orthogonal to the transport direction) may vary.

[0030] Figure 2 This diagram illustrates examples where the maximum shearing range differs for each type of shearing machine. There are also cases where the maximum shearing range in the width direction is narrower than the maximum width of the medium that can be placed on the shearing machine. Furthermore, as... Figure 2 As shown, the accuracy guarantee range differs for each type of shearing machine. The accuracy guarantee range is defined as the shearing range within which the error of the shearing action is assumed to be within a predetermined range, with both the width and length directions (= conveying direction) below the maximum shearable range. In this embodiment, the maximum shearable range and accuracy guarantee range of the first shearing machine 500 and the second shearing machine 700 are assumed to be different, and the explanation will continue. Furthermore, in Figure 1 The diagram shows two types of shearing machines: the first shearing machine 500 and the second shearing machine 700. However, the number of shearing machines is not limited to these.

[0031] As mentioned above, the maximum cutting range and accuracy guarantee range vary depending on the type of shearing machine. Therefore, if an image is printed on a medium without considering these differences, it is possible to produce a printed product with an image printed within the range that the shearing machine cannot cut. To prevent this from happening, in this embodiment, the printing terminal 100 performs the function of arranging the image of the printing object (cutting object) within the cutting range that the shearing machine used in the cutting process can cut, and then having the printing apparatus 200 print it.

[0032] (1-1) Structure of the shearing machine:

[0033] Figure 3The diagram below illustrates the structure of the first shearing machine 500. It is assumed that the same structure exists in the second shearing machine 700 or other shearing machines, and descriptions related to each shearing machine are omitted. Furthermore, the structure and specifications of the shearing unit 550 may differ in each shearing machine. As mentioned above, the maximum shearing range and accuracy guarantee range of the first shearing machine 500 and the second shearing machine 700 are different. Additionally, shearing machines are also referred to as cutting machines.

[0034] The first shearing machine 500 includes a processor 510, a non-volatile memory 520, a UI (User Interface) unit 530, a communication unit 540, and a shearing unit 550. The processor 510 includes a CPU, ROM, RAM, etc. (not shown), and executes a shearing control program recorded in the non-volatile memory 520 to control each part of the first shearing machine 500.

[0035] Furthermore, the processor 510 can be composed of a single chip, multiple chips, or integrated with various functional blocks to form a System-on-a-Chip (SoC). Additionally, for example, an ASIC can be used instead of a CPU, or a structure can be formed where the CPU and ASIC work together. In the case of the devices in this embodiment that include a processor, the processor can be implemented in various ways, similar to the processor 510.

[0036] The UI unit 530 includes a touch panel display, a switch, LEDs, and a speaker. Under the control of the processor 510, the UI unit 530 displays various information related to the first shearing machine 500 to the user and handles user operations. The communication unit 540 includes a communication interface for communicating with other devices according to various wired or wireless protocols. In this embodiment, the first shearing machine 500 can communicate with the first shearing terminal 400 via the communication unit 540. When the processor 510 receives first shearing action data 122 for performing a shearing action from the first shearing terminal 400, it stores it in the non-volatile memory 520.

[0037] The shearing unit 550 includes a media transport unit 551, a carriage 552, a shearer 553, and an optical sensor 554. In this embodiment, the media transport unit 551 includes a sensor, an actuator, and mechanical components for transporting a roll of paper-shaped media and printed matter produced by the printing apparatus 200 based on the first shearing action data 122.

[0038] Figure 4This schematic diagram, illustrating an example of printed material, shows the direction in which the medium is conveyed, i.e., the conveying direction and the width direction of the medium, when mounted on a shearing machine. The width direction of the medium is orthogonal to the conveying direction. A carriage 552 is supported by a track (not shown). The carriage 552 moves in a direction parallel to the printing surface of the medium via a motor or actuator (not shown) or mechanical component. Here, the direction parallel to the printing surface of the medium refers to, for example, the width direction of the medium. A shear 553 and an optical sensor 554 are mounted on the carriage 552. The shear 553, held on the carriage 552, is driven by an actuator (not shown) in a direction orthogonal to the surface of the sheet-like medium, causing the tip of the shear 553 to contact or separate from the medium. With the tip of the shear 553 in contact with the medium, the carriage 552, holding the shear 553, moves in the width direction, and the medium is conveyed in a conveying direction orthogonal to the moving direction of the carriage 552, thereby performing the shearing process of the image formed on the medium. Alternatively, the shearing machine can be a platform-type device that omits the media conveying section. In this case, the direction of movement of the carriage 552 is not limited to the width direction of the media, but also includes the length direction orthogonal to the width direction of the media. The shearing machine is not particularly limited in structure as long as it is a device that performs cutting by scanning with a shearer mounted on the carriage.

[0039] Optical sensor 554 is held and moved by carriage 552. Optical sensor 554 has a light-emitting part and a light-receiving part, and reads the cutting mark m1 and barcode bc printed on the medium by emitting light into the medium and receiving reflected light from the medium. The cutting mark m1 is a mark used to align the cutting machine relative to the medium on which the image of the object to be cut is printed. The image of the object to be cut is printed within a rectangular area with the reference point of each cutting mark m1 as its vertex. The barcode bc contains reference information for the position of the cutting mark m1 and first cutting action data (vector data set (a collection of vectors defining the start and end positions of the cutting)). The first cutting action data is data used to cut the image existing within the rectangular area indicated by the cutting mark m1 along the cutting line. The reference information can be provided that the processor 510 can obtain the required cutting action data, and can be expressed in any way, for example, by a path indicating the storage location of the first cutting action data, the file name of the first cutting action data, etc.

[0040] When the processor 510 is instructed to read a barcode via the UI unit 530, it causes the media transport unit 551 to transport the media and the carriage 552 to move, while the optical sensor 554 reads the barcode. If the read barcode represents reference information for first cutting action data, the processor 510 obtains first cutting action data 122 from the first cutting terminal 400 based on the reference information. Furthermore, the processor 510 reads the cutting marker m1 and performs position alignment for the cutting action (for example, setting the position on the media indicated by one of the four cutting markers m1 as a reference for driving the media transport unit 551 and the carriage 552). The processor 510 obtains the first cutting action data based on the reference information shown in the barcode and controls the media transport unit 551, the carriage 552, and the cutter 553 based on the vector data set shown in the first cutting action data to perform the cutting action.

[0041] Figure 2 The maximum shearable range (width direction) shown is the maximum range in the width direction that the shearing machine can cut. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the maximum shearable range (width direction) is equal to the width direction range that the optical sensor 554 can read.

[0042] (1-2) Structure of the shearing terminal:

[0043] like Figure 1 As shown, in this embodiment, a cutting terminal is connected to each cutting machine. The cutting terminal is a PC or tablet computer, which receives cutting action data from the printing terminal 100 and outputs it to the cutting machine. Figure 1 In this context, the shearing terminal corresponding to the first shearing machine 500 is referred to as the first shearing terminal 400, and the shearing terminal corresponding to the second shearing machine 700 is referred to as the second shearing terminal 600.

[0044] As the structure of the cutting terminal, the first cutting terminal 400 will be described here. Since the second cutting terminal 600 has the same structure as the first cutting terminal 400, its description will be omitted. The first cutting terminal 400 includes a processor 410, a non-volatile memory 420, a communication unit 430, and a user interface unit 440.

[0045] The communication unit 430 includes a communication interface for communicating with other devices according to various wired or wireless protocols. In this embodiment, the processor 410 can communicate with the printing terminal 100 and the first cutting machine 500 via the communication unit 430. Additionally, the communication unit 540 may also include an interface for communicating with various removable memories installed on the printing apparatus 200. The UI unit 440 includes a display and a switch; the processor 410 displays various information on the display and handles operations performed on the switch.

[0046] When the first shearing machine 500 is selected in the printing terminal 100 as a cutting process following the printing process, first cutting action data 122 for cutting the medium by the first shearing machine 500 is also generated in the printing terminal 100 when the printing data is generated. The first cutting terminal 400 receives the generated first cutting action data 122 from the printing terminal 100 and stores it in the non-volatile memory 420. The printing terminal 100 causes the printing apparatus 200 to perform printing to produce printed materials based on the printing data. When a user places the printed material on the first shearing machine 500 and instructs the reading of the barcode printed on the printed material, the first shearing machine 500 reads the barcode and requests the first cutting action data 122 from the first cutting terminal 400 based on the reference information shown in the barcode. The processor 410 of the first cutting terminal 400 sends the first cutting action data 122 to the first shearing machine 500 according to the request. The first shearing machine 500 performs the cutting action as described above based on the first cutting action data 122. Furthermore, when the second shearing machine 700 is selected in the printing terminal 100, second shearing action data 123 for shearing the medium by the second shearing machine 700 is generated in the printing terminal 100 and transferred to the second shearing terminal 600. The shearing action is performed in the second shearing machine 700 based on the second shearing action data 123.

[0047] (1-3) Structure of the printing apparatus:

[0048] Figure 5 To indicate Figure 1 The diagram shows a block diagram of the structure of the printing apparatus 200. The printing apparatus 200 includes a processor 210, a non-volatile memory 220, a user interface unit 230, a communication unit 240, and a printing unit 250. The processor 210 can control each part of the printing apparatus 200 by executing a control program (not shown) recorded in the non-volatile memory 220.

[0049] The non-volatile memory 220 stores printing data 124 sent from the printing terminal 100. The processor 210 controls the printing unit 250 based on the printing data 124 to perform printing.

[0050] The UI unit 230 includes a touch panel display, buttons, LEDs, speakers, etc. The processor 210 guides various information to the user through the output units such as the touch panel display, LEDs, and speakers, and inputs the user's instructions through the input units such as the touch panel display and buttons.

[0051] The communication unit 240 includes a communication interface for communicating with other devices according to various wired or wireless protocols. In this embodiment, the processor 210 is able to communicate with the printing terminal 100 via the communication unit 240. Alternatively, the communication unit 240 may also include an interface for communicating with various removable memories installed on the printing apparatus 200.

[0052] In this embodiment, the printing unit 250 performs printing on a medium in the form of a roll of paper. The printing unit 250 includes a media transport unit (not shown) and a carriage on which a printhead is mounted. The printhead has, for example, rows of nozzles corresponding to blue-green, magenta, yellow, and black inks, and ejects ink from each nozzle in the rows of nozzles. The carriage reciprocates along a specific direction (the main scanning direction). The media transport unit transports the medium to be printed. The media transport unit transports the medium in a direction perpendicular to the main scanning direction. Printing on the medium is performed by repeatedly executing the ejection of ink from the nozzles and the transport of the medium by the media transport unit during the reciprocating movement of the printhead.

[0053] The user places the medium on the printing apparatus 200 and operates the printing terminal 100, thereby instructing the printing apparatus 200 to perform printing. Furthermore, the user removes the printed medium (printed material) from the printing apparatus 200 and moves it to a shearing machine used in a shearing process, which is a subsequent process after printing, so that the shearing machine performs a shearing action on the medium.

[0054] (1-4) Structure of the printing terminal:

[0055] In reference Figure 1 The structure of the printing terminal 100 will be described simultaneously. The printing terminal 100 is, for example, a computer such as a PC or tablet computer. The printing terminal 100 includes a processor 110, a non-volatile memory 120 that functions as a storage unit, a communication unit 130, and a user interface unit 140. The non-volatile memory 120 stores a RIP application program 111, various other programs, and cutter information 121. Here, RIP stands for "Raster Image Processor," and the RIP application program 111 is not limited to generating raster images for printing performed by the printing apparatus 200, but also performs various processes described later by being executed by the processor 110. Hereinafter, the processes implemented through the functions of the RIP application program 111 will be referred to as RIP processing.

[0056] Figure 2This diagram illustrates an example of shearing machine information 121. Shearing machine information 121 includes, for each type of shearing machine, the maximum shearable range in the width direction and the conveying direction of the medium, and the accuracy guarantee range in the width direction and the conveying direction of the medium, respectively. By storing this shearing machine information 121 in non-volatile memory 120, it can be referenced for setting blank areas as described later.

[0057] UI Department 140 (Reference) Figure 1 This includes a display, touch panel, speaker, microphone, etc. In this embodiment, the processor 110 receives various instructions from the user via the UI unit 140, and also outputs various information to the user.

[0058] The communication unit 130 includes interface circuitry for communicating with other devices. The processor 110 can communicate with the printing apparatus 200, the first cutting terminal 400, and the second cutting terminal 600 via the communication unit 130. Furthermore, peripheral devices such as a keyboard, mouse, and monitor can be connected to the printing terminal 100 via the communication unit 130, and the processor 110 can be configured to input or output various types of information from these peripheral devices.

[0059] In this embodiment, the RIP application 111 has an image acceptance function (image acceptance unit 111a) that accepts an image as the printing target, a shearing machine designation function (shearing machine designation unit 111b) that accepts information related to the shearing machine used to cut the medium, i.e., shearing machine designation information, and a configuration setting function (configuration setting unit 111c) that restricts the area on the medium on which the image can be configured based on the shearing machine designation information. Furthermore, the RIP application 111 has the function of generating cutting action data for cutting the image, generating printing data based on the image of the printing target, printing conditions, and cutting conditions, and causing the printing apparatus 200 to perform printing.

[0060] Figure 6 An example of a screen displayed on the UI unit 140's monitor when the processor 110 is executing the RIP application 111 is shown. Figure 6 As shown, the screen of the RIP application 111 includes an add button b1, a delete button b2, a RIP button b3, a print button b4, and a nest button b5. Additionally, the screen includes an image list section a1, a preview section a2, and a parameter setting section a3.

[0061] The add button b1 is used to select and append images to the print object, and the delete button b2 is used to select any image that is a print object and exclude it from the print object. The image list section a1 is an area that displays the names of the images currently selected as print objects in list form.

[0062] The parameter setting unit a3 is used to accept media settings (see reference). Figure 6 Cutting settings (refer to) Figure 7 , Figure 8 ), Layout settings (refer to) Figure 9 The parameter setting section a2 is for specifying various parameters. The preview section a2 is an area that displays a preview image of the printed object when printing the image currently selected as the printing object using the parameters selected by the parameter setting section a3. The nested button b5 is a button used to indicate the execution of a process that automatically arranges multiple images.

[0063] RIP button b3 is used to instruct the RIP processing of the image displayed in preview unit a2 and generate print data 124. Print data 124 is data after at least rasterization processing (it may also be data after color conversion processing or halftone processing). Print button b4 is used to instruct the printing device 200 specified by the user to perform printing processing based on the generated print data 124.

[0064] The processor 110 accepts images as printing objects through the function of the image receiving unit 111a. Specifically, the processor 110 accepts the image specified by the user using the add button b1 as the printing object. In addition, the processor 110 accepts the setting values, i.e., printing conditions, specified by the user in association with the printing operation through the parameter setting unit a3. Specifically, these include, for example, media name, media size, and print quality.

[0065] Furthermore, the processor 110 receives information related to the shearing machine used for shearing media, namely shearing machine specification information, through the function of the shearing machine specification unit 111b. The shearing machine specification information includes information indicating the type of shearing machine. Figure 7 The parameter setting section a3 shown illustrates settings related to cutting. Users can select cutting settings using the settings menu tab, enabling functions such as... Figure 7 The cut settings shown are displayed. For example... Figure 8 As shown, the shearing machine setting unit a33 is an operation unit that prompts and selects from a list of available shearing machines. The list of available shearing machines can be configured to display the types of shearing machines that the user has manually registered in advance, or it can be configured to automatically detect shearing machines existing in the same network as the printing terminal 100 and display the types of shearing machines detected.

[0066] Figure 8 This example shows a drop-down menu displaying four options: "Shearer A (First Shearer)," "Shearer B (Second Shearer)," "Shearer A or B (First or Second Shearer)," and "Do Not Use Shearer," when both shearer A (first shearer) and shearer B (second shearer) are available. "Shearer A (First Shearer)," "Shearer B (Second Shearer)," and "Shearer A or B (First or Second Shearer)" indicate the use of a shearer, while "Do Not Use Shearer" indicates the absence of a shearing process. "Do Not Use Shearer" means that the shearing process is not performed as a post-printing step. For example, when printing a large rectangular object (e.g., for posters) using a printing apparatus and cutting it with the shears of the printing apparatus without a shearing process (or transferring it to a post-printing step other than shearing), the option to not use a shearer is selected.

[0067] When a user selects any option from the list in the shear machine setting unit a33, the processor 110 accepts that selection. That is, the processor 110 accepts the option selected by the user as shear machine specification information.

[0068] Furthermore, the processor 110 restricts the area on the medium where an image can be configured based on the shearing machine specification information (configuration setting unit 111c). Specifically, the processor 110 makes the area on the medium where an image can be configured different when the shearing machine specification information indicates that a shearing machine is used and when the shearing machine specification information indicates that a shearing machine is not used. That is, when a shearing machine is not used, the area on the medium where an image can be configured is not restricted, while when a shearing machine is used, the area outside the maximum cuttable range of the shearing machine used in this embodiment is set as the area where image configuration is restricted.

[0069] When no shearing is selected, the processor 110 can configure the image on the media without restriction. Figure 6 In the example, the width of the rectangle of the preview section a2 (in the left-right direction of the paper) shows the width of the medium specified by the medium size setting section a32. Figure 6 Preview section a2 shows the unrestricted configuration of image I on the medium when a shearing machine is selected. A I B I C The state. That is, when the shearing machine is not used, compared to the state where the shearing machine is used, the image I is configured on the medium in a way that narrows the blank area as described later. A I B I C Image IA I B I C These are previews of each image (Task A, Task B, Task C) displayed in the image list section a1.

[0070] on the other hand, Figure 7 The preview section a2 shows the selected state for using shear machine A. Specifically, processor 110 refers to shear machine information 121 (refer to...). Figure 2 The processor 110 obtains the maximum shearable range of shearing machine A and sets the blank area in the manner described later. Furthermore, if any one of two or more shearing machines is selected, such as "shearing machine A or B," the processor 110 uses the minimum value of the maximum shearable range in both the width and conveying directions of those shearing machines to set the blank area. Additionally, in Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Figure 9 In the preview section a2, the gray area slightly exaggerates the restricted area (blank area) of the configuration image.

[0071] The area where the arrangement of an image on a medium is restricted is called a blank area. Figure 7 The gray area in preview section a2 is a blank area. In this embodiment, when any shearing machine is selected and the width W of the medium (refer to...) Figure 4 If the image size exceeds the maximum clipping range in the width direction, a blank area without an image is set in the width direction. Furthermore, although in Figure 7 Although not illustrated, blank areas are also set in the direction of media transport to limit the configuration of the image. In this embodiment, these blank areas are set based on the maximum shearing range of the shearing machine used. That is, the blank areas in the width direction are determined according to the maximum shearing range in the width direction. Furthermore, the blank areas in the transport direction are determined according to the maximum shearing range in the transport direction. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the blank areas may also be set based on the accuracy guarantee range of the shearing machine used.

[0072] In the width W of the medium (refer to) Figure 4 When the shearable range X in the width direction is greater than the maximum shearable range X in the width direction, the range from the left and right ends of the medium to their respective lengths ((WX) / 2) is the blank area M in the width direction. X Furthermore, the reference position in the conveying direction specified by the shearing machine manufacturer (e.g., ...) Figure 4 The blank area M in the width direction is defined as the area above the maximum shearable range Y in the conveying direction, based on the starting end (e.g., in the conveying direction) of the roll paper. Y .

[0073] The blank areas set in this manner are treated as areas where no image is configured by the processor 110 during the automatic image configuration process described later. Therefore, by setting the blank areas in this way, when cutting with a shear, areas different from those when not using a shear can be designated as areas where an image can be configured. More specifically, when the shear specification information indicates that a shear is being used, as described above, the processor 110 increases the blank areas compared to when the shear specification information indicates that a shear is not being used. By adopting this method, when cutting with a shear, a narrower area than when not using a shear can be designated as an area for image configuration. As a result, when using a shear, the image can be configured within the maximum shearing range of the shear, and when not using a shear, the image can be configured in an area closer to the end of the medium than when using a shear, thus suppressing the consumption of the roll of paper as the medium.

[0074] Furthermore, the processor 110 configures different areas on the image medium by adjusting the area selected for the image medium depending on whether the clipping specification information indicates that a first clipping machine is being used or a second clipping machine is being used. In other words, the processor 110 adjusts the configurable area based on the type of clipping machine selected when a clipping machine is chosen. Specifically, the processor 110 refers to clipping machine information 121 (see...). Figure 2 The maximum cuttable range corresponding to the type of shear specified by the shearing machine specification information is obtained, and the blank area is set as described above. By adopting this method, images can be configured on areas of different widths corresponding to the shearing machine.

[0075] The user can instruct automatic image configuration by pressing the nested button b5. When the user presses the nested button b5, the processor 110 automatically performs settings to ensure proper image configuration on the medium. That is, the processor 110 generates preview images of each image to be added to the image list section a1. Here, proper image configuration means, for example, that the images do not overlap each other, or that the images are arranged at predetermined intervals, and that minimal blank spaces exceeding the predetermined intervals are generated outside the area where the images are configured due to the selection of the cropper. Furthermore, by obtaining... Figure 9The parameters selected regarding the layout shown allow for the automatic configuration of the image in a manner desired by the user. For example, the setting unit for layout-related parameters includes a configuration method setting unit a35 and a spacing setting unit a36. The configuration method setting unit a35 provides options such as standard (top left alignment), top right alignment, bottom left alignment, and bottom right alignment. The spacing setting unit a36 allows setting the spacing between the image and the image adjacent to its right and the image adjacent to its bottom. These spacings are examples of the aforementioned predetermined spacings. For instance, when the user has set such layout-related parameters (in the case of default values ​​if the user has not reset them), when the user presses the nested button b5, the processor 110 uses the image's horizontal and vertical lengths, the configuration method selected by the configuration method setting unit a35, and the spacing length set by the spacing setting unit a36 to configure the image within an area where image configuration is not restricted.

[0076] For example, in Figure 9 In the example case, due to the maximum croppable range X in the width direction minus image I A The length in the left and right directions, image I B The length in the left and right directions is equal to the right-side interval set by the interval setting unit a36 × 2 (I A The right side and I B The sum of the two quantities on the right is shorter than the value of image I. C The length in the left and right directions, therefore, the processor 110 will display image I C Configuration in image I A And image I B The next level. Additionally, in this example, image I... A The vertical length, the lower side spacing, and the image I C The sum of the lengths in the vertical direction is less than the maximum shearable range in the transport direction of the medium. Therefore, the processor 110 determines that a two-level configuration can be implemented and sends image I... C The configuration is at the second level. This allows for the automatic and appropriate configuration of multiple images, reducing the user's workload compared to manual configuration.

[0077] The processor 110 displays a preview screen showing the result of configuring the image in this manner. In this embodiment, the preview unit a2 is this preview screen. As described above, when a cutter specification information indicating the use of a cutter is received, the preview screen displays the area where the cutter cannot perform a cutting operation, i.e., the non-cutting area. In this embodiment, the non-cutting area refers to the area where the image configuration is restricted, which is the aforementioned blank area. Since the preview unit a2 is configured to display the area of ​​the image configuration and the area where the configuration is restricted (the non-cutting area, the blank area), it is possible to suppress the possibility that the user may mistake the non-cutting area for a useless blank area during automatic configuration.

[0078] Furthermore, when the user presses the nested button b5 again, the processor 110 returns the image configuration to the state before the automatic configuration process described above. Therefore, in the preview unit a2, the image is displayed at the position before the automatic configuration process.

[0079] Additionally, the user can manually configure the image. That is, when the user moves the image object within the rectangle of the preview unit a2 using operations such as dragging and dropping with a mouse (not shown), the processor 110 changes the image's position to the new position. In the case of manual image object configuration by the user, since... Figure 9 The restricted areas of the image are displayed in gray, allowing the user to distinguish between the configurable image areas and the restricted areas. Furthermore, the image can be manually configured based on the size of the configurable image area. Additionally, it can be configured to prevent users from releasing the mouse within the restricted image areas.

[0080] Figure 7 The cutting mark setting unit a34 shown is a setting unit for the type of cutting mark used to align the position of the cutting object relative to the image printed on the medium. However, the setting menu related to cutting is not limited to these and may include various other menus. A cutting mark is a mark indicating a position that serves as a reference when the cutting machine performs a cutting operation. In this embodiment, the cutting mark is in the form of two line segments intersecting at right angles at their ends (so-called an L-shape). When the user instructs the processor 110 to configure the selected type of cutting mark, the processor 110 configures the cutting mark within the area on the medium where the cutting machine can perform a cutting operation, as indicated by the cutting machine specification information. The cuttable area is the area on the medium corresponding to the maximum cuttable range of the cutting machine as indicated by the cutting machine specification information.

[0081] That is, the processor 110 places the cutting mark m1 within the cuttable area and outside the area occupied by all the image objects placed therein. By adopting this method, the cutting mark can be printed within the range that the optical sensor of the cutting machine can read.

[0082] Furthermore, the processor 110 configures a barcode associated with the cutting action to be performed by the shearing machine within the area on the medium where the shearing machine can perform the cutting action, as indicated by the shearing machine specification information. Specifically, the processor 110 generates a barcode representing reference information for the cutting action data and configures the barcode bc within the shearable area, at a predetermined distance from the shearing mark m1 and outside a rectangular area with the reference point of the shearing mark m1 as its vertex. By employing this structure, the barcode bc can be printed within the range that the optical sensor of the shearing machine can read.

[0083] As explained above, according to this embodiment, the structure limits the area on the medium where an image can be placed based on the shearing machine specification information. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the situation where printed materials are produced that result in paper damage, i.e., printed materials in which an image is placed in an area that the shearing machine cannot cut, without considering the shearing machine specification information and thus not limiting the area on the medium where an image can be placed.

[0084] (2) Printing control and shearing control processing:

[0085] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating the printing control and cutting control processes. Figure 10 The processing begins when the RIP application is launched in the printing terminal 100. When printing control and cutting control processing begin, the processor 110 accepts the specification of the image of the printing object (step S100). Specifically, when the user operates... Figure 6 When the "Add" button b1 on the screen is used to add an image to the printing object, the processor 110 retrieves the added image as the printing object. Furthermore, the printing object can be a single image or multiple images.

[0086] Next, the processor 110 processes the printing and cutting conditions of the image of the object to be printed (step S105). Specifically, when the user selects each setting tab of the parameter setting unit a3 and enters the desired settings (see...), Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Figure 9 When this occurs, the processor 110 accepts the input setting value. For example... Figure 7As shown, the setting value set at this time includes the setting value of the shearing machine setting unit a33. That is, the processor 110 receives shearing machine specification information indicating whether to use a shearing machine to perform cutting after the printing process and, if a shearing machine is used, to indicate the shearing machine used.

[0087] Next, the processor 110 accepts the imposition processing instruction (step S110). That is, when the user operates the nested button b5 to instruct automatic imposition processing, the processor 110 accepts the imposition processing instruction.

[0088] Next, the processor 110 obtains the shearing machine information of the specified shearing machine (step S115). That is, when the shearing machine specification information indicating the use of any shearing machine is received in step S105, the processor 110 refers to the shearing machine information 121 to obtain the maximum shearable range of the shearing machine specified in step S105.

[0089] Next, the processor 110 automatically configures the images within the range based on the shearing machine information (step S120). That is, the processor 110 arranges the images of the printed object in a column along the width of the medium, spaced at predetermined intervals according to a list order, within the maximum shearable range in the width direction. In this configuration, images beyond the maximum shearable range in the width direction are similarly configured from the next level in the transport direction. This configuration can also reflect... Figure 9 The parameters accepted in the layout settings shown. Furthermore, when the processor 110 receives configuration instructions from the user for the barcode bc and the cut marker m1, it configures them within the maximum cuttable range.

[0090] Next, the processor 110 performs printing (step S125). That is, when the user operates the print button b4 after operating the RIP button b3, the processor 110 performs RIP processing on the image shown in the preview unit a2 to generate print data 124 and cutting action data (first cutting action data 122). Furthermore, the processor 110 outputs the print data 124 to the printing apparatus 200, causing the printing apparatus 200 to perform printing based on the print data.

[0091] (3) Other implementation methods:

[0092] The above-described embodiments are examples for implementing the present invention, and various other embodiments are also possible. For example, the information processing apparatus of the present invention may be integrated with the printing apparatus. Furthermore, the information processing apparatus may be configured as a separate device (server) from the user-operated terminal and the printing apparatus. Additionally, the information processing apparatus and the cutting terminal may be configured as an integrated device.

[0093] The configuration setting unit can also be configured to allow different configurable areas when the shearing machine is used and when it is not used. Whether to use the shearing machine can be determined based on the user's selection, as described in the above embodiment, or it can be determined as follows: For example, it can be configured to determine whether to use the shearing machine if the image data of the printed object contains feature data indicating a shearing line, and not to use the shearing machine if it does not. It can also be configured to determine whether to use the shearing machine if the image data of the printed object does not contain feature data indicating a shearing line, for example, when... Figure 8 In the shearing machine setting section a33, the shearing machine option is grayed out and set to unselectable. The default selection means that the shearing machine option is not used.

[0094] Alternatively, it can be configured, for example, to determine that the shearing machine is not used based on the fact that the connection of the shearing machine is not detected on the network to which the information processing device is connected.

[0095] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, an example was described where the shearable area and the blank area were set using the maximum shearable range of the shearing machine. However, the shearable area and the blank area can also be set based on the accuracy guarantee range of the shearing machine. Additionally, it can be configured such that the maximum shearable range of the shearing machine is used in the width direction, and the accuracy guarantee range of the shearing machine is used in the conveying direction; this can also be configured such that the user can select either.

[0096] Figure 11 Examples of configurations for multiple images without using a shearing machine are shown: Example P1 (left) and Example P2 (right) with using a shearing machine. Example P1, without using a shearing machine, shows the case where no blank area is specifically set in the media conveying direction. Example P2, with a shearing machine, shows the case where a blank area M is set beyond the maximum shearable range Y (or, alternatively, the accuracy-guaranteed range) in the media conveying direction. Y And in the blank area M Y This excludes cases where no image is configured within the shearing machine. When using a shearing machine, setting a blank area in this way allows the image to be configured within a range that the shearing machine can handle in the medium's conveying direction (or within the accuracy guarantee range of the conveying direction).

[0097] Furthermore, while the above embodiments illustrate an example of reading barcodes and cutout marks using an optical sensor mounted on a carriage, the method of reading barcodes and cutout marks is not limited to this. For example, a cutting machine equipped with an optical sensor that includes the entire medium within the shooting range can also be used. When using such a cutting machine, the barcode and cutout marks may not necessarily be printed within the cuttable area, or may be positioned outside the cuttable area. Additionally, barcodes can be replaced with QR codes, numbers, text, symbols, etc.

[0098] Furthermore, the present invention can also be applied as a program or method executed by a computer. For example, as an invention of a cutting control method, the above-described content also applies, wherein the cutting control method includes: an image receiving unit receiving an image that is a printing object, a cutting machine designating unit receiving information related to a cutting machine used for cutting the medium, i.e., cutting machine designating information, and a configuration setting unit limiting the area on the medium on which the image can be configured based on the cutting machine designating information. This method can be implemented by configuring the processor of a computer, which is an information processing device, as an image receiving unit, a configuration setting unit, a cutting machine designating unit, etc., to perform its functions. In addition, as an invention of a cutting control program, the above-described content also applies, wherein the cutting control program enables a computer to function as an image receiving unit, a cutting machine designating unit, and a configuration setting unit, wherein the image receiving unit receives an image that is a printing object, the cutting machine designating unit receives information related to a cutting machine used for cutting the medium, i.e., cutting machine designating information, and the configuration setting unit limits the area on the medium on which the image can be configured based on the cutting machine designating information.

[0099] Furthermore, systems, programs, and methods as described above are sometimes implemented as independent devices, and sometimes using components from multiple devices, encompassing various approaches. Moreover, they can be appropriately modified, such as being partly software and partly hardware. Furthermore, the invention also includes a recording medium for the program that controls the system. Of course, the recording medium for this program can be a magnetic recording medium or a semiconductor memory; any recording medium developed in the future can be considered in the same way.

[0100] Symbol Explanation

[0101] 100… Printing terminal; 110… Processor; 111… RIP application; 111a… Image receiving unit; 111b… Shearing machine designation unit; 111c… Configuration setting unit; 120… Non-volatile memory; 121… Shearing machine information; 124… Printing data; 130… Communication unit; 140… UI unit; 200… Printing apparatus; 210… Processor; 220… Non-volatile memory; 230… UI unit; 240… Communication unit; 250… Printing unit; 400… First shearing terminal; 410… Processor; 420… Non-volatile memory; 430… Communication unit; 440… UI unit; 500… First shearing machine; 510… Processor; 520… Non-volatile memory Device; 530…UI section; 540…Communication section; 550…Cut section; 551…Media transport section; 552…Carriage; 553…Cutter; 554…Optical sensor; W…Width of media; X…Maximum cutable range (width direction); Y…Maximum cutable range (transport direction); a1…Image list section; a2…Preview section; a3…Parameter setting section; a32…Media size setting section; a33…Cutter setting section; a34…Cutter mark setting section; a35…Configuration method setting section; a36…Interval setting section; b1…Add button; b2…Delete button; b3…RIP button; b4…Print button; b5…Nested button; bc…Barcode; m1…Cutter mark.

Claims

1. An information processing apparatus comprising: an image receiving unit that receives an image to be printed; a cutter specifying unit that receives cutter specifying information related to a cutter used to cut a medium; a layout setting unit that limits an area on the medium where the image can be laid out based on the cutter specifying information.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the layout setting unit makes the area on the medium where the image can be laid out different between a case where the cutter specifying information indicates that the cutter is used and a case where the cutter specifying information indicates that the cutter is not used.

3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein when an area on the medium where layout of the image is limited is set as a blank area, the layout setting unit increases the blank area in the case where the cutter specifying information indicates that the cutter is used compared to the case where the cutter specifying information indicates that the cutter is not used.

4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the layout setting unit makes the area on the medium where the image can be laid out different between a case where the cutter specifying information indicates that a first cutter is used as the cutter and a case where the cutter specifying information indicates that a second cutter is used as the cutter.

5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the layout setting unit automatically sets the layout of the image on the medium.

6. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein when an area on the medium where layout of the image is limited is set as a blank area, a direction in which the medium is transported when the image is printed on the medium is set as a transport direction, and a direction that intersects the transport direction is set as a width direction, the blank area is an area where the image is not laid out in the width direction.

7. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein when an area on the medium where layout of the image is limited is set as a blank area, a direction in which the medium is transported when the image is printed on the medium is set as a transport direction, the blank area is an area where the image is not laid out in the transport direction.

8. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a preview screen that indicates a result of setting the layout of the image by the layout setting unit is displayed, in a case where the cutter specifying unit receives the cutter specifying information that indicates that the cutter is used, an area on the preview screen where the cutter cannot perform a cutting operation, i.e., a non-cuttable area, is shown.

9. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the layout setting unit lays out a cutting mark that indicates a position that is a reference when the cutter performs a cutting operation on the medium in an area on the medium where the cutter can perform a cutting operation, i.e., a cuttable area, as indicated by the cutter specifying information.

10. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The configuration setting section configures a bar code associated with a cutting action to be performed by the cutting machine in a region, i.e., a cuttable region, in which the cutting machine can perform a cutting action, on the medium, as indicated by the cutting machine designation information.

11. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein Further provided is a storage section, When a direction in which the medium is transported when the image is printed on the medium is set as a transport direction, and a direction intersecting the transport direction is set as a width direction, The storage section stores, for each kind of cutting machine, a maximum cuttable range in the transport direction and a maximum cuttable range in the width direction.

12. A cutting control method, comprising the process of, An image reception section receives an image that is a print target, A cutting machine designation section receives information, i.e., cutting machine designation information, related to a cutting machine for cutting a medium, A configuration setting section restricts a region on the medium in which the image can be configured, based on the cutting machine designation information.

13. A cutting control program product including a cutting control program that causes a computer to function as an image reception section, a cutting machine designation section, and a configuration setting section, The image reception section receives an image that is a print target, The cutting machine designation section receives information, i.e., cutting machine designation information, related to a cutting machine for cutting a medium, The configuration setting section restricts a region on the medium in which the image can be configured, based on the cutting machine designation information.

Images