Tape printing system, information processing terminal, control method of tape printing system, and program

Abstract

To allow a second tape printing apparatus to create a printed matter which is the same as or similar to that created in a first tape printing apparatus, even if different data structure standards are adopted in the first and second tape printing apparatuses.SOLUTION: A data printing system SY includes a first tape printing apparatus 1, a second tape printing apparatus 2, and an information processing terminal 3. The information processing terminal 3 includes: an imaging unit which images a code image GC printed by the first tape printing apparatus 1; a terminal control unit which decodes image data of the code image GC to obtain text information and decoration specification information, and generates second print image data based on the obtained text information and the decoration specification information; and a data transmission unit which transmits the generated second print image data to the second tape printing apparatus 2. The second tape printing apparatus 2 prints a second print image G2 based on the received second print image data, on a second tape T2.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a tape printing system, an information processing terminal, a method for controlling a tape printing system, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] As disclosed in Patent Document 1, a printing system has been known that includes a first tape printer that converts text format information, which is information about text and the format of the text, into a two-dimensional code and prints it, and a second tape printer that reads and decodes the printed two-dimensional code to obtain the text format information and performs printing based on the obtained text format information.With this configuration, the printing system can cause the second tape printer to print a print image based on the text format information even if the second tape printer does not have an interface function for communicating with the first tape printer. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-163615 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The conventional printing system is based on the premise that the second tape printer is capable of analyzing the text format information generated by the first tape printer. That is, the conventional printing system is based on the premise that the first tape printer and the second tape printer generate and analyze text format information based on the same data structure standard. In other words, the conventional printing system cannot achieve the above-mentioned effects if the corresponding data structure standards are different between the first tape printer and the second tape printer. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] a first control unit that generates code image data for outputting a code image in which the generated text information and decoration designation information are converted into a code image based on the first program; and an output unit that outputs the code image based on the generated code image data; an information processing terminal that stores a terminal program corresponding to the first data structure standard, an imaging unit that captures the code image, a decode acquisition unit that decodes image data of the code image to acquire the text information and the decoration designation information, a terminal control unit that analyzes the decoded text information and decoration designation information based on the terminal program and generates second print image data based on the analyzed text information and decoration designation information, and a data transmission unit that transmits the generated second print image data to the second tape printing device; and a second tape printing device that includes a receiving unit that receives the second print image data and a second printing unit that prints a second print image on a second tape based on the received second print image data.

[0006] The information processing terminal of the present invention comprises an imaging unit that captures a code image obtained by converting text information indicating text and decoration designation information that designates decoration information related to the decoration of the text into a code image; a decoding acquisition unit that acquires the text information and decoration designation information by decoding the image data of the code image; a terminal control unit that analyzes the decoded text information and decoration designation information and generates second print image data based on the analyzed text information and decoration designation information; a data transmission unit that transmits the generated second print image data to a second tape printing device that prints on a second tape; and a tape width information acquisition unit that acquires tape width information that indicates the tape width of the second tape.If the number of lines of text indicated by the text information exceeds the number of printable lines corresponding to the tape width indicated by the acquired tape width information, the terminal control unit generates reduced-line text, which is text with a reduced number of lines, and generates the second print image data based on the generated reduced-line text and the analyzed decoration designation information.

[0007] The information processing terminal of the present invention includes a terminal storage unit that stores multiple pieces of decoration information related to the decoration of text, an imaging unit that captures a code image obtained by converting text information indicating the text and decoration designation information that designates the decoration information into a code image, a decoding acquisition unit that acquires the text information and decoration designation information by decoding the image data of the code image, a terminal control unit that analyzes the decoded text information and decoration designation information and generates second print image data based on the analyzed text information and decoration designation information, a data transmission unit that transmits the generated second print image data to a second tape printing device, and a display unit. The terminal control unit determines whether or not decoration information designated by the analyzed decoration designation information is stored in the terminal storage unit, and if it determines that the decoration information designated by the decoration designation information is stored in the terminal storage unit, it generates second print image data based on the analyzed text information and decoration designation information, and if it determines that decoration information corresponding to the decoration designation information is not stored in the terminal storage unit, it causes the display unit to display options corresponding to at least some of the decoration information stored in the terminal storage unit, and generates the second print image data based on the decoration information corresponding to the option selected by the user and the analyzed text information.

[0008] The control method for the tape printing system of the present invention comprises the steps of: a first tape printing device storing a first program corresponding to a first data structure standard generates, based on the first program, text information indicating text and decoration designation information that designates decoration information related to decoration of the text, and generating code image data for outputting a code image in which the generated text information and decoration designation information are converted into a code image; and outputting the code image based on the generated code image data; an information processing terminal storing a terminal program corresponding to the first data structure standard performs the steps of: capturing an image of the code image; decoding the captured data of the code image to obtain the text information and decoration designation information; analyzing the decoded text information and decoration designation information based on the terminal program; generating second print image data based on the analyzed text information and decoration designation information; and transmitting the generated second print image data to a second tape printing device; and the second tape printing device receives the second print image data; and printing a second print image based on the received second print image data on a second tape.

[0009] The program of the present invention causes an information processing terminal to execute the following steps: capturing a code image in which text information indicating text and decoration designation information that designates decoration information related to the decoration of the text are converted into a code image; obtaining the text information and decoration designation information by decoding the captured data of the code image; analyzing the decoded text information and decoration designation information and generating second print image data based on the analyzed text information and decoration designation information; transmitting the generated second print image data to a second tape printing device that prints on a second tape; and obtaining tape width information that indicates the tape width of the second tape.In the step of generating the second print image data, if the number of lines of text indicated by the text information exceeds the number of printable lines corresponding to the tape width indicated by the obtained tape width information, reduced line text, which is text with a reduced number of lines, is generated, and the second print image data is generated based on the generated reduced line text and the analyzed decoration designation information.

[0010] The program of the present invention causes an information processing terminal having a device storage unit storing a plurality of pieces of decoration information related to the decoration of text and a display unit to execute the following steps: capturing a code image in which text information indicating text and decoration designation information designating the decoration information are converted into a code image; decoding the captured data of the code image to obtain the text information and decoration designation information; analyzing the decoded text information and decoration designation information and generating second print image data based on the analyzed text information and decoration designation information; and transmitting the generated second print image data to a second tape printing device. In the step of generating the second print image data, it is determined whether or not decoration information designated by the analyzed decoration designation information is stored in the device storage unit, and if it is determined that the decoration information designated by the decoration designation information is stored in the device storage unit, the program generates the second print image data based on the analyzed text information and decoration designation information; and if it is determined that decoration information corresponding to the decoration designation information is not stored in the device storage unit, it displays options corresponding to at least some of the decoration information stored in the device storage unit on the display unit, and generates the second print image data based on the decoration information corresponding to the option selected by the user and the analyzed text information. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a system configuration of a tape printing system. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configurations of a first tape printing device, an information processing terminal, and a second tape printing device. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a row number table. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a decoration information table. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the information processing terminal. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of text decoration information. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a second tape on which a second print image is printed. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a decoration selection screen. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a line reduction text selection screen. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a first tape on which a first print image is printed. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of a first process performed by the first tape printing device. [Figure 12] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of a second process performed by the information processing terminal and the second tape printing device. [Figure 13] 13 is a flowchart continuing from FIG. 12. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a text and decoration editing screen. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a transmission selection screen. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of outer frame types classified by type. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] The following describes a tape printing system, an information processing terminal, and a control method and program for the tape printing system, with reference to the accompanying drawings. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the system configuration of a tape printing system SY. The tape printing system SY includes a first tape printing device 1, a second tape printing device 2, and an information processing terminal 3. In this embodiment, the information processing terminal 3 is a smartphone. In this embodiment, the first tape printing device 1 is a standalone tape printing device that is used alone without requiring any other device, while the second tape printing device 2 is a peripheral tape printing device that is used in connection with other device. The second tape printing device 2 is used in connection with the information processing terminal 3 so that it can communicate with it.

[0013] The first tape printer 1 stores a first program and operates based on the first program. The information processing terminal 3 stores a terminal program and operates based on the terminal program. A terminal program is an example of a "program." The second tape printer 2 stores a second program and operates based on the second program. Here, both the first program and the terminal program are compatible with a first data structure standard. On the other hand, the second program is compatible with a second data structure standard that is different from the first data structure standard. In this way, the first tape printer 1 and the second tape printer 2 are compatible with different data structure standards.

[0014] Based on the results of text editing by the user, the first tape printing device 1 generates text information (see FIG. 6) that indicates the text and decoration specification information (see FIG. 6) that specifies decoration information related to the decoration of the text. The decoration information includes decoration attributes such as "margins," "outer frame," "font," and "italic / bold" (see FIG. 4). The first tape printing device 1 generates the text information and decoration specification information based on the first program. Hereinafter, the text information and decoration specification information are collectively referred to as "text decoration information" (see FIG. 6). Note that the text decoration information is information written using specific print commands. The above-mentioned first data structure standard and second data structure standard refer to standards for the data structure of the text decoration information.

[0015] 1, based on the generated text decoration information, the first tape printing device 1 can print a first print image G1 on a first tape T1, which is the printing medium of the first tape printing device 1. The first tape printing device 1 can also print a code image GC, which is a code image of this text decoration information, on the first tape T1. This code image GC is used to cause the second tape printing device 2 to print a second print image G2, which is the same as or similar to the first print image G1.

[0016] The information processing terminal 3 includes an imaging unit 33 (see FIG. 2 ), which captures an image of the code image GC printed on the first tape T1. The information processing terminal 3 decodes the image data of the code image GC to acquire text decoration information, and analyzes the acquired text decoration information based on the terminal program. As described above, the terminal program complies with the same first data structure standard as the first program, which is the operating program of the first tape printer 1. Therefore, the information processing terminal 3 can analyze the text decoration information. The information processing terminal 3 generates second print image data based on the analysis result of the text decoration information, and transmits the generated second print image data to the second tape printer 2. The second print image data is, for example, raster data. The second tape printer 2 receives the second print image data and prints a second print image G2 on the second tape T2, which is the printing medium of the second tape printer 2, based on the received second print image data.

[0017] In this way, the tape printing system SY analyzes the text decoration information in the information processing terminal 3, and transmits the second print image data generated based on the analysis results from the information processing terminal 3 to the second tape printing device 2. Therefore, even if the corresponding data structure standards differ between the first tape printing device 1 and the second tape printing device 2, the second tape printing device 2 can print the second print image G2 that is the same as or similar to the first print image G1 that can be printed by the first tape printing device 1.

[0018] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the first tape printer 1, the information processing terminal 3, and the second tape printer 2, which constitute the tape printing system SY.

[0019] The first tape printing device 1 includes a first input unit 11, a first display unit 12, a first printing unit 13, a first CPU (Central Processing Unit) 15, a first ROM (Read Only Memory) 16, and a first RAM (Random Access Memory) 17. The first printing unit 13 is an example of an "output unit." The first CPU 15 is an example of a "first control unit." The first tape printing device 1 is configured to detachably mount a tape cartridge (not shown) that houses a first tape T1 and an ink ribbon (not shown), and prints on the first tape T1 that is unwound from the tape cartridge.

[0020] The first input unit 11 is used by the user to perform various operations such as editing text. The first display unit 12 displays various information such as a text editing screen (not shown). The first printing unit 13 prints the first print image G1 and the code image GC on the first tape T1. The first printing unit 13 performs printing by thermally transferring ink from an ink ribbon to the first tape T1, a so-called thermal head method.

[0021] The first ROM 16 has a first memory unit M1. The first memory unit M1 stores a first program corresponding to a first data structure standard. The first program is, for example, printer firmware. The first CPU 15 performs various controls by loading control programs such as the first program stored in the first ROM 16 into the first RAM 17 and executing them.

[0022] The first tape printing device 1 does not have to be one that can accommodate a tape cartridge, and may use a printing method other than the thermal head method, such as an inkjet method.

[0023] The information processing terminal 3 includes a terminal input unit 31, a terminal display unit 32, an imaging unit 33, a terminal communication unit 34, a terminal CPU 35, a terminal ROM 36, and a terminal RAM 37. The terminal display unit 32 is an example of a "display unit." The terminal communication unit 34 is an example of a "data transmission unit." In this embodiment, the information processing terminal 3 is assumed to be a smartphone, but may also be a tablet terminal without a telephone function, or a PC (Personal Computer).

[0024] The terminal input unit 31 is used by the user to perform various operations such as issuing an instruction to capture the code image GC and operating the screen. The terminal display unit 32 displays various screens such as a decoration selection screen 70 (see FIG. 8) and a reduced line text selection screen 80 (see FIG. 9). The terminal input unit 31 and the terminal display unit 32 are realized by, for example, a touch panel.

[0025] The decoration selection screen 70 prompts the user to select decoration information because it is not possible to print the second print image G2 decorated based on the decoration information specified by the decoration designation information if the decoration information specified by the decoration designation information acquired from the code image GC is not stored in the information processing terminal 3. Furthermore, the line-reduced text selection screen 80 prompts the user to select line-reduced text from which line breaks have been deleted because it is necessary to delete line breaks from the text if the number of lines of text information acquired from the code image GC exceeds the number of printable lines corresponding to the tape width of the second tape T2 used in the second tape printer 2.

[0026] The imaging unit 33 is an imaging camera that captures the code image GC. The imaging camera is an image sensor such as a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) sensor, and converts captured light into image data. Note that the code image GC is not limited to the QR Code (registered trademark) shown in FIG. 1, and may be a two-dimensional code or a barcode other than the QR code.

[0027] The terminal communication unit 34 communicates with the second tape printer 2. In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the terminal communication unit 34 performs Bluetooth communication (registered trademark), but it may perform wireless communication other than Bluetooth communication, such as Bluetooth Low Energy communication (registered trademark), or may perform wired communication. The terminal communication unit 34 is used to transmit the second print image data to the second tape printer 2.

[0028] The terminal ROM 36 has a terminal storage unit MT. The terminal storage unit MT stores a terminal program that complies with the first data structure standard. The terminal program is downloaded to the information processing terminal 3 from a server (not shown), for example, as a smartphone application, and installed on the information processing terminal 3. The terminal CPU 35 performs various controls by expanding the control program, such as the terminal program stored in the terminal ROM 36, into the terminal RAM 37 and executing it.

[0029] Furthermore, the terminal memory unit MT stores a line count table 51 and a decoration information table 52 as part of the terminal program. Fig. 3 shows an example of the line count table 51. The line count table 51 associates the tape width of the tape T with the number of printable lines. For example, the line count table 51 indicates that a maximum of 12 lines can be printed on a tape T with a tape width of 36 mm.

[0030] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the decoration information table 52. The decoration information table 52 records decoration information classified by decoration attribute. The structure of the decoration information table 52 is based on the first data structure standard. The decoration information is a combination of a decoration attribute and a decoration type. In this embodiment, the decoration attributes are classified into "margin," "outer frame," "font," and "italic / bold." The decoration type refers to the type that can be specified for each decoration attribute. For example, for the decoration attribute "margin," one of the decoration types "0: very little," "1: little," "2: normal," and "3: much" can be specified. A single-digit number such as "0" added to the decoration type is an identification code. The decoration specification information is a combination of an attribute code (not shown) that specifies the decoration attribute and an identification code that specifies the decoration type.

[0031] As shown in Figure 7, "margin" refers to the leading margin from the front end of tape T to the front end of printed image G, and the trailing margin from the rear end of tape T to the rear end of printed image G. "Outer frame" refers to the frame surrounding the text. "Font" refers to the font type. "Italic / Bold" refers to the presence or absence of italics or bold.

[0032] The second tape printer 2 includes a second communication unit 21, a second printing unit 22, a tape width detection unit 23, a second CPU 25, a second ROM 26, and a second RAM 27. The second communication unit 21 is an example of a "receiving unit." The second tape printer 2 is configured to have a detachable tape cartridge (not shown) that contains a second tape T2 and an ink ribbon (not shown), and prints on the second tape T2 that is unwound from the tape cartridge.

[0033] The second communication unit 21 communicates with the information processing terminal 3. The second communication unit 21 is used to receive second print image data from the information processing terminal 3. The second printing unit 22 prints a second print image G2 onto the second tape T2 based on the second print image data received by the second communication unit 21. The second printing unit 22 performs printing by a so-called thermal head method, which thermally transfers ink from an ink ribbon onto the second tape T2.

[0034] The tape width detection unit 23 detects the tape width of the second tape T2 by reading cartridge information including information indicating the tape width from, for example, a circuit board having a memory element or an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tag (neither of which are shown) provided in the tape cartridge.

[0035] The second ROM 26 has a second memory unit M2. The second memory unit M2 stores a second program that complies with a second data structure standard that is different from the first data structure standard. The second program is, for example, printer firmware. The second memory unit M2 also stores print resolution information that indicates the print resolution of the second tape printer 2 as part of the second program. The second CPU 25 performs various controls by loading control programs such as the second program stored in the second ROM 26 into the second RAM 27 and executing them.

[0036] The second tape printing device 2 does not have to be one that can accommodate a tape cartridge, and may use a printing method other than the thermal head method, such as an inkjet method.

[0037] Furthermore, the first tape printing device 1, the information processing terminal 3, and the second tape printing device 2 may use a hardware circuit such as an ASIC as a processor instead of a CPU. The processor may also be configured such that one or more CPUs and a hardware circuit such as an ASIC work together to operate.

[0038] 5 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the information processing terminal 3. The information processing terminal 3 includes, as its functional configuration, a print resolution information acquisition unit 310, a tape width information acquisition unit 320, a decode acquisition unit 330, and a terminal control unit 340. All of these functions are realized by the terminal CPU 35 executing a terminal program stored in the terminal ROM 36.

[0039] The print resolution information acquiring section 310 acquires print resolution information indicating the print resolution of the second tape printer 2. In this embodiment, the print resolution information acquiring section 310 acquires the print resolution information from the second tape printer 2.

[0040] The tape width information acquiring unit 320 acquires tape width information indicating the tape width of the second tape T2. In this embodiment, the tape width information acquiring unit 320 acquires, from the second tape printing device 2, tape width information indicating the tape width detected by the tape width detecting unit 23 of the second tape printing device 2.

[0041] The decode acquisition unit 330 decodes the image data of the code image GC captured by the image capture unit 33 to acquire the text decoration information.

[0042] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of text decoration information. As described above, text decoration information includes text information and decoration specification information. In the example of FIG. 6, the text information indicates "ABC." In addition, in the example of FIG. 6, the decoration specification information specifies four pieces of decoration information: margin "2: normal," outer frame "4: jagged," font "2: Gothic," and italic / bold "1: italic." In this way, the decoration specification information specifies one or more pieces of decoration information.

[0043] The terminal control unit 340 analyzes the decoded text decoration information based on the terminal program and generates second print image data for printing the second print image G2 on the second tape T2 based on the analyzed text decoration information. At this time, the terminal control unit 340 generates second print image data corresponding to the print resolution based on the print resolution information acquired by the print resolution information acquisition unit 310. Furthermore, the terminal control unit 340 generates second print image data corresponding to the tape width of the second tape T2 based on the tape width information acquired by the tape width information acquisition unit 320.

[0044] If the number of lines of text indicated by the text information included in the analyzed text decoration information exceeds the number of printable lines corresponding to the tape width indicated by the tape width information acquired by the tape width information acquisition unit 320 (see FIG. 3), the terminal control unit 340 generates the second print image data as follows: The terminal control unit 340 generates line-reduced text, which is text with a reduced number of lines, and generates the second print image data based on the generated line-reduced text and the analyzed decoration designation information. If the number of lines of text indicated by the text information does not exceed the number of printable lines, the terminal control unit 340 generates the second print image data based on the analyzed text information and decoration designation information without generating line-reduced text.

[0045] Furthermore, the terminal control unit 340 determines whether the decoration information specified by the analyzed decoration designation information is stored in the terminal storage unit MT, and if it determines that the decoration information specified by the decoration designation information is stored in the terminal storage unit MT, generates second print image data based on the analyzed text information and decoration designation information. "Determining whether the decoration information specified by the decoration designation information is stored in the terminal storage unit MT" refers to determining whether the decoration information specified by the decoration designation information is included in the decoration information table 52 (see FIG. 4). Note that a case in which the decoration information specified by the analyzed decoration designation information is not stored in the terminal storage unit MT may be when the version of the terminal program, which is the program of the information processing terminal 3, is lower than the version of the first program, which is the program of the first tape printer 1.

[0046] For example, if the analyzed decoration designation information is that shown in Figure 6 and the decoration information table 52 shown in Figure 4 is stored in the terminal memory unit MT, the terminal control unit 340 determines that the decoration information specified by the decoration designation information is stored in the terminal memory unit MT.

[0047] If the terminal control unit 340 determines that decoration information corresponding to the decoration designation information is stored in the device storage unit MT, it generates second print image data based on the analyzed text information and decoration designation information. If the terminal control unit 340 determines that decoration information corresponding to the decoration designation information is not stored in the device storage unit MT, it displays decoration information options 73 corresponding to at least some of the decoration information stored in the device storage unit MT on the terminal display unit 32 (see FIG. 8). Then, the terminal control unit 340 generates second print image data based on the decoration information corresponding to the decoration information option 73 selected by the user and the analyzed text information.

[0048] In addition, when the decoration designation information specifies decoration information of multiple decoration attributes and specific decoration information among them is not stored in the device storage unit MT, the terminal control unit 340 causes the terminal display unit 32 to display decoration information options 73 only for the decoration attribute to which the specific decoration information belongs. For example, when the decoration designation information specifies decoration information of multiple decoration attributes and decoration information for the decoration attribute "outer frame" among them is not stored in the device storage unit MT, the terminal control unit 340 causes the terminal display unit 32 to display five decoration information options 73 corresponding to the five decoration types (see FIG. 4) belonging to the decoration attribute of "outer frame". In addition, the terminal control unit 340 does not cause the terminal display unit 32 to display decoration information options 73 for decoration attributes other than the decoration attribute "outer frame".

[0049] Fig. 7 shows an example of the second tape T2 on which the second print image G2 based on the second print image data is printed. As described above, the information processing terminal 3 transmits the second print image data generated by analyzing the text decoration information to the second tape printer 2, and the second tape printer 2 prints the second print image G2 based on the received second print image data on the second tape T2. Fig. 7 shows a printed matter created when the text decoration information shown in Fig. 6 is analyzed by the information processing terminal 3.

[0050] 7, the second print image G2 includes a second text image G21 showing text and a second outer frame image G22 showing an outer frame. The second text image G21 is an image based on the text information and decoration designation information that designates margins, font, and italics / highlighting, as shown in FIG. 6. The information processing terminal 3 determines the image sizes of the second text image G21 and the second outer frame image G22 so that the second outer frame image G22 surrounding the second text image G21 fits within the tape width indicated by the tape width information, and generates the second print image data so that the second text image G21 and the second outer frame image G22 are printed at the determined image sizes.

[0051] 8 and 9, a screen displayed on the terminal display unit 32 will be described. Here, it is assumed that the text decoration information analyzed by the information processing terminal 3 is information for printing the first print image G1 shown in FIG. 10. That is, it is assumed that the first tape printer 1 generates text decoration information for printing the first print image G1 shown in FIG. 10, and the information processing terminal 3 captures an image of a code image GC obtained by converting the text decoration information into a code image, thereby acquiring the text decoration information. The first print image G1 shown in FIG. 10 includes a first text image G11 showing three lines of text and a first outer frame image G12 showing a hexagonal "outer frame."

[0052] 8 is a diagram showing an example of the decoration selection screen 70. The decoration selection screen 70 is a screen displayed when decoration information corresponding to decoration designation information included in the text decoration information acquired by the information processing terminal 3 is not included in the decoration information table 52. The decoration selection screen 70 displays a decoration selection title 71, a decoration selection message 72, and decoration information options 73.

[0053] The decoration selection title 71 indicates that the screen displayed on the terminal display unit 32 is the decoration selection screen 70. The decoration selection message 72 is a message that prompts the user to select decoration information. The decoration selection message 72 shown in FIG. 8 is a message that prompts the user to select decoration information for the "outer frame" because, among the decoration information specified by the decoration designation information, decoration information indicating a hexagonal "outer frame" (see FIG. 10) is not included in the decoration information table 52.

[0054] 8, the decoration information options 73 are displayed as five options corresponding to the "outer frame" decoration type recorded in the decoration information table 52 (see FIG. 4). A black selection frame SF is added to the selected decoration information option 73, and the decoration information option 73 is displayed in white text.

[0055] 9 is a diagram showing an example of a line reduction text selection screen 80. The line reduction text selection screen 80 is a screen that is displayed when the number of lines of text indicated by the text information included in the text decoration information acquired by the information processing terminal 3 exceeds the number of printable lines corresponding to the tape width of the second tape T2. The line reduction text selection screen 80 displays a line reduction text selection title 81, a line reduction text selection message 82, and line reduction text options 83. The line reduction text selection title 81 indicates that the screen displayed on the terminal display unit 32 is the line reduction text selection screen 80. The line reduction text selection message 82 is a message that prompts the user to select line reduction text.

[0056] The example of FIG. 9 shows a case where the tape width of the second tape T2 is "6 mm." In this case, the number of printable lines corresponding to the tape width of the second tape T2 is "2 lines" (see FIG. 3). The example of FIG. 9 also shows a case where the number of lines of text indicated by the text information is "3 lines" (see FIG. 10). Therefore, the example of FIG. 9 displays, as the reduced line text option 83, an option indicating reduced line text in which three lines of text have been changed to two lines or less. In this way, when the number of printable lines is n lines, the reduced line text selection screen 80 displays, as the reduced line text option 83, an option indicating reduced line text in which n lines or less have been changed.

[0057] 9, the following line-reducing text options 83 are displayed: a first option indicating reduced line text in which the line break between the second and third lines of three lines of text has been deleted; a second option indicating reduced line text in which the line break between the first and second lines has been deleted; and a third option indicating reduced line text in which two line breaks have been deleted. In this way, the line-reducing text selection screen 80 displays, as the line-reducing text options 83, multiple options indicating reduced line text in which the position of the line break to be deleted and the number of line breaks to be deleted differ. The line-reducing text selection screen 80 also displays, as the line-reducing text options 83, a print image of the reduced line text based on the text decoration information acquired by the information processing terminal 3. A black selection frame SF is added to the selected line-reducing text option 83, and the line-reducing text option 83 is displayed in white.

[0058] The flow of a series of processes in the tape printing system SY will be described with reference to the flowcharts of Figures 11 to 13. Figure 11 is a flowchart showing the flow of the first process by the first tape printer 1. The first process starts when an editing screen (not shown) for editing the first print image G1 is displayed on the first display unit 12 in the first tape printer 1.

[0059] In step S01, the first tape printing apparatus 1 accepts text input to the editing screen. The user inputs text using the first input unit 11.

[0060] In step S02, the first tape printing device 1 accepts decoration settings for the text. Decoration settings refer to settings of decoration information. The user sets decoration settings using the first input unit 11. The user can set decoration not only for the entire text entered on the editing screen, but also for each character, line, and paragraph.

[0061] In step S03, the first tape printing device 1 generates text decoration information based on the text input in step S01 and the decoration information set in step S02.

[0062] In step S04, the first tape printer 1 determines whether or not to print the code image GC. If the user performs a first printing operation using the first input unit 11, the first tape printer 1 determines that the code image GC is to be printed. The first printing operation is, for example, simultaneous selection of the print key and the shift key included in the first input unit 11. If the first tape printer 1 determines that the code image GC is to be printed, the process proceeds to step S05. If the first tape printer 1 determines that the code image GC is not to be printed, the process proceeds to step S07.

[0063] In step S05, the first tape printing device 1 generates code image data. The code image data is data for causing the first printing unit 13 to print a code image GC, which is a code image obtained by converting the text decoration information generated in step S03 into a code image.

[0064] In step S06, the first tape printing device 1 prints a code image GC on the first tape T1 by the first printing unit 13 (see FIG. 1). After step S06, the first tape printing device 1 ends the first process.

[0065] In step S07, the first tape printer 1 determines whether or not to print the first print image G1. If the user performs a second print operation different from the first print operation using the first input unit 11, the first tape printer 1 determines that the first print image G1 is to be printed. The second print operation is, for example, selecting a print key included in the first input unit 11. If the first tape printer 1 determines that the first print image G1 is to be printed, the process proceeds to step S08. If the first tape printer 1 determines that the first print image G1 is not to be printed, the first tape printer 1 performs processing according to the user's operation.

[0066] In step S08, the first tape printer 1 generates first print image data. The first print image data is print data generated based on the text decoration information generated in step S03, and is data for causing the first printing unit 13 to print the first print image G1.

[0067] In step S09, the first tape printer 1 prints the first print image G1 on the first tape T1 by the first printing unit 13 (see FIG. 1). After step S09, the first tape printer 1 ends the first process.

[0068] 12 and 13 are flowcharts showing the flow of the second process performed by the information processing terminal 3 and the second tape printing device 2. As described above, the information processing terminal 3 and the second tape printing device 2 are peripheral-type tape printing devices that are used by being connected to the information processing terminal 3, which is a higher-level terminal, and the second tape printing device 2 and the information processing terminal 3 are connected via Bluetooth communication (registered trademark). The second process is started when the user performs a pairing start operation on the information processing terminal 3.

[0069] In step S21, the information processing terminal 3 sends a pairing request to the second tape printing apparatus 2.

[0070] In step S22, the second tape printing apparatus 2 permits pairing.

[0071] In step S23, the second tape printing apparatus 2 notifies the information processing terminal 3 that the pairing has been successful.

[0072] In step S24, the information processing terminal 3 requests the second tape printer 2 for print resolution information and tape width information.

[0073] In step S25, the second tape printer 2 transmits the print resolution information and tape width information to the information processing terminal 3. When the second tape printer 2 receives the request in step S24, it detects the tape width of the second tape T2 using the tape width detection unit 23, and transmits tape width information indicating the detected tape width to the information processing terminal 3. The second tape printer 2 also reads out the print resolution information stored as part of the second program from the second memory unit M2, and transmits the read print resolution information to the information processing terminal 3.

[0074] In step S26, the information processing terminal 3 acquires the print resolution information and the tape width information.

[0075] In step S27, the information processing terminal 3 determines whether or not an instruction to capture an image of the code image GC has been issued. If an image capturing operation has been performed via the terminal input unit 31, the information processing terminal 3 determines that an instruction to capture an image of the code image GC has been issued. If the information processing terminal 3 determines that an instruction to capture an image of the code image GC has been issued, the information processing terminal 3 proceeds to step S28. If the information processing terminal 3 determines that an instruction to capture an image of the code image GC has not been issued, the information processing terminal 3 repeats the determination of step S27.

[0076] In step S28, the information processing terminal 3 causes the imaging unit 33 to capture an image of the code image GC.

[0077] In step S29, the information processing terminal 3 decodes the image data of the code image GC, thereby obtaining the text decoration information.

[0078] In step S30, the information processing terminal 3 analyzes the text decoration information.

[0079] In step S31, the information processing terminal 3 determines whether or not the text decoration information has been analyzed. If the information processing terminal 3 determines that the text decoration information has been analyzed, the process proceeds to step S33. If the information processing terminal 3 determines that the text decoration information has not been analyzed, the process proceeds to step S32.

[0080] In step S32, the information processing terminal 3 displays an error message. As the error message, the information processing terminal 3 displays a message indicating that the text decoration information read from the code image GC could not be analyzed on the terminal display unit 32. After step S32, the information processing terminal 3 ends the second process.

[0081] In step S33, the information processing terminal 3 determines whether or not decoration information corresponding to the decoration designation information included in the analyzed text decoration information is stored in the terminal storage unit MT. That is, the information processing terminal 3 determines whether or not decoration information corresponding to the decoration designation information is included in the decoration information table 52 (see FIG. 4). If the information processing terminal 3 determines that decoration information corresponding to the decoration designation information is stored in the terminal storage unit MT, the information processing terminal 3 proceeds to step S41 in FIG. 13. On the other hand, if the information processing terminal 3 determines that decoration information corresponding to the decoration designation information included in the analyzed text decoration information is not stored in the terminal storage unit MT, the information processing terminal 3 proceeds to step S34.

[0082] In step S34, the information processing terminal 3 displays the decoration selection screen 70 (see FIG. 8) on the terminal display unit 32.

[0083] In step S35, the information processing terminal 3 accepts the selection of decoration information on the decoration selection screen .

[0084] In step S36, the information processing terminal 3 changes the decoration information. That is, the information processing terminal 3 changes the decoration information so that it becomes decoration information corresponding to the decoration information option 73 selected on the decoration selection screen 70. After step S36, the information processing terminal 3 proceeds to step S41 in FIG. 13 .

[0085] 13, the information processing terminal 3 determines whether the number of lines of text indicated by the text information included in the analyzed text decoration information exceeds the number of printable lines corresponding to the tape width indicated by the acquired tape width information. That is, the information processing terminal 3 determines whether the number of lines of text indicated by the text information exceeds the number of printable lines corresponding to the tape width of the second tape T2 indicated by the tape width information in the line number table 51 (see FIG. 3). If the information processing terminal 3 determines that the number of lines of text exceeds the number of printable lines corresponding to the tape width, the information processing terminal 3 proceeds to step S42. If the information processing terminal 3 determines that the number of lines of text does not exceed the number of printable lines corresponding to the tape width, the information processing terminal 3 proceeds to step S45.

[0086] In step S42, the information processing terminal 3 displays the line reduction text selection screen 80 (see FIG. 9) on the terminal display unit 32.

[0087] In step S43, the information processing terminal 3 accepts the selection of a line of text to be reduced on the line of text to be reduced selection screen 80.

[0088] In step S44, the information processing terminal 3 generates reduced line text. That is, the information processing terminal 3 generates reduced line text based on the reduced line text option 83 selected on the reduced line text selection screen 80. After step S44, the information processing terminal 3 proceeds to step S45.

[0089] In step S45, the information processing terminal 3 generates second print image data. If the information processing terminal 3 determines in step S33 that decoration information corresponding to the decoration designation information included in the analyzed text decoration information is not stored in the device storage unit MT, the information processing terminal 3 generates the second print image data based on the decoration information changed in step S36. If the information processing terminal 3 determines in step S33 that decoration information corresponding to the decoration designation information included in the analyzed text decoration information is stored in the device storage unit MT, the information processing terminal 3 generates the second print image data based on the decoration information designated by the decoration designation information included in the text decoration information analyzed in step S30. If the information processing terminal 3 determines in step S41 that the number of lines of text exceeds the number of printable lines corresponding to the tape width, the information processing terminal 3 generates the second print image data based on the reduced-line text generated in step S44. If the information processing terminal 3 determines in step S41 that the number of lines of text does not exceed the number of printable lines corresponding to the tape width, the information processing terminal 3 generates the second print image data based on the text information included in the text decoration information analyzed in step S30.

[0090] In step S46, the information processing terminal 3 displays a print layout screen (not shown) on the terminal display unit 32. The print layout screen displays a print layout in which an image of the second print image G2 is arranged on a tape image of the second tape T2. The user can edit the print layout on the print layout screen, such as by changing text and decorative information.

[0091] In step S47, the information processing terminal 3 determines whether a print instruction has been issued. If a print instruction operation has been issued via the terminal input unit 31, the information processing terminal 3 determines that a print instruction has been issued. If the information processing terminal 3 determines that a print instruction has been issued, the information processing terminal 3 proceeds to step S48. If the information processing terminal 3 determines that a print instruction has not been issued, the information processing terminal 3 returns to step S46.

[0092] In step S48, the information processing terminal 3 transmits the second print image data to the second tape printer 2. When the print layout has been edited on the print layout screen, the information processing terminal 3 transmits the second print image data based on the edited print layout.

[0093] In step S49, the second tape printing device 2 receives the second print image data.

[0094] In step S50, the second tape printer 2 causes the second printing unit 22 to print the second print image G2 on the second tape T2 based on the second print image data (see FIG. 7).

[0095] As described above, the information processing terminal 3 according to this embodiment captures the code image GC printed on the first tape T1 by the first tape printer 1, acquires the text information and decoration specification information, and analyzes the acquired information based on a terminal program corresponding to the first data structure standard. The information processing terminal 3 also generates second print image data based on the analysis results of the text information and decoration specification information and transmits the generated second print image data to the second tape printer 2. In this way, the tape printing system SY according to this embodiment performs information analysis in the information processing terminal 3, and transmits the second print image data generated based on the analysis results from the information processing terminal 3 to the second tape printer 2. Therefore, even if the first tape printer 1 and the second tape printer 2 support different data structure standards, it is possible to cause the second tape printer 2 to print the second print image G2 based on the analysis results of the text information and decoration specification information.

[0096] In particular, when certain conditions are met, the second tape printer 2 can create a printed matter that is almost the same as a printed matter based on the text decoration information generated by the first tape printer 1 simply by capturing an image of the code image GC with the information processing terminal 3 and issuing a print instruction. The certain conditions are that the decoration information indicated by the decoration designation information analyzed by the information processing terminal 3 is stored in the terminal memory unit MT, and the number of lines of text indicated by the analyzed text information does not exceed the number of printable lines corresponding to the tape width indicated by the acquired tape width information.

[0097] In addition, the information processing terminal 3 obtains print resolution information indicating the print resolution of the second tape printing device 2 from the second tape printing device 2, and is therefore able to generate second print image data that corresponds to the print resolution of the second tape printing device 2.

[0098] Furthermore, the information processing terminal 3 acquires tape width information indicating the tape width of the second tape T2 from the second tape printer 2, and is therefore able to generate second print image data that corresponds to the tape width of the second tape T2. Furthermore, if the number of lines of text indicated by the analyzed text information exceeds the number of printable lines corresponding to the tape width indicated by the acquired tape width information, the information processing terminal 3 generates line-reduced text, which is text with a reduced number of lines. This makes it possible to prevent the second tape printer 2 from printing a second print image G2 whose number of lines of text does not fit within the tape width of the second tape T2.

[0099] Furthermore, when the information processing terminal 3 determines that decoration information corresponding to the analyzed decoration designation information is not stored in the terminal storage unit MT, it displays decoration information options 73 corresponding to at least some of the decoration information stored in the terminal storage unit MT on the decoration selection screen 70. Therefore, even if decoration information corresponding to the decoration designation information is not stored in the terminal storage unit MT, the information processing terminal 3 can generate the second print image data based on decoration information corresponding to the decoration information option 73 selected by the user.

[0100] The following modifications may be adopted without being limited to the above embodiment. [Variation 1] The information processing terminal 3 may display the analyzed text decoration information on the terminal display unit 32 and accept a user's editing operation for the text decoration information. In this modification, after analyzing the text decoration information (see step S30 in FIG. 12), the information processing terminal 3 displays the text / decoration editing screen 90 shown in FIG. 14. In addition, in this modification, the information processing terminal 3 generates second print image data based on the editing results on the text / decoration editing screen 90 (see step S45 in FIG. 13).

[0101] 14, a main title 91, a text edit title 92, and an ornament edit title 93 are displayed on the text / ornament edit screen 90. The main title 91 indicates that the screen displayed on the terminal display unit 32 is the text / ornament edit screen 90. A text edit field 94 is displayed below the text edit title 92, and a margin edit field 95, a frame edit field 96, a font edit field 97, and an italic / emphasis edit field 98 are displayed below the ornament edit title 93.

[0102] The example in FIG. 14 shows a text / decoration editing screen 90 that is displayed when the information processing terminal 3 acquires the text decoration information shown in FIG. 6. A text editing field 94 displays text indicated by the text information included in the text decoration information. The user can edit this text using the terminal input unit 31. A margin editing field 95, a border editing field 96, a font editing field 97, and an italic / bold editing field 98 display decoration information indicated by the decoration specification information included in the text decoration information. In each of these fields, by selecting a downward-pointing triangle mark, a choice of decoration types corresponding to the decoration attribute is displayed. The user can select a decoration type for each decoration attribute using the terminal input unit 31.

[0103] In this way, according to this modification, the user can perform editing operations on the text and the decorative information. Note that the information processing terminal 3 may display an editing screen (not shown) for editing either the text or the decorative information, rather than both, and may be able to accept editing operations on either one of them.

[0104] [Variation 2] The second tape printing device 2 may be configured to receive text decoration information from the information processing terminal 3 and store the received text decoration information in the second storage unit M2. Furthermore, the second tape printing device 2 may be configured to generate second print image data based on the text decoration information stored in the second storage unit M2 in response to a print instruction from the information processing terminal 3 or a terminal other than the information processing terminal 3, and to print a second print image G2 on the second tape T2 based on the generated second print image data.

[0105] In this modified example, it is assumed that the second tape printing device 2 stores a second' program and is capable of generating the second print image data based on this second' program. The second' program is a program that operates the second tape printing device 2 and is a program that complies with the first data structure standard. In addition, it is assumed that the information processing terminal 3 is capable of transmitting text decoration information via the terminal communication unit 34. The terminal communication unit 34 is an example of an "information transmission unit."

[0106] In this modified example, the information processing terminal 3 accepts a selection of whether to send the second print image data or the text decoration information to the second tape printer 2. In this modified example, after a print instruction is given (see step S47 in FIG. 13), the information processing terminal 3 displays the transmission selection screen 110 shown in FIG. 15. Based on the selection result on the transmission selection screen 110, the information processing terminal 3 transmits the second print image data or the text decoration information to the second tape printer 2.

[0107] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a transmission selection screen 110. The transmission selection screen 110 displays a transmission selection title 111, a transmission selection message 112, and transmission information options 113. The transmission selection title 111 indicates that the screen displayed on the terminal display unit 32 is the transmission selection screen 110. The transmission selection message 112 is a message prompting the user to select transmission information. Two options are displayed as the transmission information options 113: "Print image data" and "Text decoration information." The "Print image data" option is an example of a "first option," and the "Text decoration information" option is an example of a "second option." A black selection frame SF is added to a selected transmission information option 113, and the transmission information option 113 is displayed in white text.

[0108] When "print image data" is selected as the transmission information option 113, the information processing terminal 3 transmits the second print image data to the second tape printer 2. When the second tape printer 2 receives the second print image data, it prints the second print image G2 based on the received second print image data. When "text decoration information" is selected as the transmission information option 113, the information processing terminal 3 transmits the text decoration information to the second tape printer 2. When the second tape printer 2 receives the text decoration information, it stores the received text decoration information in the second memory unit M2.

[0109] In this way, according to this modification, the user can select whether to send the second print image data or the text decoration information to the second tape printer 2. Note that, instead of having the user select the information to be sent on the send selection screen 110, the information processing terminal 3 may accept a selection of whether to have the second tape printer 2 print based on the sent information or to have the sent information stored in the second tape printer 2.

[0110] [Variation 3] When the decoration information indicated by the analyzed decoration designation information is not stored in the terminal storage unit MT, the information processing terminal 3 may display decoration information options 73 corresponding to some of the decoration types of the decoration attributes to which the decoration information belongs on the terminal display unit 32. For example, the information processing terminal 3 may store each decoration attribute classified into a plurality of types in the decoration information table 52, and display decoration information options 73 corresponding to the decoration types of the type to which the decoration information belongs on the terminal display unit 32 as some of the decoration types of the decoration attributes to which the decoration information belongs.

[0111] FIG. 16 shows an example of frame types categorized by type. Frame types refer to decoration types whose decoration attribute belongs to "frame." The information shown in FIG. 16 is stored in the device memory unit MT as part of the decoration information table 52. As shown in FIG. 16, "frames" are classified into three types: narrow, wide, and full. Each frame is composed of a "left ruled portion," a "right ruled portion," a "top ruled portion," and a "bottom ruled portion." The narrow type is a type in which the left and right ruled portions are narrower in the tape length direction. The wide type is a type in which the left and right ruled portions are wider in the tape length direction than the narrow type. The full type is a type in which the left and right ruled portions are wider in the tape length direction than the wide type and include a design. In the example shown in FIG. 16, each frame type is assigned a two-digit identification code. Narrow types are assigned identification codes in the 10s, wide types are assigned identification codes in the 20s, and full types are assigned identification codes in the 30s.

[0112] For example, if the analyzed decoration specification information is a combination of the attribute code of "outer frame" and the identification code "15," and the decoration information is not stored in the device storage unit MT, the information processing terminal 3 displays, on the device display unit 32, decoration information options 73 corresponding to the outer frame type, which has the same identification code in the 10s as the identification code "15" among the decoration attributes of "outer frame" to which the decoration information belongs. That is, in this case, the information processing terminal 3 displays, on the device display unit 32, decoration information options 73 corresponding to the identification codes "11," "12," and "13" based on the table shown in FIG. 16 . Thus, if the decoration information indicated by the analyzed decoration specification information is not stored in the device storage unit MT, the information processing terminal 3 displays, on the device display unit 32, decoration information options 73 corresponding to the decoration types belonging to the same type among the decoration attributes to which the decoration information belongs. This configuration allows the user to select decoration information of the same type as the decoration information specified by the decoration specification information.

[0113] [Variation 4] The first tape printing device 1 may display the code image GC on the first display unit 12. The first display unit 12 is an example of a "display unit" and an "output unit." In this case, the information processing terminal 3 may capture an image of the code image GC displayed on the first display unit 12 using the imaging unit 33. With this configuration, it is not necessary to print the code image GC on the first tape T1, and therefore consumption of the first tape T1 can be reduced.

[0114] [Variation 5] The print resolution information acquiring unit 310 may acquire print resolution information input by the terminal input unit 31, rather than from the second tape printing device 2. The print resolution information acquiring unit 310 may also acquire print resolution information from a device other than the second tape printing device 2 via the terminal communication unit 34. Similarly, the tape width information acquiring unit 320 may acquire tape width information input by the terminal input unit 31, rather than from the second tape printing device 2. Furthermore, the tape width information acquiring unit 320 may acquire tape width information from a device other than the second tape printing device 2 via the terminal communication unit 34.

[0115] [Variation 6] The terminal program for the information processing terminal 3 or a storage medium on which the terminal program is recorded may be provided to the customer. The hardware configuration of the tape printing device is not limited to that described above. For example, the first tape printing device 1 may be a peripheral type tape printing device, and the second tape printing device 2 may be a stand-alone type tape printing device. The decoration specification information may also specify decoration information related to character spacing, character decoration such as underlining and strikethrough, and character alignment such as left justification, right justification, and center justification. Other modifications are possible as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0116] [Note] The following additionally describes the tape printing system, the information processing terminal, and the control method and program for the tape printing system. The tape printing system SY includes a first tape printing device 1 including a first storage unit M1 storing a first program corresponding to a first data structure standard, a first control unit that generates text information indicating text and decoration designation information that designates decoration information related to decoration of the text based on the first program, and generates code image data that outputs a code image GC in which the generated text information and decoration designation information are converted into a code image, and an output unit that outputs the code image GC based on the generated code image data, a terminal storage unit MT that stores a terminal program corresponding to the first data structure standard, an imaging unit 33 that images the code image GC, and a code image processing unit 50 that processes the code image GC. The information processing terminal 3 includes a decode acquisition unit 330 that acquires text information and decoration designation information by decoding the imaging data of the GC, a terminal control unit 340 that analyzes the decoded text information and decoration designation information based on a terminal program and generates second print image data based on the analyzed text information and decoration designation information, and a data transmission unit that transmits the generated second print image data to the second tape printing device 2, and the second tape printing device 2 includes a receiving unit that receives the second print image data and a second printing unit 22 that prints a second print image G2 based on the received second print image data on the second tape T2.

[0117] The control method for the tape printing system SY comprises the steps of: a first tape printing device 1 storing a first program corresponding to a first data structure standard generates, based on the first program, text information indicating text and decoration designation information that designates decoration information related to decoration of the text, and generating code image data for outputting a code image GC in which the generated text information and decoration designation information are converted into a code image; and outputting the code image GC based on the generated code image data; an information processing terminal 3 storing a terminal program corresponding to the first data structure standard performs the steps of imaging the code image GC, decoding the image data of the code image GC to obtain the text information and decoration designation information, analyzing the decoded text information and decoration designation information based on the terminal program, and generating second print image data based on the analyzed text information and decoration designation information, and transmitting the generated second print image data to the second tape printing device 2; and the second tape printing device 2 receives the second print image data and prints a second print image G2 based on the received second print image data on the second tape T2.

[0118] According to this configuration, the tape printing system SY performs information analysis in the information processing terminal 3, and transmits the second print image data generated based on the analysis results from the information processing terminal 3 to the second tape printing device 2. Therefore, even if the first tape printing device 1 and the second tape printing device 2 support different data structure standards, the second tape printing device 2 can be made to print the second print image G2 based on the analysis results of the text information and decoration designation information.

[0119] In the above-mentioned tape printing system SY, it is preferable that the information processing terminal 3 further includes a print resolution information acquisition unit 310 that acquires print resolution information indicating the print resolution of the second tape printing device 2, and the terminal control unit 340 generates second print image data corresponding to the print resolution based on the acquired print resolution information.

[0120] According to this configuration, the information processing terminal 3 can generate the second print image data corresponding to the printing resolution of the second tape printing device 2.

[0121] In the above-mentioned tape printing system SY, it is preferable that the information processing terminal 3 further includes a tape width information acquisition unit 320 that acquires tape width information indicating the tape width of the second tape T2, and the terminal control unit 340 generates second print image data corresponding to the tape width based on the acquired tape width information.

[0122] According to this configuration, the information processing terminal 3 can generate the second print image data corresponding to the tape width of the second tape printer 2.

[0123] In the above-mentioned tape printing system SY, the terminal memory unit MT further stores a line count table 51 that associates the number of printable lines with each tape width of the tape T, and when the number of lines of text indicated by the text information exceeds the number of printable lines corresponding to the tape width indicated by the acquired tape width information, the terminal control unit 340 preferably generates reduced line text, which is text with a reduced number of lines, and generates second print image data based on the generated reduced line text and the analyzed decoration designation information.

[0124] The information processing terminal 3 of the present invention comprises an imaging unit 33 that images a code image GC, which is a code image of text information indicating text and decoration designation information that designates decoration information related to the decoration of the text; a decode acquisition unit 330 that acquires the text information and decoration designation information by decoding the image data of the code image GC; a terminal control unit 340 that analyzes the decoded text information and decoration designation information and generates second print image data based on the analyzed text information and decoration designation information; a data transmission unit that transmits the generated second print image data to a second tape printing device 2 that prints on a second tape T2; and a tape width information acquisition unit 320 that acquires tape width information that indicates the tape width of the second tape T2.If the number of lines of text indicated by the text information exceeds the number of printable lines corresponding to the tape width indicated by the acquired tape width information, the terminal control unit 340 generates reduced-line text, which is text with a reduced number of lines, and generates the second print image data based on the generated reduced-line text and the analyzed decoration designation information.

[0125] The program of the present invention causes an information processing terminal 3 to execute the following steps: capturing an image of a code image GC, which is a code image of text information indicating text and decoration designation information that specifies decoration information related to the decoration of the text; obtaining the text information and decoration designation information by decoding the captured data of the code image GC; analyzing the decoded text information and decoration designation information and generating second print image data based on the analyzed text information and decoration designation information; transmitting the generated second print image data to a second tape printing device 2 that prints on a second tape T2; and obtaining tape width information that indicates the tape width of the second tape T2.In the step of generating the second print image data, if the number of lines of text indicated by the text information exceeds the number of printable lines corresponding to the tape width indicated by the obtained tape width information, reduced line text, which is text with a reduced number of lines, is generated, and the second print image data is generated based on the generated reduced line text and the analyzed decoration designation information.

[0126] According to this configuration, the information processing terminal 3 can prevent the second tape printer 2 from printing the second print image G2 in which the number of lines of text does not fit within the tape width of the tape T.

[0127] In the above-mentioned tape printing system SY, it is preferable that the terminal memory unit MT further stores multiple pieces of decoration information, the information processing terminal 3 further includes a display unit, and the terminal control unit 340 determines whether the decoration information specified by the analyzed decoration designation information is stored in the terminal memory unit MT, and if it determines that the decoration information specified by the decoration designation information is stored in the terminal memory unit MT, generates second print image data based on the analyzed text information and decoration designation information, and if it determines that the decoration information corresponding to the decoration designation information is not stored in the terminal memory unit MT, displays options corresponding to at least some of the decoration information among the multiple pieces of decoration information stored in the terminal memory unit MT on the display unit, and generates the second print image data based on the decoration information corresponding to the option selected by the user and the analyzed text information.

[0128] The information processing terminal 3 of the present invention includes a terminal storage unit MT storing a plurality of pieces of decoration information relating to decoration of text, an imaging unit 33 imaging a code image GC obtained by converting text information indicating text and decoration designation information designating the decoration information into a code image, a decoding acquisition unit 330 decoding the image data of the code image GC to acquire the text information and decoration designation information, a terminal control unit 340 analyzing the decoded text information and decoration designation information and generating second print image data based on the analyzed text information and decoration designation information, a data transmission unit transmitting the generated second print image data to the second tape printing device 2, and a display unit. The terminal control unit 340 determines whether the decoration information specified by the analyzed decoration designation information is stored in the terminal memory unit MT, and if it determines that the decoration information specified by the decoration designation information is stored in the terminal memory unit MT, it generates second print image data based on the analyzed text information and decoration designation information, and if it determines that the decoration information corresponding to the decoration designation information is not stored in the terminal memory unit MT, it displays on the display unit options corresponding to at least some of the decoration information stored in the terminal memory unit MT, and generates second print image data based on the decoration information corresponding to the option selected by the user and the analyzed text information.

[0129] The program of the present invention is a program that causes an information processing terminal 3, which includes a terminal storage unit MT storing a plurality of pieces of decoration information relating to decoration of text and a display unit, to execute the following steps: capturing an image of a code image GC in which text information indicating text and decoration designation information designating the decoration information are converted into a code image; decoding the captured data of the code image GC to obtain the text information and decoration designation information; analyzing the decoded text information and decoration designation information, and generating second print image data based on the analyzed text information and decoration designation information; and transmitting the generated second print image data to a second tape printer 2. In the step of generating second print image data, it is determined whether the decoration information specified by the analyzed decoration designation information is stored in the terminal memory unit MT, and if it is determined that the decoration information specified by the decoration designation information is stored in the terminal memory unit MT, second print image data is generated based on the analyzed text information and decoration designation information, and if it is determined that the decoration information corresponding to the decoration designation information is not stored in the terminal memory unit MT, options corresponding to at least some of the decoration information among the multiple decoration information stored in the terminal memory unit MT are displayed on the display unit, and the second print image data is generated based on the decoration information corresponding to the option selected by the user and the analyzed text information.

[0130] According to this configuration, the information processing terminal 3 can generate the second print image data based on the decoration information corresponding to the option selected by the user, even if the decoration information corresponding to the decoration designation information is not stored in the terminal memory unit MT.

[0131] In the above-mentioned tape printing system SY, it is preferable that the information processing terminal 3 further includes a display unit, and the terminal control unit 340 displays at least one of the text indicated by the analyzed text information and the decoration information specified by the analyzed decoration designation information on the display unit, and accepts user editing operations on at least one of the text and the decoration information.

[0132] According to this configuration, the user can perform an editing operation on at least one of the text and the decorative information.

[0133] In the above-described tape printing system SY, it is preferable that the information processing terminal 3 further includes an information transmitting unit that transmits the analyzed text information and decoration specification information to the second tape printing device 2, and a display unit, and that the terminal control unit 340 displays on the display unit a first option for transmitting the second print image data to the second tape printing device 2 and a second option for transmitting the analyzed text information and decoration specification information to the second tape printing device 2, and accepts the user's selection, and that if the first option is selected by the user, the data transmitting unit transmits the second print image data to the second tape printing device 2, and if the second option is selected by the user, the information transmitting unit transmits the text information and decoration specification information to the second tape printing device 2.

[0134] According to this configuration, the user can select whether to send the second print image data to the second tape printer 2 or to send the text information and decoration designation information.

[0135] In the above-described tape printing system SY, the output unit is preferably a first printing unit 13 that prints the code image GC.

[0136] According to this configuration, the first tape printing device 1 can use the first printing section 13 to output the code image GC.

[0137] In the above-described tape printing system SY, the output section is preferably a first display section 12 that displays the code image GC.

[0138] According to this configuration, the first tape printing device 1 can use the first display section 12 to output the code image GC. [Explanation of symbols]

[0139] 1...first tape printing device, 2...second tape printing device, 3...information processing terminal, 12...first display unit, 13...first printing unit, 21...second communication unit, 22...second printing unit, 32...terminal display unit, 33...imaging unit, 34...terminal communication unit, 51...line count table, 310...print resolution information acquisition unit, 320...tape width information acquisition unit, 330...decoding acquisition unit, 340...terminal control unit, G2...second print image, GC...code image, MT...terminal memory unit, SY...tape printing system, T...tape, T1...first tape, T2...second tape.

Claims

1. a first storage unit that stores a first program corresponding to a first data structure standard; a first control unit that generates text information indicating a text and decoration designation information that designates decoration information related to decoration of the text based on the first program, and generates code image data that outputs a code image obtained by converting the generated text information and the decoration designation information into a code image; a first tape printing device including an output unit that outputs the code image based on the generated code image data; a terminal storage unit that stores a terminal program corresponding to the first data structure standard; an imaging unit that captures the code image; a decoding acquisition unit that acquires the text information and the decoration designation information by decoding the image data of the code image; a terminal control unit that analyzes the decoded text information and the decoration designation information based on the terminal program, and generates second print image data based on the analyzed text information and the decoration designation information; an information processing terminal including a data transmission unit that transmits the generated second print image data to a second tape printing device; a receiving unit that receives the second print image data; the second tape printing device including a second printing unit that prints a second print image based on the received second print image data on a second tape; A tape printing system comprising:

2. The information processing terminal a print resolution information acquisition unit that acquires print resolution information indicating the print resolution of the second tape printing device, 2. The tape printing system according to claim 1, wherein the terminal control unit generates the second print image data corresponding to the print resolution based on the acquired print resolution information.

3. The information processing terminal a tape width information acquisition unit that acquires tape width information indicating the tape width of the second tape; 2. The tape printing system according to claim 1, wherein the terminal control unit generates the second print image data corresponding to the tape width based on the acquired tape width information.

4. the terminal storage unit further stores a line number table in which the number of printable lines is associated with each tape width of the tape; The tape printing system described in claim 3, characterized in that when the number of lines of the text indicated by the text information exceeds the number of printable lines corresponding to the tape width indicated by the acquired tape width information, the terminal control unit generates reduced line text, which is the text with a reduced number of lines, and generates the second print image data based on the generated reduced line text and the analyzed decoration designation information.

5. the device storage unit further stores a plurality of pieces of decoration information; The information processing terminal Further comprising a display unit, 2. The tape printing system according to claim 1, wherein the terminal control unit determines whether the decoration information specified by the analyzed decoration designation information is stored in the terminal memory unit, and if it determines that the decoration information specified by the decoration designation information is stored in the terminal memory unit, generates the second print image data based on the analyzed text information and the decoration designation information, and if it determines that the decoration information corresponding to the decoration designation information is not stored in the terminal memory unit, displays options corresponding to at least some of the decoration information among the multiple decoration information stored in the terminal memory unit on the display unit, and generates the second print image data based on the decoration information corresponding to the option selected by the user and the analyzed text information.

6. The information processing terminal Further comprising a display unit, The tape printing system described in claim 1, characterized in that the terminal control unit displays at least one of the text indicated by the analyzed text information and the decoration information specified by the analyzed decoration designation information on the display unit, and accepts user editing operations on at least one of the text and the decoration information.

7. The information processing terminal an information transmitting unit that transmits the analyzed text information and the decoration designation information to the second tape printing device; a display unit, the terminal control unit displays on the display unit a first option of transmitting the second print image data to the second tape printing device and a second option of transmitting the analyzed text information and the decoration designation information to the second tape printing device, and accepts a selection from the user; the data transmission unit transmits the second print image data to the second tape printing device when the first option is selected by the user; 2. The tape printing system according to claim 1, wherein the information transmitting section transmits the text information and the decoration designation information to the second tape printing device when the second option is selected by the user.

8. 2. The tape printing system according to claim 1, wherein the output unit is a first printing unit that prints the code image.

9. 2. The tape printing system according to claim 1, wherein the output unit is a display unit that displays the code image.

10. an imaging unit that captures a code image obtained by converting text information indicating a text and decoration designation information that designates decoration information related to decoration of the text into a code image; a decoding acquisition unit that acquires the text information and the decoration designation information by decoding the image data of the code image; a terminal control unit that analyzes the decoded text information and the decoration designation information and generates second print image data based on the analyzed text information and the decoration designation information; a data transmitting unit that transmits the generated second print image data to a second tape printing device that prints on a second tape; a tape width information acquisition unit that acquires tape width information indicating the tape width of the second tape, The information processing terminal is characterized in that, when the number of lines of the text indicated by the text information exceeds the number of printable lines corresponding to the tape width indicated by the acquired tape width information, the terminal control unit generates reduced-line text, which is the text with a reduced number of lines, and generates the second print image data based on the generated reduced-line text and the analyzed decoration designation information.

11. a terminal storage unit that stores a plurality of pieces of decoration information relating to decoration of text; an imaging unit that captures a code image obtained by converting text information indicating the text and decoration designation information that designates the decoration information into a code image; a decoding acquisition unit that acquires the text information and the decoration designation information by decoding the image data of the code image; a terminal control unit that analyzes the decoded text information and the decoration designation information and generates second print image data based on the analyzed text information and the decoration designation information; a data transmitting unit that transmits the generated second print image data to a second tape printing device; a display unit, The information processing terminal is characterized in that the terminal control unit determines whether the decoration information specified by the analyzed decoration designation information is stored in the terminal memory unit, and if it determines that the decoration information specified by the decoration designation information is stored in the terminal memory unit, it generates the second print image data based on the analyzed text information and the decoration designation information, and if it determines that the decoration information corresponding to the decoration designation information is not stored in the terminal memory unit, it displays options corresponding to at least some of the decoration information among the multiple decoration information stored in the terminal memory unit on the display unit, and generates the second print image data based on the decoration information corresponding to the option selected by the user and the analyzed text information.

12. a first tape printing device that stores a first program corresponding to a first data structure standard; generating, based on the first program, text information indicating a text and decoration designation information designating decoration information relating to decoration of the text, and generating code image data for outputting a code image obtained by converting the generated text information and the decoration designation information into a code image; and outputting the code image based on the generated code image data. an information processing terminal that stores a terminal program corresponding to the first data structure standard, capturing an image of the code; decoding the captured image data of the code image to obtain the text information and the decoration designation information; analyzing the decoded text information and the decoration designation information based on the terminal program, and generating second print image data based on the analyzed text information and the decoration designation information; transmitting the generated second print image data to a second tape printing device; The second tape printing device receiving the second print image data; and printing a second print image based on the received second print image data onto a second tape.

13. On the information processing terminal, A step of capturing a code image obtained by converting text information indicating a text and decoration designation information designating decoration information relating to decoration of the text into a code image; decoding the captured image data of the code image to obtain the text information and the decoration designation information; analyzing the decoded text information and the decoration designation information, and generating second print image data based on the analyzed text information and the decoration designation information; transmitting the generated second print image data to a second tape printing device that prints on a second tape; and acquiring tape width information indicating the tape width of the second tape, In the step of generating the second print image data, if the number of lines of the text indicated by the text information exceeds the number of printable lines corresponding to the tape width indicated by the acquired tape width information, a program is generated in which reduced line text is generated, which is the text with a reduced number of lines, and the second print image data is generated based on the generated reduced line text and the analyzed decoration designation information.

14. An information processing terminal including a terminal storage unit storing a plurality of pieces of decoration information relating to decoration of text, and a display unit, capturing a code image obtained by converting text information indicating the text and decoration designation information that designates the decoration information into a code image; decoding the captured image data of the code image to obtain the text information and the decoration designation information; analyzing the decoded text information and the decoration designation information, and generating second print image data based on the analyzed text information and the decoration designation information; and transmitting the generated second print image data to a second tape printing device, A program characterized in that in the step of generating the second print image data, it determines whether the decoration information specified by the analyzed decoration designation information is stored in the device memory unit, and if it is determined that the decoration information specified by the decoration designation information is stored in the device memory unit, it generates the second print image data based on the analyzed text information and the decoration designation information, and if it is determined that the decoration information corresponding to the decoration designation information is not stored in the device memory unit, it displays options corresponding to at least some of the decoration information among the multiple decoration information stored in the device memory unit on the display unit, and generates the second print image data based on the decoration information corresponding to the option selected by the user and the analyzed text information.

Images