EP0885733A2 - Printing system for labels - Google Patents

Abstract

The system includes a computer (18) having a data input device for inputting data defining an image to be printed onto a label, a processor, and a storage device. A tape printer (1) is connected to the computer, and receives image data from the computer to print the image onto an image receiving tape (54). A sheet printer (13) is also connected to the computer for receiving image data from the computer and printing it to a sheet with at least one label. The data processor is connected to the storage device, the data input device, the tape printer, and the sheet printer, and is operable to selectively send the image data to either printer, and to receive data from the input device which selects the printer to which the image data is sent.

Description

The invention relates to a label printing system that it the user allows you to define a label design and optionally on a single sheet printer or a tape printer.

Tape printing devices of the type with which the present invention is concerned known. You are working with one set up to take a picture Tape supply and a means for transferring an image to the tape. In a Embodiment includes a tape holder case or cartridge Stock of image receiving tape and a stock of image transfer tape. The Image receiving tape and the image transfer tape (ribbon) are in mutual Coverage led through a pressure zone of the pressure device. A with is a tape holder housing of the aforementioned type working printing device for example described in EP-A-0267890 (Varitronics, Inc.). With all of these The structure of the image receiving band is essentially the same for printing devices. The that is, it consists of an upper, image-receiving layer, which by means of an adhesive layer is attached to a releasable backing layer. After this the image or message has been printed on the tape, it is desirable cut off the printed part of the tape so that it can be used as a label can be. For this purpose, it is necessary to remove the removable backing layer detach from the image-receiving layer so that the image-receiving layer can be attached to a surface by means of the adhesive layer.

In another tape printing device such as described in EP-A-0322918 (Brother), a tape holder housing contains a supply of image receiving tape, a supply of image transfer tape and a supply of a self-adhesive Back band. The back side tape has an adhesive layer that adheres to the Image receiving layer is brought into contact, a carrier layer and a second adhesive layer, which is covered by a removable backing layer. The Characters are mirror images of the transparent image-receiving layer printed.

In addition to stand-alone pressure equipment, as described in the above State of the art described tape printing devices are also known, which are connected to a PC can, so that the user entered a large screen to view the Has label designs available. Such systems are e.g. in EP-A-644 506 (Brother) and in EP-A-680 010 or EP-A-580 321 (Esselte NV). It is computer software (sold under the name "Dymo Label Software") known that allows the user to create a label and use it a tape printer connected to the PC. The software also allows the user to create a label using a normal Cut sheet printer, e.g. a laser printer or an inkjet printer, can be printed out. This software therefore makes it possible to create a label printed out using the tape printer or laser printer can be. However, it is first necessary for the user to decide on which carrier he wants to print, i.e. on a tape or a label sheet. A Draft for an arch cannot be printed on a ribbon and a Draft for a ribbon cannot be printed on a sheet. If the User has selected the carrier incorrectly, the only way is the error fix to re-enter all the label data. However, this is time consuming, ineffective and annoying, especially when the same design is on a ribbon and a sheet should be printed out.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a label printing system which allows a design to be entered on a tape and on a Print sheets without having to enter the design twice and without complicated operations.

einen Computer mit Dateneingabemitteln zur Eingabe von Daten zur Definition des auf das Etikett zu druckenden Bildes, einem Prozessor und einem Speichermedium;

ein mit dem Computer verbundenes Banddruckgerät, das die Bilddaten vom Computer empfangen kann, um das definierte Bild auf ein Bildempfangsband zu drucken;

einen mit dem Computer verbundenen Einzelblattdrucker, der die Bilddaten vom Computer empfangen kann, um das definierte Bild auf einen Bogen mit mindestens einem Etikett zu drucken;
wobei der Prozessor mit dem Speichermedium, dem Dateneingabemedium, dem Banddruckgerät und dem Einzelblattdrucker verbunden ist, der Prozessor derart betreibbar ist, daß er die das Bild definierenden Daten in einem Speichermedium speichert, der Prozessor des weiteren derart betreibbar ist, daß er die Bilddaten wahlweise an das Banddruckgerät oder den Einzelblattdrucker sendet und daß er derart betreibbar ist, daß er Daten vom Dateneingabemedium empfängt, welche auswählen, ob die Bilddaten an das Banddruckgerät oder an den Einzelblattdrucker gesandt werden.

According to the invention, a label printing system is proposed which comprises:

a computer having data input means for inputting data defining the image to be printed on the label, a processor and a storage medium;

a tape printing device connected to the computer and capable of receiving the image data from the computer to print the defined image on an image receiving tape;

a cut sheet printer connected to the computer that can receive the image data from the computer to print the defined image on a sheet with at least one label;
wherein the processor is connected to the storage medium, the data input medium, the tape printer and the single sheet printer, the processor is operable to store the data defining the image in a storage medium, the processor is further operable to selectively apply the image data the tape printer or the cut sheet printer sends, and is operable to receive data from the data input medium which selects whether the image data is sent to the tape print device or the cut sheet printer.

Consequently, the new label printing system can print image data that is basically the same Define a label, but possibly of different sizes Send a tape printer or a cut sheet printer.

The original idea of the present invention is that once a particular Label type has been selected (e.g. a label for a 19 mm wide Tape) and the user has started designing the label, it less it is cumbersome to convert the selected label format to another (e.g. for a 32 mm wide tape or a 20 x 30 mm label on one A4 label sheet). The design performance is therefore retained. The invention will be particularly advantageous if e.g. the first type of label and -size was selected incorrectly, and the user takes a while to i.e. when the design of the label is almost complete. Hence if this type of conversion is possible, it’s less important which way Size and for which printer the label was designed. The user will always be able to get the current design in the right label size and convert to the correct printer type, regardless of which one Size and what type of printer was selected at the time when the Design of the label was started.

Further advantages of the invention are described in the subclaims.

It should be noted that barcodes cannot be scaled arbitrarily as they are can only be scanned when a certain size or density is reached is. The system according to the present invention scales those in the images contained barcodes so that the density achieved is closest to the density that would be achieved if the scaling factor for (the rest of) the image would be applied.

This also applies to the characters. As a result, the characters do not become arbitrary scaled, but to the next integer font size value, which is from Font is supported. The technical background for this is that software Codes for editing text and font characteristics only integer font size values support. There are also legible minimum sizes. In view of this fact is scaled so that the readable Minimum size is reached, even if the characters are otherwise (i.e. if the Scaling factor determined by the size of the original and the final label is taken into account) would be scaled to a smaller size.

The size of a second image based on a first image is determined by a scale factor determines when the size of the label on which the image is printed should be changed. This scaling factor can be defined that the format of the second image is different from the format of the first image (i.e. the size of the label material on which the label is to be printed) and by the Size of the label material on which the second image is to be printed depends on is. The computer determines the scaling factor accordingly and can Users ask if they enlarge or reduce the entered image accordingly want.

Alternatively, it would also be possible not to determine the scaling factor Size of the label material of the first label to use, but the size of the first picture. This means that the space needed for the first picture and the available space on the label on which the second image is printed, be used for dimensioning. If the first picture is smaller than that first label, but would fit on the second label, is a new dimensioning theoretically not necessary. This embodiment of the present invention guarantees consequently, an effective use of the available space on the second Label.

Information zur Version

Etikettendefinition

Etikettendaten

Objektdaten

The layout of a label file, ie the structure with which the data defining the label is stored in the storage medium, which can be a hard disk or a floppy disk, can contain four main parts:

Version information

Label definition

Label data

Object data

The version information contains information about the software version, i.e. about the upper and lower version used and the revision. So it can Software examine whether it can read the saved label file or Not.

Orientierung (wahr, wenn die Etikettenansicht = 90°, falsch bei normaler Etikettenansicht);

Etikettenfarbe (Hintergrundfarbe, mit der das Etikett auf dem Bildschirm dargestellt wird);

Etikettenhöhe;

Horizontaler Etikettenabstand (bei Verwendung von Etikettenbögen der Abstand zwischen den linken Rändern von angrenzenden Etiketten);

Zahl der Spalten (bei Verwendung von Etikettenbögen);

Etikettentyp (Verwendung eines Bandes oder von Etikettenbögen, bei letzterem wird auch zwischen Etiketten fürTintenstrahldrucker und Etiketten für Laserdrucker unterschieden);

Horizontaler Etikettenrand (bei Verwendung von Etikettenbögen);

Etikettengröße (unterscheidet zwischen A4 und Briefformat);

Vertikaler Etikettenrand (bei Verwendung von Etikettenbögen);

Zahl der Reihen (bei Verwendung von Eitkettenbögen);

Einheit (mm oder Zoll);

Etiketten ID (Etikettenidentität);

Vertikaler Etikettenabstand (bei Verwendung von Eitkettenbögen);

Etikettenbreite;

Auto-Breite (wahr, wenn die Länge eines auf ein Band zu druckenden Etiketts automatisch definiert wird, und falsch, wenn die Länge vorgegeben ist, d.h. vom Benutzer eingegeben wird);

Rundes Etikett (wahr, wenn das Etikett eines Etikettenbogens rund ist, falsch, wenn es rechtwinklig ist).

The label definition contains the following information:

Orientation (true if label view = 90 °, false for normal label view);

Label color (background color with which the label is displayed on the screen);

Label height;

Horizontal label spacing (when using label sheets, the distance between the left edges of adjacent labels);

Number of columns (when using label sheets);

Type of label (use of a tape or sheets of labels, the latter also distinguishing between labels for inkjet printers and labels for laser printers);

Horizontal label edge (when using label sheets);

Label size (distinguishes between A4 and letter size);

Vertical label edge (when using label sheets);

Number of rows (when using egg chain arches);

Unit (mm or inches);

Label ID (label identity);

Vertical label spacing (when using egg chain bends);

Label width;

Auto width (true if the length of a label to be printed on a tape is automatically defined and false if the length is predetermined, ie entered by the user);

Round label (true if the label of a label sheet is round, false if it is rectangular).

Regarding the orientation, we refer to our pending European Patent application 98101019.2, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference is recorded. The orientation provides information about whether the label is horizontal or rotated to display vertical text for the user make it more visible.

Datum, an dem das Etikett erstellt worden ist; Datum, an dem die letzte Änderung des Etiketts vorgenommen wurde;

Zahl der Unterbrechungen zum Wechsel des Farbbands;

Der folgende Teil wird N mal wiederholt, wobei N die Zahl der Unterbrechungen zum Wechsel des Farbbands ist:

Farbe des Farbbands;

Position der Unterbrechung zum Wechsel des Farbbands.

The label data can contain the following information:

Date the label was created; Date the label was last modified;

Number of breaks to change the ribbon;

The following part is repeated N times, where N is the number of breaks to change the ribbon:

Color of the ribbon;

Position of the break to change the ribbon.

The principle of breaks to change the ribbon is used in the British Patent application 9701306.4 and in the German utility model application 29722272.4, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference becomes. These interruptions allow the image to be printed to be divided into different ones Share sections to which different inks are assigned. The breaks extend vertically and divide these sections of each other.

Zahl der Objekte auf dem Etikett;

Verschiedene Objektarten, die von der Software unterstützt werden.

Finally, the object data define the objects, ie the parts of the image that are to be printed on the label. The following data is stored in this way:

Number of objects on the label;

Different types of objects supported by the software.

If three objects are to be defined on a label, this means that a 3 (i.e. an integer representing the value 3) is followed by three objects. Such Objects can be picture objects, line objects, text objects, barcode objects, etc. be, although various other objects are possible.

Art (die ein Bildobjekt angibt);

Dateiname des Bildes;

Höhe;

Linke Koordinate;

Bildname;

Name des Pfades;

Oberste Koordinate;

Breite;

Drehwinkel (0, 90, 180, 270°).

An image object can be defined as follows:

Type (indicating an image object);

File name of the image;

Height;

Left coordinate;

Picture name;

Path name;

Top coordinate;

Width;

Angle of rotation (0, 90, 180, 270 °).

Art (die ein Linienobjekt angibt);

Höhe;

Linke Koordinate;

Farbe der Linie;

Art der Linie (durchgehend, Strich-Punkt-Linie, usw.);

Linienbreite;

Linientyp;

Oberste Koordinate;

Breite;

Winkel (0, 90, 180, 270°).

A line object is defined as follows:

Type (indicating a line object);

Height;

Left coordinate;

Color of the line;

Type of line (solid, dash-dot line, etc.);

Line width;

Line type;

Top coordinate;

Width;

Angle (0, 90, 180, 270 °).

Art (die ein Textobjekt angibt);

Oberste Koordinate;

Linke Koordinate;

Breite;

Höhe;

Ausrichtung (links, Mitte, rechts);

Vertikaler Test (normaler oder vertikaler Test, wobei bei letzterem die Schriftzeichen um 90° gedreht sind);

Winkel (0, 90, 180, 270°);

Zahl der Schriftzeichen (N); die folgenden Linien werden N-mal wiederholt:

Schriftzeichen;

Font des Schriftzeichen;

Farbe des Schriftzeichen.

A text object can be defined as follows:

Type (indicating a text object);

Top coordinate;

Left coordinate;

Width;

Height;

Alignment (left, center, right);

Vertical test (normal or vertical test, in which the characters are rotated by 90 °);

Angle (0, 90, 180, 270 °);

Number of characters (N); the following lines are repeated N times:

Characters;

Font of the character;

Character color.

The principle of vertical text is detailed in the British patent application 9701429.4 and in European patent application 96111569.8. The content of these registrations is hereby incorporated by reference.

This object data thus contains information about where an image object is stored is, along with its relative position on the label and its Size. The processor reads this information and can display and display it accordingly Create print data. As already noted, other objects are also possible, e.g. Series or data objects (objects with consecutive numbering or dating and time), shape objects (framed objects), database objects (objects read from a database) and barcode objects.

Figur 1 eine Ansicht des Etikettendrucksystem mit Computer, Banddruckgerät und Einzelblattdrucker;

Figur 2 eine Ansicht, die zeigt, wie zwei Kassetten in das Banddruckgerät von Figur 1 eingelegt sind;

Figur 3 ein vereinfachtes Blockdiagramm der Steuerschaltung, die das Banddruckgerät von Figur 1 steuert;

Figur 4 das Menu, das auf dem Bildschirm des Computermonitors angezeigt wird, wenn das Etiketten Set-up Menu aktiviert wird;

Figur 5 den Bildschirm für die Eingabe, wenn ein Band zum Bedrucken ausgewählt wurde;

Figur 6 den Bildschirm für die Eingabe wenn ein Etikettenbogen zum Bedrucken ausgewählt wurde;

Figur 7 das Menu auf dem Bildschirm des Computermonitors, wenn die Größe des Etiketts verkleinert wird;

Figur 8 das Menu auf dem Bildschirm des Computermonitors, wenn die Größe des Etiketts vergrößert wird;

Figur 9 ein vereinfachtes Ablaufdiagramm, das zeigt wie die Etiketten eingegeben werden und wie ihre Größe verändert wird;

Figur 10 die wesentlichen Parameter, die die Größe und Position eines Objekts auf einem Bogen definieren;

Figur 11 die wesentlichen Parameter, die die Größe und Position eines Objekts auf einem Band mit vorgegebener Länge definieren;

Figur 12 die wesentlichen Parameter, die die Größe und Position eines Objekts auf einem Band mit nicht vorgegebener Länge definieren;

Figur 13 den Skaliervorgang.

The embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to the drawings. You show in

Figure 1 is a view of the label printing system with computer, tape printer and cut sheet printer;

Figure 2 is a view showing how two cartridges are loaded in the tape printing machine of Figure 1;

Figure 3 is a simplified block diagram of the control circuit which controls the tape printing device of Figure 1;

Figure 4 shows the menu displayed on the computer monitor screen when the label set-up menu is activated;

Figure 5 shows the screen for input when a ribbon has been selected for printing;

Figure 6 shows the screen for input when a label sheet has been selected for printing;

Figure 7 shows the menu on the screen of the computer monitor when the size of the label is reduced;

Figure 8 shows the menu on the screen of the computer monitor when the size of the label is enlarged;

Figure 9 is a simplified flow diagram showing how the labels are entered and how their size is changed;

FIG. 10 the essential parameters which define the size and position of an object on an arch;

FIG. 11 shows the essential parameters which define the size and position of an object on a belt with a predetermined length;

FIG. 12 shows the essential parameters that define the size and position of an object on a tape with a length that is not specified;

Figure 13 shows the scaling process.

Figure 1 shows the label printing system according to the invention. The label printing system comprises a computer 18 which has a keyboard 5 with a variety of buttons and a mouse 3 is connected. The computer is still with one Monitor 7, which has a screen 9 connected. To print custom Labels is a cut sheet printer 13 using the connecting cable 15 connected to the computer. The cut sheet printer 13 is a laser printer; it but could also be an inkjet printer, a dot matrix printer or a thermal printer be. Finally, the computer 18 is also equipped with a tape printing device 1 connected by the connecting cable 11. The tape printing device 1 is a thermal printer; it can be placed on an image receiving tape 54 located at the tape exit point of the housing 40 of the tape printing device 1 emerges, print. The computer 18 and the cut sheet printer 13 are well known, so that a detailed Description is not necessary.

The processor of the computer is set up so that when it is in operation can run the software to make the labels. This software enables it to create a label and selectively place it on the image receiving tape 54 or to print out the label sheet in the single sheet printer 13. The label sheet can be a single label or multiple labels of different types Size. The function of the computer software will be discussed in more detail below described.

Figure 2 shows the tape printing device 1 with two tape cassettes 50, 51, which in the Kassttenaufnahmeraum of the housing 40 of the tape printing device 1 are inserted. The cassette accommodating space 40 has a lid 41 which is normally closed is. Figure 2 shows the interior of the cassette accommodating space 40 with the one removed Lid 41. The cassette accommodating space 40 contains a thermal print head 42 and a counter-pressure roller 44, which is in a cage-like molded part 49 is rotatably mounted. The print head 42 can be pivoted about a pivot point 48, so that he for removing and replacing the cartridges 50, 51 in Contact can be brought with the counter-pressure roller 44. The first in the cassette room 40 inserted cassette is 50 in total designated. This cassette 50 contains a supply reel 52 of image receiving tape 54. The image receiving tape 54 contains an upper layer for receiving one printed image on one of their sides, while the other side with an adhesive layer is coated, on which a releasable backing layer is attached. The Image receiving belt 54 is passed through the cassette 50, through a Outlet O out of cassette 50 and past printing zone 46 to one Cutting point C. The counter-pressure roller 44 is in a recess 47 of the first Cassette 50 housed. The second cassette 51 contains a supply of ink ribbon 60 on a ribbon supply spool 56 and a ribbon take-up spool 58. The second cassette 51 also has a recess 45 for receiving the Print head 42. Image receiving ribbon 54 and ribbon 60 are arranged so that they overlap between the printhead 42 and the platen roller 44 are passed through. In particular, there is the one taking the picture Layer of the image receiving tape 54 in contact with the ink ribbon 60. Das Ribbon 60 is a thermal transfer ribbon that is activated when in contact with the or heated elements of the thermal print head 42 an image on the image receiving tape 54 generated.

The counter pressure roller 44 is driven by a motor 30 (see FIG. 3), for example a DC motor or a stepper motor, so driven by their Rotate the image receiving belt 54 in a direction parallel to the longitudinal extent of the image receiving belt 54 is guided through the printing zone 46. To this In the printing zone 46, an image becomes part of the image receiving belt 54 printed, which is then passed from the printing zone 46 to the cutting point C. By the rotation of the counter-pressure roller 44, the ink ribbon 60 is also from the Ribbon supply spool 56 past the printhead 42 to the ribbon take-up spool 58 transported. A cutter assembly 66 is provided which is a cutter support member 68 which carries a blade 70. The blade 70 acts against you Anvil 71

Printhead 42 is a thermal printhead that has a variety of printing elements. It should be noted that the image receiving band 54 can be printed with an image by means of the ink ribbon 60. Alternatively, the image receiving tape 54 can be made from a suitable heat sensitive Material exist, then the image can also directly from the print head 42 the image receiving tape 54 are transmitted. With a heat sensitive In this case, an image receiving tape 54 does not require an ink ribbon. It should be noted that a single cassette can be used, the ribbon and records the image receiving tape.

Figure 3 shows the basic control circuit for controlling the tape printing device 1 from Figure 1 and Figure 2. It contains a microprocessor chip 20 with a Read-only memory (ROM) 22, a microprocessor 24 and a random access memory, which is referred to in the drawing as RAM 26. The microprocessor 24 will controlled by programs stored in the ROM 22 and acts through them Control as control. The microprocessor chip 20 gives data for driving the Printhead 42, which prints the image receiving tape 54 with an image to a To produce the label. Finally, the microprocessor chip 20 also controls the motor 30 for the transport of the image receiving tape 54 through the tape printing device 1. The microprocessor chip 20 can also control the cutting device 66, so that the image receiving tape 54 can be cut off after having a Image was printed.

The microprocessor chip is connected to the computer by the connecting cable 11 and an interface 28 connected so that it entered into the computer Receives label image data. The connecting cable 11 can with the serial Interface of the computer can be connected, and the interface can be in a separate, intelligent cassette with the tape printing device connected is. This is reflected in our patent application EP 580 321 A, the content of which hereby incorporated by reference. The data can from the computer 18 to the microprocessor 24 using a communication protocol be transmitted. This is explained in our patent application EP 689 010 A. described, the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference. The Communication protocol can use compressed data, which allows the Increase data transfer speed and thus also the printing speed. In general, the image data in the form of bitmaps from the Transfer computer 18 to tape printer 1.

As already stated, the computer is operable to run a program for Can carry out production of labels; this program enables that Users to write a label and this optionally on the tape printing device 1 or to print the single sheet printer 13. It is desirable that Printing system to inform about how much space (length and width) is available is to create the image on the label so the design is executed can be that the size of the input image to the available space corresponds to the tape or the label sheet. To the size of the label too define (i.e. enter), the label setup menu is used, whose Screen surface is shown in Figure 4. This menu appears on the Screen 9 when the user opens a new label design or when the Size of the carrier on which the entered image data (i.e. its label design) want to be printed, want to change. If the Label Setup Menu, as in 4 is activated, the user can move the cursor 80 using the mouse 3 Move across screen 9 and activate various options.

First, the user can choose whether to put his label on a tape 54 (i.e., using a tape printing device 1) or on a label sheet (i.e. with the help of a single sheet printer 13) which is a label or a variety of labels contains. In the first case, the user moves the cursor 80 using the Mouse to the "Band" field 90 on the upper right side of the screen 9. If If the "Band" option is selected, field 90 ("Band") is marked so that the User can see that its design is now intended for printing on a tape is. Furthermore it is necessary (if "band" is selected) the desired one or to define the actual width of the image receiving tape 54 in the tape printing device 1. Therefore, field 91 is provided for entering the desired bandwidth. The tape printing device 1 of Figures 1 and 2 is set up so that it image receiving tape cassettes 50, with widths of 6, 12, 19, 24 and 32 mm can record. The user moves the cursor 80 to the desired one Bandwidth and activates it by e.g. the left mouse button prints. The selected bandwidth is indicated by a small dot in one of the circles on the left displayed next to the possible bandwidths. To avoid mistakes when the entered bandwidth and the actual bandwidth do not match (i.e. a very small image, e.g. defined for a 6 mm tape, is placed on a wide band printed, or a large image defined for a wide band is printed on a narrow ribbon so that only part of the image is on the ribbon is printed while the rest is being printed on the platen) is the tape printer 1 provided with means for determining the actual bandwidth. Such Means can comprise optical sensors which determine the strip as such (these are disclosed in EP 574 165 A) or mechanical switches (as in EP 592 198 A), which determine the corresponding dimensions of the cassette. The tape printing device 1 sends the determined information about the bandwidth via the connecting cable 11 to the computer 18. If the entered and the determined bandwidth does not coincide, an error message appears on the screen 9 output (e.g. when a print attempt is started) that the user informed that the tape cassette needs to be replaced. Alternatively it would be possible to do without entering the bandwidth and only the width of the tape actually inserted, which is displayed using the connecting cable 11, the microprocessor 24 and the described means for determining the Bandwidth is transferred to the computer 18. However, this would have been Disadvantage that the user only images for the tape cassette 50 just inserted could define and not for different bandwidths.

The user can also use field 92 to determine the length of the label choose. There are two options here. Corresponds in an automatic mode the length of the printed label the printed image plus an additional one Leading and trailing lengths determined by the printing and cutting mechanisms of the Tape printing device 1 is required. Alternatively, the user can have a fixed length for enter the entire label (or a fixed length only for the printed image, i.e. the length entered does not include the lead or lag length). Hence The cutter 66 cuts the printed label from the stock 52 of image receiving tape when the correct length is reached. To enter the label length, the cursor 80 is moved to the rectangle in front of "mm" in field 92 and the The desired length is entered using the numeric keys on the keyboard 5.

It is also possible to move the cursor to field 93 to change the color of the To determine the ribbon or ribbon. This only affects the Colors that appear on the screen, but not on those in the tape printer 1 inserted cassettes. It would be possible to color the actual image receiving tape or ribbon and use this information to to control the computer 18 so that the displayed and current Cover color or to use a cassette with a multicolor ribbon so that the image can be printed on the ribbon with the custom color (This would also allow you to select a background color so that the Color of the ribbon is also custom; see e.g. EP 764 545 A).

When the user define a label for printing on a label sheet , he can move the cursor 80 to field 94, which is marked "A4 Label "is marked and activate it by pressing the left mouse button. Then field 94 is marked. The size of the label (the one on the sheets is entered using field 95; the user moves the Cursor 80 to the rectangular fields and type in the correct size. In addition or alternatively it would be possible to give the user the most common label sizes to offer as an option.

It should also be noted that when field 94 is selected, it it is possible to remove the fields 91-93, which refer to the bandwidth, from the screen and the options related to label sheets, display. Accordingly, the options for labels on the single sheet printer 13 can be printed out, deleted from the screen when Field 90 is activated.

If the bandwidth (and possibly the band length) or alternatively the Size of labels is defined for label sheets, the user moves the cursor to field 96 to confirm the entries or to field 97 to confirm the new ones Clear entries and go back to previous entries or standard entries to return. Then a screen top is displayed, the displays available space on the label and which allows the desired image to enter. Because the space shown on the screen is the one for printing exists and the current label size correspond, the user can easily define a label.

The screen output 9, which is displayed on the monitor 7 when the user has selected a band is shown in Figure 5. The screen shows a central field, which is a WYSIWYG representation of the label. The image reception band 54 is represented by a field 101, which is in a larger Field 100 is located, which is displayed approximately in the middle of the screen 9. The Characters 102 entered are shown in the representation 101 of the volume. The vertical and horizontal lines that define input field 100 (or the lines that define the edges of the tape 101) can with Labels (i.e. a mm scale). The screen shows also a cursor 80 to determine where the entered characters or the picture elements are to be printed. The screen can also be used for Show users available editing options; but these are for reasons The clarity is not shown here, especially since it is the experienced user are already familiar. It is crucial that that on the Screen displayed image of tape 101 is a representation of the selected one Band, i.e. the width and optionally also the length of the displayed band correspond to the entered tape parameters. If the user has a Printing function, the input image is printed using the tape printer 1 printed on an image receiving tape 54.

When the user displays a label on the screen shown in Figure 4 selected a label sheet, appears to create the one to be printed Picture a screen as shown in Figure 6. The lines that outline the Define field 101, which represents the label, correspond to the entered Size parameters that have been defined with the screen of Figure 4. In addition can, as already described in FIG. 5, markings and processing options are displayed. The label defined by the user can be used with Using a single sheet printer 13 can be printed.

One aspect of the invention is that the software enables the size parameters change the entered label design and even a design on the Tape printer 1 and the single sheet printer 13 to print, although they are optional can have different sizes. This can be done with a label that is on the screen 9 is displayed, executed, or with a stored Label design that is retrieved from memory. If the user has the Want to change width or length or even change from a label for a tape to a Wants to switch label for a label sheet, he selects the label setup Menu (by moving the cursor to the correct option on the screen as in Figure 5 or 6), so that the menu of FIG. 4 is displayed again. Here the user changes the size parameters (or changes the printer from Tape printing device 1 to single sheet printer 13 or vice versa) according to the desired new size. Regarding the change from tape to label sheet it should be noted that there is a firm distinction between a tape label design and a sheet label design. It is with the described In principle, implementation of the invention is not possible on a tape label design print to a single sheet printer by changing the printer type, before the actual printing process begins. This is how a label design can only be printed on a tape printer, and sheet labels are exclusive assigned to a single sheet printer and can only be printed on this will. However, to make a tape label using a single sheet printer can print the label design into a sheet label design using the label setup menu be converted and vice versa. The final format (after conversion) defines what type of printer the design will be printed on can be.

If the size of the label has been changed, the user has two options have: He can leave the size of the picture as it was before, or he can scale it according to the new label size. For this reason appears one of two possible screen interfaces when the user changes the label size in the menu of Figure 4. If less on the new label Is space, i.e. when the length or the height have been reduced appears a screen surface, as shown in Figure 7. The test informs the user that the new label is smaller than the current one and the user asked what should happen to the current label design. The screen surface offers two options: the design can be scaled down proportionally (option 104) or the current size is retained (option 105). Of the User selects the desired option by moving cursor 80 in the circle, which is assigned to the desired option and then with the left one Click mouse button. Then he can make his setting in OK field 96 with the cursor Confirm 80 or delete it by selecting field 97 "Cancel". In in the latter case, it returns to the menu of FIG. 4. The two options are represented by images 106; it shows how the image size is reduced or is preserved in size. Depending on the option chosen, this will be Image proportional to the width or length of the previously and currently selected The size of the label is scaled. If the scaling parameters for the width and the Differ length, the smaller one is taken, so that the picture on the fits new label carrier.

If the space on the new label is larger, i.e. the length or height is increased a screen appears as shown in Figure 8. The text shares that User with that the new label is larger than the current one and asks him what should be done with the current label design. On screen 9 two options are displayed: the design can be enlarged proportionally (Option 107) or the current size can be kept (option 108). Of the User chooses the desired option by placing cursor 80 in the circle, which is assigned to the desired option and clicks it with the left mouse button.

Then he can confirm his setting by using the cursor 60 Press OK field 96 or delete the setting by pressing Cancel field 97 elects. In the latter case, he returns to the menu as shown in Figure 4. The two Options are represented by the images 109, which are an enlargement or a Show size. Depending on the option selected, this will be Image proportional to the width and length of the previously selected and the current one Enlarged label. If the scaling parameters for latitude and longitude are different the smaller one is used, so the label is definitely on fits the new label carrier.

As a result, the user can easily adjust the size parameters of the desired label redefine, the size of the image can be scaled accordingly. However, if the user desires, the size can be maintained. It it should be noted that the process described is currently entered Images can be executed or on images stored on a storage medium, e.g. a floppy disk, are stored and called up. For this reason the size of the label and the type of label (i.e. whether it is one on one Volume 54 or a sheet to be printed label) together with the Design of the label saved.

The function of the software is shown in Figure 9. When a new label is defined (step 110), the user first of all determines the size in step 111 and the label type (i.e. whether it is a tape 54 or a sheet printing label acts) defined. This means that the label set-up Menu from Figure 4 is displayed. It is then examined in step 112 whether the Length or width of the label have been reduced. The answer is no if the label is really new, i.e. if the parameters are not changed, but were entered for the first time. If the length or width does not decrease a check is made in step 113 whether the size has remained the same. If this is true, normal processing can take place (step 114), i.e. ever the screen surfaces from Figures 5 and 6 appear depending on the label type Step 113 reveals that the label has not kept its size, followed by step 115 in which the user can define whether the image should be enlarged, i.e. the screen surface from FIG. 8 is displayed. Step 116 examines which selection the user made and a normal editing with the same size if no enlargement is selected. Alternatively, if the user wants to enlarge the image, step 117 follows in which a proportional Enlargement takes place. This step is also followed by step 114 (edit). If step 112 results in the length or width of the label being reduced step 118 follows, in which the user is asked to determine whether the image should be reduced. That is, the screen of Figure 7 is displayed. This is followed by step 119, in which it is examined whether the user "zoom out" has chosen or not. Step 114 (edit) follows accordingly if none Reduction is selected, alternatively step 120 is performed in which the image is reduced proportionally. This step is also followed by step 114 Editing it is possible to select an option (step 121) with which the size or the type of label is changed; this step means that step 111 is executed again.

1. W = Breite des A4-Etiketts,

2. H = Höhe des A4-Etiketts,

3. x = x-Koordinate (horizontale Koordinate) eines Objekts,

4. y = y-Koordinate (vertikale Koordinate) eines Objekts,

5. p = Breite eines Objekts,

6. q = Höhe eines Objekts.

In Figure 10, the coordinates and the size of an object (ie part of the image) are shown on an arc. In order to define the size and type of the label (or to change these parameters), six parameters for converting a label are necessary for the label set-up function.

1. W = width of the A4 label,

2. H = height of the A4 label,

3. x = x coordinate (horizontal coordinate) of an object,

4. y = y coordinate (vertical coordinate) of an object,

5. p = width of an object,

6. q = height of an object.

The zero point (o) is the top left corner of the label on the sheet. He serves as the zero point for the x and y coordinates of the objects (parts of the image) on the Label.

1. W = Breite der auszudruckenden Fläche = Länge des Bandes - L (Vorlauf) - T (Nachlauf). Für den Fall, daß die Länge nicht vorn Benutzer definiert ist, sondern automatisch bestimmt wird, muß unterschieden werden, ob der Ursprung des Etiketten Set-up in Betracht gezogen wird, oder der Zielpunkt (d.h. das ursprüngliche oder das endgültige Etikett). Wenn der Ursprung in Betracht gezogen wird (s. Figur 12), reicht die Länge des Etiketts bis zum letzten Objekt. W wird vom Anfang des zu druckenden Teils bis zum letzten Objekt berechnet, wobei letzeres das Objekt ist, bei dem die Summe von x und p maximal ist. Im Beispiel von Figur 12 bedeutet dies: W = x4 + p4 Wenn andererseits das endgültige Etikett in Betracht gezogen wird, ist die Länge des Bandes theoretisch unbegrenzt, aber in Praxis durch einen Maximalwert, z.B. 1000 mm bestimmt (die maximale druckbare Länge auf einem bestimmten Banddruckgerät). W wird dann wie folgt berechnet: W = Länge des Bandes - L - T.

2. H = Höhe der auszudruckenden Fläche. Dies hängt von der Breite des Bandes ab. Für jede verfügbare Bandbreite wird eine Anzahl von Druckkopf Pixeln benutzt, so daß man ein gutes Bild erhält. Die Pixel stellen die Höhe der zu bedruckenden Fläche dar.

3. x = x-Koordinate eines Objekts, die sich auf den Nullpunkt (o) der auszudruckenden Fläche bezieht. Dieser Parameter entspricht x = xBand - L

4. y = y-Koordinate eines Objekts (das sich ebenfalls auf den Nullpunkt (o) des auszudruckenden Teils bezieht). Dieser Parameter entspricht y = yBand - (Obere Berandung der nicht zu bedruckenden Fläche) yBand - (Bandbreite - H)/2

5. p = Breite eines Objekts,

6. q = Höhe eines Objekts. Wenn Schritt 113 in Figur 9 ergibt, daß die aktuelle Größe beibehalten werden soll, sind die Transformationsformeln, die auf jedes Objekt (Teil des Bildes) angewandt werden müssen, wie folgt: pd = ps qd = qs xd = xs yd = ys Der Index s bedeutet Ursprung, der Index d bedeutet Zielpunkt. Wenn andererseits, eine proportionale Vergrößerung oder Verkleinerung (Schritte 117 oder 120 in Figur 9) nötig ist, sind die Transformationsformeln, die bei jedem Objekt verwendet werden müssen, wie folgt: pd = k · ps qd = k · qs xd = k · xs yd = k · ys Die Objekte und ihre Position müssen mit dem optimalen (d.h. mit dem größtmöglichen Faktor) reskaliert werden. Dieser Faktor darf nicht zu groß sein, da das Objekt sonst das Etikett überragen kann. Er darf nicht zu klein sein, da das Objekt sonst kleiner als nötig ist. Um den optimalen Skalierfaktor zu finden, müssen zwei solche Faktoren in Betracht gezogen werden, d.h. einer in horizontaler Richtung und einer in vertikaler Richtung. Das bedeutet, daß folgende Berechnung stattfindet: kH = Hd / Hs kw = Wd / Ws Durch den Faktor k_w wird erreicht, daß W_s genau auf das fertige Etikett paßt (horizontale Skalierung), und durch den Faktor k_H wird erreicht, daß H_s genau auf das fertige Etikett paßt. Um zu vermeiden, daß das Objekt größer als das Etikett ist, wird der kleinere der beiden Faktoren verwendet. In der Richtung, die dem gewählten k entspricht, paßt das Objekt genau, und in der anderen Richtung wird es maximal so groß sein, daß es paßt (in der Regel wird es kleiner sein). Wenn k kleiner als 1 ist, bedeutet dies, daß das Etikettendesign verkleinert wird (s. Figur 7), und wenn k größer als 1 ist, bedeutet dies, daß das Etikettendesign vergrößert wird (s. Figur 8).

Corresponding parameters for a label on a tape are shown in FIGS. 11 and 12. Not the whole label is considered here, but a "pseudo-label", which is defined by the areas to be printed on the label. The coordinates and the size of an object on the belt 54 are shown in Figure 11. Six parameters are necessary to convert a label:

1. W = width of the area to be printed = Length of the tape - L (lead) - T (lead). If the length is not defined by the user, but is determined automatically, a distinction must be made between whether the origin of the label set-up is taken into account or the destination (ie the original or the final label). If the origin is taken into account (see Figure 12), the length of the label extends to the last object. W is calculated from the beginning of the part to be printed to the last object, the latter being the object where the sum of x and p is maximum. In the example in FIG. 12, this means: W = x 4th + p 4th On the other hand, when considering the final label, the length of the tape is theoretically unlimited, but in practice it is determined by a maximum value, e.g. 1000 mm (the maximum printable length on a particular tape printing device). W is then calculated as follows: W = length of tape - L - T.

2. H = height of the area to be printed. This depends on the width of the tape. A number of printhead pixels are used for each available bandwidth so that a good image is obtained. The pixels represent the height of the area to be printed.

3. x = x coordinate of an object, which refers to the zero point (o) of the surface to be printed. This parameter corresponds x = x tape - L

4. y = y coordinate of an object (which also refers to the zero point (o) of the part to be printed). This parameter corresponds y = y tape - (upper edge of the area not to be printed) y tape - (bandwidth - H) / 2

5. p = width of an object,

6. q = height of an object. If step 113 in Figure 9 indicates that the current size should be maintained, the transformation formulas that must be applied to each object (part of the image) are as follows: p d = p s q d = q s x d = x s y d = y s The index s means origin, the index d means target point. On the other hand, if a proportional increase or decrease (step 117 or 120 in Figure 9) is necessary, the transformation formulas that must be used for each object are as follows: p d = kp s q d = kq s x d = kx s y d = k · y s The objects and their position must be rescaled with the optimal (ie with the largest possible factor). This factor must not be too large, otherwise the object can protrude beyond the label. It must not be too small, otherwise the object is smaller than necessary. To find the optimal scaling factor, two such factors must be considered, ie one in the horizontal direction and one in the vertical direction. This means that the following calculation takes place: k H = H d / H s k w = W d / W s The factor k _w ensures that W _s fits exactly on the finished label (horizontal scaling), and the factor k _H ensures that H _s fits exactly on the finished label. To avoid the object being larger than the label, the smaller of the two factors is used. In the direction that corresponds to the chosen k, the object fits exactly, and in the other direction it will be at most large enough to fit (usually it will be smaller). If k is less than 1, this means that the label design is reduced (see FIG. 7), and if k is greater than 1, this means that the label design is increased (see FIG. 8).

Claims (13)

Label printing system comprising: a computer (18) having data input means for inputting data defining an image to be printed on a label, a processor and a storage medium; a tape printing device (1) connected to the computer (18) which can receive the image data from the computer (18) to print the defined image on an image receiving tape (54); a cut sheet printer (1) connected to the computer (18) which can receive the image data from the computer (18) to print the defined image on a sheet with at least one label;
in which
the processor is connected to the storage medium, the data input medium, the tape printing device (1) and the single sheet printer (13), the processor can be operated in such a way that it stores the data defining the image in a storage medium, the processor can also be operated in such a way that he either sends the image data to the tape printing device (1) or the single sheet printer (13) and that it can be operated in such a way that it receives data from the data input medium, which select whether the image data is sent to the tape printing device or to the single sheet printer. Label printing system according to claim 1, wherein the processor is operable in this way is that it has data that is, in principle, the same picture, but possibly in different Size, define, on the tape printer (1) and on the single sheet printer (13) sends. Label printing system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the processor is operable in this way is that it has a format associated with the input image data in Storage medium stores, the format of the length and / or the width of the Image receiving medium on which the image is to be printed. Label printing system according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the processor is operable to be of a type associated with the input image data is stored in the storage medium, the type determining whether the image with the Tape printing device (1) or the single sheet printer (13) is printed. Label printing system according to claim 4, wherein the processor is operable in this way is that it prints the image data with a type that specifies that the image be printed on a tape in image data with a type that specifies that the image is on an arc printed, can convert. Label printing system according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the processor is operable in this way is that it has the image data with a type that specifies that the image is on a sheet is printed in image data with a type that specifies that the image printed on a tape, can convert. Label printing system according to one of claims 3 to 6, wherein the processor is operable to change the format of a first image into another, second Format can convert. Label printing system according to claim 7, wherein the processor is operable in this way is that it receives data from the input medium that determines whether the image is so scaled to fit the second format or whether it is its current size keeps. Label printing system according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the processor is operable in this way is that it can convert barcodes to a barcode density receive that comes closest to the image size, taking into account the Format of the first and the format of the second image would be achieved. Label printing system according to one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the processor can be operated in such a way that it converts the size of the characters entered, that a minimum test size is reached. Label printing system according to one of claims 7 to 10, wherein the processor is operable to format the image using scaling factors converted. Label printing system according to one of claims 7 to 11, wherein the size of the second picture in front of the format of the first picture and of the format of the second Image is dependent. Label printing system according to one of claims 7 to 11, wherein the format of the second image the size of the first image and the format of the second Image is dependent.

Images