Program and label generating device

Abstract

To provide a technology for easily creating a label with a three-dimensional appearance.SOLUTION: A CPU 31 of information terminals 3 and 4 performs steps S20 to S35 to generate second label data including second object data using first object data contained in first label data. The second object data is generated using the first object data. A second occupation area occupied by a second object OB2 formed in a second label L2 by the second object data in the second label L2, and a first occupation area occupied by a first object OB1 formed in a first label L1 by the first object data in the first label L1, overlap in part and do not overlap in other parts.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a program and a label generating device. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, for example, Patent Document 1 discloses that a tape with a printed image is created using a tape printing device, and a user then stacks multiple printed tapes on top of each other in the thickness direction to create a label with the desired appearance. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-17937 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] By stacking multiple tapes on top of each other in the thickness direction, as in the conventional technology described above, it is possible not only to simply increase the number of colors that make up the label, but also to create labels with appearances that could not be expressed with a single label, such as labels with a three-dimensional feel.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a technique that allows for easy creation of labels with a three-dimensional appearance. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to achieve the above object, the program of the present invention is a label data editing program for creating an overlapping label by laminating a first label, which has first label data printed on a first medium, and a second label, which has second label data printed on a second medium, in the thickness direction, and causes a computer to execute a label data generation process that generates second label data including second object data using first object data included in the first label data, wherein the second object data is data generated using the first object data, and a second occupation area occupied on the second label by a second object formed on the second label using the second object data and a first occupation area occupied on the first label by a first object formed on the first label using the first object data partially overlap and do not overlap in other parts.

[0007] In order to achieve the above object, the label producing device of the present invention has a control unit and is used to produce overlapping labels by bonding, in the thickness direction, a first label formed by printing first label data on a first medium and a second label formed by printing second label data on a second medium, wherein the control unit executes a label data generation process that uses first object data included in the first label data to generate second label data including second object data, and the second object data is data generated using the first object data, and a second occupation area occupied in the second label by a second object formed in the second label using the second object data and a first occupation area occupied in the first label by a first object formed in the first label using the first object data partially overlap but do not overlap in other parts.

[0008] In the present invention, the second object data included in the second label data for generating the second label is generated using the first object data included in the first label data for generating the first label. For example, the second object based on the second object data and the first object based on the first object data are identical in shape and are positioned offset from the first object as described above, thereby making it possible to create a label with a three-dimensional appearance when the first and second labels are superimposed.

[0009] In order to achieve the above object, the program of the present invention is a label data editing program for creating an overlapping label by laminating, in the thickness direction, a first label having first label data printed on a first medium and a second label having second label data printed on a second medium, and causes a computer to execute a label data generation process for generating second label data including second object data using first object data included in the first label data, wherein the second object data is data representing a difference area between new data obtained by shifting the first object data by a predetermined amount and the original data before the shift.

[0010] In order to achieve the above object, the label producing device of the present invention has a control unit and is used to produce overlapping labels by laminating, in the thickness direction, a first label formed by printing first label data on a first medium and a second label formed by printing second label data on a second medium, wherein the control unit executes a label data generation process that uses first object data included in the first label data to generate second label data that includes second object data, and the second object data is data that represents a difference area between new data obtained by shifting the first object data by a predetermined amount and the original data before the shift.

[0011] In the present invention, the second object data represents a difference area between the new data obtained by shifting the first object data by a predetermined amount in the label data generation process and the original data before the shift. Therefore, the second object based on the second object data is positioned close to the first object, in a shape similar to the trajectory of the first object based on the first object data when it is shifted. As a result, when the first and second labels are superimposed, a three-dimensional label can be created.

[0012] The present invention is not limited to a program and a label production device, but can also be applied to, for example, a label data editing method, a label production system, and the like, as appropriate. [Effects of the Invention]

[0013] According to the present invention, a label with a three-dimensional appearance can be easily produced. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] 1 is a system configuration diagram illustrating an example of the overall configuration of a printing system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of an information terminal and a label production device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] An explanatory diagram showing an example of creating an overlapping label when a second object based on second object data and a first object based on first object data have the same shape and the second object is positioned offset relative to the first object. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of creating an overlapping label in which a second object is arranged shifted relative to a first object and the shape of the second object is a difference from the shape of the first object. [Figure 5] 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a label editing screen displayed on a touch panel or display unit of the information terminal in the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 6]10A to 10C are diagrams illustrating an example of screen transitions in an image display section. [Figure 7] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating another example of screen transitions in the image display section. [Figure 8] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating still another example of screen transitions in the image display section. [Figure 9] 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a control procedure executed by a CPU of the information terminal in the first embodiment. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of detailed content of a deviation amount adjustment process. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of detailed content of a printing process. [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a label editing screen displayed on a touch panel or display unit of an information terminal in the second embodiment. [Figure 13] 10A to 10C are diagrams illustrating an example of screen transitions in an image display section. [Figure 14] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a control procedure executed by a CPU of an information terminal in the second embodiment. [Figure 15] 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a control procedure executed by a CPU of a label producing device according to a third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015] First Embodiment A first embodiment of the present invention will be described. The first embodiment is an embodiment in which data of a second object with a second label is generated when a user selects a first object with a first label on an information terminal.

[0016] <Overall system configuration> FIG. 1 shows an example of the overall configuration of a printing system according to the first embodiment. In FIG. 1, the printing system 1 includes a label producing apparatus 2 and information terminals 3 and 4. Only one of the information terminals 3 and 4 may be included, or both may be included. The label producing apparatus 2 is a label printer that produces printed labels L and includes a display unit 26 and an input unit 27. The information terminal 3 is, for example, a mobile terminal, and may be a smartphone equipped with a touch panel 37 as shown in FIG. 1, or a tablet terminal. The information terminal 4 is, for example, a general-purpose personal computer, and may be a notebook computer equipped with an operation unit 33 and a display unit 34 as shown in FIG. 1, or a desktop computer. The information terminals 3 and 4 are connected to the label producing apparatus 2 so as to be able to send and receive information to and from each other. For example, the information terminal 3 is connected via wireless communication, and the information terminal 4 is connected via wired communication. The information terminal 3 may be connected via wired communication, or the information terminal 4 may be connected via wireless communication.

[0017] <Information terminal> Fig. 2 shows an example of the hardware configuration of the information terminals 3 and 4. As shown in Fig. 2, the information terminals 3 and 4 include a CPU 31, a memory 32 including, for example, RAM and ROM, an operation unit 33, a display unit 34, a communication control unit 35, and a large-capacity storage device 36.

[0018] Instructions and information from the user are input to the operation unit 33. The display unit 34 displays various information and messages. The information terminal 3 is configured as a touch panel 37 that combines the functions of the operation unit 33 and the display unit 34. The communication control unit 35 controls communication with the label producing device 2.

[0019] The mass storage device 36 stores a print application for causing the CPU 31 to execute each procedure of the sequences shown in Figures 9 to 11, 14, etc., such as editing print data, as well as various other programs, various data, etc. The print application, various programs, various data, etc. may be stored in the memory 32.

[0020] The CPU 31 performs various processes and various communications with the label producing device 2 according to programs stored in the ROM and large-capacity storage device 36 while utilizing the temporary storage function of the RAM in the memory 32. The CPU 31 is an example of a computer and a control unit.

[0021] <Label generating device> Fig. 2 shows an example of the hardware configuration of the label producing apparatus 2. As shown in Fig. 2, the label producing apparatus 2 has a control circuit 21, a cartridge holder 22, a cartridge sensor 23, a communication control unit 24, a print head 25, a display unit 26, an input unit 27, and a large-capacity storage device 28.

[0022] The cartridge holder 22 detachably mounts the cartridge 5. The cartridge sensor 23 is provided in the cartridge holder 22 and detects the type of the cartridge 5 by a known appropriate method such as mechanical detection or optical / magnetic detection.

[0023] The control circuit 21 has a CPU 21a, a RAM 21b, a ROM 21c, etc. The control circuit 21 is connected to the communication control units 35 of the information terminals 3 and 4 via the communication control unit 24, so that the label producing device 2 can send and receive information to and from the information terminals 3 and 4. The CPU 21a is an example of a computer and a control unit.

[0024] The input unit 27 is composed of a plurality of buttons etc., and is used for inputting instructions and information from the user. The display unit 26 is, for example, a liquid crystal display etc., and displays various information and messages. The communication control unit 24 controls communication between the information terminals 3 and 4.

[0025] The mass storage device 28 stores a printing program for causing the CPU 21a to execute each step of the sequence shown in Fig. 15 etc., which will be described later, as well as various data, etc. The printing program, various data, etc. may be stored in the RAM 21b or ROM 21c of the control circuit 21.

[0026] The label tape TP on which printing has been performed by the print head 25 is cut by the cutter 29, whereby the printed label L is produced.

[0027] <Overlapping labels> 3 and 4, a first label L1, which has first label data printed on the label tape TP, and a second label L2, which has second label data printed on the label tape TP, are laminated together in the thickness direction by the user to create an overlapping label L3. The first label data includes first object data, and a first object OB1 is formed on the first label L1 using the first object data. The second label data includes second object data, and a second object OB2 is formed on the second label L2 using the second object data. The label tape TP used to create the first label L1 is an example of a first medium, and the label tape TP used to create the second label L2 is an example of a second medium.

[0028] The color of the second object data is different from the color of the first object data. The color of the second object data is set in advance to an achromatic color such as black or gray, and is stored in, for example, the memory 32. In this embodiment, a case will be described in which the first object OB1 is a star-shaped pattern in a chromatic color such as red, blue, or yellow, and the second object OB2 is a star-shaped pattern of the same shape as the first object OB1, which is, for example, black.

[0029] FIG. 3 shows an example of how to create an overlapping label L3. The first label L1 and the second label L2 are the same size, and it is assumed that the overlapping label L3 is created by aligning the corners of each label and pasting them together. In the example of FIG. 3, the first label L1 is a label on which a first object OB1 is printed in a chromatic printing color (e.g., yellow) on a transparent base tape. The second label L2 is a label on which a second object OB2 is printed in an achromatic color (e.g., black) on a chromatic base tape (e.g., blue). The second object OB2 based on the second object data and the first object OB1 based on the first object data are the same size and shape. The position of the second label L2 of the second object OB2 is shifted to the right in the drawing with respect to the position of the first label L1 of the first object OB1. 3, the second occupation area occupied by the second object OB2 formed on the second label L2 using the second object data and the first occupation area occupied by the first object OB1 formed on the first label L1 using the first object data partially overlap with each other, but do not overlap with each other in other parts. This makes it possible to make the second object OB2 function as a shadow of the first object OB1, for example, and to make the overlaid label L3 a three-dimensional label.

[0030] 3, the first label L1 is attached to the top of the second label L2 to create the overlapping label L3. That is, in the overlapping label L3, the first label L1 is the upper label and the second label L2 is the lower label. The area of ​​the first label L1 other than the first object OB1 is transparent so that the second label L2 can be seen through.

[0031] FIG. 4 shows an example of how an overlapping label L3 is created when the second object OB2 is shifted relative to the first object OB1 and the shape of the second object OB2 is a difference from the shape of the first object OB1. In this case, the second object data is generated as data representing the difference area between the new data obtained by shifting the first object data by a predetermined amount and the original data before the shift. For example, if the first object OB1 in the first label L1 has a transparent color, and the second object OB2 is visible when the first object OB1 and the second object OB2 are overlapped with each other with the same shape, or if the second label L2 is placed on top due to reasons such as the absence of a transparent label and a cartridge 5 corresponding to the print color of the first object OB1, the overlapping label L3 is created using the method shown in FIG. This makes it possible, for example, for the second object OB2 to function as a shadow of the first object OB1, resulting in a three-dimensional appearance for the overlapping label L3.

[0032] In the example shown in FIG. 4, the overlapping label L3 may be created by pasting the first label L1 on top of the second label L2, or the overlapping label L3 may be created by pasting the second label L2 on top of the first label L1. In the former case, the first label L1 is the upper label and the second label L2 is the lower label in the overlapping label L3. The area of ​​the first label L1 other than the first object OB1 is transparent so that the second label L2 can be seen through. In the latter case, the second label L2 is the upper label and the first label L1 is the lower label in the overlapping label L3. The area of ​​the second label L2 other than the second object OB2 is transparent so that the first label L1 can be seen through.

[0033] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the length of the first label data along the label longitudinal direction, i.e., the length D1 of the first label L1, and the length of the second label data along the label longitudinal direction, i.e., the length D2 of the second label L2, are equal to each other.

[0034] In this embodiment, an example will be described in which two labels L1 and L2 are created and attached in layers. Note that the number of print labels L to be attached in layers is not limited to two, and three or more print labels L may be attached in layers.

[0035] <Edit screen> FIG. 5 shows an example of a label editing screen displayed on the touch panel 37 or display unit 34 of the information terminal 3, 4. As shown in FIG. 5, the label editing screen displays, for example, a format setting unit 51, a font setting unit 52, an image display unit 53, a print button 54, a superimposition creation button 55, a misalignment adjustment button 56, and an object editing display unit 57. The display content of the object editing display unit 57 changes depending on the immediately preceding operation, and the initial screen displayed when the printing application is launched displays an object selection screen. The user can select an object to be formed on the printed label by selecting a desired object from among the multiple objects displayed on the object selection screen. Note that FIG. 5 shows the display content after the misalignment adjustment button 56 is operated, displaying a misalignment amount adjustment operation screen.

[0036] The format setting section 51 is a screen on which the user sets, for example, the format, label length, label width, etc. of the label to be created. The font setting section 52 is a screen on which the user sets, for example, the font and size of the characters to be printed on the label. The image display section 53 displays an image of the label edited by the user. In the example shown in Figure 5, for example, an overlapping label L3 with a label width of 36 mm is displayed.

[0037] The print button 54 is a button that the user uses to instruct printing. When the print button 54 is operated, print data is sent from the information terminals 3 and 4 to the label producing device 2.

[0038] The overlapping creation button 55 is a button used by the user to instruct execution of the label data generation process. Operating the overlapping creation button 55 executes the label data generation process, which generates second label data including second object data using first object data included in the first label data. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 5 , when the overlapping creation button 55 is operated while a label in which a first object OB1 is formed using the first object data is displayed in the image display unit 53, second object data is generated using the first object data, and a label formed by adding a second object OB2 using the second object data is displayed. While "using" includes copying, the second object data may be generated by a method other than copying as long as the shape of the second object OB2 is the same as the shape of the first object OB1. The signal acquired by the CPU 31 upon operating the overlapping creation button 55 is an example of predetermined operation information.

[0039] A first image represented by the first label data including the first object data and a second image represented by the second label data including the second object data are displayed superimposed on each other in the image display section 53. In other words, the image display section 53 displays an image of the overlapping label L3 created by bonding the first label L1 and the second label L2 together in the thickness direction.

[0040] The deviation adjustment button 56 is a button that allows the user to adjust the deviation amount of the second object OB2. In this embodiment, the "deviation amount" includes the direction and distance of the deviation. When the deviation adjustment button 56 is operated, a deviation amount adjustment operation screen is displayed in the object editing display unit 57. The deviation amount adjustment operation screen displays the first reference object OB1o, the second reference object OB2o, a movement operation unit 58, and deviation amount input units 59a and 59b. The relative position of the second reference object OB2o with respect to the first reference object OB1o corresponds to the relative position of the second object OB2 with respect to the first object OB1. The user can move the movement operation unit 58 up, down, left, or right by any amount up, down, left, or right by a predetermined operation such as a drag operation, thereby adjusting the deviation amount of the second object OB2 with respect to the first object OB1. The user can also move the second reference object OB2o up, down, left, or right by any amount by inputting the value of the amount of deviation in the label longitudinal direction into the deviation amount input field 59a and the value of the amount of deviation in the label width direction into the deviation amount input field 59b. This allows the user to adjust the amount of deviation of the second object OB2 relative to the first object OB1.

[0041] <Screen transitions in the image display area> FIG. 6 shows an example of screen transitions in the image display unit 53. As shown in FIG. 6, in the initial state where the user has not selected an object, a blank label is displayed in the image display unit 53. Next, when the user selects a desired first object OB1, a label on which the first object OB1 is formed is displayed in the image display unit 53. The user can adjust the position of the first object OB1 on the label by an appropriate operation. Next, when the user operates the overlap creation button 55 with the first object OB1 selected, a label on which a second object OB2 corresponding to the first object OB1 is added is displayed in the image display unit 53. The second object OB2 is positioned offset from the first object OB1 by an initial offset amount. The initial offset amount is preset, for example, so that the second object OB2 is offset from the first object OB1 toward the upstream side in the conveying direction by a distance sufficient to partially overlap the first object OB1, and is stored in, for example, the memory 32.

[0042] Next, when the user operates the misalignment adjustment button 56 and adjusts the amount of misalignment of the second object OB2 on the misalignment amount adjustment operation screen, the second object OB2 in the image display area 53 also moves in accordance with the amount of misalignment input by the user. In the example shown in FIG. 6, for example, the amount of misalignment is adjusted so that the second object OB2 moves downstream in the transport direction relative to the first object OB1. If there are no additional objects, the process ends here. The following is the case when there are additional objects.

[0043] When the user selects a new third object, a label with the third object OB3 added is displayed in the image display section 53. The user can adjust the position of the third object OB3 on the label by an appropriate operation. Next, when the user operates the overlap creation button 55 while the third object OB3 is selected, a label with the fourth object OB4 corresponding to the third object OB3 added is displayed in the image display section 53. The fourth object OB4 is positioned offset relative to the third object OB3 by the adjusted offset amount of the second object OB2 relative to the first object OB1. In other words, the offset amount of the second object OB2 from the first object OB1 is the same as the offset amount of the fourth object OB4 from the third object OB3. Note that if the user wants to make the offset amount of the fourth object OB4 different from that of the second object OB2, the user may operate the offset adjustment button 56 to adjust the offset amount of the fourth object OB4 on the offset amount adjustment operation screen.

[0044] FIG. 7 shows another example of screen transitions in the image image display section 53. As shown in FIG. 7, in the initial state where the user has not selected an object, a blank label is displayed in the image image display section 53. Next, when the user selects a desired first object OB1, a label on which the first object OB1 has been formed is displayed in the image image display section 53. The user can adjust the position of the first object OB1 on the label by an appropriate operation. Next, when the user selects a new third object, a label on which a third object OB3 has been added is displayed in the image image display section 53. The user can adjust the position of the third object OB3 on the label by an appropriate operation.

[0045] Next, when the user operates the overlap creation button 55 while the first object OB1 and the third object OB3 are selected, a label to which a second object OB2 corresponding to the first object OB1 and a fourth object OB4 corresponding to the third object OB3 are added is displayed in the image display section 53. The second object OB2 and the fourth object OB4 are positioned offset by a preset amount of offset with respect to the first object OB1 and the third object OB3. Next, when the user operates the offset adjustment button 56 and the amount of offset of the second object OB2 and the fourth object OB4 is adjusted on the offset amount adjustment operation screen, the second object OB2 and the fourth object OB4 in the image display section 53 also move in accordance with the amount of offset input by the user.

[0046] As shown in FIG. 6 above, instead of operating the overlap creation button 55 to execute the label data generation process each time an object is selected, as shown in FIG. 7 above, the label data generation process may be executed for multiple objects at once by operating the overlap creation button 55 while multiple objects are selected.

[0047] FIG. 8 shows yet another example of a screen transition in the image display section 53. As shown in FIG. 8, in the initial state where the user has not selected an object, a blank label is displayed in the image display section 53. When the user then selects a desired first object OB1, a label with the first object OB1 formed on it is displayed in the image display section 53. The user can adjust the position of the first object OB1 on the label by performing an appropriate operation. In the example shown in FIG. 8, the first object OB1 is moved, for example, to the vicinity of the upstream end of the printing area AR in the transport direction.

[0048] As described above, the initial offset amount of the second object OB2, which is automatically placed when the overlap creation button 55 is operated, is set to the upstream side in the conveying direction relative to the first object OB1. This is because when the generated label is printed horizontally, the character string is normally read from the left side, which is the downstream side in the conveying direction, to the right side, which is the upstream side in the conveying direction, and therefore, for example, it is more natural to offset the second object OB2, which functions as a shadow, to the upstream side in the conveying direction.

[0049] When the first object OB1 is positioned near the upstream end of the printing area AR in the transport direction as described above, and the user operates the overlapping creation button 55, a label to which a second object OB2 corresponding to the first object OB1 has been added is displayed in the image display area 53. In this case, there is not enough space to form the entire second object OB2 as usual, so the portion of the second object OB2 that protrudes from the printing area AR is cut off, as shown in Fig. 8. Because the second object OB2 is an auxiliary object that adds three-dimensionality to the first object OB1, cutting it off slightly does not have much effect on the appearance, and by not changing the length of the label or the position of the first object OB1, the appearance of the overlapping label L3 that the user envisions can be maintained.

[0050] <Control procedure> 9 to 11 show an example of a control procedure executed by the CPU 31 of the information terminals 3 and 4 to realize label creation and the like in this embodiment. These flowcharts are started by executing a print application stored in the information terminals 3 and 4. Although not explained in these flowcharts, it is assumed that necessary settings such as the format, label width, label length, etc. have been made in advance by operating the format setting unit 51, etc.

[0051] In step S5, the CPU 31 determines whether or not a print operation has been performed by the user, that is, whether or not the print button 54 has been operated. If the CPU 31 determines that a print operation has not been performed (step S5: No), the CPU 31 proceeds to step S10.

[0052] In step S10, CPU 31 determines whether or not the user has performed a selection operation of the first object. If CPU 31 determines that the user has not performed a selection operation of the first object (step S10: No), it proceeds to step S50. On the other hand, if CPU 31 determines that the user has performed a selection operation of the first object from the object selection screen (step S10: Yes), it proceeds to step S13.

[0053] It should be noted that the user can select one first object in step S10 and generate a second object or adjust the amount of deviation in steps described below, and then select an additional object again in step S10, or select multiple objects at once in step S10. In this embodiment, for the sake of convenience, the added object in this case is referred to as a third object.

[0054] In step S13, the CPU 31 generates first label data including first object data for forming a label from the first object selected in step S10. If a third object is additionally selected, the CPU 31 generates first label data including third object data in addition to the first object data.

[0055] In step S15, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the user has performed a pasting operation, i.e., whether or not the pasting button 55 has been operated. The determination processes in step S15 and step S55 described below are processes for determining whether or not an operation has been performed on the first object selected in step S10. If the CPU 31 determines that a pasting operation has been performed (step S15: Yes), the process proceeds to step S20.

[0056] In step S20, the CPU 31 reads the color and displacement amount of the second object data stored in advance in the memory 32. If the displacement amount of the second object OB2 has been adjusted in the displacement adjustment process in step S100, which will be described later, the CPU 31 reads the updated value of the displacement amount.

[0057] In step S25, CPU 31 generates second object data using the first object data. Specifically, CPU 31 generates the second object data by duplicating the first object data with the color read in step S20. If a third object is additionally selected, CPU 31 generates fourth object data using the third object data.

[0058] In step S30, CPU 31 moves the second object data generated in step S25 by the displacement amount read in step S20. If a third object is additionally selected, CPU 31 moves the fourth object data generated in step S25 by the updated displacement amount read in step S20. At this time, if moving the second object data (fourth object data) by the displacement amount causes the second object (fourth object) to protrude beyond the label length set by format setting unit 51, CPU 31 generates second object data (fourth object data) representing a part of the second object (fourth object) excluding the protruding portion of the second object (fourth object).

[0059] In step S35, the CPU 31 generates second labeled data including the second object data generated in step S25 and moved in step S30. If a third object is additionally selected, the CPU 31 generates second labeled data including fourth object data in addition to the second object data. The CPU 31 sets the first labeled data to the upper layer and the second labeled data to the lower layer.

[0060] In step S40, the CPU 31 outputs a display signal to the touch panel 37 or the display unit 34, and displays the first image represented by the first label data and the second image represented by the second label data on the touch panel 37 or the display unit 34, with the first image superimposed on the second image. As a result, the first label data and the second label data are drawn superimposed on each other in the image display area 53 of the editing screen. Step S40 is an example of a display signal output process.

[0061] In step S45, the CPU 31 groups the first object data and the second object data for batch processing, Step S45 being an example of grouping processing.

[0062] In step S50, CPU 31 determines whether or not a user has performed an end operation, for example, whether or not a print application has been terminated. If CPU 31 determines that no end operation has been performed (step S50: No), it proceeds to step S60, which will be described later. On the other hand, if CPU 31 determines that an end operation has been performed (step S50: Yes), it terminates this flowchart.

[0063] In step S15, if the CPU 31 determines that the user has not performed an overlapping creation operation (step S15: No), the CPU 31 proceeds to step S55.

[0064] In step S55, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the user has performed a misalignment adjustment operation, i.e., whether or not the misalignment adjustment button 56 has been operated. If the CPU 31 determines that a misalignment adjustment operation has been performed (step S55: Yes), the CPU 31 proceeds to step S100 and executes a misalignment amount adjustment process. Thereafter, the CPU 31 proceeds to step S40. The details of the misalignment amount adjustment process in step S100 will be described later.

[0065] On the other hand, in step S55, if the CPU 31 determines that the user has not performed the misalignment adjustment operation (step S55: No), the CPU 31 proceeds to step S50. In step S50, if the CPU 31 determines that the user has not performed the termination operation (step S50: No), the CPU 31 proceeds to step S60.

[0066] In step S60, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the user has performed another operation. If the CPU 31 determines that no other operation has been performed (step S60: No), the process returns to step S5. On the other hand, if the CPU 31 determines that no other operation has been performed (step S60: Yes), the process proceeds to step S65.

[0067] In step S65, the CPU 31 executes a process corresponding to the other operation, and then returns to step S5.

[0068] In step S5, if the CPU 31 determines that a print operation has been performed (step S5: Yes), the process proceeds to step S200. In step S200, the CPU 31 executes a print process, and then returns to step S5. The details of the print process in step S200 will be described later.

[0069] An example of the detailed contents of the misalignment amount adjustment process in step S100 is shown in Fig. 10. As shown in Fig. 10, in step S110, the CPU 31 displays a misalignment amount adjustment operation screen on the touch panel 37 or the display unit .

[0070] In step S120, the CPU 31 updates the value of the amount of deviation from the initial value based on the amount of operation of the movement operation unit 58 by the user on the deviation amount adjustment operation screen or the values ​​input by the user to the deviation amount input units 59a and 59b.

[0071] In step S130, the CPU 31 stores the value of the deviation amount updated in step S120 in the memory 32, for example.

[0072] In step S140, the CPU 31 cancels the grouping performed in step S45 on the first object data and the second object data.

[0073] In step S150, the CPU 31 resets the value of N, which indicates the number of layers of the processed label, to 1. Note that N=1 is the top layer, and the maximum value of N is the bottom layer.

[0074] In step S160, the CPU 31 adds 1 to the value of the number of layers N.

[0075] In step S170, the CPU 31 updates the position of the object in the label data of the Nth layer based on the value of the amount of deviation stored in step S130.

[0076] In step S180, the CPU 31 determines whether the Nth layer is the lowest layer. For example, in this embodiment, the overlapping label L3 has a two-layer structure of a first label L1 and a second label L2, so the second layer is the lowest layer. If the CPU 31 determines that the Nth layer is not the lowest layer (step S180: No), the process returns to step S160. As a result, steps S160 to S170 are repeated until object position updates are completed for the label data of all layers other than the first layer, which is the top layer. On the other hand, if the CPU 31 determines that the Nth layer is the lowest layer (step S180: Yes), the process proceeds to step S40 in FIG. 9.

[0077] FIG. 11 shows an example of the details of the printing process of step S200. As shown in FIG. 11, in step S210, CPU 31 determines a printing method for the second object data. Two printing methods for the second object data are prepared. The first printing method is a method in which second object data is generated by duplicating the first object data so that a second object OB2 based on the second object data and a first object OB1 based on the first object data have the same shape, and the second object data is printed so that the second object OB2 is positioned offset with respect to the first object OB1. The second printing method is a method in which the second object OB2 is positioned offset with respect to the first object OB1, and second object data is generated as data representing a difference area between new data obtained by shifting the first object data by a predetermined amount and the original data before the shift, and then printed. The CPU 31 selects the second printing method, for example, when the first object OB1 on the first label L1 is a color that is easily transparent, and the second object OB2 is visible when the first object OB1 and the second object OB2 are attached in the same shape, or when the second label L2 is placed on top due to circumstances such as the absence of a cartridge 5 that corresponds to the transparent label and the print color of the first object OB1, or when specified by user settings, etc. The CPU 31 selects the first printing method in cases other than those mentioned above.

[0078] In step S220, CPU 31 determines whether the printing method selected in step S220 is a method of duplicating first object data to generate second object data, i.e., the first printing method. If CPU 31 determines that the selected printing method is the second printing method (step S220: No), the process proceeds to step S230.

[0079] In step S230, the CPU 31 calculates the difference area between the new data obtained after shifting the first object data by a predetermined amount and the original data before the shifting.

[0080] In step S240, CPU 31 updates the second object data included in the second label data generated in step S35 with the differential region data calculated in step S230, and registers the first label data and second label data as print data for each layer. Then, the process proceeds to step S260, which will be described later.

[0081] In step S220, if the CPU 31 determines that the first printing method is selected (step S220: Yes), the process proceeds to step S250.

[0082] In step S250, CPU 31 registers the first label data and second label data generated in steps S13 and S35 as print data for each layer, and then proceeds to step S260.

[0083] In step S260, the CPU 31 sends the registered print data for each layer to the label producing apparatus 2. As a result, the CPU 21a of the label producing apparatus 2 executes print control processing to print the first label data on the label tape TP to produce the first label L1, and print the second label data on the label tape TP to produce the second label L2. Then, the process returns to step S5 in FIG. 9.

[0084] The above steps S20 to S35 and steps S230 to S240 are an example of the label data generation process.

[0085] <Effects of the first embodiment> As described above, in this embodiment, the label data generation process of steps S20 to S35 and steps S230 to S240 is performed by the CPU 31 of the information terminals 3 and 4. In the label data generation process, the second object data included in the second label data is generated using the first object data included in the first label data.

[0086] In the label producing apparatus 2, when the first label data is printed on the label tape TP to produce the first label L1, the first object data forms a first object OB1 in the first label L1. When the second label data is printed on the label tape TP to produce the second label L2, the second object data forms a second object OB2 in the second label L2.

[0087] The second object data is generated by using the first object data in the label data generation process. The second occupation area occupied by the second object OB2 with the second label L2 and the first occupation area occupied by the first object OB1 with the first label L1 are arranged so that they partially overlap but do not overlap in other parts.

[0088] In this embodiment, the second object data included in the second label data used to generate the second label L2 is generated using the first object data included in the first label data used to generate the first label L1. For example, the second object OB2 based on the second object data and the first object OB1 based on the first object data are arranged to have the same shape and be shifted relative to the first object OB1 as described above, so that when the first label L1 and the second label L2 are superimposed, a label with a three-dimensional appearance can be created.

[0089] In particular, in this embodiment, the second object data is generated in a predetermined case in steps S230 to S240 as data representing a difference region between the new data obtained by shifting the first object data by a predetermined amount and the original data before the shift. Therefore, the second object OB2 based on the second object data is positioned close to the first object OB1, in a shape similar to the path of the shifted first object OB1 based on the first object data. As a result, when the first label L1 and the second label L2 are superimposed, a three-dimensional label can be created. Furthermore, even if the first object OB1 in the first label L1 has a transparent color and the second object OB2 has the same shape as the first object OB1, the second object OB2 can be seen through when superimposed. By making the second object OB2 the shape of the difference region, this can be prevented, preventing a deterioration in the appearance of the superimposed label L3. Furthermore, this also accommodates situations where the second label L2 is placed on top of the other due to reasons such as the absence of a cartridge 5 corresponding to the print color of the transparent label and the first object OB1.

[0090] In particular, in this embodiment, second label data is generated using the first object data in the label data generation process when operation information of the overlap creation button 55 is acquired by the CPU 31 of the information terminal 3, 4. This makes it possible to clearly confirm the user's intention in the form of acquired operation information and create a three-dimensional label.

[0091] Furthermore, particularly in this embodiment, step S260 is executed by the CPU 31 of the information terminal 3, 4, so that a second object OB2 that functions as, for example, a shadow of the first object OB1 printed on the label tape TP using the first label data can be printed on the label tape TP.

[0092] Furthermore, particularly in this embodiment, based on the display signal output in step S40, a first image represented by the first label data and a second image represented by the second label data are displayed on the touch panel 37 or the display unit 34. Because the color of the second object data included in the second label data is different from the color of the first object data included in the first label data, the colors of the first image and the second image displayed on the touch panel 37 or the display unit 34 are also different from each other. As a result, the difference in color between the first label L1 and the second label L2 to be generated can be visually clearly recognized by the difference in color between the first image and the second image displayed on the touch panel 37 or the display unit 34.

[0093] In this embodiment, the color of the second object data is achromatic, in other words, a monotone color with zero saturation. This causes the color of the second image corresponding to the generated second label L2 to be displayed in monotone on the touch panel 37 or the display unit 34. As a result, the user can recognize the appearance of the second object OB2 as, for example, a shadow, and a three-dimensional label can be created.

[0094] Furthermore, particularly in this embodiment, the display signal output in step S40 causes the first image to be displayed superimposed on the second image on the touch panel 37 or the display unit 34. This allows the user to visually clearly recognize the state in which the second object OB2 functions as, for example, a shadow of the first object OB1.

[0095] In this embodiment, in particular, the first object data and the second object data are grouped for collective processing in step S45. This allows the second object data relating to the second object OB2 that functions as a shadow to be handled integrally with the first object data relating to the first object OB1 that functions as the main body of the shadow, thereby reducing the operational burden on the user.

[0096] Furthermore, particularly in this embodiment, the amount of deviation between the first object data and second object data that have been grouped and can now be handled collectively can be adjusted in the deviation amount adjustment process of step S100. This allows the distance between, for example, the second object OB2 as a shadow and the first object OB1 as the main body of the shadow to be adjusted to a desired value.

[0097] Furthermore, in this embodiment, particularly, when a user selects multiple objects and the first labeled data includes multiple object data, multiple object data in the second labeled data representing the three-dimensional effect can be generated for each of the multiple object data in the first labeled data.

[0098] In particular, in this embodiment, second object data corresponding to the first object data specified by the user and fourth object data corresponding to the third object data specified by the user are automatically generated. The amount of deviation of the second object data relative to the first object data and the amount of deviation of the fourth object data relative to the third object data are equal to each other. This makes it possible to unify the positional relationships between the multiple objects on the first label and the multiple objects on the second label when the first label data and the second label data are printed. As a result, it is possible to prevent the appearance from becoming unnatural due to misalignment.

[0099] In particular, in this embodiment, the length of the second label data including the second object data functioning as a shadow is equal to the length of the first label data including the first object data functioning as the main body of the shadow. This allows the lengths of the first label L1 and the second label L2 to be the same regardless of whether or not there is a shadow. This also makes it easier for the user to position the first label L1 and the second label L2 together.

[0100] Second Embodiment A second embodiment of the present invention will now be described. The second embodiment is an embodiment in which data of a first object and a second object is generated by a user selecting a template on an information terminal.

[0101] The overall configuration of the printing system 1, the configurations of the information terminals 3 and 4 and the label producing apparatus 2, the configuration of the overlapping label L3, etc. in this embodiment are the same as those in the first embodiment described above, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0102] <Edit screen> Fig. 12 shows an example of a label editing screen displayed on the touch panel 37 or display unit 34 of the information terminal 3, 4 in this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 12, the label editing screen displays the above-mentioned format setting unit 51, font setting unit 52, image image display unit 53, print button 54, misalignment adjustment button 56, object editing display unit 57, etc. In Fig. 12, a template selection screen is displayed in the object editing display unit 57.

[0103] In addition to the objects displayed on the object selection screen, the template selection screen also displays various templates, including an overlapping template 61, allowing the user to select a desired template. The overlapping template 61 is an example of template data. The overlapping template 61 includes first label template data and second label template data. The overlapping template 61 includes specified format information (for example, information indicating the type of cartridge used for printing and the print length), first object data corresponding to the first object OB1, second object data corresponding to the second object OB2, and information regarding the placement positions of the first object OB1 and the second object OB2. In the overlapping template 61, the contents of the first object data and the contents of the second object data are associated with each other, and data regarding the amount of deviation of the second object OB2 from the first object OB1 is included. The "amount of deviation" includes the direction and distance of the deviation.

[0104] When the overlapping template 61 is selected, a frame 62, a first object OB1, and a second object OB2 are displayed in the image image display section 53 based on the data content contained in the overlapping template 61. The frame 62 represents the outer diameter of the print label on which the first object OB1 and the second object OB2 will be printed based on the format information contained in the overlapping template 61. In this embodiment, a case will be described in which the first object OB1 is a rectangular design in a chromatic color such as red, blue, or yellow, and the second object OB2 is a rectangular design in the same shape as the first object OB1, for example, in black.

[0105] The overlay template 61 may be a template that does not include first object data and second object data, but includes data on the amount of displacement of objects, etc. In this case, when the user selects and inputs a desired first object into the overlay template 61, second object data may be generated based on the amount of displacement included in the template data.

[0106] <Screen transitions in the image display area> 13 shows an example of screen transitions in the image image display section 53. As shown in FIG. 13, in the initial state where the user has not selected any objects, a blank label is displayed in the image image display section 53. Next, when the user selects a desired overlay template 61, a label on which a first object OB1 and a second object OB2 corresponding to the overlay template 61 are formed is displayed in the image image display section 53. The first object OB1 and the second object OB2 are grouped, and the user can collectively adjust the positions of the first object OB1 and the second object OB2 on the label by performing an appropriate operation.

[0107] Next, when the user performs an appropriate template editing operation while the first object OB1 and the second object OB2 are selected, a template editing screen 63 is displayed in the image image display section 53. A plurality of types of objects are displayed on the template editing screen 63, and the user can change the object by selecting the desired object.

[0108] When the user selects a destination object, the changed first object OB1' and a label on which the corresponding second object OB2' is formed are displayed in the image image display area 53. The second object OB2' is positioned so as to be shifted from the first object OB1' by the shift amount included in the overlay template 61. In other words, the shift amount of the second object OB2 from the first object OB1 and the shift amount of the second object OB2' from the first object OB1' are equal to each other.

[0109] Next, when the user operates the deviation adjustment button 56 and adjusts the deviation amount of the second object OB2' on the deviation amount adjustment operation screen, the second object OB2' in the image display area 53 also moves in accordance with the deviation amount input by the user. In the example shown in Fig. 13, for example, the deviation amount is adjusted so that the second object OB2' moves downstream in the conveying direction relative to the first object OB1'.

[0110] <Control procedure> An example of a control procedure executed by the CPU 31 of the information terminals 3 and 4 to realize label creation and the like in this embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart in Fig. 14. Note that in Fig. 14, the same steps as those in Fig. 9, including step S100 and step S200, are denoted by the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof will be omitted where appropriate.

[0111] In step S305, CPU 31 determines whether or not a print operation has been performed by the user, i.e., whether or not print button 54 has been operated. If CPU 31 determines that a print operation has been performed (step S305: Yes), it proceeds to step S200. If CPU 31 determines that a print operation has not been performed (step S305: No), it proceeds to step S310.

[0112] In step S310, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the user has performed a selection operation on the overlay template 61. If the CPU 31 determines that the user has performed a selection operation on the overlay template 61 (step S310: Yes), the CPU 31 proceeds to step S313.

[0113] In step S313, the CPU 31 acquires template data included in the overlay template 61 selected in step S310. As described above, the template data includes first label template data including first object data, second label template data including second object data, and the amount of deviation of the second object OB2 from the first object OB1. Step S313 is an example of template data acquisition processing.

[0114] In step S315, based on the template data acquired in step S313, CPU 31 generates first label data including first object data for forming the first object OB1 on a label, and second label data including second object data for forming the second object OB2 on a label.

[0115] Steps S320 to S330 are the same as steps S40 to S50 shown in FIG. 9, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0116] In step S310, if the CPU 31 determines that the selection operation of the overlay template 61 has not been performed (step S310: No), the process proceeds to step S335.

[0117] In step S335, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the user has performed a template editing operation. If the CPU 31 determines that the user has performed a template editing operation (step S335: Yes), the CPU 31 proceeds to step S340.

[0118] In step S340, CPU 31 displays template editing screen 63 and accepts a user's selection operation of an object to be changed.

[0119] In step S345, the CPU 31 updates the first object data of the first label template data included in the template data of the superimposing template 61 to the data of the object selected in step S340.

[0120] In step S350, the CPU 31 resets the second object data of the second label template data included in the template data of the superimposing template 61.

[0121] In step S355, the CPU 31 generates second object data using the first object data updated in step S345. Specifically, the CPU 31 generates the second object data by duplicating the first object data with the color of the second object data included in the template data of the overlay template 61. The CPU 31 updates the second object data of the second label template data included in the template data of the overlay template 61 to the generated data. Then, the process proceeds to step S320.

[0122] On the other hand, if the user has not performed a template editing operation in step S335 (step S335: No), the process proceeds to step S360. Steps S360, S100, and S365 to S370 are the same as steps S55, S100, and S60 to S65 shown in FIG. 9, and therefore descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0123] <Effects of the second embodiment> As described above, in this embodiment, the template data acquired in step S313 includes first label template data including first object data and second label template data including second object data, and the template data associates the contents of the first object data with the contents of the second object data. This makes it possible to generate first label data and second label data based on the template data. Therefore, it is possible to create labels with a three-dimensional feel using the template data.

[0124] Third Embodiment A third embodiment of the present invention will be described. The third embodiment is an embodiment in which a user selects a first object with a first label, and data of a second object with a second label is generated in the label generating device 2.

[0125] The overall configuration of the printing system 1, the configurations of the information terminals 3 and 4 and the label producing apparatus 2, the configuration of the overlapping label L3, etc. in this embodiment are the same as those in the first embodiment described above, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0126] <Control procedure> An example of a control procedure executed by the CPU 21a of the label producing apparatus 2 to realize label production and the like in this embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[0127] In step S405, the CPU 21a determines whether or not print data has been received from the information terminal 3, 4. In this embodiment, the print data received from the information terminal 3, 4 corresponds to the first label data described above. The first label data includes first object data, and the first object data forms a first object OB1 on the first label L1. The print data also includes overlay information indicating that the first label L1 is a label for overlaying. The CPU 21a waits in step S405 until it receives print data (step S405: No), and proceeds to step S410 when it receives print data (step S405: Yes).

[0128] In step S410, the CPU 21a determines whether the print data received in step S405 is for creating a superimposed label based on whether the superimposed information is included in the print data. If the CPU 21a determines that the print data is not for creating a superimposed label (step S410: No), the CPU 21a proceeds to step S415.

[0129] In step S415, the CPU 21a executes printing processing for a normal label. A normal label is a print label that is used alone without being overlaid. Then, the process proceeds to step S485, which will be described later.

[0130] In step S410, if the CPU 21a determines that the print data is for creating an overlapping label (step S410: Yes), the CPU 21a proceeds to step S420.

[0131] In step S420, the CPU 21a generates first label data including the first object data included in the print data.

[0132] In step S425, the CPU 21a acquires data on the color and misalignment amount of the second object data. This data may be acquired together with the print data from the information terminal 3 or 4, or may be read from predetermined values ​​stored in advance in the RAM 21b or the mass storage device 28.

[0133] In step S430, the CPU 21a generates second object data using the first object data. Specifically, the CPU 21a generates the second object data by duplicating the first object data with the color acquired in step S425.

[0134] In step S435, the CPU 21a moves the second object data generated in step S430 by the displacement amount acquired in step S425.

[0135] In step S440, the CPU 21a generates second labeled data including the second object data generated in step S430 and moved in step S435. The CPU 21a sets the first labeled data to the upper layer and the second labeled data to the lower layer.

[0136] In step S445, the CPU 21a outputs a display signal to the display unit 26, and displays the first image represented by the first label data and the second image represented by the second label data on the display unit 26 in a manner in which the first image is superimposed on the second image. As a result, the first label data and the second label data are drawn superimposed on each other on the display unit 26. Step S445 is an example of a display signal output process.

[0137] In step S450, the CPU 21a groups the first object data and the second object data for batch processing. Step S450 is an example of grouping processing.

[0138] In step S455, the CPU 21a determines whether the printing method for the second object data is the first printing method or the second printing method, using the same method as in step S210 shown in FIG.

[0139] In step S460, the CPU 21a determines whether the printing method selected in step S455 is the first printing method. If the CPU 21a determines that it is the second printing method (step S460: No), the CPU 21a proceeds to step S465.

[0140] In step S465, the CPU 21a calculates the difference area between the new data obtained after shifting the first object data by a predetermined amount and the original data before the shift.

[0141] In step S470, the CPU 21a updates the second object data included in the second label data generated in step S440 with the differential region data calculated in step S465, and registers the first label data and second label data as print data for each layer. Then, the process proceeds to step S480, which will be described later.

[0142] In step S460, if the CPU 21a determines that the first printing method is selected (step S460: Yes), the CPU 21a proceeds to step S475.

[0143] In step S475, the CPU 21a registers the first label data and second label data generated in steps S420 and S440 as print data for each layer, and then proceeds to step S480.

[0144] In step S480, the CPU 21a executes a print control process in which it sends the registered print data for each layer to the print head 25, prints the first label data on the label tape TP to generate the first label L1, and prints the second label data on the label tape TP to generate the second label L2.

[0145] In step S485, the CPU 21a determines whether or not a user has performed an end operation, for example, whether or not the power to the label producing apparatus 2 has been turned off. If the CPU 21a determines that no end operation has been performed (step S485: No), the process returns to step S405. On the other hand, if the CPU 21a determines that an end operation has been performed (step S485: Yes), the process ends this flowchart.

[0146] Note that the above steps S425 to S440 and steps S465 to S470 are examples of label data generation processing. Also, in the above flowchart, for example, if a user performs an operation to adjust misalignment, a misalignment amount adjustment process similar to the above-described step S100 may be executed. Also, in the above description, print data including first object data is received from the information terminal 3, 4. However, the user may perform an operation to create a superimposed label via the input unit 27 of the label producing apparatus 2 and select a first object for creating the superimposed label, thereby generating second object data using the first object data. Also, instead of print data received from the information terminal 3, 4, the user may create print data via the display unit 26 and input unit 27 of the label producing apparatus 2. In this case, the information received from the information terminal 3, 4 in step S405, etc., is acquired from the RAM 21b.

[0147] <Effects of the third embodiment> The third embodiment described above can also provide the same effects as the first embodiment described above.

[0148] In the above description, when terms such as "vertical," "parallel," and "plane" are used, they are not used in their strict sense. In other words, "vertical," "parallel," and "plane" mean "substantially vertical," "substantially parallel," and "substantially plane," allowing for tolerances and errors in design and manufacturing.

[0149] Furthermore, in the above description, when the external dimensions or sizes are described as "same," "equal," or "different," these descriptions are not used in their strict sense. In other words, "same," "equal," and "different" mean "substantially the same," "substantially equal," or "substantially different," allowing for design and manufacturing tolerances and errors.

[0150] Furthermore, in the above, the flowcharts shown in Figures 9 to 11, 14, and 15 do not limit the present invention to the procedures shown in the above flows, and steps may be added or deleted or the order may be changed within the scope that does not deviate from the spirit and technical idea of ​​the invention.

[0151] In addition to the above, the methods according to the above embodiments and modifications may be used in appropriate combination.

[0152] For example, in the above embodiment, a design is used as an example of the first object, but the first object is not limited to a design and may be a text object consisting of a character string. In the case of a text object, a character string consisting of multiple characters may be treated as a single object.

[0153] In the above embodiment, the color of the second object data is achromatic, but this is not limiting. For example, a label with a three-dimensional appearance may be constructed by changing the density of the same hue, such as the first object being light blue and the second object being blue. Furthermore, if the background color (i.e., the tape color of the first label) is a dark color such as black, the density of the color of the second object data may be lower than that of the color of the first object data. Furthermore, the color of the second object data may be user-specifiable.

[0154] In the above embodiment, the second object OB2 based on the second object data and the first object OB1 based on the first object data are described as having the same shape, but this is not limiting and any object may be used as long as it includes an area that is shifted from the first object OB1 and can form a three-dimensional label when the first label L1 and the second label L2 are superimposed. Object data created in this way also corresponds to second object data generated using the first object data.

[0155] Although not specifically illustrated, the present invention can be implemented with various modifications within the scope of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0156] 1 Printing System 2. Label generator 3. Information terminals 4. Information terminals 21a CPU (an example of a control unit) 31 CPU (an example of a computer) 55 Overlap creation button 56 Misalignment adjustment button 57 Object Edit Display L1 First label L2 Second label L3 Overlap Label TP Label tape (example of first and second media)

Claims

1. 1. A label data editing program for creating an overlapping label by laminating a first label, in which first label data is printed on a first medium, and a second label, in which second label data is printed on a second medium, in a thickness direction, the program comprising: executing a label data generation process for generating the second label data including second object data using first object data included in the first label data; The second object data is data generated using the first object data, and a second occupation area occupied on the second label by a second object formed on the second label using the second object data, and a first occupation area occupied on the first label by a first object formed on the first label using the first object data, the second occupation area partially overlapping with each other and not overlapping with each other; program.

2. 1. A label data editing program for creating an overlapping label by laminating a first label, in which first label data is printed on a first medium, and a second label, in which second label data is printed on a second medium, in a thickness direction, the program comprising: executing a label data generation process for generating the second label data including second object data using first object data included in the first label data; the second object data is data representing a difference area between new data obtained by shifting the first object data by a predetermined amount and the original data before the shifting; program.

3. The label data generation process includes: Executed when predetermined operation information is acquired.

3. The program according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The computer further executes a template data acquisition process for acquiring template data including the first label template data and the second label template data; When the first object data is input to the first label template data, the second object data is generated in the second label template data in the label data generation process.

3. The program according to claim 1 or 2.

5. The computer further executing a print control process to print the first label data on a first medium and the second label data on a second medium; The program according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The computer further executing a display signal output process to output a display signal for displaying the first image represented by the first label data and the second image represented by the second label data on a display unit; a color of the second object data included in the second label data is different from a color of the first object data included in the first label data; The program according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. the color of the second object data is achromatic; The program according to claim 6.

8. In the display signal output process, outputting the display signal so that the first image is displayed superimposed on the second image; The program according to claim 6 or 7.

9. The computer further Grouping process for batch processing the first object data and the second object data The program according to claim 8, which causes the program to execute the following.

10. The computer further a deviation amount adjustment process for adjusting the deviation amount between the first object data and the second object data after the grouping process has been performed; The program according to claim 9, which causes the program to execute the following.

11. the first label data further includes third object data; In the label data generation process, generating, in association with the acquisition of the predetermined operation information, second object data corresponding to the first object data and fourth object data corresponding to the third object data; The program according to claim 3.

12. a deviation amount of the second object data from the first object data is equal to a deviation amount of the fourth object data from the third object data; The program according to claim 11.

13. The length of the first label data along the label longitudinal direction is equal to the length of the second label data along the label longitudinal direction.

13. The program according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. A label producing device having a control unit for producing an overlapped label by laminating, in a thickness direction, a first label formed by printing first label data on a first medium and a second label formed by printing second label data on a second medium, the label producing device comprising: The control unit executing a label data generation process for generating the second label data including second object data using first object data included in the first label data; The second object data is data generated using the first object data, and a second occupation area occupied on the second label by a second object formed on the second label using the second object data, and a first occupation area occupied on the first label by a first object formed on the first label using the first object data, the second occupation area partially overlapping with each other and not overlapping with each other; Label generator.

15. A label producing device having a control unit for producing an overlapped label by laminating, in a thickness direction, a first label formed by printing first label data on a first medium and a second label formed by printing second label data on a second medium, the label producing device comprising: The control unit executing a label data generation process for generating the second label data including second object data using first object data included in the first label data; the second object data is data representing a difference area between new data obtained by shifting the first object data by a predetermined amount and the original data before the shifting; Label generator.

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