JP6696353B2 - Control device, foil stamping printing control program, and foil stamping printing control method - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a control device, a foil stamping print control program, and a foil stamping print control method, and more particularly, to a controller for instructing printing on a roll medium and foil stamping, a foil stamping print control program operating by the controller, and a printing including the controller. The present invention relates to a foil stamping printing control method in a system.

  There is a workflow in which an object (label) is printed on roll paper by a printer, and then a foil stamping device is used to stamp a part of the object (for example, to apply gold foil). In the workflow, one job includes not only a document image but also a foil image (a binary image that defines a region to be foil-stamped), the printer prints the document image, and the foil-stamping device prints the foil image on the printed matter. Hot stamp the area defined in.

  Further, in foil stamping with a foil stamping device, a varnish is used as an adhesive material for sticking foil such as gold foil. In order for the varnish to function as an adhesive, it is necessary to apply the varnish with a thickness of at least about 30 μm. When a thick varnish is applied to give a three-dimensional effect to the foil-pressed area, it is necessary to apply the varnish with a thickness of about 100 to 200 μm.

  Regarding an apparatus for performing such printing and foil stamping, for example, in Patent Document 1 below, image forming means for forming an image on a recording medium of a continuous sheet based on a digital image signal, and the recording medium after recording are described. There is disclosed a digital label printing device having a foil pressing means for applying a foil to the.

JP, 2007-283732, A

  Since ganging is generally performed in label printing on roll paper, a plurality of objects of different types may be printed side by side in the main scanning direction (width direction of roll paper). At that time, when foil stamping is performed only on some types of objects, a difference occurs in the thickness of the objects after foil stamping.Therefore, when the foil stamped roll paper is wound, the thickness of the roll paper becomes uneven. Misalignment will occur. Usually, when roll paper with uneven thickness is rolled, misalignment occurs from the smaller thickness side to the larger one. This leads to quality deterioration such as being lost.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and its main purpose is to prevent the deviation of the thickness of the roll paper due to the foil pressing, and to prevent the winding deviation when winding the roll paper. A control device, a foil stamping printing control program, and a foil stamping printing control method.

  One aspect of the present invention is a printing device for printing a label original image on a medium supplied from a roll, applying an adhesive to the medium after printing to perform foil stamping, and rolling the medium after foil stamping. A control device disposed in a printing system including a winding foil stamping device, which receives and analyzes a label print job and prints a first original image of a label to be printed on a predetermined area of the medium, and the printed image. A job analysis unit that acquires a first foil image that defines a region to be foil-stamped in the predetermined region of the medium, and a first-type image that defines a closed curve for cutting the label in the predetermined region of the medium after foil-stamping. And, the coverage of the first foil image is a coverage determination unit that determines whether or not the first foil image is line-symmetric with respect to the center line of the width of the roll, and it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is not line-symmetric. In the case where the coverage of the first foil image is line-symmetrical, an image editing unit that creates a second foil image in which a foil stamping area is added to a blank area outside the closed curve of the first mold image, and When it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is axisymmetric, the printing device is instructed to print the first original image, and the foil stamping device is instructed to perform foil stamping according to the first foil image. When it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is not line symmetric, the printing device is instructed to print the first original image, and the foil stamping device is instructed to perform foil stamping according to the second foil image. And an instruction unit for performing the operation.

  One aspect of the present invention is a printing device for printing a label original image on a medium supplied from a roll, applying an adhesive to the medium after printing to perform foil stamping, and rolling the medium after foil stamping. A control device disposed in a printing system including a winding foil stamping device, which receives and analyzes a label print job and prints a first original image of a label to be printed on a predetermined area of the medium, and the printed image. Whether the job analysis unit that acquires a first foil image defining a region to be foil-stamped in the predetermined region of the medium and the coverage of the first foil image are line-symmetric with respect to the center line of the width of the roll. When the coverage determination unit that determines whether or not the coverage of the first foil image is not line symmetrical, the first original image is rotated by 180 degrees to create a second original image, and the first original image is generated. When it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is line-symmetric with the image editing unit that creates the second foil image obtained by rotating the foil image by 180 degrees, the printing of the first original image is performed by the printing device. Along with instructing, the foil stamping device is instructed to perform foil stamping based on the first foil image, and when it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is not line symmetric, the printing device prints the first original image. While alternately instructing printing of the second original image, an instruction unit for instructing the foil stamping device to alternately perform foil stamping based on the first foil image and foil stamping based on the second foil image, Characterize.

  One aspect of the present invention is a printing device for printing a label original image on a medium supplied from a roll, applying an adhesive to the medium after printing to perform foil stamping, and rolling the medium after foil stamping. A foil stamping printing control program which operates in a controller arranged in a printing system including a winding foil stamping device, the label printing job being received and analyzed by the controller and printed in a predetermined area of the medium. A first original image of the label, a first foil image defining a region to be foil stamped in the predetermined region of the medium after printing, and a closed curve for cutting the label in the predetermined region of the medium after foil stamping. A first type image, a job analysis process of acquiring the coverage of the first foil image, a coverage determination process of determining whether or not the first foil image is line-symmetric with respect to the center line of the width of the roll, the first foil When the coverage of the image is determined not to be line symmetric, so that the coverage of the first foil image is line symmetric, the second foil with a foil stamping region added to the margin region outside the closed curve of the first mold image. Image editing processing for creating an image, when it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is line-symmetrical, the printing device is instructed to print the first original image, and the foil stamping device is configured to perform the first printing. Instructing the foil stamping according to the foil image, if it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is not line-symmetrical, instructs the printing device to print the first original image, and the foil stamping device to the first An instruction process for instructing a foil stamping according to a two-foil image is executed.

  One aspect of the present invention is a printing device for printing a label original image on a medium supplied from a roll, applying an adhesive to the medium after printing to perform foil stamping, and rolling the medium after foil stamping. A foil stamping printing control program which operates in a controller arranged in a printing system including a winding foil stamping device, the label printing job being received and analyzed by the controller and printed in a predetermined area of the medium. A job analysis process to obtain a first original image of a label and a first foil image defining an area to be foil-stamped in the predetermined area of the medium after printing, the coverage of the first foil image is the width of the roll. Coverage determination processing for determining whether the first foil image is line-symmetric with respect to the center line of the first foil image, and the first original image is rotated by 180 degrees when it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is not line-symmetric. An image editing process for creating an original image and creating a second foil image obtained by rotating the first foil image by 180 degrees. When the coverage of the first foil image is determined to be line-symmetric, the printing device In addition to instructing the printing of the first original image to, the foil stamping device is instructed to foil stamp based on the first foil image, and when it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is not line symmetric, the printing device. To alternately instruct printing of the first original image and printing of the second original image, and to instruct the foil stamping device to alternately perform foil stamping based on the first foil image and foil stamping based on the second foil image. The instruction processing to perform is performed.

  One aspect of the present invention is a printing device for printing a label original image on a medium supplied from a roll, applying an adhesive to the medium after printing to perform foil stamping, and rolling the medium after foil stamping. A foil stamping printing control method in a printing system including a winding foil stamping device and a controller, wherein the controller receives and analyzes a label printing job, and first of a label to be printed on a predetermined area of the medium. An original image, a first foil image defining an area to be foil stamped in the predetermined area of the medium after printing, and a first mold image defining a closed curve for cutting the label in the predetermined area of the medium after foil stamping And, a job analysis process to obtain, coverage of the first foil image, coverage determination processing to determine whether or not line symmetry with respect to the center line of the width of the roll, the first foil image of When it is determined that the coverage is not line-symmetric, the coverage of the first foil image is line-symmetric, so that a second foil image with a foil stamping region added to a blank region outside the closed curve of the first-type image is displayed. When it is determined that the image editing process to create and the coverage of the first foil image are line-symmetrical, the printing device is instructed to print the first original image, and the first foil is pressed by the foil stamping device. Instructing the foil stamping according to the image, when it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is not line-symmetrical, the printing device is instructed to print the first original image, and the second foil stamping device is used. It is characterized by executing an instruction process for instructing a foil stamping according to a foil image.

  One aspect of the present invention is a printing device for printing a label original image on a medium supplied from a roll, applying an adhesive to the medium after printing to perform foil stamping, and rolling the medium after foil stamping. A foil stamping printing control method in a printing system including a winding foil stamping device and a controller, wherein the controller receives and analyzes a label printing job, and first of a label to be printed on a predetermined area of the medium. A job analysis process for obtaining a document image and a first foil image defining an area to be foil-stamped in the predetermined area of the medium after printing, and the coverage of the first foil image is the center line of the width of the roll. Coverage determination processing for determining whether or not the first foil image is line-symmetric with respect to the first original image, and the second original image obtained by rotating the first original image by 180 degrees when it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is not line-symmetric. When it is determined that the image editing process for creating a second foil image obtained by rotating the first foil image by 180 degrees and the coverage of the first foil image are line-symmetrical, Along with instructing printing of the first original image, instructing the foil stamping device to perform foil stamping based on the first foil image, and when it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is not line-symmetric, the printing device is Alternately instructing printing of the first original image and printing of the second original image, and alternately instructing the foil stamping device to perform foil stamping based on the first foil image and foil stamping based on the second foil image. The instruction processing and the instruction processing are executed.

  According to the control device, the foil stamping printing control program, and the foil stamping printing control method of the present invention, it is possible to suppress the deviation of the thickness of the roll paper due to the foil stamping and prevent the winding deviation when winding the roll paper.

  The reason is that the control device receives and analyzes the label print job, and the first original image of the label to be printed on the predetermined area of the medium supplied from the roll, and the area to be foil-stamped in the predetermined area of the medium after printing. To obtain a first foil image defining the first foil image defining a closed curve for cutting the label in the predetermined area of the medium after foil stamping, the coverage of the first foil image is the center of the width of the roll. It is determined whether or not it is line-symmetric with respect to the line, and if it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is not line-symmetric, so that the coverage becomes line-symmetric, outside the closed curve of the first-type image. This is because the second foil image to which the foil stamping area is added is created, the printing apparatus is instructed to print the first original image, and the foil stamping apparatus is instructed to foil stamp according to the second foil image.

  Further, the control device receives and analyzes the label print job, and defines a first original image of the label to be printed on a predetermined area of the medium supplied from the roll, and an area to be foil-stamped in the predetermined area of the medium after printing. To obtain the first foil image, the coverage of the first foil image is determined whether or not it is line-symmetric with respect to the center line of the width of the roll, and the coverage of the first foil image is not line-symmetric When it is determined, the first original image is rotated by 180 degrees to create a second original image, the first foil image is rotated by 180 degrees to create a second foil image, and the first original image is printed on the printing device. And the printing of the second original image are alternately instructed, and the foil stamping device is instructed alternately to the foil stamping according to the first foil image and the foil stamping according to the second foil image.

1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of a printing system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the other structure of the printing system which concerns on the 1st Example of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the other structure of the printing system which concerns on the 1st Example of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the client terminal which concerns on the 1st Example of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the controller which concerns on the 1st Example of this invention. It is a block diagram showing a configuration of a printing apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the foil pressing apparatus which concerns on the 1st Example of this invention. It is a schematic diagram explaining the schematic operation of label printing. It is a schematic diagram which shows the relationship between a document image, a foil image, and a pattern image in label printing. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the output thing after foil stamping. It is a flowchart figure which shows operation | movement (overall processing) of the controller which concerns on the 1st Example of this invention. It is a flowchart figure which shows operation | movement (overall processing) of the controller which concerns on the 1st Example of this invention. It is a flowchart figure which shows operation | movement (vertical symmetry check process of the coverage of a 1st foil image) of the controller which concerns on the 1st Example of this invention. It is a flowchart figure which shows operation | movement (2nd foil image creation process) of the controller which concerns on the 1st Example of this invention. It is a flowchart figure which shows operation | movement (2nd type | mold image creation process) of the controller which concerns on the 1st Example of this invention. It is a flowchart figure which shows operation | movement (creation processing of a 2nd original image) of the controller which concerns on the 1st Example of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the area division example of a foil image. It is a schematic diagram explaining a 1st foil image and a 2nd foil image. It is a schematic diagram explaining the relationship between a model image and a document image when a closed curve is deleted. It is a flowchart figure which shows operation | movement (overall processing) of the controller which concerns on the 2nd Example of this invention.

  As shown in the background art, when an object (label) is printed on a roll paper by a printer and then foil stamping is performed on a part of the area of the object by the foil stamping device, varnish is used as an adhesive material for sticking the foil. However, a proper thickness is necessary for the varnish to function as an adhesive. In addition, label printing on roll paper is generally ganged, so multiple objects of different types may be printed side by side in the main scanning direction. Differences occur in the thickness of the object. As a result, when the roll paper that has been foil-stamped is rolled up, roll misalignment occurs, and when the roll paper is placed in a direction in which the core is set up, quality deterioration such as breakage of the part where the roll misalignment occurs may occur. ..

  Therefore, in one embodiment of the present invention, a first original image of a label to be printed on a predetermined area of roll paper and a first area to be foil-stamped with an adhesive in the predetermined area of the roll paper after printing are defined. A control device that receives a label printing job that includes a foil image and a first-type image that defines a closed curve for cutting out a label in the predetermined area of the roll paper after foil stamping is a thickness by foil stamping in the width direction of the roll paper. Edit each image to suppress the bias of. As one of the methods, the occupied area ratio of the foil image acquired from the label print job (the ratio of the area of the area forming the foil image to the area of the area specified in the label print job, referred to as coverage in this specification). Determines whether the foil image is line-symmetric with respect to the center line of the width of the roll paper, and if it is determined that the coverage of the foil image is not line-symmetric, add a foil stamping area outside the closed curve of the mold image. The second foil image is created, the printing of the first original image is instructed, and the foil pressing according to the second foil image is instructed. As another method, when it is determined that the coverage of the foil image is not line symmetrical, the second original image obtained by rotating the first original image by 180 degrees and the second foil image obtained by rotating the first foil image by 180 degrees. And is created, and the printing of the first original image and the printing of the second original image are alternately instructed, and the foil stamping corresponding to the first foil image and the foil stamping corresponding to the second foil image are alternately instructed.

  By performing such control, even if a difference occurs in the thickness of the object after the foil is pressed, it is possible to suppress the deviation in the thickness of the entire roll paper. It is possible to prevent winding deviation.

  In order to describe the above-described embodiment of the present invention in more detail, a control device, a foil stamping print control program, and a foil stamping print control method according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 18. explain. 1 to 3 are schematic diagrams showing the configuration of the printing system of the present embodiment, and FIGS. 4 to 7 are block diagrams showing the configurations of a client terminal, a controller, a printing device, and a foil stamping device, respectively. Further, FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram for explaining a schematic operation of label printing, FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing a relationship between a document image, a foil image, and a pattern image in label printing, and FIG. 10 is an output product after foil stamping. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example. 11 to 15 are flowcharts showing the operation of the controller of this embodiment, FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram showing an example of region division of a foil image, and FIG. 17 is a first foil image and a second foil. FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram illustrating an image, and FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram illustrating a relationship between a pattern image and a document image when a closed curve is deleted.

  As shown in FIG. 1, a printing system 10 according to the present exemplary embodiment executes a label printing job, a client terminal 20 that transmits a label printing job, a controller 30 that processes the label printing job to instruct label printing and foil stamping, and executes label printing. It comprises a printing device 40 and a foil stamping device 50 that performs foil stamping. The client terminal 20, the controller 30, the printing device 40, and the foil stamping device 50 include a LAN (Local Area Network) or WAN (Wide Area) defined by standards such as Ethernet (registered trademark), token ring, and FDDI (Fiber-Distributed Data Interface). The network is connected via a communication network 60 such as a network. Further, the controller 30, the printing device 40, and the foil stamping device 50 may be connected by a dedicated line such as PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) connection.

  In FIG. 1, the printing system 10 includes the client terminal 20, the controller 30, the printing device 40, and the foil stamping device 50. However, as shown in FIG. 2, the controller 30 may be built in the printing device 40. Good. 1 and 2, the printing device 40 and the foil stamping device 50 are separate devices, but as shown in FIG. 3, a foil stamping printing device 70 having the functions of the printing device 40 and the foil stamping device 50 may also be used. Good. Hereinafter, each device will be described based on the printing system 10 of FIG.

[Client terminal]
The client terminal 20 is a computer device such as a personal computer, and sends a label print job to the controller 30. As shown in FIG. 4A, the client terminal 20 includes a control unit 21, a storage unit 25, a network I / F unit 26, a display unit 27, an operation unit 28, and the like.

  The control unit 21 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 22 and memories such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) 23 and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 24. The CPU 22 controls the control program stored in the ROM 23 or the storage unit 25. Is expanded in the RAM 24 and executed to control the operation of the entire client terminal 20. Also, as shown in FIG. 4B, the control unit 21 (CPU 22) executes an OS (Operating System) 21a, an application 21b, a printer driver 21c, and the like.

  The OS 21a is Windows (registered trademark), MacOS (registered trademark), Android, or the like, and enables the client terminal 20 to operate the application 21b, the printer driver 21c, and the like.

  The application 21b is, for example, an application that creates, edits, or browses a document, reads the printer driver 21c when a print instruction is issued, and transfers the document data created by the application 21b to the printer driver 21c.

  The printer driver 21c uses a page description language such as a label print job (PJL (Printer Job Language), PS (PostScript), PCL (Printer Control Language), etc.) in a language that the controller 30 can interpret the original data created by the application 21b. The label printing job is converted into PDL (Page Description Language) data or PDF (Portable Document Format) data described in (4) and the label printing job is transmitted to the controller 30. In this label print job, the original image of the label to be printed in a predetermined area (area specified in the label print job) of the medium supplied from the roll (hereinafter, referred to as roll paper) and the roll paper after printing A foil image that is a binary image that defines a region to be foil-stamped with an adhesive in the predetermined region, and a mold image that is a binary image that defines a closed curve for cutting a label in the predetermined region of the roll paper after the foil stamping. And, are included.

  The storage unit 25 includes an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), and the like, and stores a program for the CPU 22 to control each unit, a label print job, and the like.

  The network I / F unit 26 includes a NIC (Network Interface Card), a modem, and the like, connects the client terminal 20 to the communication network 60, and sends a label print job to the controller 30.

  The display unit 27 includes a liquid crystal display (LCD) or an organic EL (electroluminescence) display device, and displays a document creation screen of the application 21b, a print setting screen of the printer driver 21c, and the like.

  The operation unit 28 is composed of a mouse, a keyboard, and the like, and enables operations such as creation of a document image or a foil image using the application 21b, position adjustment of a mold image, and print setting using the printer driver 21c.

[controller]
The controller 30 performs image processing such as rasterization and color conversion on the label print job received from the client terminal 20, and transfers the image data after the image processing to the printing device 40 and the foil stamping device 50, thereby printing the printing device 40. Is a control device for instructing printing on the sheet and printing on the foil stamping device 50. As shown in FIG. 5A, the controller 30 includes a control unit 31, a storage unit 35, a network I / F unit 36, an engine I / F unit 37, an image transfer buffer 38, and the like.

  The control unit 31 includes a CPU 32 and memories such as the ROM 33 and the RAM 34. The CPU 32 controls the overall operation of the controller 30 by expanding the control program stored in the ROM 33 and the storage unit 35 into the RAM 34 and executing the control program. .. As shown in FIG. 5B, the control unit 31 functions as a job analysis unit 31a, a coverage determination unit 31b, an image editing unit 31c, an instruction unit 31d, and the like.

  The job analysis unit 31a functions as a RIP unit (Raster Image Processor), translates a label print job received from the client terminal 20 to generate intermediate data, and performs rendering to generate image data in a bitmap format. Then, from the label print job, the original image of the label to be printed on the predetermined area of the roll paper, the foil image defining the area to be foil-stamped with the adhesive in the predetermined area of the roll paper after printing, and the roll after the foil stamping. And a mold image defining a closed curve for cutting the label in the predetermined area of the paper. The original image, the foil image, and the mold image acquired from the label print job are referred to as a first original image, a first foil image, and a first mold image, respectively.

  The coverage determination unit 31b determines whether the coverage of the first foil image acquired from the label printing job is line symmetrical with respect to the center line of the width of the roll paper. In this embodiment, one side of the roll paper is referred to as an upper half and the other side is referred to as a lower half with reference to the center line, and line symmetry with respect to the center line is referred to as vertical symmetry. In addition, when determining whether or not it is vertically symmetrical, the upper half of the first foil image is divided into a plurality of small areas and the coverage of the first foil image in each small area is calculated. The lower half of the first foil image is divided into a plurality of small areas so as to be symmetrical, and the coverage of the first foil image in each small area is calculated. Then, it is determined whether or not the coverage difference between the two small area pairs that are line-symmetrical in the vertical direction is smaller than a predetermined first threshold value, and the coverage difference is less than the first threshold value for all small area pairs. Is smaller, it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is vertically symmetrical, and when at least one set of coverage differences is equal to or larger than the first threshold, it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is not vertically symmetrical.

  When it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is not vertically symmetrical, the image editing unit 31c causes the margin area outside the closed curve of the first-type image corresponding to the first foil image so that the coverage becomes vertically symmetrical ( Hereinafter, a second foil image in which a foil stamping area is added to the (waste area) is created. When creating this second foil image, it is confirmed whether or not there is a shortage area, and if there is a shortage area, at least one of the first type images acquired from the label print job is selected. Create a second type image with the closed curve deleted, and create a second original image with the images included in the deleted closed curve in the first original image obtained from the label printing job deleted, and the coverage of the first foil image will change up and down. A third foil image is created by adding a foil stamping area within the closed area and the deleted closed curve of the first foil image so as to be symmetrical. When confirming whether or not the dregs region is insufficient, the upper half of the first foil image is divided into a plurality of small regions and the coverage of the first foil image in each small region is calculated. The lower half of the first foil image is divided into a plurality of small areas so as to be vertically symmetrical with the half, and the coverage of the first foil image in each small area is calculated. Then, the coverage difference between a pair of two small areas that are line-symmetrical in the vertical direction is calculated, and the ratio of the dregs area in the smaller area having the smaller coverage in the pair of the small areas (with respect to the area of the small area is calculated. The ratio of the area of the dregs area) is calculated, and it is determined whether or not the difference between the coverage difference and the ratio of the dregs area is smaller than a second threshold value set in advance, and the coverage is associated with at least one small region set. When the difference between the difference and the ratio of the dregs area is equal to or larger than the second threshold value, it is determined that the dregs region is insufficient.

  The instruction unit 31d sends the image data of the original image to the printing device 40 to instruct the printing of the original image, and also sends the image data of the foil image to the foil stamping device 50 to instruct the foil stamping according to the foil image. To do. At that time, when it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is vertically symmetrical, the image data of the first original image acquired from the label print job is transmitted to the printing device 40 to print the first original image. In addition to the instruction, the image data of the first foil image acquired from the label printing job is transmitted to the foil stamping device 50 to instruct the foil stamping according to the first foil image.

  In addition, when it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is not vertically symmetrical and it is determined that the residue area is not insufficient, the image data of the first original image acquired from the label print job is transmitted to the printing device 40. Then, the printing of the first original image is instructed, and the image data of the second foil image created by the image editing unit 31c is transmitted to the foil stamping device 50 to instruct the foil stamping according to the second foil image. At that time, if the user acquires the mode (quality priority mode or cost priority mode) set by the printing device 40 or the foil stamping device 50 and the mode set by the user is the quality priority mode, the first original document is printed on the printing device 40. In addition to instructing printing of the image, the foil stamping device 50 is instructed to foil stamp according to the second foil image, and when the mode set by the user is the cost priority mode, the printing device 40 is instructed to print the first original image. At the same time, the foil stamping device 50 is alternately instructed to perform foil stamping corresponding to a predetermined number (N) of two or more first foil images and foil stamping corresponding to one second foil image.

  Further, when it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is not vertically symmetrical, and it is determined that the residue area is insufficient, the image data of the first original image and the second original image is transmitted to the printing device 40, The printing of the first original image and the printing of the second original image are alternately instructed, and the image data of the first foil image and the third foil image are transmitted to the foil stamping device 50 to perform the foil stamping according to the first foil image. The third foil image and the corresponding foil stamping are alternately instructed. At that time, if the user acquires the mode (quality priority mode or cost priority mode) set by the printing device 40 or the foil stamping device 50 and the mode set by the user is the quality priority mode, the first original document is printed on the printing device 40. The printing of the image and the printing of the second original image are alternately instructed, and the foil stamping device 50 is alternately instructed to perform the foil stamping according to the first foil image and the foil stamping according to the third foil image, which is set by the user. When the mode is the cost priority mode, the printing device 40 is instructed alternately to print a predetermined number (N) of two or more first document images and one second document image, and to the foil stamping device 50. Foil stamping corresponding to the same number (N) of first foil images as printed first image and foil stamping corresponding to one third foil image are alternately instructed.

  The job analysis unit 31a, the coverage determination unit 31b, the image editing unit 31c, and the instruction unit 31d may be configured as hardware, and the control unit 31 may be replaced by the job analysis unit 31a, the coverage determination unit 31b, the image editing unit 31c. The foil stamping print control program may be configured to function as the instruction unit 31d, and the CPU 32 may execute the foil stamping print control program.

  The storage unit 35 includes an HDD, an SSD, etc., and is a program for the CPU 32 to control each unit, a label print job received from the client terminal 20, a first original image, a second original image, a first foil image, a second foil image. The foil image, the third foil image, the first type image, the image data of the second type image, a table that associates the area name with the coverage difference, and the like are stored.

  The network I / F unit 36 includes a NIC, a modem, and the like, connects the controller 30 to the communication network 60, and receives a label print job from the client terminal 20.

  The engine I / F unit 37 is composed of a NIC, a modem, or the like, connects the controller 30 to the printing device 40 and the foil stamping device 50, and transmits image data of the first original image and the second original image to the printing device 40. Image data of the first foil image, the second foil image, the third foil image, the first mold image, and the second mold image is transmitted to the foil stamping device 50. An image transfer buffer 38 is connected to the engine I / F unit 37. The image transfer buffer 38 is a buffer for temporarily storing image data for transferring an image to the printing device 40 and the foil stamping device 50.

[Printing device]
The printing device 40 is a device that performs label printing on roll paper based on the image data of the first original image and the second original image transmitted from the controller 30. As shown in FIG. 6A, the printing device 40 includes a control unit 41, a storage unit 45, a controller I / F unit 46, a display operation unit 47, a paper feeding unit 48a, a printing unit 48b, a winding unit 48c, and the like. Composed of.

  The control unit 41 includes a CPU 42 and memories such as the ROM 43 and the RAM 44. The CPU 42 controls the overall operation of the printing apparatus 40 by expanding the control program stored in the ROM 43 and the storage unit 45 into the RAM 44 and executing the control program. To do.

  The storage unit 45 is configured by an HDD, an SSD, or the like, and stores a program for the CPU 42 to control each unit, information regarding the processing function of the device itself, image data of the first document image, the second document image, and the like.

  The controller I / F unit 46 is configured by a NIC, a modem, or the like, connects the printing device 40 to the controller 30, and receives image data of the first original image and the second original image from the controller 30.

  The display operation unit 47 is a touch panel or the like provided with a pressure-sensitive operation unit (touch sensor) in which transparent electrodes are arranged in a grid on the display unit, displays various screens related to print processing, and performs various operations related to printing. to enable.

  The paper feeding unit 48a supplies the roll paper to the printing unit 48b as shown in FIG. 6B.

  As shown in FIG. 6B, the printing unit 48b continuously prints the first original image or the second original image on the roll paper supplied from the paper feeding unit 48a. The printing unit 48b includes, for example, an exposure unit that irradiates and exposes a laser beam based on image data, a photoconductor drum, a developing unit, a charging unit, a photoconductor cleaning unit, and a primary transfer roller. An image forming unit that forms a toner image of each color, an intermediate belt that functions as an intermediate transfer member that is rotated by rollers, and that conveys the toner image formed by the image forming unit to roll paper, and toner that is formed on the intermediate belt. It is composed of a secondary transfer roller that transfers an image onto a sheet, a fixing unit that fixes the toner image transferred onto the roll sheet, and the like.

  As shown in FIG. 6B, the winding unit 48c winds the roll paper printed by the printing unit 48b.

[Foil stamping device]
The foil stamping device 50 is a device for foil stamping roll paper based on the image data of the first foil image, the second foil image, the third foil image, the first mold image, and the second mold image transmitted from the controller 30. is there. As shown in FIG. 7A, the foil stamping device 50 includes a control unit 51, a storage unit 55, a controller I / F unit 56, a display operation unit 57, a paper feeding unit 58a, a foil pushing unit 58b, a winding unit 58c, and the like. Composed of.

  The control unit 51 includes a CPU 52 and memories such as the ROM 53 and the RAM 54. The CPU 52 controls the overall operation of the foil stamping device 50 by expanding the control program stored in the ROM 53 and the storage unit 55 into the RAM 54 and executing the control program. To do.

  The storage unit 55 is composed of an HDD, an SSD, etc., and is a program for the CPU 52 to control each unit, information about the processing function of the device itself, a first foil image, a second foil image, a third foil image, a first-type image. , Image data of the second type image, etc. are stored.

  The controller I / F unit 56 is configured by a NIC, a modem, or the like, connects the foil stamping device 50 to the controller 30, and from the controller 30, the first foil image, the second foil image, the third foil image, the first mold image, Receive image data of a 2D image.

  The display operation unit 57 is a touch panel or the like provided with a pressure-sensitive operation unit (touch sensor) in which transparent electrodes are arranged in a grid on the display unit, displays various screens related to the foil pressing process, and performs various operations related to the foil pressing. to enable.

  As shown in FIG. 7B, the paper feeding unit 58a supplies the roll paper to the foil pressing unit 58b.

  As shown in FIG. 7B, the foil pressing unit 58b adheres varnish or the like to the roll paper supplied from the paper feeding unit 58a based on the first foil image, the second foil image, or the third foil image. The material is applied and the roll paper is foil-pressed using one or a plurality of foil rolls, whereby the foil is pressure-bonded to the portion where the adhesive is applied to form a foil image. Further, the label is cut out from the roll paper after the foil stamping based on the first type image or the second type image.

  As shown in FIG. 7B, the winding unit 58c winds up the roll-pressed roll paper at the foil pressing unit 58b.

  1 to 7 are examples of the printing system 10 of the present embodiment, and the configuration and control of each device can be appropriately changed as long as the foil stamping printing control of the present embodiment can be realized.

  Next, the general operation of the printing system 10 having the above configuration will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 8A, the document created by the application 21b of the client terminal 20 is converted into PDL data (label print job) by the printer driver 21c and output.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 8B, the controller 30 receives the label print job (PDL data) from the client terminal 20, analyzes the label print job, and analyzes the first original image, the first foil image, Acquire the first type image, determine whether the coverage of the first foil image is vertically symmetrical, or whether the dregs region is insufficient, and according to the determination result, a set of the original image and the foil image (specifically, , A first original image and a first foil image, a first original image and a second foil image, a first original image, a first foil image and a second foil image, a first original image and a second original A set of an image, a first foil image and a third foil image) is created.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 8C, the image data of the original image is transmitted to the printing unit 48b of the printing device 40, and the printing unit 48b prints the original image on the roll paper for the number of sheets designated by the label print job. Is repeatedly printed. If the original has a plurality of pages, each page is continuously printed on the roll paper.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 8D, the image data of the foil image is transmitted to the foil pressing unit 58b of the foil pressing device 50, and the foil pressing unit 58b prints the roll paper on which the original image is printed by the printing unit 48b. Then, the foil stamping is repeatedly performed for the number of sheets designated in the label printing job. When the original has a plurality of pages, the foil of each page is continuously stamped on the roll paper.

  FIG. 9 shows an image included in the label print job. As described above, the label print job includes the original image of the label to be printed on the predetermined area of the roll paper and the binary image defining the area to be foil-stamped with the adhesive in the predetermined area of the roll paper after printing. A foil image and a pattern image which is a binary image defining a closed curve for cutting the label in the predetermined area of the roll paper after foil pressing are included.

  FIG. 10 is an example of an output product when a label printing job is processed by the printing device 40 and the foil stamping device 50 and is divided into a label area and a dregs area according to the pattern image of FIG.

  The operation of the controller 30 of this embodiment will be described below. The CPU 32 expands the foil stamping print control program stored in the ROM 33 or the storage unit 35 into the RAM 34 and executes the program to execute the processing of each step shown in the flowcharts of FIGS. 11 to 15. It should be noted that FIGS. 11A and 11B are divided for convenience of drawing and show a series of processes. Further, it is assumed that a document is created in advance by the application 21b of the client terminal 20, converted into a label print job by the printer driver 21c, and transmitted to the controller 30.

  First, as shown in FIG. 11A, the control unit 31 (job analysis unit 31a) receives and analyzes the label print job from the client terminal 10, and analyzes the first original image, the first foil image, and the first type image. And an image are acquired (S101).

  Next, the control unit 31 (coverage determination unit 31b) checks the vertical symmetry of the coverage of the first foil image (S102). FIG. 12 shows the details of this step. First, plural (m) regions (U_Region_n: n = 1, 2, 3, ..., M) are defined in the upper half of the first foil image (S201). .. FIG. 16 shows an example of region division. In FIG. 16, two regions U_Region_1 and U_Region_2 are defined in the upper half of the first foil image. Next, a plurality (m) of regions (B_Region_n: n = 1, 2, 3, ..., M) are defined in the lower half of the first foil image so as to be line-symmetric with U_Region_n (S202). Similarly, in FIG. 16, two regions are defined: B_Region_1 that is line-symmetrical to U_Region_1, and B_Region_2 that is line-symmetrical to U_Region_2. Then, the coverage of all U_Region_n and B_Region_n is calculated (S203). Next, 1 is substituted for n (S204), and a coverage difference D_n (= | (coverage of U_Region_n)-(coverage of B_Region_n) |) is calculated (S205). Next, it is determined whether the coverage difference D_n is smaller than a predetermined first threshold value T1, and when the coverage difference D_n is smaller than the first threshold value T1, it is determined whether n = m (S207). , N = m, 1 is added to n (S208), and the process returns to S205. The processes of S205 to S208 are repeatedly executed, and when the difference D_n of all the coverages is smaller than the first threshold value T1, it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is vertically symmetrical (S209), and any coverage When the difference D_n is greater than or equal to the first threshold T1, it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is not vertically symmetrical (S210).

  Returning to FIG. 11A, when the result of the determination is that the coverage of the first foil image is vertically symmetrical (Yes in S103), the winding of the roll paper does not occur, so the control unit 31 (instruction unit 31d) , The image data of the first original image is transmitted to the printing device 40 (printing unit 48b), the printing of the first original image is instructed (S104), and the image of the first foil image is sent to the foil stamping device 50 (foil stamping unit 58b). The data is transmitted to instruct the foil stamping of the first foil image (S105).

  On the other hand, when the coverage of the first foil image is not vertically symmetrical (No in S103), the control unit 31 (image editing unit 31c) causes the second foil image (the coverage of the foil image to be vertically symmetrical in the dust region to be symmetrical). An image to which a foil stamping area has been added) is created (S106). FIG. 13 shows the details of this step. First, the first foil image is duplicated to form the second foil image (S301). Next, 1 is substituted for n (S302), and it is determined whether the coverage of U_Region_n is smaller than the coverage of B_Region_n (S303). When the coverage of U_Region_n is smaller than the coverage of B_Region_n (Yes in S303), the coverage area D_n of the second foil image U_Region_n (the margin area outside the closed curve included in the first-type image) is foil-pressed. A region is added (S304), and when the coverage of U_Region_n is greater than or equal to the coverage of B_Region_n (No in S303), a foil stamping region is added to the residue region of B_Region_n of the second foil image by the coverage difference D_n (S305). Next, determine whether the ratio of the dregs region (the ratio of the dregs region to the area of the region (U_Region_n or B_Region_n) to which the foil stamping region is added) is smaller than the coverage difference D_n (that is, whether or not the dregs region is insufficient). If it is determined (S306) and the ratio of the dust area is smaller than the coverage difference D_n (Yes in S306), whether the coverage difference D_n-the dust area ratio is smaller than a predetermined second threshold T2 (that is, It is determined whether the residue area is within the second threshold T2 even if the residue area is insufficient (S307). If the ratio of the dregs area is equal to or more than the coverage difference D_n (No in S306), and if the ratio of the coverage difference D_n-dust region is smaller than the second threshold value T2 (Yes in S307), the process proceeds to S309. If the coverage difference D_n-the ratio of the dust area is the second threshold value T2 or more (No in S307), the area name (the name of the area (U_Region_n or B_Region_n) to which the foil stamping area has been added) and the coverage difference D_n are stored in the table. After that (S308), the process proceeds to S309. Next, it is determined whether n = m (S309). If n = m is not satisfied (No in S309), 1 is added to n (S310) and the process returns to S303.

  FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram illustrating the first foil image and the second foil image. As shown in FIG. 17A, when the first foil image is formed so as to straddle U_Region_1 and U_Region_2, a foil stamping region is added to B_Region_1 corresponding to U_Region_1 so as to have an area equivalent to U_Region_1. A foil stamping region is added to B_Region_2 corresponding to U_Region_2 so as to have the same area as U_Region_2. In FIG. 17, the foil stamping area to be added is a rectangular area at the end of B_Region_n, but the layout and shape of the foil stamping area to be added are not limited to the configuration shown in the figure.

  Returning to FIG. 11A, the control unit 31 (image editing unit 31c) determines whether or not there is a shortage area for adding a foil stamping area (S107). (No in S107), the control unit 31 (instruction unit 31d) transmits the image data of the first original image to the printing device 40 (printing unit 48b) and instructs the printing of the first original image (S108). Then, the control unit 31 (instruction unit 31d) determines whether the mode set by the user is the quality priority mode as necessary (S109), and if it is the quality priority mode (Yes in S109), the foil stamping is performed. Image data of the second foil image is transmitted to the device 50 (foil pressing unit 58b) to instruct the foil pressing of the second foil image (S110), and the quality priority mode is not set (that is, the cost priority mode is set) (S109). No.), the first foil image is duplicated, and the image data of the first foil image and the second foil image is transmitted to the foil stamping device 50 (foil stamping portion 58b) to perform foil stamping of a predetermined number of two or more first foil images. It is instructed alternately to press one second foil image (S111). When the foil stamping of the first foil image and the foil stamping of the second foil image are performed alternately, a thickness deviation occurs when foil stamping the first foil image, but foil stamping is performed using only the first foil image. The thickness deviation can be suppressed more than in the case, and the consumption of the foil can be suppressed as compared with the case where the foil stamping is performed using only the second foil image.

  On the other hand, when the residue area is insufficient (Yes in S107), the control unit 31 (image editing unit 31c) causes the second type image (the residue area is insufficient, as illustrated in FIG. 11B). An image in which the closed curve belonging to the region is deleted from the first-type image) is created (S112). FIG. 14 shows the details of this step. First, the first-type image is duplicated to form a second-type image (S401). Next, the second type image is divided into the same regions (U_Region_n and B_Region_n) as the first foil image (S402). Next, one area name R is acquired from the table saved in S308 (S403), and the closed curve belonging to the area R is deleted from the second type image (S404). Then, it is determined whether the processing has been completed for all area names included in the table (S405), and if there is an unprocessed area name (No in S405), the processing returns to S403 and the same processing is repeated.

  Returning to FIG. 11B, the control unit 31 (image editing unit 31c) creates a second original image (an image obtained by deleting the original image within the closed curve deleted at the time of creating the second type image from the first original image). (S113). FIG. 15 shows the details of this step. First, the first original image is duplicated to form the second original image (S501). Next, the second original image is divided into the same regions (U_Region_n and B_Region_n) as the first foil image (S502). Next, one area name R is acquired from the table saved in S308 (S503), the closed curve belonging to the area R in the first type image is specified (S504), and the original document within the specified closed curve is specified in the second original image. The image is deleted (S505). Then, it is determined whether the processing has been completed for all the area names included in the table (S506), and if there is an unprocessed area name (No in S506), the processing returns to S503 and the same processing is repeated.

  FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram illustrating the relationship between the pattern image and the document image when the closed curve is deleted. As shown in FIG. 18A, a first original image straddling U_Region_1 and U_Region_2 and a first original image straddling B_Region_1 and B_Region_2 are formed, and as shown in FIG. 18B, a first original image straddling U_Region_1 and U_Region_2 is formed. An elliptical first type image having a small area is formed so as to surround one original image, and a rectangular first type image having a large area is formed so as to surround the first original image that straddles B_Region_1 and B_Region_2. To do. In this case, since the residue area of B_Region_2 is insufficient, the rectangular mold image belonging to B_Region_2 is deleted, and the second mold image is an elliptical mold straddling U_Region_1 and U_Region_2, as shown in FIG. 18 (c). As shown in FIG. 18D, the original image in the deleted rectangular first-type image is deleted, and the second original image is only the original image that straddles U_Region_1 and U_Region_2.

  Returning to FIG. 11 (b), the control unit 31 (image editing unit 31c) controls the third foil image (the second foil image so that the coverage thereof is vertically symmetrical to the residue area defined by the second type image). An image with the foil stamping area added) is created (S114). The flow of creating the third foil image is the same as the creation of the second foil image shown in FIG. 13, but in this case, the second type image is used instead of the first type image.

  Next, the control unit 31 (instruction unit 31d) determines whether the mode set by the user is the quality priority mode (S115), if necessary, and if the mode is the quality priority mode (Yes in S115), Image data of the first original image and the second original image are transmitted to the printing device 40 (printing unit 48b), and printing of the first original image and printing of the second original image are alternately instructed (S116). Then, the image data of the first foil image and the third foil image are transmitted to the foil stamping device 50 (foil stamping section 58b) to instruct the foil stamping corresponding to the first foil image and the foil stamping corresponding to the third foil image alternately. (S117). On the other hand, if it is not the quality priority mode (that is, if it is the cost priority mode) (No in S115), the first original image is duplicated, and the first original image and the second original image are printed on the printing device 40 (printing unit 48b). Image data is transmitted, and printing of a predetermined number of two or more first original images and printing of one second original image are alternately instructed (S118). Then, the first foil image is duplicated, the image data of the first foil image and the third foil image is transmitted to the foil stamping device 50 (foil stamping portion 58b), and the foil stamping corresponding to the predetermined number of the first foil images is performed. It is instructed to alternately press the foil according to the third foil image (S119).

  As described above, the controller 30 determines whether the coverage of the first foil image acquired from the label printing job is vertically symmetrical, and when it is not vertically symmetrical, the foil stamping area is added to the residue area or the like, It is possible to suppress the deviation of the thickness of the entire roll paper and prevent winding deviation when winding the foil-pressed roll paper.

  Next, a control device, a foil stamping print control program, and a foil stamping print control method according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the operation of the controller of this embodiment.

  In the above-described first embodiment, when the coverage of the first foil image acquired from the label printing job is not vertically symmetrical, the foil stamping area is added to the residue area. However, in the present embodiment, the first original image and the first foil image are added. By rotating the image by 180 degrees and alternately performing printing / foiling on the basis of the original image and the image rotated by 180 degrees, winding deviation when winding the foil-pressed roll paper is prevented.

  In that case, the configuration of the printing system is the same as in FIGS. 1 to 7 of the first embodiment, but the job analysis unit 31a, the coverage determination unit 31b, the image editing unit 31c, and the instruction unit 31d of the control unit 31 of the controller 30. Works as follows.

  The job analysis unit 31a functions as a RIP unit, translates the label print job received from the client terminal 20 to generate intermediate data, and performs rendering to generate image data in bitmap format. Then, from the label printing job, a label original image to be printed on a predetermined area of the roll paper, a foil image defining an area to be foil-stamped with an adhesive in the predetermined area of the roll paper after printing, and if necessary, And a mold image defining a closed curve for cutting the label in the predetermined region of the roll paper after foil stamping. The original image, the foil image, and the mold image acquired from the label print job are referred to as a first original image, a first foil image, and a first mold image, respectively.

  The coverage determination unit 31b determines whether the coverage of the first foil image acquired from the label printing job is vertically symmetrical with respect to the center line of the width of the roll paper. When determining whether it is vertical symmetry, the upper half of the first foil image is divided into a plurality of small areas and the coverage of the first foil image in each small area is calculated. The lower half of the first foil image is divided into small areas so that the coverage of the first foil image in each small area is calculated. Then, it is determined whether or not the coverage difference between the two small area pairs that are line-symmetrical in the vertical direction is smaller than a predetermined first threshold value, and the coverage difference is less than the first threshold value for all small area pairs. Is smaller, it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is vertically symmetrical, and if at least one set of coverage differences is larger than the first threshold, it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is not vertically symmetrical.

  When the coverage of the first foil image is not vertically symmetrical, the image editing unit 31c creates a second original image obtained by rotating the first original image obtained from the label printing job by 180 degrees and obtains it from the label printing job. The second foil image obtained by rotating the first foil image by 180 degrees is created. Further, if necessary, a second-type image obtained by rotating the first-type image by 180 degrees is created.

  The instruction unit 31d transmits the image data of the document image to the printing device 40 to instruct the printing of the document image, and also transmits the image data of the foil image to the foil stamping device 50 to instruct the foil stamping according to the foil image. To do. At that time, when it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is vertically symmetrical, the image data of the first original image acquired from the label print job is transmitted to the printing device 40, and the printing of the first original image is instructed. At the same time, the image data of the first foil image is transmitted to the foil stamping device 50 to instruct the foil stamping according to the first foil image. Further, when it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is not vertically symmetrical, the image data of the first original and the second original are transmitted to the printing device 40, and the printing of the first original image and the printing of the second original image are performed. While alternately instructing, and sending image data of the first foil image and the second foil image to the foil stamping device 50, alternately instructing foil stamping according to the first foil image and foil stamping according to the second foil image. To do. At that time, when the user acquires the mode (quality priority mode or cost priority mode) set by the printing device 40 or the foil stamping device 50 and the mode set by the user is the quality priority mode, the first original document is printed on the printing device 40. And the printing of the second original are alternately instructed, and the foil stamping device 50 is instructed alternately to the foil stamping according to the first foil image and the foil stamping according to the second foil image, and the set mode has priority to the cost. In the case of the mode, the printing device 40 is instructed to alternately print a predetermined number (N) of two or more first document images and one second document image, and at the same time, the first sheet of the foil stamping device 50 is printed. Foil stamping corresponding to the same number (N) of first foil images as the original image and foil stamping corresponding to one second foil image are alternately instructed.

  The job analysis unit 31a, the coverage determination unit 31b, the image editing unit 31c, and the instruction unit 31d may be configured as hardware, and the control unit 31 may be replaced by the job analysis unit 31a, the coverage determination unit 31b, the image editing unit 31c. The foil stamping print control program may be configured to function as the instruction unit 31d, and the CPU 32 may execute the foil stamping print control program.

  The operation of the controller 30 of this embodiment will be described below. The CPU 32 expands the foil stamping print control program stored in the ROM 33 or the storage unit 35 into the RAM 34 and executes the program to execute the processing of each step illustrated in the flowchart of FIG. 19. As in the first embodiment, it is assumed that the application 21b of the client terminal 20 creates a document in advance, the printer driver 21c converts the document into a label print job, and the label print job is transmitted to the controller 30.

  First, the control unit 31 (job analysis unit 31a) receives the label print job from the client terminal 10 and analyzes the label print job to acquire the first original image and the first foil image (S601).

  Next, the control unit 31 (coverage determination unit 31b) checks the vertical symmetry of the coverage of the first foil image (S602). Since this step is the same as that of FIG. 12 of the first embodiment, its explanation is omitted.

  As a result of the determination, when the coverage of the first foil image is vertically symmetrical (Yes in S603), the winding deviation of the roll paper does not occur, so that the control unit 31 (instruction unit 31d) causes the printing device 40 (printing unit 48b). The image data of the first original image to the printer to instruct to print the first original image (S604), and the image data of the first foil image is sent to the foil stamping device 50 (foil stamping section 58b). Instruct the foil stamping (S605).

  On the other hand, when the coverage of the first foil image is not vertically symmetrical (No in S603), the control unit 31 (image editing unit 31c) creates the second original image obtained by rotating the first original image by 180 degrees, and A second foil image is created by rotating the one foil image by 180 degrees (S606).

  Next, the control unit 31 (instruction unit 31d) determines whether the mode set by the user is the quality priority mode, if necessary (S607). In the quality priority mode (Yes in S607), the image data of the first original image and the second original image rotated by 180 degrees is transmitted to the printing device 40 (printing unit 48b), and the first original image is printed and the second original image is printed. The printing of the original image is instructed alternately (S608). Then, the image data of the first foil image and the second foil image rotated by 180 degrees is transmitted to the foil stamping device 50 (foil stamping portion 58b), and the foil stamping according to the first foil image and the foil stamping according to the second foil image are performed. The instructions are given alternately (S609). On the other hand, if it is not the quality priority mode (that is, if it is the cost priority mode) (No in S607), the first original image is duplicated and rotated 180 degrees with the first original image on the printing device 40 (printing unit 48b). Image data of the second original image is transmitted, and printing of a predetermined number of two or more first original images and printing of one second original image are alternately instructed (S610). Then, the first foil image is duplicated, the image data of the first foil image and the second foil image is transmitted to the foil stamping device 50 (foil stamping portion 58b), and the foil stamping corresponding to the predetermined number of the first foil images is performed. It is instructed to alternately press the foil according to the second foil image (S611).

  Thus, the controller 30 determines whether the coverage of the first foil image acquired from the label printing job is vertically symmetrical, and if it is not vertically symmetrical, rotates the first original image and the first foil image by 180 degrees. By instructing to alternately print / foil the original image and the image rotated by 180 degrees, it is possible to prevent winding deviation when winding the foil-pressed roll paper.

  It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and the configuration and control thereof can be changed as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

  For example, in the above embodiment, the case of performing printing and foil stamping on the roll paper is described, but printing and foil stamping are possible, and when performing printing and foil stamping on any type of medium that can be wound into a roll after foil stamping. On the other hand, the foil stamping printing control of the present invention can be similarly applied.

  The present invention relates to a controller for instructing printing and foil stamping on a roll medium, a foil stamping print control program operating in the controller, a recording medium recording the foil stamping print control program, and a foil stamping print control in a printing system including the controller. Is available for the way.

10 Printing System 20 Client Terminal 21 Control Unit 21a OS
21b application 21c printer driver 22 CPU
23 ROM
24 RAM
25 storage unit 26 network I / F unit 27 display unit 28 operation unit 30 controller 31 control unit 31a job analysis unit 31b coverage determination unit 31c image editing unit 31d instruction unit 32 CPU
33 ROM
34 RAM
35 storage unit 36 network I / F unit 37 engine I / F unit 38 image transfer buffer 40 printing device 41 control unit 42 CPU
43 ROM
44 RAM
45 storage unit 46 controller I / F unit 47 display operation unit 48a paper feeding unit 48b printing unit 48c winding unit 50 foil stamping device 51 control unit 52 CPU
53 ROM
54 RAM
55 storage unit 56 controller I / F unit 57 display operation unit 58a paper feeding unit 58b foil stamping unit 58c winding unit 60 communication network 70 foil stamping printing device

Claims (27)

A printing device that prints a label original image on a medium supplied from a roll, a foil stamping device that applies an adhesive to the medium after printing and performs foil stamping, and winds the medium after foil stamping into a roll shape, A controller disposed in the printing system including
A label printing job is received and analyzed, and a first original image of a label to be printed on a predetermined area of the medium, a first foil image defining an area to be foil stamped in the predetermined area of the medium after printing, and a foil stamped. A first type image defining a closed curve for cutting out the label in the predetermined area of the medium,
The coverage of the first foil image is a coverage determination unit that determines whether or not it is axisymmetric with respect to the center line of the width of the roll,
When it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is not line symmetrical, a foil stamping region is added to a margin region outside the closed curve of the first type image so that the coverage of the first foil image becomes line symmetrical. An image editing unit that creates the second foil image,
When it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is line symmetric, the printing device is instructed to print the first original image, and the foil stamping device is instructed to perform foil stamping according to the first foil image. However, when it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is not line symmetric, the printing device is instructed to print the first original image, and the foil stamping device is foil stamped according to the second foil image. An instruction unit for instructing,
A control device characterized by the above. The coverage determination unit calculates the coverage of the first foil image in each of the small areas by dividing one side of the first foil image into a plurality of small areas with reference to the center line, and The other side of the first foil image is divided into the plurality of small areas to calculate the coverage of the first foil image in each of the small areas, and the two that are in line symmetry with respect to the center line. It is determined whether the coverage difference of the small area set is smaller than a predetermined first threshold value, and if the coverage difference is smaller than the first threshold value for all the small area sets, the first foil is used. It is determined that the image coverage is line-symmetrical, and if the coverage difference is at least the first threshold value with respect to at least one of the small region sets, it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is not line-symmetrical.
The control device according to claim 1, wherein: The label printing job can be executed in either a first mode in which quality is prioritized or a second mode in which cost is prioritized,
The instruction unit obtains a mode set by the user, and when the set mode is the first mode, instructs the printing apparatus to print the first original image and causes the foil stamping apparatus to print the first original image. When the foil stamping is instructed according to the two-foil image and the set mode is the second mode, the printing apparatus is instructed to print the first original image, and the foil stamping apparatus is instructed to print a predetermined number of two or more. Alternately instructing a foil stamping corresponding to the first foil image and a foil stamping corresponding to one of the second foil images,
The control device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that. The image editing unit, when creating the second foil image, confirms whether the blank area is insufficient, and if the blank area is insufficient, from the first type image, at least A second type image in which one closed curve is deleted is created, and a second original image in which an image included in the deleted closed curve is deleted from the first original image is created, and the coverage of the first foil image is line symmetrical. So that a third foil image in which a foil stamping area is added within the marginal area and the deleted partial closed curve is created,
The control device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that. When confirming whether or not the blank area is insufficient, the image editing unit divides one side of the first foil image into a plurality of small areas based on the center line. The coverage of the first foil image in the small area is calculated, and the other side of the first foil image is divided into the plurality of small areas to calculate the coverage of the first foil image in each of the small areas. , Calculating a coverage difference between a pair of the two small areas that are in line symmetry with respect to the center line, and in the small area of the smaller area where the coverage of the first foil image is smaller in the group of the small areas. Calculate the ratio of the blank area, determine whether the difference between the coverage difference and the ratio of the blank area is smaller than a second predetermined threshold, the difference for at least one set of the small areas is the If the second threshold or more, it is determined that the blank area is insufficient,
The control device according to claim 4, wherein: The label printing job can be executed in either a first mode in which quality is prioritized or a second mode in which cost is prioritized,
The instruction unit acquires a mode set by the user, and when the set mode is the first mode, alternately prints the first original image and the second original image on the printing device. And the foil stamping device is instructed alternately to the foil stamping device according to the first foil image and the foil stamping according to the third foil image, and when the set mode is the second mode, 2 or more. Alternately instructing the printing of the predetermined number of the first original images and the printing of the one second original image, and the foil stamping device and the foil stamping corresponding to the predetermined number of the first foil images. Alternately instruct foil stamping according to the third foil image,
The control device according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that. A printing device that prints a label original image on a medium supplied from a roll, a foil stamping device that applies an adhesive to the medium after printing and performs foil stamping, and winds the medium after foil stamping into a roll shape, A controller disposed in the printing system including
A label print job is received and analyzed, and a first original image of a label to be printed on a predetermined area of the medium and a first foil image defining an area to be stamped in the predetermined area of the medium after printing are obtained. A job analysis section that
The coverage of the first foil image is a coverage determination unit that determines whether or not it is axisymmetric with respect to the center line of the width of the roll,
When it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is not axisymmetric, the first original image is rotated by 180 degrees to form a second original image, and the first foil image is rotated by 180 degrees. An image editor that creates images,
When it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is line symmetric, the printing device is instructed to print the first original image, and the foil stamping device is instructed to perform foil stamping based on the first foil image. When it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is not line-symmetrical, the printing device is instructed alternately to print the first original image and the second original image, and to the foil stamping device. An instruction unit for alternately instructing a foil stamping corresponding to the first foil image and a foil stamping corresponding to the second foil image is provided,
A control device characterized by the above. The coverage determination unit calculates the coverage of the first foil image in each of the small areas by dividing one side of the first foil image into a plurality of small areas with reference to the center line, and The other side of the first foil image is divided into the plurality of small areas to calculate the coverage of the first foil image in each of the small areas, and the two that are in line symmetry with respect to the center line. It is determined whether the coverage difference of the small area set is smaller than a predetermined first threshold value, and if the coverage difference is smaller than the first threshold value for all the small area sets, the first foil is used. It is determined that the image coverage is line-symmetrical, and if the coverage difference is at least the first threshold value with respect to at least one of the small region sets, it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is not line-symmetrical.
The control device according to claim 7, wherein: The label printing job can be executed in either a first mode in which quality is prioritized or a second mode in which cost is prioritized,
The instruction unit acquires a mode set by the user, and when the set mode is the first mode, alternately prints the first original image and the second original image on the printing device. And the foil stamping device is instructed alternately to foil stamping according to the first foil image and foil stamping according to the second foil image, and when the set mode is the second mode, 2 or more. Alternately instructing the printing of the predetermined number of the first original images and the printing of the one second original image, and the foil stamping device and the foil stamping corresponding to the predetermined number of the first foil images. Alternately instruct the foil stamping according to the second foil image,
The control device according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that. A printing device that prints a label original image on a medium supplied from a roll, a foil stamping device that applies an adhesive to the medium after printing and performs foil stamping, and winds the medium after foil stamping into a roll shape, A foil stamping printing control program that operates in a control device arranged in a printing system including:
In the control device,
A label printing job is received and analyzed, and a first original image of a label to be printed on a predetermined area of the medium, a first foil image defining an area to be foil stamped in the predetermined area of the medium after printing, and a foil stamped. A first-type image defining a closed curve for cutting out the label in the predetermined region of the medium,
The coverage of the first foil image is a coverage determination process for determining whether or not it is axisymmetric with respect to the center line of the width of the roll,
When it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is not line symmetrical, a foil stamping region is added to a margin region outside the closed curve of the first type image so that the coverage of the first foil image becomes line symmetrical. Image editing process to create a second foil image,
When it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is line symmetric, the printing device is instructed to print the first original image, and the foil stamping device is instructed to perform foil stamping according to the first foil image. However, when it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is not line symmetric, the printing device is instructed to print the first original image, and the foil stamping device is foil stamped according to the second foil image. Instruct instruction processing, execute,
A foil stamping printing control program characterized by the above. In the coverage determination process, with reference to the center line, one side of the first foil image is divided into a plurality of small areas to calculate the coverage of the first foil image in each of the small areas, and The other side of the first foil image is divided into the plurality of small areas to calculate the coverage of the first foil image in each of the small areas, and the two that are in line symmetry with respect to the center line. It is determined whether the coverage difference of the small area set is smaller than a predetermined first threshold value, and if the coverage difference is smaller than the first threshold value for all the small area sets, the first foil is used. It is determined that the image coverage is line-symmetrical, and if the coverage difference is at least the first threshold value with respect to at least one of the small region sets, it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is not line-symmetrical.
The foil stamping printing control program according to claim 10, characterized in that. The label printing job can be executed in either a first mode in which quality is prioritized or a second mode in which cost is prioritized,
In the instruction processing, the mode set by the user is acquired, and when the set mode is the first mode, the printing apparatus is instructed to print the first original image and the foil stamping apparatus is configured to print the first original image. When the foil stamping is instructed according to the two-foil image and the set mode is the second mode, the printing apparatus is instructed to print the first original image, and the foil stamping apparatus is instructed to print a predetermined number of two or more. Alternately instructing a foil stamping corresponding to the first foil image and a foil stamping corresponding to one of the second foil images,
The foil stamping printing control program according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that. In the image editing process, when creating the second foil image, check whether the margin area is insufficient, and if the margin area is insufficient, from the first type image, at least A second type image in which one closed curve is deleted is created, and a second original image in which an image included in the deleted closed curve is deleted from the first original image is created, and the coverage of the first foil image is line symmetrical. So that a third foil image in which a foil stamping area is added within the marginal area and the deleted partial closed curve is created,
The foil stamping printing control program according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that. In the image editing process, when confirming whether or not the blank area is insufficient, with reference to the center line, one side of the first foil image is divided into a plurality of small areas. The coverage of the first foil image in the small area is calculated, and the other side of the first foil image is divided into the plurality of small areas to calculate the coverage of the first foil image in each of the small areas. , Calculating a coverage difference between a pair of the two small areas that are in line symmetry with respect to the center line, and in the small area of the smaller area where the coverage of the first foil image is smaller in the group of the small areas. Calculate the ratio of the blank area, determine whether the difference between the coverage difference and the ratio of the blank area is smaller than a second predetermined threshold, the difference for at least one set of the small areas is the If the second threshold or more, it is determined that the blank area is insufficient,
The foil stamping print control program according to claim 13, wherein The label printing job can be executed in either a first mode in which quality is prioritized or a second mode in which cost is prioritized,
In the instruction processing, a mode set by the user is acquired, and when the set mode is the first mode, printing of the first original image and printing of the second original image are alternately performed on the printing apparatus. And the foil stamping device is instructed alternately to the foil stamping device according to the first foil image and the foil stamping according to the third foil image, and when the set mode is the second mode, 2 or more. Alternately instructing the printing of the predetermined number of the first original images and the printing of the one second original image, and the foil stamping device and the foil stamping corresponding to the predetermined number of the first foil images. Alternately instruct foil stamping according to the third foil image,
The foil stamping printing control program according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that. A printing device that prints a label original image on a medium supplied from a roll, a foil stamping device that applies an adhesive to the medium after printing and performs foil stamping, and winds the medium after foil stamping into a roll shape, A foil stamping printing control program that operates in a control device arranged in a printing system including:
In the control device,
A label print job is received and analyzed, and a first original image of a label to be printed on a predetermined area of the medium and a first foil image defining an area to be stamped in the predetermined area of the medium after printing are obtained. Job analysis processing,
The coverage of the first foil image is a coverage determination process for determining whether or not it is axisymmetric with respect to the center line of the width of the roll,
When it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is not axisymmetric, the first original image is rotated by 180 degrees to form a second original image, and the first foil image is rotated by 180 degrees. Image editing process to create images,
When it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is line symmetric, the printing device is instructed to print the first original image, and the foil stamping device is instructed to perform foil stamping based on the first foil image. When it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is not line-symmetrical, the printing device is instructed alternately to print the first original image and the second original image, and to the foil stamping device. An instruction process for alternately instructing a foil stamping corresponding to the first foil image and a foil stamping corresponding to the second foil image, is executed.
A foil stamping printing control program characterized by the above. In the coverage determination process, with reference to the center line, one side of the first foil image is divided into a plurality of small areas to calculate the coverage of the first foil image in each of the small areas, and The other side of the first foil image is divided into the plurality of small areas to calculate the coverage of the first foil image in each of the small areas, and the two that are in line symmetry with respect to the center line. It is determined whether the coverage difference of the small area set is smaller than a predetermined first threshold value, and if the coverage difference is smaller than the first threshold value for all the small area sets, the first foil is used. It is determined that the image coverage is line-symmetrical, and if the coverage difference is at least the first threshold value with respect to at least one of the small region sets, it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is not line-symmetrical.
The foil stamping printing control program according to claim 16, characterized in that. The label printing job can be executed in either a first mode in which quality is prioritized or a second mode in which cost is prioritized,
In the instruction processing, a mode set by the user is acquired, and when the set mode is the first mode, printing of the first original image and printing of the second original image are alternately performed on the printing apparatus. And the foil stamping device is instructed alternately to foil stamping according to the first foil image and foil stamping according to the second foil image, and when the set mode is the second mode, 2 or more. Alternately instructing the printing of the predetermined number of the first original images and the printing of the one second original image, and the foil stamping device and the foil stamping corresponding to the predetermined number of the first foil images. Alternately instruct the foil stamping according to the second foil image,
The foil stamping printing control program according to claim 16 or 17, characterized in that. A printing device that prints a label original image on a medium supplied from a roll, a foil stamping device that applies an adhesive to the medium after printing and performs foil stamping, and winds the medium after foil stamping into a roll, A device, and a foil stamping printing control method in a printing system including:
The control device is
A label printing job is received and analyzed, and a first original image of a label to be printed on a predetermined area of the medium, a first foil image defining an area to be foil stamped in the predetermined area of the medium after printing, and a foil stamped. A first-type image defining a closed curve for cutting out the label in the predetermined area of the medium,
Coverage determination processing for determining whether the coverage of the first foil image is line-symmetric with respect to the center line of the width of the roll,
When it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is not line symmetrical, a foil stamping region is added to a margin region outside the closed curve of the first type image so that the coverage of the first foil image becomes line symmetrical. Image editing process to create the second foil image,
When it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is line symmetric, the printing device is instructed to print the first original image, and the foil stamping device is instructed to perform foil stamping according to the first foil image. However, when it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is not line symmetric, the printing device is instructed to print the first original image, and the foil stamping device is foil stamped according to the second foil image. Execute the instruction process and the instruction,
A foil stamping printing control method characterized by the above. In the coverage determination process, with reference to the center line, one side of the first foil image is divided into a plurality of small areas to calculate the coverage of the first foil image in each of the small areas, and The other side of the first foil image is divided into the plurality of small areas to calculate the coverage of the first foil image in each of the small areas, and the two that are in line symmetry with respect to the center line. It is determined whether the coverage difference of the small area set is smaller than a predetermined first threshold value, and if the coverage difference is smaller than the first threshold value for all the small area sets, the first foil is used. It is determined that the image coverage is line-symmetrical, and if the coverage difference is at least the first threshold value with respect to at least one of the small region sets, it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is not line-symmetrical.
20. The foil stamping printing control method according to claim 19, wherein: The label printing job can be executed in either a first mode in which quality is prioritized or a second mode in which cost is prioritized,
In the instruction processing, the mode set by the user is acquired, and when the set mode is the first mode, the printing apparatus is instructed to print the first original image and the foil stamping apparatus is configured to print the first original image. When the foil stamping is instructed according to the two-foil image and the set mode is the second mode, the printing apparatus is instructed to print the first original image, and the foil stamping apparatus is instructed to print a predetermined number of two or more. Alternately instructing a foil stamping corresponding to the first foil image and a foil stamping corresponding to one of the second foil images,
The foil stamping printing control method according to claim 19 or 20, characterized in that. In the image editing process, when creating the second foil image, check whether the margin area is insufficient, and if the margin area is insufficient, from the first type image, at least A second type image in which one closed curve is deleted is created, and a second original image in which an image included in the deleted closed curve is deleted from the first original image is created, and the coverage of the first foil image is line symmetrical. So that a third foil image in which a foil stamping area is added within the marginal area and the deleted partial closed curve is created,
The foil stamping printing control method according to claim 19 or 20, characterized in that. In the image editing process, when confirming whether or not the blank area is insufficient, with reference to the center line, one side of the first foil image is divided into a plurality of small areas. The coverage of the first foil image in the small area is calculated, and the other side of the first foil image is divided into the plurality of small areas to calculate the coverage of the first foil image in each of the small areas. , Calculating a coverage difference between a pair of the two small areas that are in line symmetry with respect to the center line, and in the small area of the smaller area where the coverage of the first foil image is smaller in the group of the small areas. Calculate the ratio of the blank area, determine whether the difference between the coverage difference and the ratio of the blank area is smaller than a second predetermined threshold, the difference for at least one set of the small areas is the If the second threshold or more, it is determined that the blank area is insufficient,
The foil stamping printing control method according to claim 22, wherein: The label printing job can be executed in either a first mode in which quality is prioritized or a second mode in which cost is prioritized,
In the instruction processing, a mode set by the user is acquired, and when the set mode is the first mode, printing of the first original image and printing of the second original image are alternately performed on the printing apparatus. And the foil stamping device is instructed alternately to the foil stamping device according to the first foil image and the foil stamping according to the third foil image, and when the set mode is the second mode, 2 or more. Alternately instructing the printing of the predetermined number of the first original images and the printing of the one second original image, and the foil stamping device and the foil stamping corresponding to the predetermined number of the first foil images. Alternately instruct foil stamping according to the third foil image,
The foil stamping printing control method according to claim 22 or 23, characterized in that. A printing device that prints a label original image on a medium supplied from a roll, a foil stamping device that applies an adhesive to the medium after printing and performs foil stamping, and winds the medium after foil stamping into a roll, A device, and a foil stamping printing control method in a printing system including:
The control device is
A label print job is received and analyzed, and a first original image of a label to be printed on a predetermined area of the medium and a first foil image defining an area to be stamped in the predetermined area of the medium after printing are obtained. Job analysis processing,
Coverage determination processing for determining whether the coverage of the first foil image is line-symmetric with respect to the center line of the width of the roll,
When it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is not axisymmetric, the first original image is rotated by 180 degrees to form a second original image, and the first foil image is rotated by 180 degrees. Image editing process to create images,
When it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is line symmetric, the printing device is instructed to print the first original image, and the foil stamping device is instructed to perform foil stamping based on the first foil image. When it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is not line-symmetrical, the printing device is instructed alternately to print the first original image and the second original image, and to the foil stamping device. Performing an instruction process for alternately instructing a foil stamping corresponding to the first foil image and a foil stamping corresponding to the second foil image,
A foil stamping printing control method characterized by the above. In the coverage determination process, with reference to the center line, one side of the first foil image is divided into a plurality of small areas to calculate the coverage of the first foil image in each of the small areas, and The other side of the first foil image is divided into the plurality of small areas to calculate the coverage of the first foil image in each of the small areas, and the two that are in line symmetry with respect to the center line. It is determined whether the coverage difference of the small area set is smaller than a predetermined first threshold value, and if the coverage difference is smaller than the first threshold value for all the small area sets, the first foil is used. It is determined that the image coverage is line-symmetrical, and if the coverage difference is at least the first threshold value with respect to at least one of the small region sets, it is determined that the coverage of the first foil image is not line-symmetrical.
26. The foil stamping printing control method according to claim 25. The label printing job can be executed in either a first mode in which quality is prioritized or a second mode in which cost is prioritized,
In the instruction processing, a mode set by the user is acquired, and when the set mode is the first mode, printing of the first original image and printing of the second original image are alternately performed on the printing apparatus. And the foil stamping device is instructed alternately to foil stamping according to the first foil image and foil stamping according to the second foil image, and when the set mode is the second mode, 2 or more. Alternately instructing the printing of the predetermined number of the first original images and the printing of the one second original image, and the foil stamping device and the foil stamping corresponding to the predetermined number of the first foil images. Alternately instruct the foil stamping according to the second foil image,
27. The foil stamping printing control method according to claim 25 or 26.

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