Patent Publication Number: US-2020290368-A1

Title: Printer

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 to Japanese Patent Application No. 2019-045787, filed on Mar. 13, 2019. Each of the above application is hereby expressly incorporated by reference, in its entirety, into the present application. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates to a printer. 
     2. Description of the Related Art 
     In a printer that does not include a display, an operation state of the printer is generally notified to the outside by using a lamp such as a light emitting diode (LED) (for example, JP2007-015227A). 
     Meanwhile, WO2008/044270A suggests a technology for extracting a region of interest from an image, selecting a representative color from a color distribution of an image of the extracted region of interest, and causing an LED to emit light in a light emission pattern corresponding to the representative color. According to WO2008/044270A, a feature and an atmosphere of an image can be recognized from the light emission pattern of the LED. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     However, even though the technology described in WO2008/044270A is applied to a printer, the operation state of the printer, in particular, printing progress of the printer cannot be recognized by simply recognizing the feature and atmosphere of the image to be printed. 
     The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a printer capable of recognizing a feature and an atmosphere of an image to be printed and recognizing printing progress. 
     (1) A printer comprises an image acquisition unit that acquires an image to be printed from an external device, a printing unit that prints the image acquired by the image acquisition unit, a representative color detection unit that detects representative colors of regions by dividing the image to be printed by the printing unit into a plurality of regions, a light emitting unit that switches between light emission colors, and a light emission controller that controls light emission of the light emitting unit. The light emission controller emits light while switching between the representative colors of the regions detected by the representative color detection unit in order according to printing progress in a case where the image is printed by the printing unit. 
     (2) In the printer according to (1), the representative color detection unit detects the representative colors of the regions by dividing the image to be printed by the printing unit into the plurality of regions along an up-down direction of the image. 
     (3) In the printer according to (2), the light emission controller divides a time from when the printing is started to when the printing is ended according to an area ratio of the divided regions, and switches between the light emission colors at divided time intervals. 
     (4) In the printer according to any one of (1) to (3), in a case where the image acquisition unit acquires the image to be printed from the external device, the light emission controller causes the light emitting unit to emit light in a preset light emission pattern. 
     (5) In the printer according to (4), the light emission pattern is a light emission pattern for switching between a plurality of light emission colors in order. 
     (6) The printer according to any one of (1) to (3) further comprises a light emission pattern information acquisition unit that acquires information of a light emission pattern from the external device before the image acquisition unit acquires the image to be printed from the external device. In a case where the image acquisition unit acquires the image to be printed from the external device, the light emission controller causes the light emitting unit to emit the light in the light emission pattern acquired by the light emission pattern information acquisition unit. 
     (7) In the printer according to (6), in a case where the image to be printed is divided into the plurality of regions, the information of the light emission pattern acquired by the light emission pattern information acquisition unit is information of a light emission pattern for emitting the representative colors of the divided regions in order. 
     (8) In the printer according to any one (1) to (7), in a case where the light emitting unit emits light while switching between the light emission colors, the light emission controller causes the light emitting unit to emit light while switching between the light emission colors in a gradation form. 
     (9) In the printer according to any one of (1) to (8), in a case where the representative color emitted by the light emitting unit is an achromatic color, the light emission controller causes the light emitting unit to emit light in a predetermined color. 
     (10) In the printer according to (9), in a case where the representative color emitted by the light emitting unit is the achromatic color, the light emission controller causes the light emitting unit to emit light in a predetermined light emission pattern. 
     (11) In the printer according to any one of (1) to ( 7 ), in a case where the representative color emitted by the light emitting unit is an achromatic color, the light emission controller causes the light emitting unit not to emit light. 
     (12) In the printer according to any one of (1) to (11), the printing unit prints the image acquired by the image acquisition unit on an instant film. 
     (13) The printer according to any one of (1) to (12) further comprises a wireless communication unit that wirelessly communicates with the external device. The image acquisition unit wirelessly acquires the image to be printed from the external device through the wireless communication unit. 
     (14) In the printer according to any one of (1) to (13), the printer is a portable mobile printer. 
     According to the present invention, it is possible to recognize the feature and atmosphere of the image to be printed, and it is possible to recognize the printing progress. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a diagram showing an example of a system configuration of a system that prints an image by using a printer according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 2  is a front perspective view showing an example of an appearance configuration of the printer according to the embodiment. 
         FIG. 3  is a rear perspective view of the printer shown in  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 4  is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of a printing unit of the printer. 
         FIG. 5  is a perspective view of a film pack. 
         FIG. 6  is a front view of the instant film. 
         FIG. 7  is a rear view of the instant film. 
         FIG. 8  is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the printer. 
         FIG. 9  is a block diagram of main functions realized by a printer microcomputer. 
         FIG. 10  is a diagram showing an example of division of an image; 
         FIG. 11  is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of an external device. 
         FIG. 12  is a block diagram of main functions of the external device in a relationship with the printer. 
         FIG. 13  is a flowchart showing a processing procedure in the external device. 
         FIG. 14  is a flowchart showing a processing procedure in the printer. 
         FIG. 15  is a diagram showing an example of a combination image. 
         FIG. 16  is a functional block diagram of the external device having a representative color detection function. 
         FIG. 17  is a block diagram of functions of the printer in a case where a light emitting unit emits light according to information on a light emission pattern received from the external device. 
     
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. 
     Printing System 
       FIG. 1  is a diagram showing an example of a system configuration of a system that prints an image by using a printer of the present embodiment. 
     A printer  10  according to the present embodiment is a portable mobile printer, and wirelessly receives an image to be printed from an external device and prints the received image on a medium. As the medium, a sheet film type (also referred to as a mono sheet type) instant film  12  is used. 
     An external device  100  is a computer having a communication function, in particular, a mobile computer such as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a laptop personal computer, a personal data assistant (PDA), and a mobile phone.  FIG. 1  shows an example in which the external device is a smartphone. 
     For example, communication between the printer  10  and the external device is performed in conformity to a short range wireless communication standard such as near-field communication (NFC) standard, Bluetooth (registered trademark), and Wireless Fidelity (WiFi). 
     Appearance Configuration of Printer 
       FIG. 2  is a front perspective view showing an example of an appearance configuration of the printer according to the present embodiment.  FIG. 3  is a rear perspective view of the printer shown in  FIG. 2 . 
     As described above, the printer  10  is an instant printer (printer that prints on an instant film). The instant film  12  is loaded into the printer  10  in a state of a film pack (see  FIG. 5 ) in which a plurality of instant films is accommodated in a case. 
     An outer casing  14  of the printer  10  has a rounded flat rectangular box shape and is configured to be portable by being held with one hand. The outer casing  14  of the printer  10  is configured to be vertically placed (stand upright on a flat place) and horizontally placed (laid on a flat place).  FIGS. 1 and 2  show a case where the printer  10  is vertically placed. 
     On a front side of the printer  10 , a push-type power button  16  is provided at a substantially central position. The printer  10  is powered on and off by a long push of the power button  16  (an operation of continuously pushing the power button for a predetermined time or more). The power button  16  also serves as a light emitting unit, and emits light by causing a light source unit provided therein to emit light. The aforementioned points will be described below. 
     A discharge port  18  is provided at an upper portion of the printer  10  (upper portion when the printer is vertically placed). The printed instant film  12  is discharged from the discharge port  18 . 
     A film pack lid  20  for opening and closing a film pack loading chamber (see  FIG. 4 ) is provided on a rear side of the printer  10 . An unlock lever  22  that unlocks the film pack lid  20  is provided. In a case where the unlock lever  22  releases the lock and the film pack lid  20  is opened, the film pack loading chamber is opened. When the film pack lid  20  is closed after the instant film pack is loaded, the film pack lid  20  is locked by a lock mechanism (not shown), and the film pack is sealed in a light-shielded state. 
     A USB cable connection portion cover  24  that opens and closes a Universal Serial Bus (USB) cable connection portion (not shown) is provided on one side of the printer  10 . The printer  10  is charged with a built-in battery through the USB cable connection portion exposed by opening the USB cable connection portion cover  24 . 
     Configuration of Printing Unit of Printer 
       FIG. 4  is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of a printing unit of the printer. This diagram shows a state in which the printer is horizontally placed. 
     As shown in this diagram, the printer  10  comprises, as the printing unit, a film pack loading chamber  30 , a film delivery mechanism  32  that delivers the instant film  12  from the film pack loaded in the film pack loading chamber  30 , a film transport mechanism  34  that transports the sent instant film  12  delivered from the film pack, and a print head  36  that records an image on the instant film  12  therein. 
     The film pack loading chamber  30  includes a recess into which a film pack  40  is fitted, and is opened and closed by the film pack lid  20 . 
       FIG. 5  is a perspective view of the film pack.  FIG. 6  is a front view of the instant film, and  FIG. 7  is a rear view of the instant film. In  FIGS. 5 to 7 , a direction indicated by an arrow F is a delivery direction of the instant film  12 . The instant film  12  is delivered in the direction indicated by the arrow F, and is discharged from the case  42 . 
     The instant film  12  has a rectangular card shape. The instant film  12  is configured such that one surface is an exposure surface (surface on which an image is recorded through exposing)  12   a  and the other surface is an observation surface (surface on which the recorded image is observed)  12   b.    
     As shown in  FIG. 7 , an exposure region  12   c,  a pod portion  12   d,  and a trap portion  12   f  are provided on the exposure surface  12   a  of the instant film  12 . The exposure region  12   c  is a region in which the image is recorded through exposing. The exposure region  12   c  is a region in which the instant film  12  can be printed. The pod portion  12   d  and the trap portion  12   f  are arranged in front and back in the delivery direction F with the exposure region  12   c  interposed therebetween. The pod portion  12   d  is disposed in front in the delivery direction F with respect to the exposure region  12   c.  A developing solution pod  12   e  that contains a developing solution is provided within the pod portion  12   d.  The trap portion  12   f  is disposed in the back in the delivery direction F with respect to the exposure region  12   c.  An absorbent  12   g  is provided within the trap portion  12   f.    
     As shown in  FIG. 6 , an observation region  12   h  is formed on the observation surface  12   b  of the instant film  12 . The observation region  12   h  is a region in which the image is displayed. The image is displayed on the observation region  12   h  by developing the exposure region  12   c.  The observation region  12   h  is disposed so as to correspond to the exposure region  12   c.  A frame  12   i  is provided near the observation region  12   h.  Accordingly, the image is displayed within the frame. The observation region  12   h  is set so as to be slightly narrower (set so as to be one size smaller) than the exposure region  12   c.  Accordingly, in a case where the image is recorded in the entire region of the exposure region  12   c,  the image of which the surrounding is trimmed is printed. 
     The instant film  12  is viewed in an orientation in which the trap portion  12   f  is at the top and the pod portion  12   d  is at the bottom. Accordingly, the image is printed in an orientation in which the trap portion  12   f  is at the top and the pod portion  12   d  is at the bottom. 
     The instant film  12  is developed by spreading the developing solution of the pod portion  12   d  to the exposure region  12   c  after exposing. The developing solution of the pod portion  12   d  is squeezed out of the pod portion  12   d,  and is spread to the exposure region  12   c  by causing the instant film  12  to pass between a spreading roller pair  34 B. The developing solution remaining at the time of spreading is captured in the trap portion  12   f.    
     The case  42  has a rectangular box shape. The case  42  has a rectangular exposure opening  42   a  formed in a front portion. The case  42  has a slit-like film discharge port  42   b  on the top surface portion. The instant films  12  are accommodated so as to be stacked such that the exposure surface  12   a  faces a front surface (exposure opening  42   a ) of the case  42  and the pod portion  12   d  faces a top surface (film discharge port  42   b ) of the case  42 . The case  42  has a slit-like claw opening portion  42   c  formed in a bottom portion. A claw  32   a  enters through the claw opening portion  42   c,  and thus, the instant films  12  accommodated in the case  42  are delivered toward the film discharge port  42   b  one by one and are discharged through the film discharge port  42   b.    
     A plurality (for example, ten) of instant films  12  is accommodated so as to be stacked in one film pack  40 . 
     The film delivery mechanism  32  delivers the instant films  12  one by one from the film pack  40  loaded in the film pack loading chamber  30 . The film delivery mechanism  32  comprises the claw  32   a  that moves back and forth along the delivery direction of the instant film  12 . The film delivery mechanism  32  scrapes the instant films  12  within the case one by one by the claw  32   a,  and delivers the instant film  12  from the film pack  40 . 
     The film transport mechanism  34  transports the instant film  12  delivered from the film pack  40  by the film delivery mechanism  32  at a constant speed. The film transport mechanism  34  comprises a transport roller pair  34 A and the spreading roller pair  34 B. The transport roller pair  34 A is rotated by being driven by a motor (not shown), and transports the instant film  12  while holding both sides of the instant film. The spreading roller pair  34 B is rotated by being driven by a motor (not shown), and transports the instant film  12  while holding the entire instant film. The pod portion  12   d  is crushed while the instant film is transported by the spreading roller pair  34 B, and the instant film  12  is developed. 
     The print head  36  records the image on the instant film  12  delivered from the film pack  40 . The print head  36  is a line-type exposure head. The print head  36  irradiates the exposure surface  12   a  of the instant film  12  transported by the film transport mechanism  34  with print light line by line, and records the image on the instant film  12  in a single pass. 
     Electrical Configuration of Printer 
       FIG. 8  is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the printer. 
     As shown in this diagram, the printer  10  comprises an operation detection unit  50  that detects an operation of the power button  16 , a light source unit  52  that emits light from the power button  16 , a light source controller  54  that controls the light emission of the light source unit  52 , a wireless communication unit  56  that wirelessly communicates with an external device via an antenna  56 A, a power supply unit  58 , a power supply controller  60  that controls power supply from the power supply unit  58  and charging of the power supply unit  58 , a printer built-in memory  62 , a memory controller  64  that reads and writes data in the printer built-in memory  62 , a movement detection unit  66  that detects the movement of the printer  10 , a film delivery mechanism drive unit  68  that drives the film delivery mechanism  32 , a film transport mechanism drive unit  70  that drives the film transport mechanism  34 , a print head drive unit  72  that drives the print head  36 , and a printer microcomputer  80 . 
     The operation detection unit  50  detects the operation of the power button  16 . The power button  16  is a push button, and the printer  10  is powered on and off by long push. While the power button is powered on, a function for inputting a reprint command is assigned to the power button  16 . The reprinting is a function for reprinting the last printed image. The operation detection unit  50  detects a short push (operation of pushing and then releasing immediately) of the power button  16  while the printer  10  is powered on, and outputs a detection signal to the printer microcomputer  80 . 
     The light source unit  52  is configured to switch light emission colors. In the printer  10  of the present embodiment, the light source unit  52  is a three-color LED (also referred to as a full-color LED) comprising three color elements of red (R), green (G), and blue (B). The light emission colors of the three-color LED are switched by selecting a mixing ratio of three colors of R, G, and B. Since this main light source is known, a detailed description thereof will be omitted. 
     The light source unit  52  is disposed inside the power button  16  (see  FIG. 4 ). The power button  16  is entirely or partially transparent (or translucent), and in a case where the light source unit  52  emits light, light is transmitted through the transparent portion (or translucent portion) and is emitted. 
     The light source controller  54  causes the light source unit  52  to emit light with a predetermined light emission color and light emission pattern according to a command from the printer microcomputer  80 . 
     The wireless communication unit  56  wirelessly communicates with an external device through the antenna  56 A under the control using the printer microcomputer  80 . As described above, the communication with the external device is performed in conformity to the short range wireless communication standard. 
     The power supply unit  58  includes a battery and a power supply circuit, and supplies a power to each unit of the printer  10 . The battery is a rechargeable secondary battery, and is charged by receiving a power from the outside. 
     The power supply controller  60  controls the supply of the power from the power supply unit  58  to each unit and the charging of the battery of the power supply unit  58  under the control of the printer microcomputer  80 . 
     The printer built-in memory  62  constitutes a storage unit of the printer  10 , and stores printed image data and setting data of the printer  10 . The printer built-in memory  62  is, for example, a nonvolatile memory such as an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM). 
     The memory controller  64  reads and writes data from and in the printer built-in memory  62  in response to a command from the printer microcomputer  80 . 
     The movement detection unit  66  detects the movement of the printer  10 . The movement detection unit  66  is, for example, a motion sensor. Since the motion sensor itself is well-known, the detailed description is omitted. In general, the motion sensor is configured by combining an acceleration sensor and a gyro sensor. The movement detection unit  66  detects the posture of the printer  10  (vertical placement, horizontal placement, tilt, etc.) and movement of the printer  10  (lifting, placing down, turning over, etc.). 
     The film delivery mechanism drive unit  68  includes a motor that drives the claw  32   a  of the film delivery mechanism  32  and a drive circuit thereof, and drives the film delivery mechanism  32  according to a command from the printer microcomputer  80 . 
     The film transport mechanism drive unit  70  includes a motor that drives the transport roller pair  34 A of the film transport mechanism  34  and a drive circuit thereof, and a motor that drives the spreading roller pair  34 B and a drive circuit thereof, and drives the film transport mechanism  34  according to a command from the printer microcomputer  80 . 
     The print head drive unit  72  includes a drive circuit of the print head  36 , and drives the print head  36  according to a command from the printer microcomputer  80 . 
     The printer microcomputer  80  is a controller that performs overall control of the operation of the printer  10 . The printer microcomputer  80  is a microcomputer that comprises a central processing unit (CPU), a read only memory (ROM), and a random access memory (RAM), and realizes various functions by executing predetermined control programs. 
       FIG. 9  is a block diagram of main functions realized by the printer microcomputer. 
     The printer microcomputer  80  mainly functions as an image acquisition unit  80 A, a print data generation unit  80 B, a print controller  80 C, a representative color detection unit  80 D, and a light emission controller  80 E. 
     The image acquisition unit  80 A wirelessly communicates with the external device  100  via the wireless communication unit  56 , and acquires image data of an image to be printed from the external device  100 . In the case of reprinting, the image data of the last printed image is read out from the printer built-in memory  62  and is acquired. 
     The print data generation unit  80 B converts the image data acquired by the image acquisition unit  80 A into a data format printable by the printing unit (data format printable on the instant film  12  by the print head  36 ), and generates data for printing (print data). 
     The print controller  80 C controls the delivery of the instant film  12  by the film delivery mechanism  32  via the film delivery mechanism drive unit  68 . The transport of the instant film  12  by the film transport mechanism  34  is controlled via the film transport mechanism drive unit  70 . The driving of the print head  36  is controlled via the print head drive unit  72 . The driving of the print head  36  is controlled in synchronization with the transport of the instant film  12  based on the print data generated by the print data generation unit  80 B. 
     The representative color detection unit  80 D divides the image to be printed into a plurality of regions along an up-down direction of the image, analyzes an image of each divided region, and detects a representative color. The representative color is a color used centrally in the corresponding region. For example, the representative color detection unit  80 D obtains a color distribution of the image of each region, and detects the color occupying the widest area as the representative color of the region. At this time, the representative color detection unit  80 D detects the representative color of each region within a color gamut range reproducible in the light source unit  52 . 
       FIG. 10  is a diagram showing an example of the division of the image. 
     As shown in this diagram, in the printer  10  of the present embodiment, an image IM is divided into three equal regions along the up-down direction (upper region A 1 , intermediate region A 2 , and lower region A 3 ), and the representative colors of the regions A 1 , A 2 , A 3  are detected. The up-down direction of the image mentioned herein is the up-down direction (vertical direction) at the time of observing the image. 
     In the example of the image IM shown in  FIG. 10 , the representative color of the upper region A 1  is light blue, the representative color of the intermediate region A 2  is green, and the representative color of the lower region is yellow-green. 
     The light emission controller  80 E controls the light emission of the light source unit  52  via the light source controller  54 , and causes the power button  16  which is the light emitting unit to emit light in a predetermined color and pattern. The light emission controller  80 E causes the power button  16  to emit light at a predetermined timing. Specifically, the power button  16  emits light in a case where the image to be printed from the external device  100  is received and the image is printed. 
     In a case where the image to be printed is received from the external device  100 , a plurality of predetermined colors is emitted while being switched in order at regular time intervals. For example, seven colors (so-called rainbow colors) of red, orange, yellow, green, light blue, blue, and purple are emitted while being switched in order at regular time intervals. 
     Meanwhile, in a case where the image is printed, the representative colors of the regions A 1 , A 2 , and A 3  detected by the representative color detection unit  80 D are emitted while being switching in order according to the printing progress. In the present embodiment, the colors are emitted by switching colors in order at time intervals (T/3[s]) in which a time (T[s]) from when the printing is started to when the printing is ended is divided into three equal intervals. The representative color of the upper region A 1 , the representative color of the intermediate region A 2 , and the representative color of the lower region A 3  are emitted in order. Accordingly, in the case of the image IM shown in  FIG. 10 , light blue, green, and yellow-green are emitted in order. In a case where the representative color is an achromatic color such as black or gray, light is not emitted. That is, the light emitting unit does not emit light at the timing of the corresponding region (turned off). 
     In the printer  10  of the present embodiment, the time from when the printing is started to when the printing is ended is a time from when the delivery of the instant film  12  is started to when the discharge of the instant film is completed. The discharge is completed in a case where a rear end of the instant film  12  passes through the transport roller pair  34 A. In this state, the instant film  12  is held in a state where the instant film is delivered from the discharge port  18  by a predetermined amount (the instant film is held in a state where the rear end portion is held by the spreading roller pair  34 B). The time from the start of printing to the end of printing is constant regardless of the image and is a known value. 
     External Device 
     As stated above, the external device  100  is a computer having a communication function, particularly, a mobile computer such as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a laptop personal computer, PDA, or a mobile phone. 
       FIG. 11  is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of the external device. This diagram shows an example in a case where the external device  100  is a smartphone. 
     As shown in this diagram, the external device (smartphone)  100  comprises a CPU  101  that controls the entire operation, a ROM  102  that stores a basic input and output program, a RAM  103  that is used as a work area of the CPU  101 , a built-in memory  104 , a display  105 , a touch pad  106  that detects a touch operation (position input) for a display screen, a Global Positioning Systems (GPS) receiving unit  107  that receives a GPS signal including positional information (latitude, longitude, and altitude) of the external device  100  by a GPS satellite or an Indoor MEssaging System (IMES) as an indoor GPS, a camera unit  108  that includes an imaging lens and an image sensor and electronically images an image, a microphone unit  109  that includes a microphone and inputs voice, a speaker unit  110  that includes a speaker and outputs voice, a communication unit  111  that wirelessly communicates with a nearest base station by using an antenna  111 A, a short range wireless communication unit  112  that communicates with another device (for example, the printer  10 ) by using an antenna  112 A through short range wireless, a sensor unit  113  that includes various sensors such as a geomagnetic sensor, a gyrocompass, and an acceleration sensor, and a media drive  114  that reads and writes data in and from a memory card  115 . The built-in memory  104  is a nonvolatile memory such as an EEPROM. The built-in memory  104  stores various data such as image data of an image captured by the camera unit  108  and image data acquired from other devices in addition to various programs including an operating system executed by the CPU  101 . 
     The external device  100  has a function of causing the printer  10  to print the image captured by the camera unit  108  and a function of causing the printer  10  to print the image recorded in the built-in memory  104  in the relationship with the printer  10 . As a function related to these functions, the external device has a function of editing an image to be printed. 
       FIG. 12  is a block diagram of main functions of the external device in the relationship with the printer. 
     As shown in this diagram, the external device  100  has functions of a print image acquisition unit  100 A that acquires an image to be printed, a print image processing unit  100 B that processes and edits an image to be printed, and a print image transmission unit  100 C that transmits an image to be printed to the printer  10 . 
     The print image acquisition unit  100 A acquires a print image by imaging or from the built-in memory  104 . In a case where the print image is acquired by imaging, the external device controls the camera unit  108  based on an operation input (an operation input for the touch pad  106  as an operation unit) from a user, and acquires the image to be printed by imaging. In a case where the print image is acquired from the built-in memory  104 , the image stored in the built-in memory  104  is read out and acquired. For example, the external device causes the user to select a folder of a storage destination of the image, reproduce and display the image stored in the folder on the display, and select the image to be printed. The image acquired by the print image acquisition unit  100 A is displayed on the display  105 . 
     The print image processing unit  100 B processes and edits the image to be printed (the image displayed on the display  105  as the image to be printed) based on the operation input (the operation input for the touch pad  106  as the operation unit) from the user. For example, the print image processing unit performs the image processing such as image trimming, enlargement, rotation, template combination, image correction (noise removal, sharpness, color tone, and brightness). 
     The print image transmission unit  100 C transmits the image to be printed to the printer  10  based on the operation input (the operation input for the touch pad  106  as the operation unit) from the user. The image is transmitted to the printer  10  via the short range wireless communication unit  112 . 
     For example, a print transmission command (print command) is issued by an operation of swiping a screen of the display  105  on which the image to be printed is displayed in a specified direction (for example, a direction from a bottom to a top of the screen). Alternatively, the print transmission command is issued by touching a print button displayed on the screen. 
     Printing Flow of Printing System of Present Embodiment 
     In the printing system of the present embodiment, the image to be printed is captured or selected by the external device  100 , the captured or selected image is wirelessly transmitted to the printer  10 , and the image is printed on the printer  10 . 
       FIG. 13  is a flowchart showing a processing procedure in the external device. 
     First, the printer  10  is detected (step S 11 ). That is, whether or not there is the printer  10  connectable by short range wireless communication is detected. It is determined whether or not the printer  10  is detected (step S 12 ). In a case where the printer  10  is not detected, an error message is displayed (step S 13 ). For example, an error message such as “there is no connectable printer” is displayed. Meanwhile, in a case where a connectable printer  10  is detected, processing for establishing connection is performed. 
     In a case where the connection is established, a print mode is determined (step S 14 ). That is, it is determined whether to perform the printing in a mode (imaging print) in which the image is captured and is printed or a mode (reproduction print) in which the image recorded in the built-in memory  104  is selected and printed. The mode is selected on a menu screen. 
     In a case where the imaging print mode is selected, imaging processing of the image to be printed is performed (step S 15 ). Meanwhile, in a case where the reproduction print mode is selected, the image to be printed is selected (step S 16 ). Accordingly, the image to be printed is acquired. The acquired image is displayed, as the image to be printed, on the display  105 . 
     Next, whether or not the editing of the image is necessary is determined based on the operation input (the operation input for the touch pad  106  as the operation unit) from the user (step S 17 ). Whether or not the editing of the image is necessary is determined by whether or not an image editing operation is performed. In a case where the image editing operation is performed, image editing processing is performed according to the operation input (step S 18 ). 
     It is determined whether or not the print command is issued based on the operation input from the user (step S 19 ). Here, in a case where the print command is not issued, it is determined whether or not a print cancel command is issued (step S 20 ). In a case where the pint cancel command is issued, the processing is ended. Meanwhile, in a case where the print command is issued, the image is transferred to the printer  10  (step S 21 ). 
       FIG. 14  is a flowchart showing a processing procedure in the printer. It is assumed that the connection with the external device  100  is established. 
     First, it is determined whether or not the print command is issued (step S 31 ). In a case where the print command is issued, it is determined whether or not the reception of the image is started (step S 32 ). In a case where the reception of the image is started, the power button  16  emits light in a predetermined pattern (step S 33 ). In the printer  10  of the present embodiment, seven colors (so-called rainbow colors) of red, orange, yellow, green, light blue, blue, and purple are emitted while being sequentially switched at regular time intervals. Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the reception of the image is completed (step S 34 ). In a case where the reception of the image is completed, the light emission is stopped (step S 35 ). 
     Subsequently, the print data is generated from the received image data (step S 36 ). The received image data is analyzed, and the representative colors of the upper, intermediate, and lower regions are detected (step S 37 ). That is, the image is divided into three equal regions into an upper stage, an intermediate stage, and a lower stage along the up-down direction, and the representative color of each divided region is detected. 
     Subsequently, the light emission pattern of the power button  16  during printing is set based on the detected representative color of each region (step S 38 ). In the printer  10  of the present embodiment, the light emission pattern is set such that the representative color of the upper region, the representative color of the intermediate region, and the representative color of the lower region are emitted while being switched in order at time intervals obtained by dividing the time T (known) from when the printing is started to when the printing is ended into three equal intervals. 
     Subsequently, the print processing is performed (step S 39 ). The power button  16  emits light with the start of the print processing (step S 40 ). The power button  16  emits light with the set light emission pattern. That is, the representative color of the upper region, the representative color of the intermediate region, and the representative color of the lower region are emitted in order at the time of equally dividing the image to be printed into three equal regions. The light emission colors are emitted while being switched at time intervals obtained by dividing the time T from when the printing is started to when the printing is ended into three equal intervals. The user can recognize the feature and atmosphere of the image to be printed by visually recognizing the light emission of the power button  16 . The printing progress state can be recognized by visually recognizing the switching of the light emission. 
     As described above, according to the printer  10  of the present embodiment, the power button  16  includes the light emitting unit, and emits light in a predetermined aspect during reception and printing of the image to be printed. Accordingly, it is possible to grasp the operation state of the printer  10  from the light emission state of the power button  16 . Since the representative colors of the respective regions obtained by dividing the image into three equal regions are emitted in order during the printing, it is possible to recognize the feature and atmosphere of the image to be printed from the light emission state of the power button  16 . This is particularly effective in the instant film  12  on which the image cannot be immediately confirmed even though the printing is completed. Since the representative colors of the respective regions are switched in order according to the printing progress during the printing, it is possible to recognize the printing progress state from the light emission state of the power button  16 . The interest of the user can be directed to the printer  10  by causing the power button  16  to emit light during the printing. The user can enjoy the printing. In a case where the representative color is detected, it is possible to simplify detection processing by detecting a representative color of a predetermined region (each region obtained by dividing the image into three equal regions in the up-down direction in the present embodiment). 
     MODIFICATION EXAMPLES 
     Modification example of detection aspect of representative color Although it has been described in the aforementioned embodiment that the image to be printed is divided into three equal regions (upper, intermediate, and lower stages) in the up-down direction, and the representative color of each region is detected, the detection aspect of the representative color is not limited thereto. The representative color of each region obtained by dividing the image in narrower regions may be detected. 
     A division ratio (area ratio) of the regions is not necessarily equal. That is, it is not necessary to equally divide the image. The image may be divided at a predetermined ratio. For example, in a case where the image is divided into three in the up-down direction, the image may be divided that the division ratio (area ratio) of the upper region, the intermediate region, and the lower region is 1:2:1. In this case, it is preferable that the switching of the light emission is performed according to the division ratio (area ratio) of the regions. That is, for example, in a case where the image is divided into three in the up-down direction and the division ratio (area ratio) of the upper region, intermediate region, and lower region is 1:2:1, the time from when the printing is started to when the printing is ended is divided at a ratio of 1:2:1, and the representative colors of the regions are emitted while being switched in order. 
     The division aspect is not limited to the up-down direction, and the division may be performed into a matrix. In this case, for example, the representative colors detected in the regions are emitted in order by using an upper left region of the image as a start point and a lower right region as an end point. For example, in a case where the image is divided into four in a matrix, the representative colors of the regions are emitted in order of an upper left region, an upper right region, a lower left region, and a lower right region of the image. That is, the light emission order is set so as to scan from the upper left region to the lower right region of the image. 
     The image may be divided into a plurality of regions concentrically around the center of the image. However, in a case where the image is divided in the up-down direction, since the light emission colors are switched in order along the up-down direction of the image, it is possible to easily grasp the feature and atmosphere of the image compared to other division aspects. 
     The division of the image needs not cover all the regions of the image as targets. Only a region of a part of the image may be divided as a target. The region from which the representative color is detected may be determined in advance. 
     For example, in a case where the image to be printed is a combination image, the representative color may be detected for each region of the combined image, and the representative colors may be emitted in order. Here, the combination image mentioned herein includes an image (division image (including a collage image)) obtained by dividing the screen into a plurality of regions and applying images to the divided regions. 
       FIG. 15  is a diagram showing an example of the combination image. 
     This diagram shows an example in which the screen is divided into four equal regions in a matrix. In this case, a division image CI includes four images. Specifically, the image includes a first image CI 1  in an upper left region of the screen, a second image CI 2  in an upper right region of the screen, a third image CI 3  in a lower left region of the screen, and a fourth image CI 4  in a lower right region of the screen. 
     The representative color is detected for each area of each image. That is, the representative colors are detected in the region of the first image CI 1 , the region of the second image CI 2 , the region of the third image CI 3 , and the region of the fourth image CI 4 . Therefore, in this case, the color used centrally in each image is detected as the representative color of each region. That is, the color centrally used in the first image CI 1 , the color centrally used in the second image CI 2 , the color centrally used in the third image CI 3 , and the color centrally used in the fourth image CI 4  are detected as the representative colors of the regions. 
     The light emission pattern is set such that the representative color of the region of the first image CI 1 , the representative color of the region of the second image CI 2 , the representative color of the region of the third image CI 3 , and the representative color of the region of the fourth image CI 4  are emitted in order (the light emission order is set so as to scan from the upper left region of the screen toward the lower right region). 
     Modification Example of Detection Method of Representative Color 
     Although it has been described in the aforementioned embodiment that the method of obtaining the color distribution of the image of the regions and detecting, as the representative color of the region, the color occupying the largest area is used as the method of detecting the representative color of each region, the method for detecting the representative color is not limited thereto. Other known methods can be employed. 
     Modification Example of Light Emission Aspect 
     Although it has been described in the aforementioned embodiment that the representative colors detected from the regions of the image are emitted while being switched in order during the printing, the representative colors may be turned on and off. The printing progress state can be grasped in more detail by turning on and off the representative colors. That is, a time until the printing is completed can be grasped by counting the number of times the representative colors are turned on and off. 
     In a case where the light emission colors are switched, the emission colors may be switched in a gradation form. Accordingly, for example, even though the same color is detected as the representative color in two consecutive regions, it is possible to recognize the switching of the region from the light emission state. The interest of the user can be more directed to the printer  10  by switching between the light emission colors in a gradation form. The user can enjoy the printing. 
     Modification Example of Light Emission Aspect in Case Representative Color is Achromatic Color 
     Although it has been described in the aforementioned embodiment that in a case where the representative color of the region is an achromatic color such as black and gray, the light emitting unit (power button  16 ) does not emit light at a timing when light is emitted in the region, the light emission aspect in a case where the representative color is the achromatic color is not limited thereto. For example, light may be emitted in a predetermined color. Alternatively, a predetermined color may be emitted in a predetermined light emission pattern. For example, white may be turned on and off, or the emission color may be changed to a rainbow color. In a case where a light emitting unit which can emit light at only an outline portion (peripheral edge portion) is employed as the light emitting unit, light may be emitted at only the outline portion in a predetermined color and/or in a predetermined light emission pattern. 
     Modification Example of Light Emission Aspect in Case Image to be Printed is Received 
     Similarly to a case where the printing is performed, even though the image to be printed is received, light may be emitted in the representative color of the image. In this case, the external device  100  has a function of detecting the representative color. 
       FIG. 16  is a functional block diagram of the external device having a representative color detection function. 
     As shown in this diagram, the external device  100  further has functions of a print image representative color detection unit  100 D that detects a representative color of each region from the image to be printed by the printer  10 , and a light emission pattern information transmission unit  100 E that sets a light emission pattern based on the representative color of each region detected by the print image representative color detection unit  100 D and transmits the set light emission pattern to the printer  10 . 
     The print image representative color detection unit  100 D divides the image to be printed by the printer  10  into the plurality of regions along the up-down direction of the image, and detects the representative color of each of the divided regions. In the present example, the image is divided into three equal regions in the up-down direction, and the representative color of each region is detected. 
     Information on the representative color of each region detected by the print image representative color detection unit  100 D is added to the light emission pattern information transmission unit  100 E. 
     The light emission pattern information transmission unit  100 E sets the light emission pattern of the light emitting unit (power button  16 ) in a case where the printer  10  receives the image based on the information of the representative color of each region detected by the print image representative color detection unit  100 D. In the present example, the light emission pattern is set such that the representative color of the upper region, the representative color of the intermediate region, and the representative color of the lower region are emitted in this order. The information of the set light emission pattern is transmitted to the printer  10 . At this time, the light emission pattern information transmission unit  100 E transmits the information of the light emission pattern to the printer  10  before the print image transmission unit  100 C transmits the print image. 
     In a case where the printer  10  receives the image to be printed from the external device  100 , the printer causes the light emitting unit (power button  16 ) to emit light according to the information of the light emission pattern received in advance. 
       FIG. 17  is a block diagram of functions of the printer in a case where the light emitting unit emits light according to the information of the light emission pattern received from the external device. 
     As shown in this diagram, the printer  10  further has a function of a light emission pattern information acquisition unit  80 F that acquires the information of the light emission pattern from the external device  100 . The light emission pattern information acquisition unit  80 F acquires the information of the light emission pattern transmitted from the external device  100  via the wireless communication unit  56 . The function of the light emission pattern information acquisition unit  80 F is realized by the printer microcomputer  80 . 
     The light emission pattern information acquired by the light emission pattern information acquisition unit  80 F is added to the light emission controller  80 E. In a case where the light emission controller  80 E receives the image to be printed from the external device  100 , the light emission controller causes the light emitting unit (power button  16 ) to emit light according to the information of the light emission pattern acquired by the light emission pattern information acquisition unit  80 F. 
     As described above, even in a case where the image to be printed is received, the light emitting unit emits light based on the image, and thus, the feature and atmosphere of the image to be printed can be recognized from the light emission state of the light emitting unit. The interest of the user can be directed to the printer  10 . The user can enjoy the printing. 
     In a case where the information of the representative color (the information of the light emission pattern) of the image to be printed can be acquired from the external device  100  as in the present example, the printer  10  does not need to perform the detection processing of the representative color. In a case where the printing is performed, the light emission controller  80 E causes the light emitting unit (power button  16 ) to emit light based on the information of the light emission pattern acquired by the light emission pattern information acquisition unit  80 F. 
     The light emission pattern may be changed depending on whether the image is received or printed. For example, it is possible to change the light emission pattern between the case where the image is received and the case where the image is printed by changing the detection pattern of the representative color between the case where the image is received and the case where the image is printed. For example, in the case where the image is received, the image to be printed is divided into five equal regions in the up-down direction, the representative color of each region is detected, and the light emission pattern is set. Meanwhile, in the case where the image is printed, the image to be printed is divided into three equal regions in the up-down direction, the representative color of each region is detected, and the light emission pattern is set. 
     A time required for reception is shorter than a time required for printing. Therefore, the light emission pattern in the case where the image is received may be an aspect in which the light emission colors are repeatedly switched at regular time intervals during the reception. Meanwhile, in a case where a time is required for reception, it is preferable that the light emission colors are switched in order according to reception progress. Accordingly, a time until the reception is ended can be grasped from the light emission state of the light emitting unit. 
     Modification Example of Timing when Light Emitting Unit Emits Light 
     Although it has been described in the aforementioned embodiment that the light emitting unit emits light in the case where the image to be printed is received and the case where the image is printed, the timing when the light emitting unit emits light is not limited thereto. For example, in a case where the printer is powered on and the case where the printer is powered off, the light may be emitted in a predetermined light emission pattern (for example, the light emission pattern for changing the color to the rainbow color). For example, in a case where a remaining battery amount is less than a threshold value, light may be emitted in a predetermined light emission pattern (for example, red is turned on and off). For example, in a case where the remaining number of instant films  12  runs out or in a case where the remaining number is equal to or less than a predetermined number, light may be emitted in a predetermined light emission pattern. Light may be emitted according to the operation of the external device  100 . For example, in a case where the external device  100  images the print image, the external device may emit light in a predetermined light emission pattern. For example, in a case where the print image is edited in the external device  100 , light may be emitted according to the editing operation content. In a case where the communication with the external device  100  is established, light may be emitted in a predetermined light emission pattern. 
     Modification Example of Light Emitting Unit 
     Although it has been described in the aforementioned embodiment that the power button  16  emits light, a portion that emits light is not limited thereto. 
     The light emitting unit may be provided at multiple locations. In the case where the plurality of light emitting units is provided, the light emitting units may emit light in order. For example, in a case where the representative color is detected by dividing the image into three regions, the light emitting units may be provided at three locations, and may emit light in order. 
     Although it has been described in the aforementioned embodiment that the three-color LED is used as the light source of the light emitting unit, the type of the light source is not limited thereto. Any light source capable of switching between the light emission colors may be used. For example, an electroluminescent (EL) source (EL light source) such as an organic light emitting diode (OLED) capable of emitting color light may be employed. From the viewpoint of power consumption, it is preferable that a semiconductor light source is used. 
     The light source is not limited to a spot light source, and a planar light source can also be used. In this case, a light source capable of changing color in the plane can also be used. Although it has been described in the aforementioned embodiment that the light emitting unit emits light of a reprehensive color of regions being printed by the printing unit, a color of light emitted by the light emitting unit is not limited thereto. For example, a color of light emitted by the light emitting unit may be determined based on reprehensive colors of regions being printed by the printing unit. A color of light emitted by the light emitting unit may also be determined based on reprehensive colors of regions being printed by the printing unit and a table in which a correspondence between representative colors and colors to be emitted by the light emitting unit, or a correspondence between a pattern of representative colors and pattern of colors to be emitted by the light emitting unit is stored in advance. 
     Modification Example of Communication Aspect 
     Although it has been described in the aforementioned embodiment that the printer and the external device wirelessly communicate with each other, the communication may be performed in a wired manner. In a case where the communication is performed in a wireless manner, the communication method is not particularly limited, and a known communication method can be employed. 
     Modification Example of Printer 
     Although it has been described in the aforementioned embodiment that the present invention is applied to the instant printer, the application of the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the present invention can be applied to various types of printers such as a thermal printer that prints on thermo-sensitive paper, a thermal transfer printer that prints using an ink ribbon, and an inkjet printer that prints using an inkjet method. 
     Although it has been described in the aforementioned embodiment that the present invention is applied to the mobile printer, the application of the present invention is not limited thereto. The present invention can also be applied to a so-called stationary printer. In general, since the mobile printer is often used near the user (in an approximately reachable range), the present invention is particularly effective in a case where the present invention is applied to the mobile printer. 
     Hardware that realizes the functions of the image acquisition unit  80 A, the print data generation unit  80 B, the print controller  80 C, the representative color detection unit  80 D, and the light emission controller  80 E can be constituted by various processors. Various processors include a central processing unit (CPU) which is a general-purpose processor functioning as various processing units by executing a program, a programmable logic device (PLD) which is a processor capable of changing a circuit configuration after a field programmable gate array (FPGA) is manufactured, and a dedicated electric circuit which is a processor having a circuit configuration designed as a dedicated circuit in order to perform specific processing such as application specific integrated circuit (ASIC). One processing unit constituting an inspection support apparatus may be constituted by one of the various processors described above, or may be constituted by two or more processors of the same type or different types. For example, one processing unit may be constituted by a plurality of FPGAs or a combination of a CPU and an FPGA. Alternatively, the plurality of processing units may be constituted by one processor. Firstly, as the example in which the plurality of processing units is constituted by one processor, there is a form in which one processor is constituted by a combination of one or more CPUs and software and this processor functions as the plurality of processing units as represented by computers such as a client and a server. Second, a processor that realizes the functions of the entire system including the plurality of processing units by using one integrated circuit (IC) chip is used so as to be represented by a System On Chip (SoC). As stated above, various processing units are constituted as hardware structure by using one or more of various processors. More specifically, hardware structures of the various processors are electric circuitry obtained by combining circuit elements such as semiconductor elements. 
     Modification Example of External Device 
     The external device is not particularly limited, and can be a digital camera. The external device can also be a desktop personal computer. 
     EXPLANATION OF REFERENCES 
       10 : printer 
       12 : instant film 
       12   a:  exposure surface 
       12   b:  observation surface 
       12   c:  exposure region 
       12   d:  pod portion 
       12   e:  developing solution pod 
       12   f:  trap portion 
       12   g:  absorbent 
       12   h:  observation region 
       12   i:  frame 
       14 : outer casing 
       16 : power button 
       18 : discharge port 
       20 : film pack lid 
       22 : unlock lever 
       24 : USB cable connection portion cover 
       30 : film pack loading chamber 
       32 : film delivery mechanism 
       32   a:  claw 
       34 : film transport mechanism 
       34 A: transport roller pair 
       34 B: spreading roller pair 
       36 : print head 
       40 : film pack 
       42 : case 
       42   a:  exposure opening 
       42   b:  film discharge port 
       42   c:  claw opening portion 
       50 : operation detection unit 
       52 : light source unit 
       54 : light source controller 
       56 : wireless communication unit 
       56 A: antenna 
       58 : power supply unit 
       60 : power supply controller 
       62 : printer built-in memory 
       64 : memory controller 
       66 : movement detection unit 
       68 : film delivery mechanism drive unit 
       70 : film transport mechanism drive unit 
       72 : print head drive unit 
       80 : printer microcomputer 
       80 A: image acquisition unit 
       80 B: print data generation unit 
       80 C: print controller 
       80 D: representative color detection unit 
       80 E: light emission controller 
       80 F: light emission pattern information acquisition unit 
       100 : external device 
       100 A: print image acquisition unit 
       100 B: print image processing unit 
       100 C: print image transmission unit 
       100 D: print image representative color detection unit 
       100 E: light emission pattern information transmission unit 
       101 : CPU 
       102 : ROM 
       103 : RAM 
       104 : built-in memory 
       105 : display 
       106 : touch pad 
       107 : GPS receiving unit 
       108 : camera unit 
       109 : microphone unit 
       110 : speaker unit 
       111 : communication unit 
       111 A: antenna 
       112 : short range wireless communication unit 
       112 A: antenna 
       113 : sensor unit 
       114 : media drive 
       115 : memory card 
     A 1 : upper region of image 
     A 2 : intermediate region of image 
     A 3 : lower region of image 
     CI: division image 
     CI 1 : first image constituting division image 
     CI 2 : second image constituting division image 
     CI 3 : third image constituting division image 
     CI 4 : fourth image constituting division image 
     F: delivery direction of instant film 
     IM: image 
     S 11 -S 21 : processing procedure in external device in case image is printed 
     S 31  to S 40 : processing procedure in printer in case image is printed