JP5130157B2 - Program, RIP input file generation device, RIP input file generation method, RIP processing device, RIP processing method, and print cutting system - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a program, a RIP input file generation device, a RIP input file generation method, a RIP processing device, a RIP processing method, and a print cutting system.

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, apparatuses that perform printing (printing) and cutting (cutting) on a medium are known. As such an apparatus, for example, an ink jet printer with a cutting head is known (for example, see Patent Document 1).
JP 2005-335149 A

  In recent years, the use of such apparatuses has been diversified due to the high performance of ink jet printers. For this reason, for example, various methods are required for setting the cutting line depending on the application. For example, there is a need for a method that can flexibly and easily set printing conditions and cutting conditions. There is also a need for a method that can appropriately control printing and cutting without taking time and effort for a user (operator). Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a program, a RIP input file generation device, a RIP input file generation method, a RIP processing device, a RIP processing method, and a print cutting system that can solve the above-described problems.

In order to solve the above problems, the present invention has the following configuration.
(Configuration 1) A program that causes a computer to output a RIP input format file in a data format that is input data for RIP (Raster Image Processor) processing, and includes print data indicating an image to be printed, and cutting for cutting the image from the medium RIP input for printing that generates a RIP input file for printing that is a RIP input format file corresponding to the print data by converting the print data into a RIP input format file by generating data for generating cut data indicating a line A file generation process, a cut RIP input file generation process for generating a cut RIP input file that is a RIP input format file corresponding to the cut data by converting the cut data into a RIP input format file, and a RIP process are performed. The print RIP input file generation process is performed by a computer that performs a file output process for outputting the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file to a preset folder in the storage device of the IP processing apparatus. The print RIP input file is generated by adding ID information that is associated with the input file and can be identified as the print RIP input file. The cut RIP input file generation process includes the print RIP input file. ID information that can be identified as a cutting RIP input file is attached, and a cutting RIP input file is generated.

  This program is, for example, a graphic software program. In the data generation process, for example, print data and cut data are generated based on a user operation for drawing an image and a cutting line.

  If comprised in this way, the RIP input file for printing and the RIP input file for cut which show each of the image to be printed and each cutting line appropriately can be produced | generated appropriately as an input file of a subsequent RIP process, for example. Thereby, for example, a file indicating an image to be printed and a cutting line for cutting the image from the medium can be prepared easily and appropriately. Further, by associating both files with the ID information, it is possible to perform the RIP process by appropriately associating the printed image with the cutting line.

  Furthermore, by outputting the RIP input file for printing and the RIP input file for cutting as separate files, for example, when only processing corresponding to one file is performed in the subsequent RIP processing, the data of the file that is not used Need not be read. By this, for example, when printing and cutting are not performed as a series of operations, but only when printing is first performed and only cutting is performed later, such as when waiting for ink to dry or when laminating. For example, the time required for each process can be shortened. For example, when only cutting is performed later, it is not necessary to read the RIP input file for printing, and the time can be shortened. In particular, when the data sizes of the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file are large, the effect of shortening the time required for processing becomes significant.

  The RIP processing apparatus that performs RIP processing is, for example, a computer in which a program for RIP processing is installed. The print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file are, for example, a Postscript file. The print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file may be PDF files or the like.

  The ID information that can be identified as a print RIP input file is, for example, ID information that can be distinguished from a cut RIP input file. The ID information that can be identified as a cutting RIP input file is, for example, ID information that can be distinguished from a printing RIP input file. The ID information of the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file is attached to each file as, for example, comment information. The ID information may be attached in each file name.

  The cutting line for cutting the image from the medium is, for example, a line indicating a position to be cut on the medium. Cutting the image from the medium means, for example, separating a portion of the medium on which the image is printed from other areas of the medium. The portion where the image is printed on the medium may be a region including a blank portion surrounding the image. Further, cutting the image from the medium may be cutting the medium before printing so that an image to be printed thereafter is cut from the medium. In this case, the cutting line may be a cutting line indicating the position of cutting performed before printing. The medium may be cut, for example, with respect to a medium on which a main sheet is pasted on a mount such as a sticker. In this case, the medium may be cut by cutting only the main paper.

  (Configuration 2) The print RIP input file generation process is a process for generating a print RIP input file including a data area in which comment information is written, and print control information for controlling a print operation based on the print RIP input file. The RIP input file generation process for cutting and writing as comment information of the RIP input file for printing is a process of generating a RIP input file for cutting including a data area in which comment information is written, and a cutting operation based on the RIP input file for cutting Information for controlling cutting is written as comment information of the cutting RIP input file.

  The print control information and the cutting control information are information including layout information and other various control information, for example. If comprised in this way, the setting of printing conditions and cutting conditions can be performed more flexibly and appropriately, for example.

  (Configuration 3) The cut data is data indicating a plurality of cutting lines with different cutting conditions for specifying cutting operation conditions, and each cutting condition includes a plurality of types of cut condition corresponding colors prepared in advance. The cut RIP input file generation process recognizes a plurality of cutting lines in the cut data, and the cuts associated with the cutting conditions for the cutting lines are recognized as the colors of the respective cutting lines. A condition-corresponding color is designated to generate a cutting RIP input file, and cut condition information in which the cutting condition-corresponding color and the cutting condition are associated is written as comment information of the cutting RIP input file.

  With this configuration, for example, it is possible to set a plurality of types of cutting conditions in one cutting RIP input file in accordance with the cutting position and the object. This also makes it possible to set the cutting conditions more flexibly, for example.

  As the color corresponding to the cutting condition, for example, a special color (spot color) can be suitably used. The spot color is a color other than a color expressed by mixing process colors, for example. The process color is, for example, each color of CMYK ink used in the printing apparatus. The cutting condition associated with the color corresponding to the cutting condition includes, for example, a cutting speed, a pressure, a tool offset, and a designation of the line type of the cutting line. The designation of the line type of the cutting line is, for example, designation of a solid line or a perforated line. This solid line is, for example, a line type indicating a normal continuous cutting line. The perforated line is a designation of a cutting line or the like for later cutting such as a dotted line or a broken line.

  (Configuration 4) A program that causes a computer to perform RIP processing for converting a RIP input format file in a data format that is input data for RIP (Raster Image Processor) processing into a RIP output format file in a data format that can be interpreted by an output destination device A RIP input file for printing, which is a RIP input format file indicating an image to be printed, and a cutting line for cutting the image from the medium by searching in a preset folder in the storage device An input file search process for searching for a cut RIP input file that is a format file, and when a print RIP input file is found in the input file search process, the print RIP input file is converted into a RIP output format file ,Print RIP output file generation processing for generating a print RIP output file that is a RIP output format file corresponding to the RIP input file for cut, and the RIP input for cut when the cut RIP input file is found in the input file search processing RIP output file generation processing for cutting, RIP output file for printing, and cut RIP output file generation processing for generating a RIP output file for cutting that is a RIP output format file corresponding to the RIP input file for cutting by converting the file into a RIP output format file The RIP output file output process for outputting the RIP output file for output to the output destination device is performed by the computer, and the output destination device prints the image according to the print RIP output file, and the medium according to the cut RIP output file The The RIP input file for printing is associated with the RIP input file for cutting and has ID information that can be identified as the RIP input file for printing, and the RIP input file for cutting Is attached with ID information that is associated with the print RIP input file and that can be identified as the cut RIP input file. The input file search process includes ID information of the print RIP input file, and By identifying the ID information of the RIP input file for cutting, the RIP input file for printing and the RIP input file for cutting are distinguished and searched, and the RIP output file output processing includes the ID information of the RIP input file for printing, and Associating each other based on the ID information of the RIP input file for cutting Each of the print for the RIP output file and cutting RIP output files that are, at the timing set respectively in accordance with the association, and outputs to an output destination device.

  When controlling the output destination device so as to cut after printing, for example, the RIP output file output process outputs a cutting RIP output file at a preset timing after outputting the printing RIP output file. . Further, when controlling the output destination device so as to perform cutting before printing, the RIP output file output processing, for example, outputs the RIP output file for cutting at a preset timing after outputting the RIP output file for cutting. Output file.

  The RIP output format file is, for example, a file composed of commands and data for controlling an output destination device. The RIP output format file may be, for example, a file showing images or cutting lines in a printer description language or similar language. The output destination device is, for example, an inkjet printer with a cutting head. This apparatus may be a cutting plotter or the like, for example.

  According to this configuration, for example, based on the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file generated as separate files, it is possible to appropriately perform the RIP process while considering the association between the two. Thereby, for example, the same effect as in Configuration 1 can be obtained. Further, by controlling the timing of outputting the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file, it is possible to cause the output destination apparatus to appropriately perform printing and cutting, for example.

  If the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file are not associated with each other and only one file is found in the input file search process, the computer, for example, generates the print RIP output file and Of the cutting RIP output file generation processing, only processing corresponding to the file is performed. In this case, in the RIP output file output process, the computer outputs only the file corresponding to the found one of the print RIP output file and the cut RIP output file. If comprised in this way, only one of printing or a cutting | disconnection can be appropriately performed to the apparatus of an output destination as needed.

  (Configuration 5) The print RIP input file includes a data area in which comment information is written, and print control information for controlling a print operation based on the print RIP input file is written as comment information of the print RIP input file. The cutting RIP input file includes a data area in which comment information is written, and cutting control information for controlling a cutting operation based on the cutting RIP input file is written as comment information of the cutting RIP input file. The program acquires the print control information from the comment information of the print RIP input file, acquires the cut control information from the comment information of the cut RIP input file, and displays the acquired print control information and cut control information Control information display processing to be displayed on the part and by the user The control information change acceptance process for accepting changes in the printing control information and the cutting control information is further performed by the computer, and the print RIP output file generation process generates the print RIP output file by reflecting the print control information. When the print control information is changed in the control information change acceptance process, a print RIP output file is generated by reflecting the changed print control information, and the cut RIP output file generation process is In this process, the cutting RIP output file is generated by reflecting the cutting control information. When the cutting control information is changed in the control information change receiving process, the cutting control information after the change is reflected and the cutting is performed. A RIP output file is generated.

  If comprised in this way, before performing a RIP process, a setting etc. can be suitably changed as needed, for example. This also makes it possible to control the operation of the output destination apparatus more flexibly and appropriately.

  In the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file, for example, an instruction as to whether or not to execute the control information display process and the control information change acceptance process is written as comment information. In this case, for example, when comment information indicating execution is written, the program causes the computer to execute control information display processing and control information change acceptance processing.

  With this configuration, for example, the computer can execute the control information display process and the control information change acceptance process only when necessary. In addition, thereby, when the control information display process and the control information change acceptance process are not executed, the user's labor can be further reduced and the RIP process can be automatically performed.

  (Configuration 6) RIP input file generation device for generating a RIP input format file in a data format that is input data for RIP (Raster Image Processor) processing, and print data indicating an image to be printed, and cutting the image from a medium A data generation unit for generating cut data indicating a cutting line to be printed, and a print for generating a print RIP input file which is a RIP input format file corresponding to the print data by converting the print data into a RIP input format file RIP input file generation unit, a cut RIP input file generation unit that generates a cut RIP input file that is a RIP input format file corresponding to the cut data by converting the cut data into a RIP input format file, and RIP processing RIP to perform A file output unit that outputs the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file to a preset folder in the storage device of the processing device, and the print RIP input file generation unit associates with the cut RIP input file And generating the print RIP input file with ID information that can be identified as the print RIP input file, and the cutting RIP input file generating unit is associated with the print RIP input file, In addition, ID information that can identify the RIP input file for cutting is attached, and the RIP input file for cutting is generated.

  If comprised in this way, the effect similar to the structure 1 can be acquired, for example. The RIP input file generation device may be a computer that operates according to a program, for example. In this case, for example, the CPU of the computer operates as each unit of the RIP input file generation device according to the program.

  (Configuration 7) A RIP input file generation method for generating a RIP input format file in a data format to be input data for RIP (Raster Image Processor) processing, wherein print data indicating an image to be printed, and cutting the image from a medium A data generation stage for generating cut data indicating a cutting line to be printed, and for printing to generate a RIP input file for printing which is a RIP input format file corresponding to the print data by converting the print data into a RIP input format file RIP input file generation stage, cutting RIP input file generation stage for generating a cutting RIP input file that is a RIP input format file corresponding to the cut data by converting the cut data into a RIP input format file, and RIP processing I do A file output stage for outputting the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file to a preset folder in the storage device of the RIP processing apparatus, and the print RIP input file generation stage includes: A print RIP input file is generated with ID information that can be identified and identified as a print RIP input file, and the cut RIP input file generation stage is associated with the print RIP input file. In addition, ID information that can identify the RIP input file for cutting is attached, and the RIP input file for cutting is generated. In this way, for example, the same effect as that of Configuration 1 can be obtained.

  (Configuration 8) RIP processing device that performs RIP processing for converting a RIP input format file in a data format that is input data for RIP (Raster Image Processor) processing into a RIP output format file in a data format that can be interpreted by an output destination device A RIP input file for printing, which is a RIP input format file indicating an image to be printed by searching in a preset folder in the storage device, and a RIP input format indicating a cutting line for cutting the image from the medium An input file search unit that searches for a cut RIP input file that is a file, and when the input file search unit finds a print RIP input file, the print RIP input file is converted into a RIP output format file, For RIP input files for printing A RIP output file generation unit for printing that generates a RIP output file for printing that is a corresponding RIP output format file, and an RIP output file for the cut RIP input file when the input file search unit finds the RIP input file for cut By converting to a file, a cutting RIP output file generating unit that generates a cutting RIP output file that is a RIP output format file corresponding to the cutting RIP input file, a printing RIP output file, and a cutting RIP output file A RIP output file output unit for outputting to an output destination device, and the output destination device is a device that prints an image according to a print RIP output file and cuts a medium according to a cut RIP output file. The RIP input file for ID information that is associated with the print RIP input file and that can be identified as the print RIP input file is attached. The cut RIP input file is associated with the print RIP input file, and ID information that can be identified as a cutting RIP input file is attached, and the input file search unit identifies the ID information of the printing RIP input file and the ID information of the cutting RIP input file. The RIP input file for printing and the RIP input file for cutting are searched separately, and the RIP output file output unit associates them with each other based on the ID information of the printing RIP input file and the ID information of the cutting RIP input file. RIP output file for printing and RIP output for cutting Each Airu, at the timing set respectively in accordance with the association, and outputs to an output destination device.

  If comprised in this way, the effect similar to the structure 4 can be acquired, for example. The RIP processing device may be a computer that operates according to a program, for example. In this case, for example, the CPU of the computer operates as each unit of the RIP processing device according to the program.

  (Configuration 9) RIP processing method for performing RIP processing for converting a RIP input format file in a data format as input data for RIP (Raster Image Processor) processing into a RIP output format file in a data format that can be interpreted by an output destination device A RIP input file for printing, which is a RIP input format file indicating an image to be printed by searching in a preset folder in the storage device, and a RIP input format indicating a cutting line for cutting the image from the medium An input file search stage for searching for a cut RIP input file that is a file, and when a print RIP input file is found in the input file search stage, the print RIP input file is converted into a RIP output format file, RIP input file for printing When a RIP output file for printing that generates a RIP output file for printing, which is a RIP output format file corresponding to a file, and when a RIP input file for cutting is found in the input file search stage, the RIP input file for cutting is RIP A cut RIP output file generation stage for generating a cut RIP output file that is a RIP output format file corresponding to the cut RIP input file by converting to an output format file, a print RIP output file, and a cut RIP output A RIP output file output stage for outputting a file to an output destination device, the output destination device printing an image according to a print RIP output file, and cutting the medium according to a cut RIP output file For printing The IP input file is associated with the cutting RIP input file and is given ID information that can be identified as the printing RIP input file. The cutting RIP input file includes the printing RIP input file. ID information that can be identified as a cut RIP input file is attached, and the input file search stage includes the ID information of the print RIP input file and the ID information of the cut RIP input file. By identifying the RIP input file for printing and the RIP input file for cutting, the RIP output file output stage identifies the ID information of the printing RIP input file and the ID information of the cutting RIP input file. Print RIP output files associated with each other based on Each yl and cutting RIP output file, at the timing set respectively in accordance with the association, in this manner to output to an output destination device, for example, it is possible to obtain the same effects of the arrangement 4.

  (Configuration 10) A print cutting system for printing an image on a medium and cutting the medium along a cutting line, the RIP input file generation device according to Configuration 6, and the RIP processing device according to Configuration 8. And a print cutting device that is an output destination device of the RIP processing device. The input file generation device and the RIP processing device may be configured by, for example, one common computer. If comprised in this way, the effect similar to the structure 6 and the structure 8 can be acquired, for example.

  According to the present invention, for example, a file indicating an image to be printed and a cutting line can be prepared easily and appropriately.

  Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 shows an example of the configuration of a printing cutting system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The print cutting system 10 is a system that prints an image on a medium and cuts the medium along a cutting line, and includes a client PC 12, a RIP PC 14, and a print cutting device 16. The print cutting system 10 may include a plurality of some or all of these components. Further, for example, the client PC 12 and the RIP PC 14 may be configured by a single computer, for example.

  In this example, the client PC 12 and the RIP PC 14 are connected via a network by, for example, an Ethernet (registered trademark) cable. The RIP PC 14 and the print cutting device 16 are connected by, for example, a USB cable of USB 2.0 standard.

  The client PC 12 is a computer in which a graphic software program is installed. The client PC 12 operates as a RIP input file generation device in accordance with the graphic software, thereby generating and outputting a RIP input format file in a data format that becomes input data for a subsequent RIP (Raster Image Processor) process.

  In this example, the client PC 12 generates, as RIP input format files, a print RIP input file and a cut RIP input file that are associated with each other by ID information. The print RIP input file is a RIP input format file corresponding to print data indicating an image to be printed. The cutting RIP input file is a RIP input format file corresponding to cut data indicating a cutting line for cutting an image from a medium. The RIP input file for printing and the RIP input file for cutting are Postscript files such as EPS format. The print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file may be PDF files or the like.

  The client PC 12 outputs the generated print RIP input file and cut RIP input file to the shared folder set in the RIP PC 14 via the network. As a result, the client PC 12 delivers the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file to the RIP PC 14.

  The client PC 12 may generate only one of the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file as necessary. The operation of the client PC 12 will be described in more detail later.

  The RIP PC 14 is a computer that performs RIP processing. The RIP PC 14 operates as a RIP processing device in accordance with RIP processing software (RIP software), and outputs a print RIP input file and a cut RIP input file, which are RIP input format files received from the client PC 12, at the output destination device. The data is converted into a RIP output format file in a data format that can be interpreted by a certain printing cutting device 16.

  In this example, the RIP PC 14 receives a print RIP input file and a cut RIP input file using a shared folder preset in the storage device 102. Also, based on the ID information of the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file, the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file associated with each other are recognized and automatically linked.

  Then, the RIP PC 14 generates a print RIP output file corresponding to the print RIP input file and a cut RIP output file corresponding to the cut RIP input file as RIP output format files by RIP processing. The generated print RIP output file and cut RIP input file are output to the print cutting device 16 at a timing according to the association by the ID information. The operation of the RIP PC 14 will be described in more detail later.

  The print cutting device 16 is an output destination device for the print RIP output file and the cut RIP output file generated by the RIP PC 14. For example, these files are sequentially received from the RIP PC 14 via a USB cable. In this example, the print cutting device 16 prints an image according to the print RIP output file received from the RIP PC 14. Then, the image is cut from the medium along the set cutting line according to the cutting RIP output file. Further, in this case, for example, the print cutting device 16 aligns the medium in accordance with, for example, an instruction from the RIP PC 14 before cutting the medium after printing.

  The print cutting device 16 cuts the image from the medium by moving the cutter vertically and horizontally in accordance with the cutting RIP output file, for example. The print cutting device 16 may cut the image along a cutting line including a linear portion or a curved portion, for example. The printing cutting device 16 is, for example, an ink jet printer with a cutting head provided with a cutter. The printing cutting device 16 may be, for example, a cutting plotter.

  Further, the print cutting device 16 may perform printing and cutting on a medium on which a main sheet is pasted on a mount such as a sticker. In this case, for example, the printing cutting device 16 may cut only the main paper by cutting at a pressure at which the cutter blade does not reach the mount.

  The print cutting device 16 may perform printing on the medium after cutting the medium first, for example. In this case, for example, since it is not necessary to wait for the ink to dry after printing, the overall work time can be shortened. In this case, the RIP PC 14 outputs the print RIP output file after outputting the cut RIP output file, for example.

  According to this example, for example, RIP processing can be appropriately performed based on print data and cut data created by graphic software of the client PC 12. This also makes it possible to appropriately perform printing and image cutting.

  FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the client PC 12. The client PC 12 performs the following operations according to graphic software for creating print data and cut data.

  The graphic software for print data and the graphic software for cut data may be the same software or different software. As graphic software for creating print data and cut data, for example, known graphic software such as Illustrator (registered trademark) can be used. In this case, for example, plug-in software for creating cut data is further installed. Further, instead of known graphic software, for example, unique graphic software capable of creating both print data and cut data may be used.

  With these graphic software functions, the client PC 12 first performs data generation processing, and generates print data and cut data based on, for example, a user operation for drawing an image and a cutting line (S102). The print data and cut data are, for example, data indicating an image and a cutting line in a graphic software data format.

  After the data is created, the client PC 12 converts the print data and the cut data into a RIP input format file by performing a print RIP input file generation process and a cut RIP input file generation process (S104). As a result, the client PC 12 generates a print RIP input file corresponding to the print data and a cut RIP input file corresponding to the cut data.

  Here, in this example, the client PC 12 attaches ID information and generates a print RIP input file and a cut RIP input file. For example, in the print RIP input file generation process, the client PC 12 attaches ID information that is associated with the cut RIP input file and can be identified as the print RIP input file, and prints the RIP input file for printing. Is generated. Also, in the cutting RIP input file generation process, the client PC 12 attaches ID information that is associated with the printing RIP input file and that can be identified as the cutting RIP input file. Is generated. The client PC 12 attaches these ID information, for example, as comment information in each file. The client PC 12 may add ID information in each file name.

  Then, after generating the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file, the client PC 12 performs file output processing, and prints to the preset shared folder in the storage device 102 of the RIP PC 14 via the network. The RIP input file and the cutting RIP input file are output (S106). As a result, the client PC 12 receives the RIP input format files corresponding to the print data and the cut data as RIP input files for printing and RIP input files for cutting, which are two separate files in total, to the RIP PC 14. hand over.

  According to this example, for example, a print RIP input file and a cut RIP input file indicating the image to be printed and the cutting line can be appropriately generated as input files for the subsequent RIP process. As a result, for example, files each indicating an image to be printed and a cutting line can be prepared easily and appropriately. In addition, by associating both files with the ID information, the image to be printed and the cutting line can be appropriately associated with each other in the subsequent RIP process.

  As described with reference to FIG. 1, in this example, the print cutting device 16 has a print RIP output file and a cut RIP output file divided into two files as files corresponding to the print data and the cut data. Are received sequentially. For example, after printing, before the medium is cut, the medium is aligned. Therefore, it is preferable that the client PC 12 generates a print RIP input file and a cut RIP input file in consideration of this alignment.

  In this example, for example, the client PC 12 has no line and no color so as to be adjacent to the maximum rectangle when the print data and the cut data are merged as objects in the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file. A dummy object is automatically generated. Then, the bounding box including the dummy object is set in the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file. The BoundingBox is a parameter that specifies the coordinates of the lower left point and the upper right point of the area reserved for drawing a figure in the Postscript file, for example. According to this example, for example, the sizes of the print data and the cut data are the same, and it is not necessary to perform special alignment in the RIP process. In addition, this makes it possible to easily perform alignment by setting the same origin.

  Hereinafter, the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file will be described in more detail. In this example, the client PC 12 generates a Postscript file, which is a file including a data area in which comment information is written, as a print RIP input file and a cut RIP input file. In the print RIP input file generation process, the client PC 12 writes print control information as comment information of the print RIP input file. In the cutting RIP input file generation process, the client PC 12 writes the cutting control information as comment information.

  The print control information is information for controlling a print operation based on a print RIP input file, for example. The cutting control information is information for controlling a cutting operation based on the cutting RIP input file, for example. These pieces of information may be information including layout information and other various control information, for example. According to this example, for example, the printing conditions and the cutting conditions can be set flexibly and appropriately. Also, in this example, for example, by outputting the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file as separate files, it becomes easy to individually set the respective files.

  In this example, for example, by using the function of plug-in software or original graphic software, it becomes possible to easily create a cutting line that is difficult to create only with the function of Illustrator (registered trademark) or the like. As an example of creating such a cutting line, for example, it is conceivable to use a plurality of types of cutting lines with different cutting conditions.

  In this case, for example, in plug-in software or unique graphic software, for example, a plurality of tools associated with different cutting conditions are used as tools for drawing a cutting line. The cutting conditions for each tool are associated with each of a plurality of types of spot colors prepared in advance. This spot color is an example of a color corresponding to a cutting condition. The client PC 12 automatically generates a plurality of types of spot colors to be used as cut condition corresponding colors, for example, according to a preset format.

  Thus, in the data creation process, the client PC 12 creates cut data indicating a plurality of cutting lines having different cutting conditions, for example, according to the operation of these tools by the user. Further, in the cutting RIP input file generation process, the client PC 12 recognizes a plurality of cutting lines in the cut data, and the cuts associated with the cutting conditions for the cutting lines as the colors of the recognized cutting lines. Specify the condition-corresponding color. Further, the client PC 12 further writes the cut condition information in which the cut condition corresponding color and the cut condition are associated as comment information of the cutting RIP input file. Thus, the client PC 12 generates a cutting RIP input file indicating a plurality of cutting lines associated with different cutting conditions.

  The cutting conditions include, for example, the cutting speed, pressure, tool offset, designation of the line type of the cutting line, and the like. The designation of the line type of the cutting line is designation of, for example, a solid line or a perforated line. Further, the correspondence between the cutting condition and the spot color name is one-to-one correspondence. However, the correspondence between the spot color name and the cutting line may be one-to-many, and the same spot color name (cutting condition) can be set for a plurality of cutting lines.

  With this configuration, for example, it is possible to set a plurality of types of cutting conditions in one cutting RIP input file in accordance with the cutting position and the object. For example, while a simple rectangular path is cut at a normal speed, a fine character can be cut carefully by slowing the cutting speed. Also, for example, the outermost rectangular area can be cut with a dotted line so that it can be easily separated later. Therefore, according to this example, it becomes possible to set the cutting conditions more flexibly, for example. Next, ID information attached to the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file will be described in more detail.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of ID information. In this example, the client PC 12 writes ID information for data classification as comment information of each of the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file, which are Postscript files.

  In this example, the client PC 12 writes ID information including a predetermined character string (MPC) at the head. This ID information is further followed by a character string (PR or CU) indicating whether it is a print RIP input file or a cut RIP input file, a print RIP input file, and a cut. It includes a flag (01, 02, etc.) for specifying an operation (operation) to be performed on the RIP input file, and a character string (YYYYMMDDDHHMMSSMMM) indicating the generation timing of the file in year, month, day, hour, minute, second, and millisecond. The ID information includes an underscore (_) between these elements.

  For example, when performing an operation of cutting after printing (Print & Cut, cutting after printing), the client PC 12 generates a printing RIP input file and a cutting RIP input file that are associated with each other by the ID information. In this case, the client PC 12 writes the character string MPC_PR_01_YYYYMMDDHMHMSMSMMM as the ID information of the print RIP input file, for example, as shown in the first row of the illustrated table. Further, as the ID information of the cutting RIP input file, for example, a character string MPC_CU_01_YYYYMMDDDHHMMSSMMM is written as shown in the third row of the table.

  In this case, the character string PR in the ID information indicates that the file is a print RIP input file. The character string CU indicates that the file is a print RIP input file. A number 01 following these is a flag for designating an operation for cutting after printing, and indicates that a file associated with the file exists. The character string YYYYMMDDDHHMMSSMMM is a character string indicating the timing at which the file is generated, and actually, a string of numbers indicating the time at that timing is used.

  In this example, the client PC 12 sets the character strings YYYYMMDDDHHMMSSMMM in the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file associated with each other to the same value. This value may be, for example, a character string indicating the timing at which the previously generated file is generated.

  When performing an operation that performs only printing (single (print), only printing), the client PC 12 generates a single RIP input file for printing. In this case, the client PC 12 writes the character string MPC_PR_02_YYYYMMDDDHHMMSSMMM as the ID information, for example, as shown in the second row of the table. Further, when performing an operation that performs only cutting (single (Cut), only cutting), the client PC 12 generates a single RIP input file for cutting. In this case, the client PC 12 writes the character string MPC_CU_02_YYYYMMDDDHHMMSSMMM as the ID information, for example, as shown in the fourth row of the table. In these ID information, numeral 02 is a flag for designating an operation for performing only printing or cutting alone, and indicates that there is no file associated with the file. Other parts are the same as in the operation for cutting after printing.

  In addition to the above, for example, a value for specifying an operation for performing printing after cutting may be set as a flag for specifying an operation (operation) to be performed on the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file. It is done. In this case, the value of the flag may be set to 03, for example.

  The client PC 12 writes the ID information in the file as a value of a predetermined field name (for example,% MimaDataType). For example, when performing an operation of cutting after printing, the client PC 12 writes a character string such as% MimakDataType: MPC_PR_01_YYYYMMDDHMHMSMSMMM as comment information of the print RIP input file. In addition, as comment information of the RIP input file for cutting, the client PC 12 writes a character string such as% MimakiDataType: MPC_CU_01_YYYYMMDDHMHMSMSMMM.

  In this case, the RIP PC 14 can acquire the ID information by searching for a predetermined comment (MikiDataType) and acquiring the value when analyzing the comment information for the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file. . This also makes it possible to appropriately classify the file type. According to this example, ID information can be appropriately written in the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file.

  The client PC 12 may attach ID information to the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file by attaching a file name including the same or similar character string as the ID information. A part of the content of the ID information may be included in the file name.

  The client PC 12 preferably uses different extensions for the file names of the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file. In this case, for example, the extension of the print RIP input file may be mmkpps or the like, and the extension of the cut RIP input file may be mmkcps or the like. In this way, for example, when outputting data from the graphic software to the RIP PC 14 only for printing, the file type can be appropriately identified without depending on the comment information.

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the RIP PC 14. The RIP PC 14 performs the following operations according to the RIP software.

  In this example, the RIP PC 14 first performs an input file search process (S202, S204). In the input file search process, the RIP PC 14 searches for the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file in the shared folder by monitoring the shared folder set in the storage device 102 (S202).

  When a file serving as input data for RIP processing is found by the search, the RIP PC 14 acquires ID information of the file (S204). As a result, the RIP PC 14 identifies the ID information, and searches the RIP input file for printing and the RIP input file for cutting separately.

  Then, based on the ID information, the RIP PC 14 determines whether or not the association between the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file is necessary in the subsequent RIP processing (S206). In this example, the RIP PC 14 determines whether or not association is necessary based on, for example, a flag (01 or 02) designating an operation in the ID information.

  If it is determined that the association is not necessary (S206: No), the subsequent steps S208 to S210 are omitted, and the process proceeds to the next step (S212). On the other hand, if it is determined that the association is necessary (S206: Yes), the RIP PC 14 further determines whether both the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file associated with each other exist in the shared folder. Determination is made (S208). Thus, the RIP PC 14 determines whether or not both files (related data) corresponding to the association are already prepared.

  If it is determined that the related data is not available (S208: No), the RIP PC 14 returns to S202 and monitors the shared folder again. Thereby, the client PC 12 waits to proceed to the next process until the related data is prepared.

  If it is determined that the related data is available (S208: Yes), the data association between the RIP input file for printing and the RIP input file for cutting is performed as part of the preparation for the subsequent RIP processing. (S210). In this example, the RIP PC 14 performs the necessary association in the RIP process as data to be cut after printing, with respect to the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file having the same character string YYYYMMDDDHHMMSSMMM in the ID information.

  As described above, the RIP PC 14 processes the input data received from the client PC 12 through the processing up to S210, the print RIP input file for printing, the cut RIP input file for cutting, and the cutting after printing. A RIP input file for printing for printing and a RIP input file for cutting for cutting after printing are classified. The RIP PC 14 may further classify the file based on the file extension. In this way, files can be classified more reliably.

  Subsequently, the RIP PC 14 inputs data for RIP processing by reading the file found in the search (S212). Further, following the data input, the RIP PC 14 analyzes comment information and obtains information based on the Postscript comment (PS comment) written in the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file (S214). Thereby, the RIP PC 14 performs various settings for the RIP processing.

  Here, in this step, for example, the RIP PC 14 acquires the print control information from the comment information of the print RIP input file. Further, the cutting control information is acquired from the comment information of the cutting RIP input file. In this example, the RIP PC 14 is a parameter file in which, for example, the print control information and the cutting control information acquired from the comment information of the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file are classified for each individual information. Save to. The RIP PC 14 further performs, for example, a control information display process and a control information change acceptance process as necessary, and accepts a setting change by the user.

  In the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file, for example, an instruction as to whether to execute the control information display process and the control information change acceptance process is written as comment information. For example, when comment information indicating execution is written, the RIP PC 14 executes control information display processing and control information change acceptance processing.

  When the control information display process and the control information change acceptance process are performed, in the control information display process, the RIP PC 14 displays a setting screen for displaying various settings of the RIP process on a display unit such as a monitor of the RIP PC 14. Information stored in the parameter file is displayed as the setting value. As a result, the RIP PC 14 displays the acquired print control information and cutting control information. In the control information change acceptance process, the RIP PC 14 accepts an instruction to change the setting value from the user on the setting screen of the RIP process. When the set value is changed, the contents of the corresponding parameter file are updated according to the changed value. As a result, the RIP PC 14 accepts changes in the print control information and the cutting control information by the user. According to this example, for example, the settings and the like can be appropriately changed as necessary before performing the RIP process.

  In the parameter file, setting values necessary for RIP processing are set based on the comment information set by the graphic software in the client PC 12. Therefore, for example, the instruction to execute the control information display process and the control information change acceptance process is not written in the comment information of the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file, and the setting for automatically performing the RIP process is performed. For example, layout information and other various control information can be automatically set according to the print control information and the cutting control information without requiring any user operation on the setting screen of the RIP process. . This also makes it possible to perform RIP processing appropriately and automatically.

  Also, for example, an instruction to execute the control information display process and the control information change acceptance process is written in the comment information of the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file, and the RIP process is not automatically performed. When accepting a user instruction, the setting value set in the parameter file based on the comment information is displayed as the initial value on the setting screen of the RIP process. As a result, the user can easily change only the setting to be changed. Therefore, according to this example, various settings of RIP processing can be performed efficiently and appropriately, for example.

  Following the above-described various settings, the RIP PC 14 executes RIP processing to generate a RIP output format file, thereby generating a file to be output to the print cutting device 16 (S216). In this step, the RIP PC 14 performs, for example, a print RIP output file generation process and a cut RIP output file generation process. If the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file are not associated with each other and only one file is found in the input file search process, the RIP PC 14 generates, for example, a print RIP output file. Of the processing and cutting RIP output file generation processing, only processing corresponding to the file is performed.

  The print RIP output file generation process is a process performed when a print RIP input file is found in the input file search process. In the print RIP output file generation process, the RIP PC 14 converts a print RIP input file into a RIP output format file, thereby generating a print RIP output file corresponding to the print RIP input file. Generate.

  The cut RIP output file generation process is a process performed when a cut RIP input file is found in the input file search process. In the cutting RIP output file generation process, the RIP PC 14 converts the cutting RIP input file into a RIP output format file, thereby generating a cutting RIP output file that is a RIP output format file corresponding to the cutting RIP input file. Generate.

  In this example, the RIP PC 14 reads the parameter file saved in S214 and performs processing according to the information saved in the parameter file, thereby generating a print RIP output file and a cut RIP output file. Accordingly, the RIP PC 14 reflects the print control information and the cut control information acquired from the comment information, and generates a print RIP output file and a cut RIP output file. When the print control information or the cutting control information is changed in the control information change acceptance process, the RIP PC 14 reflects the changed information and generates a print RIP output file and a cut RIP output file. .

  In the print RIP output file generation process, the RIP PC 14 generates a print RIP output file by, for example, the same or similar method as the known RIP process for the image to be printed. For example, the RIP PC 14 performs analysis of a print RIP input file that is a Postscript file, rasterization according to the resolution of the print cutting device 16, color conversion according to the color reproduction characteristics of the print cutting device 16, screening processing, and the like. As a result, a print RIP output file is generated.

  Further, in the cutting RIP output file generation process, the RIP PC 14 generates a cutting RIP output file in consideration of cutting conditions associated with each of a plurality of types of spot colors indicating cutting lines. In this process, the RIP PC 14 first extracts, for example, a path drawn with a spot color indicating a cutting line as a cutting line from the cutting RIP input file. Further, the cutting condition corresponding to each spot color is acquired from the comment information of the cutting RIP input file. Then, in the process of converting the cutting RIP input file into the cutting RIP output file, a cutting command in which cutting conditions are set for each cutting line is generated and output to the cutting RIP output file. Regarding the other points, the RIP PC 14 performs the cutting RIP output file generation process by the same or similar method as the printing RIP output file generation process or the known RIP process for the cutting line. Generate a file.

  Subsequently, the RIP PC 14 performs RIP output file output processing, and outputs the print RIP output file and the cut RIP output file to the print cutting device 16. Accordingly, the RIP PC 14 causes the print cutting device 16 to execute printing and cutting (Print & Cut) (S218).

  In this example, the RIP PC 14 outputs the print RIP output file and the cut RIP output file associated with each other based on the ID information to the print cutting device 16 at a timing corresponding to the association. For example, after outputting the RIP output file for printing, the RIP PC 14 waits for a certain time corresponding to, for example, a drying time after printing, and outputs the RIP output file for cutting at a preset timing. According to this example, for example, the printing cutting apparatus 16 can appropriately perform printing and cutting.

  For example, when the RIP processing is set to be automatically performed, the RIP PC 14 automatically outputs the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file without waiting for a user instruction. Thereby, a series of operations including printing and cutting control can be appropriately automated without requiring user operation. Therefore, according to this example, a user's effort can be reduced appropriately.

  When the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file are not associated with each other, and only one of the print RIP output file and the cut RIP output file is generated, the print cutting device 16 uses the file. Only output. Thereby, only one of printing or cutting can be appropriately performed by the printing cutting device 16 as necessary.

  The RIP PC 14 may output the cutting RIP output file prior to the printing RIP output file, for example, according to the setting or specification. With this configuration, for example, the print cutting device 16 can appropriately perform an operation (Cut & Print) for cutting before printing. Also in this case, according to this example, it is possible to cause the printing cutting device 16 to appropriately perform cutting and printing.

  In the above-described embodiment, the case where the cutting condition is associated with the tool has been described as an example of the cutting condition designation method. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a method of performing a cutting condition for each contour (cut line) of a target after drawing using a tool is also conceivable. In this case, there are a method of registering a cutting condition with a name, a method of setting a cutting condition each time, and the like. When cutting conditions are registered in advance, for example, after a user draws a target contour using a tool, the cutting condition and the contour are linked by selecting the contour and specifying a name. Can do. Also, when setting the cutting conditions each time, for example, after the user draws the target contour using a tool, the contour is selected and the cutting condition setting field is called to specify the cutting condition. it can. Further, by designating a layer, all contours in the layer may be designated, and the same cutting condition may be designated for all the contours.

  As mentioned above, although this invention was demonstrated using embodiment, the technical scope of this invention is not limited to the range as described in the said embodiment. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications or improvements can be added to the above embodiment. It is apparent from the description of the scope of claims that embodiments with such changes or improvements can be included in the technical scope of the present invention.

  The present invention can be suitably used for a printing cutting system, for example.

It is a figure showing an example of composition of printing cutting system 10 concerning one embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows an example of operation | movement of client PC12. It is a figure which shows an example of ID information. It is a flowchart which shows an example of operation | movement of PC14 for RIP.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Print cutting system, 12 ... Client PC, 14 ... RIP PC, 16 ... Print cutting device, 102 ... Storage device

Claims (10)

A program for causing a computer to output a RIP input format file in a data format as input data for RIP (Raster Image Processor) processing,
A data generation process for creating print data indicating an image to be printed and cut data indicating a cutting line for cutting the image from the medium;
A print RIP input file generation process for generating a print RIP input file that is the RIP input format file corresponding to the print data by converting the print data into the RIP input format file;
A cutting RIP input file generation process for generating a cutting RIP input file that is the RIP input format file corresponding to the cut data by converting the cut data into the RIP input format file;
Causing the computer to perform file output processing for outputting the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file to a preset folder in a storage device of a RIP processing device that performs RIP processing;
The print RIP input file generation process generates ID for the print RIP by attaching ID information associated with the cut RIP input file and identifying the print RIP input file. And
The cut RIP input file generation process generates ID for the cut RIP by attaching ID information that is associated with the print RIP input file and that can be identified as the cut RIP input file. The program characterized by doing. The print RIP input file generation process is a process of generating the print RIP input file including a data area in which comment information is written, and print control information for controlling a print operation based on the print RIP input file. Write as the comment information of the RIP input file for printing,
The cutting RIP input file generation process is a process of generating the cutting RIP input file including a data area in which comment information is written, and includes cutting control information for controlling a cutting operation based on the cutting RIP input file. The program according to claim 1, wherein the program is written as the comment information of the cutting RIP input file. The cut data is data indicating a plurality of the cutting lines with different cutting conditions for specifying cutting operation conditions,
Each of the cutting conditions is associated with each of a plurality of types of cut condition-corresponding colors prepared in advance,
The cutting RIP input file generation process recognizes the plurality of cutting lines in the cut data, and the cuts associated with the cutting conditions for the cutting lines as the colors of the recognized cutting lines. A condition-corresponding color is designated to generate the cutting RIP input file, and the cutting condition information that associates the cutting condition-corresponding color with the cutting condition is written as comment information of the cutting RIP input file. The program according to claim 2, wherein: A program that causes a computer to perform RIP processing for converting a RIP input format file in a data format that is input data for RIP (Raster Image Processor) processing into a RIP output format file in a data format that can be interpreted by an output destination device.
A RIP input file for printing, which is the RIP input format file indicating an image to be printed by searching in a preset folder in the storage device, and the RIP input format indicating a cutting line for cutting the image from the medium An input file search process for searching for a cut RIP input file that is a file;
When the print RIP input file is found in the input file search process, the print RIP input file is converted into the RIP output format file, whereby the RIP output format file corresponding to the print RIP input file is used. A print RIP output file generation process for generating a print RIP output file;
When the cutting RIP input file is found in the input file search process, the cutting RIP input file is converted into the RIP output format file, so that the RIP output format file corresponding to the cutting RIP input file A cutting RIP output file generation process for generating a cutting RIP output file;
Causing the computer to perform RIP output file output processing for outputting the print RIP output file and the cut RIP output file to the output destination device;
The output destination device is a device that prints the image according to the print RIP output file and cuts the medium according to the cut RIP output file;
The print RIP input file has ID information associated with the cut RIP input file and identifiable as the print RIP input file.
The cut RIP input file has ID information associated with the print RIP input file and identifiable as the cut RIP input file.
The input file search process identifies the ID information of the RIP input file for printing and the ID information of the RIP input file for cutting, thereby identifying the RIP input file for printing, the RIP input file for cutting, To differentiate between
The RIP output file output processing includes the print RIP output file and the cut RIP output file that are associated with each other based on the ID information of the print RIP input file and the ID information of the cut RIP input file. Is output to the output destination device at a timing set in accordance with the association. The print RIP input file includes a data area for writing comment information, and print control information for controlling a print operation based on the print RIP input file is written as the comment information of the print RIP input file. And
The cutting RIP input file includes a data area in which comment information is written, and cutting control information for controlling a cutting operation based on the cutting RIP input file is written as the comment information of the cutting RIP input file. And
The program is
The print control information is acquired from the comment information of the print RIP input file, the cut control information is acquired from the comment information of the cut RIP input file, and the acquired print control information and the cut Control information display processing for displaying control information on the display unit;
A control information change acceptance process for accepting a change in the print control information and the cutting control information by the user;
The print RIP output file generation process is a process of reflecting the print control information to generate the print RIP output file. When the print control information is changed in the control information change acceptance process, Reflecting the print control information after the change, generating the print RIP output file,
The cutting RIP output file generation process is a process of generating the cutting RIP output file reflecting the cutting control information, and when the cutting control information is changed in the control information change acceptance process, The program according to claim 4, wherein the cutting RIP output file is generated by reflecting the cutting control information after the change. A RIP input file generation device that generates a RIP input format file in a data format that is input data for RIP (Raster Image Processor) processing,
A data generation unit for creating print data indicating an image to be printed and cut data indicating a cutting line for cutting the image from the medium;
A print RIP input file generation unit that generates a print RIP input file that is the RIP input format file corresponding to the print data by converting the print data into the RIP input format file;
A cutting RIP input file generating unit that generates a cutting RIP input file that is the RIP input format file corresponding to the cut data by converting the cut data into the RIP input format file;
A file output unit that outputs the RIP input file for printing and the RIP input file for cutting to a preset folder in a storage device of a RIP processing device that performs RIP processing;
The print RIP input file generation unit generates ID for the print RIP by attaching ID information associated with the cut RIP input file and identifying the print RIP input file. And
The cutting RIP input file generation unit generates ID for the cutting RIP input file with ID information associated with the printing RIP input file and identifiable as the cutting RIP input file. An RIP input file generation device characterized by: A RIP input file generation method for generating a RIP input format file in a data format as input data for RIP (Raster Image Processor) processing,
A data generation stage for creating print data indicating an image to be printed and cut data indicating a cutting line for cutting the image from the medium;
A print RIP input file generation step of generating a print RIP input file that is the RIP input format file corresponding to the print data by converting the print data into the RIP input format file;
A cutting RIP input file generating step for generating a cutting RIP input file that is the RIP input format file corresponding to the cut data by converting the cut data into the RIP input format file;
A file output stage for outputting the print RIP input file and the cut RIP input file to a preset folder in a storage device of a RIP processing device that performs RIP processing;
In the print RIP input file generation step, ID information that is associated with the cut RIP input file and can be identified as the print RIP input file is attached to generate the print RIP input file. And
In the cutting RIP input file generation step, ID information that is associated with the printing RIP input file and can be identified as the cutting RIP input file is attached to generate the cutting RIP input file. A method for generating an RIP input file. A RIP processing device that performs RIP processing for converting a RIP input format file in a data format that is input data for RIP (Raster Image Processor) processing into a RIP output format file in a data format that can be interpreted by an output destination device,
A RIP input file for printing, which is the RIP input format file indicating an image to be printed by searching in a preset folder in the storage device, and the RIP input format indicating a cutting line for cutting the image from the medium An input file search unit for searching for a cut RIP input file that is a file;
When the input file search unit finds the print RIP input file, the print RIP input file is converted into the RIP output format file, so that the RIP output format file corresponding to the print RIP input file is used. A print RIP output file generation unit for generating a print RIP output file;
When the input file search unit finds the cutting RIP input file, the cutting RIP input file is converted into the RIP output format file, so that the RIP output format file corresponding to the cutting RIP input file A cutting RIP output file generating unit for generating a cutting RIP output file;
A RIP output file output unit for outputting the print RIP output file and the cut RIP output file to the output destination device;
The output destination device is a device that prints the image according to the print RIP output file and cuts the medium according to the cut RIP output file;
The print RIP input file has ID information associated with the cut RIP input file and identifiable as the print RIP input file.
The cut RIP input file has ID information associated with the print RIP input file and identifiable as the cut RIP input file.
The input file search unit identifies the ID information of the RIP input file for printing and the ID information of the RIP input file for cutting, thereby identifying the RIP input file for printing, the RIP input file for cutting, To differentiate between
The RIP output file output unit includes the print RIP output file and the cut RIP output file that are associated with each other based on the ID information of the print RIP input file and the ID information of the cut RIP input file. Are output to the output destination device at timings set in accordance with the association. A RIP processing method for performing RIP processing for converting a RIP input format file in a data format to be input data for RIP (Raster Image Processor) processing into a RIP output format file in a data format that can be interpreted by an output destination device,
A RIP input file for printing, which is the RIP input format file indicating an image to be printed by searching in a preset folder in the storage device, and the RIP input format indicating a cutting line for cutting the image from the medium An input file search stage for searching for a cut RIP input file that is a file;
When the print RIP input file is found in the input file search step, the print RIP input file is converted into the RIP output format file, so that the RIP output format file corresponding to the print RIP input file is used. A print RIP output file generation stage for generating a print RIP output file;
When the cutting RIP input file is found in the input file search step, the cutting RIP input file is converted into the RIP output format file, so that the RIP output format file corresponding to the cutting RIP input file A cutting RIP output file generation stage for generating a certain cutting RIP output file;
A RIP output file output step of outputting the print RIP output file and the cut RIP output file to the output destination device;
The output destination device is a device that prints the image according to the print RIP output file and cuts the medium according to the cut RIP output file;
The print RIP input file has ID information associated with the cut RIP input file and identifiable as the print RIP input file.
The cut RIP input file has ID information associated with the print RIP input file and identifiable as the cut RIP input file.
The input file search step identifies the ID information of the print RIP input file and the ID information of the cut RIP input file, thereby identifying the print RIP input file, the cut RIP input file, To differentiate between
The RIP output file output step includes the printing RIP output file and the cutting RIP output file that are associated with each other based on the ID information of the printing RIP input file and the ID information of the cutting RIP input file. Is output to the output destination device at a timing set in accordance with the association. A printing cutting system for printing an image on a medium and cutting the medium along a cutting line,
The RIP input file generation device according to claim 6;
A RIP processing device according to claim 8;
A printing cutting system comprising: a printing cutting device which is an output destination device of the RIP processing device.

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