Display program, display device, and display method

Abstract

Provided are a display program, a display system, and a display device capable of displaying design data to be printed using a rentable lending object and design data to be printed using a non-rentable lending object on a display unit in a distinguishable manner, or displaying the design data to be printed using the rentable lending object on the display unit without displaying the design data to be printed using the non-rentable lending object.SOLUTION: The display apparatus displays first design information G121, G122, and G123 that can be printed using a first object to be lent by a lending service that lends at least one of media and printers, and does not display second design information that can be printed using a second object to be lent by the lending service.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a display program, a display device, and a display method. [Background technology]

[0002] The display program of Patent Document 1 includes an acquisition step, a search step, and a display step. In the acquisition step, data on the tape width desired by the user and print data are acquired. In the search step, all combinations of tape color and ink color for all types of cartridges that correspond to the tape width data acquired in the acquisition step are searched for. In the display step, a print image of the print data based on the combinations searched for in the search step is displayed on the display unit. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-69596 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] To provide a medium and printer rental service that requires distinguishing between design data printed using a rental object that can be rented and design data printed using a non-rentable rental object on a display unit, and requiring that design data printed using a rental object that can be rented be displayed on a display unit without displaying design data printed using a non-rentable rental object.

[0005] The object of the present invention is to provide a display program, a display system, and a display device that can distinguish between design data printed using loanable rental objects and design data printed using non-loanable rental objects and display them on a display unit, or that can display design data printed using loanable rental objects on a display unit without displaying design data printed using non-loanable rental objects. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A display program according to a first aspect of the present invention is characterized in that it causes a processor that displays multiple design data on a display unit to display on the display unit first design data among the multiple design data that can be printed using a first rental object that is a rental target of a rental service that rents out at least one of a medium and a printer, and executes a design display process that does not display on the display unit second design data among the multiple design data that can be printed using a second rental object that is not a rental target of the rental service.

[0007] According to the first aspect, first design data using a first rental object that is the object to be rented out through the rental service can be displayed on the display unit without displaying second design data using a second rental object that is not the object to be rented out through the rental service.

[0008] A display program according to a second aspect of the present invention is characterized in that it causes a processor that displays multiple design data on a display unit to execute a design display process that distinguishes between first design data that can be printed using a first rental object that is a rental target of a rental service that rents out at least one of a medium and a printer, and second design data that can be printed using a second rental object that is not a rental target of a rental service, and displays the distinguished design data on the display unit.

[0009] According to the second aspect, first design data using a first possible rental object that can be rented out through the rental service and second design data using a second rental object that cannot be rented out through the rental service can be displayed separately on the display unit.

[0010] A display device according to a third aspect of the present invention is a display device comprising a display unit that displays a plurality of design data and a processor that controls the display unit to display the plurality of design data, wherein the processor executes a design display process that causes the display unit to display first design data, of the plurality of design data, that can be printed using a first rental object that is a rental target of a rental service that rents out at least one of a medium and a printer, and does not display second design data, of the plurality of design data, that can be printed using a second rental object that is not a rental target of the rental service. The third aspect achieves the same effects as the first aspect.

[0011] A fourth aspect of the present invention provides a display device comprising a display unit that displays a plurality of design data and a processor that controls the display unit to display the plurality of design data, wherein the processor executes a design display process that distinguishes between first design data that can be printed using a first rental object that is available from a rental service that rents out at least one of a medium and a printer, and second design data that can be printed using a second rental object that is not available from the rental service, and displays the distinguished design data on the display unit. The fourth aspect provides the same effect as the second aspect.

[0012] A display method according to a fifth aspect of the present invention is a display method for displaying a plurality of design data on a display unit, the display method comprising: a design display step of displaying, on the display unit, first design data among the plurality of design data that can be printed using a first rental object that is a rental target of a rental service that rents out at least one of a medium and a printer, and not displaying, on the display unit, second design data among the plurality of design data that can be printed using a second rental object that is not a rental target of the rental service. The fifth aspect achieves the same effects as the first aspect.

[0013] A display method according to a sixth aspect of the present invention is a display method for displaying a plurality of design data on a display unit, comprising a design display step of distinguishing between first design data that can be printed using a first rental object that is a rental target of a rental service that rents out at least one of a medium and a printer, and second design data that can be printed using a second rental object that is not a rental target of the rental service and displayed on the display unit. The sixth aspect achieves the same effect as the second aspect. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an overview of a system 1. [Figure 2] 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a management server 2 and a display device 3. FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a first display screen D1(1). [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a first display screen D1(2). [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a first display screen D1(3). [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a first display screen D1(4). [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a first display screen D1(5). [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a first display screen D1(6). [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a first display screen D1(7). [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a first display screen D1(8). [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a first display screen D1(9). [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a first display screen D1(10). [Figure 13] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a first display screen D1(11). [Figure 14] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a first display screen D1(12). [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a second display screen D2(1). [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a second display screen D2(2). [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a second display screen D2(3). [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a second display screen D2(4). [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a second display screen D2(5). [Figure 20] 10 is a flowchart of a first registration process. [Figure 21] 10 is a flowchart of a second registration process. [Figure 22] 10 is a flowchart of a post counting process. [Figure 23] 10 is a flowchart of a display process. [Figure 24] 24 is a flowchart of the display process, which is a continuation of FIG. 23. [Figure 25] 25 is a flowchart of the display process, which is a continuation of FIG. 24. [Figure 26] 10 is a flowchart of a narrowing-down process. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015] A system 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The drawings are used to explain technical features that may be adopted by the present invention. The configurations of the devices described are merely illustrative examples and are not intended to be limiting.

[0016] <System 1 Overview> The system 1 shown in FIG. 1 provides a rental service in which label printers P and cassettes C are rented to users. The system 1 stores a plurality of label printers P and cassettes C. In the rental service, the label printer P and cassette C necessary for printing desired design data are rented to the user. The user can print the desired design data by using the rented label printer P and cassette C. The system 1 is installed, for example, in an amusement facility or the like.

[0017] The system 1 includes a management server 2 and a display device 3. The management server 2 operates a rental service. The display device 3 is a tablet terminal used by a user. The user performs an input operation on the display device 3 to select desired design data. The management server 2 rents to the user a label printer P and cassette C required to print the selected design data.

[0018] Label printer P is a printer that prints using the thermal transfer method. A cassette C is loaded into label printer P. Label printer P prints design data onto the tape in cassette C by heating the ink ribbon in cassette C with a thermal head. The tape with the printed design data is ejected from cassette C and cut off by label printer P. This creates a label. The cassettes C that can be loaded into label printer P are specified for each label printer P.

[0019] The cassette C is inserted into the label printer P for use. The cassette C contains an ink ribbon and tape. The tape has a laminated structure of a substrate, an adhesive, and a release paper. The release paper is attached to one side of the substrate by the adhesive applied to one side of the substrate. When the release paper is peeled off from the substrate, the adhesive is exposed. By peeling off the release paper from the label created by the label printer P, the user can attach the substrate to an object using the adhesive.

[0020] Cassettes C are available in laminate type and receptor type. Laminate type cassettes C also contain a transparent film. In laminate type cassettes C, an adhesive is applied to the other side of the substrate. On the other hand, receptor type cassettes C do not contain a transparent film. In receptor type cassettes C, an adhesive is not applied to the other side of the substrate.

[0021] When a laminate-type cassette C is used, design data is printed on one side of a transparent film by a label printer P. The film with the printed design data is then attached to the tape using an adhesive applied to the other side of the substrate. At this time, the printed side of the film comes into contact with the substrate. The tape is ejected from the cassette C with the film attached to the substrate.

[0022] When a receptor type cassette C is used, design data is printed on the other side of the substrate by a label printer P. The tape on which the substrate has been printed by the label printer P is discharged from the cassette C as is.

[0023] The width of the tape, the color of the base material, and the color of the ink ribbon contained in the cassette C are specified for each cassette C. The design data for the label created using the cassette C is expressed in colors that can be expressed by the base material and the ink ribbon contained in the cassette C, and is expressed in a size that corresponds to the width of the tape contained in the cassette C.

[0024] Hereinafter, the state in which a label printer P and cassette C that are subject to the rental service are stored in the system 1 will be referred to as "in stock." The state in which a label printer P and cassette C that are not subject to the rental service are not stored in the system 1 will be referred to as "out of stock."

[0025] With the rental service, a label printer P and cassette C that are in stock and not being rented out by another user can be immediately rented out to a user. On the other hand, with the rental service, even if a label printer P and cassette C are in stock, they cannot be rented out to a user if they are rented out (on loan) by another user. In contrast, a user can reserve a label printer P and cassette C that are on loan. When a label printer P and cassette C are reserved, the rental service will rent the label printer P and cassette C to the user once the reserved label printer P and cassette C are returned and become available for rental.

[0026] On the other hand, in the rental service, a label printer P and a cassette C that are out of stock in the system 1 cannot be rented to a user.

[0027] <Electrical configuration> The electrical configuration of the management server 2 and the display device 3 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0028] The management server 2 includes a control unit 20, a liquid crystal display (LCD) 23, a keyboard 24, and a communication interface (I / F) 25. The control unit 20 controls the management server 2. The control unit 20 includes a processor 21 and a memory 22. The processor 21 is, for example, a CPU, FPGA, ASIC, MPU, NPU, SoC, etc. The processor 21 may include a plurality of these. The memory 22 includes various volatile or non-volatile storage elements. For example, the memory 22 includes a ROM, an EEPROM, a RAM, a flash memory, etc. The memory 22 stores at least programs for the processor 21 to execute various processes, master data of design data, a submission count database, a cassette database, and a printer database. The LCD 23 displays various images. The keyboard 24 accepts various data input by the user. The communication I / F 25 is a communication device for wirelessly communicating with the display device 3 and a mobile terminal Q held by the user, and for communicating with an external server 9 via a network X.

[0029] The display device 3 includes a control unit 30, an LCD 33, a touch panel 34, and a communication I / F 35. The control unit 30 controls the display device 3. The control unit 30 includes a processor 31 and a memory 32. The processor 31 is, for example, a CPU, FPGA, ASIC, MPU, NPU, SoC, etc. The processor 31 may include a plurality of these. The memory 32 includes various volatile or non-volatile storage elements. For example, the memory 32 is a ROM, EEPROM, RAM, flash memory, etc. The memory 32 stores at least programs for the processor 31 to execute various processes, master data of design data acquired from the management server 2, a submission number database, a cassette database, and a printer database. The LCD 33 displays a display screen D. The touch panel 34 is provided on the surface of the LCD 33. The touch panel 34 detects a position touched by a user. The communication I / F 35 is a communication device for wirelessly communicating with the management server 2 and a portable terminal Q carried by the user.

[0030] <Display screen D> We will now explain specific examples (first display screen D1, second display screen D2) of the display screen D displayed on the LCD 33 of the display device 3. The display screen D is a screen that allows the user to select design data for labels to be created using the cassette C and label printer P. For example, when the processor 31 of the display device 3 detects, via the touch panel 34, an operation to launch an application for selecting design data, the processor 31 causes the LCD 33 to display the display screen D.

[0031] The display screen D includes an initial screen and a detailed screen. On the initial screen, multiple design data are displayed in order in a ranking format. The colors of the design data are expressed in colors that can be expressed by the colors of the base material and ink ribbon contained in the cassette C used to print the design data. The detailed screen is displayed after one of the multiple design data displayed on the initial screen is selected. On the detailed screen, design data of a size that can be printed using the label printer P and cassette C is finally displayed, based on the design data selected by the user on the initial screen.

[0032] Note that the LCD 33 may display either the first display screen D1 or the second display screen D2, which is predetermined, or may display a display screen D selected by the user from the first display screen D1 or the second display screen D2. The user may further perform an operation to specify the first display screen D1 or the second display screen D2, thereby causing the LCD 33 of the display device 3 to display the desired display screen D.

[0033] <First embodiment (first display screen D1)> A first display screen D1 (D1(1) to D1(12)), which is an example of the display screen D, will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0034] In the initial screen and detail screen of the first display screen D1, the first sheet T11 and the second sheet T12 are displayed overlapping each other. The tab of the first sheet T11 is marked with the character string "In stock / Available for loan." The tab of the second sheet T12 is marked with the character string "In stock / On loan." In the first display screens D1(1) (see FIG. 3) to D1(5) (see FIG. 7), the first sheet T11 is placed in the front, and the second sheet T12 is hidden behind the first sheet T11. In the first display screens D1(6) (see FIG. 8) to D1(10) (see FIG. 12), the second sheet T12 is placed in the front, and the first sheet T11 is hidden behind the second sheet T12. The user can switch between a state in which the first sheet T11 is placed in the front and a state in which the second sheet T12 is placed in the front by performing an operation of selecting a tab.

[0035] The first sheet T11 and the second sheet T12 include design data (hereinafter referred to as "first design data") that can be printed using an in-stock cassette C and an in-stock label printer P that can accommodate this cassette C. The cassette C and label printer P that are used when printing the first design data included in the first sheet T11 are both currently available for loan. Meanwhile, at least one of the cassette C and label printer P that are used when printing the first design data included in the second sheet T12 is currently on loan.

[0036] In other words, on the first display screen D1, the first design data to be printed using a cassette C and label printer P that are both available for loan and the first design data to be printed using a cassette C and label printer P that are either currently on loan are distinguished by being included on separate sheets.

[0037] Note that design data that can be printed using at least one of a cassette C and a label printer P that is out of stock is not displayed on the first display screen D1.

[0038] The first display screen D1(1) shown in FIG. 3 corresponds to the initial screen of the first display screen D1. The first design data G11, G12, and G13 are displayed in ranking order on a first sheet T11 of the first display screen D1(1). Each of the first design data G11, G12, and G13 is associated with a number M11 of posts by people who liked the corresponding first design data. The first design data G11, G12, and G13 are arranged in descending order of the number M11 of posts associated with the data.

[0039] 3, only the first design data G11, G12, and G13 with the first to third highest posted counts M11 are displayed, but there is also first design data with the fourth highest posted count M11 and below. The first design data with the fourth highest posted count M11 and below can be displayed on the first display screen D1(1) by performing an operation to scroll the display downward.

[0040] Meanwhile, although not shown, the second sheet T12 of the first display screen D1(1) also displays the plurality of first design data in a ranking order. Each of the plurality of first design data is associated with the number M11 of posts by people who like the corresponding first design data. The plurality of first design data are arranged in descending order of the number M11 of posts.

[0041] When the user performs an operation to select one of the multiple first design data on the initial screen, the display on the LCD 33 switches to a detail screen. First display screens D1(2) (see FIG. 4) to D1(5) (see FIG. 7) correspond to the detail screen when an operation to select one of the multiple first design data on the first sheet T11 is performed. First display screens D1(6) (see FIG. 8) to D1(10) (see FIG. 12) correspond to the detail screen when an operation to select one of the multiple first design data on the second sheet T12 is performed.

[0042] For example, suppose the user performs an operation to select first design data G12 on the first display screen D1(1) shown in Fig. 3. In this case, the display on the LCD 33 is switched to the first display screen D1(2) shown in Fig. 4. The first sheet T11 of the first display screen D1(2) includes first design data G121, G122, and G123. The first design data G121, G122, and G123 each have the same design as the first design data G12 selected on the first display screen D1(1), but different colors.

[0043] For example, suppose the user next performs an operation to select first design data G122 on first display screen D1(2). In this case, the display on LCD 33 switches to first display screen D1(3) (see FIG. 5), which adds speech bubble F11 to first display screen D1(2). As shown in FIG. 5, speech bubble F11 includes first design data G1221, G1222, and G1223, which have the same design and color as the selected first design data G122 but differ in size. The first design data G1221 to G1223 represent design data to be printed using three types of cassettes C, each with a different tape width. The tail portion of speech bubble F11 is overlapped with the selected first design data G122, thereby being associated with the first design data G122.

[0044] For example, suppose the user next performs an operation to select first design data G1222 on first display screen D1(3). In this case, the display on LCD 33 switches to first display screen D1(4) (see FIG. 6), which is first display screen D1(3) with a speech bubble F12 added. As shown in FIG. 6, speech bubble F12 includes text prompting the user to enter the type of adhesive to be applied to the substrate and the type of cassette C (laminate type or receptor type).

[0045] For example, suppose the user next performs an operation via an input screen (not shown) to input the type of adhesive and cassette C. In this case, the display on the LCD 33 is switched to a first display screen D1(5) (see FIG. 7) in which a speech bubble F13 is further added to the first display screen D1(3). As shown in FIG. 7, the speech bubble F13 is associated with the selected first design data G1222 by being positioned so that its tail portion overlaps the selected first design data G1222.

[0046] Speech bubble F13 includes first medium information and first printer information. The first medium information indicates the model number of a cassette C that is capable of printing the first design data G1222 selected in speech bubble F11 and that satisfies the adhesive type and cassette C type input in accordance with speech bubble F12. The first printer information indicates a label printer P that can print when a cassette C with the model number indicated by the first medium information is installed and used. Note that both the cassette C with the model number indicated by the first medium information and the label printer P with the model number indicated by the first printer information are currently available for rental.

[0047] For example, suppose the user then selects balloon F13. In this case, the rental service rents out to the user a cassette C with the model number indicated by the first medium information and a label printer P with the model number indicated by the first printer information.

[0048] Meanwhile, for example, suppose the user performs an operation to select one of the plurality of first design data included in the second sheet T12 of the first display screen D1(1) shown in Fig. 3. In this case, the display on the LCD 33 is switched to the first display screen D1(6) shown in Fig. 8. The second sheet T12 of the first display screen D1(6) includes first design data G111, G112, and G113. The first design data G111, G112, and G113 each share a design but a different color with the first design data selected from the plurality of first design data included in the second sheet T12 of the first display screen D1(1).

[0049] For example, suppose the user next performs an operation to select first design data G112 on first display screen D1(6). In this case, the display on LCD 33 is switched to first display screen D1(7) (see FIG. 9), which adds speech bubble F14 to first display screen D1(6). As shown in FIG. 9, speech bubble F14 includes first design data G1121, G1122, and G1123, which are design data with the same design and color as the selected first design data G112 but different sizes.

[0050] For example, suppose the user next performs an operation to select first design data G1122 on first display screen D1(7). In this case, the display on LCD 33 is switched to first display screen D1(8) (see FIG. 10), which is first display screen D1(7) with a speech bubble F15 added. As shown in FIG. 10, speech bubble F15 includes text prompting the user to select the type of adhesive and the type of cassette C.

[0051] For example, suppose the user next performs an operation to input the type of adhesive and the type of cassette C via an input screen (not shown). In this case, the display on the LCD 33 switches to a first display screen D1(9) (see FIG. 11), which is the first display screen D1(7) to which a speech bubble F16 has been added. As shown in FIG. 11, the speech bubble F16 is associated with the selected first design data G1122 by having its tail portion overlap the first design data G1122. The speech bubble F16 includes third medium information, third printer information, and a third predetermined condition.

[0052] The third medium information indicates the model number of a cassette C that is capable of printing the first design data G1122 selected in speech bubble F14 and that satisfies the type of adhesive and type of cassette C entered in accordance with speech bubble F15 on the first display screen D1(8). The third printer information indicates the model number of a label printer P that can print by installing and using a cassette C with the model number indicated by the third medium information. Note that at least one of the cassette C with the model number indicated by the third medium information and the label printer P with the model number indicated by the third printer information is currently on loan and is unavailable for loan.

[0053] At least one of the loaned cassette C and label printer P can be loaned out if it satisfies the corresponding predetermined condition. For example, if a cassette C is loaned out, the predetermined condition indicates the period until the loaned cassette C is returned and loaned out again. Also, for example, if a label printer P is loaned out, the predetermined condition indicates the period until the loaned label printer P is returned and loaned out again.

[0054] The third predetermined condition includes a predetermined condition under which the cassette C can be lent out when the cassette C is currently being lent out. The third predetermined condition also includes a predetermined condition under which the label printer P can be lent out when the label printer P is currently being lent out.

[0055] For example, suppose the user next performs an operation to select speech bubble F16. In this case, the display on the LCD 33 switches to first display screen D1(10) (see FIG. 12), which is first display screen D1(9) to which a message box M13 has been added. As shown in FIG. 12, the message box M13 includes a character string inquiring whether or not to reserve at least one of the loaned cassette C and label printer P, and selection buttons for "Yes" and "No." For example, if the user performs an operation to select the "Yes" selection button in message box M13, a reservation process for at least one of the loaned cassette C and label printer P is performed.

[0056] After the reservation process is completed, the third predetermined condition is satisfied, and the reserved cassette C and label printer P are returned and available for rental. In this case, the reserved cassette C and label printer P are rented out to the user by the rental service.

[0057] Also, for example, suppose that a user performs an input operation to start a search for design data while the first sheet T11 (see FIG. 3) of the first display screen D1(1), which is the initial screen, is displayed. In this case, a sub-window M14 is additionally displayed, as shown in the first display screen D1(11) of FIG. 13. The sub-window M14 includes an input box for inputting search criteria. At least one of the following search criteria can be input into the input box: (1) The color of the ink ribbon stored in Cassette C (2) Width of the tape accommodated in cassette C (3) The color of the base material of the tape contained in cassette C (4) Cassette C model number (5) Label printer P model number (6) Characters included in the design data

[0058] (1) to (4) are collectively referred to as "media type." (5) is referred to as "printer type." (6) is referred to as "design data attribute parameters."

[0059] For example, if a user inputs attribute parameters of design data as search criteria into the input box of sub-window M14 and selects the search button displayed at the end of the input box, the display on LCD 33 is switched from first display screen D1(11) to first display screen D1(12) (FIG. 14).

[0060] 14, the first display screen D1(12) includes first design data G14, G15, and G16. The first design data G14 to G16 correspond to design data including attribute parameters entered in the input boxes of the sub-window M14. Furthermore, all of the first design data G14 to G16 are design data that can be printed using the cassette C and label printer P that are in stock and available for rental.

[0061] On the other hand, for example, if a media type including an ink ribbon color is entered as a search criterion, the first display screen D1(12) displays first design data that can be printed using a cassette C that contains an ink ribbon of the entered color among available cassettes C. If a tape width is entered as a search criterion, the first display screen D1(12) displays first design data that can be printed using a cassette C that contains a tape of the entered width among available cassettes C. If a tape substrate width is entered as a search criterion, the first display screen D1(12) displays first design data that can be printed using a cassette C that contains a tape of the entered color among available cassettes C. If a cassette C model number is entered as a search criterion, the first display screen D1(12) displays first design data that can be printed using a cassette C with the entered model number if the cassette C is in stock.

[0062] Furthermore, when a printer type including the model number of the label printer P is entered as a search condition, the first display screen D1 (12) displays the first design data that can be printed when the cassette C is attached to the label printer P if the label printer P with the entered model number is in stock.

[0063] Two or more of the media type, printer type, and design data attribute parameters may be entered in the input boxes of sub-window M14. In this case, the first display screen D1(12) displays design data that can be printed using a cassette C and label printer P that meet all of the search conditions.

[0064] For example, when a media type and a printer type are entered in the input boxes of sub-window M14, first design data that can be printed using a cassette C identified by the media type and a label printer P identified by the printer type is displayed.

[0065] When the second sheet T12 of the first display screen D1(1) is displayed and an input operation is performed to start a search for design data, a sub-window M14 is also displayed. When search conditions are entered in the input box of the sub-window M14, first design data that matches the search conditions is displayed. The first design data displayed as a search result is design data that is in stock and can be printed using a cassette C and a label printer P, at least one of which is on loan.

[0066] <Actions and Effects of First Embodiment> The first display screen D1 displays the cassettes C that are in stock and the first design data that can be printed using the label printer P that is in stock and that can be fitted with this cassette C. The first display screen D1 does not display design data that can be printed using at least one of the cassettes C and label printer P that are out of stock. This allows the display device 3 to easily allow the user to recognize only the design data that can be printed using the cassettes C and label printer P that are in stock.

[0067] The first design data is represented in colors that can be represented by the available cassette C. In this case, the user can easily recognize the colors of the first design data printed using the available cassette C and label printer P.

[0068] A speech bubble F13 including first medium information and first printer information is displayed on the first display screen D1(5). The first medium information indicates the model number of the cassette C to be used when printing the selected first design data G1222. The first printer information indicates the model number of the label printer P that can perform printing by installing and using the cassette C with the model number indicated by the first medium information. In this case, the user can easily identify the cassette C and label printer P to be used when printing the first design data G1222 that the user selected, based on the first medium information and the first printer information. The user can also easily recognize that both the cassette C with the model number indicated by the first medium information and the label printer P with the model number indicated by the first printer information are in stock and available for rental.

[0069] A speech bubble F16 including third medium information and third printer information is displayed on the first display screen D1(9). The third medium information indicates the model number of the cassette C to be used when printing the selected first design data G1122. The third printer information indicates the model number of the label printer P that can perform printing by installing and using the cassette C with the model number indicated by the third medium information. In this case, the user can easily identify the cassette C and label printer P to be used when printing the first design data G1122 selected by the user from the third medium information and the third printer information. The user can also easily recognize that at least one of the cassette C with the model number indicated by the third medium information and the label printer P with the model number indicated by the third printer information is in stock but is currently on loan.

[0070] Furthermore, on the first display screen D1(9), a third predetermined condition for at least one of the cassette C and the label printer P being lent out to be returned and made available for loan is displayed in a balloon F16. In this case, the user can easily recognize at least one of the cassette C and the label printer P being lent out.

[0071] The speech bubble F16 on the first display screen D1(9) further includes a third predetermined condition. The third predetermined condition indicates a predetermined condition under which at least one of the loaned cassette C and label printer P is returned and becomes available for loan. In this case, the user can easily recognize the condition under which at least one of the loaned cassette C and label printer P becomes available for loan.

[0072] In the rental service, a reservation process allows a user to reserve at least one of the rental cassette C and label printer P. This allows the user to print the first design data using the cassette C and label printer P after the rental cassette C and / or label printer P is returned.

[0073] The user can input search criteria into the input box of the sub-window M14 of the first display screen D1(11) to display first design data that matches the search criteria. This allows the user to narrow down the desired first design data using the search criteria and display it on the first display screen D1.

[0074] By inputting the attribute parameters of the design data as search conditions, the user can easily recognize the first design data that includes the input attribute parameters.

[0075] Furthermore, by inputting the medium type as a search condition, the user can easily identify first design data that can be printed using a cassette C that matches the input medium type. Furthermore, by inputting the printer type as a search condition, the user can easily identify first design data that can be printed using a label printer P that matches the input printer type.

[0076] Furthermore, by inputting two or more of the media type, printer type, and attribute parameters of the design data as search conditions, the user can easily identify design data that can be printed using a cassette C and label printer P that matches all of the input media type, printer type, and attribute parameters of the design data.

[0077] <Second embodiment (second display screen D2)> 15 to 19, a second display screen D2 (D2(1) to D2(5)), which is another example of the display screen D, will be described. Description of content common to the first display screen D1 will be omitted or simplified.

[0078] On the initial screen and detail screen of the second display screen D2, the first sheet T21 and the second sheet T22 are displayed overlapping each other. The tab of the first sheet T21 is marked with the character string "In stock." The tab of the second sheet T22 is marked with the character string "Out of stock."

[0079] The first sheet T21 includes first design data. Unlike the first display screen D1, the first sheet T21 includes first design data that can be printed using a cassette C and label printer P that are both currently available for loan, and first design data that can be printed using a cassette C and label printer P, at least one of which is currently on loan. On the other hand, the second sheet T22 includes design data that can be printed using a cassette C and label printer P, at least one of which is out of stock (hereinafter referred to as "second design data").

[0080] Thus, the second display screen D2 differs from the first display screen D1 in that it displays not only the first design data but also the second design data. On the second display screen D2, the first design data and the second design data are distinguished by being included on separate sheets.

[0081] 15 corresponds to the initial screen of the second display screen D2. The first design data G21, G22, and G23 are displayed in order of ranking on a first sheet T21 of the second display screen D2(1). The number of posts M11 is associated with each of the first design data G21, G22, and G23.

[0082] On the other hand, although not shown, the second sheet T22 of the second display screen D2(1) displays the plurality of second design data in ranking order. Each of the plurality of second design data is associated with the number of posts M11 by people who liked the corresponding second design data. The plurality of second design data are arranged in descending order of the number of posts M11.

[0083] When the user performs an operation to select any one of the plurality of first design data or second design data on the initial screen, the display on the LCD 33 switches to a detail screen. The second display screen D2(2) (see FIG. 16) corresponds to the detail screen when an operation to select any one of the plurality of first design data on the first sheet T21 is performed. The second display screens D2(3) (see FIG. 17) to D2(5) (see FIG. 19) correspond to the detail screen when an operation to select any one of the plurality of second design data on the second sheet T22 is performed.

[0084] For example, suppose the user performs an operation to select first design data G23 on the second display screen D2(1) shown in Fig. 15. In this case, the display on the LCD 33 is switched to the second display screen D2(2) shown in Fig. 16. The first sheet T21 on the second display screen D2(2) includes first design data G231, G232, and G233. The first design data G231, G232, and G233 each have the same design as the first design data G23 selected on the second display screen D2(1), but different colors.

[0085] For example, if an operation to select first design data G233 is performed next, speech bubble F21 is added to the second display screen D2(2). Furthermore, if an operation to select first design data G2333 from among first design data G2331, G2332, and G2333 in speech bubble F21 is performed, a speech bubble containing text prompting input of the type of adhesive and cassette C is displayed. Furthermore, if an operation to input the type of adhesive and the type of cassette C is performed, speech bubble F22 is further added to the second display screen D2(2). Speech bubble F22 includes first medium information and first printer information. These displays are similar to those on the first display screens D1(3), D1(4), and D1(5).

[0086] Meanwhile, suppose the user performs an operation to select one of the plurality of second design data included in the second sheet T22 of the second display screen D2(1) shown in Fig. 15. In this case, the display on the LCD 33 is switched to the second display screen D2(3) shown in Fig. 17. The second sheet T22 of the second display screen D2(3) includes second design data G221, G222, and G223. The second design data G221, G222, and G223 each have a common design but a different color as the second design data selected from the plurality of second design data included in the second sheet T22 of the second display screen D2(1).

[0087] For example, suppose the user next performs an operation to select second design data 222 on the second display screen D2(3). In this case, speech bubble F23 is added. Speech bubble F23 includes second design data G2221, G2222, and G2223, which have the same design and color as the selected second design data G222 but are different sizes. The second design data G2221 to G2223 represent design data to be printed using three types of cassettes C, each with a different tape width. Speech bubble F23 is associated with the selected second design data G222 by overlapping the tail portion of the speech bubble F23 with the selected second design data G222.

[0088] For example, suppose the user next performs an operation to select second design data G2223 on second display screen D2(2). In this case, the display on LCD 33 switches to second display screen D2(4) (see FIG. 18), which is second display screen D2(3) with speech bubble F24 added. As shown in FIG. 18, speech bubble F24 includes text prompting the user to enter the type of adhesive to be applied to the substrate and the type of cassette C (laminate type or receptor type).

[0089] For example, suppose the user next performs an operation to input the type of adhesive and the type of cassette C via an input screen (not shown). In this case, the display on the LCD 33 is switched to a second display screen D2(5) (see FIG. 19) in which a speech bubble F25 is further added to the second display screen D2(3). As shown in FIG. 19, the speech bubble F25 is associated with the selected second design data G2223 by being placed with its tail portion overlapping the second design data G2223.

[0090] Speech bubble F25 includes second medium information and second printer information. The second medium information indicates the model number of a cassette C that is capable of printing the second design data G2223 selected in speech bubble F23 and that satisfies the adhesive type and cassette C type entered in accordance with speech bubble F24. The second printer information indicates the model number of a label printer P that can print by installing and using a cassette C with the model number indicated by the second medium information.

[0091] At least one of the cassette C with the model number indicated by the second medium information and the label printer P with the model number indicated by the second printer information is out of stock. Therefore, unlike the first display screen D1, no display associated with the reservation process is performed. In other words, at least one of the cassette C and label printer P used to print the label on which the selected second design data G2223 is printed is not available for rental through the rental service.

[0092] <Actions and Effects of Second Embodiment> The second display screen D2 displays the second design data in addition to the first design data. The first design data and the second design data are distinguished by being included on different sheets. Therefore, the user can distinguish between the first design data that uses a cassette C and a label printer P, both of which are in stock, and the second design data that uses a cassette C and a label printer P, at least one of which is out of stock.

[0093] A speech bubble F25 containing second medium information and second printer information is displayed on the second display screen D2(5). The second medium information indicates the model number of the cassette C to be used when printing the selected second design data G2223. The second printer information indicates the model number of the label printer P that can perform printing by installing and using the cassette C with the model number indicated by the second medium information. In this case, the user can easily identify the cassette C and label printer P to be used when printing the second design data G2223 that the user selected, based on the second medium information and second printer information. The user can also easily recognize that at least one of the cassette C with the model number indicated by the second medium information and the label printer P with the model number indicated by the second printer information is out of stock.

[0094] <Registration process> 20 and 21, a description will be given of the registration processes (first registration process and second registration process) executed by the processor 21 of the management server 2. In the registration process, a cassette database and a printer database are registered in the management server 2. The first registration process and the second registration process are executed alternatively.

[0095] <First registration process> The first registration process will be described with reference to Figure 20. The first registration process is initiated by the processor 21 reading and executing a program stored in the memory 22 of the management server 2. The first registration process is executed when, for example, an administrator of the system 1 or a rental service provider performs an operation via the keyboard 24 to input various information about the cassette C and the label printer P.

[0096] The processor 21 accepts, via the keyboard 24, an operation to input media information indicating the model numbers of cassettes C in stock in the system 1 and media information indicating the model numbers of cassettes C that are not in stock in the system 1. The processor 21 further accepts, via the keyboard 24, an operation to input information indicating whether a cassette C in stock in the system 1 is available for lending or is currently on loan. The processor 21 further accepts, via the keyboard 24, an operation to input predetermined conditions for a cassette C that is currently on loan to become available for lending.

[0097] The processor 21 associates the received information with each piece of medium information, and stores and registers the information in the memory 22 as a cassette database (S11).

[0098] Processor 21 accepts, via keyboard 24, an operation to input printer information indicating the model numbers of label printers P that are in stock at system 1, and printer information indicating the model numbers of label printers P that are not in stock at system 1. Processor 21 also accepts, via keyboard 24, an operation to input information indicating whether a label printer P that is in stock at system 1 is available for rental or is currently on loan. Processor 21 also accepts, via keyboard 24, an operation to input predetermined conditions for a label printer P that is currently on loan to become available for rental.

[0099] The processor 21 associates the received information with each piece of printer information, stores it in the memory 22 as a printer database, and registers it (S13). The processor 21 ends the first registration process.

[0100] <Second registration process> 21, the second registration process executed by the processor 21 of the management server 2 will be described. The second registration process is started by the processor 21 reading and executing a program stored in the memory 22. For example, the second registration process is executed when an administrator of the system 1 or a rental service provider issues an instruction via the keyboard 24 to obtain various information about the cassette C and the label printer P from the external server 9.

[0101] The processor 21 communicates with the external server 9 via the network X, and receives and acquires medium information indicating the model numbers of all cassettes C from the external server 9 (S21). The processor 21 deletes, from the received medium information, medium information indicating the model numbers of cassettes C that are not eligible for rental through the rental service (S23). Cassettes C that are not eligible for rental through the rental service are, for example, cassettes C sold in countries other than the country in which the system 1 is installed.

[0102] The processor 21 determines whether the system 1 has in stock cassettes C of the model number indicated by the medium information that was not deleted in S23. The processor 21 also determines whether the cassettes C that are in stock are available for lending or are currently on loan. For cassettes C that are currently on loan, the processor 21 determines the predetermined conditions for them to become available for lending. The processor 21 associates the medium information that was not deleted in S23 with the determined information (in stock / out of stock) (available for lending / on loan) (predetermined conditions), and stores and registers it in the memory 22 as a cassette database (S25).

[0103] The processor 21 communicates with the external server 9 via the network X and receives and acquires the printer information of all label printers P from the external server 9 (S27). From the received printer information, the processor 21 deletes printer information that indicates the model number of a label printer P that is not eligible for rental under the rental service (S29).

[0104] Processor 21 determines whether the system 1 has stock of label printers P with the model numbers indicated by the printer information that was not deleted in S29. Processor 21 also determines whether the label printers P that are in stock are available for rental or are currently on loan. For label printers P that are currently on loan, processor 21 determines the predetermined conditions under which the printer can be rented. Processor 21 associates the printer information that was not deleted in S29 with the determined information (in stock / out of stock) (available for rental / on loan) (predetermined conditions), and stores and registers this in the memory 22 as a printer database (S30). Processor 21 ends the second registration process.

[0105] <Post counting process> 22, a description will be given of the post counting process executed by the processor 21 of the management server 2. In the post counting process, the number of posts for design data that a user likes is counted. The post counting process is started by the processor 21 reading and executing a program stored in the memory 22 of the management server 2.

[0106] If the user of the display device 3 finds design data that the user likes among the design data displayed on the LCD 33, the user may specify the design data that the user likes and post it via the touch panel 34. In this case, the processor 31 of the display device 3 transmits posting information indicating the posted design data to the management server 2.

[0107] 22, the processor 21 of the management server 2 determines whether or not posted information transmitted from the display device 3 has been received (S41). When the processor 21 determines that posted information has not been received (S41: NO), the process returns to S41.

[0108] When processor 21 determines that posted information has been received from display device 3 (S41: YES), processor 21 identifies the design data indicated by the posted information. Processor 21 adds 1 to the number of posts corresponding to the identified design data, thereby accumulating the number of posts (S43).

[0109] Processor 21 registers the cumulative number of posts accumulated in the process of S43 as the number of posts corresponding to the design data indicated by the received posting information in the posting number database stored in memory 22 (S45). Processor 21 returns the process to S41.

[0110] The user may specify and post their favorite design data on the mobile terminal Q. The mobile terminal Q may transmit posting information indicating the posted design data to the management server 2. The processor 21 of the management server 2 may receive the posting information from the mobile terminal Q.

[0111] <Display processing> 23, 24, and 25, a description will be given of the display processing executed by the processor 31 of the display device 3. The display processing is started when the processor 31 reads out and executes a program stored in the memory 32.

[0112] By executing the display process, either the first display screen D1 or the second display screen D2 is displayed on the LCD 33. For example, the user can select the display screen D to be displayed by performing an operation to specify either the first display screen D1 or the second display screen D2 via the touch panel 34.

[0113] The processor 31 sends a message to the management server 2 requesting the master data of the design data, the cassette database, the printer database, and the posting database. The master data of the design data is design data that can be printed using all cassettes C and label printers P regardless of whether they are in stock. Note that the master data of the image may also be design data that can be printed using a specific cassette C and tape printer P regardless of whether they are in stock. In response to the message received from the display device 3, the processor 21 of the management server 2 sends the master data of the design data, the cassette database, the printer database, and the posting database stored in the memory 22 to the display device 3. As shown in FIG. 23, the processor 31 of the display device 3 obtains the master data of the design data, the cassette database, the printer database, and the posting database, and stores them in the memory 32 (S51).

[0114] For example, the management server 2 may communicate in advance with a mobile terminal Q owned by a user to receive master data of the design data from the mobile terminal Q and store the master data in the memory 22. The processor 31 may acquire the master data of the design data received by the management server 2 from the mobile terminal Q by communicating with the management server 2. Furthermore, for example, the master data of the design data may be acquired directly from the mobile terminal Q by the display device 3 directly communicating with the mobile terminal Q.

[0115] Processor 31 references the master data of the design data, the cassette database, and the printer database stored in memory 32, and determines the design data to be displayed on the initial screen of display screen D (S53). Processor 31 also determines on which sheet the design data will be displayed. Processor 31 also references the posting database and determines the display order of the design data. Processor 31 includes the determined design data on the sheet to be placed at the forefront, and displays it as the initial screen (S55).

[0116] When an operation to switch the sheet to be arranged at the forefront on the initial screen is performed on the display device 3, the processor 31 switches the sheet to be arranged at the forefront. The processor 31 also determines and displays the design data to be included in the sheet arranged at the forefront based on the master data of the design data stored in the memory 32, the cassette database, and the printer database.

[0117] It is not necessary to refer to the cassette database or printer database in S53. The design data displayed on the initial screen may include design data that cannot be printed by the cassette C corresponding to the medium information registered in S11 and the label printer P corresponding to the printer information registered in S13. The design data displayed on the initial screen may also include design data that cannot be printed by the cassette C corresponding to the medium information registered in S25 and the label printer P corresponding to the printer information registered in S30. The design data displayed on the initial screen may also include design data that can only be printed using the cassette C corresponding to the medium information deleted in S23 and the label printer P corresponding to the printer information deleted in S29.

[0118] Processor 31 determines whether an operation to select any of the design data included in the sheet arranged at the forefront has been detected on the initial screen (S57). If processor 31 determines that an operation to select any of the design data has not been detected (S57: NO), it returns the process to S57. Processor 31 continues to wait for an operation to select any of the design data on the initial screen.

[0119] When processor 31 determines that an operation to select one of the design data has been detected (S57: YES), it determines the design data to be included and displayed on each sheet of the details screen based on the selected design data (S59). At this time, processor 31 references the master data, cassette database, and printer database of the design data stored in memory 32. Processor 31 displays the details screen including the determined design data (S61).

[0120] When an operation to switch the sheet to be placed at the forefront on the detail screen is performed on the display device 3, the processor 31 switches the sheet to be placed at the forefront. The processor 31 also determines and displays the design data to be included in the sheet placed at the forefront based on the master data of the design data, the cassette database, and the printer database stored in the memory 32. The processor 31 proceeds to S71 (see FIG. 24).

[0121] As shown in FIG. 24, processor 31 determines whether an operation to select any of the design data included in the foremost sheet has been detected (S71). If processor 31 determines that an operation to select any of the design data has been detected (S71: YES), processor 31 identifies a cassette C capable of printing design data with the same design and color as the selected design data, based on the cassette database. Processor 31 then displays various speech bubbles (speech bubbles F11, F14, F21, F23) containing design data that can be printed using the identified cassette C, in association with the selected design data (S75). Note that each speech bubble contains one or more pieces of design data with the same design and color as the selected design data. Note that when multiple pieces of design data are included, the sizes of the pieces may differ.

[0122] Processor 31 determines whether an operation to select any of the design data included in the speech bubble has been detected (S77). If processor 31 determines that an operation to select design data has not been detected (S77: NO), the process returns to S71.

[0123] When processor 31 determines that an operation to select any of the design data included in the speech bubbles has been detected (S71: YES), processor 31 displays a speech bubble (speech bubbles F12, F15, F24) associated with the selected design data. The speech bubble contains text prompting input of the type of adhesive and the type of cassette C (S79).

[0124] The processor 31 determines whether an operation for inputting the type of adhesive and the type of cassette C has been detected (S81). If the processor 31 determines that an operation for inputting the type of adhesive and the type of cassette C has not been detected (S81: NO), the processor 31 returns the process to S71. If the processor 31 determines that an operation for inputting the type of adhesive and the type of cassette C has been detected (S81: YES), the processor 31 proceeds to S91 (see FIG. 25).

[0125] 25, the processor 31 identifies, based on the printer database, a cassette C that is capable of printing the design data selected in S77 (see FIG. 24) and that satisfies the adhesive and cassette C type selected in S81 (S91). The processor 31 also identifies, based on the printer database, a label printer P that can be fitted with the identified cassette C and perform printing (S91).

[0126] The processor 31 determines whether at least one of the cassette C and the label printer P determined in S91 is currently on loan, based on the cassette database and the printer database (S93).

[0127] If processor 31 determines that neither cassette C nor label printer P is on loan (S93: NO), it proceeds to S103. Processor 31 displays speech bubbles (speech bubbles F13, F22, F25) containing medium information indicating the model number of cassette C identified in S91 and printer information indicating the model number of label printer P identified in S91, in association with the design data selected in S77 (see FIG. 24) (S103). Processor 31 returns the process to S71 (see FIG. 24).

[0128] On the other hand, if the processor 31 determines that the cassette C is currently being lent out (S93: YES), the processor 31 identifies the predetermined conditions under which the cassette C can be lent out based on the cassette database (S95). The processor 31 then displays a speech bubble (speech bubble F16) containing the medium information indicating the model number of the cassette C identified in S91, the printer information indicating the model number of the label printer P identified in S91, and the predetermined conditions identified in S95, in association with the design data selected in S77 (see FIG. 24) (S97).

[0129] Furthermore, if the processor 31 determines that the label printer P is currently being lent out (S91: YES), for example, it identifies the predetermined conditions under which the label printer P can be lent out based on the printer database (S95). A speech bubble (speech bubble F16) containing the medium information indicating the model number of the cassette C identified in S91, the printer information indicating the model number of the label printer P identified in S91, and the predetermined conditions identified in S95 is displayed in association with the design data selected in S77 (see FIG. 24) (S97).

[0130] When an operation to select the speech bubble displayed in S97 is performed, the processor 31 displays a message box (message box M13) inquiring whether or not to reserve at least one of the cassette C and label printer P that are currently on loan. When the processor 31 determines that an operation to make a reservation has been performed (S99: YES), the processor 31 executes reservation processing to make the reserved cassette C and label printer P available for loan after predetermined conditions are met (S101). After the reservation processing is completed, the processor 31 returns the processing to S71 (see FIG. 24). The reservation processing is, for example, processing to set up a notification to be sent to the user's mobile terminal when the cassette C and label printer P become available for loan.

[0131] On the other hand, if processor 31 determines that no operation was performed to select the speech bubble displayed in S97 or that no operation was performed to make a reservation while the message box was displayed (S99: NO), it returns the processing to S71 (see Figure 24).

[0132] 24, when processor 31 determines that an operation to select design data included in a sheet has not been performed (S71: NO), it determines whether an operation to end the display of display screen D has been performed (S73). When processor 31 determines that an operation to end the display of display screen D has not been performed (S73: NO), it returns the process to S71. When processor 31 determines that an operation to end the display of display screen D has been performed (S73: YES), it ends the display process.

[0133] <Refinement processing> 26, the narrowing down process executed by the processor 31 of the display device 3 will be described. The narrowing down process is started by the processor 31 reading and executing a program stored in the memory 32. The narrowing down process is executed, for example, when an input operation to start a search for design data is performed while the display screen D is displayed.

[0134] The processor 31 displays a search sub-window (sub-window M14) including an input box for a search keyword, superimposed on the display screen D (S111).

[0135] Processor 31 determines whether an operation to input a medium type into the input box has been performed (S113). If processor 31 determines that an operation to input a medium type has been performed (S113: YES), processor 31 extracts design data that can be printed using cassette C that matches the medium type from the multiple design data included on the sheet (S115). Processor 31 proceeds to S119. On the other hand, if processor 31 determines that an operation to input a medium type into the input box has not been performed (S113: NO), processor 31 proceeds to S119.

[0136] Processor 31 determines whether an operation to input a printer type into the input box has been performed (S119). If processor 31 determines that an operation to input a printer type has been performed (S119: YES), processor 31 extracts design data to be printed using the label printer P indicated by the input printer type from the multiple design data included on the sheet (S121). Processor 31 proceeds to S125. On the other hand, if processor 31 determines that an operation to input a printer type into the input box has not been performed (S119: NO), processor 31 proceeds to S125.

[0137] Processor 31 determines whether an operation to input attribute parameters of design data into the input box has been performed (S125). If processor 31 determines that an operation to input attribute parameters of design data has been performed (S125: YES), processor 31 extracts design data including the input attribute parameters from the multiple design data included in the sheet (S127). Processor 31 proceeds to S129. On the other hand, if processor 31 determines that an operation to input attribute parameters of design data into the input box has not been performed (S125: NO), processor 31 proceeds to S129.

[0138] Processor 31 updates the display of the design data included in the sheet so that only the design data extracted in S115, S121, and S131 is included on the sheet (S129). If design data is extracted in two or more steps of S115, S121, and S131, processor 31 updates the display of the design data included on the sheet with overlapping design data among the design data extracted in each step (S129). As a result, design data that can be printed using cassette C and label printer P that match all of the input medium type, printer type, and design data attribute parameters is displayed.

[0139] <Modification> The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and various modifications are possible. The rental service may be such that only one of the cassette C and the label printer P can be rented.

[0140] In the above, part or all of the display processing executed by the processor 31 of the display device 3 may be executed by the processor 21 of the management server 2. In this case, for example, the processor 21 of the management server 2 may generate data for a display screen D to be displayed on the LCD 33 of the display device 3 and transmit the data to the display device 3. The processor 31 of the display device 3 may display the display screen D on the LCD 33 based on data received from the management server 2. For example, the processor 21 of the management server 2 may generate data for an initial screen and transmit the data to the display device 3. The display device 3 may display the initial screen based on the data received from the management server 2. Thereafter, when design data included in the initial screen is selected, the display device 3 may generate and display a details screen based on various databases acquired from the management server 2.

[0141] For example, if the data for all display screens D is generated by the management server 2, the display device 3 may obtain only the finally selected design data from the management server 2 and store it in memory 32. In this case, the display device 3 does not need to receive the master data of the design data from the management server 2. The management server 2 may also generate print data for printing the finally selected design data. The display device 3 may obtain the print data generated by the management server 2 from the management server 2 and store it in memory 32.

[0142] Instead of receiving the master data of the design data, the submission number database, the cassette database, and the printer database from the management server 2, the display device 3 may communicate with the external server 9 and receive them directly from the external server 9. In this case, the management server 2 does not need to be provided in the system 1.

[0143] The display device 3 may store the design data that has been finally determined as the object to be printed in the memory 32. The display device 3 may also store in the memory 32 the design data that has been referenced in the process leading up to the final determination as the object to be printed.

[0144] The display device 3 may transmit the design data that has been finally determined as the design to be printed to the management server 2. The display device 3 may also transmit the design data that was referenced in the process of finally determining the design to be printed to the management server 2. The management server 2 may store the data received from the display device 3 in the memory 22.

[0145] The display device 3 may send to the management server 2 the design data that has been finally determined to be the printing target, and data indicating the cassette C and management server 2 that will be used when printing this design data. The management server 2 may generate print data that is necessary for the label printer P to print the design data, based on the data received from the display device 3. The management server 2 may send the generated print data to the display device 3. The display device 3 may receive the print data sent from the management server 2 and store it in memory 32.

[0146] Instead of renting out cassettes C and label printers P, system 1 may provide a printing service that prints design data selected by a user. In this case, system 1's display device 3 may send to management server 2 the design data finally determined to be printed and data indicating the cassette C and management server 2 to be used when printing the design data. Management server 2 may give instructions to an operator of system 1 based on the data received from display device 3. In response to instructions from management server 2, the operator may print the design data using a cassette C and label printer P stored in system 1. The label created by printing may be provided to the user by the operator. Instead of renting out cassettes C and label printers P, system 1 may provide a display service that displays the design data and at least one of the cassettes C and label printers P on a website that sells or introduces at least one of the cassettes C and label printers P.

[0147] The method for distinguishing the first design data and the second design data on the display screen D is not limited to the method of separating them by sheet as in the above embodiment, but may also be a method of separating them by a frame line or a method of associating speech bubbles. For example, the first design data and the second design data may be separated by differentiating their respective transparency. Furthermore, for example, when the first design data and the second design data are displayed in a flashing manner, the first design data and the second design data may be separated by different flashing periods. Furthermore, for example, the first design data and the second design data may be displayed on different pages of the screen. In this case, the user may be able to distinguish and recognize the first design data and the second design data by turning the pages. In this case, the order of the pages containing the first design data and the second design data may be the first design data first and the second design data second, or may be any other order.

[0148] The printing method of the label printer P is not limited to the thermal transfer method, and various other printing methods may be used. For example, the printing method of the label printer P may be a direct thermal method.

[0149] The cassette C does not necessarily have to have an ink ribbon, and the cassette C does not necessarily have to have a housing for housing the ink ribbon and tape.

[0150] The predetermined condition is not limited to the period until the item becomes available for rental, but may be any other condition for rental availability. For example, the predetermined condition may be the time when the item becomes available for rental. The predetermined condition may also be the number of people waiting.

[0151] At least one of speech bubbles F11, F12, F14, F15, F21, F23, and F24 may be omitted. At least one of speech bubbles F13, F16, F22, and F25 may be omitted. Sub-window M14 may be omitted. When speech bubbles and sub-windows are omitted, medium information and printer information may be displayed near the corresponding images to associate the medium information and printer information with the design data.

[0152] In the first registration process, the operation of inputting the medium information indicating the model number of the cassette C that is out of stock in the system 1 can be omitted.

[0153] In the first registration process, the operation of inputting at least one of the medium information, information indicating whether the medium is available for loan or is currently being loaned, and the predetermined conditions may be performed via another input means other than the keyboard 24. For example, the medium information, information indicating whether the medium is available for loan or is currently being loaned, and the predetermined conditions may be received by a code image reading means reading a code image.

[0154] In the first registration process, the operation of inputting printer information indicating the model number of the label printer P that is out of stock in the system 1 can be omitted.

[0155] In the second registration process, the medium information indicating the model numbers of all the cassettes C does not have to be acquired.

[0156] In the second registration process, the medium information indicating the model number of the cassette C that is not available for rental through the rental service does not need to be deleted.

[0157] In the second registration process, information in which media information indicating the model numbers of all cassettes C has been deleted from the media information indicating the model numbers of cassettes C that are not eligible for rental through the rental service may be obtained from the management server 2.

[0158] <Other> The LCD 33 is an example of a "display unit" of the present invention. The tape contained in the cassette C is an example of a "medium" of the present invention. The cassette C and label printer P that are in stock are examples of a "first rental object" of the present invention. The medium information of the cassette C that is in stock and the printer information of the label printer P that is in stock are examples of "first object information" of the present invention. The cassette C and label printer P that are out of stock are examples of a "second rental object" of the present invention. The medium information of the cassette C that is out of stock and the printer information of the label printer P that is out of stock are examples of "second object information" of the present invention. The cassette C and label printer P that are on loan are examples of a "third rental object" of the present invention. The medium information of the cassette C that is on loan and the printer information of the label printer P that is on loan are examples of "third object information" of the present invention. The processes of S61 and S129 are examples of a "design display process" and a "design display step" of the present invention. The process of S125 is an example of an "attribute reception process" of the present invention. The processing of S97 and S103 is an example of a "first object display processing" and a "second object display processing" of the present invention. The processing of S97 is an example of a "third object display processing" of the present invention. The processing of S101 is an example of a "reservation processing" of the present invention. The processing of S97 is an example of a "condition display processing" of the present invention. The processing of S113 and S119 is an example of a "first reception processing" of the present invention. The processing of S113 is an example of a "second reception processing" of the present invention. The processing of S119 is an example of a "third reception processing" of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0159] 1: System 2: Management Server 3:Display device 31: Processor 32: Memory 33: LCD

Claims

1. A processor that displays multiple design data on the display unit. A display program characterized by executing a design display process that displays, on the display unit, first design data from among the plurality of design data that can be printed using a first rental object that is a rental target of a rental service that rents out at least one of a medium and a printer, and does not display, on the display unit, second design data from among the plurality of design data that can be printed using a second rental object that is not a rental target of the rental service.

2. A processor that displays multiple design data on the display unit. A display program characterized by executing a design display process that distinguishes between first design data that can be printed using a first rental object that is a rental target of a rental service that rents out at least one of a medium and a printer, and second design data that can be printed using a second rental object that is not a rental target of a rental service, and displays them on the display unit.

3. the plurality of design data include attribute parameters indicating attributes of each of the design data; the processor, further executing an attribute reception process for receiving the attribute parameters; The design display process includes:

3. The display program according to claim 1, wherein the display unit displays the first design data including the attribute parameters accepted by the attribute accepting process, among the first design data.

4. The design display process includes:

3. The display program according to claim 1, wherein the display unit displays the first design data expressed in a color that can be expressed by the first loan object.

5. the processor, a first object display process for displaying, on the display unit, first object information for identifying the first rental object to be used when printing the first design data; 3. The display program according to claim 1, further comprising:

6. the processor, a second object display process for displaying, on the display unit, second object information for identifying the second rental object used when printing the second design data; 3. The display program according to claim 2, further comprising:

7. the processor, a third object display process for displaying, on the display unit, third object information identifying a third lending object that is in a state where it cannot be lent but is in a state where it can be lent under predetermined conditions, among the first lending objects; 3. The display program according to claim 1, further comprising:

8. the processor, The display program according to claim 7, further comprising a reservation process for reserving the third rental object identified by the third object information displayed by the third object display process.

9. the processor, 9. The display program according to claim 8, further comprising a condition display process for displaying the predetermined condition on the display unit.

10. the rental service is capable of renting out the medium and the printer; a first reception process for receiving a medium type that is a type of the medium and a printer type that is a type of the printer; The design display process includes: A display program as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the display unit displays the first design data that can be printed using the medium identified by the medium type accepted by the first acceptance process and the printer identified by the printer type accepted by the first acceptance process.

11. the lending service is capable of lending a plurality of the media; further executing a second reception process for receiving a medium type that is at least one type of each of the plurality of media; The design display process includes:

3. The display program according to claim 1, wherein the display unit displays the first design data that can be printed using the medium that matches the medium type accepted by the second acceptance process.

12. the rental service is capable of renting out a plurality of the printers; further executing a third reception process for receiving a printer type that is at least one type of each of the plurality of printers; The design display process includes:

3. The display program according to claim 1, wherein the display unit displays the first design data that can be printed using a printer that matches the multiple printer types accepted by the third acceptance process.

13. a display unit that displays a plurality of design data; a processor that controls the display unit to display the plurality of design data; A display device comprising: The processor: A display device characterized by executing a design display process in which first design data that can be printed using a first rental object that is a rental target of a rental service that rents out at least one of a medium and a printer is displayed on the display unit, and second design data that can be printed using a second rental object that is not a rental target of a rental service of the plurality of design data is not displayed on the display unit.

14. a display unit that displays a plurality of design data; a processor that controls the display unit to display the plurality of design data; A display device comprising: The processor: A display device characterized by executing a design display process that distinguishes between first design data that can be printed using a first rental item that is a rental target of a rental service that rents out at least one of a medium and a printer, and second design data that can be printed using a second rental item that is not a rental target of a rental service, and displays these on the display unit.

15. A display method for displaying a plurality of design data on a display unit, comprising: A display method characterized by including a design display step of displaying on the display unit, among the plurality of design data, first design data that can be printed using a first rental object that is a rental target of a rental service that rents out at least one of a medium and a printer, and not displaying on the display unit, second design data among the plurality of design data that can be printed using a second rental object that is not a rental target of the rental service.

16. A display method for displaying a plurality of design data on a display unit, comprising: A display method characterized by including a design display step of distinguishing and displaying on the display unit first design data from the plurality of design data that can be printed using a first rental object that is a rental target of a rental service that rents out at least one of a medium and a printer, and second design data from the plurality of design data that can be printed using a second rental object that is not a rental target of the rental service.

Images