CN105094714B - Printing data processing system, information processing unit and printing equipment - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a printing data processing system, an information processing device and a printing device. The print data processing system (101) of the present invention includes a plurality of print data distribution devices, and an information processing device that receives print data from the plurality of print data distribution devices, and the information processing device transmits The reception processing unit is activated, each of the reception processing units inquires of the corresponding print data distribution device whether the print data exists, and receives the print data when the print data distribution device exists. , saving the received print data to a shared storage area.

Description

Print data processing system, information processing device and printing device

technical field

The present invention relates to a print data processing system for processing print data, an information processing device usable in the print data processing system, and a printing device usable in the print data processing system.

Background technique

Conventionally, there is known a system in which one device is connected to another device via a network, and the one device transmits data to be distributed to the other device as a distribution destination via a network based on setting information acquired by a predetermined unit. (eg, Patent Document 1).

Also, conventionally, there is known a system in which a multifunction peripheral receives content from a server connected via a network (for example, Patent Document 2). Patent Document 2 proposes a technique for enabling high-speed pull-printing based on an instruction from a panel included in the multifunction peripheral in the above-mentioned system.

Patent Document 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2004-214731

Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2007-135047

Here, in a print data processing system that connects a print data distribution device that transmits print data and an information processing device that receives print data from the print data distribution device via a network similarly to the above-mentioned system, when a plurality of print data In the case of a configuration in which the distribution device is connected to the information processing device, there is a need to perform processing corresponding to this configuration so that the information processing device can efficiently receive print data from the print data distribution device. However, in the conventional print data processing system, there is a technical problem that it is difficult for an information processing device to efficiently receive print data from a print data distribution device.

In addition, after the print data distribution device becomes capable of transmitting print data, there is a need for the information processing device to receive the print data with as little time lag as possible. There is a technical problem that a time lag occurs after the print data can be sent.

In addition, when one or more printing devices are connected to the information processing device, and the information processing device outputs the print data received from the print data distribution device to the printing devices, the following needs exist. That is, although there is a need for the information processing apparatus to transmit the print data to one printing apparatus in the order received from the print data distribution apparatus when the information processing apparatus transmits the print data received from the print data distribution apparatus to the one printing apparatus, However, there is a technical problem that it is difficult to meet this demand.

Contents of the invention

The present invention is made to solve at least a part of the problems described above, and the invention can be implemented as the following forms or application examples.

[Application example] The print data processing system according to this application example includes: a plurality of print data distribution devices; and an information processing device that receives print data from the plurality of print data distribution devices. The print data distribution device activates the processing unit for reception, and each of the processing units for reception inquires whether the print data exists in the corresponding print data distribution device, and when the print data exists in the print data distribution device receiving, and storing the received print data in a shared storage area.

According to this application example, the information processing device sends a plurality of processing units for reception according to a plurality of print data distribution devices. Receive at the time, and save the received print data in the shared storage area. Therefore, the receiving processing unit can independently receive print data from the corresponding print data distribution device without affecting the processing of other receiving processing units, and the information processing device can connect to The structure of a plurality of print data distributing devices is used to efficiently receive print data.

In the print data processing system according to the above application example, when the reception processing unit of the information processing device stores the print data received from the print data distribution device in the storage area, other The reception processing unit stores the print data in the storage area.

According to this configuration, it is possible to prevent the print data received from one print data distribution device by the corresponding reception processing unit from being mixed with the print data received from another print data distribution device by the corresponding reception processing unit. stored in the storage area, and print data can be stored in the storage area in the order received.

In the print data processing system according to the above application example, the receiving processing unit of the information processing device may inquire about the print data at predetermined intervals, and the receiving processing unit may set the Specifies the value of time.

According to this configuration, it is possible to set the data for each print data in accordance with the specifications and requirements of the system so that the inquiry from the print data distribution device is higher for the print data that has a higher distribution priority and is requested to be processed quickly, such that the interval is smaller. The interval between interrogations of the Distributor.

In the print data processing system according to the above application example, the information processing device is connected to an external device, and distributes the print data including the identification information of the external device among the print data stored in the storage area. to the external device.

According to this configuration, the information processing device can transmit the print data received from the print data distribution device to the corresponding external device.

In the print data processing system according to the above application example, the information processing device has a printing unit that performs printing based on the print data, and the printing unit performs printing based on the content of the print data stored in the storage area. The print data of the identification information of the information processing device is used for printing.

According to this configuration, the information processing device can perform printing based on the print data received from the print data distribution device.

The information processing apparatus according to this application example activates a receiving processing unit for each connected external device, and the receiving processing unit inquires about the presence or absence of print data from the external device, and when the print data exists in the external device, receive at the time, and store the received print data in the shared storage area.

According to this configuration, when a print data processing system is constructed by connecting a plurality of print data distribution devices as external devices to an information processing device, the information processing device can perform efficient printing by connecting a plurality of print data distribution devices. data reception.

The printing device according to this application example has a printing unit that performs printing based on print data, activates a receiving processing unit for each connected external device, and the receiving processing unit inquires of the external device whether or not the print data exists. , receiving when the print data exists in the external device, and storing the received print data in a shared storage area.

According to this configuration, when a print data processing system is constructed by connecting a plurality of print data distribution devices as external devices to a printing device as an information processing device, the printing device can be configured by connecting a plurality of print data distribution devices. Efficient print data reception is performed.

The print data processing system according to this application example includes a printing device connected to the information processing apparatus, and the information processing apparatus has a management unit based on identification information contained in the print data stored in the storage area. to activate the output processing unit corresponding to the identification information, the output processing unit reads the print data stored in the storage area in the order received, and reads out the print data corresponding to the output processing unit. The print data of the identification information is output to the printing device.

According to this configuration, in the information processing device, based on the identification information included in the print data stored in the storage area, the output processing unit corresponding to the identification information is activated, and the output processing unit performs the output processing unit including the print data stored in the storage area. The print data corresponding to the identification information is read out in the order received, and output to the printing device corresponding to the identification information. As a result, the output processing unit transmits the print data to the corresponding printing devices in the order received, and when the information processing device transmits the print data received from the print data distribution device to the printing devices, it can be distributed in the order in which the print data is distributed. Devices send in the order they are received.

In the print data processing system according to the above application example, when the output processing unit corresponding to the identification information contained in the print data does not exist, the management unit of the information processing device restarts all In the output processing unit, the management unit of the information processing device does not activate the output processing unit when there is the output processing unit corresponding to the identification information contained in the print data.

According to this configuration, it is possible to prevent a plurality of output processing units from being repeatedly activated corresponding to one printing device.

In the print data processing system according to the above application example, when the print data including the identification information corresponding to the output processing unit does not contain the print data that has not been read out in the storage area, The output processing unit of the information processing device stops.

According to this configuration, when the reading of the print data from the storage area is completed for one output processing unit and processing by the one output processing unit is not required, it is possible to suppress The state of being activated unnecessarily is maintained.

In the print data processing system according to the above application example, the print data includes identification information of the printing device or identification information of the information processing device, the information processing device has a printing unit, and A print control unit that controls the printing unit, when the print data including the identification information of the information processing device has been stored in the storage area by the reception processing unit, the information processing device The management unit activates the output processing unit corresponding to the identification information of the information processing device, and the output processing unit corresponding to the identification information of the information processing device reads out The print data stored in the storage area is output to the print control unit including the identification information of the information processing device.

According to this configuration, the information processing device can process the print data that it should process in the order received and execute printing.

In the information processing device according to the above application example, the information processing device includes a management unit configured to start the association with the identification information based on the identification information of the external device included in the print data stored in the storage area. The output processing unit reads the print data stored in the storage area in the order received, and outputs the print data including the identification information corresponding to the output processing unit. to the external device.

According to this configuration, when a print processing system is constructed by connecting printing devices as external devices to the information processing device, the information processing device can transmit print data to the printing devices in the order received.

In the printing device according to the above application example, the printing device has a printing control unit that controls the printing unit based on printing data based on the print data contained in the printing data stored in the storage area, and a management unit The identification information of the external device or the identification information of this device is used to activate the output processing unit corresponding to the identification information, and the output processing unit corresponding to the identification information of the external device reads the stored data in the order received. The print data stored in the area, the print data including the identification information corresponding to the output processing unit corresponding to the identification information of the external device is output to the external device, and the The output processing unit corresponding to the identification information reads the print data stored in the storage area in the order received, and includes the print data corresponding to the output processing unit corresponding to the identification information of the own device. The print data of the identification information is output to the print control section.

According to this configuration, when a print processing system is constructed by connecting a printing device as an external device to a printing device as an information processing device, the information processing device can send print data to be processed by the printing device to the printer in the order received. The device, in addition, is capable of processing print data that should be processed by the information processing apparatus in the order received to perform printing.

The print data processing system according to the above application example includes a printing device connected to the information processing apparatus, and the information processing apparatus has a management unit based on the identification information included in the print data stored in the storage area. The output processing unit corresponding to the identification information is activated, the management unit reads the print data stored in the storage area in the order received, and outputs the read print data to all the read print data. The output processing unit corresponds to the identification information included in the print data, and the output processing unit outputs the print data input from the management unit to the printing device corresponding to the identification information.

According to this configuration, in the information processing device, the management unit activates the output processing unit corresponding to the identification information based on the identification information included in the print data stored in the storage area, and the management unit reads out the output processing units in the storage area in the order received. Stored print data, output the read print data to the output processing unit corresponding to the identification information contained in the read print data, and the output processing unit outputs the print data input from the management unit to the corresponding identification information printing device. Thus, the output processing unit transmits the print data to the corresponding printing device in the order received, and when the information processing apparatus transmits the print data received from the print data distribution device to the printing device, it can distribute the print data from the print data to the printing device. Devices send in the order they are received.

In the print data processing system according to the above application example, the management unit of the information processing device, from outputting the print data to the output processing unit corresponding to one piece of identification information, to based on the outputted The next print data is not output to the output processing unit corresponding to the one piece of identification information until the processing of the print data by the printing device ends.

According to this configuration, the management unit can transmit the next print data to the output processing unit after printing based on the print data is completed.

In the information processing device according to the above application example, the information processing device includes a management unit that activates an external device corresponding to the identification information based on the identification information of the external device included in the print data stored in the storage area. an output processing unit, wherein the management unit reads the print data stored in the storage area in the order received, and outputs the print data to a computer corresponding to the identification information included in the read print data. The output processing unit that outputs the print data input from the management unit to the external device corresponding to the identification information.

According to this configuration, when a print processing system is constructed by connecting printing devices as external devices to the information processing device, the information processing device can transmit print data to the printing devices in the order received.

In the printing device according to the above application example, the printing device has a printing control unit that controls the printing unit based on the printing data, and a management unit configured based on the printing data stored in the storage area. The identification information of the included external device or the identification information of the own device activates the output processing unit corresponding to the identification information, the management unit reads the print data stored in the storage area in the order received, and converts the The print data is output to the output processing unit corresponding to the identification information contained in the read print data, and the output processing unit corresponding to the identification information of the external device receives the The input print data is output to the external device corresponding to the identification information, and the output processing unit corresponding to the identification information of the own device outputs the print data input from the management unit to the external device. the print control section described above.

According to this configuration, when a print processing system is constructed by connecting a printing device as an external device to a printing device as an information processing device, the information processing device can send print data to be processed by the printing device to the printer in the order received. The device, in addition, is capable of performing printing by processing the print data that the information processing apparatus should process in the order received.

The reception processing unit of the information processing device according to the above application example inquires the print data distribution device of the existence of the print data at predetermined intervals regardless of whether printing based on the received print data is completed. None, when the response to the inquiry indicates that the print data exists, the receiving processing unit of the information processing device executes a process of requesting the print data distribution device to transmit the print data and receiving the print data. First deal.

According to this configuration, the information processing device inquires of the print data distribution device whether there is print data regardless of whether printing based on the received print data is completed, and receives the print data if there is print data. Therefore, the information processing device can inquire about the presence or absence of print data regardless of the status of processing based on the print data, and the time from when the print data distribution device becomes able to transmit the print data to when the information processing device receives the print data can be shortened.

In the print data processing system according to the above application example, when the receiving processing unit of the information processing device finishes printing based on the received print data, it transmits a print completion notification notifying the fact to In the print data distribution device, when the print data distribution device receives the print completion notification, it stores the corresponding print data in association with the information indicating that the print has been completed, When the information processing apparatus inquires about the presence or absence of the print data, if there is the print data that is not associated with the information indicating that the printing has been completed, it transmits a response indicating that the print data exists. The reception processing unit of the information processing device requests the print data distribution device to transmit the print data and receives the received response when receiving a response indicating that the print data exists from the print data distribution device. If the newly received print data is compared with the previously received print data and the data matches, the newly received print data is discarded.

According to this configuration, the print data distribution device transmits the print data for which the print completion notification has not been received to the information processing device when there is an inquiry about the print data. Therefore, the print data distribution device may repeatedly send the same print data. When the information processing apparatus receives print data, since the newly received print data is discarded when the newly received print data matches the previously received print data, it is possible to prevent Repeat processing.

In the print data processing system according to the above application example, the reception processing unit of the information processing device changes an interval of inquiring about the presence or absence of the print data according to the frequency of discarding the print data.

According to this configuration, when the interval of inquiring print data is shorter than the time required for printing based on the print data and print data is frequently discarded, the interval can be adjusted to eliminate this state.

In the print data processing system according to the above application example, the reception processing unit of the information processing device stores the received print data in a predetermined storage area, and makes the query The interval between the presence and absence of the above-mentioned print data changes.

According to this configuration, it is possible to adjust the time to inquire about the print data according to the state of the storage area such as the state of the free area of the storage area, and it is possible to suppress the occurrence of overflow or the like.

In the print data processing system according to the above application example, the reception processing unit of the information processing device can execute not to perform any processing between the reception of the print data and the completion of printing based on the print data. The inquiring about the presence or absence of the print data is a second process of inquiring after the printing is completed, and the first process and the second process can be switched.

According to this configuration, it is possible to switch between the first processing and the second processing according to the specifications of the print data processing system or the like.

The print data processing system according to the above application example includes a printing device that communicates with the information processing device, the information processing device has an output unit that transmits the received print data to the printing device, and the information processing device The receiving processing unit of the device inquires of the print data distribution device whether or not the print data exists at predetermined intervals regardless of whether printing by the printing device based on the received print data is completed. .

According to this configuration, since the information processing device inquires of the print data distribution device whether or not there is print data irrespective of the processing status of the connected printing device, it is possible to shorten the time to information processing after the print data distribution device becomes capable of sending print data. The time elapsed until the device receives print data.

In the print data processing system according to the above application example, the information processing device has a printing unit that performs printing based on the print data, and the reception processing unit of the information processing device is associated with the received printing data. Whether or not the print data is printed by the printing unit is completed is inquired at predetermined intervals to the print data distribution device.

According to this configuration, since the information processing device inquires of the print data distribution device whether or not there is print data regardless of the processing status of the printing unit, it is possible to shorten the time required for the information processing device to receive print data after the print data distribution device becomes capable of sending print data. The time since the data was generated.

In the information processing device according to the above application example, the information processing device inquires the external device device about the print data at predetermined intervals regardless of whether printing based on the print data received from the external device is completed The information processing apparatus requests the external device to transmit the print data and receives the print data when the response to the inquiry indicates that the print data exists.

According to this configuration, when the information processing device is connected to the external device corresponding to the print data distribution device, the information processing device inquires of the external device whether or not the print data exists regardless of whether printing based on the received print data is completed, Receive with print data available. Therefore, the information processing device can inquire about the presence or absence of print data regardless of the status of processing based on the print data, and the time from when the external device becomes capable of transmitting print data to when the information processing device receives the print data can be shortened.

The printing apparatus according to the above-mentioned application example includes a receiving processing unit that opens a predetermined period regardless of whether printing by the printing unit based on the print data received from the external device is completed or not. Inquiring the external device of the existence of the print data at intervals, and when a response to the inquiry indicates that the print data exists, the reception processing unit requests the external device to transmit and receive the print data. The print data.

According to this configuration, when the printing device corresponding to the information processing device is connected to the external device corresponding to the print data distribution device, the printing device inquires the external device of the print data regardless of whether printing based on the received print data is completed. The presence or absence of the print data is received. Therefore, the printing device can inquire about the presence or absence of print data regardless of the status of processing based on the print data, and it is possible to shorten the time required for the printing device to receive the print data after the external device becomes able to transmit the print data.

Description of drawings

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a print data processing system according to the present embodiment.

Fig. 2 is a network diagram of the print data processing system.

3 is a functional block diagram of devices constituting the print data processing system.

FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram of devices constituting the print data processing system.

Fig. 5 is a functional block diagram of main parts that control the printer.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a user interface.

7(A) shows the operation of controlling the printer, and (B) is a flowchart showing the operation of the print data distribution server.

8(A) and (B) show the operation of the control printer, and (C) is a flowchart showing the operation of the first printer.

Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing the operation of controlling the printer.

Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of controlling the printer.

Fig. 11 is a network diagram of the print data processing system.

FIG. 12 is a functional block diagram of devices constituting the print data processing system.

FIG. 13 is a functional block diagram of devices constituting the print data processing system.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a data structure of a print data storage database.

Fig. 15 is a functional block diagram of main parts that control the printer.

Fig. 16 is a diagram showing a user interface.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the operation of controlling the printer when executing asynchronous processing.

FIG. 18(A) shows the operation of controlling the printer when asynchronous processing is executed, and FIG. 18(B) is a flowchart showing the operation of the print data distribution server.

Fig. 19(A) shows the operation of controlling the printer when asynchronous processing is executed, and Fig. 19(B) is a flowchart showing the operation of the print data distribution server.

FIG. 20(A) shows the operation of controlling the printer when executing the synchronization process, and FIG. 20(B) is a flowchart showing the operation of the print data distribution server.

21(A) and (B) show the operation of the control printer, and (C) is a flowchart showing the operation of the first printer.

Fig. 22 is a flowchart showing the operation of controlling the printer.

Fig. 23 is a flowchart showing the operation of controlling the printer.

Detailed ways

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a part of a print data processing system 1 according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 1 schematically shows a situation in which a print data processing system 1 (see FIGS. 2 and 3 ) is applied to a restaurant T that provides drinks and food to customers who visit the store.

The restaurant T shown in FIG. 1 is divided into a lobby T1 and a kitchen T2.

The lobby T1 is an area where customers who arrive at the store stay, and a person in charge of the lobby T1 (hereinafter referred to as "the lobby person in charge") provides services such as providing drinks to the customers. In the hall T1, a plurality of tables TB on which meals and the like can be placed are provided, and chairs CH on which customers can sit are provided corresponding to each table TB.

The tablet terminal 10 (see FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 ) used when accepting orders from customers is given to the hall person in advance. In the lobby T1, when an order is received from a customer, a lobby person in charge comes near the customer, listens to the customer's order, and makes an input corresponding to the order on the tablet terminal 10 . The configuration and processing of the tablet terminal 10 will be described later.

In addition, in the lobby T1, a checkout counter LC where customers pay is provided near the entrance DG. The checkout counter LC is provided with a control printer SP (information processing device, printing device) as a printer capable of issuing receipts, and a first printer KP1 (printing device) as a printer capable of issuing receipts. At the checkout counter LC, a first POS terminal PT1 and a second POS terminal PT2 are provided corresponding to the control printer SP and the first printer KP1, respectively. At the checkout counter LC, the hall person in charge performs an input corresponding to the checkout to the first POS terminal PT1 or the second POS terminal PT2 according to the checkout of the customer. According to the input corresponding to the checkout by the person in charge of the hall, a receipt on which the information related to the checkout is printed is issued from the control printer SP or the first printer KP1. The lobby person passes the receipt issued by the control printer SP or the first printer KP1 to the customer. The configuration and processing of the control printer SP, the first printer KP1, the first POS terminal PT1, and the second POS terminal PT2 will be described later.

The kitchen T2 is an area where the person in charge of the kitchen T2 (hereinafter referred to as "kitchen person in charge") prepares drinks and food (hereinafter referred to as "drinks"), and is equipped with a drink bar, a gas stove, a refrigerator, and the like. A second printer KP2 (printing device) and a third printer KP3 (printing device) are provided in the kitchen T2. When the person in charge of the hall has input corresponding to the order on the tablet terminal 10 according to the customer's order, the second printer KP2 or the third printer KP3 issues a point on which the information related to the ordered food is printed. Meal summons. The information on food and drink is information indicating the type of food and drink ordered and the quantity of food and drink ordered. The person in charge of the kitchen makes the food and drink ordered by the customer by referring to the order slip issued by the second printer KP2 or the third printer KP3. The configuration and processing of the second printer KP2 and the third printer KP3 will be described later.

FIG. 2 is a network diagram of the print data processing system 1 according to this embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 2 , the control printer SP included in the print data processing system 1 is connected to a wide area network WN including networks such as the Internet and a telephone network.

In addition, the tablet terminal 10 assigned to the lobby person is connected to the wide area network WN.

In addition, the print data processing system 1 includes a first print data distribution server SV1 (print data distribution device), a second print data distribution server SV2 (print data distribution device), and a third print data distribution server SV3 (print data distribution device). . Hereinafter, when expressing the first print data distribution server SV1 , the second print data distribution server SV2 , and the third print data distribution server SV3 without distinction, they are expressed as "print data distribution server SV". A plurality of print data distribution servers SV are connected to the wide area network WN.

The control printer SP, the tablet terminal 10, and the print data distribution server SV can communicate with each other via the wide area network WN.

As shown in FIG. 2, the control printer SP is connected to a local area network LN conforming to Ethernet (registered trademark). The first printer KP1, the second printer KP2, and the third printer KP3 are connected to the local area network LN. The control printer SP, the first printer KP1 , the second printer KP2 , and the third printer KP3 can communicate with each other via the local area network LN.

3 is a diagram showing the functional configurations of the first print data distribution server SV1, the second print data distribution server SV2, and the third print data distribution server SV3, the tablet terminal 10, the first POS terminal PT1, and the second POS terminal PT2. block diagram.

As shown in FIG. 3 , the first print data distribution server SV1 includes a first server control unit 201 , a first server communication unit 211 , and a first server storage unit 221 .

The first server control unit 201 includes a CPU, ROM, RAM, etc., and controls the first print data distribution server SV1.

The first server communication unit 211 communicates with other devices connected to the wide area network WN in accordance with a predetermined communication standard under the control of the first server control unit 201 .

The first server storage unit 221 includes a nonvolatile memory and stores data.

The configurations of the second print data distribution server SV2 and the third print data distribution server SV3 are the same as those of the first print data distribution server SV1. The second print data distribution server SV2 includes a second server control unit 202 , a second server communication unit 212 , and a second server storage unit 222 . The third print data distribution server SV3 includes a third server control unit 203 , a third server communication unit 213 , and a third server storage unit 223 .

In this embodiment, the first print data distribution server SV1 , the second print data distribution server SV2 , and the third print data distribution server SV3 are each independent server devices. However, this configuration is not necessarily required. For example, server software may be installed in one server device corresponding to the print data distribution server SV, and one server device may serve as the first print data distribution server SV1 and the second print data distribution server SV1. The distribution server SV2 and the third print data distribution server SV3 function.

The tablet terminal 10 is a tablet-type portable computer provided with a touch panel 31 on the front.

As shown in FIG. 3 , the tablet terminal 10 includes a terminal control unit 30 , a touch panel 31 , a terminal storage unit 32 , and a terminal communication unit 33 .

The terminal control unit 30 includes a CPU, ROM, RAM, etc., and controls the tablet terminal 10 . The terminal control unit 30 has an application execution unit 30a as a functional block. The function of the application execution unit 30a will be described later.

The touch panel 31 includes a display panel 31a and a touch sensor 31b. The display panel 31 a includes a liquid crystal display panel, an organic EL display panel, or the like, and displays images under the control of the terminal control unit 30 . The touch sensor 31 b is arranged superimposed on the display panel 31 a , detects a touch operation by a user (in this example, a person in charge of a hall), and outputs it to the terminal control unit 30 .

The terminal storage unit 32 includes a nonvolatile memory, and stores data.

The terminal communication unit 33 communicates with other devices connected to the wide area network WN in accordance with a predetermined communication standard under the control of the terminal control unit 30 .

The first POS terminal PT1 and the second POS terminal PT2 are computers having the following functions. The first POS terminal PT1 and the second POS terminal PT2 have a function of communicating with other devices connected to the wide area network WN. Moreover, the 1st POS terminal PT1 and the 2nd POS terminal PT2 have the function which accepts the input corresponding to a checkout, and generates the information related to a checkout based on an input.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the control printer SP, the first printer KP1, the second printer KP2, and the third printer KP3.

The control printer SP, the first printer KP1, the second printer KP2, and the third printer KP3 are thermal printers.

As shown in FIG. 4 , the control printer SP includes a control printer control unit 40 , a control printer printing unit 41 (printing unit), a control printer storage unit 42 , a WAN communication unit 43 , and a LAN communication unit 44 .

The control printer control unit 40 includes a CPU, ROM, RAM, etc., and controls the control printer SP. Control The printer control unit 40 includes a reception unit 40a, an output unit 40b, and a print control unit 40c as functional blocks. These functional blocks will be described later.

The control printer printing unit 41 is provided with a storage unit for accommodating heat-sensitive roll paper, a conveyance unit for conveying the heat-sensitive roll paper stored in the storage unit, and a thermal sensor for forming dots on the heat-sensitive roll paper conveyed in the conveyance unit. A type head, and a cutting part for cutting heat-sensitive roll paper.

The control printer storage unit 42 includes a nonvolatile memory, and stores data.

The wide area network communication unit 43 communicates with other devices connected to the wide area network WN in accordance with a predetermined communication standard under the control of the printer control unit 40 .

The LAN communication unit 44 communicates with the first printer KP1 , the second printer KP2 , and the third printer KP3 connected to the local area network LN in accordance with a predetermined communication standard under the control of the printer control unit 40 .

The first printer KP1 includes a first control unit 501 , a first communication unit 511 , and a first printing unit 521 .

The first control unit 501 includes a CPU, ROM, RAM, etc., and controls the first printer KP1.

The first communication unit 511 communicates with the control printer SP connected to the local area network LN in accordance with a predetermined communication standard under the control of the first control unit 501 .

The first printing unit 521 has a storage unit for storing heat-sensitive roll paper, a transport unit for transporting the heat-sensitive roll paper stored in the storage unit, and a thermal sensor for forming dots on the heat-sensitive roll paper transported in the transport unit. A type head, and a cutting part for cutting heat-sensitive roll paper.

The configurations of the second printer KP2 and the third printer KP3 are the same as those of the first printer KP1. The second printer KP2 includes a second control unit 502 , a second communication unit 512 , and a second printing unit 522 . The third printer KP3 includes a third control unit 503 , a third communication unit 513 , and a third printing unit 523 .

In the following description, when the first printer KP1 , the second printer KP2 , and the third printer KP3 are not distinguished, they are expressed as "printer KP".

Next, the first POS terminal PT1 and the first print data distribution server SV1 in the case where the user (in this example, the person in charge of the lobby) has made an input corresponding to the payment to the first POS terminal PT1 according to the payment of the customer. actions are described.

When there is an input corresponding to payment, the first POS terminal PT1 generates payment-related information (hereinafter referred to as "payment-related information") based on the input. The checkout-related information includes information printed on the receipt, such as the name of the food and drink ordered by the customer, the unit price, the quantity ordered, the total payment amount, change, and tax-related information. That is, the first POS terminal PT1 performs checkout, and generates checkout-related information every time the checkout is confirmed.

Next, the first POS terminal PT1 transmits the generated billing-related information and the identification information of the control printer SP to the first print data distribution server SV1. The identification information of the control printer SP is information for identifying the control printer SP, such as a serial number assigned to the control printer SP at the manufacturing stage of the control printer SP. As described above, when an input corresponding to payment is made to the first POS terminal PT1, a corresponding receipt is issued by the control printer SP. The first POS terminal PT1 transmits the identification information of the printer (in this example, the control printer SP) that issues the receipt printed with the payment-related information together with the payment-related information when sending the payment-related information. Among them, information necessary for the first POS terminal PT1 to communicate with the first print data distribution server SV1, such as the address of the first print data distribution server SV1, various protocols used for communication, and the format of data to be sent, is registered in advance. In the state of the first POS terminal PT1. The first POS terminal PT1 and the first print data distribution server SV1 establish a connection (connection) conforming to a prescribed communication standard, and use the connection to transmit billing-related information.

The first server control unit 201 of the first print data distribution server SV1 controls the first server communication unit 211 to receive billing-related information and identification information of the control printer SP.

Next, the first server control unit 201 generates receipt print data (print data) based on the received billing-related information and the identification information of the control printer SP, and stores it in the first server storage unit 221 .

The receipt print data is an XML (Extensible Markup Language) file instructing to issue a receipt on which billing-related information is printed. The receipt print data describes necessary information such as identification information of a printer that performs printing, information related to billing, information about a location where information included in the information related to billing is printed, and the like in accordance with the XML protocol.

In this way, when the first print data distribution server SV1 receives billing-related information from the first POS terminal PT1 , it generates and stores receipt print data based on the billing-related information.

The same applies to the operations of the second POS terminal PT2 and the first print data distribution server SV1 when the user (the lobby person in this example) makes an input corresponding to the payment to the second POS terminal PT2 according to the customer's payment.

That is, the second POS terminal PT2 generates billing-related information according to the billing, and sends the generated billing-related information and the identification information of the first printer KP1 that issues a receipt to the first print data distribution server SV1. The first print data distribution server SV1 generates receipt print data based on the received billing-related information and the identification information of the first printer KP1 , and stores the receipt print data in the first server storage unit 221 . The receipt print data includes identification information of the first printer KP1.

To sum up, the first POS terminal PT1 and the second POS terminal PT2 generate billing related information according to the billing, and send it to the first print data distribution server SV1.

Here, the usage method of the receipt print data stored in the first server storage unit 221 will be described later.

Next, the tablet terminal 10, the second print data distribution server SV2, and the third print data distribution server for the case where the user (in this example, the person in charge of the lobby) has entered the tablet terminal 10 corresponding to the customer's order The operation of the server SV3 will be described.

In this embodiment, a plurality of tablet terminals 10 are assigned to a plurality of lobby operators. A dedicated application program AP is preinstalled in the tablet terminal 10 . The lobby person activates the application program AP before listening to the customer's order.

The application execution unit 30a of the terminal control unit 30 of the tablet terminal 10 is a functional module that reads and executes the application program AP through hardware resources such as a CPU to realize its function.

The application execution unit 30a of the terminal control unit 30 of the tablet terminal 10 displays a user interface (hereinafter referred to as “order UI”) for an input corresponding to an order by the user on the display panel 31a. The order UI includes an area for selecting the food and drink ordered by the customer and an area for selecting the quantity of the food and drink ordered by the customer, and the user can touch the touch panel 31 to input the food and drink ordered by the customer and the quantity.

When there is an input corresponding to the order in the order UI, the application execution unit 30a generates information related to the order (hereinafter referred to as "order-related information") based on the input. The order-related information includes at least information indicating the name of one or more food items ordered by the customer and the number of food items ordered.

Next, the application execution unit 30a transmits the generated order-related information and the identification information of the printer that issued the order slip based on the order-related information to the second print data distribution server SV2 and the third print data distribution server. A print data distribution server SV set in advance in SV3.

Here, the application execution unit 30a determines which of the second printer KP2 and the third printer KP3 is to issue the order slip based on the content of the order-related information. The application execution unit 30a transmits the determined identification information of the printer together with the order-related information. In addition, a printer for issuing order vouchers may be predetermined for each tablet terminal 10, and a predetermined unit may obtain the state of the printer and determine the printer for issuing order vouchers based on the state of the printer. Structure.

In addition, in this embodiment, which one of the second print data distribution server SV2 and the third print data distribution server SV3 to send the generated order-related information to is preset for each tablet terminal 10 . Furthermore, information (addresses, etc.) necessary for communicating with the set print data distribution server SV is registered in advance in the tablet terminal 10 .

When the set print data distribution server SV is the second print data distribution server SV2, the second server control unit 202 controls the second server communication unit 212 to receive order-related information transmitted from the tablet terminal 10, and the printer's identification information.

Next, the second server control unit 202 generates order slip print data (print data) based on the received order-related information and printer identification information, and stores it in the second server storage unit 222 .

The order voucher printing data is an XML file that instructs the issuance of an order voucher for printing order-related information. The order slip print data describes necessary information such as identification information of a printer that issued the order slip, order-related information, and information about a location where information included in the order-related information is printed in accordance with the XML protocol.

In this way, when receiving order-related information from the tablet terminal 10 , the second print data distribution server SV2 generates and stores order slip print data based on the order-related information.

When the set print data distribution server SV is the third print data distribution server SV3, and the third print data distribution server SV3 receives the order-related information from the tablet terminal 10, it is also performed by the third print data distribution server SV3. Same deal. That is, the third print data distribution server SV3 generates order slip print data based on the received order-related information and printer identification information, and stores the data in the third server storage unit 223 .

In the following description, when the receipt print data and the order slip print data are not distinguished, they are expressed as "print data". The print data is an XML file.

Next, the functional blocks included in the printer control unit 40 that controls the printer SP will be described in detail.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating in detail the configuration of the control printer control unit 40 .

As shown in FIG. 5 , the printer control unit 40 includes a reception unit 40 a , an output unit 40 b , and a printing control unit 40 c as functional blocks.

The receiving unit 40a includes a first receiving processing unit JS1 (receiving processing unit), a second receiving processing unit JS2 (receiving processing unit), and a third receiving processing unit JS3 (receiving processing unit).

In this embodiment, when the printer SP is started by power-on or reset, the first reception task, the second reception task, and the third reception task are activated as tasks (threads or processes may be used.) Task. Furthermore, the first receiving processing unit JS1 is a functional block that performs processing based on the CPU's execution of the first receiving task.

In addition, the second receiving processing unit JS2 is a functional block that performs processing based on the CPU's execution of the second receiving task. In addition, the third receiving processing unit JS3 is a functional block that performs processing based on the execution of the third receiving task by the CPU. That is, the first processing unit JS1 for reception, the second processing unit JS2 for reception, and the third processing unit JS3 for reception are activated when the startup of the printer SP is controlled. The processing performed by the first receiving processing unit JS1 , the second receiving processing unit JS2 , and the third receiving processing unit JS3 will be described later.

Hereinafter, when the first processing unit JS1 for reception, the second processing unit JS2 for reception, and the third processing unit JS3 for reception are not distinguished, they are expressed as “processing unit JS for reception”.

As shown in FIG. 5 , the output unit 40b includes a management unit KB, a first output processing unit SS1 (output processing unit), a second output processing unit SS2 (output processing unit), a third output processing unit SS3 ( output processing unit), and print output processing unit SS4 (output processing unit).

The management unit KB is a functional block corresponding to a management task activated when the control printer SP is activated. That is, the management unit KB performs processing based on execution of the management task by the CPU. As will be described later, the management unit KB activates a first output task, a second output task, a third output task, or a print output as a task (it may be a thread or a process) when a predetermined condition is satisfied. Use tasks. Furthermore, the first output processing unit SS1 is a functional block that performs processing based on the CPU's execution of the first output task. In addition, the second output processing unit SS2 is a functional block that performs processing based on the CPU's execution of the second output task. In addition, the third output processing unit SS3 is a functional block that performs processing based on the CPU's execution of the third output task. In addition, the printout processing unit SS4 is a functional block that performs processing based on the execution of the printout job by the CPU. The processing performed by the management unit KB, the first output processing unit SS1 , the second output processing unit SS2 , the third output processing unit SS3 , and the print output processing unit SS4 will be described later.

Hereinafter, when the 1st output processing part SS1, the 2nd output processing part SS2, and the 3rd output processing part SS3 are not distinguished, it expresses as "transmission processing part S." In addition, when not distinguishing the 1st output processing part SS1, the 2nd output processing part SS2, the 3rd output processing part SS3, and the printing output processing part SS4, it expresses "the output processing part SS."

The functional modules included in the receiving unit 40 a and the functional modules included in the output unit 40 b can write data into the print queue Q (storage area), and can read data written in the print queue Q.

The print queue Q is a buffer formed in a work area of a temporary storage area such as RAM.

Print data is input to the print control unit 40c in predetermined cases described later. The print control unit 40c converts the input print data (XML file) into control commands conforming to the command system of the control printer print unit 41, and causes the control printer print unit 41 to execute processing based on the control commands.

Next, the settings for controlling the printer SP will be described.

As described above, when the startup of the printer SP is controlled, the first processing unit JS1 for reception, the second processing unit JS2 for reception, and the third processing unit JS3 for reception are activated. In the present embodiment, the printer SP can be accessed and controlled from a browser-installed device via the wide area network WN, and settings related to each reception processing unit JS can be performed.

In this embodiment, the control printer SP is in a state where web server software (for example, Apache HTTP Server) is installed. The control printer SP has a function as a web server that generates and transmits display data conforming to a predetermined protocol such as HTTP based on a request from a client.

In addition, the browser is installed in the tablet terminal 10 .

Hereinafter, a case where the printer SP is accessed and controlled from the tablet terminal 10 to set the reception processing unit JS will be described as an example.

The user activates the browser of the tablet terminal 10 and accesses a predetermined URL managed by the control printer SP. In response to access to a predetermined URL, the control printer control unit 40 that controls the printer SP creates and transmits a display file to be displayed on the setting user interface (hereinafter referred to as “setting UI”) of the reception processing unit JS. The terminal control unit 30 of the tablet terminal 10 displays the setting UI on the display panel 31 a based on the display file.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a setting UI.

As shown in FIG. 6 , the setting UI has a direct setting column R1 for setting enable/disable of server direct printing. Server direct printing refers to distribution of print data from the print data distribution server SV to the control printer SP.

In addition, the setting UI has an ID/password input field R2. The ID/password input column R2 has a column for inputting identification information for controlling the printer SP, and a column for inputting a password set corresponding to the identification information for controlling the printer SP. The information input into the ID/password input field R2 is used to control identification and authentication of the printer SP.

In addition, the setting UI has a first server setting field R3.

The first server setting column R3 is a column for setting related to the first processing unit JS1 for reception.

The first server setting field R3 has a first URL input field R31. As will be described later, the first receiving processing unit JS1 executes processing for receiving print data from the first print data distribution server SV1. Furthermore, the first URL input column R31 is a column for inputting the URL of the server (the first print data distribution server SV1 in this embodiment) accessed when the first reception processing unit JS1 receives the print data.

The first server setting column R3 has a first interval input column R32. As will be described later, when receiving print data from the first print data distribution server SV1 , the first reception processing unit JS1 inquires at predetermined intervals (every predetermined time) whether there is print data in the server. The first interval input column R32 is a column for inputting the interval.

The information input into the first URL input column R31 and the first interval input column R32 is written into a setting file referred to by the program realizing the function of the first reception processing unit JS1, or stored in a predetermined file defined by the program. variables to set.

In addition, the setting UI has a second server setting field R4.

The second server setting column R4 is a column for setting related to the second reception processing unit JS2. The second server setting column R4 has a second URL input column R41 and a second interval input column R42. As will be described later, the second receiving processing unit JS2 executes processing for receiving print data from the second print data distribution server SV2. Furthermore, the second URL input column R41 is a column for inputting the URL of the server (the second print data distribution server SV2 in this embodiment) that the second reception processing unit JS2 accesses when receiving the print data. In addition, the second interval input field R42 is a field for inputting an interval when the second reception processing unit JS2 inquires the second print data distribution server SV2 about the presence or absence of print data.

In addition, the setting UI has a third server setting column R5.

The third server setting column R5 is a column for setting related to the third reception processing unit JS3. The third server setting column R5 has a third URL input column R51 and a third interval input column R52. As will be described later, the third receiving processing unit JS3 executes processing for receiving print data from the third print data distribution server SV3. Furthermore, the third URL input column R51 is a column for inputting the URL of the server (the third print data distribution server SV3 in this embodiment) that the third receiving processing unit JS3 accesses when receiving the print data. In addition, the third interval input field R52 is a field for inputting an interval when the third reception processing unit JS3 inquires the third print data distribution server SV3 about the presence or absence of print data.

In this manner, in the present embodiment, the receiving processing unit JS inquires about the presence or absence of print data every predetermined time, and the predetermined time can be set for each receiving processing unit JS.

In addition, in this example, since there are three print data distribution servers SV communicating with the control printer SP, the number of corresponding setting columns is three, but it is possible to make correspondence according to the number of communicating servers. Increase or decrease the number of columns for setting.

In addition, the setting UI has a server authentication column R6.

The server authentication column R6 is a column for setting whether to perform server authentication on the control printer SP side when establishing a connection with the print data distribution server SV.

In addition, the setting UI has an apply button B1.

When the apply button B1 is selected, input to the setting UI is confirmed, and the input information is sent to the control printer SP. The control printer SP reflects the input based on the received information.

Next, the operation of controlling the printer SP will be described in detail.

The control printer SP receives print data from the print data distribution server SV, and sends the received print data to the corresponding printer KP or performs printing based on the print data.

First, the process of controlling the printer SP to receive print data will be described.

7 is a flowchart showing the operations of the control printer SP and the first print data distribution server SV1 when the control printer SP receives print data from the print data distribution server SV, (A) shows the operation of the control printer SP, (B) shows Operation of the first print data distribution server SV1.

As described above, when the startup of the printer SP is controlled, the first processing unit JS1 for reception, the second processing unit JS2 for reception, and the third processing unit JS3 for reception are activated.

Furthermore, the first receiving processing unit JS1 executes processing for receiving print data from the first print data distribution server SV1 among the three print data distribution servers SV. In addition, the second receiving processing unit JS2 executes processing for receiving print data from the second print data distribution server SV2. In addition, the third receiving processing unit JS3 executes processing for receiving print data from the third print data distribution server SV3.

Hereinafter, the processing of the first reception processing unit JS1 will be described using the flowchart of FIG. 7 . Although the detailed description of the processing of the second receiving processing unit JS2 and the third receiving processing unit JS3 is omitted, the second receiving processing unit JS2 executes the same process as described in the flowchart of FIG. 7 with respect to the second print data distribution server SV2. The processing is the same. In addition, the third reception processing unit JS3 executes the same processing as the processing described in the flowchart of FIG. 7 with respect to the third print data distribution server SV3.

As shown in FIG. 7(A), the first receiving processing unit JS1 of the receiving unit 40a of the printer control unit 40 controlling the printer SP monitors whether it is time to inquire about the presence or absence of print data to the first print data distribution server SV1 ( Step SA1).

In addition to the print data processing period to be described later, the first receiving processing unit JS1 performs an interval (predetermined time) entered in the first interval input field R32 of the first server setting field R3 of the setting UI for the first time. The print data distribution server SV1 inquires about the presence or absence of print data. In step SA1, the first reception processing unit JS1 monitors whether the time corresponding to the set interval (predetermined time) has elapsed since the previous inquiry, and if the time corresponding to the set interval has elapsed, Next, it is determined that it is time to inquire about the presence or absence of print data.

When the timing is up (step SA1: Yes), the first reception processing unit JS1 generates data inquiring about the presence or absence of print data, and controls the wide area network communication unit 43 to transmit the data to the first print data distribution server SV1. (step SA2).

As described above, the URL (the URL of the first print data distribution server SV1) input to the first URL input field R31 of the first server setting field R3 is written in the setting file or the like, and the first receiving processing unit JS1 responds to the setting file. URLs for management. In step SA2, the first reception processing unit JS1 accesses the first print data distribution server SV1 based on the managed URL, establishes a connection according to a predetermined communication standard, and transmits data using the connection.

As shown in FIG. 7(B), the first server control unit 201 of the first print data distribution server SV1 controls the first server communication unit 211 to receive data (step SB1 ).

Next, the first server control unit 201 determines whether there is unsent print data (step SB2 ).

More specifically, as described above, when the first server control unit 201 receives information related to payment from the first POS terminal PT1 or the second POS terminal PT2 and the identification information of the printer that issued the receipt, based on these information, the first server control unit 201 Receipt print data (print data) is generated and stored in the first server storage unit 221 . Furthermore, in step SB2, the first server control unit 201 determines whether there is print data stored in the first server storage unit 221 but not sent to the control printer SP. That is, in step SB2 , the first server control unit 201 determines whether or not there is newly generated and stored print data after the print data was transmitted last time.

Next, the first server control unit 201 controls the first server communication unit 211 based on the judgment result, and uses the connection established in step SA2 to transmit data including information indicating the presence or absence of unsent print data (step SA2). SB3).

As shown in FIG. 7(A), the first reception processing unit JS1 controlling the printer SP controls the WAN communication unit 43 to receive data transmitted from the first print data distribution server SV1 (step SA3).

Next, when the received data includes information indicating that there is no untransmitted print data (step SA4: NO), the first reception processing unit JS1 returns the processing step to step SA1.

When the received data includes information indicating that there is unsent print data (step SA4: Yes), the first receiving processing unit JS1 transmits data requesting print data transmission using the established connection ( Step SA5).

As shown in FIG. 7(B), the first server control unit 201 of the first print data distribution server SV1 receives the data (step SB4).

Next, the first server control unit 201 transmits the unsent print data using the established connection (step SB5 ). When there is a plurality of untransmitted print data, the first server control unit 201 sequentially transmits the plurality of print data.

As shown in FIG. 7(A), upon transmission of the print data by the first print data distribution server SV1, the first receiving processing unit JS1 of the printer SP is controlled to start receiving the print data (step SA6). While receiving print data, the first receiving processing unit JS1 sequentially stores the received data in a receiving buffer formed in a work area such as a RAM.

After the reception of the print data starts, the first reception processing unit JS1 monitors whether the reception of the print data is completed (step SA7). When a plurality of print data has been received, in step SA7 , the first reception processing unit JS1 monitors whether the reception of all the plurality of print data has been completed.

When the reception of the print data is completed (step SA7: YES), the first reception processing unit JS1 determines whether or not writing (saving) data to the print queue Q is prohibited (step SA8). As will be understood later, the first reception processing unit JS1 , the second reception processing unit JS2 , and the third reception processing unit JS3 prohibit the other reception processing units JS while writing data into the print queue Q. Write data to print queue Q.

In addition, when one receiving processing unit JS prohibits writing by the other two first receiving processing units JS, it notifies the other two receiving processing units JS of the content, and when the prohibition is released, In this case, the content is notified to the other two processing units JS for reception. In step SA8, when the first reception processing unit JS1 receives a notification of the prohibition of writing data from another reception processing unit JS, and does not receive a notification of the content of canceling the prohibition, it determines that it is a write prohibition. state of the incoming data.

In the case of prohibiting the state of writing data to the print queue Q (step SA8: Yes), the first receiving processing unit JS1 monitors whether the prohibition of writing is released (step SA9), and if it is released (step SA9 : Yes), move the processing step to step SA10.

When writing of data to the print queue Q is not prohibited (step SA8: NO), the first reception processing unit JS1 proceeds to step SA10.

In step SA10 , the first reception processing unit JS1 prohibits the other two reception processing units JS from writing data to the print queue Q. Specifically, the first processing unit JS1 for reception notifies the other two processing units JS for reception that data writing is prohibited by means such as transmission of an interrupt signal.

Next, the first reception processing unit JS1 starts writing (storing) the print data stored in the reception buffer (a plurality of print data if there are multiple print data) in the print queue Q (step SA11 ).

Next, the first reception processing unit JS1 monitors whether writing of the print data stored in the reception buffer to the print queue Q is completed (step SA12 ).

When the writing is completed (step SA12: YES), the first receiving processing unit JS1 cancels the prohibition of data writing by the other receiving processing unit JS (step SA13).

Specifically, the first processing unit JS1 for reception notifies that the prohibition of writing data to the other two processing units JS for reception is released by means such as transmission of an interrupt signal.

Next, the first reception processing unit JS1 monitors whether or not a print processing end notification is input (step SA14 ).

As will be understood from the description below, the print processing end notification is sent from Notification of KB input from the management department.

When the print processing end notification is input (step SA14: YES), the first reception processing unit JS1 returns the processing procedure to step SA1.

In this way, the first reception processing unit JS1 does not perform print data presence or absence during the period from the start of receiving print data from the first print data distribution server SV1 to the end of printing based on the received print data (print data processing period). inquiry.

As described above, in this embodiment, a plurality of print data distribution servers SV are connected to the control printer SP. Then, in the control printer SP, a plurality of reception processing units JS are activated corresponding to the print data distribution server SV. The receiving processing unit JS performs the processing described in FIG. 7 independently of other receiving processing units JS, receives print data from the corresponding print data distribution server SV, and stores the print data in the shared print queue Q. With this configuration, the receiving processing unit JS can independently receive print data from the corresponding print data distribution server SV without being affected by the processing of other receiving processing units JS and without affecting the processing of other receiving processing units JS. , based on the structure in which multiple print data distribution servers SV are connected to the control printer SP, efficient reception of print data can be realized. For example, when one print data distribution server SV is connected to the control printer SP, the control printer SP receives print data from the server, and after printing based on the received print data ends, inquires about the print data. Compared with the case where there is such a structure, the throughput (throughput) of processing related to receiving print data can be improved.

Also, in this embodiment, when one of the plurality of reception processing units JS stores print data in the print queue Q, other reception processing units JS are prohibited from storing data in the print queue Q. With this configuration, print data can be stored in the print queue Q in the order received.

For example, the second reception processing unit JS2 starts receiving the print data D1 and the print data D2 from the second print data distribution server SV2. Both the print data D1 and the print data D2 are print data including identification information of the second printer KP2 (=print data to be processed by the second printer KP2). At the same time, the third receiving processing unit JS3 receives the print data D3 from the third print data distribution server SV3. The print data D3 is print data including identification information of the second printer KP2 (=print data to be processed by the second printer KP2). Furthermore, the timing at which the second reception processing unit JS2 completes reception is earlier than the timing at which the third reception processing unit JS3 completes reception. In this case, it is required to store the print data D1, print data D2, and print data D3 in the print queue Q in order. The reason for this is that print data is required to be processed in the order in which they are received, and by storing the print data in the print queue Q in that order, the print data is processed in that order as will be described later. Furthermore, according to the configuration of the present embodiment, the print data can be stored in the print queue Q in this order. On the other hand, when one receiving processing unit JS stores data in the print queue Q, if there is no structure that prohibits other receiving processing units JS from storing data in the print queue Q, the print data will never be received as For example, the print data may be stored in the print queue Q in the order of print data D1, print data D3, and print data D2.

Next, processing of the received print data by the control printer SP will be described.

As mentioned above, when the 1st output processing part SS1, the 2nd output processing part SS2, and the 3rd output processing part SS3 are not distinguished, they are expressed as "transmission processing part S." In addition, when not distinguishing the 1st output processing part SS1, the 2nd output processing part SS2, the 3rd output processing part SS3, and the printing output processing part SS4, it expresses as "output processing part SS".

As described above, the management unit KB activates the first output processing unit SS1 , the second output processing unit SS2 , the third output processing unit SS3 , or the print output processing unit SS4 when a predetermined condition is satisfied. Furthermore, the processing executed by the transmission processing section S (the first output processing section SS1 , the second output processing section SS2 , and the third output processing section SS3 ) is different from the processing executed by the print output processing section SS4 .

Hereinafter, the processing of the first output processing unit SS1 will be described using FIG. 8 , and then the processing of the print output processing unit SS4 will be described using FIG. 9 .

Fig. 8 (A) is a flow chart showing the operation of the management unit KB, Fig. 8 (B) is a flow chart showing the operation of the first output processing section SS1, and Fig. 8 (C) is a flow chart showing the operation of the first printer KP1. flow chart.

As shown in FIG. 8(A), the management unit KB monitors whether any one of the reception processing units JS has written print data to the print queue Q (step SC1 ). Writing of print data means that a series of writing of print data has been completed after writing to the print queue Q has started. Writing of print data.

When the print data is written into the print queue Q (step SC1: YES), the management unit KB refers to the content of the print data and acquires the identification information of the printer included in the print data (step SC2). When a plurality of print data are written, the management unit KB acquires identification information of printers included in the plurality of print data.

Next, the management unit KB judges whether the output processing unit SS (the transmission processing unit S or the print output processing unit SS4 ) corresponding to the acquired printer identification information is activated (step SC3 ). When there is a plurality of printer identification information acquired in step SC2, the management unit KB judges whether or not the corresponding output processing unit SS is activated for each of the plurality of printer identification information.

Here, the output processing unit SS corresponding to the identification information of the first printer KP1 is the first output processing unit SS1. The output processing unit SS corresponding to the identification information of the second printer KP2 is the second output processing unit SS2. The output processing unit SS corresponding to the identification information of the third printer KP3 is the third output processing unit SS3. In addition, the processing part SS for output corresponding to the identification information which controls the printer SP is the processing part SS4 for print output.

When the output processing unit SS corresponding to the identification information of the printer acquired in step SC2 is activated (step SC3: YES), the management unit KB returns the processing procedure to step SC1. In this case, as will be described later, the print data written in the print queue Q is processed by the activated output processing unit SS.

For the output processing unit SS corresponding to the printer identification information acquired in step SC2, even if there is only one output processing unit that has not been activated (step SC3: No), the management unit KB will also communicate with the unactivated output processing unit. The output processing unit SS corresponding to the identification information of the activated output processing unit SS is activated (step SC4). For example, when the acquired printer identification information is the identification information of the first printer KP1 and the first output processing unit SS1 is not activated, the management unit KB activates the first output task to make the first output process Department SS1 starts.

In the following description using FIG. 8 , it is assumed that the management unit KB activates the first output processing unit SS1 in step SC4 , and the processing of the first output processing unit SS1 will be described. Although the detailed description of the processing of the second output processing unit SS2 and the third output processing unit SS3 is omitted, these output processing units SS execute the same processing as the processing described below after activation.

As shown in FIG. 8(B), the first output processing unit SS1 refers to the content of the print data written earliest in time among the unread print data stored in the print queue Q to obtain the print data included in the print data. identification information of the printer (step SD1).

Next, the first output processing unit SS1 judges whether the acquired identification information of the printer matches the identification information (corresponding identification information) of the first printer KP1 (step SD2 ). Here, in the processing corresponding to step SD2, the second output processing unit SS2 judges whether the acquired identification information of the printer matches the identification information of the second printer KP2, and the third output processing unit SS3 determines whether the acquired Whether the identification information of the printer is consistent with the identification information of the third printer KP3.

In the case of inconsistency (step SD2: No), the first output processing unit SS1 judges whether there is print data in the print queue Q that has not been read out and has not been subjected to the acquisition of the identification information of step SD2 and the comparison (step SD3) .

If there is print data (step SD3: YES), the first output processing unit SS1 acquires print data stored after the print data for which identification information has been acquired and compared last time among unread print data. identification information of the data (step SD4), and move the processing step to step SD2.

When there is no print data (step SD3: NO), the first output processing unit SS1 stops by stopping the first output job (step SD5).

On the other hand, when the identification information of the printer acquired in step SD2 matches the identification information of the first printer KP1 (step SD2: Yes), the first output processing unit SS1 reads out the acquired printer from the print queue Q. The print data of the identification information (step SD6).

Next, the first output processing unit SS1 controls the LAN communication unit 44 to transmit (output) the read print data to the first printer KP1 (step SD7 ). The first output processing unit SS1 acquires and manages information necessary for sending data to the first printer KP1, such as the IP address and MAC address of the first printer KP1, in advance.

As shown in FIG. 8(C), the first control unit 501 of the first printer KP1 controls the first communication unit 511 to receive print data (step SE1).

Next, the first control unit 501 converts the received print data into control commands conforming to the command system of the first printer unit 521, and causes the first printer unit 521 to execute processing based on the control commands based on the control commands (step SE2). Since the print data is receipt print data, a receipt is issued by the first printer KP1 as a result of the processing at step SE2.

Next, the first control unit 501 generates data indicating the processing result of the print data (hereinafter referred to as “processing result notification data”), and controls the first communication unit 511 to transmit it to the control printer SP (step SE3) .

As shown in FIG. 8(B), the first output processing unit SS1 of the control printer SP monitors whether or not the processing result notification data is received after the print data is sent (step SD8).

When the processing result notification data is received (step SD8: YES), the first output processing unit SS1 outputs information indicating the processing result to the management unit KB by means such as an interrupt (step SD9). The method of using the information indicating the processing result by the management unit KB will be described later.

Next, the processing part SS1 for 1st output transfers a process step to step SD3.

In summary, the first output processing unit SS1 is a functional block having a function of sending print data to the first printer KP1. The first output processing unit SS1 is activated by saving the print data including the identification information of the first printer KP1 in the print queue Q as a trigger. After the first output processing unit SS1 is started, for the unread print data among the print data stored in the print queue Q, it is determined whether the identification information contained in the print data in the order of being stored, in other words, in the order of receiving Whether the identification information of the first printer KP1 is consistent. Then, when the identification information matches, the first output processing unit SS1 reads out the print data whose identification information matches, and sends it to the first printer KP1.

With such a configuration, the print data to be processed by the first output processing unit SS1 for the first printer KP1 can be transmitted in the order stored in the print queue Q, in other words, in the order received. For example, in the case of a configuration in which a plurality of processing units having a function of transmitting print data are activated corresponding to the first printer KP1, and the plurality of processing units independently execute print data reading and transmission, failure to receive data may occur. The transmission of the print data is performed in the order of the print data. On the other hand, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to prevent this from happening.

In addition, the first output processing unit SS1 stops when there is no unread print data that is the processing target of the first printer KP1 in the print queue Q. That is, the first output processing unit SS1 stops when processing is unnecessary. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the first output processing unit SS1 from being unnecessarily activated, and to achieve effective use of hardware resources such as a CPU and other resources.

The above is also the same for the second output processing unit SS2 and the third output processing unit SS3.

Next, the operations of the printout processing section SS4 after the management section KB activates the printout processing section SS4 and the print control section 40 c will be described.

9(A) is a flowchart showing the operation of the printout processing unit SS4, and FIG. 9(B) is a flowchart showing the operation of the printing control unit 40c.

When print data including identification information for controlling the printer SP is stored in the print queue Q, if the printout processing unit SS4 is not activated, the management unit KB activates the printout processing unit SS4 by activating a printout task ( Step SX1).

As shown in FIG. 9(A), the print output processing unit SS4 refers to the content of the print data written earliest in time among the unread print data stored in the print queue Q, and obtains the print data contained in the print data. Identification information of the printer (step SF1).

The printout processing unit SS4 judges whether the acquired identification information of the printer matches the identification information (corresponding identification information) of the control printer SP (step SF2 ).

If they do not match (step SF2: No), the printout processing unit SS4 judges whether there is print data in the print queue Q that has not been read out and has not been subjected to the identification information acquisition and comparison in step SF2 (step SF3).

If there is print data (step SF3: YES), the print output processing unit SS4 reads the print data stored after the print data for which the identification information was acquired and compared last time among the unread print data. (step SF4), and the processing step is moved to step SF2.

When there is no print data (step SF3: NO), the print output processing unit SS4 stops by stopping the print output job (step SF5).

On the other hand, when the identification information of the printer acquired in step SF2 matches the identification information of the control printer SP (step SF2: Yes), the printout processing unit SS4 reads out the acquired printer identification information from the print queue Q. The print data of the message (step SF6).

Next, the print output processing unit SS4 outputs the read print data to the print control unit 40c (step SF7).

As shown in FIG. 9(B), the print control unit 40c converts the print data into a control command that complies with the command system of the control printer print unit 41, and based on the control command, the control printer print unit 41 executes processing based on the control command (step SG1 ). Since the print data is receipt print data, a receipt is issued by the control printer SP as a result of the processing at step SG1.

Next, the print control unit 40c outputs information indicating the processing result of the print data to the printout processing unit SS4 (step SG2 ).

As shown in FIG. 9(A), the print output processing unit SS4 monitors whether or not information indicating a processing result is input after output of the print data (step SF8 ).

When the information indicating the processing result is input (step SF8: YES), the printout processing unit SS4 outputs the information indicating the processing result to the management unit KB by interruption or the like (step SF9). The method of using the information indicating the processing result by the management unit KB will be described later.

Next, the printout processing unit SS4 shifts the processing step to step SF3.

As described above, the print output processing unit SS4 is activated by saving the print data including the identification information of the control printer SP in the print queue Q as a trigger. After the print output processing unit SS4 is activated, for the unread print data among the print data stored in the print queue Q, it is determined that the identification information included in the print data in the order of being stored, in other words, in the order of being received, and the control printer. Whether the identification information of the SP is consistent. And, when the identification information matches, the printout processing unit SS4 reads out the print data whose identification information matches and outputs it to the print control unit 40c. The print control unit 40c performs printing based on the print data.

With such a configuration, the printout processing unit SS4 can process the print data to be processed by the control printer SP in the order stored in the print queue Q, in other words, in the order received. In addition, the print output processing unit SS4 stops when there is no print data that is the processing target of the control printer SP and has not been read in the print queue Q. That is, the printout processing unit SS4 stops when processing is unnecessary. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the printing output processing unit SS4 from being unnecessarily activated, and to realize effective use of hardware resources such as a CPU and other resources.

Next, other processing by the management unit KB will be described.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of the management unit KB.

The management unit KB monitors whether or not information indicating a processing result is input (step SH1).

When information indicating the processing result is input (step SH1), the management unit KB judges whether a series of print data based on the print data is stored in the print queue Q by any one of the processing units JS for reception based on the input information. Whether the processing is finished (step SH2). A series of print data means that one print data is received and stored by one receiving processing unit JS, and means that one print data is received and stored by one receiving processing unit JS. the plurality of print data.

When there is no print data for which the process has been completed for any of the series of print data (step SH2: NO), the management unit KB returns the processing procedure to step SH1.

If there is print data that has been processed for any one of the series of print data (step SH2: YES), the management unit KB outputs a print processing end notice to the receiving processing unit JS after storing the series of print data in the print queue Q. , the print processing end notification is used to notify the end of printing based on a series of print data (step SH3).

As described in step SA14 of FIG. 7 , the reception processing unit JS is triggered by the input of the print completion notification, returns the processing step to step SA1, and starts an inquiry of the presence or absence of print data to the corresponding print data distribution server SV.

As described above, the print data processing system 1 according to this embodiment includes a plurality of print data distribution servers SV (print data distribution devices), and a control printer SP (information processing device) that receives print data from the plurality of print data distribution servers SV. ).

The control printer SP activates a plurality of reception processing units JS based on a plurality of print data distribution servers SV. The receiving processing unit JS inquires of the print data distribution server SV about the existence of print data, receives the print data if the print data distribution server SV has the print data, and stores the received print data in the shared print queue Q (storage area).

According to this configuration, the receiving processing unit JS can independently receive print data from the corresponding print data distribution server SV without being affected by the processing of other receiving processing units JS and without affecting the processing of other receiving processing units JS. Therefore, the control printer SP can efficiently receive print data based on a configuration in which a plurality of print data distribution servers SV are connected.

In addition, in this embodiment, when the receiving processing unit JS stores the print data received from the print data distribution server SV in the print queue Q, other receiving processing units JS are prohibited from storing the print data in the print queue Q.

According to this configuration, it is possible to prevent the print data received by the corresponding reception processing unit JS from one print data distribution server SV from being merged with the print data received by the corresponding reception processing unit JS from another print data distribution server SV. When the mixed state is stored in the print queue Q, the print data can be stored in the print queue Q in the order received.

In addition, in the present embodiment, the receiving processing unit JS inquires about print data every predetermined time, and a value for the predetermined time can be set for each receiving processing unit JS.

According to this structure, it is possible to set the data for each printout server SV according to the specifications and requirements of the system so that the inquiry from the print data distribution server SV for print data with a higher distribution priority and which is required to be processed quickly reduces the interval. Interval of inquiries from the data distribution server SV.

In addition, the print data processing system 1 according to the present embodiment includes a print data distribution server SV, and a controller that is connected to at least one printer KP (printing device) and receives print data including identification information of the printer KP from the print data distribution server SV. Printer SP.

The control printer SP has a receiving unit 40a that receives print data from the print data distribution server SV and stores them in the print queue Q in the order received, and associates the print data with the identification information based on the identification information included in the print data stored in the print queue Q. The output of the management part KB activated by the processing part SS.

The output processing unit SS reads the print data including the corresponding identification information among the print data stored in the print queue Q in the order received, and outputs the print data to the printer KP corresponding to the identification information.

According to this configuration, the output processing unit SS transmits the print data to the corresponding printer KP in the order received, and when the printer SP is controlled to transmit the print data received from the print data distribution server SV to the printer KP, The print data distribution server SV sends them in the order they are received.

In addition, in this embodiment, the management unit KB restarts the output processing unit SS if there is no output processing unit SS corresponding to the identification information included in the print data, and does not start the output processing unit if it exists. Department SS.

According to this configuration, it is possible to prevent a plurality of output processing units SS from being repeatedly activated corresponding to one printer KP.

In addition, in the present embodiment, the output processing unit SS stops when the print queue Q does not include the corresponding identification information and print data that has not been read out.

According to this configuration, when the reading of the print data from the print queue Q is completed for one output processing unit SS and the processing of the one output processing unit SS is unnecessary, it is possible to suppress the processing of the one output processing unit SS. The processing unit SS maintains the state of being activated unnecessarily.

In addition, in the present embodiment, the print data includes identification information of the printer KP or identification information of the control printer SP. The control printer SP has a control printer printing unit 41 (printing unit), and a print control unit 40 c that controls the printing unit based on print data.

When the management unit KB saves the print data including the identification information of the control printer SP in the print queue Q by the receiving unit 40a, the print output processing unit that is the output processing unit SS corresponding to the identification information of the control printer SP SS4 starts. The print output processing unit SS4 reads out the print data including the identification information of the control printer SP among the print data stored in the print queue Q in the order received, and outputs the print data to the print control unit 40c.

According to this configuration, the print data that the control printer SP should process itself can be processed in the order received and printed.

Hereinafter, a configuration in which the print data can be received by the information processing device with as little time lag as possible after the print data distribution device becomes capable of transmitting the print data will be described.

FIG. 11 is a network diagram of the print data processing system 101 according to this embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 11 , the control printer SP included in the print data processing system 101 is connected to a wide area network WN including networks such as the Internet and a telephone network.

In addition, the tablet terminal 110 provided to the lobby person is connected to the wide area network WN.

In addition, the print data processing system 101 may include, for example, one print data distribution server SV (print data distribution device). The print data distribution server SV is connected to the wide area network WN.

The control printer SP, the tablet terminal 110, and the print data distribution server SV are capable of communicating with each other via the wide area network WN.

As shown in FIG. 11, the control printer SP is connected to a local area network LN conforming to Ethernet (registered trademark). The first printer KP1, the second printer KP2, and the third printer KP3 are connected to the local area network LN. The control printer SP, the first printer KP1 , the second printer KP2 , and the third printer KP3 are respectively capable of communicating with each other via the local area network LN.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing the functional configurations of the print data distribution server SV, the tablet terminal 110, the first POS terminal PT1, and the second POS terminal PT2.

As shown in FIG. 12 , the print data distribution server SV includes a server control unit 120 , a server communication unit 121 , and a server storage unit 122 .

The server control unit 120 includes a CPU, ROM, RAM, etc., and controls the print data distribution server SV.

The server communication unit 121 communicates with other devices connected to the wide area network WN in accordance with a predetermined communication standard under the control of the server control unit 120 .

The server storage unit 122 includes a nonvolatile memory and stores data. The server storage unit 122 stores a print data storage database 122a. This data will be described later.

The tablet terminal 110 is a tablet-type portable computer provided with a touch panel 131 on the front.

As shown in FIG. 12 , the tablet terminal 110 includes a terminal control unit 130 , a touch panel 131 , a terminal storage unit 132 , and a terminal communication unit 133 .

The terminal control unit 130 includes a CPU, ROM, RAM, etc., and controls the tablet terminal 110 . The terminal control unit 130 has an application execution unit 130a as a functional module. The function of the application execution unit 130a will be described later.

The touch panel 131 includes a display panel 131a and a touch sensor 131b. The display panel 131 a includes a liquid crystal display panel, an organic EL display panel, or the like, and displays images under the control of the terminal control unit 130 . The touch sensor 131b is arranged superimposed on the display panel 131a, detects a touch operation by a user (in this example, a person in charge of a hall), and outputs it to the terminal control unit 130 .

The terminal storage unit 132 includes a nonvolatile memory, and stores data.

The terminal communication unit 133 communicates with other devices connected to the wide area network WN in accordance with a predetermined communication standard under the control of the terminal control unit 130 .

The first POS terminal PT1 and the second POS terminal PT2 are computers having the following functions. The first POS terminal PT1 and the second POS terminal PT2 have a function of communicating with other devices connected to the wide area network WN. Moreover, the 1st POS terminal PT1 and the 2nd POS terminal PT2 have the function which accepts the input corresponding to a checkout, and generates the information related to a checkout based on an input.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the control printer SP, the first printer KP1, the second printer KP2, and the third printer KP3.

The control printer SP, the first printer KP1, the second printer KP2, and the third printer KP3 are thermal printers.

As shown in FIG. 13 , the control printer SP includes a control printer control unit 140 , a control printer printing unit 141 (printing unit), a control printer storage unit 142 , a WAN communication unit 143 , and a LAN communication unit 144 .

The control printer control unit 140 includes a CPU, ROM, RAM, etc., and controls the control printer SP. The control printer control unit 140 includes a reception processing unit JS, an output unit 140b, and a print control unit 140c as functional modules. These functional blocks will be described later.

The control printer printing unit 141 is provided with a storage unit for accommodating heat-sensitive roll paper, a transport unit for transporting the heat-sensitive roll paper stored in the storage unit, and a heat-sensitive sensor for forming dots on the heat-sensitive roll paper transported in the transport unit. A type head, and a cutting part for cutting heat-sensitive roll paper.

The control printer storage unit 142 includes a nonvolatile memory, and stores data. The control printer storage unit 142 stores the received print data identification information table 142a. This data will be described later.

The wide area network communication unit 143 communicates with other devices connected to the wide area network WN in accordance with a predetermined communication standard under the control of the printer control unit 140 .

The LAN communication unit 144 communicates with the first printer KP1 , the second printer KP2 , and the third printer KP3 connected to the local area network LN in accordance with a predetermined communication standard under the control of the printer control unit 140 .

The first printer KP1 includes a first control unit 601 , a first communication unit 611 , and a first printing unit 621 .

The first control unit 601 includes a CPU, ROM, RAM, etc., and controls the first printer KP1.

The first communication unit 611 communicates with the control printer SP connected to the local area network LN in accordance with a predetermined communication standard under the control of the first control unit 601 .

The first printing unit 621 has a storage unit for accommodating heat-sensitive roll paper, a transport unit for transporting the heat-sensitive roll paper stored in the storage unit, and a thermal sensor for forming dots on the heat-sensitive roll paper transported in the transport unit. A type head, and a cutting part for cutting heat-sensitive roll paper.

The configurations of the second printer KP2 and the third printer KP3 are the same as those of the first printer KP1. The second printer KP2 includes a second control unit 602 , a second communication unit 612 , and a second printing unit 622 . The third printer KP3 includes a third control unit 603 , a third communication unit 613 , and a third printing unit 623 .

In the following description, when the first printer KP1 , the second printer KP2 , and the third printer KP3 are not distinguished, they are expressed as "printer KP".

Next, operations of the first POS terminal PT1 and the print data distribution server SV in the case where the user (in this example, the person in charge of the hall) makes an input corresponding to the payment to the first POS terminal PT1 according to the payment made by the customer. Be explained.

When there is an input corresponding to payment, the first POS terminal PT1 generates payment-related information (hereinafter referred to as "payment-related information") based on the input. The checkout-related information includes information printed on the receipt, such as the name of the food and drink ordered by the customer, unit price, order quantity, total payment amount, change, tax-related information, and the like. That is, the first POS terminal PT1 performs checkout, and generates checkout-related information every time the checkout is confirmed.

Next, the first POS terminal PT1 transmits the generated billing-related information and the identification information of the control printer SP to the print data distribution server SV. The identification information of the control printer SP is information for identifying the control printer SP, such as a serial number assigned to the control printer SP at the manufacturing stage of the control printer SP. As described above, when an input corresponding to payment is made to the first POS terminal PT1, a corresponding receipt is issued by the control printer SP. The first POS terminal PT1 transmits the identification information of the printer (in this example, the control printer SP) that issues the receipt printed with the payment-related information together with the payment-related information when sending the payment-related information. The identification information of the printer that sends the receipt is registered in advance. Among them, information necessary for the first POS terminal PT1 to communicate with the print data distribution server SV, such as the address of the print data distribution server SV, various protocols used for communication, and the format of the transmitted data, is pre-registered in the first POS terminal PT1. Status of POS terminal PT1. The first POS terminal PT1 establishes a connection with the print data distribution server SV according to a prescribed communication standard, and uses the connection to transmit billing-related information.

The server control unit 120 of the print data distribution server SV controls the server communication unit 121 to receive billing-related information and control the identification information of the printer SP.

Next, the server control unit 120 generates receipt print data (print data) based on the received billing-related information and the identification information of the control printer SP.

The receipt print data is an XML file instructing the issuance of a receipt printed with billing-related information. The receipt print data is printed by describing at least identification information of a printer that performs printing, identification information for identifying the receipt print data, billing-related information, and information about a position where information included in the billing-related information is printed, based on the XML protocol. information required. When generating the receipt print data, the server control unit 120 generates information for identifying the receipt print data according to a predetermined rule, and describes it in the receipt print data. Hereinafter, the information for identifying the receipt print data and the order slip print data described later will be referred to as "print data identification information".

After generating the receipt print data, the server control unit 120 saves the generated receipt print data in the print data storage database 122 a of the server storage unit 122 .

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing the data structure of the print data storage database 122a.

As shown in FIG. 14 , one record of the print data saving database 122 a has at least a print data field F1 , a print data identification information field F2 , and a print status information field F3 as fields for saving data.

The print data field F1 is a field for storing receipt print data and order slip print data described later.

The print data identification information field F2 is a field for storing print data identification information.

The printing status information field F3 is a field for storing printing status information. The print status information is information indicating whether or not printing based on the corresponding print data has been completed, and includes print completed information KJ (information indicating printing) indicating that printing has completed, and print incomplete information MJ indicating that printing has not yet completed.

After the receipt print data is generated, the server control unit 120 generates one record in the print data distribution server SV. The server control unit 120 stores the receipt print data in the print data field F1 of the generated single record. The server control unit 120 stores the print data identification information in the print data identification information field F2 of the generated single record. The server control unit 120 stores the print unfinished information MJ as print status information in the print status information field F3 of the generated single record.

Here, as will be described later, the receipt print data stored in the print data storage database 122a is sent to the control printer SP at any time in response to an inquiry from the control printer SP. When the print data is sent from the print data distribution server SV to the control printer SP, the corresponding predetermined device performs printing based on the receipt print data. When printing based on the receipt print data is completed, the control printer SP transmits print completion notification data notifying the completion of printing to the print data distribution server SV together with the print data identification information. Upon receiving the print completion notification, the server control unit 120 rewrites the print status information stored in the print status information field F3 of the corresponding record from the print unfinished information MJ to the print completed information KJ. That is, after the receipt print data is generated and until the print completion notification data is received, the print unfinished information MJ is stored in the print status information field F3, and when the print completion notification data is received, the information is rewritten into the print completion information KJ . Therefore, by referring to the print status information stored in the print status information field F3 in the single record, it is possible to obtain whether printing based on the corresponding receipt print data has been completed.

In this way, when the print data distribution server SV receives billing-related information from the first POS terminal PT1 , it generates and stores receipt print data based on the billing-related information.

The same applies to the operations of the second POS terminal PT2 and the print data distribution server SV when the user (the lobby person in this example) makes an input corresponding to the payment to the second POS terminal PT2 according to the customer's payment.

That is, the second POS terminal PT2 generates billing-related information according to billing, and sends the generated billing-related information and the identification information of the first printer KP1 that issues a receipt to the print data distribution server SV. The server control unit 120 of the print data distribution server SV generates print data identification information of the receipt print data, and generates receipt print data based on the generated print data identification information, received billing-related information, and identification information of the first printer KP1. The server control unit 120 creates one record in the print data storage database 122a, and stores the generated receipt print data, print data identification information, and print unfinished information MJ in corresponding fields.

Here, the method of using the receipt print data stored in the server storage unit 122 will be described later.

Next, operations of tablet terminal 110 and print data distribution server SV will be described when the user (in this example, a lobby person) inputs an input corresponding to a customer's order into tablet terminal 110 .

In this embodiment, a plurality of tablet terminals 110 are assigned to a plurality of lobby operators. A dedicated application program AP is pre-installed in the tablet terminal 110 . The person in charge of the lobby activates the application program AP before listening to the customer's order.

The application execution unit 130a of the terminal control unit 130 of the tablet terminal 110 is a functional module that reads and executes the application program AP by hardware resources such as a CPU, thereby realizing its function.

The application execution unit 130a of the terminal control unit 130 of the tablet terminal 110 displays a user interface (hereinafter referred to as "order UI") for the user to make an input corresponding to ordering on the display panel 131a. The order UI includes an area for selecting the food and drink ordered by the customer and an area for selecting the quantity of the food and drink ordered by the customer. The user can touch the touch panel 31 to input the food and drink ordered by the customer and the quantity.

When there is an input corresponding to the order in the order UI, the application execution unit 130a generates information related to the order (hereinafter referred to as "order-related information") based on the input. The order-related information includes at least information indicating the name of one or more food and drink ordered by the customer, and the number of food ordered.

Next, the application program execution unit 130a transmits the generated order-related information and the identification information of the printer that issued the order slip to the print data distribution server SV based on the generated order-related information.

Here, the application execution unit 130a determines which of the second printer KP2 and the third printer KP3 is to issue the order slip based on the content of the order-related information. The application execution unit 130a transmits the determined identification information of the printer together with the order-related information. In addition, a printer that issues order vouchers may be predetermined for each tablet terminal 110, and a printer that issues order vouchers may be determined in accordance with the state of the printer by a predetermined unit. structure.

The server control unit 120 of the print data distribution server SV controls the server communication unit 121 to receive order-related information and printer identification information transmitted from the tablet terminal 110 .

Next, the server control unit 120 generates order slip print data (print data) based on the received order-related information and the identification information of the printer.

The order voucher printing data is an XML file that instructs the issuance of an order voucher for printing order-related information. The order slip print data describes the identification information of the printer that issued the order slip, the print data identification information of the order slip print data, the order-related information, and the information included in the order-related information according to the XML protocol. Location-related information, and other information required for printing. When generating the order slip print data, the server control unit 120 generates print data identification information for identifying the data.

Next, the server control unit 120 creates one record in the print data storage database 122a, and stores the order slip print data, print data identification information, and print unfinished information MJ in corresponding fields.

In this way, when the print data distribution server SV receives order-related information from the tablet terminal 110 , it generates and stores order slip print data based on the order-related information.

In the following description, when the receipt print data and the order slip print data are expressed without distinguishing, they are expressed as "print data". The print data is an XML file.

Next, the functional blocks included in the printer control unit 140 that controls the printer SP will be described in detail.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing in detail the configuration of the control printer control unit 140 .

As shown in FIG. 15, the printer control unit 140 includes a reception unit 140a, an output unit 140b, and a print control unit 140c as functional blocks.

In this embodiment, the control printer SP activates a communication processing task as a task (it may be a thread or a process) when the power is turned on or activated by reset. Furthermore, the receiving unit 140a is a functional block that performs processing based on the execution of the communication processing task by the CPU, and includes a receiving processing unit JS.

As shown in FIG. 15 , the output unit 140 b includes a management unit KB, a first output processing unit SS1 , a second output processing unit SS2 , a third output processing unit SS3 , and a print output processing unit SS4 .

The management unit KB is a functional block corresponding to a management task that is activated when the printer SP is activated. That is, the management unit KB performs processing based on execution of the management task by the CPU. As will be described later, the management unit KB activates a first output task, a second output task, a third output task, or a print output as a task (it may be a thread or a process) when a predetermined condition is satisfied. Use tasks. Furthermore, the first output processing unit SS1 is a functional block that performs processing based on the CPU's execution of the first output task. In addition, the second output processing unit SS2 is a functional block that performs processing based on the CPU's execution of the second output task. In addition, the third output processing unit SS3 is a functional block that performs processing based on the CPU's execution of the third output task. In addition, the printout processing unit SS4 is a functional block that performs processing based on the execution of the printout job by the CPU. The processing performed by the management unit KB, the first output processing unit SS1 , the second output processing unit SS2 , the third output processing unit SS3 , and the print output processing unit SS4 will be described later.

Hereinafter, when the 1st output processing part SS1, the 2nd output processing part SS2, and the 3rd output processing part SS3 are not distinguished, it expresses as "transmission processing part S." In addition, when not distinguishing the 1st output processing part SS1, the 2nd output processing part SS2, the 3rd output processing part SS3, and the printing output processing part SS4, it expresses "the output processing part SS."

The functional modules included in the reception processing unit JS and the output unit 140b can write data into the print queue Q (storage area) and can read data written into the print queue Q. FIG.

The print queue Q is a buffer formed in a work area of a temporary storage area such as RAM.

Print data is input to the print control unit 140c in a predetermined case described later. The print control unit 140c converts input print data (XML file) into control commands conforming to the command system of the control printer print unit 141, and causes the control printer print unit 141 to execute processing based on the control commands.

Next, the settings for controlling the printer SP will be described.

As described above, the reception processing unit JS is activated when the activation of the printer SP is controlled. In the present embodiment, a browser-installed device can access the control printer SP via the wide area network WN to perform settings related to the reception processing unit JS.

In this embodiment, the control printer SP is in a state where web server software (for example, Apache HTTP Server) is installed. The control printer SP has the function of a web server that generates and transmits display data conforming to a predetermined protocol such as HTTP based on a request from a client.

In this embodiment, the browser is installed on the tablet terminal 110 . Hereinafter, a case where the printer SP is accessed and controlled from the tablet terminal 110 to set the reception processing unit JS will be described as an example.

The user starts the browser of the tablet terminal 110 and accesses a predetermined URL managed by the control printer SP. In response to access to a predetermined URL, the control printer control unit 140 of the control printer SP creates and transmits a display file for displaying a setting user interface (hereinafter referred to as “setting UI”) of the reception processing unit JS. The terminal control unit 130 of the tablet terminal 110 displays the setting UI on the display panel 31 a based on the received display file.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a setting UI.

As shown in FIG. 16 , the setting UI has a URL input field RA1 for inputting the URL of the print data distribution server SV. As will be described later, the reception processing unit JS inquires of the print data distribution server SV about the presence or absence of print data, and inputs the URL of the inquiring server into the URL input column RA1.

In addition, the setting UI has radio buttons RA2 for process selection. The radio button R2 for process selection is a radio button for selecting the process to be executed by the processing unit JS for reception among the asynchronous process (first process) and the synchronous process (second process). Asynchronous processing and synchronous processing will be described later. The user clicks any one of the button corresponding to the asynchronous processing and the button corresponding to the synchronous processing to select one of the asynchronous processing and the synchronous processing to be executed by the receiving processing unit JS.

In addition, the setting UI has an asynchronous processing time interval input field RA3. The asynchronous processing time interval input field RA3 is a field for setting the interval when the print data distribution server SV is inquired about the presence or absence of print data when the receiving processing unit JS executes the asynchronous processing. As will be described later, when the processing unit JS for reception executes asynchronous processing, it inquires about the presence or absence of print data at predetermined intervals. In the asynchronous processing time interval input column RA3, a value of the predetermined time is input.

In addition, the setting UI has an interval automatic adjustment setting field RA4. In the interval automatic adjustment setting field RA4 , whether to enable or disable the execution of the interval automatic adjustment process described later is set by radio buttons.

In addition, the setting UI has a synchronization processing time interval input column RA5. The synchronization processing time interval input column RA5 is a column for setting the interval when the print data distribution server SV is inquired about the presence or absence of print data when the reception processing unit JS executes the synchronization process. As will be described later, when the processing unit JS for reception executes the synchronization process, it inquires about the presence or absence of print data every predetermined period of time other than the predetermined period. In the synchronization processing time interval input column RA5, a value of a predetermined time is input.

In addition, the setting UI has an apply button B1.

When the apply button B1 is selected, input to the setting UI is confirmed, and the input information is sent to the control printer SP.

The control printer control unit 140 that controls the printer SP writes the received information into a setting file, program variables, etc., and reflects the settings based on the input.

Next, the operation of controlling the printer SP will be described in detail.

First, the operation of controlling the printer SP when performing asynchronous processing (first processing) will be described. As described above, the receiving processing unit JS can execute both asynchronous processing (first processing) and synchronous processing (second processing), and the user can select which one is to be executed by the receiving processing unit JS using the setting UI. deal with.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the operation of controlling the printer SP when performing asynchronous processing.

As shown in FIG. 17 , when performing asynchronous processing, the reception processing unit JS monitors whether or not it is time to inquire about the presence or absence of print data to the print data distribution server SV (step SAA1 ). In the asynchronous processing, irrespective of the state of the processing based on the print data that has already been received, the processing unit JS for receiving uses the interval entered in the asynchronous processing time interval input column RA3 of the setting UI or automatically at the interval described later. The adjustment process periodically inquires of the print data distribution server SV about the presence or absence of print data at adjusted intervals. Hereinafter, when asynchronous processing is performed, the interval for inquiring about the presence or absence of print data is referred to as a "first interval". In step SAA1, the reception processing unit JS monitors whether or not the time corresponding to the first interval has elapsed since the previous inquiry, and when it has elapsed, determines that it is time to inquire about the presence or absence of print data.

When it is time to inquire about the presence or absence of print data (step SAA1: Yes), the receiving processing unit JS generates data for inquiring about the presence or absence of print data, and controls the WAN communication unit 143 to transmit the data to the print data. Distribution server SV (step SAA2).

As described above, the URL input into the URL input field RA1 (in this example, the URL of the print data distribution server SV) is written into the configuration file and the like, and the reception processing unit JS manages the URL. In step SAA2, the reception processing unit JS accesses the print data distribution server SV based on the managed URL, establishes a connection according to a predetermined communication standard, and transmits data using the connection.

After inquiring about the presence or absence of print data, the reception processing unit JS returns the processing step to step SAA1, and monitors whether or not it is time to inquire about the presence or absence of print data.

In this way, when asynchronous processing is performed, the reception processing unit JS inquires of the print data distribution server SV for the presence or absence of print data at first intervals regardless of the status of processing based on the received print data. With such a configuration, the control printer SP can inquire about the presence or absence of print data regardless of the status of processing based on the print data. Therefore, it is possible to shorten the time required for the control printer SP to receive the print data after the print data distribution device becomes capable of sending the print data.

18 is a flowchart showing the operations of the control printer SP and the print data distribution server SV after the receiving processing unit JS inquires about the presence or absence of print data when performing asynchronous processing. FIG. 18(A) shows the operation of the control printer SP, and FIG. 18(B) shows the operation of the print data distribution server SV.

As shown in FIG. 18(A), the reception processing unit JS of the control printer control unit 140 of the control printer SP generates data for inquiring about the presence or absence of print data, and controls the wide area network communication unit 143 to send the data to the print data distribution server. Server SV (step SBA1). As described above, the control printer control unit 140 establishes a connection with the print data distribution server SV according to a predetermined communication standard, and transmits data using the established connection.

As shown in FIG. 18(B), the server control unit 120 of the print data distribution server SV controls the server communication unit 121 to receive data (step SCA1 ).

Next, the server control unit 120 refers to the print data storage database 122a, and determines whether there is print data that can be sent (step SCA2).

In detail, as described above, each record of the print data storage database 122a has the print status information field F3. In step SCA2 , the server control unit 120 determines that there is “print data that can be sent” even if there is even one record in which the print unfinished information MJ is stored in the print status information field F3. In step SCA2 , the server control unit 120 determines that there is no "transmittable print data" when there is no such record.

Next, based on the determination result, the server control unit 120 controls the server communication unit 121 to transmit data including information indicating the presence or absence of transmittable print data using the connection established in step SBA1 (step SCA3 ).

As shown in FIG. 18(A), the reception processing unit JS controlling the printer SP controls the WAN communication unit 143 to receive data transmitted from the print data distribution server SV (step SBA2 ).

Next, the reception processing unit JS determines whether there is print data that can be transmitted in the print data distribution server SV based on the received data (step SBA3 ).

If there is no print data (=when the received data includes information indicating that there is no print data that can be transmitted) (step SBA3: NO), the reception processing unit JS ends the processing.

When there is print data (=when the received data includes information indicating that there is print data that can be sent) (step SBA3: Yes), the reception processing unit JS uses the established connection to send the print data Send the requested data (step SBA4).

As shown in FIG. 18(B), the server control unit 120 of the print data distribution server SV controls the server communication unit 121 to receive the data transmitted by the control printer SP (step SCA4 ).

Next, the server control unit 120 transmits the print data (=transmittable print data) associated with the print unfinished information MJ in the print data storage database 122a using the established association (step SCA5 ). The print data associated with the print unfinished information MJ is data for which the print completion notification data for notifying the completion of printing based on the print data has not been received after the print data has been generated. When there is a plurality of print data associated with the print unfinished information MJ, the server control unit 120 sequentially transmits the plurality of print data.

As shown in FIG. 18(A), upon transmission of the print data from the print data distribution server SV, the receiving processing unit JS of the printer SP is controlled to start receiving the print data (step SBA5). The reception processing unit JS sequentially stores the received data in a reception buffer formed in a work area such as RAM while receiving print data.

After the reception of the print data starts, the reception processing unit JS monitors whether the reception of the print data is completed (step SBA6 ). When a plurality of print data has been received, in step SBA6 , the reception processing unit JS monitors whether reception of all the plurality of print data has been completed.

When the reception of the print data is completed (step SBA6: YES), the reception processing unit JS performs comparison processing (step SBA7). Hereinafter, the comparison processing will be described in detail. The reception processing unit JS refers to the content of the print data stored in the reception buffer, and acquires the print data identification information described in the print data. When receiving a plurality of print data, the reception processing unit JS acquires the print data identification information of each of the plurality of print data.

Next, the reception processing unit JS refers to the received print data identification information table 142 a stored in the control printer storage unit 142 . The received print data identification information table 142 a is a table that accumulates and stores print data identification information of print data that has been received and written to the print queue Q. As will be described later, when storing the print data in the print queue Q, the reception processing unit JS writes the print data identification information of the stored print data into the received print data identification information table 142a.

Next, the reception processing unit JS judges whether or not the print data identification information having the same value as the acquired print data identification information is written in the received print data identification information table 142a. When the print data identification information having the same value as the acquired print data identification information is written in the received print data identification information table 142a, the same print data has been received and stored in the print queue Q. state.

When receiving a plurality of print data, the reception processing unit JS compares the print data identification information of the plurality of print data with the print data identification information written in the received print data identification information table 142a.

In the comparison processing in step SBA7 described above, the reception processing unit JS determines whether the print data newly received from the print data distribution server SV is the same as the print data already received from the server. The reason why the same data may be received multiple times from the print data distribution server SV is as follows. As shown in FIG. 23, in the print data storage database 122a stored in the print data distribution server SV, the generated print data and print status information indicating whether printing based on the print data is completed (print unfinished information MJ or print completed Information (KJ) establishes correspondence and stores. Then, as described in step SCA5 , when the server control unit 120 receives an inquiry about the presence or absence of print data, the print data distribution server SV transmits a message associated with the print unfinished information MJ in the print data storage database 122 a. of print data. With such a configuration, after the print data distribution server SV transmits one print data and before the print unfinished information MJ associated with the one print data is rewritten into the print complete information KJ, when there is printing from the control printer SP When inquiring about the presence or absence of data, the print data distribution server SV transmits the one print data. For such a reason, it may happen that the printer SP is controlled to receive the same data from the print data distribution server SV multiple times.

In addition, in the print data storage database 122a, the print data and information indicating whether the transmission has been completed can also be stored in association, and the print data distribution server SV selects the print data to be transmitted based on this information. However, in this case, the amount of data in the print data storage database 122a increases compared with the present embodiment, and the number of processes to be executed by the print data distribution server SV increases. In particular, this information is unnecessary information in the synchronization processing (second processing) described later. Therefore, as will be described later, in view of the fact that the processing executed by the control printer SP can be switched between asynchronous processing and synchronous processing, by not correspondingly storing this information in the print data storage database 122a, the amount of data can be increased. The advantages of large suppression and reduction of processing load are large.

Next, the reception processing unit JS prints the print data identification information having the same value as the print data identification information written in the received print data identification information table 142a among one or more received print data. In the case of print data, the print data is discarded (step SBA8). Discarding means not writing to the print queue Q. Even if the control printer SP receives the same print data multiple times through the process of step SBA8 , print data other than the first received print data is not written into the print queue Q, and thus is not processed.

Next, among the received one or more print data, there is print data whose value of the print data identification information does not match the value of the print data identification information written in the received print data identification information table 142a. In the case of , perform the following processing. That is, the reception processing unit JS writes the print data into the print queue Q (step SBA9 ).

Next, when there is print data written in the print queue Q, the reception processing unit JS writes the print data identification information of the print data into the received print data identification information table 142a (step SBA10). When there is a plurality of print data written in the print queue Q, the reception processing unit JS writes the print data identification information of the plurality of print data into the received print data identification information table 142a.

Next, an automatic interval adjustment process executed by the reception processing unit JS when the execution of the automatic interval adjustment process is enabled in the setting UI when performing asynchronous processing will be described.

As described above, when performing asynchronous processing, the reception processing unit JS inquires of the print data distribution server SV whether or not there is print data at intervals regardless of the processing status based on the received print data. The interval automatic adjustment process is a process for automatically adjusting the interval of inquiry print data.

Specifically, when the print data is frequently discarded in step SBA8 , the reception processing unit JS increases the interval at which the inquiry is made. As an example, when the print data is discarded more than a predetermined threshold value within a predetermined unit time, the reception processing unit JS increases the set interval by X seconds. When the above state is eliminated, the reception processing unit JS shortens the interval by X seconds. By executing such processing, the following effects can be obtained. That is, frequent discarding of print data refers to a state in which the printer SP is controlled to inquire about the presence or absence of print data at a faster pace than the pace at which received print data is processed. Furthermore, by executing the above processing, it is possible to suppress the divergence between the pace of processing the received print data and the pace of inquiring about the presence or absence of print data, and reduce the frequency of discarding the received print data.

In addition, in the interval automatic adjustment process, the reception processing unit JS changes the interval for inquiring about the presence or absence of print data according to the state of the print queue Q. More specifically, when the area in which new data can be written in the print queue Q becomes smaller, the reception processing unit JS increases the interval for making inquiries. As an example, the reception processing unit JS monitors the capacity of an area in the print queue Q where new data can be written, and increases the set interval by Y seconds when the capacity becomes equal to or smaller than a predetermined threshold. When the above state is eliminated, the processing unit JS for reception shortens the interval by Y seconds. By executing such processing, the following effects can be obtained. That is, the fact that the area where new data can be written in the print queue Q is smaller than the set threshold means that the pace of controlling the printer SP to inquire about the presence or absence of print data is faster than the pace of processing the received print data. status. Furthermore, by executing the above processing, it is possible to suppress the discrepancy between the step of processing the received print data and the step of inquiring about the presence or absence of print data, and it is possible to reduce the occurrence of inability to print data due to insufficient free space in the print queue Q. The possibility of writing the situation.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating processing executed by the receiving processing unit JS in parallel with the above-described processing in FIGS. 17 and 18 when asynchronous processing is executed. FIG. 19(A) shows the operation of the control printer SP, and FIG. 19(B) shows the operation of the print data distribution server SV.

As shown in FIG. 19(A), the reception processing unit JS controlling the printer SP monitors whether or not a processing result notification is input from the management unit KB (step SDA1). As will be described later, when printing based on the print data written in the print queue Q is completed, the management unit KB outputs a processing result notification including the print data identification information of the print data to the reception processing unit JS.

When the processing result notification is input (step SDA1: Yes), the reception processing unit JS transmits the print completion notification data using the established connection (step SDA2), and returns the processing step to step SDA1. The print completion notification data includes the print data identification information included in the processing result notification, and indicates the completion of printing based on the print data corresponding to the identification information.

As shown in FIG. 19(B), the server control unit 120 of the print data distribution server SV receives the print completion notification data (step SEA1).

Next, the server control unit 120 refers to the print data storage database 122a, and specifies a record in which the print data identification information contained in the received print completion notification data is stored in the print data identification information field F2 (step SEA2).

Next, the server control unit 120 rewrites the print unfinished information MJ stored in the print status information field F3 of the specified record into the print finished information KJ (step SEA3 ). By the process of step SEA3, the rewritten print data for which the corresponding print status information is created is not sent to the control printer SP even when there is an inquiry.

Next, the operation of controlling the printer SP in the case of executing the synchronization process (second process) will be described. As described above, the user uses the setting UI to select the synchronization process as the process to be executed by the control printer SP.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the operations of the control printer SP and the print data distribution server SV when the synchronization process is executed. Fig. 20(A) shows the operation of controlling the printer SP. FIG. 20(B) shows the operation of the print data distribution server SV.

As shown in FIG. 20(A) , the reception processing unit JS of the control printer control unit 140 controlling the printer SP monitors whether it is time to inquire about the presence or absence of print data to the print data distribution server SV (step SFA1 ).

When synchronous processing is executed, in addition to the later-described print data processing period, the receiving processing unit JS inquires of the print data distribution server SV for print data at intervals entered in the synchronous processing time interval input field RA5 of the setting UI. with or without. In step SFA1 , the reception processing unit JS monitors whether or not the time corresponding to the set interval has elapsed since the previous inquiry, and judges that it is time to inquire about the presence or absence of print data if it has elapsed.

When the timing is up (step SFA1: Yes), the receiving processing unit JS generates data for inquiring about the presence or absence of print data, and controls the wide area network communication unit 143 to send the data to the print data distribution server SV (step SFA2 ).

As shown in FIG. 20(B), the server control unit 120 of the print data distribution server SV controls the server communication unit 121 to receive data (step SGA1 ).

Next, the server control unit 120 refers to the print data storage database 122a, and determines whether there is print data that can be transmitted (step SGA2). As described above, the print data that can be transmitted is the print data associated with the print status information in the print data storage database 122a as the print unfinished information MJ. As can be seen from the description below, when the synchronization process is executed, the print status information of the print data not sent from the print data distribution server SV to the control printer SP is the print unfinished information MJ.

Next, the server control unit 120 controls the server communication unit 121 based on the determination result, and transmits data including information indicating the presence or absence of transmittable print data using the established connection (step SGA3 ).

As shown in FIG. 20(A) , the reception processing unit JS controlling the printer SP controls the WAN communication unit 143 to receive data transmitted from the print data distribution server SV (step SFA3 ).

Next, when the received data includes information indicating that there is no print data that can be transmitted (step SFA4 : NO), the reception processing unit JS returns the processing step to step SFA1 .

When the received data includes information indicating that there is print data that can be sent (step SFA4: Yes), the receiving processing unit JS uses the established connection to send data requesting print data to be sent ( Step SFA5).

As shown in FIG. 20(B), the server control unit 120 of the print data distribution server SV receives the data (step SGA4).

Next, the server control unit 120 transmits the print data (=transmittable print data) associated with the print unfinished information MJ in the print data storage database 122a using the established association (step SGA5). When there is a plurality of print data associated with the print unfinished information MJ, the server control unit 120 sequentially transmits the plurality of print data.

As shown in FIG. 20(A), upon transmission of the print data from the print data distribution server SV, the receiving processing unit JS of the printer SP is controlled to start receiving the print data (step SFA6). The receiving processing unit JS sequentially stores the received data in the receiving buffer while receiving the print data.

After the reception of the print data starts, the reception processing unit JS monitors whether the reception of the print data is completed (step SFA7 ). When there is a plurality of print data received, in step SFA7 , the reception processing unit JS monitors whether the reception of all the plurality of print data is completed.

When the reception of the print data is completed (step SFA7: YES), the reception processing unit JS writes the received print data (in the case of receiving a plurality of print data, a plurality of print data) into the print queue Q (step SFA8).

As will be understood from the description below, in the synchronous process, since the same print data is not received multiple times, it is not necessary to execute the comparison process in step SBA7 performed in the asynchronous process.

Next, the reception processing unit JS monitors whether or not a processing result notification indicating that printing based on the print data written in the print queue Q in step SFA8 has been completed is input (step SFA9 ). The "processing result notification indicating the end of printing based on the print data written to the print queue Q" is a processing result notification including print data identification information of the print data written to the print queue Q. When there is a plurality of print data written in the print queue Q, in step SFA9, the reception processing unit JS monitors whether or not there is an input of a processing result notification corresponding to all the print data.

When there is an input of a processing result notification, the reception processing unit JS transmits the print completion notification data using the established connection (step SFA10 ). As described above, the print completion notification data includes the print data identification information included in the processing result notification, and indicates that printing based on the print data corresponding to the identification information has been completed. When there are a plurality of print data written in the print queue Q, in step SFA10 , the receiving processing unit JS transmits print completion notification data including the print data identification information of each print data.

Next, the reception processing unit JS waits for a predetermined period of time (step SFA11 ), then returns the processing procedure to step SFA1 , and starts an inquiry about the presence or absence of print data. The period of waiting is set to a sufficient time required for the print data distribution server SV to finish rewriting the print status information in step SGA8 described later.

In this way, in the synchronous processing, the printer SP is controlled not to perform the presence of print data during the period (print data processing period) from when the print data is received in response to the inquiry of the presence or absence of print data to when the printing based on the print data is completed. No inquiries. With such a configuration, compared with asynchronous processing, although there is a possibility that the time from when the print data distribution server SV becomes capable of sending print data to when the control printer SP receives the print data becomes longer, it is not necessary to execute the above-mentioned The comparison processing of the print data, the discarding of the print data, and the reception of the print data and the printing based on the print data can be performed sequentially.

As shown in FIG. 20(B), the server control unit 120 of the print data distribution server SV receives the print completion notification data (step SGA6).

Next, the server control unit 120 refers to the print data storage database 122a, and confirms that the print data identification information contained in the received print completion notification data has been stored in the record of the print data identification information field F2 (step SGA7). When a plurality of print completion notification data has been received, the server control unit 120 specifies a plurality of corresponding records.

Next, the server control unit 120 rewrites the print unfinished information MJ stored in the print status information field F3 of the identified one or more records into the print completed information KJ (step SGA8 ). Through the process of step SGA8, the rewritten print data for which the corresponding print status information is created is not sent to the control printer SP even when there is an inquiry.

Next, processing of print data received by the control printer SP and stored in the print queue Q will be described.

The processing of the print data stored in the print queue Q is the same when executing asynchronous processing and when executing synchronous processing. That is, regardless of whether the processing being performed is asynchronous processing or synchronous processing, the print data is processed by the method described below.

As mentioned above, when the 1st output processing part SS1, the 2nd output processing part SS2, and the 3rd output processing part SS3 are not distinguished, they are expressed as "transmission processing part S." In addition, when not distinguishing the 1st output processing part SS1, the 2nd output processing part SS2, the 3rd output processing part SS3, and the printing output processing part SS4, it expresses as "output processing part SS".

As described above, the management unit KB activates the first output processing unit SS1 , the second output processing unit SS2 , the third output processing unit SS3 , or the print output processing unit SS4 when a predetermined condition is satisfied. Furthermore, the processing executed by the transmission processing section S (the first output processing section SS1 , the second output processing section SS2 , and the third output processing section SS3 ) is different from the processing executed by the printout processing section SS4 .

Hereinafter, the processing of the first output processing unit SS1 will be described using FIG. 21 , and next, the processing of the print output processing unit SS4 will be described using FIG. 22 .

Fig. 21 (A) is a flow chart showing the operation of the management unit KB, Fig. 21 (B) is a flow chart showing the operation of the first output processing section SS1, and Fig. 21 (C) is a flow chart showing the operation of the first printer KP1. flow chart.

As shown in FIG. 21(A) , the management unit KB monitors whether or not print data is written into the print queue Q (step SHA1 ). Writing of print data means that writing of a series of print data is completed after writing to the print queue Q is started, and when writing of a plurality of print data is performed means that a plurality of print data is written. Writing is complete.

When the print data has been written into the print queue Q (step SHA1: YES), the management unit KB refers to the content of the print data and acquires the identification information of the printer included in the print data (step SHA2). When a plurality of print data are written, the management unit KB acquires identification information of printers included in the plurality of print data.

Next, the management unit KB judges whether the output processing unit SS (send processing unit S or print output processing unit SS4 ) corresponding to the acquired printer identification information is activated (step SHA3 ). When there is a plurality of printer identification information acquired in step SHA2 , the management unit KB judges whether or not the corresponding output processing unit SS is activated for each of the plurality of printer identification information.

Here, the output processing unit SS corresponding to the identification information of the first printer KP1 is the first output processing unit SS1. The output processing unit SS corresponding to the identification information of the second printer KP2 is the second output processing unit SS2. The output processing unit SS corresponding to the identification information of the third printer KP3 is the third output processing unit SS3. In addition, the processing part SS for output corresponding to the identification information which controls the printer SP is the processing part SS4 for print output.

When the output processing unit SS corresponding to the printer identification information acquired in step SHA2 is activated (step SHA3: YES), the management unit KB returns the processing procedure to step SHA1. In this case, as will be described later, the print data written in the print queue Q is processed by the activated output processing unit SS.

For the output processing unit SS corresponding to the identification information of the printer acquired in step SHA2, if even one of them is inactive (step SHA3: No), the management unit KB will associate the output processing unit SS with the inactive output processing unit SS. The output processing part SS corresponding to the identification information of the part SS is activated (step SHA4). For example, when the acquired printer identification information is the identification information of the first printer KP1 and the first output processing unit SS1 is not activated, the management unit KB activates the first output task to make the first output processing unit SS1 starts.

In the following description using FIG. 21, it is assumed that the management unit KB activates the first output processing unit SS1 in step SHA4, and the processing of the first output processing unit SS1 will be described. Although the detailed description of the processing of the second output processing unit SS2 and the third output processing unit SS3 is omitted, these output processing units SS execute the same processing as the processing described below after activation.

As shown in FIG. 21(B), the first output processing unit SS1 refers to the content of the print data written earliest in time among the unread print data stored in the print queue Q, and obtains the print data contained in the print data. Identification information of the printer (step SIA1).

Next, the first output processing unit SS1 judges whether the acquired identification information of the printer matches the identification information (corresponding identification information) of the first printer KP1 (step SIA2 ). Furthermore, the second output processing unit SS2 judges whether the acquired identification information of the printer matches the identification information of the second printer KP2. In addition, the third output processing unit SS3 judges whether or not the acquired identification information of the printer matches the identification information of the third printer KP3 in the processing corresponding to step SIA2.

In the case of inconsistency (step SIA2: No), the first output processing unit SS1 judges whether there is print data that has not been read out and has not been subjected to the acquisition of identification information in step SIA1 and the comparison in step SIA2 in the print queue Q (step SIA2). SIA3).

If there is print data (step SIA3: YES), the first output processing unit SS1 acquires the print data saved after the print data for which the identification information was acquired and compared last time among the unread print data. The identification information of the data (step SIA4), and then the processing step moves to step SIA2.

When there is no print data (step SIA3: NO), the first output processing unit SS1 stops by stopping the first output job (step SIA5).

On the other hand, in step SIA2, when the acquired identification information of the printer matches the identification information of the first printer KP1 (step SIA2: Yes), the first output processing unit SS1 reads out the acquired printer from the print queue Q. The print data of the identification information (step SIA6).

Next, the first output processing unit SS1 controls the LAN communication unit 144 to transmit (output) the read print data to the first printer KP1 (step SIA7 ). The first output processing unit SS1 acquires and manages information necessary for sending data to the first printer KP1, such as the IP address and MAC address of the first printer KP1, in advance.

As shown in FIG. 21(C), the first control unit 601 of the first printer KP1 controls the first communication unit 611 to receive print data (step SJA1 ).

Next, the first control unit 601 converts the received print data into control commands conforming to the command system of the first printer unit 621, and causes the first printer unit 621 to execute processing based on the control commands (step SJA2). Since the print data is receipt print data, a receipt is issued by the first printer KP1 as a result of the processing in step SJA2.

Next, the first control unit 601 generates data indicating the processing result of the print data (hereinafter referred to as “processing result notification data”), and controls the first communication unit 611 to transmit it to the control printer SP (step SJA3 ). .

As shown in FIG. 21(B), the first output processing unit SS1 of the control printer SP monitors whether or not processing result notification data is received after the print data is sent (step SIA8).

When the processing result notification data is received (step SIA8: YES), the first output processing unit SS1 outputs information indicating the processing result to the management unit KB by means such as an interrupt (step SIA9). The information indicating the processing result includes print data identification information of the processed print data. The method of using the information indicating the processing result by the management unit KB will be described later.

Next, the processing part SS1 for 1st output transfers a process step to step SIA3.

In summary, the first output processing unit SS1 is a functional block having a function of sending print data to the first printer KP1. The first output processing unit SS1 is activated by storing the print data including the identification information of the first printer KP1 in the print queue Q as a trigger. After the first output processing unit SS1 is activated, for the unread print data among the print data stored in the print queue Q, it discriminates the identification information included in the print data and the print data in the order of the received print data in the order in which they were stored, in other words, in the order in which they were received. Whether the identification information of the first printer KP1 is consistent. Then, when the identification information matches, the first output processing unit SS1 reads out the print data whose identification information matches, and sends it to the first printer KP1.

With such a configuration, the first output processing unit SS1 can transmit the print data to be processed by the first printer KP1 in the order stored in the print queue Q, in other words, in the order received. For example, in the case of a configuration in which a plurality of processing units having a function of transmitting print data are activated corresponding to the first printer KP1, and the plurality of processing units independently execute print data reading and transmission, failure to receive data may occur. The transmission of the print data is performed in the order of the print data. On the other hand, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to prevent this from happening.

In addition, the first output processing unit SS1 stops when there is no unread print data that is the processing target of the first printer KP1 in the print queue Q. That is, the first output processing unit SS1 stops when processing is unnecessary. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the first output processing unit SS1 from being unnecessarily activated, and to realize effective use of hardware resources such as a CPU and other resources.

The above is also the same for the second output processing unit SS2 and the third output processing unit SS3.

Next, the operations of the printout processing section SS4 and the print control section 140c after the management section KB activates the printout processing section SS4 will be described.

FIG. 22(A) is a flowchart showing the operation of the print output processing unit SS4, and FIG. 22(B) is a flowchart showing the operation of the printing control unit 140c.

When the management unit KB stores print data including identification information for controlling the printer SP in the print queue Q, if the print output processing unit SS4 has not been activated, the print output processing unit is activated by starting a print output job. SS4 (step SXA1).

As shown in FIG. 22(A), the print output processing unit SS4 refers to the content of the print data written earliest in time among the unread print data stored in the print queue Q, and obtains the printer included in the print data. identification information (step SKA1).

The printout processing unit SS4 judges whether the acquired identification information of the printer matches the identification information (corresponding identification information) of the control printer SP (step SKA2 ).

If they do not match (step SKA2: No), the printout processing unit SS4 judges whether there is print data in the print queue Q that has not been read out and has not been subjected to the identification information acquisition and comparison in step SKA2 (step SKA3).

If there is print data (step SKA3: YES), the print output processing unit SS4 reads the print data stored after the print data for which the identification information was obtained and compared last time among the unread print data. (step SKA4), then the processing steps are moved to step SKA2.

When there is no print data (step SKA3: NO), the print output processing unit SS4 stops the print output job (step SKA5).

On the other hand, in step SKA2, when the acquired identification information of the printer coincides with the identification information of the control printer SP (step SKA2: Yes), the printout processing unit SS4 reads out the acquired printer identification information from the print queue Q. The print data of the message (step SKA6).

Next, the print output processing unit SS4 outputs the read print data to the print control unit 140c (step SKA7).

As shown in FIG. 22(B), the print control unit 140c converts the print data into a control command conforming to the command system of the control printer printing unit 41, and causes the control printer printing unit 141 to execute processing based on the control command based on the control command (step SLA1 ). Since the print data is receipt print data, a receipt is issued by the control printer SP as a result of the processing in step SLA1.

Next, the print control unit 140c outputs information indicating the processing result of the print data to the print output processing unit SS4 (step SLA2 ).

As shown in FIG. 22(A), the print output processing unit SS4 monitors whether or not information indicating a processing result is input after output of the print data (step SKA8).

When the information indicating the processing result is input (step SKA8: YES), the printout processing unit SS4 outputs the information indicating the processing result to the management unit KB by interrupting or the like (step SKA9). The information indicating the processing result includes print data identification information of the processed print data. The method of using the information indicating the processing result by the management unit KB will be described later.

Next, the printout processing unit SS4 moves the processing step to step SKA3.

As described above, the print output processing unit SS4 is activated by saving the print data including the identification information of the control printer SP in the print queue Q as a trigger. After the print output processing unit SS4 is activated, for the unread print data among the print data stored in the print queue Q, it discriminates the identification information contained in the print data and the print data in the order of storage, in other words, the order of reception. Control whether the identification information of the printer SP is consistent. Furthermore, when the identification information matches, the printout processing unit SS4 reads out the print data whose identification information matches and outputs it to the print control unit 140c. The print control unit 140c performs printing based on the print data.

With such a configuration, the printout processing unit SS4 can process the print data to be processed by the control printer SP in the order stored in the print queue Q, in other words, in the order received. In addition, the print output processing unit SS4 stops when there is no print data that is the print data to be processed by the control printer SP and has not been read in the print queue Q. That is, the printout processing unit SS4 stops when processing is unnecessary. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the printing output processing unit SS4 from being unnecessarily activated, and to realize effective use of hardware resources such as a CPU and other resources.

Next, other processing by the management unit KB will be described.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing the operation of the management unit KB.

The management unit KB monitors whether or not information indicating the processing result is input (step SMA1). As described above, the information indicating the processing result includes the print data identification information of the processed print data.

When the information indicating the processing result is input (step SMA1), the management unit KB generates a processing result notification including the print data identification information and notifies the completion of printing based on the print data, and outputs it to the receiving processing unit by interrupting or the like. JS (step SMA2). Then, the reception processing unit JS returns the processing step to step SMA1.

As described above, the print data processing system 101 according to this embodiment includes the print data distribution server SV (print data distribution device), and the control printer SP ( information processing device).

The reception processing unit JS of the control printer SP inquires of the print data distribution server SV for the presence or absence of print data at intervals regardless of whether printing based on the print data is completed, and performs reception when there is print data in the print data distribution server SV. The asynchronous processing of (the first processing).

According to this configuration, the control printer SP inquires of the print data distribution server SV whether there is print data regardless of whether printing based on the received print data is completed, and receives the print data if there is print data. Therefore, the control printer SP can inquire about the presence or absence of print data regardless of the status of the print data-based processing, and the time from when the print data distribution server SV becomes capable of transmitting print data to when the control printer SP receives the print data can be shortened.

In addition, in the present embodiment, when the receiving processing unit JS controlling the printer SP finishes printing based on the received print data, it transmits the print completion notification data (print completion notification) notifying the fact to the print data distribution server. Server SV. When the print data distribution server SV receives the print completion notification data, it stores the corresponding print data in association with the print completion information KJ (information indicating the completion of printing), and also stores the print data in the slave control printer SP. In the case of a presence/absence inquiry, print data that is not associated with the print completion information KJ is transmitted. When receiving print data from the print data distribution server SV, the reception processing unit JS that controls the printer SP compares the newly received print data with the previously received print data, and compares the newly received print data if the data match. The received print data is discarded.

According to this configuration, when the printer SP receives print data, it discards the newly received print data if the newly received print data matches the previously received print data. The processing is repeatedly performed on the received print data.

In addition, this embodiment is characterized in that the receiving processing unit JS controlling the printer SP changes the interval of inquiring about the presence or absence of print data according to the frequency of discarding the print data.

According to this configuration, when the interval for inquiring print data is shorter than the time required for printing based on the print data and print data is frequently discarded, the interval can be adjusted to eliminate this state.

In addition, in this embodiment, the receiving processing unit JS of the control printer SP stores the received print data in the print queue Q (predetermined storage area), and inquires about the presence or absence of the print data according to the status of the print queue Q. Interval changes.

According to this configuration, it is possible to adjust the time to inquire about print data according to the state of the print queue Q such as the state of the vacant area of the print queue Q, and it is possible to suppress the occurrence of overflow and the like.

In addition, in this embodiment, the reception processing unit JS of the control printer SP can perform no inquiry of the presence or absence of print data between the time of receiving the print data and the end of printing based on the received data, and can perform an inquiry after the end of printing. Synchronization processing of inquiries (second processing) is performed. Which of the asynchronous processing and the synchronous processing is to be executed by the control printer SP can be set through the setting UI.

According to this configuration, it is possible to switch between asynchronous processing and synchronous processing according to the specifications of the print data processing system 101 and the like.

In addition, the print data processing system 101 according to this embodiment includes a printer KP that communicates with the control printer SP. The control printer SP has an output unit 140b for sending the received print data to the printer KP. The reception processing unit JS that controls the printer SP inquires of the print data distribution server SV whether or not there is print data at intervals regardless of whether printing by the printer KP based on the received print data is completed.

According to this configuration, since the control printer SP inquires the print data distribution server SV about the presence or absence of print data regardless of the processing status of the connected printer KP, it is possible to shorten the time period after the print data distribution server SV becomes capable of sending print data. Controls the time elapsed until the printer SP receives print data.

Also, in this embodiment, the reception processing unit JS of the control printer SP inquires of the print data distribution server SV for print data at intervals regardless of whether printing by the control printer print unit 141 based on the received print data is completed. with or without.

According to this configuration, since the control printer SP inquires of the print data distribution server SV for the presence or absence of print data regardless of the status of the processing of the control printer printing unit 141, it is possible to shorten the time period after the print data distribution server SV becomes capable of transmitting print data. Controls the time elapsed until the printer SP receives print data.

In addition, the above-mentioned embodiment is only an example showing one form of the present invention, and can be modified and applied arbitrarily within the scope of the present invention.

For example, in the above-mentioned embodiment, in order to judge whether or not print data has been repeatedly received from the print data distribution server SV when performing asynchronous processing, the reception processing unit JS sets the print data identification information of the received print data to , and compare with the print data identification information of the newly received print data. However, it is not limited thereto. For example, the receiving processing unit JS may also store the print data received in the past, compare the print data received in the past with all or part of the print data received newly, and calculate hashes, etc., and compare the hashes, etc.

In the above-mentioned embodiment, the case where the print data processing system 101 is used in a store that provides food and beverages was exemplified, but it may be installed in other facilities.

In addition, each functional block shown in FIG. 12, FIG. 13, and FIG. 14 can be arbitrarily realized by hardware and software, and is not limited to a specific hardware configuration.

＜Modifications＞

Next, modified examples will be described.

In the modified example, the processes of the management unit KB and the output processing unit SS are different.

In the above-described embodiment, the output processing unit SS reads the print data from the print queue Q.

On the other hand, a configuration may be adopted in which the management unit KB reads out the print data.

Specifically, the management unit KB acquires the identification information contained in the print data when the print data is stored, and when there is no output processing unit SS corresponding to the acquired identification information, it associates the acquired identification information with the acquired identification information. The output corresponding to the information is activated by the processing unit SS. More specifically, the management unit KB activates the transmission processing unit S when the identification information contained in the print data is the identification information of the printer KP, and activates the printout processing unit S if it is the identification information of the control printer SP. Department SS4 starts.

After the output processing unit SS is activated, the management unit KB compares the identification information contained in the print data with the acquired identification information in the stored order of the unread print data stored in the print queue Q. When the identification information matches, the management unit KB reads out the print data and outputs it to the activated output processing unit SS. After the output of the print data, the management unit KB stops the output of the print data to the activated output processing unit SS until information indicating the processing result is input.

The output processing unit SS processes the input print data. More specifically, when the output processing unit SS is the transmission processing unit S, the output processing unit SS transmits the print data to the corresponding printer KP. When the output processing unit SS is the print output processing unit SS4, the output processing unit SS outputs the print data to the print control unit 40c. And the output processing part SS outputs the information which shows the processing result to the management part KB.

When the information indicating the processing result is input, the management unit KB compares the identification information with respect to the print data stored after the print data read last time, and reads out the print data, output. When the identification information does not match, the management unit KB compares the identification information and performs processing based on the comparison result with respect to the print data stored thereafter.

When there is no print data in the print queue Q that has not been read and the comparison of identification information has not been performed, the management unit KB stops the activated output processing unit SS by stopping the corresponding job.

Also with this structure, the same effect as that of the above-mentioned embodiment can be exhibited.

For example, the management unit KB outputs print data to be processed by the output processing unit SS in the order received to the activated output processing unit SS. Therefore, it is possible to cause the printer KP to process the print data in the order received, and also to process the print data in the order received by the control printer SP.

As described above, in the modified example, the management unit KB reads the print data stored in the print queue Q in the received order, and outputs to the output processing unit SS corresponding to the identification information included in the read print data. Read the print data. The output processing unit SS outputs the print data input from the management unit KB to the printer KP of the corresponding identification information.

According to this configuration, the output processing unit SS transmits the print data to the corresponding printer KP in the order received, and when the printer SP is controlled to transmit the print data received from the print data distribution server SV to the printer KP, it can be They are sent in the order received from the print data distribution server SV.

In addition, in the modified example, after the management unit KB outputs the print data to the output processing unit SS corresponding to one piece of identification information, and until the processing of the printer KP based on the output print data ends, the next print data It outputs to the processing part SS for output corresponding to this one identification information.

According to this configuration, the management unit KB can transmit the next print data to the output processing unit SS after printing based on the print data is completed.

In addition, in the modified example, the management unit KB restarts the output processing unit SS if there is no output processing unit SS corresponding to the identification information contained in the print data, and does not start the output processing unit if it exists. SS.

According to this configuration, it is possible to prevent a plurality of output processing units SS from being repeatedly activated corresponding to one printer KP.

In addition, in the modified example, after the management unit KB activates the output processing unit SS corresponding to a piece of identification information, if there is no unread print data including the piece of identification information in the print queue Q, the The output processing unit SS corresponding to one piece of identification information stops.

According to this configuration, when processing is not required for one output processing unit SS, it is possible to suppress the one output processing unit SS from being unnecessarily activated.

In addition, in the modified example, when the management unit KB stores the print data including the identification information of the control printer SP in the print queue Q through the receiving unit 40a, it activates the print output processing unit SS4, and reads from the print queue Q. When the print data including the identification information of the control printer SP is read out, the read print data is output to the printout processing unit SS4. The print output processing unit SS4 outputs the input print data to the print control unit 40c.

According to this configuration, the control printer SP can process the print data that it should process in the order it was received, and execute printing.

Explanation of Reference Signs: 1...Print data processing system; 40a...Receiving part; 40b...Output part; 40c...Print control part; 41...Control printer printing part (printing part); 101...Print data processing system; 140a...Receiving part ; 140b...output unit; 140c...print control section; 141...control printer print section; SV...print data distribution server (print data distribution device); SP...control printer (information processing device, printing device); JS...reception processing JS1...first receiving processing unit (receiving processing unit); JS2...second receiving processing unit (receiving processing unit); JS3...third receiving processing unit (receiving processing unit); SP...control Printer (information processing device); SV...print data distribution server (print data distribution device); SS1...first output processing unit (output processing unit); SS2...second output processing unit (output processing unit); SS3...third output processing section (output processing section); SS4...print output processing section (output processing section); Q...print queue (storage area); KB...management section; KP1...first printer (print device); KP2...second printer (printing device); KP3...third printer (printing device).

Claims (20)

1. a kind of printing data processing system, which is characterized in that

Have multiple print data diostribution devices and is received from the information of print data from multiple print data diostribution devices Device is managed,

Described information processing unit accordingly starts multiple reception processing units with multiple print data diostribution devices,

The each of multiple reception processing units inquires the print data to the corresponding print data diostribution device Whether there is or not, when in the corresponding print data diostribution device there are being received when the print data, described in receiving Print data is saved in shared storage region.

2. printing data processing system according to claim 1, which is characterized in that

One reception of described information processing unit will received with processing unit from the print data diostribution device When the print data is saved in the storage region, other described reception processing units is forbidden to preserve institute to the storage region State print data.

3. printing data processing system according to claim 1 or 2, which is characterized in that

The reception of described information processing unit carries out the inquiry of the print data with processing unit at intervals of set time, can The value of the stipulated time is set with processing unit by each reception.

4. printing data processing system according to claim 1, which is characterized in that

Described information processing unit is connect with external device (ED), will include in the print data that preserved in the storage region The print data of the identification information of the external device (ED) is distributed to the external device (ED).

5. printing data processing system according to claim 1, which is characterized in that

Described information processing unit has the printing portion printed based on the print data, and institute is based on by the printing portion State the printing number of the identification information comprising described information processing unit in the print data preserved in storage region According to being printed.

6. printing data processing system according to claim 1, which is characterized in that

The printing data processing system has the printing device being connect with described information processing unit,

Described information processing unit has management department, and the management department is based on the print data institute preserved in the storage region The identification information contained starts output processing unit corresponding with the identification information,

The output is sequentially read the print data preserved in the storage region with what is received with processing unit, and will Including the print data of identification information corresponding with processing unit with the output is exported to the printing device.

7. printing data processing system according to claim 6, which is characterized in that

There is no the output processing unit corresponding with the identification information contained by the print data, the letter The management department for ceasing processing unit restarts the output processing unit, exists and the identification contained by the print data In the case of the corresponding output processing unit of information, the inoperative output of the management department of described information processing unit Use processing unit.

8. the printing data processing system described according to claim 6 or 7, which is characterized in that

It is not the print data for including identification information corresponding with the output processing unit in the storage region And in the case of the print data not read, the output of described information processing unit is stopped with processing unit.

9. printing data processing system according to claim 6, which is characterized in that

The identification information of identification information comprising the printing device or described information processing unit in the print data,

Described information processing unit controls the print control of the printing portion with printing portion and based on the print data Portion,

The print data of the identification information comprising described information processing unit is being preserved with processing unit by the reception In the case of the storage region, the management department of described information processing unit is by the identification with described information processing unit The corresponding output of information is started with processing unit,

The output processing unit corresponding with the identification information of described information processing unit, it is described with sequentially reading of receiving The print data preserved in storage region, the print data of the identification information comprising described information processing unit is defeated Go out to the print control section.

10. printing data processing system according to claim 1, which is characterized in that

The printing data processing system has the printing device being connect with described information processing unit,

Described information processing unit has management department, and the management department is based on the print data institute preserved in the storage region The identification information contained starts output processing unit corresponding with identification information,

The management department sequentially reads the print data preserved in the storage region with what is received, described in reading Print data output gives the corresponding output processing unit of identification information contained by the print data of reading,

The output is exported the print data inputted from the management department to the institute of corresponding identification information with processing unit State printing device.

11. printing data processing system according to claim 10, which is characterized in that

The management department of described information processing unit is from defeated to the output processing unit corresponding with an identification information Go out the print data play the printing device based on the print data outputed processing terminate until during, Next print data is not exported to the output corresponding with identification information processing unit.

12. printing data processing system described in claim 1, which is characterized in that

Whether terminate independently with the printing based on the print data received, the reception use of described information processing unit Reason portion is spaced as defined in being spaced apart to the presence or absence of described print data of print data diostribution device inquiry, for the inquiry In the case that response is indicated there are the print data, the reception of described information processing unit is executed with processing unit to the printing Data delivery device asks the first processing for sending and receiving the print data of the print data.

13. a kind of information processing unit, which is characterized in that

Be by the information processing unit of each external device start reception processing unit of the multiple external equipments connected,

Each reception processing unit of described information processing unit inquires having for print data to the corresponding external equipment Nothing, when there are being received when the print data, the print data received is protected in the corresponding external equipment It is stored to shared storage region.

14. information processing unit according to claim 13, which is characterized in that

Described information processing unit has management department, and the management department is based on the print data institute preserved in the storage region The identification information of the external device (ED) contained, to start output processing unit corresponding with identification information,

The output processing unit sequentially reads the print data preserved in the storage region with what is received, will include The print data of identification information corresponding with processing unit with the output is exported to the external device (ED).

15. information processing unit according to claim 13, which is characterized in that

Described information processing unit has management department, and the management department is based on the print data institute preserved in the storage region The identification information of the external device (ED) contained starts output processing unit corresponding with identification information,

The management department sequentially reads the print data preserved in the storage region with what is received, by the printing number The corresponding output processing unit of identification information contained by the print data of reading is given according to output,

The output is exported the print data inputted from the management department to the institute of corresponding identification information with processing unit State external device (ED).

16. information processing unit according to claim 13, which is characterized in that

Whether terminate independently with the printing based on the print data received from the external equipment, described information processing unit It is spaced as defined in being spaced apart to the external equipment and inquires the presence or absence of described print data, indicate exist in the response for the inquiry In the case of the print data, described information processing unit is asked the transmission of the print data to the external equipment and is connect Receive the print data.

17. a kind of printing equipment, which is characterized in that

It is there is the printing portion printed based on print data, and set by each outside of the multiple external equipments connected The standby printing equipment for starting reception processing unit,

Each reception of the printing equipment inquires having for the print data with processing unit to the corresponding external equipment Nothing, when there are being received when the print data, the print data received is protected in the corresponding external equipment It is stored to shared storage region.

18. printing equipment according to claim 17, which is characterized in that

The printing equipment has controls print control section and the management department of the printing portion, the management department based on print data The identification of identification information or the present apparatus based on the external device (ED) contained by the print data preserved in the storage region Information starts output processing unit corresponding with identification information,

The output processing unit corresponding with the identification information of the external device (ED) sequentially reads the storage with what is received The print data preserved in region will include the output processing unit corresponding with the identification information of the external device (ED) The print data of corresponding identification information is exported to the external device (ED),

The output processing unit corresponding with the identification information of the present apparatus sequentially reads the memory block with what is received The print data preserved in domain, will be right with processing unit institute comprising the output corresponding with the identification information of the present apparatus The print data for the identification information answered is exported to the print control section.

19. printing equipment according to claim 17, which is characterized in that

The printing equipment has controls print control section and the management department of the printing portion, the pipe based on the print data Identification information or the present apparatus of the reason portion based on the external device (ED) contained by the print data preserved in the storage region Identification information starts output processing unit corresponding with identification information,

The management department sequentially reads the print data preserved in the storage region with what is received, by the printing number The corresponding output processing unit of identification information contained by the print data of reading is given according to output,

The output processing unit corresponding with the identification information of the external device (ED), will from the management department input described in beat Printing according to output to corresponding identification information the external device (ED),

The output processing unit corresponding with the identification information of the present apparatus, the printing that will be inputted from the management department Data are exported to the print control section.

20. printing equipment according to claim 17, which is characterized in that

The reception processing unit of the printing equipment with based on the print data received from the external equipment Whether the printing carried out by the printing portion, which terminates, independently, is spaced apart defined be spaced to the external equipment and inquires the printing The presence or absence of data indicate, there are in the case of the print data, to ask to the external equipment in the response for the inquiry The print data sends and receives the print data.