JP3714941B2 - Character input device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a character input device that captures input characters by cooperation of display means and character string input means, for example, a tape that prints or transfers an input character string on a print medium or transfer medium that is restricted in at least the width direction. The present invention can be applied to a character input device such as a printing device or a seal creation device.

  The tape printer prints a column of one or more input characters (concepts including symbols and pictograms) on a continuous tape as necessary, and cuts the printed tape manually or automatically. Are discharged. Considering that a cut tape (hereinafter referred to as a label) is used for various purposes, recent tape printers can print a plurality of lines of input character strings on a label.

  In the tape printer, the method of inputting a character string is the same as that of a so-called word processor. The input character is displayed on the display, the cursor is displayed, and the key input unit is input at the position where the cursor is located. The characters are added and inserted.

By the way, the tape printer is required to be small, light, and inexpensive. For this reason, a small and small-sized display has been applied. For example, conventionally, a liquid crystal display capable of displaying characters of a 16 × 16 dot configuration in a character display area by 4 lines × 6 characters (64 × 96 dots) has been applied (see Patent Document 1).
JP-A-8-160934

  However, there are many kanji characters with a large number of strokes in Japanese, and there are many similar kanji characters that differ only in part among kanji characters with a large number of strokes (for example, “邊” and “邉”). Therefore, when characters are displayed in a 16 × 16 dot configuration, the user may not be able to visually recognize (determine) kanji characters. When selecting a candidate character in the kana-kanji conversion process, if a problem arises in that the user cannot visually recognize (determine) the kanji, it will lead to a candidate kanji selection error.

  In order to avoid such an inconvenience, each character may be displayed with a configuration having a large number of dots. For example, each character may be displayed in a 32 × 32 dot configuration. In this case, if it is possible to display the same number of characters (4 rows × 6 characters) as before, a liquid crystal display having a large total number of dots (128 × 192 dots) must be applied.

  Here, if the size of each dot (segment) in the liquid crystal display is the same as the conventional size, a liquid crystal display having an area approximately four times larger must be applied, and the tape printing apparatus is increased in size.

  On the other hand, when it is possible to display 32 × 32 dot characters on each line with the same number of lines as the conventional display (4 lines × 6 characters) on a liquid crystal display of the same area as in the past, per dot However, as a result, the display size of each character is the same as the case of displaying characters of 16 × 16 dots with the conventional device, and characters of 32 × 32 dots are displayed. However, the clearness of the display is only slightly increased, for example, the contour becomes smooth. That is, the effect of the increase in the total number of dots is negligible although the burden of display processing increases by the increase in the total number of dots.

  Since such a small display is applied, the problem that the visibility of each character is poor is not limited to the tape printer, but the display and its display method are the same as those of the tape printer. The same applies to other applied character input devices (for example, a seal creation device).

  Therefore, there is a demand for a character input device that can answer a request for clarification of a candidate character in a Kana-Kanji conversion process by a user.

  In order to solve this problem, the present invention provides a character string input unit that inputs a character string while performing conversion of the conversion source character string into a conversion destination character string, and a display unit that displays the input character string and the like When the conversion destination character string candidate and the conversion source character string are displayed on the display means in the character input device provided in the apparatus having the print command means and the printing means, When the print command means issues a print command, the character string input means gives at least the conversion destination candidate where the cursor was positioned at the time of the print command and the conversion source character string to the print means for printing. Features.

  According to the present invention, since the user can print and check the candidate characters in the kana-kanji conversion process as needed, the character input device that can answer the clarification request of the candidate characters in the kana-kanji conversion process by the user Can be realized.

(A) First Embodiment Hereinafter, a first embodiment in which a character input device according to the present invention is applied to a tape printer will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

(A-1) Overall Electrical Configuration of the First Embodiment First, the overall electrical configuration of the tape printer of the first embodiment will be described with reference to the functional block diagram of FIG.

  In FIG. 2, this tape printing apparatus is also composed of an input unit 10, a control unit 20, and an output unit 30, as with other information processing apparatuses, and the control unit 20 receives information from the input unit 10. In addition, processing corresponding to the processing stage at that time or the like is executed, and the processing result or the like is displayed or printed out by the output unit 30.

  Although the detailed configuration is omitted, the input unit 10 includes a key input unit 11 having a pressing key and the like, and a tape width detection sensor 12. The key input unit 11 generates character code data and various control data to be given to the control unit 20. The tape width detection sensor 12 detects the width of the loaded tape and supplies the tape width information to the control unit 20. In practice, the tape is housed in the tape cartridge together with the ink ribbon, and the tape cartridge is provided with a physical identification element such as a hole for defining the tape width, and the tape width detection sensor 12 performs the physical identification. Read the element and output tape width information. The tape width information is used for determining the character size of each line, determining the length of the tape to be printed, and the like.

  In the case of the first embodiment, two types of sizes as described later are defined as the sizes of display characters on the character string input screen. The key input unit 11 is provided with a display character size switching key 11a for outputting an operation signal instructing to change the display character size to the other for each operation. The display character size switching key 11a may be a single key or a plurality of keys. In the case of a plurality of keys, a predetermined operation signal may be output when the plurality of keys are simultaneously pressed, and display characters are displayed on the CPU 21 side by pressing a plurality of keys according to a predetermined order. It is also possible to recognize an instruction for switching the size of the.

  In the case of the first embodiment, it is possible to display a character string input screen including a print image, and the print image included in the input screen has various sizes. The key input unit 11 is also provided with a print image switching key 11b for outputting an operation signal instructing to change each stage of no print image and the display size of the print image cyclically for each operation. . The print image switching key 11b may be a single key or a plurality of keys.

  The key input unit 11 is also provided with a Kana-Kanji conversion key 11c for starting Kana-Kanji conversion.

  The output unit 30 mainly includes a printing configuration and a display configuration. For example, a tape / ribbon feed motor 31 formed of a stepping motor feeds a tape or ink ribbon (not shown) loaded to a predetermined printing position or outside the apparatus. The thermal head 32 is fixed and prints on a running tape by thermal transfer. For example, a maximum of 192 dots can be printed simultaneously. The thermal head 32 may be movable, or a head other than thermal transfer may be used instead of the thermal head. The tape / ribbon feed motor 31 and the thermal head 32 are driven by a motor drive circuit 33 and a head drive circuit 34, respectively, under the control of the control unit 20. The printed tape is cut by, for example, an external force from a user or a cutter (not shown) driven by a motor (not shown).

  In the case of the tape printer according to the first embodiment, a liquid crystal display 35 is provided as a display unit, and the liquid crystal display 35 is driven by a display drive circuit 36 under the control of the control unit 20. .

  The liquid crystal display 35 is mainly composed of a display area main body 35a and an indicator 35b as shown in FIG. The display area main body 35a is further divided into a character display area 35a1 and a line number display area 35a2.

  The character display area 35a1 is an area where an input character string is displayed, kanji-kanji candidates at the time of kana-kanji conversion are displayed, various selection menu screens are displayed, and a print image screen is displayed. The character display area 35a1 is capable of displaying 12 characters in 4 rows, for example, by counting characters with a 16 × 16 dot configuration.

  In the following, when the position in the character display area 35a1 is specified, an expression counted with characters of 16 × 16 dots is used.

  The line number display area 35a2 is provided on the left side of the character display area 35a1, and is an area for displaying line numbers as appropriate. The row number display area 35a2 can display four row numbers in the vertical direction. In the tape printer of the first embodiment, basically, when an input character string is displayed in the character display area 35a1, the line number for that line is displayed before the first character of each line. However, if the number of input characters on each line increases, the line number may not be displayed in the character display area 35a1, depending on the cursor position. In such a case, the line number is displayed in the line number display area 35a2.

  A plurality of indicators 35b are provided outside the upper and lower ends of the display area main body 35a, and indicate the state of the attribute represented by the character string 35c described around the display 35 of the apparatus main body.

  The control unit 20 is configured by, for example, a microcomputer, and is configured by connecting a CPU 21, a ROM 22, a RAM 23, a character generator ROM (CG-ROM) 24, an input interface unit 25, and an output interface unit 26 via a system bus 27. Has been.

  The ROM 22 stores various processing programs and fixed data such as kana-kanji conversion dictionary data. The RAM 23 is used as a working memory and stores fixed data related to user input. The RAM 23 is backed up even when the power is turned off. In FIG. 2, the RAM 23 is shown, but a part thereof may be a rewritable nonvolatile memory such as an EEPROM.

  The processing program and fixed data stored in the ROM 22, the data stored in the RAM 23, and the like will be described in detail in an operation description of an embodiment described later.

  As will be described later, the ROM 22 has a display character size change processing program 22a executed when the display character size change key 11a is operated, and a print image change process program executed when the print image change key 11b is operated. 22b and a kana-kanji conversion program 22c that is executed when the kana-kanji conversion key 11c is operated. In the RAM 23, a text area 23a for storing information of an input character string, a display buffer 23b, and the like are formed.

  The CG-ROM 24 stores font information of characters and symbols prepared in the tape printer, and outputs corresponding font information when code data specifying the characters and symbols is given. Is. Here, the font information stored in the CG-ROM 24 may be an outline font or a bitmap font. Moreover, you may have separate font information for display and for printing.

  The input interface unit 25 performs an interface between the input unit 10 and the control unit 20, and the output interface unit 26 performs an interface between the output unit 30 and the control unit 20. The input interface unit 25 has a buffer memory that temporarily stores kana character data before being stored in the text area 23 a of the RAM 23.

  The CPU 21 stores a processing program in the ROM 22 determined according to an input signal from the key input unit 10 and a processing stage at that time, using the RAM 23 as a working area, and if necessary, stored in the ROM 22 or the RAM 23. Processing is performed using fixed data as appropriate, and the processing status and processing results are displayed on the liquid crystal display 35 or printed on a tape (not shown).

(A-2) Input Screen Type of First Embodiment FIGS. 4 and 5 show various input screen examples. 4A to 4D respectively show normal input screens for a print image without a print image, a print image with a width of one line, a print image with a width of two lines, and a print image with a width of three lines. FIGS. 5A to 5C respectively show enlarged input screens of no print image, one line width print image, and two line width print image. In the case of this embodiment, there is no enlarged input screen for a print image having a width of 3 lines.

  In the case of the first embodiment, there are a normal input screen and an enlarged input screen as input screens displayed in the character display area 35a1 by classification based on the size of the display characters.

  The normal input screen displays each input character in a 16 × 16 dot configuration. The enlarged input screen displays each input character in a 32 × 32 dot configuration. Hereinafter, developing each input character (code data) in a 16 × 16 dot configuration is called normal expansion, and developing each input character (code data) in a 32 × 32 dot configuration is called expanded expansion. In the following, a character displayed in a 16 × 16 dot configuration or a character to be displayed may be referred to as a normal character, and a character displayed in a 32 × 32 dot configuration or a character to be displayed may be referred to as an enlarged character.

  The normal input screen and the enlarged input screen have different character display sizes, but the character size at the time of printing specified for the characters is the same (not an instruction to change the character size at the time of printing) The sizes when the input character string is printed are naturally equal.

  Further, in the case of the first embodiment, as an input screen that is classified from the display surface of the print image and displayed in the character display area 35a1, an input screen without a print image, an input screen of a print image having a line width, There are an input screen for a print image with a width of 2 lines and an input screen for a print image with a width of 3 lines.

  The input screen without a print image is an input screen capable of displaying an input character string in all four lines of the character display area 35a1 (FIGS. 4A and 5A). The print image input screen of one line width is an input screen that displays a print image on the first line of the character display area 35a1 and can display an input character string on the second to fourth lines of the character display area 35a1. Yes (FIG. 4B, FIG. 5B). The two-line print image input screen displays the print image using the first and second lines of the character display area 35a1, and displays the input character string on the third and fourth lines of the character display area 35a1. This is an input screen (FIG. 4C, FIG. 5C). The print image input screen having a width of 3 lines is an input screen in which the print image is displayed on the first to third lines of the character display area 35a1 and the input character string can be displayed on the first line of the character display area 35a1. Yes (FIG. 4D).

  A flag 23F1 for distinguishing whether the current character string input screen is a normal input screen or an enlarged input screen, and an input screen without a print image as a current character string input screen, an input screen for a one-line width print image, a two-line width A flag 23F2 for distinguishing between a print image input screen and a three-line width print image input screen is stored in the RAM 23.

(A-3) Input screen type changing process of the first embodiment (A-3-1) Display character size switching key 11a
Next, the character string input screen changing process when the display character size switching key 11a is operated will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. Detailed description.

  When the display character size switching key 11a is operated, the CPU 21 starts the display character size change processing program 22a shown in FIG. 1, and first, based on the contents of the flag 23F1, the current character string input screen is normally displayed. It recognizes whether it is an input screen or an enlarged input screen (step 100).

  Then, the CPU 21 switches to the enlarged input screen if the current character string input screen is the normal input screen (step 101), and switches to the normal input screen if the current character string input screen is the enlarged input screen. (Step 102). Thereafter, the contents of the flag 23F1 are reversed and the series of processes is terminated (step 103).

  Details of the switching process from the normal input screen to the enlarged input screen (step 101) will be described in detail below with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  First, the CPU 21 recognizes where (in what line and what character) the cursor is located in the character display area 35a1 (step 200), and in the input character string of the character where the cursor is located. The position (the number of lines and the number of characters) is recognized (step 201). For example, in the case of FIG. 4B, in step 200, the cursor position is recognized as the fourth character on the second line of the character display area 35a1, and in step 201, the cursor position is the third character on the first line in the input character string. Recognized as eyes.

  Thereafter, based on the contents of the flag 23F2, the CPU 21 determines what input screen is the current normal input screen (character string input screen) from the display surface of the print image (step 202). That is, the current character string input screen is either an input screen without a print image, an input screen for a print image with a width of one line, an input screen for a print image with a width of two lines, or an input screen for a print image with a width of three lines. Is determined.

  If the input screen has no print image, the CPU 21 determines the position of the cursor in the character display area 35a1 recognized in step 200, the position in the input character string of the character where the cursor recognized in step 201 is located, Based on the number of lines in the input character string or the like, one or two lines in the input character string to be displayed on the enlarged input screen after the change are determined (step 203).

  The character display area 35a1 is large enough to display 2 lines and 6 characters when viewed from an enlarged character with a 32 × 32 dot configuration, so that an enlarged input screen without a print image displays two lines in the input character string. Is possible.

  Any specific determination method may be used, but it is necessary to include the line in the input character string where the cursor is located in one or two lines to be determined. For example, as shown in FIG. 7A, in the conventional normal input screen without a print image, the cursor is positioned on the third line in the character display area 35a1, and this is the fifth line in the input character string. As shown in FIG. 7B, the fourth and fifth lines in the input character string are determined as the input character string lines to be displayed on the enlarged input screen after the change. Further, for example, in the conventional normal input screen so far, the cursor is positioned on the first line in the character display area 35a1, which is the first line in the input character string and the second line also exists. Then, the first and second lines in the input character string are determined as the input character string lines to be displayed on the enlarged input screen without the print image after the change.

  Next, the CPU 21 prints after the change based on the cursor position in the character display area 35a1 recognized in step 200, the position in the input character string of the character where the cursor recognized in step 201 is located, and the like. Characters to be displayed in one or two lines to be displayed on the enlarged input screen without an image are determined (with the determination of the display position) (step 204).

  The specific determination method may be any method, but the character (including the blank character) where the cursor is positioned is always determined as the display character. For example, as shown in FIG. 8A, when the cursor is positioned at the seventh character of the line on the normal input screen, as shown in FIG. The character on which the cursor was positioned is displayed as the fourth character of the line, and on the basis of this, not only the cursor position line but also other display characters of other lines are determined.

  When the character in the input character string to be displayed on the enlarged input screen without the print image after the change is determined as described above, the CPU 21 sets the portion corresponding to the first to fourth lines in the character display area of the display buffer 23a. On the other hand, by expanding each display character in a 32 × 32 dot configuration, the display is changed from the normal input screen without the print image to the enlarged input screen without the print image, and the above-described step 103 (see FIG. 1). (Step 205).

  At the time of this expansion, if necessary, line number display processing for the line number display area 35a2 is also performed.

  Further, if the determination result of step 202 described above is an input screen for a one-line width print image, in other words, if the input screen so far is a normal input screen for a one-line width print image, the CPU 21 Based on the position of the cursor in the character display area 35a1 recognized in 200, the position in the input character string of the character where the cursor recognized in step 201 is located, etc., enlargement of the print image of one line width after the change A character to be displayed in the cursor line to be displayed on the input screen (including a display position determination) is determined (step 206).

  In this case as well, any specific determination method may be used, but the character (including the blank character) where the cursor is located is always included in the display character.

  In this case, on the enlarged input screen for the print image of one line width after the change, since the print image is displayed on the first line of the character display area 35a1, the input character string can be displayed as an enlarged character of 32 × 32 dots. There is only one of the lines, and it is natural that the one line is a cursor line on the normal input screen so far, and therefore a display line determination process is unnecessary.

  As described above, when the character in the input character string to be displayed on the enlarged input screen for the print image having a line width after the change is determined, the CPU 21 sets the second line of the character display area 35a1 to the display buffer 23a. After the corresponding portion is blanked (step 207), each display character is expanded in the 32 × 32 dot configuration in the portion corresponding to the third and fourth lines of the character display area 35a1 with respect to the display buffer 23a. Then, the display is changed from the normal input screen for the print image of one line width to the enlarged input screen for the print image of one line width (step 208).

  Even at the time of this expansion, if necessary, line number display processing for the line number display area 35a2 is performed.

  Further, in the processing in the case of the normal input screen of the print image having one line width in steps 206 to 208 described above, no rewriting is performed on the portion corresponding to the first line of the character display area 35a1 in the display buffer 23a. Since the process is not executed, the print image (print image using the first line of the character display area 35a1) when the display character size switching key 11a is operated is continuously displayed even if the display character is enlarged.

  Further, if the determination result of step 202 described above is an input screen for a two-line width print image, in other words, if the input screen so far is a normal input screen for a two-line width print image, the CPU 21 Based on the cursor position in the character display area 35a1 recognized in 200, the position in the input character string of the character in which the cursor recognized in step 201 is positioned, etc., enlargement of the two-line width print image after the change The display character (including the determination of the display position) in the cursor line to be displayed on the input screen is determined (step 209).

  In this case as well, any specific determination method may be used, but the character (including the blank character) where the cursor is located is always included in the display character.

  In this case, on the enlarged input screen of the print image having a width of 2 lines after the change, the print image is displayed on the first line and the second line of the character display area 35a1, so that it can be displayed with an enlarged character of 32 × 32 dots. Is only one line in the input character string, and it is natural that the one line should be the cursor line on the normal input screen of the conventional two-line width print image, so display line determination processing is unnecessary. It is.

  As described above, when the character in the input character string to be displayed on the enlarged input screen of the print image having a two-line width after the change is determined, the CPU 21 sets the third line and the character display area 35a1 in the display buffer 23a. By expanding each display character in the 32 × 32 dot configuration in the part corresponding to the 4th line, the display is changed from the normal input screen of the 2 line width print image to the enlarged input screen of the 2 line width print image. (Step 210).

  Even at the time of this expansion, if necessary, line number display processing for the line number display area 35a2 is performed.

  Further, in the processing in the case of the normal input screen of the two-line-width print image in steps 209 to 210 described above, the portion corresponding to the first and second lines of the character display area 35a1 in the display buffer 23a. Since no rewriting process is executed, the print character when the display character size switching key 11a is operated (the print image using the first and second lines of the character display area 35a1) is enlarged. Is also displayed continuously.

  Furthermore, if the determination result of step 202 described above is an input screen for a three-line width print image, in other words, if the input screen so far is a normal input screen for a three-line width print image, the CPU 21 The cursor to be displayed on the enlarged input screen after the change based on the cursor position in the character display area 35a1 recognized in step 200, the position in the input character string of the character where the cursor recognized in step 201 is located, etc. The display characters in the line (including the display position determination) are determined (step 211).

  In this case as well, any specific determination method may be used, but the character (including the blank character) where the cursor is located is always included in the display character.

  Here, if the print image is to be displayed using three lines on the enlarged input screen after the change, there is no line in the input character string that can be displayed with enlarged characters having a 32 × 32 dot configuration. Therefore, in the case of this embodiment, when a change from the normal input screen of the three-line width print image to the enlarged input screen is requested, the print image is displayed on the enlarged input screen after the change, as described later. It is possible to display one line with enlarged characters having a 32 × 32 dot configuration. Since one line to be displayed is naturally a cursor line on the normal input screen of a print image having a width of three lines, a display line determination process is unnecessary.

  When the characters in the input character string to be displayed on the enlarged input screen of the two-line width print image after the change are determined, the CPU 21 corresponds to the first and second lines of the character display area 35a1 with respect to the display buffer 23a. The print image is developed with a width of 2 lines in the portion (step 212), and then each display character is configured in 32 × 32 dots in the portion corresponding to the third and fourth lines of the character display area 35a1 with respect to the display buffer 23a. In step 210, the display is changed from the normal input screen for a print image having a width of 3 lines to the enlarged input screen for a print image having a width of 2 lines.

  In the process of step 212 described above, an operation for changing the content of the flag 23F2 from one representing a three-line wide print image to one representing a two-line wide print image is also performed.

  As described above, when a change from the normal input screen to the enlarged input screen of the print image having a width of 3 lines is requested, the print image is displayed using two lines on the enlarged input screen after the change, and 32 × 32 Realizes display with enlarged characters in dot configuration.

  Instead of the above-described processing, when a change from the normal input screen of the three-line width print image to the enlarged input screen is requested, the CPU 21 issues a warning that the change to the enlarged input screen cannot be performed. May be.

  Next, details of the switching process from the enlarged input screen to the normal input screen shown in step 102 of FIG. 1 will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  First, the CPU 21 recognizes where (in what line and what character) the cursor is located in the character display area 35a1 (step 300), and in the input character string of the character where the cursor is located. The position (the number of lines and the number of characters) is recognized (step 301). For example, in the case of FIG. 5B, in step 300, the cursor position is recognized as the third, fourth line, seventh and eighth characters of the character display area 35a1 (may be recognized as the third line, seventh character) In step 301, the cursor position is recognized as the third character on the first line in the input character string.

  Thereafter, the CPU 21 determines, based on the contents of the flag 23F2, what kind of input screen the current enlarged input screen (character string input screen) is from the display surface of the print image (step 302). That is, it is determined whether the current character string input screen is an input screen without a print image, an input screen for a one-line width print image, or an input screen for a two-line width print image. In the case of the first embodiment, since there is no input screen for a print image having a three-line width on the enlarged input screen, the determination result of the input image for a three-line print image is not obtained in step 302. .

  In the enlarged input screen without the print image, the CPU 21 determines the position of the cursor in the character display area 35a1 recognized in step 300, the position in the input character string of the character where the cursor recognized in step 301 is located, Based on the number of lines in the input character string, etc., 1 to 4 lines in the input character string to be displayed on the normal input screen without the print image after the change are determined (step 303).

  The character display area 35a1 is large enough to display four lines and twelve characters when viewed from normal characters having a 16 × 16 dot configuration. Therefore, the normal input screen without a print image displays four lines in the input character string. Is possible.

  Any specific determination method may be used, but it is necessary to include the line in the input character string where the cursor is located in the determined first, second, third, or fourth line. For example, in the enlarged input screen without a print image so far, the cursor is positioned at the enlarged character extending over the third and fourth lines in the character display area 35a1, and these are the four lines in the input character string. If it is, the first to fourth lines in the input character string are determined as the input character string lines to be displayed on the normal input screen without the print image after the change.

  Next, the CPU 21 prints after the change based on the cursor position in the character display area 35a1 recognized in step 300, the position in the input character string of the character where the cursor recognized in step 301 is located, and the like. The display characters (including the determination of the display position) in the first to fourth lines to be displayed on the normal input screen without an image are determined (step 304).

  The specific determination method may be any method, but the character (including the blank character) where the cursor is located is always included in the display character. For example, as shown in FIG. 10A, when the cursor is positioned at the fourth character of the line (the fourth character counted by the enlarged character) on the enlarged input screen, As shown, the character on which the cursor was positioned is displayed at the 8th character of the line on the normal input screen without the print image after the change. Also determines other display characters on the line.

  As described above, when the character in the input character string to be displayed on the changed normal input screen without the print image is determined, the CPU 21 sets the portion corresponding to the first to fourth lines in the character display area of the display buffer 23a. On the other hand, by expanding each display character in a 16 × 16 dot configuration, the display is changed from an enlarged input screen without a print image to a normal input screen without a print image, and the above-described step 103 (see FIG. 1). (Step 305).

  At the time of development, if necessary, line number display disappearance processing for the line number display area 35a2 is also performed.

  Further, if the determination result in step 302 described above is an input screen for a one-line width print image, in other words, if the input screen so far is an enlarged input screen for a one-line width print image, the CPU 21 After the change based on the cursor position in the character display area 35a1 recognized in 300, the position in the input character string of the character where the cursor recognized in step 301 is located, the number of lines in the input character string, etc. 1 line, 2 lines, or 3 lines in the input character string to be displayed on the normal input screen of the one-line width print image are determined (step 306).

  Although any specific determination method may be used, it is necessary to include the line in the input character string where the cursor is located in the determined first to third lines. For example, as shown in FIG. 11 (A), when the cursor is positioned at the third character (the fourth character counted by the enlarged character) of the line on the enlarged input screen, As shown in the figure, the character on which the cursor was positioned is displayed as the sixth character of the line on the normal input screen of the print image with a width of one line after the change. Also determine other display characters on other lines.

  Next, the CPU 21 changes the 1 position after the change based on the cursor position in the character display area 35a1 recognized in step 300, the position in the input character string of the character where the cursor recognized in step 301 is located, and the like. The display characters (including the determination of the display position) in the first to third lines to be displayed on the normal input screen for the line width print image are determined (step 307).

  The specific determination method may be any method, but the character (including the blank character) where the cursor is located is always included in the display character.

  As described above, when the character in the input character string to be displayed on the normal input screen of the print image having a line width after the change is determined, the CPU 21 corresponds to the second to fourth lines of the character display area of the display buffer 23a. By expanding each display character in a 16 × 16 dot configuration for the portion to be displayed, the display is changed from the enlarged input screen of the one-line width print image to the normal input screen of the one-line width print image, The process proceeds to step 103 (see FIG. 1) described above (step 308).

  Even at the time of this expansion, if necessary, a line number display disappearance process for the line number display area 35a2 is also performed.

  Further, if the determination result of step 302 described above is a two-line-wide print image input screen, in other words, if the input screen so far is a two-line-wide print image enlargement input screen, the CPU 21 After the change based on the cursor position in the character display area 35a1 recognized in 300, the position in the input character string of the character where the cursor recognized in step 301 is located, the number of lines in the input character string, etc. The one or two lines in the input character string to be displayed on the normal input screen of the print image having a width of 2 are determined (step 309).

  Any specific determination method may be used, but it is necessary to include the line in the input character string where the cursor is located in the determined one or two lines.

  Next, the CPU 21 changes the 2 after the change based on the cursor position in the character display area 35a1 recognized in step 300, the position in the input character string of the character where the cursor recognized in step 301 is located, and the like. The display characters (including the determination of the display position) in one or two lines to be displayed on the normal input screen of the line width print image are determined (step 310).

  The specific determination method may be any method, but the character (including the blank character) where the cursor is located is always included in the display character.

  As described above, when the characters in the input character string to be displayed on the normal input screen of the two-line width print image after the change are determined, the CPU 21 sets the third and fourth lines in the character display area of the display buffer 23a. By expanding each display character in a 16 x 16 dot configuration for the part corresponding to, the display is changed from the enlarged input screen of the 2-line print image to the normal input screen of the 2-line print image Then, the process proceeds to step 103 (see FIG. 1) described above (step 311).

  Even at the time of this expansion, if necessary, a line number display disappearance process for the line number display area 35a2 is also performed.

(A-3-2) Print image switching key 11b
Next, the process for changing the character string input screen when the print image switching key 11b is operated will be described in detail with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

  When the print image switching key 11b is operated, the CPU 21 starts the print image change processing program 22b shown in FIG. 12, and first, based on the contents of the flag 23F1, the current character string input screen is expanded from the normal input screen. The input screen is recognized (step 400).

  If the current character string input screen is a normal input screen, the CPU 21 performs a print image change process on the normal input screen (step 401). If the current character string input screen is an enlarged input screen, the CPU 21 enlarges the print image. A print image change process on the input screen is performed (step 402), and the series of processes ends.

  In this embodiment, when the print image switching key 11b is operated on the normal input screen, for each operation, there is no print image → 1 line width print image → 2 line width print image → 3 line width print. The display of the print image is changed in a cyclic order of image → no print image. In addition, when the print image switching key 11b is operated on the enlarged input screen, the print image is not displayed → the print image having the width of 1 line → the print image having the width of 2 lines → the print image for each operation by the processing described later. The display of the print image is changed in a cyclic order of none.

  The details of the print image change process on the normal input screen shown in step 401 are the same as those in the prior art, and the description thereof is omitted.

  The details of the print image change process (step 402) on the enlarged input screen will be described in detail below with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  First, the CPU 21 recognizes in which line (consisting of two lines) the cursor is located in the character display area 35a1 (step 500), and the position of the character where the cursor is located in the input character string. (What line and what character) is recognized (step 501).

  Thereafter, based on the contents of the flag 23F2, the CPU 21 determines what input screen is the current enlarged input screen (character string input screen) from the display surface of the print image (step 502). That is, it is determined whether the current character string input screen is an input screen without a print image, an input screen for a one-line width print image, or an input screen for a two-line width print image.

  If it is an enlarged input screen without a print image, the CPU 21 performs a process of changing to an enlarged input screen for a print image of one line width (steps 503 to 505). Since the print image is displayed on the first line of the character display area 35a1 on the enlarged input screen of the print image having one line width after the change, only one of the input character strings can be displayed as an enlarged character having a 32 × 32 dot configuration. Of course, it is only a line, and that one line is naturally a cursor line on an enlarged input screen without a print image so far, and display line determination processing is unnecessary.

  First, the CPU 21 displays 32 × each display character of the cursor position line in the input character string recognized in step 501 in the portion corresponding to the third and fourth lines of the character display area 35a1 with respect to the display buffer 23a. The print image is developed in a 32-dot configuration (step 503), and then the print image is developed on the display buffer 23a in a portion corresponding to the first line of the character display area 35a1, and the second line of the character display area 35a1. The portion is blanked (step 504), and then the content of the flag 23F2 is set to represent the input screen for a one-line width print image (step 505).

  Even at the time of development, if necessary, line number change processing for the line number display area 35a2 is performed. On the enlarged input screen without the print image before the change, if the third and fourth lines of the character display area 35a1 are lines where the cursor is located, the character display area 35a1 3 in step 503 is displayed. You may make it abbreviate | omit the expansion expansion | deployment with respect to the part corresponded to a 4th line.

  By the processing as described above, for example, an enlarged input screen without a print image as shown in FIG. 5A is changed to an enlarged input screen with a print image of one line width as shown in FIG. 5B. .

  Further, if the determination result in step 502 described above is an input screen for a one-line width print image, in other words, if the input screen so far is an enlarged input screen for a one-line width print image, the CPU 21 A process of changing to a line width print image enlargement input screen is performed (steps 506 and 507).

  Since the display of the character string on the enlarged input screen for the two-line width print image may be the same as the enlarged input screen for the one-line wide print image, the CPU 21 makes the first line of the character display area 35a1 with respect to the display buffer 23a. Then, the print image is developed with a width of 2 lines in the portion corresponding to the second line (step 506), and then the content of the flag 23F2 is made to represent the input screen for the print image with a width of 2 lines (step 507).

  Through the processing described above, for example, an enlarged input screen for a print image having a one-line width as shown in FIG. 5B is changed to an enlarged input screen for a print image having a two-line width as shown in FIG. 5C. Be changed.

  Further, if the determination result in step 502 described above is an input screen for a two-line width print image, in other words, if the input screen so far is an enlarged input screen for a two-line width print image, the CPU 21 performs printing. Processing for changing to an enlarged input screen without an image is performed (steps 508 to 510).

  Since it is possible to display two lines in the input character string on the enlarged input screen without the print image, the CPU 21 determines one or two lines to be displayed including the cursor line so far (step 508), and thereafter In the display buffer 23a, each display character in the determined one or two lines is expanded in a 32 × 32 dot configuration in a portion corresponding to the first to fourth lines of the character display area 35a1 (step 509). Finally, the contents of the flag 23F2 are set to represent an input screen without a print image (step 510).

  Even at the time of development, if necessary, line number change processing for the line number display area 35a2 is performed.

  By the processing as described above, for example, an enlarged input screen for a print image having a two-line width as shown in FIG. 5C is an enlarged input screen without a print image as shown in FIG. The screen is changed to an enlarged input screen without a print image as shown in FIG.

(A-4) Processing when the Kana-Kanji Conversion Key 11c is Operated in the First Embodiment Next, processing when the Kana-Kanji conversion key 11c is operated will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  In the case of the first embodiment, a selection screen for displaying a plurality of kanji candidates and selecting kanji is as shown in FIG. That is, the selection screen displays the hiragana string of the conversion source in normal characters on the fourth line of the character display area 35a1, and the kanji candidate string of the conversion destination is displayed on the second and third lines of the character display area 35a1. Is added and displayed in enlarged characters. In the case of this embodiment, it is also a great feature that the kanji candidates to be converted are displayed as enlarged characters.

  When the kana-kanji conversion key 11c is operated, the CPU 21 starts the processing program 22c shown in FIG. 14, and first determines whether or not kana-kanji conversion can be executed based on the current input state (step 600). .

  If the current input state is a state in which kana-kanji conversion is impossible, for example, when all characters are fixed characters, the CPU 21 performs processing other than kana-kanji conversion (step 601). For example, when all the characters are fixed characters and the kana-kanji conversion key 11c is operated, if the operation means adding a space, a space adding process is performed.

  If the current input state has an undetermined hiragana string and kana-kanji conversion is possible, the CPU 21 accesses the kana-kanji conversion table 22d in the ROM 22 based on the undetermined hiragana string and finds the longest match. In accordance with the principle, the kanji candidates to be converted are taken out, and the hiragana string related to the kanji candidates in the undefined hiragana string is formed in a portion corresponding to the fourth line of the character display area 35a1 of the display buffer 23a. The conversion destination kanji candidates are expanded in a portion corresponding to the second and third lines of the character display area 35a1 of the display buffer 23a in a 32 × 32 dot configuration, and the display is switched to the selection screen (step 602, 603).

  At this time, blanking processing for the first line of the character display area 35a1 is also executed. In addition, a cursor (hatch cursor in FIG. 15) is assigned to any of the plurality of conversion destination kanji candidates for display.

  The kanji selection screen is the same whether the character string input screen when the kana-kanji conversion key 11c is operated is a normal input screen or an enlarged input screen.

  Thereafter, the CPU 21 confirms whether or not the reading shortening key has been operated (step 604). If the reading abbreviated key is operated, the process returns to step 602 described above. In step 602, where the reading abbreviated key is operated, the conversion-destination kanji candidate is obtained based on a shorter unconfirmed hiragana string than the indefinite hiragana string from which the conversion-destination kanji candidate has been obtained. become.

  When the reading shortening key is not operated, the CPU 21 further determines whether or not a candidate change key (for example, a cursor movement key is applicable) or a selection key is operated (step 605).

  When the candidate change key is operated, the CPU 21 changes the conversion destination kanji candidate to which the cursor is attached on the selection screen, and returns to step 604 (step 606). The process in this case may be a process of moving only the cursor, or the kanji candidate string to be converted on the selection screen is scrolled to display a new kanji candidate, and the cursor is attached to the new kanji candidate. It may be a process.

  On the other hand, when the selection key is operated in a state where the cursor is attached to any kanji candidate, the CPU 21 displays the kanji to which the cursor is attached on the input screen when the kana-kanji conversion key 11c is operated. Is replaced with the position of the text area 23a corresponding to the unconfirmed hiragana string (step 607).

  Thereafter, the CPU 21 determines whether or not an unconfirmed hiragana string that has not been converted into Kanji remains (step 608). If it remains, the process returns to step 602 described above. Returning to the column input screen, the series of processing ends (step 609). In the restored character string input screen, the selected kanji is also displayed.

(A-5) Effect of First Embodiment According to the first embodiment, an enlarged input screen is provided in addition to the normal input screen, and the user can arbitrarily select the normal input screen or the enlarged input screen. Since it did in this way, it can respond also to the clarification request | requirement of the display character by a user.

  For example, a user with weak eyesight may use an enlarged input screen. A user who wants to confirm a large number of characters in the input character string at the same time may use the normal input screen.

  Of course, it is possible to allow the display to be switched between the normal input screen and the enlarged input screen with the same size as before (a size capable of displaying 4 lines and 6 characters with characters of 16 × 16 dots). is there. However, as in the first embodiment, when the display is enlarged (size that can display 4 lines and 12 characters with characters of 16 × 16 dots), it is preferable because the number of displayed characters can be increased even on the enlarged input screen. . In practice, the display is made large in consideration of the increase in the number of characters displayed on the normal input screen.

  Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, the kanji-kanji conversion candidate for kana-kanji conversion is displayed as an enlarged character, whether it is a normal input screen or an enlarged input screen. Kanji can be selected appropriately.

  That is, even if the display of the character string on the normal input screen is small, it is a character that you have entered, so you can recognize it correctly, but when selecting a kanji, if the display character is small If there are many similar Chinese characters, an incorrect Chinese character may be selected. However, according to the first embodiment, such inconvenience can be avoided.

(B) Second Embodiment Next, a second embodiment in which the character input device according to the present invention is applied to a tape printer will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

  In the tape printer of the first embodiment described above, conversion candidates by Kana-Kanji conversion are always displayed as enlarged characters. However, in the tape printer of this second embodiment, conversion candidates by Kana-Kanji conversion are displayed. Can be displayed as enlarged characters or as normal characters according to the user's specification. The tape printer of the second embodiment is also characterized in that it can print kana-kanji conversion information on a tape. Hereinafter, the configuration and operation will be described focusing on these characteristic points.

  In the second embodiment, the display size of characters on the character string input screen may be fixed, or may be changeable as in the first embodiment. Since this point is irrelevant to the feature, a detailed description thereof will be omitted. However, when it is necessary to refer to the following description, the former is assumed.

(B-1) Configuration of Second Embodiment FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the tape printing apparatus of the second embodiment, which is the same as that of FIG. 2 according to the first embodiment described above. The same and corresponding parts are denoted by the same and corresponding reference numerals.

  In FIG. 16, the tape printer of the second embodiment is also mainly composed of an input unit 10, a control unit 20, and an output unit 30, and the control unit 20 receives information from the input unit 10 and the time point. The processing according to the processing stage is executed, and the processing result is displayed or printed out by the output unit 30.

  Here, the detailed configuration of the output unit 30 is the same as that of the first embodiment, and a description thereof will be omitted.

  The input unit 10 includes a key input unit 11 and a tape width detection sensor 12 as in the first embodiment. In the case of the second embodiment, the key input unit 11 includes a Kana-Kanji conversion key 11c that activates Kana-Kanji conversion, and a conversion destination candidate display size switching key that instructs switching of the display size of the conversion destination candidate in Kana-Kanji conversion. 11d and a print command key 11e.

  Further, the control unit 20 is configured by connecting a CPU 21, a ROM 22, a RAM 23, a character generator ROM (CG-ROM) 24, an input interface unit 25, and an output interface unit 26 via a system bus 27. This is the same as the first embodiment. In the case of the second embodiment, the ROM 22 stores in the conversion destination candidate display size change processing program 22d (see FIGS. 17 to 21) executed when the conversion destination candidate display size switching key 11d is operated, or kana-kanji conversion. An information printing program 22e (FIG. 24) is also stored. A print buffer 23c is also formed in the RAM 23 as appropriate.

(B-2) of the second embodiment
Processing at Operation of Conversion Destination Candidate Display Size Switching Key 11d Next, processing at the time of operation of the conversion destination candidate display size switching key 11d, which is a feature of the second embodiment, will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. To do.

  When the conversion destination candidate display size switching key 11d is operated, the CPU 21 starts the conversion destination candidate display size change processing program 22d shown in FIG. 17, and first, the display state and characters when the key 11d is operated are displayed. The column input state is determined (step 700).

  Then, when the key 11d is operated while the character string input screen including only the confirmed character is displayed, the CPU 21 performs a kanji input process shown in detail in FIG. 18 described later (step 701). Further, when the key 11d is operated in a state where a character string input screen including an unconfirmed hiragana string that can be used for conversion into kanji is displayed, the CPU 21 performs kanji input processing shown in detail in FIG. 19 described later. (Step 702). Further, the CPU 21 displays the key input in a state where the normal input screen for capturing the Chinese characters displaying the kanji candidates to be converted in the normal display size (character display size on the character string input screen) is displayed. When 11d is operated, the kanji input process shown in detail in FIG. 20 described later is performed (step 703). Furthermore, the CPU 21 displays the expanded input screen for taking in the Chinese characters that displays the conversion destination Chinese character candidates in a display size larger than usual (hereinafter referred to as an enlarged display size). When operated, the kanji input process shown in detail in FIG. 21 described later is performed (step 704).

  If the conversion destination candidate display size switching key 11d is operated in a state other than the above, the key operation is ignored, although omitted in FIG. Here, a warning sound for notifying that it has been ignored may be emitted.

  When the key 11d is operated in a state where the character string input screen including only the confirmed character is displayed and the process proceeds to the processing shown in FIG. 18, the CPU 21 firstly displays the enlarged input screen for taking in Chinese characters shown in FIG. Is displayed (step 800). The enlarged input screen also displays a character “character drawing” indicating that it is an enlarged input screen for capturing Chinese characters. Here, if the input character type mode for the character string input screen when the conversion destination candidate display size switching key 11d is operated is the alphabet mode, the input character type mode is displayed when displaying the enlarged input screen for capturing Chinese characters. To hiragana input mode (or romaji input mode).

  Thereafter, the CPU 21 takes in the desired kanji reading (conversion source hiragana string) and waits for the operation of the kana-kanji conversion key 11c (steps 801 and 802). FIG. 22B shows an enlarged input screen in which a desired kanji reading has been input but before the kana-kanji conversion key 11c is operated.

  When the kana-kanji conversion key 11c is operated, the CPU 21 recognizes a conversion-destination kanji candidate for reading according to the longest match method, and as long as the size in the longitudinal direction of the display screen has a size as shown in FIG. Are displayed in the normal display size, and the candidate where the cursor is positioned is displayed in the enlarged display size (step 803), and then the candidate change is instructed or the candidate selection is instructed. (Step 804). In FIG. 18, the candidate change includes not only the movement of the cursor but also a reading shortening command. When a candidate change is instructed, a candidate change process is performed.

  On the other hand, when selection of a candidate is instructed, the CPU 21 returns from the enlarged input screen for capturing Chinese characters to the character string input screen, and also inputs the character string at the time when the conversion destination candidate display size switching key 11d is operated. The selected kanji (which may be hiragana; including idioms) is added to the back side where the cursor is positioned on the screen (step 805). At this time, the process of adding the selected kanji to the text area 23a is also performed.

  As described above, before inputting the conversion source hiragana string, it is possible to display an enlarged input screen for taking in kanji and to input kanji using the enlarged input screen for taking in kanji.

  Further, when the key 11d is operated in a state where a character string input screen including an unconfirmed hiragana string that can be used for conversion into kanji is displayed, and the process proceeds to the kanji input process shown in FIG. In accordance with the longest match method, a conversion destination Chinese character candidate for an unconfirmed hiragana string (reading) is recognized (step 900). Then, as shown in FIG. 22C described above, a plurality of candidates are displayed in the normal display size, and the candidate where the cursor is positioned is displayed in the enlarged display size (step 901).

  Thereafter, the CPU 21 determines whether a candidate change has been instructed or a candidate selection has been instructed (step 902). Also in FIG. 19, the change of the candidate is called including not only the movement of the cursor but also a reading shortening command. When a candidate change is instructed, a candidate change process is performed.

  On the other hand, when selection of a candidate is instructed, the CPU 21 returns from the enlarged input screen for capturing Chinese characters to the character string input screen, and inputs the character string at the time when the conversion destination candidate display size switching key 11d is operated. The part where the unconfirmed hiragana string is displayed on the screen is replaced with the selected kanji (which may be hiragana; including idioms) (step 903). At this time, the process of adding the selected kanji to the text area 23a is also performed.

  As described above, from the state in which the conversion source hiragana string is displayed on the character string input screen, it is possible to input the kanji using the enlarged input screen for taking in the kanji.

  Further, when the key 11d is operated in a state in which the normal input screen for capturing Chinese characters displaying the conversion destination candidate Chinese characters at the normal display size is displayed, and the process proceeds to the process shown in FIG. The display is switched from the normal input screen for capturing Chinese characters to the enlarged input screen for capturing Chinese characters shown in FIG. 22C (step 1000).

  In the case of the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 23, the normal input screen for taking in kanji displays the reading (conversion source hiragana string) and the conversion destination kanji candidates in the same display size. It is what. Normally, when the kana-kanji conversion key 11c is operated in a state where a character string input screen including an unconfirmed hiragana string that can be used for conversion into kanji is displayed, the normal input screen for taking in kanji is displayed. Is displayed.

  After switching the display to the enlarged input screen for capturing Chinese characters, the CPU 21 determines whether the change of the candidate has been instructed or the selection of the candidate has been instructed (step 1001). In FIG. 20 as well, candidate changes include not only the movement of the cursor but also a reading shortening command. When a candidate change is instructed, a candidate change process is performed. On the other hand, when selection of a candidate is instructed, the CPU 21 returns to the character string input screen from the enlarged input screen for capturing Chinese characters, and at the same time, the kana-kanji conversion key that causes the transition to the normal input screen for capturing Chinese characters. The part where the unconfirmed hiragana string is displayed on the character string input screen when 11c is operated is replaced with the selected kanji (which may be hiragana; including idioms) (step 1002). At this time, the process of adding the selected kanji to the text area 23a is also performed.

  As described above, even after the normal input screen for capturing Chinese characters is displayed by operating the kana-kanji conversion key 11c, the display can be switched to the enlarged input screen for capturing Chinese characters to select candidates.

  Furthermore, when the key 11d is operated in a state where an enlarged input screen for taking in Chinese characters displaying the conversion destination candidate Chinese characters in the enlarged display size is displayed, and the process proceeds to the process shown in FIG. The display is switched from the enlarged input screen for capturing Chinese characters to the normal input screen for capturing Chinese characters shown in FIG. 23 (step 1100).

  In addition, the case where the enlarged input screen for taking in Chinese characters is displayed is a case where any one of the processes shown in FIGS. 18, 19 and 20 is being performed. That is, although FIG. 18 to FIG. 21 are described as if the processing is one way, in practice, branching or jumping occurs by operating the keys. 18 to 21 only show the basic processing flow until the conversion destination Chinese character is finally selected for the sake of simplicity.

  After switching the display to the normal input screen for taking in Chinese characters, the CPU 21 determines whether the change of the candidate has been instructed or the selection of the candidate has been instructed (step 1101). Also in FIG. 21, the candidate change includes not only the movement of the cursor but also a reading shortening command. When a candidate change is instructed, a candidate change process is performed. On the other hand, when selection of a candidate is instructed, the CPU 21 returns to the character string input screen from the normal input screen for fetching kanji, and at the same time, selects the kanji (or hiragana characters) selected at a predetermined position on the character string input screen. Possible (including idioms) (step 1102). At this time, the process of adding the selected kanji to the text area 23a is also performed.

  As described above, after displaying the expanded input screen for taking in Chinese characters, the display can be switched to the normal input screen for taking in Chinese characters to select candidates.

(B-3) Kana-Kanji conversion information printing process of the second embodiment As described above, the tape printing apparatus of the second embodiment is also characterized in that the Kana-Kanji conversion information can be printed on a tape. In the following, processing relating to such features will be described.

  When the print key 11e is operated while the enlarged input screen for capturing Chinese characters is displayed, the CPU 21 starts the kana-kanji conversion information printing program 22e shown in FIG. 24, and first reads (converted hiragana string). Then, it is confirmed whether there is a conversion destination kanji candidate (step 1200). For example, during the process shown in FIG. 18 described above, there may be no reading or conversion destination kanji candidate even when the enlarged input screen for capturing kanji is displayed.

  If there is no reading or conversion destination kanji candidate, the CPU 21 issues a weak warning (step 1201), and then ends a series of processes by operating the print key 11e.

  On the other hand, if there is a reading and conversion destination kanji candidate, the CPU 21 displays a print start message and recognizes the width of the tape loaded at that time (step 1202), and then according to the width of the tape. Then, the conversion target kanji candidate and the reading that are displayed on the enlarged input screen where the cursor is positioned, in other words, are expanded in the print buffer 23c (step 1203).

  The expansion at this time is not performed in accordance with the print attributes set for the inputted character string, but is performed in accordance with the print attributes fixed to the apparatus in order to print the kana-kanji conversion information. In addition, the conversion destination kanji candidate is set to the first line and the reading is set to the second line, and a large character size is assigned to each character of the conversion destination kanji candidate and a small character size is assigned to each reading character. Do it.

  When the unfolding process as described above is completed, the CPU 21 appropriately drives the tape / ribbon feed motor 31 and the thermal head 32 to execute printing (step 1204).

  Finally, the CPU 21 returns to the enlarged input screen for capturing Chinese characters before the print key 11e is operated and ends the series of processes (step 1205).

  FIG. 25 shows a printing result when the reading is “Sekkeichi” and the conversion destination Kanji candidate that is enlarged is “design value”.

(B-4) Effects of the Second Embodiment According to the second embodiment, the kanji-kanji conversion candidate in the kana-kanji conversion is enlarged depending on the user's operation, so that it is intended even when there are many similar kanji characters. Kanji can be selected appropriately. In addition, since the enlarged display is performed only when the user operates, it is not necessary to perform an operation for executing the enlarged display when selecting the kanji that the user has surely recognized. In this case, it is also possible to use the display area where the enlarged display is performed for displaying a part of the input character string.

  In addition, according to the second embodiment, it is also possible to display the reading and kanji candidates by selecting the enlarged input screen before inputting the reading. From such a display, the above operation has not been described. By pressing the cancel key, it is possible to restore the input character string display screen that does not include the kanji candidates in the input character string. That is, the tape printer can be used as a character drawing device.

  Furthermore, according to the second embodiment, reading and kanji can be printed, so that the conversion destination kanji can be confirmed by the printed one. In particular, confirmation is easy when printing on a wide tape. In addition, the more complicated kanji is not only difficult to check on the display screen, but the user can easily forget to read it, and the printing function is effective.

(C) Other Embodiments In the first embodiment described above, the display character size on the character string input screen is shown in two stages, but it may be in three or more stages. Even in this case, it is preferable that the size of each display character has a dot configuration that is generally displayed on a dot matrix display. For example, a 16 × 16 dot configuration, a 24 × 24 dot configuration (not an integer multiple of the minimum size), a 32 × 32 dot configuration, or a 48 × 48 dot configuration is preferable. Similarly, the display size of the conversion destination Chinese character candidate in the first embodiment or the second embodiment may be selected from multiple stages.

  In the first embodiment, the enlarged input screen can display the print image. However, the enlarged input screen may not allow the display of the print image from the viewpoint of increasing the number of display characters. good.

  Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the display character string as a whole is displayed as normal characters or enlarged characters. However, a line or character (not limited to one character) to be displayed as enlarged characters can be specified. Other characters may be displayed as normal characters. For example, when enlargement display is instructed, as shown in FIG. 26, only the character where the cursor is positioned or a few characters near the character where the cursor is positioned may be displayed as enlarged characters ( Some characters may not be displayed), and the display of normal characters may be restored by a second instruction. In this case, rewriting to the display buffer 23b is very little.

  Similarly, as a modification of the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 27, the kanji candidate where the cursor is located or several kanji candidates near the kanji candidate where the cursor is located are enlarged and displayed. May be.

  In the first embodiment, the kanji candidates are displayed as enlarged characters. However, other characters that need to be selected on the selection screen to be included in the input character string are also displayed as enlarged characters. You may do it. For example, mathematical symbols and the like are selected and input from a selection screen for symbols, but the symbols may be displayed as enlarged characters on this selection screen. Further, for example, when selecting a registered external character, the external character may be enlarged and displayed. When an external character is included in the input screen, the external character may be displayed in an enlarged manner than other characters.

  In addition to displaying characters and symbols (including pictograms, etc.) and external characters to be included in the input character string as well as on screens that require the display of a character string for selection (not the input character string), the characters should be enlarged. May be. For example, when selecting the length of the front margin in printing from a menu screen displaying character strings such as “Large”, “Normal”, and “Less”, the character strings that make up these options are also expanded. Display selection with characters or normal characters may be possible. Further, for example, when the enlarged input screen is selected as the character string input screen, the characters on the menu screen may be automatically enlarged and displayed.

  In the second embodiment, it has been explained that the enlarged display of the conversion destination Chinese character is effective only for one Kana-Kanji conversion. However, each time the conversion destination candidate display size switching key 11d is operated, a flag is provided. After the flag contents are reversed and the display is switched to the enlarged display by operating the key 11d, the enlarged display may be adopted in all Kana-Kanji conversions until the flag is changed.

  In the second embodiment, in the printing of kana-kanji conversion information, only one kanji candidate for conversion is printed. However, a plurality of candidates may be printed. Also, the conversion destination kanji candidate may be printed in the same size as the reading.

  In the first embodiment and the second embodiment, the selection screen for kana-kanji conversion as shown in FIG. 15 and the selection screen as shown in FIG. 22 (C) are switched, and all are normal characters. Switching of a plurality of selection screens including the displayed selection screen may be permitted according to a key operation by the user.

  In the first and second embodiments, the case where the character string before conversion for selecting kanji is a hiragana string is shown, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, in the case of an apparatus for Korean or Chinese, the character string before conversion for selecting kanji may be a character type (including phonetic symbols) determined in the language.

  The character input device according to the present invention can be applied not only to a tape printer, but also to other character input devices having a small display (for example, a stamp making device).

It is a flowchart of the change process of the display character size of 1st Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the electric constitution of 1st Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structure of the display surface of 1st Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing of the normal input screen of 1st Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing of the expansion input screen of 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart of the change process from the normal input screen of 1st Embodiment to an expansion input screen. It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows the example of a change from the normal input screen of 1st Embodiment to an expansion input screen. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows the example of a change from the normal input screen of 1st Embodiment to an expansion input screen. It is a flowchart of the change process from the expansion input screen of 1st Embodiment to a normal input screen. It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows the example of a change from the enlarged input screen of 1st Embodiment to a normal input screen. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows the example of a change from the enlarged input screen of 1st Embodiment to a normal input screen. 5 is a flowchart of print image switching processing according to the first embodiment. 6 is a flowchart of print image switching processing on an enlarged input screen according to the first embodiment. It is a flowchart of the kana-kanji conversion process of 1st Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structure of the selection screen of the Chinese character candidate of 1st Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the electric constitution of 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart (the 1) which concerns on the Chinese character input process of 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart (the 2) which concerns on the Chinese character input process of 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart (the 3) which concerns on the Chinese character input process of 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart (the 4) which concerns on the Chinese character input process of 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart (the 5) which concerns on the Chinese character input process of 2nd Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the expansion input screen for Chinese character taking in of 2nd Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the normal input screen for Chinese character taking in of 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the printing process of the kana-kanji conversion information of 2nd Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the printing result of the kana-kanji conversion information of 2nd Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the character string input screen of 1 character enlarged display by other embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of an expansion display of the Chinese character candidate by other embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Input part, 11 ... Key input part, 12 ... Tape width detection sensor, 20 ... Control part, 21 ... CPU, 22 ... ROM, 23 ... RAM, 30 ... Output part, 31 ... Tape / ribbon feed motor, 32 ... Thermal head, 35 ... Liquid crystal display.

Claims (1)

A character input device having a character string input means for inputting a character string while executing conversion of the conversion source character string into a conversion destination character string, and a display means for displaying the input character string, etc. In the character input device provided in the apparatus having the means and the printing means,
When the conversion destination character string candidate and the conversion source character string are displayed on the display means, when the print command means issues a print command, the character string input means indicates that the cursor is positioned at least at the time of the print command. A character input device characterized in that the conversion destination candidate and the conversion source character string that have been provided are given to the printing means for printing.

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