JP2000194512A - System and device for image transmission and image reception device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an output matter in the output format that a transmission source desires for an opposite party in response to the indication of the transmission source by displaying an operation indication picture corresponding to the processing capability of an opposite-side image processor and making it possible to indicate the output format of image data to be sent to the opposite-side image processor, and allowing the opposite-side image processor to output the image data in the operation-indicated output format. SOLUTION: According to information obtained from the opposite-side image processor 3, nearly the same display and operation procedure with the image processor 3 are actualized on the console panel 103 mounted on a digital copying machine 1 at a transmission source. When a document is set and a start key is pressed after an image process, a post process, etc., on the opposite-side image processor 3 are set, the image data are sent to the image processor through a network together with the indication information indicating the output format. The image data which are thus transmitted to the image processor 3 are properly processed and postprocessed by the image processor 3 as specified and outputted.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image transmission system for transmitting image data from an image processing apparatus to another image processing apparatus via a network, and a transmission source image processing apparatus used in the image transmission system. The present invention relates to an image transmitting apparatus and a receiving image processing apparatus.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art A facsimile (hereinafter referred to as "fax") device connected on a network, a digital copier (digital multifunction peripheral) having a fax function and a printer function,
Image transmission for transmitting image data from an image processing device (image transmitting device) such as a personal computer (hereinafter referred to as a personal computer) to another image processing device (image receiving device) such as a digital copying machine or a printer and outputting the image. Conventionally, in a system, generally, a transmission source performs image processing on image data and then transmits the image data to a destination, and the destination only reproduces an image based on the transmitted image data.

[0003] For example, when outputting from a personal computer to a printer, it is possible to instruct the printer from the personal computer side.
It is about the number of output sheets. Some recent network printers have a post-processing function such as a sort function or a staple function, and it has become possible to instruct the printer to perform post-processing from the personal computer side. Or within a closed network environment, such as within a department.

[0004] Further, in a fax machine, not only post-processing at a destination but also instruction of the number of output sheets cannot be performed at a transmission source.

[0005]

That is, in the above-described conventional image transmission system, the image processing capability of the transmission source image processing device can be utilized, but the image processing capability and the post-processing function of the destination image processing device can be utilized. If so, the processing capacity is not made available at the direction of the sender.

Therefore, in a very open network environment, for example, when image data is transmitted from a fax machine, even if the other party has a digital multifunction peripheral, the image data is transmitted and the required number of copies is transmitted. To output, perform post-processing such as sorting and stapling, and complete the image data as a document at the destination, first send the image data to the destination, and after the transmission is completed, send the image data to the destination. It is necessary to inform the user and the contents of work such as post-processing to be performed on the data, and let the user of the other party execute the image processing apparatus again. In this case, post-processing desired by the transmission source user is borne by the destination user.

[0007] In order to reduce the burden on the user of the other party, conventionally, the transmitted image data is
Image processing devices that allow settings such as the number of output sheets, staples, and sorting have also been developed, but these are only general settings at the destination, and can be changed for each transmission, or can be changed by the source user. It is extremely difficult to reflect the will in the setting.

Further, in the above-described conventional image transmission system, the image processing apparatus at the transmission source cannot recognize the state of the image processing apparatus at the destination.

Therefore, even if some trouble occurs in the destination image processing apparatus and the image data cannot be output, the transmission source image processing apparatus cannot recognize the fact that the image data cannot be output. Has been transmitted to the image processing apparatus, and as a result, the transmission has been completed, but the data is not output at the destination, so that the information is not transmitted to the user.

In order to avoid such a situation, the other user who has noticed the trouble of the image processing apparatus must notify the transmission source of the trouble by the sound of the display panel or the buzzer. It is a very time-consuming task for the destination user who has learned that the trouble has occurred to notify all the transmission sources that may transmit the image data that the trouble has occurred.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned conventional problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a method for transmitting an image from a source image processing apparatus (image transmitting apparatus) to a destination image processing apparatus (image receiving apparatus). Enables operation instructions in output forms such as processing and post-processing, and draws out the capabilities of both the source and destination image processing devices, thereby eliminating the burden on the destination user and producing output in the form desired by the source user. Further, the present invention provides an image transmission system, an image transmission device, and an image reception device that can output a desired image to a destination without transmission error or the like without fail.

[0012]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image transmission system for transmitting an image from a transmission source image processing apparatus to a destination image processing apparatus via a network. In an image transmission system for transmitting and outputting image data, a source image processing device recognizes, via a network, the processing capability of a destination image processing device that transmits image data when transmitting image data, and recognizes the processing capability. An operation instruction screen corresponding to the processing capability of the destination image processing apparatus is displayed to enable an operation instruction of an output form of image data to be transmitted to the destination image processing apparatus. The image data is output in the output form instructed by the processing device.

According to this, in the transmission source image processing apparatus,
By recognizing the processing capability of the destination image processing apparatus, an operation instruction screen corresponding to the processing capability of the destination device is displayed, and the output form of the transmission image can be instructed using this screen.

Therefore, the final output form at the destination can be determined by the transmission source rather than the conventional image transmission that has been unilaterally output without grasping the processing capability of the destination image processing apparatus. A good image transmission can be realized, and an output material in an output form desired by the transmission source can be provided to the destination by the instruction of the transmission source without bothering the destination.

When a special process such as a scaling process or a multi-shot is instructed by an operation instruction using the operation instruction screen, the image processing can be performed by the destination image processing apparatus even if it is performed by the transmission source image processing apparatus. Any of them may be performed, but if it is preferable to perform the transmission before the transmission from the viewpoint of the amount of data to be transmitted, the transmission is performed at the transmission source. Conversely, when the same image data is instructed to be transmitted to a plurality of locations and the image processing is different at each destination, data indicating the content of the image processing is added to the destination image processing apparatus. , The transmission speed can be increased.

The instruction to use the post-processing device in the destination image processing device, of course, adds data designating the content of post-processing to the image data and transmits the data together with the image data to the destination image processing device.

[0017] By using such an image transmission system, for example, when a report created at a destination is output by an in-house network printer, it is difficult for the transmission source to recognize the environment under which the source is located. This is effective in the future, for example, when instructing the destination image processing apparatus to output.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image transmission system according to the first aspect, wherein the transmission source image processing apparatus includes the processing capability of the destination image processing apparatus and the current capacity of the destination image processing apparatus. It is characterized in that the state is recognized and the recognized current state is reflected on the operation instruction screen.

Even when the output mode is instructed in accordance with the processing capability of the destination image processing apparatus, for example, when the destination image processing apparatus has a problem such as running out of toner, running out of specified paper, or jamming. May not be output in the output format specified by the transmission source.

For example, since the destination image processing apparatus is compatible with color, even if the color mode is designated, there is a possibility that the image is converted to the monochrome mode and output when the toner for forming the color image is exhausted. . Also, when the paper runs out, it is scaled and output to paper of another size, or for jams, although image data is transmitted,
This causes a situation such as no image output at the destination.

Therefore, as described above, by reflecting the current state of the destination image processing apparatus on the operation instruction screen of the transmission source image processing apparatus, for example, when a trouble occurs in the destination image processing apparatus Can perform an operation instruction corresponding to the trouble at the transmission source.

For example, if the printer supports color, but the toner for the color image runs out, and the printer can handle only the monochrome mode, the sender can know in advance that the data of the color original is output in the monochrome mode. The transmission source can determine whether to output the image in the monochrome mode or cancel the transmission in response thereto, and the image data is not provided to the destination in an unexpected state of the transmission source.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the image transmission system according to the first or second aspect, when the transmission source image processing apparatus has a plurality of destinations for transmitting image data, a plurality of destinations are provided. Recognize the processing capacity of each image processing device,
It is characterized in that an operation instruction screen is displayed for each of the recognized destination image processing apparatuses, and an operation instruction of an output form of image data to each destination image processing apparatus can be performed.

Thus, an operation instruction is given to a plurality of destinations by using the operation instruction screen displaying the processing capability of each image processing apparatus for each destination image processing apparatus. Thus, a desired output form can be specified at the transmission source.

According to this, since the operation instruction screen corresponding to each processing capability is displayed for each of the plurality of destination image processing apparatuses, the image data transmitted by the transmission source can be selected from among the plurality of destinations. It is also possible to select a partner having an image processing device suitable for processing. For example, when transmitting presentation image data including color data to a plurality of destinations, a destination having an image processing device capable of processing color data and a destination having an image processing device capable of processing only monochrome data Thus, the present invention is effective in the future, such as making appropriate transmission settings for each, and selecting and transmitting only a destination having an image processing apparatus capable of processing color image data.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image transmitting apparatus comprising:
In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, in an image transmitting apparatus that transmits image data to a destination image processing apparatus via a network, a recognition that recognizes a processing capability and a current state of the destination image processing apparatus via the network. Means and an operation instruction screen for enabling an operation instruction of an output form of image data to be transmitted to the destination image processing apparatus according to the processing capability of the destination image processing apparatus recognized by the recognition means and the current situation. Operation instruction screen display means for creating output instruction information based on the output form of image data in the destination image processing apparatus designated using the operation instruction screen, and performing image processing on the image data as necessary And transmitting the instruction information together with the instruction information to the destination image processing apparatus.

According to this, the recognizing means recognizes the processing capability of the partner image processing apparatus and the current situation, and based on the recognition result, the operation instruction screen display means can give an operational instruction to the partner image processing apparatus. Is displayed.
On the operation instruction screen, information such as the usable paper size of the destination image processing apparatus, the presence / absence of a post-processing apparatus, the presence / absence of a jam, the current setting status, and the like are presented.

Using the operation instruction screen, the transmission source user checks the processing capability and status of the destination image processing apparatus with the destination image processing apparatus, and outputs the desired image data output form. Instruct.

The transmitting means creates instruction information for output processing based on the instruction content of the output form to the partner image processing apparatus designated on the operation instruction screen, and transmits the created instruction information together with the image data. .

The destination image processing apparatus outputs image data based on the transmitted instruction information.

Thus, by using such an image transmitting apparatus, it is possible to provide an output in a desired output form of the transmission source without bothering the partner.

An image transmitting apparatus according to a fifth aspect of the present invention comprises:
In the configuration according to the fourth aspect, the recognition unit recognizes, via a network, the processing capabilities and the current status of the plurality of destination image processing apparatuses that transmit the image data, and the operation instruction screen display unit transmits the image data to the recognition unit. Display and transmit an operation instruction screen that enables an operation instruction of an output form of image data to be transmitted to each destination image processing apparatus according to the processing capability of each destination image processing apparatus recognized and the current situation. The means creates instruction information for output processing based on the output form of image data in each destination image processing apparatus instructed using the operation instruction screen for each destination image processing apparatus, and generates image data as needed. Is subjected to image processing and transmitted together with the instruction information to a predetermined destination image processing apparatus.

According to this, the recognizing means recognizes the processing capacity and the current situation of each of the plurality of destination image processing apparatuses, and based on the recognition result, the operation instruction screen display means displays the operation instruction screen display for each destination image processing apparatus. An operation instruction screen for enabling an operation instruction is displayed. On this operation instruction screen, information such as usable paper size, presence / absence of a post-processing device, presence / absence of a jam, and current setting status of each destination image processing device is presented.

Using the operation instruction screen, the transmission source user checks the processing capacity and status of each destination image processing apparatus with respect to each destination image processing apparatus, and obtains desired image data. Is specified.

The transmitting means creates output processing instruction information based on the instruction contents of the output form to each of the other image processing apparatuses instructed on the operation instruction screen, and outputs the created instruction information together with the image data. Send.

The destination image processing apparatus outputs image data based on the transmitted instruction information.

Thus, by using such an image transmitting apparatus, it is possible to output a desired output form of a transmission source to a plurality of destinations without having to bother with the destination. It can be provided in a desirable form.

An image transmitting apparatus according to a sixth aspect of the present invention comprises:
In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, in an image transmitting apparatus that transmits image data to a destination image processing apparatus via a network, an image transmitting apparatus that transmits image data to a destination image processing apparatus via a network Recognizing means for recognizing, via a network, the processing capabilities and current status of a plurality of destination image processing apparatuses, instructing means for instructing an output form of image data, and a plurality of destinations recognized by the recognizing means. From among the image processing devices, a destination selection unit that selects a destination image processing device that can output in the output form instructed by the instruction unit, and a destination image processing device that is selected by the destination selection unit. On the other hand, the transmission means transmits image data together with instruction information indicating an output mode.

According to this, the recognizing means recognizes the processing capabilities and situations of a plurality of destination image processing apparatuses to which image data can be transmitted, and uses the instructing means to generate image data desired by the operating user. When the output mode is specified, the destination selection unit selects the destination image processing apparatus capable of outputting the image data desired by the user based on the recognition result by the recognition unit, and the transmission unit sends the image to the destination. Send data.

Therefore, since only the device which can process the output format of the image data desired by the transmission source is determined as the destination, the data is transmitted to the destination in the format desired by the user of the transmission source and output. be able to.

An image transmitting apparatus according to a seventh aspect of the present invention comprises:
In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, an image transmitting apparatus that transmits image data to a destination image processing apparatus via a network recognizes the processing capabilities and the current status of a plurality of destination image processing apparatuses via the network. Recognition means, a destination selection means for selecting a destination image processing apparatus capable of processing image data to be transmitted from a plurality of destination image processing apparatuses recognized by the recognition means, and a destination selection means. And transmitting means for transmitting image data to the selected destination image processing apparatus.

According to this, the recognizing means recognizes the processing capabilities and situations of a plurality of destination image processing apparatuses capable of transmitting image data, and the destination selection means transmits the image data from the source image processing apparatus. A destination image processing apparatus capable of processing image data to be processed is selected based on the recognition result by the recognition means, and the transmission means transmits the image data to the destination.

Therefore, a device capable of processing the image data output from the transmission source image processing device is determined, so that the data is transmitted to the destination and output in a form not desired by the transmission source user. Can be prevented.

For example, when a user wants to transmit color image data, the color image is converted to a monochrome image by not determining the destination from among the image processing devices that cannot process the color image data in the transmission source image processing device. Can be prevented from being converted and transmitted.

An image transmitting apparatus according to claim 8 of the present invention provides:
8. The image processing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the transmitting unit transmits the image data using a transmission method suitable for the capacity of the image processing memory in the destination image processing apparatus recognized by the recognition unit when transmitting the image data. It is characterized by transmitting data.

Depending on the destination image processing apparatus, there is a case where only a small capacity memory is provided as an image processing memory, or a case where the capacity is large but the available capacity is small during image processing. According to the above configuration,
By determining the number of transmissions in advance according to the capacity (vacant capacity) and transmitting the data separately, transmission can be performed faster than in a configuration in which transmission is performed while interrupting each time the capacity exceeds during transmission.

An image transmitting apparatus according to a ninth aspect of the present invention provides:
In the configuration according to claim 4 or 5, the transmission means, when transmitting the image data together with the instruction information, realizes the output form instructed by the operation based on the output form instructed by using the operation instruction screen. If the image processing is possible at both the transmission source and the destination, the image processing is performed on the side that reduces the amount of data to be transmitted.

According to the above configuration, for example, when a color original is output in the monochrome mode, the transmission means converts the color data into monochrome data having less data at the transmission source and transmits the converted data. The time required for transmission is shorter than in a configuration in which data is converted.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image receiving apparatus for receiving image data transmitted from another image processing apparatus via a network and outputting an image. The apparatus has a notifying unit for notifying the processing capability and the current situation via a network in response to a request from the transmission source image processing apparatus, and instructing an output form of the image data transmitted together with the image data. It is characterized by performing output processing based on information.

According to this, the notifying means notifies the processing capability and the current situation to the image processing apparatus of the transmission source.
The source image processing device can recognize the processing capability and the current situation of the destination image processing device. Then, the output processing is performed based on the instruction information transmitted together with the image data, so that the output is in the output form specified by the transmission source.

[0051]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS One embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS. As shown in FIG. 2, a digital copying machine 1 serving as an image processing apparatus serving as an image transmitting apparatus and an image receiving apparatus for realizing the image transmitting system of the present invention has a scanner unit 3 as shown in FIG.
1 and a laser recording unit 32.

The scanner section 31 includes a document table 35 made of transparent glass, and a double-sided automatic document feeder (RADF) for automatically feeding and conveying the document onto the document table 35.
And a document image reading unit for scanning and reading an image of the document placed on the document table 35, that is, a scanner unit 40. The original image read by the scanner unit 31 is sent to an image data input unit described later as image data, and predetermined image processing is performed on the image data.

The RADF 36 is a device for setting a plurality of documents at a time on a predetermined document tray and automatically feeding the set documents one by one onto the document table 35 of the scanner unit 31. is there. The RADF 36 scans one side or both sides of a document according to the operator's selection.
Transport path for a one-sided document,
It comprises a transport path for double-sided originals, transport path switching means, and the like. In addition, about RADF36,
Since many applications and commercializations have been made, no further description will be given.

The scanner unit 40 includes a lamp reflector assembly 41 for exposing the surface of the document, a first scanning unit 40a including a first reflection mirror 42a for guiding a reflected light image from the document to the photoelectric conversion element 44, and a first scanning unit 40a. A second scanning unit 40b comprising second and third reflection mirrors 42b and 42c for guiding the reflected light image from the document to the photoelectric conversion element 44, and a photoelectric conversion device for converting the reflected light image from the document to an electric image signal It comprises an optical lens body 43 for forming an image on the conversion element 44 and a photoelectric conversion element 44 such as a CCD for converting a reflected light image from an original into an electric image signal.

The scanner unit 31 moves the scanner unit 40 along the lower surface of the document table 35 while sequentially placing the document to be read on the document table 35 by the related operation of the RADF 36 and the scanner unit 40. Then, the original image is read.

The image data obtained by reading the original image by the scanner unit 40 is sent to an image processing unit, which will be described later, and subjected to various processes.
To a laser writing unit (hereinafter referred to as LSU) 46.

The laser recording section 32 includes a sheet storage / transport section,
An LSU 46 and an electrophotographic processing unit 47 for forming an image are provided.

The first cassette 5 is provided in the paper storing / transporting section.
It has a first cassette 52, a second cassette 53, a multi-purpose tray 54, and a duplex unit 55 for recording an image on the back side of a sheet on which the image is recorded.

Each of the cassettes in the sheet storage / conveyance section stores a sheet bundle for each size, and when the operator selects a cassette containing a desired size,
From the uppermost layer of the sheet bundle in the cassette,
The paper is sent out one by one, and is sequentially conveyed to the electrophotographic processing unit 47 of the laser recording unit 32 via the conveyance path 33.

The LSU 46 is a semiconductor laser that emits laser light corresponding to image data from the above-mentioned memory, a polygon mirror that deflects the laser light at an equal angular speed, and a laser drum that is deflected at an equal angular speed. 4
8 has an fθ lens or the like that corrects so as to be deflected at a constant speed.

The electrophotographic process unit 47 includes a charging unit, a developing unit, a transfer unit, a peeling unit, a cleaning unit, and a static eliminator around the photosensitive drum 48 according to a well-known mode.
A fixing device 49 is arranged on the downstream side in the sheet conveyance direction.

Further, a sheet discharge conveyance path is provided further downstream in the sheet conveyance direction from the fixing device 49, and the sheet discharge conveyance path includes a conveyance path 57 leading to the post-processing device 34,
It is branched to a conveyance path 56 leading to the duplex unit 55.

The image data read from the image memory is formed as an electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 48 by scanning a laser beam with the LSU 46, and the toner image visualized by the toner is Paper storage
The image is electrostatically transferred and fixed on the surface of the sheet transported from the transport unit.

The paper on which the image has been formed in this manner is
The sheet is sent from the fixing device 49 to the post-processing device 34 via the transport path 57 or the duplex unit 5 is transported via the transport path 56.
5 is selectively conveyed.

The post-processing device 34 includes a first discharge tray 34
1 and a second paper discharge tray 342 are vertically arranged on the left side of the apparatus, and the paper on which an image is recorded on the digital copying machine 1 side is received from the transport path 57. In the post-processing device 34, a sheet receiving port 343, a first transport path 344, a second transport path 345, a first switching gate 346, a second switching gate 347, a switchback transport path 348, and a first output port. A roller 349, a second discharge roller 350, and the like are provided, and correspond to various discharge modes.

In the first discharge mode, the paper receiving port 34
3 is received by the first discharge roller 349 directly from the first transport path 344 to the first discharge tray 341.
Is discharged. Here, the paper is discharged face-up with the recording surface facing upward.

In the second discharge mode, the paper receiving port 34
3 is received by the first switching gate 346.
To the second transport path 345, and then guided to the second discharge roller 350 side by the second switching gate 347, and discharged from the second discharge roller 350 to the second discharge tray 342. Here, too, it is discharged face up.

In the third discharge mode, the paper receiving port 34
3 is received by the first switching gate 346.
To the second transport path 345, and then the switchback transport path 3 by the second switching gate 347.
Guided to 48. Then, when the trailing edge of the sheet passes through the second switching gate 347, the sheet is switchback-conveyed, guided from the second switching gate 347 to the second discharge roller 350 side, and Is discharged to the paper discharge tray 342 of FIG. Here, the sheet is discharged face down with the recording surface facing down by the switchback conveyance.

The first discharge tray 341 and the second discharge tray 342 have a conventionally known offset for displacing the storage state of the paper to be discharged and stored in a direction substantially perpendicular to the discharge direction. Mechanisms 351 and 352 are provided so that sheets on which images are recorded are sorted and accommodated in units of jobs or modes.

Normally, data transferred from an external device such as a personal computer is sequentially transferred from the head of the data. Therefore, in a printer mode or the like described later, transmission data is used as image data. When developing and outputting an image, it is necessary to use the third discharge mode or to consider the output order of the image data.

As shown in FIG. 1, the digital copying machine 1 is connected to other image processing apparatuses and personal computers, and also to a digital camera, a digital video camera, and the like via a private network. It is also connected via the Internet (including an intranet) or a telephone line to digital copiers, printers, personal computers, and portable information terminals, which are image processing devices outside the private network.

The image data transferred from another image processing apparatus connected to the network via the interface is once sent to the image processing section of the digital copying machine 1, and after a predetermined process is performed, 2 is reproduced and output as an image from the laser recording unit 32 shown in FIG.

Next, the configuration and functions of an image processing unit for performing image processing on read document image information in the digital copying machine 1 will be described.

FIG. 3 is an overall block diagram of various units and an image processing unit constituting the digital copying machine 1 shown in FIG. 2, and a main central processing unit 401 (CPU (Central (Processing Unit)) is a diagram showing a state in which the operation is managed while cooperating with a sub central processing unit (CPU) mounted in each unit.

As shown in the figure, an operation panel board 100 for managing and controlling an operation panel, a machine control board 200 for managing and controlling each unit constituting the digital copying machine 1, a document image is electrically read, and electronic data is read. CCD board 300, a main image processing board 400 for performing predetermined image processing on a document image converted into electronic data by the CCD board 300, and image information processed by the main image processing board 400. And a sub-image processing board 500 for further performing predetermined image processing.
0 is provided with another expansion board group 600 (printer board, FAX board, function expansion board) connected via an interface.

The contents managed and controlled for each board will be described below. Operation panel board 100
Is basically a sub central processing unit (CPU) 101
, A display screen of a touch-panel type LCD display unit 104 arranged on the operation panel 103, an instruction input by pressing the screen, and a start key, a clear key, a ten key, and the like. It manages operation input, etc. Hereinafter, the LCD display unit 104 may be referred to as a touch panel in order to distinguish it from the operation panel 103 including the operation key group 105.

The operation panel board 100
Is also provided with a memory 102 for storing various control information on the operation panel 103 such as data input from the LCD display unit 104 and the operation key group 105 and information to be displayed on the LCD display unit 104.

In this configuration, the sub central processing unit 101 performs control data communication with the main central processing unit 401 to instruct the digital copier 1 to operate. Further, a control signal indicating the operation state of the digital copier 1 is transferred from the main central processing unit 401 to the sub central processing unit 101 so that the operation panel 1
Through the LCD display unit 03, the operator is informed of what state the apparatus is currently in.

The machine control board 200 is entirely controlled by a sub central processing unit 201, and includes an automatic document feeder such as the RADF 36 described above, a scanner unit 31 for reading a document image, and an electronic device for reproducing image information as an image. The photographic processing unit 47 feeds a sheet on which an image is recorded from a cassette or the like, and
Feeder unit 50 that sequentially conveys the paper toward the opposite side, a duplex unit 55 that reversely conveys the paper so that images are formed on both sides of the paper, and post-processing that performs post-processing such as stapling on the paper on which the image is recorded It manages the device 34 and the like.

The CCD board 300 includes a CCD 301 for electrically reading a document image, a circuit (CCD gate array) 302 for driving the CCD 301, an analog circuit 303 for adjusting the gain of analog data output from the CCD 301, and a CCD 301. It is composed of an A / D converter 304 for converting an analog output into a digital signal and outputting it as electronic data. The control and management are performed by a main central processing unit 401.

The main image processing board 400 is controlled by the main central processing unit 401 and, based on the electronic data of the original image sent from the CCD board 300, changes the gradation of the image in a desired state. To be able to express,
A multi-valued image processing unit 402 that performs processing in the state of multi-valued image data, such as shading correction, density correction, area separation, filter processing, MTF correction, resolution conversion, electronic zoom (magnification processing), and gamma correction. A memory 403 for storing applied image data or various control information such as management of processing procedures, a laser control 404 for controlling transfer of data to the LSU 46 in order to reproduce an image with the processed image information, and the like. It is composed of

The sub-image processing board 500 is connected to the main image processing board 400 with a connector, and is controlled by the main central processing unit 401 on the main image processing board 400. A memory unit 502 comprising a memory for storing and managing the obtained binary image information or control information for processing, a memory unit 502 including a gate array for controlling the memory, and storing and managing a plurality of original image information, A hard disk drive 503 including a disk memory for controlling the disk memory and a disk memory for generating a plurality of copies by repeatedly reading the desired number of images, and an SCSI including an external interface and an interface including a gate array for controlling the SCSI It comprises a unit 504 and the like.

The above-described binary image processing unit 501 includes a processing unit for converting multi-valued image information into a binary image, a processing unit for rotating an image, and a binary scaling unit for performing a scaling process on a binary image. (Zoom) processing unit and the like, and further provided with a fax interface so that fax images can be transmitted and received via communication means.

The extension board group 600 includes a printer board 601 for enabling data transmitted from an externally connected personal computer or the like to be output in a printer mode from the laser recording unit 32 of the digital copying machine 1. A function expansion board 602 for expanding the editing function of the digital copier 1 to effectively utilize the features of the digital copier 1, transmitting a document image read from the scanner unit 31 of the digital copier 1, to the destination, There is a facsimile board 603 and the like that enable the image information sent from the printer to be output from the laser recording unit 32 of the digital copying machine.

Here, in the digital copying machine 1,
The basic image data processing in the copy mode, the fax mode, and the printer mode and the flow thereof will be described.

First, the normal copy mode will be described. Documents set at predetermined positions of the RADF 36 of the digital copying machine 1 are placed one by one on the document table 3 of the scanner unit 31.
The image of the document is sequentially read by the above-described configuration of the scanner unit 40 and transferred to the main image processing board 400 as 8-bit electronic data.

The 8-bit electronic data transferred to the main image processing board 400 is subjected to predetermined processing on the multi-value image processing section 402 as 8-bit electronic image data.
Then, after processing such as gamma correction is performed on the 8-bit electronic image data, it is sent to the LSU 46 via the laser control 404. As a result, the original image read by the scanner unit 31 of the digital copying machine 1 is output from the laser recording unit 32 as a toned copy image.

Next, the electronic RDH in the copy mode
(Recycle Document Handler) function is described. Documents set at a predetermined position of the RADF 36 of the digital copying machine 1 are sequentially supplied one by one onto a document mounting table 35 of the scanner unit 31, and images of the documents are sequentially read by the configuration of the scanner unit 40 described above. 8
Main image processing board 400 as electronic data of bits
Is forwarded to. The 8-bit electronic data transferred to the main image processing board 400 is subjected to predetermined processing on the multi-value image processing unit 402 as 8-bit electronic image data.

The 8-bit electronic image data is then transmitted to the connector 40 on the main image processing board 400 side.
5, the connector 505 on the sub-image processing board 500 side
To the sub-image processing board 500 side, and is converted from 8-bit electronic image data into 2-bit electronic image data along with processing such as error diffusion in a multi-level binary conversion unit of the binary image processing unit 501. .

Here, the conversion of 8-bit electronic image data into 2-bit electronic image data including processing such as error diffusion is problematic in terms of image quality if only multi-valued binary conversion is performed. Because of this, consideration is given to reducing deterioration of image quality. The reason why the 8-bit electronic image data is converted into the 2-bit electronic image data is that the storage capacity of the image is taken into consideration.

The 2-bit electronic image data thus converted is stored in the hard disk drive 503 for each document.
And temporarily stored and managed. When all the originals set on the RADF 36 of the digital copying machine 1 are read, the 2-bit electronic image data temporarily stored in the disk memory is temporarily reduced by the number of copies specified by the control of the gate array. The 2-bit electronic image data read repeatedly is sent to the main image processing board 400 again via the connectors 405 and 505 and subjected to processing such as gamma correction. LSU46
Sent to.

Thus, the original image read by the scanner unit 31 of the digital copying machine 1 is
Is output as a copy image with gradation.

Here, it has been described that the image group is repeatedly read out by the desired number of copies after all the original group images have been read, but the image output of the first copy is ready for a predetermined number of images. It is also possible to adopt a configuration in which output is performed sequentially at different stages.

Next, the printer mode will be described.
The image transmitted from the external device connected to the network, such as a personal computer or a digital camera, using the network shown in FIG. 1 is transmitted to the page on the printer board 601 via the network interface on the printer board 601. After being developed as a unit image, it is temporarily transferred from the SCSI constituting the interface unit 504 to the sub image processing board 500 side and stored in a memory such as the hard disk device 503.

The flow of this processing will be briefly described by exemplifying image input from a personal computer. Text data created on the PC side can be PS (Postscript) or P
When transferred in the form of a CL (Printer Control Language) data format, the transferred data is temporarily stored in a buffer (memory 2) on the printer board 601 and then sent to the page memory (memory 1) by the CPU. ) On RI
It is developed by P (Raster Image Processor).

Then, the image data developed on the page memory (memory 1) is transferred to the sub-image processing board 500 via SCSI, and the hard disk drive 503
Is stored. At this time, the page memory (memory 1)
If the image data expanded and stored above cannot be stored in the hard disk device 503 due to the capacity, the system waits until the hard disk device 503 is opened.

On the other hand, when the capacity of the hard disk drive 503 is full, the CPU 401 managing the hard disk drive 503 transfers the image data stored in the hard disk drive 503 to the processing mode specified from the operation panel 103 or Image output processing is performed based on a processing mode instructed by an external device connected to the network.

The image developed as a page image on the printer board 601 is sent to the sub-image processing board 500 side, but the page image is not subjected to binary image processing, but is temporarily stored in the hard disk device 503 only. It is. Further, the page image once stored is stored in the hard disk drive 5.
Also, when the data is read from the data 03, the binary image processing is not performed on the page image. And the hard disk drive 503
The image information temporarily stored in the LSU 46 is sent from the hard disk device 503 to the main image processing board 400 while being read out from the hard disk device 503 so as to be in a predetermined page order. The writing of the image is controlled to reproduce the image.

When the image output process based on the designated processing mode is completed, the hard disk drive 5
The image data stored in the memory 03 is released, and the transfer of the image data in the page memory (memory 1) to the hard disk device 503 which has been waiting is resumed.

On the other hand, on the printer board 601, the page memory (memory 1) is determined to have been opened, data is received from an external device, and image data development is resumed. The data is transferred to the device 503 and processed based on the set mode.

When the recording of the image based on the two image data stored in the hard disk device 503 is completed without any subsequent data, the designated processing mode is canceled and the data is stored in the hard disk device 503. Clear image data and hard disk drive 503
To release.

When the data transferred from the external device is expanded, stored in the hard disk device 503, and output processing is performed, if the expanded data of one job in the hard disk device 503 can be managed collectively, Since it is not necessary to perform the divided output processing as described above, the image output processing may be performed based on the processing mode instructed collectively.

Next, the fax mode will be described. The fax mode includes processing for transmitting a document to a destination and receiving a document from the destination. First, transmission of a document to a destination will be described.

The transmission original set at a predetermined position of the RADF 36 of the digital copying machine 1 is scanned one by one by the scanner unit 31.
Are sequentially supplied onto the document mounting table 35, and the image of the transmission document is sequentially read by the configuration of the scanner unit 40 described above, and is transferred to the main image processing board 400 as 8-bit electronic data.

The 8-bit electronic data transferred to the main image processing board 400 is subjected to predetermined processing on the multi-value image processing section 402 as 8-bit electronic image data.
Then, the 8-bit electronic image data is sent from the connector 405 on the main image processing board 400 to the sub-image processing board 500 via the connector 505 on the sub-image processing board 500, and the binary image processing is performed. Part 501
8 together with processing such as error diffusion in the
Bit electronic image data is converted into 2-bit electronic image data.

It is to be noted that the reason why 8-bit electronic image data is converted into 2-bit electronic image data including processing such as error diffusion is similar to the case where the electronic RDH function in the copy mode is used. This is because there is a problem in image quality if only value-to-binary conversion is performed.

The transmission document converted into a binary image in this manner is compressed in a predetermined format and stored in the memory unit 502. Then, when the transmission procedure with the other party is performed and the transmission possible state is secured, the transmission original image compressed in a predetermined format read from the memory unit 502 is sent to the fax board 6.
The fax data is transferred to the third party, and after necessary processing such as change of the compression format is performed on the fax board 603, the data is sequentially transmitted to the other party via the communication line.

As will be described in detail later, in the digital copying machine 1, when transmitting image data to a destination even in an open network environment such as a facsimile mode, the image processing apparatus of the destination is used. The processing capability is grasped, image processing is performed in accordance with the processing capability, and a post-processing instruction and the like can be transmitted to the destination together with the image data.

Next, processing of a document image transmitted from a destination will be described. When the original is transmitted from the other party via the communication line, the original image transmitted from the other party is received while performing the communication procedure on the fax board 603, and the received image is compressed in a predetermined format. The image is sent from the facsimile interface provided in the binary image processing unit 501 of the sub-image processing board 500 to the binary image processing unit 501, and the original image transmitted as a page image by the compression / decompression processing unit is processed. Reproduce.

The original image reproduced as a page unit image is transferred to the side of the main image processing board 400 and subjected to gamma correction.
From 4 on, the writing of the image is controlled so that the image is reproduced by the LSU 46.

As can be seen from the above configuration, the image processing section for performing predetermined processing on image information is mainly composed of the scanner section 3.
1. A main image processing board 400 for processing the original image read and input from 1 as multi-valued image information, and a binarization process for the original image information processed as multi-valued image information by the main image processing board 400 After performing predetermined processing on the image information sent from a device connected via an external interface, the multi-valued image processing unit 402 (main image processing board 4
00) Sub-image processing board 500 for transfer to the side
And divided into two parts.

Further, the main image processing board 400 includes:
In order to reproduce an image from the LSU 46 on the photoconductor 48 of the electrophotographic processing unit 47, a laser control 404 for controlling writing of image information of the LSU 46 is included. With this configuration, a document image read and input from the scanner unit 31 can be reproduced as a copy image from the laser recording unit 32 without impairing the characteristics of the image of the document as a multi-valued image.
In the case of performing high-speed output processing using a function or the like, it is possible to use the sub image processing board 500, the hard disk device 503, and the like.

Processing and output for image information from an external device such as a facsimile, a personal computer, and the like. For a facsimile, a multi-valued image processing is performed. Value processing, etc.
The configuration is such that appropriate processing can be performed on the image information in accordance with the digital characteristic functions provided as the digital copying machine 1.

Further, by dispersing the image processing units, it is possible to prepare a wide variety of variations (lineup) of the digital copying machine 1, and it is possible to install the digital copying machine according to the demands of the user. After the installation, it is possible to easily develop the system according to the user's request.

Further, since the central processing unit 401 disposed on the main image processing board 400 also manages and controls the sub image processing board 500 in the above configuration, the processing is continuously performed in each processing unit. The flow of the entire image is managed, the flow of data and processing is smooth, and there is no risk of losing image data.

The above is the description of the image processing unit that processes image data input from the scanner unit 31 or the expansion board group 600 mounted on the digital copying machine 1.

Next, an image transmission system for transmitting image data such as a document to be transmitted from the digital copying machine 1 to the image processing apparatus of the other party over the network will be described.

As described above, the digital copying machine 1 is under a network environment as shown in FIG. 1, and is connected to, for example, the image processing apparatuses 4 and 5 and the personal computer 7 via a private network. Further, the image processing devices 2, 3,
6. The personal computer 8 and the scanner which is a peripheral device connected to the personal computer 8 are connected via the Internet or a telephone line, and can be connected to the network from a portable information terminal.

On this network, each device does not always know in advance the processing capacity and processing function mounted on each other, and new terminal equipment from the outside is newly connected to the network, and The network system includes a system that transmits an image to and outputs the image.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the processing capabilities and states of the respective image processing apparatuses connected to the network. The number given to each image processing apparatus in FIG.
, Respectively. The image processing apparatus 1 is the digital copying machine 1 described above.

For example, in the image processing apparatus 4 in the private network environment, A4 is set as a sheet in the sheet feeding unit, and the apparatus supports color images and monochrome images. Monochrome is 24 sheets / min. Further, the image processing memory is equipped with a 1 GB hard disk, and indicates normal operation with no paper jam or trouble of running out of toner.

Further, the image processing apparatus 2 under the external network environment can perform offset and staple as a sheet post-processing apparatus, and A3, A4,
B4 and B5 are set and correspond to only monochrome images, and the print speed is 40 sheets / min. Further, the image processing memory has a 16 MB RAM and a 2 GB hard disk mounted thereon, and indicates normal operation without paper jam or trouble of running out of toner.

FIG. 5 shows the operation panel 1 of the digital copying machine 1.
3 is an initial screen displayed on the LCD display unit 104 in FIG. On the initial screen, the current settings and status of the digital copying machine 1 are displayed. From this screen, the digital copying machine 1 automatically adjusts the copy density, the magnification is 100%,
It can be seen that A4 is selected as the paper, and the automatic mode is set in which the paper size is automatically selected according to the original size and the designated magnification (100%).

When the "designate destination" key is pressed on this screen, the display changes to the screen shown in FIG. The destination displayed here is a destination connected to the network and appropriate as the destination, or the digital copying machine 1
The other party registered in. On this screen, one or more arbitrary destinations can be selected.

First, the case where one partner is selected and specified will be described. When the "image processing device 3" key is pressed on this screen and then the "close" key is pressed, the image processing device 3 is selected, and the display changes to the screen of FIG.

FIG. 7 shows a screen of the LCD display unit 104 of the operation panel 103 provided in the digital copying machine 1. The screen shows an external view of the image processing apparatus 3 selected as the destination. Is displayed.

Here, in the digital copying machine 1, since the selected image processing apparatus 3 is an apparatus under an external network environment which is not managed by the private network, a normal access mode (first access mode) A second access mode, which is different from the above, is entered to access the other party's image processing device 3 using the network, and the image processing capability and the capacity of the image processing memory provided in the image processing device 3
Obtain information such as the usage status, peripheral devices such as post-processing devices, and the current state of jams, out of paper, etc.
The touch panel, which is substantially the same as that of the image processing apparatus 3, is displayed on the operation panel 103 so that the operation procedure of the image processing apparatus 3 can be realized on the operation panel 103 of the digital copying machine 1 as it is.

On the screen shown in FIG. 7, for example, a "paper" key is pressed to select A4 as an output paper. Next, when the "post-processing" key is pressed on this screen, the display changes to the screen of FIG.

FIG. 8 shows a process setting screen for a post-processing device mounted on the image processing device 3 of the other party. In this figure as well, the display and operation procedure substantially the same as those of the image processing apparatus 3 are realized on the operation panel 103 of the digital copying machine 1 which is the transmission source, based on the information obtained from the image processing apparatus 3.

On the operation panel 103 of the digital copying machine 1 displaying such a touch panel as that of the image processing apparatus 3 of the other party, image processing, post-processing and the like for the image processing apparatus 3 of the other party are set. After the document is set and the start key is pressed, the document image is read by the scanner unit 31 of the digital copier 1 and the image processing unit performs appropriate image processing on the read image data. The image data is transmitted to the image processing apparatus 3 via the network together with the instruction information for instructing the output form.

At this time, for example, if a color original of A3 size is set as the original, since A4 is specified as the output paper of the image processing apparatus 3, the digital copying machine 1 transmits the A3 size image data. The image is reduced to A4 and transmitted to the image processing apparatus 3. Further, the image processing device 3
Does not support color, the digital copying machine 1 converts the color image data read by the scanner unit 31 into monochrome, and then transmits it to the image processing device 3.

Conventionally, processing such as scaling or monochrome conversion has been performed in accordance with the state of the destination image processing apparatus. In the case of the present digital copying machine 1, what kind of output form is used Because it can be surely grasped at the sender,
If output can be provided only in an undesired form, transmission may be stopped at this point.

Here, it is possible to instruct that the conversion of the color image data into the monochrome image data is performed by the image processing apparatus 3 of the other party. Since each stage is smaller than the color image data, it is desirable to process the digital copy machine 1 at the transmission source.
The apparatus side that performs image processing is determined so that the amount of data to be transmitted is reduced.

Since the image processing memory mounted on the image processing apparatus 3 is a 2 GB hard disk,
At present, if the image processing is not performed in the memory, it is considered that a large amount of image data can be processed at one time, and therefore, the image data is transferred only once. However, if the capacity of the image processing memory mounted on the image processing apparatus 3 is smaller, or if image processing is currently being performed and a memory capacity effective for processing a large amount of image data at a time is secured. If the situation is not possible, the image data is transmitted a plurality of times. Thereby, more efficient processing can be realized.

The image data transmitted to the image processing apparatus 3 in this way is subjected to post-processing designated as appropriate image processing by the image processing apparatus 3 and output.

On the other hand, when the "image processing apparatus 5" key is pressed on the screen for specifying the destination in FIG. 6 and the image processing apparatus 5 in the private network environment is specified as the destination, image processing is performed. Since the apparatus 5 always manages the state and the like mutually with the digital copying machine 1, a normal first access mode is entered, and only the "image processing apparatus 5" key is pressed, and the same partner as described above is operated. The screen of the operation panel 103 allows the user to instruct output of image data within the range of the image data processing capability of the image processing apparatus.
It is displayed on the display unit 104.

Next, a case where a plurality of destinations are selected and specified will be described. On the screen of FIG. 6, the "image processing device 2" key,
"Image processing device 3" key, "Image processing device 4" key,
The user presses the “image processing device 6” key, and then presses the “close” key. Thereby, the display changes to the screen of FIG.

FIG. 9 shows a screen of the LCD display unit 104 of the operation panel 103 provided in the digital copier 1, and the screen shows each of the image processing apparatuses 2, 3 selected as the destination. 4 and 6 are displayed respectively.

At this time, the digital copier 1 sends the above-described second image processing apparatus 2, 3 or 6 to the three image processing apparatuses 2, 3 and 6 which are not in the environment of the local network of the other party selected on the screen of FIG. Enter the access mode, access each of the other image processing apparatuses 2, 3, and 6 using the network, and obtain the image processing capacity and the capacity of the image processing memory provided in each of the image processing apparatuses 2, 3, and 6. -Obtain information such as usage status, peripheral devices such as post-processing devices, and current status (troubles etc.).

By reflecting the obtained information on the operation panel 103 of the digital copying machine 1, the same touch panel as that of the image processing apparatuses 2, 3, and 6 is displayed, and the image processing apparatuses 3, 4, and 6 are displayed. The operation procedure can be realized on the operation panel 103 of the digital copying machine 1 as it is.

On the other hand, the image processing apparatus 4 in the private network environment enters the normal first access mode, and the state and the like are always managed mutually with the digital copying machine 1. The processing device 4 "key is pressed and the destination to which the image data is to be transmitted is specified, and an instruction to output the image data within the processing capability of the destination image processing device for the image data can be given. Screen
The information is displayed on the LCD display unit 104 of the operation panel 103.

The operation panel 10 of the digital copying machine 1 displaying substantially the same touch panel as each of the four image processing apparatuses 2, 3, 4, and 6 selected as such destinations.
After confirming the capabilities and states of the respective image processing apparatuses at 3, the image processing and post-processing are individually set for each of the partner image processing apparatuses 2, 3, 4, and 6. Here, it is possible to compare and compare the capabilities and status of a plurality of destination image processing devices in detail, and then select only the required destination and transmit data. it can.

For example, for the image processing apparatus 2, the paper size is set to A4, and a "special function" key is pressed to designate a 4-in-1 multi-shot in which images of four pages are stored in one page. Use the “Zoom” key to
Specify an instruction to enlarge by 00%. In the image processing apparatus 4, the number of output copies is set to 5, and the "post-processing" key is pressed to specify the sort offset. Further, since it is possible to confirm from the screen of FIG. 9 that a paper jam has occurred for the image processing apparatus 6, the user presses the destination designation key to return to the destination selection screen of FIG. Cancel the selection.

After the settings are made as described above, for example, A4
When a monochrome document of a size is set and the start key is pressed, a document image is read by the scanner unit 31 of the digital copying machine 1 and appropriate image processing is performed on the read image data. It is transmitted to the destination image processing apparatuses 2, 3, and 4 selected in FIG. 6 together with instruction information corresponding to each destination.

After the end of the transmission, each destination image processing apparatus that has received the image data performs the process specified by the digital copying machine 1 based on the instruction information, and outputs it in the specified output form. That is, the image processing apparatus 2 uses 4
Image processing is performed so as to be a multi-shot of in1, and output. Further, the image processing device 3 converts the image data into 200%
Output after scaling. Further, the image processing apparatus 4 sets the number of output copies to five, and outputs five copies of an image based on the image data while offsetting using a sorter.

In the above description, the CPU 401 and the network I / F in the printer board 603 have the function as the recognition means in the present invention, and the CPU 40 has the function as the operation instruction screen display means.
1, operation panel board 100, operation panel 1
03 and the like, the CPU 40
1. Network I in main image processing board 400, sub image processing board 500, and printer board 603
/ F etc.

In addition, in the digital copying machine 1,
It is also possible to select only a device having a specific function and transmit image data to the image processing device under the network environment.

For example, if it is desired to complete an output product by performing staple processing as an output form and specify only an image processing apparatus capable of performing staple processing as a transmission destination, the following is performed.

First, the "post-processing" key is pressed on the destination selection screen of FIG. This changes the display to the screen of FIG. FIG. 10 shows a screen for setting the post-processing.
Specify staple sort and press the "OK" key. As a result, the digital copying machine 1 enters the above-described second access mode, acquires information on the image processing apparatus capable of stapling from the network, and displays the screen of FIG.

FIG. 11 shows the same destination selection screen as in FIG. 6, but shows only the image processing apparatuses 2 and 4 which are staple-sortable destinations.

Therefore, by selecting the transmission destination from the destinations displayed in FIG. 11, only the destinations that can be staple-sorted can be selected, and the destinations can be selected in the output form with the desired staples. The output can be provided earlier.

In the above description, the CPU 401, the operation panel board 100, the operation panel 103 and the like have the function as the instruction means in the present invention, and the CPU 40 mainly has the function as the destination selection means.
It is one.

If it is known that the digital copier 1 transmits only color image data in advance, the digital copier 1 is displayed on the initial screen of the operation panel of the digital copier 1 in FIG.
When the "designate destination" key is pressed, information on an image processing apparatus capable of processing color image data is obtained from the network, and the screen shown in FIG. 12 is displayed.

FIG. 12 is the same destination selection screen as in FIG. 6, but shows the image processing apparatuses 4 and 5 which are destinations capable of processing color image data. FIG.
By selecting from the destinations displayed in the above, only the destinations capable of processing the color image data can be selected.

In this embodiment, the operation instruction screen for enabling the operation instruction to the destination image processing apparatus includes a "special function" key, a "post-processing" key, a "magnification designation" key, and a For the same key as your machine, such as the "copy density designation" key and "paper designation key", the operation instruction screen of the transmission source device is applied, and only the designation of the process that only the destination image processing device has is newly displayed. Therefore, it is possible to give an instruction with the feeling of the operation panel of a device that has been used on a daily basis. In addition, since an unnecessary operation key is not displayed and an operation screen suitable for the other device is displayed, the operability is easy to understand.

Of course, in addition to this, the operation panel of the image processing apparatus of the other party is directly used as the LCD of the digital copying machine 1.
The display unit 104 may be output. In this case, the capability of the destination device can be easily known, and the output mode of the image can be instructed by assuming the destination device to which the image is to be transmitted. Therefore, also in this case, the operability is good, and the output form at the destination is easy to predict.

In the digital copier 1, an operation instruction screen for giving an operation instruction to the destination image processing apparatus is provided with an external view of the apparatus so that the processing capability of the destination image processing apparatus can be understood. Since the display is also included, the processing capability of the partner image processing apparatus can be easily grasped, and the operability is good.

In particular, when transmitting to a plurality of destinations,
Not only is it easy to grasp the capabilities and status of each device, but it is also easy to visually compare and understand the capabilities, status and setting status of multiple destination image processing devices, making it easy to set functions and determine the selection of the destination. it can.

Also, here, the case where the present digital copying machine 1 is an image transmitting apparatus has been mainly described, but the present digital copying machine 1 also has a function as an image receiving apparatus for realizing the image transmitting system of the present invention. are doing. That is, when the digital copier 1 is accessed from another image processing apparatus via the network in the second access mode, the CP
U401 also functions as a notifying unit, and notifies the processing capability and the current status (state) of the digital copying machine 1 via a network, and, on the basis of the instruction information transmitted together with the image data, the image of the transmission source. Output processing is performed in the output form specified by the processing device.

In the above description, the digital image forming apparatus transmits image data to the destination digital image forming apparatus and outputs an image in a desired state. The present invention is not limited to a digital copying machine, but may be configured to transmit image data between various devices such as a scanner device, a printer device, and a personal computer, and a combination of devices.

[0161]

As described above, in the image transmission system according to the first aspect of the present invention, when the transmission source image processing apparatus transmits image data, the processing capability of the destination image processing apparatus that transmits the image data. Is recognized via the network, an operation instruction screen corresponding to the recognized processing capability of the partner image processing apparatus is displayed, and an operation instruction of an output form of image data to be transmitted to the partner image processing apparatus is enabled, and The image processing apparatus is configured to output image data in an output form instructed by the source image processing apparatus.

As a result, the final output form at the destination can be determined by the transmission source rather than the conventional image transmission which has been unilaterally output without grasping the processing capability of the destination image processing apparatus. Efficient image transmission can be realized, and an effect can be provided in which an output in a desired output form can be provided to the destination by the instruction of the source without bothering the destination.

By using such an image transmission system, for example, when a report created at a destination is output by an in-house network printer, the transmission source can grasp the environment under which the report exists. This is effective in the future, for example, when instructing an output to a destination image processing apparatus that cannot be performed.

In the image transmission system according to the second aspect of the present invention, in the configuration according to the first aspect, the transmission source image processing device includes the processing capability of the destination image processing device and the current capability of the destination image processing device. In this configuration, the state is recognized, and the recognized current state is reflected on the operation instruction screen.

Thus, in addition to the effect of the configuration of claim 1, even if a trouble or the like occurs in the partner image processing apparatus,
There is an effect that the image data is not provided to the destination in an unexpected state of the transmission source, and the output in the output form desired by the transmission source can be more reliably provided to the destination.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the image transmission system according to the first or second aspect, the transmission source image processing apparatus has a processing capability for each of a plurality of destination image processing apparatuses transmitting image data. Is recognized, an operation instruction screen is displayed for each recognized destination image processing apparatus, and an operation instruction of an output form of image data to each destination image processing apparatus can be given.

Thus, in addition to the effects of the first and second aspects, an operation instruction screen displaying the processing capability of each image processing apparatus for each of the plurality of destination image processing apparatuses, even for a plurality of destinations. Is used to give an operation instruction, and it is possible to instruct each destination on a desired output form at the transmission source.

By using such an image transmission system, an operation instruction screen corresponding to each processing capability is displayed for each of a plurality of destination image processing apparatuses. It is also possible to select a destination having an image processing device suitable for processing image data transmitted by the user. For example, when transmitting presentation image data including color data to a plurality of destinations, a destination having an image processing device capable of processing color data and a destination having an image processing device capable of processing only monochrome data Thus, the present invention is effective in the future, for example, it is possible to make appropriate transmission settings for each, and to select and transmit only an image processing apparatus that can process color image data.

An image transmitting apparatus according to a fourth aspect of the present invention comprises:
As described above, the recognizing means for recognizing the processing capability and the current status of the destination image processing device via the network, and the processing capability and the current status of the destination image processing device recognized by the recognizing device are set according to the above. An operation instruction screen display unit for displaying an operation instruction screen that enables an operation instruction of an output form of image data to be transmitted to the destination image processing apparatus; and a destination image processing apparatus instructed using the operation instruction screen. Transmitting means for generating instruction information for output processing based on the output form of the image data, performing image processing on the image data as necessary, and transmitting the instruction information together with the instruction information to the partner image processing apparatus. is there.

In this way, the image transmission system according to the first and second aspects of the present invention is realized, and the transmission source instructs the destination image processing apparatus in the output form within its processing capability. In the output form desired by the user can be provided without bothering the other party.

An image transmitting apparatus according to a fifth aspect of the present invention comprises:
5. The configuration according to claim 4, wherein the recognizing means recognizes, via a network, the processing capabilities and the current status of the plurality of destination image processing apparatuses transmitting the image data, respectively, and the operation instruction screen display means recognizes the recognizing means. Displaying an operation instruction screen that enables an operation instruction of an output form of image data to be transmitted to each destination image processing apparatus according to the processing capability of each destination image processing apparatus recognized by the means and the current situation. The transmitting means creates output processing instruction information based on the output form of image data in each destination image processing apparatus instructed using the operation instruction screen for each destination image processing apparatus, and The image data is subjected to image processing and transmitted together with the instruction information to a predetermined destination image processing apparatus.

Thus, the image transmission system according to the third aspect of the present invention is realized, and the transmission source instructs a plurality of destination image processing apparatuses in an output form within their respective processing capacities and transmits the image data. There is an effect that the output material of the original desired output form can be provided at each destination without bothering the partner.

An image transmitting apparatus according to a sixth aspect of the present invention comprises:
As described above, in an image transmitting apparatus that transmits image data to a destination image processing apparatus via a network, a recognition unit that recognizes, via the network, processing capabilities and current situations of a plurality of destination image processing apparatuses. An instruction unit for instructing an output mode of image data, and a plurality of destination image processing apparatuses recognized by the recognition unit,
A destination selection means for selecting a destination image processing apparatus capable of outputting in the output form instructed by the instruction means, and an output form for the destination image processing apparatus selected by the destination selection means And transmission means for transmitting image data together with the instruction information for instructing the image data.

As a result, the image data is transmitted only to the device capable of processing the output format of the image data desired by the transmission source, so that the data is transmitted to the destination in the format desired by the user of the transmission source. This has the effect of being able to output.

An image transmitting apparatus according to a seventh aspect of the present invention comprises:
As described above, the recognizing means for recognizing the processing capabilities and the current status of the plurality of destination image processing apparatuses via the network, and transmitting from among the plurality of destination image processing apparatuses recognized by the recognizing means. A destination selection unit that selects a destination image processing device capable of processing image data, and a transmission unit that transmits image data to the destination image processing device selected by the destination selection unit. is there.

As a result, an apparatus capable of processing image data generated from the apparatus used by the transmission source is determined, so that the data is transmitted to the destination in a form not desired by the user of the transmission source. This has the effect that output can be prevented.

An image transmitting apparatus according to an eighth aspect of the present invention is
In the configuration according to claim 4, 5, 6, or 7, when transmitting the image data, the transmitting means uses a transmission method suitable for the capacity of the image processing memory in the destination image processing apparatus recognized by the recognition means. This is a configuration for transmitting image data.

Depending on the destination image processing apparatus, for example, there is a case where only a small capacity memory is provided as an image processing memory, or a case where the capacity is large but the free capacity is small during image processing. In addition to the effect of transmitting while interrupting the transmission of the image data every time the capacity exceeds during the transmission, the transmission can be performed faster.

An image transmitting apparatus according to a ninth aspect of the present invention provides:
In the configuration according to claim 4 or 5, the transmission means, when transmitting the image data together with the instruction information, realizes the output form instructed by the operation based on the output form instructed by using the operation instruction screen. If the image processing is possible in both the transmission source and the destination, the image processing is performed on the side where the amount of data to be transmitted is reduced.

As a result, the processing is left to reduce the amount of transmission data, so that the time required for transmission is shortened.

As described above, the image receiving apparatus according to the tenth aspect of the present invention provides an image receiving apparatus that receives image data transmitted from another image processing apparatus via a network and outputs the image. It has a notifying means for notifying the processing capability and the current situation via a network in response to a request from the original image processing apparatus, and based on instruction information indicating an output form of image data transmitted together with the image data. This is a configuration for performing output processing.

Thus, the image transmission system according to the first, second, and third aspects of the present invention can be realized. With the provision of the image receiving device, the output source of the output form desired by the transmission source can be handled by any means. Without adding, you can receive without bothering.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of the present invention, and is a diagram illustrating a network environment to which a digital copying machine that realizes an image transmission system of the present invention is connected.

FIG. 2 is a structural diagram of the digital copying machine.

FIG. 3 is a structural diagram of an image processing unit in the digital copying machine.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing capabilities and states of respective image processing apparatuses connected on the network of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an initial screen displayed on an LCD display unit of an operation panel of the digital copying machine.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a destination selection screen for transmitting image data, which is displayed on the LCD display unit of the operation panel of the digital copying machine.

FIG. 7 is a view showing an operation instruction screen of the image processing apparatus 3 designated as a destination, displayed on the LCD display unit of the operation panel of the digital copying machine.

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a post-processing setting screen displayed on the LCD display unit of the operation panel of the digital copying machine, the image processing apparatus 3 being specified as a destination.

FIG. 9 shows an image processing apparatus designated as a destination, which is displayed on an LCD display of an operation panel of a digital copying machine.
It is a figure which shows the operation instruction screen of 3, 4, and 6.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a screen displayed on the LCD display of the operation panel of the digital copying machine for setting post-processing to be performed by the other party.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a destination selection screen of image data that can be stapled as sheet post-processing, which is displayed on the LCD display unit of the operation panel of the digital copying machine.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a destination selection screen for image data capable of outputting a color image, which is displayed on the LCD display unit of the operation panel of the digital copying machine.

[Explanation of symbols]

Reference Signs List 1 digital copying machine (image transmitting device, image receiving device) 2 image processing device 2 (image receiving device) 3 image processing device 3 (image receiving device) 6 image processing device 6 (image receiving device) 100 operation panel board (operation instruction) Screen display means, instruction means) 103 Operation panel (operation instruction screen display means, instruction means) 400 Main image processing board (transmission means) 401 CPU (recognition means, operation instruction screen display means, transmission means, destination selection means, instruction Means) 500 Sub-image processing board (transmission means) 601 Printer board (transmission means, recognition means)

──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification code FI Theme coat ゛ (Reference) 9A001 F-term (Reference) 2C061 AP01 AP03 AP04 AP07 AQ06 AR01 AR03 HH03 HJ06 HL01 HN05 HN19 HQ12 HQ21 2H027 FA03 FA05 FA06 FA07 ZA07 5B021 AA01 AA02 AA05 AA19 BB01 BB04 BB10 DD12 EE03 PP04 5B089 GA01 GA16 GB03 HA01 HA10 JA05 JA14 JA35 KA12 KB04 KC26 KD09 LB12 5C062 AA02 AB20 AB23 AB38 AC38 AE16 BA00 9A001 BB02 KK04JJ08 KK04

Claims (10)

[Claims] An image transmission system for transmitting and outputting image data from a transmission source image processing apparatus to a destination image processing apparatus via a network, wherein the transmission source image processing apparatus transmits image data. Recognizing, via a network, the processing capability of the destination image processing device that transmits image data, displaying an operation instruction screen corresponding to the recognized processing capability of the destination image processing device, and transmitting the image to the destination image processing device An image transmission system which enables an operation instruction of an output form of image data, and wherein the destination image processing apparatus outputs image data in an output form instructed by the transmission source image processing apparatus. 2. The transmission source image processing device recognizes the current state of the destination image processing device together with the processing capability of the destination image processing device, and reflects the recognized current status on the operation instruction screen. 2. The image transmission system according to claim 1, wherein: 3. A transmission source image processing apparatus which, when there are a plurality of destinations to which image data is transmitted, recognizes the processing capability of each of the plurality of destination image processing apparatuses and operates each of the recognized destination image processing apparatuses. 3. The image transmission system according to claim 1, wherein an instruction screen is displayed to enable an operation instruction of an output form of image data to each of the partner image processing apparatuses. 4. An image transmitting apparatus for transmitting image data to a partner image processing apparatus via a network, comprising: a recognizing means for recognizing a processing capability and a current state of the partner image processing apparatus via a network; An operation instruction to display an operation instruction screen that enables an operation instruction of an output form of image data to be transmitted to the other image processing apparatus according to the processing capability of the other image processing apparatus recognized by the recognition unit and the current situation. Screen display means for creating instruction information for output processing based on the output form of image data in the destination image processing apparatus instructed using the operation instruction screen, and performing image processing on the image data as necessary. Transmitting means for transmitting the instruction information together with the instruction information to the destination image processing apparatus. 5. The recognizing means recognizes, via a network, the processing capabilities and the current status of a plurality of destination image processing apparatuses for transmitting image data, respectively. Displaying an operation instruction screen that enables an operation instruction of an output form of image data to be transmitted to each destination image processing apparatus according to the recognized processing capability of each destination image processing apparatus and the current situation, The means creates instruction information for output processing based on the output form of image data in each destination image processing apparatus instructed using the operation instruction screen for each destination image processing apparatus, and generates image data as needed. An image transmitting apparatus which performs image processing on the image data and transmits the image processing apparatus together with instruction information to a predetermined destination image processing apparatus. 6. An image transmitting apparatus for transmitting image data to a partner image processing apparatus via a network, comprising: a recognizing means for recognizing, via the network, processing capabilities and current conditions of the plurality of partner image processing apparatuses; Instruction means for instructing an output form of image data; and a destination which can be output in an output form instructed by the instruction means from a plurality of destination image processing apparatuses recognized by the recognition means. A destination selection means for selecting an image processing apparatus; and a transmission means for transmitting image data together with instruction information for instructing an output mode to the destination image processing apparatus selected by the destination selection means. An image transmission device characterized by the above-mentioned. 7. An image transmitting apparatus for transmitting image data to a partner image processing apparatus via a network, comprising: a recognizing means for recognizing, via the network, processing capabilities and current conditions of the plurality of partner image processing apparatuses. A destination selection means for selecting a destination image processing apparatus capable of processing image data to be transmitted from a plurality of destination image processing apparatuses recognized by the recognition means; Transmitting means for transmitting image data to the destination image processing apparatus. 8. The transmitting means transmits the image data by a transmission method suitable for the capacity of the image processing memory in the destination image processing apparatus recognized by the recognizing means when transmitting the image data. The image transmitting device according to claim 4, 5, 6, or 7, wherein 9. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, when transmitting the image data together with the instruction information, the transmitting means performs image processing for realizing the operation-instructed output form based on the operation form instructed by using the operation instruction screen. 6. The image transmitting apparatus according to claim 4, wherein if possible at both the transmission source and the destination, the image processing is performed on the side where the amount of data to be transmitted is reduced. 10. An image receiving apparatus for receiving image data transmitted from another image processing apparatus via a network and outputting an image, wherein the processing capability and the current An image receiving apparatus comprising: a notifying unit configured to notify a situation via a network, and performing an output process based on instruction information indicating an output form of image data transmitted together with the image data.