Print job generation device, printing method, and program

Abstract

To save a user some trouble to determine setting of printing.SOLUTION: A printer job generator includes: a storage unit for storing image data and an original print job for the image data; a display processing unit for displaying a plurality of printing settings in a screen; a printing setting reception unit for receiving at least two settings of printing which a user selected from a plurality of settings displayed in the screen; and a variation printing job generation unit for generating a variation print job for a setting of printing and the image data for the settings of printing on the setting-by-setting basis received by the print setting reception unit, and storing the variation print job in the storage unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

Technical Field

[0005]

[0001] The present invention relates to a printing job generation apparatus, a printing method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] In Patent Document 1, since the background color of the printing paper greatly affects the quality of the monochrome image, an image forming method is disclosed in which ink is adhered to the entire surface of the printing surface to change the background color of the printing surface. For this purpose, the printer driver receives the user's request regarding the background color of the printing surface and displays the image data changed to that background color on the print preview screen. The above process is repeated until an image satisfactory to the user is obtained on the screen.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, even if an image is actually printed on a recording medium using the background color setting determined based on the image displayed on the screen as in Patent Document 1, a desired printed matter may not be obtained. Then, the user has to re-set the background color on the screen and print the image on the recording medium again. Thus, in the method of determining one print setting based on the image displayed on the screen, it is easy to repeat the change of the print setting and the test printing. In addition to the background color of the printing surface, other print settings that affect the quality of the printed matter, such as the resolution and the type of medium, etc. also have to be determined. In the case of color printing, the intensity of each color of the ink used also has to be determined. Therefore, the user's work for determining the print settings to obtain a desired printed matter has been complicated.

[0005] In view of the above issues, the object of the present invention is to reduce the effort required of the user when determining print settings. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The main invention for achieving the above objective is a print job generation device characterized by comprising: a storage unit for storing image data and an original print job corresponding to the image data; a display processing unit for displaying a plurality of print settings on a screen; a print setting receiving unit for receiving two or more print settings selected by a user from among the plurality of print settings displayed on the screen; and a variation print job generation unit for generating a variation print job corresponding to each print setting received by the print setting receiving unit and the image data, and storing it in the storage unit.

[0007] Other features of the present invention will be revealed in the specification and drawings described below. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, the user's effort in determining print settings can be reduced. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This is a block diagram of printing system 1. [Figure 2] This flowchart shows how to generate and print variation print jobs. [Figure 3] This figure shows an example of a window that accepts the type of variation print job. [Figure 4] Figures 4A and 4B show examples of windows that accept print settings. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of a window that accepts print settings. [Figure 6] Figures 6A and 6B are explanatory diagrams of the data stored in the storage unit 14. [Figure 7]This is an explanatory diagram of the label 31 that is printed together with the image 30 in a variation print job. [Figure 8] Figures 8A and 8B show examples of job lists displayed on the display device 12 (screen). [Figure 9] This figure shows an example of a window for changing the print size of a variation print job. [Figure 10] This figure shows an example of a window for setting the optimal variation print job. [Figure 11] Figures 11A and 11B illustrate the arrangement of the variation image 30. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. ===Configuration of Printing System 1=== Figure 1 is a block diagram of printing system 1. The printing system 1 comprises a printing device 2 and a computer 10, and the printing device 2 and the computer 10 are connected to each other so as to be able to communicate with each other. The printing device 2 is a device that prints images on a recording medium M such as paper using ink. Examples of the printing device 2 include inkjet printers and laser printers. Examples of the computer 10 include personal computers, tablet terminals and smartphones.

[0011] The computer 10 includes an application 11, a display device 12 having a screen, an input device 13 such as a keyboard or mouse, a storage unit 14, a communication unit 15, and a print job generation unit 20. The input device 13 may be a touch panel on the display device 12.

[0012] Application 11 is software that creates image data for images to be printed by the printing device 2. Examples of applications 11 include document creation applications, spreadsheet applications, and image editing applications.

[0013] The print job generation unit 20 converts the image data created by the application 11 into print data that can be printed (decoded) by the printing device 2, and generates a print job. The print job generation unit 20 transmits the generated print job to the printing device 2 using the communication unit 15.

[0014] The print job generation unit 20 includes a display processing unit 21 that processes display on the screen of the display device 12, a reception unit 22 that receives inputs from the input device 13, an original print job generation unit 23, a variation print job generation unit 24, a setting change print job generation unit 25, a label data generation unit 26, a size application unit 27, and an arrangement unit 28.

[0015] In the printing system 1 of the present embodiment, a part of the computer 10 functions as a print job generation device. However, the printing system 1 shown in FIG. 1 is an example and is not limited thereto. For example, the printing device 2 may realize the functions that the computer 10 performs as a print job generation device, and the printing system may be configured by the printing device 2 alone. Also, the computer 10 may be a dedicated computer for the printing device 2, and the image data created by an application of an external device may be transmitted to the computer 10 (print job generation device).

[0016] ===Regarding the generation of variation print jobs=== FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing a method for generating a variation print job and a printing method. Next, a method for generating a variation print job by the computer 10 and a printing method by which the printing device 2 prints based on the variation print job will be described.

[0017] A variation print job is a job that prints test images to determine the print settings. Computer 10 generates multiple variation print jobs, each corresponding to two or more different print settings. Based on the multiple variation print jobs, the user can determine the optimal print settings to obtain the desired printout by reviewing the multiple test images printed on the recording medium M.

[0018] First, the image data created by the user in application 11 is stored in the storage unit 14. When the reception unit 22 receives an instruction to generate a print job for that image data (S01), the original print job generation unit 23 generates an "original print job" which is a print job corresponding to that image data (S02).

[0019] The original print job generation unit 23 generates a print job that corresponds to the print settings set by the user. Print settings include the type of recording medium M, the print range, the type of ink to use (e.g., color or monochrome printing), the print quality (e.g., high quality, standard or high speed), and color tone adjustments.

[0020] Specifically, the original print job generation unit 23 performs resolution conversion, color conversion, halftone processing, and rasterization processing on the image data to create print data. Resolution conversion is the process of converting the image data to the resolution required for printing. Color conversion is the process of converting the image data, represented in RGB, into color data of the inks ejected by the printing device 2. Halftone processing is the process of converting the data into data indicating whether or not dots are formed for each pixel. Rasterization is the process of rearranging the data in the order it will be sent to the printing device 2.

[0021] Furthermore, the original print job generation unit 23 generates an "original print job" by adding header information, which is information related to printing, to the print data. Examples of header information include the name of the image data to be printed, the type of recording medium M, and information related to the printing method, such as the amount of recording medium M being transported. The generated original print job is stored in the storage unit 14.

[0022] When an original print job is generated, the display processing unit 21 adds the name of the image data (for example, "Flower Image" as shown in Figure 8A below) to the job list displayed on the screen of the display device 12. The user can use the input device 13 to select the image data added to the job list and input the instruction "Print". The original print job is then transmitted to the printing device 2 by the communication unit 15, and the printing device 2 prints the image corresponding to the image data (the final image) onto the recording medium M based on the original print job.

[0023] In this embodiment, the computer 10 allows the user to input a "generate variation print job" instruction before inputting a "print" instruction for image data added to the job list.

[0024] Figure 3 shows an example of a window that accepts the type of variation print job. In the window shown in the figure, variation print jobs are simply displayed as "Variation Job". When the receiving unit 22 receives a command from the user to generate a variation print job (S03), the display processing unit 21 displays the window shown in Figure 3 on the screen of the display device 12. Thus, the user can select and input the print setting items (quality settings, color settings, level correction) that they want to compare and evaluate. The following example will use the case where the user selects "Quality Settings".

[0025] Figures 4A, 4B, and 5 show examples of windows that accept print settings. When the "Quality Settings" item is selected in the window in Figure 3, the display processing unit 21 displays the windows shown in Figures 4A to 5 (multiple print settings) in order on the screen of the display device 12. The print setting receiving unit 221 in the receiving unit 22 then accepts two or more print settings selected by the user from among the multiple print settings displayed on the screen.

[0026] In this embodiment, three types of print settings (quality settings) related to the quality of the printed material are given as examples: the type of recording medium M, the resolution, and the number of passes. However, the system is not limited to these, and the user may select some of the three types of print settings, or the user may select other print settings related to quality (for example, whether the movement of the ink ejecting head is unidirectional or bidirectional).

[0027] Figure 4A shows the window for selecting the type of recording medium M. Examples of recording medium M include sheets made from various materials such as polyvinyl chloride, banner cloth, paper, transparent resin sheets, transfer sheets, illuminated sign sheets, and metal sheets. From the window in Figure 4A, the user can select the type of recording medium M they want to print an image from and compare the quality of the printed material. In Figure 4A, PVC and banner are selected.

[0028] Figure 4B shows the window for selecting quality (resolution). Examples of quality types include high quality, standard, and fast. The resolution of the printed document increases in the order of high quality, standard, and fast, but the printing time also increases. From the window in Figure 4B, the user can select the resolution of the printed document they want to compare by actually printing the image. In Figure 4B, high quality and standard are selected.

[0029] Figure 5 shows the window for selecting the final print settings. The display processing unit 21 displays candidate print setting combinations on the screen (left side of Figure 5) by adding the number of passes (e.g., 13p, 16p, 10p, etc.) to the two print settings (recording medium M and resolution) selected by the user. The number of passes is the number of times the ink ejecting head moves, and the more passes there are, the higher the quality of the printed image.

[0030] The user can select a combination of print settings from the window in Figure 5 to actually print and compare images. The display processing unit 21 assigns names to the variation print jobs corresponding to the print settings selected by the user (Variation A, Variation B, etc.) and displays them on the screen (right side of Figure 5).

[0031] In this way, after the user has selected two types of print settings (recording medium M and resolution), the display processing unit 21 should display on the screen a list of possible print setting combinations that include a third type of print setting (number of passes). This makes it easier for the user to confirm the print setting combinations compared to, for example, when the user selects only the number of passes in a separate window (such as selecting whether the number of passes is large or small).

[0032] Furthermore, it would be beneficial to allow users to select their desired print setting combination from three different combinations. This would prevent the generation of variation print jobs corresponding to unnecessary print setting combinations (for example, the PVC x Standard x 12p combination, which is not checked in Figure 5). Therefore, compared to a system where variation print jobs are generated for all combinations of the three print settings, this approach reduces the generation and printing of unnecessary variation print jobs and the associated ink consumption.

[0033] However, this is not limited to the above. For example, after a user selects three different print settings, a variation print job corresponding to all combinations of those three print settings may be automatically generated.

[0034] Thus, when the print setting reception unit 221 receives two or more final print settings (S04) and the user inputs an instruction to generate a variation print job (by selecting the "OK" button in Figure 5), the variation print job generation unit 24 generates a variation print job (S05). In the following explanation, the print settings applied to the variation print job will also be referred to as "variation print settings".

[0035] Figures 6A and 6B are explanatory diagrams of the data stored in the storage unit 14. The variation print job generation unit 24 generates a variation print job corresponding to the print settings and image data for each variation print setting and stores it in the storage unit 14. As a result, the data stored in the storage unit 14 changes from Figure 6A to Figure 6B.

[0036] Specifically, the variation print job generation unit 24 copies the original print job stored in the storage unit 14. For example, if there are six variation print settings, six copies of the original print job are generated. The variation print job generation unit 24 then rewrites the header information that differs from the original print job. The variation print job generation unit 24 also converts the image data stored in the storage unit 14 into print data corresponding to the variation print settings (performing the aforementioned resolution conversion, color conversion, halftone processing, and rasterization processing), and replaces the print data of the copied original print job. For print settings other than the variation print settings, the print settings set during print job generation for the image data (S01) are applied.

[0037] Therefore, it is advisable to copy the original print job and generate a variation print job. This saves time compared to creating a new header and generating a variation print job from scratch, as only the parts of the header information that differ from the original print job need to be rewritten.

[0038] However, a new variation print job may be created without copying the original print job. Furthermore, it is not limited to generating print data from image data; for example, the print data of the original print job may be used to generate the print data for the variation print job.

[0039] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the user inputs a print job generation instruction, and after the print job is displayed in the job list, the user inputs a print instruction. Then, at the time the print job is displayed in the job list, the user inputs a variation print job generation instruction. However, this is not limited to this, and for example, in the window (not shown) that accepts print instructions for image data generated by application 11, a button to select the generation of a variation print job may be provided as an option.

[0040] Figure 7 is an explanatory diagram of the label 31 printed along with the image 30 from the variation print job. Along with the generation of the variation print job, the label data generation unit 26 generates data (print data) for printing the label 31 corresponding to each variation print job (S05).

[0041] In this embodiment, three types of labels 31 are exemplified: an identification display 311, a printing time 312, and an ink quantity 313. Therefore, the label data generation unit 26 includes an identification display data generation unit 261, a printing time data generation unit 262, and an ink quantity data generation unit 263.

[0042] "Identification indicator 311" is an indicator used to identify multiple images 30 (hereinafter also referred to as "variation images") printed by multiple variation print jobs. Examples of identification indicators 311 include the name of the variation print job (e.g., Variation Job A) and the print settings of the variation print job (e.g., PVC, high quality, 13p). In Figure 7, both the name and print settings are printed, but either one or the other may be used.

[0043] If the identification mark 311 were not printed, the user would have to identify the variation image 30 by, for example, associating the order in which the variation images 30 are arranged with the order of the selected print settings. However, by printing the identification mark 311 along with the variation image 30, the user can easily identify the variation image 30.

[0044] Furthermore, the "Print Time 312" on label 31 refers to the time required to print image data when the print settings corresponding to each variation print job are applied when printing the actual image data. The Print Time 312 allows the user to determine appropriate print settings while considering the balance between desired image quality and print time.

[0045] Furthermore, the "ink amount 313" on label 31 represents the amount of ink consumed when the print settings corresponding to each variation print job are applied when printing the actual image data. The ink amount 313 allows the user to determine the appropriate print settings while balancing the desired image quality with ink consumption.

[0046] Labels 31 may be printed near each variation image 30, as shown in Figure 7. Alternatively, they may be printed as a separate group (not shown). In this case, by matching the order of the variation images 30 with the order of the labels 31, users can associate the variation images 30 with the labels 31.

[0047] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the user selects to generate a variation print job, the label data generation unit 26 automatically generates data for printing the label 31. This reduces the user's effort. However, the functionality of the label data generation unit 26 is not limited to this, and may be optional. By not printing the label 31, printing time and ink consumption can be reduced.

[0048] Furthermore, the label 31 shown in Figure 7 is just an example and is not limited thereto. For example, the label may have one or two of the following: an identification mark 311, a printing time 312, and an ink quantity 313. Also, the computer 10 (print job generation device) does not necessarily have a label data generation unit 26.

[0049] The data (not shown) for printing the label 31 is also stored in the storage unit 14. The data for printing the label 31 may be incorporated into the variation print job corresponding to that label 31. Alternatively, a print job containing the data for printing the label 31 may be generated separately from the variation print job. In the following description, the data for printing the label 31, including the data itself, will be referred to as a variation print job.

[0050] Figures 8A and 8B show examples of job lists displayed on the display device 12 (screen). Multiple variation print jobs stored in the storage unit 14 (see Figure 6B) are grouped together as a job group. Therefore, the display processing unit 21 adds the overall name of the multiple variation print jobs (for example, "Quality setting: Variation (Flower image)" shown in Figure 8A) to the job list.

[0051] The display processing unit 21 may add the names of each variation print job (for example, Variation A, Variation B, etc.) under its overall name. However, each variation print job is not selected individually by the user, but is selected collectively.

[0052] In this way, the display processing unit 21 should display a print command button (the "Print" button in the menu list L in Figure 8B) on the screen that allows the user to select print commands for two or more variation print jobs at once. By doing so, although multiple variation print jobs will be generated, the user does not need to enter print commands for each variation print job, saving the user time and effort.

[0053] Then, when the print instruction receiving unit 223 receives a print instruction for a variation print job (S06), the multiple variation print jobs are transmitted to the printing device 2 by the communication unit 15 (S07). Based on the multiple variation print jobs, the printing device 2 prints multiple variation images 30 corresponding to each print setting onto the recording medium M, as shown in Figure 7.

[0054] In addition, there may be cases where the recording medium M (Figure 4A) selected in the print settings for a variation print job is not set in the printer 2 (especially when multiple types of recording medium M are selected). In such cases, for example, the printer 2 may send a message to the computer 10 to that effect, and the computer 10 may display a message on the screen prompting the user to set the selected recording medium M.

[0055] Furthermore, if multiple types of recording media M are selected, the computer 10 may distribute and send variation print jobs to multiple printing devices 2, each containing a different recording media M. For this reason, the computer 10 may group the variation print jobs for each recording media M into a job group and add them to the job list, or it may accept print commands from the user for each recording media M.

[0056] Figure 9 shows an example of a window for changing the print size of a variation print job. A variation print job is a job that prints a test image to determine the print settings. Therefore, it may not be necessary to print it at the same print size as the actual image data.

[0057] Therefore, the display processing unit 21 includes "Change Print Size" in the menu list L (see Figure 8B) displayed in the job list. When the user selects "Change Print Size," the display processing unit 21 displays the window shown in Figure 9. In this embodiment, an example is given where the size of the print image (enlarge or reduce), the page range to be printed, and the size and position of the part of a page to be printed can be changed. However, it is not limited to this, and some of the above may be changeable.

[0058] For example, as shown in Figure 9, when the size setting reception unit 222 receives confirmation that only a portion of the flower image has been set as the print area (S11), the size application unit 27 deletes or modifies some of the data of the variation print job stored in the storage unit 14 to match the print area. In this way, the printing device 2 can print only a portion of the flower image as the variation image 30.

[0059] In this way, by allowing users to set the size to be printed in a variation print job, users can have the printer 2 print only the parts and sizes of the image data necessary for determining the print settings. Therefore, ink consumption and printing time can be reduced.

[0060] Furthermore, similar to the print instruction process, it is preferable that the size setting reception unit 222 accepts changes to the print size for two or more variation print jobs in a single batch. This way, although multiple variation print jobs are generated, the user does not need to input print size change instructions for each variation print job, saving the user time and effort.

[0061] Furthermore, as described above, the flow is not limited to changing the print size after the variation print job has been generated. For example, a button to input "Change Print Size" could be provided in the window shown in Figure 5, allowing the print size to be changed before the variation print job is generated. In this case, as shown in Figure 2, the size application unit 27 checks whether or not the variation print job has not yet been generated (S12), and if it has not yet been generated, it sends the print size information to the variation print job generation unit 24 (S13). By doing so, the variation print job generation unit 24 can generate a variation print job corresponding to that print size. In this case, the variation print job generation unit 24 also functions as a size application unit.

[0062] The user then selects the desired variation image 30 from among the multiple variation images 30 printed by the printing device 2. In this embodiment, since multiple variation images 30 are obtained at the same time, it is easy to obtain the desired variation image 30, and it is also easy to compare variation images 30 with different print settings. If the desired variation image 30 is not obtained, it is advisable to change the print settings and repeat the generation of the variation print job and printing of the variation images 30.

[0063] Figure 10 shows an example of a window for setting the optimal variation print job. After selecting a desired variation image 30 from the variation images 30, the user can select "Evaluate Variation Job" from the menu list L of the job list (Figure 8B). The display processing unit 21 then displays the window shown in Figure 10 on the screen. From the window shown in Figure 10, the user can input the selected variation print job (for example, "Variation A"), and the selection receiving unit 224 accepts that variation print job (S08).

[0064] The setting change print job generation unit 25 then rewrites the header information of the original print job stored in the storage unit 14 with information corresponding to the print settings of the selected variation print job. Furthermore, the setting change print job generation unit 25 converts the image data stored in the storage unit 14 into print data corresponding to the print settings of the selected variation print job, and replaces the print data of the original print job. In this way, a setting change print job is generated simply by the user inputting the selected variation print job, thus saving the user time and effort.

[0065] Furthermore, as described above, the system is not limited to generating a setting change print job using the original print job stored in the memory unit 14. For example, a setting change print job may be generated using a selected variation print job, or the original print job may be deleted from the memory unit 14 and a new setting change print job may be generated.

[0066] Subsequently, when the user selects the name of the image data from the job list (for example, "Flower Image" shown in Figure 8A) and enters the print command, the setting change print job is sent to the printer 2. Therefore, the user obtains the final print image corresponding to the print settings determined based on the variation print job.

[0067] Furthermore, while quality settings have been used as an example of print settings to be compared and evaluated in variation print jobs, this is not the only option. As shown in Figure 3, print settings related to color settings or print settings related to level correction may also be used.

[0068] Color settings refer to print settings related to color standards, such as JapanColor. By having computer 10 generate variation print jobs that support multiple color standards, it is possible to compare and evaluate the differences in printed materials due to differences in color standards.

[0069] Level correction refers to print settings related to hue, such as the ink colors (YMCKOrG) of the printer 2. Specifically, it involves selecting print settings with different intensities of specific colors (for example, cyan intensity at +2 and cyan intensity at +3) and having the computer 10 generate variation print jobs. This allows for comparison and evaluation of the differences in printed materials due to these differences in color intensity. Alternatively, it involves selecting print settings with adjusted intensities of multiple colors (for example, cyan intensity at +2 and magenta intensity at +2) and having the computer 10 generate variation print jobs. This allows for comparison and evaluation of the differences in printed materials due to the differences in the intensity of each color.

[0070] Furthermore, the display processing unit 21 displays the window shown in Figure 3 on the screen, allowing the user to select the print settings they wish to compare and evaluate. Therefore, the variation print jobs corresponding to quality settings, color settings, and level correction are not generated at the same time. Consequently, it is possible to prevent situations where the user selects a print setting that mixes quality settings and color settings, complicating the comparison and evaluation process. In other words, the user can select print settings that are easy to compare and evaluate, making it easier to quickly determine the appropriate print settings.

[0071] Figures 11A and 11B illustrate the arrangement of the variation images 30. The printing device 2 is a device that repeatedly performs the operations of transporting the recording medium M in the transport direction and ejecting ink while the head 40 moves in a scanning direction (width direction of the recording medium M) perpendicular to the transport direction. When the computer 10 sends a variation print job to the printing device 2 described above, it is preferable to adjust the arrangement of the variation images 30 as shown in Figures 11A and 11B according to the print settings.

[0072] Specifically, variation images 30 printed by a common printing operation (for example, a printing operation with the same print resolution or number of passes (amount of data transported on the recording medium M)) should be arranged so as to be aligned in the scanning direction of the head 40, as shown in Figure 11A. On the other hand, variation images 30 printed by different printing operations are difficult to print when the same head 40 is scanning, so they should be arranged so as to be aligned in the transport direction, as shown in Figure 11B.

[0073] In this embodiment, when the color setting or level correction shown in Figure 3 is selected, the placement unit 28 places the variation image 30 as shown in Figure 11A. When a quality setting is selected, different print settings such as print resolution and number of passes may be selected, so the placement unit 28 places the variation image 30 as shown in Figure 11B. This reduces the consumption of the recording medium M.

[0074] ===Summary=== To summarize, the computer 10 (print job generation device) of this embodiment includes a storage unit 14 that stores image data and original print jobs corresponding to the image data, a display processing unit 21 that displays multiple print settings (for example, Figure 5) on the screen, a print setting reception unit 221 that receives two or more print settings selected by the user from among the multiple print settings displayed on the screen, and a variation print job generation unit that generates a variation print job corresponding to the print setting and image data for each print setting received by the print setting reception unit 221 and stores it in the storage unit 14.

[0075] Therefore, users can select multiple print settings at once, and multiple print jobs (variation print jobs) corresponding to each of the multiple print settings are generated simultaneously. Thus, compared to a process where the user sets one print setting and the computer generates one print job repeatedly, this reduces the effort required from the user when deciding on print settings.

[0076] Furthermore, the computer 10 sends the generated multiple variation print jobs to the printing device 2, and the printing device 2 prints multiple variation images 30 (test images) onto the recording medium M based on the received multiple variation print jobs.

[0077] Therefore, multiple test images corresponding to multiple print settings are printed simultaneously. Consequently, compared to a process where the user sets one print setting and the printer prints one test image repeatedly, the desired test image can be obtained with fewer test prints. Thus, it can save the user time and effort.

[0078] Furthermore, the functions of each part of the computer 10 (such as the print job generation unit 20, the display processing unit 21, and the reception unit 22) can be realized by the arithmetic processing unit (CPU) of the computer 10 according to the program (printer driver) stored in the storage unit 14.

[0079] According to such a program, computer 10 can accept multiple print settings selected by the user at once and generate multiple print jobs (variation print jobs) corresponding to each of the print settings in a single batch. Therefore, it can save the user time and effort.

[0080] The programs that cause the computer 10 to execute the processing of each part are either recorded on a storage medium that the computer 10 can read, such as a CD-ROM, or can be downloaded to the computer 10 via various communication means such as the internet.

[0081] Furthermore, it is preferable that the computer 10 has an identification display data generation unit 261 that generates data for printing an identification display 311 corresponding to each of the multiple variation print jobs.

[0082] By doing so, when a user views multiple variation images 30 printed on the recording medium M and selects the desired variation image 30, that variation image 30 can be easily identified by the identification display 311. Therefore, the user's effort is reduced.

[0083] Furthermore, it is preferable that the computer 10 has a print time data generation unit 262 that generates data for printing the print time 312 of the image data using the print settings of the variation print job.

[0084] This provides the user with information to help them choose their desired variation image 30. Therefore, the user can determine the appropriate print settings while considering the balance between desired image quality and print time.

[0085] Furthermore, it is preferable that the computer 10 has an ink amount data generation unit 263 that generates data for printing the amount of ink 313 to be consumed when printing image data using the print settings of a variation print job.

[0086] This provides the user with information to help them choose their desired variation image 30. Therefore, the user can determine the appropriate print settings while balancing the desired image quality and ink consumption.

[0087] Furthermore, it is preferable that the computer 10 includes a selection receiving unit 224 that accepts the user's selection of a variation print job, and a setting change print job generation unit 25 that generates a setting change print job corresponding to the print settings of the variation print job received by the selection receiving unit 224 and the image data.

[0088] By doing so, a print job (settings change print job) corresponding to the print settings of the variation print job selected by the user is automatically generated, and the user can easily obtain the final print image corresponding to the desired print settings. Therefore, the user's effort is reduced, for example, by not having to delete the print job initially added to the job list, refer to the label 31 of the selected variation image 30, re-enter the print settings, and then re-enter the print command.

[0089] Furthermore, it is preferable that the computer 10 includes a size setting reception unit 222 that receives size settings for printing in a variation print job, and a size application unit 27 that applies the sizes received by the size setting reception unit 222 to the variation print job.

[0090] By doing so, ink consumption from variation print jobs can be reduced, and printing time can be shortened.

[0091] Furthermore, it is preferable that the computer 10 has a print instruction receiving unit 223 that receives print instructions for two or more variation print jobs in a single batch.

[0092] This method generates multiple variation print jobs, but eliminates the need for the user to select each variation job and enter print instructions. Therefore, it saves the user time and effort.

[0093] Furthermore, it is preferable that the computer 10 has an arrangement section 28 that arranges the print images (variation images 30) based on the variation print job so that they are aligned in a direction perpendicular to the transport direction of the recording medium M.

[0094] By doing so, the recording surface M can be used more effectively compared to the case where all variation images 30 are arranged in the transport direction of the recording medium M, regardless of the print settings (even when setting print settings related to color). Therefore, the consumption of recording medium M by variation print jobs can be reduced.

[0095] Furthermore, it is preferable that the image data used to generate the variation print job includes information about the image portion to be printed in color.

[0096] By doing so, when determining print settings for color printing, which involves more adjustments to settings compared to monochrome printing, such as color tone adjustment, the creation of variation print jobs can be used to more effectively reduce the user's workload. However, this is not limited to the above; the image data may also be image data intended for monochrome printing.

[0097] The embodiments described above are presented as examples and do not limit the scope of the invention. The above configurations can be combined as appropriate, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. The above embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0098] 1. Printing system, 2 printing device, 10. Computer (print job generation device), 11 Applications, 12 Display Devices, 13 Input device, 14 Storage unit, 15 Communication unit, 20 Print job generation unit, 21 Display processing unit, 22 Reception Department, 221 Print settings reception desk, 222 Size settings reception desk, 223 Print instruction reception unit, 224 Selection reception unit, 23. Original print job generation unit, 24 Variation print job generation unit, 25. Setting change print job generation unit, 26 Label data generation unit, 261 Identification display data generation unit, 262 Print time data generation unit, 263 Ink volume data generation unit, 27 Size application section, 28 Arrangement section, 30 image variations, 31 labels, 40 heads

Claims

1. A memory unit for storing image data, A display processing unit that displays multiple print settings on the screen, The system includes a print setting receiving unit that accepts two or more print settings selected by the user from among the multiple print settings displayed on the screen, The display processing unit displays the candidate combinations of print settings received by the print setting receiving unit on the screen. A variation print job generation unit generates a variation print job corresponding to the combination of print settings and the image data for each combination of print settings selected by the user from the candidate combinations of print settings, and stores it in the storage unit. A print job generation device characterized by having an additional feature.

2. A print job generation apparatus according to claim 1, A print job generation device characterized by having an identification display data generation unit that generates data for printing an identification display corresponding to each of the multiple variations of the print job.

3. A storage unit for storing image data, A display processing unit that displays multiple print settings on the screen, A print setting receiving unit that accepts two or more print settings selected by the user from among the multiple print settings displayed on the screen, A variation print job generation unit generates a variation print job corresponding to the print setting and the image data for each print setting received by the print setting receiving unit, and stores it in the storage unit. A print time data generation unit generates data for printing the print time of the image data using the print settings of the variation print job, A print job generation device characterized by having the following features.

4. A storage unit for storing image data, A display processing unit that displays multiple print settings on the screen, A print setting receiving unit that accepts two or more print settings selected by the user from among the multiple print settings displayed on the screen, A variation print job generation unit generates a variation print job corresponding to the print setting and the image data for each print setting received by the print setting receiving unit, and stores it in the storage unit. An ink quantity data generation unit generates data for printing the amount of ink consumed when printing the image data using the print settings of the variation print job, A print job generation device characterized by having the following features.

5. A print job generation apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, A selection receiving unit that accepts the user's selection of the aforementioned variation print job, A setting change print job generation unit generates a setting change print job corresponding to the print settings of the variation print job received by the selection reception unit and the image data, A print job generation device characterized by having the following features.

6. A print job generation apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, A size setting reception unit that accepts the size setting to be printed in the aforementioned variation print job, A size application unit applies the size received by the size setting reception unit to the variation print job, A print job generation device characterized by having the following features.

7. A print job generation apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, A print job generation device characterized by having a print instruction receiving unit that receives print instructions for two or more of the aforementioned variation print jobs in a single batch.

8. The memory unit performs the process of storing image data, The display processing unit performs the step of displaying multiple print settings on the screen, The print setting reception unit receives two or more print settings selected by the user from among the multiple print settings displayed on the screen, The variation print job generation unit generates a variation print job corresponding to the print setting and the image data for each print setting received by the print setting reception unit, and stores it in the storage unit. The printing apparatus has a step of printing multiple images onto a recording medium based on multiple variations of the printing job, The printing apparatus is configured to perform a printing operation in which ink is ejected while the head is moved in the scanning direction, and the printing method is characterized in that the arrangement of the image based on the variation print job printed by the printing operation is adjusted according to the combination of print settings selected by the user.

9. The memory unit comprises the steps of storing image data, The display processing unit performs the step of displaying multiple print settings on the screen, The print setting reception unit receives two or more print settings selected by the user from among the multiple print settings displayed on the screen, The variation print job generation unit generates a variation print job corresponding to the print setting and the image data for each print setting received by the print setting reception unit, and stores it in the storage unit. The printing apparatus has a step of printing multiple images onto a recording medium based on multiple variations of the printing job, The printing apparatus is configured to perform a printing operation in which ink is ejected while the head is moved in the scanning direction, and the printing method is characterized by printing the images based on the variation print job printed by a common printing operation on the recording medium in the scanning direction, and printing the images based on the variation print job printed by different printing operations on the recording medium in a direction perpendicular to the scanning direction.

10. The memory unit performs the process of storing image data, The display processing unit performs the step of displaying multiple print settings on the screen, The print setting reception unit receives two or more print settings selected by the user from among the multiple print settings displayed on the screen, The display processing unit performs the step of displaying the candidate combinations of print settings received by the print setting receiving unit on the screen, The variation print job generation unit generates a variation print job corresponding to the combination of print settings and the image data for each combination of print settings selected by the user from the candidate combinations of print settings, and stores it in the storage unit. A program that causes a computer to execute something.

11. A memory unit comprising the steps of storing image data, The display processing unit performs the step of displaying multiple print settings on the screen, The print setting reception unit receives two or more print settings selected by the user from among the multiple print settings displayed on the screen, The variation print job generation unit generates a variation print job corresponding to the print setting and the image data for each print setting received by the print setting reception unit, and stores it in the storage unit. The print time data generation unit performs the steps of generating data for printing the print time of the image data using the print settings of the variation print job, A program that causes a computer to execute something.

12. The memory unit comprises the steps of storing image data, The display processing unit performs the step of displaying multiple print settings on the screen, The print setting reception unit receives two or more print settings selected by the user from among the multiple print settings displayed on the screen, The variation print job generation unit generates a variation print job corresponding to the print setting and the image data for each print setting received by the print setting reception unit, and stores it in the storage unit. The ink quantity data generation unit generates data for printing the amount of ink consumed when printing the image data using the print settings of the variation print job, A program that causes a computer to execute something.

Images