Printing system, control method of printing system, and printing apparatus

Abstract

To solve the problem that convenience is low when a terminal having no background image information performs composite printing.SOLUTION: A printing system including a second terminal and a printing apparatus capable of communicating with the second terminal, wherein the printing apparatus registers first image information, the second terminal acquires the first image information from the printing apparatus and transmits third image information and second arrangement information relating to relative positions of the first image information and the third image information to the printing apparatus, and the printing apparatus combines and prints the first image information and the received third image information in accordance with the second arrangement information based on reception from the second terminal.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a printing system, a control method for a printing system, and a printing apparatus. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, as shown in Patent Document 1, a label printer is known as a printing device that arranges second image information based on a command received from a host computer as a terminal device and an additional image as the second image information, and combines the second image information with a background image as the first image information stored in a memory unit and prints it. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-105103 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, when another terminal device that does not have the first image information uses the first image information stored in the printing device and attempts to combine it with third image information different from the second image information and print it, the configuration using the above-mentioned printing device makes it difficult to confirm the relative positions of the first image information and the third image information, and further requires the use of a command to position the third image information, making it less convenient. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A printing system comprising a second terminal device and a printing device capable of communicating with the second terminal device, wherein the printing device registers first image information, the second terminal device acquires the first image information from the printing device, and transmits third image information and second placement information relating to the relative positions of the first image information and the third image information to the printing device, and the printing device synthesizes and prints the first image information and the received third image information in accordance with the second placement information based on the information received from the second terminal device.

[0006] A control method for a printing system including a second terminal device and a printing device capable of communicating with the second terminal device, wherein the printing device registers first image information, the second terminal device acquires the first image information from the printing device, and transmits third image information and second placement information relating to the relative positions of the first image information and the third image information to the printing device, and the printing device combines and prints the registered first image information and the received third image information in accordance with the second placement information based on the information received from the second terminal device.

[0007] A printing device capable of communicating with a second terminal device and comprising a printing unit, a control unit, and a memory unit, wherein the memory unit registers first image information, and when the control unit receives third image information and second placement information relating to the relative positions of the first image information and the third image information from the second terminal device, the control unit combines the first image information read from the memory unit and the received third image information in accordance with the second placement information and prints the result using the printing unit. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a printing system. [Figure 2] 10 is a flowchart showing the control of the first terminal device when transmitting to the printing device. [Figure 3] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing first image information. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing second image information. [Figure 5]10 is a schematic diagram showing a first preview screen on the first terminal device, in which the first image information before adjustment and the second image information are combined. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing a first adjustment screen for inputting first adjustment information in the first terminal device. [Figure 7] 10 is a schematic diagram showing a second preview screen on the first terminal device, in which the first image information adjusted using the first adjustment information and the second image information are combined. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart showing the control of the printing device when receiving data from the first terminal device. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart showing the control of the second terminal device when transmitting to the printing device. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing third image information. [Figure 11] 10 is a schematic diagram showing a third preview screen on the second terminal device, in which the first image information before adjustment and the third image information are combined. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a second adjustment screen for inputting second adjustment information in the second terminal device. [Figure 13] 10 is a schematic diagram showing a fourth preview screen on the second terminal device, in which the first image information and the third image information adjusted using the second adjustment information are combined. [Figure 14] 10 is a flowchart showing the control of the printing device when receiving data from the second terminal device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] 1. Printing system configuration 1, the printing system 1 includes a printing device 10, a first terminal device 20, and a second terminal device 30. The second terminal device 30 is a device separate from the first terminal device 20. The printing device 10, the first terminal device 20, and the second terminal device 30 can communicate with each other via a WAN (Wide Area Network) 40, which is, for example, the Internet. The WAN 40 may also be a network such as a LAN (Local Area Network). For example, a unique IP address (Internet Protocol Address) is assigned to each of the printing device 10, the first terminal device 20, and the second terminal device 30. These devices can communicate with a communication destination by specifying the IP address assigned to the communication destination. As another example, the printing device 10, the first terminal device 20, and the second terminal device 30 may communicate directly using a wired method such as USB (Universal Serial Bus), or may communicate directly using a wireless method without going through a network, such as Bluetooth (registered trademark).

[0010] The printing device 10 includes a first control unit 11, a first communication unit 12, and a first storage unit 13. The first control unit 11 comprehensively controls each unit of the printing device 10. The first control unit 11 is configured to include a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver Transmitter) that manages input and output, and logic circuits such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) and a PLD (Programmable Logic Device). The CPU is also called a processor.

[0011] The first storage unit 13 includes a memory such as a flash ROM (Read Only Memory) or HDD (Hard Disk Drive), which is a rewritable nonvolatile memory, and a RAM (Random Access Memory), which is a volatile memory. The CPU of the first control unit 11 reads out a program stored in the nonvolatile memory of the first storage unit 13, and executes the program using the RAM of the first storage unit 13 as a working area. As will be described later, the first storage unit 13 can store the registration of the first image information G1 and store the setting of the first setting information and the second setting information.

[0012] The first communication unit 12 includes a circuit that can communicate wirelessly or via a wired connection. The first communication unit 12 includes an antenna in the case of a wireless connection, and a connector in the case of a wired connection. The first communication unit 12 is capable of communicating via the WAN 40. Although the printing device 10 uses the first communication unit 12 to send and receive data with a communication destination, the following description will omit the sending and receiving of data via the first communication unit 12 for the sake of brevity. The same applies to the second communication unit 22 of the first terminal device 20 and the third communication unit 32 of the second terminal device 30, which will be described later.

[0013] The printing device 10 further includes a printing unit 14. The printing unit 14 includes a printing mechanism such as a head, a transport roller, and a cutter (all not shown). Examples of media to be printed on include plain paper, synthetic paper, photo paper, and film. The medium is, for example, continuous paper that is long and wound into a roll. The medium may also be in sheet form. The printing unit 14 can pull out the medium from the roll using a transport roller, transport it, print using a head, and then cut it using a cutter to produce a printed product of a predetermined size. The head is, for example, an inkjet type, and prints by ejecting ink of multiple colors such as CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black). The printing device 10 may also include an input / output unit having a configuration similar to that of a second input / output unit 24 of the first terminal device 20, which will be described later.

[0014] The first terminal device 20 is, for example, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a computer, etc. The first terminal device 20 includes a second control unit 21, a second communication unit 22, and a second storage unit 23. These components of the first terminal device 20 are almost the same as those of the printing device 10, and therefore will not be described here.

[0015] Furthermore, the first terminal device 20 includes a second input / output unit 24. The second input / output unit 24 is a user interface for the user. The second input / output unit 24 is, for example, a touch panel display, and includes a display panel serving as an output unit that displays various information, and a detection panel serving as an input unit. The detection panel is configured to be overlaid on the display panel, and can detect operations by a user's finger or the like using a capacitance type, a resistive film type, an optical type, or the like. In the second input / output unit 24, the input unit may be a keyboard, a mouse, or buttons, and the output unit may be a stand-type liquid crystal display.

[0016] The second terminal device 30 is, for example, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a computer, etc. The second terminal device 30 includes a third control unit 31, a third communication unit 32, a third storage unit 33, and a third input / output unit 34. These components of the second terminal device 30 are similar to those of the first terminal device 20, and therefore will not be described here. As will be described later, the second terminal device 30 does not have the first image information G1, and is a different terminal device from the first terminal device 20 that has the first image information G1.

[0017] 2. Printing system control method 2-1. Control method of first terminal device First, with reference to Figures 2 to 7, a control method for the first terminal device 20, which is included in the control method for the printing system 1, will be described. Note that in the following description, the first control unit 11 of the printing device 10, the second control unit 21 of the first terminal device 20, and the third control unit 31 of the second terminal device 30 actually execute their respective processes. For simplicity of explanation, the following description will omit the execution of each control unit's process. Also, in each flowchart, including Figure 2, some parts are omitted, such as the first image information G1 being the first image.

[0018] As shown in FIG. 2, the first terminal device 20 starts the process, generates first image information G1, which is background image information (S101), and generates second image information G2, which is additional image information (S102). The first image information G1 is image information relating to a background image that will be the background of the printed matter, for example, as shown in Fig. 3. The second image information G2 is image information relating to an additional image, such as a person that will be the center of the printed matter, for example, as shown in Fig. 4.

[0019] The user can use an application for drawing, photography, or the like on the first terminal device 20 to generate the first image information G1 and the second image information G2 and store them in the second storage unit . Alternatively, the first image information G1 and the second image information G2 may be stored in advance in the second storage unit 23 of the first terminal device 20, and the user may select one of the first image information G1 and the second image information G2 via the second input / output unit 24. In this case, the first terminal device 20 reading out the selected first image information G1 and the second image information G2 from the second storage unit 23 is referred to as generating the first image information G1 and the second image information G2.

[0020] Specifically, the first image information G1 and the second image information G2 are each stored at addresses in a predetermined area of ​​RAM in the second storage unit 23 of the first terminal device 20. The results of each of the following processes are also stored in predetermined areas of RAM at different addresses. Furthermore, as will be described later, the addresses in the RAM of the second storage unit 23 also correspond to the coordinates of each preview screen and the first print image P1.

[0021] The first terminal device 20 superimposes and combines the first image information G1 and the second image information G2, and displays the first preview screen R1 shown in Fig. 5 via the second input / output unit 24 (S103). This combination process is performed on the RAM of the second storage unit 23 of the first terminal device 20. The first preview screen R1 shows a preview screen before the user makes any adjustments. In the example of Fig. 5, the second image information G2 is displayed in front of the first image information G1, but the first image information G1 may be displayed in front of the second image information G2. The user can select which image information to display in front using the second input / output unit 24, and the result of the selection may be included in the first adjustment information AD1, which will be described later. Note that placing the second image information G2 in front of the first image information G1 is also referred to as superimposing or overwriting the second image information G2 on the first image information G1.

[0022] The first image information G1 and the second image information G2 displayed on the first preview screen R1 shown in FIG. 5 are displayed at positions corresponding to the coordinates in the X-axis and Y-axis directions on the first preview screen R1, respectively. The coordinates in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction correspond to addresses in the RAM of the second storage unit 23 that the first terminal device 20 uses to display the first preview screen R1 on the second input / output unit 24. As shown in FIG. 7 described later, the same applies to the second preview screen R2 after the user has made adjustments.

[0023] For example, the first terminal device 20 reads out the combined first image information G1 and second image information G2 in order from a predetermined range of addresses in the RAM of the second storage unit 23, and displays them via the second input / output unit 24. As shown in Fig. 5, the first terminal device 20 can display the combined first image information G1 and second image information G2 at coordinate positions in the X-axis direction and Y-axis direction on the first preview screen R1 that correspond to addresses in the RAM of the second storage unit 23.

[0024] 6, when the user adjusts the position of the second image information G2 displayed on the first preview screen R1, the first terminal device 20 changes the address of the RAM in the second storage unit 23 that stores the second image information G2. That is, the first terminal device 20 changes the address of the RAM to rewrite the second image information G2 and superimpose it on the first image information G1. As a result, the first terminal device 20 can display the second image information G2 as a second preview screen R2 in which the position of the second image information G2 has been changed, as shown in Fig. 7. The first terminal device 20 can also process the first image information G1 in the same manner.

[0025] The explanation will be continued by returning to Fig. 5. The first preview screen R1 shown in Fig. 5 displays the first image information G1 and the second image information G2, each synthesized based on the original image information before adjustment by the user. The first terminal device 20 can display the first adjustment screen A1 shown in Fig. 6 together with the first preview screen R1 of Fig. 5 via the second input / output unit 24. The first adjustment screen A1 is a screen for inputting first adjustment information AD1, which is information for adjusting the first image information G1 and the second image information G2. 6 shows an example in which the first image information G1 is left fixed without adjustment, and the second image information G2 is adjusted. Note that the first adjustment screen A1 may also be configured to leave the second image information G2 fixed and adjust the first image information G1. Furthermore, the first adjustment screen A1 may also be configured to adjust the first image information G1 and the second image information G2.

[0026] The first terminal device 20 acquires first adjustment information AD1, which is first input information input by the user, via the second input / output unit 24. The first terminal device 20 can adjust the second image information G2 based on the acquired first adjustment information AD1 and display it reflected on the first preview screen R1. As described above, the first terminal device 20 changes the address of the RAM of the second storage unit 23 to rewrite the second image information G2. In this way, the user can adjust the second image information G2 by inputting the first adjustment information AD1 into the first adjustment screen A1 of FIG. 6 while viewing the first preview screen R1 of FIG. 5, which reflects the adjustment results.

[0027] Specifically, the first adjustment information AD1 includes adjustment information regarding the size for enlarging or reducing the image information that the user is adjusting, and adjustment information regarding the position for adjusting the position in the X-axis and Y-axis directions. In the example of FIG. 6, for the second image information G2, adjustment information relating to size, namely width W1 mm ​​and length L1 mm, and further adjustment information relating to position, namely width X1 mm and height Y1 mm, are input as first adjustment information AD1. Of the first adjustment information AD1, adjustment information relating to position, such as horizontal X1 mm and vertical Y1 mm, is referred to as first placement information relating to the relative positions of the first image information G1 and the second image information G2. The user can input the first placement information on the first adjustment screen A1 while checking the relative positions of the first image information G1 and the second image information G2 on the first preview screen R1. Note that the input of the first arrangement information by the user is not limited to this example. For example, the user can select or move the second image information G2 displayed on the first preview screen R1 by touching or swiping. In this case, input of the arrangement information via the first adjustment screen A1 can be omitted.

[0028] Based on the acquired first adjustment information AD1, the first terminal device 20 adjusts the size of the second image information G2 so that it has a width of W1 mm ​​and a length of L1 mm, and further shifts and adjusts the position so that it is X1 mm horizontally in the X-axis direction and Y1 mm vertically in the Y-axis direction. If the first adjustment information AD1 includes enlargement or reduction information, the first terminal device 20 adjusts the second image information G2 by enlarging or reducing it using, for example, an image scaling algorithm. If the first adjustment information AD1 includes first placement information, which is information for adjusting the position, the first terminal device 20 adjusts by shifting the position, for example, by changing and rewriting the RAM address. As described above, the first terminal device 20 can perform these processes using the RAM of the second storage unit 23 and display the adjusted results on the second input / output unit 24.

[0029] In this way, the first terminal device 20 can adjust the second image information G2, overlay it on the first image information G1, and display it as the second preview screen R2 intended by the user, as shown in Fig. 7. The first terminal device 20 can also acquire first adjustment information AD1 for creating the second preview screen R2 intended by the user. These are stored in the RAM of the second storage unit 23. Here, the first terminal device 20 acquiring the first adjustment information AD1 input to the second preview screen R2 via the second input / output unit 24 is referred to as generating the first adjustment information AD1 (S104).

[0030] Furthermore, the first terminal device 20 displays a setting preview screen (not shown) for the user to input the first setting information on the second input / output unit 24. The first terminal device 20 determines whether or not the first setting information has been input by the user on the setting preview screen (S105). When the first terminal device 20 determines that the input first setting information exists (S105: YES), the first terminal device 20 acquires the first setting information. Note that, here, acquiring the first setting information input to the setting preview screen via the second input / output unit 24 by the first terminal device 20 is referred to as generating the first setting information (S106). If the first terminal apparatus 20 determines that no first setting information has been input (S105: NO), it does not generate the first setting information and proceeds to the next process.

[0031] The first setting information indicates settings related to printing of image information obtained by combining the first image information G1 and the second image information G2 in the printing device 10. The combined image information is a first print image P1, which will be described later. For example, the first setting information includes information related to color correction such as brightness, contrast, and saturation when ink is ejected onto a medium by the head of the printing unit 14 of the printing device 10. Specifically, the first setting information related to color correction includes image processing coefficients when converting into the amount of ink of each color ejected by the head of the printing unit 14 of the printing device 10. Furthermore, the first setting information can include information for cutting the medium with a cutter of the printing device 10 and information for controlling the amount of medium transport.

[0032] The first terminal device 20 also displays a permission preview screen (not shown) on the second input / output unit 24 for the user to input permission information. More specifically, for example, the permission preview screen displays a message such as "Do you want to register the background image in the printer?" and buttons such as "Yes" and "No." Based on this display, the first terminal device 20 determines whether the user has input permission information into the permission preview screen (S107). If the permission information is present, the first terminal device 20 indicates that it is permitted to register the first image information G1 to the printing device 10. On the other hand, if the permission information is not present, the first terminal device 20 indicates that it is prohibited to register the first image information G1 to the printing device 10.

[0033] When the first terminal device 20 determines that there is input permission information (S107: YES), it acquires the permission information. Note that, here, the first terminal device 20 acquiring the permission information input to the permission preview screen via the second input / output unit 24 is referred to as generating permission information (S108). Here, as will be described later, the permission information may be restriction information. If the first terminal apparatus 20 determines that no permission information has been input (S107: NO), it does not generate permission information and proceeds to the next process.

[0034] The first terminal device 20 transmits the generated first image information G1, second image information G2, and first adjustment information AD1 to the printing device 10 (S109). At this time, the first terminal device 20 also transmits the generated first setting information and permission information, if any. The first terminal device 20 then terminates the process.

[0035] As described above, the user can easily adjust the second image information G2 by inputting the first adjustment information AD1 including the first placement information into the first adjustment screen A1 shown in FIG. 6 while viewing the first preview screen R1, which combines the first image information G1 and the second image information G2 shown in FIG. 5, on the first terminal device 20. Furthermore, the second preview screen R2 adjusted using the first adjustment information AD1 corresponds to the first print image P1 printed by the printing device 10 (described later), and can be easily confirmed by the user. Then, the first terminal device 20 may transmit the generated first adjustment information AD1 to the printing device 10 together with the first image information G1 and the second image information G2.

[0036] In this way, the user can check the relative positions of the first image information and the second image information when combining the first image information and the second image information. The printing system 1 can improve convenience in variable data printing, which allows the second image information to be easily changed relative to the first image information, also known as variable printing. Note that the printing system 1 can also adjust the second image information, allowing the second image information to be easily changed along with the first image information.

[0037] 2-2. Control method of the printing device when receiving from the first terminal device Next, a control method for the printing device 10 when receiving data from the first terminal device 20, which is included in the control method for the printing system 1, will be described with reference to Figures 7 and 8. As in the case of the first terminal device 20 described above, the following process is executed using the RAM of the first storage unit 13 of the printing device 10. As will be described later, the address of the RAM of the first storage unit 13 corresponds to the coordinates of the first print image P1, which is the print data shown in Figure 7.

[0038] As shown in FIG. 8, the printing device 10 starts the process, determines whether the above-mentioned information transmitted from the first terminal device 20 has been received (S201), and waits until it has been received (S201: NO). When the printing device 10 determines that it has received information from the first terminal device 20 (S201: YES), it performs the following process. The information received by the printing device 10 includes the first image information G1, the second image information G2, and the first adjustment information AD1. In addition, if there is first setting information and permission information, these are also included.

[0039] The printing device 10 determines whether the received information includes first setting information (S202), and if it determines that the first setting information does not exist (S202: NO), it proceeds to the next process. If the printing device 10 determines that the first setting information is present (S202: YES), it performs the first setting, which is a process related to the first setting information, as follows (S203).

[0040] That is, if the first setting information includes information related to color correction, the printing device 10 registers in the first memory unit 13 image processing coefficients that convert the amount of ink ejected for each color into corresponding values ​​such as brightness, contrast, and saturation, depending on the information related to color correction. Also, for example, if the first setting information includes information to cut the medium, the printing device 10 registers in the first storage unit 13 that the medium will be cut with a cutter after printing the received image information.

[0041] Next, the printing device 10 combines the first image information G1 read from the first storage unit 13 and the received second image information G2 based on the received first adjustment information AD1 (S204). The printing device 10 can adjust the second image information G2 on the RAM of the first memory unit 13 based on the first adjustment information AD1, and overlay and combine it with the first image information G1, as in the case of the second preview screen R2 of the first terminal device 20 described above.

[0042] As a result of the synthesis, the printing device 10 can generate a first print image P1 that is similar to the second preview screen R2 intended by the user, as shown in Fig. 7. The first print image P1 is stored in the RAM of the first storage unit 13 in a form that allows it to be printed on a medium by the printing unit 14. Note that, here, an example is shown in which the printing device 10 fixes the first image information G1 and adjusts the second image information G2 based on the first adjustment information AD1, similar to the above-described first terminal device 20. The printing device 10 may fix the second image information G2 and adjust the first image information G1, or may adjust the first image information G1 and the second image information G2.

[0043] If the first adjustment information AD1 includes enlargement or reduction information, the printing device 10 adjusts the received second image information G2 by enlarging or reducing it using, for example, an image scaling algorithm. Furthermore, if the first adjustment information AD1 includes first placement information, which is information for adjusting the position, the printing device 10 adjusts it by shifting the position. Specifically, according to the received first adjustment information AD1 shown in the example of Figure 6, the printing device 10 enlarges or reduces the second image information G2 to a size of width W1 mm ​​and length L1 mm, and shifts its position horizontally X1 mm in the X-axis direction and vertically Y1 mm in the Y-axis direction.

[0044] The printing device 10 superimposes the second image information G2, which has been adjusted based on the first adjustment information AD1, on an area in the RAM of the first storage unit 13 where the first image information G1 is stored. In this way, the printing device 10 can superimpose the second image information G2 on the first image information G1 to generate the first print image P1 shown in Fig. 7. At this time, if the first adjustment information AD1 includes selection information regarding which side should be in front, the printing device 10 can perform the superimposition in accordance with the selection information in the first adjustment information AD1. The coordinates in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction shown in FIG. 7 correspond to addresses in a predetermined range in the RAM of the first storage unit 13, where the printing device 10 prints the first print image P1 on a medium.

[0045] The printing device 10 reads the first print image P1 from the RAM of the first storage unit 13 in which the first print image P1 is stored, in order of addresses, and prints the first print image P1 on a medium using the printing unit 14 (S205). Furthermore, when printing the first print image P1 obtained by combining the first image information G1 and the second image information G2, the printing device 10 executes the following process based on the first setting information.

[0046] That is, the printing device 10 refers to the first memory unit 13, and when the first setting information related to color correction is set, converts the ink ejection amount of each color according to the image processing coefficient related to color correction, and prints. Furthermore, the printing device 10 refers to the first storage unit 13, and if first setting information related to cutting has been set, the printing device 10 automatically cuts the medium with a cutter after printing the first print image P1. If first setting information related to cutting does not exist, the printing device 10 does not automatically cut the medium with a cutter after printing the first print image P1, but in this case the user can instruct the printing device 10 to execute cutting via a cut execution button (not shown) provided on the printing device 10 or the first terminal device 20. As a result, the printing device 10 can print on the medium a printed matter such as the first print image P1 shown in FIG. 7, as intended by the user. The printing device 10 may register the first setting information in a flash ROM of the first storage unit 13, and read and use the information even after the power is turned on again.

[0047] As described above, when the permission information is present, it indicates that the first terminal device 20 is permitted to register the first image information G1 in the printing device 10. On the other hand, when the permission information is absent, it indicates that the first terminal device 20 is not permitted to register the first image information G1 in the printing device 10 and is therefore prohibited. The printing device 10 determines whether the received information includes permission information (S206), and if it determines that the information does not include permission information (S206: NO), the printing device 10 proceeds to the next process. Note that if the permission information does not exist, the printing device 10 may delete the first image information G1 from the first storage unit 13.

[0048] If the printing device 10 determines that permission information is present (S206: YES), it registers the first image information G1 in the first storage unit 13 (S207). At this time, if first setting information is present, the printing device 10 may associate the first setting information with the first image information G1 and register it in the first storage unit 13. Note that registering information in the first storage unit 13 is also referred to as storing information in the first storage unit 13. Note that, by following a series of processes similar to those described above, the first terminal device 20 can transmit another piece of first image information G1 to the printing device 10, and the printing device 10 can register the received piece of first image information G1. In this way, the printing device 10 can also register multiple pieces of first image information G1.

[0049] The printing device 10 deletes the second image information G2 from the first storage unit 13 (S208) and ends the process. Here, the timing for deleting the second image information G2 from the first storage unit 13 is after the first print image P1 is generated or after the first print image P1 is printed on the medium. As another example, the timing for deletion may be when the printing device 10 receives new image information for a subsequent print job. In other words, the second image information G2 may be in a state where it can be overwritten and deleted. For security reasons, it is preferable that the first image information G1 and the second image information G2 not be used for other purposes. For this reason, the printing device 10 registers the first image information G1, which is related to a background image, etc., only if permission information is available. On the other hand, the printing device 10 deletes the second image information G2, which is related to an image of a person, etc., which is of higher security importance, so that it cannot be reused.

[0050] When the printing device 10 receives permission information from the first terminal device 20, the printing device 10 can set the restriction information to indicate that the reuse of the first image information G1 is permitted. On the other hand, when the printing device 10 does not receive permission information from the first terminal device 20, the printing device 10 can set the restriction information to indicate that the reuse of the first image information G1 is prohibited. The printing device 10 may use the restriction information as information that indicates permission for reprinting when permission information is received, or that indicates prohibition of reprinting when permission information is not received.

[0051] In this way, if permission information is available, the printing device 10 can register the first image information G1 and use the permission information as restriction information to permit reuse. On the other hand, if permission information is not available, the printing device 10 can not register the first image information G1 and can generate restriction information reflecting the absence of permission information and prohibiting reuse. The printing device 10 registers the restriction information in the flash ROM of the first storage unit 13 so that the restriction information can be read and used even after the power is turned on again.

[0052] 2-3. Control method of second terminal device 9 to 13, a control method for the second terminal device 30, which is included in the control method for the printing system 1, will be described. Note that the following description will focus on the differences from the control method for the first terminal device 20 described above, and similar details will be omitted.

[0053] 9, the second terminal device 30 starts processing and requests the first image information G1 from the printing device 10 (S301). If the restriction information registered in the first storage unit 13 indicates that reuse is permitted, the printing device 10 can transmit the registered first image information G1 to the second terminal device 30. In this case, the second terminal device 30 can receive and acquire the first image information G1 from the printing device 10 (S302). The second terminal device 30 can reuse the first image information G1 that was previously registered in the printing device 10. In other words, after the printing device 10 registers the first image information G1, the second terminal device 30 acquires and reuses the first image information G1 from the printing device 10. In this embodiment, an example is described in which the printing device 10 registers the first image information G1 in advance using the first terminal device 20, but if the first image information G1 has already been registered in the printing device 10, the printing system 1 only needs to include the second terminal device 30 and the printing device 10, and does not need to include the first terminal device 20.

[0054] For convenience of illustration, FIG. 9 shows a case where the second terminal device 30 acquires the first image information G1 from the printing device 10. On the other hand, if the restriction information indicates that reuse is prohibited, the printing device 10 does not transmit the first image information G1 to the second terminal device 30. As a result, although not shown in Fig. 9, the second terminal device 30 is unable to acquire the first image information G1. The second terminal device 30 may notify the user by displaying an error message via the second input / output unit 24 indicating that the first image information G1 could not be acquired, and then terminate the process.

[0055] The second terminal device 30 generates third image information G3, which is additional image information (S303). The third image information G3 is image information of a person or the like different from that of the second image information G2, as shown in Fig. 10, for example, and is image information different from that of the second image information G2. The first image information G1 and the third image information G3 are each stored at an address in a predetermined area of ​​RAM in the third storage unit 33 of the second terminal device 30. The results of each of the following processes are also stored in a predetermined area of ​​RAM at a different address. The addresses in the RAM of the third storage unit 33 also correspond to the coordinates of each preview screen.

[0056] The second terminal device 30 superimposes and synthesizes the acquired first image information G1 and the generated third image information G3, and displays the third preview screen R3 shown in FIG. 11 via the third input / output unit 34 (S304). 11 correspond to addresses in the RAM of the third storage unit 33 used by the second terminal device 30 to display the third preview screen R3 on the third input / output unit 34. The same applies to the fourth preview screen R4 after adjustment, which is shown in FIG. 13 and will be described later.

[0057] The first image information G1 and the third image information G3 of the third preview screen R3 shown in FIG. 11 are original image information before adjustment. The second terminal device 30 displays the second adjustment screen A2 shown in Fig. 12 together with the third preview screen R3 of Fig. 11 via the third input / output unit 34. The second adjustment screen A2 is a screen on which the user inputs second adjustment information AD2, which is information for adjusting the first image information G1 and the third image information G3. 12 shows an example in which the first image information G1 is left fixed without adjustment, and the third image information G3 is adjusted. Note that the second adjustment screen A2 may also be configured to leave the third image information G3 fixed and adjust the first image information G1. Furthermore, the second adjustment screen A2 may also be configured to adjust the first image information G1 and the third image information G3.

[0058] The second terminal device 30 acquires second adjustment information AD2, which is second input information input by the user, via the third input / output unit 34. The second terminal device 30 can adjust the third image information G3 based on the acquired second adjustment information AD2 and display the adjusted information on the third preview screen R3. The second adjustment information AD2 includes size-related adjustment information and position-related adjustment information for the third image information G3. In the example of FIG. 12, size-related adjustment information, i.e., width W 2 mm and length L 2 mm, is input, and position-related adjustment information, i.e., width X 2 mm and height Y 2 mm, is input. The second position information is information in the second adjustment information AD2 that relates to the relative positions of the first image information G1 and the third image information G3. Note that the input of the second position information by the user is not limited to this example. As described above, the user can also select, move, etc., the third image information G3 by touching or swiping.

[0059] Based on the acquired second adjustment information AD2, the second terminal device 30 adjusts the size of the third image information G3 so that it has a width of W2 mm and a length of L2 mm, and further shifts and adjusts the position so that it is X2 mm horizontally in the X-axis direction and Y2 mm vertically in the Y-axis direction. In this way, the second terminal device 30 can adjust the third image information G3, superimpose it on the first image information G1, and display it as the fourth preview screen R4 intended by the user, as shown in Fig. 13. The second terminal device 30 can also acquire the second adjustment information AD2. Here, the second terminal device 30 acquiring the second adjustment information AD2 input to the fourth preview screen R4 via the third input / output unit 34 is referred to as generating the second adjustment information AD2 (S305).

[0060] Furthermore, the second terminal device 30 displays a setting preview screen (not shown) for the user to input second setting information on the third input / output unit 34. The second terminal device 30 determines whether or not the user has input second setting information into the setting preview screen (S306). When the second terminal device 30 determines that the second setting information has been input (S306: YES), the second terminal device 30 acquires the second setting information. Note that, here, acquiring the second setting information input to the setting preview screen via the third input / output unit 34 by the second terminal device 30 is referred to as generating the second setting information (S307).

[0061] On the other hand, if the second terminal apparatus 30 determines that no second setting information has been input (S306: NO), it does not generate second setting information and proceeds to the next process. As described above, the printing device 10 may register the first setting information received from the first terminal device 20 in the first storage unit 13 in association with the first image information G1. In this case, the second terminal device 30 does not need to generate and send the second setting information to the printing device 10. In the following processing, the printing device 10 can use the registered first setting information instead of the second setting information.

[0062] The second setting information indicates settings related to printing of image information obtained by combining the first image information G1 and the third image information G3 in the printing device 10. The combined image information is a second print image P2, which will be described later. For example, the second setting information may include information related to color correction. Furthermore, the second setting information may include information for cutting the medium with a cutter.

[0063] The second terminal device 30 transmits the generated first image information G1, third image information G3, and second adjustment information AD2 to the printing device 10 (S308). At this time, if there is generated second setting information, the second terminal device 30 also transmits this information. Then, the second terminal device 30 ends the process. It should be noted that if the printing device 10 has registered the first image information G1, the second terminal device 30 does not need to transmit the first image information G1 to the printing device 10. Furthermore, if the printing device 10 has registered multiple pieces of first image information G1, the second terminal device 30 can select and acquire one piece of first image information G1 from the printing device 10. In this case, the second terminal device 30 does not transmit one piece of first image information G1 to the printing device 10, but simply transmits information indicating that one piece of first image information G1 has been selected.

[0064] In this way, unlike the first terminal device 20, the second terminal device 30 does not have the first image information G1, but can obtain it from the printing device 10 if the restriction information indicates that reuse is permitted. The user generates third image information G3 using the second terminal device 30. Then, the user can easily adjust the third image information G3 by inputting second adjustment information AD2 including the second placement information into the second adjustment screen A2 shown in FIG. 12 while viewing the third preview screen R3 shown in FIG. 11, which combines the first image information G1 and the third image information G3. The fourth preview screen R4 adjusted using the second adjustment information AD2 corresponds to the second print image P2 to be printed by the printing device 10 (described later), and can be easily confirmed by the user.

[0065] Furthermore, the first image information G1 generated by the first terminal device 20 can be reused by the second terminal device 30 via the printing device 10. Similarly, the first terminal device 20 can also reuse the first image information G1. The first image information G1 can be shared by the first terminal device 20 and the second terminal device 30 via the printing device 10.

[0066] 2-4. Control method of the printing device when receiving from the second terminal device 13 and 14, a control method for the printing device 10 when receiving data from the second terminal device 30, which is included in the control method for the printing system 1, will be described. Note that the following description will focus on the differences from the control method for the printing device when receiving data from the first terminal device 20 described above, and similar content will be omitted.

[0067] As shown in FIG. 14, the printing device 10 starts processing and receives a request to transmit the first image information G1 from the second terminal device 30 (S401). As described above, the restriction information indicates whether the first image information G1 is permitted to be reused or not, based on the permission information. The printing device 10 refers to the first storage unit 13 and determines whether the restriction information indicates that the first image information G1 is permitted to be reused (S402).

[0068] If the printing device 10 determines that the restriction information indicates that reuse is permitted (S402: YES), it reads out the first image information G1 registered in the first storage unit 13 and transmits it to the second terminal device 30 (S403). The second terminal device 30 can reuse the first image information G1 registered in the printing device 10. On the other hand, if the printing device 10 determines that the restriction information indicates that reuse is prohibited (S402: NO), it does not transmit the first image information G1 to the second terminal device 30. In this case, the first image information G1 may not be registered in the first storage unit 13 of the printing device 10. The printing device 10 may transmit an error to the second terminal device 30 indicating that the first image information G1 cannot be transmitted, and end the process.

[0069] The printing device 10 determines whether the information transmitted from the second terminal device 30 has been received (S404), and waits until it is received (S404: NO). When the printing device 10 determines that it has received information from the second terminal device 30 (S404: YES), it performs the following process. The information received by the printing device 10 includes the third image information G3 and the second adjustment information AD2, as well as the second setting information, if set.

[0070] As described above, the printing device 10 refers to the first storage unit 13 to acquire the registered first image information G1. At this time, the printing device 10 may have multiple pieces of first image information G1 registered. In this case, the printing device 10 can select and acquire one piece of first image information G1 by referring to the first storage unit 13 based on information transmitted by the second terminal device 30 indicating that one piece of first image information G1 has been selected. Then, the printing device 10 can transmit one piece of first image information G1 in response to a request from the second terminal device 30.

[0071] The printing device 10 determines whether the received information includes second setting information (S405), and if it determines that the second setting information does not exist (S405: NO), the printing device 10 proceeds to the next process. If the printing device 10 determines that the second setting information is present (S405: YES), it performs the second setting, which is a setting-related process, as follows (S406).

[0072] That is, if the second setting information includes information related to color correction, the printing device 10 registers, for example, in the first memory unit 13, image processing coefficients that convert the amount of ink ejected for each color according to the information related to color correction. Furthermore, for example, if the second setting information includes information for cutting the medium, the printing device 10 registers in the first storage unit 13 that the medium will be cut with a cutter.

[0073] Next, the printing device 10 combines the first image information G1 read from the first storage unit 13 and the received third image information G3 based on the received second adjustment information AD2 (S407). The printing device 10 can adjust the third image information G3 on the RAM of the first memory unit 13 based on the second adjustment information AD2, and overlay and combine it with the first image information G1, as in the case of the fourth preview screen R4 of the second terminal device 30 described above.

[0074] Here, as in the case of the second terminal device 30 described above, an example is shown in which the first image information G1 is fixed and the third image information G3 is adjusted based on the second adjustment information AD2, but it is also possible to fix the third image information G3 and adjust the first image information G1, or to adjust the first image information G1 and the third image information G3. As a result of the synthesis, the printing device 10 can generate a second print image P2 that is similar to the fourth preview screen R4 intended by the user, as shown in Fig. 13. The second print image P2 is stored in the RAM of the first storage unit 13 in a form that allows it to be printed on a medium by the printing unit 14.

[0075] Specifically, in accordance with the received second adjustment information AD2 shown in the example of Figure 12, the printing device 10 enlarges or reduces the third image information G3 to a size of width W2 mm and length L2 mm, and adjusts by shifting the position horizontally X2 mm in the X-axis direction and vertically Y2 mm in the Y-axis direction.

[0076] The printing device 10 superimposes the adjusted third image information G3 on the area in the RAM of the first storage unit 13 where the first image information G1 is stored based on the second adjustment information AD2. When the second adjustment information AD2 includes selection information as to which of the first image information G1 and the third image information G3 should be placed in front, the printing device 10 superimposes the images in accordance with the selection information.

[0077] The coordinates in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction shown in FIG. 13 correspond to addresses in a predetermined range in the RAM of the first storage unit 13, where the printing device 10 prints the second print image P2 on a medium. The printing device 10 reads the second print image P2 from the RAM of the first storage unit 13 in which the second print image P2 is stored, in order of addresses, and prints the second print image P2 on a medium using the printing unit 14 (S408). In this way, if the restriction information indicates that reuse is permitted, the printing device 10 can reuse the first image information G1. As described above, the restriction information can also be information that indicates that reprinting is permitted, and if the restriction information indicates that reprinting is permitted, the printing device 10 can reprint the first image information G1. On the other hand, if the restriction information indicates that reprinting is prohibited, the printing device 10 will not reprint the first image information G1.

[0078] When printing the second print image P2 obtained by combining the first image information G1 and the third image information G3, the printing device 10 executes the following process based on the second setting information. The printing device 10 refers to the first memory unit 13, and if second setting information related to color correction is set, converts the ink ejection amount of each color according to the image processing coefficient related to color correction, and prints. Furthermore, the printing device 10 refers to the first storage unit 13, and if second setting information related to cutting has been set, cuts the medium with a cutter after printing the second print image P2. Furthermore, even if the second setting information is not available, if the first setting information is set in the first storage unit 13, the printing device 10 can use the first setting information to process in the same manner as in the case of the second setting information described above.

[0079] As a result, the printing device 10 can print on the medium a printed matter such as the second print image P2 shown in FIG. 13, as intended by the user. The printing device 10 may register the second setting information in a flash ROM of the first storage unit 13, and read and use the information even after the power is turned on again. The printing device 10 deletes the third image information G3 from the first storage unit 13 (S409) and ends the process. The printing device 10 deletes the third image information G3, such as a person image that is important from a security standpoint, to prevent it from being reused. Here, the timing for deleting the third image information G3 from the first storage unit 13 is after the second print image P2 is generated or after the second print image P2 is printed on a medium. As another example, the timing for deletion may be when the printing device 10 receives new image information for a subsequent print job. In other words, the third image information G3 may be in a state where it can be overwritten and deleted.

[0080] As described above, the printing system 1 includes the second terminal device 30 and the printing device 10 that can communicate with the second terminal device 30. The printing device 10 registers the first image information G1, and the second terminal device 30 acquires the first image information G1 from the printing device 10 and transmits to the printing device 10 the third image information G3 and second adjustment information AD2 including second placement information relating to the relative positions of the first image information G1 and the third image information G3. Based on the information received from the second terminal device 30, the printing device 10 can combine and print the first image information G1 and the received third image information G3 in accordance with the second arrangement information.

[0081] As described above, the printing device 10 is capable of communicating with the second terminal device 30 and includes a printing unit 14, a first control unit 11, and a first storage unit 13. The first storage unit 13 stores the first image information G1. When the first control unit 11 receives from the second terminal device 30 the third image information G3 and the second adjustment information AD2 including second placement information relating to the relative positions of the first image information G1 and the third image information G3, the first control unit 11 can combine the first image information G1 read from the first storage unit 13 and the received third image information G3 in accordance with the second placement information and print the combined image using the printing unit 14.

[0082] As a result, the printing system 1 equipped with such a printing device 10 can reuse the first image information G1 stored in the printing device 10 by the first terminal device 20, even if the second terminal device 30 does not have the first image information G1. The second terminal device 30 can combine and display the generated third image information G3 and the first image information G1 acquired from the printing device 10.

[0083] When combining and printing the first image information G1 and the third image information G3, the user can easily check the relative positions of the first image information G1 and the third image information G3 using the second terminal device 30. At this time, the printing device 10 acquires the second adjustment information AD2 input by the user to the second terminal device 30, combines the first image information G1 and the third image information G3, and can easily print the second print image P2 intended by the user. In this way, the printing system 1 can easily reuse and reprint the first image information G1, thereby improving convenience.

[0084] The above describes the embodiments in detail with reference to the drawings, but the specific configuration is not limited to the embodiments, and may be changed, replaced, deleted, etc. as long as it does not deviate from the gist of the present invention. In the above description, the head of the printing unit 14 is an inkjet type head, but it may be an electrophotographic type head or other type head. Although the above description has been given using an example in which there is one second terminal device 30, the printing system 1 may include multiple devices equivalent to the second terminal device 30. Each device can combine image information different from the second image information G2 with the first image information G1 and print it on the printing device 10.

[0085] In the above description, the printing device 10 generates restriction information to prohibit reuse if permission information is not available. However, the printing device 10 may not generate restriction information, and may instead determine that reuse of the first image information G1 is prohibited if permission information is not available, and may not transmit the first image information G1 to the second terminal device 30. [Explanation of symbols]

[0086] 1...printing system, 10...printing device, 11...first control unit, 13...first memory unit, 14...printing unit, 20...first terminal device, 21...second control unit, 23...second memory unit, 24...second input / output unit, 30...second terminal device, 31...third control unit, 33...third memory unit, 34...third input / output unit, AD1...first adjustment information, AD2...second adjustment information, G1...first image information, G2...second image information, G3...third image information, P1...first print image, P2...second print image, R1...first preview screen, R2...second preview screen, R3...third preview screen, R4...fourth preview screen.

Claims

1. A printing system including a second terminal device and a printing device capable of communicating with the second terminal device, the printing device registers first image information; the second terminal device acquires the first image information from the printing device, and transmits third image information and second arrangement information relating to relative positions of the first image information and the third image information to the printing device; The printing system is configured such that the printing device combines the first image information and the received third image information in accordance with the second layout information based on the reception from the second terminal device and prints the combined image information.

2. the printing device is capable of communicating with a first terminal device, the first terminal device transmits to the printing device the first image information, second image information different from the third image information, and first placement information relating to relative positions of the first image information and the second image information; the printing device combines and prints the first image information and the second image information in accordance with the first layout information based on the reception from the first terminal device, and registers the first image information; The printing system according to claim 1 , wherein the second terminal device acquires the first image information from the printing device after the printing device has registered the first image information.

3. 3. The printing system according to claim 2, wherein the first terminal device displays a first preview screen in which the first image information and the second image information are superimposed, and generates the first layout information based on the input first input information.

4. 2. The printing system according to claim 1, wherein the second terminal device displays a third preview screen in which the first image information and the third image information are superimposed, and generates the second layout information based on input second input information.

5. The printing system according to claim 1 , wherein the printing device combines and prints the first image information and the third image information, and then deletes the third image information.

6. The printing system according to claim 2 , wherein the printing device combines and prints the first image information and the second image information, and then deletes the second image information.

7. 2. The printing system according to claim 1, wherein the printing device registers setting information corresponding to the first image information, and executes settings for printing an image obtained by combining the first image information received from the second terminal device and the third image information based on the setting information.

8. The printing system according to claim 1 , wherein when the printing device has registered a plurality of pieces of first image information, the second terminal device can select and acquire one piece of the first image information from the printing device.

9. A control method for a printing system including a second terminal device and a printing device capable of communicating with the second terminal device, comprising: the printing device registers first image information; the second terminal device acquires the first image information from the printing device, and transmits third image information and second arrangement information relating to relative positions of the first image information and the third image information to the printing device; A control method for a printing system, in which the printing device combines and prints the registered first image information and the received third image information in accordance with the second arrangement information based on reception from the second terminal device.

10. The printing system includes a first terminal device, and the printing device is capable of communicating with the first terminal device, the first terminal device transmits to the printing device the first image information, second image information different from the third image information, and first placement information relating to relative positions of the first image information and the second image information; 10. The printing system control method of claim 9, wherein the printing device combines and prints the first image information and the second image information in accordance with the first arrangement information based on the information received from the first terminal device, and registers the first image information; and the second terminal device acquires the first image information from the printing device after the printing device has registered the first image information.

11. A printing device capable of communicating with a second terminal device, the printing device comprising a printing unit, a control unit, and a storage unit, the storage unit registers first image information, The control unit receiving third image information and second arrangement information relating to relative positions of the first image information and the third image information from the second terminal device; a printing device that combines the first image information read from the storage unit and the received third image information in accordance with the second arrangement information and prints the combined image by the printing unit;

12. capable of communicating with a first terminal device, The control unit receiving, from the first terminal device, the first image information, second image information different from the third image information, and first arrangement information relating to relative positions of the first image information and the second image information; combining the first image information and the second image information in accordance with the first arrangement information, printing the combined image by the printing unit, and registering the first image information; The printing device according to claim 11 , wherein the first image information is transmitted to the second terminal device after the first image information is registered.

Images