JP2007173887A - Image processing control apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image processing control apparatus capable of improving operability and thereby improving work efficiency of image input/output in an image processing network system. <P>SOLUTION: The control apparatus 11 is connected to a network 1 and constitutes the image processing network system. The control apparatus 11 can connect function units 12-15 and is provided with a display operating section 25. When the display operating section 25 selects another function unit other than the function unit connected to the apparatus 11 itself, the control apparatus 11 inquires the selected function unit or a control apparatus connected to the function unit about a function held at that time, and displays the functions of the selected function unit as a list on the basis of the acquired holding function information. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an image processing control apparatus used in a network system in which a digital multifunction peripheral, a printer unit, a scanner unit, a facsimile (hereinafter referred to as FAX) unit, a storage unit, and the like are connected via a network.

  A network system (referred to as an image processing network system in the present specification) in which a digital multifunction peripheral, a printer unit, a scanner unit, a FAX unit, a storage unit, and the like are connected via a network is known. In such an image processing network system, an image output distributed process called “duplicate copying” is disclosed.

  Here, the printer unit has a function of inputting image data and outputting an image by electrophotography, the scanner unit has a function of reading a document image, and the FAX unit is a FAX unit. The storage unit has a function of storing image data. Therefore, the printer unit is a unit for image output, and the scanner unit is a unit for image input. The storage unit can store not only the image data but also the stored image data. Here, the storage unit handles the image data, that is, the unit for image output. The image data stored in the storage unit is read and used by image processing software of a personal computer, for example. Further, since the FAX unit can transmit and receive image data, it can input and output images. In this sense, it can be called a unit for image input / output.

  In the present specification, the printer unit, the scanner unit, the FAX unit, and the storage unit all perform individual functions relating to image processing. Therefore, these units are collectively referred to as functional units. And

  In addition, the digital multi-function peripheral can have three operations of a copy operation, a FAX operation, and an image scan operation, and one or a plurality of image processing control devices (hereinafter simply referred to as control devices). It is configured by connecting functional units. Here, the control device controls the operation of each connected functional unit, and also includes a display operation unit having a function as a user interface (UI). Therefore, a control device is indispensable in a digital multi-function peripheral.

It is possible to connect a desired functional unit to the control device. For example, when it is desired to use as a copy device, a scanner unit and a printer unit may be used for the control device. When it is desired to use the apparatus as a FAX apparatus, a scanner unit, a printer unit, and a FAX unit may be used for the control apparatus. If only the FAX reception needs to be performed, it is not necessary to use the scanner unit, and only the FAX unit and the printer unit may be used as the control device.
JP 2002-160430 A

  By the way, when outputting certain image data in an image processing network system, there are cases where it is desired to use another printer unit connected to the network instead of the printer unit of the digital multi-function peripheral that the user is currently operating. This printer unit may be a single unit connected to the network, or may be a printer unit used in a digital multi-function peripheral connected to the network.

  In general, when an image is output by a printer unit, it is necessary to know the functions of the print unit and set parameters for each function as desired. That is, it is necessary to set parameters for various functions for image output such as color / monochrome type, single-sided print / double-sided print type, output paper size, output magnification, use / nonuse of sorter, and the like. . Further, as disclosed in the above-mentioned Patent Document 1, there is a method in which the parameters of each function are set by the display operation unit of the digital multifunction peripheral that is currently operated by the user and transmitted to a desired printer unit. However, there is a problem that the printer unit does not necessarily have all the parameters of the functions set at that time. For example, even if the output paper size is set to A4 size, image output cannot be performed if no A4 size paper is currently stored in the paper cassette of the printer unit.

  Accordingly, when the state of the desired printer unit at that time, that is, when the selectable parameters of each function of the printer unit at that time are not completely grasped, the user wants to output the printer to which the image is to be output. There is a problem in terms of operability and image output work efficiency because it is necessary to go to the unit and perform parameter settings for necessary functions in the display operation unit (UI) of the printer unit.

  The above is a case where image output is performed using another printer unit, but there is a similar problem when image input / output is performed using another functional unit connected to the network. For example, when it is desired to input an image from a certain other scanner unit, it may occur that the setting of a function parameter such as input resolution has to be performed on the display operation unit of the scanner unit.

  Therefore, the present invention provides a function parameter setting for image input or a function parameter setting for image output when a user inputs or outputs an image with a desired functional unit in an image processing network system. However, it is an object of the present invention to provide an image processing control apparatus that can improve the operability and thereby improve the operation efficiency of image input / output.

  In order to achieve the above object, an image processing control apparatus according to the present invention is an image processing control apparatus that can be connected to a functional unit that performs individual functions related to image processing, includes a display operation unit, and is connected to a network. When performing a certain operation, if a functional unit other than the functional unit connected to itself is selected, holding function information indicating the state of each function at that time of the selected functional unit is acquired. The function of the selected functional unit is displayed on the display operation unit based on the acquired retained function information.

  According to the present invention, when performing an operation, not only can a desired other functional unit be selected from the currently operated image processing control apparatus, but also how each function of the selected functional unit is selected at that time. Can be confirmed on the display operation unit of the image processing control apparatus that is currently operated, the user does not need to know in advance about the function of the selected functional unit, and the desired function It is possible to perform the setting without making an error, thereby improving the operability and improving the work efficiency of the image processing.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the invention will be described with reference to the drawings. First, FIG. 1 shows a configuration example of a control device according to the present invention and a digital multi-function peripheral using the control device. In FIG. 1, 1 is a network, 10 is a digital multifunction peripheral, 11 is a control device, 12 is a scanner unit, 13 is a printer unit, 14 is a FAX unit, 15 is a storage unit, 21 is a CPU, 22 is a ROM, and 23 is a RAM. , 24 is an image processing circuit, 25 is a display operation unit, 26 is a network interface (hereinafter, the interface is referred to as I / F), and 27 to 30 are communication I / Fs.

  The digital multifunction peripheral 10 shown in FIG. 1 is configured by connecting four functional units, a scanner unit 12, a printer unit 13, a FAX unit 14, and a storage unit 15, to a control device 11.

  The control device 11 can control the operation of the connected functional units such as the scanner unit 12, the printer unit 13, the FAX unit 14, and the storage unit 15 as shown in FIG. As described above, the CPU 21, the ROM 22, the RAM 23, the image processing circuit 24, the display operation unit 25, the network I / F 26, and the communication I / Fs 27, 28, 29, and 30 are provided.

  The CPU 21 is a control circuit that integrally controls each unit of the digital multifunction peripheral 10, that is, each unit in the control device 11, the scanner unit 12, the printer unit 13, the FAX unit 14, and the storage unit 15. The ROM 22 is a read-only memory in which a program that defines the operation procedure of the CPU 21 and data that is used when the program is executed is recorded. The RAM 23 is used as a work area for the CPU 21 and stores various data such as image data being processed. The image processing circuit 24 is a circuit used when generating uncompressed binary transmission FAX data to be supplied to the FAX unit 14 from multi-value image data generated by the scanner unit 12.

  The display operation unit 25 is a UI for setting parameters of each function of a functional unit used for input / output of image data, a touch panel provided with a touch sensor on a liquid crystal display, and a group of hard buttons. It is made up of.

  The hard button group includes mechanical switches such as a start button, a stop button, and a numeric keypad. In addition, various messages are displayed on the touch panel, and further, a touch button for performing various settings and a touch button for controlling transition of the display screen are formed by a combination of a liquid crystal display and a touch sensor. . The screen displayed on the touch panel and the transition of the screen when a touch button in the screen is touched are controlled by the CPU 21.

  The touch button display mode includes a selectable state indicating that the touch button can be selected, a select state indicating that the touch button is selected, and an unselectable state indicating that the touch button cannot be selected. There are three states.

  The network I / F 26 is an I / F for connecting the control device 11 to the network 1, and bidirectional communication with the CPU 21 with other control devices or functional units via the network I / F 26. Is possible. Therefore, the operation instruction to the CPU 21 can be performed not only by the display operation unit 25 of the control device 11 of itself, but also by another digital device connected to the network 1 via the network I / F. It can also be performed from the display operation unit of the multifunction machine.

  The communication I / Fs 27, 28, 29, and 30 are for connecting to various functional units, and can exchange information with the connected functional units. These communication I / Fs 27 to 30 may conform to any system as long as they can exchange information with the functional unit, and all of these communication I / Fs 27 to 30 The same type of I / F may be used, or different types of I / F may be used.

  Note that the network I / F 26 and the communication I / Fs 27, 28, 29, and 30 may actually use the same communication protocol. Different names are used to distinguish ones for connecting units.

  Next, functional units connectable to the control device 11 will be schematically described. The scanner unit 12 has a known configuration for reading an image of a document, can be used as a peripheral device of a personal computer system, and is a means such as an expansion board that can be connected to the control device 11 by a communication cable. It is equipped with.

  FIG. 2 shows a configuration example of the scanner unit 12. The CPU 31 is a control circuit that controls the operation of each unit of the scanner unit 12 in an integrated manner, and the ROM 32 is a read-only record in which a program that defines the operation procedure of the CPU 31 and data that is used when the program is executed is recorded. The RAM 33 is a memory used as a work area of the CPU 31, and the scanner engine 34 includes a mechanism and a circuit for reading an image of a document. The scanner unit 12 can be connected to the control device 11 via the communication I / F 36, and can be further connected to the network 1 via the network I / F 35. That is, the scanner unit 12 can be connected to the network 1 independently. In the present invention, since the specific configuration and operation of the scanner unit 12 are not essential matters, the description of further details is omitted.

  The printer unit 13 can be used as a peripheral device of a personal computer system, and includes means such as an expansion board that can be connected to the control device 11 by a communication cable. The printer unit 13 may perform image formation by electrophotography, or may perform image formation by other methods. Although the configuration of the printer unit 13 is not illustrated, the printer unit 13 includes a network I / F similarly to the scanner unit 12 and can be connected to the network 1 independently. In the present invention, since the specific configuration and operation of the printer unit 13 are not essential matters, the description of further details is omitted.

  The FAX unit 14 performs processing related to FAX transmission / reception, and has a configuration in which means for reading a document image and means for forming an image are excluded from a FAX apparatus that is normally used as a single unit. It includes a connected modem, a circuit for compressing / decompressing image data, and the like. The FAX unit 14 also includes means such as an expansion board that can be connected to the control device 11 with a communication cable. The FAX unit 14 also has a network I / F and can be connected to the network 1 alone. In the present invention, the specific configuration and operation of the FAX unit 14 are not essential matters, and therefore, detailed description thereof will be omitted.

  The storage unit 15 stores image data, and includes means that can be connected to the communication I / F of the control device 11. For example, if the communication I / F 29 of the control device 11 is compliant with USB (Universal Serial Bus), a so-called USB memory can be used as the storage unit 15. The storage unit 15 also has a network I / F and can be connected to the network 1 alone. In the present invention, since the specific configuration and operation of the storage unit 15 are not essential matters, the description of further details is omitted.

  Next, the operation will be described. Here, an image processing network system having the configuration shown in FIG. 3 will be considered. In FIG. 3, two digital multifunction peripherals 10A and 10B are connected to the network 1, and a control device 11C, a printer unit 13C, a scanner unit 12C, and a storage unit 15C are individually connected. Yes. The digital multi-function peripheral 10A has a configuration in which a scanner unit 12A, a printer unit 13A, a FAX unit 14A, and a storage unit 15A are connected to a control device 11A. The digital multi-function peripheral 10B has a scanner unit 12B and a printer unit 13B connected to the control device 11B. The FAX unit 14B is connected.

  In FIG. 3, for example, the control devices are denoted by reference numerals 11A, 11B, and 11C. The control devices 11A, 11B, and 11C all have the same configuration as the control device 11 of FIG. It shows that. The same applies to the other components in FIG.

  In addition, a unique IP address and port number are assigned to each control device and functional unit directly connected to the network 1. Therefore, in the image processing network system shown in FIG. 3, unique IP addresses and port numbers are assigned to the control devices 11A, 11B, 11C, the scanner unit 12C, the printer unit 13C, and the storage unit 15C, respectively.

  Here, an example of a screen displayed on the touch panel of the display operation unit 25 of the control device 11 will be described. Note that the screens described below are displayed on the display operation units 25A, 25B, and 25C of all the control devices 11A, 11B, and 11C connected to the network 1. The screen described below is merely an example.

  As described above, the digital multi-function peripheral can perform a copying operation, a FAX operation, and an image scanning operation. The copy operation is an operation in which an image of a document is input by a scanner unit and an image is output by a printer unit. The FAX operation includes an operation in which an image of a document is input by the scanner unit and image data is transmitted from the FAX unit to a desired telephone number, and an operation in which the image data received by the FAX unit is output by the printer unit. Contains. Further, the image scanning operation is an operation of inputting a document image with the scanner unit and storing it in the storage unit.

  When all four types of functional units are connected as in the digital multifunction peripheral 10A of FIG. 3, the above three operations can be performed in a self-contained manner in the digital multifunction peripheral. Since the digital multi-function peripheral 10B does not include a storage unit, the digital multi-function peripheral 10B itself cannot perform an image scanning operation. Further, since no functional unit is connected to the control device 11C, the control device 11C itself cannot perform any of the above three operations.

  In this image processing network system, a copying operation, a FAX operation, and an image scanning operation are possible. Therefore, an operation mode selection screen shown in FIG. 4 is displayed on the touch panel of the display operation unit of the control device as an initial screen after the start-up process at power-on. The operation mode selection screen includes a “copy mode” button for performing a copy operation, a “FAX mode” button for performing a fax operation, an “image scan mode” button for performing an image scan operation, and The four touch buttons of the “registration mode” button are displayed in a selectable state.

  Here, the “registration mode” button is a button for registering a functional unit other than the functional unit connected to the control device itself in the control device. That is, a scanner unit 12A is connected to the control device 11A itself of the digital multi-function peripheral 10A, but this network system is unexpectedly provided with a scanner unit 12B and a scanner unit 12C. In order to register the scanner unit 12C in 11A, the “registration mode” button on the operation mode selection screen is touched. Thereby, the display screen of the display operation unit 25A is switched to a registered functional unit selection screen for selecting the type of functional unit to be registered. An example of the screen is shown in FIG. On this registered function unit selection screen, all four touch buttons of “scanner unit”, “printer unit”, “FAX unit”, and “storage unit” are displayed in a selectable state.

  When the “scanner unit” button is touched on this screen, the unit name, IP address, and port number of the scanner unit registered so far are displayed as shown in FIG. 5B. At the same time, a registration input request screen for requesting input of the unit name, IP address, and port number of the scanner unit to be registered this time is displayed.

  In the registration input request screen shown in FIG. 5B, the IP address and port number of the scanner unit registered so far are the same as that of the scanner unit 12C. If it is, it is the IP address and port number assigned to that scanner unit, and if it is connected to a certain control device like the scanner unit 12B, its control The IP address and port number assigned to the device. The same applies to the IP address and port number of the scanner unit to be registered this time on this screen.

  The scanner name may be an appropriate number, for example, a serial number from 1, and may be entered using a numeric keypad. Also, the IP address and port number may be entered using the numeric keypad. If the number of scanner units already registered is large and not all of the registration input request screen shown in FIG. 5B can be displayed at one time, scroll display or the next page can be displayed. What is necessary is just to display a continuation on a screen, and the following is the same.

  Then, the name, IP address, and port number of the scanner unit to be registered this time are input on the input request screen of FIG. 5B, and the “Register” button 40 in the screen is touched. The 11A CPU 21A (not shown in FIG. 3) captures and registers the input scanner unit name, IP address, and port number. Thus, the scanner unit 12C is registered in the control device 11A. In this case, the display screen returns to the operation mode selection screen of FIG.

  Although the scanner unit registration in the control device 11A has been described above, the same applies to the case where other functional units are registered in the control device 11A, and the same applies to the case where a desired functional unit is registered in another control device. is there.

  Now, assume that the user is at the digital multifunction peripheral 10B and wants to make a copy. At this time, the user touches the “copy mode” button while the operation mode selection screen is displayed on the display operation unit 25B of the control device 11B. As a result, a copy function list screen displaying a list of copy functions is displayed on the touch panel.

  By the way, since the scanner unit and the printer unit are used for the copying operation, parameter setting for each function of the scanner unit and parameter setting for each function of the printer unit are required. Therefore, when the “copy mode” button is touched, the CPU 21B (not shown in FIG. 3) that controls the display operation unit 25B displays on the copy function list screen as shown in FIG. A list of printer unit functions and a list of scanner unit functions are displayed. Further, a “scanner selection” button 41 operated when using a registered scanner unit and a “printer” operated when using a registered printer unit are displayed. The “select” button 42 is also displayed in a selectable state.

  The types of scanner functions and the types of scanner functions displayed in a list on this screen are predetermined types predetermined as the functions of the scanner unit and the printer unit, respectively. In FIG. 6A, functions such as a paper cassette and color / monochrome are displayed as functions of the printer unit, and functions such as color / monochrome and text / photo are displayed as functions of the scanner unit. It is arbitrary what function is determined as the function of the unit, and all the determined functions are displayed in a list on this screen. If the function list of the scanner unit and the printer unit does not fit on one screen, scroll display or display on the next screen may be performed. The details of the functions of these scanner unit and printer unit will be omitted. The same applies to this point.

  When the CPU displays the copy function list screen on the touch panel, it is assumed that the scanner unit and printer unit connected to its own control device are used for the copy operation. The buttons of the functions possessed by are displayed in a selectable state, and the buttons of the functions not possessed are displayed in a selectable state. Therefore, regarding the CPU 21B, the scanner unit 12B and the printer unit 13B connected to the control device 11B are used for the copying operation, and the buttons of the functions possessed by these units are selected. The function is displayed in a possible state, and the functions that are not provided are displayed in a non-selectable state. For example, as shown in FIG. 6A, when “sorter” is defined as one of the functions of the printer unit and the sorter is not provided in the printer unit 13B, this “sorter” button is selected. Displayed in an impossible state. The same applies to the function of the scanner unit.

  Furthermore, although there are one or more parameters for the button functions displayed in the selectable state on the copy function list screen, one of the parameters is defined as a default. Accordingly, when the user sets an original on the scanner unit 12B, and the copy function list screen shown in FIG. 6A is displayed, the user can input the number of copies with the numeric keypad and press the start button, and then the scanner unit 12B, printer A predetermined number of copies can be made in the default state of the unit 13B.

  However, when a parameter is changed from the default for a certain function of the scanner unit and / or the printer unit and the copy is to be performed, the touch button of the function whose parameter is to be changed is touched on the copy function list screen. Now, assuming that the “double-sided / single-sided” button is touched from the printer function list, the parameter of the function is displayed, and the parameter button defined as the default is displayed in the selected state.

  FIG. 6B shows an example of the display screen in that case. In FIG. 6B, it can be seen that the “double side / single side” function of the printer unit has two parameters, “single side” and “double side”. In the figure, the “single side” button is hatched, which indicates that this parameter is set as a default parameter.

  Therefore, if the “both sides” button is touched on the parameter setting screen shown in FIG. 6B, this parameter is set in the copy job. Here, when a parameter other than the default is selected for a certain function, the selected parameter is applied only to the copy job at that time, and automatically returns to the default after the end of the copy job.

  It should be noted that in the parameter setting screen displayed when a button of a certain function of the scanner unit or printer unit is touched on the copy function list screen, parameters that cannot be realized among the parameters displayed at that time are not selectable. Is displayed. For example, when the scanner unit 12B does not have a double-sided reading function, “single-sided” or “double-sided” displayed when the “double-sided / single-sided” scanner function is touched on the screen of FIG. "One side" is displayed by default, and the "Double side" parameter button is displayed in a non-selectable state.

  Note that the CPU 21B exchanges information with each functional unit connected to its own control device 11B to determine whether each functional unit has a predetermined function. Needless to say, it recognizes what parameters can be selected for the functions it has. The same applies to the CPUs of other control devices.

  The same applies to the case where the “FAX mode” button or the “image scan mode” button is touched on the operation mode selection screen in the operation on the display operation unit 25B. For example, although not shown, in the FAX operation, the scanner unit and the FAX unit are used at the time of transmission, and the FAX unit and the printer unit are used at the time of reception. Therefore, the FAX function displayed when the “FAX mode” button is touched. On the list screen, a function list of three functional units of a FAX unit, a scanner unit, and a printer unit is displayed. The functions displayed as a list for each of these functional units are the predetermined functions predetermined for those functional units, as described above. In addition, the display mode of the function button of each functional unit displayed at this time is the same as described above, and the scanner unit 12B, printer unit 13B, and FAX unit 14B connected to itself are used in the FAX operation. As a thing, the buttons of the functions possessed by those functional units are displayed in a selectable state, and the functions that are not possessed are displayed in an unselectable state. The display mode of the parameter button displayed when a button of a certain function is touched is the same as described above. Further, in this FAX function list screen, a “scanner selection” button operated when using a registered scanner unit, a “printer selection” button operated when using a registered printer unit, and a registered FAX unit are used. The “FAX selection” button to be operated is also displayed in a selectable state. The predetermined functions for the FAX unit include time designation, transmission image quality, and the like. However, since they are not essential matters in the present invention, detailed description thereof is omitted.

  Similarly, although not shown, in the operation of the display operation unit 25B, the function list of the scanner unit 12B is displayed on the image scan function list screen displayed when the “image scan mode” button is touched on the operation mode selection screen. A list of functions of the storage unit is displayed, but since no storage unit is connected to the control device 11B, all functions regarding the storage unit are displayed in a non-selectable state. The display mode of the function buttons displayed for the scanner unit 12B is the same as described above. This image scan function list screen also displays a “scanner selection” button operated when using a registered scanner unit and a “storage selection” button operated when using a registered storage unit in a selectable state. The The predetermined function for the storage unit includes a storage file format and the like, but since it is not an essential matter in the present invention, detailed description thereof is omitted.

  The case where the operation is performed with the display operation unit 25B of the digital multi-function peripheral 10B has been described above. is there. Therefore, for example, when the “copy mode” button is touched on the display operation unit 25C while the operation mode selection screen is displayed, the same copy function list screen as shown in FIG. 6A is displayed. The printer unit function buttons and the scanner unit function buttons displayed in a list are all displayed in a non-selectable state. This is because neither the scanner unit nor the printer unit is connected to the control device 11C.

  Next, a “scanner selection” button 41 or a “printer selection” button 42 (see FIG. 6A), or a “FAX selection” button or a “memory selection” button, which is not shown, is selected by the current user. Functional unit other than the functional unit connected to the control device having the display / operation unit being operated (this is called “another functional unit”, and specific functional units are called other printer units, etc.) The operation when selecting and using will be described. The buttons for selecting these other functional units and the operation when these buttons are touched are the features of the present invention.

  Now, assuming that the user is operating the display operation unit 25B of the digital multifunction peripheral 10B, the “copy mode” button is touched on the operation mode selection screen of FIG. 4, and now the copy of FIG. Assume that the function list screen is displayed.

  At this time, in the copying operation, the user uses the scanner unit 12B of the digital multi-function peripheral 10B as the scanner unit, but the printer unit uses another printer unit instead of the printer unit 13B of the digital multi-function peripheral 10B. To do. At this time, it is natural that the user sets a document on the scanner unit 12B.

  In this case, the user needs to set parameters, including defaults, for each predetermined function for each of the scanner unit and the printer unit to be used. Therefore, for example, the user first sets the parameters of each function as desired for the scanner unit 2B in the scanner function list displayed in the list on the currently displayed copy function list screen. As described above, the scanner function list displayed on the copy function list screen displayed on the display operation unit 25B at this time is the function for the scanner unit 2B. Thus, the CPU 21B of the control device 11B recognizes that the function setting of the scanner unit 12B has been performed, and stores the set function.

  Next, the user touches the “printer selection” button 42 in the display screen. As a result, the CPU 21B displays a list of printer units that have been registered so far and switches to a printer unit selection screen that requests selection of a desired printer unit. An example of the printer unit selection screen is shown in FIG. In FIG. 7A, a list of printer unit names, IP addresses, and port numbers registered in the registration mode described above is displayed. In FIG. 7A, serial numbers from 1 are assigned to the displayed printer unit names in order from the top, but this may be in the registered order, for example.

  The user selects a desired printer unit on the printer unit selection screen. For example, a serial number assigned to the printer unit may be input from a numeric keypad. Here, it is assumed that the user has selected the printer unit 13C of FIG. As a result, the CPU 21B of the control device 11B recognizes that the printer unit 13C has been selected as the printer unit.

  Next, the CPU 21B specifies the IP address and port number of the selected printer unit 13C, and inquires the printer unit 13C about the holding function information via the network 1. This holding function information is information indicating the state of each function at the time of the selected printer unit 13C, and more specifically, for each predetermined function predetermined for the function unit, the function. The information including the selectable parameter and the default parameter for whether or not it has the function.

  In response to the inquiry from the CPU 21B of the control device 11B, the printer unit 13C creates holding function information and returns it to the control device 11B. When the holding function information is acquired from the printer unit 13C in this way, the CPU 21B displays a function list for the printer unit 13C on the display operation unit 25B based on the acquired holding function information. An example of the screen is shown in FIG.

  FIG. 7B shows a list of functions for the selected printer unit, in this case, the printer unit 13C. The functions listed on this screen are the predetermined functions described above. That is, it is exactly the same as that displayed as a printer function list on the copy function list screen of FIG.

  The display mode of the function buttons displayed on this screen is the same as described above, and the function buttons that are not included in the acquired retained function information are displayed in a non-selectable state. Buttons for functions other than are displayed in a selectable state. In addition, the display mode of the parameter button displayed when the function button displayed in the selectable state is touched is the same as described above. That is, the button of the parameter that is not possessed by the function in the acquired holding function information is displayed in a non-selectable state, the buttons of the other parameters are displayed in a selectable state, and one of them is displayed. One parameter is shown selected and shown to be the default.

  That is, at this time, the display operation unit 25B of the control device 11B of the digital multi-function peripheral 10B functions as a display operation unit of the printer unit 13C which is another printer unit. In other words, it can be said that the display operation unit 25B is impersonating the display operation unit of the printer unit 13C.

  In the screen of FIG. 7B, the user can set the parameters of each function of the printer unit 13C as desired including the default. Then, when the parameter setting for each function is completed, the “OK” button 43 is touched. Thus, the CPU 21B recognizes the function set for the printer unit 13C. The “return” button 44 in this screen is a button for returning to the previous screen of the screen, in this case, the printer unit selection screen shown in FIG. 7A, and is touched. Thus, the selection of the printer unit can be performed again.

  When the “OK” button is touched on the screen of FIG. 7B, the CPU 21B returns the display screen to the copy function list screen shown in FIG. 6, and then when the start button is pressed, the CPU 21B displays the copy job. Then, it is determined that the scanner unit 12B is used for inputting a document image and the printer unit 13C is used for outputting an image.

  Then, the CPU 21B sets the parameters of the respective functions previously set for the scanner unit 12B, in this case, the scanner function list displayed in the list in the copy function list screen of FIG. 6A. In addition to notifying the parameters of each function, it instructs the start of input of the document image.

  Further, the CPU 21B notifies the printer unit 13C of the function parameters of the printer unit set on the screen of FIG. 7B, the IP address and port number of the image data transmission source, and received them. Instructs output of image data. Accordingly, at this time, the printer unit 13C is notified of the IP address and port number of the control device 11B as the transmission source of the image data.

  As a result, the scanner unit 12B starts reading a document with the setting function notified from the CPU 21B, and passes the obtained image data to the CPU 21B. Then, the CPU 21B transmits the image data to the network 1 by designating the IP address and port number of the printer unit 13C.

  Thus, the printer unit 13C receives the image data transmitted from the control device 11B. As a result, the printer unit 13C performs an image output operation with the setting function previously notified from the CPU 21B. Thus, the image data input by the scanner unit 12B is output by the printer unit 13C.

  In the above description, when performing a copying operation, the scanner unit uses a scanner unit connected to its own control device, and the printer unit selects another printer unit. Other scanner units can be used, and the printer unit can be a printer unit connected to its own control device. It is also possible to use other scanner units and other printer units. The operation at that time is the same as described above, but only one example will be briefly described as follows.

  For example, when the user is operating the display operation unit 25B, if the “scanner selection” button 41 is first touched on the screen of FIG. 6A, then the printer unit selection screen of FIG. A scanner unit selection screen similar to is displayed. If a desired scanner unit, for example, the scanner unit 12A is selected on the scanner unit selection screen, the CPU 21B acquires the holding function information of the scanner unit 12A. However, as described above, the CPU 21B registers the scanner unit 12A. Since the assigned IP address and port number are assigned to the control device 11A, in this case, the CPU 21B inquires the holding function information of the scanner unit 12A from the control device 11A.

  As described above, the CPU 21A exchanges information with each functional unit connected to its own control device 11A, so that each functional unit has a predetermined function. In addition, since the CPU 21B knows what parameters can be selected for the functions it has, the CPU 21B can obtain the holding function information of the scanner unit 12A by making an inquiry to the CPU 21A.

  When the holding function information of the scanner unit 12A is acquired in this way, the CPU 21B displays a function list of the scanner unit 12A based on the acquired holding function information. The display modes of the function buttons and the parameter touch buttons at this time are the same as described above. Here, the user can set the function of the scanner unit 12A. After setting the function, the user returns to the screen of FIG. 6A again and touches the “printer selection” button 42 to select another printer unit. can do. At this time, for example, if the printer unit 13C is selected, the above-described operation is performed, and the user can select the function of the printer unit 13C, that is, set the parameters of each function.

  When the user presses the start button on the display operation unit 25B, the CPU 21B determines that the scanner unit 12A is used for image input and the printer unit 13C is used for image output in the copy job.

  Then, the CPU 21B addresses the registered scanner unit 12A to the registered IP address and port number, that is, to the IP address and port number assigned to the control device 11A in this case. Along with the function, the IP address and port number registered for the printer unit 13C as the transmission destination of the input image data, that is, the IP address and port number assigned to the printer unit 13C itself in this case are notified and the image is notified. Instructs the start of input.

  Further, the CPU 21B addresses the IP address and port number registered for the printer unit 13C, and the IP address and port registered for the scanner unit 12A that is the transmission source of the image data, together with the function of the printer unit that has been set. The number, that is, in this case, the IP address and the port number assigned to the control device 11A are notified, and the output of the received image data is instructed.

  As a result, the control device 11A passes the scanner unit setting function received from the CPU 21B of the control device 11B to the scanner unit 12A, instructs the start of input of the original image, and outputs the image data output from the scanner unit 12A to the printer unit. The printer unit 13C outputs the image data received from the control device 11A according to the setting function of the printer unit received from the CPU 21B of the control device 11B.

  Although the above description has been made with respect to the copying operation, the desired operation can be performed using other functional units in the case of the FAX operation or the image scanning operation as well.

  As described above, according to the control device 11, when use of another functional unit other than the functional unit connected to the control unit 11 is selected, the holding function information of the selected functional unit is inquired. Since the list of functions of the selected functional unit is displayed based on the acquired holding function information, the user does not need to know in advance about the function of the functional unit, and does not make a mistake in setting a desired function. It can be done.

1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a control device according to the present invention and a digital multi-function peripheral using the control device. 2 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a scanner unit 12. FIG. It is a figure which shows the structural example of an image processing network system. It is a figure which shows the example of the operation mode selection screen displayed on the display operation part 25 as an initial screen after completion | finish of the starting process at the time of power activation. FIG. 5A is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen displayed on the display operation unit 25, and FIG. 5A is a registered function unit selection screen displayed when a “registration mode” button is touched on the operation mode selection screen of FIG. FIG. 5B is a diagram showing an example of a registration input request screen displayed when the “scanner unit” button is touched on the screen of FIG. 5A. FIG. 6A is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen displayed on the display operation unit 25. FIG. 6A is a list of copy functions displayed when the “copy mode” button is touched on the operation mode selection screen of FIG. FIG. 6B is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen. FIG. 6B is a parameter setting screen displayed when the “Double-sided / single-sided” function button in the printer function list is touched on the screen of FIG. It is a figure which shows the example of. FIG. 7A is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen displayed on the display operation unit 25. FIG. 7A is displayed when the “printer selection” button 42 in the copy function list screen in FIG. 6A is touched. FIG. 7B is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed when a desired printer unit is selected in FIG. 7A.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Network 10, 10A, 10B ... Digital compound machine 11, 11A, 11B, 11C ... Image processing control apparatus (control apparatus)
12, 12A, 12B, 12C ... Scanner unit 13, 13A, 13B, 13C ... Printer unit 14, 14A, 14B ... FAX unit 15, 15A, 15C ... Storage unit 21 ... CPU
22 ... ROM
23 ... RAM
24: Image processing circuits 25, 25A, 25B, 25C ... Display operation unit 26 ... Network interface (network I / F)
27, 28, 29, 30 ... Communication interface (communication I / F)
31 ... CPU
32 ... ROM
33 ... RAM
34 ... Scanner engine 35 ... Network I / F
36 ... Communication I / F

Claims (1)

A functional unit that performs an individual function related to image processing is connectable, includes a display operation unit, and is an image processing control device connected to a network,
When performing a certain operation, if a functional unit other than the functional unit connected to itself is selected,
The holding function information representing the state of each function at the time of the selected functional unit is acquired, and the function of the selected functional unit is displayed on the display operation unit based on the acquired holding function information. An image processing control device.

Images