Program and Information Processing Device

Abstract

To provide a technology for enhancing a possibility of setting paper in a printer having a paper feed tray designed for both cut paper and roll paper with a proper method.SOLUTION: An information processing device receives selection of a paper feeding method in a printer through a user interface, and when a user clicks an OK button in a state in which a second tray designed for both cut paper and roll paper is selected as the paper feeding method, outputs guidance showing a method for setting paper on the second tray through the user interface. In the guidance, the information processing device outputs first guidance showing a method for setting the cut paper if the cut paper is selected, and outputs second guidance showing a method for setting the roll paper if the roll paper is selected.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The technical field disclosed in this specification relates to a program for receiving print settings and an information processing apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] In an information processing apparatus such as a personal computer, a technique is known for receiving print settings used for printing by a printer and instructing the printer to print based on the print settings. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique related to print settings used for printing by a printer capable of printing on continuous paper such as roll paper.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In a printer that supports roll paper and is compatible with cut paper of a standard size, there are the following problems when supporting roll paper. That is, even when using the same paper feed tray for roll paper and cut paper, the paper setting method may be different, and if the paper is set using an incorrect method, paper feed errors such as paper jams may occur. Since paper feed errors waste paper, it is desirable to have the user set the paper using an appropriate method.

[0005] This specification discloses a technique for increasing the possibility that paper is set by an appropriate method for a printer having a paper feed tray compatible with both cut paper and roll paper.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A program made for the purpose of solving the above-described problems is A program executable by a computer of an information processing device, To the aforementioned computer, The printer performs a paper selection process that accepts the user interface of the information processing device to select whether the paper used for printing is cut sheet or roll paper, and the printer is equipped with multiple paper trays, and among these multiple paper trays, there is a specific tray that supports both cut sheet and roll paper, and there are different methods for setting cut sheet in the specific tray and for setting roll paper in the specific tray. Furthermore, the computer, The printer executes a paper feed selection process that accepts the selection of the paper feeding method via the user interface. Furthermore, if the computer is in a state where a specific tray is selected in the paper feed selection process and a predetermined condition is met, The system executes a guidance process that outputs guidance on how to set paper in the specific tray via the user interface. In the aforementioned guidance process, If cut paper is selected in the paper selection process, a first guidance message indicating how to set the cut paper is output, and if roll paper is selected in the paper selection process, a second guidance message indicating how to set the roll paper is output. It is configured in this way.

[0007] The program disclosed herein, when a specific tray capable of loading either roll paper or cut paper is selected, outputs guidance appropriate to the selected paper type as guidance for loading the paper, thereby informing the user of the correct paper loading method and increasing the likelihood that the paper will be loaded correctly. Furthermore, if the paper is loaded incorrectly, the program will alert the user to the error, and as a result, the paper can be expected to be reloaded using the correct method.

[0008] The information processing device used to implement the functions of the above program is also novel and useful. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] The technology disclosed herein provides a method for increasing the likelihood that paper is loaded in an appropriate manner into a printer having a paper tray that can accommodate both cut sheets and rolls of paper. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] (A) A schematic electrical configuration diagram of a personal computer according to an embodiment. (B) An external view showing an example of a user interface. [Figure 2] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a print settings screen for configuring print settings. [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram of the printer's external appearance. [Figure 4] This is a schematic external view of the second tray. [Figure 5] This flowchart shows the procedure for displaying the operation dialog. [Figure 6] (A) An explanatory diagram showing an example of the roll paper setting dialog. (B) An explanatory diagram showing an example of the cut paper setting dialog. [Figure 7] This flowchart shows the procedure for displaying the operation dialog according to the second embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] (First Embodiment) The following describes in detail an embodiment for realizing the program's functions, with reference to the attached drawings. This embodiment discloses a program that runs on a personal computer (hereinafter referred to as "PC") that can be connected to a printer, which is a device with printing capabilities.

[0012] As shown in FIG. 1(A), for example, the PC1 of this embodiment is communicably connected to the printer 2. The PC1 is a device capable of executing various application programs (hereinafter referred to as "apps") for causing the printer 2 to perform various functions. The PC1 is an example of an information processing device. Instead of the PC1, for example, a smartphone or a tablet computer may be used. The printer 2 is a device having at least a printing function and a communication function for communicating with the PC1, and is capable of printing based on a print job transmitted from the PC1.

[0013] As shown in FIG. 1(A), the PC1 includes a control unit 10 including a CPU 11 and a memory 14. Further, the PC1 includes a communication interface (hereinafter referred to as "communication IF") 16 and a user interface (hereinafter referred to as "user IF") 18, and these are electrically connected to the control unit 10. Note that the control unit 10 in FIG. 1(A) is a general term for hardware and software used for controlling the PC1, and does not necessarily represent a single hardware actually existing in the PC1.

[0014] The CPU 11 executes various processes according to a program read from the memory 14 and based on a user's operation. The CPU 11 is an example of a computer. The memory 14 is, for example, a ROM, a RAM, a HDD, or a flash memory, and is used as a region for storing various programs, data such as image data and document data, and various settings. It is also used as a work area when various processes are executed. The buffer included in the CPU 11 is also an example of a memory.

[0015] An example of the memory may be a computer-readable storage medium. A computer-readable storage medium is a non-transitory medium. Non-transitory media include recording media such as CD-ROMs and DVD-ROMs in addition to the above examples.

[0016] The communication IF16 includes hardware for communicating with an external device such as a printer 2. The communication method of the communication IF16 may be wireless or wired, and may be a method of any standard such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), USB, LAN, etc.

[0017] The user IF18 includes hardware for displaying information on a screen and hardware for receiving input operations by the user. The user IF18 may be, for example, a combination of a display 18A for displaying information on a screen, a keyboard 18B for receiving input operations by the user, a mouse 18C, etc., as shown in FIG. 1(B), or may be a touch panel (not shown) having a display function and an input reception function.

[0018] In the memory 14 of the PC1 in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1(A), an operating system (hereinafter referred to as "OS") 41, an application 42, and a printer driver 43 are incorporated. The OS41 is, for example, Windows (registered trademark), macOS (registered trademark), iOS (registered trademark), Android (registered trademark), Linux (registered trademark).

[0019] The application 42 is a program for executing processing for a specific purpose. Specifically, for example, it is a program capable of receiving an image as image data and editing the image, receiving print settings, designating the printer 2 to execute printing, receiving an instruction to execute printing, etc. via the user IF18. Further, the application 42 may include various application programs such as a document creation program, a spreadsheet program, and a web browser program.

[0020] The printer driver 43 is a program corresponding to the model of the printer 2, and is a program that communicates with the printer 2 via the communication IF16 and controls the operation of the printer 2. The printer driver 43 is started, for example, when an instruction for property setting of the printer 2 is received in a state where the printer 2 is designated by the application 42 or the like.

[0021] When the printer driver 43 is started based on the property setting instructions, the CPU 11 displays the print settings screen 51, shown as an example in Figure 2, on the user interface 18, for example, the display 18A. Note that the print settings screen 51 is just one example of a settings screen.

[0022] On the basic settings tab 51A of the print settings screen 51, setting items such as the media selection field 510, paper type selection field 511, print quality selection field 512, document size selection field 513, scaling selection field 514, number of copies selection field 515, double-sided / booklet selection field 516, and paper feed method selection field 517 are displayed. Furthermore, the basic settings tab 51A of the print settings screen 51 also displays an OK button 518 and a Cancel button 519. The CPU 11 accepts user operations via the user interface 18, such as operations on the keyboard 18B and mouse 18C, to each selection field and each button displayed on the print settings screen 51.

[0023] Specifically, in the media selection field 510, which is the first item, the user can select either pre-cut, standard-sized cut paper or long roll paper by, for example, operating the mouse 18C and clicking a radio button. The display state of the media selection field 510 shown in Figure 2 indicates that the user has selected roll paper. Note that the acceptance process in the media selection field 510 is an example of the paper selection process, and the acceptance process of selecting either cut paper or roll paper in the media selection field 510 is an example of the first operation.

[0024] Furthermore, in the paper type selection field 511, the user can select one of the following: plain paper, glossy paper, cardboard, inkjet paper, etc. In the print quality selection field 512, the user can choose the print resolution when printing, for example, "high speed," "normal," "high quality," "photo," etc. In the document size selection field 513, the user can select one of the names of pre-cut standard size paper, for example, A4, B4, A5, B5, A6, Letter, Legal, A3, etc.

[0025] Furthermore, in the scaling selection field 514, the user can select the scaling ratio during printing by selecting the output paper size. In the number of copies selection field 515, the user can select the number of copies to print. In the double-sided / booklet selection field 516, the user can select "Yes" or "No" for double-sided / booklet printing.

[0026] Furthermore, in the second item, the paper feed method selection field 517, the user can select one of the printer 2's paper feed trays, namely the multi-purpose tray 21, the first tray 22, and the second tray 23, as shown in Figure 3, which will be described later, or select "automatic selection," where the printer 2 selects the paper feed tray. Note that the acceptance process in the paper feed method selection field 517 is an example of the paper feed selection process, and the acceptance process for selecting the second tray 23 in the paper feed method selection field 517 is an example of the second operation.

[0027] In this configuration, if the user selects roll paper in the media selection field 510, the printer driver 43 automatically sets the paper feeding method capable of supplying the roll paper selected by the user, namely the second tray 23, and automatically displays "Tray 2" in the paper feeding method selection field 517. Therefore, when printing, the printer 2 selects the second tray 23, which is capable of supplying roll paper, and the roll paper is fed from the second tray 23. If the user selects cut paper in the media selection field 510, the printer driver 43 automatically sets "Automatic Selection" and automatically displays "Automatic Selection" in the paper feeding method selection field 517.

[0028] In this configuration, the printer driver 43 automatically sets the paper feed method that matches the user's selection in the media selection field 510 and displays it in the paper feed method selection field 517, thereby improving user convenience.

[0029] Furthermore, when the printer driver 43 receives print command information from the OS 41, it generates print data based on the image data specified in the print command information. The printer driver 43 then sends the print job, including the generated print data and the print settings configured on the print settings screen 51, to the printer 2.

[0030] The memory 14 also has a print settings storage area 44. When the user clicks the OK button 518 via the user interface 18, the printer driver 43 confirms the print settings set by the user on the print settings screen 51 and stores each parameter of those print settings in the print settings storage area 44.

[0031] Figure 3 is a schematic external view of the printer. Specifically, the printer 2 in this configuration has a paper feed tray consisting of three types of trays. Specifically, the three types of paper feed trays are a multipurpose tray 21, a first tray 22, and a second tray 23. It also has an output tray 24 for ejecting printed paper. The first tray 22 and the second tray 23 are removable paper feed trays from the main body of the printer 2, and the first tray 22 is a tray that can store cut paper. The second tray 23, as shown in Figure 4, has a cut paper storage area 23A that can store cut paper 45 and a roll paper storage area 23B that can store roll paper 46, and can be loaded with either cut paper 45 or roll paper 46. In other words, the second tray 23 is a paper feed tray that can handle both cut paper and roll paper. Note that the second tray 23 is an example of a specific tray.

[0032] In this configuration, the printer 2 can detect whether or not paper is loaded in each tray of the paper feed tray, and furthermore, the size of the paper loaded in that tray, using a paper size sensor (not shown). The printer 2 then stores for each tray whether or not paper is loaded in the tray, and the detected paper size. In addition, the printer 2 can detect whether or not cut paper 45 is loaded in the cut paper storage area 23A of the second tray 23, and furthermore, the size of the cut paper loaded in the cut paper storage area 23A. Furthermore, the printer 2 can detect whether or not roll paper 46 is loaded in the roll paper storage area 23B, and furthermore, the paper width of the roll paper 46 loaded in the roll paper storage area 23B, and stores this information in the printer 2's memory.

[0033] Therefore, when printer 2 in this configuration receives a print job from PC1, it selects one of the paper trays based on the print settings included in the print job. In other words, it selects one of the paper trays specified by the paper feeding method included in the print settings. Then, it feeds paper from the selected tray and enables printing. Furthermore, if the print settings included in the print job received from PC1 include automatic selection as the paper feeding method, it is possible to select one of the paper trays based on the paper size stored for each tray in the paper trays, and then feed paper of the paper size set in the print settings from the selected tray.

[0034] Next, the processing performed by the printer driver 43 in this configuration will be described. Note that the following processing and each processing step in the flowchart basically represent the processing performed by the CPU 11 according to the instructions written in each program. That is, the processing by the CPU 11 includes hardware control using the API of the PC1's OS 41. In this specification, the description of OS 41 is omitted when describing the operation of each program. That is, in the following description, a statement to the effect of "Program B controls hardware C" may also mean "Program B controls hardware C using the API of OS 41." Furthermore, the processing performed by the CPU 11 according to the instructions written in the program may be described using abbreviated language. For example, it may be described as "performed by CPU 11" or "performed by the program."

[0035] The procedure for displaying the operation dialog by the printer driver 43 in this configuration will be explained below with reference to the flowchart in Figure 5. The operation dialog display process is executed repeatedly by the CPU 11 of PC1 at appropriate intervals once the printer driver 43 has been started and the print settings screen 51 has been displayed.

[0036] First, in step 10 (hereinafter referred to as S10), the CPU 11 determines whether the user pressed the OK button 518 on the print settings screen 51 shown as an example in Figure 2, that is, whether the user clicked the OK button 518 via the user IF 18. If it is determined that the OK button 518 was not pressed (S10: NO), the CPU 11 proceeds to the next S11 and executes other processes.

[0037] On the other hand, in S10, if the CPU 11 determines that the user has pressed the OK button 518 (S10: YES), it proceeds to the next S12, where the CPU 11 determines whether tray 2, i.e., the second tray 23, has been selected in the paper feed method selection field 517.

[0038] In this configuration, if the user selects "Cut Sheet" in the media selection field 510 of the print settings screen 51, the printer driver 43 automatically sets "Automatic Selection" as the paper feed method and displays "Automatic Selection" in the paper feed method selection field 517. Therefore, in S12, the CPU 11 determines that "Tray 2" is not selected in the paper feed method selection field 517 (S12: NO), and then terminates this process.

[0039] Thus, in this configuration, if a tray other than the second tray 23, which is a tray used for both roll paper 46 and cut paper 45, is selected, the possibility of incorrect paper loading is low, and by not outputting guidance, the inconvenience of frequent guidance output can be reduced.

[0040] Furthermore, if the user selects "Roll paper" in the media selection field 510, in this configuration, the printer driver 43 automatically sets the second tray 23 as the paper feed method and automatically displays "Tray 2" in the paper feed method selection field 517. Therefore, in S12, the CPU 11 determines that Tray 2 is selected in the paper feed method selection field 517 (S12: YES) and proceeds to the next S13.

[0041] Furthermore, if the user selects "Cut Sheet" in the media selection field 510 of the print settings screen 51, and before the user presses the OK button 518, the CPU 11 determines that tray 2 is selected in the paper feed method selection field 517 (S12:YES) and proceeds to the next S13.

[0042] Next, in S13, the CPU 11 determines whether the user has selected "Cut Paper" in the media selection field 510 of the print settings screen 51. In this configuration, the user has selected "Roll Paper" in the media selection field 510, so the CPU 11 determines that "Cut Paper" has not been selected (S13: NO), and proceeds to the next S14.

[0043] Next, in S14, the CPU 11 determines whether the user has checked checkbox 523 (see Figure 6(A)) described later and specified "Don't show this again". If the user has checked checkbox 523 and specified "Don't show this again", the CPU 11 determines that "Don't show this again" has been specified (S14: YES), and then terminates this process.

[0044] In this configuration, the user can restrict the display of the roll paper set dialog 52 by checking the checkbox 523 via the user IF18, thereby reducing the inconvenience caused by the roll paper set dialog 52 being displayed frequently.

[0045] On the other hand, if the user does not check checkbox 523 and has not specified "Do not show again," CPU 11 determines that "Do not show again" has not been specified (S14:NO) and proceeds to the next S15.

[0046] Next, in S15, the CPU 11 displays the roll paper set dialog 52 on the user interface 18, for example, the display 18A. As shown in Figure 6(A), the roll paper set dialog 52 displays a roll paper set procedure explanation field 521, an OK key 522, and a checkbox 523 for specifying "Do not show next time". The roll paper set procedure explanation field 521 explains the procedure for setting roll paper into the second tray 23 in four steps. Each step consists of an explanatory diagram and explanatory text. Note that S15 is an example of guidance processing, the roll paper set dialog 52 is an example of guidance, and the set procedure is an example of a method.

[0047] In this embodiment, the procedure for setting the roll paper 46 into the second tray 23 is explained in the roll paper setting procedure explanation section 521 using both an explanatory diagram and explanatory text, but this is not the only way to do so. For example, it is acceptable to use either an explanatory diagram or explanatory text alone. It is also acceptable to use a video instead of an explanatory diagram, and in that case, it is acceptable to use audio explanations instead of explanatory text, or in conjunction with explanatory text. Furthermore, the procedure for setting the roll paper into the second tray 23 may consist of one step, or it may consist of more or fewer than four steps.

[0048] Furthermore, if the user checks checkbox 523 via user IF18 and then presses the OK key 522, the CPU 11 stores information indicating that checkbox 523 is checked in memory 14, and from the next time onward, the roll paper set dialog 52 will not be displayed on user IF18. Also, if the user clicks checkbox 523 while it is checked, the check box in checkbox 523 will be unchecked. Note that the check box in checkbox 523 is an example of restriction information.

[0049] In this configuration, the display of the roll paper set dialog 52 is restricted by the user checking checkbox 523 via user IF18. However, it is also acceptable to, for example, place a setting button in the roll paper set dialog 52, and configure the system so that the display of the roll paper set dialog 52 is restricted when the user operates the setting button.

[0050] Next, in S16, the CPU 11 determines whether the user has pressed the OK key 522. If the user clicks the OK key 522 via the user IF 18, the CPU 11 determines that the user has pressed the OK key 522 (S16: YES) and proceeds to the next step, S17.

[0051] Next, in S17, the CPU 11 cancels the display of the roll paper set dialog 52, that is, it displays the print settings screen 51 again on the user interface 18, for example, the display 18A, and then terminates this process. In this embodiment, the roll paper set dialog 52 is displayed on the user interface 18, for example, the display 18A, instead of the print settings screen 51, but it is also acceptable to display the roll paper set dialog 52 overlaid on the print settings screen 51. Furthermore, when the OK key 518 is pressed, the display of the print settings screen 51 is terminated as a separate process from this process.

[0052] On the other hand, in S16, if the user has not clicked the OK key 522 via user IF18, the CPU 11 determines that the OK key 522 has not been pressed (S16: NO), and then returns to S15 to continue displaying the roll paper set dialog 52.

[0053] On the other hand, in S13, if the user has selected "Cut Paper" in the media selection field 510 of the print settings screen 51, the CPU 11 determines that "Cut Paper" has been selected (S13: YES) and proceeds to the next S18.

[0054] Next, in S18, the CPU 11 determines whether the user has checked checkbox 533 (see Figure 6(B)) and selected "Do not show this again". If the user has checked checkbox 533 and selected "Do not show this again", the CPU 11 determines that "Do not show this again" has been selected (S18: YES), and then terminates this process.

[0055] In this configuration, the user can restrict the display of the cut paper set dialog 53 by checking the checkbox 533 via the user IF18, thereby reducing the inconvenience caused by the frequent output of the cut paper set dialog 53.

[0056] On the other hand, if the user does not check checkbox 533 and has not specified "Do not show again," CPU 11 determines that "Do not show again" has not been specified (S18:NO) and proceeds to the next S19.

[0057] Next, in S19, the CPU 11 displays a cut paper set dialog 53 on the user interface 18, for example, the display 18A. As shown in Figure 6(B), the cut paper set dialog 53 displays a cut paper set procedure explanation field 531, an OK key 532, and a checkbox 533 for specifying "Do not show next time." The cut paper set procedure explanation field 531 describes the procedure for setting the cut paper 45 into the second tray 23 in two steps. Note that S19 is an example of the second guidance process, the cut paper set dialog 53 is an example of the second guidance, and the set procedure is an example of the method.

[0058] In this embodiment, the procedure for setting cut paper into the second tray 23 is explained using both an explanatory diagram and explanatory text in the cut paper setting procedure explanation section 531, but this is not the only way to go. For example, either the explanatory diagram or the explanatory text alone may be used. Also, a video may be used instead of the explanatory diagram, and in that case, audio explanations may be used instead of, or in conjunction with, the explanatory text. Furthermore, the procedure for setting cut paper into the second tray 23 may consist of one step, or more or fewer than two steps.

[0059] Furthermore, if the user checks checkbox 533 via user IF18 and then presses the OK key 532, the CPU 11 stores information indicating that checkbox 533 is checked in memory 14, and from the next time onward, the cut paper set dialog 53 will not be displayed on user IF18. Also, if the user clicks checkbox 533 while it is checked, the check box in checkbox 533 will be unchecked. Note that the check box in checkbox 533 is an example of restriction information.

[0060] Next, in S20, the CPU 11 determines whether the user has pressed the OK key 532. If the user clicks the OK key 532 via the user IF 18, the CPU 11 determines that the user has pressed the OK key 532 (S20: YES) and proceeds to the next step, S17.

[0061] On the other hand, in S20, if the user has not clicked the OK key 532 via user IF18, the CPU 11 determines that the OK key 532 has not been pressed (S20: NO), and then returns to S19 to continue displaying the cut paper set dialog 53.

[0062] In this configuration, when the second tray, which is a tray for both roll paper and cut paper, is selected, guidance for setting the paper is output that matches the selected paper type, i.e., cut paper or roll paper. This informs the user of the appropriate paper setting method, increasing the likelihood that the paper will be set correctly. Furthermore, if the paper is set incorrectly, the user will become aware of the error, and as a result, it is expected that the paper will be set correctly.

[0063] (Second Embodiment) Figure 7 discloses a program executed on a personal computer (hereinafter referred to as "PC") according to the second embodiment. Its details will be described below with reference to the drawings. In this description, components that have the same effects as those in the first embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0064] In the second embodiment, if the user selects "roll paper" in the media selection field 510, the second tray 23 is automatically set, and "tray 2" is automatically displayed in the paper feeding method selection field 517. Therefore, in S12, the CPU 11 determines that tray 2 is selected in the paper feeding method selection field 517 (S12: YES), and then proceeds to S30.

[0065] Next, in S30, the CPU 11 sends a confirmation command to the printer 2 to obtain information about the paper being loaded into the second tray 23 from the printer 2. Specifically, it obtains information about whether roll paper 46 is loaded in the roll paper storage area 23B, cut paper 45 is loaded in the cut paper storage area 23A, or whether no paper is loaded in either area of ​​the second tray 23. At this time, it is also permissible to obtain information about the incorrect paper loading if roll paper 46 is mistakenly loaded in the cut paper storage area 23A. Note that the process in S30 is just one example of a confirmation process. Alternatively, the confirmation command may be sent to the printer 2 at the time the print settings screen 51 is displayed to obtain the loading information in advance.

[0066] Next, in S13, the CPU 11 determines whether the user has selected "Cut Sheet" in the media selection field 510 of the print settings screen 51. In this configuration, the user has selected "Roll Paper" in the media selection field 510, so the CPU 11 determines that "Cut Sheet" has not been selected (S13: NO), and proceeds to the next S31.

[0067] Next, in S31, the CPU 11 determines whether or not a roll of paper 46 is loaded in the roll paper storage area 23B based on the information regarding the paper loading status obtained from the printer 2. If it determines that a roll of paper 46 is loaded in the roll paper storage area 23B (S31: YES), then this process is terminated.

[0068] Thus, in this configuration, if the roll paper 46 is already set in the roll paper storage area 23B, there is little need to output instructions on how to set the paper. Therefore, by not outputting the roll paper setting dialog 52, the annoyance of frequently outputting guidance can be reduced.

[0069] On the other hand, if in S31 the CPU 11 determines that no roll paper 46 is set in the roll paper storage area 23B (S31: NO), the process proceeds to the next step, S14. Subsequently, the process proceeds to S15, in which the CPU 11 displays the roll paper set dialog 52 on the user interface 18, for example, the display 18A, similar to the first embodiment.

[0070] In this configuration, if a roll of paper 46 is not set in the roll paper storage area 23B, a roll paper setting dialog 52 is output. In other words, guidance appropriate to the roll of paper is output when the paper is about to be set, informing the user of the appropriate paper setting method increases the likelihood that the paper will be set using the correct method.

[0071] On the other hand, if CPU 11 determines in S13 that "cut paper" has been selected (S13:YES), the process proceeds to the next S32.

[0072] Next, in S32, the CPU 11 determines whether or not cut paper is loaded in the cut paper storage area 23A based on the information regarding the paper loading status obtained from the printer 2. If it determines that cut paper is loaded in the cut paper storage area 23A (S32: YES), then this process is terminated.

[0073] Thus, in this configuration, if cut paper is already set in the cut paper storage area 23A, there is little need to output instructions on how to set the paper. Therefore, by not outputting the cut paper setting dialog 53, the annoyance of frequently outputting guidance can be reduced.

[0074] On the other hand, in S32, if the CPU 11 determines that no cut paper is set in the cut paper storage area 23A (S32:NO), the process proceeds to the next S18. In this case, if roll paper is mistakenly set in the cut paper storage area 23A, the CPU 11 may also determine that no cut paper is set in the cut paper storage area 23A (S32:NO) and proceed to the next S18. Then, the process proceeds to S19, in which the CPU 11 displays the cut paper set dialog 53 on the user interface 18, for example, the display 18A, similar to the first embodiment.

[0075] In this configuration, if cut paper 45 is not set in the cut paper storage area 23A, the cut paper setting dialog 53 is output. In other words, guidance appropriate to the cut paper is output when paper is about to be set, informing the user of the correct paper setting method increases the likelihood that the paper will be set correctly. Furthermore, if the paper is set incorrectly, for example, if roll paper 46 is set in the cut paper storage area 23A, the user will be made aware of the setting error, and as a result, the paper can be expected to be reset using the correct method.

[0076] This embodiment is merely illustrative and does not limit the present invention in any way. Therefore, the present invention can naturally be improved and modified in various ways without departing from its essence. For example, printer 2 is not limited to a single-function printing device, but may also be a device equipped with, for example, a document scanning function or a fax transmission / reception function. This embodiment can also be applied to a PC1 connected to a multifunction printer, copier, fax machine, etc., instead of printer 2. Furthermore, two or more printers may be connected to PC1.

[0077] Furthermore, the screen configurations shown in each figure are merely examples and are not limited to those illustrated. For example, while the basic settings tab 51A of the print settings screen 51 accepts all selections for paper size, duplex printing, and paper tray, some selections may be accepted on separate screens, or each selection may be on a separate screen.

[0078] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the media selection field 510 was configured to allow the user to select either pre-cut, standard-sized cut paper 45 or a long roll of paper 46 wound in a roll, but it is not limited to this. For example, it is also acceptable to allow the user to select either cut paper 45 or a long roll of cloth. In this case, if "cloth" is selected, the printer driver 43 may be configured so that the user can select one of the types of cloth, such as cotton or satin, in the paper type selection field 511.

[0079] Furthermore, in this configuration, if the user selects a long roll of paper 46 in the media selection field 510, the printer driver 43 may automatically set "None" for double-sided / booklet printing in the double-sided / booklet selection field 516. In other words, the roll of paper 46 selected by the user in the media selection field 510 and the double-sided / booklet printing function are incompatible printing functions, and therefore, the printer driver 43 may automatically ensure compatibility between the roll of paper 46 and incompatible printing functions. In this case, convenience is improved compared to a configuration in which an exclusive warning screen is displayed on the display 18A to alert the user when incompatible printing functions are set on the print settings screen 51.

[0080] Furthermore, in this embodiment, in S10, the CPU 11 is configured to determine whether the user has pressed the OK button 518 on the print settings screen 51 shown as an example in Figure 2, that is, whether the user has clicked the OK button 518 via the user IF 18. However, the system is not limited to this configuration. For example, in S10, the CPU 11 may be configured to determine whether the user has changed from cut paper to roll paper, or from roll paper to cut paper, in the media selection field 510 via the user IF 18, and if so, the CPU 11 may execute the processes from S12 onwards. In this case, the user can immediately understand the appropriate setting method for the paper after the selection change, improving convenience.

[0081] Furthermore, for example, in S10, the CPU 11 may be configured to determine whether the user has selected the second tray 23 in the paper feed method selection field 517 via the user IF 18, and if the user has selected the second tray 23, the CPU 11 may execute the processes from S12 onward. In this case, if the user selects the second tray 23, the user can immediately understand how to load paper into the second tray 23, improving convenience.

[0082] Furthermore, the information indicating that checkboxes 523 or 533 are checked, that is, the information indicating "Do not show this again next time," may be common to both the cut paper set dialog 53 and the roll paper set dialog 52, or it may be separate. If it is common, then if "Do not show this again next time" is specified in one dialog, it will also be applied to the other dialog. On the other hand, if it is separate, then even if "Do not show this again next time" is specified in one dialog, it will not be applied to the other dialog. Also, if it is common, the specification of "Do not show this again next time" may be made from the print settings screen 51, rather than from the roll paper set dialog 52 or the cut paper set dialog 53.

[0083] Furthermore, in any flowchart disclosed in each embodiment, the execution order of any multiple processes in any multiple steps can be arbitrarily changed or executed in parallel, as long as no inconsistencies arise in the processing content.

[0084] Furthermore, the processes disclosed in each embodiment may be executed by a single CPU, multiple CPUs, hardware such as an ASIC, or a combination thereof. Also, the processes disclosed in the embodiments can be implemented in various ways, such as by recording a program for executing the process on a recording medium or by a method. [Explanation of symbols]

[0085] 1 PC 2 Printer 23 Second Tray 11 CPU 16 Communication IF 18 User Interface 18A Display 18C Mouse 41 OS 43 Printer Driver 45 cut sheets 46 rolls of paper 51 Print Settings Screen 510 Media Selection Field 511 Paper type selection field 517 Paper feeding method selection field 518 OK button 52. Roll paper loading dialog 53 Cut Paper Set Dialog

Claims

1. A program executable by a computer of an information processing device, To the aforementioned computer, The printer performs a paper selection process that accepts the user interface of the information processing device to select whether the paper used for printing is cut sheet or roll paper, and the printer is equipped with multiple paper trays, and among these multiple paper trays, there is a specific tray that supports both cut sheet and roll paper, and there are different methods for setting cut sheet in the specific tray and for setting roll paper in the specific tray. Furthermore, the computer, The printer executes a paper feed selection process that accepts the selection of the paper feeding method via the user interface. Furthermore, if the computer is in a state where a specific tray is selected in the paper feed selection process and a predetermined condition is met, The system executes a guidance process that outputs guidance on how to set paper in the specific tray via the user interface. In the aforementioned guidance process, If cut paper is selected in the aforementioned paper selection process, a first guidance indicating a method for setting the cut paper is output, and if roll paper is selected in the aforementioned paper selection process, a second guidance indicating a method for setting the roll paper is output. Furthermore, the computer, A display process is executed to display a settings screen on the user interface that accepts input for print settings used for printing with the aforementioned printer, and the settings items on the settings screen include a first item in which cut paper and roll paper are selected, and a second item in which the multiple paper trays provided by the printer are selected. In the paper selection process described above, the operation of selecting the first item accepts the selection of whether the paper to be used for printing on the printer is cut paper or roll paper. In the aforementioned paper feed selection process, the selection of the paper feeding method for the printer is accepted by the operation of selecting the second item. Furthermore, the computer, When a specific tray is selected in the paper feed selection process, and the predetermined conditions based on operations on the settings screen are met, the guidance process is executed. A program configured in such a way.

2. In the program described in claim 1, The aforementioned predetermined conditions include receiving a confirmation operation via the user interface to confirm the print settings displayed on the settings screen, To the aforementioned computer, When a specific tray is selected in the paper feed selection process, and a confirmation operation is received via the user interface to confirm the print settings displayed on the settings screen, the guidance process is executed. A program configured in such a way.

3. In the program described in claim 1, The predetermined conditions include receiving a first operation via the user interface to switch the selection target of the first item on the settings screen. To the aforementioned computer, When the first operation to switch the selection target of the first item on the settings screen is received via the user interface while the specific tray is selected in the paper feed selection process, the guidance process is executed. A program configured in such a way.

4. In the program described in claim 1, The predetermined conditions include receiving a second operation via the user interface to select the specific tray as the target of the second item in the settings screen. To the aforementioned computer, When the user interface receives a second operation in which the user selects the specific tray as the target of the second item in the settings screen, the guidance process is executed. A program configured in such a way.

5. A program executable by a computer of an information processing device, To the aforementioned computer, The printer performs a paper selection process that accepts the user interface of the information processing device to select whether the paper used for printing is cut sheet or roll paper, and the printer is equipped with multiple paper trays, and among these multiple paper trays, there is a specific tray that supports both cut sheet and roll paper, and there are different methods for setting cut sheet in the specific tray and for setting roll paper in the specific tray. Furthermore, the computer, The printer executes a paper feed selection process that accepts the selection of the paper feeding method via the user interface. Furthermore, if the computer is in a state where a specific tray is selected in the paper feed selection process and a predetermined condition is met, The system executes a guidance process that outputs guidance on how to set paper in the specific tray via the user interface. In the aforementioned guidance process, If cut paper is selected in the aforementioned paper selection process, a first guidance indicating a method for setting the cut paper is output, and if roll paper is selected in the aforementioned paper selection process, a second guidance indicating a method for setting the roll paper is output. Furthermore, the computer, The information processing device sends a confirmation command to the printer via its communication interface and performs a confirmation process to receive set information transmitted from the printer. When the printer receives the confirmation command, if paper is loaded in the specific tray, it responds with the set information indicating that paper is loaded in the specific tray; if paper is not loaded in the specific tray, it responds with the set information indicating that paper is not loaded in the specific tray. The predetermined conditions include receiving the set information indicating that no paper is loaded in the specific tray. Furthermore, the computer, When the setting information indicating that no paper is loaded in the specified tray is received while the specified tray is selected in the paper feed selection process, the guidance process is executed. A program configured in such a way.

6. In a program according to any one of claims 1 to 5, To the aforementioned computer, A restriction registration process is executed to register restriction information that restricts the output of the guidance indicating a method for setting paper in the specified tray, and the predetermined condition includes the fact that the restriction information has not been registered in the restriction registration process. Furthermore, the computer, If the specific tray is selected in the paper feed selection process and the restriction information is not registered, the guidance process is executed. A program configured in such a way.

7. In a program according to any one of claims 1 to 6, To the aforementioned computer, If the predetermined conditions are met while the specific tray is selected in the paper feed selection process, the guidance process is executed. If the specific tray is not selected in the aforementioned paper feed selection process, the guidance process will not be executed. A program configured in such a way.

8. User interface and Computers and, An information processing device comprising, The aforementioned computer, The printer is capable of performing a paper selection process that accepts the user interface to select whether the paper used for printing is cut sheet or roll paper, and the printer is equipped with multiple paper trays, each of which includes a specific tray that supports both cut sheet and roll paper, and the method for setting cut sheet in the specific tray and the method for setting roll paper in the specific tray are different. Furthermore, the aforementioned computer, The printer can perform a paper feed selection process that accepts the selection of the paper feeding method via the user interface. Furthermore, if the computer has met predetermined conditions while the specific tray is selected in the paper feed selection process, A guidance process is executed that outputs guidance indicating a method for setting paper in the aforementioned specific tray via the user interface. In the aforementioned guidance process, If cut paper is selected in the aforementioned paper selection process, a first guidance indicating a method for setting the cut paper is output, and if roll paper is selected in the aforementioned paper selection process, a second guidance indicating a method for setting the roll paper is output. Furthermore, the aforementioned computer, The system is capable of displaying a settings screen on the user interface that accepts input for print settings used for printing with the aforementioned printer, and the settings screen includes a first item in which cut paper and roll paper are selected, and a second item in which the multiple paper trays provided by the printer are selected. In the paper selection process described above, the operation of selecting the first item accepts the selection of whether the paper to be used for printing on the printer is cut paper or roll paper. In the aforementioned paper feed selection process, the selection of the paper feeding method for the printer is accepted by the operation of selecting the second item. Furthermore, the aforementioned computer, When a specific tray is selected in the paper feed selection process, and the predetermined conditions based on operations on the settings screen are met, the guidance process is executed. An information processing device configured in such a way.

9. User interface and Computers and, An information processing device comprising, The aforementioned computer, The printer is capable of performing a paper selection process that accepts the user interface to select whether the paper used for printing is cut sheet or roll paper, and the printer is equipped with multiple paper trays, each of which includes a specific tray that supports both cut sheet and roll paper, and the method for setting cut sheet in the specific tray and the method for setting roll paper in the specific tray are different. Furthermore, the aforementioned computer, The printer can perform a paper feed selection process that accepts the selection of the paper feeding method via the user interface. Furthermore, if the computer has met predetermined conditions while the specific tray is selected in the paper feed selection process, A guidance process is executed that outputs guidance indicating a method for setting paper in the aforementioned specific tray via the user interface. In the aforementioned guidance process, If cut paper is selected in the aforementioned paper selection process, a first guidance indicating a method for setting the cut paper is output, and if roll paper is selected in the aforementioned paper selection process, a second guidance indicating a method for setting the roll paper is output. Furthermore, the aforementioned computer, The information processing device can perform a confirmation process by sending a confirmation command to the printer via its communication interface and receiving set information transmitted from the printer. When the printer receives the confirmation command, if paper is loaded in the specific tray, it responds with the set information indicating that paper is loaded in the specific tray; if paper is not loaded in the specific tray, it responds with the set information indicating that paper is not loaded in the specific tray. The predetermined conditions include receiving the set information indicating that no paper is loaded in the specific tray. Furthermore, the aforementioned computer, When the setting information indicating that no paper is loaded in the specific tray is received while the specific tray is selected in the paper feed selection process, the guidance process is executed. An information processing device configured in such a way.

Images