Printing system, printing device, and relay device

Abstract

The present application provides a printing system, a printing device and a relay device. The problem is to simplify the structure of the printing device (3). The printing system (1000) has: a relay device (1) capable of communicating with a terminal device (2); a printing device (3) connected to the relay device (1) through a USB cable (7), the relay device (1) supplies power to the printing device (3) via the USB cable (7), in the case of receiving a print instruction from the terminal device (2), generating print image data based on the print instruction, and sending the generated print image data to the printing device (3) via the USB cable (7), the printing device (3) is driven by the power supplied from the relay device (1), in the case of receiving print image data from the relay device (1), printing the print image represented by the received print image data.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a printing system, printing apparatus, and relay device. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, printing apparatuses capable of connecting to external devices were known. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a printing apparatus capable of connecting to a smart device, a customer display, and a handheld scanner.

[0003] However, as described in Patent Document 1, the printing apparatus may have functions that are redundant with external devices and a structure that can be reduced due to the diversification of connections to external devices and the diversification of data formats received from external devices, thus leaving room for simplification of the structure.

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-049561. Summary of the Invention

[0005] One solution to the above-mentioned problem is a printing system comprising: a relay device capable of communicating with a terminal device; and a printing device connected to the relay device via a cable, wherein the relay device supplies power to the printing device via the cable, and upon receiving a printing instruction from the terminal device, generates printing image data based on the printing instruction and transmits the generated printing image data to the printing device via the cable, the printing device being driven by the power supplied from the relay device, and upon receiving the printing image data from the relay device, a printing unit printing the printing image represented by the received printing image data.

[0006] Another solution to the above-mentioned problem is a printing apparatus that is connected via a cable to a relay device capable of communicating with a terminal device. The printing apparatus includes: a printing unit; and a printing apparatus control unit that performs printing via power supplied from the relay device via the cable. The printing apparatus control unit receives, via the cable, print image data generated by the relay device based on a printing instruction from the terminal device, and the printing unit prints the print image represented by the received print image data.

[0007] Another way to solve the above problem is a relay device that can communicate with a terminal device and is connected to a printing device via a cable. The relay device includes a relay device control unit that supplies driving power to the printing device via the cable, and generates printing image data based on the printing instruction received from the terminal device, and transmits the generated printing image data to the printing device via the cable. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 A diagram illustrating the structure of a printing system.

[0009] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the relay device from the rear.

[0010] Figure 3 A block diagram illustrating the structure of a relay device.

[0011] Figure 4 A block diagram illustrating the structure of a printing apparatus.

[0012] Figure 5 A flowchart illustrating the operation of the relay device and the printing device.

[0013] Figure 6 A sequence diagram illustrating the operations of the terminal device, relay device, and printing device. Detailed Implementation

[0014] (1-4) Structure of the printing system:

[0015] Figure 1 A diagram showing the structure of printing system 1000.

[0016] The Printing System 1000 is a POS (Point of Sale) system used in retail businesses such as shopping malls and convenience stores, as well as in food service businesses such as restaurants and pubs. The Printing System 1000 includes functions such as processing checkout based on customer purchases and issuing receipts based on the checkout.

[0017] The printing system 1000 includes a relay device 1, a terminal device 2, and a printing device 3.

[0018] Relay device 1 is a device for relaying communication between terminal device 2 and printing device 3.

[0019] Terminal device 2 is a device that causes printing device 3 to issue receipts and sends printing instructions to relay device 1. The printing instruction is data that instructs the issuance of receipts. The printing instruction includes receipt information and control instructions related to the issuance of receipts, including product name, unit price, total amount, etc.

[0020] The printing apparatus 3 is an apparatus for storing roll paper and printing on the stored roll paper using a thermal print head 321.

[0021] 2. Structure of the relay device Next, the structure of relay device 1 will be described.

[0022] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the relay device 1 viewed from the back.

[0023] like Figure 2 As shown, the relay device 1 has an interface 10 for connecting to external devices.

[0024] Interface 10 has connectors of various specifications. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the interface 10 of this embodiment has a LAN (Local Area Network) connector 11, a modular connector 12, two serial connectors 13, six USB Type-A (Universal Serial Bus Type-A) connectors 14 and two USB Type-C (Universal Serial Bus Type-C) connectors 15.

[0025] LAN connector 11 is an RJ-45 connector. Repeater 1 is connected to the communication network via a LAN cable connected to LAN connector 11. This communication network is composed of public utility lines, dedicated lines, other communication lines, and various communication devices; the specific method is not limited.

[0026] Modular connector 12 is an RJ-11 connector. Peripheral equipment 4 of printing device 3 is connected to modular connector 12. In this embodiment, the case where cash drawer 41 is connected to modular connector 12 is illustrated.

[0027] Cash drawer 41 is an example of "peripheral equipment of printing apparatus" and "exclusive control object equipment".

[0028] The serial connector 13 is an RS-232C connector. The peripheral device 4 of the printing apparatus 3 is connected to the serial connector 13. In this embodiment, the case where the card reader 42 is connected to any serial connector 13 is illustrated. Alternatively, the serial connector 13 can also be used to connect devices other than the card reader 42, either together with or in place of the card reader 42.

[0029] Card reader 42 is an example of "peripheral equipment for printing apparatus".

[0030] A peripheral device 4 of the printing apparatus 3 is connected to the USB Type-A connector 14. In this embodiment, the case where a client display 43 and a barcode reader 44 are connected to the USB Type-A connector 14 is illustrated. Furthermore, other printing apparatuses 5 can be connected to the USB Type-A connector 14. These other printing apparatuses 5 are connected to peripheral devices 6 of other printing apparatuses 5. Figure 1 The example illustrates a case where the cash drawer 61 is connected to other printing devices 5 as a peripheral device 6.

[0031] Customer display 43 and barcode reader 44 are examples of "peripheral equipment of printing apparatus".

[0032] Cash drawer 61 is an example of "peripheral equipment for other printing devices".

[0033] A terminal device 2 is connected to the USB Type-C connector 15A in the USB Type-C connector 15.

[0034] Furthermore, a printed device 3 is connected to the USB Type-C connector 15B in the USB Type-C connector 15 via a USB cable 7.

[0035] In addition, such as Figure 2 As shown, interface 10 has a power connector 16. The power connector 16 is connected to a power adapter 8. The power adapter 8 is a device that converts AC power supplied from commercial power to DC power or to a predetermined voltage. Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating the structure of relay device 1.

[0036] The relay device 1 includes an interface 10, a power supply circuit 17, and a relay device control circuit 18.

[0037] The relay control circuit 18 is an example of a "relay control unit".

[0038] The power supply circuit 17 is a circuit that supplies power, which is supplied via the power connector 16, to each part of the relay device 1. In this embodiment, the power supply circuit 17 supplies power to the relay device control circuit 18.

[0039] The relay control circuit 18 includes a relay processor 100 (which functions as a CPU, MPU, or microprocessor), a relay memory 110, and interface circuitry for connecting to other devices, and controls various parts of the relay device 1. The connectors of the interface 10 and the power supply circuit 17 are connected to the relay control circuit 18.

[0040] The relay device memory 110 is a device for storing programs and data. The relay device memory 110 stores the control program 111 and the data processed in the relay device processor 100. The relay device memory 110 has non-volatile storage areas. Furthermore, the relay device memory 110 has volatile storage areas and constitutes the working area of ​​the relay device processor 100. The relay device memory 110 is configured, for example, using ROM (Read Only Memory) or RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0041] The relay control circuit 18 sends control signals to each peripheral device 4 via the interface 10 by causing the relay processor 100 to execute the control program 111. Furthermore, the relay control circuit 18 communicates with the terminal device 2 and the printing device 3 via the interface 10 by causing the relay processor 100 to execute the control program 111.

[0042] Furthermore, the relay control circuit 18 enables the relay processor 10 to execute the control program 111, thereby allowing communication with other printing devices 5 via the interface 10 when they are connected to the interface 10.

[0043] Furthermore, the relay control circuit 18 supplies power from the power supply circuit 17 to a device connected to at least one of the USB Type-A connector 14 and the USB Type-C connector 15 by causing the relay processor 100 to execute the control program 111.

[0044] The relay device control circuit 18 includes an instruction processing unit 101 and a management unit 102 as functional units related to the issuance of receipts. The instruction processing unit 101 and the management unit 102 are functional units implemented by causing the relay device processor 100 to execute the control program 111.

[0045] The instruction processing unit 101 receives various instructions from the terminal device 2 via the USB Type-C connector 15A. Furthermore, the instruction processing unit 101 performs processing corresponding to the received instructions.

[0046] The management unit 102 communicates with the printing apparatus 3 via the USB Type-C connector 15B. Furthermore, the management unit 102 manages the timing of data transmission to the printing apparatus 3. Additionally, the management unit 102 manages the timing of control signal transmission to the peripheral device 4.

[0047] Furthermore, detailed information regarding the relay device control circuit 18, the instruction processing unit 101, and the management unit 102 will be provided later. Figure 5 as well as Figure 6 Further explanation will be provided later.

[0048] (3) Structure of the printing apparatus: Next, the structure of the printing apparatus 3 will be explained.

[0049] Figure 4 A block diagram illustrating the structure of the printing apparatus 3.

[0050] The printing device 3 includes a USB Type-C connector 31, a printing unit 32, a display unit 33, and a printing device control unit 34.

[0051] The printing unit 32 includes a printing head 321, a head drive unit 323, a conveyor motor 324, a cutter drive motor 325, and a cutter 326.

[0052] The printhead 321 has heating elements 322 made of resistive elements arranged in a plurality of configurations in a direction intersecting the transport direction of the roll paper. The printhead 321 heats up the heating elements 322 by energizing them, and then applies heat to the printing surface of the roll paper to perform printing.

[0053] The head drive unit 323 has the hardware required to drive the printing head 321, such as circuits, and supplies power to the heating element 322 of the printing head 321 according to the control of the printing apparatus control unit 34.

[0054] The conveyor motor 324 rotates the conveyor rollers under the control of the printing device control unit 34, thereby conveying the roll of paper in the conveying direction.

[0055] The cutter drive motor 325 drives the movable blade constituting the cutter 326 to slide toward the fixed blade in accordance with the control of the printing device control unit 34, thereby cutting the roll of paper.

[0056] The display unit 33 is equipped with multiple LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes). The LEDs of the display unit 33 are turned on and off according to the control of the printing apparatus control unit 34.

[0057] The printing apparatus control unit 34 includes a printing apparatus processor 300 (which functions as a CPU, MPU, etc.), a printing apparatus memory 310, and interface circuitry for connecting to other devices, and controls various parts of the printing apparatus 3. A USB Type-C connector 31, a printing unit 32, and a display unit 33 are connected to the printing apparatus control unit 34.

[0058] The printing apparatus memory 310 is a device for storing programs and data. The printing apparatus memory 310 stores control program 311, setting data 312, and data processed in the printing apparatus processor 300. The printing apparatus memory 310 has non-volatile storage areas. Furthermore, the printing apparatus memory 310 has volatile storage areas and constitutes the working area of ​​the printing apparatus processor 300. The printing apparatus memory 310 is configured, for example, using ROM or RAM.

[0059] The setting data 312 is data related to the settings of the printing apparatus 3 and has multiple setting items. In this embodiment, the setting data 312 has setting items for setting the validity or invalidity of the execution of the printing function. In this setting item, there are setting values ​​indicating that the execution of the printing function is valid, or setting values ​​indicating that the execution of the printing function is invalid.

[0060] The printing apparatus control unit 34 performs various actions by having the printing apparatus processor 300 read and execute the control program 311.

[0061] The printing apparatus control unit 34 includes a communication control unit 301 and a printing control unit 302 as functional units related to the issuance of receipts. The communication control unit 301 and the printing control unit 302 are functional units implemented by causing the printing apparatus processor 300 to execute the control program 311.

[0062] The communication control unit 301 receives printed image data from the relay device 1 via the USB Type-C connector 31. The printed image data represents a printed image printed on a receipt. The printed image data includes data in raster form. Furthermore, the printed image data includes data related to the issuance of the receipt, such as the cutting position of the printing medium.

[0063] Furthermore, the communication control unit 301 sends a printing completion notification to the relay device 1 via the USB Type-C connector 31. The printing completion notification is data indicating that printing has been completed.

[0064] The printing control unit 302 performs printing based on the printing image data and through the printing unit 32 to issue a receipt.

[0065] Furthermore, detailed information regarding the printing apparatus control unit 34, the communication control unit 301, and the printing control unit 302 will be provided later. Figure 5 as well as Figure 6 Further explanation will be provided later.

[0066] 4. Actions Next, the operation of each part of the printing system 1000 will be explained.

[0067] 4-1. Operation when the relay device is connected to the printing device First, refer to Figure 5 The operation of the relay device 1 when connected to the printing device 3 will be explained.

[0068] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of relay device 1 and printing device 3. Figure 5 In the flowchart, FA represents the operation of relay device 1, and FB represents the operation of printing device 3.

[0069] When the relay device 1 and the printing device 3 are connected via USB cable 7, the relay device control circuit 18 supplies 5V power to the printing device 3 via USB Type-C connector 15B (step SA1). Then, the printing device control unit 34 receives the 5V power supply from the relay device 1 and starts the printing device 3 (step SB1).

[0070] 5V power is an example of "power at the first voltage".

[0071] In addition, when the printing apparatus 3 is started, the printing apparatus control unit 34 illuminates the LEDs of the display unit 33 to indicate that it is being supplied with 5V power.

[0072] Next, the relay control circuit 18 determines whether the USB cable 7 being connected to the USB Type-C connector 15B is a specific cable (step SA2). Here, a specific cable refers to a cable capable of supplying 24V power. For example, a specific cable is a cable with a maximum power supply of 240W. In step SA2, the relay control circuit 18 determines whether the USB cable 7 being connected to the USB Type-C connector 15B is a specific cable by obtaining the type of the USB cable 7 from the IC (Integrated Circuit) chip built into the USB cable 7.

[0073] If the repeater control circuit 18 determines that the USB cable 7 is not a specific cable (step SA2: No), the process ends. Furthermore, while the USB cable 7 is connected to the USB Type-C connector 15B, the repeater control circuit 18 supplies 5V power via the USB Type-C connector 15B, even if a negative determination is made in step SA2.

[0074] On the other hand, when the relay device control circuit 18 determines that the USB cable 7 is a specific cable (step SA2: Yes), it communicates with the printing device 3 via the USB Type-C connector 15B (step SA3). Furthermore, when the USB cable 7 is determined to be a specific cable, the printing device control unit 34 communicates with the relay device 1 via the USB Type-C connector 31 (step SB2).

[0075] In the communication between steps SA3 and SB2, the product ID and supplier ID are sent from the printing device 3 to the relay device 1, and the product ID and supplier ID are sent from the relay device 1 to the printing device 3.

[0076] The relay control circuit 18 determines whether the device connected via the USB cable 7 is the printing device 3 based on the product ID and supplier ID received in the communication in step SA3 (step SA4).

[0077] If the relay control circuit 18 determines that the device connected via the USB cable 7 is not the printing device 3 (step SA4: No), the process ends. Furthermore, while the USB cable 7 is connected to the USB Type-C connector 15B, the relay control circuit 18 supplies 5V power via the USB Type-C connector 15B, even if a negative determination is made in step SA4.

[0078] On the other hand, when the relay device control circuit 18 determines that the device connected via the USB cable 7 is the printing device 3 (step SA4: Yes), it sends a power supply start notification to the printing device 3 via the USB Type-C connector 15B (step SA5). The power supply start notification is data that notifies the start of power supply.

[0079] like Figure 5 As shown, the printing apparatus control unit 34 determines whether a power supply start notification has been received (step SB3). If the printing apparatus control unit 34 determines that no power supply start notification has been received (step SB3: No), it repeats step SB3.

[0080] On the other hand, when the printing apparatus control unit 34 determines that it has received a power supply start notification (step SB3: Yes), it sends a power supply authorization notification to the relay device 1 via the USB Type-C connector 31 (step SB4). The power supply authorization notification is data that notifies the authorization of power supply.

[0081] like Figure 5 As shown, the relay control circuit 18 determines whether a power supply authorization notice has been received (step SA6). If the relay control circuit 18 determines that no power supply authorization notice has been received (step SA6: No), it performs the determination in step SA6 again.

[0082] On the other hand, when the relay control circuit 18 determines that it has received a power supply permission notification (step SA6: Yes), it switches the voltage of the power supplied from the USB Type-C connector 15B from 5V to 24V (step SA7).

[0083] 24V power is an example of "power at the second voltage".

[0084] like Figure 5 As shown, when the printing apparatus control unit 34 sends a power supply authorization notification, it resets the system of the printing apparatus 3 (step SB5). That is, the printing apparatus control unit 34 restarts the printing apparatus 3 in step SB5.

[0085] In addition, the processes of steps SA7 and SB5 can be performed simultaneously, in the order of steps SA7 and SB5, or in the reverse order.

[0086] In addition, such as Figure 5 As shown, the relay device control circuit 18 supplies 24V power to the printing apparatus 3 via the USB Type-C connector 15B (step SA8). Then, the printing apparatus control unit 34 receives the 24V power supply from the relay device 1, thereby starting the printing apparatus 3 (step SB6). Furthermore, when starting the printing apparatus 3, the printing apparatus control unit 34 illuminates the LED on the display unit 33 to indicate that 24V power is being supplied. This notification method differs from the notification method for when 5V power is being supplied.

[0087] As described above, when the USB cable 7 is connected to the USB Type-C connector 15B, the repeater 1 supplies 5V power. Furthermore, when the device connected to the USB Type-C connector 15B is a printed device 3, the repeater 1 switches the supplied power from 5V to 24V. Therefore, assuming a device that does not require 24V power is connected to the USB Type-C connector 15B, it is possible to prevent voltages exceeding the rated voltage from being supplied to that device.

[0088] Furthermore, the printing device 3 determines whether the device connected via the USB cable 7 is the relay device 1, and if it is determined to be the relay device 1, it enables the execution of the printing function. More specifically, the printing device control unit 34 determines whether the device connected via the USB cable 7 is the relay device 1 based on the product ID and supplier ID received in step SB2. Then, if the printing device control unit 34 determines that the device connected via the USB cable 7 is the relay device 1, it enables the execution of the printing function by changing the setting value of the setting data 312. Thus, the printing device 3 can perform printing when connected to the relay device 1. Therefore, the situation where the printing device 3 performs printing while incorrectly connected to a device other than the relay device 1 will not occur. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the printing device 3 from drawing power required for printing from a device other than the incorrectly connected relay device 1.

[0089] Furthermore, when relay device 1 begins supplying 24V power, it notifies terminal device 2 that relay device 1 is connected to printing device 3. More specifically, relay device control circuit 18 sends the product ID and supplier ID received through communication in step SA3, as well as the product ID and supplier ID of relay device 1, to terminal device 2. Thus, terminal device 2 can ascertain that relay device 1 and printing device 3 are connected to it, and can issue various instructions in a manner that distinguishes between relay device 1 and printing device 3.

[0090] 4-2. Actions related to the issuance of receipts The printing device 3 is powered by 24V electricity and issues receipts.

[0091] Next, refer to Figure 6 The document explains the actions related to the issuance of receipts.

[0092] Figure 6This is a sequence diagram illustrating the operations of terminal device 2, relay device 1, and printing device 3. During receipt issuance, terminal device 2 sends a printing instruction to relay device 1 (step SC1).

[0093] When the instruction processing unit 101 of the relay device 1 receives a printing instruction from the terminal device 2, it generates printing image data based on the printing instruction (step SC2). In step SC2, the instruction processing unit 101 generates printing image data by performing rasterization and other processing based on the printing instruction.

[0094] Next, the instruction processing unit 101 outputs the generated printed image data to the management unit 102 (step SC3).

[0095] The management unit 102 sends the received printing image data to the printing device 3 via the USB Type-C connector 15B (step SC4).

[0096] When the communication control unit 301 of the printing apparatus 3 receives printing image data from the relay device 1, it outputs the received printing image data to the printing control unit 302 (step SC5).

[0097] Next, the printing control unit 302 starts printing based on the received printing image data (step SC6).

[0098] like Figure 6 As shown, after outputting the printed image data, the instruction processing unit 101 of the relay device 1 outputs a completion notification request to the management unit 102 (step SC7). The completion notification request is data requesting the completion of printing.

[0099] Upon receiving a completion notification request, the management unit 102 sends the completion notification request to the printing device 3 via the USB Type-C connector 15B (step SC8).

[0100] When the communication control unit 301 of the printing apparatus 3 receives a completion notification request, it outputs the received completion notification request to the printing control unit 302 (step SC9). Therefore, the printing control unit 302 outputs a printing completion notification when printing is completed. In other words, the printing control unit 302 outputs a printing completion notification at the end of the receipt issuance process.

[0101] like Figure 6 As shown, if the terminal device 2 sends a printing instruction, it sends a drawer opening instruction to the relay device 1 (step SC10). The drawer opening instruction sent in step SC10 is data indicating a control instruction for the cash drawer 41, and indicates an instruction to open the cash drawer 41.

[0102] When the instruction processing unit 101 of the relay device 1 receives the drawer opening instruction, it outputs the received drawer opening instruction to the management unit 102 (step SC11).

[0103] Although the management unit 102 receives the drawer opening instruction, it postpones sending the opening signal to the cash drawer 41 because the printing of the printing device 3 has not yet been completed. Furthermore, the opening signal is a control signal that puts the cash drawer 41 into the open state.

[0104] exist Figure 6 The example illustrates a scenario where terminal device 2 sends a printing instruction after a drawer opening instruction. In relay device 1, printed image data is generated based on this printing instruction, and the generated printed image data is output to management unit 102. However, since management unit 102 does not implement control of the cash drawer 41 based on the cash drawer opening instruction, it further postpones the transmission of the received printed image data.

[0105] like Figure 6 As shown, when the printing device 3 issues a receipt, the printing control unit 302 outputs a printing completion notification to the communication control unit 301 (step SC12). Then, the communication control unit 301 sends the printing completion notification to the relay device 1 via the USB Type-C connector 31 (step SC13).

[0106] When the management unit 102 of the relay device 1 receives the printing completion notification, it transmits the pending start signal via the modular connector 12 (step SC14).

[0107] As described above, the printing device 3 is powered by electricity supplied via the USB cable 7 and issues receipts. Therefore, the printing device 3 can issue receipts even without a power adapter such as an AC adapter. Thus, a power adapter is not required in the printing device 3, thereby simplifying its structure. Furthermore, since communication and power supply can be implemented via a single USB cable 7, the number of connectors in the printing device 3 can be reduced, further simplifying its structure. Moreover, since communication and power supply can be implemented via a single USB cable 7, the structure of the printing system 1000 can be simplified.

[0108] Furthermore, relay device 1 generates printed image data and sends it to printing device 3. Printing device 3 then issues a receipt based on the received printed image data. In the prior art, the printing device performs the generation of printed image data, but printing device 3 does not require the implementation of printed image data generation processing. Therefore, the printing device 3 no longer requires a structure for implementing printed image data generation processing, thereby simplifying the structure of printing device 3.

[0109] 4-3. Sending control signals to peripheral equipment As described above, other printing devices 5 can be connected to the relay device 1. The cash drawer 61 is connected to the other printing devices 5 as a peripheral device 6. Therefore, the relay device 1 outputs a control signal from the modular connector 12 when the cash drawer 41 is in the open state, and the cash drawer 61 is opened by the other printing devices 5 when the cash drawer 61 is in the open state.

[0110] When terminal device 2 sends a drawer opening instruction, such as Figure 6 As shown, the management unit 102 receives a drawer opening instruction. This instruction includes information indicating whether the target is the printing device 3 or another printing device 5. When the instruction targets the printing device 3, the management unit 102 sends a control signal from the modular connector 12, thus opening the cash drawer 41. Conversely, when the instruction targets another printing device 5, the management unit 102 does not send a control signal from the modular connector 12. In this case, the management unit 102 sends a control instruction to open the cash drawer 61 to the other printing device 5 via the interface 10. The other printing device 5 then sends a control signal from the connector to which the cash drawer 61 is connected, thus opening the connected cash drawer 61.

[0111] Thus, a printing system 1000 is provided that can control a cash drawer 61 that can be connected to other printing devices 5.

[0112] 5. Other implementation methods The above-described embodiments are preferred embodiments of this disclosure. However, they are not limited to the above-described embodiments, but various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of this disclosure.

[0113] In the above embodiment, the cash drawer 41 is exemplified as an exclusive controllable device that is controlled at a timing different from that of the printing device 3. However, the exclusive controllable device is not limited to the cash drawer 41, as long as it is a device that is controlled at a timing different from that of the printing device 3. For example, the exclusive controllable device could also be a buzzer.

[0114] In the above embodiment, the relay device 1 sends a control signal to the cash drawer 41 via interface 10 upon receiving a control instruction from the terminal device 2 for the cash drawer 41. Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the relay device 1 sends a control instruction for the cash drawer 61 to other printing devices 5 via interface 10 upon receiving a control instruction from the terminal device 2 for the cash drawer 61. However, the method of sending this control signal and control instruction is not limited to cash drawers 41 and 61. The relay device 1 can also perform the same transmission to peripheral devices 4 and 6 other than cash drawers 41 and 61.

[0115] In the above embodiments, 5V is exemplified as the "first voltage" and 24V is exemplified as the "second voltage". However, the "first voltage" is not limited to 5V, as long as it is a voltage lower than the "second voltage". Furthermore, the "second voltage" is not limited to 24V, as long as it is a voltage greater than the "first voltage". However, the power of the "second voltage" is greater than or equal to the power consumed in the printing process of the printing apparatus 3.

[0116] In the above embodiments, a USB cable 7 is exemplified as a "cable". However, as long as the relay device 1 can supply power to the printing device 3 and the relay device 1 and the printing device 3 can communicate, the "cable" is not limited to the USB cable 7.

[0117] In the above embodiments, a printing apparatus 3 equipped with a thermal printhead 321 is exemplified as a "printing apparatus". However, the printing method of the "printing apparatus" is not limited to thermal printing, and may also be inkjet or other methods.

[0118] In the above embodiments, an example is illustrated by a printing system 1000 used in retail businesses such as shopping malls and convenience stores, and food service businesses such as restaurants and pubs. However, the application of the "printing system" is not limited to POS systems.

[0119] The functions of the relay device processor 100 and the printing device processor 300 can also be implemented by multiple processors or semiconductor chips.

[0120] Figure 3 The various parts of the relay device 1 shown and Figure 4The various parts of the printing apparatus 3 shown represent functional structures, and the specific installation method is not particularly limited. That is, it is not necessarily necessary to install hardware corresponding to each functional part; multiple functions can be implemented by having a processor execute a program. Furthermore, in the above embodiments, a portion of the functions implemented by software can be implemented using hardware, or a portion of the functions implemented by hardware can be implemented using software. In addition, the specific details of the relay device 1 and the other parts of the printing apparatus 3 can be arbitrarily changed without departing from the spirit of this disclosure.

[0121] also, Figure 5 The processing units shown in the flowchart are as follows Figure 6 The processing units shown in the sequence diagram are divided according to the main processing content for easy understanding of the processing of each part of the printing system 1000. Therefore, this disclosure is not limited to the method and name of the processing unit division. Depending on the processing content, it may also be divided into multiple step units. Furthermore, it may be configured such that one step unit includes multiple processes. In addition, the order of these steps may be appropriately replaced without affecting the spirit of this disclosure.

[0122] 6. Summary of this disclosure The following is a summary of this disclosure.

[0123] Postscript 1 A printing system includes: a relay device capable of communicating with a terminal device; and a printing device connected to the relay device via a cable, wherein the relay device supplies power to the printing device via the cable, and upon receiving a printing instruction from the terminal device, generates printing image data based on the printing instruction and transmits the generated printing image data to the printing device via the cable, the printing device being driven by the power supplied from the relay device, and upon receiving the printing image data from the relay device, printing the printing image represented by the received printing image data.

[0124] Therefore, the printing apparatus can be driven even without an external power adapter, and printing can be performed even without a structure for generating print image data. Thus, the printing apparatus eliminates the need for a power adapter and a structure for generating print image data, thereby simplifying its structure.

[0125] Appendix 2 As described in Appendix 1, in the printing system, the relay device has an interface for connecting peripheral devices of the printing apparatus, and sends control signals to the peripheral devices of the printing apparatus via the interface.

[0126] Therefore, since the relay device can control the peripheral equipment of the printing apparatus, there is no need for a structure in the printing apparatus to communicate with peripheral equipment such as connectors, thereby further simplifying the structure of the printing apparatus.

[0127] Appendix 3 As described in Appendix 2, in a printing system, other printing devices different from the printing device can be connected to the interface. When the relay device receives a control instruction from the terminal device for a peripheral device of the printing device, it sends a control signal to the peripheral device of the printing device via the interface. When the relay device receives a control instruction from the terminal device for a peripheral device connected to the other printing device, it sends the control instruction of the peripheral device connected to the other printing device to the other printing device via the interface.

[0128] Therefore, it is possible to provide a printing system that can control peripheral equipment connected to other printing devices.

[0129] Appendix 4 The printing system as described in any one of Annexes 1 to 3, wherein the relay device supplies power at a first voltage via the cable, determines whether the device connected via the cable is the printing device, and if the device connected via the cable is the printing device, supplies power at a second voltage higher than the first voltage via the cable, and the printing device is driven and performs printing by the power at the second voltage.

[0130] Therefore, even when a device and relay device that do not correspond to the power required to drive the printing apparatus are connected, it is possible to suppress the supply of voltages exceeding the rated voltage to the device.

[0131] Appendix 5 As described in Appendix 4, in the printing system, the printing device determines whether the device connected via the cable is the relay device, and if it determines that the device connected via the cable is the relay device, it enables the execution of the printing function.

[0132] Therefore, the printing apparatus can perform printing even when connected to a relay device. Thus, it is possible to prevent the printing apparatus from performing printing while incorrectly connected to a device other than the relay device. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the printing apparatus from drawing power required for printing from a device other than the incorrectly connected relay device.

[0133] Appendix 6 As described in Appendix 2 or Appendix 3, in a printing system, an exclusive controllable device is connected as a peripheral device of the printing apparatus to the interface. This device is controlled at a timing different from the printing of the printing apparatus. The relay device suspends the transmission of control signals to the exclusive controllable device during the printing process of the printing apparatus, and transmits control signals to the exclusive controllable device via the interface after the printing of the printing apparatus has been completed.

[0134] Therefore, even when an exclusive control device is connected to a relay device that is separate from the printing device, exclusive control of the exclusive control device can be performed relative to the printing of the printing device.

[0135] Postscript 7 As described in Appendix 6, in the printing system, when printing is completed, the printing device sends a printing completion notification to the relay device, and the relay device, upon receiving the printing completion notification from the printing device, sends a control signal to the exclusive control object device.

[0136] Therefore, since the exclusive control device is controlled based on the receipt of the printing completion notification, it is possible to appropriately control the exclusive control device in relation to the printing of the printing apparatus.

[0137] Postscript 8 As in any one of Annexes 1 to 7, in a printing system, when the relay device is connected to the printing device via the cable, it sends information to the terminal device indicating that the relay device and the printing device are connected to the terminal device.

[0138] Therefore, the terminal device can know whether the printing device and the relay device are connected to the terminal device.

[0139] Postscript 9 A printing apparatus is connected via a cable to a relay device capable of communicating with a terminal device. The printing apparatus includes: a printing unit; and a printing apparatus control unit that receives power supplied from the relay device via the cable, thereby enabling the printing unit to perform printing. The printing apparatus control unit receives, via the cable, print image data generated by the relay device based on a print instruction from the terminal device, and the printing unit prints the print image represented by the received print image data.

[0140] Thus, the same effect as the printing system in Appendix 1 can be achieved.

[0141] Postscript 10 A relay device is provided that can communicate with a terminal device and is connected to a printing device via a cable. The relay device control unit supplies driving power to the printing device via the cable, and generates printing image data based on the printing instruction received from the terminal device, and transmits the generated printing image data to the printing device via the cable.

[0142] Thus, the same effect as the printing system in Appendix 1 can be achieved.

[0143] Symbol Explanation 1…Relay device; 2…Terminal device; 3…Printing apparatus; 4…Peripheral equipment; 5…Other printing apparatus; 6…Peripheral equipment; 7…USB cable; 8…Power adapter; 10…Interface; 11…LAN connector; 12…Modular connector; 13…Serial connector; 14…USB Type-A connector; 15, 15A, 15B…USB Type-C connector; 16…Power connector; 17…Power circuit; 18…Relay device control circuit (relay device control unit); 31…USB Type-C connector; 32… Printing unit; 33… Display unit; 34… Printing apparatus control unit; 41… Cash drawer (peripheral equipment of the printing apparatus, exclusive control device); 42… Card reader (peripheral equipment of the printing apparatus); 43… Customer display (peripheral equipment of the printing apparatus); 44… Barcode reader (peripheral equipment of the printing apparatus); 61… Cash drawer (peripheral equipment of other printing apparatus); 100… Relay device processor; 101… Indication processing unit; 102… Management unit; 110… Relay device memory; 111… Control program; 300… Printing apparatus processor; 301… Communication control unit; 302… Printing control unit; 310… Printing apparatus memory; 311… Control program; 312… Setting data; 321… Print head; 322… Heating element; 323… Head drive unit; 324… Conveyor motor; 325… Cutter drive motor; 326… Cutter; 1000… Printing system.

Claims

1. A printing system comprising: A relay device that can communicate with terminal devices; The printing device is connected to the relay device via a cable. The relay device performs the following processing: Power is supplied to the printing apparatus via the cable, and Upon receiving a printing instruction from the terminal device, printing image data is generated based on the printing instruction, and the generated printing image data is transmitted to the printing device via the cable. The printing apparatus performs the following processing: Driven by the power supplied from the relay device, and Upon receiving the printed image data from the relay device, the printed image represented by the received printed image data is printed.

2. The printing system as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The relay device has an interface. The interface is used for connecting peripheral devices of the printing apparatus. Control signals are sent to peripheral devices of the printing apparatus via the interface.

3. The printing system as described in claim 2, wherein, Other printing devices, different from the printing device described, can be connected to the interface. The relay device performs the following processing: Upon receiving control instructions from the peripheral devices of the printing apparatus from the terminal device. Control signals are sent to peripheral devices of the printing apparatus via the interface, and Upon receiving a control instruction from a peripheral device connected to the other printing device from the terminal device, the control instruction from the peripheral device connected to the other printing device is sent to the other printing device via the interface.

4. The printing system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The relay device performs the following processing: The power supplied with the first voltage via the cable, Determine whether the device connected via the cable is the printing apparatus, and If the device connected via the cable is determined to be the printing apparatus, power at a second voltage higher than the first voltage is supplied via the cable. The printing apparatus is driven by the power of the second voltage to perform printing.

5. The printing system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The printing apparatus performs the following processing: Determine whether the device connected via the cable is the relay device, and If the device connected via the cable is determined to be the relay device, the printing function is enabled.

6. The printing system as claimed in claim 2 or 3, wherein, An exclusive control device, which is controlled at a timing different from the printing of the printing apparatus, is connected to the interface as a peripheral device of the printing apparatus. The relay device performs the following processing: During the printing process, the transmission of control signals to the exclusively controlled device is suspended. Once printing by the printing apparatus is complete, a control signal is sent to the exclusive control object device via the interface.

7. The printing system of claim 6, wherein, When printing is complete, the printing device sends a printing completion notification to the relay device. Upon receiving the printing completion notification from the printing device, the relay device sends a control signal to the exclusive control object device.

8. The printing system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The relay device performs the following processing: When connected to the printing device via the cable, Information indicating that the relay device and the printing device are connected to the terminal device is sent to the terminal device.

9. A printing apparatus, which is connected via a cable to a relay device capable of communicating with a terminal device, and comprises: Printing Department; The printing apparatus control unit, which uses power supplied from the relay device via the cable, enables the printing unit to perform printing. The control unit of the printing apparatus performs the following processing: Receive, via the cable, printed image data generated by the relay device based on a printing instruction from the terminal device, and from the relay device. The printing unit prints the printed image represented by the received printed image data.

10. A relay device capable of communicating with a terminal device and connected to a printing apparatus via a cable, wherein, It has a relay device control unit. The relay device control unit performs the following processing: Power for driving the printing apparatus is supplied via the cable, and Upon receiving a printing instruction from the terminal device, printing image data is generated based on the printing instruction, and the generated printing image data is transmitted to the printing device via the cable.

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