JP2003212427A - Image forming system and method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To easily and efficiently perform an after delivery process of paper sheets outputted from a plurality of image forming devices. <P>SOLUTION: In the image forming method controlling the image forming system executing image forming by exchanging printing data and job information for controlling finishing of the printing data between apparatuses connected by a network, the printing data and the job information for controlling a finishing process of the printing data are generated, the generated printing data is received, a drawing process based upon the printing data is executed, the generated job information is received, and the finishing process to the printing data subjected to the drawing process is controlled in accordance with the job information. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2003,JPO

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus which is connected to a network and forms and outputs an image based on print job data generated by a computer or the like, and an output medium output by the image forming apparatus ( The present invention relates to an image forming system having a sheet discharge post-processing device for performing various finishing processes on sheets and the like (the same applies hereinafter), an image forming method thereof, and the like.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, an output medium, which is an output result of image data formed by an image forming apparatus, has been subjected to a sheet discharge processing by a sheet discharge post-processing apparatus connected to the image processing apparatus. This paper discharge post-processing device exchanges data with the image processing device and performs paper discharge processing such as stapling and punching on an output medium (including paper etc.) output by the image forming device. It was possible to carry out.

[0003]

However, in the paper ejection post-processing apparatus as described above, the output medium output from another image forming apparatus not connected to the paper ejection post-processing apparatus (own machine) is used as the self-machine. It is substantially difficult to perform post-processing on the same level as the output medium output by the image forming apparatus connected to each other because the information for image formation cannot be shared between the apparatuses.

Further, various post-ejection processing is performed by combining output media from the image forming apparatus to which the post-ejection processing apparatus is connected and output media from other image forming apparatuses not connected. It was also extremely difficult to do.

Even if these processes are executed intentionally, even if various complicated procedures are required in operation, such as ensuring data consistency, even if post-discharge processing can be performed,
In terms of functionality, there were often major restrictions.

[0006]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and an output medium from another image forming apparatus is output by an image forming apparatus connected to itself. Post-processing can be performed in the same manner as in the case where the output output medium (including paper etc.) from the connected image forming apparatus is combined with the output output medium (including paper etc.) from another image forming apparatus. Thus, various post-discharge processing can be performed.

In order to achieve the above object, an image forming system, an image forming method, and the like according to the present invention are mainly characterized by having the following configurations.

That is, an image forming system for exchanging print data and job information for controlling finishing of the print data between devices connected to a network and executing image formation, performs print data and finishing processing of the print data. Job information to be controlled, data generating means for generating the generated job data, at least one image forming means for receiving the generated print data and executing drawing processing based on the print data, and the generated job information. Receive
A post-processing unit for controlling the finishing process for the print data rendered by the image forming unit according to the job information.

In a preferred embodiment of the above image forming system, the finishing processing includes stapling, punching, page rearrangement, job-based or page-based sorting, binding for bookbinding, and cutting for aligning end faces. Then, the post-processing unit adds processing by one or a combination of the finishing processings to the output medium drawn by the image forming unit according to the job information.

In a preferred aspect of the above image forming system, the data generating means generates job number information for identifying an operator and the print data, the job number information is received, and the post-processing means , A relationship between the job information and the drawing-processed print data is specified.

As a preferred mode of the above-mentioned image forming system, the image forming means draws by itself based on the print data which has been drawn by another image forming means connected to the network and the received print data. Process the data to be processed and a single print job.

In a preferred aspect of the above-mentioned image forming system, the post-processing means can receive the job information from the data generating means or the image forming means via the network.

As a preferred aspect of the above image forming system, the image forming system further comprises designating means for designating a post-processing means connected to the network, and the post-processing means designated by the designating means according to the received job information. The print data drawn by the plurality of image forming units connected to the above is treated as a single print job according to the job information, and the finishing process is added.

In a preferred aspect of the above image forming system, the post-processing means specifies the relationship between the job information and the print data subjected to the drawing processing based on the job number information, and finishes the print data. Execute the process.

As a preferred mode of the above-mentioned image forming system, there is further provided management means for receiving and storing and managing print data generated by the data generating means and job information for controlling finishing of the print data, The management unit outputs the job information and causes the post-processing unit to execute the finishing process in response to a request from the post-processing unit selected subsequently.

As a preferred mode of the above-mentioned image forming system, the management means reconstructs print data for one or a plurality of image forming means for processing the print data based on the received print data. ,
The reconstructed print data is output to each image forming unit.

Further, an image forming method for controlling an image forming system for transmitting and receiving print data and job information for controlling finishing of the print data between devices connected to a network and controlling an image forming system is described below. Job information for controlling finishing processing of print data; a data generating step of generating the job information; at least one image forming step of receiving the generated print data and executing drawing processing based on the print data; A post-processing step of receiving the generated job information and controlling a finishing process for the print data drawn by the image forming step according to the job information.

Further, the computer program is characterized by specifying the function of the above-mentioned image forming system as a function executed by a computer.

Further, the storage medium is characterized by storing the above computer program.

[0020]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION <Embodiment 1> Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[General Description of Apparatus] FIG. 1 is a schematic view of the entire system according to an embodiment of the present invention. The computers 102 and 103 (a, b) connected to the network 101 are
They play the role of server and client respectively,
Actually, there are a plurality of clients 103 (a, b), and in FIG.
In the figure, 103a and 103b are shown, but hereinafter, only 103 is representatively shown.

On the other hand, multi-purpose network devices 104, 105 and 106 called MFP (MULTI FUNCTION PERIPHERAL) are connected to the network 101, and 104 is a color MFP capable of scanning and printing in full color.
Is a monochrome MFP that scans and prints in monochrome
Is.

On the other hand, a network device that operates with a single function is also connected to the network 101, and there is a single-function printer 107 and the like. However, since the operation is almost equivalent to the above-mentioned MFP, these devices will be used thereafter. MF together
Notated with P.

Reference numeral 108 denotes a memory device connected to a network for storing data, which can temporarily store / store various data sent via the network 101.

Further, although not shown in the figure, clients, various servers, and MFPs other than the above, as well as other devices such as a scanner, a printer, and a FAX, are connected to the network 101.

On the computer 102 (or 103), so-called DTP (DESK TOP PUBLISHING) application software is operated to create / edit various documents / graphics. The computer 102 (or 103) converts the created document / graphic into the PDL language (PAGE DESCRIPTION LANGUAGE = page description language), and the computer 102 (or 10)
3) From the above, an instruction is given by the startup software called a printer driver, and the data is sent to the MFPs 104, 105, 106 via the network 101 and output.

Further, a document placed on the scanner section of the MFP 104, 105 is sent as image data to the network 101 by instructing it from the computer 102 (or 103) by a startup software called a scanner driver, and a memory device. Stored in 108 or computer 102
(Or 103) display or MFP104,10
It can be sent to 5,106 and output.

Next, each of the MFPs 104, 105, 106 has a communication means capable of exchanging information with the computer 102 (or 103) side via the network 101, and the setting information and device status of the MFPs 104, 105 are stored in the computer 102 (). Or, it is a mechanism to notify the 103) side one by one. In addition, the computer
The 102 (or 103) side has utility software that operates by receiving the information, and devices such as MFPs are centrally managed under the computer 102 (or 103).

[Structure of MFP 104, 105] Next, FIGS.
The configuration of the MFPs 104, 105, 106 will be described using. However, the difference between the MFP104 and the MFP105 is the difference between full-color and monochrome, and in many cases other than color processing, the full-color device includes the configuration of the monochrome device. Therefore, the monochrome part will be added as needed.

The MFP 106 comprises a printer / scanner section and a finisher 109. Normally, from the network utility software, for example, the MFP1
The 06 looks like an integrated device. Also, the finisher 10
Reference numeral 9 has means for connecting to the network 101. Then, by switching between the normal operation and the independent operation, the network utility software can manage and control as one device on the network. Other than that, the printer or scanner is the same as the MFP 105.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the entire image forming apparatus.
Reference numeral 201 is a scanner unit for reading an image, 202 is an RGB-IP unit for image processing the image data, 203 is a FAX unit for transmitting and receiving images using a telephone line typified by a facsimile, and 204 is a network. NIC (NETWORK INTERFACE) that exchanges image data and device information using
(CARD) part, 205 is a PDL part that expands the page description language (PDL) sent from the computer side into an image signal, 212 is normally through, but it is effective when adding and releasing add-on information . Then, the core unit 206 temporarily stores the image signal and determines the route according to the usage of the MFPs 104 and 105.

Next, the image data output from the core unit 206 is sent to the PWM unit 208 via the CMYK-IP unit 207, and then to the printer unit 209 for image formation, and the output medium ( It is printed out by the finisher 109 section 210 that performs output finishing processing (including paper and the like).

Further, the display unit 211 operates as a preview function for avoiding printing an image and determining whether the printing state is right or wrong.

[Structure of Scanner Unit 201] The structure of the scanner unit 201 will be described with reference to FIG.

First, in copying a document as a copying machine, 301 is a platen glass on which a document 302 to be read is placed. The original 302 is illuminated by the illumination 303, passes through mirrors 304, 305, and 306, and is then CC-illuminated by the optical system 307.
An image is formed on D 308. Further, the motor 309 mechanically drives the first mirror unit 310 including the mirror 304 and the illumination light source 303 at a speed V, and the second mirror unit 311 including the mirrors 305 and 306 has a speed 1/2 V relationship. Driven, original 302
Is scanned over the entire surface.

[Structure of RGB-IP Unit 202] The image processing unit 202 will be described with reference to FIG.

The input optical signal is transferred to the CCD sensor 308.
Is converted into an electric signal. This CCD sensor 308 is RGB
Is a 3-line color sensor, and is input to the A / D conversion unit 401 as RGB image signals. Here, after gain adjustment and offset adjustment, each color signal is converted into 8-BIT digital image signals R0, G0, B0 by the A / D converter. After that, in the shading correction of 402, a known shading correction using the read signal of the reference white plate is performed for each color.

Further, since the respective color line sensors of the CCD sensor 308 are arranged at a predetermined distance from each other, in the line delay adjusting circuit (line interpolating section) 403,
The spatial shift in the sub-scanning direction is corrected.

Next, the input masking section 404 is a CCD sensor.
The read color space determined by the spectral characteristics of the 308 RGB filter
This is the part that converts to the standard color space of the SC, and the 3 × 3 matrix calculation is performed using the device-specific constants that take into consideration various characteristics such as the sensitivity characteristics of the CCD sensor 308 / spectral characteristics of the illumination lamp, and the input Converts (R0, G0, B0) signals to standard (RGB) signals.

Further, a brightness / density conversion unit (LOG conversion unit) 405
Is a lookup table (LUT) RAM,
The RGB luminance signal is converted into C1, M1, and Y1 density signals. When performing monochrome image processing with the MFP 105, a single-color 1-line sensor is used to perform A / D conversion in a single color,
After shading, input / output masking, gamma conversion, and spatial filtering may be performed in this order.

[Structure of FAX Unit 203] Referring to FIG.
Will be described.

First, at the time of reception, after the data input from the telephone line is received by the NCU unit 501, the voltage is converted, and the demodulation unit 504 in the modem unit 502 performs A / D conversion and demodulation operation. The decompression unit 506 develops raster data. Generally F
The run length method or the like is used for compression / expansion in AX, but the description thereof is omitted here because it is known. The image converted into the raster data is temporarily stored in the memory unit 507, and after it is confirmed that the image data has no transfer error, the image is sent to the core unit 206.

Next, at the time of transmission, the compression unit 505 compresses the image signal of the raster image coming from the core unit by the run length method or the like, and the modulation unit 503 in the modem unit 502.
After performing D / A conversion and modulation operation at, the data is sent to the telephone line via the NCU unit 501.

[Configuration of NIC Unit 204] The NIC unit 204 will be described with reference to FIG.
Will be described. It is this NIC unit 204 that has an interface function with respect to the network 101. For example, information from the outside can be obtained by using an ETHERNET (registered trademark) cable such as 10BASE-T / 100BASE-TX. , Plays the role of sending information to the outside.

When information is obtained from the outside, first, the voltage is converted by the transformer unit 601 and sent to the LAN controller unit 602. The LAN controller unit 602 has a buffer memory 1 (not shown) therein, and after determining whether the information is necessary information, the buffer memory 2 (not shown).
Then, the signal is sent to the PDL unit 205.

Next, when the information is provided to the outside, the PD
The data sent from the L unit 205 is the LAN controller unit 6
Necessary information is added in 02 and the network is connected via the transformer unit 601.

[Configuration of PDL Unit 205] Next, referring to FIG.
The configuration of the DL unit 205 will be described. Image data created by application software running on a computer is composed of documents, figures, photographs, etc., each of which consists of a combination of character code, figure code, and image description elements such as raster image data. ing.

This is the so-called PDL (PAGE DESCRIPTION L
ANGUAGE = Page description language) and ADOBE's POSTSCRI
It is represented by the PT (registered trademark) language.

Now, FIG. 6 is a portion showing the conversion processing from the above PDL data to raster image data. The PDL data sent from the NIC unit 204 is once passed through the CPU unit 603 to the hard disk (HDD). Is stored in the large-capacity memory 604, and is managed and stored for each job here.

Then, if necessary, the CPU unit 603 causes the RIP (RA
Rasterized image processing called STER IMAGE PROCESSING) is performed to develop PDL data into a raster image. Expanded raster image data is DR for each CMYK color component
The data is stored page by page in a memory 605 such as AM that can be accessed at high speed, and is sent again to the core unit 206 via the CPU unit 603 according to the status of the printer unit 208.

[Structure of Core Unit 206] Referring to FIG.
6 will be described. Bus selector section 701 of core section 206
Plays a role of traffic control in using the MFPs 104 and 105. That is, the bus is switched according to various functions in the MFPs 104 and 105 such as a copy function as a stand-alone, network scan, network print, facsimile transmission / reception, or display. If you explain in detail,
The flow has the following functions.

When used as a stand-alone copier, the data is processed in each part of scanner unit 201 → core unit 206 → printer 209. ・ When performing a network scan, scanner unit 201 → core unit 206 → NIC Data processing is performed in each part of the unit 204. ・ When performing network printing, the NIC unit 204
→ Core part 206 → Printer 209 processes data.

When the facsimile transmission function is executed, data processing is performed in each part of the scanner unit 201 → core unit 206 → FAX unit 203, and when the facsimile reception function is executed, the FAX unit 203 is executed.
-> Data processing is performed in each part of the core unit 206-> Printer 209.-When performing a display display function, data processing is performed in each unit of the scanner unit 201-> Core unit 206-> Display 211.

However, the input source of the display function is FA
The X section 203 or the NIC section 204 may be used.

Next, the image data output from the bus selector unit 701 passes through a compression unit 702, a memory unit 703 including a large capacity memory such as a hard disk (HDD), and a decompression unit 704 to a printer unit 209 or a display unit. Sent to 210.

Further, the scaling unit 705 scales up / down the image data. Used when transferring a reduced image to a low-resolution display or other device. The compression method used here may be a general one such as JPEG, JBIG, or ZIP.

Next, the compressed image data is managed for each job and stored together with additional data such as a file name, creator, creation date and time, and file size.

Further, by providing a job number and password and storing them together, the personal box function can be supported. This is a confidential function that allows temporary storage of data and printout (reading from HDD) only for specific people. For each stored job, if a job is specified and called, the password is authenticated, then called from the HDD, the image is expanded, and the raster image is returned to the printer unit. Sent to 207.

[Structure of CMYK-IP section 207] Referring to FIG.
Further, the configuration of the CMYK-IP unit 207 will be described.

The data passed from the core unit 206 enters the output masking / UCR circuit unit 706, and the C1, M1, Y1 signals after the LOG conversion (405) described in the RGB-IP unit 202 are image-formed. This is the part that converts the Y, M, C, K signals that are the toner colors of the device using matrix calculation, and the RG read by the CCD sensor 308.
The C1, M1, Y1, and K1 signals based on the B signal are corrected to C, M, Y, and K signals based on the toner spectral distribution characteristics and output.

Next, the gamma conversion unit 707 converts the C, M, Y, K data for image output using a look-up table (LUT) RAM in consideration of various tint characteristics of the toner,
After being sharpened or smoothed by the spatial filter 708, the image signal is sent to the PWM unit 208.
The determination of whether the image is black and white or color is made by the balance of C, M, Y and K signals.

[Configuration of PWM Unit 208] Referring to FIG. 8, PWM unit 208
Will be described.

The image data separated from the CMYK-IP unit 207 into four colors of yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K) passes through the respective PWM units 208, respectively. The image is formed. (In the case of the MFP 105, the color is monochromatic.) In FIG. 8A, 801 is a triangular wave generation unit, 802 is a D / A converter, and is a unit that converts an input digital image signal into an analog signal. These two signals are sent to the comparator 803 as shown in FIG. 8 (b), and the magnitude relation is compared, and the signals as shown in FIG. 8 (c) are sent to the laser driving unit 804, and CMYK is respectively supplied. Signal of each CMYK laser 80
It is converted into a laser beam at 5.

Then, the polygon scanner 913 scans the respective laser beams to detect the respective photosensitive drums 91.
Irradiate 7,921,925,929.

[Arrangement of Printer Unit 209 (For Color MFP 104)] FIG. 9 shows the arrangement of the printer unit in the color image forming apparatus. A polygon mirror 913 receives the four laser beams emitted from the four semiconductor lasers 805. One of them is a photosensitive drum 917 via mirrors 914, 915, 916.
Scan the photosensitive drum 921 through the mirrors 918, 919 and 920, the next one scans the photosensitive drum 925 through the mirrors 922, 923 and 924, and the next one is the mirror 926, 927,
The photosensitive drum 929 is scanned via 928.

On the other hand, 930 is a developing device for supplying yellow (Y) toner, which forms a yellow toner image on the photosensitive drum 917 according to the laser beam, and 931 is development for supplying magenta (M) toner. It forms a magenta toner image on the photosensitive drum 921 according to the laser beam, and 932 is a cyan image.
(C) is a developing device that supplies toner, and forms a cyan toner image on the photosensitive drum 925 according to the laser light.
Is a developing device that supplies black (K) toner, and forms a magenta toner image on the photosensitive drum 929 according to the laser light. The above four color (Y, M, C, K) toner images are transferred onto the paper, and a full-color output image can be obtained.

The paper fed from any of the paper cassettes 934 and 935 and the manual feed tray 936 is adsorbed on the transfer belt 938 via the registration roller 937 and conveyed. In synchronization with the feeding timing, the photosensitive drums 917, 921, 925, and 929 are pre-developed with the toners of the respective colors, and the toners are transferred onto the sheet as the sheet is conveyed.

The sheet on which the toners of the respective colors have been transferred is separated and conveyed by the conveying belt 939, and the fixing device 940 fixes the toner on the sheet and discharges it.

The four photosensitive drums 917, 921, 925, 92
Numerals 9 are arranged at equal intervals with a distance D, the sheet is conveyed at a constant speed V by the conveyor belt 939, and the four semiconductor lasers 805 are driven in synchronization with this timing.

[Structure of Printer Unit 209 (for Monochrome MFP 105)] FIG. 10 shows the structure of the printer unit in the monochrome image forming apparatus. A polygon mirror 1013 receives laser light emitted from four semiconductor lasers 805. The laser light passes through mirrors 1014, 1015, 1016 and then a photosensitive drum 1017.
To scan. On the other hand, 1030 is a developing device for supplying black toner, which forms a toner image on the photosensitive drum 1017 in accordance with the laser beam, and the toner image is transferred onto a sheet to obtain an output image.

Paper fed from any of the paper cassettes 1034 and 1035 and the manual feed tray 1036 is adsorbed on the transfer belt 1038 via the registration rollers 1037 and conveyed. Toner is developed on the photosensitive drum 1017 in advance in synchronism with the paper feed timing, and the toner is transferred onto the paper as the paper is conveyed. The sheet on which the toner has been transferred is separated, the toner is fixed on the sheet by the fixing device 1040, and the sheet is discharged similarly to the color image.

[Structure of Display Unit 211] FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating the structure of the display unit 211 (FIG. 2) in the image forming apparatus. Since the image data output from the core unit 206 is CMY data, the inverse LOG conversion unit 1101
It is necessary to convert to RGB data with. Then the output C
In order to match the color characteristics of the display device 1104, 105 such as RT, the gamma conversion unit 1102 uses a lookup table to perform output conversion. The converted image data is once stored in the memory unit 1103 and displayed on the display device 1104, 105 such as CRT.

Here, the display unit 210 is used to preview the output image in advance, to proof that the output image is the intended one, or to display an image that does not need to be printed. This is to avoid waste of the print output medium when checking.

[Structure of Finisher 109 Portion 210] FIG.
FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a finisher 109 section in the image forming apparatus. The paper sheet that has exited the fixing unit 940 (or 1040) of the printer unit 209 enters the finisher 109 (210) unit.

The finisher 109 (210) has a sample tray 1001 and a stack tray 1002, which are switched and ejected according to the type of job and the number of ejected sheets.

There are two sort methods, a bin sort method that has a plurality of bins and distributes to each bin, and an electronic sort function and a bin (or tray) which will be described later are shifted to the front side and output for each job. Sorting can be performed by a shift sort method in which sheets are distributed.

The electronic sort function is called collate, and if the large-capacity memory described in the above-mentioned core section is provided, this buffer memory is used to change the order of buffered pages and the order of ejection. The electronic sorting function can be supported by using the so-called collate function.

Next, the group function is a function that sorts each job while sorting sorts each job.

Further, when the sheets are discharged to the stack tray 1002, it is possible to store the sheets before the sheets are discharged for each job and bind them with the stapler 1005 immediately before the sheet is discharged.

In addition, a Z-folding machine 1004 for folding a paper into a Z-shape for reaching the above two trays, for a file
There are two (or three) punchers 1006 for making holes, and it is possible to perform each processing depending on the type of job.

Further, the saddle stitcher 1007 is used to fold the paper in a booklet form and bind the center thereof. In this case, the booklet tray
Emitted to 1008.

In addition, although not shown in the drawing, it is possible to add binding by glue (gluing) for bookbinding, or cutting for aligning the end faces on the opposite side to the binding side after binding.

Inserter trays 1003a and 1003c are provided in the finisher 109 (210) of the present invention. The inserter trays 1003a, 1003c can put finishing paper together with the output paper from the connected image output device by placing paper for performing the insertion function or by placing paper output from another printer. Can be done.

Further, the finisher 109 of the present embodiment is provided with an operating section 1010, and settings and finishers 109 for discharging the sheets set in the inserters 1003a, 1003c are provided.
You can set the IP address etc. when operating alone.

[Network 101] Next, the network 1
01 will be explained. As shown in FIG. 13, the network 101 is connected by a device that interconnects the network called the router with the configuration of the system 1000 shown in FIG. 1 described above, and forms a further network called LAN (LOCAL AREA NETWORK). .

Further, the LAN 1306 is connected to another router 1305 inside the LAN 1307 via the internal router 1301 through the dedicated line 1308, and these network networks are extended in layers to form a vast connection form. I'm building.

Next, the flow of data transferred via the network will be described with reference to FIG.

There is data 1401 existing in the device A (1400A) of the transmission source, and the data may be image data, PDL data, or a program. When transferring this to the destination device B (1400B) via the network 101, the data 1401 is subdivided and imaged 1402.
To split. This divided data 1403,1404,14
Destination address called header 1405 for 06 etc.
(When the TCP / IP protocol is used, the IP address of the destination) is added, and the packets are sequentially transmitted as the packet 1407 on the network 101. Data when the device B address and the header 1411 of the packet 1410 match
1412 is separated, and is reproduced in the state of the data in the device A.

[Printer Driver] Next, referring to FIG. 15, a process of transmitting image data from the computer 102 (or 103) to the printer by the printer driver will be described. FIG. 15 shows a GU for instructing a print operation.
This is I, and by instructing with this, the user can instruct a desired setting parameter and send a desired image to a destination such as a printer.

Here, 1601 is a printer driver window, and as a setting item therein, 1602 is a transmission destination selection column for selecting a target output destination. Generally, the MFP 104 or 105 or the printer 107 described above is used, but an image may be transferred to the memory device 108 for the purpose of storage. 1603 is a page setting column for selecting an output page from the job, and the computer 102 (or 103)
Decide which page of the image created by the application software running above will be output. Reference numeral 1604 is a copy number setting column for specifying the number of copies. Further, 1607 is a property key for making detailed settings for the destination device selected in the destination selection column 1602. Click here to enter the device-specific setting information on a separate screen, and enter a special image. Processing, eg CMYK-IP part 207
By changing the parameters of the gamma conversion unit 707 and the spatial filter unit 708 therein, finer color reproduction and sharpness adjustment can be performed. 1608 is a finishing setting. This setting has different setting items depending on the selected printer. Settings related to staple and punch forms can be made.

When the right side of the destination selection column 1602 is clicked, a list of printable printers, MFPs, etc. is displayed. For that purpose, it is necessary to search for a printer on the network. When searching for MFPs and printers on the network, a so-called directory service is used. The directory service is, so to speak, a telephone directory related to the network and is used for storing various information. As a specific example of the directory system using the above directory service, for example, LDAP (LIGHTWEIG
HT DIRECTORY ACCESS PROTOCOL). The above LDAP regulations are RFC (REQUEST FOR COMETS) 1777, which is a standard specification issued by IETF (INTERNET ENGINEERING TASK FORCE).
It is described in.

By searching the devices connected to the network using the directory service, it is possible to obtain a list of the network addresses of the devices available on the network. A computer 102 on the network 101 functions as an LDAP server and stores all information about devices on the network. A computer can search for a desired device by making an inquiry to the LDAP server instead of searching for it by itself. The driver asks the LDAP server to select the destination column 16
It becomes possible to display a list of printers on 02.

The conventional printer driver cannot select two printers at the same time, but in the present embodiment, a key 1609 for selecting the next printer is provided.
By pressing this key, a further printer selection column is displayed and the second printer or finisher 109 can be selected.

When selecting another printer, PROPERTY
The order of printer selection can be changed by pressing the key 1607 to go to another setting screen. A list of printers that can be selected is displayed by clicking the right end of the printer selection column 1602 of the normal print driver with the mouse. At that time, as shown in FIG. 18, the printer displayed at the top of the list display can be changed according to various conditions. This makes it easy to select, for example, under the condition of the MFP that is closest to the first selected MFP.

[Explanation of Network Utility Software] The utility software operating on the computer 102 (or 103) will be described. MFP1
MIB (MANAGEMENT INFORMATION BASE) is provided on the network interface of 04, 105, 106 and finisher 109.
A standardized database called `` .NET '' has been built, and communicates with computers on the network via a network management protocol called SNMP (SIMPLE NETWORK MANAGEMENT PROTOCOL), and the scanners, printers or , FAX, etc. can be managed.

On the other hand, a software program using the MIB is running on the computer 102 (or 103), and the MIB is used by using the above-mentioned SNMP via the network.
Necessary information can be exchanged using. By identifying MIB information such as IFPHYSADDRESS and SYSOBJECTID defined in RFC1213 and HRDEVICEID defined in RFC1514, information for identifying a device can be obtained. Private MIB
The equipment information and capabilities of the device are defined as, and it is possible to detect whether or not the finisher 109 is connected as the equipment information.

In addition, the MIBs are connected between the devices on the network.
By acquiring information, it is possible to communicate with each other and acquire information such as the status and capabilities of the other device. The computer 102 periodically communicates with devices on the network, or the functions of each device are transmitted by sending from each device.
We always know the condition. Since the WEB server is constructed based on the MIB data collected from each device, the computer 103 can grasp the state of each device even when accessing the computer 102 by well-known browsing software by HTTP.

All print jobs are once completed on the computer 102
To the printer and then from computer 102 to each printer.
Input OB, analyze the user name, department, file name, number of pages, job contents, etc. of the job, and store the number of prints and total number of pages for each user or department. It is also possible to manage devices such as jobs and jobs on the network by totaling the number of prints of each device, the number of errors, and the current remaining amount of paper and toner.

Further, the computer 102 also converts the print protocol. For example, the MFP 105 supports only LPD, but the computer 103 sends an IPP (INTERNET
When I try to print with (PRINTING PROTOCOL),
Computer 102 will automatically convert to LPR and JO to MFP 105
It is possible to throw B.

The printed data is stored in the memory device 108.
The server automatically deletes it according to parameters such as the remaining memory and date.

[Explanation of GUI] Next, GUI (GRAPHIC USER IN
A screen of utility software called TERFACE) which operates on the computer 102 (or 103) will be described with reference to FIGS. Computer 102 (or 1
03) When you start the utility software on
A screen as shown in Fig. 16 is displayed. Here, 1701 is a status tab for opening a status page, 1702 is a JOB tab for opening a page for operating a print job inside the printer, 1703 is an information tab for opening a page for checking equipment of the device and others. , 1704 is called the Network tab for opening the page for setting network settings.

In FIG. 16, the status page is displayed. 1
Reference numeral 705 is an external image of the apparatus, and an image corresponding to equipment information such as the finisher 109 and the deck is displayed. On the right side, the information on the paper contained in each cassette is displayed as the information on the paper feed stage. Reference numeral 1706 indicates the operating state of the device, which changes according to the operating state.

FIG. 17 shows the information page displayed.
The presence / absence of the finisher 109 and the presence / absence of options for the finisher 109 can be confirmed.

<Flow of Printing and Paper Ejection Processing> Next, the operation of each device when performing printing and paper ejection processing will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart of FIG. Here, as an example, an operation of stapling a document in which black and white and color are mixed will be described.

In step S101, the operator first operates the terminal of the computer 103 to create an original of mixed color black and white using well-known DTP software or the like.

In step S102, when the start of printing the original created in step S101 is instructed, the computer 103
A GUI screen of the printer driver is displayed on the display as shown in FIG. From the GUI screen, staple 1608 is designated as finishing processing. If the finishing function or the like is unknown, press the key 1610 to know the details, and detailed information will be displayed (however, this display state is not shown). You can set the finishing settings.

Next, the printer for outputting the original is set. If the originals are both color originals and black-and-white originals, it is necessary to specify both the black-and-white printer and the color printer. Therefore, in step S102, the monochrome MFP 105 is selected in the printer selection column 1602 as the selection of the first printer.

Next, the process proceeds to step S103 to select the color printer as the second printer. in this case,
When the key 1609 is selected on the GUI screen of FIG. 15 and the menu button in the “next printer” column is pressed, a further printer selection column becomes effective and the second printer or finisher 109 can be selected. Here, the color MFP 104 is selected as the second printer.

Then, the OK key 1605 on the screen of FIG.
When is pressed to confirm the setting, the process proceeds to step S104.
The job number display and password input window are displayed as shown in FIG. Here, the "job number" is an arbitrary number created by the computer 103 to which a character string LOGINed by the operator is added and serves as information for identifying the operator and the document. When the password is input on the input screen of FIG. 19 and the “OK” key is pressed, the process proceeds to the next process.

When the "OK" key is depressed on the screen of FIG. 19, the computer 103 creates print data in step S105. In addition to PDL drawing data, this print data includes information related to the selected printer, such as stapling processing, black and white / color data mixed processing, and the interlocking of two MFPs, and commands related to finishing for paper ejection processing. Job information and is created.
The paper discharge process may be performed by the MFP first selected in the column 1602, or when the finisher 109 is selected, the finisher 109 may be prioritized.

When the drawing data and the job information data have been created, the data is transferred to the two designated MFPs (S105), and the job information related to the paper discharge processing is also transferred to the finisher 109. That transfer the computer 1
It may be directly transmitted from 03 to the finisher 109 or may be transmitted via the MFP. This job information is the finisher
It is stored in the memory in 109 in a form associated with the above-mentioned job number.

The process proceeds to step S106, and drawing is started by the operation of the MFP 105 (first drawing). The MFP 105 to which the data has been transferred analyzes the processing command, draws only the black and white page, and temporarily stores the data in the memory.

In step S107, the operation of the MFP 104 is started, the MFP 104 analyzes the data similarly to the processing in step S106, draws only the color page, and starts printing (second drawing). Upon completion of printing, the computer 103 is notified of the end notification. The print data at this time is stored in the memory device 108 of FIG.

In step S108, since the computer 103 has finished the color print drawing process, the operator is instructed to display the ejected paper in the finisher 109 of the MFP 105 (this display example is not shown). This display is also displayed on the operation unit of the MFP 105 to notify the operator of the instruction display.

Next, the process proceeds to step S109, where the operator
Take out the paper processed by the MFP104 from the paper output section of the MFP104, and insert the insert tray 1003A of the finisher 109 of the MFP105.
Set the paper on. Then, the job number is input on the operation unit of the finisher 109 or the operation unit of the MFP 105. If the job number is specified, you will be prompted to enter the password. This password is the password displayed in FIG. 19 and is used to prevent other people from arbitrarily processing. If the password is incorrect, a warning will be displayed.

When the password is normally input, the process proceeds to step S110, and the MFP 105 reads the drawing data for which the drawing process has been completed from the memory, and performs the image output and the paper discharge process. At this time, the finisher 109 performs the sheet discharge processing in consideration of the order of the sheet in the insert tray 1003a and the discharged black and white page based on the held job information for executing the sheet discharge processing. .

Next, the process proceeds to step S115, all the sheets are discharged, and when the finishing process such as stapling and punching is completed according to the job information, the computer 103 is notified of the end of the job, and the memory device
The data in 108 is erased and the operation ends.

According to the present embodiment, the finisher receives and holds the job information via the network, so that the output medium formed by the plurality of image forming apparatuses connected to the network is treated as a single print job. It becomes possible to specify the output medium, which is output in a state where black and white data or color data are mixed and divided,
It is possible to combine a single print job and perform post-processing with high functionality and high quality.

<Second Embodiment> Next, the operations of the MFP 106 and the finisher 109 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. Descriptions of portions common to the first embodiment will be omitted.

First, the operator operates the terminal of the computer 103 to create a document in which color data and black-and-white data are mixed with well-known DTP software or the like.

In order to output this document, first, in step S201, the state of each MFP device is monitored and checked in advance.

As shown in FIG. 17, the status of each device is displayed by the utility software even in a remote environment, and the operator can judge whether or not the device can be used.

Then, the process proceeds, and in step S202,
Detach the finisher. When a key (not shown) that executes a process of disconnecting the connection between the MFP 106 selected as the output target and the finisher 109 is pressed, the MFP 106 is managed on the network as an MFP without the finisher 109. Also, this "separation"
The processing can be set by the operation unit of the MFP 106 or the finisher 109.

The utility software has a function of displaying a list of devices connected to the network, which is called a device list. Before the main body and the finisher 109 are separated, three MFPs can be seen as shown in FIG. By disconnecting the connection, the finisher 109 is configured on the network as a device that operates independently, and since it supports SNMP, the number of devices that were three before the disconnection was 3 as shown in FIG. 21. It will be visible on the list.

In step S203, the operator confirms the status of the device he / she wants to print, and when he / she gives an instruction for printing, a GUI screen of the printer driver as shown in FIG. 15 is displayed on the display of the computer 103.

Printer selection column in step S204
Select the monochrome MFP 106 as the first printer at 1602. Then, in step S205, the color is set as the second printer.
The MFP 104 is selected, and further the finisher 109 is selected. As the finishing process executed by this finisher,
For example, stapling or the like can be designated.

In this case, even if the finisher 109 is designated and therefore the MFP 104 has a finisher, the setting for the finisher 109 that functions as an independent device by connecting to the network is prioritized.

Alternatively, in the finishing process defined by the job information, if there is a process that is not in the finisher 109 and can be performed by the finisher of the MFP 104, the finisher of the MFP 104 may be executed on behalf of the finisher. It is possible.

Similar to the first embodiment, "OK" on the screen of FIG.
When the "key" 1605 is pressed, a job number display and password input window as shown in FIG. 19 are displayed (step S206).

When a predetermined password is entered on the screen of FIG. 19 and the "OK key" is pressed, the computer 103 creates print data and job information for executing the set finishing process (step S20
7).

This print data includes stapling processing, monochrome / color data mixed processing, PDL drawing data,
Commands such as linking two MFPs are added. The paper discharge process may be performed by the MFP first selected in the column 1602, or when the finisher 109 is selected, the finisher 109 may be prioritized.

When the creation of these data is completed, the data is transferred to the designated two MFPs and the finisher 109 (S207). The finisher 109 holds commands such as stapling processing, monochrome / color mixed processing, and interlocking of two units in its memory in a form associated with the job number.

In step S208, the MFP 106 to which the data has been transferred analyzes the processing command, draws and outputs only the black and white page, and outputs it. Computer with end notification when finished
Notify 103.

The color MFP 104 also analyzes the data, draws only the color page, and starts printing. When printing is completed, the computer 103 is notified of the end notification.

In step S209, since the printing is completed, the computer 103 displays (not shown) to set the ejected paper in the finisher 109, and informs the operator. This display is also displayed on the operation unit of each MFP and finisher device.

At step S210, the operator operates the MFPs 104, 106.
The paper, which is the output medium, is taken out from the paper discharge section of and the paper is set on the insert trays 1003a, 100c of the finisher 109.

In order to process the output medium in the finisher 109, it is necessary to specify the relationship between the job information for controlling the finishing process and the output medium. The operator inputs the above-mentioned job number information from the operation unit of the finisher 109 and specifies the relationship between the two. Alternatively, a list of job information may be displayed on the display unit of the finisher, and the job information may be designated from the list.

When the job number is directly input and there is no job corresponding to the number, the finisher gives a warning display to the operator to inform the operator of the fact. Further, if the finisher is in the process of processing another job, it is possible to prompt the operator to display a message to that effect and urge the operator to wait.

To confirm the authentication of the operator, it is possible to input a password from the screen display of FIG. 19 to protect the data from being processed by others. In this case, even if the password is wrong,
A warning is displayed to that effect.

When the job number and the password are normally input in the process of step S210, the finisher 109 feeds the sheets of the insert trays 1003a and 1003c in the designated order and executes the finishing process (S211). .

In step S216, when all the sheets have been ejected and finishing processing such as stapling and punching has been completed, the finisher 109 notifies the computer 103 of the end of the job. Finisher 109 is an MFP
When it is reconnected to the main body, it becomes an MFP integrated with the main body,
As shown in FIG. 20, it disappears from the device list and all operations are completed.

According to this embodiment, the paper output from a plurality of different output devices is selected in advance,
With a post-ejection processing device that is not connected to these output devices, simply specify the job number to output print data with a mixture of black and white / color printing with high functionality and high-quality post-ejection processing. It becomes possible to do.

<Third Embodiment> Next, the operation of each device when the server 102 processes job information in the network configuration as shown in FIG. 1 will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart of FIG. It should be noted that the description common to the above-described first and second embodiments will be omitted.

First, the operator operates the terminal of the computer 103 to create a document in which color and black-and-white data are mixed with well-known DTP software or the like (S301).

When the operator executes the printing of the created data, the GUI screen of the printer driver is displayed on the display of the computer 103 as shown in FIG. Check the status of the device such as.

In step S302, the printer selection column 16
At 02, for example, the MFP 105 that executes black and white image formation is selected as the first printer.

The process advances to step S303 to select the MFP 104 that executes color image formation as the second printer, and further specify the contents of post-processing such as a finisher function such as stapling.

The process proceeds to step S304, and the OK key 1605 in FIG.
When is pressed, a job number display and password input window as shown in FIG. 19 are displayed. When a predetermined password is input and the OK key is pressed here, the computer 103 creates print data and job information (S305). To this print data, commands related to job information such as stapling processing, mixed processing of monochrome / color data, interlocking of two MFPs, and add-on processing are added together with PDL drawing data. When the data creation is completed, the print data and the job information are transferred to the computer 102 (S305).

The computer 102 to which the data has been transferred analyzes the processing command relating to the print data, reconstructs the data of only the black and white page, and reconstructs the reconstructed print data.
The data is output to the MFP 105, the data of only the color page is reconstructed, and the reconstructed color print data is output to the MFP 104 (S306).

Each MFP prints based on the received data (S30
7) When printing is completed, each MFP notifies the computer 102 of the end of operation, and the computer 102 also notifies the computer 103 of an end notification (S308).

In response to this notification, since the computer 103 has finished processing the print data, the computer 103 displays the ejected paper on the display to set it in the post-processing device such as the finisher and informs the operator ( This screen is not shown).

The operator takes out the paper, which is the output medium output from the paper discharge section of the MFP 104, 105, and sets the paper on the insert tray 1003a, c of the finisher 109 having the desired function.

As the processing of step S309, the finisher
When the user logs in to the computer 102 with the operation unit of 109 and selects a job to be executed by himself from the list of jobs stored and managed by the computer 102, the computer 102 gives an operation instruction to the finisher 109. This instruction includes the order of sheets stacked on the insert trays 1003a and 1003c and a processing instruction. Thus, in this embodiment,
The job information held in the computer 102 can be accessed from the finisher side.

In step S310, the finisher 109
Supplies the sheets of the insert trays 1003a and 1003c in the designated order and executes the finishing process.

In step S315, when all the sheets have been discharged and finishing processing such as stapling and punching has been completed, the finisher 109 notifies the computer 102 of the end of the job. Further, the computer 102 that has received the job completion notification sums up the processing of each device, writes the data in the memory device 108, and further notifies the computer 103 of the completion of the job.

The computer 103 receives the end notification from the computer 102, notifies the operator of the end display, and ends the operation.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the server computer stores and manages the job information for controlling the post-ejection processing, and the finisher for executing the post-processing of the job need not be set in advance. By subsequently specifying job information from a finisher having a desired function, it becomes possible to receive job information stored and managed by the server computer and execute post-ejection processing for the corresponding print data. .

<Other Embodiments> The object of the present invention is to:
It is also achieved by causing a computer (or a CPU or MPU) of a system or an apparatus to read and execute a program module stored in a storage medium, which stores a program module of software that realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments. It

In this case, the program module itself read from the storage medium realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments, and the storage medium storing the program module constitutes the present invention.

As a storage medium for supplying the program module, for example, a floppy (registered trademark) disk, a hard disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk,
A CD-ROM, a CD-R, a magnetic tape, a non-volatile memory card, a ROM or the like can be used.

Further, by executing the program module read by the computer, not only the functions of the above-described embodiment are realized, but also the computer running on the computer based on the instruction of the program module.
This also includes a case where an S (operating system) or the like performs a part or all of the actual processing and the processing realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments.

Further, after the program module read from the storage medium is written in the memory provided in the function expansion board inserted in the computer or the function expansion unit connected to the computer, the program module is read based on the instruction of the program module. This also includes a case where a CPU or the like included in a function expansion board or a function expansion unit performs some or all of actual processing, and the processing realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments.

[0163]

As described above, according to the present invention, the job information is received and held by the post-processing means via the network, so that the output formed by a plurality of image forming means connected to the network. It is possible to specify the medium as a single print job, and combine the output medium output in the state that black and white data or color data are mixed and combined into one print job to achieve high functionality and high performance. It becomes possible to perform post-processing after discharging the paper to a high quality.

Further, according to the present invention, the server computer stores and manages the job information for controlling the post-ejection processing,
Even if the post-processing means for executing the post-processing of the job is not set in advance, the job information stored and managed by the server computer can be stored by specifying the job information later from the post-processing means having a desired function. It is possible to perform post-discharge processing on the received print data.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an entire system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the overall configuration of the image forming apparatus.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a scanner unit in the image forming apparatus.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an RGB-IP unit in the image forming apparatus.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a FAX unit in the image forming apparatus.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a NIC / PDL unit in the image forming apparatus.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a core unit / CMYK-IP unit in the image forming apparatus.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a PWM unit in the image forming apparatus.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a configuration of a printer unit in the color image forming apparatus.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a configuration of a printer unit in the monochrome image forming apparatus.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a display unit in the image forming apparatus.

FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a finisher 109 in the image forming apparatus.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a network environment.

FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating the flow of data transferred via a network.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a display example of a GUI screen of a printer driver.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a display example of a screen of utility software.

FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a display example of a screen of utility software.

FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a reference screen for selecting a printer.

FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of a screen for inputting a password.

FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a screen display example of utility software.

FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of a screen display of utility software.

FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating a process according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart illustrating a process according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart illustrating a process of the third embodiment according to the present invention.

Claims (20)

[Claims] 1. An image forming system for exchanging print data and job information for controlling finishing of the print data between devices connected to a network to execute image formation, the print data and finishing of the print data. Job information for controlling processing; data generating means for generating; image forming means for receiving the generated print data and executing drawing processing based on the print data; and receiving the generated job information An image forming system comprising: a post-processing unit that controls a finishing process for the print data drawn by the image forming unit according to the job information. 2. The finishing process includes stapling, punching, rearranging pages, sorting in job units or page units, binding for bookbinding, and cutting for aligning end faces, and the post-processing unit includes: The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein a process by one or a combination of the finishing processes is added to the output medium that has undergone the drawing process by the image forming unit according to the job information. 3. The data generation unit generates job number information for identifying an operator and the print data, and the post-processing unit receives the job number information and the post-processing unit outputs the job information and the drawing. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein a relationship between the processed print data and the processed print data is specified. 4. The image forming unit includes a single piece of print data that is drawn by another image forming unit connected to the network and data that is drawn by itself based on the received print data. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the image forming system processes the print job as a print job. 5. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the post-processing unit can receive the job information from the data generating unit or the image forming unit via the network. 6. A post-processing unit for designating post-processing unit connected to the network, wherein the post-processing unit designated by the designating unit is a plurality of image forming units connected to the network according to the received job information. The image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the print data subjected to the drawing processing by the above is treated as a single print job according to the job information and the finishing processing is added. 7. The post-processing unit specifies a relationship between the job information and the print data subjected to the drawing processing based on the job number information, and executes a finishing process for the print data. The image forming system according to claim 6. 8. A management unit for receiving and storing print data generated by the data generation unit and job information for controlling finishing of the print data, and the storage unit manages the selection later. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the job information is output in response to a request from the post-processing unit, and the finishing process is executed by the post-processing unit. 9. The management unit reconstructs print data for one or a plurality of image forming units for processing the print data based on the received print data, and reconstructs the reconstructed print data. The image forming system according to claim 8, wherein the image is output to each image forming unit. 10. An image forming method for controlling an image forming system for performing image formation by exchanging print data and job information for controlling finishing of the print data between devices connected to a network. A data generating step of generating job information for controlling a finishing process of the print data; an image forming step of receiving the generated print data and executing a drawing process based on the print data; And a post-processing step of controlling the finishing process for the print data drawn by the image forming step according to the job information. 11. The finishing process includes stapling, punching, rearranging pages, sorting in job units or page units, binding for bookbinding, and cutting for aligning end faces. 11. The image forming method according to claim 10, wherein processing by one or a combination of the finishing processings is added to the output medium subjected to the drawing processing in the image forming step according to the job information. 12. The data generating step generates job number information for identifying an operator and the print data, the job number information is received, and the post-processing step includes the job information and the drawing. The image forming method according to claim 10, wherein a relationship between the print data and the processed print data is specified. 13. The image forming step includes a single piece of print data that is drawn by another image forming step connected to the network and data that is drawn in its own step based on the received print data. The image forming method according to claim 10, wherein the image forming method is processed as the print job. 14. The post-processing step stores the job information,
The image forming method according to claim 10, wherein the image forming method can be received from the data generating step or the image forming step via the network. 15. The apparatus, which is connected to the network and which specifies a device for executing post-processing, further comprises a device for executing the post-processing specified by the specifying step.
According to the received job information, the print data drawn by a plurality of image forming processes is
15. The image forming method according to claim 10, wherein the finishing process is added by treating it as a single print job. 16. The method further comprises a step of controlling an apparatus that executes the post-processing, wherein the step specifies the relationship between the job information and the print data subjected to the drawing processing by the job number information, The image forming method according to claim 15, wherein a finishing process is performed on the print data. 17. A management step of receiving and storing and managing print data generated by the data generating step and job information for controlling finishing of the print data, wherein the management step is selected later. 11. The image forming method according to claim 10, wherein the job information is output in response to a request from an apparatus that executes the post-processing performed, and the apparatus executes the finishing processing. 18. The management process reconstructs print data for one or a plurality of image forming processes for processing the print data based on the received print data, and reconstructs the reconstructed print data. The image forming method according to claim 17, wherein the image is output in each image forming step. 19. A computer program, which specifies the function of the image forming system according to claim 1 as a function to be executed by a computer. 20. A computer-readable storage medium storing the computer program according to claim 19.