Label printer and information processing program

Abstract

To enable an operator of a label printer to easily specify recycling characters.SOLUTION: A label printer includes storage means, detection means, generation means and print means. The storage means stores symbol string data composed of enumeration of a plurality of symbol codes each indicating symbols. The detection means detects a symbol code of a symbol predetermined as a modified symbol from symbol codes included in the symbol string data stored by the storage means. The generation means generates a print image in which as for the symbol indicated the symbol code excluding the symbol code detected by the detection means among the symbol codes included in the symbol string data stored by the storage means, a symbol indicated by the symbol code sandwiched between the symbol codes detected by the detection means is applied with decoration according to the symbol code detected by the detection means. The print means prints the print image generated by the generation means on a label sheet.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to a label printer and an information processing program. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Label printers that issue labels to be attached to products sold in stores are already known. Labels printed by label printers may include recycling symbols for the packaging materials of the products to which the labels are affixed. Recycling symbols include a recycling mark, which indicates the classification of the packaging material for separate collection, and recycling letters, which indicate the material of the packaging material. For example, in the case of a packaging container made of a composite material, a laminate of polypropylene and polyethylene terephthalate, the recycling symbol includes a recycling mark indicating the classification as "plastic" and the recycling letters "PP, PET," which indicate that the material is polypropylene and polyethylene terephthalate. In the case of composite materials, the letter indicating the primary material must be underlined. For example, if polypropylene is the primary material, only the "PP" in the recycling letters must be underlined. Therefore, there are many recycling symbols depending on the combination of materials and which of those materials is the primary material. In a situation where there are such a large number of recycle characters, it has been desired that the operator of the label printer be able to easily specify the recycle character to be printed on the label. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-7628 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a label printer and an information processing program that enable an operator of the label printer to easily specify the recycle characters to be printed on the label. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The label printer of the embodiment includes a storage unit, a detection unit, image The apparatus includes a generating means and a printing means. The storage means stores symbol string data consisting of a list of a plurality of symbol codes each representing a symbol. The detection means detects a symbol code of a symbol predetermined as a modifier symbol from among the symbol codes included in the symbol string data stored in the storage means. image The generating means generates symbols represented by the symbol codes detected by the detecting means among the symbol codes included in the symbol string data stored in the storage means, excluding the symbol code detected by the detecting means. Identical The printing means generates a print image in which a symbol represented by a symbol code sandwiched between two symbol codes is modified in accordance with the symbol code detected by the detection means. image The print image generated by the generating means is printed on label paper. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of a label printer according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically illustrating the structure of one piece of setting data related to a format. [Figure 3] 10 is a flowchart of a processing routine for format selection and editing. [Figure 4] 10 is a flowchart of a processing routine for format selection and editing. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a selection screen. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an editing screen. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a list screen. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart of a processing routine for label printing. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a label image developed in an image memory. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of a label printer 1 according to this embodiment. The label printer 1 includes a processor 11 , a memory unit 12 , a hardware clock 13 , a display unit 14 , an input unit 15 , a print unit 16 , an interface unit 17 and a transmission path 18 .

[0008] The processor 11 is capable of communicating with the memory unit 12, hardware clock 13, display unit 14, input unit 15, print unit 16, and interface unit 17 via a transmission path 18. The processor 11 and memory unit 12 are connected via the transmission path 18 to form a computer for controlling the label printer 1.

[0009] The processor 11 corresponds to the central part of the computer. The processor 11 executes information processing to realize various functions of the label printer 1 in accordance with information processing programs such as an operating system, firmware, and application programs. The processor 11 is, for example, a CPU (central processing unit).

[0010] The memory unit 12 corresponds to the main memory and auxiliary memory of the computer. The memory unit 12 includes a read-only memory area and a rewritable memory area. The memory unit 12 stores the information processing program in the read-only memory area. The memory unit 12 may store data required for the processor 11 to execute information processing in the read-only memory area or the rewritable memory area. The memory unit 12 uses the rewritable memory area as a work area where data is rewritten by the processor 11 as appropriate. The read-only memory area is, for example, a storage area of ​​a ROM (read only memory) or an EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory). The rewritable memory area is, for example, a storage area of ​​a RAM (random access memory). The read-only memory area may be, for example, a storage area of ​​a hard disc drive (HDD) or a solid state drive (SSD). One of the information processing programs stored in the memory unit 12 is a control program PR. The control program PR is an information processing program that describes information processing for controlling the operation of the label printer 1, including the control processing described below.

[0011] The hardware clock 13 constantly keeps time and outputs date information. The date information indicates at least the month and day. In this embodiment, the date information indicates the year, month, day, hour, minute, and second. That is, in this embodiment, the date information indicates the date and time. The hardware clock 13 may be replaced by a software clock such as a system clock managed by an operating system.

[0012] The display unit 14 performs various display operations to notify the operator of various types of information. As the display unit 14, well-known display devices such as a screen display device such as a liquid crystal display and a light-emitting device such as an LED lamp can be used alone or in combination. The display device included in the display unit 14 is, for example, a display device provided on a touch panel.

[0013] The input unit 15 is used by the operator to input various instructions. Known input devices such as a touch sensor, a key switch, and a keyboard can be used alone or in combination as the input unit 15. An example of an input device included in the input unit 15 is a touch sensor provided on the above-mentioned touch panel.

[0014] The print unit 16 conveys a long, narrow backing sheet and prints a label image, such as text, on a label sheet affixed to one side of the backing sheet. The backing sheet and label sheet are typically made of paper, but may be made of a material other than paper, such as resin. The backing sheet and label sheet may also be made of different materials. The print unit may employ any of a variety of well-known printing methods, such as thermal, thermal transfer, dot impact, or inkjet printing.

[0015] The interface unit 17 performs communication processing for sending and receiving data to and from an external information terminal device, etc. As the interface unit 17, for example, a well-known communication device conforming to the LAN (local area network) standard or the USB (universal serial bus) standard can be used. The transmission path 18 includes an address bus, a data bus, and control signal lines, and transmits data and control signals exchanged between the connected components.

[0016] The data stored in the memory unit 12 includes a setting data group DA. The setting data group DA is a collection of setting data relating to various settings related to the operation of the label printer 1. One of the setting data represents the format of the label image to be printed on the label. The setting data group DA can include multiple setting data each relating to a different format.

[0017] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a schematic structure of one of the setting data DAA relating to the format. The setting data DAA is associated with one format. The format defines multiple print areas within the range of the label image, each of which is used to print information about a different item. The setting data DAA includes fields FAA, FAB, FAC, FAD, etc. Field FAA contains a format number as an identifier for the associated format. Field FAB contains a format name as an identifier for the associated format. Field FAC and subsequent fields contain area data for each print area defined in the associated format. The number of print areas is optional for each format. Therefore, the number of fields following field FAC included in the setting data DAA varies depending on how many print areas are defined in the format to which the setting data DAA is associated.

[0018] One piece of area data is associated with one print area and includes fields FBA, FBB, and FBC. Field FBA contains an area number as an identifier for the associated print area. Field FBB contains an item number as an identifier for an item related to the associated print area. Field FBC contains a setting value for the associated print area. Field FBC may contain multiple setting values. The setting values ​​contained in field FBC vary depending on which item the associated print area relates to.

[0019] The setting data group DA also includes recycled character data that represents symbol strings that define registered recycled characters (hereinafter referred to as definition symbol strings) in association with recycled character numbers that serve as identifiers for the definition symbol strings. The symbols that make up the definition symbol strings also include characters that make up recycled characters. The definition symbol strings are actually included in the setting data group DA as symbol string data consisting of a list of multiple symbol codes that represent various symbols, including characters. The symbol codes can be codes that comply with well-known standards, such as Shift_JIS code. The symbol codes are also called character codes. Thus, the memory unit 12 that stores the setting data group DA corresponds to storage means for storing symbol string data.

[0020] Next, we will explain the operation of the label printer 1 configured as above. Note that the content of the processes explained below is just an example, and it is possible to change the order of some of the processes, omit some of the processes, or add other processes as appropriate. The label printer 1 is used, for example, to issue labels to be attached to products displayed and sold in a store.

[0021] In response to an operator's declaration of format selection by a predetermined operation on the input unit 15, for example, the processor 11 executes a processing routine for format selection and editing in accordance with the control program PR. 3 and 4 are flow charts of the processing routine for format selection and editing.

[0022] As ACT11, the processor 11 displays a selection screen on the display unit 14. The selection screen is a screen for allowing the operator to select one of the formats represented by the setting data included in the setting data group DA.

[0023] 5 is a diagram showing an example of a selection screen SCA. Note that in the illustrations of the selection screen SCA and various screens described later, each screen is shown in outline, and some display elements may be omitted. The selection screen SCA displays a key group KAA and a plurality of soft keys such as a soft key KAB that are not included in the key group KAA.

[0024] The key group KAA includes a plurality of soft keys for the operator to specify any one of the formats represented by the setting data included in the setting data group DA. In the example of Fig. 5, the top soft key is an operation key for specifying a format whose format number is "1" and whose format name is "AAA", and the characters "1" and "AAA" are displayed within the area.

[0025] Other soft keys such as soft key KAB are associated with each of the multiple functions designated by the processor 11 on the selection screen SCA, and are operation keys for designating the function as the function to be executed. Note that soft key KAB is an operation key for designating format editing as the function to be executed. These soft keys are GUI (graphical user interface) elements that allow the processor 11 to receive operations from the operator on the selection screen. Other display elements on the selection screen SCA may also be GUI elements.

[0026] The processor 11 checks whether one of the formats has been specified in ACT12 of Fig. 3. If the processor 11 cannot confirm the event, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT13. In ACT 13, the processor 11 checks whether a function to be executed has been specified. If the processor 11 cannot confirm the event, it determines NO and returns to ACT 12. Thus, the processor 11 waits for a format or function to be specified as ACT12 and ACT13.

[0027] The operator specifies one of the formats by a predetermined operation, such as tapping a soft key associated with the desired format from among the key group KAA on the selection screen SCA. If such an operation is input via the input unit 15, the processor 11 determines YES in ACT12 and proceeds to ACT14. In ACT14, the processor 11 sets the specified format as a valid format. Then, the processor 11 returns to the standby state of ACT12 and ACT13. The processor 11 highlights the softkeys associated with the formats set as valid formats in a predetermined manner. In the selection screen SCA shown in FIG. 5, the processor 11 highlights the softkey displayed at the top by displaying a thick frame around it. In other words, the selection screen SCA shown in FIG. 5 shows a situation in which a format with the format name "AAA" is set as a valid format.

[0028] When the operator has finished selecting a format and wishes to proceed to some action, he or she performs a predetermined operation, such as tapping a softkey associated with the function for that action. If such an operation is input via the input unit 15, the processor 11 determines YES in ACT13 and proceeds to ACT15. In ACT 15, the processor 11 checks whether the specified function is editing a format. If the processor 11 cannot confirm the event, it determines NO and proceeds to processing for realizing the specified function, but a description of this case will be omitted.

[0029] If the operator wishes to edit the valid format, he or she performs a predetermined operation, such as tapping the soft key KAB in Fig. 5. If the processor 11 proceeds to ACT15 in response to such an operation being input via the input unit 15, the processor 11 determines YES in ACT15 and proceeds to ACT16. As ACT 16, the processor 11 displays an edit screen on the display unit 14. The edit screen is a screen for accepting various specifications relating to editing of the valid format.

[0030] FIG. 6 shows an example of the edit screen SCB. The editing screen SCB displays GUI elements for specifying one of the items related to each print area included in the valid format. The GUI elements include display areas ABA and ABB and soft keys KBA and KBB. The processor 11 displays the item number and item name related to one item in the display areas ABA and ABB. The soft keys KBA and KBB are operation keys for instructing forward and backward scrolling of the items displayed in the display areas ABA and ABB, respectively.

[0031] The edit screen SCB also displays multiple softkeys including the softkey KBC in addition to the softkeys KBA and KBB. These softkeys are operation keys for specifying the functions associated with each softkey as the function to be executed. The softkey KBC is an operation key for the operator to specify editing of an item set as a target item as the function to be executed, as will be described later.

[0032] In ACT 17, the processor 11 checks whether one of the items has been specified. If the processor 11 cannot confirm the event, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT 18. In ACT 18, the processor 11 checks whether a function to be executed has been specified. If the processor 11 cannot confirm the event, it determines NO and returns to ACT 17. Thus, the processor 11 waits for an item or function to be designated in ACT17 and ACT18.

[0033] The operator designates one of the items by a predetermined operation, such as tapping the soft keys KBA and KBB. If such an operation is input through the input unit 15, the processor 11 determines YES in ACT17 and proceeds to ACT19. In ACT19, the processor 11 sets the specified item as the target item for editing. For example, each time either the soft key KBA or KBB is tapped, the processor 11 changes the item representing the item number and item name in the display areas ABA and ABB, and sets that item as the target item. Then, the processor 11 returns to the standby state in ACT17 and ACT18.

[0034] When the operator has finished selecting an item and wishes to proceed to some action, he or she performs a predetermined operation, such as tapping any soft key other than the soft keys KBA and KBB. If the operator wishes to edit the target item at this time, he or she performs a predetermined operation, such as tapping the soft key KBC in Figure 6. If such an operation is input via the input unit 15, the processor 11 determines YES in ACT18 and proceeds to ACT20.

[0035] In ACT 20, the processor 11 checks whether the specified function is editing an item. If the processor 11 cannot confirm the event, it determines NO and proceeds to processing for realizing the specified function, but a description of this case will be omitted.

[0036] If the operation that triggered the progression to ACT20 was an operation for specifying editing of an item as a function to be executed, such as tapping the soft key KBC, the processor 11 determines YES in ACT20 and proceeds to ACT21. In ACT 21, the processor 11 checks whether the target item is a "recycled character." If the processor 11 cannot confirm this, it determines "NO" and moves on to processing for editing the target item, but a description of the processing in this case will be omitted.

[0037] On the other hand, if the target item is "recycled characters," the processor 11 determines YES in ACT21 and proceeds to ACT31 in FIG. In ACT31, the processor 11 displays a list screen on the display unit 14. The list screen is a screen that allows the operator to check the definition symbol strings that have been registered.

[0038] FIG. 7 shows an example of the list screen SCC. The list screen SCC displays the list LCA, display areas ACA and ACB, and soft keys KCA and KCB. The list screen SCC also displays a plurality of soft keys including soft keys KCC, KCD, and KCE in addition to the soft keys KCA and KCB.

[0039] The processor 11 displays the registered defined symbol strings in the list LCA based on the recycled character data included in the setting data group DA. The processor 11 displays the number of registered recycled characters in the display area ACA. The processor 11 displays the total number of pages in the list and the currently displayed page number in the display area ACB. Thus, in the example of FIG. 7, three recycled characters have been registered, and the list LCA displays the first page of a total of one page. In the example of FIG. 7, "PP," "PET," and "PE" have each been registered as defined symbol strings. The soft keys KCA and KCB are operation keys for instructing forward and backward page display when the total number of pages in the list LCA is two or more. The soft key KCC is an operation key for instructing the user to finish specifying the defined symbol string and return to the editing screen SCB. The soft key KCD is an operation key for instructing the user to start editing a registered recycled character. The soft key KCE is an operation key for instructing the user to start registering a new recycled character.

[0040] In ACT 32, the processor 11 checks whether one of the registered definition symbol strings has been specified. If the processor 11 cannot confirm the event, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT 33. In ACT 33, the processor 11 checks whether any instruction other than the specification of one of the definition symbol strings has been given. If the processor 11 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and returns to ACT 32. Thus, the processor 11 waits for the definition symbol string to be specified or other instructions to be given as ACT32 and ACT33.

[0041] The operator specifies one of the definition symbol strings by a predetermined operation, such as tapping on the field showing the desired definition symbol string in the list LCA on the list screen SCC. If such an operation is input via the input unit 15, the processor 11 determines YES in ACT32 and proceeds to ACT34. In ACT 34, the processor 11 sets the recycled character defined by the specified definition symbol string as the recycled character to be applied to the label print (hereinafter referred to as the applied character). Then, the processor 11 returns to the standby state of ACT 32 and ACT 33. That is, for example, if the operator taps on the column labeled "PE" on the list screen SCC shown in FIG. 7, the processor 11 sets the recycled character defined by the definition symbol string "PE" as the applicable character.

[0042] If the operator wants to edit a recycled character set as an applicable character, the operator issues an instruction to edit the character by a predetermined operation, such as tapping the soft key KCD on the list screen SCC. If the operator wants to register a new defined character string that is not registered as a defined character string, the operator issues an instruction to edit the character string for new registration by a predetermined operation, such as tapping the soft key KCE on the list screen SCC. If the processor 11 confirms that an instruction other than the specification of a defined character string, such as the above instruction, has been issued, the processor 11 determines YES in ACT33 and proceeds to ACT35. In ACT 35, the processor 11 checks whether or not editing has been instructed. If the processor 11 checks that editing has been instructed as described above, it determines YES and proceeds to ACT 36. The processor 11 as ACT 36 displays an input screen on the display unit 14. The input screen is a screen for receiving input of a definition symbol string by an operator.

[0043] FIG. 8 shows an example of the input screen SCD. The input screen SCD shows a display area ADA and a key group KDA. The input screen SCD also shows a plurality of soft keys including a soft key KDB in addition to the soft keys included in the key group KDA.

[0044] The processor 11 displays the definition symbol string being edited in the display area ADA. The processor 11 displays the definition symbol string related to the applicable character in the display area ADA of the input screen SCD, which is displayed, for example, in response to tapping of the soft key KCD on the list screen SCC. The processor 11 also leaves the display area ADA of the input screen SCD, which is displayed, for example, in response to tapping of the soft key KCE on the list screen SCC, blank. The key group KDA includes multiple soft keys, which are various operation keys for editing the definition symbol string displayed in the display area ADA. The soft key KDB is an operation key for finishing editing the definition symbol string and returning to the list screen SCC.

[0045] In ACT 37, the processor 11 checks whether an operation for editing the definition symbol string has been performed. If the processor 11 cannot confirm the event, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT 38. In ACT 38, the processor 11 checks whether any instruction other than an editing operation has been issued. If the processor 11 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and returns to ACT 37. Thus, the processor 11 waits for an editing operation or other instruction to be made in ACT37 and ACT38.

[0046] For example, the operator changes the registered definition symbol string displayed in the display area ADA by operating the key group KDA to add or delete symbols. Alternatively, the operator inputs a new definition symbol string into a blank display area ADA by operating the key group KDA. When such an editing operation is performed, the processor 11 determines YES in ACT37 and proceeds to ACT39. In ACT 39, the processor 11 updates the definition symbol string in response to the operation. For example, the processor 11 stores text data representing the definition symbol string to be edited in the work area of ​​the memory unit 12, and updates this text data in response to the editing operation. The processor 11 then returns to the standby state in ACT 37 and ACT 38.

[0047] With the definition symbol string to be registered displayed in the display area ADA, the operator issues a return instruction by performing a predetermined operation, such as tapping the soft key KDB. If an operation for an instruction including such an operation is input by the input unit 15, the processor 11 determines YES in ACT38 and proceeds to ACT40. In ACT 40, the processor 11 checks whether or not the instruction is a return instruction. If the processor 11 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and proceeds to processing according to the instruction, but a description of this case will be omitted.

[0048] If a return instruction has been issued as described above, the processor 11 determines YES in ACT40 and proceeds to ACT41. In ACT41, the processor 11 updates the recycled character data included in the setting data group DA to include the defined symbol string displayed in the display area ADA at this time. At this time, if the process has proceeded to ACT35 in response to, for example, tapping the soft key KCD on the list screen SCC, the processor 11 replaces the defined symbol string set as the applicable character with the defined symbol string displayed in the display area ADA. Furthermore, if the process has proceeded to ACT35 in response to, for example, tapping the soft key KCE on the list screen SCC, the processor 11 adds the defined symbol string displayed in the display area ADA as a new defined symbol string. Specifically, suppose the operator taps the soft key KCE on the list screen SCC in the state shown in FIG. 7, then performs an operation to input the character string " / / PP / / ,PET" as shown in FIG. 8, and then taps the soft key KDB. In this case, the processor 11 updates the recycled character data so that the defined symbol string " / / PP / / ,PET" is associated with, for example, the recycled character number "4." Thus, when the processor 11 executes information processing based on the control program PR, the computer having the processor 11 as its central part generates symbol string data representing the defined symbol string when adding the defined symbol string as described above, and stores the generated symbol string data in the memory unit 12 as storage means. string of symbols The computer, with the processor 11 as its central part, also functions as updating means for updating the symbol string data stored in the memory unit 12, which serves as storage means, when updating the definition symbol string as described above.

[0049] The processor 11 then repeats ACT31 and subsequent steps in the same manner as described above. At this time, the list screen SCC displayed by the processor 11 again executing ACT31 will display the defined symbol string edited or added as described above. In other words, recycled characters defined by the defined symbol string edited or added as described above will also be subject to designation as applicable characters.

[0050] With the desired recycled character set as the applicable character, the operator issues a return instruction by a predetermined operation such as tapping the soft key KCC on the list screen SCC. When the processor 11 displays the list screen SCC and is in a standby state for ACT32 and ACT33, if an operation for specifying a definition symbol string or for some other instruction other than an editing instruction is input by the input unit 15, the processor 11 judges YES in ACT33 and NO in ACT35, and proceeds to ACT42. In ACT 42, the processor 11 checks whether or not the instruction is a return instruction. If the processor 11 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and proceeds to processing according to the instruction, but a description of this case will be omitted.

[0051] If a return instruction has been issued as described above, the processor 11 determines YES in ACT42 and proceeds to ACT43. In ACT43, processor 11 updates the area data. That is, processor 11 selects, for example, setting data DAA related to the valid format from the setting data group DA. Processor 11 also selects area data related to the target item from the area data included in the selected setting data DAA. Processor 11 then updates the setting value set in field FBC of the corresponding area data to the recycled character number that identifies the applicable character. Processor 11 then returns to ACT16 in FIG. 3 and repeats the subsequent processing in the same manner as described above.

[0052] On the other hand, if the operator needs to print a label in the format that has been set as a valid format as described above, he or she issues an instruction to print the label by, for example, a predetermined operation on the input unit 15. In response to this instruction, the processor 11 executes a processing routine for label printing in accordance with the control program PR.

[0053] FIG. 9 is a flowchart of a processing routine for label printing. In ACT51, the processor 11 determines one of the print areas defined in the valid format as the target area.

[0054] In ACT52, the processor 11 checks whether the item related to the target area is a recycled character. If the processor 11 cannot check this event, it determines "NO" and proceeds to ACT53. The processor 11 as ACT 53 develops characters, images, etc. to be placed in the target area in the image memory set in the memory unit 12.

[0055] On the other hand, if the item related to the target area is a recycled character, the processor 11 determines YES in ACT52 and proceeds to ACT54. In ACT54, processor 11 reads out the definition symbol string of the recycled character for the target area. That is, processor 11 selects, for example, setting data DAA for the valid format from setting data group DA. Processor 11 also selects area data for the target area from the area data included in the selected setting data DAA. Processor 11 then reads out, from setting data group DA, the definition symbol string identified by the recycled character number set as the setting value in field FBC of the corresponding area data.

[0056] In ACT55, the processor 11 checks whether the read definition symbol string contains a modifier symbol. If the definition symbol string does not contain a symbol that is predetermined as a modifier symbol, the processor 11 determines NO and proceeds to ACT56. For example, the definition symbol string "PE" does not contain a modifier symbol. Therefore, if the processor 11 has read the definition symbol string "PE", for example, it proceeds to ACT56.

[0057] In ACT 56, the processor 11 expands a character string consisting of all characters included in the definition symbol string as recycled characters in the image memory to be placed in the target area. That is, if the processor 11 is reading out a definition symbol string of, for example, "PE," it expands "PE" in the target area.

[0058] In this embodiment, " / / " is one of the modifier symbols. Thus, when the processor 11 reads, for example, a definition symbol string such as " / / PP / / ,PET", it determines that a modifier symbol is included. If a modifier symbol is included, the processor 11 determines YES in ACT 55 and proceeds to ACT 57. Thus, the processor 11 executes information processing based on the control program PR, and the computer with the processor 11 as its central part functions as a detection means.

[0059] In ACT 57, processor 11 determines the character to be modified (hereinafter referred to as the target character). In this embodiment, a character sandwiched between modifier symbols is treated as a target character for modification that is predetermined according to the modifier symbols that sandwich the character. That is, when processor 11 reads out a defined symbol string such as " / / PP / / ,PET," it determines that "PP" is the target character.

[0060] In ACT 58, the processor 11 determines the modification method. In this embodiment, the modification method for the modification symbol " / / " is underlining. That is, when the processor 11 reads out, for example, a definition symbol string " / / PP / / ,PET," it determines that underlining is the modification method. In ACT 59, processor 11 removes modifier symbols from the definition symbol string being read. That is, if processor 11 is reading a definition symbol string such as " / / PP / / ,PET," it removes the " / / " and obtains the character string "PP,PET."

[0061] In ACT60, the processor 11 expands the character string obtained in ACT59 into the image memory so as to be placed within the target area, while applying the modification method determined in ACT58 to the target characters determined in ACT57. That is, the processor 11 expands, for example, the character string "PP, PET" into the image memory while underlining "PP." In this way, the processor 11 executes information processing based on the control program PR, and the computer with the processor 11 as its central part image It functions as a generating means.

[0062] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the label image IMA developed in the image memory. FIG. 10 shows an example of the case where recycled characters based on the definition symbol string " / / PP / / ,PET" are expanded as described above.

[0063] After development in either ACT53, ACT56 or ACT60, the processor 11 proceeds to ACT61 in either case. In ACT61, processor 11 checks whether there is an area in the print area defined in the valid format that has not been selected as a target area. If there is such an area, processor 11 determines YES and repeats the processing from ACT51 onwards in the same manner as described above. However, when processor 11 proceeds from ACT61 to ACT51, in ACT51 it determines an area as the target area that is different from the area determined as the target area when ACT51 was previously executed. As a result, processor 11 repeats the processing from ACT52 onwards, sequentially selecting each print area defined in the valid format as the target area.

[0064] If the processor 11 proceeds to ACT61 after selecting all print areas defined in the valid format as target areas, it determines NO as there are no unselected areas and proceeds to ACT62. As ACT62, the processor 11 operates the print unit 16 to print the label image represented by the image data expanded in the image memory onto label paper. The processor 11 may print the label image onto only one sheet of label paper, or may repeatedly print the same label image onto a predetermined number of sheets of label paper. Thus, by the processor 11 executing information processing based on the control program PR, the computer, with the processor 11 as its core, functions as control means, and this function as control means cooperates with the print unit 16 to realize the function of printing means. When the processor 11 has finished printing, it ends the processing routine shown in FIG. 9.

[0065] As described above, the label printer 1 can underline only some of the characters that make up the recycle characters in the definition symbol string by enclosing those characters between modifier symbols. This allows the operator of the label printer 1 to easily specify the recycle characters to be printed on the label for packaging containers made of composite materials.

[0066] This embodiment can be modified in various ways as follows. In the field FBC of the area data relating to the print area for recycled characters, the definition symbol string itself may be set as a setting value.

[0067] Any symbol other than " / / " may be assigned as the modifier symbol for underlining. Furthermore, other modifications, such as reverse text, adding a square frame, or adding a strikethrough, can be implemented in the same way by defining modifier symbols for those modifications. In this case, in addition to the modifier symbol " / / " for underlining, for example, "!!" and "##" may be defined as modifier symbols for reverse text and adding a square frame, respectively, so that these modifications can be used appropriately.

[0068] Some or all of the functions realized by the processor 11 through information processing can be realized by hardware that executes information processing not based on a program, such as a logic circuit, etc. Each of the above functions can also be realized by combining the above hardware, such as the logic circuit, with software control.

[0069] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, and are also included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents as defined in the claims. The inventions described in the original claims of this application are set forth below. [Appendix 1] A storage means for storing symbol string data consisting of a string of a plurality of symbol codes each representing a symbol; a detecting means for detecting a symbol code of a symbol predetermined as a modifier symbol from among the symbol codes included in the symbol string data stored in the storage means; a generating means for generating a print image in which symbols represented by symbol codes included in the symbol string data stored in the storage means, excluding the symbol code detected by the detecting means, are represented by symbols sandwiched between symbol codes detected by the detecting means, with modifications corresponding to the symbol codes detected by the detecting means; a printing means for printing the print image generated by the generating means onto label paper; A label printer comprising: [Appendix 2] A generating means for generating symbol string data in response to an instruction from an operator and storing the generated symbol string data in the storage means; 2. The label printer of claim 1, further comprising: [Supplementary Note 3] An update means for updating the symbol string data stored in the storage means in response to an instruction from an operator; 2. The label printer of claim 1, further comprising: [Appendix 4] The generating means adds an underline as a modification. 10. The label printer according to claim 1, wherein the label printer is a label printer having a plurality of nozzles. [Supplementary Note 5] The storage means stores symbol string data consisting of symbol codes of a plurality of symbols that constitute a character string representing the material of the packaging material. 10. The label printer according to claim 1, wherein the label printer is a label printer having a plurality of nozzles. [Appendix 6] A storage means for storing symbol string data consisting of a string of a plurality of symbol codes each representing a symbol; a print unit that prints the print image on label paper; a computer that controls a label printer comprising: a detecting means for detecting a symbol code of a symbol predetermined as a modifier symbol from among the symbol codes included in the symbol string data stored in the storage means; a generating means for generating a print image in which symbols represented by symbol codes included in the symbol string data stored in the storage means, excluding the symbol code detected by the detecting means, are represented by symbols sandwiched between symbol codes detected by the detecting means, with modifications corresponding to the symbol codes detected by the detecting means; a control means for controlling the print unit to print the print image generated by the generation means; An information processing program that makes it function as such. [Explanation of symbols]

[0070] 1...label printer, 11...processor, 12...memory unit, 13...hardware clock, 14...display unit, 15...input unit, 16...print unit, 17...interface unit, 18...transmission path

Claims

1. a storage means for storing symbol string data consisting of a string of a plurality of symbol codes each representing a symbol; a detecting means for detecting a symbol code of a symbol predetermined as a modifier symbol from among the symbol codes included in the symbol string data stored in the storage means; an image generating means for generating a print image in which symbols represented by symbol codes included in the symbol string data stored in the storage means, excluding the symbol code detected by the detection means, are displayed, and symbols represented by symbol codes sandwiched between identical symbol codes detected by the detection means are displayed by applying modifications according to the symbol codes detected by the detection means; a printing means for printing the print image generated by the image generating means onto label paper; A label printer comprising:

2. a symbol string generating means for generating symbol string data in response to an instruction from an operator and storing the generated symbol string data in the storage means; The label printer of claim 1 further comprising:

3. updating means for updating the symbol string data stored in the storage means in response to an instruction from an operator; The label printer of claim 1 further comprising:

4. The image generating means adds an underline as a modification. The label printer according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. the storage means stores symbol string data consisting of symbol codes of a plurality of symbols constituting a character string representing the material of the packaging material; The label printer according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

6. a storage means for storing symbol string data consisting of a string of a plurality of symbol codes each representing a symbol; a print unit that prints the print image on label paper; a computer that controls a label printer comprising: a detecting means for detecting a symbol code of a symbol predetermined as a modifier symbol from among the symbol codes included in the symbol string data stored in the storage means; an image generating means for generating a print image in which symbols represented by symbol codes included in the symbol string data stored in the storage means, excluding the symbol code detected by the detection means, are displayed, and symbols represented by symbol codes sandwiched between identical symbol codes detected by the detection means are displayed by applying modifications according to the symbol codes detected by the detection means; a control means for controlling the print unit to print the print image generated by the image generating means; An information processing program that makes it function as such.

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