Tape cassette and label printer

Abstract

This label printer is capable of using a tape cassette and incorporates technology that enables proper management of the remaining amount of label tape. [Solution] The tape cassette 56 that can be installed in the label printer 3 has a cassette memory 55 that stores media information 61, and the media information 61 includes total length information 64 of the roll sheet 51 and usage length information 65 of the roll sheet 51. The label printer 3 can determine the remaining amount of the roll sheet 51 based on the media information 61 stored in the cassette memory 55, and can accumulate the usage length information 65 from the media information stored in the cassette memory 55 based on the amount of the roll sheet 51 transported by printing in the label printer 3.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a tape cassette that holds a label tape, and a label printer to which the tape cassette can be mounted.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a technique is known in which information is read from a storage medium included in a tape cassette in a state where the tape cassette is mounted on a label printer. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a configuration in which a roll cassette is provided with an RFID tag, and a print counter, an SKU code, and a consumable identification code are stored in the RFID tag.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Management of the remaining amount of the label tape accommodated in the tape cassette is desired. The storage medium of the tape cassette disclosed in Patent Document 1 stores a print count as the length of the used tape. On the other hand, the remaining length of the tape is not stored in the storage medium of the tape cassette.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] A tape cassette made for the purpose of solving the above-described problems is a tape cassette comprising a label tape and a memory, wherein the memory stores full length information indicating the maximum printable length using the unused label tape, and is capable of storing used length information indicating the length of the already used label tape, and is configured such that the remaining amount of the label tape can be determined based on the full length information and the used length information.

[0006] Furthermore, a label printer designed to solve the aforementioned problems comprises a tape cassette having label tape and memory, a printing unit for printing on the label tape, and a controller. The memory stores total length information indicating the maximum printable length using the label tape before use, and can store used length information indicating the length of the label tape that has already been used. The controller is configured to read the total length information and used length information from the memory and determine the remaining amount of the label tape based on the read total length information and used length information.

[0007] By storing total length information and used length information in the cassette memory of the tape cassette, and reading this information from the cassette memory to determine the remaining amount of label tape, the label printer can perform processing based on the remaining amount of label tape, and appropriate remaining amount management of the label printer can be expected. Furthermore, after printing on the label tape, the amount of label tape consumed can be accumulated based on the amount of label tape transported by the printing, thereby determining the appropriate remaining amount of label tape after printing.

[0008] A label printer that can accommodate the above-mentioned tape cassette is also a new and useful option. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to this disclosure, a label printer capable of carrying a tape cassette is realized, which is expected to enable proper management of the remaining amount of label tape. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram of a label printer capable of holding a tape cassette according to the first embodiment, and a personal computer connected to the label printer. [Figure 2] (A) and (B) are explanatory diagrams illustrating examples of roll sheet types. [Figure 3]This is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a label printer. [Figure 4] This is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of medium information. [Figure 5] This is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of the outline of operations executed by a label printer and a PC 1 connected to the label printer. [Figure 6] This is a flowchart illustrating an example of remaining amount calculation processing and remaining amount display processing. [Figure 7] This is a flowchart illustrating an example of used length calculation processing and writing processing. [Figure 8] This is a flowchart illustrating an example of cumulative remaining amount calculation processing and cumulative remaining amount display processing. [Figure 9] (A) to (E) are diagrams illustrating display examples on the display unit of the user IF of the label printer. [Figure 10] (A) to (B) are diagrams illustrating display examples on the display unit of the user IF of the label printer. [Modes for Carrying Out the Invention]

[0011] Hereinafter, a label printer to which a tape cassette according to the present embodiment can be mounted, and a personal computer connected to the label printer will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the present embodiment, a state in which the label printer is connected to a personal computer (hereinafter referred to as "PC") is disclosed. Note that PC 1 is an example of an external device.

[0012] <Schematic Configuration of PC> As shown in Figure 1, in this embodiment, PC1 is connected to the label printer 3 in a communicative manner. PC1 includes a controller 10 which includes a CPU 11 and memory 12. PC1 includes a user interface (hereinafter referred to as "user IF") 13 and a communication interface (hereinafter referred to as "communication IF") 14. User IF 13 and communication IF 14 are electrically connected to the controller 10. Note that the controller 10 in Figure 1 is a general term for the hardware and software used to control PC1. Therefore, the controller 10 in Figure 1 does not necessarily represent a single piece of hardware actually present in PC1. Note that PC1 may also be a mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet.

[0013] The CPU 11 executes various processes according to the program read from memory 12 and based on user operations. Memory 12 stores various types of data. These types of data include the operating system (hereinafter referred to as "OS") 21 and the label creation application program (hereinafter referred to as "label creation app") 22. Memory 12 also stores a media information list 23. Memory 12 is also used as a workspace when various processes are executed. The buffer provided by the CPU 11 is also an example of memory 12. Memory 12 includes a buffer. Note that the example of memory 12 is not limited to ROM, RAM, HDD, etc., built into the PC 1. The example of memory 12 may be a storage medium that the CPU 11 can read and write to, such as a recording medium like a CD-ROM or DVD-ROM.

[0014] The user interface 13 of PC1 includes a display 13a capable of displaying information and hardware that accepts user input. The user interface 13 of PC1 may also be a touch panel equipped with a display capable of displaying information and soft keys that accept user input.

[0015] The communication IF 14 includes hardware for communicating with the label printer 3 and the like. The communication standard of the communication IF 14 is Ethernet (registered trademark), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), USB, or the like. The PC 1 may be provided with a plurality of communication IFs 14 corresponding to a plurality of communication standards.

[0016] The OS 21 is, for example, iOS (registered trademark), Android (registered trademark), Windows (registered trademark), macOS (registered trademark), or Linux (registered trademark).

[0017] The label creation application 22 is a program. According to the label creation application 22, the CPU 11 receives a user's instruction via the user IF 13, for example, and executes editing of an image to be printed and transmission of a print instruction to the label printer 3 based on the received instruction.

[0018] Further, the CPU 11 executes processing for requesting medium information to the connected label printer 3 based on the label creation application 22 or the received user's instruction. Further, the CPU 11 stores the medium information transmitted from the label printer 3 as the medium information list 23 in accordance with the label creation application 22.

[0019] <Schematic Configuration of Label Printer> The label printer 3 is communicably connected to the PC 1 including the label creation application 22. The label printer 3 includes a controller 30. The controller 30 has a CPU 31 and a main body memory 32. The label printer 3 further includes a communication IF 34, a printing unit 35, a printer-side user interface (hereinafter referred to as "user IF") 36, a connector 37, and a conveyance motor 38. The communication IF 34, the printing unit 35, the user IF 36, the connector 37, and the conveyance motor 38 are connected to the controller 30.

[0020] The printing unit 35 is capable of printing on the roll sheet 51. The printing unit 35 may be configured to color and print on the roll sheet 51 by heat-transferring ink, like a thermal transfer label, or it may be configured to color and print on the roll sheet 51 by emitting light from a photosensitive layer using a print head, like a thermal label.

[0021] The label printer 3 simultaneously prints onto a continuous tape-shaped roll sheet 51 of a predetermined width and transports the roll sheet 51 using a transport motor 38. In this embodiment, the width of the roll sheet 51 is defined as the "tape width". The roll sheet 51 is transported by a transport roller (not shown) that rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the transport motor 38. The length of the roll sheet 51 transported by the transport roller is defined as the "tape transport length".

[0022] The label printer 3, for example, transports a built-in long roll-shaped roll sheet 51 and prints on the label using the printing unit 35. After that, the printed label (roll sheet 51) is discharged outside the label printer 3. The label printer 3 may also be equipped with a cutter that cuts the discharged roll sheet 51 at predetermined intervals.

[0023] As for the types of roll sheets 51, for example, as shown in Figure 2(A), there is a roll sheet 51 of indefinite length in which long tapes 51b are overlapped and attached to a backing sheet 51a. Also, for example, as shown in Figure 2(B), there is a die-cut type roll sheet 51 in which cut tapes 51c, which have been pre-cut to a predetermined length 51d, are arranged on a backing sheet 51a at predetermined intervals 51e. In addition, there may be a pre-cut type roll sheet 51 in which continuous long tapes 51b with perforations (not shown) at predetermined intervals are overlapped and attached to a backing sheet 51a.

[0024] Note that a roll sheet is one example of label tape. Also, a die-cut type, where the tape is cut to a predetermined length, is one example of a die-cut label, and a non-cut, variable-length type, where the tape is not cut to a predetermined length, is one example of a long label.

[0025] Returning to Figure 1, the user interface 36 of the label printer 3 may be a touch panel equipped with a display 36a capable of displaying information to the user and soft keys that accept user input. Alternatively, the user interface 36 may consist of a display and hardware keys that accept user input.

[0026] The tape cassette 56 comprises a roll sheet 51, a roll sheet holder 52 that rotatably supports the roll sheet 51, and a cassette memory 55 having an electrical contact surface 54. The roll sheet holder 52 has a guide projection 53. The connector 37 is electrically connectable to the electrical contact surface 54 located on the surface of the guide projection 53. That is, when the cover 6 of the label printer 3 is opened and the roll sheet holder 52 is set in a predetermined position on the label printer 3, the connector 37 and the electrical contact surface 54 are electrically connected. Furthermore, the electrical contact surface 54 is electrically connected to the cassette memory 55 located within the guide projection 53 of the roll sheet holder 52. Note that the cassette memory is an example of memory.

[0027] When the transport motor 38 rotates in the forward direction, the roll sheet 51 is transported in the forward direction. Conversely, when the transport motor 38 rotates in the reverse direction, the roll sheet 51 is transported in the opposite direction to the forward direction. The transport motor 38 can transport the roll sheet 51 in the transport direction as it rotates in the forward direction. In this case, the controller 30 can detect the amount of the roll sheet 51 being transported based on the amount of rotation of the transport motor 38. The transport motor 38 is composed of, for example, a stepping motor or a DC motor equipped with an encoder.

[0028] In this embodiment, the tape cassette 56 is composed of a roll sheet holder 52 and a roll sheet 51. The label printer 3, as shown in Figure 3, includes a housing 4 having a storage section 5 from which the tape cassette 56 can be attached and detached, and a cover 6 that covers the top of the housing 4. The cover 6 is rotatably attached to the housing 4. The cover 6 is made of transparent resin.

[0029] When the user rotates the cover 6 to the position shown by the dashed line in Figure 3, the storage compartment 5 of the label printer 3 is opened, and the tape cassette 56 can be attached to and detached from the storage compartment 5 of the label printer 3. Also, when the cover 6 is open, the printing unit 35 cannot print on the roll sheet 51. Furthermore, if the user opens the cover 6 during printing, printing by the printing unit 35 is interrupted, and the transport motor 38 also stops. On the other hand, when the cover 6 is closed, the tape cassette 56 cannot be attached to or detached from the storage compartment 5 of the label printer 3, but printing by the printing unit 35 is possible. Note that the position where the cover 6 opens the storage compartment 5 of the label printer 3, shown by the dashed line in Figure 3, is an example of the first position, and the position where the cover 6 covers the storage compartment 5, shown by the solid line in Figure 3, is an example of the second position.

[0030] Returning to Figure 1, the main memory 32 includes a work area 41 which is used as a workspace when various processes are executed.

[0031] The control program 42 is stored in the main memory 32. The CPU 31, in accordance with the control program 42, causes the printing unit 35 to print on the roll sheet 51 based on the printing information. That is, the printing unit 35 prints on the roll sheet 51 by thermally transferring ink, or by illuminating the photosensitive layer with a print head.

[0032] Furthermore, when the roll sheet holder 52 is attached to the label printer 3, the CPU 31 can read media information stored in the cassette memory 55 via the connector 37 and the electrical contact surface 54. Also, when the roll sheet holder 52 is attached to the label printer 3, the CPU 31 can write media information to the cassette memory 55 via the connector 37 and the electrical contact surface 54.

[0033] <Structure of media information> As shown in Figure 4, the media information 61 includes tape cassette ID 62, media type information 63, total length information 64, usable length information 65, tape width information 66, label size information 67, label spacing information 68, perforation spacing information 69, etc. Note that the media information is an example of label information.

[0034] Tape cassette ID 62 stores identifying information for tape cassette 56. This identifying information includes, for example, the model number and serial number of tape cassette 56. Alternatively, the identifying information may include, for example, a serial number assigned to each tape cassette 56 instead of the model number and serial number.

[0035] The media type information 63 represents the type of roll sheet 51. Specifically, the media type information 63 includes types of roll sheets 51 such as "undefined length type," "die-cut type," and "pre-cut type." Note that the media type information is just one example of type information.

[0036] The overall length information 64 indicates the overall length of the printable roll sheet 51 before use. In other words, the overall length information 64 indicates the initial length of the roll sheet 51.

[0037] The usage length information 65 indicates the cumulative transported length when the roll sheet 51 is transported by printing or other means. The usage length information 65 indicates the length of the roll sheet 51 that has already been used. In the case of an unused tape cassette 56, the value "0" is stored.

[0038] The tape width information 66 stores the tape width, which is the width of the roll sheet 51.

[0039] In the label size information 67, if "die-cut type" is stored as the type of roll sheet 51 in the media type information 63, the length 51d of the cut tape 51c is stored.

[0040] The label spacing information 68 stores the arrangement spacing 51e of the cut tapes 51c if "die-cut type" is stored as the type of roll sheet 51 in the media type information 63. Note that the arrangement spacing is an example of a gap.

[0041] The perforation spacing information 69 stores the perforation spacing if "pre-cut type" is stored as the type of roll sheet 51.

[0042] In this embodiment, meters are used as the unit of length, but other units of length such as inches, yards, or feet may also be used.

[0043] <Overview of Operation> Next, the following will describe the operations performed by the label printer 3 and the PC 1 connected to the label printer 3, referring to the sequence diagram shown in Figure 5. The following explanation assumes that the user has powered on the PC 1 and that the label creation application 22 is running on the PC 1's CPU 11.

[0044] In other words, when the user turns on the label printer 3 (procedure 1 (hereinafter referred to as T1)), the CPU 31 of the label printer 3 reads the media information 61 from the cassette memory 55 shown in Figure 4 via the connector 37 and the electrical contact surface. After that, the read media information 61 is stored in the work area 41 of the main unit memory 32.

[0045] The CPU 31 of the label printer 3 determines the remaining amount of the roll sheet 51 based on the media information 61 stored in the work area 41 of the main memory 32. In other words, the CPU 31 of the label printer 3 performs a remaining amount calculation process to calculate the remaining amount of the roll sheet 51 and a remaining amount display process to display the calculation result of the remaining amount calculation process (T2). Then, the CPU 31 of the label printer 3 displays the remaining amount of the roll sheet 51 installed in the label printer 3 on the display 36a of the user interface 36 of the label printer 3 (T3). At this time, the label printer 3 stores the calculation result in the work area 41 of the main memory 32. Note that the remaining amount is an example of remaining amount information.

[0046] In this embodiment, when the user turns on the label printer 3, the CPU 31 of the label printer 3 calculates and outputs the remaining amount of tape in the tape cassette 56. Therefore, the user can know the remaining amount of tape in the tape cassette 56 installed in the label printer 3 when the label printer 3 is started up. Furthermore, by displaying the remaining amount on the display 36a of the label printer 3, the user can easily determine whether or not printing is possible with the tape cassette 56 installed in the label printer 3.

[0047] Furthermore, when the user opens and then closes the cover 6 of the label printer 3 (T4), the label printer 3 reads the media information 61 from the cassette memory 55 shown in Figure 4 via the connector 37 and the electrical contact surface 54. The read media information 61 is then stored in the work area 41 of the main memory 32. The CPU 31 of the label printer 3 then performs remaining amount calculation processing and remaining amount display processing based on the media information 61 stored in the work area 41 of the main memory 32. The CPU 31 of the label printer 3 then stores the remaining amount in the work area 41 of the main memory 32 (T2). The CPU 31 of the label printer 3 then displays the remaining amount of the roll sheet 51 installed in the label printer 3 on the display 36a of the user interface 36 of the label printer 3 (T3).

[0048] In this case, the user opening and closing the cover 6 of the label printer 3 likely indicates that the roll sheet 51 installed in the label printer 3 has been replaced. In this embodiment, the current remaining amount of the roll sheet 51 installed in the label printer 3 is displayed on the display 36a of the user interface 36 of the label printer 3.

[0049] Furthermore, when a user requests media information using the user interface 13 of PC1 (T5), PC1 requests media information 61 from the connected label printer 3 (T6). For example, when a user starts the label creation application 22 on PC1 and selects the label printer 3 in the label creation application 22, the CPU 31 executes the label creation application 22, requesting the label printer 3 to send media information. The CPU 31 of the label printer 3, having received the media information request, reads the media information 61 and remaining amount stored in the work area 41 of the main memory 32. Subsequently, the CPU 31 of the label printer 3 sends the read media information 61 and remaining amount to PC1 (T7). Note that the media information request operation T5 is an example of an acquisition request.

[0050] Upon receiving the media information 61, PC1 stores the received media information 61 and the remaining amount in the media information list 23 of memory 12. Furthermore, PC1, upon receiving the media information 61, displays the remaining amount of the roll sheet 51 on the user interface 13's display 13a based on the remaining amount (T8).

[0051] In this embodiment, when a user requests media information using the user interface 13 of the PC1, the remaining amount of roll sheet 51 loaded in the label printer 3 is displayed on the display 13a of the user interface 13. Therefore, the user can determine whether or not to print using the tape cassette 56 loaded in the label printer 3.

[0052] The CPU 31 of the label printer 3 sends the remaining amount stored in the main unit memory 32 to the PC 1, allowing the user to determine whether or not to print from the tape cassette installed in the label printer 3, even from a location away from the label printer 3.

[0053] Furthermore, when the user creates or edits print data using the user interface 13 via the label creation application 22 (T9), the PC1 displays the shape of the roll sheet 51 loaded in the label printer 3 on the user interface 13's display 13a based on the media information 61 acquired from the label printer 3. Subsequently, the CPU 11 of the PC1 creates or edits the print data based on the user's instructions received (T10).

[0054] Furthermore, when a user issues a print command using the user IF13 via the label creation application 22 (T11), the CPU11 of PC1 sends print information to the label printer 3 (T12). Upon receiving the print information from PC1, the CPU11 of the label printer 3 uses the printing unit 35 to print onto the roll sheet 51 based on the print information (T13).

[0055] Subsequently, the label printer 3 performs a usage length calculation process to calculate the length of the roll sheet 51 used for printing, and a writing process to store the usage length calculated in the usage length calculation process in the cassette memory 55 via the connector 37 and the electrical contact surface 54 (T14).

[0056] Subsequently, the CPU 31 of the label printer 3 performs cumulative remaining amount calculation processing and cumulative remaining amount display processing based on the calculated usage length (T15). Then, the result of the cumulative remaining amount display processing is displayed on the display 36a of the user IF 36 of the label printer 3 (T16). After printing is complete, the CPU 31 of the label printer 3 sends a print completion message to the PC 1. Then, in response to receiving the print completion message, the PC 1 requests media information from the CPU 31 of the label printer 3. The CPU 11 of the PC 1 may update the displayed remaining amount after receiving the updated media information.

[0057] In this embodiment, after printing is complete, the remaining amount of the roll sheet 51 loaded in the label printer 3 is displayed on the user interface 36 display 36a of the label printer 3. Therefore, the user can see the latest remaining amount after printing.

[0058] Furthermore, when the user turns the power of the label printer 3 "OFF" (T17), the label printer 3 stores the print history in the main unit memory 32 (T18).

[0059] In this embodiment, the operations of opening and then closing the cover 6 of the label printer 3 (T4), requesting media information (T5), creating / editing print data (T9), and issuing a print command (T11) do not necessarily have to be performed in the order shown in the sequence diagram in Figure 5.

[0060] For example, the operation of opening and then closing the cover 6 of the label printer 3 (T4) may be performed immediately before the print command operation (T11). Similarly, the media information request operation (T5) may be performed immediately before the print command operation (T11).

[0061] Furthermore, it is acceptable for the print command operation (T11) to be performed immediately after the power operation T1 of the label printer 3.

[0062] <Remaining quantity calculation process and remaining quantity display process> Next, an example of the remaining amount calculation process and remaining amount display process T2 shown in Figure 5 will be explained with reference to the flowchart in Figure 6. The procedures and processing steps of each program described below represent the processing of the CPU 31 according to the instructions written in each program. In other words, processes such as "judgment," "decision," "acquisition," and "reception" in the following explanation represent the processing of the CPU 31. The processing by the CPU 31 also includes hardware control using the OS API. In this embodiment, the description of the OS will be omitted when explaining the operation of each program. Also, "acquisition" is used as a concept that does not necessarily require a request.

[0063] First, the CPU 31 of the label printer 3 reads the media information 61 shown in Figure 4 from the cassette memory 55 via the electrical contact surface 54 and the connector 37 (step 21 (hereinafter referred to as S21)).

[0064] Next, in S22, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the reading of media information 61 from the cassette memory 55 was successful. If the CPU 31 determines in S22 that the reading was unsuccessful (S22: NO), then in the following S23, the CPU 31 stores "- -" as remaining capacity in the working area 41 of the main memory 32. After that, the process proceeds to S39. Note that "- -" as remaining capacity is an example of non-remaining capacity information. Also, the remaining capacity in the case of unsuccessful reading does not have to be numerical information. In other words, the remaining capacity in the case of unsuccessful reading is not limited to "- -".

[0065] Thus, in this embodiment, if the cassette memory read operation is unsuccessful, the accurate remaining amount cannot be calculated. Therefore, as shown in Figure 9(E) described later, by configuring the system so that "- -" is displayed on the display 36a as the remaining amount, it is possible to avoid outputting an inaccurate remaining amount. In addition, the user can determine if there is an abnormality in the tape cassette 56, for example, if the tape cassette 56 is not properly installed in the label printer 3, or if the cassette memory 55 is damaged.

[0066] Alternatively, for example, a sensor may be installed in the label printer 3 to detect whether the tape cassette 56 is correctly installed in the label printer 3. In this case, by displaying "- -" as the remaining amount, it is possible to distinguish between the case where the tape cassette 56 is not installed in the label printer 3 and the case where the cassette memory 55 of the tape cassette 56 is damaged. Therefore, the user can correctly understand the status of the tape cassette 56. As a result, the user can take appropriate action to deal with errors.

[0067] On the other hand, if the CPU 31 determines in S22 that the reading was successful (S22: YES), then in the following S24, the CPU 31 stores the media information 61 read from the cassette memory 55 in the working area 41 of the main unit memory 32.

[0068] Next, in S25, the CPU 31 obtains the usage length of the roll sheet 51 from the media information 61 stored in the work area 41 of the main memory 32. Specifically, it obtains the cumulative usage length of the roll sheet 51 stored in the usage length information 65 of the media information 61.

[0069] Next, in S26, the CPU 31 obtains the total length of the roll sheet 51 from the media information 61 stored in the work area 41 of the main memory 32. Specifically, it obtains the printable total length using the roll sheet 51 stored in the total length information 64 of the media information 61.

[0070] Next, in S27, the CPU 31 determines the type of media of the roll sheet 51 based on the media information 61 stored in the work area 41. If "die-cut type" is stored as the media type information 63 in the media information 61, the CPU 31 determines that the type of roll sheet 51 is "die-cut type" (S27: die-cut type). In the following S28, the CPU 31 switches the remaining amount display setting to the "remaining number of sheets" display setting. That is, it switches to the display format shown in Figure 9(C) described later.

[0071] Next, in S29, the CPU 31 determines whether the length used is less than or equal to the total length. If the length used is less than or equal to the total length (S29: YES), then in S30, the CPU 31 calculates the number of remaining cut tapes 51c that have been cut to a predetermined length, stores the calculated number of remaining tapes in the work area 41 of the main memory 32, and then proceeds to S39. Note that the number of remaining tapes is an example of the number of labels.

[0072] Specifically, in S30, CPU31 calculates the number of remaining tapes using the following formula. Remaining number of pieces = (Total length - Length used) / (Length of 51cm cut tape + Spacing) In the above calculation formula, the length 51d of the cut tape is the value of the length 51d of the cut tape 51c stored in the label size information 67 of the media information 61. The spacing is the value of the arrangement spacing 51e of the cut tapes 51c stored in the label spacing information 68 of the media information 61 stored in the work area 41 of the main memory 32. Note that the spacing is an example of a gap.

[0073] In this embodiment, by configuring the system so that the remaining number is displayed on the display 36a, the user can accurately determine the number of remaining cut tapes 51c. Furthermore, the label printer 3 calculates the number of printable cut tapes 51c, taking into account the spacing 51e between the cut tapes 51c. Therefore, it is possible to display an accurate number.

[0074] On the other hand, if the length used is equal to the total length or exceeds the total length, the CPU 31 determines that the total length is less than the length used (S29: NO). Next, in S31, the CPU 31 stores "0" as the remaining number of sheets in the work area 41 of the main memory 32. After that, it proceeds to S39.

[0075] In this embodiment, if the length used is equal to or exceeds the total length, the number of printable cut tapes 51c is displayed as 0, for example, as shown in Figure 9(D) described later. This prevents the calculation of an inappropriate number.

[0076] On the other hand, if "undefined length type" is stored in the media type information 63 of the media information 61, the CPU 31 determines that the media type is "undefined length type" (S27: Undefined length type). In the following S32, the CPU 31 switches the remaining amount display setting to the "remaining length" display setting. That is, it switches to the display format shown in Figure 9(A) or Figure 9(B) described later.

[0077] Next, in S33, the CPU 31 determines whether the length used is less than or equal to the total length. If the length used is less than or equal to the total length (S33: YES), then in S34, the CPU 31 calculates the remaining length of the roll sheet 51 and then proceeds to S35.

[0078] Specifically, in S34, CPU31 calculates the remaining length of the roll sheet 51 using the following formula. Remaining length = Total length - Usable length In the above calculation formula, the total length used is the initial total length value of the roll sheet 51 stored in the total length information 64 of the media information 61 stored in the work area 41 of the main unit memory 32. That is, the total length value of the roll sheet 51 is also the initial total length value of the backing paper 51a and the long tape 51b. In addition, the usage length used is the cumulative usage length value stored in the usage length information 65 of the media information 61 stored in the work area 41 of the main unit memory 32.

[0079] In this embodiment, as described above, if "die-cut type" is stored as the media type information 63 in the media information 61, the remaining number of cut tapes 51c is displayed on the display 36a. Therefore, it is easy for the user to understand whether printing is possible. On the other hand, if "variable length type" is stored as the media type information 63 in the media information 61, the number of remaining cut tapes 51c is not determined. Therefore, the remaining length of the roll sheet 51 is calculated. In this way, by changing the content of the calculated remaining amount according to the type of label tape, it becomes easier for the user to understand whether printing is possible on the roll sheet 51 loaded in the label printer.

[0080] On the other hand, if the length used is equal to the total length or exceeds the total length, the CPU 31 determines that the total length is not greater than or equal to the length used (S33: NO). Next, in S36, the CPU 31 stores "0" as the remaining length in the work area 41 of the main memory 32. After that, it proceeds to S39.

[0081] In this embodiment, if the length used is equal to or exceeds the total length, the remaining length of the roll sheet 51 is displayed as "0", for example, as shown in Figure 9(D) later. This avoids the incorrect calculation of the remaining length of the roll sheet 51.

[0082] Next, in S35, the CPU 31 determines whether the display setting of the label printer 3 is set to "meters" or "inches". If the CPU 31 determines that it is set to "meters" (S35: meters), then in the following S37, the CPU 31 stores the remaining length of the roll sheet 51 calculated in S34 in the work area 41 of the main unit memory 32. After that, the process proceeds to S39. Note that meters are an example of the first unit, and inches are an example of the second unit. The user can switch between "meters" and "inches" in the user interface 36 of the label printer 3.

[0083] Furthermore, if the CPU 31 determines that the measurement is in "inches" (S35: inches), in the following S38, the CPU 31 "converts" the remaining length of the roll sheet 51 calculated in S33 to "inches". After that, the CPU 31 stores it in the work area 41 of the main memory 32. Specifically, the remaining length of the roll sheet 51 (in meters) calculated in S33 is "converted to inches" by dividing it by the value "0.024", then stored in the work area 41 of the main memory 32, and then the program proceeds to S39.

[0084] In this embodiment, since there are multiple unit systems for length and different preferred unit systems exist depending on the region, the remaining amount can be output in the unit system preferred by the user. Therefore, it becomes easier for the user to understand whether printing is possible with the tape cassette 56 installed in the label printer 3.

[0085] Next, in S39, the CPU 31 determines whether the label printer 3 is equipped with a display 36a. In this embodiment, the label printer 3 is equipped with a display 36a, so it is determined that the label printer 3 is equipped with a display unit (S39: YES). Subsequently, in S40, the CPU 31 displays on the display 36a either the remaining number of labels stored in the work area 41 of the main memory 32, the remaining length (meters, inches), "- -" as the remaining amount, or "0" as the remaining amount. After that, this process is terminated.

[0086] Furthermore, if label printer 3 does not have a display, it is determined that label printer 3 does not have a display (S39: NO). After that, this process is terminated.

[0087] <Calculation of length used and writing process> Next, an example of the usage length calculation process and writing process T14 shown in Figure 5 will be explained with reference to the flowchart in Figure 7. The procedures and processing steps of each program described below represent the processing of the CPU 31 according to the instructions written in each program. Steps that have the same effect as the remaining amount calculation process and remaining amount display process steps shown in Figure 6 above are denoted by the same reference numeral and their explanation is omitted.

[0088] First, in S22, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the reading of media information 61 from the cassette memory 55 was successful. If the CPU 31 determines in S22 that the reading was unsuccessful (S22: NO), it proceeds to S23.

[0089] On the other hand, if the CPU 31 determines that it has successfully read the media information 61 from the cassette memory 55 (S22: YES), it then proceeds to S41.

[0090] Next, in S41, the CPU 31 determines whether the transport motor 38, which is transporting the roll sheet 51, has stopped transporting it. If the transport motor 38 continues to transport the roll sheet 51, the CPU 31 determines that the transport has not stopped (S41: NO). After that, in S42, the CPU 31 executes other processes.

[0091] On the other hand, for example, when the label printer 3 finishes printing, when the print position adjustment is complete, or when the user opens the cover 6 during printing, the rotation of the transport motor 38 stops and the transport of the roll sheet 51 stops. Therefore, the CPU 31 determines that transport has stopped (S41: YES). The process then proceeds to S43.

[0092] Next, in S43, the CPU 31 determines whether the reason the transport of the roll sheet 51 stopped is because the adjustment of the printing position has been completed. If the CPU 31 determines that the reason the transport of the roll sheet 51 stopped is because the adjustment of the printing position has been completed (S43: YES), the process is terminated without accumulating the length of use of the roll sheet 51.

[0093] In other words, when the label printer 3 rotates the transport motor 38 forward or backward to adjust the printing position and transports the roll sheet 51, the roll sheet 51 is not consumed anew. Therefore, the usage length information 65 of the media information 61 stored in the work area 41 of the main unit memory 32 and the cassette memory 55 is not accumulated.

[0094] Thus, in this embodiment, when the transport motor 38 is rotated forward or backward to transport the roll sheet 51 in order to adjust the printing position, the usage length information 65 of the media information 61 stored in the work area 41 of the main unit memory 32 and the cassette memory 55 is not accumulated. Therefore, it is possible to accurately display the remaining amount of the roll sheet 51 to the user.

[0095] Furthermore, in S43, it was determined that the reason the transport of the roll sheet 51 stopped was not due to the completion of the adjustment of the printing position (S43: NO), and the process proceeded to S44.

[0096] Next, in S44, the CPU 31 determines whether or not an error occurred. For example, if the reason the transport of the roll sheet 51 stopped was because the label printer 3 finished printing, the CPU 31 determines that no error occurred (S44: NO). Then, the process proceeds to S45.

[0097] Next, in S45, the CPU 31 calculates the cumulative usage length by adding the amount of roll sheets 51 transported during the current printing. That is, the CPU 31 calculates the cumulative usage length by adding the amount of roll sheets 51 transported during the current printing to the value of the usage length information 65 of the media information 61 stored in the work area 41 of the main memory 32.

[0098] In this embodiment, after printing, the cumulative usage length is calculated by adding the amount of roll sheet 51 transported during printing. Therefore, the user can know the latest remaining amount of tape in the tape cassette 56 installed in the label printer 3 after printing.

[0099] Next, in S46, the CPU 31 stores the cumulative usage length calculated in S45 in the work area 41 of the main memory 32 and in the usage length information 65 of the media information 61 stored in the cassette memory 55. As a result, the usage length is accumulated. After that, this process ends.

[0100] Furthermore, in S44, for example, if the user opens cover 6 while printing, CPU 31 determines that an error has occurred (S44: YES). The process then proceeds to S47.

[0101] Next, in S47, the CPU 31 determines whether the media type of the tape cassette 56 installed in the label printer 3 is a "variable length type". In S47, if "variable length type" is stored as the media type information 63 of the media information 61 stored in the work area 41 of the main memory 32, the CPU 31 determines that the roll sheet 51 is a variable length type (S47: YES). Then, the process proceeds to S48.

[0102] Next, in S48, the CPU 31 calculates the cumulative usage length by adding the amount of roll sheet 51 transported due to the current error. That is, the CPU 31 calculates the cumulative usage length by adding the amount of roll sheet 51 transported due to the current error to the value of the usage length information 65 of the media information 61 stored in the work area 41 of the main memory 32. After that, the CPU 31 proceeds to S46 as described above and stores the calculated cumulative usage length as the usage length information 65 of the media information 61 stored in the work area 41 of the main memory 32 and the cassette memory 55. As a result, the usage length is accumulated. After that, this process ends.

[0103] In this embodiment, since the label tape is consumed even when an error occurs, the length used is accumulated based on the amount transported up to the time the error occurred. Therefore, it becomes possible to calculate the appropriate remaining amount of the roll sheet 51.

[0104] On the other hand, in S47, if the CPU 31 finds that "die-cut type" is stored as the media type information 63 in the media information 61 stored in the working area 41 of the main memory 32, the CPU 31 determines that it is not a variable-length type (S47: NO). The process then proceeds to S49.

[0105] Next, in S49, the CPU 31 determines whether the stopping position is the cut position based on the amount of the roll sheet 51 transported due to the error. If the stopping position of the roll sheet 51 in S49 is the cut position (S49:YES), the process proceeds to S50. That is, if the stopping position of the roll sheet 51 in S49 is the placement interval 51e (S49:YES), the process proceeds to S50. Note that the placement interval is an example of a gap position.

[0106] Next, in S50, the CPU 31 calculates the cumulative usage length by adding the amount of roll sheet 51 transported due to the error. That is, the CPU 31 calculates the cumulative usage length by adding the amount of roll sheet 51 transported due to the error to the value of the usage length information 65 of the media information 61 stored in the work area 41 of the main memory 32. After that, the CPU 31 proceeds to S46 as described above and stores the calculated cumulative usage length as the usage length information 65 of the media information 61 stored in the work area 41 of the main memory 32 and the cassette memory 55, accumulating the usage length. After that, this process ends.

[0107] In this embodiment, even if an error occurs, the label tape is consumed. Therefore, if the stop position of the roll sheet 51 is the cut position, the length used is accumulated based on the amount transported up to the time the error occurred. This makes it possible to calculate the appropriate remaining amount of the roll sheet 51.

[0108] On the other hand, if the stopping position of the roll sheet 51 in S49 is not the cutting position (S49:NO), the process then proceeds to S51.

[0109] Next, in S51, the CPU 31 calculates the cumulative usage length, which is the cumulative amount of roll sheet 51 transported due to this error. In other words, the CPU 31 calculates the cumulative usage length by adding the amount of roll sheet 51 transported due to the error and the amount of transported to the next cut position to the value of the usage length information 65 of the media information 61 stored in the work area 41 of the main memory 32. After that, the CPU 31 proceeds to S46 as described above, and stores the calculated cumulative usage length as the usage length information 65 of the media information 61 stored in the work area 41 of the main memory 32 and the cassette memory 55, and accumulates the usage length.

[0110] In this embodiment, even if an error occurs, the label tape is consumed. Therefore, if the stop position of the roll sheet 51 is not the cut position, the length used is accumulated based on the amount transported until the error occurred and the amount transported to the next cut position. This makes it possible to calculate the appropriate remaining amount of the roll sheet 51.

[0111] <Cumulative remaining amount calculation process and cumulative remaining amount display process> Next, an example of the cumulative remaining amount calculation process and cumulative remaining amount display process T15 shown in Figure 5 will be explained with reference to the flowchart in Figure 8. Steps that have the same effect as the steps of the remaining amount calculation process and remaining amount display process shown in Figure 6 above are denoted by the same reference numerals and their explanations are omitted.

[0112] First, in S22, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the reading of media information 61 from the cassette memory 55 was successful. If the CPU 31 determines in S22 that the reading of media information 61 from the cassette memory 55 was successful (S22: YES), the process proceeds to S61.

[0113] Next, in S61, the CPU 31 retrieves the cumulative usage length stored in the work area 41 of the main memory 32. Specifically, it reads the cumulative usage length stored in the usage length information 65 of the media information 61.

[0114] Next, CPU31 proceeds to S27 via S26.

[0115] Next, if the CPU 31 determines in S27 that the type of roll sheet 51 is "die-cut type" (S27: die-cut type), it proceeds to S62 via S28.

[0116] Next, in S62, the CPU 31 determines whether the cumulative usage length is less than or equal to the total length. If the cumulative usage length is less than or equal to the total length, the CPU 31 determines that the usage length is less than or equal to the total length (S62: YES). Next, in S63, the CPU 31 calculates the number of remaining tapes that have been cut to a predetermined length, and then stores the calculated number of remaining tapes in the work area 41 of the main memory 32. After that, the process proceeds to S66.

[0117] Specifically, in S63, CPU31 calculates the number of remaining tapes using the following formula. Remaining number of pieces = (Total length - Cumulative length used) / (Cut tape length + Interval) In the above calculation formula, the cut tape length is the value of the length 51d of the cut tape 51c stored in the label size information 67 of the media information 61 stored in the work area 41 of the main unit memory 32. The spacing is the arrangement spacing 51e of the cut tapes 51c stored in the label spacing information 68 of the media information 61 stored in the work area 41 of the main unit memory 32.

[0118] In this embodiment, after printing, the remaining number of tapes is calculated taking into account the number of tapes consumed during printing.

[0119] Furthermore, if the cumulative usage length is equal to the total length or exceeds the total length, the CPU 31 determines that the total length is not equal to or greater than the cumulative usage length (S62: NO). Next, in S31, the CPU 31 stores "0" as the remaining number in the work area 41 of the main memory 32. After that, it proceeds to S66.

[0120] On the other hand, if the CPU 31 determines in S27 that the type of media is "variable length type" (S27: variable length type), the process proceeds to S64 via S32.

[0121] Next, in S64, the CPU 31 determines whether the cumulative usage length is less than or equal to the total length. If the cumulative usage length is less than or equal to the total length, the CPU 31 determines that the cumulative usage length is less than or equal to the total length (S64: YES). Next, in S65, the CPU 31 calculates the remaining length of the roll sheet 51. After that, it proceeds to S35, then to S66 via S37 or S38.

[0122] Specifically, in S65, CPU31 calculates the remaining length of the roll sheet 51 using the following formula. Remaining length = Total length - Cumulative length used In the above calculation formula, the total length used is the initial total length value of the printable roll sheet 51 stored in the total length information 64 of the media information 61 stored in the work area 41 of the main unit memory 32. In addition, the cumulative usage length used is the cumulative usage length value stored in the usage length information 65 of the media information 61 stored in the work area 41 of the main unit memory 32.

[0123] In this embodiment, after printing, the remaining length of the roll sheet 51 is calculated, taking into account the amount of roll sheet 51 that was transported during printing.

[0124] On the other hand, if the length used is equal to the total length or exceeds the total length, the CPU 31 determines that the total length is not greater than or equal to the length used (S33: NO). Next, the CPU 31 proceeds to S66 via S36.

[0125] Next, in S66, the CPU 31 determines whether, for example, a media information request operation T5 has been performed by a user on PC1. If a media information request operation T5 has been performed by a user on PC1, the CPU 31 determines that a media information request operation T5 has been performed by a user (S66: YES). After that, in S67, the CPU 31 notifies the user of the media information 61 and remaining capacity stored in the work area 41 of the main memory 32, and then proceeds to S37.

[0126] Furthermore, if CPU31 determines in S66 that the user has not performed the media information request operation T5 (S66:NO), it proceeds to S39.

[0127] <Example Display> Next, an example of the display on the display 36a of the user interface 36 of the label printer 3 will be explained with reference to Figure 9.

[0128] Specifically, Figure 9(A) shows an example where the remaining amount of the roll sheet 51 is displayed on the display 36a based on the remaining length of the roll sheet 51 stored in the work area 41 of the main unit memory 32 during the process S37 shown in Figures 6 and 8. The remaining amount of the roll sheet 51 is displayed in meters. This is because the media type of the tape cassette 56 installed in the label printer 3 is "unlimited length type". This display format is adopted when the user selects "meters" as the unit of length.

[0129] Next, Figure 9(B) shows an example where the remaining amount of the roll sheet 51 is displayed on the display 36a based on the remaining length of the roll sheet 51 stored in the main memory 32 during the process S38 shown in Figures 6 and 8. The remaining amount of the roll sheet 51 is displayed in inches. This is because the media type of the tape cassette 56 installed in the label printer 3 is "unlimited length type". This display format is adopted when the user has selected "inches" as the unit of length.

[0130] Next, Figure 9(C) shows an example in which the remaining amount is displayed on the display 36a based on the number of remaining tapes stored in the work area 41 of the main unit memory 32 during the process of S30 shown in Figure 6, or the process of S63 shown in Figure 8. The number of remaining tapes is displayed in units of tapes. This display format is adopted when the media type of the tape cassette 56 set in the label printer 3 is "die-cut type".

[0131] Next, Figure 9(D) shows an example where the remaining quantity is displayed on the display 36a based on the value "0" stored in the work area 41 of the main memory 32 during either process S31 or process S36 shown in Figures 6 and 8. This indicates that the roll sheet 51 or tape has run out.

[0132] Next, Figure 9(E) shows an example where the remaining amount is displayed on the display 36a based on "- -" stored in the work area 41 of the main unit memory 32 during the S23 process shown in Figures 6 and 8. This indicates that the media information 61 could not be read from the cassette memory 55 of the tape cassette 56 set in the label printer 3.

[0133] Furthermore, the remaining amount display on the display 36a may be displayed using a graphic as shown in Figure 10 instead of the characters shown in Figures 9(A) to (E). In this case, Figure 10(A) shows the case where the media type of the tape cassette 56 set in the label printer 3 is "die-cut type". When the media type of the tape cassette 56 is "die-cut type", the remaining number of cut tapes 51c is displayed by the number of cut tapes 51c arranged on the backing 51a of the roll sheet 51.

[0134] Furthermore, Figure 10(B) shows the case where the media type of the tape cassette 56 installed in the label printer 3 is "unlimited length type," and the remaining amount of tape in the tape cassette 56 is displayed using "Full," "Half," "Low," and "!". In this embodiment, for example, "Full" indicates that the remaining amount from the total length is in the range of 50% to 100%. "Half" indicates that the remaining amount from the total length is in the range of 20% to 49%. "Low" indicates that the remaining amount from the total length is in the range of 1% to 19%. "!" indicates that the remaining amount is 0%.

[0135] According to the technology disclosed in this embodiment, by storing label information in the cassette memory of the tape cassette and reading the label information from the cassette memory to calculate the remaining amount of label tape, the label printer can perform processing based on the remaining amount of label tape. As a result, appropriate remaining amount management by the label printer can be expected. Furthermore, after printing on the label tape, the length of the used label tape is accumulated based on the amount of label tape transported by printing. As a result, an appropriate remaining amount of label tape after printing can be calculated.

[0136] This embodiment is merely illustrative and does not limit the present invention in any way. Therefore, the present invention can naturally be improved and modified in various ways without departing from its essence. For example, although the remaining number of sheets is displayed on the display 36a, it is not limited to this. For example, the label printer 3 may be equipped with a notification unit that announces the remaining number of sheets by voice instead of the display 36a.

[0137] Furthermore, the media information request in T6 may be a dedicated request that requests only the remaining amount. Also, the media information request in T6 may be a capacity request or a status request, or a request to obtain the remaining amount. In the case of a capacity request or a status request, the label printer may include the remaining amount information in the capacity information or status information in its response.

[0138] In addition, in response to the media information request from T6, the label printer may respond with capacity information excluding remaining capacity information. In this case, PC1 may calculate the remaining capacity based on the capacity information and display the calculated remaining capacity on the display 13a.

[0139] Furthermore, the processing disclosed in this embodiment may be executed by a single CPU, multiple CPUs, ASICs or other hardware, or a combination thereof. Also, the processing disclosed in this embodiment can be implemented in various forms, such as a recording medium or method that stores a program for executing the processing. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0140] 1 PC 3. Label printer 4 cabinets 6 Covers 51 Roll Sheets 55 cassette memory 56 Tape Cassettes 61 Media information 63 Media type information 64 Overall Length Information 65. Usage Length Information

Claims

1. Label tape and Memory and A tape cassette equipped with, The aforementioned memory is The system stores total length information indicating the maximum printable length using the label tape before use. It is possible to store usage length information indicating the length of the label tape that has already been used, Based on the total length information and the usage length information, the remaining amount of the label tape can be determined. A tape cassette configured in such a way.

2. A tape cassette as described in claim 1, Based on the total length information and the usage length information, the remaining amount of the label tape can be determined. A tape cassette configured in such a way.

3. A tape cassette as described in claim 1, When the label tape is transported, the usage length information can be accumulated. A tape cassette configured in such a way.

4. A tape cassette as described in claim 1, The memory stores type information indicating the type of label tape. A tape cassette configured in such a way.

5. A tape cassette according to claim 4, If the type information is for a cut label with a defined label size, the memory stores the label size information. Based on the total length information, the length used information, and the label size information, the number of printable labels can be determined as the remaining amount of the label tape. A tape cassette configured in such a way.

6. A tape cassette according to claim 4, If the type information is for a long label, the printable label length can be determined from the total length information and the usage length information as the remaining amount of the label tape. A tape cassette configured in such a way.

7. A tape cassette having label tape and memory, The printing section for printing on the label tape, Controller and Equipped with, The aforementioned memory is The system can store total length information indicating the maximum printable length using the label tape before use, and can also store used length information indicating the length of the label tape that has already been used. The aforementioned controller, The total length information and the length used information are read from the memory. Based on the read-out total length information and the used length information, the remaining amount of the label tape can be determined. A label printer configured in such a way.

8. A label printer according to claim 7, The aforementioned controller, When the printing unit prints on the label tape and the label printer transports the label tape, the usage length information can be accumulated based on the amount of label tape transported. A label printer configured in such a way.

9. A label printer according to claim 8, Equipped with a display, The aforementioned controller, The remaining amount information indicating the determined remaining amount is output to the display. A label printer configured in such a way.

10. A label printer according to claim 9, The aforementioned controller, After the label printer is started up, the remaining information is displayed on the display. A label printer configured in such a way.

11. A label printer according to claim 9, A housing having an opening that allows the tape cassette to be installed, A cover that is movable between a first position in which the opening is open and a second position in which the opening is closed, Equipped with, The aforementioned controller, After the cover moves from the first position to the second position, the remaining amount information is displayed on the display. A label printer configured in such a way.

12. A label printer according to claim 9, The aforementioned controller, After printing on the label tape using the printing unit, the remaining amount information is displayed on the display. A label printer configured in such a way.

13. A label printer according to claim 12, Equipped with internal memory, The aforementioned controller, The remaining amount information can be stored in the main unit's memory. The controller further, After printing on the label tape by the printing unit, the remaining amount information is accumulated. A label printer configured in such a way.

14. A label printer according to claim 9, Main memory and Communication interface, Equipped with, The aforementioned controller, The remaining amount information can be stored in the main unit's memory. The controller further, When an external device requests the transmission of the remaining capacity information via the communication interface, the remaining capacity information stored in the main unit's memory is transmitted to the external device. A label printer configured in such a way.

15. A label printer according to claim 9, The aforementioned controller, If communication with the memory is not possible, the display will show information indicating no remaining capacity, without showing the remaining capacity. A label printer configured in such a way.

16. A label printer according to claim 7, The memory stores type information indicating the type of label tape. A label printer configured in such a way.

17. A label printer according to claim 16, The aforementioned controller, If the type information is a cut label with a defined label size, the number of printable labels can be determined from the total length information, the length used information, and the label size, as the remaining amount of the label tape. A label printer configured in such a way.

18. A label printer according to claim 16, The aforementioned controller, If the type information is for a long label, the printable label length can be determined from the total length information and the usage length information as the remaining amount of the label tape. A label printer configured in such a way.

19. A label printer according to claim 16, Equipped with a display, The aforementioned controller, If the length indicated in the usage length information is greater than the length indicated in the total length information, the remaining amount of the label tape will be displayed as 0 on the display. A label printer configured in such a way.

20. A label printer according to claim 16, The aforementioned controller, If the type information is for die-cut labels with gaps between labels, the number of printable labels can be determined from the total length information, the length used information, the label size, and the size of the gaps, as the remaining amount of the label tape. A label printer configured in such a way.

21. A label printer according to claim 16, Equipped with a display, The aforementioned controller, If the type information is a cut label with a defined label size, the number of printable labels determined as the remaining amount of the label tape based on the total length information, the length used information, and the label size is output to the display. If the type information is for a long label, the printable label length, determined from the total length information and the usage length information, is output to the display as the remaining amount of the label tape. A label printer configured in such a way.

22. A label printer according to claim 21, The aforementioned controller, It is possible to set whether the unit system for the remaining amount of the label tape displayed on the display is a first unit or a second unit. A label printer configured in such a way.

23. A label printer according to claim 7, The aforementioned label printer is It is possible to perform positioning adjustment and transport to transport the label to be printed, which is included in the label tape, to the printing position by the printing unit. The aforementioned controller, The amount of label tape transported by the aforementioned adjusted transport does not include the accumulated usage length information. A label printer configured in such a way.

24. A label printer according to claim 7, The aforementioned controller, When the transport of the label tape stops, the used length information is accumulated based on the amount of label tape transported. A label printer configured in such a way.

25. A label printer according to claim 24, The type of label tape is a die-cut label with gaps between the labels. If the transport of the label tape stops in the gap, the usage length information can be accumulated from the amount of the label tape transported from the start of transport to the stop of transport. If the transport of the label tape does not stop in the gap, the amount of the label tape transported from the start of transport to the stop of transport, and the amount of the label tape transported from the stopping position to the next gap, can be used to accumulate the usage length information. A label printer configured in such a way.

26. A label printer according to claim 24, The type of label tape is a long label, The usage length information can be accumulated from the amount of label tape transported from the start of transport to the stop of transport. A label printer configured in such a way.

Images