Terminal devices, programs, and printing systems

Abstract

To appropriately print a print image including a two-dimensional code.SOLUTION: Provided is a terminal device in a printing system including the terminal device and a printer separately or integrally, the terminal device comprises: an image generation determination unit for determining, when the printer used for printing has a page mode function, an approach for generating a print image for the printing such that use of the page mode function of the printer is given priority; and a command conversion unit for converting, when the image generation determination unit determines that the approach for generating the print image using the page mode function of the printer, print target data to be printed into a command corresponding to the page mode function of the printer.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a terminal device, a program, and a printing system.

Background Art

[0002] There is known a printing system that performs printing on a medium such as a receipt by sending a printing instruction from a terminal device to a printer. Such a printing system may be a case where the terminal device and the printer are separate, or a case where the functions of the terminal device and the printer are integrated. In a terminal device, for example, a dedicated application is used to give a printing instruction to a printer.

[0003] In such a printing system, there can be multiple forms of generating a print image when printing on a receipt or the like. For example, a printing system in which a print image is generated on the printer side, or a printing system in which a print image is generated on the terminal device side, or a printing system having a function of generating a print image on both the printer side and the terminal device side, and allowing a user to select which function of the printer and the terminal device to use.

[0004] Also, in such a printing system, there may be a case of printing a print image including a two-dimensional code such as a barcode.

[0005] For example, the printer described in Patent Document 1 includes a barcode generator that generates a barcode font corresponding to a specified barcode, and a control unit that analyzes a print command from a host device and extracts a barcode font corresponding to the specified barcode from the barcode generator when it recognizes that the print command is a print command related to barcode printing and edits the print data (see Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 6-234248 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0007] However, in a printing system where both the printer and the terminal device have the function to generate print images, when the printer generates print images including barcodes using a mode (standard mode) in which the terminal device sends commands to the printer to sequentially generate print images, the following problems arose. In other words, in standard mode, depending on the combination of the printer's print mode and the print image, there are printing constraints, such as the inability to place text to the left or right of a barcode. Furthermore, users who lack the knowledge to accurately determine these printing constraints may be unable to select the appropriate print mode.

[0008] This disclosure is made in consideration of these circumstances and aims to provide a terminal device, program, and printing system that can appropriately print printable images including two-dimensional codes. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] One aspect of the present disclosure is a terminal device in a printing system having a terminal device and a printer separately or as an integrated unit, the terminal device comprising: an image generation determination unit that determines a form for generating a print image for printing such that it prioritizes using the page mode function of the printer when the printer used for printing has a page mode function; and a command conversion unit that, when the image generation determination unit determines a form for generating the print image using the page mode function of the printer, converts the print target data to be printed into a command corresponding to the page mode function of the printer.

[0010] One aspect of this disclosure is a program for a computer constituting a terminal device in a printing system having a terminal device and a printer separately or as an integrated unit, which includes: an image generation determination function that determines the form in which to generate a print image for printing so as to prioritize using the page mode function of the printer when the printer used for printing has a page mode function; and a command conversion function that, when the image generation determination function determines the form in which to generate the print image using the page mode function of the printer, converts the print target data to be printed into a command corresponding to the page mode function of the printer.

[0011] One aspect of the present disclosure is a printing system having a terminal device and a printer separately or as an integrated unit, wherein the terminal device comprises: an image generation determination unit that determines a form for generating a print image for printing such that it prioritizes using the page mode function of the printer when the printer used for printing has a page mode function; and a command conversion unit that, when the image generation determination unit determines a form for generating the print image using the page mode function of the printer, converts the print target data to be printed into a command corresponding to the page mode function of the printer. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] According to the terminal device, program, and printing system described herein, it is possible to appropriately print printable images including two-dimensional codes. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0013] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of the configuration of a printing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] This figure shows an example of the configuration of a printer according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] This figure shows an example of the configuration of a terminal device according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] It is a diagram showing an example of a printed matter in the standard mode according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] It is a diagram showing an example of a printed matter in the page mode according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] It is a diagram showing an example of a process performed in a printing system according to an embodiment. [Figure 7] It is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a printing system according to a modification of an embodiment. [Mode for Carrying Out the Invention]

[0014] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0015] [Printing System] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a printing system 1 according to an embodiment. The printing system 1 includes a plurality of N printers 11-1 to 11-N and one terminal device 12. Here, in the present embodiment, for the sake of simplicity of explanation, one terminal device 12 is shown, but the printing system 1 may be provided with a plurality of terminal devices.

[0016] The terminal device 12 can communicate with each of the printers 11-1 to 11-N. The communication between the terminal device 12 and each of the printers 11-1 to 11-N may be, for example, wired communication, or wireless communication, or communication including both wired and wireless. For example, a configuration in which the terminal device 12 and each of the printers 11-1 to 11-N are communicatively connected only when necessary may be used, or a configuration in which they are always communicatively connected may be used.

[0017] [Printing Target] This embodiment shows a case where printing of print target data including barcode information, which is an example of a two-dimensional code, is performed by printers 11-1 to 11-N. In this embodiment, a command corresponding to the print target data is sent from the terminal device 12 to printers 11-1 to 11-N, and the printers 11-1 to 11-N perform printing of the print target data. That is, in this embodiment, upon a request (print instruction) from the host terminal device 12, a printer (any one of printers 11-1 to 11-N) performs printing of a print image including a barcode. Note that, as the two-dimensional code, for example, any code other than a barcode may be used.

[0018] <Printer> The plurality of printers 11-1 to 11-N may each be installed at an arbitrary location, for example, may be installed inside a store such as a convenience store. As a specific example, some or all of the plurality of printers 11-1 to 11-N may be ticket issuing machines that print and output a print image including barcode information on paper. Also, as a specific example, some or all of the plurality of printers 11-1 to 11-N may be receipt issuing machines that are provided in a POS (Point Of Sales) and print and output a print image including barcode information on a receipt (paper). In this embodiment, the printers 11-1 to 11-N are each thermal printers, but are not limited thereto, and various printers may be used.

[0019] Note that the plurality of printers 11-1 to 11-N may be installed in the vicinity, such as in the same facility (such as a store), or may be installed separately, such as in different facilities. Also, some or all of the plurality of printers 11-1 to 11-N may be mobile printers that can be moved.

[0020] The information in a barcode can be anything; for example, it could be information representing the URL of a specific website (Uniform Resource Locator) for advertising purposes, information representing an individual or a company or other organization, or information representing a product. Furthermore, print data that includes two or more barcode images in a single print image (a set of print images) may be used.

[0021] In this embodiment, the multiple printers 11-1 to 11-N may differ in whether or not they have a predetermined mode (referred to as a page mode in this embodiment for convenience of explanation). In this embodiment, for the sake of explanation, the configuration and operation of the multiple printers 11-1 to 11-N are assumed to be the same, except for the presence or absence of the page mode function. As another example, a configuration may be used in which the configuration and operation of multiple printers 11-1 to 11-N may differ in respects other than the presence or absence of page mode functionality.

[0022] Figure 2 shows an example of the configuration of printer 11-1 according to this embodiment. For the sake of explanation, the configuration and operation of printer 11-1 will be described here, but the configuration and operation of the other printers 11-2 to 11-N are similar, except for the presence or absence of the page mode function.

[0023] The printer 11-1 comprises a communication unit 111, a printing unit 112, and a control unit 113. The control unit 113 comprises a storage unit 131 and a command analysis unit 132.

[0024] Note that the example configuration of printer 11-1 shown in Figure 2 is a schematic example for explaining this embodiment, and various other configurations may be used.

[0025] The communication unit 111 has the function of communicating with other devices. In this embodiment, the communication unit 111 communicates with the terminal device 12.

[0026] The printing unit 112 has the function of printing a print image based on the data to be printed. In this embodiment, the printing unit 112 prints the print image onto a sheet of paper such as a receipt according to instructions from the control unit 113. In this embodiment, the printing unit 112 has the function of generating a barcode image.

[0027] The control unit 113 performs various controls and processes in the printer 11-1. The memory unit 131 stores various types of information (which may also be called data). The command analysis unit 132 analyzes the print command received from the terminal device 12. Based on the results of the command analysis unit 132's analysis of the print command, the control unit 113 causes the printing unit 112 to print the print image.

[0028] Here, for example, the control unit 113 is equipped with a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), and executes various control and processing functions by running a program (control program) stored in the storage unit 131 using this processor.

[0029] <Printer Mode> In this embodiment, all printers 11-1 to 11-N have a standard mode (referred to as "standard mode" in this embodiment for convenience of explanation). Furthermore, in this embodiment, some of the N printers 11-1 to 11-N have a page mode function, while the other (remaining) do not. In other words, in this embodiment, some of the N printers 11-1 to 11-N have both standard mode and page mode functions, while the remaining ones have standard mode functions but not page mode functions.

[0030] Furthermore, in this embodiment, all printers 11-1 to 11-N have the function of printing the print image data received from the terminal device 12 using the printing unit 112. In this case, the data in question is a print image containing information at the dot level, and may be transmitted from the terminal device 12 to the printer 11-1.

[0031] <Terminal device> Figure 3 shows an example of the configuration of the terminal device 12 according to this embodiment. The terminal device 12 is operated by a user (not shown in the illustration). The terminal device 12 may be, for example, a smartphone or another personal computer.

[0032] The terminal device 12 comprises an input unit 211, an output unit 212, a communication unit 213, and a control unit 214. The input unit 211 includes an operation unit 231 that can be operated by the user. The output unit 212 includes a display unit 232 having a screen for displaying information. The control unit 214 includes a storage unit 251, an image generation determination unit 271, an image generation unit 272, and a command conversion unit 273.

[0033] In this embodiment, the image generation determination unit 271, the image generation unit 272, and the command conversion unit 273 are functional units (application functional unit 311) implemented by a dedicated application, but the configuration is not necessarily limited to this.

[0034] Note that the example configuration of the terminal device 12 shown in Figure 3 is a schematic example for the purpose of explaining this embodiment, and various other configurations may be used.

[0035] The input unit 211 receives information from an external source. The input unit 211 may, for example, input information corresponding to the operation performed by the user on the operation unit 231. This information may be a predetermined instruction. The output unit 212 outputs information to the outside. The output unit 212 may, for example, output the information to be displayed to the screen of the display unit 232. This allows the user to view the information displayed on the screen. Furthermore, the display unit 232 may be equipped with a touch panel function, and this touch panel function may be used as the operation unit 231. The communication unit 213 has the function of communicating with external devices. In this embodiment, the communication unit 213 communicates with each of the printers 11-1 to 11-N.

[0036] The control unit 214 performs various controls and processes in the terminal device 12. The memory unit 251 stores various types of information.

[0037] In this embodiment, the data to be printed (print data) is generated by the terminal device 12 or another device. For example, the terminal device 12 may have a function for accounting for goods, and may generate printable data that includes information representing the results of such accounting. As another example, a server device or other device (other than terminal device 12) may generate printable data and transmit that generated printable data to terminal device 12. Terminal device 12 then acquires the printable data.

[0038] The image generation determination unit 271 determines whether to use a configuration in which the print image generation process is performed on the terminal device 12 side, or a configuration in which the print image generation process is performed on the printer side (the printer to which the print command is issued).

[0039] When making such a decision, the image generation decision unit 271 may, for example, check the functionality of the printer to which the print command will be issued. Furthermore, when making such a determination, the image generation determination unit 271 may, for example, check the user's settings regarding the form.

[0040] Specifically, the image generation determination unit 271 has a function to determine whether or not the data to be printed meets the requirements of the printing constraints. As a first-stage determination process, it first determines whether or not to print the data to be printed in standard mode. As a result, if the image generation determination unit 271 determines that the data to be printed should be printed in standard mode, it sends a command to the printer to print the data in standard mode. On the other hand, if the image generation determination unit 271 determines that the data to be printed should not be printed in standard mode, it proceeds to the second stage of determination processing.

[0041] Furthermore, any method may be used to determine whether or not to print the data to be printed in standard mode, and the decision does not necessarily have to be based on whether or not it is possible to print the data to be printed in standard mode.

[0042] Here, when the image generation determination unit 271 decides whether or not to print the data to be printed in standard mode, it may, for example, check the content of the data to be printed. As a specific example, the image generation determination unit 271 may be configured to determine whether or not the data to be printed contains a barcode, and to select standard mode if it determines that the data to be printed does not contain a barcode, and not select standard mode if it determines that the data to be printed contains a barcode.

[0043] Furthermore, the image generation determination unit 271 may have the option to select standard mode even when the data to be printed includes a barcode. Specifically, the image generation determination unit 271 may determine whether using standard mode is sufficient when the data to be printed includes a barcode, and if it determines that using standard mode is sufficient, it may select standard mode; otherwise, it may not select standard mode.

[0044] In the second stage of the decision-making process, the image generation decision unit 271 determines whether the printer to which the print command is to be issued has a page mode function (i.e., whether or not it supports page mode). As a result, if the image generation determination unit 271 determines that the printer has a page mode function, it decides to use the page mode function of the printer and controls the printer to perform the print image generation process. On the other hand, if the image generation determination unit 271 determines that the printer does not have a page mode function, it decides to use the page mode function of the terminal device 12 and controls the terminal device 12 (in this embodiment, the image generation unit 272) to perform the print image generation process.

[0045] Furthermore, the image generation determination unit 271 can be set to continuously generate a print image on the terminal device 12 side (in this embodiment, the image generation unit 272) in response to, for example, user operations on the operation unit 231. When such a setting is made, the print image is generated permanently on the terminal device 12 side (in this embodiment, the image generation unit 272). Such settings are intended for users who, for example, can determine the requirements of print constraints and do not wish to change the print mode as needed. For example, even with the same print target data, the print result (the appearance of the printed document) may differ depending on whether the print image generation process is performed on the terminal device 12 or on the printer side. With these settings, users can prevent such situations.

[0046] Thus, in the printing system 1 according to this embodiment, it is possible to use an appropriate printing mode even when it is not appropriate to print the data to be printed in standard mode. Furthermore, in the printing system 1 according to this embodiment, when the user sets the printing image generation process to be performed on the terminal device 12 side, it is possible to use an appropriate printing mode based on the user's settings.

[0047] Here, the print modes that the user can select could be, for example, a print mode that prioritizes dot printing (dot printing using the page mode function of terminal device 12) and a print mode that prioritizes printing where the printer generates the print image, but it is not necessarily limited to these two options. In this embodiment, the user can set the priority of the print mode according to their preference. Furthermore, the priority of such print modes may be set commonly for all print jobs, or it may be set for each predetermined unit, such as per print job. Furthermore, the priority of such print modes may be set in advance, or it may be possible to set it at any time (new setting or setting a change after the initial setting).

[0048] If the user has selected a print mode that prioritizes dot printing, the image generation determination unit 271 controls the terminal device 12 to generate the print image.

[0049] On the other hand, if a print mode prioritizing the generation of a print image is selected on the printer side, the image generation determination unit 271 determines (confirms) whether the printer to which the print command is issued has a page mode function. If the printer has a page mode function, the image generation determination unit 271 controls the printer to generate the print image. Furthermore, if the printer does not have a page mode function, the image generation determination unit 271 controls the terminal device 12 to generate the print image.

[0050] Furthermore, as a print mode that users can select, a print mode may be provided for users who do not wish to change the print mode as needed (for example, users who can determine the requirements of the print constraints), in which the terminal device 12 fixes the generation of the print image. Note that these printing modes are not necessarily required.

[0051] Furthermore, regarding the process of generating the print image on the terminal device 12 side, for example, the terminal device 12 may have a function to reduce (or enlarge) the print image so that the print image fits within the printable area of ​​the printer to which the print command is issued. This function may be provided in the control unit 214 (for example, the image generation unit 272). Furthermore, the reduction (or enlargement) of the printed image may be performed on the entire printed image, or on only a portion of the image contained within the printed image.

[0052] Here, there are no particular limitations on the method used by the terminal device 12 to determine whether each printer 11-1 to 11-N has a page mode function, and any method may be used.

[0053] As an example, the control unit 214 (for example, the image generation determination unit 271) may send a predetermined command to the printer to be determined (in this embodiment, one of the printers 11-1 to 11-N) to inquire whether or not it has a page mode function, receive a response command from the printer to the command, and determine whether or not the printer has a page mode function based on the content of the response. In this case, the printer has a function to send (reply to) the terminal device 12 a response command when it receives the predetermined command from the terminal device 12. The response command includes information indicating whether or not the printer has a page mode function.

[0054] As an example, the control unit 214 (for example, the image generation determination unit 271) may communicate with the printer to be determined (in this embodiment, one of the printers 11-1 to 11-N) and analyze the command received from the printer, and based on the results of the analysis, determine whether or not the printer has a page mode function.

[0055] As an example, the control unit 214 (for example, the image generation determination unit 271) may determine whether the printer to be determined (in this embodiment, one of the printers 11-1 to 11-N) is equipped with a predetermined storage device, and based on the result, may determine whether the printer has a page mode function. In this case, the configuration is assumed in which printers with page mode functionality are equipped with the specified storage device, while printers without page mode functionality are not equipped with the specified storage device. The specified storage device may be, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory) necessary to implement page mode functionality.

[0056] As an example, the control unit 214 (for example, the image generation determination unit 271) may store information (for example, a table) in advance that associates the identification information (ID) of each printer with information indicating whether or not a page mode is available, and then use the contents of the table to determine whether or not each printer has a page mode function. In this case, the control unit 214 (for example, the image generation determination unit 271) has the function of identifying the printer's identification information based on the information received from the printer to be determined (in this embodiment, one of the printers 11-1 to 11-N). Any information may be used as the identification information; for example, device information unique to each printer, or identification information assigned to each printer may be used. The information contained in the table may be stored, for example, in a storage unit 251.

[0057] As an example, the control unit 214 (for example, the image generation determination unit 271) may store information (for example, a table) in advance that associates information representing the model number of each printer with information representing the presence or absence of page mode, and then use the contents of the table to determine whether or not each printer has the page mode function. In this case, the control unit 214 (for example, the image generation determination unit 271) has a function to identify the model number of the printer to be determined (in this embodiment, one of the printers 11-1 to 11-N) based on the information received from the printer. The information contained in the table may be stored, for example, in a storage unit 251.

[0058] As an example, the control unit 214 (for example, the image generation determination unit 271) may, in advance, store information indicating whether or not each of the one or more printers to which the print command is to be issued (in this embodiment, one or more of printers 11-1 to 11-N) has a page mode function, and then use that information to determine whether or not each printer has a page mode function. This information may be stored, for example, in a memory unit 251.

[0059] Thus, the terminal device 12 may, for example, determine whether each printer 11-1 to 11-N has a page mode function by communicating with each printer 11-1 to 11-N when a decision is needed, or it may store in advance whether each printer 11-1 to 11-N has a page mode function.

[0060] The image generation unit 272 has a page mode function. When the image generation process is performed on the terminal device 12, the image generation unit 272 generates the print image using the page mode function.

[0061] The command conversion unit 273 generates a command to instruct the printer to print. For example, if the printer performs the process of generating a print image, the command conversion unit 273 converts the print target data into a command for the printer to generate a print image based on that print target data. Furthermore, for example, if the terminal device 12 performs the process of generating a print image, the command conversion unit 273 converts the print image into a command for printing by the printer.

[0062] Here, for example, the control unit 214 is equipped with a processor such as a CPU, and by executing a program (control program) stored in the storage unit 251 using this processor, it performs various control and processing functions.

[0063] <Standard Mode> Let's explain Standard Mode. Standard mode is a mode in which the printer prints in the order of the commands. Standard mode is suitable for printing non-standard lengths, such as receipts.

[0064] Figure 4 shows an example of a standard mode printed document 411 according to the embodiment. In the example in Figure 4, a portion of the paper is shown as printed material 411. The printed material 411 is transported along the paper feeding direction D1 shown in Figure 4. Print commands include, for example, (Step 1) sending text data, (Step 2) ordering the printing of a barcode, and (Step 3) sending a specified file (specifying an image file). These printing commands enable the printing of text data, barcodes, and image files.

[0065] In the example shown in Figure 4, the printed material 411 has a text section 431 on which text data is printed, a barcode section 432 on which a barcode is printed, and an image section 433 on which image file data (image data) is printed.

[0066] In the example in Figure 4, a single print image (a single set of print images) is shown to include the print image portion of text data, the print image portion of a barcode, and the print image portion of an image file. However, this is not necessarily the only option. For example, one print image (only) of these may be used for each print target, or a print image containing two of these print image portions may be used.

[0067] <Page Mode> This section explains page modes. Page mode is a mode in which printing is performed one page at a time. In page mode, the printing area for the page mode is first reserved, and then the print data (each image portion) is spread out to any position within the reserved printing area. The spread print data is then printed according to the print command in page mode. Page mode is suitable for printing at a fixed length, for example. It is also suitable for printing where it is necessary to specify coordinates, such as the starting point of text or the printing position of ruled lines.

[0068] Figure 5 shows an example of a printed document 511 in page mode according to the embodiment. In the example shown in Figure 5, a portion of the paper is displayed as printed material 511. The printed material 511 is transported along the paper feeding direction D2 shown in Figure 5. Print commands include, for example, (Step 1) starting page mode, (Step 2) specifying the print area (print area) in page mode, (Step 3) sending text data in page mode, (Step 4) issuing a command to print a barcode in page mode, (Step 5) sending a specified file in page mode (specifying an image file), (Step 6) printing in page mode, and (Step 7) ending page mode. Here, in (Step 6) Page mode printing, the data from (Steps 3) to (Steps 5) is printed to the print area specified in (Step 2). In page mode printing, each part of the print image that makes up a single print image (a single set of print images) is placed in a predetermined location within the print area.

[0069] In the example shown in Figure 5, a printable area (printing area) 531 is designated on the surface of the printed document 511, and a text section 551 on which text data is printed, a barcode section 552 on which a barcode is printed, and an image section 553 on which image file data (image data) is printed are formed. Thus, in page mode, it is possible to place and print each of the expanded data (for example, text print data, barcode print data, image file print data) within the designated print area.

[0070] In the example in Figure 5, a single print image (a single set of print images) is shown to include the print image portion of text data, the print image portion of a barcode, and the print image portion of an image file. However, this is not necessarily the only option. For example, only one of these print images may be used for each print target, or any two of these print image portions may be used.

[0071] <Standard Mode and Page Mode> In this embodiment, whether using the standard mode function of printers 11-1 to 11-N or the page mode function of printers 11-1 to 11-N, a predetermined command is sent from the terminal device 12 to printers 11-1 to 11-N, and printers 11-1 to 11-N generate a print image based on that command. Furthermore, if the print image includes a barcode, printers 11-1 to 11-N generate a print image of the barcode. Note that commands in standard mode and commands in page mode may differ in some or all ways.

[0072] Page mode allows for relatively more freedom in arranging barcodes and text compared to standard mode. On the other hand, standard mode generates images in the order of commands, resulting in less flexibility in placement compared to page mode. Page mode features allow you to, for example, position print images using coordinate units, specify print areas (such as top, bottom, left, and right margins), and even rotate barcodes by 90 degrees before positioning them.

[0073] <Example of processing procedure> Figure 6 shows an example of the processing performed in the printing system 1 according to this embodiment. In the example shown in Figure 6, the terminal device 12 can select from three different printing modes. The first print mode is a print mode that uses the standard mode functions of printers 11-1 to 11-N. In the first print mode, printers 11-1 to 11-N generate the print image using the standard mode functions. The second print mode is a print mode that uses the page mode function of printers 11-1 to 11-N. In the second print mode, the printers 11-1 to 11-N generate the print image using the page mode function. The third printing mode is a printing mode that uses the page mode function of the terminal device 12. In the third printing mode, the terminal device 12 generates the print image using the page mode function.

[0074] In this example, for the sake of simplicity, we will assume that printable data is generated in terminal device 12, and that the printer to be used to print the printable data (in this embodiment, one of printers 11-1 to 11-N) is uniquely determined. As another example, the terminal device 12 may be configured to variably determine the printer to be used for printing the data each time printable data is generated, according to a predetermined rule. Another example is that the terminal device 12 may be configured to variably determine the printer to be used for printing each time printable data is generated, in accordance with instructions from the user.

[0075] (Step S1) When data to be printed is generated in the terminal device 12, the image generation determination unit 271 determines whether or not to use standard mode. As a result of this determination, if terminal device 12 decides to use standard mode (step S1: YES), it proceeds to step S5. On the other hand, if, as a result of this decision, terminal device 12 decides not to use standard mode (step S1: NO), it proceeds to step S2.

[0076] (Step S2) In the terminal device 12, the image generation determination unit 271 determines whether or not the printer used for printing supports page mode. As a result of this determination, if terminal device 12 determines that the printer to be used for printing supports page mode (step S2: YES), it proceeds to step S3. On the other hand, if, as a result of this determination, terminal device 12 determines that the printer to be used for printing does not support page mode (step S2: NO), it proceeds to step S7.

[0077] (Step S3) In the terminal device 12, the image generation determination unit 271 determines whether or not the printer's page mode should be prioritized. This specification is made, for example, by the user. As a result of this determination, if terminal device 12 determines that the printer's page mode should be prioritized (step S3: YES), it proceeds to step S4. On the other hand, if, as a result of this determination, terminal device 12 determines that prioritizing the printer's page mode is not specified (step S3: NO), it proceeds to step S7.

[0078] (Step S4) In the terminal device 12, the image generation determination unit 271 determines whether or not the data to be printed fits within the printable range (the printable range of the page mode of the printer used for printing). As a result of this determination, if the terminal device 12 determines that the data to be printed fits within the printable area (step S4: YES), it proceeds to step S5. On the other hand, if, as a result of this determination, the terminal device 12 determines that the data to be printed does not fit within the printable area (step S4: NO), it proceeds to step S7.

[0079] (Step S5) In the terminal device 12, the command conversion unit 273 converts the data to be printed into a print command, and the communication unit 213 sends the command to the printer to be used for printing. Then, the printing system 1 proceeds to the process in step S6.

[0080] (Step S6) When a printer receives a print command from terminal device 12, it generates a print image based on the received command and executes the printing of the print image. Then, the processing of this flow is completed in printing system 1.

[0081] In step S5, the terminal device 12 sends a command directly to the printer without performing the print image generation process, and in step S6, the printer generates the print image (for example, a print image including a barcode).

[0082] Furthermore, in this embodiment, during the processing of step S6, the printer uses either the standard mode function or the page mode function depending on the received command. In the example in Figure 6, when the process transitions from step S1 to step S5 in steps S5 and S6, a print process corresponding to standard mode is performed, that is, a print process in the first print mode (a print mode that uses the standard mode function of the printer) is performed. Furthermore, in the processes of step S5 and step S6, if the process transitions from step S4 to step S5, a print process corresponding to the printer's page mode is performed, that is, a print process in the second print mode (a print mode that uses the printer's page mode function) is performed.

[0083] (Step S7) The terminal device 12 uses the page mode function of the terminal device 12 to generate a print image based on the data to be printed. Then, the printing system 1 proceeds to the process in step S8.

[0084] (Step S8) In the terminal device 12, the command conversion unit 273 converts the print image to be printed (for example, dot data) into a print instruction command and sends the command representing the print image to the printer to be used for printing. Upon receiving the command, the printer then prints the print image based on the received command. Then, the printing system 1 terminates the processing of this flow.

[0085] In step S7, the terminal device 12 generates a print image (for example, a print image including a barcode), and in step S8, the terminal device 12 sends a command to the printer to print the print image it generated. Furthermore, if the process transitions from step S4 to step S7, in step S7, the terminal device 12 performs a process to reduce the image of the data to be printed so that the printed image fits within the printable area of ​​the printer.

[0086] In addition, during the processing in step S7 and step S8, printing is performed in accordance with the page mode of the terminal device 12, that is, printing is performed in the third printing mode (a printing mode that uses the page mode function of the terminal device 12).

[0087] In the example shown in Figure 6, the image reduction may be performed in the terminal device 12. However, as an example, a configuration in which the image enlargement may be performed in the terminal device 12 may be used, or a configuration in which both image reduction and enlargement may be performed in the terminal device 12 may be used.

[0088] Note that the order of processing in the flow shown in Figure 6 is just one example for illustrative purposes, and other processing orders may be used. For example, the order of processing in step S2 and step S3 may be reversed. Furthermore, for example, the order of processing in step S2, step S3, and step S4 may be reversed.

[0089] Furthermore, while the flow shown in Figure 6 illustrates the case where step S3 is performed, other configurations may be used in which step S3 is not performed. In this case, for example, in the example in Figure 6, if step S2 is YES, the process proceeds to step S4. Furthermore, while the flow shown in Figure 6 illustrates the case where step S4 is performed, other configurations may be used in which step S4 is not performed. In this case, for example, in the example in Figure 6, if step S3 is YES, the process proceeds to step S5. Furthermore, in the flow shown in Figure 6, a configuration may be used in which the processing in steps S3 and S4 is not performed. In this case, in the example in Figure 6, for example, if the answer to step S2 is YES, the process proceeds to step S5.

[0090] <Regarding the above embodiments> As described above, the printing system 1 according to this embodiment can appropriately print a print image including a two-dimensional code.

[0091] In the printing system 1 according to this embodiment, for example, an application developer can build a system like the following. In other words, it is possible to construct a printing system 1 in which the terminal device 12 can determine, based on the functions of the specified printer's print mode (and the content of the print pattern), whether to perform the process of generating a print image including a barcode using the printer's functions or using the functions of the terminal device 12.

[0092] In the printing system 1 according to this embodiment, the best possible barcode printing environment can be achieved while making full use of the functions of the printer, and situations such as the print format being corrupted or the barcode being unable to be printed can be avoided as much as possible.

[0093] In the printing system 1 according to this embodiment, for example, the terminal device 12 can analyze the print image and output the optimal print instructions to the printer for the print image including the barcode. In the printing system 1 according to this embodiment, for example, when printing barcodes, it is possible to prioritize the best function of the printer while dynamically switching the control, thereby enabling control that does not affect the printing result.

[0094] Furthermore, in the printing system 1 according to this embodiment, for example, the user can specify the priority mode (in this embodiment, the priority of the printing modes to be used) when printing data to be printed that has a barcode.

[0095] [Differentiation] Figure 7 shows an example of the configuration of a printing system 611 according to a modified embodiment. The printing system 611 comprises a printer function unit 631, which has the function of a printer, and a terminal function unit 632, which has the function of a terminal device. For the sake of explanation, we will refer to them here as the printer function unit 631 and the terminal function unit 632, but they may also be called the printer and terminal device, respectively.

[0096] In the modified version, the printer function unit 631 has a configuration similar to that of printer 11-1 shown in Figure 2, and performs similar operations. In the modified configuration, the terminal function unit 632 has a configuration similar to that of the terminal device 12 shown in Figure 3, and performs similar operations.

[0097] Thus, a system in which the functions of a printer and the functions of a terminal device are integrated (in a modified example, a printing system 611) may be used. In the modified example, such a system is referred to as a printing system 611, but it may be called by any other name, for example, a terminal-integrated printer or a printer-integrated terminal device.

[0098] Furthermore, in a system where the functions of a printer and a terminal device are integrated, it is not necessarily required that each functional unit shown in Figure 2 and each functional unit shown in Figure 3 be provided as they are. For example, some functional units may be omitted or modified when integrating them, or other functional units may be added.

[0099] <Regarding variations of the embodiment> As described above, the printing system 611 according to a modified example of this embodiment can appropriately print a print image including a two-dimensional code, similar to the case of the printing system 1 shown in Figure 1. In the modified printing system 611, for example, even if one of the printer function unit 631 or the terminal function unit 632 is replaced due to a malfunction, the terminal function unit 632 can still select an appropriate printing mode. Thus, the technology according to this embodiment is also useful when the terminal function unit 632 and the printer function unit 631 are fixed in a one-to-one relationship.

[0100] Furthermore, a program to implement the functions of any component in any of the devices described above (e.g., terminal devices, printers, etc.) may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and that program may be loaded into a computer system and executed. Here, "computer system" includes hardware such as operating systems and peripheral devices. "Computer-readable recording medium" refers to portable media such as flexible disks, magneto-optical disks, ROMs, CD (Compact Disc)-ROMs (Read Only Memory), and storage devices such as hard disks built into computer systems. Moreover, "computer-readable recording medium" also includes volatile memory within a computer system that retains a program for a certain period of time, such as volatile memory within a computer system that acts as a server or client when a program is transmitted via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line. Such volatile memory may be, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory). The recording medium may also be, for example, a non-temporary recording medium.

[0101] Furthermore, the above program may be transmitted from a computer system that stores the program in a memory device or the like to another computer system via a transmission medium or by transmission waves within the transmission medium. Here, the "transmission medium" used to transmit the program refers to a medium that has the function of transmitting information, such as a network like the Internet or a communication line like a telephone line. Furthermore, the above program may be intended to implement only a portion of the functions described above. Moreover, the above program may be a so-called differential file, capable of implementing the aforementioned functions in combination with programs already recorded in the computer system. A differential file may also be called a differential program.

[0102] Furthermore, the functions of any component in any device described above (e.g., terminal device, printer, etc.) may be implemented by a processor. For example, each process in the embodiment may be implemented by a processor that operates based on information such as a program, and a computer-readable recording medium that stores information such as a program. Here, the processor may be implemented by having the functions of each part implemented by separate hardware, or by having the functions of each part implemented by integrated hardware. For example, the processor includes hardware, and the hardware may include at least one of a circuit that processes digital signals and a circuit that processes analog signals. For example, the processor may be configured using one or more circuit devices or one or both of one or more circuit elements mounted on a circuit board. An IC (Integrated Circuit) may be used as the circuit device, and a resistor or capacitor may be used as the circuit element.

[0103] Here, the processor may be, for example, a CPU. However, the processor is not limited to a CPU; various types of processors may be used, such as a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) or a DSP (Digital Signal Processor). The processor may also be, for example, a hardware circuit using an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit). Furthermore, the processor may be composed of, for example, multiple CPUs, or multiple hardware circuits using ASICs. The processor may also be composed of, for example, a combination of multiple CPUs and multiple hardware circuits using ASICs. The processor may also include, for example, one or more amplifier circuits or filter circuits that process analog signals.

[0104] While embodiments of this disclosure have been described in detail above with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to these embodiments and may include designs and other elements that do not depart from the gist of this disclosure.

[0105] [Note] Examples of configurations 1 through 7 are shown.

[0106] (Configuration Example 1) In a printing system having a terminal device and a printer as separate or integrated components, the terminal device is: An image generation determination unit determines the form in which the print image is generated so as to prioritize using the page mode function of the printer used for printing when the printer has a page mode function, When the image generation determination unit determines that the printer will generate the print image using the page mode function of the printer, the command conversion unit converts the print target data to be printed into a command corresponding to the page mode function of the printer, A terminal device equipped with the following features.

[0107] (Configuration example 2) The aforementioned terminal device is The printer includes a storage unit that stores user settings related to the use of the page mode function of the printer, The image generation determination unit determines the form in which to generate the print image, prioritizing the user's settings. The terminal device described in (Configuration Example 1).

[0108] (Configuration Example 3) The image generation determination unit determines, if the print image generated using the page mode function of the printer does not fit within the printable range of the printer, that the terminal device should generate a reduced print image as the form of print image generation. The terminal device described in (Configuration Example 1) or (Configuration Example 2).

[0109] (Configuration example 4) The methods for generating the print image include generating the print image using the page mode function of the printer, generating the print image using the standard mode function of the printer, and generating the print image using the page mode function of the terminal device. A terminal device as described in any one of (Configuration Example 1) to (Configuration Example 3).

[0110] (Configuration example 5) The aforementioned terminal device is separate from the printer, The terminal device includes a communication unit that transmits the command converted by the command conversion unit to the printer. A terminal device as described in any one of (Configuration Example 1) to (Configuration Example 4).

[0111] (Configuration example 6) In a printing system having a terminal device and a printer, either separately or as a single unit, the computer constituting the terminal device includes: An image generation determination function that determines the form in which the print image is generated so as to prioritize using the page mode function of the printer used for printing when the printer has a page mode function, When the image generation determination function determines that the form in which the print image is generated is to be generated using the page mode function of the printer, a command conversion function is provided to convert the print target data to be printed into a command corresponding to the page mode function of the printer, A program to achieve this.

[0112] (Configuration example 7) A printing system having a terminal device and a printer, either separately or as an integrated unit, The aforementioned terminal device is An image generation determination unit determines the form in which the print image is generated so as to prioritize using the page mode function of the printer used for printing when the printer has a page mode function, When the image generation determination unit determines that the printer will generate the print image using the page mode function of the printer, the command conversion unit converts the print target data to be printed into a command corresponding to the page mode function of the printer, Equipped with, Printing system. [Explanation of symbols]

[0113] 1, 611…Printing system, 11-1~11-N, 12…Terminal device, 111, 213…Communication unit, 112…Printing unit, 113, 214…Control unit, 131, 251…Storage unit, 132…Command analysis unit, 211…Input unit, 212…Output unit, 231…Operation unit, 232…Display unit, 271…Image generation determination unit, 272…Image generation unit, 273…Command conversion unit, 311…Application function unit, 411, 511…Printed material, 431, 551…Text unit, 432, 552…Barcode unit, 433, 553…Image unit, 531…Print area, 631…Printer function unit, 632…Terminal function unit, D1, D2…Paper feeding direction

Claims

1. In a printing system having a terminal device and a printer as separate or integrated components, the terminal device is: An image generation determination unit determines the form in which the print image is generated for printing, so as to prioritize using the page mode function of the printer used for printing, when the printer has a page mode function that reserves a print area on the page and expands a part of the print image at any position within the reserved print area. When the image generation determination unit determines that the printer will generate the print image using the page mode function of the printer, the command conversion unit converts the print target data to be printed into a command corresponding to the page mode function of the printer, A terminal device equipped with the following features.

2. The aforementioned terminal device is The printer includes a storage unit that stores user settings related to the use of the page mode function, The image generation determination unit determines the form in which to generate the print image, prioritizing the user's settings. The terminal device according to claim 1.

3. The image generation determination unit determines, if the print image generated using the page mode function of the printer does not fit within the printable range of the printer, that the terminal device should generate a reduced print image as the form of print image generation. The terminal device according to claim 1.

4. The methods for generating the print image include generating the print image using the page mode function of the printer, generating the print image using the standard mode function of the printer, and generating the print image using the page mode function of the terminal device. The terminal device according to claim 1.

5. The aforementioned terminal device is separate from the printer, The terminal device includes a communication unit that transmits the command converted by the command conversion unit to the printer. The terminal device according to claim 1.

6. In a printing system having a terminal device and a printer, either separately or as a single unit, the computer constituting the terminal device includes: An image generation determination function that determines the form in which the print image is generated for printing, so as to prioritize using the page mode function of the printer used for printing, when the printer has a page mode function that reserves a print area on the page and expands a part of the print image at any position within the reserved print area, When the image generation determination function determines that the form in which the print image is generated is to be generated using the page mode function of the printer, a command conversion function is provided to convert the print target data to be printed into a command corresponding to the page mode function of the printer, A program to achieve this.

7. A printing system having a terminal device and a printer, either separately or as an integrated unit, The aforementioned terminal device is An image generation determination unit determines the form in which the print image is generated for printing, so as to prioritize using the page mode function of the printer used for printing, when the printer has a page mode function that reserves a print area on the page and expands a part of the print image at any position within the reserved print area. When the image generation determination unit determines that the printer will generate the print image using the page mode function of the printer, the command conversion unit converts the print target data to be printed into a command corresponding to the page mode function of the printer, A printing system equipped with the following features.

Images