Program, information processing device, and control method for the information processing device.

Abstract

Depending on the output format, the objects included in the edited data can be appropriately modified, while maintaining the layout of the image corresponding to that edited data. [Solution] The present invention provides a program for an application executed by an information processing device, which includes a receiving means that accepts the selection of one of several output formats, including HTML format, for outputting layout data acquired by the application; a generating means that, when the data includes a two-dimensional code image, generates an object with predetermined reference information embedded in it so as to fit within the size of the area where the two-dimensional code image is located on the layout, in response to the receiving means selecting HTML format output; a replacement means that replaces the two-dimensional code image with an object in the layout; and a control means that controls the output of data showing the layout after the replacement means has replaced the two-dimensional code image with an object, in HTML format.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a program, an information processing apparatus, and a control method for an information processing apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] There is a service in which a user creates editing data such as a poster using a browser or an application operating on a terminal such as a personal computer or a smart device, and prints an image generated based on the editing data. In such an application, an image such as a generated poster can be not only printed on a recording medium but also output in a description format such as HTML (HyperText Markup Language).

[0003] The content of an image to be output by an application capable of outputting an image such as a poster in both a recording medium and digital data such as HTML may differ depending on the output format.

[0004] Patent Document 1 discloses a method of converting a banner portion in a web page into a URL or a two-dimensional code and printing it when printing the web page.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] There is a need for a method of appropriately changing an object included in editing data according to an output format and maintaining the layout of an image corresponding to the editing data.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] A program according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a program for an application executed by an information processing device, characterized in that the information processing device is configured to include: a receiving means for receiving the selection of any of the multiple output formats for outputting layout data acquired by the application, including output in HTML (HyperText Markup Language) format; a generating means for generating an object with predetermined reference information embedded in it so as to fit within the size of the area where the two-dimensional code image is located on the layout, in response to the receiving means selecting output in HTML format when the data includes a two-dimensional code image; a replacement means for replacing the two-dimensional code image with the object in the layout; and a control means for controlling the output of the data showing the layout after the replacement means has replaced the two-dimensional code image with the object in HTML format. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to this disclosure, it is possible to appropriately modify the objects included in the edited data according to the output format and maintain the layout of the image corresponding to the edited data. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of the system configuration. [Figure 2] This is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of an information processing device. [Figure 3] This figure shows an example of the software configuration of a terminal device. [Figure 4] This figure shows an example of the editing screen of a poster creation application. [Figure 5] This diagram shows an example of the structure of a 2D code object. [Figure 6] This figure shows an example of an editing screen with a selection menu displayed. [Figure 7]This figure shows an example of the output result of the edited data. [Figure 8] This flowchart shows an example of the process performed by a poster creation application. [Figure 9] This flowchart shows an example of a replacement process performed by a poster creation application. [Figure 10] This figure shows an example of how to resize a generated object. [Figure 11] This flowchart shows an example of a replacement process performed by a poster creation application. [Figure 12] This figure shows an example of an image pattern used when detecting a 2D code. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] Preferred embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. Note that the following embodiments are not limiting to the scope of this disclosure, and not all combinations of features described in the following embodiments are essential to the solutions of this disclosure. Identical components will be denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0011] There are services that allow users to create editing data for posters and other materials using an application, and then print images generated based on that editing data. For example, such services can be used to create and print original posters for store advertisements or events.

[0012] Furthermore, the aforementioned application allows you to output the generated poster images (poster images) as digital data in HTML format or JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group) file format. Outputting poster images as digital data in HTML format or other formats makes it possible to embed them on web pages and other platforms.

[0013] In addition, the user can create a poster image by performing editing operations such as placing a URL (Uniform Resource Locator) or a two-dimensional code on the canvas displayed by the above-described application. By doing so, a person who sees a poster with a URL or the like embedded as an image can be guided to a web page where more detailed poster content is described or an access destination indicated by the information embedded in the two-dimensional code. That is, when a person who sees the poster reads the two-dimensional code with a smartphone or the like that the person has, the browser installed on the smartphone is launched, and a web page or the like indicated by the two-dimensional code is displayed on the browser.

[0014] Here, when the content of the poster image to be output by an application that can output the poster image to a recording medium or in HTML format, JPEG format, etc. may differ depending on the differences in these output formats.

[0015] For example, assume a case where the user uses the above-described application to output a poster image embedded with a two-dimensional code as digital data in HTML format and places the output digital data (image data) on a web page. In this case, a third party who uses a browser that does not have a function to analyze the two-dimensional code can view the poster image on the web page using the browser. However, the third party cannot access a web page or the like indicated by the information embedded in the two-dimensional code of the poster image posted on the web page using such a browser.

[0016] On the other hand, in the case where a URL is embedded as text instead of a two-dimensional code in a poster image, even if a browser that does not have a function of analyzing the two-dimensional code is used, a third party can input the URL into the input form of the browser. That is, in this case, since a third party can access the web page indicated by the URL embedded in the poster image via the browser, a situation where it is impossible to access the web page on which the above detailed explanation is described does not occur.

[0017] In order to prevent the above situation, a method of outputting a poster image in which a URL and a two-dimensional code are switched according to the output format and the function of the terminal device that executes the above application is assumed. However, even when switching between a URL and a two-dimensional code to output a poster image, there is a possibility that a URL or a two-dimensional code and another object overlap in the image. As a result, since the layout of the poster image is disrupted, an image different from the output result assumed by the user may be output.

[0018] In the following embodiments, a method of appropriately changing the objects included in the editing data according to the output format and maintaining the layout of the image corresponding to the editing data will be described.

[0019] <<First Embodiment>> FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a poster creation and output system. As shown in FIG. 1, the system in the present embodiment includes information processing devices 110 and 120 owned by app supplier 1, and terminal device 140 and printer 150 owned by customer 2. These devices are connected to each other via Internet 3. App supplier 1 provides management system 111 and mail system 121, which will be described later, to customer 2. Customer 2 is a user who uses poster creation application 141 and web browser application 142, which will be described later (hereinafter, customer 2 may be referred to as a user).

[0020] In this embodiment, the information processing devices 110 and 120 will be described using personal computers or servers as examples. The terminal device 140 is a type of information processing device. In this embodiment, the terminal device 140 will be described using personal information terminals such as PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants) as an example, but is not limited to these. For example, the terminal device 140 may be a mobile phone, smartphone, personal computer, or digital camera. In other words, the terminal device 140 can be of any type as long as it is capable of running the poster creation application 141 described later. The terminal device 140 can be connected to a mobile phone network and can connect to the Internet 3, for example.

[0021] The poster creation application 141 is, for example, an application provided by application supplier 1 that can generate a poster image through user operation. The poster creation application 141 may be a native application installed on terminal device 140, or it may be a web application used via web browser application 142.

[0022] Furthermore, the images that can be generated by the poster creation application 141 are not limited to posters; any type of image can be generated by combining the objects described later. The poster creation application 141 can also output edited data containing multiple objects or imported image data in different output formats.

[0023] A web browser application 142 (hereinafter sometimes abbreviated as "web browser") is a common browser used when accessing the WWW (World Wide Web).

[0024] The printer 150 receives print data transmitted from the terminal device 140 and prints an image based on the received print data. The print data received by the printer 150 also includes print data for poster images generated by the poster creation application 141 or the management system 111.

[0025] The print data includes, for example, a print ticket describing print settings, a PDF (Portable Document Format) file containing print image data, text information, and outline data. Network 160 is a home network owned by customer 2, who uses terminal device 140. Network 130 is an office network owned by application supplier 1.

[0026] Network 130, as shown in Figure 1, represents the office network of one location owned by application supplier 1, but the configuration is not limited to this. For example, information processing devices 110 and 120 may be located at different locations, and an office network may be configured at each location. In this case, the office networks of each location can be connected via the Internet.

[0027] The information processing device 110 connected to the network 130 includes a management system 111. The information processing device 110 sends and receives data with terminal devices 140 and information processing device 120 via the internet 3.

[0028] The information processing device 120, connected to the network 130, includes a mail system 121. The information processing device 120 sends and receives data with the information processing device 110. The management system 111 and the mail system 121 are implemented by the information processing device 110 and the information processing device 120, respectively, executing their respective programs.

[0029] The management system 111 provides content, announcements, and other information, as well as print data, to the poster creation application 141. However, the management system 111 is not limited to this configuration. For example, the management system 111 may be implemented by a single information processing device having the functions of both the information processing device 110 and the information processing device 120. Alternatively, multiple information processing devices may perform the functions of the management system 111.

[0030] Furthermore, the information processing devices 110 and 120 do not necessarily have to be physical machines and may take a serverless form. The information processing device 120 may have functions other than the mail system 121. For example, the information processing device 120 may distribute content to the poster creation application 141 or send notifications.

[0031] In this embodiment, the information processing device 110 and the information processing device 120 are described as being connected via a network 130, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, it is also conceivable that the information processing device 110 and the information processing device 120 are connected via the Internet 3. This embodiment can also be applied in such cases.

[0032] Figure 2 shows an example of the hardware configuration of the information processing device 200. In this embodiment, when it is not necessary to distinguish between the terminal device 140, the information processing device 110, and the information processing device 120, they are collectively referred to as the information processing device 200.

[0033] The information processing device 200 includes hardware as shown in Figure 2. The information processing device 200 includes a random access memory unit (RAM) 201, a hard disk drive unit (HDD) 202, an input interface (I / F) 203, a CPU 204, an output I / F 205, and a network I / F 207. These are connected to each other by a system bus 206.

[0034] Furthermore, an input device 210, such as a keyboard or mouse, is connected to the input I / F 203. An output device 220, which is a display consisting of an LCD or LED, is connected to the output I / F 205. The network I / F 207 is connected to network 130 or network 160. The information processing device 200 can communicate with other devices via the network I / F 207.

[0035] Furthermore, if the output device 220 has a touch panel function, the information processing device 200 can detect user operations on the output device 220 via the input / output interface (not shown) by connecting the output device 220 to the input / output interface.

[0036] In this embodiment, the input device 210 and the output device 220 are described as being connected from outside the information processing device 200, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the input device 210 and the output device 220 may be configured as an integral part of the information processing device 200.

[0037] HDD202 is a non-volatile storage unit. Alternatively, an SSD (Solid State Drive), portable CD-ROM, or internally installed ROM may be used as the storage unit.

[0038] The information processing device 200 can receive control signals or data input from the input device 210 via the input I / F 203. The information processing device 200 can output control signals or image data, etc., to the output device 220 via the output I / F 205.

[0039] The CPU 204 is the control unit of the information processing device 200 and controls the entire information processing device 200. Each module (software) shown in Figure 3, which will be described later, including the poster creation application 141, is stored in, for example, the HDD 202, and is read into the RAM 201 as needed and executed by the CPU 204 of the terminal device 140. In this way, the CPU 204 realizes the functions of the various applications (software).

[0040] The management system 111 shown in Figure 1 is stored, for example, as a corresponding program in the HDD 202, read into the RAM 201 as needed, and executed by the CPU 204 of the information processing device 110. This allows the CPU 204 of the information processing device 110 to implement the functions of the management system 111.

[0041] Figure 3 shows an example of the software module configuration of terminal device 140. Terminal device 140 has an application group 310, an API / DDI 320, a driver group 330, and a PnP-X module 340. Terminal device 140 also has a WSD (Web Services on Devices) module 350, an IP network module 360, and an Ethernet® module 370.

[0042] Furthermore, the application group 310 includes a web browser application 142 and a poster creation application 141. The application group 310 may also include applications other than the poster creation application 141 and the web browser application 142.

[0043] Driver group 330 includes standard driver 331 and IHV driver 332. Standard driver 331 is a driver included by default with the OS. IHV driver 332 is a driver manufactured by IHV. Driver group 330 may also include drivers other than standard driver 331 and IHV driver 332.

[0044] The Ethernet® module 370 is a control stack that controls Ethernet®. The IP network module 360 ​​is a control stack that controls IP networks. The WSD module 350 is a control stack that controls WSD, which provides a mechanism for discovering devices on a network.

[0045] The PnP-X module 340 is a control stack that manages network plug-and-play (PnP-X). PnP-X is an abbreviation for "Plug and Play Extensions." Specifically, PnP-X is a set of plug-and-play extensions that provide support for network-connected devices and is a standard feature included in the Windows® 10 OS.

[0046] API·DDI320 is an interface that includes both an API (Application Programming Interface) and a DDI (Device Driver Interface).

[0047] Figure 4 shows an example of the configuration of the editing screen 400 displayed by the poster creation application 141. The editing screen 400 has an operation selection area 410, a 2D code generation area 420, and an editing data display area 430.

[0048] The operation selection area 410 displays multiple operation buttons, including button 411. By operating these operation buttons, the user can select various operations on the editing data 440, which will be described later. In this embodiment, operations include editing operations such as adding objects to the editing data 440 or changing objects contained in the editing data 440. Changing objects includes changing the size of the area (display area) of the object, changing the color of the object, and deleting the object. Examples of objects include images, text, shapes, clip art, or two-dimensional codes. For example, a two-dimensional code could be a QR (Quick Response) code (trademark registered).

[0049] Furthermore, the operations in this embodiment are not limited to those described above. For example, the operations in this embodiment may include adding stamps, or selecting a function that allows the poster creation application 141 to automatically change the design of the editing data 440.

[0050] The 2D code generation area 420 is provided with an input section 421, a clear button 422, and a generate button 423. The user enters a string such as a URL (Uniform Resource Locator) into the input section 421 and presses the generate button 423. As a result, the poster creation application 141 generates a 2D code as an object with the entered string embedded in it. However, this does not limit the structure of the generated code, and when the generate button 423 is pressed, another dimensional code such as a DataMatrix or MaxiCode may be generated.

[0051] Furthermore, if the user presses the clear button 422 while a string has been entered in the input section 421, the previously entered string is deleted from the input section 421 by the poster creation application 141. The input section 421 then becomes blank. Note that strings other than URLs may be entered in the input section 421. For example, an email address, or information about launching or transitioning to another application may be entered in the input section 421. In other words, the 2D code object generated by the poster creation application 141 may contain not only a URL, but also an email address, information about launching another application, or transition information such as a deep link.

[0052] The editing data display area 430 displays the editing data 440. Here, the editing data 440 is displayed and managed in HTML format by the poster creation application 141.

[0053] In this embodiment, the editing data 440 is described as, for example, data representing the layout of a poster being edited. The editing data 440 includes an object 441 representing clip art, objects 442 and 444 representing text, and an object 443 representing a two-dimensional code. However, the objects included in the editing data 440 are not limited to these. For example, an object representing a photograph may be used instead of an object representing clip art, or an object representing a shape may be used. Also, the number of objects is not limited to four; it may be three or fewer, or the editing data 440 may consist of five or more objects.

[0054] Object 443 is generated when the generate button 423 is pressed, based on any string entered by the user in the input section 421. Any object, including object 443, can be placed anywhere on the edit data 440.

[0055] Here, we will describe the structure of an object representing a two-dimensional code, including object 443 generated by the poster creation application 141 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a two-dimensional code object). Figure 5 shows an example of the structure of a two-dimensional code object. As shown in Figure 5, the two-dimensional code object 500 has an ID 501 for uniquely identifying the object. In addition, the ID 501 is associated with the two-dimensional code image data 502 and the string information 503.

[0056] Furthermore, this information contained in the two-dimensional code object 500 is registered in a database (not shown) of the information processing device 110. However, the method of storing the information contained in the two-dimensional code object 500 is not limited to this. For example, the information contained in the two-dimensional code object 500 may be stored on the user's local PC, such as in Cookie or LocalStorage. Alternatively, the information contained in the two-dimensional code object 500 may be stored on an on-premises PC, a server or database in the cloud, or storage.

[0057] Furthermore, the method for managing the information contained in the two-dimensional code object 500 is not limited to this. For example, the image data 502 of the two-dimensional code contained in the two-dimensional code object 500 may be saved as an image file on the user's local PC, on-premises PC, a server or database on the cloud, or storage. These storage locations where the image data 502 of the two-dimensional code is saved may be registered and managed in a database owned by the information processing device 110.

[0058] Returning to Figure 4, the editing data display area 430 is provided with a save button 431 and an output button 432. When the user presses the save button 431, the editing data 440 being edited is stored in a storage unit such as the HDD 202. When the saved editing data 440 is read by the poster creation application 141 on the same terminal, the user can start editing the data from the moment it was saved. The saved editing data 440 can also be read by the poster creation application 141 on another terminal.

[0059] When the output button 432 is pressed by the user, a selection menu as shown in Figure 6 pops up. Figure 6 shows an example of the configuration of the editing screen 400 of the poster creation application 141 when the output format selection menu 600 that appears when the output button 432 is pressed by the user is displayed.

[0060] The selection menu 600 includes a "Print to Printer" button 601, a "Output as JPEG" button 602, and an "Output as HTML" button 603. These buttons function as a means of receiving the selection of the output format. However, these buttons do not limit the output format; for example, they may accept instructions to output as PDF, or instructions to output in another output format.

[0061] Furthermore, the display of these buttons is not limited to the display shown in Figure 6. For example, the "Output as JPEG" button 602 and the "Output as HTML" button 602 may be displayed when the save button 431 is pressed. Alternatively, the "Print to Printer" button 601, the "Output as JPEG" button 602, and the "Output as HTML" button 603 may be provided and displayed in the edit data display area 430, similar to the save button 431.

[0062] When the "Print to Printer" button 601 is pressed, the poster creation application 141 sends the print data generated by the management system 111 based on the editing data 440 being edited to the printer 150. Then, the printer 150 executes printing based on the received print data. At this time, the image of the 2D code corresponding to object 443 is printed as part of the poster 700 shown in Figure 7. This explanation uses the example of the poster creation application 141 being a web application, but the generation of print data is not limited to this.

[0063] For example, if the poster creation application 141 is a native application, the poster creation application 141 can generate print data based on the editing data 440 being edited and send the generated print data to the printer 150.

[0064] The printing process will be explained separately for cases where poster creation application 141 is a native application and cases where it is a web application.

[0065] If the poster creation application 141 is a native application installed and used on a terminal device 140 or the like, a raster image is generated using the renderer provided by the poster creation application 141. In a typical renderer specification, the drawing position and stacking order of each object, as well as the vector data and image data that make up the objects, are specified. The poster creation application 141 then passes the raster image to the standard driver 331 or the IHV driver 332, allowing the printer 150 to print the poster 700.

[0066] If the poster creation application 141 is a web application, the poster creation application 141 generates editing data 440 in HTML format. Then, the poster creation application 141 generates a raster image based on the HTML format data using the screenshot function of the web browser application 142. For example, in the HTML format data, the font of the text is <font>Tags and shapes include <svg>Tags and images Tags are used.

[0067] This section provides a more detailed example of the process of generating a raster image using the screenshot function. The poster creation application 141 uses Puppeteer (https: / / pptr.dev / ), which controls the Chrome web browser, to browse HTML data in HEADLESS mode. The poster creation application 141 can then generate a raster image by specifying the image resolution and other settings for the HTML data browsed using Puppeteer and executing the screenshot function. The poster creation application 141 then passes the raster image to the standard driver 331 or the IHV driver 332, allowing the printer 150 to print the poster 700.

[0068] When the "Output as JPEG" button 602 is pressed, the poster creation application 141 outputs the editing data 440 being edited as digital data in JPEG format to the HDD 202. At this time, the image of the 2D code corresponding to object 443 is output as JPEG data as part of the poster 700 shown in Figure 7.

[0069] When the "Output as HTML" button 603 is pressed, the poster creation application 141 outputs the editing data 440 being edited as HTML digital data to the HDD 202. At this time, the object 443 representing the 2D code is processed as shown in Figure 9, which will be described later, and then output as HTML data, as in the example poster 710 shown in Figure 7.

[0070] The aforementioned JPEG and HTML digital data may be generated by the management system 111 or by the poster creation application 141.

[0071] Figure 7 shows an example of a poster output based on the editing data 440. The editing data 440 being edited in the poster creation application 141 is output in a poster layout as shown in Figure 7, depending on the output format selected in the selection menu 600.

[0072] Poster 700 shows an example of the output result of editing data 440. As described above, editing data 440 is output as poster 700 depending on whether the "Print with printer" button 601 or the "Output as JPEG" button 602 is pressed.

[0073] Poster 710 is the output of editing data 440, but it differs from poster 700 in that the image of the 2D code corresponding to object 443 has been replaced with object 711.

[0074] Object 711 is generated based on the string information 503 of object 443. Furthermore, object 711 on poster 710 is positioned so as to fit within the area where the 2D code image corresponding to object 443, which is placed on poster 700, is located.

[0075] Object 711 is an object (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a hyperlink object) in which reference information for a hyperlink is embedded. Here, we assume that the string information 503 possessed by object 443, the source object of object 711, is a URL string. In this case, a third party viewing the page containing poster 710, which includes object 711, using a web browser can click on the object and be redirected to the page indicated by the URL embedded in the object.

[0076] Furthermore, consider the case where the string information 503 possessed by object 443, the source object 711, is an email address beginning with "mailto:". In this case, when a third party viewing the page containing poster 710, which includes object 711, in a web browser clicks on the object, their email client is launched. The launched email client then opens an input form for an email addressed to the email address indicated by string information 503.

[0077] Objects 712 through 719 are variations of the object generated as object 711. Object 712 displays the URL string 720 of the linked object. Object 713 displays icon 721. Icon 721 is an image such as JPEG or PNG. However, this does not limit the composition of icon 721. Icon 721 may also use animation such as GIF (Graphics Interchange Format).

[0078] Object 714 displays a URL string 722 and an icon 723. In object 714, the URL string 722 of the linked page is displayed surrounding the icon 723. The icon 723 may be an image such as JPEG or PNG. Alternatively, the icon 723 may be a video such as a GIF.

[0079] Object 715 displays the URL string 724 of the linked page in a spiral pattern. Object 716 displays the email address string 725 of the accessed page. In this case, the email address string 725 may be displayed by replacing the string "mailto:" at the beginning of the string information 503 with another string such as "email address". Alternatively, the email address string 725 may be displayed as a string indicating the email address after the string "mailto:" has been removed.

[0080] Object 717 displays icon 726. Icon 726, like the icons mentioned above, may be an image or a video. Object 718 displays the email address string 727 and icon 728. In object 718, the email address string 727 is displayed surrounding icon 728. Icon 728, like the icons mentioned above, may be an image or a video. In addition, the email address string 727 may be displayed with the string "mailto:" at the beginning of the string information 503 replaced with another string such as "email address". The email address string 727 may also be displayed as a string indicating the email address after the string "mailto:" has been removed.

[0081] Object 719 displays the email address string 729 of the accessed address in a spiral pattern. At this time, the email address string 729 may be displayed by replacing the string "mailto:" at the beginning of the string information 503 with another string such as "Mail:", or it may be displayed as a string indicating the email address after the string "mailto:" has been removed.

[0082] However, the objects included in poster 710, which is output as HTML data, are not limited to the above configuration. For example, for object 714, the URL string 722 may be displayed above object 714 without enclosing icon 723, and icon 723 may be displayed below object 714. Also, for objects 711 to 719, the outer frames that form the outlines of these objects may not be displayed.

[0083] Furthermore, among the objects described above, the object that displays a string does not necessarily have to display the URL or email address indicated by the string information 503. For example, the object that displays a string may display a string representing "GrandOpen!!" or a string indicating the date and time instead of a string representing a URL or email address. In other words, object 711 only needs to be an object with a design that allows access to detailed information about the content shown on the poster. Accessibility in this embodiment means a property that conveys to the user that they can access predetermined information. In short, as long as object 711 is an object with an accessibility design, its display mode is not limited. Also, any string, image, or video may be displayed on object 711.

[0084] Even if the "Output as HTML" button 603 is pressed, the poster creation application 141 may output HTML-formatted data, such as poster 700, without replacing the 2D code object with the object described above.

[0085] For example, the poster creation application 141 may attach reference information for hyperlinks to object 443 based on the string information 503 of object 443, and output data in HTML format, such as poster 700.

[0086] Furthermore, within the area of ​​the object after the replacement process shown in Figure 9, which is included in the output HTML data, text or images may not be displayed, as with the object described above. Also, text or images may not be displayed within the area of ​​the object after the replacement process, and the outer frame of the object may be displayed.

[0087] Furthermore, the shape of the object after the replacement process is not limited to a rectangle; it may also be a circle or a triangle. In other words, the shape of the object after the replacement process can be any shape as long as it is within the scope of the process and is accessible or conveys to the user that the object is clickable.

[0088] Next, referring to Figures 8 to 10, the processing performed by the CPU 204 of the terminal device 140 as a function of the poster creation application 141 in this embodiment will be described.

[0089] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process executed by the CPU 204 of the terminal device 140 as a function of the poster creation application 141. The process shown in Figure 8 is realized when the CPU 204 of the terminal device 140 reads a program stored in the HDD 202 into the RAM 201 and executes it. Note that some or all of the functions of the steps in Figure 8 may be implemented by hardware such as an ASIC or electronic circuit. The symbol "S" in the description of each process means that it is a step in the flowchart (the same applies to flowcharts in this specification hereafter). The process shown in Figure 8 is started when the poster creation application 141 detects a press operation on the output button 432 provided on the editing screen 400. At this time, the selection menu 600 is displayed when the output button 432 is pressed.

[0090] In S801, the CPU 204 determines whether the poster creation application 141 has detected a press of the "Print with Printer" button 601 located in the selection menu 600. If the CPU 204 determines in S801 that the poster creation application 141 has detected a press of the "Print with Printer" button 601 (Yes), the process proceeds to S802. If the CPU 204 determines in S801 that the poster creation application 141 has not detected a press of the "Print with Printer" button 601 (No), the process proceeds to S803.

[0091] In S802, the CPU 204 passes the print data corresponding to the editing data 440 being edited on the editing screen 400 by the poster creation application 141 to the standard driver 331 or IHV driver 332, and proceeds to S807. The standard driver 331 or IHV driver 332 sends the received print data to the printer 150. The printer 150 then prints an image based on the received print data.

[0092] In S803, the CPU 204 determines whether the poster creation application 141 has detected a press of the "Output as JPEG" button 602 located in the selection menu 600. If the CPU 204 determines in S803 that the poster creation application 141 has detected a press of the "Output as JPEG" button 602 (Yes), the process proceeds to S804. If the CPU 204 determines in S803 that the poster creation application 141 has not detected a press of the "Output as JPEG" button 602 (No), the process proceeds to S805.

[0093] In S804, CPU204 outputs the editing data 440 being edited on the editing screen 400 in JPEG format using the poster creation application 141, and then proceeds to S807. The output method is as described above, so no further explanation is provided.

[0094] In S805, the CPU 204 determines whether the poster creation application 141 has detected a press of the "Output as HTML" button 603 located in the selection menu 600. If the CPU 204 determines in S805 that the poster creation application 141 has detected a press of the "Output as HTML" button 603 (Yes), the process proceeds to S806. If the CPU 204 determines in S805 that the poster creation application 141 has not detected a press of the "Output as HTML" button 603 (No), the process proceeds to S807.

[0095] In S806, the CPU 204 executes the object replacement process described later using the poster creation application 141, and then proceeds to S807. That is, if any button other than the "Output as HTML" button 603 is selected from the buttons displayed in the selection menu 600, i.e., if an output format other than HTML format is accepted, the poster creation application 141 does not execute the object replacement process.

[0096] In S807, the CPU 204 determines whether the poster creation application 141 has detected an operation to close the displayed selection menu 600. An operation to close the selection menu 600 includes, for example, a user operation on the editing screen 400 other than the display area of ​​the selection menu 600. If the CPU 204 determines in S807 that it has detected an operation to close the selection menu 600 by the poster creation application 141 (Yes), it terminates this flow and closes the selection menu 600. If the CPU 204 determines in S807 that it has not detected an operation to close the selection menu 600 by the poster creation application 141 (No), it returns to S801. In other words, the poster creation application 141 repeatedly executes this flow until it detects an operation to close the selection menu 600.

[0097] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the object replacement process shown in S806 of Figure 8, which is executed by the CPU 204 as a function of the poster creation application 141. The process shown in Figure 9 is started when the poster creation application 141 detects that the "Output as HTML" button 603 has been pressed.

[0098] In S901, the CPU 204 detects 2D code objects from the objects contained in the editing data 440 being edited by the poster creation application 141, and proceeds to S902. At this time, the editing data 440 may contain zero or one 2D code objects, or there may be multiple objects.

[0099] In S902, the CPU 204 uses the poster creation application 141 to determine whether or not a 2D code object is included in the editing data 440 based on the detection results in S901. If the CPU 204 determines in S902 that the 2D code object is included in the editing data 440 (Yes) using the poster creation application 141, the process proceeds to S903. If the CPU 204 determines in S902 that the 2D code object is not included in the editing data 440 (No) using the poster creation application 141, the process proceeds to S909.

[0100] In other words, if S902 determines that the 2D code object is not included in the editing data 440 (No), the poster creation application 141 does not execute the processes from S903 to S908. Specifically, in such a case, the poster creation application 141 does not generate an object in S905 and does not perform the object replacement process in S908.

[0101] In S903, the CPU 204 obtains string information of the 2D code object using the poster creation application 141 and proceeds to S904. Specifically, the poster creation application 141 obtains string information 503, as shown in Figure 5, from the 2D code object detected in S901.

[0102] In S904, the CPU 204 determines, using the poster creation application 141, whether the string information obtained in S903 is access information. In this embodiment, access information refers to information such as a URL or email address. For example, the CPU 204 determines, using the poster creation application 141, whether the string information 503 is a string that starts with "http: / / ", "https: / / ", or "mailto:" in half-width English characters.

[0103] If the string information 503 is such a string, that is, if the CPU 204 determines in S904 that the string information obtained in S903 is access information (Yes) by the poster creation application 141, then proceed to S905. If the CPU 204 determines in S904 that the string information obtained in S903 is not access information (No) by the poster creation application 141, then proceed to S909.

[0104] In other words, if the string information obtained in S904 is not access information, that is, if the 2D code object included in the editing data does not have access information embedded in it, the poster creation application 141 will not execute the processes from S905 to S908. Specifically, in such cases, the poster creation application 141 will not create an object in S905 and will not perform the object replacement process in S908.

[0105] In S905, the CPU 204 generates an object based on the string information 503, which the poster creation application 141 determined to be access information in S904, and proceeds to S906. Specifically, in S905, the poster creation application 141 generates a hyperlink object. An example of a hyperlink object generated in S905 is the objects 712 to 719 shown in Figure 7.

[0106] In S906, the CPU 204 obtains size information of the 2D code object contained in the editing data 440 using the poster creation application 141, and proceeds to S907. The size information of the 2D code object is, for example, information indicating the height and width of the area possessed by the 2D code object detected in S901.

[0107] In S907, the CPU 204, using the poster creation application 141, resizes the area of ​​the object generated in S905 so that it fits within the size of the area of ​​the 2D code object acquired in S906. At this time, the poster creation application 141 can resize the area of ​​the object generated in S905 using the method shown in Figure 10.

[0108] Figure 10 shows an example of how to resize the area of ​​an object generated in S905 so that it fits within the size of the area of ​​the 2D code object acquired in S906. Figure 10 shows equations 1010 and 10120, and table 1030.

[0109] Equation 1010 is used to compare the height 1011 of the 2D code object obtained in S906 with the height of the object generated in S905. The poster creation application 141 uses equation 1010 to compare the height 1011 of the 2D code object obtained in S906 with the height information 1012 of the object generated in S905. The poster creation application 141 then repeats the process until the height information 1012 of the object generated in S905 is smaller than the height 1011 of the 2D code object obtained in S906.

[0110] Note that the process of changing the size of the area of ​​the object generated in S905 is not limited to this. For example, the poster creation application 141 may change the height of the object generated in S905 to match the height indicated by the size information of the 2D code object obtained in S906.

[0111] Furthermore, the poster creation application 141 can also change the width of objects generated by S905 in the same way as changing the height of objects as described above.

[0112] At this time, each time the poster creation application 141 repeats the resizing process using formula 1010 described above, it changes the font size 1021 used for the object to be resized (hereinafter referred to as the object's font size). For example, each time the poster creation application 141 repeats the resizing process described above, it reduces the font size of the object generated in S905 from the initial value 1031 set by the value set by the size reduction value 1032.

[0113] Specifically, each time the poster creation application 141 repeats the resizing process described above, it reduces the initial font size of 30 (set to 1031) by 2 (set to the size reduction value of 1032).

[0114] Equation 1020 is used to compare the font size 1021 of the object to be resized with a threshold 1022. The poster creation application 141 uses equation 1020 to compare the font size 1021 of the object to be resized with the threshold 1022. The poster creation application 141 then reduces the font size of the object to be resized until the font size 1021 of the object becomes smaller than the threshold 1022.

[0115] Note that the process of changing the font size of the object being resized is not limited to this. For example, the poster creation application 141 may change the font size of the object being resized according to the value set in the threshold 1022.

[0116] If, as a result of performing the above-described resizing process and font size change process, an object that satisfies predetermined conditions is obtained, the CPU 204 proceeds to S908 via the poster creation application 141. An object that satisfies predetermined conditions is, for example, an object whose height 1012 is smaller than the value 1011 indicating the height of the 2D code object, and whose font size 1021 is smaller than the threshold 1022.

[0117] However, the formulas and values ​​used in the resizing and font size changes are not limited to these. For example, any natural number can be set for the threshold 1022, the initial font size 1031, and the size reduction value 1032. Also, the initial font size 1031 is not limited to 30; it can be any value greater than the threshold 1022. Furthermore, the size reduction value 1032 is not limited to 2; it can be any value smaller than the initial font size 1031.

[0118] The threshold 1022 may also be a variable. For example, the threshold 1022 may be a multiplier of the size of the area of ​​the 2D code object indicated by the size information obtained in S906 relative to the size of the area of ​​the object generated in S905. In this case, the poster creation application 141 can change the font size of the object to be resized to the font size indicated by the value obtained by multiplying the initial font size value 1031 by the above multiplier.

[0119] In S908, the CPU 204 replaces the 2D code object detected in S901 with the object obtained in S907 using the poster creation application 141, and then proceeds to S909. That is, in S908, the poster creation application 141 replaces the 2D code object detected in S901 with the object obtained in S907 so that it fits within the size of the area where the 2D code object is located on the layout of the editing data.

[0120] If multiple 2D code objects are detected in S901, an object corresponding to each detected 2D code object is generated in S905. Then, via S906 and S907, the poster creation application 141 performs the replacement process for each 2D code object.

[0121] In S909, the CPU204 collects the data necessary for outputting in HTML format using the poster creation application 141, outputs the edited data 440 as HTML digital data to the HDD202, and terminates this flow. For example, if the process goes via (No) in S902 or (No) in S904, in S909 the CPU204 outputs the edited data 440 in HTML format using the poster creation application 141 without replacing the 2D code object. If the process goes via S908, in S909 the CPU204 outputs the edited data in HTML format after replacing the 2D code object detected in S901 with the object obtained in S907 using the poster creation application 141.

[0122] The output flow for S909 is the same as a typical data output process, so its explanation will be omitted. However, the output destination is not limited to HDD202; it may also be external storage connected to terminal device 140 or the cloud.

[0123] The process flow described above, which is executed by the poster creation application 141 when the "Output as HTML" button 603 is pressed, is not limited to the flow shown in Figure 9. For example, the process of acquiring string information (S903) and the process of acquiring the size information of the 2D code object (S906) may be executed in parallel, or S906 may be executed before S903.

[0124] Furthermore, before the replacement process between the 2D code object and the object obtained in S907, the poster creation application 141 may display a confirmation screen (not shown) to ask the user whether to modify the 2D code object. Alternatively, the poster creation application 141 may be configured so that the user can pre-configure whether or not to perform the 2D code object replacement process via an options screen (not shown) accessible from the editing screen 400. For example, if the setting allows the execution of the 2D code object replacement process, the poster creation application 141 executes the flow shown in Figure 9. If the setting prohibits the execution of the 2D code object replacement process, the poster creation application 141 outputs the editing data 440 in HTML format without executing the flow shown in Figure 9.

[0125] According to this embodiment, objects included in the edited data can be appropriately modified according to the output format, and the layout of the image based on the edited data can be maintained. Furthermore, when outputting the edited data in a specific output format such as HTML, it becomes possible to appropriately guide users to the destination by changing the 2D code objects included in the edited data into objects with an accessible design.

[0126] <<Second Embodiment>> In the above embodiment, the process for outputting edited data generated by the poster creation application 141 was described. However, it is also conceivable that the poster creation application 141 may read image data and output it according to the output format, not limited to edited data edited by the user via the editing screen 400.

[0127] In this embodiment, we will describe a case in which the poster creation application 141 reads image data in a format such as JPEG or PDF, and outputs the image data according to the output format.

[0128] The basic configuration of the information processing device 200 in this embodiment is the same as in the embodiment described above, so a description will be omitted. The two-dimensional code in this embodiment differs from the embodiment described above in that it is not an object, but is embedded in the image data read by the poster creation application 141. Furthermore, the two-dimensional code embedded in the image data read by the poster creation application 141 does not have string information 503 as shown in Figure 5. The processing performed by the poster creation application 141 in this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 11 and 12. Note that the two-dimensional code in this embodiment and the two-dimensional code object in the embodiment described above are sometimes collectively referred to as a two-dimensional code image.

[0129] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing an example of processing performed by the CPU 204 of the terminal device 140 as a function of the poster creation application 141 in this embodiment. The processing shown in Figure 11 is started when the poster creation application 141 reads image data and detects a user operation that targets the image data for output. For example, the processing shown in Figure 11 is started when the poster creation application 141 reads image data and detects a press of the "Output as HTML" button 603.

[0130] However, the data that the poster creation application 141 can read is not limited to data in formats such as JPEG or PDF. For example, the data that the poster creation application 141 can read may also be image files such as PNG, document files such as docx, spreadsheet files such as xlsx, or presentation files in pptx format.

[0131] Steps S1102, S1105-S1109 shown in Figure 11 are equivalent to S902, S905-S909 in the above-described embodiment, respectively, so their explanations will be omitted. In other words, compared to the above-described embodiment, the process of detecting the 2D code (S1101), the process of analyzing the 2D code and obtaining a string (S1103), and the process of determining whether the obtained string is a URL or the like (S1104) are different. Referring to Figure 11, the processes that differ from the above-described embodiment will be explained.

[0132] In S1101, the CPU 204 detects areas in the image data read by the poster creation application 141 that resemble a specific image pattern, and proceeds to S1102. The specific image pattern is, for example, the image pattern shown in Figure 12. Figure 12 is a diagram showing an example of a specific image pattern in this embodiment. Image pattern 1201 is an example of an image pattern used by the poster creation application 141 when detecting a 2D code in S1101.

[0133] However, in detecting a two-dimensional code in this embodiment, the image pattern included in the image data does not necessarily have to match the image pattern 1201 shown in Figure 12. For example, if there is even a part of the image pattern 1201 that is similar to the image data read by the poster creation application 141, it may be determined in S1102 that the image data contains a two-dimensional code. Furthermore, in determining the part that is similar to the image pattern 1201, the image pattern may be applied to the read image data from any direction, vertically, horizontally, or diagonally, to perform the determination.

[0134] In S1103, the CPU 204 uses the poster creation application 141 to analyze the image of the 2D code detected in S1101, obtains the string embedded in the 2D code, and proceeds to S1104. At this time, the analysis of the 2D code can be achieved using functions that are standard in the browser, such as the Barcode Detection API. However, the method is not limited to using functions such as the Barcode Detection API; an analysis library or a proprietary analysis algorithm may be used for the analysis of the 2D code image in this embodiment.

[0135] In S1104, the CPU 204 uses the poster creation application 141 to determine whether the string obtained in S1103 is access information or not. If the CPU 204 determines in S1104 that the string obtained in S1103 is access information (Yes), the process proceeds to S1105. If the CPU 204 determines in S1104 that the string obtained in S1103 is not access information (No), the process proceeds to S1109.

[0136] If the system incorrectly determines that a specific image pattern is present in the loaded image data and the string cannot be obtained in S1103, the CPU 204 proceeds to S1109 via the poster creation application 141.

[0137] According to this embodiment, even when a poster creation application reads image data in a format such as JPEG or PDF and outputs the image data according to the output format, the same effects as in the above-described embodiment can be obtained.

[0138] The method for outputting image data in this embodiment is not limited to the method described above. For example, the image data in JPEG or PDF format that has been loaded may be further edited in a poster creation application, and the edited data may be output. Also, if the image data contains multiple two-dimensional codes, the number of two-dimensional codes contained in the image data is not limited, as long as each of the multiple two-dimensional codes can be recognized by a two-dimensional code reader.

[0139] <<Other Embodiments>> This disclosure can also be implemented by supplying a program that implements one or more of the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or storage medium, and by having one or more processors in the computer of that system or device read and execute the program. It can also be implemented by a circuit (e.g., an ASIC) that implements one or more functions.

[0140] For storing program code, storage media such as flexible disks, hard disks, optical disks, magneto-optical disks, CD-ROMs, CD-Rs, magnetic tapes, non-volatile memory cards, ROMs, and DVDs can be used.

[0141] Furthermore, the computer executes the code of the program it reads, thereby realizing the functions of the aforementioned embodiment. In addition, the operating system running on the computer performs some or all of the actual processing based on the instructions in the program code. It goes without saying that this also includes cases where the functions of the aforementioned embodiment are realized through that processing.

[0142] Furthermore, the program code read from the storage medium is written to the memory of a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer. Subsequently, based on the instructions of the program code, the CPU or other components of the function expansion board or function expansion unit perform some or all of the actual processing, and it goes without saying that this also includes cases where the functions of the aforementioned embodiment are realized through that processing.

[0143] Although each embodiment has been described in detail above, the present invention is not limited to any particular embodiment, and various modifications and changes are possible within the scope of the gist of this disclosure. For example, embodiments can be taken as a system, device, method, program, or storage medium. Specifically, it may be applied to a system consisting of multiple devices or applications, or to a device consisting of one device or application. A printer does not necessarily have to be connected to the terminal device that creates the poster; the printing of the created poster may be outsourced to a printing company or the like. Furthermore, although two-dimensional code conversion is performed, this does not limit the configuration, and it may support any two-dimensional code, such as DataMatrix or MaxiCode. In addition, in the first and second embodiments, the two-dimensional code was automatically replaced with a link object, but the user may be asked for confirmation before replacement, or it may be possible to set whether or not to replace it in advance as an option.

[0144] The disclosure of this embodiment includes configurations represented by the following example programs, example information processing devices, and example control methods for information processing devices.

[0145] <Configuration 1> A program for an application executed by an information processing device, The aforementioned information processing device, A receiving means that accepts the selection of any of the output formats among the multiple output formats for outputting the layout data acquired by the application, which includes output in HTML (HyperText Markup Language) format. If the data includes a two-dimensional code image, and the receiving means selects output in HTML format, a generation means generates an object with predetermined reference information embedded in it so as to fit within the size of the area where the two-dimensional code image is located on the layout. The layout includes a replacement means for replacing the two-dimensional code image with the object, Control means for outputting data showing the layout after the two-dimensional code image has been replaced with the object by the replacement means in HTML format. A program characterized by its ability to function in a certain way.

[0146] <Configuration 2> The program according to configuration 1, characterized in that the aforementioned data is edited data generated by the application through user editing operations, or image data read by the application.

[0147] <Structure 3> The program according to configuration 1 or 2, characterized in that the two-dimensional code image has a string embedded in it that indicates either a URL (Uniform Resource Locator) or an email address.

[0148] <Structure 4> The program according to configuration 3, characterized in that the predetermined reference information is information for referencing either the URL indicated by the string or the email address.

[0149] <Composition 5> The program according to any one of configurations 1 to 4, characterized in that the predetermined reference information is information for hyperlinks.

[0150] <Composition 6> The program according to configuration 3 or 4, characterized in that the object displays the string, icon, or combination thereof embedded in the two-dimensional code image.

[0151] <Composition 7> The program according to configuration 3 or 4, characterized in that if the data does not include the two-dimensional code image, or if the two-dimensional code image does not have the string embedded in it, the generation means does not generate the object.

[0152] <Structure 8> The program according to configuration 3 or 4, characterized in that, if the data does not include the two-dimensional code image, or if the two-dimensional code image does not have the string embedded in it, the control means performs control to output the data in HTML format in a state where the two-dimensional code image has not been replaced with the object by the replacement means.

[0153] <Composition 9> The program according to any one of configurations 1 to 8, characterized in that the generation of the object performed by the generation means includes a resizing process that changes the size of the area of ​​the object so that it fits within the size of the area of ​​the two-dimensional code image placed on the layout, and a font size change process that changes the font size used for the object based on a preset threshold.

[0154] <Composition 10> The program according to any one of configurations 1 to 9, characterized in that when the receiving means receives an output format other than the HTML format among the plurality of output formats, the control means does not perform the control.

[0155] <Composition 11> The program according to any one of configurations 1 to 10, characterized in that the application is a native application installed and used by the information processing device, or a web application used via a web browser.

[0156] <Composition 12> The program according to any one of configurations 1 to 11, characterized in that the two-dimensional code image is an image showing a QR (Quick Response) code.

[0157] <Composition 13> A program for an application executed by an information processing device, The aforementioned information processing device, A receiving means that accepts the selection of one of several output formats for outputting the layout data acquired by the aforementioned application, If the data includes a two-dimensional code image, a control means controls whether or not to replace the two-dimensional code image placed on the layout with an object containing predetermined reference information that fits within the size of the area where the two-dimensional code image is located, according to the output format received by the receiving means. A program characterized by its ability to function in a certain way.

[0158] <Composition 14> An information processing device for executing an application, A receiving means for receiving the selection of any output format from among multiple output formats, which include output in HTML format, for outputting the layout data acquired by the application, If the data includes a two-dimensional code image, and the receiving means selects output in HTML format, a generation means generates an object with predetermined reference information embedded in it so as to fit within the size of the area where the two-dimensional code image is located on the layout. The layout includes a replacement means for replacing the two-dimensional code image with the object, Control means for outputting data showing the layout after the two-dimensional code image has been replaced with the object by the replacement means in HTML format. An information processing device characterized by comprising:

[0159] <Composition 15> An information processing device for executing an application, A receiving means that accepts the selection of one of several output formats for outputting the layout data acquired by the aforementioned application, If the data includes a two-dimensional code image, a control means controls whether or not to replace the two-dimensional code image placed on the layout with an object containing predetermined reference information that fits within the size of the area where the two-dimensional code image is located, according to the output format received by the receiving means. An information processing device characterized by comprising:

[0160] <Composition 16> A method for controlling an information processing device that executes an application, A receiving step that accepts the selection of any output format from among multiple output formats, which include output in HTML format, for outputting the layout data acquired by the application, If the data includes a two-dimensional code image, and in response to the selection of HTML output in the reception step, a generation step is performed to generate an object with predetermined reference information embedded so as to fit within the size of the area where the two-dimensional code is located on the layout. The aforementioned layout includes a replacement step of replacing the two-dimensional code image with the object, A control step that controls the output of data showing the layout after the two-dimensional code image has been replaced with the object in the replacement step in the HTML format. A control method characterized by having the following features.

[0161] <Composition 17> A method for controlling an information processing device that executes an application, A receiving step that accepts the selection of one of several output formats for outputting the layout data acquired by the aforementioned application, If the data includes a two-dimensional code image, a control step controls whether or not to replace the two-dimensional code image placed on the layout with an object containing predetermined reference information that fits within the size of the area where the two-dimensional code image is located, according to the output format received in the reception step. A control method characterized by having the following features. [Explanation of symbols]

[0162] 111 Management System 121 Mail System 140 Terminal devices 141 Poster Creation Application 142 Web browser applications 150 printers< / svg> < / font>

Claims

1. A program for an application executed by an information processing device, The aforementioned information processing device, A receiving means that accepts the selection of any of the output formats among the multiple output formats for outputting the layout data acquired by the application, which includes output in HTML (HyperText Markup Language) format, If the data includes a two-dimensional code image, and the receiving means has selected output in HTML format, a generation means generates an object with predetermined reference information embedded in it so as to fit within the size of the area where the two-dimensional code image is located on the layout. The layout includes a replacement means for replacing the two-dimensional code image with the object, Control means for outputting data in HTML format that shows the layout after the two-dimensional code image has been replaced with the object by the replacement means. A program characterized by its ability to function in a certain way.

2. The program according to claim 1, characterized in that the data is edited data generated by the application through user editing operations, or image data read by the application.

3. The program according to claim 1, characterized in that the two-dimensional code image has a string embedded in it that indicates either a URL (Uniform Resource Locator) or an email address.

4. The program according to claim 3, characterized in that the predetermined reference information is information for referencing either the URL indicated by the string or the email address.

5. The program according to claim 4, characterized in that the predetermined reference information is information for a hyperlink.

6. The program according to claim 3, characterized in that the object displays the string, icon, or combination thereof embedded in the two-dimensional code image.

7. The program according to claim 3, wherein if the data does not include the two-dimensional code image, or if the two-dimensional code image does not have the string embedded in it, the generation means does not generate the object.

8. The program according to claim 3, characterized in that, if the data does not include the two-dimensional code image, or if the two-dimensional code image does not have the string embedded in it, the control means performs control to output the data in HTML format in a state where the two-dimensional code image has not been replaced with the object by the replacement means.

9. The program according to claim 1, characterized in that the generation of the object performed by the generation means includes a resizing process that changes the size of the area of ​​the object so that it fits within the size of the area of ​​the two-dimensional code image placed on the layout, and a font size change process that changes the font size used for the object based on a preset threshold.

10. The program according to claim 1, characterized in that if the receiving means receives an output format other than the HTML format among the plurality of output formats, the control means does not perform the control.

11. The program according to claim 1, characterized in that the application is a native application installed and used by the information processing device, or a web application used via a web browser.

12. The program according to claim 1, characterized in that the two-dimensional code image is an image showing a QR (Quick Response) code.

13. A program for an application executed by an information processing device, The aforementioned information processing device, A receiving means that accepts the selection of one of several output formats for outputting the layout data acquired by the aforementioned application, If the data includes a two-dimensional code image, a control means controls whether or not to replace the two-dimensional code image placed on the layout with an object containing predetermined reference information that fits within the size of the area where the two-dimensional code image is located, according to the output format received by the receiving means. A program characterized by its ability to function in a certain way.

14. An information processing device for executing an application, A receiving means for receiving the selection of any of the output formats among the multiple output formats for outputting the layout data acquired by the application, which includes output in HTML format, If the data includes a two-dimensional code image, and the receiving means has selected output in HTML format, a generation means generates an object with predetermined reference information embedded in it so as to fit within the size of the area where the two-dimensional code image is located on the layout. The layout includes a replacement means for replacing the two-dimensional code image with the object, Control means for outputting data in HTML format that shows the layout after the two-dimensional code image has been replaced with the object by the replacement means. An information processing device characterized by comprising:

15. An information processing device for executing an application, A receiving means that accepts the selection of one of several output formats for outputting the layout data acquired by the aforementioned application, If the data includes a two-dimensional code image, a control means controls whether or not to replace the two-dimensional code image placed on the layout with an object containing predetermined reference information that fits within the size of the area where the two-dimensional code image is located, according to the output format received by the receiving means. An information processing device characterized by comprising:

16. A method for controlling an information processing device that executes an application, A receiving step that accepts the selection of any output format from among multiple output formats, which include output in HTML format, for outputting layout data acquired by the application, If the data includes a two-dimensional code image, and in response to the selection of output in HTML format in the reception step, a generation step is performed to generate an object with predetermined reference information embedded so as to fit within the size of the area where the two-dimensional code is located on the layout. The above layout includes a replacement step of replacing the two-dimensional code image with the object, A control step that controls the output of data in HTML format showing the layout after the two-dimensional code image has been replaced with the object in the substitution step. A control method characterized by having the following features.

17. A method for controlling an information processing device that executes an application, A receiving step that accepts the selection of one of several output formats for outputting the layout data acquired by the aforementioned application, If the data includes a two-dimensional code image, a control step controls whether or not to replace the two-dimensional code image placed on the layout with an object containing predetermined reference information that fits within the size of the area where the two-dimensional code image is located, according to the output format received in the reception step. A control method characterized by having the following features.

Images