Printer, information processor, control method of printer, control method of information processor and program

Abstract

To enable a user to save labor required for selecting an input form suitable for character strings desired for printing from a plurality of options.SOLUTION: A tape printer includes an acquisition part for acquiring image data, a storage part for storing a storage character string as one or more characters and an input form 80 having a character input column 83 for each printing item 82 in association with each other, a display 22, and a control part, wherein the control part image-analyzes the acquired image data and extracts a plurality of characters, and displays the input form 80 associated with the storage character string on the display 22, when the same character string as the storage character string stored in the storage part is included in an extraction character group including the plurality of extracted characters.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a printing device, an information processing device, a control method for a printing device, a control method for an information processing device, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] As disclosed in Patent Document 1, a printing device is known that allows selection of an input form depending on the intended use of the label, etc. The input form has a character input field for each printing item. The user inputs character strings corresponding to the printing items into each character input field included in the selected input form. The printing device generates print image data based on the input form selected by the user and the character strings input into each character input field of the input form, and performs printing based on the generated print image data. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-272951 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] With conventional printing devices, some users may have already decided on the character string they want to print, but may be unsure which input form to select. In other words, with conventional printing devices, users have no choice but to select from multiple options the input form that best suits the character string they want to print, which places a burden on the user. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The printing device of the present invention comprises an acquisition unit that acquires image data, a memory unit that stores a memorized character string consisting of one or more characters and an input form having a character input field for each printing item in association with each other, a display unit, a printing unit that prints on a print medium, and a control unit, wherein the control unit performs image analysis of the acquired image data to extract multiple characters, and if the extracted character group including the extracted multiple characters contains the same character string as a memorized character string stored in the memory unit, the control unit displays the input form associated with the memorized character string on the display unit.

[0006] The information processing device of the present invention comprises an acquisition unit that acquires image data, a memory unit that stores a memorized character string consisting of one or more characters and an input form having a character input field for each print item in association with each other, a display unit, and a control unit, and the control unit performs image analysis of the acquired image data to extract multiple characters, and if the extracted character group including the extracted multiple characters contains the same character string as the memorized character string stored in the memory unit, causes the display unit to display the input form associated with the memorized character string.

[0007] The control method for a printing device of the present invention is a control method for a printing device that includes an acquisition unit that acquires image data, a memory unit that stores a stored string of one or more characters in association with an input form having a character input field for each printing item, a display unit, and a printing unit that prints on a printing medium, in which the printing device performs image analysis of the acquired image data to extract multiple characters, and if the extracted character group including the extracted multiple characters contains the same character string as a stored string stored in the memory unit, the input form that is associated with the stored string is displayed on the display unit.

[0008] The control method of the information processing device of the present invention is a control method for an information processing device that includes an acquisition unit that acquires image data, a memory unit that stores a stored string of one or more characters and an input form having a character input field for each print item in association with each other, and a display unit, in which the information processing device performs image analysis of the acquired image data to extract multiple characters, and if the extracted character group including the extracted multiple characters contains the same character string as a stored string stored in the memory unit, displays the input form associated with the stored string on the display unit.

[0009] The program of the present invention causes an information processing device having an acquisition unit that acquires image data, a memory unit that stores a memorized character string consisting of one or more characters and an input form having a character input field for each print item in association with each other, and a display unit to perform the following steps: image analysis of the acquired image data to extract multiple characters; and, if an extracted character group including the extracted multiple characters contains the same character string as a memorized character string stored in the memory unit, displaying the input form associated with the memorized character string on the display unit. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is an external view of the tape printing device and the tape cartridge. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image capture target. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the tape printing device. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a first form information table. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a color type table. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a tape width type table. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the tape printing device. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an input form screen in which no characters have been input. [Figure 9]FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an input form screen in which characters have been input. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a color type selection screen. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a tape width type selection screen. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a print layout screen. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a label on which a print image is printed. [Figure 14] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a printing process. [Figure 15] 15 is a flowchart continuing from FIG. 14. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a second form information table. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a paste target selection screen. [Figure 18] 10 is a flowchart showing a part of a printing process according to a second embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a label on which a code image is printed. [Figure 20] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of the information processing device. [Figure 21] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a print layout screen according to a modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Hereinafter, a printing device, an information processing device, a control method for a printing device, a control method for an information processing device, and a program will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that in Fig. 1, directions based on an XYZ Cartesian coordinate system are used for the purpose of explanation only, and these directions do not limit the following embodiments in any way.

[0012] [First embodiment] FIG. 1 is an external view of a tape printing device 1 and a tape cartridge C. The tape printing device 1 is an example of a "printing device." The tape printing device 1 is a device that prints on a long piece of tape T. The tape T is an example of a "printing medium." The tape printing device 1 comprises a device case 3 and a mounting section cover 5. The +Z direction surface of the device case 3 is provided with an operation key group 21, a display 22, a printing device camera 33, a cartridge mounting section 23, and a tape ejection port 24. The display 22 is an example of a "display section." The printing device camera 33 is an example of an "imaging section."

[0013] The operation key group 21 accepts various user operations such as editing operations for the print image G (see FIG. 13) to be printed on the tape T. The display 22 is a monochrome display screen that displays various information such as an editing screen for the print image G. The tape printing device 1 generates print image data based on the user's editing operations for the print image G, and performs printing based on the generated print image data.

[0014] The printing device camera 33 captures an image of an object 51 (see FIG. 2). The tape printing device 1 performs printing using the image capture results of the printing device camera 33. Hereinafter, printing using the image capture results of the printing device camera 33 will be referred to as "image capture printing." In image capture printing, the tape printing device 1 acquires image data, which is image data captured by the printing device camera 33, and performs image analysis of the image data to extract multiple characters. Hereinafter, the characters extracted by image analysis of the image data will be referred to as an "extracted character group." Note that "characters" are not limited to characters used to represent languages, such as kanji, hiragana, katakana, and the alphabet, but also include numbers and symbols.

[0015] When the extracted character group includes a stored character string, which is a character string stored in a first form information table 61 (see FIG. 4) described later, the tape printing device 1 displays an input form 80 (see FIG. 8) associated with the stored character string on the display 22. This saves the user the trouble of selecting an input form 80. Furthermore, since the input form 80 is associated with a character string included in the extracted character group, the user can use an input form 80 that is appropriate for the character string included in the image data. Details of image capture and printing will be described later. In this embodiment, a "character string" refers to one or more characters. In other words, a "character string" may be a single character.

[0016] The cartridge mounting portion 23 is a recess that is open in the +Z direction. A tape cartridge C is removably mounted in the cartridge mounting portion 23. The mounting portion cover 5 is rotatably attached to the end of the device case 3 in the +Y direction, and opens and closes the cartridge mounting portion 23.

[0017] The tape cartridge C includes a tape core 15, a platen roller 17, a supply core 18, a take-up core 19, and a cartridge case 11 that houses these.

[0018] The tape T is wound around the tape core 15. The tape T is composed of a printing tape Ta having an adhesive layer formed on its back surface, and a release tape Tb that is adhered to the printing tape Ta by the adhesive layer. The tape T is wound around the tape core 15 with the printing tape Ta on the outside and the release tape Tb on the inside. The ink ribbon R is wound around the payout core 18. The ink ribbon R paid out from the payout core 18 is taken up onto the take-up core 19. The cartridge case 11 is provided with a head insertion hole 12 that penetrates in the Z direction. Furthermore, a tape outlet 13 extending in the Z direction is provided on the -X direction surface of the cartridge case 11. The tape T paid out from the tape core 15 is fed out of the cartridge case 11 from the tape outlet 13.

[0019] The cartridge mounting section 23 is provided with a print head 26 and a head cover 20. The print head 26 prints on the tape T. The head cover 20 partially covers the print head 26.

[0020] A platen drive shaft 25, a supply shaft 28, and a take-up shaft 29 protrude in the +Z direction from the bottom surface of the cartridge mounting section 23. When a tape cartridge C is mounted in the cartridge mounting section 23, the platen drive shaft 25, the supply shaft 28, and the take-up shaft 29 engage with the platen roller 17, the supply core 18, and the take-up core 19, respectively.

[0021] Furthermore, when the tape cartridge C is mounted in the cartridge mounting portion 23, the print head 26 and head cover 20 are inserted into the head insertion hole 12. Subsequently, when the mounting portion cover 5 is closed, the print head 26 is moved toward the platen roller 17 by a head movement mechanism (not shown). As a result, the tape T and ink ribbon R are sandwiched between the print head 26 and the platen roller 17.

[0022] In this state, when the feed motor 45a (see FIG. 3) provided in the tape printing device 1 rotates, the platen roller 17 and the take-up core 19 rotate so that the tape T is fed out of the cartridge case 11 from the tape feed opening 13 and the ink ribbon R is taken up onto the take-up core 19. As a result, the tape T is fed in the -X direction toward the tape discharge opening 24.

[0023] The print head 26 generates heat in accordance with the print image data when the tape T is fed in the -X direction. This causes the ink on the ink ribbon R to be transferred to the print tape Ta of the tape T, and a print image G based on the print image data is printed on the print tape Ta. The tape T on which printing has been performed is discharged from the tape discharge opening 24. The printed tape T discharged from the tape discharge opening 24 is used as a label L (see Figure 13).

[0024] A sensor 43 and a cutter 27 are provided between the cartridge mounting section 23 and the tape ejection port 24. The sensor 43 detects whether or not the tape T is present. Based on the detection results of the sensor 43, the tape printing device 1 detects the leading edge position of the tape T and determines the tape end. The cutter 27 cuts the tape T in the Z direction, i.e., in the tape width direction. This separates the printed portion of the tape T.

[0025] Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of an image capture object 51. In this embodiment, a business card is used as the image capture object 51. The image capture object 51 shown in Fig. 2 includes a company name 51a, a business establishment name 51b, a department name 51c, a name 51d, an address 51e, a telephone number 51f, a fax number 51g, and a logo 51h.

[0026] Next, the hardware configuration of the tape printer 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. The tape printer 1 includes an operation key group 21, a display 22, a printer camera 33, a printer control unit 44, a printing unit 45, and a cutting unit 46.

[0027] The operation key group 21 includes not only character keys but also function keys such as a print execution key for executing specific processes. When the print execution key is selected by the user, the tape printing device 1 executes printing on the tape T. "Executing printing" refers to driving the print head 26 while feeding the tape T in the -X direction. The function keys also include an image capture print key. The image capture print key is a key for performing image capture printing. When the image capture print key is selected by the user, the tape printing device 1 executes the printing process shown in Figures 14 and 15. The function keys also include an image capture key for causing the printing device camera 33 to capture an image.

[0028] The display 22 displays various screens, such as an input form screen 71 (see FIG. 8, etc.), a color type selection screen 73 (see FIG. 10), a tape width type selection screen 75 (see FIG. 11), and a print layout screen 77 (see FIG. 12). Details of each screen will be described later.

[0029] The printing device camera 33 captures an image of the object 51. The printing device camera 33 is an image sensor such as a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) sensor, and converts captured light into image data. The user holds the object 51 over the printing device camera 33 and selects an imaging key, causing the printing device camera 33 to capture an image of the object 51.

[0030] The printer control unit 44 includes a printer central processing unit (CPU) 44a, a printer read only memory (ROM) 44b, and a printer random access memory (RAM) 44c. The printer ROM 44b is an example of a "storage unit."

[0031] Firmware 91 is stored in the printer ROM 44b. The printer CPU 44a performs various controls by loading control programs such as firmware 91 stored in the printer ROM 44b into RAM 44c and executing them. Note that the printer control unit 44 may use a hardware circuit such as an ASIC as a processor instead of the printer CPU 44a. The processor may also be configured such that one or more CPUs and a hardware circuit such as an ASIC work together to operate.

[0032] The printer ROM 44b stores, as part of the firmware 91, a first form information table 61 (see FIG. 4), a color type table 63 (see FIG. 5), and a tape width type table 65 (see FIG. 6).

[0033] As shown in Fig. 4, the first form information table 61 records a plurality of pieces of form information that associate stored character strings with input forms 80 (see Fig. 8). As shown in Fig. 8, the input form 80 is a format for inputting characters to be printed, and has a character input field 83 for each print item 82. By using the input form 80, the user can input all characters that correspond to the print items 82 to be printed.

[0034] Each input form 80 based on the form information stored in the first form information table 61 is associated with a label form (not shown). For example, the label L shown in FIG. 13 is created based on the input form screen 71 shown in FIG. 9, and the format of this label L is the label form. Because a label form is associated with each input form 80, a user can create an attractive label L by entering data using the input form 80 without having to set formatting such as character size or character placement. Each input form 80 based on the form information stored in the first form information table 61 also stores the number of lines to be printed for the corresponding label form. Hereinafter, the "number of lines to be printed for the label form corresponding to the input form 80" will be simply referred to as the "number of lines of the input form 80."

[0035] 5, the color type table 63 records a plurality of color types that are combinations of the tape color, which is the color of the tape T, and the ink color, which is the color of the ink ribbon R. The printing device CPU 44a determines the priority of the plurality of color types recorded in the color type table 63 based on the character color and the background color of the character obtained from the image analysis results of the image data, and displays color type option options 86 indicating each of the plurality of color types on the color type selection screen 73 (see FIG. 10) with the determined priority.

[0036] As shown in FIG. 6, the tape width type table 65 stores a plurality of tape width types. The tape width type table 65 also stores the number of printable lines associated with each tape width type. As described above, when a stored character string stored in the first form information table 61 (see FIG. 4) is included in the extracted character group extracted by image analysis of image data, the printing apparatus CPU 44a selects the input form 80 associated with the stored character string as the input form 80 to be displayed. Hereinafter, the input form 80 to be displayed is referred to as the "selected input form 80." The printing apparatus CPU 44a determines the priority of the plurality of tape width types stored in the tape width type table 65 based on the number of lines in the selected input form 80, and displays tape width type options 88 indicating each of the plurality of tape width types on the tape width type selection screen 75 (see FIG. 11) based on the determined priority. Details will be described later.

[0037] In addition to the firmware 91, the printing device ROM 44b also stores a dictionary 92. The dictionary 92 is stored for each print item 82 for all input forms 80 recorded in the first form information table 61. The dictionary 92 may include, for example, a postal code dictionary containing postal codes and an address dictionary containing addresses. The postal code dictionary contains numeric strings indicating postal codes, such as "100-0001." The address dictionary contains character strings indicating addresses, such as "Tokyo" and "Chiyoda-ku." The printing device CPU 44a determines, based on the dictionary 92, whether the extracted character group contains a character string corresponding to the print item 82 of the selection input form 80. If the extracted character group contains a character string corresponding to the print item 82, the printing device CPU 44a inputs the character string corresponding to the print item 82 into the character input field 83 corresponding to the print item 82.

[0038] The printing unit 45 includes a print head 26, a platen drive shaft 25, and a feed motor 45a. The print head 26 is equipped with a group of heating elements (not shown) and performs printing by thermally transferring ink from the ink ribbon R to the tape T. The platen drive shaft 25 engages with the platen roller 17 and rotates the platen roller 17. The feed motor 45a is a drive source that drives the platen drive shaft 25. When the feed motor 45a rotates, the platen roller 17 rotates and the tape T is fed in the -X direction.

[0039] The cutting unit 46 includes a cutter motor 46a and a cutter 27. The cutter motor 46a is a drive source that drives the cutter 27. When the cutter motor 46a rotates, the cutter 27 operates and cuts the tape T in the Z direction.

[0040] Next, the functional configuration of the tape printer 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 7. The tape printer 1 includes an acquisition unit 110 and a control unit 120. These functions are realized by the printer CPU 44a executing firmware 91.

[0041] The acquisition unit 110 acquires image data, which is image data captured by the printing device camera 33.

[0042] The control unit 120 extracts an extracted character group by performing image analysis on the image data acquired by the acquisition unit 110. The control unit 120 extracts the extracted character group by optical character recognition of the image data. If the extracted character group includes the same character string as a stored character string stored in the first form information table 61, the control unit 120 selects the input form 80 associated with the stored character string as the selected input form 80, and displays the selected input form 80 on the display 22 (see FIG. 8).

[0043] Furthermore, the control unit 120 determines whether the extracted character group includes a character string that corresponds to the print item 82 of the selection input form 80. If the control unit 120 determines that the extracted character group includes a character string that corresponds to the print item 82 of the selection input form 80, the control unit 120 causes the display 22 to display a selection input form 80 in which the character string that corresponds to the print item 82, from the character strings included in the extracted character group, is entered in the character input field 83 that corresponds to the print item 82 (see FIG. 9). Furthermore, the control unit 120 accepts a user's editing operation on the character input field 83 of the selection input form 80.

[0044] The control unit 120 also generates a print layout 90 based on the selection input form 80 and the character string entered in the character input field 83 of the selection input form 80, and displays the generated print layout 90 on the display 22 (see FIG. 12). The control unit 120 also accepts editing operations on the print layout 90 by the user.

[0045] Furthermore, as described above, the control unit 120 determines the priority of multiple color types based on the color of the characters and the background color of the characters obtained from the image analysis results of the image data, and displays color type options 86 indicating each of the multiple color types on the display 22 with the determined priority (see Figure 10).

[0046] The control unit 120 may determine the priority of a plurality of color types based on either the color of the characters obtained from the image analysis results of the image data or the background color of the characters, but not both.

[0047] Next, various screens displayed on the display 22 will be described with reference to Fig. 8 to Fig. 12. Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the input form screen 71 in a state where no characters have been entered in the character input field 83. A selection input form 80 is displayed on the input form screen 71. Note that the example of Fig. 8 shows a state where the image capture object 51 shown in Fig. 2 is captured as the image capture object 51, and the postal code "〒" is extracted from the image data resulting from the capture, thereby displaying the "first input form" included in the first form information table 61 (see Fig. 4) as the selection input form 80.

[0048] The selection input form 80 includes a form title 81, print items 82, and a character input field 83. In the example of Fig. 8, the form title 81 indicates that the selection input form 80 is for creating an address label L (see Fig. 13).

[0049] 8 includes, as print items 82, a "Postal Code" print item 82a, an "Address 1" print item 82b, an "Address 2" print item 82c, a "Company" print item 82d, a "Department" print item 82e, and a "Name" print item 82f. The "Address 1" print item 82b is a print item 82 for prefectures and municipalities, and the "Address 2" print item 82b is a print item 82 for addresses other than prefectures and municipalities. The selection input form 80 shown in FIG. 8 has six character input fields 83 corresponding to these print items 82, respectively. That is, the selection input form 80 shown in FIG. 8 includes, as character input fields 83, a "Postal Code" input field 83a, an "Address 1" input field 83b, an "Address 2" input field 83c, a "Company" input field 83d, a "Department" input field 83e, and a "Name" input field 83f.

[0050] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of the input form screen 71 with characters entered in the character input fields 83. The example in FIG. 9 illustrates a state in which the image capture object 51 shown in FIG. 2 is captured as the image capture object 51, and characters are entered in each character input field 83 based on the analysis results of the image data resulting from the capture. The example in FIG. 9 also illustrates the input form screen 71 when, as a result of capturing the image capture object 51 shown in FIG. 2, the extracted character group includes character strings corresponding to all of the print items 82 in the selection input form 80. If the extracted character group does not include character strings corresponding to the print items 82 in the selection input form 80, the character input field 83 corresponding to that print item 82 is displayed blank. In this case, the user enters characters into the character input field 83 using character keys included in the operation key group 21. The user can also use the operation key group 21 to perform various edits, such as correcting or deleting characters, displayed in the character input field 83.

[0051] 10 is a diagram showing an example of the color type selection screen 73. The color type selection screen 73 displays a color type title 85 and color type options 86. The color type title 85 indicates that the screen displayed on the display 22 is the color type selection screen 73. The color type options 86 are displayed in descending order of priority. The color type option 86 with the highest priority is displayed with the word "recommended" added. A selected color type option 86 is surrounded by a black selection frame SF, and the color type option 86 is displayed in white text.

[0052] As described above, the tape printing device 1 determines the priority of multiple color types based on the character color and background color of the character obtained from the image analysis result of the image data. For example, the tape printing device 1 displays color types that indicate color combinations that are closest to the character color and background color of the character obtained from the image analysis result of the image data, or the opposite combination, as high-priority color type options 86. A specific example will be described below.

[0053] The example in FIG. 10 shows a color type selection screen 73 that is displayed based on the analysis results of image data obtained by capturing an image of the imaged object 51 shown in FIG. 2. The imaged object 51 shown in FIG. 2 has a character color of "black" and a background color of "white." The tape printing device 1 displays, as the color type option 86 with the highest priority, a color type that represents a combination of an ink color that is close to the character color obtained from the image analysis results of the image data and a tape color that is close to the character background color obtained from the image analysis results of the image data, among the color types stored in the color type table 63 (see FIG. 5). Therefore, in the example in FIG. 10, a tape color of "white" and a character color of "black" are displayed as the color type option 86 with the highest priority. By selecting the color type option 86 with the highest priority, the user can create a label L that is close to the character color scheme of the imaged object 51.

[0054] Furthermore, the tape printing device 1 displays, among the color types stored in the color type table 63, a color type that shows a combination opposite to that of the color type with the highest priority as a color type option 86 with the second highest priority. By selecting the color type option 86 with the second highest priority, the user can create a label L that gives a different impression from the imaged object 51.

[0055] Furthermore, if the color type table 63 includes a color type that indicates a combination of an ink color that is the same as the character color obtained from the image analysis results of the image data, but a tape color that is different from the background color of the character, the tape printing device 1 displays the color type as a color type option 86 with a third or higher priority. Similarly, if the color type table 63 includes a color type that indicates a combination of an ink color that is different from the character color obtained from the image analysis results of the image data, but a tape color that is the same as the background color of the character obtained from the image analysis results of the image data, the tape printing device 1 displays the color type as a color type option 86 with a third or higher priority.

[0056] In addition, the tape printing device 1 may also display, on the color type selection screen 73, color type options 86 of color types stored in the color type table 63 that do not meet the above conditions as color type options 86 with low priority.

[0057] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the tape width type selection screen 75. The tape width type selection screen 75 displays a tape width type title 87 and tape width type options 88. The tape width type title 87 indicates that the screen displayed on the display 22 is the tape width type selection screen 75. The tape width type options 88 are displayed in descending order of priority. The tape width type option 88 with the highest priority is displayed with the word "recommended" added. A selected tape width type option 88 is surrounded by a black selection frame SF, and the tape width type option 88 is displayed in white characters.

[0058] As described above, the tape printer 1 determines the priority of the multiple tape width types recorded in the tape width type table 65 (see FIG. 6) based on the selection input form 80, and displays the tape width type option sets 88 indicating each of the multiple tape width types according to the determined priority. The number of printable lines is determined for each tape width type recorded in the tape width type table 65. For example, the number of printable lines is determined as follows: 12 lines for the 36 mm tape width type, 8 lines for the 24 mm tape width type, 6 lines for the 18 mm tape width type, and 4 lines for the 12 mm tape width type.

[0059] Of the tape width types recorded in the tape width type table 65, the tape printer 1 displays the tape width type with the smallest width that can print the number of lines of the selection input form 80 as the tape width type option 88 with the highest priority. The example in FIG. 11 shows the tape width type selection screen 75 that is displayed when the input form 80 shown in FIG. 8 is selected as the selection input form 80. The input form 80 shown in FIG. 8 includes six print items 82, and each print item 82 is printed on one line, so the number of lines of the selection input form 80 is "6 lines." Furthermore, of the tape width types recorded in the tape width type table 65, the tape width type with the smallest width that can print "6 lines" is 18 mm. Therefore, in the example in FIG. 11, the tape printer 1 displays the tape width type option 88 indicating the 18 mm tape width as the tape width type option 88 with the highest priority.

[0060] Furthermore, if the tape width type table 65 includes tape width types that can print the number of lines in the selection input form 80 other than the tape width type of the tape width type option 88 with the highest priority, the tape printer 1 displays the tape width type options 88 in ascending order of tape width. The selection input form 80 has six lines, and the tape widths that can print six lines are 24 mm and 36 mm, in addition to 18 mm, recorded in the tape width type table 65. Therefore, the tape printer 1 displays the tape width type option 88 indicating 24 m and the tape width type option 88 indicating 36 mm as the tape width type option 88 with the second highest priority and the tape width type option 88 with the third highest priority, respectively.

[0061] The tape width type options 88 displayed on the tape width type selection screen 75 are not limited to those determined by the above method, and may be tape width type options 88 that are determined in advance for each input form 80 included in the first form information table 61. For example, the tape printing device 1 may store in the first form information table 61 a tape width type option 88 with a priority order in advance for each input form 80, such as a first priority being a tape width type option 88 indicating 18 mm, a second priority being a tape width type option 88 indicating 24 mm, and a third priority being a tape width type option 88 indicating 36 mm.

[0062] 12 is a diagram showing an example of the print layout screen 77. The print layout screen 77 displays a print layout 90 and cartridge information 97. The print layout 90 has a print image GI that resembles a print image G arranged on a tape image TI that resembles a tape T. The tape image TI is displayed in a tape color that corresponds to the color type selected on the color type selection screen 73 and in a tape width that corresponds to the tape width type selected on the tape width type selection screen 75. The color of the characters included in the print image G is displayed in the ink color that corresponds to the color type selected on the color type selection screen 73.

[0063] The example in Fig. 12 shows a print layout 90 generated based on the input form 80 shown in Fig. 9. In the print layout 90, character strings entered in each character input field 83 of the input form 80 are arranged based on a label form stored in association with the input form 80.

[0064] The cartridge information 97 is information that indicates the color type selected by the user on the color type selection screen 73 and the tape width type selected by the user on the tape width type selection screen 75. Based on this cartridge information 97, the user can determine the tape cartridge C to be used.

[0065] Next, the label L created by the tape printing device 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 13. As shown in Fig. 13, the label L is formed by printing a print image G on a tape T. The example in Fig. 13 shows the label L created based on the print layout 90 shown in Fig. 12.

[0066] Next, the flow of the printing process will be described with reference to the flowcharts of Figures 14 and 15. The printing process is started when the capture and print key included in the operation key group 21 is selected.

[0067] In step S01, the tape printing device 1 displays an imaging instruction screen (not shown) on the display 22. The imaging instruction screen displays a message urging the user to capture an image of the imaging target 51 using the printing device camera 33. The imaging of the imaging target 51 is performed by selecting an imaging key included in the operation key group 21.

[0068] In step S02, the tape printing device 1 acquires image data, which is image data obtained by capturing an image of the object 51 with the printing device camera 33.

[0069] In step S03, the tape printing device 1 performs image analysis on the acquired image data to extract multiple characters and identify the character color and background color. Here, the character color refers to the color of the characters on the imaged object 51. The background color refers to the background color of the imaged object 51.

[0070] In step S04, the tape printing device 1 determines whether characters have been extracted as a result of image analysis of the image data. If the tape printing device 1 determines that characters have been extracted, it proceeds to step S05. If the tape printing device 1 determines that characters have not been extracted, it proceeds to step S09.

[0071] In step S05, the tape printing device 1 determines whether the extracted character group extracted from the image data includes a character string that is the same as a stored character string recorded in the first form information table 61 (see FIG. 4). If the tape printing device 1 determines that the extracted character group includes a character string that is the same as the stored character string, the tape printing device 1 proceeds to step S06. If the tape printing device 1 determines that the extracted character group does not include a character string that is the same as the stored character string, the tape printing device 1 proceeds to step S09.

[0072] In step S06, the tape printing apparatus 1 selects the input form 80 that is associated in the first form information table 61 with the same stored character string as the character string included in the extracted character group.

[0073] In step S07, the tape printing device 1 displays the color type selection screen 73 (see FIG. 10) on the display 22 and accepts the user's selection of a color type option 86. The tape printing device 1 determines the priority of multiple color types based on the color of the characters and the background color of the characters obtained from the image analysis results of the image data, and displays the color type option 86 indicating each of the multiple color types on the color type selection screen 73 with the determined priority.

[0074] In step S08, the tape printing device 1 displays the tape width type selection screen 75 (see FIG. 11) on the display 22 and accepts the user's selection of the tape width type option 88. The tape printing device 1 determines the priority of the multiple tape width types based on the selection input form 80, and displays the tape width type option 88 indicating each of the multiple tape width types on the tape width type selection screen 75 according to the determined priority.

[0075] In step S09, the tape printing apparatus 1 displays an edit screen (not shown) on the display 22. The edit screen is a general label edit screen.

[0076] In step S10, the tape printing device 1 accepts editing operations on the editing screen by the user. On the editing screen, general label editing operations such as inputting characters, setting character formats, and selecting color types and tape width types are performed.

[0077] In step S11, the tape printer 1 determines whether the editing operation is complete. For example, the tape printer 1 determines that the operation is complete when an edit completion key included in the operation key group 21 is selected. If the tape printer 1 determines that the editing operation is complete, it proceeds to step S17 in Fig. 15. If the tape printer 1 determines that the editing operation is not complete, it returns to step S10.

[0078] 15, the tape printing device 1 determines whether the extracted character group includes a character string corresponding to the print item 82 of the selection input form 80. If the tape printing device 1 determines that the extracted character group includes a character string corresponding to the print item 82, the tape printing device 1 proceeds to step S14. If the tape printing device 1 determines that the extracted character group does not include a character string corresponding to the print item 82, the tape printing device 1 proceeds to step S13.

[0079] In step S13, the tape printing device 1 displays the input form screen 71 (see FIG. 8) on the display 22 with no characters entered in the character input field 83. Note that if the tape printing device 1 determines in step S12 that the print item 82 does not contain the corresponding character string, it may return to step S09 in FIG. 14 instead of proceeding to step S13.

[0080] In step S14, the tape printing device 1 displays on the display 22 the input form screen 71 (see FIG. 9) in which character strings corresponding to each printing item 82 are entered in each character input field 83 of the selection input form 80.

[0081] In step S15, the tape printing device 1 accepts editing operations by the user on the character input field 83. The tape printing device 1 accepts editing operations such as correcting or deleting characters input in the character input field 83, and inputting new characters.

[0082] In step S16, the tape printer 1 determines whether the editing operation is complete. For example, the tape printer 1 determines that the operation is complete when an edit completion key included in the operation key group 21 is selected. If the tape printer 1 determines that the editing operation is complete, it proceeds to step S17. If the tape printer 1 determines that the editing operation is not complete, it returns to step S15.

[0083] In step S17, the tape printing device 1 generates a print layout 90 and displays a print layout screen 77 (see FIG. 12) including the generated print layout 90 on the display 22. If the tape printing device 1 receives an editing operation from the user in step S15, it generates the print layout 90 based on the character strings entered in each character input field 83 of the edited input form 80.

[0084] In step S18, the tape printer 1 accepts editing operations by the user on the print layout 90. On the print layout screen 77, the tape printer 1 accepts editing operations such as modifying or deleting characters included in the print layout 90, inputting new characters, and changing the character format. The tape printer 1 also accepts editing operations on the print layout screen 77, such as changing the color type, tape width type, and tape length. When the tape printer 1 accepts an editing operation, it reflects the editing results in the print layout 90 and updates the display on the print layout screen 77.

[0085] In step S19, the tape printing device 1 determines whether a print instruction has been issued. The tape printing device 1 determines that a print instruction has been issued when a print execution key included in the operation key group 21 is selected. If the tape printing device 1 determines that a print instruction has been issued, it proceeds to step S20. If the tape printing device 1 determines that a print instruction has not been issued, it returns to step S18. Before issuing a print instruction, the user determines the tape cartridge C to be used based on the cartridge information 97 displayed on the print layout screen 77, and mounts the tape cartridge C corresponding to the cartridge information 97 in the cartridge mounting section 23.

[0086] In step S20, the tape printing device 1 generates print image data. If an editing operation is performed in step S18, the tape printing device 1 generates print image data that causes the printing unit 45 to print a print image G based on the edited print layout 90.

[0087] In step S21, the tape printer 1 executes printing based on the print image data generated in step S20. That is, the tape printer 1 prints a print image G based on the print image data generated in step S20 onto the tape T. After printing, the tape T has its rear end cut and is discharged from the tape discharge port 24 to be used as a label L. After step S21, the tape printer 1 ends the printing process.

[0088] As described above, when the extracted character group extracted from the image data contains the same character string as a stored character string recorded in the first form information table 61, the tape printing device 1 according to this embodiment displays the input form 80 associated with the stored character string on the display 22. This saves the user the trouble of selecting the input form 80. Furthermore, since the selected input form 80 is associated with the character string included in the extracted character group, the user can use the input form 80 that is appropriate for the characters included in the image data.

[0089] Furthermore, when the tape printing device 1 determines that the extracted character group includes a character string that corresponds to a print item 82 of the selection input form 80, it inputs the character string that corresponds to the print item 82 from the character strings included in the extracted character group into the character input field 83 that corresponds to the print item 82. This saves the user the trouble of inputting characters into the input form 80.

[0090] Furthermore, since the tape printing device 1 accepts editing operations on the character input field 83 by the user, the user can edit the character input field 83.

[0091] Furthermore, the tape printing device 1 determines the priority of multiple color types based on the character color and background color of the character obtained from the image analysis results of the image data, and displays color type options 86 showing multiple color types respectively in the determined priority on the display 22. This allows the user to select the desired color type after understanding the color types recommended from the image analysis results of the image data.

[0092] Furthermore, since the tape printing device 1 is equipped with the printing device camera 33, image data can be obtained by capturing an image with the printing device camera 33.

[0093] Furthermore, the tape printing device 1 displays the print layout 90 on the display 22. This allows the user to check the print layout 90 before printing.

[0094] [Second embodiment] A second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 16 to 18. The second embodiment is characterized in that the user selects an object to which the tape T is to be stuck. Only the differences from the first embodiment will be described below. Note that in this embodiment, components similar to those in the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and detailed description will be omitted. Also, modifications applied to components similar to those in the first embodiment are similarly applied to this embodiment.

[0095] 16 is a diagram showing an example of the second form information table 67. The second form information table 67 stores a plurality of pieces of form information that associate a paste object with a tape width, a stored character string, and an input form 80. In this manner, in this embodiment, the paste object and the tape width are associated in advance, so the tape width type selection screen 75 is not displayed during the printing process.

[0096] 17 is a diagram showing an example of a paste object selection screen 79 for the user to select a paste object. A paste object title 95 and paste object options 96 are displayed on the paste object selection screen 79. The paste object title 95 indicates that the screen displayed on the display 22 is the paste object selection screen 79. The tape printing device 1 displays paste object options 96 corresponding to each paste object recorded in the second form information table 67 on the paste object selection screen 79. A black selection frame SF is added to a selected paste object option 96, and the paste object option 96 is displayed in white text.

[0097] 18 is a flowchart showing a part of the printing process according to the second embodiment. The printing process is started when the capture and print key included in the operation key group 21 is selected.

[0098] In step S31, the tape printing apparatus 1 displays the tape attachment object selection screen 79 on the display 22 and accepts the user's selection.

[0099] In step S32, the tape printing apparatus 1 displays an image capture instruction screen (not shown) on the display 22.

[0100] In step S33, the tape printing device 1 acquires image data, which is image data obtained by capturing an image of the object 51 with the printing device camera 33.

[0101] In step S34, the tape printing device 1 performs image analysis on the acquired image data, extracts a plurality of characters, and specifies the character colors and background colors.

[0102] In step S35, the tape printing device 1 determines whether characters have been extracted as a result of image analysis of the image data. If the tape printing device 1 determines that characters have been extracted, it proceeds to step S36. If the tape printing device 1 determines that characters have not been extracted, it proceeds to step S09 in FIG. 14.

[0103] In step S36, the tape printing device 1 determines whether the extracted character group extracted from the image data includes a character string identical to a stored character string associated with the paste object selected in step S31, among multiple stored character strings recorded in the second form information table 67 (see FIG. 16). In the case where the second form information table 67 shown in FIG. 16 is stored in the printing device ROM 44b and the paste object selected in step S31 is an "A4 envelope," the stored character strings associated with the paste object are "〒" and "express delivery." Therefore, in this case, the tape printing device 1 determines whether the extracted character group extracted from the image data includes either "〒" or "express delivery." If the tape printing device 1 determines that the extracted character group includes a character string identical to a stored character string associated with the paste object, the process proceeds to step S37. On the other hand, if the tape printing device 1 determines that the extracted character group does not include a character string identical to a stored character string associated with the paste object, the process proceeds to step S09 in FIG. 14.

[0104] In step S37, the tape printing device 1 selects the input form 80 that is associated in the second form information table 67 with the same stored character string as the character string included in the extracted character group.

[0105] In step S38, the tape printing device 1 displays the color type selection screen 73 (see FIG. 10) on the display 22 and accepts the user's selection of a color type option 86. The tape printing device 1 determines the priority of multiple color types based on the character color and background color of the character obtained from the image analysis results of the image data, and displays the color type option 86 indicating each of the multiple color types in the determined priority on the color type selection screen 73. After step S38, the tape printing device 1 proceeds to step S12 in FIG. 15.

[0106] In this embodiment, in step S17 of FIG. 15, the tape printing device 1 displays cartridge information 97 on the print layout screen 77 based on the color type selected on the color type selection screen 73 and the tape width corresponding to the object to be pasted selected on the object to be pasted selection screen 79.

[0107] As described above, after the user selects a paste object option, the tape printing device 1 according to the second embodiment determines whether the extracted character group contains a character string identical to a memorized character string associated with the selected paste object, among multiple memorized character strings recorded in the second form information table 67. If the tape printing device 1 determines that the extracted character group contains a character string identical to the memorized character string associated with the selected paste object, it displays the input form 80 associated with the memorized character string on the display 22. This allows the user to use the input form 80 that is appropriate for the selected paste object and the characters included in the image data.

[0108] Regardless of the above embodiment, the following modifications can be adopted. [Variation 1] The tape printing device 1 may be capable of generating not only print image data that causes the printing unit 45 to print a print image G based on the print layout 90, but also code image data that causes the printing unit 45 to print a code image BG that converts information that generates the print image data into a code image. FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of a label L on which a code image BG is printed. The tape printing device 1 generates, as information for generating print image data, information about the tape cartridge C, such as character information, character format information, tape color, ink color, and tape width. Furthermore, when a user instructs the tape printing device 1 to print the print image G in step S19 of FIG. 15, the tape printing device 1 generates print image data for printing the print image G in step S20. Furthermore, when a user instructs the tape printing device 1 to print the code image BG in step S19, the tape printing device 1 generates code image data for printing the code image BG that converts information that generates the print image data into a code image.

[0109] According to this configuration, the user can obtain a label L on which the code image BG is printed, in addition to the label L on which the print image G is printed. Furthermore, by reading and decoding the code image BG with a reader capable of reading the code image BG, the user can cause a device other than the tape printing device 1 to generate print image data.

[0110] The code image BG is not limited to the QR code (registered trademark) shown in FIG. 19, but may be a two-dimensional code or a barcode other than the QR code.

[0111] [Variation 2] The tape printing apparatus 1 may include a data input unit (not shown) that inputs image data from an external device. The data input unit is, for example, a data input terminal such as a USB (registered trademark) terminal. The tape printing apparatus 1 may input image data from a wired external device via the data input unit, or may input image data from a wirelessly connected external device via the data input unit. In this case, the acquisition unit 110 may acquire the image data input by the data input unit. With this configuration, the tape printing apparatus 1 can acquire image data input from an external device.

[0112] [Variation 3] The above embodiment may be realized by an information processing device 200. FIG. 20 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the information processing device 200. The information processing device 200 includes a communication unit 210, a touch panel 220, a processing device camera 230, and a processing device control unit 240. The touch panel 220 is an example of a "display unit." The processing device camera 230 is an example of an "imaging unit." In this modification, the information processing device 200 is assumed to be a smartphone, but may be another terminal such as a PC (Personal Computer).

[0113] The communication unit 210 communicates with a printing device (not shown). The printing device prints a print image G on a printing medium based on print image data transmitted from the information processing device 200. The touch panel 220 displays various screens and accepts various user operations. The processing device camera 230 functions in the same way as the printing device camera 33.

[0114] The processing device control unit 240 includes a processing device CPU 241, a processing device ROM 242, and a processing device RAM 243. The processing device ROM 242 is an example of a "storage unit."

[0115] The processing device ROM 242 stores a dedicated application 93 for controlling the printing device. The dedicated application 93 is a program for realizing substantially the same functions as the firmware 91 described above. The dedicated application 93 is an example of a "program." The processing device CPU 241 performs various controls by loading a control program such as the dedicated application 93 into the processing device RAM 243 and executing it.

[0116] The processing device ROM 242 stores a first form information table 61 (see FIG. 4), a color type table 63 (see FIG. 5), and a tape width type table 65 (see FIG. 6) as part of the dedicated application 93. The processing device ROM 242 also stores a dictionary 92.

[0117] The processing device CPU 241 executes the dedicated application 93 to function as the acquisition unit 110 and the control unit 120 shown in Fig. 7. The control unit 120 according to this modification performs image analysis on the acquired image data, extracts object images OJ (see Fig. 21) other than characters, displays the extracted object images OJ on the touch panel 220 as part of the print layout 90, and accepts editing operations on the object images OJ by the user.

[0118] FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of a print layout screen 77 according to this modification. The print layout screen 77 displays an object image OJ extracted from image data as part of a print layout 90. The example in FIG. 21 shows a print layout screen 77 in which the image capture object 51 shown in FIG. 2 is captured as the captured object 51, and the print layout screen 77 is displayed based on the analysis results of the image data resulting from the capture. Therefore, an object image OJ resembling the logo 51h included in the captured object 51 is displayed as part of the print layout 90. The information processing device 200 can accept editing operations on this object image OJ, such as deleting, duplicating, changing the color, resizing, and changing the placement of the object image OJ. According to this modification, the user can edit the print layout 90, including the object image OJ.

[0119] [Variation 4] The tape printing device 1 may display recommended cartridge information 97 on the print layout screen 77 in accordance with the user's editing operation on at least one of the character input field 83 and the print layout 90 (see FIG. 12). For example, if the number of characters input in the character input field 83 exceeds a certain number, increasing the number of lines to be printed, or if the tape width is changed in the print layout 90, the tape printing device 1 may display cartridge information 97 indicating a tape width different from the original tape width on the print layout screen 77.

[0120] [Variation 5] The tape printing device 1 may learn the user's editing history for the character input field 83 and reflect the learning results in the dictionary 92. For example, assume that the tape printing device 1 displays an arbitrary character string in the character input field 83 corresponding to the first printed item 82 as corresponding to the first printed item 82 based on the original dictionary 92. When the user moves the arbitrary character string to the second printed item 82, the tape printing device 1 may learn the editing operation and rewrite the contents of the dictionary 92 so that the arbitrary character string can be determined to correspond to the second printed item 82 from the next time. Alternatively, the tape printing device 1 may rewrite the contents of the dictionary 92 when the user repeats the operation of moving the arbitrary character string a certain number of times.

[0121] [Variation 6] The firmware 91 of the tape printing device 1 or the dedicated application 93 of the information processing device 200 may be provided to the customer as a program. Alternatively, a storage medium on which the firmware 91 of the tape printing device 1 or the dedicated application 93 of the information processing device 200 is recorded may be provided to the customer. The tape printing device 1 may use a printing method other than the thermal transfer method, such as an inkjet method. The tape printing device 1 does not have to be configured to be able to accommodate a tape cartridge C. For example, the tape printing device 1 may be equipped with a platen roller, or may print on tape T supplied from outside the tape printing device 1. The print medium on which the print image G is printed is not limited to tape T, and may be other media, such as a medium for copying. In other words, the above-described embodiment may be realized with a printing device other than the tape printing device 1. Other modifications are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0122] [Note] Below, a printing device, an information processing device, a control method for a printing device, a control method for an information processing device, and a program will be described. The tape printing device 1 comprises an acquisition unit 110 that acquires image data, a printing device ROM 44b that stores a stored character string consisting of one or more characters and an input form 80 having a character input field 83 for each print item 82 in association with each other, a display 22, a printing unit 45 that prints on a print medium, and a control unit 120. The control unit 120 performs image analysis of the acquired image data to extract multiple characters, and if an extracted character group including the extracted multiple characters contains the same character string as a stored character string stored in the printing device ROM 44b, the control unit 120 displays the input form 80 associated with the stored character string on the display 22.

[0123] The control method for the tape printing device 1 is a control method for the tape printing device 1, which includes an acquisition unit 110 that acquires image data, a printing device ROM 44b that stores a stored character string consisting of one or more characters and an input form 80 having a character input field 83 for each print item 82, in association with each other, a display 22, and a printing unit 45 that prints on a print medium, in which the tape printing device 1 performs image analysis of the acquired image data to extract multiple characters, and if the extracted character group including the extracted multiple characters contains the same character string as the stored character string stored in the printing device ROM 44b, the input form 80 associated with the stored character string is displayed on the display 22.

[0124] This configuration saves the user the trouble of selecting the input form 80. Furthermore, since the input form 80 is associated with the character string included in the extracted character group, the user can use the input form 80 that is appropriate for the character string included in the image data.

[0125] In the above-mentioned tape printing device 1, the printing device ROM 44b further stores a dictionary 92 stored for each print item 82, and when the extracted character group contains a character string that is the same as the stored character string, the control unit 120 determines, based on the dictionary 92, whether the extracted character group contains a character string that corresponds to the print item 82 of the input form 80 that is associated with the stored character string, and if it determines that the extracted character group contains a character string that corresponds to the print item 82 of the input form 80, it preferably displays on the display 22 an input form 80 in which the character string that corresponds to the print item 82 from the character strings included in the extracted character group has been entered into the character input field 83 corresponding to the print item 82.

[0126] This configuration saves the user the trouble of inputting characters into the input form 80.

[0127] In the tape printing device 1, it is preferable that the control unit 120 accepts an editing operation on the character input field 83 of the input form 80 by the user.

[0128] According to this configuration, the user can edit the character entry field 83.

[0129] In the above-mentioned tape printing device 1, the printing unit 45 prints by transferring the ink of the ink ribbon R to the tape T, which is the printing medium, and the printing device ROM 44b stores a plurality of color types which are combinations of the color of the tape T and the color of the ink ribbon R. It is preferable that the control unit 120 determines the priority of the plurality of color types based on at least one of the color of the characters obtained from the image analysis results of the image data and the background color of the characters obtained from the image analysis results of the image data, and displays options indicating each of the plurality of color types on the display 22 with the determined priority.

[0130] According to this configuration, the user can select the desired color type after understanding the recommended color type from the image analysis result of the image data.

[0131] In the above-described tape printing device 1, the printing medium is tape T, and the printing device ROM 44b stores a plurality of pieces of form information that associates a paste object to which the tape T is to be pasted, a stored character string, and an input form 80, and the control unit 120 displays options indicating the paste objects stored in the printing device ROM 44b on the display 22, and after the user selects one of the options displayed on the display 22, determines whether the extracted character group includes a character string that is the same as a stored character string that is associated with the paste object indicated by the selected option, among the plurality of stored character strings stored in the printing device ROM 44b, and if it is determined that the extracted character group includes a character string that is the same as the stored character string that is associated with the paste object indicated by the selected option, it preferably displays the input form 80 that is associated with the stored character string on the display 22.

[0132] According to this configuration, the user can use the input form 80 that is suited to the selected paste object and the characters included in the image data.

[0133] It is preferable that the above-described tape printing device 1 further includes a printing device camera 33, and the acquisition section 110 acquires image data captured by the imaging section as image data.

[0134] According to this configuration, the tape printing device 1 can obtain image data by capturing an image with the printing device camera 33.

[0135] It is preferable that the above-described tape printing device 1 further comprises a data input unit that inputs image data from an external device, and the acquisition unit 110 acquires the image data input by the data input unit.

[0136] According to this configuration, the tape printing device 1 can obtain image data input from an external device.

[0137] In the above-mentioned tape printing device 1, it is preferable that the control unit 120 generates a print layout 90 based on the input form 80 and the character string entered in the character input field 83 of the input form 80, and displays the generated print layout 90 on the display 22.

[0138] This configuration allows the user to check the print layout 90 before printing.

[0139] In the above-mentioned tape printing device 1, it is preferable to generate print image data that causes the printing unit 45 to print a print image G based on the print layout 90, and code image data that causes the printing unit 45 to print a code image BG that is a code image of information that generates the print image data.

[0140] According to this configuration, the user can obtain a printed matter on which the print image G based on the print layout 90 is printed and a printed matter on which the code image is printed. In addition, the user can have a device other than the tape printing device 1 generate print image data by using a terminal that reads and decodes the code image from the printed matter on which the code image BG is printed.

[0141] The information processing device 200 includes an acquisition unit 110 that acquires image data, a processing device ROM 242 that stores a stored character string consisting of one or more characters and an input form 80 having a character input field 83 for each print item 82 in association with each other, a touch panel 220, and a control unit 120. The control unit 120 performs image analysis of the acquired image data to extract multiple characters, and if the extracted character group including the extracted multiple characters contains the same character string as the stored character string stored in the processing device ROM 242, the control unit 120 displays the input form 80 associated with the stored character string on the touch panel 220.

[0142] The control method for the information processing device 200 is a control method for the information processing device 200, which includes an acquisition unit 110 that acquires image data, a processing device ROM 242 that stores a stored character string consisting of one or more characters and an input form 80 having a character input field 83 for each print item 82 in association with each other, and a touch panel 220, in which the information processing device 200 performs image analysis of the acquired image data to extract multiple characters, and if an extracted character group including the extracted multiple characters contains the same character string as the stored character string stored in the processing device ROM 242, displays the input form 80 associated with the stored character string on the touch panel 220.

[0143] The program causes an information processing device (200) equipped with an acquisition unit (110) that acquires image data, a processing device ROM (242) that stores a stored character string consisting of one or more characters in association with an input form (80) having a character input field (83) for each print item (82), and a touch panel (220) to perform the following steps: image analysis of the acquired image data to extract multiple characters; and, if an extracted character group including the extracted multiple characters contains the same character string as the stored character string stored in the processing device ROM (242), displaying the input form (80) associated with the stored character string on the touch panel (220).

[0144] This configuration saves the user the trouble of selecting the input form 80. Furthermore, since the input form 80 is associated with the character string included in the extracted character group, the user can check the input form 80 that is appropriate for the characters included in the image data.

[0145] In the above-mentioned information processing device 200, it is preferable that the control unit 120 generates a print layout 90 based on the input form 80 and the character string entered in the character input field 83 of the input form 80, displays the generated print layout 90 on the touch panel 220, and accepts user editing operations on the print layout 90.

[0146] According to this configuration, the user can edit the print layout 90.

[0147] In the above-mentioned information processing device 200, it is preferable that the control unit 120 performs image analysis on the acquired image data, extracts object images OJ other than characters, displays the extracted object images OJ on the touch panel 220 as part of the print layout 90, and accepts user editing operations on the objects.

[0148] According to this configuration, the user can edit the print layout 90 including the object image OJ. [Explanation of symbols]

[0149] 1...tape printing device, 33...printing device camera, 45...printing unit, 80...input form, 82...printing items, 83...character input field, 86...color type selection options, 90...printing layout, 92...dictionary, 93...dedicated application, 110...acquisition unit, 120...control unit, 200...information processing device, 220...touch panel, 230...processing device camera, BG...code image, G...printing image, OJ...object image, R...ink ribbon, T...tape.

Claims

1. an acquisition unit that acquires image data; a storage unit that stores a stored character string consisting of one or more characters and an input form having a character input field for each print item in association with each other; A display unit; a printing unit that prints on a print medium; a control unit, The control unit A printing device characterized by performing image analysis on the acquired image data to extract multiple characters, and if an extracted character group containing the extracted multiple characters contains the same character string as the memorized character string stored in the memory unit, displaying the input form corresponding to the memorized character string on the display unit.

2. the storage unit further stores a dictionary stored for each of the print items, The control unit The printing device described in claim 1, characterized in that when the extracted character group contains the same character string as the memorized character string, it determines based on the dictionary whether the extracted character group contains a character string corresponding to the print item of the input form that is associated with the memorized character string, and if it is determined that the extracted character group contains a character string corresponding to the print item of the input form, the printing device displays the input form on the display unit in which the character string included in the extracted character group that corresponds to the print item has been entered into the character input field corresponding to the print item.

3. The control unit The printing device according to claim 1 , wherein the printing device accepts editing operations by a user on the character input field of the input form.

4. the printing unit performs printing by transferring ink from an ink ribbon onto a tape, which is the printing medium; the storage unit stores a plurality of color combinations of the tape color and the ink ribbon color, The control unit The printing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the priority of the plurality of color types is determined based on at least one of the color of the characters obtained from the image analysis results of the image data and the background color of the characters obtained from the image analysis results of the image data, and the display unit is caused to display options indicating each of the plurality of color types based on the determined priority.

5. the print medium is tape; the storage unit stores a plurality of pieces of form information that associate an object to which the tape is to be affixed, the stored character string, and the input form; The control unit 2. The printing device according to claim 1, wherein options indicating the paste objects stored in the memory unit are displayed on the display unit, and after a user selects one of the options displayed on the display unit, the printing device determines whether the extracted character group includes a character string that is the same as a memorized character string associated with the paste object indicated by the selected option, out of the plurality of memorized character strings stored in the memory unit, and if it is determined that the extracted character group includes a character string that is the same as the memorized character string associated with the paste object indicated by the selected option, the printing device displays the input form associated with the memorized character string on the display unit.

6. further comprising an imaging unit; The acquisition unit The printing device according to claim 1 , wherein image data is obtained from the image pickup unit.

7. further comprising a data input unit for inputting the image data from an external device; The acquisition unit The printing device according to claim 1 , wherein the image data is acquired by inputting the image data through the data input unit.

8. The control unit The printing device according to claim 1, characterized in that a print layout is generated based on the input form and the character string entered in the character input field of the input form, and the generated print layout is displayed on the display unit.

9. The printing device according to claim 8, characterized in that it generates print image data that causes the printing unit to print a print image based on the print layout, and code image data that causes the printing unit to print a code image that is a code image of information that generates the print image data.

10. an acquisition unit that acquires image data; a storage unit that stores a stored character string consisting of one or more characters and an input form having a character input field for each print item in association with each other; A display unit; a control unit, The control unit An information processing device characterized by performing image analysis on the acquired image data to extract multiple characters, and if an extracted character group containing the extracted multiple characters includes a character string that is the same as the memorized character string stored in the memory unit, displaying the input form corresponding to the memorized character string on the display unit.

11. The control unit 11. The information processing device according to claim 10, further comprising: a printing layout generating unit configured to generate a printing layout based on the input form and a character string entered in the character input field of the input form; a display unit configured to display the generated printing layout; and a user editing operation for the printing layout.

12. The control unit The information processing device according to claim 11, characterized in that the acquired image data is subjected to image analysis to extract object images other than the characters, the extracted object images are displayed on the display unit as part of the print layout, and user editing operations on the object images are accepted.

13. an acquisition unit that acquires image data; a storage unit that stores a stored character string consisting of one or more characters and an input form having a character input field for each print item in association with each other; A display unit; A control method for a printing device including a printing unit that prints on a print medium, The printing device A control method for a printing device, characterized in that the acquired image data is subjected to image analysis to extract multiple characters, and if an extracted character group containing the extracted multiple characters contains a character string that is the same as the memorized character string stored in the memory unit, the input form corresponding to the memorized character string is displayed on the display unit.

14. an acquisition unit that acquires image data; a storage unit that stores a stored character string consisting of one or more characters and an input form having a character input field for each print item in association with each other; A control method for an information processing device including a display unit, The information processing device, A control method for an information processing device, characterized in that the acquired image data is subjected to image analysis to extract multiple characters, and if an extracted character group containing the extracted multiple characters includes a character string that is the same as the memorized character string stored in the memory unit, the input form corresponding to the memorized character string is displayed on the display unit.

15. an acquisition unit that acquires image data; a storage unit that stores a stored character string consisting of one or more characters and an input form having a character input field for each print item in association with each other; An information processing device including a display unit, extracting a plurality of characters from the acquired image data by image analysis; and if an extracted character group containing the extracted multiple characters contains a character string that is the same as the stored character string stored in the storage unit, displaying the input form associated with the stored character string on the display unit.

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