Support Program

Abstract

In an information processing device that incorporates a general-purpose printing program standard to the OS, To provide a technology that allows for easy instruction to perform special processing on a given object. [Solution] The auxiliary program 42 receives a print command output from the editing application 43, etc. As a result, a processing request is made from the general-purpose printing program 41, and printer 2 is selected. When OS21 receives a startup command in this state, processing begins from the general-purpose printing program 41. This is required. The auxiliary program 42 processes when OS21 receives the startup instruction. When requested, the CPU 11 of PC1 is instructed to retrieve the main unit information of printer 2. The system issues a command to printer 2 to perform processing based on the acquired system information. Send it.

Description

Technical Field

[0005]

[0001] The technical field disclosed in this specification relates to a support program for supporting the control of a printer. It relates to.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, a technology for controlling a printer by a general-purpose printing program incorporated in an operating system (OS) as a standard without using the above-described printer driver has been put into practical use. In this technology, when the OS detects a printer, it associates with the general-purpose printing program standard of the OS. Thereafter, when a print instruction for the printer is received, printing can be performed by the general-purpose printing program standard of the OS without using a printer driver. In addition, as a process that the printer executes in addition to normal printing, for example, Patent Document 1 discloses a configuration in which a test print instruction is received from an operation unit of the printer and a test pattern is printed. Further, although it is a technology of a printer driver, as a process to be executed by the printer in addition to normal printing based on a print instruction from an application program, a command for executing a special process that the printer has is output from the printer driver, and a configuration for controlling the printer is also known. It is also known.

[0004]

[0005]

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] As mentioned earlier, in addition to normal printing, other processes that can be performed on the printer include test printing and There are special processes such as leaning, and these are communicated through the printer's control panel or printer driver. Techniques are known for instructing the execution of other processes. These utilize the OS standard general-purpose printing program. Even in such environments, other than normal printing based on print instructions from application programs It is desirable that the information processing device can be instructed to execute that special processing, but the OS standard General-purpose printing programs do not have an interface to accept such instructions. Therefore, there is room for improvement. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The support program created to address the aforementioned issues is a con It is executable by computer, is compatible with a specific printer, and the operator of the information processing device Support for general-purpose printing programs pre-installed in the printing system A program in which the operating system corresponds to the selected printer. It is possible to receive a command to start a program, and the general-purpose printing program includes: A program that requests processing in response to the aforementioned startup instruction is associated with the printer, From the application program embedded in the information processing device, the computer The outputted print instruction specifies that the general-purpose printing program should print an image. As a result of the print command to be executed by the printer, the general-purpose print program processes When requested, the general-purpose printing program acquires image data representing the image. , processing to send a print command to the specific printer based on the image data. To execute, and further, with the specific printer selected on the computer, the The operating system has received the instruction, and the general-purpose print program When processing is requested from RAM, the system retrieves the main unit information of the specific printer. The process and the processing based on the main unit information obtained in the acquisition process are performed on the specific printer. The main command to be executed is sent to the specific printer, and the transmission process is performed to execute the main command to be executed. It is composed of.

[0007] The support programs disclosed herein are used for printing from application programs. In addition to the instructions, when the OS receives a startup command, it retrieves the device information of a specific printer. It then sends a command to a specific printer instructing it to perform processing based on that device information. Therefore, the user can print to a specific printer based on print instructions from an application program. The execution of processes other than normal printing is based on the operation of entering a startup command, and a specific printer You can give instructions to Ta.

[0008] Information processing device incorporating the above support program, and storage device for the support program. To realize the functions of a computer-readable storage medium and support program. The printing system, including the control method, support program, and printer, is also novel and useful. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the technology disclosed herein, an information that incorporates an OS standard general-purpose printing program A technology has been realized that allows for easy instruction of a printer to perform special processing in an information processing system. It will be done. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] It is a block diagram showing an outline of the electrical configuration of a PC. [Figure 2] It is a sequence diagram showing an example of the procedure of processing by an auxiliary program. [Figure 3] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen for receiving a device management instruction. [Figure 4] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a detailed management screen. [Figure 5] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an instruction reception screen. [Figure 6] It is a sequence diagram showing an example of the procedure of processing by an auxiliary program. [Figure 7] It is a sequence diagram showing an example of a printing procedure.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] Hereinafter, a personal computer (hereinafter referred to as "PC") that uses the auxiliary program of this embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. This specification discloses an auxiliary program executed on a PC. Hereinafter, a personal computer (hereinafter referred to as "PC") that uses the auxiliary program of this embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. This specification discloses an auxiliary program executed on a PC. Hereinafter, a personal computer (hereinafter referred to as "PC") that uses the auxiliary program of this embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. This specification discloses an auxiliary program executed on a PC.

[0012] As shown in FIG. 1, the PC 1 of this embodiment includes a controller 10 including a CPU 11 and a memory 12. The PC 1 is an example of an information processing device. The CPU 11 is an example of a computer. Further, the PC 1 includes a user interface (hereinafter referred to as "user IF") 13 and a communication interface (hereinafter referred to as "communication IF") 14, and these are electrically connected to the controller 10. Note that the controller 10 in FIG. Ⅰ is a general term for the hardware and software used for the control of the PC 1, and does not necessarily represent a single hardware existing in the actual PC 1. As shown in FIG. 1, the PC 1 of this embodiment includes a controller 10 including a CPU 11 and a memory 12. The PC 1 is an example of an information processing device. The CPU 11 is an example of a computer. Further, the PC 1 includes a user interface (hereinafter referred to as "user IF") 13 and a communication interface (hereinafter referred to as "communication IF") 14, and these are electrically connected to the controller 10. Note that the controller 10 in FIG. Ⅰ is a general term for the hardware and software used for the control of the PC 1, and does not necessarily represent a single hardware existing in the actual PC 1. As shown in FIG. 1, the PC 1 of this embodiment includes a controller 10 including a CPU 11 and a memory 12. The PC 1 is an example of an information processing device. The CPU 11 is an example of a computer. Further, the PC 1 includes a user interface (hereinafter referred to as "user IF") 13 and a communication interface (hereinafter referred to as "communication IF") 14, and these are electrically connected to the controller 10. Note that the controller 10 in FIG. Ⅰ is a general term for the hardware and software used for the control of the PC 1, and does not necessarily represent a single hardware existing in the actual PC 1. As shown in FIG. 1, the PC 1 of this embodiment includes a controller 10 including a CPU 11 and a memory 12. The PC 1 is an example of an information processing device. The CPU 11 is an example of a computer. Further, the PC 1 includes a user interface (hereinafter referred to as "user IF") 13 and a communication interface (hereinafter referred to as "communication IF") 14, and these are electrically connected to the controller 10. Note that the controller 10 in FIG. Ⅰ is a general term for the hardware and software used for the control of the PC 1, and does not necessarily represent a single hardware existing in the actual PC 1. As shown in FIG. 1, the PC 1 of this embodiment includes a controller 10 including a CPU 11 and a memory 12. The PC 1 is an example of an information processing device. The CPU 11 is an example of a computer. Further, the PC 1 includes a user interface (hereinafter referred to as "user IF") 13 and a communication interface (hereinafter referred to as "communication IF") 14, and these are electrically connected to the controller 10. Note that the controller 10 in FIG. Ⅰ is a general term for the hardware and software used for the control of the PC 1, and does not necessarily represent a single hardware existing in the actual PC 1. As shown in FIG. 1, the PC 1 of this embodiment includes a controller 10 including a CPU 11 and a memory 12. The PC 1 is an example of an information processing device. The CPU 11 is an example of a computer. Further, the PC 1 includes a user interface (hereinafter referred to as "user IF") 13 and a communication interface (hereinafter referred to as "communication IF") 14, and these are electrically connected to the controller 10. Note that the controller 10 in FIG. Ⅰ is a general term for the hardware and software used for the control of the PC 1, and does not necessarily represent a single hardware existing in the actual PC 1. As shown in FIG. 1, the PC 1 of this embodiment includes a controller 10 including a CPU 11 and a memory 12. The PC 1 is an example of an information processing device. The CPU 11 is an example of a computer. Further, the PC 1 includes a user interface (hereinafter referred to as "user IF") 13 and a communication interface (hereinafter referred to as "communication IF") 14, and these are electrically connected to the controller 10. Note that the controller 10 in FIG. Ⅰ is a general term for the hardware and software used for the control of the PC 1, and does not necessarily represent a single hardware existing in the actual PC 1.

[0013] The CPU 11 processes the program read from memory 12 and also responds to user input. Based on this, various processes are executed. Memory 12 contains various programs and various data. It is stored. Memory 12 is also used as a workspace when various processes are executed. The buffer provided by CPU 11 is also an example of memory. An example of memory 12 is... Not limited to ROM, RAM, HDD etc. built into PC1, but also as readable by CPU11 and Writable storage media, such as CD-ROMs and DVD-ROMs, It's okay to have it.

[0014] User IF13 is hardware that displays a screen to inform the user of information, and This includes hardware that accepts operations from the user. Note that user IF13 receives information A combination of a display capable of showing an image and a mouse, keyboard, etc., that has input acceptance capabilities. Alternatively, it could be a touch panel equipped with both display and input acceptance functions.

[0015] Communication IF14 includes hardware for communicating with external devices such as printer 2. The communication standards for IF14 are Ethernet (registered trademark), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), and USB. And so on. PC1 may also be able to connect to the internet via communication IF14. Furthermore, PC1 may have multiple communication IF14s that support multiple communication standards. In this configuration, PC1 is connected to printer2 via communication IF14, as shown in Figure 1. Printer 2 is a device having at least a printing function and a communication function. Number 2 is an example of a specific printer.

[0016] The memory 12 of PC1 contains an operator including a general-purpose printing program 41, as shown in Figure 1. A editing system (hereinafter referred to as "OS") 21, an auxiliary program 42, and an editing application. 43 and various other application programs (hereinafter referred to as "apps") are stored. OS21 is, for example, Windows (registered trademark), macOS (registered trademark), These are Linux (registered trademark), iOS (registered trademark), and Android (registered trademark). Assistance Program 42 is an example of a support program.

[0017] The general-purpose printing program 41 is an OS standard program provided with OS21. It has a function to perform printing on printer 2, etc. General-purpose printing program 4 of this form 1 is a program that includes a function to generate intermediate image data based on the image data to be printed. It is a general-purpose printing program 41 provided by various printer vendors. It supports features that can be used in common by various printer models. Unlike printer drivers specific to each type of printer, Mu41 is different in that each type of printer is specific to It does not support all of the features included, and the supported features are limited to general-purpose ones. ru.

[0018] Auxiliary program 42 is a program or program that supports the control of the target hardware. This is a group of programs. In this configuration, the auxiliary program 42 is connected to the printer 2 connected to the PC1. This corresponds to the model, for example, using the general-purpose printing program 41 with printer 2 When an instruction to perform printing is received, it is launched from the general-purpose printing program 41. Auxiliary program 42 is, for example, a print support application (PSA), or hardware This is called a Support App (HSA).

[0019] Furthermore, the auxiliary program 42 is a set of multiple programs, each of which accepts execution instructions. It can be a combination of different parts, or it can be a single program with different processing depending on the instruction. It may also be a program that can execute [this]. Furthermore, the auxiliary program may be provided by the printer vendor. Therefore, it is acceptable for programs to be prepared for each type of printer. For example, inkjet Auxiliary programs for inkjet printers and auxiliary programs for laser printers are available for use by... It is acceptable to consider this. Not only by printer type, but also by printer model or printer model. It would be good to have support programs available for each Dell series.

[0020] For example, if a new printer is connected to PC1, the OS21 on PC1 will... Depending on the type and model of your printer, download the appropriate auxiliary program from the server or other source. It can then be incorporated into PC1. OS21 is the identification information of the incorporated auxiliary program. The printer information of the newly connected printer is associated with the printer information and stored in memory 12, and the printer A printer queue is created for each printer.

[0021] Editing app 43 is an app for creating and editing image data and document data, for example. The editing app 43 is, for example, Microsoft Word (registered trademark). It could be something like ) or PowerPoint (registered trademark), or provided by the printer 2 vendor. It can be an app that allows you to edit. The editing app 43 can, for example, pre-edit via the user interface 13. It can accept a print execution command to initiate printing on terminal 2.

[0022] Next, the procedure for processing by the OS21 and auxiliary program 42 in this configuration is shown in Figure 2. Refer to the diagram for explanation. This procedure assumes that printer 2 is connected to PC1, and the printer The program is executed with the auxiliary program 42 corresponding to 2 stored in memory 12.

[0023] Note that each processing step in this configuration is basically performed by a program such as auxiliary program 42. This shows the processing performed by CPU11 according to the instructions written in RAM. The processing performed by CPU11 is performed by the OS This also includes hardware control using 21 APIs. This specification provides a detailed description of OS21. The operation of each program will be explained in a simplified manner. Also, "acquisition" is a concept that does not require a request. Use.

[0024] OS21 can accept configuration instructions from the user for each component, and accepts configuration instructions. On the screen, you can see information about various devices connected to PC1 and configure settings. OS21 can accept device management instructions, including change instructions. When a device management instruction is received (A01), for example, as shown in Figure 3, further The device selection will be accepted. OS21, for example, has a "Device" button 511. On the device settings screen 51 (Figure 3(A)) that appears after accepting the operation, select "P When the "Linter and Scanner" button 512 is pressed, for example, as shown in Figure 3(B) Display device management screen 52 (A02).

[0025] Device management screen 52 shows devices connected to PC1, such as printers and skis. This screen contains a list of various devices capable of performing image processing, such as image processors. The user can: You can select the device to manage from the list displayed on the device management screen 52. A03). For example, pressing the button 521 to specify printer 2 on the device management screen 52. If the request is accepted, OS21 will display the detailed management screen 53, for example, as shown in Figure 4. Do (A04).

[0026] The detailed management screen 53 has a "Open Printer Queue" button 531 and a "Launch App" button. Buttons such as "Print Test Page" (533) and "Open Printer Queue" are displayed. The "く" button 531 checks the status of the printer queue corresponding to the selected printer. This is a button that accepts instructions. The "Launch App" button 532 is the selected app. This button accepts a command to launch the program corresponding to the input. "Print test page" Button 533 instructs OS21 to send a test image to the selected printer. This is the button to accept. In the detailed management screen 53, OS21 has buttons 531 and 532. It can accept user operations on 533, etc.

[0027] On the detailed management screen 53 displayed after selecting printer 2, click the "Launch App" button 53. When OS21 receives a command to start a program via operation 2 (A11), it selects Information about printer 2, which is the printer being used, and the program corresponding to that printer. The instructions to be executed are passed to the general-purpose printing program 41. The general-purpose printing program 41 uses OS21 If this instruction is received, the program associated with the printer information of printer 2 The RAM is set to start. In this configuration, it is associated with the printer information of printer 2. Since the identification information of auxiliary program 42 is stored, the general-purpose printing program 41, Start auxiliary program 42 (A12).

[0028] The auxiliary program 42 is launched from the general-purpose printing program 41 in response to a user's startup command. If so, the printer 2's main unit information is obtained via OS21. Auxiliary program 42 then... First, the system requests connection information for printer 2 from OS21 (A21), and then retrieves the connection information from OS21. To gain (A22). Connection information is, for example, an IP address.

[0029] The auxiliary program 42 uses the connection information obtained in A22 to send the printer 2 the main unit information. Request (A23), and retrieve the main unit information from printer 2 (A24). The main unit information is... This includes capability information, which indicates the capabilities of printer 2, and information indicating the status of the printer 2's main unit. It may also include the following. A24 is an example of an acquisition process.

[0030] Capability information, for example, can be used to indicate the functions that can be performed on printer 2 or to set print settings. This is information about possible parameters. Information indicating the status of the printer 2 main unit is, for example, status. Data information, remaining amount information for consumables, and information indicating attached accessories such as optional trays. This includes information such as the paper size and type set for each tray, and the device settings such as the language used. Network settings information, firmware version information, print history information, standby This may include the number of print jobs.

[0031] Furthermore, printer 2 in this configuration is equipped with an operation panel. The operation panel of printer 2 is: A display 201 (see Figure 1) that displays information, and an operation that accepts user input. The control panel includes buttons and a touch panel having the functionality of the display 201. It is acceptable to leave it as is. Printer 2 can display information about Printer 2 on display 201. Furthermore, it can accept various instructions through input operations on the control panel.

[0032] Printer 2 can change some of the settings configured for Printer 2 via the control panel. It can accept change instructions. Printer 2 can, for example, change the paper size for each tray. Instructions for changing paper type and network settings are accepted via the control panel. If selected, the selectable settings are displayed on display 201 and the user's selection is accepted. On the other hand, the settings for printer 2 are not displayed on the control panel or changed via the control panel. Some things cannot be printed. Printer 2, for example, information on access restrictions to Printer 2, print The print history information may be configured not to be displayed on display 201.

[0033] Printer 2 also displays the information shown on display 201 in response to A23's request. Information that cannot be obtained is also passed to auxiliary program 42. In other words, auxiliary program 42, in A24, As part of the main unit information, various settings and other information received via the control panel of printer 2 are displayed on the display. The information displayed in I-201 and various settings and other data received from external devices Information that is not displayed on display 201 can be obtained. The information displayed is an example of the information on the first main unit, and does not include information that is not displayed on display 201. This is an example of the second main body information.

[0034] Furthermore, printer 2 performs image processing based on the received print job, and after image processing... Functions that print based on data, such as aggregate printing like Nin1, watermarks, etc. It may also have functions for synthetic printing and energy-saving printing that conserves colorants. Printer 2 If the printer 2 has executable image processing capabilities, it will store information about those capabilities in the main unit information. It may also be passed to auxiliary program 42.

[0035] Auxiliary program 42, for example, uses MIB (abbreviation for Management Information Base) By directly obtaining information from printer 2, it is possible to obtain information that OS21 does not understand. Yes, it is possible. The auxiliary program 42 temporarily stores the information obtained from printer 2 in memory 12. Do (A25).

[0036] Furthermore, auxiliary program 42 requests and obtains the main body information of printer 2 instead of A21. The request can also be output to OS21. In that case, OS21 will, for example, use IPP (internet p Information is obtained from printer 2 via communication according to the printing protocol, and the obtained information The information is passed to auxiliary program 42. Auxiliary program 42 requests information from OS21 and It is also possible to perform both obtaining device information through direct communication and obtaining the device information through direct communication.

[0037] The auxiliary program 42 creates an instruction list based on the main unit information obtained by A24. (A31). The command list is executed by sending commands from PC1 to printer2. This is a list of possible processes. The auxiliary program 42 uses the printer 2's main information to process the printer 2. Based on this, the instructions to be included in the instruction list are determined. Specifically, the auxiliary program 42, Based on the capabilities of printer 2, the instruction list should only include instructions that can be executed by printer 2. Do not include any commands that cannot be executed.

[0038] The auxiliary program 42, for example, if printer 2 is a printer capable of color printing Then, create a command list that includes a test print command to print an image for color misalignment adjustment, and print If printer T2 is incapable of color printing, then print an image for color alignment adjustment. Create an instruction list that does not include print commands. Also, auxiliary program 42, for example, If printer 2 is an inkjet printer, the command to print a nozzle check pattern is included. Create a command list, and if printer 2 is a laser printer, a nozzle check pattern will be created. Create a command list that does not include the print command.

[0039] Furthermore, the auxiliary program 42 enables, for example, printer 2 to perform borderless printing. If it is, create an instruction list that includes a print command for borderless adjustment pattern, and printer 2 If the printer is capable of printing ruled lines, the command list will include the command to print the ruled line adjustment pattern. This creates the printer 2 receiving the selection of the red color. Additionally, the auxiliary program 42, for example, receives the printer 2's selection of the red color. If it has the ability to attach, it includes a print command to print a catalog of red-based color patches. Create a list of commands.

[0040] Sending main unit commands for processes that cannot be executed by printer 2 is pointless. This form of auxiliary Program 42 identifies the processes that can be executed on printer 2 and executes them on printer 2. By creating a command list that includes only the necessary processing, this avoids unnecessary steps. The RAM42 determines which instructions to include in the instruction list based on the model information of printer 2. That's good too.

[0041] Furthermore, the auxiliary program 42, based on the created instruction list, for example, as shown in Figure 5. A similar instruction reception screen 54 is displayed to the user IF13 (A32). A32 is the display process. This is one example. The instruction reception screen 54 includes some of the main unit information acquired in A24, print This screen displays information about Ta2, and is also included in the command list created in A31. Includes a button that accepts output instructions for commands.

[0042] Specifically, the instruction reception screen 54 displays information shown on the printer 2's display 201. The first display area 541 includes information that is not displayed on the printer 2's display 201. The second display area 542 and the third display area containing information corresponding to the instructions included in the instruction list. 543 and, including, the first display area 541 includes, for example, the paper tray settings of printer 2. Furthermore, buttons 61 and 61 display the estimated ink level and accept changes to the settings of each paper tray. This includes button 63 which accepts print instructions and settings. The second display area 542 includes, for example, The print history is then partially displayed, and a button 64 is included to accept a print command for the print history. The third display area 543 displays, based on the command list, for example, various test print execution commands. This includes buttons 65, 66, and 67 that accept input.

[0043] Furthermore, the auxiliary program 42 performs user authentication before displaying information in the second display area 542. You may request it. Information not displayed on printer 2's display 201 is highly confidential. This may be information. Auxiliary program 42, for example, in A32, first display area 54 Display 1 and the third display area 543, and respond to the user's request to display the second display area 542. Alternatively, you can display a screen that accepts authentication information and accept the input of that information. Then, the auxiliary program 42 sends the received authentication information to the printer 2, and the printer 2 The system will perform user authentication, and if it is determined that the user is the administrator of printer 2, the information will be displayed. You can.

[0044] The instruction reception screen 54 also displays the status information of printer 2, network information, and It displays various system information such as software version information and accepts requests to display detailed information. Buttons to press, an exit button 544 that accepts an instruction to end the display of the instruction reception screen 54, etc. It may include this.

[0045] In this configuration, the auxiliary program 42 is an instruction reception screen that includes the main unit information obtained from the printer 2. Since 54 is displayed, the user can launch the app by pressing the "Launch App" button 532 (Figure 4). The printer 2's main unit information can be viewed using only the movement command. Furthermore, this configuration includes the auxiliary program 42. This allows information that is not displayed on the printer 2's display 201 to be displayed, It has high utility. Also, the auxiliary program 42 has an "app launch" button 532 (Figure 4). Based on the startup command issued by the operation, information about the command list of commands suitable for printer 2 is displayed. This allows the user to instruct printer 2 to perform an appropriate test print.

[0046] Then, the auxiliary program 42 is capable of accepting operations on the currently displayed instruction receiving screen 54. Yes. In other words, the user will perform operations on each button displayed on the instruction reception screen 54. This is possible. The procedure for each program when an operation is received on the instruction reception screen 54 is as follows: This will be explained with reference to the sequence diagram in Figure 6.

[0047] The auxiliary program 42 receives instructions from the user through their operation of each button on the instruction reception screen 54. When force is received (B01), the content of the received instruction is determined (B02). B01 is This is an example of output instruction reception processing. Specifically, the auxiliary program 42 receives the instructions However, the tray settings can be changed by operating buttons 61-62, and by operating button 63. Print instructions for printer 2's settings information, and various information can be printed by operating buttons 64-67. It determines whether it is a print instruction or not. The auxiliary program 42 in this embodiment is user Since processing is performed only when instructions are received, unnecessary processing can be avoided.

[0048] The auxiliary program 42, for example, allows the user to press a button 61 included in the first display area 541. If the system determines that it has received an instruction to change the settings of tray 1 through the operation of (alt:[settings [Regular Change]) A list containing the configurable settings for Tray 1 as options is displayed in User IF13. Display (B11), accept user selection (B12). Setting by operation of button 61. The instruction to change a fixed value is an example of an output instruction from the main unit. The tray setting is set in printer 2. This is an example of a set value, and B12 is an example of a setting change request process.

[0049] Auxiliary program 42 is a change command which is an instruction to change the setting value of tray 1, and The new setting information selected by the user's operation is sent to printer 2 (B13). ). The change command is an example of a main command, and B13 is an example of a transmission process. Print Ta2, based on the received change command, creates a new setting associated with the change command. Set the default value as the setting value for tray 1 (B14).

[0050] In this configuration, the auxiliary program 42 displays a change command on the instruction reception screen 54 to change the setting value. The device accepts a transmission command to printer 2. This allows the user to launch the app. Based on the startup command issued by the operation of the tan 532 (Figure 4), the printer 2 is instructed to change the setting value. It is possible.

[0051] Furthermore, the auxiliary program 42, for example, controls the button 63 included in the first display area 541. The user can initiate a print command to printer 2 to print information based on the settings configured on the printer. If it is determined that (alt:[Print Settings]), the command to print settings will be sent to printer 2. (B21). The instruction to print the setting value by operating button 63 is one of the output instructions of the main unit command. This is an example. The setting value print command is an example of a main command, and B21 is an example of a transmission process. be.

[0052] Printer 2 prints various settings based on the received setting value print command. Print the information (B22). Printer 2 will print the format that Printer 2 has pre-installed. The system prints the predetermined settings for each item.

[0053] In this configuration, the auxiliary program 42 prints the setting value information on the instruction reception screen 54. The system accepts the instruction to send a fixed-value print command to printer 2. This allows the user to say, "A Based on the startup instruction given by pressing the "Pre-start" button 532 (Figure 4), the settings for printer 2 are configured. It is possible to print the value information.

[0054] Furthermore, the auxiliary program 42 includes, for example, the button 64 and the second display area 542. 3. By user operation on buttons 65-67 included in display area 543, various information is displayed. When it is determined that a print command has been received (alt:[Print Information]), the information to be printed will be supplemented. The assistant program 42 determines whether or not the information is necessary to determine the image. The printing instructions issued by operating on buttons 64-67 are an example of output instructions from the main unit.

[0055] For printing instructions, the printer 2 will print images such as test images directly. Instructions are provided, and images are printed based on information that varies depending on the situation or information selected by the user. There are instructions to print. The received print instruction will print the information that printer 2 has on it as is. If the instruction is to print, the auxiliary program 42 sends the print command to printer 2. You can just send it. On the other hand, different information depending on the situation or information selected by the user will be printed. When an instruction to print is received, the auxiliary program 42 needs to determine the image to be printed. ru.

[0056] The auxiliary program 42, for example, controls the operation of the button 65 included in the third display area 543. Therefore, when a print command based on the device information is received, the image to be printed is determined. It is determined that it is necessary (alt:[Image Required]), and the image to be printed is selected (B31). In this case, the auxiliary program 42 extracts, for example, information to be printed from the printer 2's main unit information. Based on the extracted information, print an image on which at least part of the main body information is written. Determined as the target image. Printed with at least some of the main information of printer 2 written on it. The image in question is an example of a first editing test image.

[0057] Auxiliary program 42 may accept the selection of information to be printed. For example, when button 65 is pressed, the 42 unit extracts information that can be used for printing. You can display a list of information items and accept user selections. This way, the necessary information can be collected. It is possible to print only the information.

[0058] The auxiliary program 42, for example, controls the operation of the button 66 included in the third display area 543. Therefore, even when a print command for the information set in auxiliary program 42 is received, It was determined that the image to be printed needed to be selected (alt:[Image Required]), and the image to be printed was selected. Determine (B31). In this case, auxiliary program 42 is, for example, to auxiliary program 42 An image containing the specified information is generated and selected as the image to be printed.

[0059] The information set in auxiliary program 42 includes, for example, the default settings for auxiliary program 42. This includes the text's print settings, user profile settings, username, and OS21 information. Program 42 accepts the selection of information to be printed and generates the image to be printed. That's good too. The printable image containing information about auxiliary program 42 is the second edited image. This is an example of a stock image.

[0060] Furthermore, auxiliary program 42 displays the test print command and the image determined in B31. Send image data to printer 2 (B32). The test print command is one of the main command commands. This is an example, and B32 is an example of the transmission process. Printer 2 receives a test print command. Based on the data, a test print is performed to print a test image containing the received image data. (B33).

[0061] A test image in which the auxiliary program 42 wrote at least some of the main information of printer 2. Once the image is generated and sent to printer 2, the user can see the printed document and understand it. The device information written on the printed image can be obtained. In addition, the auxiliary program 42 provides supplementary information. Generate a test image containing information about the assistant program 42 and send it to printer 2. The user can then learn about the auxiliary program 42 by looking at the printed document. It is possible.

[0062] On the other hand, the instructions received by B01 are the image markings that printer 2 has, such as test images. If it is determined that this is a print instruction (alt:[Image not required]), the auxiliary program 42 will print the following: Determine a test image of an elephant, and then send a test print command specifying the determined test image to the printer. Send to 2 (B35). The auxiliary program 42 selects the image to be printed from multiple test images. You may decide on this. The test print command is an example of a main command, and B35 is the transmission process. This is an example. Printer 2, based on the received test print command, is specified Perform a test print to print a test image (B36).

[0063] The auxiliary program 42, for example, controls the operation of the button 67 included in the third display area 543. Therefore, when the printer 2 receives a print command for a nozzle check pattern, the nozzles equipped with A test print command specifying the check pattern is sent to printer 2. If it is a print command for an image provided by the system, the auxiliary program 42 specifies the image to be printed. You only need to do this; there is no need to send image data.

[0064] In this configuration, the auxiliary program 42 displays the image to be printed on the instruction reception screen 54. Since it accepts print instructions that include the specification, the user can press the "Launch App" button 532 (Figure 4). Based on the startup command issued by the user, it is possible to print an image containing the desired information. Then, the auxiliary program 42 determines the test image to be printed and the image data of that image. If you send a test print command that includes this command, printer 2 will prepare the test image to be printed. It is unnecessary and saves memory for printer 2. On the other hand, printer 2 has an image printing function. If it is an instruction, the auxiliary program 42 does not need to determine the test image to be printed, The processing in program 42 becomes simpler.

[0065] Furthermore, the auxiliary program 42 sends commands based on the information specified as the print target. User authentication may be required before access. For example, the auxiliary program 42 may request access from each user. If an instruction is received to print out information on restrictions or authentication information, the input of authentication information will be accepted. Alternatively, you could have printer 2 perform user authentication. Or, for example, log in to PC1. If the auxiliary program 42 receives a print request for information of a user other than the registered user, it will recognize The system will request verification information, and only if it is determined that the user is the administrator of printer 2, the command will be executed. You can also proceed with sending it.

[0066] Furthermore, the auxiliary program 42 is integrated into the printer 2 via the instruction reception screen 54. It may be possible to accept firmware update instructions. Auxiliary program 42 may, for example When printing using printer 2, firmware is downloaded from the printer manufacturer's server, etc. Information about the latest version of the software can be retrieved and stored in memory 12. Then, based on the device information obtained by A24, the firmware of printer 2 is updated to the latest version. If it determines that it is not a firmware issue, the auxiliary program 42 will send a firmware update to the instruction reception screen 54. You may also display a button to accept update requests.

[0067] Next, regarding the printing procedure including the operation of the auxiliary program 42 of this embodiment, see the sequence in Figure 7. Please refer to the diagram for explanation. The auxiliary program 42 is used by the user to cause printer 2 to print. This is also executed when the instruction is given to the general-purpose printing program 41. The user can edit the application. Using R43, etc., select the image to be printed, specify the printer to perform the printing, and print It is possible to give instructions to print and to perform the print job. Figure 7 shows the user's instructions to make printer 2 print. This shows the actions taken by each program when the editing application 43 receives the instruction. Furthermore, user instructions to execute printing are directly input into the general-purpose printing program 41. You can.

[0068] The editing application 43 issues a print command to printer 2 to print the selected image. When the print program 41 receives a request (C01), the print command is sent via OS21. The data is passed to the general-purpose printing program 41 (C02). The general-purpose printing program 41 receives the print instruction, This retrieves information indicating the image data of the image to be printed and information indicating the print settings.

[0069] The general-purpose printing program 41 determines the format of the image data included in the received print instruction to be an intermediate image. Intermediate image data is generated by converting it to an image data format (C03), and the intermediate image data is It generates a print job that includes various types of image data passed from the editing app 43. Therefore, the general-purpose printing program 41 processes the received image data in a manner suitable for generating print data. It is converted into intermediate image data. Note that the image data included in the print instruction is the raw print data. If the data is suitable for processing, the generation of intermediate image data will be omitted, and the intermediate image data will be used directly. Yes, you can. Intermediate image data is, for example, XPS data.

[0070] The general-purpose printing program 41 is further an auxiliary program that corresponds to printer 2. The program outputs an execution instruction (C04) to the GRAM 42 and requests processing from the auxiliary program 42. Execution The instructions state that the intermediate image data generated in C03 and the information indicating the print settings are used in the auxiliary program. It will be handed over to Mu42.

[0071] The auxiliary program 42 processes the raster image data based on the received intermediate image data and print settings. Execute the process and generate print data (C05). The print data generated in C05 is... This data is in a format that can be used for printing on printer 2, and is, for example, specific to printer model 2. This is the PDL data. Furthermore, auxiliary program 42 utilizes the main unit information acquired by A24. You may use this to execute C05. Also, before C05, auxiliary program 42 will again... You can also obtain the main unit information from Linta 2.

[0072] The auxiliary program 42 provides the generated print data and the print command that instructs the execution of printing. Send to printer 2 (C06). Printer 2 receives the print data and print command. Based on the received print command, it executes the printing of the image data (C11). This generates a printed document.

[0073] By rasterizing with auxiliary program 42 compatible with printer 2, general-purpose printing pro Compared to rasterizing with Gram 41, it offers greater flexibility and allows printing with Printer 2. There is a high probability that suitable print data will be generated. The print data is in a format that can be used for printing on printers other than the Printer 2 model. It's also acceptable if it's a data entry.

[0074] Alternatively, instead of the auxiliary program 42 generating the print data, the general-purpose print program 41 It may also generate print data. In other words, the auxiliary program 42 uses intermediate image data and Alternatively, the print settings information and print execution information may be passed to the general-purpose printing program 41. The printing program 41 receives intermediate image data and print settings from the auxiliary program 42. Based on this, print data is generated, and the generated print data is passed to the auxiliary program 42. Good. When the auxiliary program 42 receives print data from the general-purpose printing program 41, The print frame that instructs the execution of printing the print data received from the general-purpose printing program 41. Send it to printer 2 along with the data.

[0075] The print data generated by the general-purpose printing program 41 can be printed on various printers. The print data must be in a usable format, such as PWGRaster data or PD. This is F data. If the print data is to be generated by the general-purpose printing program 41, then auxiliary Program 42 has minimal processing, which is expected to avoid increased processing time, and also the auxiliary program The program size can be reduced to 42.

[0076] Furthermore, the general-purpose printing program 41 may also perform the transmission of print data, etc., to printer 2. In other words, the auxiliary program 42 sends the generated print data etc. to printer 2 as the destination. It may also be passed to the general-purpose printing program 41 so that it is sent from PC1. In this case, the general-purpose The printing program 41 receives the print data, etc., from the auxiliary program 42 and processes it using OS21. It is sent to printer 2 via [a specific method / platform].

[0077] Furthermore, printer 2 may have a function to rasterize intermediate image data. If the linter 2 has a rasterization function, the auxiliary program 42 will print the target Without generating print data for the image, the intermediate image data of the image to be printed and the print settings are used. You may also send a print command including this to printer 2.

[0078] Once the transmission of the print data is complete, the auxiliary program 42 will call the general-purpose print program 41. The system notifies the completion of processing based on instruction 04 (C21). This completes the general-purpose printing program. 41 finishes processing the print instruction received by C02. The general-purpose print program 41 then processes You may also notify editing app 43 when the process is finished.

[0079] As explained in detail above, the auxiliary program 42 in this form is provided by the editing application 43, etc. In addition to the print command, when a startup command is received in OS21, the selected printer This program retrieves the main unit information of printer 2 and instructs the execution of processing based on that information. The command is sent to printer 2. This allows the user to perform the operation of inputting a startup command. Subsequently, printer 2 can be instructed to perform processing other than normal printing based on the print command.

[0080] The embodiments disclosed herein are merely illustrative and do not limit the present invention in any way. It is not a matter of departing from the gist of the invention. Therefore, the technology disclosed herein will naturally not deviate from the gist of the invention. Various improvements and modifications are possible within the enclosure. For example, the device connected to PC1 is connected to the printer. It is not limited to, but any device with printing capabilities such as a multifunction printer, copier, fax machine, etc. Also, P The number of printers connected to C1 is not limited to the example shown; it can be two or more.

[0081] Furthermore, for example, the images in Figures 3 to 5 are all just examples and are not limited to those shown. Furthermore, how will the text, object shapes, arrangement, and background displayed in the notification image be handled? Anything is acceptable. Furthermore, the types of information displayed are not limited to the examples shown.

[0082] Furthermore, for example, the auxiliary program 42 in this embodiment selects the commands to be executed by the printer 2. Although it was stated that the application would be accepted, it is not required to accept it. For example, auxiliary program 42 is, "A When the system is started by pressing the "Pre-start" button 532 (Figure 4), It is also possible to automatically send predetermined commands to the main unit. However, if there is a need to execute them Sending a main command for a process that does not exist is pointless. The auxiliary program 42 in this form is Since processing is performed only when instructions are received from Za, unnecessary processing can be avoided.

[0083] Furthermore, for example, the auxiliary program 42 controls the operation of the "Launch App" button 532 (Figure 4). When activated by a startup command, in addition to acquiring main unit information and sending main unit commands, Other processing may be performed. Auxiliary program 42 will not receive an output instruction for the main command. Alternatively, you can perform a different process.

[0084] Furthermore, the auxiliary program 42 in this configuration includes the printer 2's main unit information and the auxiliary program 42. It was stated that a test image containing information could be generated and printed to printer 2, but the image It is not necessary to generate it. For example, auxiliary program 42 sends a test print command. It is not necessary to send image data when doing so.

[0085] Furthermore, the program that performs this type of processing is not limited to auxiliary program 42, but also general-purpose printing When printing using program 41, instructions are given from OS21 or the general-purpose printing program 41. Any program that accepts input will suffice. For example, the printing specifications published by Microsoft. A workflow app (Print workflow) would also work.

[0086] Furthermore, the execution timing of the auxiliary program 42 is not limited to the example of this embodiment. For example, Auxiliary program 42 may be executed by direct execution instruction from OS21, or it may be executed normally It may be stationed. If it is stationed permanently, auxiliary program 42 will receive an execution order and perform the above You should perform the action described above.

[0087] Furthermore, in any flowchart disclosed in the embodiments, any multiple steps Multiple processes in the process can be executed in any order, provided that no inconsistencies occur in the process content. It can be executed, or in parallel.

[0088] Furthermore, the processing disclosed in the embodiments can be performed using a single CPU, multiple CPUs, ASICs, etc. It may be run on any hardware, or a combination thereof. Also, in the embodiment The disclosed process is recorded on a recording medium containing a program for performing that process, and This can be realized in various ways, such as by different methods. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0089] 1 PC 2 Printer 11 CPU

Claims

1. It is executable by the computer of the information processing device, and is compatible with a specific printer, and the A general-purpose printing program pre-installed in the operating system of an information processing device. A support program that supports the operating system selected It is possible to receive a startup command for a program corresponding to the printer, and the general-purpose The print program includes a program associated with the printer that requests processing in response to the aforementioned startup instruction. It was attached, To the aforementioned computer, The mark output from the application program incorporated into the aforementioned information processing device Printing instructions, which instruct the general-purpose printing program to print an image to the specific printer. As a result of the aforementioned print instruction, processing is requested from the general-purpose printing program. In that case, The general-purpose printing program obtains image data showing the image, and the image data Based on this, the process is executed to send a print command to the specified printer. Furthermore, the computer, With the aforementioned specific printer selected, the startup command is sent to the operating system When the system receives a request for processing from the general-purpose printing program, An acquisition process to acquire the main unit information of the aforementioned specific printer, The processing based on the main unit information obtained in the acquisition process is performed on the specific printer. A transmission process that sends the main command to be executed to the specific printer, To execute A support program configured in this way.

2. In the support program described in claim 1, The main unit information obtained in the acquisition process includes the capabilities of the specific printer. The information is included, In the aforementioned transmission process, Based on the capability information included in the main unit information acquired in the acquisition process, Identify the processes that a specific printer can perform and execute the identified processes on that specific printer. The command to cause the above-mentioned main unit is sent to the specific printer. A support program configured in this way.

3. In the support program described in claim 1 or claim 2, To the aforementioned computer, After executing the acquisition process, an output instruction reception process receives an output instruction from the main command. The process is executed, and when the output instruction is received in the output instruction reception process, the transmission is performed. To execute the process A support program configured in this way.

4. In the support program described in claim 1 or claim 2, In the aforementioned transmission process, Based on the main unit information obtained in the acquisition process, it can be executed on the specific printer. If there are multiple processes, the system accepts the selection of the process to be executed by the specific printer, and selects The main unit command that causes the selected process to be executed by the specific printer is sent to the specific printer. Send A support program configured in this way.

5. In a support program according to any one of claims 1 to 4, To the aforementioned computer, With the aforementioned specific printer selected, the startup command is sent to the operating system When the system receives a request for processing from the general-purpose printing program, A display process that displays at least a portion of the main body information obtained in the acquisition process described above. Make it run A support program configured in this way.

6. In the support program described in claim 5, The main body information obtained in the acquisition process includes first main body information and second main body information. The first main unit information is included, and the information displayed on the display of the specific printer is included. This is a report, and the second main unit information is not displayed on the display of the specific printer. It is information, In the display process, of the information contained in the main body information acquired in the acquisition process, Even if not, the second main unit information is displayed. A support program configured in this way.

7. In a support program described in any one of claims 1 to 6, In the aforementioned transmission process, The aforementioned command specifies printing the settings set for the specific printer. A command to print setting values ​​to be executed by the printer is sent to the specific printer, and the specific When the printer receives the aforementioned setting value print command, it will be configured to print to the specific printer. Print the aforementioned setting value. A support program configured in this way.

8. In a support program described in any one of claims 1 to 6, The main unit information obtained in the acquisition process includes the settings configured for the specific printer. It contains information about the settings. To the aforementioned computer, After executing the acquisition process, the information of the setting value acquired in the acquisition process is displayed. The system executes a setting change acceptance process that accepts the instruction to change the setting value and the new setting value. When the change instruction is received in the setting change acceptance process, the transmission process is executed. Let, In the aforementioned transmission process, The aforementioned main command is a change that causes the specific printer to execute a process to change the setting value. The command is associated with the new setting value received in the setting change acceptance process. The command is sent to the specified printer, and the specified printer receives the change command. , set the new setting value associated with the received change command, A support program configured in this way.

9. In a support program described in any one of claims 1 to 6, In the aforementioned transmission process, The main command is a test print based on the main information acquired in the acquisition process. A test print command is sent to the aforementioned specific printer to cause it to execute the following: When the aforementioned specific printer receives the test print command, it uses the following for the test print: Print a test image that includes the images you want to include. A support program configured in this way.

10. In the support program described in claim 9, In the aforementioned transmission process, Based on the main body information obtained in the acquisition process, the test print is used The test image is determined, and the test print command including the determined test image is executed. The command is sent to the specific printer, and the specific printer prints the test frame. When a command is received, print the test image included in the received test print command. do, A support program configured in this way.

11. In the support program described in claim 10, In the aforementioned transmission process, Based on the main body information obtained in the acquisition process, the test print is used A test image is determined, and the main body information obtained in the acquisition process is applied to the determined test image. The test print command includes a first edited test image on which at least a portion of the report has been written. , the main unit sends the command to the specific printer, and the specific printer performs the test When a print command is received, the first edit included in the received test print command Print a test image. A support program configured in this way.

12. In the support program described in claim 10, In the aforementioned transmission process, Based on the main body information obtained in the acquisition process, the test print is used A test image is determined, and information regarding the support program is provided for the determined test image. The test print command, which includes the second edited test image that has been written, is used as the main command. The command is sent to the specified printer, and the specified printer receives the test print command. If so, print the second edited test image included in the received test print command. 、 A support program configured in this way.

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