Information processing device, control method for information processing device, and program

Abstract

To prevent a user's wrong operation in performing merge printing.SOLUTION: A portable terminal comprises: a table data acquisition unit that acquires table data; a print data generation unit that, when a text option 97 is selected by a user, generates print data including a non-conversion image in which information stored in the table data is not converted into another information, and when a one-dimensional code option 98 is selected by the user, generates print data including a first code image in which the information stored in the table data is converted into a one-dimensional code image; and a display control unit that displays, on a touch panel 11, a fourth operation screen D4 having an option area E17 where a plurality of options are displayed including the text option 97 and the one-dimensional code option 98, and a second table data area E18 where the table data is displayed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus, a control method for the information processing apparatus, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] As disclosed in Patent Document 1, there is known an information processing apparatus that acquires information from table data and generates print data based on the acquired information.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Among users who use such an information processing apparatus, there are those who want to convert information such as text acquired from table data into a one-dimensional code image and print it. Also, among users, there are those who want to print information such as text acquired from table data without converting it into a code image. Therefore, it is conceivable that the information processing apparatus displays a selection area on the screen for the user to select either a first conversion option for converting information into a one-dimensional code image or a no-conversion option for not converting information into a code image, and generates print data for printing a one-dimensional code image or text according to the option selected by the user. However, when the display of the information processing apparatus is small or when the information processing apparatus cannot display the selection area and the table data simultaneously, the user cannot select a desired option from the selection area while checking the table data. Therefore, in such a case, the user may make a wrong operation such as erroneously selecting the first conversion option from the selection area even though the table data stores text that cannot be converted into a one-dimensional code image. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The information processing apparatus of the present invention comprises: a table data acquisition unit that acquires table data; a print data generation unit that generates print data including a no-conversion image in which the information stored in the table data has not been converted to other information when the user selects the no-conversion option, and generates print data including a first code image in which the information stored in the table data has been converted to a first type of code image when the user selects the first conversion option; and a display control unit that causes a display unit to display a second screen having a selection area in which a plurality of options, including the no-conversion option and the first conversion option, are displayed, and a second table data area in which the table data is displayed.

[0006] The control method for the information processing apparatus of the present invention involves the information processing apparatus performing the steps of: acquiring table data; generating print data including a no-conversion image in which the information stored in the table data has not been converted to other information when the user selects a no-conversion option, and generating print data including a first code image in which the information stored in the table data has been converted to a first type of code image when the user selects a first conversion option; and displaying a second screen on a display unit, having a selection area in which a plurality of options, including the no-conversion option and the first conversion option, are displayed, and a second table data area in which the table data is displayed.

[0007] The program of the present invention causes an information processing device to perform the following steps: acquire table data; generate print data including a no-conversion image in which the information stored in the table data has not been converted to other information, when the user selects the no-conversion option, and generate print data including a first code image in which the information stored in the table data has been converted to a first type of code image, when the user selects the first conversion option; and display a second screen on a display unit, having a selection area in which a plurality of options, including the no-conversion option and the first conversion option, are displayed, and a second table data area in which the table data is displayed. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a system configuration diagram of a tape printing system. [Figure 2] This is an external view of a tape printing device and tape cartridge. [Figure 3] This is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of a mobile terminal and a tape printing device. [Figure 4] This is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of a mobile device. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of the first operation screen. [Figure 6] This figure shows an example of the second operation screen. [Figure 7] This figure shows an example of the third operation screen. [Figure 8] This figure shows an example of the fourth operation screen. [Figure 9] This figure shows an example of the fifth operation screen. [Figure 10] This figure shows another example of the fifth operation screen. [Figure 11] This figure shows another example of the first operation screen. [Figure 12] This figure shows another example of the third operation screen. [Figure 13] This figure shows another example of the fourth operation screen. [Figure 14] This figure shows an example of the sixth operation screen. [Figure 15] This figure shows another example of the first operation screen. [Figure 16] This figure shows an example of tape printing. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The information processing device, its control method, and its program will be described below with reference to the attached drawings. Figure 1 is a system configuration diagram of the tape printing system SY. The tape printing system SY comprises a portable terminal 1 and a tape printing device 2, which are connected to each other via wireless communication 5. The portable terminal 1 is an example of an "information processing device". Note that the portable terminal 1 and the tape printing device 2 may be connected via a cable or via a network instead of wireless communication 5.

[0010] Mobile terminal 1 is, for example, a smartphone, which generates print data for printing on tape T (see Figure 2), which is the printing medium of tape printing device 2, and transmits the generated print data to tape printing device 2. Tape printing device 2 prints a print image PG (see Figure 16) based on the print data transmitted from mobile terminal 1 onto tape T.

[0011] The mobile terminal 1 displays an operation screen D (see Figure 5, etc.) for editing print data on a touch panel 11 (see Figure 3) provided on the mobile terminal 1. The touch panel 11 is an example of a "display unit". The mobile terminal 1 according to this embodiment reads tabular data and generates multiple print data such that multiple print images PG based on multiple pieces of information stored in the read tabular data are each printed on tape T. In other words, the mobile terminal 1 according to this embodiment can generate print data for merge printing using tabular data. Note that "tabular data" refers to tabular data created by a spreadsheet application 33 (see Figure 3), etc. Also, in this embodiment, the information stored in the tabular data is assumed to be text.

[0012] In addition, the mobile terminal 1 can generate print data including a first code image obtained by converting the information stored in the table data into a one-dimensional code image, or generate print data including a second code image obtained by converting the information stored in the table data into a two-dimensional code image. The one-dimensional code image is an example of the "first type of code image". Also, the two-dimensional code image is an example of the "second type of code image". Examples of the one-dimensional code image include, for example, JAN code, ITF code, and CODE39. Examples of the two-dimensional code image include, for example, QR code (registered trademark), DataMatrix, and PDF417.

[0013] On the fourth operation screen D4, which will be described later, the mobile terminal 1 generates print data according to which option is selected by the user from a plurality of options including a text option 97, a one-dimensional code option 98, and a two-dimensional code option 99 (see FIG. 8). The fourth operation screen D4 is an example of the "second screen". Also, the text option 97 is an example of the "no-conversion option". Also, the one-dimensional code option 98 is an example of the "first conversion option". Also, the two-dimensional code option 99 is an example of the "second conversion option".

[0014] More specifically, when the user selects the text option 97, the mobile terminal 1 generates print data including a no-conversion image in which the information stored in the table data is not converted into other information. That is, when the user selects the text option 97, the mobile terminal 1 generates print data including a no-conversion image that is an image showing the text itself stored in the table data. Also, when the user selects the one-dimensional code option 98, the mobile terminal 1 converts the text stored in the table data into a one-dimensional code and generates print data including the first code image. Also, when the user selects the two-dimensional code option 99, the mobile terminal 1 converts the text stored in the table data into a two-dimensional code and generates print data including the second code image.

[0015] Note that the mobile terminal 1 displays, as part of the print image PI of the tape T, a block B indicating either a conversion-free image, a first code image, or a second code image, according to whether the user has selected any of the text option 97, the one-dimensional code option 98, and the two-dimensional code option 99. Thereby, the user can confirm how the information stored in the table data is converted and streamed in.

[0016] Also, the fourth operation screen D4 has a selection area E17 where the text option 97, the one-dimensional code option 98, and the two-dimensional code option 99 are displayed, and a second table data area E18 where the table data is displayed. That is, the mobile terminal 1 simultaneously displays on the touch panel 11 the table data for stream-in printing and a plurality of options for selecting how to convert the information stored in the table data and perform the stream-in. Therefore, the user can select an option while checking the table data. Also, this suppresses incorrect operations such as the user accidentally selecting the one-dimensional code option 98 or the two-dimensional code option 99 from the selection area E17 even though the table data stores text that cannot be converted into a one-dimensional code image or a two-dimensional code image. "Text that cannot be converted into a one-dimensional code image or a two-dimensional code image" is, for example, model-dependent characters or obsolete characters. Hereinafter, in this embodiment, the operations related to stream-in printing will be mainly described.

[0017] FIG. 2 is an external view of the tape printing device 2 and the tape cartridge C. The tape printing device 2 includes an operation key group 21, a printer-side display 22, a cartridge mounting portion 23, and a tape discharge port 24.

[0018] The operation key group 21 accepts various user operations, such as editing print data. The printer-side display 22 displays various information, such as an operation screen for editing print data. Although the tape printer 2 can also edit print data for mail merge printing using the operation screen displayed on the printer-side display 22, in this embodiment, the print data is edited on the mobile terminal 1. That is, the tape printer 2 receives the print data generated on the mobile terminal 1 and prints based on the received print data.

[0019] A tape cartridge C is detachably mounted in the cartridge mounting section 23. The tape cartridge C contains a tape T and an ink ribbon R within its case.

[0020] A thermal head 25 is provided in the cartridge mounting section 23. With the tape cartridge C mounted in the cartridge mounting section 23, the thermal head 25 is driven by generating heat in response to print data transmitted from the mobile terminal 1. As a result, the ink from the ink ribbon R is transferred to the tape T, and the print image PG based on the print data is printed on the tape T.

[0021] The printed tape T is ejected from the tape outlet 24. A cutter 26 is provided between the cartridge mounting section 23 and the tape outlet 24. The cutter 26 cuts the tape T in the width direction. This separates the printed portion of the tape T.

[0022] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the mobile terminal 1 and the tape printing device 2. The mobile terminal 1 includes a touch panel 11, a mobile terminal-side communication unit 13, and a mobile terminal-side control unit 14.

[0023] The touch panel 11 is used as both a display and an operating means, displaying various information such as the operation screen D, and accepting various user operations. As will be described in detail later, the operation screen D includes the first operation screen D1 (see Figure 5), the second operation screen D2 (see Figure 6), the third operation screen D3 (see Figure 7), the fourth operation screen D4 (see Figure 8), the fifth operation screen D5 (see Figure 9), and the sixth operation screen D6 (see Figure 14). The first to fifth operation screens D1 through D5 are accessed in numerical order. The sixth operation screen D6 can be accessed from any screen other than the second operation screen D2.

[0024] The mobile terminal communication unit 13 communicates with the tape printing device 2 via wireless communication 5. For example, the mobile terminal communication unit 13 sends print data to the tape printing device 2, or receives cartridge information from the tape printing device 2 indicating the type of tape cartridge C installed in the tape printing device 2.

[0025] The mobile terminal side control unit 14 includes a mobile terminal side CPU (Central Processing Unit) 14a, a mobile terminal side ROM (Read Only Memory) 14b, and a mobile terminal side RAM (Random Access Memory) 14c.

[0026] The mobile terminal CPU 14a performs various controls by loading various programs stored in the mobile terminal ROM 14b into the mobile terminal RAM 14c and executing them. The mobile terminal control unit 14 may use a hardware circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) as a processor instead of the mobile terminal CPU 14a. Alternatively, the processor may be configured with one or more CPUs and hardware circuits such as ASICs working together.

[0027] The mobile terminal's ROM 14b is a rewritable ROM that stores the OS (Operating System) 31, a tape printing application 32, and a spreadsheet application 33. The tape printing application 32 is an example of a "program".

[0028] OS31 is the basic software for running other applications. The tape printing application 32 is an application program for displaying the operation screen D, generating print data, and communicating with the tape printing device 2. The spreadsheet application 33 is an application for performing spreadsheet calculations. In this embodiment, the spreadsheet application 33 is used to create spreadsheet data. The spreadsheet data created by the spreadsheet application 33 is stored in the mobile terminal's ROM 14b.

[0029] The RAM 14c on the mobile terminal side is used as a work area for the CPU 14a on the mobile terminal side to perform various controls.

[0030] The tape printing device 2 includes a printing device side communication unit 41, a cartridge information reading unit 42, a printing unit 43, and a printing device side control unit 44.

[0031] The printing device's communication unit 41 communicates with the mobile terminal 1 via wireless communication 5.

[0032] The cartridge information reading unit 42 either optically reads a code image attached as a label to the tape cartridge C mounted in the cartridge mounting unit 23, or reads cartridge information from a circuit board (not shown) having a memory element provided on the tape cartridge C. The cartridge information includes tape width information indicating the tape width of the tape T contained in the tape cartridge C.

[0033] The printing unit 43 is a mechanism for printing on tape T and includes a thermal head 25, a feed motor 43a, and a cutter motor 43b. The thermal head 25 is equipped with multiple heating elements and performs printing by thermally transferring ink from the ink ribbon R to tape T. The feed motor 43a is a drive source that feeds tape T and ink ribbon R. The cutter motor 43b is a drive source that drives the cutter 26.

[0034] The printer-side control unit 44 includes a printer-side CPU 44a, a printer-side ROM 44b, and a printer-side RAM 44c.

[0035] The printing device CPU 44a performs various controls by loading control programs, such as firmware, stored in the printing device ROM 44b into the printing device RAM 44c and executing them. The printing device control unit 44 may use a hardware circuit such as an ASIC as its processor instead of the printing device CPU 44a. Alternatively, the processor may be configured with one or more CPUs and hardware circuits such as ASICs working together.

[0036] The printing device CPU 44a uses a control program stored in the printing device ROM 44b to print on the tape T unwound from the tape cartridge C, based on the print data transmitted from the mobile terminal 1. Furthermore, when the printing device CPU 44a receives print data from the mobile terminal 1 and when it receives a cartridge information request signal, it acquires cartridge information via the cartridge information reading unit 42 and transmits the acquired cartridge information to the mobile terminal 1.

[0037] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the mobile terminal 1. The mobile terminal 1 comprises a table data acquisition unit 110, a print data generation unit 120, and a display control unit 130. All of these functions are realized by the mobile terminal's CPU 14a executing the tape printing application 32.

[0038] The table data acquisition unit 110 acquires table data stored in the mobile terminal's ROM 14b. Table data consists of columns and rows. The table data acquisition unit 110 may also acquire table data from an external device that can communicate with the mobile terminal 1.

[0039] When the user selects text option 97 on the fourth operation screen D4 (see Figure 8), the print data generation unit 120 generates print data including an unconverted image, which is the information stored in the table data that has not been converted to other information. Furthermore, when the user selects one-dimensional code option 98 on the fourth operation screen D4, the print data generation unit 120 generates print data including a first code image, which is the information stored in the table data converted into a one-dimensional code image. Furthermore, when the user selects two-dimensional code option 99 on the fourth operation screen D4, the print data generation unit 120 generates print data including a second code image, which is the information stored in the table data converted into a two-dimensional code image.

[0040] Furthermore, the print data generation unit 120 generates multiple print data from the table data so that multiple print images PG, each based on multiple pieces of information stored in a column selected by the user, are printed on tape T. For example, if the column selected by the user contains information for two rows, the print data generation unit 120 generates first print data for printing a first print image PG based on the information in the first row onto tape T, and second print data for printing a second print image PG based on the information in the second row onto tape T. The user selects a column from the table data on the third operation screen D3 (see Figure 7), which will be described later. The third operation screen D3 is an example of the "first screen".

[0041] Furthermore, if the user creates multiple blocks B that represent either an unconverted image, a first code image, or a second code image, the print data generation unit 120 generates multiple print data so that multiple partial print images PGp (see Figure 16) corresponding to the multiple blocks B are printed on tape T. For example, suppose the user creates a first block B1 and a second block B2 that differs from the first block B1 in at least one of the columns selected from the table data and the options selected from the multiple options. In this case, the print data generation unit 120 generates multiple print data so that a first partial print image PGp1 corresponding to the first block B1 and a second partial print image PGp2 corresponding to the second block B2 are printed on tape T.

[0042] The display control unit 130 displays a third operation screen D3 on the touch panel 11, which has a first print image area E12 where a tape image TI, which is an image of tape T, is displayed, and a first table data area E13 where table data is displayed. The third operation screen D3 is the screen that is displayed when table data is selected on the second operation screen D2. The third operation screen D3 is also an example of the "first screen". The display control unit 130 displays the third operation screen D3 on the touch panel 11 such that the area of ​​the first print image area E12 is larger than the area of ​​the first table data area E13, and the area ratio between the first table data area E13 and the first print image area E12 does not change due to user operation.

[0043] Furthermore, the display control unit 130 causes the touch panel 11 to display a fourth operation screen D4, which includes a second print image area E16 on which a tape image TI is displayed, a selection area E17 on which multiple selections including a text selection 97, a one-dimensional code selection 98, and a two-dimensional code selection 99 are displayed, and a second table data area E18 on which table data is displayed.

[0044] When a user selects a column from the table data displayed in the first table data area E13 of the third operation screen D3 and performs a predetermined operation, the display control unit 130 displays the fourth operation screen D4 on the touch panel 11. In this case, the display control unit 130 displays the fourth operation screen D4 on the touch panel 11 by changing the first print image area E12 of the third operation screen D3 to the second print image area E16, changing the first table data area E13 to the second table data area E18, and displaying the selection area E17 as a pop-up.

[0045] Furthermore, when the user selects one of the multiple options displayed in the selection area E17, the display control unit 130 displays a fifth operation screen D5 on the touch panel 11, which has a third print image area E22 where the print image PI of the tape T is displayed, and an edit menu area E23 where the print data editing menu is displayed. The fifth operation screen D5 is an example of the "third screen".

[0046] Furthermore, the display control unit 130 displays block B, which represents either an unconverted image, a first code image, or a second code image, as part of the print image PI in the third print image area E22 of the fifth operation screen D5, depending on the option selected from multiple options. For example, if the user selects the text option 97, the display control unit 130 displays block B, which represents an unconverted image in which any of the information stored in the selected column from the table data has not been converted to other information, as part of the print image PI. Also, if the user selects the one-dimensional code option 98, the display control unit 130 displays block B, which represents a first code image in which any of the information stored in the selected column from the table data has been converted to a one-dimensional code, as part of the print image PI. Also, if the user selects the two-dimensional code option 99, the display control unit 130 displays block B, which represents a second code image in which any of the information stored in the selected column from the table data has been converted to a two-dimensional code, as part of the print image PI.

[0047] Next, with reference to Figures 5 to 15, the display of operation screen D and the operation of operation screen D will be explained with specific examples. In the following explanation, the selection of options and buttons will be performed by the user tapping the location of the option or button displayed on the touch panel 11.

[0048] Figure 5 shows an example of the display of the first operation screen D1. After the tape printing application 32 is launched, the mobile terminal 1 displays a menu screen (not shown) on the touch panel 11, and when a predetermined menu is selected from multiple menus on the menu screen, the first operation screen D1 is displayed on the touch panel 11.

[0049] The menu screen displays a cartridge information acquisition menu for obtaining cartridge information from the tape printer 2. When the cartridge information acquisition menu is selected on the menu screen, the mobile terminal 1 sends a cartridge information request signal to the tape printer 2 and acquires cartridge information from the tape printer 2. The cartridge information acquired here is assumed to include tape width information indicating a tape width of "18 mm".

[0050] The first operation screen D1 includes an initial tape information area E1, an initial print image area E2, and an operation menu area E3.

[0051] The initial tape information area E1 displays the initial tape size information 51. The initial tape size information 51 indicates the tape length and tape width of the tape T created based on the print data edited in the initial print image area E2. The mobile terminal 1 displays the tape width of the initial tape size information 51 based on the tape width information included in the cartridge information obtained from the tape printer 2. The mobile terminal 1 also displays the tape length of the initial tape size information 51 based on the print data edited in the initial print image area E2. In other words, the tape length of the initial tape size information 51 corresponds to the tape length of the tape image TI displayed in the initial print image area E2.

[0052] The first operation screen D1 shown in Figure 5 indicates that no editing has been performed in the initial print image area E2. Therefore, the mobile terminal 1 displays "10 mm," which corresponds to the shortest length of the tape image TI, as the tape length in the initial tape size information 51. In addition, the mobile terminal 1 displays the tape width "18 mm" as the tape width in the initial tape size information 51, based on the cartridge information obtained from the tape printing device 2.

[0053] The initial print image area E2 displays the print image PI of tape T. The print image PI includes the tape image TI, which is the image of tape T, and the image GI (see Figure 9, etc.), which is the image of the print image PG to be printed on tape T. As described above, the first operation screen D1 shown in Figure 5 shows a state where no editing has been done in the initial print image area E2, so the mobile terminal 1 displays only the tape image TI as the print image PI.

[0054] The operation menu area E3 displays the scan button 61, the date button 62, the sequential number button 63, the merge button 64, the PDF button 65, the save button 66, and the print button 67.

[0055] The scan button 61 is a button for inputting a scanned image. When the scan button 61 is selected, the mobile terminal 1 activates a camera (not shown) and displays an image GI based on the scanned image captured by the camera in the initial print image area E2.

[0056] The date button 62 is a button for entering the date. When the date button 62 is selected, the mobile terminal 1 obtains the current date from a calendar application (not shown) and displays an image GI indicating the obtained current date in the initial print image area E2.

[0057] The sequential number button 63 is a button for entering sequential numbers. When the sequential number button 63 is selected, the mobile terminal 1 displays a sequential number setting screen (not shown) and accepts the sequential number setting from the user. Based on the settings on the sequential number setting screen, the mobile terminal 1 displays an image GI indicating the initial value of the sequential number in the initial print image area E2.

[0058] The merge button 64 is a button for performing merge printing. When the merge button 64 is selected, the mobile terminal 1 displays a table file selection screen (not shown). When a table file is selected by the user on the table file selection screen, the mobile terminal 1 displays the second operation screen D2 shown in Figure 6 on the touch panel 11. A table file includes table data and metadata such as the file name.

[0059] The PDF button 65 is a button for inputting a PDF image. When the PDF button 65 is selected, the mobile terminal 1 displays a PDF file selection screen (not shown) and accepts the user's selection of a PDF file. The mobile terminal 1 reads the PDF file selected by the user and displays an image GI based on the PDF image of the read PDF file in the initial print image area E2.

[0060] The save button 66 is used to save the edited print data in the initial print image area E2. When the save button 66 is selected, the mobile terminal 1 saves the edited print data in the initial print image area E2 to the mobile terminal's ROM 14b.

[0061] The print button 67 is a button used to execute printing. When the print button 67 is selected, the mobile terminal 1 generates print data based on the editing results of the print data in the initial print image area E2 and sends the generated print data to the tape printer 2.

[0062] When the mobile terminal 1 sends print data to the tape printer 2, the tape printer 2 reads cartridge information from the tape cartridge C and sends the read cartridge information to the mobile terminal 1. If the tape width indicated by the acquired cartridge information differs from the tape width displayed in the initial tape size information 51, the mobile terminal 1 issues an error notification.

[0063] Figure 6 shows an example of the display of the second operation screen D2. As described above, when a table file is selected on the table file selection screen (not shown) of the mobile terminal 1, the second operation screen D2 is displayed on the touch panel 11. The second operation screen D2 has a selection button area E5, a table data confirmation area E6, and a table data setting area E7.

[0064] The selection button area E5 displays the cancel button 71, the confirm button 72, and the table file name 73.

[0065] The cancel button 71 is used to cancel the selection of a table file. When the cancel button 71 is selected, the mobile terminal 1 hides the second operation screen D2 and displays the first operation screen D1 on the touch panel 11.

[0066] The OK button 72 is used to select the table data and the settings for the table data. When the OK button 72 is selected, the mobile terminal 1 selects the table data displayed in the table data confirmation area E6 as the table data to be used for mail merge, and selects the settings in the table data setting area E7 as the settings for the table data.

[0067] Table file name 73 is the file name included in the table file selected by the user on the table file selection screen (not shown).

[0068] The table data confirmation area E6 displays the selected table data 74, which is the table data contained in the table file selected by the user on the table file selection screen (not shown). The example in Figure 6 shows the selected table data 74 containing information in 3 columns. The example in Figure 6 also shows the selected table data 74 containing information in 13 rows or more. The first row of the selected table data 74 contains information indicating the column titles, and the first column of the selected table data 74 contains information indicating the row numbers. When the user performs a scroll operation on the table data confirmation area E6, the mobile terminal 1 scrolls the display of the table data confirmation area E6 in the row and column directions of the selected table data 74. A scroll operation is an operation of flicking or swiping on the touch panel 11.

[0069] The table data setting area E7 displays the title selection field 75, the starting row input field 76, and the number of rows to import input field 77.

[0070] The title selection field 75 is a button for selecting whether or not to use the first row of the table data as the title. The example in Figure 6 shows the setting to use the first row of the table data as the title. When the mobile device 1 is set to use the first row of the table data as the title, it will display column titles in the first table data area E13 (see Figure 7) and the second table data area E18 (see Figure 8), as described later. When the mobile device 1 is set not to use the first row of the table data as the title, it will omit the row indicating the column titles in the first table data area E13 and the second table data area E18.

[0071] The starting row input field 76 is a button for selecting the starting row of the table data. The number of rows to import input field 77 is a button for selecting the number of rows of table data to import. As shown in Figure 6, if the starting row is set to "1" and the number of rows to import to "8", the mobile terminal 1 will import rows 1 through 8 of the table data. The mobile terminal 1 will then display the imported 8 rows of table data in the first table data area E13 and the second table data area E18, which will be described later.

[0072] Figure 7 shows an example of the display of the third operation screen D3. When the OK button 72 is selected on the second operation screen D2, the mobile terminal 1 displays the third operation screen D3 on the touch panel 11. The third operation screen D3 has a first tape information area E11, a first print image area E12, and a first table data area E13.

[0073] As described above, mobile terminal 1 displays the third operation screen D3 such that the area of ​​the first print image area E12 is larger than the area of ​​the first table data area E13. Furthermore, mobile terminal 1 displays the third operation screen D3 such that the area ratio of the two areas does not change, even if the boundary line between the first print image area E12 and the first table data area E13 is moved by user operation.

[0074] The first tape information area E11 displays the first tape size information 81. The first tape size information 81 is information indicating the tape length and tape width of tape T, which is created based on the print data edited in the first print image area E12.

[0075] The first print image area E12 displays the print image PI of tape T. The third operation screen D3 shown in Figure 7 indicates that no editing has been performed in the first print image area E12; therefore, only the tape image TI is displayed as the print image PI in the first print image area E12.

[0076] The first table data area E13 displays the decision table data 83, the first import button 85, and the first close button 86.

[0077] The decision table data 83 consists of eight rows of table data selected from the selection table data 74 by the second operation screen D2. In the example in Figure 7, five of the eight rows of table data are displayed in the first table data area E13. When the user scrolls in the first table data area E13, the mobile terminal 1 scrolls the display of the first table data area E13 in the row and column directions of the decision table data 83. Also, in the example in Figure 7, the first column of the decision table data 83 is selected as the selection column. The mobile terminal 1 displays the selection column with a selection frame 84 added.

[0078] The first import button 85 is a button for importing information stored in the selection column of the decision table data 83. When the mobile terminal 1 is displaying the selection frame 84 on the decision table data 83 and the first import button 85 is operated, the mobile terminal 1 imports the information stored in the selection column as information to be used for merge printing. Operating the first import button 85 is an example of a "predetermined operation". The operation of the first import button 85 is performed by tapping the display area of ​​the first import button 85. Furthermore, "importing information stored in the selection column" means storing the information stored in the selection column in a predetermined memory area of ​​the mobile terminal's RAM 14c.

[0079] The first close button 86 is a button used to hide the first table data area E13. When the first close button 86 is pressed, the mobile terminal 1 hides the first table data area E13, thereby displaying the first operation screen D1 (see Figure 5) on the touch panel 11.

[0080] Figure 8 shows an example of the display of the fourth operation screen D4. When the first import button 85 is operated while the selection frame 84 is displayed in the decision table data 83 of the third operation screen D3, the mobile terminal 1 displays the fourth operation screen D4 on the touch panel 11. The fourth operation screen D4 has a second tape information area E15, a second print image area E16, a selection area E17, and a second table data area E18. The mobile terminal 1 displays the fourth operation screen D4 on the touch panel 11 by changing the first print image area E12 of the third operation screen D3 to the second print image area E16, changing the first table data area E13 to the second table data area E18, and making the selection area E17 a pop-up display.

[0081] The second tape information area E15 displays the second tape size information 91. The second tape size information 91 is information indicating the tape length and tape width of tape T, which is created based on the print data edited in the second print image area E16.

[0082] The second print image area E16 displays the print image PI of tape T. The fourth operation screen D4 shown in Figure 8 indicates that no editing has been performed in the second print image area E16; therefore, only the tape image TI is displayed as the print image PI in the second print image area E16.

[0083] The selection area E17 displays a text selection option 97, a one-dimensional code selection option 98, a two-dimensional code selection option 99, and a pop-up hide button 100. When one of the text selection option 97, the one-dimensional code selection option 98, or the two-dimensional code selection option 99 is selected, the mobile terminal 1 displays the fifth operation screen D5 (see Figure 9) on the touch panel 11. If the text selection option 97 is selected, the mobile terminal 1 displays block B, whose block type is "text," in the third print image area E22 of the fifth operation screen D5, as shown in Figure 9. If the one-dimensional code selection option 98 is selected, the mobile terminal 1 displays block B, whose block type is "one-dimensional code image," in the third print image area E22 of the fifth operation screen D5. If the two-dimensional code selection option 99 is selected, the mobile terminal 1 displays block B, whose block type is "two-dimensional code image," in the third print image area E22 of the fifth operation screen D5. In the third print image area E22 of the fifth operation screen D5, these blocks B are displayed superimposed on the tape image TI.

[0084] The pop-up hide button 100 is a button used to hide the selection area E17, which is a pop-up screen. When the pop-up hide button 100 is selected, the mobile terminal 1 hides the selection area E17, thereby displaying the third operation screen D3 (see Figure 7) on the touch panel 11.

[0085] The second table data area E18 displays the decision table data 83, the second import button 95, and the second close button 96.

[0086] The decision table data 83 displayed in the second table data area E18 is the same as the decision table data 83 displayed in the first table data area E13 on the third operation screen D3. The mobile terminal 1 can accept changes to the selected column in the second table data area E18. When the selected column is changed in the second table data area E18 and the second import button 95 is operated, the mobile terminal 1 imports the information stored in the new selected column. That is, when the selected column is changed and the second import button 95 is operated, the mobile terminal 1 overwrites the information stored in a predetermined memory area of ​​the mobile terminal's RAM 14c with the information stored in the new selected column. When the second import button 95 is operated on the fourth operation screen D4, the mobile terminal 1 maintains the display of the fourth operation screen D4.

[0087] Note that the mobile terminal 1 may be configured not to accept changes to the selected column in the data area E18 of Table 2. In this case, when the pop-up hide button 100 is selected, the mobile terminal 1 will hide the fourth operation screen D4 and display the third operation screen D3, and the third operation screen D3 will accept changes to the selected column.

[0088] The second close button 96 is used to hide the selection area E17 and the second table data area E18. When the second close button 96 is pressed, the mobile terminal 1 hides the selection area E17 and the second table data area E18, thereby displaying the first operation screen D1 (see Figure 5) on the touch panel 11.

[0089] Figure 9 shows an example of the display of the fifth operation screen D5. When one of the multiple options displayed in the selection area E17 of the fourth operation screen D4 is selected, the mobile terminal 1 displays the fifth operation screen D5 on the touch panel 11. The example in Figure 9 shows the case when the text option 97 is selected in the selection area E17 of the fourth operation screen D4. The fifth operation screen D5 has a third tape information area E21, a third print image area E22, and an edit menu area E23.

[0090] The third tape information area E21 displays the third tape count information 101 and the third tape size information 102. The third tape count information 101 indicates the number of tapes T to be created and which tape T the print image PI displayed in the third print image area E22 corresponds to. In the example in Figure 9, the third tape information area E21 is displayed as a fraction, "1 / 8". The denominator of the third tape information area E21 indicates the number of tapes T to be created. The numerator of the third tape information area E21 indicates the tape T to which the print image PI displayed in the third print image area E22 corresponds. Therefore, in the example in Figure 9, the number of tapes T to be created is "8", and the print image PI of the first tape T is displayed in the third print image area E22.

[0091] Furthermore, the third tape count information 101 includes the third list display icon 101a. The third list display icon 101a is a button for displaying the sixth operation screen D6, which will be described later. When the third list display icon 101a is selected, the mobile terminal 1 displays the sixth operation screen D6 on the touch panel 11, which displays the print image PI for the number of tapes indicated in the third tape information area E21.

[0092] The third tape size information 102 is information indicating the tape length and tape width of tape T, which is created based on the print data edited in the third print image area E22.

[0093] The third print image area E22 displays the print image PI of tape T. The print image PI is created by superimposing the image GI, which is the image of the print image PG, onto the tape image TI, which is the image of tape T. In the example in Figure 9, the image GI displayed is the first block B1, which represents the text "1", the information of the first row of the information stored in the first column selected from the decision table data 83. Also, in the example in Figure 9, the first block B1 is shown to be selected. The mobile terminal 1 displays the selected first block B1 with a handle 103 attached.

[0094] The edit menu area E23 displays the rotate button 104, the copy button 105, the lock button 106, the multiple selection button 107, and the delete button 108. These edit menus are displayed in the edit menu area E23 regardless of the block type of block B selected in the third print image area E22. Other edit menus displayed in the edit menu area E23 will be different depending on the block type of block B that is selected.

[0095] When the rotate button 104 is selected, the mobile terminal 1 rotates the selected block B in the third print image area E22, i.e., the block B with the handle 103 attached, by 90° clockwise, for example. The direction and angle of rotation are arbitrary. When the copy button 105 is selected, the mobile terminal 1 copies the selected block B in the third print image area E22 and displays the newly copied block B on the tape image TI. When the lock button 106 is selected, the mobile terminal 1 prohibits at least one of the movement and editing of the selected block B in the third print image area E22. When the multiple selection button 107 is selected, the mobile terminal 1 selects all block B displayed in the third print image area E22. That is, when the multiple selection button 107 is selected, the mobile terminal 1 displays all block B displayed in the third print image area E22 with the handle 103 attached. Furthermore, when the delete button 108 is selected, the mobile terminal 1 deletes the selected block B in the third print image area E22.

[0096] The editing menu area E23 displays the third close button 123. The third close button 123 is used to hide the editing menu area E23. When the third close button 123 is pressed, the mobile terminal 1 hides the editing menu area E23 and displays the first operation screen D1 on the touch panel 11. In addition to the operation of the third close button 123, the mobile terminal 1 also hides the editing menu area E23 when the third print image area E22 is tapped.

[0097] Additionally, the editing menu area E23 displays the tab display area TB, the font selection area 111, and the resize area 112. These editing menus are displayed when the block type of the selected block B is "Text".

[0098] If the selected block B is of the "1D code image" type, the editing menu will display options for setting the type of 1D code and the size of the first code image. If the selected block B is of the "2D code image" type, the editing menu will display options for setting the type of 2D code, the size of the second code image, and the error correction rate.

[0099] The tab display area TB has three tabs: "Font," "Spacing," and "Position." In the example in Figure 9, the "Font" tab is selected in the tab display area TB. The following editing menu is the font editing menu that is displayed when the "Font" tab is selected. Note that when the "Spacing" tab is selected, the mobile terminal 1 displays an editing menu for editing the spacing of block B instead of the font editing menu. Also, when the "Position" tab is selected, the mobile terminal 1 displays an editing menu for editing the position of block B on the tape image TI instead of the font editing menu.

[0100] The font selection field 111 is a selection field for selecting the font type for the currently selected block B. When the right arrow icon 111a in the font selection field 111 is selected, the mobile terminal 1 displays a font menu (not shown). When any font is selected from the font menu, the mobile terminal 1 displays the name of the selected font in the font selection field 111. Also, when any font is selected from the font menu, the mobile terminal 1 changes the font of the currently selected block B in the third print image area E22 to the selected font.

[0101] The resize field 112 is a field for changing the font size of the selected block B. When the operator 112a of the resize field 112 is moved in the positive direction, the mobile device 1 increases the font size of the selected block B. Conversely, when the operator 112a of the resize field 112 is moved in the negative direction, the mobile device 1 decreases the font size of the selected block B. The mobile device 1 also displays the numerical value of the font size set by the operation of the operator 112a in the resize field 112. Furthermore, once a font size is selected, the mobile device 1 changes the font of the selected block B in the third print image area E22 to the selected font size.

[0102] Furthermore, the editing menu area E23 displays a bold button 113, an italic button 114, an underline button 115, and an invert button 116 as part of the font editing menu. For these editing menus, the mobile device 1 switches between applying and not applying the corresponding edit each time a button is selected.

[0103] When the bold button 113 is selected on mobile device 1, the text in the selected block B will be made bold. Also, when the italic button 114 is selected on mobile device 1, the text in the selected block B will be made italic. Also, when the underline button 115 is selected on mobile device 1, the text in the selected block B will be underlined. Also, when the invert button 116 is selected on mobile device 1, the text color and background color of the selected block B will be inverted.

[0104] Additionally, the editing menu area E23 displays the left-align button 117, the center-align button 118, the right-align button 119, the horizontal writing button 121, and the vertical writing button 122 as part of the font editing menu.

[0105] One of the left-align button 117, the center-align button 118, or the right-align button 119 is selected. If the selected block B contains multiple lines of text and the left-align button 117 is selected, the mobile device 1 will left-align the multi-line text. If the selected block B contains multiple lines of text and the center-align button 118 is selected, the mobile device 1 will center-align the multi-line text. If the selected block B contains multiple lines of text and the right-align button 119 is selected, the mobile device 1 will right-align the multi-line text.

[0106] Either the horizontal writing button 121 or the vertical writing button 122 is selected. When the horizontal writing button 121 is selected, the mobile device 1 arranges the text in the selected block B so that the text is arranged horizontally. When the vertical writing button 122 is selected, the mobile device 1 arranges the text in the selected block B so that the text is arranged vertically.

[0107] Figure 10 shows an example of the fifth operation screen D5 that differs from Figure 9. The procedure for displaying the fifth operation screen D5 shown in Figure 10 will now be explained, referring to Figures 11 to 13. When the third close button 123 is pressed on the fifth operation screen D5 shown in Figure 9, the mobile terminal 1 displays the first operation screen D1 shown in Figure 11 on the touch panel 11. The display of the initial tape information area E1 and the initial print image area E2 in the first operation screen D1 shown in Figure 11 is the same as that of the third tape information area E21 and the third print image area E22 shown in Figure 9. The initial tape count information 52 displays the same information as the third tape count information 101, and the initial list display icon 52a functions similarly to the third list display icon 101a. When the merge button 64 is selected on the first operation screen D1 shown in Figure 11, the mobile terminal 1 displays the third operation screen D3 shown in Figure 12 without displaying the table file selection screen (not shown), because editing for merge printing has already been performed.

[0108] The third operation screen D3 shown in Figure 12 displays the first tape information area E11 and the first print image area E12 in the same way as the third tape information area E21 and the third print image area E22 shown in Figure 9, and the first table data area E13 is the same as in Figure 7. The first tape count information 82 displays the same information as the third tape count information 101, and the first list display icon 82a functions in the same way as the third list display icon 101a. After the second column is selected from the decision table data 83 on the third operation screen D3 shown in Figure 12, the mobile terminal 1 displays the fourth operation screen D4 shown in Figure 13 when the first import button 85 is operated.

[0109] The fourth operation screen D4 shown in Figure 13 displays the second tape information area E15 and the second print image area E16 in the same way as the third tape information area E21 and the third print image area E22 shown in Figure 9. Also, in the fourth operation screen D4 shown in Figure 13, the second column of the decision table data 83 in the second table data area E18 is the selection column. The second tape count information 92 displays the same information as the third tape count information 101, and the second list display icon 92a functions the same way as the third list display icon 101a. When the mobile terminal 1 selects the 2D code option 99 from the multiple options displayed in the selection area E17 on the fourth operation screen D4 shown in Figure 13, it displays the fifth operation screen D5 shown in Figure 10.

[0110] The fifth operation screen D5 shown in Figure 10 is different from the fifth operation screen D5 shown in Figure 9 in that the second block B2 is additionally displayed in the third print image area E22. Note that in the example shown in Figure 10, the first block B1 is selected, so the edit menu area E23 displays the menu for when the block type is "text".

[0111] Furthermore, in the example shown in Figure 10, due to the addition of the second block B2, the tape length of the tape image TI displayed in the third print image area E22 has increased, and the tape length of the third tape size information 102 displayed in the third tape information area E21 has also increased compared to the example shown in Figure 9.

[0112] Figure 14 shows an example of the display of the sixth operation screen D6. When the third list display icon 101a is selected in the third tape information area E21 of the fifth operation screen D5, the mobile terminal 1 displays the sixth operation screen D6 on the touch panel 11.

[0113] The sixth operation screen D6 has a back icon area E25 and a page list area E26. The back icon area E25 displays a back icon 131. When the back icon 131 is selected, the mobile terminal 1 displays the screen that was displayed before the sixth operation screen D6 was displayed on the touch panel 11. For example, if the sixth operation screen D6 is displayed by selecting the third list display icon 101a on the fifth operation screen D5, the mobile terminal 1 will display the fifth operation screen D5 on the touch panel 11 when the back icon 131 is selected.

[0114] The page list area E26 displays the print image PI for the information imported for use in mail merge. For example, when the mobile terminal 1 displays the sixth operation screen D6 by selecting the third list display icon 101a on the fifth operation screen D5 shown in Figure 10, the print image PI for eight tapes T will be displayed in the page list area E26. In the page list area E26, the first print image PI1, which is the print image PI for the first tape T, is displayed as the information for the first page. Similarly, the Xth print image PIX, which is the print image PI for the Xth tape T, is displayed as the information for the Xth page.

[0115] Furthermore, in the example shown in Figure 14, the first print image PI1 displays an image GI that includes the first block B1 and the second block B2 based on the information in the first row of the decision table data 83 (see Figure 13, etc.). The first block B1 of the first print image PI1 is a block B that shows the unconverted image based on the information in the first column and first row of the decision table data 83. The second block B2 of the first print image PI1 is a block B that shows the second code image based on the information in the second column and first row of the decision table data 83.

[0116] Figure 15 shows an example of the display of the first operation screen D1 when the third close button 123 is operated on the fifth operation screen D5 shown in Figure 10. In the first operation screen D1 shown in Figure 15, the display of the initial tape information area E1 and the initial print image area E2 is the same as that of the third tape information area E21 and the third print image area E22 shown in Figure 10. When the print button 67 is selected from the operation menu area E3 of the first operation screen D1 shown in Figure 15, the mobile terminal 1 generates eight print data corresponding to the eight print images PI displayed in the page list area E26 of the sixth operation screen D6 shown in Figure 14. The mobile terminal 1 sends the eight generated print data to the tape printer 2.

[0117] Figure 16 shows an example of printing on tape T. The tape T in Figure 16 shows an example of printing on the first tape T created when the print button 67 is selected from the operation menu area E3 of the first operation screen D1 shown in Figure 15. In other words, the tape T shown in Figure 16 is the tape T corresponding to the first print image PI1 displayed on the sixth operation screen D6 shown in Figure 14.

[0118] The tape T shown in Figure 16 has a printed image PG that includes a first partial printed image PGp1 corresponding to the first block B1 of the first printed image PI1, and a second partial printed image PGp2 corresponding to the second block B2 of the first printed image PI1. Also, as shown in the initial tape size information 51 of the first operation screen D1 shown in Figure 15, when the print button 67 is selected from the operation menu area E3 of the first operation screen D1 shown in Figure 15, a tape T with a tape length of "24 mm" and a tape width of "18 mm" is created.

[0119] As described above, the mobile terminal 1 according to this embodiment simultaneously displays a second table data area E18 containing decision table data 83 for performing merge printing, and a selection area E17 containing multiple options for selecting how to convert and merge the information stored in the decision table data 83, on the fourth operation screen D4. Therefore, the user can select the desired option in the selection area E17 while confirming the decision table data 83. Furthermore, this prevents the user from making errors such as mistakenly selecting a one-dimensional code option 98 or a two-dimensional code option 99 from the selection area E17, even though the decision table data 83 contains text that cannot be converted to a first code image or a second code image.

[0120] Furthermore, when the user selects a column from the decision table data 83 displayed in the first table data area E13 of the third operation screen D3, and the first import button 85 is operated, the mobile terminal 1 displays the fourth operation screen D4 on the touch panel 11. This allows the user to select a column from the decision table data 83 on the third operation screen D3, and then select a desired option from the selection area E17 on the fourth operation screen D4.

[0121] Furthermore, the fourth operation screen D4 has a selection area E17 and a second table data area E18, as well as a second print image area E16 where the print image PI is displayed. This allows the user to simultaneously view the print image PI, multiple selections, and the decision table data 83 on the fourth operation screen D4.

[0122] Furthermore, the mobile terminal 1 displays the fourth operation screen D4 on the touch panel 11 by popping up the selection area E17 on the third operation screen D3. This allows the user to easily switch between the third operation screen D3, which does not have the selection area E17, and the fourth operation screen D4, which does have the selection area E17.

[0123] Furthermore, the mobile terminal 1 displays the first print image area E12 on the third operation screen D3 in such a way that the area of ​​the first print image area E12 is larger than the area of ​​the first table data area E13, and that the area ratio between the first table data area E13 and the first print image area E12 does not change due to user operation. As a result, the user's visibility of the first print image area E12 on the third operation screen D3 is not obstructed.

[0124] Furthermore, when the user selects one of the multiple options displayed in the selection area E17, the mobile terminal 1 displays a fifth operation screen D5, which includes a third print image area E22 displaying the print image PI of the tape T, and an edit menu area E23 displaying the print data editing menu. This allows the user to display the fifth operation screen D5 without performing any special operations by selecting the desired option on the fourth operation screen D4. In addition, the user can simultaneously view the print image PI of the tape T and the print data editing menu on the fifth operation screen D5.

[0125] Furthermore, the mobile terminal 1 displays a block B in the third print image area E22 of the fifth operation screen D5, indicating either an unconverted image, a first code image, or a second code image, depending on the selection made from the multiple options displayed in the selection area E17. Also, if multiple block Bs are displayed in the third print image area E22 of the fifth operation screen D5, the mobile terminal 1 generates multiple print data so that multiple partial print images PGp corresponding to the multiple block Bs are printed on tape T. This allows the mobile terminal 1 to generate print data that prints multiple partial print images PGp onto a single tape T.

[0126] Furthermore, the mobile terminal 1 can display a first block B1 and a second block B2 in the third print image area E22 of the fifth operation screen D5, wherein at least one of the columns selected from the table data and the options selected from multiple options differs from the first block B1. In this case, the mobile terminal 1 can generate print data to print a first partial print image PGp1 corresponding to the first block B1 and a second partial print image PGp2 corresponding to the second block B2 onto a single tape T.

[0127] In addition, the following modifications can be adopted instead of the above-described embodiment. [Example 1] The first operation screen D1 shown in Figure 15 displays two blocks B as part of the print image PI. More specifically, the first operation screen D1 displays the first block B1, which is generated when the first column is selected from the decision table data 83 and the text option 97 is selected in the option area E17, and the second block B2, which is generated when the second column is selected from the decision table data 83 and the 2D code option 99 is selected in the option area E17. However, the display control unit 130 may also display multiple blocks B as part of the print image PI, where the selected column from the decision table data 83 is the same, but the selected option in the option area E17 is different. Alternatively, the display control unit 130 may also display multiple blocks B as part of the print image PI, where the selected column from the decision table data 83 is different, but the selected option in the option area E17 is the same, i.e., multiple blocks B of the same block type.

[0128] [Differentiation 2] The display control unit 130 may include a URL option among the multiple options displayed in the selection area E17 of the fourth operation screen D4. However, this modified example assumes that a URL is stored as information in the column selected from the decision table data 83 on the third operation screen D3. In this case, when a URL option is selected from the multiple options in the selection area E17, the print data generation unit 120 generates print data including the acquired image obtained by accessing the URL stored in the decision table data 83. With this configuration, the user can select a desired option from multiple options, including a URL option, in the selection area E17.

[0129] [Difference 3] The display control unit 130 may enlarge or reduce the selected table data 74 in the second operation screen D2 (see Figure 6) in accordance with the user's zoom in or zoom out operation. Zooming in operation is, for example, pinching out, and zooming out operation is, for example, pinching in. Similarly, the display control unit 130 may enlarge or reduce the selected table data 74 in the first table data area E13 of the third operation screen D3 (see Figure 7) and the second table data area E18 of the fourth operation screen D4 (see Figure 8) in accordance with the user's zoom in or zoom out operation. Furthermore, the display control unit 130 may enlarge or reduce the print image PI in the page list area E26 of the sixth operation screen D6 (see Figure 14) in accordance with the user's zoom in or zoom out operation.

[0130] [Differentiation Example 4] In the explanation of the third operation screen D3 (see Figure 7), it was stated that when the first column of the decision table data 83 is selected as the selection column, the mobile terminal 1 displays the selected column with a selection frame 84 added. However, it is not necessary to display the selection frame 84. For example, instead of displaying the selection frame 84, the entire column selected by the user, or the cells within the range selected by the user, may be displayed with a different fill color than the unselected columns or cells.

[0131] [Difference 5] Mobile device 1 may be a tablet device or the like instead of a smartphone. The "information processing device" may also be a PC (Personal Computer) or tape printer 2 instead of mobile device 1. If the "information processing device" is tape printer 2, the printer-side display 22 is an example of a "display unit." The "printing medium" may be other than tape, such as copy paper. Furthermore, the "information" stored in the table data may be images other than text, such as one-dimensional code images or two-dimensional code images.

[0132] [Modification 6] Furthermore, the tape printing application 32 may be provided to the customer as a program. Alternatively, a storage medium on which the tape printing application 32 is recorded may be provided to the customer. Other modifications are possible as appropriate, without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0133] [Note] The following is an addendum regarding the information processing device, the control method for the information processing device, and the program. The mobile terminal 1 includes a table data acquisition unit 110 that acquires table data; a print data generation unit 120 that, when the user selects a text option 97, generates print data including an unconverted image in which the information stored in the table data has not been converted into other information, and when the user selects a one-dimensional code option 98, generates print data including a first code image in which the information stored in the table data has been converted into a one-dimensional code image; and a display control unit 130 that causes the touch panel 11 to display a second screen having an option area E17 in which a plurality of options including the text option 97 and the one-dimensional code option 98 are displayed, and a second table data area E18 in which the table data is displayed.

[0134] The control method for the mobile terminal 1 involves the mobile terminal 1 performing the following steps: acquiring table data; generating print data including an unconverted image in which the information stored in the table data has not been converted to other information when the user selects a text option 97, and generating print data including a first code image in which the information stored in the table data has been converted to a one-dimensional code image when the user selects a one-dimensional code option 98; and displaying a second screen on the touch panel 11, which has a selection area E17 in which multiple options including the text option 97 and the one-dimensional code option 98 are displayed, and a second table data area E18 in which the table data is displayed.

[0135] The tape printing application 32 causes the mobile terminal 1 to perform the following steps: acquire table data; generate print data including an unconverted image in which the information stored in the table data has not been converted to other information when the user selects a text option 97, and generate print data including a first code image in which the information stored in the table data has been converted to a one-dimensional code image when the user selects a one-dimensional code option 98; and display a fourth operation screen D4 on the touch panel 11, which has a selection area E17 in which multiple options including the text option 97 and the one-dimensional code option 98 are displayed, and a second table data area E18 in which the table data is displayed.

[0136] This configuration allows users to select options while viewing tabular data, thus preventing errors such as mistakenly selecting the one-dimensional code option 98 from option area E17, even though the tabular data contains information that cannot be converted into a code image.

[0137] In the above-described mobile terminal 1, the display control unit 130 preferably displays a third operation screen D3 on the touch panel 11, which has a first print image area E12 on which a tape image TI is displayed and a first table data area E13 on which table data is displayed. When the user selects any column from the table data displayed in the first table data area E13 and performs a predetermined operation, the fourth operation screen D4 is displayed on the touch panel 11, and the print data generation unit 120 preferably generates multiple print data from the table data such that multiple print images PG based on multiple pieces of information stored in the column selected by the user are each printed on the tape T.

[0138] With this configuration, the user can simultaneously view the tape image TI and the table data on the third operation screen D3. Furthermore, after selecting a column from the table data, the user can choose their desired option from multiple choices.

[0139] In the above-described mobile terminal 1, the fourth operation screen D4 has a selection area E17, a second table data area E18, and a second print image area E16 on which the tape image TI is displayed. The display control unit 130 preferably displays the fourth operation screen D4 on the touch panel 11 by changing the first print image area E12 of the third operation screen D3 to the second print image area E16, changing the first table data area E13 to the second table data area E18, and displaying the selection area E17 as a pop-up when the user selects any column from the table data displayed in the first table data area E13 and a predetermined operation is performed.

[0140] With this configuration, the user can simultaneously view the tape image TI, multiple options, and table data on the fourth operation screen D4. Furthermore, since the options area E17 is displayed as a pop-up, the user can easily switch between the third operation screen D3, which does not have the options area E17, and the fourth operation screen D4, which does have the options area E17.

[0141] In the above-described mobile terminal 1, it is preferable that the display control unit 130 displays the third operation screen D3 on the touch panel 11 such that the area of ​​the first print image area E12 is larger than the area of ​​the first table data area E13, and that the area ratio between the first table data area E13 and the first print image area E12 does not change due to user operation.

[0142] With this configuration, the visibility of the first print image area E12 is not obstructed on the third operation screen D3, so the user can reliably see the print image PI of the tape T.

[0143] In the above-described mobile terminal 1, when the user selects one of the multiple options displayed in the selection area E17, the display control unit 130 preferably displays a fifth operation screen D5 on the touch panel 11, and the fifth operation screen D5 preferably has a third print image area E22 where the print image PI of the tape T is displayed, and an edit menu area E23 where the print data editing menu is displayed.

[0144] With this configuration, the user can display the fifth operation screen D5 without performing any special operations by selecting the desired option from the multiple options displayed on the fourth operation screen D4. Furthermore, on the fifth operation screen D5, the user can simultaneously view the print image PI of tape T and the print data editing menu.

[0145] In the above-described mobile terminal 1, the multiple options include a two-dimensional code option 99, and it is preferable that the print data generation unit 120 generates print data including a second code image obtained by converting the information stored in the table data into a second type of code image different from the first type when the two-dimensional code option 99 is selected by the user.

[0146] With this configuration, the user can select their desired option from a number of options, including a one-dimensional code option 98, a two-dimensional code option 99, and a text option 97, on the fourth operation screen D4.

[0147] In the above-described mobile terminal 1, the display control unit 130 displays block B in the third print image area E22 as part of the print image PI of tape T, according to the selection made by the user from multiple options, an unconverted image in which any of the information stored in the column selected from the table data has not been converted to other information, a first code image in which any of the information stored in the column selected from the table data has been converted to a one-dimensional code image, and a second code image in which any of the information stored in the column selected from the table data has been converted to a second type of code image. The print data generation unit 120 preferably generates multiple print data such that, when the first block B1 and the second block B2, which differs from the first block B1 in at least one of the columns selected from the table data and the selection made from multiple options, are displayed as part of the print image PI of tape T in the third print image area E22, a first partial print image PGp1 corresponding to the first block B1 and a second partial print image PGp2 corresponding to the second block B2 are printed on tape T.

[0148] With this configuration, the mobile terminal 1 can generate print data that prints a first partial print image PGp1 and a second partial print image PGp2 onto a single tape T.

[0149] In the mobile terminal 1 described above, the multiple options include a URL option, and the print data generation unit 120 stores the URL as information in a column selected from the table data. When a URL option is selected from the multiple options, it is preferable to generate print data that includes an acquired image obtained by accessing the URL stored in the table data.

[0150] With this configuration, the user can select their desired option from multiple options, including a one-dimensional code option 98, a text option 97, and a URL option, on the fourth operation screen D4. [Explanation of symbols]

[0151] 1...Mobile terminal, 2...Tape printing device, 11...Touch panel, 22...Printing device side display, 32...Tape printing application, 97...Text selection, 98...1D code selection, 99...2D code selection, 110...Table data acquisition unit, 120...Print data generation unit, 130...Display control unit, B...Block, D3...Third operation screen, D4...Fourth operation screen, D5...Fifth operation screen, E11...First tape information area, E12...First print image area, E13...First table data area, E15...Second tape information area, E16...Second print image area, E17...Selection area, E18...Second table data area, E21...Third tape information area, E22...Third print image area, E23...Edit menu area, PG...Print image, PGp...Partial print image, PI...Print image, T...Tape, TI...Tape image.

Claims

1. A table data acquisition unit that acquires table data, A print data generation unit generates print data including an unconverted image in which the information stored in the table data has not been converted to other information when the user selects the no-conversion option, and generates print data including a first code image in which the information stored in the table data has been converted to a first type of code image when the user selects the first conversion option. The system includes a display control unit that causes a display unit to display a second screen having a selection area where a plurality of selections, including the no-conversion option and the first conversion option, are displayed, and a second table data area where the table data is displayed. The display control unit, Depending on the option selected by the user from the aforementioned multiple options, a block representing one of the following will be displayed in the third print image area where the print image of the print medium is displayed, as part of the print image of the print medium: the unconverted image in which any of the information stored in the column selected from the table data has not been converted to other information; the first code image in which any of the information stored in the column selected from the table data has been converted to the first type of code image; and the second code image in which any of the information stored in the column selected from the table data has been converted to a code image different from the first type. The print data generation unit, An information processing apparatus characterized by generating a plurality of print data such that, when a first block and a second block, which differs from the first block in at least one of the columns selected from the table data and the options selected from the plurality of options, are displayed as part of the print image of the print medium, a first partial print image corresponding to the first block and a second partial print image corresponding to the second block are printed on the print medium, respectively.

2. A table data acquisition unit that acquires table data, A print data generation unit generates print data including an unconverted image in which the information stored in the table data has not been converted to other information when the user selects the no-conversion option, and generates print data including a first code image in which the information stored in the table data has been converted to a first type of code image when the user selects the first conversion option. The system includes a display control unit that causes a display unit to display a second screen having a selection area where a plurality of selections, including the no-conversion option and the first conversion option, are displayed, and a second table data area where the table data is displayed. The aforementioned multiple options include a URL option, The print data generation unit, An information processing device characterized in that a URL is stored as the information in a column selected from the table data, and when the URL option is selected from the multiple options, the device generates print data including the acquired image obtained by accessing the URL stored in the table data.

3. The display control unit, The display unit is made to display a first screen having a first print image area on which an image of the print medium is displayed, and a first table data area on which the table data is displayed. When a user selects any column from the table data displayed in the first table data area and performs a predetermined operation, the second screen is displayed on the display unit. The print data generation unit, The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that it generates a plurality of print data from the table data such that a plurality of print images based on a plurality of pieces of information stored in a column selected by the user are each printed on the print medium.

4. The second screen comprises the selection area, the second table data area, and the second print image area on which the image of the print medium is displayed. The display control unit, The information processing apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that, when a user selects any column from the table data displayed in the first table data area and performs a predetermined operation, the first print image area of ​​the first screen becomes the second print image area, the first table data area becomes the second table data area, and the selection area is displayed as a pop-up, thereby displaying the second screen on the display unit.

5. The display control unit, The information processing apparatus according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the first screen is displayed on the display unit such that the area of ​​the first print image area is larger than the area of ​​the first table data area, and the area ratio between the first table data area and the first print image area does not change due to user operation.

6. The display control unit, When the user selects any of the multiple options displayed in the selection area, the third screen is displayed on the display unit. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that the third screen has a third print image area on which a print image of the print medium is displayed, and an edit menu area on which an editing menu for the print data is displayed.

7. The aforementioned multiple options include a second conversion option, The print data generation unit, The information processing device according to claim 6, characterized in that when the user selects the second conversion option, it generates print data including a second code image obtained by converting the information stored in the table data into a second type of code image different from the first type.

8. Information processing device, Steps to retrieve table data, If the user selects the no-conversion option, the system generates print data including a no-conversion image in which the information stored in the table data has not been converted to other information; if the user selects the first conversion option, the system generates print data including a first code image in which the information stored in the table data has been converted to a first type of code image; The step of displaying a second screen on the display unit, having a selection area where a plurality of options including the no-conversion option and the first conversion option are displayed, and a second table data area where the table data is displayed. Depending on the selection made by the user from the aforementioned multiple options, the following steps are performed: displaying a block in the third print image area where the print image of the print medium is displayed as part of the print image of the print medium, which represents one of the following: an unconverted image in which any of the information stored in the column selected from the table data has not been converted to other information; a first code image in which any of the information stored in the column selected from the table data has been converted to the first type of code image; and a second code image in which any of the information stored in the column selected from the table data has been converted to a code image different from the first type. In the step of generating the print data, A control method for an information processing device, characterized in that, when a first block and a second block, which differs from the first block in at least one of the columns selected from the table data and the options selected from the plurality of options, are displayed as part of the print image of the print medium, a first partial print image corresponding to the first block and a second partial print image corresponding to the second block are printed on the print medium, respectively.

9. Information processing device, Steps to retrieve table data, If the user selects the no-conversion option, the system generates print data including a no-conversion image in which the information stored in the table data has not been converted to other information; if the user selects the first conversion option, the system generates print data including a first code image in which the information stored in the table data has been converted to a first type of code image; The steps include: displaying a second screen on the display unit, which has a selection area where a plurality of options including the no-conversion option and the first conversion option are displayed, and a second table data area where the table data is displayed; The aforementioned multiple options include a URL option, In the step of generating the print data, A control method for an information processing device, characterized in that a URL is stored as the information in a column selected from the table data, and when the URL option is selected from the multiple options, the device generates print data including the acquired image obtained by accessing the URL stored in the table data.

10. In an information processing device, Steps to retrieve table data, If the user selects the no-conversion option, the system generates print data including a no-conversion image in which the information stored in the table data has not been converted to other information; if the user selects the first conversion option, the system generates print data including a first code image in which the information stored in the table data has been converted to a first type of code image; The step of displaying a second screen on the display unit, having a selection area where a plurality of options including the no-conversion option and the first conversion option are displayed, and a second table data area where the table data is displayed. Depending on the option selected by the user from the aforementioned multiple options, the block representing one of the following will be displayed in the third print image area where the print image of the print medium is displayed, as part of the print image of the print medium: the unconverted image in which any of the information stored in the column selected from the table data has not been converted to other information; the first code image in which any of the information stored in the column selected from the table data has been converted to the first type of code image; and the second code image in which any of the information stored in the column selected from the table data has been converted to a code image different from the first type. As a step in generating the aforementioned print data, A program characterized by causing a program to perform the step of generating a plurality of print data such that, when a first block and a second block, which differs from the first block in at least one of the columns selected from the table data and the options selected from the plurality of options, are displayed as part of the print image of the print medium, a first partial print image corresponding to the first block and a second partial print image corresponding to the second block are printed on the print medium.

11. In an information processing device, Steps to retrieve table data, If the user selects the no-conversion option, the system generates print data including a no-conversion image in which the information stored in the table data has not been converted to other information; if the user selects the first conversion option, the system generates print data including a first code image in which the information stored in the table data has been converted to a first type of code image; The step of displaying a second screen on the display unit, having a selection area where a plurality of options including the no-conversion option and the first conversion option are displayed, and a second table data area where the table data is displayed, The aforementioned multiple options include a URL option, As a step in generating the aforementioned print data, A program characterized by having a column selected from the table data in which a URL is stored as the information, and when the URL option is selected from the multiple options, the program causes the program to execute the step of generating print data including the acquired image obtained by accessing the URL stored in the table data.

Images