JP3432080B2 - Printing system, data processing method of printing system, and storage medium storing computer-readable program - Google Patents

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a printing system in which an information processing device and a printing device communicate with each other via a predetermined communication medium to perform a printing process, a data processing method of the printing system, and a computer-readable program. The present invention relates to a stored storage medium.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in this type of printing system,
When the printing device receives the print information input from the host computer to perform the print processing, for example, the page printer is configured so that the print speed is constant or the print speed is variable according to the output resolution. ,
If an image transfer on the image interface that transfers print data from the host computer to the printer fails to meet the schedule, an overrun (a blank sheet is ejected because the printing is not in time) occurs due to the difference in the transfer speed. was there.

[0003]

As described above, in the conventional printing system, the performance of the printer cannot be fully utilized depending on the print data to be printed.

Therefore, when a print process that is lower than the capability of the printer is executed, the printer waits for reception of print data, and the controller that controls the print process inside the printer cannot make full use of its performance.

Further, when the print processing exceeding the capability of the printer is executed, there is a problem that the printer does not process the print data in time and overruns (printing is not in time and a blank sheet is discharged). It was

The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and an object of the first to ninth inventions of the present invention is to provide resource information acquired from a printing device by an information processing device and Data that is optimal for the resource capability of the printing device and the data processing capability of the information processing device is obtained by deriving and setting the resolution or transfer rate that enables high-resolution printing while maintaining the transfer rate from the print information to be transferred. It is an object to provide a printing system capable of constructing a processing environment and efficiently printing print information without causing printing failure, a data processing method of the printing system, and a storage medium storing a computer-readable program. .

[0007]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, in a printing system in which a printing device and an information processing device can communicate with each other via a predetermined communication medium, the resource information of the printing device is acquired. Acquisition means, deriving means for deriving, for each resolution that can be selected based on the resource information acquired by the acquisition means, a data transfer rate based on the amount of data according to the print width to be printed by the printing device, and the deriving means. And a control means for switching and setting an optimum resolution for the printing apparatus by comparing each data transfer rate for each resolution derived by the above and the data transfer rate between the information processing apparatus and the printing apparatus. The control means is provided for each page.
The resolution is switched according to the amount of print width data to be printed for each page.
It is a replacement setting .

[0008]

A second aspect of the present invention is a predetermined communication medium.
Printing in which the printing device and the information processing device can communicate via the body
In the system, obtain resource information of the printing device
Based on the acquisition means and the resource information acquired by the acquisition means
For each resolution that can be selected by the printer.
Each data transfer rate based on the amount of data according to the printing width
Derivation means for deriving and a solution derived by the deriving means
Each data transfer rate for each image resolution, the information processing device and the
The printing is performed by comparing the data transfer rate with the printing device.
Control means for switching and setting the optimum resolution for the device
The control means switches and sets the resolution according to the data amount of the print width to be printed for each line.

[0010]

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in a printing system in which a printing device and an information processing device can communicate with each other via a predetermined communication medium, an acquisition means for acquiring resource information of the printing device, and the acquisition means. Derivation means for deriving a data transfer rate based on the amount of data according to the print width to be printed by the printing device, and derivation means by the derivation means, for each sheet transport speed selectable based on the resource information acquired by the means. A control unit that compares each data transfer rate for each paper transport speed with the data transfer speed between the information processing apparatus and the printing apparatus and switches and sets the optimum paper transport speed for the printing apparatus. The control means comprises a transfer
Depending on the amount of print width data to be printed for each block
The paper transport speed is switched and set .

[0012]

[0013]

[0014]

A fourth invention according to the present invention is a data processing method of a printing system in which a printing device and an information processing device can communicate with each other via a predetermined communication medium, and an acquisition step of acquiring resource information of the printing device. And a derivation step of deriving a data transfer rate based on a data amount according to a print width to be printed by the printing device for each resolution that can be selected based on the acquired resource information, and the derived data for each resolution. A setting step of comparing a transfer rate and a data transfer rate between the information processing apparatus and the printing apparatus to switch and set an optimum resolution for the printing apparatus ;
In the setting step, the print width data for each page is printed.
The resolution is switched and set according to the amount . Starting
A fifth aspect of the present invention is a printing device via a predetermined communication medium.
Data of a printing system that enables communication between the storage device and the information processing device
In the processing method, the resource information of the printing device is acquired.
Selectable based on the acquisition process and the acquired resource information
According to the printing width that the printing device should print for each resolution
Derivation of each data transfer rate based on the amount of data
An output step and the derived data transfer rate for each resolution,
Data transfer speed between the information processing device and the printing device
To determine the optimum resolution for the printing device.
And a setting step of performing replacement setting, wherein the setting step includes
Resolution according to the print width data amount for each line
Is switched and set.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in a data processing method of a printing system in which a printing device and an information processing device can communicate with each other via a predetermined communication medium, an acquisition step of acquiring resource information of the printing device. And a derivation step of deriving a data transfer rate based on a data amount according to a print width to be printed by the printing device for each sheet transport speed selectable based on the acquired resource information, and the derived sheet transport A setting step of comparing and setting each data transfer rate for each speed and a data transfer rate between the information processing apparatus and the printing apparatus to switch and set an optimum paper transport speed for the printing apparatus. , The setting process is to transfer
Depending on the amount of print width data to be printed for each
The degree is switched and set .

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in a storage medium storing a program used in an information processing device,
Obtaining resource information of the printing device, and deriving a data transfer rate based on a data amount according to a print width to be printed by the printing device for each resolution that can be selected based on the obtained resource information. A step of comparing the derived data transfer rate for each resolution with a data transfer rate between the information processing apparatus and the printing apparatus, and setting the optimum resolution for the printing apparatus. body, including the door, said setting step, be printed for each page
A program for switching and setting the resolution according to the data amount of the print width is recorded in a storage medium so that it can be read by a computer. An eighth invention according to the present invention is
Storage medium storing a program used in an information processing device
In step of obtaining resource information of the printing device
And the resolution that can be selected based on the acquired resource information
The amount of data according to the print width that the printing device should print for each
Derivation process for deriving each data transfer rate based on
And the derived data transfer rate for each resolution and the information
The data transfer rate between the information processing device and the printing device.
Switch the optimum resolution for the printing device in comparison
A setting step of setting each line,
Switching the resolution according to the amount of print width data to be printed for each
The computer reads the setting program on the storage medium.
It is a recordable record.

A ninth invention according to the present invention is a storage medium storing a program used in an information processing apparatus,
Obtaining resource information of the printing device, and deriving a data transfer rate based on a data amount according to a print width to be printed by the printing device, for each sheet transport speed selectable based on the obtained resource information. Derivation process to
Each data transfer speed for each of the derived paper transport speeds,
Look including a setting step of setting switching the optimum sheet conveying speed to the printing apparatus by comparing the data transfer rate between the printing device and the information processing apparatus, the setting step
Is the print width data amount for each block to be transferred.
A program for switching and setting the sheet conveyance speed is recorded in a storage medium in a computer-readable manner.

[0019]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Before describing the configuration of this embodiment, the configurations of a laser beam printer and an inkjet printer suitable for applying this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.
This will be described with reference to FIG. Needless to say, the printer to which the present embodiment is applied is not limited to the laser beam printer and the inkjet printer, and may be a printer of another printer type.

FIG. 1 is a sectional view showing the structure of a first output device to which the present invention can be applied, for example, a case of a laser beam printer (LBP).

In the figure, reference numeral 1500 denotes an LBP main body, which inputs and stores print information (character codes, etc.), form information, macro commands, etc. supplied from an externally connected host computer. A corresponding character pattern, form pattern, or the like is created in accordance with the above, and an image is formed on a recording paper, which is a recording medium. Reference numeral 1501 is an operation panel on which switches for operation and LED display are arranged, and 1000 is a printer control unit for controlling the entire LBP main body 1500 and analyzing character information supplied from the host computer. The printer control unit 1000 mainly converts character information into a video signal of a corresponding character pattern and outputs it to the laser driver 1502. Laser driver 150
Reference numeral 2 is a circuit for driving the semiconductor laser 1503, which corresponds to the input video signal.
The laser light 1504 emitted from the No. 3 is switched on / off. The laser light 1504 is oscillated in the left-right direction by the rotary polygon mirror 1505 to scan and expose the electrostatic drum 1506. As a result, a character pattern electrostatic latent image is formed on the electrostatic drum 1506.

This latent image is developed by a developing unit 1507 arranged around the electrostatic drum 1506 and then transferred to a recording paper. A cut sheet is used as this recording sheet, and the cut sheet recording sheet is stored in a sheet cassette 1508 mounted on the LBP 1500, and is taken into the apparatus by a sheet feeding roller 1509, a conveying roller 1510, and a conveying roller 1511, and electrostatically discharged. It is supplied to the drum 1506. Further, the LBP main body 1500 is provided with at least one or more card slots (not shown) so that an optional font card and a control card (emulation card) having a different language system can be connected in addition to the built-in font.

FIG. 2 is an external view showing the configuration of a second output device to which the present invention can be applied, for example, the case of an inkjet recording device (IJRA).

In the figure, driving force transmission gears 5010, 5011, 50 are interlocked with forward and reverse rotations of a drive motor 5013.
The carriage HC that engages with the spiral groove 5004 of the lead screw 5005 that rotates through the pin 09 has a pin (not shown), and the arrows a and b through the guide 5003.
It is reciprocated in the direction. An inkjet cartridge IJC including an ink tank IT and an inkjet head IJH is mounted on the carriage HC.
A paper pressing plate 5002 presses the paper P against the platen 5000 in the moving direction of the carriage HC.

Photocouplers 5007 and 5008 function as home position detecting means for confirming the presence of the lever 5006 of the carriage HC in this area and switching the rotational direction of the drive motor 5013. Fifty
16 is a cap member 5 for capping the entire surface of the recording head.
A member 5015 that supports 022 is a suction unit that suctions the inside of the cap to perform suction recovery of the recording head through the in-cap opening 5023. A cleaning blade 5017 can be moved in the front-rear direction by a member 5019. Reference numeral 5018 denotes a main body supporting plate which supports the cleaning blade 5017 and the member 5019. Reference numeral 5012 is a lever for starting suction for suction recovery, which is the carriage H.
It moves with the movement of the cam 5020 that engages with C, and the driving force from the driving motor 5013 is movement-controlled by a known transmission means such as clutch switching.

The capping, cleaning, and suction recovery are configured so that the desired processing can be performed at the corresponding positions by the action of the lead screw 5005 when the carriage HC reaches the home position side area. It may be configured to perform a desired operation at a timing.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating the control configuration of the second output device shown in FIG. In the figure, 17
00 is an interface for inputting a recording signal, 1701 is an MPU, 1702 is a ROM for storing a control program executed by the MPU 1701 and host print information, 17
Reference numeral 03 denotes a DRAM, which stores various data (recording data, recording data supplied to the head, etc.). 1704
Is a gate array (GA) that controls the supply of output data to the recording head 1708.
00, MPU 1701, and DRAM 1703 also control data transfer.

Reference numeral 1710 is a carrier motor for conveying the recording head 1708, 1709 is a conveyance motor for conveying recording paper, and 1705 is the recording head 1708.
1706 is a head driver for driving the carrier motor 1709, and 1707 is a motor driver for driving the carrier motor 1710.

In the above-configured output device, when input information is input from the host computer 13 described later via the interface 1700, the input information is output between the gate array 1704 and the MPU 1701 for printing. Is converted to. Then, the motor drivers 1706 and 1707 are driven, and the recording head 1708 is driven according to the output information sent to the head driver 1705 to execute printing.

[First Embodiment] In the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4 which will be described later, a dumb printer system (print image data rasterized from the host computer 13 is printed by the host computer 13 and a printer 70) is used. In the printing device of the method of sending to the printer, the resolution of the printer engine and the printing speed (for example, 1
By providing a means for sending resource information regarding the time for printing a line) from the printer 70 to the host computer 13, the host computer 13 automatically selects a resolution suitable for the printing speed from the data amount of the printing width to be printed. By doing so, the performance of the printer 70 can be fully utilized.

In the present embodiment, the print width data amount means the number of dots in the print range in the main scanning direction / 8 [byte].
e]. In the present embodiment, the print width data is not compressed, but it is needless to say that even the compressed data may be calculated using the maximum data amount of the print width.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the printing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. In the case where the host computer 13 and the printer 70 are configured to be communicable via the printer cable 21. Corresponding to.

In the host computer 13, a controller 12 controls communication with the printer 70 and each device of the host computer 13. Controller 12
In FIG. 1, reference numeral 1 denotes a CPU, which executes a control program stored in the ROM 3 to calculate the resolution of the printer from the printing speed of the printer 70 and the size of paper to be printed. 2 is RA
M stores data such as print data and programs. A keyboard controller (KBC) 5 controls keyboard input from the keyboard (KB) 9.

Reference numeral 6 is a CRT controller (CRTC),
It controls the display of the CRT 10. A memory controller (MC) 7 controls access to an external memory 11 including a storage medium such as a floppy disk, a hard disk, and a magneto-optical disk. 8 is a parallel interface (P
The I / F) connects the host computer 13 and the printer 70 so that they can communicate with each other. 4 is a system bus, C
PU1 and each 2-8 are connected so that communication is possible.

In the printer 70, 40 is a printer controller, which includes the host computer 13 and the printer 70.
Data communication with the video interface (VIDEO
The image data output with the printer engine 62 via the I / F 37 is controlled via the interface 41.

In the printer controller 40, 31
Is a CPU that controls devices connected to the system bus 35 based on a control program stored in the ROM 34. The CPU 31 sends print data (including image data) sent from the host computer 13 to the printer engine 62. The ROM 34 stores a program for controlling the printer controller, character fonts, and the like.

Reference numeral 36 denotes a parallel interface (PI /
In F), the host computer 13 and the printer 70 are connected. 37 is a video interface, the CPU 31 is R
The print data expanded on the AM 39 is transferred to the printer engine 62, and the status of the printer engine 62 is notified to the CPU 31. In the RAM 39, a buffer area for storing the received image data is secured so that it can be expanded.

In the printer engine 62, 51 is C
The PU executes the control program stored in the ROM 54 to control the rotary system and the high-voltage system such as the main motor 59, the scanner motor 60, and the fixing heater 61, and set the resolution and the printing speed of the printer.

52 is a video interface (VIDEO
I / F) is an interface between the printer controller 40 and the printer engine 62, and functions as an interface for transmitting and receiving printer resource information such as printer resolution and printing speed, and for receiving image data to be printed. A RAM 53 stores status, control data, and the like.

A main motor controller 56 controls the drive of the main motor 59. A scanner motor controller 57 controls driving of a scanner motor 60 that rotates a polygon mirror that scans a laser beam in the main scanning direction. A fixing heater controller 58 controls the temperature rise of the fixing heater 61. 63 is a laser driver,
The semiconductor laser 64 is turned on / off based on the input video signal.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the relationship between the image signal and the horizontal scanning synchronizing signal in the printer 70 shown in FIG.

In the figure, the / VDO signal is an image signal sent from the printer controller 40 to the printer engine 62. The / BD signal indicates that the laser beam inside the printer is at the starting point of horizontal scanning. T represents the cycle of the / BD signal (μsec), T1 represents the time from the horizontal scanning start point to the print start point (μsec), and T2 represents the print start point of the data to be printed, and the print end point. Indicates the time until.

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram for explaining a print area in the printer 70 shown in FIG. 4, which includes the / BD signal and the / V signal.
The case where the print area is determined by the DO signal is shown.

In the figure, D1 is the paper selected for printing, D2 is the print area indicated by the print data,
It is not the print range that the printer can print, but the print area indicated by the data to be printed. Therefore, it depends on the data to be printed. The print width L corresponds to the number of dots printed within the time T2 shown in FIG.

Correspondence between the present embodiment and each means of the first to eighth inventions and their actions will be described below with reference to FIG.

In a first aspect of the invention, the derivation means (the CPU 1 executes the CPU 1 for each resolution that can be selected based on the resource information acquired by the acquisition means (the CPU 1 executes the control program stored in the ROM 3 to perform the acquisition processing)). The control program stored in the ROM 3 executes the derivation process) to derive the data transfer rate based on the data amount according to the print width to be printed by the printing device (printer 70), and the derived resolution-dependent data Data transfer rate and the measuring means (CPU1
Executes the control program stored in ROM3 for measurement processing) and compares it with the data transfer rate measured by the control means (CPU1 executes the control program stored in ROM3 to perform setting processing). Since the optimum resolution is switched and set for the device, the environment in which the printing device prints at high resolution within the measured data transfer rate is automatically set, and the print data transferred from the information processing device becomes defective. It is possible to transfer efficiently and print as high quality as possible.

In the second invention, since the CPU 1 switches and sets the resolution in accordance with the data amount of the print width to be printed for each page, the print data for each page transferred from the information processing device becomes defective in printing. It is possible to transfer efficiently and print as high quality as possible.

In the third invention, since the CPU 1 switches and sets the resolution according to the data amount of the print width to be printed for each line, the print data for each line transferred from the information processing device becomes defective in printing. It is possible to transfer efficiently and print as high quality as possible.

According to the fourth aspect of the invention, the CPU 1 switches and sets the resolution in accordance with the amount of data of the print width to be printed for each block to be transferred, so that the print data for each block transferred from the information processing device indicates a printing failure. It is possible to efficiently transfer and print in the highest possible quality.

According to a fifth aspect of the invention, the CPU 1 derives a data transfer rate based on a data amount according to a print width to be printed by the printing device for each selectable paper transport speed based on the acquired resource information, The control means compares the respective data transfer speeds of the derived paper transport speeds with the measured data transfer speeds, and the control means switches and sets the optimum paper transport speed for the printing device. Therefore, within the measured data transfer speeds, It is possible to automatically set an environment in which the printing apparatus transfers data at high speed, efficiently transfer the print data transferred from the information processing apparatus without causing printing failure, and print in the shortest possible time.

In the sixth invention, the CPU 1 switches and sets the sheet conveying speed according to the data amount of the print width to be printed for each page, so that the print data for each page transferred from the information processing device is defective in printing. It is possible to transfer as fast as possible without becoming.

In the seventh invention, since the CPU 1 switches and sets the sheet conveying speed in accordance with the data amount of the print width to be printed for each line, the print data for each line transferred from the information processing device is defective in printing. It is possible to transfer as fast as possible without becoming.

In the eighth aspect of the invention, the CPU 1 switches and sets the sheet conveying speed according to the data amount of the print width to be printed for each block to be transferred, so that the print data for each block transferred from the information processing device is printed. It can be transferred as fast as possible without causing a defect.

FIG. 7 shows a first printing system according to the present invention.
Is a flowchart showing an example of a data processing procedure of
This corresponds to the process executed by the CPU 1 of the host computer 13. Note that (1) to (7) indicate each step. Further, in this embodiment, the process speed (paper conveyance speed) and the resolution in the sub-scanning direction are fixed, and the resolution in the main scanning direction is selectable.

First, the resource information regarding the cycle T of the / BD signal of the printer engine 62 and the selectable resolution in the main scanning direction is received from the printer 70 (1). Next, predetermined test data is sent from the host computer 13 to the printer 70, the time at which the test data is transferred is measured on the printer 70 side, and the measured time is returned to the host computer 13. From this data, the host computer 1
3 calculates the transfer rate of the test data (2).

Then, the printing width L [mm] in the main scanning direction is obtained from the data to be printed (3), and the optimum resolution is calculated based on the obtained width L (4). The calculation method is as follows.

Each data is L: print width [mm], T: /
BD cycle [μsec], DPI: Host computer 1
Resolution of data sent from 3 to the printer 70 [dpi],
DS: Data transfer rate calculated in step (2) (from host computer 13 to printer 70) [KB / se
c].

However, in this embodiment, DS = 1024
KB / sec, L = 200 mm, T = 900 μsec.

When DPI = 300 [dpi], data for one raster = L.DPI / (25.4.8) =
200/300 / (25.4 / 8) = 295 [byt
e], and the speed for transferring 295 [bytes] within the T period is 295 / T = 320 [KB / sec].

When DPI = 600 [dpi], data for one raster = L.DPI / (25.4.8) =
200/600 / (25.4 / 8) = 591 [byt
e], and the speed for transferring 295 [bytes] within the T cycle is 591 / T = 641 [KB / sec].

When DPI = 1200 [dpi], data for one raster = L.DPI / (25.4.8) =
200 ・ 1200 / (25.4 ・ 8) = 1181 [by
te], and the speed for transferring 1181 [bytes] within the T cycle = 11181 / T = 1281 [KB / se
c]. Thus, the optimum resolution differs depending on the print width L.

Next, from the result calculated in step (4), the transfer rate having the closest value within the range not exceeding the data transfer rate DS is selected (5). In this embodiment, 600
[Dpi] will be selected.

Then, the resolution of the printer is set to the selected value (6), print data is sent to the printer 70 for printing (7), and the process returns.

Correspondence between the present embodiment and each step of the ninth and eleventh inventions and their actions will be described with reference to FIG. 7 and the like.

The ninth invention is data processing of a printing system in which a printing device (printer 70) and an information processing device (host computer 13) can communicate with each other via a predetermined communication medium (interface such as printer cable 21). In the method, an acquisition step of acquiring resource information of the printing device (step (1) of FIG. 7) and a measurement step of measuring a data transfer rate between the information processing device and the printing device (step of FIG. 7). (2)) and a derivation step of deriving a data transfer rate based on the amount of data according to the print width to be printed by the printing device for each resolution that can be selected based on the acquired resource information (step (FIG. 7: 3),
(4)) and the derived data transfer rate for each resolution and the measured data transfer rate are compared with each other to set an optimum resolution for the printing apparatus (step (step (FIG. 7)). 5) and (6))
The control program stored in M3 is executed to automatically set the environment in which the printing device prints at a high resolution within the measured data transfer rate, and the print data transferred from the information processing device becomes defective in printing. It can be transferred efficiently and printed with the highest quality possible.

An eleventh aspect of the invention is an acquisition step (step (1) in FIG. 7) of acquiring resource information of a printing device in a storage medium storing a program used in the information processing device.
And a measurement step of measuring a data transfer rate between the information processing apparatus and the printing apparatus (step (2) in FIG. 7)
And a derivation step of deriving a data transfer rate based on a data amount according to a print width to be printed by the printing device for each resolution that can be selected based on the acquired resource information (step (3), ( 4)) and the derived data transfer rate for each resolution and the measured data transfer rate are compared to set the optimum resolution for the printing apparatus (step (5 in FIG. 7)). ),
A computer-readable program including (6)) is stored in a storage medium. That is,
An embodiment in which a program code corresponding to the process shown in FIG. 7 is stored in an external storage medium or an internal storage resource described later, and the CPU 1 or the like reads and executes the program code from the storage medium storing the program code is also included in the embodiment of the present invention. It is what is done.

As described above, since the performance of the printer 70 can be maximized by automatically selecting the optimum resolution, a clearer image can be printed.

[Second Embodiment] The second embodiment is a printing system of a dumb printer method (a method of sending data of a rasterized print image from a host computer to a printer for printing), which comprises a host computer 13 and a printer 70. In the above, by providing means for sending resource information relating to the resolution and the printing speed of the printer engine 62 (for example, the time for printing one line) from the printer 70 to the host computer 13, the host computer 13 can print the print width data. The printing speed suitable for the resolution is automatically selected from the amount, so that the performance of the printer 70 can be fully utilized.

In this embodiment, the data amount of the print width is the number of dots in the print range in the main scanning direction / 8 [by]
te]. In the present embodiment, the print width data is not compressed, but it is needless to say that even the compressed data may be calculated using the maximum data amount of the print width.

FIG. 8 shows the second printing system according to the present invention.
Is a flowchart showing an example of a data processing procedure of
This corresponds to the process executed by the CPU 1 of the host computer 13. Note that (1) to (7) indicate each step. Further, the present embodiment is an example in which the resolution in the main scanning direction and the resolution in the sub scanning direction are fixed and the process speed (paper conveyance speed) can be selected. Further, the value to be actually selected is selected by selecting the cycle T of the / BD signal.

First, the resource information such as the resolution of the printer engine 62 in the main scanning direction and the sub scanning direction and the selectable process speed (/ BD signal period T) is received from the printer (1).

Next, the test data is sent from the host computer 13 to the printer 70, the time at which the test data is transferred is measured on the printer 70 side, and the measured time is returned to the host computer 13. From the returned data, the host computer 13 calculates the data transfer rate (2). Then, the printing width L [mm] in the main scanning direction (see FIG. 6) is obtained from the data to be printed (3). The optimum process speed is then calculated (4). The calculation method is as follows.

Each data is L: print width [mm], T: /
BD cycle [μsec], DPI: Host computer 1
Resolution of data sent from 3 to the printer 70 [dpi],
DS: Data transfer rate calculated in step (2) (from host computer 13 to printer 70) [KB / se
c].

However, in this embodiment, DS = 1024
KB / sec, L = 200 mm, DPI = 600 [dp
i].

When T = 1200 [μsec], data for one raster = L.DPI / (25.4.8) =
200/600 / (25.4 / 8) = 591 [byt
e], and the speed for transferring 591 [bytes] in the T cycle is 591 / T = 481 [KB / sec].

When T = 800 [μsec], data for one raster = L.DPI / (25.4.8) =
591 [byte] = 200 · 600 / (25.4 ·
8) = 591 [byte], which is 591 within the T period.
Speed for transferring [byte] = 591 / T = 721
[KB / sec].

When T = 400 [μsec], data for one raster = L.DPI / (25.4.8) =
591 [byte], and 591 [byte] within the T cycle.
speed for transferring e] = 591 / T = 1443 [KB
/ Sec].

As shown by the above formula, the optimum transfer rate differs depending on the cycle T.

Next, from the result calculated in step (4), the cycle T having the closest value within the range not exceeding the data transfer rate DS is selected (5). According to the present embodiment,
800 [μsec] is selected as the cycle T.

Then, if the period T of the / BD signal of the printer 70 is set to the value selected in step (5) (6),
The print data is sent to the printer 70 for printing (7), and the process is returned.

Correspondence between the present embodiment and each step of the tenth and twelfth inventions and their actions will be described with reference to FIG. 7 and the like.

A tenth aspect of the present invention is a data processing method for a printing system, in which a printing apparatus (printer 70) and an information processing apparatus (host computer 13) can communicate with each other via a predetermined communication medium (an interface such as the printer cable 21). In step (1) of FIG. 8, an acquisition step of acquiring resource information of the printing apparatus and a measurement step of measuring the data transfer rate between the information processing apparatus and the printing apparatus (step of FIG. 2)) and a derivation step of deriving a data transfer rate based on the amount of data according to the print width to be printed by the printing device for each sheet transport speed that can be selected based on the acquired resource information (step in FIG. 8). (3) and (4)) are compared with the respective data transfer rates of the derived paper transport speeds and the measured data transfer rates to compare with each other to the printing apparatus. Setting step of setting switched such paper conveying speed (Step 8 (5), (6))
The CPU 1 executes the control program stored in the ROM 3 to automatically set the environment in which the printing device transfers data at a high speed within the measured data transfer speed, and the print data transferred from the information processing device is printed. It can be efficiently transferred and printed in the shortest possible time without causing defects.

A twelfth aspect of the invention is an acquisition step (step (1) in FIG. 8) of acquiring resource information of a printing device in a storage medium storing a program used in the information processing device.
And a measurement step of measuring a data transfer rate between the information processing apparatus and the printing apparatus (step (2) in FIG. 8)
And a derivation step of deriving a data transfer rate based on the amount of data according to the print width to be printed by the printing device for each sheet transport speed that can be selected based on the acquired resource information (step (3) in FIG. 8). , (4)) and each data transfer speed of the derived paper transfer speeds and the measured data transfer speed are compared to set the optimum paper transfer speed for the printing apparatus. And a computer readable program including steps (5) and (6) of 8 stored in a storage medium. That is, a program code corresponding to the process shown in FIG. 8 is stored in an external storage medium or an internal storage resource described later, and C is stored in the storage medium storing the program code.
A mode in which the PU 1 or the like reads and executes is also included in the embodiment of the present invention.

As described above, by selecting the optimum / BD signal period T, the performance of the printer 70 can be maximized, and printing can be performed faster.

The configuration of the data processing program readable by the printing system according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the memory map shown in FIG.

FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining a memory map of a storage medium for storing various data processing programs readable by the printing system according to the present invention.

Although not particularly shown, information for managing the program group stored in the storage medium, such as version information, creator, etc. is also stored, and information depending on the OS or the like on the program reading side, such as the program, is stored. In some cases, an icon or the like for identification and display is also stored.

Furthermore, data dependent on various programs is also managed in the above directory. In addition, a program for installing various programs in a computer, or a program for decompressing the program to be installed when it is compressed may be stored.

The functions shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 in this embodiment may be performed by the host computer by a program installed from the outside. And in that case, CD-ROM, flash memory, FD
The present invention can be applied to a case where an information group including a program is supplied to the output device from a storage medium such as the above or from an external storage medium via a network.

As described above, the storage medium (corresponding to the eleventh and twelfth inventions) in which the program code of the software that realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments is recorded is supplied to the system or apparatus, and the system is supplied. It goes without saying that the object of the present invention can also be achieved by the computer (or CPU or MPU) of the apparatus reading and executing the program code stored in the storage medium.

In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the novel function of the present invention, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.

As a storage medium for supplying the program code, for example, a floppy disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, CD-ROM, C
DR, magnetic tape, non-volatile memory card, RO
M, EEPROM or the like can be used.

Moreover, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by executing the program code read by the computer, but also the OS (operating system) running on the computer based on the instructions of the program code. It goes without saying that this also includes the case where the above) performs a part or all of the actual processing, and the processing realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments.

Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written in the memory provided in the function expansion board inserted into the computer or the function expansion unit connected to the computer, based on the instruction of the program code, The CPU or the like provided in the function expansion board or function expansion unit performs a part or all of the actual processing,
It goes without saying that the processing includes the case where the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized.

The present invention may be applied to a system composed of a plurality of devices or an apparatus composed of a single device. Further, it goes without saying that the present invention can be applied to the case where it is achieved by supplying a program to a system or an apparatus. In this case, by reading a storage medium storing a program represented by software for achieving the present invention into the system or apparatus, the system or apparatus can enjoy the effects of the present invention. .

Furthermore, by downloading and reading a program represented by software for achieving the present invention from a database on a network by a communication program, the system or apparatus can be
It is possible to enjoy the effects of the present invention.

[0097]

As described above, according to the first, fourth and seventh inventions of the present invention, the resource information of the printing device can be acquired and the selection can be made based on the acquired resource information. For each resolution, the data transfer rate is derived based on the amount of data according to the print width to be printed by the printing device, and the derived data transfer rate for each resolution and between the information processing device and the printing device. Of the print width of each page to the printing device by comparing the data transfer speed of
By switching and setting the resolution according to the amount of data , the printing device automatically sets the highest resolution possible to prevent printing failures and prints the print data for each page transferred from the information processing device. It is possible to efficiently transfer and print as high quality as possible without causing defects.

[0098]

[0099] According to the invention of a 2,5,8, the printing instrumentation
Resource information of the storage device, and based on the acquired resource information
Printing that the printing device should print for each selectable resolution
Each data transfer rate based on the amount of data according to the width is derived.
Then, each data transfer rate for each derived resolution is
Data transfer rate between the information processing device and the printing device
Compared with the above, the resolution is switched and set according to the data amount of the print width to be printed for each line in the printing device, so the printing device can be prevented from causing printing defects.
It is possible to automatically set the high resolution as much as possible, to efficiently transfer the print data for each line transferred from the information processing device without causing printing defects, and to print as high quality as possible.

[0100]

According to the third , sixth , and ninth aspects of the present invention, the resource information of the printing device is acquired, and the printing is performed for each selectable sheet conveying speed based on the acquired resource information. Data transfer rates based on the amount of data according to the printing width to be printed by the apparatus are derived, and the derived data transfer rates for each paper transport speed and the data transfer rate between the information processing apparatus and the printing apparatus. And the print width data to be printed for each block transferred to the printing device.
Block that is transferred from the information processing device by automatically setting the conveyance speed as high as possible so that the printing device will not cause printing defects by switching and setting the optimum paper conveyance speed according to the paper amount. It is possible to efficiently transfer each print data without printing failure and print in the shortest possible time.

[0102]

[0103]

[0104]

Therefore, it is possible to construct an optimum data processing environment for the resource capacity of the printing apparatus and the data processing capacity of the information processing apparatus, and it is possible to print the print information efficiently without causing print defects. Play.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration of a first output device to which the present invention can be applied.

FIG. 2 is an external view showing a configuration of a second output device to which the present invention can be applied.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a control configuration of a second output device shown in FIG.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a printing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

5 is a diagram showing a relationship between an image signal and a horizontal scanning synchronization signal in the printer shown in FIG.

6 is a schematic diagram illustrating a print area in the printer illustrated in FIG.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of a first data processing procedure of the printing system according to the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of a second data processing procedure of the printing system according to the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs that can be read by the printing system according to the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

1 CPU 2 RAM 3 ROM 8 parallel I / F 13 Host computer 31 CPU 34 ROM 36 Parallel I / F 37 Video I / F 39 RAM 40 Printer controller 62 printer engine 70 Printer

Continuation of front page (58) Fields surveyed (Int.Cl. ⁷ , DB name) G06F 3/12 B41J 21/00

Claims (9)

(57) [Claims] 1. A printing system in which a printing device and an information processing device can communicate with each other via a predetermined communication medium, based on an acquisition unit that acquires resource information of the printing device, and based on the resource information acquired by the acquisition unit. Deriving means for deriving the data transfer rate based on the amount of data according to the print width to be printed by the printing device for each selectable resolution, each data transfer rate for each resolution derived by the deriving means, and and a control unit for setting switching the optimal resolution to the printing apparatus by comparing the data transfer rate between the information processing apparatus and the printing apparatus, said control means prints of each page Print width data
A printing system characterized by switching and setting the resolution according to the volume . 2. A printing system in which a printing device and an information processing device can communicate with each other via a predetermined communication medium, based on acquisition means for acquiring resource information of the printing device, and resource information acquired by the acquisition means. Deriving means for deriving the data transfer rate based on the amount of data according to the print width to be printed by the printing device for each selectable resolution, each data transfer rate for each resolution derived by the deriving means, and and a control unit for setting switching the optimal resolution to the printing apparatus by comparing the data transfer rate between the information processing apparatus and the printing apparatus, said control means prints of each line Print width data
A printing system characterized by switching and setting the resolution according to the volume . 3. A printing system in which a printing apparatus and an information processing apparatus can communicate with each other via a predetermined communication medium, based on resource information acquired by the acquisition unit, which acquires resource information of the printing apparatus. Deriving means for deriving a data transfer speed based on the amount of data according to the print width to be printed by the printing device for each selectable paper carrying speed, and each data transfer for each paper carrying speed derived by the deriving means. comprising a speed, and a control unit for setting switching an optimum sheet conveying speed to the printing apparatus by comparing the data transfer rate between the printing device and the information processing apparatus, said control means, Print width for each block to be transferred
A printing system characterized by switching and setting the paper transport speed according to the data amount of the above . 4. A data processing method of a printing system in which a printing apparatus and an information processing apparatus can communicate with each other via a predetermined communication medium, the acquisition step of acquiring resource information of the printing apparatus, and the acquired resource information. A derivation step of deriving a data transfer rate based on a data amount according to a print width to be printed by the printing device, for each resolution that can be selected based on the resolution, the derived data transfer rate for each resolution, and the information processing device. wherein; and a setting step of setting switches the optimal resolution to the printing apparatus by comparing the data transfer speed between the printing device and, the setting step, the print width for printing of each page data
A data processing method for a printing system, wherein the resolution is switched and set according to the amount . 5. A data processing method of a printing system in which a printing device and an information processing device can communicate with each other via a predetermined communication medium, wherein an acquisition step of acquiring resource information of the printing device, A derivation step of deriving a data transfer rate based on a data amount according to a print width to be printed by the printing device, for each resolution that can be selected based on the resolution, the derived data transfer rate for each resolution, and the information processing device. wherein; and a setting step of setting switches the optimal resolution to the printing apparatus by comparing the data transfer speed between the printing device and, the setting step, the print width for printing of each line data
A data processing method for a printing system, wherein the resolution is switched and set according to the amount . 6. A data processing method for a printing system, in which a printing device and an information processing device can communicate with each other via a predetermined communication medium, an acquisition step of acquiring resource information of the printing device, A derivation step of deriving a data transfer rate based on a data amount according to a print width to be printed by the printing device, for each sheet transfer rate selectable based on the data transfer rate. ,
; And a setting step of setting switching the optimum sheet conveying speed to the printing apparatus by comparing the data transfer rate between the printing device and the information processing apparatus, wherein the setting step, block to be transferred Print width for each print
A data processing method for a printing system, characterized in that the sheet conveyance speed is switched and set according to the amount of data. 7. A storage medium storing a program used in an information processing apparatus, the acquisition step of acquiring resource information of the printing apparatus, and the printing for each selectable resolution based on the acquired resource information. Derivation step of deriving a data transfer rate based on the data amount according to the print width to be printed by the apparatus, the derived data transfer rate for each resolution, and the data transfer rate between the information processing apparatus and the printing apparatus look including a setting step of setting switches the optimal resolution to the printing apparatus by comparing the door, the setting step, the data in the print width for printing of each page
A computer-readable storage medium characterized in that the resolution is switched and set according to the amount . 8. A storage medium storing a program used in an information processing apparatus, the acquisition step of acquiring resource information of the printing apparatus, and the printing for each resolution selectable based on the acquired resource information. Derivation step of deriving a data transfer rate based on the data amount according to the print width to be printed by the apparatus, the derived data transfer rate for each resolution, and the data transfer rate between the information processing apparatus and the printing apparatus look including a setting step of setting switches the optimal resolution to the printing apparatus by comparing the door, the setting step, the data in the print width for printing of each line
A computer-readable storage medium characterized in that the resolution is switched and set according to the amount . 9. A storage medium storing a program used in an information processing apparatus, the acquisition step of acquiring resource information of the printing apparatus, and for each paper transport speed selectable based on the acquired resource information, A derivation step of deriving a data transfer rate based on the amount of data according to the print width to be printed by the printing device; and each data transfer rate for each derived paper transport speed,
Look including a setting step of setting switching the optimum sheet conveying speed to the printing apparatus by comparing the data transfer rate between the printing device and the information processing apparatus, wherein the setting step, block to be transferred Print width for each print
A computer-readable storage medium characterized in that the sheet conveyance speed is switched and set according to the amount of data .