Information Processing Program, Information Processing Apparatus, Information Processing Method, Information Processing System, and Recording Medium

Abstract

To solve such a problem in a conventional technique that the work efficiency is reduced when a user sticks printing media to each other since there is a small degree of freedom in a setting method of a margin to the printing media in a case of printing division images obtained by dividing an original image on the printing media in a separating manner and sticking the printing media to each other.SOLUTION: An information processing device 2 receives input for setting a margin area where printing of a division image is not performed for at least any of a first sticking area between a first end on a side to be stuck to a second printing medium in the ends of a first printing medium and a first sticking position and a second sticking area between a second end on a side to be stuck to the first printing medium in the ends of the second printing medium and a second sticking position, and transmits to an image formation device 3 printing setting information set on the basis of the input of the margin area and division image data related to the division image.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing program, an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, an information processing system, and a recording medium.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there has been a technique of dividing an original image into a plurality of sheets of printing paper having a size smaller than that of a printing paper of a predetermined size, printing the divided images on the plurality of sheets of printing paper, and pasting the plurality of sheets of printing paper on which the divided images are printed to print the original image on a pseudo printing paper of a predetermined size.

[0003] For example, in order to accurately paste a plurality of divided image printing papers on which an original image is divided and printed, in a finished paper, bonding position information for bonding the divided images printed on each printing paper so as to be continuous is assigned to each printing paper, and a printing apparatus (Pr) is controlled to print the printed image data and the bonding position information assigned to each image recording area of each printing paper on each printing paper (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the conventional technique, when a plurality of divided images obtained by dividing an original image are printed on a plurality of printing media separately and the printing media are pasted together, there is a problem that the work efficiency when the user pastes the printing media is reduced because there is little freedom in the method of setting the margin for the printing media.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] In order to solve the above problems, the invention according to claim 1 divides a plurality of divided images obtained by dividing an original image to be printed and prints them separately on a first printing medium and a second printing medium. When receiving an instruction to print by bonding the first printing medium and the second printing medium to each other at a predetermined bonding position, a first bonding region between a first end on the side bonded to the second printing medium among the ends of the first printing medium and a first bonding position, and a second bonding region between a second end on the side bonded to the first printing medium among the ends of the second printing medium and a second bonding position. A reception step of receiving an input for setting a blank region where printing of the divided image is not performed in at least one of them, a transmission step of transmitting the print setting information set based on the input of the blank region and the divided image data related to the divided images obtained by dividing the original image to an image forming apparatus, and causing the steps to be executed In the receiving step, an input for setting, as a first extension area, a position from a position at a predetermined distance from the first bonding position to a position at which the first divided image among the plurality of divided images is extended and printed is received, and an input for setting, as a second extension area, a position from a position at a predetermined distance from the second bonding position to a position at which the second divided image among the plurality of divided images is extended and printed is received. Provide an information processing program.

Effect of the Invention

[0006] As described above, according to the present invention, when dividing a plurality of divided images obtained by dividing an original image and printing them on a plurality of printing media and bonding the printing media to each other, it is possible to improve the working efficiency of the user's bonding work.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007]

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Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0008] Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out the invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the description of the drawings, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same elements, and if there are overlapping parts, the description thereof will be omitted.

[0009] 〔Embodiment〕 Embodiments will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 16.

[0010] 〔Overall Configuration of Communication System〕 <System Configuration Example> FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of an information processing system. As shown in FIG. 1, the information processing system 1 includes an information processing apparatus 2 and an image forming apparatus 3, and the respective apparatuses are connected to each other via a communication network 100. The communication network 100 is a communication network in which an unspecified number of communications are performed, and is constructed by the Internet, an intranet, a LAN (Local Area Network), or the like. Note that the communication network 100 may include not only wired communication but also a communication network by wireless communication such as 3G (3rd Generation), 4G (4th Generation), 5G (5th Generation), WiMAX (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access), and LTE (Long Term Evolution).

[0011] <Information Processing Apparatus> The information processing apparatus 2 is realized by a computer system for performing communication on which a general OS or the like is installed. The information processing apparatus 2 can communicate with the image forming apparatus 3 via the communication network 100. For example, a browser app for communicating with the image forming apparatus 3 is installed in the information processing apparatus 2.

[0012] Note that the information processing apparatus 2 may be a communication terminal having a communication function of a generally used PC (Personal Computer), a portable notebook PC, a mobile phone, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a wearable terminal (such as a sunglass type or a wristwatch type). The information processing apparatus 2 may further be a communication apparatus or a communication terminal capable of operating software such as browser software.

[0013] Furthermore, the information processing apparatus 2 may be constructed by a single computer, or may be constructed by a plurality of computers to which each part (function or means) such as storage is divided and arbitrarily assigned. Also, all or part of the functions of the information processing apparatus 2 may be a server computer existing in a cloud environment, or may be a server computer existing in an on-premises environment.

[0014] Also, the information processing apparatus 2 may notify (transmit) data (information) to the image forming apparatus 3 by push notification (transmission). In that case, the information processing apparatus 2 can be realized, for example, by performing push notification using FCM (Firebase Cloud Messaging), which is an example of a push notification server.

[0015] <Image forming apparatus> The image forming apparatus 3 is, for example, a printing apparatus (printer) having a printing function. The image forming apparatus 3 has a function of receiving various print setting information and print image data related to image printing transmitted by the information processing apparatus 2 and printing an image on a predetermined print medium (printing paper). Note that the image forming apparatus 3 may be an MFP (Multi-Function Peripheral) having a scanner function, a facsimile function, a storage function, a mail distribution function, etc. in addition to the printing function.

[0016] <Stitched image of divided images> Next, a method of dividing an original image to generate a plurality of divided images, printing them on a plurality of print media, and pasting them together will be described. FIG. 2(a) is a schematic diagram of an A3-size document, (b) is a schematic diagram of a state in which an A3-size document is printed on two A4-size print media, and (c) is a schematic diagram of a state in which the two print media are pasted together. In this embodiment, as an example of the print media, printing paper having various sizes defined by standards such as A size and B size will be described as an example. Also, A3 size, B5 size, etc. are simply referred to as A3 size, B5 size.

[0017] As shown in FIG. 2, for example, when a manuscript (face mark) of A3 size is created by a user (also referred to as a user) and this manuscript is printed on A3-size printing paper, it will be in the image as shown in FIG. 2(a). However, when there is no A3-size printing paper or when using a printer that does not support A3-size printing paper, an output (printed matter) as shown in FIG. 2(a) cannot be obtained. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 2(b), the face mark manuscript is divided and printed on two A4-size printing papers, each of which is half the area of an A3-size printing paper. Then, the two A4-size printing papers are joined together at their ends to obtain a finished product similar to that printed on an A3-size printing paper as shown in FIG. 2(c). This is the aim of the present embodiment. Thus, in the present embodiment, the plurality of divided images obtained by dividing the original image are those divided at the same magnification as the original image.

[0018] 〔Hardware Configuration〕 Subsequently, with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, the hardware configuration of the device or server constituting the communication system according to the embodiment will be described. Note that the hardware configuration of the device or server shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 may have components added or deleted as necessary.

[0019] <Hardware Configuration of Information Processing Device> Next, with reference to FIG. 3, the hardware configuration of the information processing device will be described. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the information processing device. As shown in FIG. 3, the information processing device 2 is constructed by, for example, a computer and includes a CPU 201, a ROM 202, a RAM 203, an EEPROM 204, an HD 205, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) controller 206, a display 207, a short-range communication I / F 208, a CMOS sensor 209, an imaging element I / F 210, a network I / F 211, a keyboard 212, a pointing device 213, a media I / F 215, an external device connection I / F 216, an audio input / output I / F 217, a microphone 218, a speaker 219, and a bus line 220.

[0020] Among these, the CPU 201 controls the operation of the entire information processing apparatus 2. The ROM 202 stores programs used to drive the CPU 201. The RAM 203 is used as a work area for the CPU 201. The EEPROM 204 reads or writes various data such as applications according to the control of the CPU 201. The HD 205 stores various data such as programs. The HDD controller 206 controls the reading or writing of various data to and from the HD 205 according to the control of the CPU 201. The display 207 displays various information such as a cursor, menu, window, characters, or images. The short-range communication I / F 208 is a communication circuit for performing data communication with a communication device having a wireless communication interface such as NFC (Near Field Communication), Bluetooth (registered trademark. Omitted hereinafter), Wi-Fi (registered trademark. Omitted hereinafter), or a communication terminal. The CMOS sensor 209 is a type of built-in imaging means that captures a subject and obtains image data or video data according to the control of the CPU 201. Note that the imaging means may be an imaging means configured by a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) sensor or the like instead of the CMOS sensor. The imaging device I / F 210 is a circuit that controls the driving of the CMOS sensor 209.

[0021] The network I / F 211 is an interface for data communication using the communication network 100. The keyboard 212 is a type of input means having a plurality of keys for inputting characters, numerical values, various instructions, etc. The pointing device 213 is a type of input means for selecting and executing various instructions, selecting a processing target, moving a cursor, etc. The media I / F 215 controls the reading or writing (storage) of data to / from the recording medium 214 such as a flash memory. The external device connection I / F 216 is an interface for connecting various external devices. The external device in this case is, for example, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory or the like. The audio input / output I / F 217 is a circuit that processes the input / output of audio signals between the microphone 218 and the speaker 219 according to the control of the CPU 201. The microphone 218 is a built-in circuit that converts sound into an electrical signal and acquires information using the electrical signal by obtaining voices and sound waves emitted from external speakers or the like. The speaker 219 is a built-in circuit that converts an electrical signal into physical vibrations to generate sounds such as music and voices. The bus line 220 is an address bus, a data bus, etc. for electrically connecting each component such as the CPU 201.

[0022] Furthermore, the above-described program may be in an installable format or an executable format file, recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, or downloaded and distributed via a network. Examples of the recording medium include CD-R (Compact Disc Recordable), DVD (Digital Versatile Disk), Blu-ray Disc, SD card, USB memory, etc. Also, the recording medium can be provided as a program product, either domestically or abroad. For example, when the program according to the present invention is executed on the information processing apparatus 2, the information processing method according to the present invention is realized.

[0023] <Hardware Configuration of the Image Forming Apparatus> Next, the hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus will be described with reference to FIG. 4. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus 3 is, for example, a printer, and includes hardware resources such as a controller 310, a short-range communication circuit 320, an engine control unit 330, an operation panel 340, and a network I / F 350 as shown in FIG. 3.

[0024] Among these, the controller 310 includes a CPU 301 which is the main part of a computer, a system memory (MEM-P) 302, a north bridge (NB) 303, a south bridge (SB) 304, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) 305, a local memory (MEM-C) 306 which is a storage unit, an HDD controller 307, and an HD 308 which is a storage unit, and is configured such that the NB 303 and the ASIC 305 are connected by an AGP (Accelerated Graphics Port) bus 321.

[0025] Among these, the CPU 301 is a control unit that performs overall control of the image forming apparatus 3. The NB 303 is a bridge for connecting the CPU 301 to the MEM-P 302, the SB 304, and the AGP bus 321, and has a memory controller that controls reading and writing to the MEM-P 302, a PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) master, and an AGP target.

[0026] The MEM-P 302 is composed of a ROM 302a which is a memory for storing programs and data for realizing each function of the controller 310, and a RAM 302b which is used as a memory for developing programs and data, and for drawing during memory printing. Note that the programs stored in the RAM 302b may be provided in an installable or executable format as files recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM, a CD-R, or a DVD.

[0027] SB304 is a bridge for connecting NB303 with PCI devices and peripheral devices. ASIC305 is an IC (Integrated Circuit) for image processing applications having hardware elements for image processing, and has the role of a bridge for connecting an AGP bus 321, a PCI bus 322, HD308, and MEM-C306 respectively. This ASIC305 includes a PCI target and an AGP master, an arbiter that coordinates the driving timings of each signal according to a predetermined priority order in the ASIC305, a memory controller that controls MEM-C306, a plurality of DMACs (Direct Memory Access Controllers) that perform operations such as rotation of image data by means of hardware logic, etc., and a PCI unit that performs data transfer via the PCI bus 322 between the scanner unit 331 and the printer unit 332. Note that a USB (Universal Serial Bus) interface or an IEEE1394 (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers 1394) interface may be connected to the ASIC305.

[0028] MEM-C306 is a local memory used as a copy image buffer and a code buffer. HD308 is a storage for accumulating image data, font data used at the time of printing, and forms. HD308 controls the reading or writing of data to HD308 according to the control of the CPU301. The AGP bus 321 is a bus interface for a graphics accelerator card proposed for speeding up graphic processing, and by directly accessing the MEM-P302 with high throughput, the graphics accelerator card can be made faster.

[0029] Also, the short-range communication circuit 320 is provided with a short-range communication circuit antenna 320a. The short-range communication circuit 320 is a communication circuit such as NFC, Bluetooth (registered trademark. hereinafter omitted), etc.

[0030] Furthermore, the engine control unit 330 is composed of a scanner unit 331, a printer unit 332, and a FAX unit 333. Also, the operation panel 340 includes a panel display unit 340a such as a touch panel that displays current setting values, selection screens, etc. and receives inputs from the operator, and an operation button unit 340b that includes a numeric keypad for receiving setting values of conditions related to image formation such as density setting conditions and a start key for receiving a copy start instruction. The controller 310 controls the entire image forming apparatus 3, for example, controls drawing, communication, inputs from the operation panel 340, etc. The scanner unit 331 or the printer unit 332 includes an image processing part such as error diffusion and gamma (γ) conversion. Also, the FAX unit 333 includes an analog I / F, a modem (MODEM), a speaker, etc. for performing facsimile communication using an analog line (public line 50) that connects to a device having an external facsimile communication function.

[0031] Note that the image forming apparatus 3 can sequentially switch and select the document box function, copy function, printer function, and facsimile function by the application switching key on the operation panel 340. When the document box function is selected, it becomes the document box mode, when the copy function is selected, it becomes the copy mode, when the printer function is selected, it becomes the printer mode, and when the facsimile mode is selected, it becomes the facsimile mode.

[0032] Also, the network I / F 350 is an interface for performing data communication using the communication network 100. The short-range communication circuit 320 and the network I / F 350 are electrically connected to the ASIC 305 via the PCI bus 322. Note that the image forming apparatus 3 is not limited to the above-described printer as long as it can provide its own position information.

[0033] 〔Functional Configuration of Information Processing System〕 Next, the functional configuration of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 to 7. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the information processing system.

[0034] <Functional Configuration of Information Processing Apparatus> As shown in FIG. 5, the information processing apparatus 2 includes a transmission / reception unit 21, an operation reception unit 22, an activation unit 23, a display control unit 24, a GDI control unit 26, a drawing setting unit 27, an accumulation processing unit 28, and a memory readout unit 29. Each of these functional units is a function or means realized by the operation of any one of the hardware resources shown in FIG. 3 according to an instruction from the CPU 201 of a program for the information processing apparatus 2 developed from at least one of the ROM 202, EEPROM 204, and HD 205 to the RAM 203. Further, the information processing apparatus 2 has a storage unit 2000 constructed by at least one of the ROM 202, EEPROM 204, and HD 205 shown in FIG. 3. Furthermore, the storage unit 2000 stores a communication program (communication application) for communicating with the image forming apparatus 3 via the communication network 100, a printer driver application, a browser application for displaying a browser screen providing printer driver functions, and the like.

[0035] <<Each Functional Configuration of Information Processing Apparatus>> Next, each functional configuration of the information processing apparatus 2 will be described in detail. The transmission / reception unit 21 of the information processing apparatus 2 shown in FIG. 5 is mainly realized by the processing of the CPU 201 for the network I / F 211 and the short-range communication I / F 208, and transmits and receives various data (or information) to and from the image forming apparatus 3 via the communication network 100. Further, the transmission / reception unit 21 transmits print setting information set based on the input of the margin area and divided image data related to the divided image obtained by dividing the original image to the image forming apparatus 3. In the present embodiment, the transmission / reception unit 21 functions as an example of at least one of a transmission means and a reception means.

[0036] The operation reception unit 22 is mainly realized by the processing of the CPU 201 and receives various operations on the information processing apparatus 2. Further, when the operation reception unit 22 divides a plurality of divided images obtained by dividing the original image to be printed and prints them on the first printing medium and the second printing medium, and pastes the first printing medium and the second printing medium together at a predetermined pasting position, it receives an input for setting a blank area where the divided images are not printed in at least one of the first pasting area between the first end of the first printing medium on the side to be pasted to the second printing medium and the first pasting position, and the second pasting area between the second end of the second printing medium on the side to be pasted to the first printing medium and the second pasting position. In the present embodiment, the first printing medium is, for example, the first printing paper on which the first and second images described later are printed. Also, the second printing medium is, for example, the second printing paper on which the third and fourth images described later are printed. That is, the odd-numbered printing papers may be the first printing medium and the even-numbered printing papers may be the second printing medium. Further, conversely, the odd-numbered printing papers may be the second printing medium and the even-numbered printing papers may be the first printing medium.

[0037] In addition, the operation reception unit 22 receives an input for setting, as a first extension area, the area from the first pasting position to a position at a predetermined distance as an area where the first divided image among the plurality of divided images is extended and printed, and receives an input for setting, as a second extension area, the area from the second pasting position to a position at a predetermined distance as an area where the second divided image among the plurality of divided images is extended and printed. Also, the operation reception unit 22 receives an input for setting various setting items including the original size of the original on which the original image is generated, the printing size representing the sizes of the first printing medium and the second printing medium, the printing method representing the printing method, the extension area, the blank area, the pasting position, the printing order of the printing media, and the number of printed sheets. In the present embodiment, the operation reception unit 22 functions as an example of operation reception means.

[0038] The startup unit 23 is mainly realized by the processing of the CPU 201 and starts various applications (hereinafter simply referred to as apps) executed on the information processing device 2. In the present embodiment, the startup unit 23 functions as an example of startup means.

[0039] The display control unit 24 is mainly realized by the processing of the CPU 201 for the display 207 and causes the display 207 to display a print setting screen, a print method setting screen, etc. for making various print settings by the user. In the present embodiment, the display control unit 24 functions as an example of display control means.

[0040] The GDI control unit 26 is mainly realized by the processing of the CPU 201. When a print instruction is issued on an app by the user's operation, the GDI control unit 26 converts document data, etc. expressed in an app-specific format into data expressed in an app-independent format. In the present embodiment, the GDI control unit 26 functions as an example of control means. Note that GDI means Graphics Device Interface.

[0041] The drawing setting unit 27 is mainly realized by the processing of the CPU 201, and sets various setting items based on inputs for setting various setting values. Further, when at least one of the first bonding area and the second bonding area is set, the drawing setting unit 27 prints a first bonding guide line indicating the first bonding position on the back surface of the surface on which the first divided image on the first printing medium is printed, and prints a second bonding guide line indicating the second bonding position on the back surface of the surface on which the second divided image on the second printing medium is printed, and sets a setting with a border, which is a setting for printing. Further, when the drawing setting unit 27 does not set a margin area on the first printing medium on which the first divided image is printed or the second printing medium on which the second divided image is printed, it sets a setting without a border, which is a setting for printing the back surface of the printing medium on which the divided image without a margin area is printed as blank paper. Further, when an input for setting the number of printed sheets is received for a predetermined number of sheets or more, the drawing setting unit 27 sets a setting without a border. Further, when the reception step received by the user's input is not executed, the drawing setting unit 27 sets various preset setting items. Note that the dotted line portion including the operation reception unit 22 and the drawing setting unit 27 may function as a printer driver for the image forming apparatus 3. At this time, the data input to the drawing setting unit 27 is data converted by the GDI control unit 26 from the application and passed. In the present embodiment, the drawing setting unit 27 functions as an example of a setting means.

[0042] <<Each functional configuration of the drawing setting unit>> Here, each functional configuration of the drawing setting unit will be described in detail. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a detailed functional configuration of the drawing setting unit. The drawing setting unit 27 further includes an object acquisition unit 271, an object division unit 272, a divided object surface extension unit 273, a bonding surface processing unit 274, and a print data generation unit 275.

[0043] First, the object acquisition unit 271 acquires an object represented by a graphic and an image from document data to be printed.

[0044] The object division unit 272 divides the acquired object.

[0045] The divided object surface extension part 273 extends the divided surface of the object by a specified amount.

[0046] The bonding surface processing unit 274 has the following two functions and performs processing on the bonding surface. · Bonding guide line generation unit 2741: Generates a bonding guide line at a specified position. · Bonding area generation unit 2742: Generates a part that serves as an adhesive margin as a blank space. Also, regarding the specified position and specified amount in the bonding surface processing unit 274, they are set, for example, as described in the setting item management table to be described later.

[0047] The print data generation unit 275 generates print data interpretable by the image forming apparatus 3 from the data requested for printing by the application based on the print settings.

[0048] Note that in the information processing system according to the present embodiment, the drawing setting unit 27 may be configured such that, in addition to the configuration provided in the information processing apparatus 2, other devices, servers, etc. that can communicate with the information processing apparatus 2 via the communication network 100 also have it.

[0049] Returning to FIG. 5, the storage processing unit 28 is mainly realized by the processing of the CPU 201 and stores image data related to an image to be printed by the image forming apparatus 3. In the present embodiment, the storage processing unit 28 functions as an example of storage processing means.

[0050] The memory readout unit 29 is mainly realized by the processing of the CPU 201 for at least one of the ROM 202, EEPROM 204, and HD 205, and stores various data (or information) in the storage unit 2000 or reads out various data (or information) from the storage unit 2000. In the present embodiment, the memory readout unit 29 functions as an example of memory readout means.

[0051] ● Setting item management table ● FIG. 7 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a setting item management table. In the storage unit 2000, a setting item management DB 2001 configured by a setting item management table as shown in FIG. 7 is constructed. In the setting item management table, for each item of bonding identification information: P0001 (with a border at the bonding part) and bonding identification information: P0002 (without a border at the bonding part), the original manuscript size, printing size, printing method, image division surface, bonding area, bonding guide line, printing order, and number of printed sheets are respectively associated and managed. Hereinafter, the description will be centered on each item corresponding to the case with a border at the bonding part. Note that the cases with and without a border will be described in detail in the figure of the bonding part described later.

[0052] The original manuscript size is A3, the printing size is A3 vertical (2 sheets of A4 vertical), the printing method is double-sided printing, etc., and the same applies to the case without a border at the bonding part.

[0053] The image division surface is an item for setting an extension area for the left split image (an example of the first split image) and the right split image (an example of the second split image) obtained by splitting the original image representing the original manuscript. For example, when splitting an A3-sized original image into 2 sheets of A4-sized printing paper (left and right) for printing, it means extending the printing of the image by 2 mm to the right from the split position of the left split image. The same applies to the right split image. At this time, extending the printing of the image means, for example, when the image forming apparatus 3 is equipped with a printing engine adopting the electrophotographic method, extending the split image by 2 mm in the main scanning direction for printing. However, since the printing method in the image forming apparatus 3 is not limited to the electrophotographic method, the above-described method of extending the image is not limited to this method. Note that the left printing paper is an example of the first printing medium, and the right printing paper is an example of the second printing medium. In the setting of this image division surface, in the case without a border at the bonding part, it may be set for either one of the split images.

[0054] The bonding area represents the bonding area of the respective printing papers that serves as the margin when bonding the first printing medium and the second printing medium, i.e., the left printing paper and the right printing paper, to each other. In this item, further, blank areas where the printing of the respective divided images is not performed are set in the bonding areas of the respective printing papers, i.e., the first bonding area and the second bonding area. For example, for the divided image on the left side, a setting is made to generate a blank margin of 3 mm on the right side. The same applies to the divided image on the right side. In addition, in the setting of this bonding area, in the case of no border at the bonding part, it is sufficient to set it for either one of the divided images.

[0055] The bonding guide line is a guide line printed on the back surface of the first printing medium on which the first divided image is printed and on the back surface of the second printing medium on which the second divided image is printed, respectively. This bonding guide line serves as a boundary line representing the margin when bonding the first printing medium and the second printing medium to each other. That is, the bonding guide line is not an image that should originally be printed on the printing paper. Therefore, in order to make the bonding guide line less noticeable when the respective printing papers are bonded to each other, it is printed on the surface opposite to the printing surface on which the divided image is printed. In addition, also in the setting of this bonding guide line, in the case of no border at the bonding part, it is sufficient to set it for either one of the divided images.

[0056] The printing order is an item for setting how each printing surface is printed in each case of having a border at the bonding part and not having a border at the bonding part. In the case of having a border at the bonding part, for example, the printing settings are made in the order of: page 1: bonding guide line, page 2: left divided image + bonding area, page 3: right divided image + bonding area, page 4: bonding guide line. On the other hand, in the case of not having a border at the bonding part, for example, the printing settings are made in the order of: page 1: bonding guide line, page 2: left divided image + bonding area, page 3: right divided image + bonding area, page 4: blank paper.

[0057] The number of prints is set for the number of prints of the original image when the original image is divided into a plurality of divided images for printing. That is, when the original image is divided and printed on two sheets of printing paper and then pasted together, the actual printing executed by the image forming apparatus 3 is double-sided printing on the number of sheets of printing paper equal to the set value of this number of prints × 2. In the case of having a border at the pasting part in FIG. 7, since the set value is 10, the actual number of prints by the image forming apparatus 3 is 20 sheets. However, the actual number of prints by the image forming apparatus 3 may be set in this item. In that case, the completed product obtained as an alternative to the printing of the original image is the number obtained by dividing the set value by 2 (for example, 5 sheets).

[0058] <Functional Configuration of Image Forming Apparatus> Next, the functional configuration of the image forming apparatus 3 will be described. As shown in FIG. 5, the image forming apparatus 3 includes a transmission / reception unit 31, an operation reception unit 32, an activation unit 33, a display control unit 34, a printing control unit 37, and a memory readout unit 39. Each of these functional units is a function or means realized by any of the hardware resources shown in FIG. 4 operating according to instructions from the CPU 301 in which a program for the image forming apparatus 3 is expanded from at least one of the ROM 302a and the HD 308 to the RAM 302b. Further, the image forming apparatus 3 has a storage unit 3000 constructed by at least one of the ROM 302a and the HD 308 shown in FIG. 4. Furthermore, the storage unit 3000 stores a communication program (communication application) and the like for communicating with the information processing apparatus 2 via the communication network 100.

[0059] <<Each Functional Configuration of Image Forming Apparatus>> Next, each functional configuration of the image forming apparatus 3 will be described in detail. The transmission / reception unit 31 of the image forming apparatus 3 shown in FIG. 5 is mainly realized by the processing of the CPU 301 for the network I / F 350 and the short-distance communication circuit 320, and transmits and receives various data (or information) to and from the information processing apparatus 2 via the communication network 100. In the present embodiment, the transmission / reception unit 31 functions as an example of at least one of a transmission means and a reception means.

[0060] The operation reception unit 32 is mainly realized by the processing of the CPU 301 for operations on the operation panel 340, and receives various input operations for the image forming apparatus 3. In the present embodiment, the operation reception unit 32 functions as an example of operation reception means.

[0061] The startup unit 33 is mainly realized by the processing of the CPU 301, and executes the startup of the engine of the image forming apparatus 3 itself based on a print request or the like transmitted by the information processing apparatus 2. In the present embodiment, the startup unit 33 functions as an example of startup means.

[0062] The display control unit 34 is mainly realized by the processing of the CPU 301 for the panel display unit 340a of the operation panel 340, and performs display control of various statuses of the image forming apparatus 3, information (data) such as various setting values input by the user, etc. Further, for example, the display control unit 34 causes the panel display unit 340a to display a display screen created by HTML or the like using a browser. In the present embodiment, the display control unit 34 functions as an example of display control means.

[0063] The print control unit 37 is mainly realized by the processing of the CPU 301 for the engine control unit 330, and controls printing of image data and the like in the image forming apparatus 3. In the present embodiment, the print control unit 37 functions as an example of print control means.

[0064] The memory readout unit 39 is mainly realized by the processing of the CPU 301 for at least one of the ROM 302a and the HD 308, and stores various data (or information) in the storage unit 3000 or reads out various data (or information) from the storage unit 3000. In the present embodiment, the memory readout unit 39 functions as an example of memory readout means.

[0065] 〔Processing or operation of the embodiment〕 <Overall sequence> Next, the overall sequence according to this embodiment will be described. FIG. 8 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the overall processing according to the embodiment. First, the startup unit 23 of the information processing apparatus 2 starts a printer driver that performs various settings related to printing executed by the image forming apparatus 3 (step S101).

[0066] Next, the operation reception unit 22 receives a print instruction based on an operation by the user on the keyboard 212 or the pointing device 213 (step S102).

[0067] Next, the display control unit 24 displays a print setting screen as shown in FIG. 9 on the display 207 (step S103).

[0068] ● Screen display example ● Here, an example of the display of the print setting screen will be described. FIG. 9 is an example of the screen display of the print setting screen in the information processing apparatus. As shown in FIG. 9, when a print instruction by the user is received, a print setting screen 2101 is displayed on the display 207 by the display control unit 24. This print setting screen 2101 may be displayed based on the screen data previously owned by the printer driver started by the process of step S101 described above. The print setting screen 2101 is provided with tabs of "Simple Settings", "Item-by-Item Settings", and "Initial Settings / Version" as menus for performing print settings, and is a UI (User Interface) that allows detailed settings to be made by selecting each tab. In the example shown in FIG. 9, the case where the tab of "Item-by-Item Settings" is selected is shown. On the print setting screen 2101, columns of a current setting status bar 2102 showing the current settings, a menu item selection bar 2103, and a print method selection bar 2014 are displayed.

[0069] In the current setting status bar 2102, an image diagram showing the state where the original image is laid out on the printing paper, and information about the original size in printing: A3, and the size of the printing paper on which a plurality of divided images are printed: A4 are displayed. Further, information indicating whether to paste the printing papers together along the long side or the short side of the A4-sized printing paper is also displayed. In this case, the state where "long side pasting" is selected is shown.

[0070] In the menu item selection bar 2103, it is possible to select menu items such as "Printing method" and "Paper". In the example of FIG. 9, the state where "Printing method" is selected is shown.

[0071] In the printing method selection bar 2104, the state of selecting the printing method for printing the original manuscript (A3) showing the original image is shown. In this case, the state where "A3 printing" is selected by the pull-down key is shown. Also, in the printing method selection bar 2104, check boxes for "with border" and "without border" are provided. Furthermore, a check box for "Enable user settings" is also provided in the printing method selection bar 2104. When the user checks the check box for "Enable user settings" in this state, the operation of the "Details" button 2151 becomes possible. By the user operating the "Details" button 2151, the printing method setting screen shown in FIG. 10 is displayed, and arbitrary settings by the user become possible. Note that for the check boxes of "with border" and "without border", the default setting is the state where "with border" is selected, but "without border" may be the default setting. After the user selects the desired menu in the printing method selection bar 2104, by operating the "OK" button 2152, various setting items related to the printing method are set.

[0072] ● Screen display example ● Next, the display of the print method setting screen will be described. FIG. 10 is an example of the screen display of the print method setting screen in the information processing apparatus. As shown in FIG. 10, when the "Details" button 2151 is operated by the user, the print method setting screen 2111 is displayed on the display 207 by the display control unit 24. In this print method setting screen 2111, a UI that allows the user to freely set each setting item is provided. Note that the print method setting screen 2111 may be displayed based on the screen data that the print driver activated by the process of step S101 described above previously owns.

[0073] For the input method for each setting item, for example, when the user performs a mouse-over operation near the input field corresponding to the desired setting item, a dialog screen for inputting each setting item may be superimposed and displayed on the print method setting screen 2111 along with the operation. Thereby, the user may input the desired setting value and perform an operation indicating the completion of input (for example, an operation of the OK button) so that the input setting value is set. Such input methods for various setting values may use other existing methods.

[0074] The user inputs for the desired setting item and then operates the "OK" button 2161, whereby the various input setting values are reflected in the corresponding setting items. On the other hand, the user can cancel the various input setting values by operating the "Cancel" button 2162.

[0075] <Print Setting Process> Returning to FIG. 8, the drawing setting unit 27 of the information processing apparatus 2 reads print setting information according to the input content (step S104). At this time, the operation reception unit 22 receives a check input for the check box of "with border" or "without border" provided in the print method selection column 2104 of the print setting screen 2101 shown in FIG. 9. As a result, when the check box of "with border" is selected, the bonding identification information: "P0001" given in association with the selection operation is passed to the drawing setting unit 27. In response to this, the memory reading unit 29 searches the setting item management DB 2001 (see FIG. 7) using the bonding identification information: "P0001" as a search key, and reads out various setting items associated with the setting with a border at the bonding part. On the other hand, when the check box of "without border" is selected, the bonding identification information: "P0002" given in association with the selection operation is passed to the drawing setting unit 27. In response to this, the memory reading unit 29 searches the setting item management DB 2001 (see FIG. 7) using the bonding identification information: "P0002" as a search key, and reads out various setting items associated with the setting without a border at the bonding part.

[0076] Next, the drawing setting unit 27 performs setting of print setting information and generation processing of page images (step S105). Here, the details of the setting process of the print setting information in step S105 will be described.

[0077] <When setting with border> FIG. 11 is an overall flowchart showing an example of the print setting process when "with border" is selected. First, when the operation reception unit 22 receives the selection of "with border at the bonding part" of the bonding method 1, the object acquisition unit 271 of the drawing setting unit 27 acquires an object (original image) shown by a graphic and an image from the document data (original image) to be printed (step S105-11).

[0078] Next, the object division unit 272 divides the acquired object (original image) (step S105-12). Note that the division method (setting of the division region) when dividing the object (original image) is not limited to the method of dividing at the center of the object. For example, the drawing setting unit 27 may cooperate with the display control unit 24 to provide a UI that allows the user to select a dividable position of the object within the range where the divided object fits within the first printing medium and the second printing medium, respectively.

[0079] Next, the divided object surface extension unit 273 sets the extension amount of the divided image based on the setting value related to the extension of the divided image from the setting item management DB2001 (see FIG. 7) read in step S104 (step S105-13). The divided object surface extension unit 273 performs, for example, the following settings. · Left divided image: Extend +2 mm to the right from the division position · Right divided image: Extend +2 mm to the left from the division position Next, the bonding guide line generation unit 2741 and the bonding region generation unit 2742 in the bonding surface processing unit 274 set the bonding region (step S105-14). The bonding guide line generation unit 2741 and the bonding region generation unit 2742 perform, for example, the following settings. · Left divided image: Generate a margin of 3 mm at the right end · Right divided image: Generate a margin of 3 mm at the left end Next, the print data generation unit 275 generates a page image combined with the divided object, accumulates (spools) the generated page image (print data) in the accumulation processing unit 28, and exits this flow (step S105-15). In generating the page image, the print data generation unit 275 performs, for example, the following settings. · First page: Bonding guide line · Second page: Left divided image + bonding region · Third page: Right divided image + bonding region · Fourth page: Bonding guide line <When there is no frame setting> FIG. 12 is an overall flowchart showing an example of print setting processing when there is no frame selection. Similar to FIG. 11, the details of the setting process of the print setting information in step S105 will be described. First, when the operation reception unit 22 receives the selection of "no frame at the bonding part" of the bonding method 1, the object acquisition unit 271 of the drawing setting unit 27 acquires an object (original image) represented by a graphic and an image from the document data (original image) to be printed (step S105-21).

[0080] Next, the object division unit 272 divides the acquired object (original image) (step S105-22). Note that the division method (setting of the division area) when dividing the object (original image) is not limited to the method of dividing at the center of the object. For example, the drawing setting unit 27 may cooperate with the display control unit 24 to provide a UI that allows the user to select the dividable position of the object within the range where the divided object can be accommodated in the first print medium and the second print medium, respectively.

[0081] Next, the divided object surface extension unit 273 sets the extension amount of the divided image based on the setting value related to the extension of the divided image from the setting item management DB2001 (see FIG. 7) read in step S104 (step S105-23). The divided object surface extension unit 273 performs, for example, the following settings. · Left divided image: Extend + 2 mm to the right from the division position Next, the bonding guide line generation unit 2741 and the bonding area generation unit 2742 of the bonding surface processing unit 274 set the bonding area (step S105-24). The bonding guide line generation unit 2741 and the bonding area generation unit 2742 perform, for example, the following settings. · Left divided image: Generate a margin of 3 mm at the right end Next, the print data generation unit 275 generates a page image combined with the divided object, and accumulates (spools) the generated page image (print data) in the accumulation processing unit 28 to exit this flow (step S105-25). The print data generation unit 275 performs, for example, the following settings in the generation of the page image. · Page 1: Alignment guide line · Page 2: Split image on the left + bonding area · Page 3: Split image on the right · Page 4: Blank paper In this way, when there is no frame, the image extension amount, margin setting, alignment guide line setting method, and setting value for one of the split images will be different.

[0082] <When setting by user input> In addition, when the operation reception unit 22 receives a check input for the "Enable user settings" check box provided in the print method selection column 2104 of the print setting screen 2101 shown in FIG. 9 and an input of the "Details" button 2151, the following processing is performed. Specifically, the operation reception unit 22 receives each setting value input by the user in the items corresponding to with frame and without frame on the print method setting screen 2111 shown in FIG. 10. Thereafter, the drawing setting unit 27 and the memory reading unit 29 register (overwriting is also possible) each received setting value in the corresponding various setting items of the setting item management DB 2001 (see FIG. 7) and make it a management target. As a result, since the user can set free setting values, it becomes possible to provide a more comfortable information processing system for the user.

[0083] Returning to FIG. 8, the transmission / reception unit 21 transmits a print request to the image forming apparatus 3 (step S106). As a result, the transmission / reception unit 31 of the image forming apparatus 3 receives the print request transmitted by the information processing apparatus 2. At this time, the print request includes print setting information set in the information processing apparatus 2 and image data related to a duplex print job representing a page image. Here, in the process of step S106, the transmission / reception unit 31 may transmit the print setting information to the image forming apparatus 3 by including it in the divided image data. That is, the transmission / reception unit 31 may transmit divided image data in which the print setting information is embedded to the image forming apparatus 3. Specifically, the information processing apparatus 2 embeds the set print setting information in the header or the like of the image data. Then, the transmission / reception unit 31 may transmit the image data in which the print setting information is embedded to the image forming apparatus 3 as image data related to the duplex print job.

[0084] Next, the print control unit 37 of the image forming apparatus 3 executes duplex printing of a predetermined number of sheets based on the print setting information received in step S106 and the image data related to the duplex print job (step S107).

[0085] Subsequently, after the duplex printing is completed, the transmission / reception unit 31 transmits a print response to the information processing apparatus 2 (step S108). As a result, the transmission / reception unit 21 of the information processing apparatus 2 receives the print response transmitted by the image forming apparatus 3. At this time, the print response includes a print completion notification indicating that the print process has been completed.

[0086] In the communication system according to the present embodiment, for example, when the processes of steps S106 and S108 described above are executed, other devices or the like may exist between the information processing apparatus 2 and the image forming apparatus 3. That is, each piece of information (data) transmitted and received between the information processing apparatus 2 and the image forming apparatus 3 may be configured to be transmitted and received via another device once. The above-described configuration is applicable even if there are other processing steps between the information processing apparatus 2 and the image forming apparatus 3.

[0087] <Output image of divided image (with border)> Next, the output image of the divided image when the frame is set will be described. FIG. 13(a) is a schematic view of two printed media pasted together and viewed from the front when the frame is selected. FIG. 13(b) is a schematic view of the two pasted printed media viewed from the end (※) with the media horizontal. In this case, since the frame that becomes the pasted portion is generated on both the first printing paper (the first printed media) and the second printing paper (the second printed media), the state viewed from ※ is, for example, like the letter "T" in the alphabet. That is, when the first printing paper and the second printing paper are placed on a horizontal surface such as a desk, the pasted portion has a slightly raised shape.

[0088] FIG. 13(c) is a conceptual diagram showing the positional relationship between the images printed on each surface of each printed media and the pasting guide line. In this case, the figure on the left is the one with the earlier printing order. That is, the leftmost image is the image printed on the first side (page). Subsequently, the second image from the left is the image printed on the second side (page), and this image is an example of the first divided image. And the printing paper on which the images of the first side (page) and the second side (page) are printed is an example of the first printed media. Note that at the right end of the image on the second side (page), the pasting guide line printed on the first side (page) is back-printed at a position, for example, 5 mm (2 mm + 3 mm for the margin) from the end of the first printing paper (the end on the side to be pasted to the second printing paper). Furthermore, the state where the divided image is extended up to 2 mm to the right of this back-printed pasting guide line is shown.

[0089] Subsequently, the third image from the left is the image printed on the third page, and this image serves as an example of the second divided image. At the right end of the image on the third page, the alignment guide line printed on the fourth page is back-printed at a position, for example, 5 mm (2 mm + 3 mm for the margin) from the end of the second printing paper (the end on the side that is laminated with the first printing paper). Further, a state in which the divided image extends (printed from the front) up to 2 mm to the left of this back-printed alignment guide line is shown. Subsequently, the fourth image from the left, that is, the rightmost image, becomes the image printed on the fourth page. And the printing paper on which the images on the third and fourth pages are printed serves as an example of the second printing medium.

[0090] <Paper discharge image of the printing medium when the border is set> Next, the paper discharge image of the printing medium (printing paper) when the border is set will be described. FIG. 14 is a conceptual diagram showing an image in which each printing medium is discharged when the border is selected. This figure shows a state of looking down from above each printing paper on which the second printing paper partially overlaps and is discharged on the first printing paper. Note that in FIG. 14, a state in which the front and back of the second printing paper shown in FIG. 13 are reversed is shown. And the lamination area of the first printing paper (an example of the first lamination area) set by the above-described setting process is shown as re1, and the lamination area of the second printing paper (an example of the second lamination area) is shown as re2.

[0091] <Output image of the divided image (without border)> Next, the output image of the divided image when the borderless setting is selected will be described. Fig. 15(a) is a schematic view of two printed media pasted together and viewed from the front when the borderless option is selected. Fig. 15(b) is a schematic view of the two pasted printed media viewed from the end (※) with the media in a horizontal state. In this case, since the border is generated only on either the first printing paper (the first printed media) or the second printing paper (the second printed media) that forms the pasted portion, the state viewed from ※ is almost flat compared to the case with a border. That is, when the first printing paper and the second printing paper are placed on a horizontal surface such as a desk, the pasted portion is hardly noticeable. That is, the borderless setting may be preferentially set when performing mass printing in this embodiment. The reason is that when the first printed media (printing paper) and the second printed media (printing paper) are pasted and overlapped, the pasted portion becomes almost flat, so that the printing papers can be stacked relatively stably. Thus, when an input for setting the "number of printed copies" on the printing method setting screen 2111 shown in Fig. 10 is received for a predetermined number of copies or more (for example, 30 copies or more), the drawing setting unit 27 may set "borderless".

[0092] Fig. 15(c) is a conceptual diagram showing the positional relationship between the images printed on each surface of each printed media and the pasting guide lines. In this case, the image with the earlier printing order is on the left in the figure. That is, the leftmost image is the image printed on the first side (page). Subsequently, the second image from the left is the image printed on the second side (page), and this image is an example of the first divided image. And the printing paper on which the images of the first side (page) and the second side (page) are printed is an example of the first printed media. Note that at the right end of the image on the second side (page), the pasting guide line printed on the first side (page) is back-printed at a position, for example, 5 mm (2 mm + 3 mm for the margin) from the end of the first printing paper (the end on the side where it is pasted to the second printing paper). Further, the state where the divided image is extended up to 2 mm to the right of this back-printed pasting guide line is shown.

[0093] Subsequently, the third image from the left is the image to be printed on the third page, and this image serves as an example of the second divided image. Note that in the case of a border, the stitching guide lines printed on the fourth page are not back-printed on the third page image. This is because no stitching guide lines are printed on the fourth page. And the printing paper on which the images of the third and fourth pages are printed serves as an example of the second printing medium.

[0094] <Layout image of divided image (without border)> Next, the layout image of the printing medium (printing paper) when the borderless setting is selected will be described. FIG. 16 is a conceptual diagram showing the image in which each printing medium is discharged when the borderless option is selected. This figure shows a state of looking down from above each printing paper in which the second printing paper partially overlaps the first printing paper. Note that in FIG. 16, the front and back of the second printing paper shown in FIG. 15 are in a reversed state. And the bonding area (an example of the first bonding area) of the first printing paper set by the above-described setting process is shown as re1. Note that in FIG. 16, since no bonding guide lines are printed on the second printing paper shown in FIG. 14, the bonding area (an example of the second bonding area) of the second printing paper is not shown.

[0095] [Main effects of the embodiment] As described above, according to the present embodiment, the information processing apparatus 2 receives an input for setting a blank area where printing of the divided image is not performed in at least any one of the first bonding area between the first end of the first printing medium on the side bonded to the second printing medium and the first bonding position, and the second bonding area between the second end of the second printing medium on the side bonded to the first printing medium and the second bonding position, and transmits the printing setting information set based on the input of the blank area and the divided image data related to the divided image to the image forming apparatus. Thereby, when a plurality of divided images obtained by dividing the original image are printed on a plurality of printing media and the printing media are bonded to each other, the working efficiency of the user's bonding operation can be improved.

[0096] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, by providing the user with a UI that selectively accepts the setting of with margin and without margin, it is possible to select with margin or without margin according to the number of printed sheets, and the degree of freedom of the user can be increased. This is the same even when the information processing apparatus 2 automatically selects the setting without margin when the number of printed sheets exceeds a predetermined number.

[0097] 〔Supplementary Explanation of the Embodiment〕 The image forming apparatus in this embodiment may be an MFP as described above. For example, even when it has the ability to perform printing using A3-sized printing paper, this embodiment may be applied. Specifically, in a situation where A3-sized printing paper is not fed to the MFP and cannot be fed immediately, a usage scenario may be assumed in which the divided image is printed on two A4-sized printing papers and they are pasted together for substitution.

[0098] Also, when generating a plurality of divided images and performing printing on a plurality of recording media, the number of the plurality of divided images and the number of the plurality of recording media (number of printing papers) are not limited to 2. For example, when it is desired to print the original image using A3-sized printing paper, each divided image may be printed using four A5-sized printing papers, and the four printed A5-sized printing papers may be pasted together to perform substitute printing for the original image.

[0099] Each function of the above-described embodiments can be realized by one or more processing circuits. Here, the "processing circuit" in this specification includes a device programmed to execute each function by software, such as a processor implemented by an electronic circuit. This device refers to, for example, a processor, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) designed to execute each function described above, a DSP (digital signal processor), an FPGA (field programmable gate array), a SOC (System on a chip), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and a conventional circuit module, etc.

[0100] So far, an information processing program, an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, an information processing system, and a recording medium according to an embodiment of the present invention have been described. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and can be changed within the scope that those skilled in the art can conceive, such as addition, change, or deletion of other embodiments. As long as the effects of the present invention can be achieved in any aspect, it is included in the scope of the present invention.

Explanation of Signs

[0101] 1 Information processing system 2 Information processing apparatus 3 Image forming apparatus 21 Transmission / reception unit (an example of transmission means, an example of reception means) 22 Operation reception unit (an example of reception means) 27 Drawing setting unit (an example of setting means) 37 Printing control unit (an example of printing control means)

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0102]

Patent Document 1

Claims

1. When an information processing apparatus receives an instruction to perform printing by dividing a plurality of divided images obtained by dividing an original image to be printed into a first printing medium and a second printing medium, and laminating the first printing medium and the second printing medium at a predetermined lamination position, a reception step of receiving an input for setting a margin area in which printing of the divided images is not performed in at least one of a first lamination area between a first end on the side to be laminated with the second printing medium and a first lamination position among the ends of the first printing medium, and a second lamination area between a second end on the side to be laminated with the first printing medium and a second lamination position among the ends of the second printing medium; A transmission step of transmitting, to an image forming apparatus, print setting information set based on the input of the margin area and divided image data related to the divided images obtained by dividing the original image; To execute, In the reception step, Receiving an input for setting, as a first extension area, a position from the first lamination position to a position at a predetermined distance as an area for extending and printing a first divided image among the plurality of divided images, and receiving an input for setting, as a second extension area, a position from the second lamination position to a position at a predetermined distance as an area for extending and printing a second divided image among the plurality of divided images; An information processing program.

2. The reception step Receives an input for setting various setting items including the original size of the original on which the original image is generated, the print size representing the sizes of the first printing medium and the second printing medium, the printing method representing the printing method, the extension area, the margin area, the lamination position, the printing order of the first printing medium and the second printing medium, and the number of printed sheets. The information processing program according to Claim 1.

3. The information processing program according to Claim 2, further An information processing program that executes a setting step of setting values for the various setting items based on an input for setting the various setting items.

4. The setting step ​ When at least one of the first bonding area and the second bonding area is set, a first bonding guide line indicating the first bonding position is printed on the back surface of the surface of the first printing medium on which the first divided image is printed, and a second bonding guide line indicating the second bonding position is printed on the back surface of the surface of the second printing medium on which the second divided image is printed. Set a setting with a border, which is a setting to print. The information processing program according to claim 3.

5. The setting step is as follows: When the margin area is not set for the first printing medium on which the first divided image is printed or the second printing medium on which the second divided image is printed, set a setting without a border, which is a setting to print the back surface of the surface of the printing medium on which the divided image without the margin area is printed as blank paper. The information processing program according to claim 3.

6. The setting step is as follows: When an input for setting the number of printed sheets is received and is equal to or more than a predetermined number of sheets, set the setting without a border. The information processing program according to claim 5.

7. The setting step is as follows: When the reception step that is received by the user's input is not executed, set preset values for the various setting items. The information processing program according to any one of claims 3 to 6.

8. The transmission step includes the print setting information in the divided image data and transmits it to the image forming apparatus. The information processing program according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. An information processing apparatus that performs settings for executing the printing on an image forming apparatus that prints an image on a printing medium, When receiving an instruction to print by dividing a plurality of divided images obtained by dividing an original image to be printed and printing them on a first printing medium and a second printing medium, and bonding the first printing medium and the second printing medium to each other at a predetermined bonding position, a reception means for receiving an input for setting a margin area in which the divided image is not printed in at least one of a first bonding area between a first end of the first printing medium on the side bonded to the second printing medium and the first bonding position, and a second bonding area between a second end of the second printing medium on the side bonded to the first printing medium and the second bonding position; Transmission means for transmitting to an image forming apparatus print setting information set based on the input of the blank area and divided image data related to a divided image obtained by dividing the original image; having; The receiving means: receives an input for setting, as a first extension area, a position from a position at a predetermined distance from the first bonding position to a position at which a first divided image among the plurality of divided images is extended and printed, and receives an input for setting, as a second extension area, a position from a position at a predetermined distance from the second bonding position to a position at which a second divided image among the plurality of divided images is extended and printed; An information processing apparatus characterized by the above.

10. An information processing method executed by an information processing apparatus that performs settings for executing the printing on an image forming apparatus that prints an image on a printing medium, the method comprising: Receiving a printing instruction to divide a plurality of divided images obtained by dividing an original image to be printed into a first printing medium and a second printing medium and print them, and when the first printing medium and the second printing medium are to be bonded to each other at a predetermined bonding position, receiving an input for setting a blank area in which the divided image is not printed in at least one of a first bonding area between a first end of the first printing medium on a side bonded to the second printing medium and the first bonding position and a second bonding area between a second end of the second printing medium on a side bonded to the first printing medium and the second bonding position; A transmission step of transmitting to the image forming apparatus print setting information set based on the input of the blank area and divided image data related to the divided image obtained by dividing the original image; executing a process including: In the receiving step: receiving an input for setting, as a first extension area, a position from a position at a predetermined distance from the first bonding position to a position at which a first divided image among the plurality of divided images is extended and printed, and receiving an input for setting, as a second extension area, a position from a position at a predetermined distance from the second bonding position to a position at which a second divided image among the plurality of divided images is extended and printed; An information processing method.

11. An information processing system including an image forming apparatus that prints an image on a printing medium and an information processing apparatus that performs settings for executing the printing on the image forming apparatus, The information processing apparatus: When receiving an instruction to print by dividing a plurality of divided images obtained by dividing an original image to be printed into a first printing medium and a second printing medium, and then bonding the first printing medium and the second printing medium to each other at a predetermined bonding position, a reception unit that receives an input for setting a blank area in which printing of the divided image is not performed in at least one of a first bonding area between a first end on the side bonded to the second printing medium among the ends of the first printing medium and a first bonding position, and a second bonding area between a second end on the side bonded to the first printing medium among the ends of the second printing medium and a second bonding position; A transmission unit that transmits, to an image forming apparatus, print setting information set based on the input of the blank area and divided image data related to the divided images obtained by dividing the original image; It has; The image forming apparatus has; Printing control means for printing the divided images on predetermined areas of the first printing medium and the second printing medium respectively based on the print setting information transmitted by the information processing apparatus and the divided images obtained by dividing the original image; It has; The reception unit; Receives an input for setting, as a first extension area, a position from the first bonding position to a position at a predetermined distance as an area for extending and printing a first divided image among the plurality of divided images, and also receives an input for setting, as a second extension area, a position from the second bonding position to a position at a predetermined distance as an area for extending and printing a second divided image among the plurality of divided images; An information processing system characterized by this.

12. A recording medium storing the information processing program according to any one of Claims 1 to 8.

Images