JP5958073B2 - Printing system - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a printing system including an information processing apparatus that generates a print job according to a printer driver, and a printer that performs printing according to the print job.

  Conventionally, when printing with a printer, first, application software such as a word processor on the information processing apparatus operates on the basic software, and data to be printed is created. Then, a printer driver installed on the information processing apparatus side is activated at the time of printing, and a print job is created according to the printer driver. Then, the created print job is transmitted to the printer. Then, the print job is received by the printer, and print processing of data to be printed is executed based on a command related to the function of the printer included in the print job and a page description language (PDL).

  In this regard, various proposals have been made for speeding up printing processing. In Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2000-194520, PDL data image expansion processing is performed on the information processing apparatus side or on a printer. A method has been proposed in which an information processing apparatus determines whether or not this is appropriate and transmits a print job to a printer in advance.

JP 2000-194520 A

  However, in the above-mentioned document, a method is proposed in which a print job is transmitted in advance to speed up the print processing. However, after the printer driver is activated, the print job is terminated when various user operation instructions are terminated. When the process is completed, a print job is created and transmitted.

  On the other hand, depending on the type of data, there may be a case where a print instruction is issued without any particular change in print settings as an operation instruction by the user. That is, by sending a part of the print job when the printer driver is activated, higher-speed print processing is possible.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a printing system that can perform a higher-speed printing process.

  A printing system according to an aspect of the present invention includes at least one information processing apparatus that generates a print job according to a printer driver for image data, and a printer that performs printing according to the print job generated by the information processing apparatus. The apparatus includes a first print target data generation unit that generates first print target data based on print settings preset in the printer driver according to the activation of the printer driver, and the generated first print data. A first print job transmission unit that transmits a first print job including the print target data, a command data generation unit that generates command data according to a print setting in accordance with a user operation instruction after the printer driver is activated, Whether the print setting according to the user's operation instruction is a print setting that involves changing the first print target data A change determination unit for determining whether or not the print determination associated with the change of the first print target data has been performed by the change determination unit, and a second print target based on the print setting after the change for the image data A second print target data generating unit that generates data, and a second print job that transmits command data or a second print job including the command data and the second print target data based on the determination result of the change determination unit. A print job transmission unit, the printer includes a print job reception unit that receives the first and second print jobs, and a command data or a command data and a first data to the second print job received by the print job reception unit. A data determination unit that determines which of the data to be printed is included in the second print job; If it is determined that the print data is included, print processing based on the command data is performed on the first print target data included in the first print job received by the print job receiving unit, And print execution means for executing a printing process based on the command data and the second print target data when it is determined that the command data and the second print target data are included in the second print job.

  Preferably, the information processing apparatus further includes an identification number issuing unit that issues a job identification number, and each of the first and second print job transmission units includes a job identification number issued by the identification number issuing unit. The first and second print jobs are transmitted, and the print execution unit of the printer is included in the second print job when the data determination unit determines that the second print job includes command data. A print process based on the command data is executed on the first print target data included in the first print job received by the print job receiving unit including the same job identification number as the job identification number.

  Preferably, when the data determining unit determines that the second print job includes command data and second print target data, the printer determines a job identification number included in the second print job, It further includes a deleting unit that deletes the first print job received by the print job receiving unit including the same job identification number.

  Preferably, the information processing apparatus further includes a history storage unit that stores an operation history according to a user operation instruction after the printer driver is activated, and the first print target data generation unit stores the operation history stored in the history storage unit. The first print target data based on the print settings preset in the printer driver is generated for the image data according to the activation of the printer driver.

A printing system according to another aspect of the present invention includes at least one information processing device that generates a print job according to a first or second print mode according to a printer driver for image data, and a print job generated by the information processing device. Ru and a printer for printing in accordance with. In the first print mode , the information processing apparatus generates first print target data based on print settings preset in the printer driver according to the activation of the printer driver for the image data. Target data generation means, first print job transmission means for transmitting the first print job including the generated first print target data, a display displaying a plurality of tabs for performing print settings, Second print target data generating means for generating second print target data based on print settings in accordance with a user operation instruction on the display after starting the printer driver for the image data in the second print mode When, during the first print mode, after the start of the printer driver, the print settings according to the user's operation instruction by display, first printing pair So as not to perform the print setting related to changes in the data, and inhibiting means for changing the screen display of the display, during a first printing mode, after the start of the printer driver, the screen display of the display is changed by the inhibiting means and command data generating means for generating a command data according to the print settings according to the user's operation instruction is set on the basis, in the first print mode, transmits a second print job including the command data, the second And a second print job transmission means for transmitting a second print job including the second print target data in the print mode . The printer includes a print job receiving unit that receives the first and second print jobs, and a first print target included in the first print job received by the print job receiving unit in the first print mode. A print process based on command data is executed on the data, and a print process based on the second print target data included in the second print job received by the print job receiving unit in the second print mode is performed. and a print execution means for executing.

Preferably, the information processing apparatus adds command data, command data, and second print target data to an identification number issuing unit that issues a job identification number and a second print job received by the print job receiving unit. Data determination means for determining whether data is included , and the first and second print job transmission means include first and second print job transmission numbers including job identification numbers issued by the identification number issuing means, respectively. When the print execution unit of the printer transmits the print job and the data determination unit determines that the command data is included in the second print job, it is the same as the job identification number included in the second print job. Command data for the first print target data included in the first print job received by the print job receiving means including the job identification number of To execute the printing process based on.

  This printing system can perform faster printing processing.

It is a figure explaining the structure of the printing system 1 according to Embodiment 1 of this invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of MFP 10 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure explaining the structure of PC according to Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a figure explaining the functional block according to the printer driver of PC100 according to Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a figure explaining the form of the print job according to Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a figure explaining the specific example of the command data and PDL data according to Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a figure explaining operation in the case of performing the printing process according to Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a figure explaining the print setting screen according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. It is a flowchart explaining the flow of transmission of a print job according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating print processing for a print job according to the first embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart explaining the flow of transmission of the print job according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. It is a flowchart explaining the history information determination according to Embodiment 2 of this invention. It is a figure explaining operation in the case of performing the printing process according to Embodiment 3 of this invention. It is a flowchart in the case of displaying the print setting screen according to the third embodiment. It is a figure explaining the high-speed print setting screen according to this Embodiment 3. FIG. It is a flowchart explaining the flow of transmission of the print job according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same parts and components are denoted by the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same.

(Embodiment 1)
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a printing system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 1, a printing system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention includes an MFP (Multi Function Peripheral) 10 that is an image forming apparatus (printer) and external PCs (Personal Computers) 100 and 110 that are external terminals. , 120 are provided. The MFP 10 and the external PCs 100, 110, and 120 are connected to each other via a network and can communicate data with each other. In this example, a configuration in which three external PCs and one MFP are connected via a LAN (Local Area Network) 5 will be described. However, the number is not limited to one. There may be a plurality. Note that the first embodiment of the present invention can be realized by a single external PC and MFP. The network connection may be a LAN, a WAN (Wide Area Network), or the like. Moreover, it may be connected by wire or may be wireless.

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of MFP 10 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
Referring to FIG. 2, MFP 10 according to the first embodiment of the present invention includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 11 that is a control unit for executing various programs including an operating system (OS), and CPU 11. A RAM (Random Access Memory) 12 that temporarily stores data necessary for execution of the program portion, and a hard disk drive 15 (HDD: Hard Disk Drive) that is a storage unit that stores the program and data executed by the CPU 11 in a nonvolatile manner. ), A nonvolatile memory 14, a ROM (Read-Only Memory) 13 in which a program executed by the CPU 11 is stored in advance, an operation panel 19 for executing various operations, and reading an original to acquire image data. Between the scanner 17, the printer 18 that is a printing unit that prints image data on a paper medium, and the outside Consisting LAN card or the like which is a transmission / reception unit for performing data communication and a network interface card (NIC) 16. The operation panel 19 includes a display unit (display unit), a key input unit, and the like. Each unit is connected to each other via an internal bus, and can exchange data with each other.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of the PC according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
Referring to FIG. 3, PC 100 according to the first embodiment of the present invention includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 101 that is a control device (control means) that executes various programs including an operating system (OS), A RAM 103 that temporarily stores data necessary for execution of the program portion of the CPU 101, and a hard disk drive (HDD: HDD) that is a storage device (storage means) that stores programs executed in the CPU 101, various data, files, and the like in a nonvolatile manner. Hard Disk Drive) 104, ROM 102 in which a program executed by CPU 101 is stored in advance, input device (input means) 105 including a keyboard, a mouse, and the like, and a display device (display means) for displaying a screen. Data exchange between the display 106 and the outside via the LAN 5 And a network interface card (NIC) 108 is a transmitting / receiving device (transmitting / receiving means).

  Further, the above-described units exchange data with each other via the internal bus 109. Since PCs 110 and 120 have the same configuration, description thereof will not be repeated. In this example, the case where the display 106 is integrated with the PC main body is described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the display 106 may be a separate body.

  The ROM 102 or the HDD 104 stores basic computer software (OS) and applications that operate on the basic software (for example, word processing software that is a document editing application, spreadsheet software, and the like). It is assumed that the data to be printed created in this way is saved in the form of file data. The ROM 102 or HDD 104 also stores a printer driver for converting the data to be printed into PDL (page description language) data and transmitting it as a print job together with command data as necessary.

  In this example, a case will be described in which file data to be printed is opened and a print instruction is given to the MFP 10 for the opened and displayed image data.

  The PC 100 has acquired an IP address set in advance in the MFP 10, and can transmit data to be printed as a print job instructing execution of print processing to the MFP 10 using a printer driver. It is.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating functional blocks according to the printer driver of PC 100 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 4, here, image data 200 is shown as data to be printed, and a functional block of a printer driver that transmits the image data 200 as a print job to MFP 10 is shown. The functional block is realized by cooperating with the CPU 101.

  Specifically, the printer driver 210 includes a PDL creation unit 212, 228, a job identification number issuance unit 214, a PDL change determination unit 216, a setting reception unit 218, a command data creation unit 220, a first A print job transmission unit 222 and a second print job transmission unit 224 are included.

  The PDL creation unit 212 receives the image data 200 serving as a print instruction and generates PDL data that is print target data. Here, the PDL creation unit 212 generates PDL data based on preset print settings. The preset print settings relate to the print magnification and image quality of image data. For example, as an example, PDL data is generated based on a preset print setting of 100% magnification and image quality “normal”. Then, the generated PDL data is output to the first print job transmission unit 222.

  In addition, the job identification number issuing unit 214 receives the image data 200, issues a job identification number (ID), and outputs the job identification number (ID) to the first print job transmission unit 222 and the second print job transmission unit 224. The job identification number (ID) output to the first print job transmission unit 222 and the job identification number (ID) output to the second print job transmission unit 224 are the same.

  The first print job transmission unit 222 associates the job identification number output from the job identification number issuing unit 214 with the PDL data output from the PDL creation unit 212, and outputs it to the MFP 10 as a first print job.

  The setting accepting unit 218 is a part that accepts a setting operation input of a print setting screen, which will be described later, from the user, and changes the PDL by changing the contents of the preset print settings in accordance with the setting operation input of the print setting screen from the user The data is output to the determination unit 216.

  The PDL change determination unit 216 determines the content of the print setting output from the setting reception unit 218, and determines whether the content of the print setting has been changed for a portion that affects the PDL data. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the print settings relating to the print magnification and image quality have been changed. When the PDL change determination unit 216 determines that the contents of the print settings have been changed for the part that affects the PDL data, the PDL change determination unit 216 instructs the PDL creation unit 228 to create the PDL data according to the changed print settings.

  The PDL creation unit 228 receives the image data 200 according to the instruction from the PDL change determination unit 216 and generates PDL data according to the changed print settings. Then, the generated PDL data is output to the second print job transmission unit 224.

  Further, the PDL change determination unit 216 outputs the contents of the print setting output from the setting reception unit 218 to the command data creation unit 220.

  The command data creation unit 220 generates command data based on the contents of the print settings and outputs the command data to the second print job transmission unit 224.

  If the PDL change determination unit 216 determines that the contents of the print settings have not been changed for the portion that affects the PDL data, the PDL change determination unit 216 does not instruct the PDL creation unit 228 to generate the command settings for the print settings. Output to the unit 220.

  The second print job transmission unit 224 associates the job identification number output from the job identification number issuing unit 214 with the command data generated by the command data creation unit 220, and outputs it to the MFP 10 as a second print job. Alternatively, when the PDL data is output from the PDL creation unit 228, the second print job transmission unit 224 uses the job identification number output from the job identification number issuing unit 214 and the command data creation unit 220. The generated command data and the PDL data generated by the PDL creation unit 228 are associated with each other and output to the MFP 10 as a second print job.

  The first print job in this example is sent to the MFP 10 after the printer driver is activated regardless of the user's setting operation input. On the other hand, the second print job is transmitted to the MFP 10 in accordance with the user's setting operation input after the printer driver is activated.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a form of a print job according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
With reference to FIG. 5A, here, the configuration of the first print job transmitted from the first print job transmission unit 222 is shown.

  Specifically, the first print job includes a job identification number (ID 001) issued by the job identification number issuing unit 214 and PDL data.

  Referring to FIG. 5B, here, the configuration of the second print job transmitted from the second print job transmission unit 224 is shown.

  The second print job is a second print job in a case where the contents of the print settings are not changed for the portion that affects the PDL data.

  Specifically, the second print job includes a job identification number (ID 001) issued by the job identification number issuing unit 214 and command data.

  With reference to FIG. 5C, here, the configuration of the second print job transmitted from the second print job transmission unit 224 is shown.

  The second print job is a second print job when the contents of the print settings are changed for a part that affects the PDL data.

  Specifically, the second print job includes a job identification number (ID 001) issued by the job identification number issuing unit 214, command data, and PDL data.

  Then, the printing process is executed in the MFP 10 in accordance with the combination of the first and second print jobs or the second print job.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a specific example of command data and PDL data according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 6, command data is described in the PJL format, and various commands that do not directly affect PDL data are defined. For example, when a function such as stapling or punching is used, command data related to the function is described.

  PDL data is data developed as bitmap data on the RAM 12 of the MFP 10 in which print settings relating to the print magnification and image quality of the image data are applied to the original image data.

  The printer 18 of the MFP 10 executes a printing process on the printing paper according to the PDL data, and executes a predetermined function on the printing paper according to the command data.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an operation when executing a printing process according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 7, a case where file data created using an application (here, application A) is displayed on display 106 is shown.

  In this example, a case where the user can instruct printing by designating the file data and performing a predetermined operation is shown.

  Specifically, by designating “file” and instructing “print” displayed in a drop-down manner, the printer driver is activated and a print setting screen is displayed. In this example, the process for transmitting the first print job described above is triggered by the activation of the printer driver as a trigger.

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a print setting screen according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
Referring to FIG. 8, the print setting screen 40 is displayed on the display 106 as the printer driver is activated.

  Specifically, on the print setting screen 40, it is possible to set various types of setting items related to print settings. Specifically, for example, a plurality of items classified for each setting item provided in the upper part are provided. By specifying the tabs with a mouse or keyboard as a pointing device, various settings for printing can be executed.

  By designating various tabs or setting items with a mouse or the like, it is possible to select, for example, print paper, set the number of copies, print magnification, image quality, and the like. It is also possible to instruct the execution of functions such as stapling and punching.

  In this example, as an example, various setting items when the “basic setting” tab is designated are displayed.

  The “OK” button 46 is a button for instructing execution of print settings for image data in accordance with display contents displayed on the print setting screen. The “Cancel” button 48 is a button for instructing the end of the print setting screen. In this example, it is determined that the print setting has been completed according to the instruction of the “OK” button 46, and the process for transmitting the second print job is started.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of transmission of a print job according to the first embodiment of the present invention. This processing is mainly executed by the CPU 101, and is realized by the function of the printer driver 210 described above.

  Referring to FIG. 9, first, CPU 101 determines whether there is a printer driver activation instruction (step S2). As described with reference to FIG. 7, it is possible to start the printer driver by designating file data to be printed displayed on the display 106 of the PC 100 and instructing printing by performing a predetermined operation. Shall. With this designation, the print setting screen shown in FIG. 8 is displayed.

  In step S2, if there is a printer driver activation instruction (YES in step S2), PDL data is created (step S4). Specifically, the PDL creation unit 212 of the printer driver 210 generates PDL data for the displayed image data by opening the file data.

  Next, the job identification number issuing unit 214 issues a job ID (step S6). Specifically, the job identification number issuing unit 214 issues a job identification number (ID).

  Next, the first print job is transmitted (step S8). Specifically, the first print job transmission unit 222 associates the PDL data generated by the PDL creation unit 212 with the job identification number issued by the job identification number issuance unit 214 as an MFP 10 as a first print job. Send to.

  Next, it is determined whether the setting is completed (step S10). Specifically, it is determined whether or not the setting on the print setting screen is completed, that is, whether or not the “OK” button 46 is instructed on the print setting screen 40.

  If it is determined in step S10 that the setting has been completed (YES in step S10), it is determined whether a change operation in the print setting has an effect on the PDL data (step S14). Specifically, the PDL change determination unit 216 determines whether or not the change operation in the print settings is to change settings such as print magnification and image quality.

  If it is determined in step S14 that the change operation in the print settings has an influence on the PDL data (YES in step S14), PDL data is created (step S16). Specifically, the PDL change determination unit 216 instructs the PDL creation unit 228, and the PDL creation unit 228 generates PDL data for the image data according to the changed print settings.

  Next, command data is created (step S18). Specifically, the command data creation unit 220 generates command data based on the contents of the print settings.

  Next, the second print job is transmitted (step S20). Specifically, the second print job transmission unit 224 includes the job identification number output from the job identification number issuing unit 214, the command data generated by the command data generation unit 220, and the PDL generated by the PDL generation unit 228. The data is associated and output to the MFP 10 as a second print job.

  Next, a PDL deletion instruction is transmitted (step S22). The PDL deletion instruction includes information on the job identification number of the print job to be deleted. This is an instruction for deleting the unnecessary first print job because the printing process is executed with the content of the second print job.

Then, the process ends (END).
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S14 that the change operation in the print settings does not affect the PDL data (NO in step S14), command data is created (step S24). Specifically, the command data creation unit 220 generates command data based on the contents of the print settings.

  Next, the second print job is transmitted (step S26). Specifically, the second print job transmission unit 224 associates the command data generated by the command data generation unit 220 with the job identification number issued by the job identification number issuing unit 214 as a second print job. Output to the MFP 10.

Then, the process ends (END).
Next, processing on the MFP 10 side will be described.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating print job print processing according to the first embodiment of the present invention. This processing is mainly processing executed by the CPU 11 of the MFP 10 in cooperation with other hardware.

  Referring to FIG. 10, it is first determined whether a print job has been received (step S30). Specifically, the CPU 11 determines whether a print job has been received from the PC 100 via the NIC 16.

  If it is determined in step S30 that a print job has been received (YES in step S30), it is determined whether a first print job has been received (step S32). The CPU 11 determines based on whether the data included in the print job is only PDL data.

  If it is determined in step S32 that the first print job has been received (YES in step S32), the PDL data is expanded and stored (step S34). The CPU 11 expands and stores the received PDL data in the RAM 12. When the second print job is received by this process and printing is started, the printer 18 can execute the print process at high speed.

Then, the process ends (END).
If it is determined in step S32 that the first print job has not been received (NO in step S32), it is next determined whether only command data has been received (step S36). Specifically, the CPU 11 determines based on whether the data included in the print job is only command data. That is, it is determined whether a second print job including only command data is received.

  If it is determined in step S36 that only command data has been received (YES in step S36), it is determined whether there is PDL data with the same job ID (step S38). Specifically, the CPU 11 determines whether or not PDL data with the same job ID is expanded and stored in the RAM 12.

  If it is determined in step S38 that there is PDL data with the same job ID (YES in step S38), print processing based on command data is executed on the developed PDL data (step S40). Then, command data is output to the printer 18 together with the developed PDL data, and the printer 18 executes print processing and the like.

Then, the process ends (END).
If it is determined in step S36 that only command data has not been received (NO in step S36), it is determined whether there is command data and PDL data (step S42). Specifically, the CPU 11 determines whether the data included in the print job includes both command data and PDL data. That is, it is determined whether a second print job including command data and PDL data has been received.

  If it is determined in step S42 that there is command data and PDL data (YES in step S42), a printing process based on the command data and PDL data is executed (step S44). Specifically, the PDL data received this time is expanded in the RAM 12, and command data is output together with the expanded PDL data, and the printer 18 executes a printing process or the like. That is, the PDL data previously developed in the RAM 12 is not used for printing processing or the like.

  If it is determined in step S42 that there is no command data and no PDL data (NO in step S42), the process ends (END). This is because there is a possibility of an improper print job.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S30 that a print job has not been received (NO in step S30), it is determined whether a PDL deletion instruction has been received (step S46). Specifically, the CPU 11 determines whether there is an instruction to delete the PDL data expanded in the RAM 12 in accordance with the reception of the first print job.

  If it is determined in step S46 that a PDL deletion instruction has been received (YES in step S46), PDL data with the same job ID is deleted (step S48). Specifically, the CPU 11 deletes the PDL data previously expanded in the RAM 12.

Then, the process ends (END).
If it is determined in step S46 that no PDL deletion instruction has been received (NO in step S46), the process ends (END).

  According to this method, when the first print job is transmitted first and developed in the RAM 12, when the second print job containing only command data is received, the printing process in the printer 18 is started immediately. And high-speed printing is possible.

  Further, even if there is a change operation accompanied by a change in the print magnification or image quality PDL data, the second print job based on the contents of the changed print setting is transmitted, so that the user desired print It is possible to execute processing.

(Embodiment 2)
In the first embodiment described above, a case has been described in which when the printer driver is activated, the first print job is generated by using the activation as a trigger, and the first print job is transmitted. If there are many operations, the transmission is likely to be wasted. Therefore, a method for efficiently transmitting a print job by determining according to history information whether there are many change operations that affect PDL data regarding print settings will be described.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of transmission of a print job according to the second embodiment of the present invention. This processing is mainly executed by the CPU 101, and is realized by the function of the printer driver 210 described above.

  Referring to FIG. 11, first, CPU 101 determines whether there is a printer driver activation instruction (step S2). As described with reference to FIG. 7, it is possible to start the printer driver by designating file data to be printed displayed on the display 106 of the PC 100 and instructing printing by performing a predetermined operation. Shall. With this designation, the print setting screen shown in FIG. 8 is displayed.

  In step S2, if there is a printer driver activation instruction (YES in step S2), CPU 101 next determines history information (step S60).

  Then, based on the determination result of the history information, it is determined whether or not the possibility of changing the PDL data according to the print setting is small (step S62).

  If it is determined in step S62 that the possibility of changing the PDL data according to the print setting is small (YES in step S62), PDL data is created (step S4). Since the subsequent processing flow is the same as that described with reference to FIG. 9, detailed description thereof will not be repeated.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S62 that the possibility of changing the PDL data according to the print setting is high (NO in step S62), a normal print job is created (step S64). Specifically, the second print job including the PDL data and the command data based on the print setting is created after waiting for the completion of the print setting according to the user operation instruction without transmitting the first print job. .

Then, the print job is transmitted (step S66).
Then, the process ends (END).

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating history information determination according to the second embodiment of the present invention. This process is mainly executed by the CPU 101 and is realized by the function of the printer driver.

  Referring to FIG. 12, the number of change operations related to PDL data is acquired (step S70). Specifically, it is assumed that the setting operation input of the user on the print setting screen is monitored as a function of the printer driver, and the number of change operations related to PDL data is counted. It is also assumed that the total number of times that the printer driver is activated and print settings are counted. For example, information such as the number of times may be stored in the HDD 104.

  Then, it is determined whether the number of PDL data-related changing operations is equal to or less than a predetermined ratio with respect to the total number of times set (step S72).

  If it is determined in step S72 that the number of PDL data-related change operations is less than or equal to a predetermined ratio with respect to the total number of settings (YES in step S72), the possibility of changing PDL data according to the print settings is small. It is determined that there is (step S74).

Then, the process ends (return).
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S72 that the number of PDL-related change operations exceeds the predetermined ratio with respect to the total number of settings (NO in step S72), the possibility of change related to PDL data according to the print settings is large. (Step S76).

Then, the process ends (return).
The PDL data-related change possibility is estimated based on the history information determination, and a print job is efficiently generated by determining whether to execute the processing described in FIG. 9 or to send a normal print job. And can be transmitted.

  In this example, the method of estimating the PDL data-related change possibility according to the print setting based on the number of PDL data-related change operations has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this method. It is good also as a method of estimating the change possibility. For example, in the case of an application with a high possibility of change, a normal print job may be generated, and in the case of an application with a low possibility of change, the process described with reference to FIG. 9 may be performed. Further, the same separation as described above may be performed for each file regardless of the application.

(Embodiment 3)
In the third embodiment, a configuration in which two selectable print modes are provided and the print mode can be changed according to a user operation instruction will be described.

  FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an operation when executing a printing process according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 13, a case is shown in which file data created using an application (here, application A) is displayed on display 106.

  In this example, a case where the user can instruct printing by designating the file data and performing a predetermined operation is shown.

  Specifically, by designating “file” and instructing “print” or “high-speed printing” displayed in a drop-down manner, the printer driver is activated and a print setting screen is displayed. In this example, two print modes are provided, and the respective print setting screens are different.

  When “high-speed printing” is instructed, the processing in FIG. 9 is executed. On the other hand, when “print” is instructed, the processing in steps S64 and S66 described in FIG. 11 is executed.

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart for displaying a print setting screen according to the third embodiment. This process is mainly executed by the CPU 101 and is realized by the function of the printer driver.

  Referring to FIG. 14, it is determined whether there is an instruction for a normal print mode (step S50).

  If it is determined in step S50 that there is an instruction for the normal print mode (YES in step S50), a normal print setting screen is displayed (step S52). Specifically, the print setting screen of FIG. 8 is displayed.

Then, the process ends (END).
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S50 that there is no normal print mode instruction (NO in step S50), it is determined whether there is an instruction for the high-speed print mode (step S54).

  If it is determined in step S54 that there is an instruction for the high-speed print mode (YES in step S54), a high-speed print setting screen is displayed (step S56).

Then, the process ends (END).
FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a high-speed print setting screen according to the third embodiment.

  Referring to FIG. 15, compared to the print setting screen of FIG. 8, the tab 42 for setting the print quality of the image quality is set so that it cannot be selected. That is, it is prohibited.

  Here, although not shown in the figure, it is assumed that the change operation is also prohibited for the setting item for adjusting the printing magnification.

  That is, the high-speed print setting screen is a print setting screen in which only the setting items that do not affect the PDL data can be changed.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of transmission of a print job according to the third embodiment of the present invention. This processing is mainly executed by the CPU 101, and is realized by the function of the printer driver 210 described above.

  Referring to FIG. 16, first, CPU 101 determines whether there is a printer driver activation instruction (step S2). In step S2, if there is an instruction to start the printer driver (YES in step S2), the CPU 101 determines whether it is the high-speed printing mode (step S70). Specifically, it is determined whether or not the “high speed printing” selection operation has been performed in FIG. 13.

  If it is determined in step S70 that the mode is the high-speed printing mode (YES in step S70), PDL data is created (step S4). Specifically, the PDL creation unit 212 of the printer driver 210 generates PDL data for the displayed image data by opening the file data.

  Next, the job identification number issuing unit 214 issues a job ID (step S6). Specifically, the job identification number issuing unit 214 issues a job identification number (ID).

  Next, the first print job is transmitted (step S8). Specifically, the first print job transmission unit 222 associates the PDL data generated by the PDL creation unit 212 with the job identification number issued by the job identification number issuance unit 214 as an MFP 10 as a first print job. Send to.

  Next, it is determined whether the setting is completed (step S10). Specifically, it is determined whether or not the setting on the print setting screen is completed, that is, whether or not the “OK” button 46 is instructed on the print setting screen 40.

  If it is determined in step S10 that the setting has been completed (YES in step S10), then command data is created (step S72). Specifically, the command data creation unit 220 generates command data based on the contents of the print settings.

  Next, the second print job is transmitted (step S74). Specifically, the second print job transmission unit 224 associates the command data generated by the command data generation unit 220 with the job identification number issued by the job identification number issuing unit 214 as a second print job. Output to the MFP 10.

Then, the process ends (END).
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S70 that the high-speed printing mode is not set (NO in step S70), a normal print job is created (step S76). Specifically, the second print job including the PDL data and the command data based on the print setting is created after waiting for the completion of the print setting according to the user operation instruction without transmitting the first print job. .

Then, the print job is transmitted (step S78).
Then, the process ends (END).

  With the print setting according to the high-speed print mode, the first print job transmitted in advance is not wasted, and high-speed print processing is possible in combination with the second print job transmitted later.

  It is also possible to provide a program that causes a computer to function and execute control as described in the above flow. Such a program is stored in a computer-readable recording medium such as a flexible disk attached to the computer, a CD-ROM (Compact Disk-Read Only Memory), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), and a memory card. And can be provided as a program product. Alternatively, the program can be provided by being recorded on a recording medium such as a hard disk built in the computer. A program can also be provided by downloading via a network.

  The program may be a program module that is provided as part of an operating system (OS) of a computer and that calls necessary modules in a predetermined arrangement at a predetermined timing to execute processing. In that case, the program itself does not include the module, and the process is executed in cooperation with the OS. A program that does not include such a module can also be included in the program according to the present invention.

  The program according to the present invention may be provided by being incorporated in a part of another program. Even in this case, the program itself does not include the module included in the other program, and the process is executed in cooperation with the other program. Such a program incorporated in another program can also be included in the program according to the present invention.

  The provided program product is installed in a program storage unit such as a hard disk and executed. The program product includes the program itself and a recording medium on which the program is recorded.

  The embodiment disclosed this time should be considered as illustrative in all points and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the description above, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.

  1 Printing system, 10 MFP, 11, 101 CPU, 12, 103 RAM, 14 Non-volatile memory, 15 Hard disk drive, 17 Scanner, 18 Printer, 19 Operation panel, 102 ROM, 106 Display, 109 Internal bus, 210 Printer driver.

Claims (6)

At least one information processing device for generating a print job according to the printer driver for the image data;
A printer that prints according to a print job generated by the information processing apparatus,
The information processing apparatus includes:
First print target data generating means for generating first print target data based on print settings preset in the printer driver according to activation of the printer driver for the image data;
First print job transmission means for transmitting a first print job including the generated first print target data;
Command data generation means for generating command data in accordance with print settings in accordance with a user operation instruction after the printer driver is activated;
Change determination means for determining whether a print setting according to the user's operation instruction is a print setting accompanied by a change in the first print target data;
A second unit that generates second print target data based on the changed print setting for the image data when the change determination unit determines that the print setting accompanied by the change of the first print target data has been performed; Printing target data generation means,
A second print job transmission unit configured to transmit a second print job including the command data or the command data and the second print target data based on a determination result of the change determination unit;
The printer is
Print job receiving means for receiving the first and second print jobs;
Data determination means for determining whether the second print job received by the print job reception means includes the command data, or the command data and the second print target data;
When the data determination unit determines that the command data is included in the second print job, the first print included in the first print job received by the print job reception unit When print processing based on the command data is performed on the target data and it is determined that the command data and the second print target data are included in the second print job, the command data and A printing execution unit that executes a printing process based on the second print target data. The information processing apparatus includes:
An identification number issuing means for issuing a job identification number;
The first and second print job transmission units transmit the first and second print jobs including the job identification number issued by the identification number issuing unit, respectively.
When the data determination unit determines that the command data is included in the second print job, the print execution unit of the printer is the same as the job identification number included in the second print job. The print processing based on the command data is executed on the first print target data included in the first print job received by the print job reception unit including the job identification number. Printing system.   When the data determination unit determines that the command data and the second print target data are included in the second print job, the printer includes a job included in the second print job. The printing system according to claim 1, further comprising a deleting unit that deletes the first print job received by the print job receiving unit including the same job identification number as the identification number. The information processing apparatus further includes a history storage unit that stores an operation history according to a user operation instruction after the printer driver is activated,
The first print target data generation unit is configured to first output the image data according to the operation history stored in the history storage unit based on a print setting preset in the printer driver according to activation of the printer driver. The printing system according to claim 1, wherein the printing target data is generated. At least one information processing apparatus for generating a print job according to the first or second print mode according to the printer driver for the image data;
A printer that prints according to a print job generated by the information processing apparatus,
The information processing apparatus includes:
In the first print mode, a first print target for generating first print target data based on print settings preset in the printer driver according to activation of the printer driver for the image data Data generation means;
First print job transmission means for transmitting a first print job including the generated first print target data;
A display showing multiple tabs for print settings,
In the second print mode, a second print target data is generated for the image data based on print settings corresponding to a user operation instruction on the display after the printer driver is activated. Print target data generating means;
In the first print mode, after the printer driver is started, in the print setting according to the user operation instruction from the display , the print setting accompanied by the change of the first print target data is not allowed. Prohibiting means for changing the screen display of the display ;
In the first print mode, after the printer driver is activated, command data is generated according to print settings corresponding to a user operation instruction set based on the screen display of the display changed by the prohibition unit. Command data generation means;
A second print job including the command data is transmitted during the first print mode, and a second print job including the second print target data is transmitted during the second print mode. Second print job transmission means for
The printer is
Print job receiving means for receiving the first and second print jobs;
Performing print processing based on the command data on the first print target data included in the first print job received by the print job receiving unit in the first print mode ; A printing system including: a print execution unit that executes a print process based on the second print target data included in the second print job received by the print job reception unit in the second print mode; . The information processing apparatus includes:
An identification number issuing means for issuing a job identification number ;
Data determining means for determining whether the second print job received by the print job receiving means includes the command data or the command data or the second print target data; Including
The first and second print job transmission units transmit the first and second print jobs including the job identification number issued by the identification number issuing unit, respectively.
When the data determination unit determines that the command data is included in the second print job, the print execution unit of the printer is the same as the job identification number included in the second print job. The print processing based on the command data is executed on the first print target data included in the first print job received by the print job receiving unit including the job identification number. Printing system .

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