Print control device, print control method, and program

Abstract

When combining and printing multiple documents, the user can obtain the desired print result. [Solution] The control unit 11 is a control unit 11 that controls combined printing of multiple document DCs, and includes a first setting processing unit 112 that sets the default value DF of the first setting item JS1, which is a setting item included in the first category CT1 among multiple setting items JS that define the processing content of the document DCs, to the first setting item JS1 of each of the multiple document DCs, and a display control unit 115 that causes the display mechanism 13 to display that the setting of the first setting item JS1 by the user is not possible.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a printing control device, a printing control method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses the following content. That is, documents created on a personal computer, images read by a scanner, etc. are stored in a printer, and a plurality of stored documents are combined as one document and printed. When mutually conflicting print settings are specified for each of the plurality of documents, etc. to be combined and printed, it is necessary to change the print settings of any of the documents, etc. to be combined. When mutually conflicting print settings are specified for the documents, etc. to be combined and printed, it is possible to select a setting item for the conflicting print settings.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the technique described in Patent Document 1, in combined printing, since one of the conflicting settings is selected for the conflicting settings, the output result is different from the case where each of the plurality of documents is output alone. Therefore, there is a problem that the print result desired by the user may not be obtained.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] A print control device according to one embodiment for solving the above problem is a print control device for controlling combined printing of multiple documents, comprising: a first setting processing unit that sets the default value of a first setting item, which is a setting item included in a first category among a plurality of setting items that define the processing content of a document, to the first setting item of each of the plurality of documents; and a display control unit that causes a display mechanism to display that the setting of the first setting item by the user is not possible. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0006] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of the printer configuration according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] This figure shows an example of the configuration of the control unit according to this embodiment. [Figure 3] A diagram showing an example of a setting item included in Category 1 or Category 2. [Figure 4] A diagram showing an example of the settings included in Category 3. [Figure 5] A screen diagram showing an example of screen transitions by the display control unit. [Figure 6] A flowchart illustrating an example of the processing performed by the control unit. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0007] This embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0008] First, the configuration of the printer 1 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 1. Figure 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the printer 1 according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 1, the printer 1 is connected to multiple personal computers 2 via a network NW, enabling communication between them. A network (NW) is, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network).

[0009] The multiple personal computers 2 include, for example, a first personal computer 21, a second personal computer 22, and a third personal computer 23. Each of the multiple personal computers 2, in accordance with instructions from the user, stores the document data DD in the document storage unit 118 of the printer 1's memory 11B.

[0010] Furthermore, each of the multiple personal computers 2, for example, instructs printer 1 to perform combined printing according to instructions from the user. "Combined printing" means printing multiple document data DDs stored in the document storage unit 118 as a single job. Note that printing document data DDs stored in the document storage unit 118 corresponds to an example of so-called "box printing." In other words, "combined printing" in this embodiment corresponds to "combined printing" in "box printing." The document storage unit 118 will be further explained with reference to Figure 2.

[0011] The printer 1 comprises a control unit 11, an operating mechanism 12, a display mechanism 13, a printing mechanism 15, a printing media storage unit 16, and a post-processing device 17. The control unit 11 controls the operation of each part of the printer 1. The operating mechanism 12, display mechanism 13, printing mechanism 15, print media storage unit 16, and post-processing device 17 are each configured to communicate with the control unit 11.

[0012] The operating mechanism 12 is located on top of the printer 1. The operating mechanism 12 is equipped with input means such as operating switches and a touch panel provided on the printer 1, detects user operations on the input means, and outputs a detection signal corresponding to the operation to the control unit 11. Based on the input from the operating mechanism 12, the control unit 11 executes processing corresponding to the user's operation.

[0013] The display mechanism 13 is arranged on the upper part of the printer 1. The display mechanism 13 includes a plurality of LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) and a display panel such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), and according to the control of the control unit 11, it performs operations such as lighting, extinguishing, and flashing of the LEDs in a predetermined manner, and displaying information on the display panel. The display panel constitutes a part of the touch panel arranged on the operation mechanism 12. That is, the touch panel includes a display panel and a touch sensor. The touch sensor is arranged on the display surface of the display panel and detects the touch operation of the user. The touch sensor outputs a signal corresponding to the detected touch operation to the control unit 11.

[0014] The printing mechanism 15 executes a printing function according to the control of the control unit 11. The printing mechanism 15 prints characters, images, etc. on a recording medium P such as printing paper according to the control of the control unit 11. The configuration of the printing mechanism 15 will be further described with reference to FIG. 2.

[0015] The printing medium storage unit 16 is configured to be able to store the recording medium P. The printing medium storage unit 16, for example, stacks sheet-shaped recording media P and stores them in the printing medium storage unit 16. Then, according to the control of the control unit 11, the printing medium storage unit 16 feeds out the recording medium P arranged at the uppermost position among the stacked sheet-shaped recording media P to a conveyance path (not shown).

[0016] The post-processing device 17 performs post-processing on the recording medium P printed by the printing mechanism 15. The post-processing device 17 includes, for example, a stapler, a puncher, a sorter, and a folding mechanism. The stapler stacks the recording media P in parts and fastens one end of the recording media P in parts with staples. One part is composed of a plurality of recording media P. The puncher makes punch holes at one end of the recording medium P. The sorter performs a process of stacking the recording media P in parts. The folding mechanism is a mechanism for folding the recording medium P in half or into three folds.

[0017] Next, referring to FIG. 2, the configuration of the control unit 11 will be described. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the control unit 11 according to the present embodiment. The control unit 11 includes a processor 11A such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a memory 11B such as a ROM (Read Only Memory). The memory 11B stores a control program 117. The control unit 11 corresponds to an example of a "print control device".

[0018] The processor 11A may be composed of a plurality of processors or a single processor. The processor 11A may be hardware programmed to realize the functions of each part described later. That is, the processor 11A may have a configuration in which the control program 117 is mounted as a hardware circuit. In this case, for example, the processor 11A is composed of an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), or the like. In the following description, a case where the processor 11A executes the control program 117 to realize various functions of the control unit 11 will be described.

[0019] The memory 11B has a non-volatile storage area for storing programs and data non-volatilely. The memory 11B may include, for example, a ROM, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), etc. as the non-volatile storage area. Further, the memory 11B may include a volatile storage area and constitute a work area for temporarily storing the programs executed by the processor 11A and the data to be processed. The memory 11B may include, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory), etc. as the volatile storage area.

[0020] In this embodiment, the processor 11A controls each part of the printer 1 by executing the control program 117, but is not limited to this. The control unit 11 may include, for example, an ASIC, and the ASIC may perform processing according to the implemented functions. Alternatively, the control unit 11 may include, for example, a signal processing circuit, and the signal processing circuit may perform signal processing to perform the processing.

[0021] As shown in Figure 2, the printing mechanism 15 comprises a recording head 151, a drive motor 152, and a transport roller 153 as components related to printing.

[0022] The recording head 151 is, for example, an inkjet recording head. That is, in this embodiment, the printer 1 is an inkjet printer. The recording head 151 forms an image on the recording medium P by ejecting ink toward the recording medium P. The drive motor 152 drives the transport roller 153. The drive motor 152 is, for example, a DC motor. The transport roller 153 transports the recording medium P from the printing media storage unit 16 toward the recording head 151. The transport roller 153 also transports the recording medium P, on which an image has been formed by the recording head 151, to the post-processing device 17.

[0023] Next, we will describe the functional blocks provided in the control unit 11 of the printer 1. The control unit 11 includes a determination unit 111, a first setting processing unit 112, a second setting processing unit 113, a third setting processing unit 114, a display control unit 115, a print execution unit 116, a document storage unit 118, and a setting item storage unit 119. By executing the control program 117, the processor 11A functions as a determination unit 111, a first setting processing unit 112, a second setting processing unit 113, a third setting processing unit 114, and a print execution unit 116. Furthermore, by executing the control program 117, the processor 11A causes the memory 11B to function as a document storage unit 118 and a setting item storage unit 119. Control program 117 corresponds to an example of a "program".

[0024] The document storage unit 118 stores multiple document data DDs. The document storage unit 118 is divided into multiple areas. Each of these areas is assigned a user. For example, the first area is assigned to the user of the first personal computer 21. For example, the second area is assigned to the user of the second personal computer 22. For example, the third area is assigned to the user of the third personal computer 23. Each of the first, second, and third areas stores multiple document data (DDs). Each of the first, second, and third areas corresponds to a so-called "box."

[0025] For example, a user of the first personal computer 21 selects multiple document data DDs stored in the first area to be combined and printed. The user of the first personal computer 21 then instructs printer 1 to perform combined printing of the selected multiple document data DDs. For example, a user of the second personal computer 22 selects multiple document data DDs stored in the second area to be combined and printed. The user of the second personal computer 22 then instructs printer 1 to perform combined printing of the selected multiple document data DDs. For example, a user of the third personal computer 23 selects multiple document data DDs stored in the third area to be combined and printed. The user of the third personal computer 23 then instructs printer 1 to perform combined printing of the selected multiple document data DDs.

[0026] Document data DD is generated through various application programs installed on personal computer 2. Document data DD is also generated by an image reading device, i.e., a so-called scanner. The document data DD contains setting value data for multiple setting items JS that define the processing performed by printer 1. The processing performed by printer 1 consists of printing and post-processing.

[0027] The setting item storage unit 119 stores, for example, in a table TBL, whether each of the multiple setting items JS that define the content of processing by the printer 1 is the third setting item JS3, the first setting item JS1, or the second setting item JS2. The first setting item JS1 is a setting item JS included in the first category CT1. The second setting item JS2 is a setting item JS included in the second category CT2. The third setting item JS3 is a setting item JS included in the third category CT3.

[0028] Furthermore, if setting item JS is the first setting item JS1, the setting item storage unit 119 stores the default value DF of the setting item JS as a table TBL. Table TBL will be explained further with reference to Figures 3 and 4.

[0029] The determination unit 111 refers to the table TBL stored in the setting item storage unit 119 and determines whether each of the multiple setting items JS that define the content of processing by the printer 1 is the first setting item JS1, the second setting item JS2, or the third setting item JS3. The first setting item JS1 is a setting item JS included in the first category CT1. The second setting item JS2 is a setting item JS included in the second category CT2. The third setting item JS3 is a setting item JS included in the third category CT3.

[0030] If the setting item JS is the first setting item JS1, the first setting processing unit 112 sets the setting value of the first setting item JS1 for each of the multiple documents DC selected for combined printing to the default value DF of the first setting item JS1.

[0031] For example, the processing of the first setting processing unit 112 will be described in the case where multiple document DCs consist of a first document DCA, a second document DCB, and a third document DCC. The first setting processing unit 112 sets the default value DF of the first setting item JS1 to the setting value of the first setting item JS1 for each of the first document DCA, the second document DCB, and the third document DCC. The first setting item, JS1, will be explained further with reference to Figure 3.

[0032] The second setting processing unit 113, when setting item JS is the second setting item JS2, stores the setting value of the second setting item JS2 for each of the multiple documents DC.

[0033] For example, the processing of the second setting processing unit 113 will be described in the case where multiple document DCs consist of a first document DCA, a second document DCB, and a third document DCC. The second setting processing unit 113 holds the setting value of the second setting item JS2 for each of the first document DCA, the second document DCB, and the third document DCC. In other words, the second setting processing unit 113 stores the setting value of the second setting item JS2 in the document data DD corresponding to the first document DCA as the setting value of the second setting item JS2 when processing the first document DCA in combined printing. Furthermore, the second setting processing unit 113 stores the setting value of the second setting item JS2 in the document data DD corresponding to the second document DCB as the setting value of the second setting item JS2 when processing the second document DCB in combined printing. Furthermore, the second setting processing unit 113 stores the setting value of the second setting item JS2 in the document data DD corresponding to the third document DCC as the setting value of the second setting item JS2 when processing the third document DCC in combined printing. The second setting item, JS2, will be explained further with reference to Figure 3.

[0034] In this embodiment, we describe a case where the second setting processing unit 113 holds the setting value of the second setting item JS2 for each of the multiple document DCs, but the embodiment is not limited to this. The second setting processing unit 113 may, for example, set the setting value of the second setting item JS2 for each of the multiple document DCs based on user operations. Furthermore, the second setting processing unit 113 may, for example, select whether to set the setting value of the second setting item JS2 based on user operation, set the setting value of the second setting item JS2 to the default value DF of the second setting item JS2, or retain the setting value of the second setting item JS2 for each of the multiple documents DC.

[0035] The third setting processing unit 114, when setting item JS is third setting item JS3, sets the setting value of third setting item JS3 of any one of the multiple document DCs to the third setting item JS3 of each of the multiple document DCs. The third setting processing unit 114, for example, when a user of personal computer 2 selects multiple document DCs to be combined for printing, sets the setting value of the third setting item JS3 of the first selected document DC to the third setting item JS3 of each of the multiple document DCs.

[0036] For example, the processing of the third setting processing unit 114 will be described in the case where multiple document DCs consist of a first document DCA, a second document DCB, and a third document DCC. When a user of personal computer 2 selects multiple documents DC to be combined for printing, if the first document DCA is selected first, the third setting processing unit 114 performs the following process: The third setting processing unit 114 sets the setting value of the third setting item JS3 in the document data DD corresponding to the first document DCA to the third setting item JS3 of the first document DCA, the second document DCB, and the third document DCC.

[0037] When a user of personal computer 2 selects multiple documents DC to be combined for printing, if the second document DCB is selected first, the third setting processing unit 114 performs the following process: The third setting processing unit 114 sets the setting value of the third setting item JS3 in the document data DD corresponding to the second document DCB to the third setting item JS3 of the first document DCA, the second document DCB, and the third document DCC, respectively. When a user of personal computer 2 selects multiple documents DC to be combined for printing, if the third document DCC is selected first, the third setting processing unit 114 performs the following process: The third setting processing unit 114 sets the setting value of the third setting item JS3 in the document data DD corresponding to the third document DCC to the third setting item JS3 of the first document DCA, the second document DCB, and the third document DCC. The third setting item, JS3, will be explained further with reference to Figure 4.

[0038] The display control unit 115 causes the display mechanism to display that the setting of the first setting item JS1 by the user is not possible. The display control unit 115, for example, causes the display mechanism 13 to indicate that the user cannot set the first setting item JS1 by graying out the first setting button BS1 used to set the first setting item JS1.

[0039] Furthermore, if the display control unit 115 can change at least one of the setting values ​​of the second setting item JS2 to enable the setting of the first setting item JS1, it will display a message to that effect on the display mechanism 13. For example, the processing of the display control unit 115 will be described in the case where multiple document DCs consist of a first document DCA, a second document DCB, and a third document DCC.

[0040] For example, the "Finishing" and "Paper Output Method" settings are examples of the first setting item JS1. Therefore, the first setting processing unit 112 sets the "Finishing" and "Paper Output Method" settings for each of the multiple document DCs to the default value DF, which is "Standard". For example, "Page Aggregation" is an example of the second setting item JS2. For example, if "Page Aggregation" is set for the third document DCC, you cannot set the "Finishing" "Output Method" to "90-degree rotation" for each of the multiple document DCs.

[0041] In such cases, by setting the "Page Aggregation" setting in the third document DCC to "OFF," it becomes possible to set the "Paper Output Method" in "Finishing" to "90-degree rotation." As mentioned above, the case in which the setting of the first setting item JS1 can be configured by changing at least one of the setting values ​​of the second setting item JS2 will be further explained with reference to Figure 5.

[0042] The print execution unit 116 uses the settings of the first setting item JS1, the second setting item JS2, and the third setting item JS3, which are set by the first setting processing unit 112, the second setting processing unit 113, and the third setting processing unit 114, to perform combined printing of multiple document DCs. The setting value for the first setting item JS1 is set for each of the multiple document DCs by the first setting processing unit 112. The setting value for the second setting item JS2 is set for each of the multiple document DCs by the second setting processing unit 113. The setting value for the third setting item JS3 is set for each of the multiple document DCs by the third setting processing unit 114.

[0043] Next, with reference to Figure 3, the first setting item JS1 and the second setting item JS2 will be explained further. Figure 3 shows an example of a setting item JS included in the first category CT1 or the second category CT2. Figure 3 shows the first table TBL1 stored in the setting item storage unit 119. The first table TBL1 shows an example of setting items JS included in the first category CT1 or the second category CT2.

[0044] Table 1 (TBL1) lists the setting items JS and setting conditions CS from left to right. Setting conditions CS include the setting feasibility AB, default value DF, and category CT. In the first table TBL1, each of the setting items JS is listed in the corresponding category CT as "1" or "2", indicating that each setting item JS belongs to either the first category CT1 or the second category CT2.

[0045] The configurability A / B indicates whether or not the setting can be configured by the user. In Table TBL1, the setting availability fields A and B corresponding to each of the first setting item JS1 are marked with "-", indicating that each of the first setting item JS1 cannot be set by user operation. In Table 1 (TBL1), the corresponding settings A and B in the setting availability column indicate "○", indicating that each of the settings in Table 1 (JS2) can be configured by user input.

[0046] If setting item JS is the first setting item JS1, the default value DF field will display the default value DF corresponding to each of the first setting items JS1. If setting item JS is the second setting item JS2, the default value DF field will not list the default value DF corresponding to each of the second setting items JS2.

[0047] The first setting item JS1 shown in the first table TBL1 includes, for example, "staple" and "punch". "Staple" indicates whether or not the recording media P are stacked in sections and one end of each section of the recording media P is secured with staples. This process is performed by the stapler of the post-processing device 17. "Punch" indicates whether or not to punch a hole in one end of the recording medium P. This process is performed by the puncher of the post-processing device 17.

[0048] As described above, the first setting processing unit 112 sets the setting value of the first setting item JS1 to the default value DF. For example, if the setting item JS is "staple" or "punch", the setting value of the setting item JS is set to the default value DF, which is "off".

[0049] The second setting item JS2 shown in the first table TBL1 includes, for example, "magnification," "page aggregation," and "sorting." "Magnification" indicates the magnification ratio of the image formed on the recording medium P. "Page consolidation" refers to forming images from multiple pages onto a single recording medium P. "Page consolidation" includes so-called "2-in-1" printing. "2-in-1" refers to reducing the size of each of two images and printing them onto a single recording medium P. "Sorting" refers to the process of stacking the recording medium P in sections. "Sorting" is performed by the sorter of the post-processing device 17.

[0050] Next, we will further explain the third setting item JS3 with reference to Figure 4. Figure 4 shows an example of a setting item JS included in the third category CT3. Figure 4 shows the second table TBL2 stored in the setting item storage unit 119. The second table TBL2 shows an example of a setting item JS included in the third category CT3.

[0051] Table 2 (TBL2) lists the setting items JS and setting conditions CS from left to right. Setting conditions CS include the setting feasibility AB, default value DF, and category CT. In the second table TBL2, the category CT corresponding to each setting item JS is marked "3," indicating that each setting item JS is a setting item JS included in the third category CT3, i.e., the third setting item JS3.

[0052] The configurability A and B indicate whether or not the setting can be configured by the user. In the second table TBL2, the configurability A and B corresponding to each of the third setting item JS3 are marked with "○", indicating that each of the setting item JS can be configured by the user.

[0053] The default value DF is labeled "Settings for the first document." This indicates that, as described above, when the user selects multiple document DCs to be combined for printing, the first setting processing unit 112 sets the setting value of the third setting item JS3 of the first selected document DC to the third setting item JS3 of each of the multiple document DCs.

[0054] The third setting item JS3 shown in the second table TBL2 includes, for example, "stamp," "date printing," and "page printing." "Stamp" refers to printing a stamp, such as a "Confidential" stamp, in a predetermined size at a predetermined location in the upper margin of the recording medium P. "Date printing" refers to printing characters indicating the date to be printed, for example, in a predetermined position and size in the lower margin of the recording medium P. "Page printing" refers to printing characters indicating the page number in document DC at a predetermined position and size, for example, in the lower margin of recording medium P.

[0055] Next, the processing of the display control unit 115 will be further explained with reference to Figure 5. Figure 5 is a screen diagram showing an example of screen transitions by the display control unit 115. For example, the processing of the display control unit 115 will be described in the case where multiple document DCs consist of a first document DCA, a second document DCB, and a third document DCC.

[0056] In the initial state, for example, the "Paper Output Method" under "Finishing" is an example of the first setting item JS1, so the first setting processing unit 112 sets it to the default value DF, which is "Standard," for the "Paper Output Method" under "Finishing." Furthermore, since "Page Aggregation" is an example of the second setting item JS2, if "Page Aggregation" is set in the third document DCC, the second setting processing unit 113 will retain the "Page Aggregation" setting in the third document DCC. Thus, if the "Page Aggregation" setting is enabled for the third document DCC, it is not possible to set the "Finishing" "Output Method" to "90-degree rotation" for each of the multiple document DCs.

[0057] The display control unit 115 first displays the first screen 300, shown in the upper part of Figure 5, on the display mechanism 13. The first screen 300 displays a list of setting items. The first screen 300 displays the first button 310 and the second button 320. The first button 310 is, for example, an example of a button used to set the first setting item JS1, and therefore cannot be set by user operation. The display control unit 115 indicates to the display mechanism 13 that the first setting item JS1 cannot be set by the user by graying out the first button 310. The hatching on the first button 310 indicates a grayed-out display. The first button 310 is, for example, a button for setting the "paper output method" in the "finishing" section.

[0058] The second button 320 is, for example, a button used to set the second setting item JS2, and therefore can be configured by user operation. The display control unit 115 does not gray out the second button 320, that is, it displays it normally, thereby indicating to the display mechanism 13 that the second setting item JS2 can be configured by the user. The second button 320 is, for example, a button for setting "Page Aggregation".

[0059] When the user touches the second button 320 as shown by hand H1, the display control unit 115 displays the second screen 400 shown in the middle of Figure 5 on the display mechanism 13. The second screen, 400, is, for example, the settings screen for "Page Aggregation". The second screen 400 displays the first button 410, the second button 420, the third button 430, the fourth button 440, and the OK button 450.

[0060] The first button 410 indicates, for example, that "Page Aggregation" is set for the third document DCC. The first button 410 displays a selection mark MK. The selection mark MK indicates that a setting value corresponding to the first button 410 has been set. In other words, the selection mark MK indicates, for example, that "Page Aggregation" is set for the third document DCC.

[0061] Button 440, for example, indicates setting the "Page Aggregation" setting in the third document's DCC settings to "OFF". The OK button 450 is a button that the user touches to change the setting value they have set. If the user touches the fourth button 440 as shown in hand H2, and then touches the OK button 450 as shown in hand H3, the second setting processing unit 113 sets the "Page Aggregation" setting in the third document DCC to "OFF". Then, the display control unit 115 displays the third screen 500 shown in the lower part of Figure 5 on the display mechanism 13.

[0062] The third screen, number 500, displays guidance. The third screen 500 displays a guidance display unit 510, an OK button 520, and a Cancel button 530. The guidance display unit 510 displays the following guidance: "The setting value for XX in the first setting item can now be changed. Do you want to change it?" "XX" is, for example, the "paper output method" for the "finishing" stage. In other words, the guidance displayed on the guidance display unit 510 indicates that, as a result of setting "Page Aggregation" in the third document DCC to "OFF", the "Paper Output Method" of the first setting item JS1, "Finishing," has become configurable.

[0063] The OK button 520 is a button that the user touches to display the screen where they can change the setting value for "Paper Output Method" under "Finishing." When the user touches the OK button 520, the display control unit 115 displays a screen on the display mechanism 13 that allows the user to change the setting value of "Finishing" > "Paper Output Method". When the screen for changing the "Finishing" > "Output Method" setting appears, the user can, for example, set the "Finishing" > "Output Method" to "90-degree rotation" for each of multiple document DCs. The Cancel button 530 is a button that the user touches if they do not want to change the "Paper Output Method" setting under "Finishing." If the user touches the cancel button 530, the display control unit 115 will, for example, display the first screen 300 shown in the upper part of Figure 5 on the display mechanism 13.

[0064] As described above, if the setting of the first setting item JS1 becomes possible by changing at least one of the setting values ​​of the second setting item JS2, the display control unit 115 causes the display mechanism 13 to display that the setting of the first setting item JS1 has become possible by the user.

[0065] Figure 5 illustrates that when the setting of the first setting item JS1 becomes possible by changing at least one of the setting values ​​of the second setting item JS2, the display control unit 115 displays on the display mechanism 13 that the setting of the first setting item JS1 has become possible for the user. The embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, if changing at least one of the setting values ​​of the second setting item JS2 makes it possible to set the first setting item JS1, the display control unit 115 may display on the display mechanism 13 that the user can set the first setting item JS1. In this case, it displays that changing at least one of the setting values ​​of the second setting item JS2 makes it possible to set the first setting item JS1. The user can visually see that changing at least one of the settings in the second setting item JS2 enables the setting of the first setting item JS1. Therefore, user convenience can be improved.

[0066] Next, the processing of the control unit 11 in this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 6. Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing of the control unit 11. As shown in Figure 6, first, in step S101, the determination unit 111 sequentially extracts each of the multiple setting items JS that define the content of the processing by the printer 1. Next, in step S103, the determination unit 111 refers to the table TBL stored in the setting item storage unit 119 and determines whether the setting item JS extracted in step S101 is the third setting item JS3, the first setting item JS1, or the second setting item JS2.

[0067] If the determination unit 111 determines that the extracted setting item JS is the first setting item JS1 (step S103; "1"), the process proceeds to step S105. Then, in step S105, the first setting processing unit 112 sets the default value DF of the first setting item JS1 to the first setting item JS1 of each of the multiple documents DC. Next, in step S107, the display control unit 115 causes the display mechanism 13 to display that the user cannot set the first setting item JS1. The display control unit 115 indicates this to the display mechanism 13, for example, by graying out the first setting button for setting the first setting item JS1. After that, the process proceeds to step S117.

[0068] If the determination unit 111 determines that the extracted setting item JS is the second setting item JS2 (step S103; "2"), the process proceeds to step S109. Then, in step S109, the second setting processing unit 113 holds the setting value of the second setting item JS2 for each of the multiple documents DC. Next, in step S111, the display control unit 115 causes the display mechanism 13 to display that the user can set the second setting item JS2. The display control unit 115 indicates to the display mechanism 13 that the user can set the second setting item JS2, for example, by normally displaying the second setting button for setting the second setting item JS2. After that, the process proceeds to step S117.

[0069] If the determination unit 111 determines that the extracted setting item JS is the third setting item JS3 (step S103; "3"), the process proceeds to step S113. Then, in step S113, the third setting processing unit 114, for example, when the user selects multiple document DCs to be combined for printing, sets the setting value of the third setting item JS3 of the first selected document DC to the third setting item JS3 of each of the multiple document DCs. Next, in step S115, the display control unit 115 causes the display mechanism 13 to display that the user can set the third setting item JS3. The display control unit 115 indicates to the display mechanism 13 that the user can set the third setting item JS3 by, for example, normally displaying the third setting button for setting the third setting item JS3. After that, the process proceeds to step S117.

[0070] Next, in step S117, the determination unit 111 determines whether or not all of the multiple setting items JS have been extracted. If the determination unit 111 determines that not all of the multiple setting item JS have been extracted (step S117; NO), the process returns to step S101. If the determination unit 111 determines that all of the multiple setting item JS have been extracted (step S117; YES), the process proceeds to step S119. Then, in step S119, the print execution unit 116 performs combined printing of multiple document DCs. After that, the process ends.

[0071] [Structure and Effects] As described above with reference to Figures 1-6, the control unit 11 according to this embodiment is a control unit 11 that controls combined printing of multiple document DCs, and includes a first setting processing unit 112 that sets the default value DF of the first setting item JS1, which is a setting item included in the first category CT1 among a plurality of setting items JS that define the processing content of the document DCs, to the first setting item JS1 of each of the multiple document DCs, and a display control unit 115 that causes the display mechanism 13 to display that the setting of the first setting item JS1 by the user is not possible.

[0072] In this configuration, for the first setting item JS1, which is included in the first category CT1, among the multiple setting items JS that define the processing content of document DC, the default value DF of the first setting item JS1 is set for each of the multiple document DCs. Therefore, by setting the default value DF to an appropriate value, the setting value of the first setting item JS1 for each of the multiple document DCs can be set appropriately. Thus, the user can obtain the print result they desire. In addition, the display mechanism 13 displays that the setting of the first setting item JS1 is unavailable to the user, so the user can visually confirm that the setting of the first setting item JS1 is unavailable. Thus, user convenience can be improved.

[0073] Furthermore, in the control unit 11 according to this embodiment, the display control unit 115 causes the display mechanism 13 to display that the user cannot set the first setting item JS1 by graying out the first setting button for setting the first setting item JS1.

[0074] In this configuration, the first setting button for setting the first setting item JS1 is grayed out, indicating on the display mechanism 13 that the user cannot set the first setting item JS1. Therefore, the user can easily see that setting the first setting item JS1 is not possible. Thus, user convenience can be improved.

[0075] Furthermore, in the control unit 11 according to this embodiment, for the second setting item JS2, which is a setting item JS included in the second category CT2 that is different from the first category CT1 among the multiple setting items JS, there is a second setting processing unit 113 that holds the setting value of the second setting item JS2 for each of the multiple documents DC, and the display control unit 113 displays on the display mechanism 13 if it becomes possible to set the first setting item JS1 by changing at least one of the setting values ​​of the second setting item JS2.

[0076] In this configuration, for the second setting item JS2, which belongs to the second category CT2 and is different from the first category CT1 among the multiple setting items JS, the setting value of the second setting item JS2 is retained for each of the multiple document DCs. Therefore, by properly setting the second setting item JS2, the user can obtain the desired print result.

[0077] Furthermore, in the control unit 11 according to this embodiment, if the display control unit 115 changes at least one of the setting values ​​of the second setting item JS2, thereby enabling the setting of the first setting item JS1, it causes the display mechanism 13 to display that the setting of the first setting item JS1 by the user has become possible.

[0078] According to this configuration, if changing at least one of the settings of the second setting item JS2 makes it possible to configure the first setting item JS1, the display mechanism 13 will display that the user can now configure the first setting item JS1. Therefore, the user can visually confirm that the first setting item JS1 has become configurable. Thus, user convenience can be improved.

[0079] Furthermore, in the control unit 11 according to this embodiment, for the third setting item JS3, which is a setting item JS included in the third category CT3 that is different from the first category CT1 and the second category CT2 among the multiple setting items JS, the setting value of the third setting item JS3 of any one of the multiple document DCs is set to the third setting item JS3 of each of the multiple document DCs, and the display control unit 115 causes the display mechanism 13 to display that the third setting item JS3 can be set by the user.

[0080] In this configuration, for the third setting item JS3, which is a setting item JS belonging to the third category CT3 and is different from the first category CT1 and the second category CT2 among the multiple setting items JS, the setting value of the third setting item JS3 of any one of the multiple document DCs is set to the third setting item JS3 of each of the multiple document DCs. Therefore, by properly setting the third setting item JS3, the user can obtain the desired print result. In addition, the display mechanism 13 displays that the setting of the third setting item JS3 is possible for the user. Therefore, the user can easily see that the setting of the third setting item JS3 is possible. Thus, user convenience can be improved.

[0081] Furthermore, the control unit 11 according to this embodiment includes a setting item storage unit 119 that stores whether each of the multiple setting items JS is the first setting item JS1, the second setting item JS2, or the third setting item JS3.

[0082] In this configuration, each of the multiple configuration item JS remembers whether it is the first configuration item JS1, the second configuration item JS2, or the third configuration item JS3. Therefore, the user can easily check whether each of the multiple configuration item JS is the first configuration item JS1, the second configuration item JS2, or the third configuration item JS3. Thus, user convenience can be improved.

[0083] The print control method according to this embodiment is a print control method for controlling combined printing of multiple document DCs, wherein, among the multiple setting items JS that define the processing content of the document DCs, for the first setting item JS1 which is a setting item included in the first category CT1, the default value DF of the first setting item JS1 is set to the first setting item JS1 of each of the multiple document DCs, and the display mechanism 13 displays that the setting of the first setting item JS1 by the user is not possible.

[0084] The printing control method according to this embodiment provides the same effects and advantages as the control unit 11 according to this embodiment.

[0085] In this embodiment, the control program 117 causes the processor 11A of the control unit 11, which controls the combined printing of multiple document DCs, to function as a first setting processing unit 112 that sets the default value DF of the first setting item JS1, which is included in the first category CT1 among multiple setting items JS that define the processing content of the document DCs, to each of the first setting item JS1 of the multiple document DCs, and as a display control unit 115 that displays on the display mechanism 13 that it is not possible for the user to set the first setting item JS1.

[0086] The control program 117 according to this embodiment provides the same effects and advantages as the control unit 11 according to this embodiment.

[0087] [Other embodiments] This embodiment illustrates one aspect and can be modified and applied arbitrarily without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0088] In this embodiment, the case in which the printer 1 includes a post-processing device 17 has been described, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the printer 1 does not have to include a post-processing device 17. Also, the printer 1 may be a copier or a multifunction peripheral (MFP).

[0089] In this embodiment, the case where the recording head 151 is an inkjet recording head has been described, but the embodiment is not limited to this. The recording head 151 may be, for example, a thermal head.

[0090] In this embodiment, the case where the network NW is a LAN has been described, but the embodiment is not limited to this. The network NW may be, for example, a WAN (Wide Area Network). Alternatively, the network NW may be, for example, the Internet.

[0091] In this embodiment, the first setting processing unit 112 has described a case in which it sets the default value DF of the first setting item JS1 to the first setting item JS1 of each of the multiple documents DC, but the embodiment is not limited to this. As shown in Figure 3, most of the default values ​​DF for the first setting item JS1 are set to off. Therefore, the first setting processing unit 112 may set the first setting item JS1 to off for each of the multiple document DCs.

[0092] In this embodiment, when a user of the personal computer 2 selects multiple document DCs to be combined for printing, the third setting processing unit 114 sets the setting value of the third setting item JS3 in the document data DD corresponding to the first selected document DC to be printed to each of the multiple document DCs. However, the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, when a user of personal computer 2 selects multiple document DCs to be combined for printing, the third setting processing unit 114 may set the setting value of the third setting item JS3 in the document data DD corresponding to the second document DC selected from the beginning to each of the multiple document DCs. Alternatively, for example, the third setting processing unit 114 may, based on user input, select one document DC from among multiple document DCs that are the target of combined printing, and set the setting value of the third setting item JS3 in the document data DD corresponding to the selected document DC for each of the multiple document DCs.

[0093] In this embodiment, we describe a case in which the processor 11A of the printer 1 executes a control program 117 stored in memory 11B, but the embodiment is not limited to this. The control program 117 can also be configured as a recording medium that is readable by a computer, or as a transmission medium for transmitting the control program 117. The above recording medium can be a magnetic, optical, or semiconductor memory device. Examples of recording media include portable or fixed recording media such as flexible disks, HDDs, CD-ROMs (Compact Disk Read Only Memory), DVDs (Digital Versatile Disks), Blu-ray® Discs, magneto-optical disks, flash memory, and card-type recording media. The above recording medium may also be a non-volatile storage device such as RAM, ROM, or HDD, which is an internal storage device of the printer 1.

[0094] The functions of the control unit 11 of printer 1 may be implemented by one or more processors or semiconductor chips. The control unit 11 may also be configured to further include a co-processor such as an SoC (System-on-a-Chip), MCU (Micro Control Unit), or FPGA. The control unit 11 may perform various controls by having both the CPU and the co-processor work together, or by selectively using one of them.

[0095] Each processing unit in the flowchart of Figure 6 is divided according to its main processing content to facilitate understanding of the processing of the control unit 11 of printer 1, and is not limited by the way the processing units are divided or their names. The processing units in the flowchart may be further divided into more processing units depending on the processing content. One processing unit may be further divided to include more processing. The order of processing may be changed as appropriate, as long as it does not hinder the purpose.

[0096] The functional units shown in Figure 2 represent functional configurations, and their specific implementation is not particularly limited. It is not necessary for each functional unit to have its own corresponding hardware; a single processor can execute programs to realize the functions of multiple functional units. In the embodiments described above, some functions implemented by software may also be implemented by hardware, or vice versa. Furthermore, the specific detailed configurations of other parts of the printer 1 can be arbitrarily modified without departing from the main purpose. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0097] 1...Printer, 11...Control unit (print control device), 11A...Processor, 11B...Memory, 111...Determination unit, 112...First setting processing unit, 113...Second setting processing unit, 114...Third setting processing unit, 115...Display control unit, 116...Print execution unit, 117...Control program (program), 118...Document storage unit, 119...Category storage unit, 13...Display mechanism, 15...Printing mechanism, 17...Post-processing unit, 2...Personal computer, CS...Setting conditions, CT...Category, CT1...First category, CT2...Second category, CT3...Third category, DC...Document, DCA...First document, DCB...Second document, DCC...Third document, DD...Document data, DF...Default value, JS...Setting item, JS1...First setting item, JS2...Second setting item, JS3...Third setting item, TBL...Table, TBL1...First table, TBL2...Second table.

Claims

1. A print control device that controls the combined printing of multiple documents, A first setting processing unit sets the default value of the first setting item, which is included in the first category, among a plurality of setting items that define the processing content of a document, for each of the plurality of documents. A display control unit that displays on the display mechanism that the user cannot set the first setting item, A print control device equipped with the following features.

2. The display control unit causes the display mechanism to indicate that the user cannot set the first setting item by graying out the first setting button for setting the first setting item. The print control device according to claim 1.

3. For the second setting item, which is a setting item belonging to a second category different from the first category among the multiple setting items, the system includes a second setting processing unit that holds the setting value of the second setting item for each of the multiple documents. If the display control unit can enable the setting of the first setting item by changing at least one of the setting values ​​of the second setting item, it will cause the display mechanism to display a message to that effect. The printing control device according to claim 1 or claim 2.

4. If the display control unit makes it possible to set the first setting item by changing at least one of the setting values ​​of the second setting item, it will cause the display mechanism to display that it is now possible for the user to set the first setting item. The printing control device according to claim 3.

5. With respect to a third setting item, which is a setting item belonging to a third category different from the first and second categories among the plurality of setting items, the third setting processing unit sets the setting value of the third setting item of any one of the plurality of documents to the third setting item of each of the plurality of documents. The display control unit causes the display mechanism to indicate that the user can set the third setting item. The printing control device according to claim 3.

6. The system includes a setting item storage unit that stores whether each of the plurality of setting items is the first setting item, the second setting item, or the third setting item. The printing control device according to claim 5.

7. A print control method for controlling the combined printing of multiple documents, Of the multiple setting items that define the processing content of a document, the first setting item, which is a setting item included in the first category, is set to the default value of the first setting item for each of the multiple documents. The display mechanism will show that the user cannot set the first setting item. Print control method.

8. A processor in a print control device that controls the combined printing of multiple documents, A first setting processing unit sets the default value of the first setting item, which is included in the first category, among the multiple setting items that define the processing content of a document, for each of the multiple documents, and A display control unit that displays on the display mechanism that the setting of the first setting item by the user is not possible. A program that makes something function as such.

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