U.S. patent application number 13/781956 was filed with the patent office on 2013-10-03 for printing control apparatus, printing system, recording medium having recorded thereon printing control program, and printing control method.
This patent application is currently assigned to DAINIPPON SCREEN MFG. CO., LTD.. The applicant listed for this patent is DAINIPPON SCREEN MFG. CO., LTD.. Invention is credited to Kazuo ISOGUCHI, Kenta NAGAI, Rui YAMAGUCHI.
Application Number | 20130258378 13/781956 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 49234629 |
Filed Date | 2013-10-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130258378 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
ISOGUCHI; Kazuo ; et
al. |
October 3, 2013 |
PRINTING CONTROL APPARATUS, PRINTING SYSTEM, RECORDING MEDIUM
HAVING RECORDED THEREON PRINTING CONTROL PROGRAM, AND PRINTING
CONTROL METHOD
Abstract
A first RIP processing unit reads cache data from a first cache
unit. The first RIP processing unit transmits first RIP-processed
variable part data to a printer. Since an identifier read by the
first RIP processing unit is not a transmitted identifier, the
first RIP processing unit transmits RIP-processed reuse part data
to the printer. A second RIP processing unit reads cache data from
a second cache unit. The second RIP processing unit transmits
second RIP-processed variable part data to the printer. Since an
identifier read by the second RIP processing unit is a transmitted
identifier, the second RIP processing unit does not transmit the
RIP-processed reuse part data to the printer.
Inventors: |
ISOGUCHI; Kazuo; (Kyoto-shi,
JP) ; NAGAI; Kenta; (Kyoto-shi, JP) ;
YAMAGUCHI; Rui; (Kyoto-shi, JP) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
DAINIPPON SCREEN MFG. CO., LTD. |
Kyoto |
|
JP |
|
|
Assignee: |
DAINIPPON SCREEN MFG. CO.,
LTD.
Kyoto
JP
|
Family ID: |
49234629 |
Appl. No.: |
13/781956 |
Filed: |
March 1, 2013 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
358/1.13 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06K 15/1857 20130101;
G06F 3/1243 20130101; G06F 3/1213 20130101; G06F 3/1285 20130101;
G06F 3/1247 20130101; G06K 15/1813 20130101; G06K 15/1888
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
358/1.13 |
International
Class: |
G06K 15/02 20060101
G06K015/02 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Mar 29, 2012 |
JP |
2012-075808 |
Claims
1. A printing control apparatus for obtaining output data in a
print output form from manuscript data expressed in a page
description language and made up of a plurality of pages, and
transmitting the output data to an external printer, the apparatus
comprising: an output processing unit for converting the manuscript
data assigned to the output data and transmitting the output data
to the printer; and a first storage unit for storing at least a
reuse part obtained by converting reuse part data indicative of a
part reused in the manuscript data and an identifier corresponding
to the reuse part, in the output data, wherein the output
processing unit reads a reuse part to be transmitted to the printer
and an identifier corresponding to the reuse part from the first
storage unit, and omits transmission of a reuse part corresponding
to the same identifier as that corresponding to the reuse part
already transmitted to the printer.
2. The printing control apparatus according to claim 1, further
comprising one or more output processing units.
3. The printing control apparatus according to claim 2, further
comprising a reuse information obtaining unit for obtaining
information regarding reuse of a part in the manuscript data.
4. The printing control apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the
manuscript data includes information regarding reuse of a part in
the manuscript data.
5. The printing control apparatus according to claim 3, wherein
each of the output processing units assigns the identifier to the
reuse part based on the information regarding reuse of a part in
the manuscript data.
6. The printing control apparatus according to claim 2, further
comprising an output control unit for obtaining an identifier read
from the first storage unit by each output processing unit from
said output processing unit and, when the identifier is an
identifier corresponding to a reuse part already transmitted to the
printer, controlling said output processing unit so as not to
transmit the reuse part corresponding to the identifier to the
printer.
7. The printing control apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the
output processing units are configured to mutually refer to
identifiers read from the first storage unit, and each output
processing unit determines whether or not the identifier read from
the first storage unit is an identifier corresponding to a reuse
part already transmitted to the printer.
8. The printing control apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the
first storage unit also stores a part of the output data, the part
being obtained by converting part data indicative of a part used
only once in the manuscript data.
9. A printing system, comprising: a printing control apparatus
according to claim 1; and a printer.
10. The printing system according to claim 9, wherein the printer
includes: a second storage unit for storing output data received
from each of output processing units; and a printing unit for
reading the output data stored in the second storage unit and
executing printing.
11. The printing system according to claim 10, wherein the printing
control apparatus transmits synthesis information regarding
synthesis of each of parts of the output data in each page to the
printing unit, and the printing unit synthesizes the parts of the
output data stored in the second storage unit page by page based on
the received synthesis information.
12. A computer-readable recording medium having recorded thereon a
printing control program, when executed using a memory by a CPU of
a computer for obtaining output data in a print output form from
manuscript data expressed in a page description language and made
up of a plurality of pages and transmitting the output data to an
external printer, causing the CPU to perform: an output processing
step of converting the manuscript data assigned to the output data
and transmitting the output data to the printer; and a storage step
of storing at least a reuse part obtained by converting reuse part
data indicative of a part reused in the manuscript data and an
identifier corresponding to the reuse part in the output data into
a storage unit, wherein in the output processing step, a reuse part
to be transmitted to the printer and an identifier corresponding to
the reuse part are read from the storage unit, and transmission of
a reuse part corresponding to the same identifier as that
corresponding to a reuse part already transmitted to the printer is
omitted.
13. The computer-readable recording medium according to claim 12,
wherein the printing control program causes the CPU to further
perform one or more output processing steps.
14. The computer-readable recording medium according to claim 13,
wherein the printing control program causes the CPU to further
perform a reuse information obtaining step of obtaining information
regarding reuse of a part in the manuscript data.
15. The computer-readable recording medium according to claim 13,
wherein the manuscript data includes information regarding reuse of
a part in the manuscript data.
16. The computer-readable recording medium according to claim 14,
wherein in each of the output processing steps, the identifier is
assigned to the reuse part based on information regarding reuse of
a part in the manuscript data.
17. The computer-readable recording medium according to claim 13,
wherein the printing control program causes the CPU to further
perform an output control step of obtaining an identifier read from
the storage unit in each output processing step and, when the
identifier is an identifier corresponding to a reuse part already
transmitted to the printer, controlling said output processing step
so as not to transmit the reuse part corresponding to the
identifier to the printer.
18. The computer-readable recording medium according to claim 13,
wherein the output processing steps are configured to mutually
refer to identifiers read from the storage unit, and in each output
processing step, whether or not the identifier read from the
storage unit is an identifier corresponding to a reuse part already
transmitted to the printer is determined.
19. The computer-readable recording medium according to claim 12,
wherein in the storage step, a part of the output data is also
stored, the part being obtained by converting part data indicative
of a part that is used only once in the manuscript data.
20. A printing control method of obtaining output data in a print
output form from manuscript data expressed in a page description
language and made up of a plurality of pages and transmitting the
output data to an external printer, the method comprising: an
output processing step of converting the manuscript data assigned
to the output data and transmitting the output data to the printer;
and a storage step of storing at least a reuse part obtained by
converting reuse part data indicative of a part reused in the
manuscript data and an identifier corresponding to the reuse part
in the output data into a storage unit, wherein in the output
processing step, a reuse part to be transmitted to the printer and
an identifier corresponding to the reuse part are read from the
storage unit, and transmission of a reuse part corresponding to the
same identifier as that corresponding to a reuse part already
transmitted to the printer is omitted.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates to a printing control
apparatus and, more particularly, to a printing control apparatus,
a printing system, a recording medium having recorded thereon a
printing control program, and a printing control method performing
a rasterizing process.
[0003] 2. Description of Background Art
[0004] A printing system is generally made up of a printing control
apparatus and a printer. The printing control apparatus receives
manuscript data from an external Personal Computer (PC). The
manuscript data is data generated by editing parts to be used in
each page and laying them out, and described in Page Description
Language (PDL). The printing control apparatus performs a
rasterizing process (hereinafter, described as an "RIP process") by
an Raster Image Processor (RIP) on the received manuscript data to
generate printing output data. The printing output data includes
data obtained by the RIP process (hereinafter, called
"RIP-processed data"), and synthesis information used for
synthesizing the RIP-processed data in the printer. The printing
output data is transmitted to the printer. The printer outputs a
printed matter based on the received printing output data. In the
printing industry, to achieve reduction in print cost, an increase
in speed of processes performed by a printing system (hereinafter,
called a "printing process") as described above is in demand.
[0005] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No.
2011-67993 discloses an image processing apparatus performing the
RIP process by a plurality of RIP processing units in parallel. The
image processing apparatus corresponds to the above-described
printing control apparatus. Hereinafter, the RIP process performed
in parallel will be called a "parallel RIP process". By such a
parallel RIP process, the speed of the RIP process can be
increased. To the plurality of RIP processing units, a cache memory
is connected. In the cache memory, RIP-processed data obtained by
the RIP process in the RIP processing units is cached.
Consequently, with respect to a reuse part as a part which is
repeatedly used in a plurality of pages, its RIP-processed data is
cached for the first time, and the cached RIP-processed data is
used for the second time on. In such a manner, the speed of the RIP
process can be further increased. RIP-processed data of each part
is transmitted to a printer for each page in which the part is
used. The parallel RIP process is disclosed also in United States
Patent Application Publication No. 2004/95596 and Japanese Patent
Application Laid-Open Publication No. 2006-39719. The RIP process
using a cache is disclosed also in Japanese Patent Application
Laid-Open Publication No. 2009-71352.
[0006] In the technique disclosed in Japanese Patent Application
Laid-Open Publication No. 2011-67993 and the like, however, even
RIP-processed data corresponding to a reuse part is transmitted
from a printing control apparatus to a printer for each page used.
Consequently, in the case where a reuse part exists, although the
speed of the RIP process can be increased, the speed of the entire
printing process cannot be sufficiently increased.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] An object of the present invention is to provide a printing
control apparatus, a printing system, a recording medium having
recorded thereon a printing control program, and a printing control
method realizing higher speed of entire printing process.
[0008] To achieve the above-described object, the present invention
has the following features.
[0009] One aspect of the present invention relates to a printing
control apparatus for obtaining output data in a print output form
from manuscript data expressed in a page description language and
made up of a plurality of pages, and transmitting the output data
to an external printer, the apparatus comprising:
[0010] an output processing unit for converting the manuscript data
assigned to the output data and transmitting the output data to the
printer; and
[0011] a first storage unit for storing at least a reuse part
obtained by converting reuse part data indicative of a part reused
in the manuscript data and an identifier corresponding to the reuse
part, in the output data,
[0012] wherein the output processing unit reads a reuse part to be
transmitted to the printer and an identifier corresponding to the
reuse part from the first storage unit, and
[0013] omits transmission of a reuse part corresponding to the same
identifier as that corresponding to the reuse part already
transmitted to the printer.
[0014] With such a configuration, in a printing control apparatus
in which at least a reuse part in output data is stored in a first
storage unit, an identifier corresponding to a reuse part is stored
in the first storage unit. Transmission of a reuse part
corresponding to the same identifier as that corresponding to a
reuse part already transmitted to the printer in the reuse part
read from the first storing unit is omitted. Consequently, the
speed of the output data transmitting process becomes higher.
Accordingly, the speed of the entire printing process can be made
higher.
[0015] In such an apparatus, preferably, one or more output
processing units are further provided.
[0016] With such a configuration, by using a plurality of output
processing units, the speed of the process of converting the
manuscript data to output data can be increased. Consequently, the
speed of the entire printing process can be further increased.
[0017] Preferably, the apparatus further includes a reuse
information obtaining unit for obtaining information regarding
reuse of a part in the manuscript data.
[0018] With such a configuration, whether each part in manuscript
data is a reused part or not is known from reuse information. For
example, using the reuse information, an identifier can be assigned
to a reuse part in output data.
[0019] In such an apparatus, preferably, the manuscript data
includes information regarding reuse of apart in the manuscript
data.
[0020] Also with such a configuration, by reuse information,
whether each part in manuscript data is a reused part or not can be
known. For example, using the reuse information, an identifier can
be assigned to a reuse part in output data.
[0021] In such an apparatus, preferably, each of the output
processing units assigns the identifier to the reuse part based on
the information regarding reuse of a part in the manuscript
data.
[0022] With such a configuration, in each output unit, using the
reuse information, an identifier can be assigned to a reuse part in
output data.
[0023] Preferably, the apparatus further includes an output control
unit for obtaining an identifier read from the first storage unit
by each output processing unit from the output processing unit and,
when the identifier is an identifier corresponding to a reuse part
already transmitted to the printer, controlling an output
processing unit having obtained the identifier so as not to
transmit the reuse part corresponding to the identifier to the
printer.
[0024] With such a configuration, by determining whether an
identifier read by an output processing unit is an identifier
corresponding to a reuse part already transmitted to the printer or
not by the output control unit, an advantage similar to the
above-described configuration can be obtained.
[0025] In such an apparatus, preferably, the output processing
units are configured to mutually refer to identifiers read from the
first storage unit, and each output processing unit determines
whether or not the identifier read from the first storage unit is
an identifier corresponding to a reuse part already transmitted to
the printer.
[0026] With such a configuration, by determining whether or not an
identifier read from an output processing unit is an identifier
corresponding to a reuse part already transmitted to the printer by
an output processing unit, an advantage similar to that of the
above-described configuration can be obtained.
[0027] In such an apparatus, preferably, the first storage unit
also stores a part of the output data, the part being obtained by
converting part data indicative of a part used only once in the
manuscript data.
[0028] With such a configuration, a part obtained by converting
part data indicative of apart used only once in manuscript data, in
output data is also stored in the first storing unit. Consequently,
in the case where output data has to retransmitted to the printer
such as the case where, for example, deficiency, disappearance, or
the like of output data occurs in the printer, it is sufficient to
retransmit output data stored in the second storing unit so that a
process of converting manuscript data to output data does not have
to be performed again. Thus, the speed of the entire printing
process in the case where retransmission of output data is
necessary can be increased.
[0029] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a
printing system having a printing control apparatus according to
the above aspect of the invention, and the printer.
[0030] In such an apparatus, preferably, the printer includes:
[0031] a second storage unit for storing output data received from
each of output processing units; and
[0032] a printing unit for reading the output data stored in the
second storage unit and executing printing.
[0033] With such a configuration, a reuse part of output data
transmitted only once is stored in the second storing unit, so that
the reuse part can be certainly reused in the printer.
[0034] In such an apparatus, preferably, the printing control
apparatus transmits synthesis information regarding synthesis of
each of parts of the output data in each page to the printing unit,
and
[0035] the printing unit synthesizes the parts of the output data
stored in the second storage unit page by page based on the
received synthesis information.
[0036] With such a configuration, by synthesizing parts of output
data page by page using synthesis information, a printed matter
expressing a synthesis state of the parts of the output data can be
output.
[0037] Still another aspect of the present invention relates to a
computer-readable recording medium having recorded thereon a
printing control program, when executed using a memory by a CPU of
a computer for obtaining output data in a print output form from
manuscript data expressed in a page description language and made
up of a plurality of pages and transmitting the output data to an
external printer, causing the CPU to perform:
[0038] an output processing step of converting the manuscript data
assigned to the output data and transmitting the output data to the
printer; and
[0039] a storage step of storing at least a reuse part obtained by
converting reuse part data indicative of a part reused in the
manuscript data and an identifier corresponding to the reuse part
in the output data into a storage unit,
[0040] wherein in the output processing step,
[0041] a reuse part to be transmitted to the printer and an
identifier corresponding to the reuse part are read from the
storage unit, and
[0042] transmission of a reuse part corresponding to the same
identifier as that corresponding to a reuse part already
transmitted to the printer is omitted.
[0043] In such a recording medium, preferably, the printing control
program causes the CPU to further perform one or more output
processing steps.
[0044] In such a recording medium, preferably, the printing control
program causes the CPU to further perform a reuse information
obtaining step of obtaining information regarding reuse of a part
in the manuscript data.
[0045] In such a recording medium, preferably, the manuscript data
includes information regarding reuse of a part in the manuscript
data.
[0046] In such a recording medium, preferably, in each of the
output processing steps, the identifier is assigned to the reuse
part based on information regarding reuse of a part in the
manuscript data.
[0047] In such a recording medium, preferably, the printing control
program causes the CPU to further perform an output control step of
obtaining an identifier read from the storage unit in an output
processing step and, when the identifier is an identifier
corresponding to a reuse part already transmitted to the printer,
controlling the output processing step so as not to transmit the
reuse part corresponding to the identifier to the printer.
[0048] In such a recording medium, preferably, the output
processing steps are configured to mutually refer to identifiers
read from the storage unit, and
[0049] in each output processing step, whether or not the
identifier read from the storage unit is an identifier
corresponding to a reuse part already transmitted to the printer is
determined.
[0050] In such a recording medium, preferably, in the storage step,
a part of the output data is also stored, the part being obtained
by converting part data indicative of a part that is used only once
in the manuscript data.
[0051] Yet another aspect of the present invention relates to a
printing control method of obtaining output data in a print output
form from manuscript data expressed in a page description language
and made up of a plurality of pages and transmitting the output
data to an external printer, the method comprising:
[0052] an output processing step of converting the manuscript data
assigned to the output data and transmitting the output data to the
printer; and
[0053] a storage step of storing at least a reuse part obtained by
converting reuse part data indicative of a part reused in the
manuscript data and an identifier corresponding to the reuse part
in the output data into a storage unit,
[0054] wherein in the output processing step,
[0055] a reuse part to be transmitted to the printer and an
identifier corresponding to the reuse part are read from the
storage unit, and
[0056] transmission of a reuse part corresponding to the same
identifier as that corresponding to a reuse part already
transmitted to the printer is omitted.
[0057] These and other objects, features, aspects and advantages of
the present invention will become more apparent from the following
detailed description of the present invention when taken in
conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0058] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an overall
configuration of a printing system according to an embodiment of
the present invention and apparatuses related to the system;
[0059] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of
a printing control apparatus in the embodiment;
[0060] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a functional
configuration of a main part of the printing control apparatus in
the embodiment;
[0061] FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a functional
configuration of a main part of a printer in the embodiment;
[0062] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the
procedure of cache process of RIP-processed data and identifiers in
the embodiment;
[0063] FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining the cache process of
RIP-processed data and identifiers in the embodiment;
[0064] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the
procedure of process of transmitting RIP-processed data in the
embodiment;
[0065] FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the process of
transmitting RIP-processed data in the embodiment;
[0066] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the
procedure of printed matter generating process in the
embodiment;
[0067] FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a functional
configuration of a main part of a printing control apparatus in a
first modification of the embodiment;
[0068] FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining the cache process of
RIP-processed data and identifiers in the first modification;
[0069] FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating a functional
configuration of a main part of a printing control apparatus in a
second modification of the embodiment;
[0070] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining a cache process of
RIP-processed data and identifiers in a third modification of the
embodiment;
[0071] FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the
procedure of cache process of RIP-processed data and identifiers in
the third modification; and
[0072] FIG. 15 is a diagram for explaining a process of
transmitting RIP-processed data in the third modification.
DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0073] <1. Overall Configuration>
[0074] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an overall
configuration of a printing system according to an embodiment of
the present invention and apparatuses related to the system. The
printing system 1 according to the embodiment performs variable
printing as a mode of on-demand printing. In the variable printing,
a printed matter which varies by a record unit including one or
more pages is output. That is, manuscript data received by a
printing control apparatus in the variable printing (hereinafter,
called "variable manuscript data") is made up of a plurality of
records. For example, one record corresponds to a printed matter
(such as a record, an invoice, or a direct mail) related to one
customer. In such variable printing, a part or all of parts used
may vary among pages. On the other hand, reuse parts can be used
among pages.
[0075] The printing system 1 has a printing control apparatus 10
and a printer 20. The printing control apparatus 10 and the printer
20 are connected to each other via a communication line. To the
printing control apparatus 10, a plurality of editing apparatuses 2
are connected via a network 3. The network 3 may be the Internet or
an Local Area Network (LAN). The printing control apparatus 10 and
the editing apparatus 2 may be connected to each other not
necessarily by the network 3 but by a communication line or the
like.
[0076] The editing apparatus 2 is typically a PC. The editing
apparatus 2 is used for generating variable manuscript data. The
variable manuscript data is generated by editing parts to be used
in each page and laying them out. The editing process is performed
by using, for example, Desk Top Publishing (DTP) software. The
variable manuscript data is data described in the PDL. As the PDL,
for example, PostScript (a registered trademark of Adobe Systems
Incorporated) is used. The variable manuscript data generated by
each of the editing apparatuses 2 is transmitted to the printing
control apparatus 10 via the network 3. Although the plurality of
editing apparatuses 2 are connected to the network 3 in FIG. 1, the
number of editing apparatuses 2 may be one.
[0077] The printing control apparatus 10 performs the RIP process
and the like on the variable manuscript data received via the
network 3 to generate printing output data. The printing output
data includes RIP-processed data as output data and synthesis
information used for synthesizing the RIP-processed data. The
variable manuscript data to be processed in the printing control
apparatus 10 is obtained by integrating variable manuscript data
transmitted from the plurality of editing apparatuses 2. The
printing output data generated by the printing control apparatus 10
is transmitted to the printer 20 via the communication line.
[0078] The printer 20 outputs a printed matter based on the
printing output data received via the communication line. The
printer 20 is, for example, an ink jet printer. Although one
printer 20 is connected to the printing control apparatus 10 in
FIG. 1, the present invention is not limited to the configuration.
A plurality of printers 20 may be connected to the printing control
apparatus 10.
[0079] <2. Configuration of Printing Control Apparatus>
[0080] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of
the printing control apparatus 10 in the embodiment. As illustrated
in FIG. 2, the printing control apparatus 10 has a body 11, an
auxiliary storage apparatus 12, a disk drive 13, a display
apparatus 14, a keyboard 15, a mouse 16, and the like. The body 11
includes a CPU 111, a memory 112, a first disk interface unit 113,
a second disk interface unit 114, a display control unit 115, an
input interface unit 116, a network interface unit 117, and an
output interface unit 118. The CPU 111, the memory 112, the first
disk interface unit 113, the second disk interface unit 114, the
display control unit 115, the input interface unit 116, the network
interface unit 117, and the output interface unit 118 are connected
to one another via a system bus. The auxiliary storage apparatus 12
is connected to the first disk interface unit 113. The disk drive
13 is connected to the second disk interface unit 114. The display
apparatus 14 is connected to the display control unit 115. The
keyboard 15 and the mouse 16 are connected to the input interface
unit 116. The network 3 is connected to the network interface unit
117. The printer 20 is connected to the output interface unit 118
via the communication line. The auxiliary storage apparatus 12 is a
magnetic disk drive or the like. To the disk drive 13, a
computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM 40 is inserted.
To the disk drive 13, not only the CD-ROM 40 but also a CD-R/RW or
the like can be inserted as described later. The display apparatus
14 is a liquid crystal display or the like. The display apparatus
14 is used for displaying information desired by an operator. The
keyboard 15 and the mouse 16 are used to enter an instruction to
the printing control apparatus 10 by an operator.
[0081] In the auxiliary storage apparatus 12, a program 30 for the
printing control process in the embodiment (hereinafter, called
"printing control program") is stored. The CPU 111 controls the
entire printing control apparatus 10. The CPU 111 realizes various
functions of the printing control apparatus 10 by executing the
printing control program 30 stored in the auxiliary storage
apparatus 12, in the memory 112. The memory 112 includes an Random
Access Memory (RAM) and an Read Only Memory (ROM). The memory 112
functions as a work area in which the CPU 111 executes the printing
control program 30 stored in the auxiliary storage apparatus 12.
The printing control program 30 is provided by, for example, being
stored in the CD-ROM 40 or the like. That is, the user purchases
the CD-ROM 40 or the like as a recording medium of the printing
control program 30, inserts it into the disk drive 13, reads the
printing control program 30 from the CD-ROM 40, and installs the
program into the auxiliary storage apparatus 12. Alternatively, the
printing control program 30 transmitted via the network 3 can be
received and installed into the auxiliary storage apparatus 12.
[0082] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a functional
configuration of a main part of the printing control apparatus 10
in the embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the printing control
apparatus 10 has a reuse information obtaining unit 51, a data
control unit 52, first to fourth RIP processing units 61 to 64 as a
plurality of output processing units, and first to fourth cache
units 71 to 74 as first storage units. The reuse information
obtaining unit 51, the data control unit 52, the first to fourth
RIP processing units 61 to 64, and the first to fourth cache units
71 to 74 are realized as a result of executing the printing control
program 30 by the CPU 111 in the memory 112. In the embodiment, a
parallel RIP process is executed using the first to fourth RIP
processing units 61 to 64. The first to fourth cache units 71 to 74
correspond to the first to fourth RIP processing units 61 to 64,
respectively. Each cache unit is realized when a part of the
storage region of the memory 112 is assigned to an RIP processing
unit corresponding to the cache unit. In the embodiment, the
configuration that the printing control apparatus 10 has four RIP
processing units (first to fourth RIP processing units 61 to 64)
will be described. It is, however, sufficient that the number of
RIP processing units is plural (similarly, it is sufficient that
the number of cache units is plural).
[0083] The variable manuscript data includes two kinds of parts.
One of the parts is a part whose content varies among records
(hereinafter, called a "variable part"). The other part is a part
which is used a plurality of times in variable manuscript data,
that is, reused (hereinafter, called a "reuse part").
[0084] The reuse information obtaining unit 51 obtains information
related to reuse of parts (hereinafter, called "reuse information")
from variable manuscript data. The reuse part information includes,
for example, the number of reuse times of each part. From the
number of reuse times of each part, reuse parts in the variable
manuscript data are known and variable parts in the variable
manuscript data are also known. Detection of a reuse part may be
performed together with known preflight check. The reuse
information obtaining unit 51 transmits the obtained reuse
information to the data control unit 52.
[0085] The data control unit 52 assigns variable manuscript data to
each of the RIP processing units. For example, the data control
unit 52 transmits the variable manuscript data page by page in
order of a first RIP processing unit 61, a second RIP processing
unit 62, a third RIP processing unit 63, a fourth RIP processing
unit 64, the first RIP processing unit 61, . . . . Hereinafter,
variable manuscript data of one page will be described as "page
data". In the case where a reuse part is used in page data to be
transmitted, the data control unit 52 transmits information
indicative of the reuse part in the received reuse information
together with the page data. The data control unit 52 controls
transmission of printing output data from each of the RIP
processing units to the printer 20. That is, the data control unit
52 functions as an output control unit.
[0086] Each of the RIP processing units performs the RIP process on
each of parts in received page data to generate RIP-processed data
obtained by performing the RIP process on data indicative of a
variable part (hereinafter, called "variable part data") in the
page data (hereinafter, called "RIP-processed variable part data")
and to generate RIP-processed data obtained by performing the RIP
process on data indicative of a reuse part (hereinafter, called
"reuse part data") in the page data (hereinafter, called
"RIP-processed reuse part data"). In the embodiment, the
RIP-processed data corresponds to output data. The RIP-processed
reuse part data corresponds to a reuse part in output data.
[0087] To RIP-processed reuse part data, an RIP processing unit
assigns an identifier unique to the RIP-processed reuse part data
based on received reuse information. The data form of an identifier
is not limited and various forms such as a serial number and 16-bit
data can be employed. Assignment of an identifier to RIP-processed
reuse part data may be performed by the data control unit 52 based
on reuse information.
[0088] An RIP processing unit obtains synthesis information to be
used for synthesizing RIP-processed data in the printer 20 from
received page data. Alternatively, the data control unit 52 may
obtain synthesis information from variable manuscript data.
[0089] An RIP processing unit caches RIP-processed variable part
data, RIP-processed reuse part data, and an identifier
corresponding to the RIP-processed reuse part data into a
corresponding cache unit. Hereinafter, various RIP-processed data
and/or identifiers cached in the cache unit will be collectively
called "cache data". Each RIP processing unit may cache synthesis
information in a corresponding cache unit.
[0090] An RIP processing unit reads cache data from a cache unit in
accordance with control of the data control unit 52 and transmits
synthesis information and RIP-processed data included in the cache
data as printing output data to the printer 20. The RIP-processed
data and the synthesis information may be transmitted at different
timings to the printer 20. In the case where the data control unit
52 obtains synthesis information from variable manuscript data, the
synthesis information may be transmitted from the data control unit
52 to the printer 20. Synthesis information can be transmitted to
the printer 20 in various transmitting methods.
[0091] In the embodiment, in the case where a variable part is
used, RIP-processed variable part data corresponding to the
variable part is certainly transmitted. On the other hand, in the
case where a reuse part is used, RIP-processed reuse part data
corresponding to the reuse part is transmitted only when variable
manuscript data is used for the first time in all of pages, and is
not transmitted when the data is used for the second time and
subsequent times. The details of the process of transmitting
RIP-processed data in printing output data will be described
later.
[0092] <3. Configuration of Printer>
[0093] FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a functional
configuration of a main part of the printer 20 in the embodiment.
As illustrated in FIG. 4, the printer 20 has a printing unit 21 and
a storage unit 22 as a second storage unit. The printing unit 21
includes a control unit 211 and a printing execution unit 212. The
configuration of such a printer 20 is disclosed in, for example,
Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No.
2002-287934.
[0094] The control unit 211 receives printing output data and
stores it into the storage unit 22. It is sufficient to store at
least RIP-processed data in the storage unit 22, and synthesis
information may not be stored. The control unit 211 reads synthesis
information and RIP-processed data necessary for synthesis from the
storage unit 22 and transmits them to the printing execution unit
212. The printing execution unit 212 synthesizes RIP-processed data
based on the synthesis information and outputs a printed matter of
one page. In the case where the number of kinds of RIP-processed
data is only one, without performing synthesis of RIP-processed
data, a printed matter is output.
[0095] <4. Cache Process>
[0096] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the
procedure of cache process of RIP-processed data and identifiers in
the embodiment. The cache process shown in FIG. 5 is performed by
an RIP processing unit. As will be described later, a part of the
cache process may be performed by the data control unit 52. The
cache process may be performed on the page unit basis or every
RIP-processed data.
[0097] First, whether RIP-processed data obtained by the RIP
process is RIP-processed reuse part data or not is determined (step
S10). In the case where the RIP-processed data obtained by the RIP
process is RIP-processed reuse part data, the program advances to
step S11. In the case where the RIP-processed data obtained by the
RIP process is not RIP-processed reuse part data, that is, is
RIP-processed variable part data, the RIP-processed variable part
data is cached in a corresponding cache unit (step S12). After step
S12, the cache process is finished.
[0098] In step S12, whether the RIP-processed reuse part data is
already cached in a corresponding cache unit or not is determined.
In the case where the RIP-processed reuse part data is already
cached, caching of the RIP-processed reuse part data is not
performed, and the cache process is finished. In the case where the
RIP-processed reuse part data is not cached yet, the RIP-processed
reuse part data is cached together with a corresponding identifier
(step S13). After step S13, the cache process is finished. Whether
RIP-processed reuse part data is cached or not may be determined by
an RIP processing unit or the data control unit 52. The
determination is made, for example, based on an identifier
corresponding to RIP-processed reuse part data.
[0099] FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining the cache process of
RIP-processed data and identifiers in the embodiment. In the
example illustrated in FIG. 6, it is assumed that one reuse part
and one variable part are used in each page, and caching of
RIP-processed reuse part data to each of cache units is the first
time.
[0100] The first RIP processing unit 61 receives first page data 91
and performs the RIP process on it, thereby generating
RIP-processed reuse part data 101 and first RIP-processed variable
part data 102a. The first RIP processing unit 61 caches the
RIP-processed reuse part data 101, the first RIP-processed variable
part data 102a, and an identifier 103 corresponding to the
RIP-processed reuse part data 101 in the first cache unit 71.
[0101] The second RIP processing unit 62 receives second page data
92 and performs the RIP process on it, thereby generating the
RIP-processed reuse part data 101 and second RIP-processed variable
part data 102b. The second RIP processing unit 62 caches the
RIP-processed reuse part data 101, the second RIP-processed
variable part data 102b, and the identifier 103 corresponding to
the RIP-processed reuse part data 101 in the second cache unit
72.
[0102] The third RIP processing unit 63 receives third page data 93
and performs the RIP process on it, thereby generating the
RIP-processed reuse part data 101 and third RIP-processed variable
part data 102c. The third RIP processing unit 63 caches the
RIP-processed reuse part data 101, the third RIP-processed variable
part data 102c, and the identifier 103 corresponding to the
RIP-processed reuse part data 101 in the third cache unit 73.
[0103] The fourth RIP processing unit 64 receives fourth page data
94 and performs the RIP process on it, thereby generating the
RIP-processed reuse part data 101 and fourth RIP-processed variable
part data 102d. The fourth RIP processing unit 64 caches the
RIP-processed reuse part data 101, the fourth RIP-processed
variable part data 102d, and the identifier 103 corresponding to
the RIP-processed reuse part data 101 in the fourth cache unit
74.
[0104] <5. RIP-Processed Data Transmitting Process>
[0105] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the
procedure of process of transmitting RIP-processed data in the
embodiment. Since a method of transmitting synthesis information in
printing output data is not limited as described above, it is not
described here. The procedure of process of transmitting
RIP-processed data shown in FIG. 7 is performed in each RIP
processing unit. First, cache data is read and transmitted to an
RIP processing unit (step S21). The cache data read here
corresponds to page data of one page.
[0106] Next, in the RIP processing unit, the read cache data is
analyzed. Concretely, whether the RIP-processed data is
RIP-processed reuse part data or not is determined (step S22). The
determination is performed, for example, based on the
presence/absence of an identifier. In the case where the
RIP-processed data is RIP-processed reuse part data, the program
advances to step S23. In the case where the RIP-processed data is
not RIP-processed reuse part data, that is, is RIP-processed
variable part data, the RIP-processed variable part data is
transmitted to the printer 20 (step S24). After step S24, the
program advances to step S27.
[0107] In step S23, a determination is made as to whether or not an
identifier corresponding to RIP-processed reuse part data is the
same as the identifier corresponding to the RIP-processed reuse
part data, which is already transmitted to the printer 20
(hereinafter, called "transmitted identifier"). Hereinafter,
determination of whether an identifier is a transmitted identifier
or not in step S23 will be described as "identifier determination".
In the case where an identifier corresponding to RIP-processed
reuse part data is a transmitted identifier, the RIP-processed
reuse part data is not transmitted to the printer 20 (step S25). In
the case where an identifier corresponding to RIP-processed reuse
part data is not a transmitted identifier, the RIP-processed reuse
part data is transmitted to the printer 20 (step S26). After steps
S25 and S26, the program advances to step S27.
[0108] In step S27, whether analysis on all of the RIP-processed
data in the cache data is finished or not is determined. In the
case where it is finished, the RIP-processed data transmitting
process is finished. In the case where it is not finished, the
program returns to step S22.
[0109] The identifier determination is performed by, for example,
the data control unit 52 or an RIP processing unit. First, the case
where the identifier determination is performed by the data control
unit 52 will be described. In the case where cache data read from a
corresponding cache unit includes an identifier, an RIP processing
unit transmits the identifier to the data control unit 52. The data
control unit 52 performs the identifier determination by
determining whether or not the received identifier is the same as
the transmitted identifier, in other words, the identifier already
received from the first to fourth RIP processing units 61 to 64.
The data control unit 52 can store an identifier received from an
RIP processing unit to, for example, a predetermined storage table
or the like. By referring to an identifier received in the past
using such a storage table, the data control unit 52 can determine
whether the received identifier is the same as that already
received from the first to fourth RIP processing units 61 to 64 or
not. The method of determining whether a received identifier is the
same as that already received from the first to fourth RIP
processing units 61 to 64 or not is not limited to the example
described above, but various other methods can be employed. In the
case where the received identifier is a transmitted identifier, the
data control unit 52 does not give an instruction to transmit
RIP-processed reuse part data corresponding to the identifier to
the printer 20, or gives an instruction not to transmit
RIP-processed reuse part data corresponding to the identifier to
the printer 20, to the RIP processing unit as the transmitter. In
the case where the received identifier is not a transmitted
identifier, the data control unit 52 instructs an RIP processing
unit as the transmitter to transmit RIP-processed reuse part data
corresponding to the identifier to the printer 20.
[0110] Next, the case where the identifier determination is
performed by an RIP processing unit will be described. In the case
where cache data read from a corresponding cache unit includes an
identifier, an RIP processing unit performs the identifier
determination by determining whether or not the identifier is the
same as the transmitted identifier, in other words, the identifier
already read by any of the first to fourth RIP processing units 61
to 64. Each of the RIP processing units has, for example, a
predetermined storage table and can store an identifier which is
read from a corresponding cache unit into the storage table. The
first to fourth RIP processing units 61 to 64 can mutually refer to
identifiers which were read in the past by using the storage
tables. By referring to the storage tables in the first to fourth
RIP processing units 61 to 64, each of the RIP processing units can
determine whether an identifier read from a corresponding cache
unit is the same as that already read by any of the first to fourth
RIP processing units 61 to 64 or not. The method of determining
whether an identifier read from a corresponding cache unit is the
same as that already read by any of the first to fourth RIP
processing units 61 to 64 or not is not limited to the example
described above, but various other methods can be employed.
[0111] Although description has been given on assumption that an
actor performing the identifier determination is the data control
unit 52 or an RIP processing unit, the present invention is not
limited to the case. It is sufficient that the identifier
determination can be performed in the printing control apparatus
10.
[0112] FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the process of
transmitting RIP-processed data in the embodiment. In the
embodiment, the process of transmitting RIP-processed data is
performed in order of the first RIP processing unit 61, the second
RIP processing unit 62, the third RIP processing unit 63, the
fourth RIP processing unit 64, the first RIP processing unit 61, .
. . . As illustrated in FIG. 8, in each cache unit, cache data
similar to that in the example shown in FIG. 6 is cached. In
description of FIG. 8, it is assumed that the identifier
determination is performed by the data control unit 52.
[0113] At a timing when RIP-processed data corresponding to a
printed matter 201 of the first page is to be transmitted, the
first RIP processing unit 61 reads the RIP-processed reuse part
data 101, the identifier 103 corresponding to the data 101, and the
first RIP-processed variable part data 102a cashed in the first
cache unit 71. The first RIP processing unit 61 transmits the read
identifier 103 to the data control unit 52. It is assumed that the
number of times that the data control unit 52 receives the
identifier 103 from any of the first to fourth RIP processing units
61 to 64 is one at this time. That is, the identifier 103 read by
the first RIP processing unit 61 is not a transmitted identifier.
Consequently, the data control unit 52 instructs the first RIP
processing unit 61 to transmit the RIP-processed reuse part data
101 to the printer 20. The first RIP processing unit 61 transmits
the first RIP-processed variable part data 102a to the printer 20
automatically without an instruction of the data control unit 52 or
simultaneously with the RIP-processed reuse part data 101. In such
a manner, the first RIP processing unit 61 transmits, as
RIP-processed data, both of the RIP-processed reuse part data 101
and the first RIP-processed variable part data 102a to the printer
20.
[0114] At a timing when RIP-processed data corresponding to a
printed matter 202 of the second page is to be transmitted, the
second RIP processing unit 62 reads the RIP-processed reuse part
data 101, the identifier 103 corresponding to the data 101, and the
second RIP-processed variable part data 102b cashed in the second
cache unit 72. The second RIP processing unit 62 transmits the read
identifier 103 to the data control unit 52. At this time, the
identifier 103 has already been transmitted from the first RIP
processing unit 61 to the data control unit 52. Consequently, the
number of times that the data control unit 52 receives the
identifier 103 from any of the first to fourth RIP processing units
61 to 64 is the second time. That is, the identifier 103 read by
the second RIP processing unit 62 is a transmitted identifier.
Therefore, the data control unit 52 does not give an instruction to
transmit the RIP-processed reuse part data 101 to the printer 20 or
gives an instruction not to transmit the RIP-processed reuse part
data 101 to the printer 20, to the second RIP processing unit 62.
The second RIP processing unit 62 transmits the second
RIP-processed variable part data 102b to the printer 20
automatically without an instruction of the data control unit 52 or
by an instruction of the data control unit 52. In such a manner,
the second RIP processing unit 62 transmits, as RIP-processed data,
only the second RIP-processed variable part data 102b to the
printer 20. In a manner similar to the second RIP processing unit
62, the third and fourth RIP processing units 63 and 64 transmit
third and fourth RIP-processed variable part data 102c and 102d to
the printer 20.
[0115] <6. Printed Matter Generating Process>
[0116] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the
procedure of processes for generating a printed matter
(hereinafter, called "printed matter generating process") in the
printer 20 in the embodiment. First, printing output data
corresponding to a printed matter of each page received by the
control unit 211 is stored in the storage unit 22 (step S31).
Therefore, even if the RIP-processed reuse part data is transmitted
only once as described above, the RIP-processed reuse part data can
be used in each page at the time of synthesizing the RIP-processed
data.
[0117] Next, by the control unit 211, synthesis information and
RIP-processed data necessary for synthesis is read from the storage
unit 22 (step S32). The RIP-processed data necessary for synthesis
is determined by synthesis information. The synthesis information
and the read RIP-processed data are transmitted to the printing
execution unit 212.
[0118] By the printing execution unit 212, the RIP-processed data
is synthesized based on the synthesis information, and a printed
matter of one page expressing the synthesis state of the
RIP-processed data is output (step S33).
[0119] In the example shown in FIG. 8, the control unit 211
receives, as printing output data corresponding to the printed
matter 201 of the first page, the synthesis information of the
first page, the RIP-processed reuse part data 101, and the first
RIP-processed variable part data 102a, and stores them to the
storage unit 22. After that, the control unit 211 reads the
synthesis information of the first page, the RIP-processed reuse
part data 101 and the first RIP-processed variable part data 102a
necessary for synthesis from the storage unit 22, and transmits
them to the printing execution unit 212. The printing execution
unit 212 synthesizes the RIP-processed reuse part data 101 and the
first RIP-processed variable part data 102a based on the synthesis
information of the first page, and outputs the printed matter 201
of the first page expressing a state where the data is
synthesized.
[0120] The control unit 211 receives, as printing output data
corresponding to the printed matter 202 of the second page, the
synthesis information of the second page and the second
RIP-processed variable part data 102b, and stores them to the
storage unit 22. The printing output data does not include the
RIP-processed reuse part data 101. After that, the control unit 211
reads the synthesis information of the second page, the
RIP-processed reuse part data 101 and the second RIP-processed
variable part data 102b necessary for synthesis from the storage
unit 22, and transmits them to the printing execution unit 212. The
printing execution unit 212 synthesizes the RIP-processed reuse
part data 101 and the second RIP-processed variable part data 102b
based on the synthesis information of the second page, and outputs
the printed matter 202 of the second page expressing a state where
the data is synthesized. Printed matters 203 and 204 of the third
and fourth pages are output by a procedure similar to that of the
printed matter 202 of the second page.
[0121] <7. Advantages>
[0122] According to the embodiment, in the printing control
apparatus which caches RIP-processed data, an identifier
corresponding to RIP-processed reuse part data is cached. Since
identifier determination using the identifier is performed,
RIP-processed reuse part data of the same kind is transmitted to
the printer 20 only at the time of use for the first time.
Consequently, the speed of the printing output data transmitting
process becomes higher than that of the conventional case. The
speed of the entire printing process can be made higher than that
of the conventional case.
[0123] In the embodiment, a parallel RIP process is performed. As
compared with the case of performing the RIP process using one RIP
processing unit, the speed of the RIP process can be increased.
Accordingly, the speed of the entire printing process can be
further increased.
[0124] In the embodiment, RIP-processed data is cached in a cache
unit. Consequently, in the case where RIP-processed data has to be
retransmitted to the printer 20 such as a case where, for example,
deficiency, disappearance, or the like of RIP-processed data occurs
in the printer 20, it is sufficient to retransmit RIP-processed
data cached in a cache unit. It is unnecessary to perform the RIP
process again. Thus, the speed of the entire printing process in
the case where retransmission of RIP-processed data is necessary
can be increased.
[0125] <8. First Modification>
[0126] FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a functional
configuration of a main part of the printing control apparatus 10
in a first modification of the embodiment. In the modification, as
illustrated in FIG. 10, a common cache unit 75 which is commonly
used for the first to fourth RIP processing units 61 to 64 is
provided in place of the first to fourth cache units 71 to 74. The
common cache unit 75 is realized by assigning a part of the storage
region of the memory 112 commonly to the first to fourth RIP
processing units 61 to 64.
[0127] FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining the cache process of
RIP-processed data and identifiers in the modification. In the
modification, the first to fourth RIP processing units 61 to 64 use
the common cache unit 75 for caching, so that it is sufficient to
cache RIP-processed reuse part data of one kind and an identifier
corresponding to the data once by any of the first to fourth RIP
processing units 61 to 64. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 11,
it is sufficient that only the first RIP processing unit 61 caches
the RIP-processed reuse part data 101 and the identifier 103
corresponding to the data in the common cache unit 75, and the
second to fourth RIP processing units 62 to 64 do not have to
perform similar caching. Consequently, as compared with the
foregoing embodiment, the efficiency of the cache process can be
increased.
[0128] <9. Second Modification>
[0129] FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating a functional
configuration of a main part of the printing control apparatus 10
in a second modification of the embodiment. In the modification, as
illustrated in FIG. 12, the reuse information obtaining unit 51 is
not provided. On the other hand, variable manuscript data in the
modification preliminarily includes reuse information in the
embodiment. In the modification, by using reuse information
included in variable manuscript data, an advantage similar to that
of the embodiment can be obtained.
[0130] <10. Third Modification>
[0131] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining a cache process of
RIP-processed data and identifiers in a third modification of the
embodiment. In the modification, as illustrated in FIG. 13, a
unique identifier is assigned to not only RIP-processed reuse part
data but also RIP-processed variable part data. An identifier
assigning method is similar to that of the foregoing
embodiment.
[0132] The first RIP processing unit 61 also caches an identifier
104a (hereinafter, called "first variable identifier")
corresponding to the first RIP-processed variable part data 102a
into the first cache unit 71. The second RIP processing unit 62
also caches an identifier 104b (hereinafter, called "second
variable identifier") corresponding to the second RIP-processed
variable part data 102b into the second cache unit 72. The third
RIP processing unit 63 also caches an identifier 104c (hereinafter,
called "third variable identifier") corresponding to the third
RIP-processed variable part data 102c into the third cache unit 73.
The fourth RIP processing unit 64 also caches an identifier 104d
(hereinafter, called "fourth variable identifier") corresponding to
the fourth RIP-processed variable part data 102d into the fourth
cache unit 74.
[0133] FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the
procedure of cache process of RIP-processed data and identifiers in
the modification. In the modification, as illustrated in FIG. 14,
step S22 of determining whether RIP-processed data is RIP-processed
reuse part data or not and step S24 of transmitting RIP-processed
data to the printer 20 in the case where the RIP-processed data is
RIP-processed variable part data are not provided. Since none of
identifiers corresponding to RIP-processed variable part data in
the modification are transmitted identifiers, all of the
identifiers are always transmitted to the printer 20 in a manner
similar to the embodiment (steps S23 and S26). FIG. 15 is a diagram
for explaining a process of transmitting RIP-processed data in the
modification. In the modification, as illustrated in FIG. 15, since
none of the first to fourth variable identifiers 104a to 104d are
transmitted identifiers, they are transmitted to the printer
20.
[0134] In the modification, in a mode of assigning an identifier
without discriminating RIP-processed reuse part data and
RIP-processed variable part data, an advantage similar to that of
the foregoing embodiment can be obtained.
[0135] <11. Others>
[0136] Although it has been described that the first to fourth
cache units 71 to 74 are realized by the memory 112 in the
embodiment and the common cache unit 75 is realized by the memory
112 in the first modification of the embodiment, the invention is
not limited to the configurations. The first to fourth cache units
71 to 74 and the common cache unit 75 may be realized by the
auxiliary storage apparatus 12 or the like.
[0137] Although it has been described that the parallel RIP process
is performed in the foregoing embodiment and the modifications, the
invention is not limited to the parallel RIP process. An RIP
process may be performed by using one RIP processing unit. In this
case, only one cache unit is provided. Also in such a mode, the
speed of the printing output data transmitting process can be
increased more than the conventional case.
[0138] Although variable printing has been described as an example
in the foregoing embodiment and the modifications, the invention is
not limited to the variable printing. The present invention is not
limited to the variable printing but can be applied to any printing
in which RIP-processed data is transmitted part by part from a
printing control apparatus to a printer and a part of the same kind
is used a plurality of times. The present invention has been
described specifically above and the above description is
illustrative in all of aspects and is not restrictive. It is to be
understood that a number of other changes or modifications are
possible without departing from the scope of the present
invention.
[0139] From the above, the present invention can provide the
printing control apparatus, the printing system, the recording
medium having recorded thereon the printing control program, and
the printing control method realizing higher speed of the entire
printing process.
[0140] This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent
Application No. 2012-75808 filed on Mar. 29, 2012, and entitled
"Printing control apparatus, Printing System, Printing Control
Program, and Printing Control Method", which is incorporated herein
by reference in its entirety.
* * * * *