JP4251564B2 - Image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus including a printer that forms an image on a sheet and a system control apparatus that provides image forming information to the printer. The present invention relates to a multi-function image forming apparatus that receives document information via a communication line, prints it with a printer, and directly connects a document scanner and an operation board or a personal computer as required, and can perform various document information processing. The present invention can be used for, for example, a printer, a copying machine, and a facsimile.

  For example, multi-function image forming devices have been developed that can select and set various functions (multiple models) from low-level functions to high-level functions in order to improve multi-model development efficiency. Some of them are provided with a function setting means for setting an executable function corresponding to a model by discriminating the set model by referring to the discrimination memory.

JP 2001-159959 A, JP-A-6-149550, JP 2001-277667 A.

  In the cited document 1, a plurality of model setting files are installed on a host that uses a printer, a printer model ID is obtained from a printer connected to a printer port, and a printer driver is obtained according to the setting file addressed to the model ID. A printer control method for determining the operation mode is described. In Cited Document 2, a common program and a program for different processing for each of a plurality of models are stored in the ROM of the image forming apparatus, and based on data of a model selection unit that identifies a model such as an operation unit key, a drum encoder, or a DIPSW. An image forming apparatus that performs image forming control of a specific model is described. In Cited Document 3, using the operation panel for each model and the ROM storing the program common to each model and the dedicated data for each model, the key circuit of the operation panel is checked to determine the model, An image forming apparatus that controls the resulting model based on ROM data is described.

  By the way, when the contents of the hardware SW representing the model or the model discrimination memory are set to a higher model than the actual machine, there is a problem that the higher model is controlled. Not only when there are a plurality of printers and / or system control devices and a combination of them, that is, a plurality of models, but there are also a plurality of manuscript scanners and / or operation board models that may be assembled as necessary. Setting the model information in the system controller after confirming the component devices (document scanner, printer, operation board, or PC to replace or add to the operation board) to be connected to the controller is complicated and cumbersome. The model information setting may be incorrect. In addition, the element device may be additionally connected or removed at the user's place of use, but the model information may differ from the actual model (function). It is troublesome to reset the model information after delivering the element device to the user's location.

  The first object of the present invention is to simplify the setting of model information, and in the case of assembling an image forming apparatus by assembling elemental devices or adding or deleting elemental devices at a user's location of use. The second object is to eliminate the need for setting and changing information.

(1) In an image forming apparatus including a printer (100) that forms an image on a sheet and a system control device (ACP) that provides image forming information to the printer,
Model code generation means (130, 28a), nonvolatile memory (132, 30a), model code generated by the model code generation means immediately after the power is turned on, and model code of the lower function among the model codes held by the nonvolatile memory Model code setting means (31a) for holding the image data in the nonvolatile memory, and function setting means (31a) for setting the image forming apparatus to a function corresponding to the model code held in the nonvolatile memory, Image forming apparatus.

  In addition, in order to make an understanding easy, the code | symbol of the corresponding element or the corresponding matter of the Example which is shown in drawing and mentioned later in parentheses was added as an example for reference. The same applies to the following.

  According to this, if the highest model code is written in the non-volatile memory (132, 30a) before the image forming apparatus is handed over to the user, the power of the non-volatile memory (132, 30a) is turned on when the image forming apparatus is turned on. The data is automatically rewritten with the model code set in the model code generating means (130, 28a), and the image forming apparatus is automatically set to a function that can be actually used.

(2) Each of the printer (100) and the system controller (ACP) includes a model code generating means (130, 28a) and a nonvolatile memory (132, 30a);
The model code setting means (31a) is a low-order function of the model code generated by the model code generation means (130) of the printer (100) and the model code held by the nonvolatile memory (132) immediately after the power is turned on. Determined by the combination of the model code, the model code generated by the model code generating means (28a) of the system control device (ACP), and the model code of the lower function of the model codes held by the nonvolatile memory (30a), A model code of a printer and a system control device capable of realizing the highest function that the image forming apparatus can execute is held in the non-volatile memory of the printer (100) and the system control device;
The image forming apparatus according to (1) (FIGS. 9 and 14).

  According to this, the model code that realizes the highest possible function by the combination of the printer (100) and the system controller (ACP) is added to the nonvolatile memory (132, 30a) of the printer (100) and the system controller (ACP). ) Data is updated, and the printer (100) and the system control device (ACP) are set to the respective functions for realizing the highest-order function. For example, even if the system controller (ACP) is a model that is compatible with double-sided printing, if the printer (100) can only perform single-sided printing, the system controller is also set to a low-level function that is compatible only with single-sided printing. The

(3) Each of the printer (100) and the system controller (ACP) includes a model code generating means (130, 28a) and a nonvolatile memory (132, 30a);
The model code setting means (31a) includes a model code generated by the model code generating means (130) of the printer (100) immediately after power-on, a model code held by the nonvolatile memory (132), and the system control device ( Of the model code generated by the ACP model code generation means (28a) and the model code held by the nonvolatile memory (30a), the lower function model code is held in the printer (100) and the nonvolatile memory of the system controller. Let;
The image forming apparatus according to (1) (FIGS. 13 and 15). Also by this, the same effect as the above (2) can be obtained.

(4) A scanner (210, 230) having a model code generating means (257) and a nonvolatile memory (256) for reading a document image;
A printer (100) for forming an image on paper having a model code generating means (130) and a nonvolatile memory (132);
Operation board (220) having model code generation means (66) and nonvolatile memory (64);
A system control device (ACP) having a model code generating means (28a) and a nonvolatile memory (30a) for controlling the scanner and printer in response to instructions from the operation board and external devices;
Immediately after the power is turned on, the model code generated by the scanner model code generation means (257) and the model code of the lower function of the model codes held in the nonvolatile memory (256) and the model code of the printer (100) are generated. Of the model code generated by the means (130) and the model code held in the nonvolatile memory (132), the model code of the lower function, the model code generated by the model code generating means (66) of the operation board (220), Of the model codes held in the nonvolatile memory (64), the model code of the lower function, the model code generated by the model code generating means (28a) of the system controller (ACP), and the model held in the nonvolatile memory (30a) The model code of the scanner, printer, operation board, and system controller that can realize the highest function that the image forming apparatus can execute, which is determined by the combination with the model code of the lower function of the codes. , Said scanner (210, 230), the printer (100), model code setting means for retaining a non-volatile memory of the operation board (220) and system controller (ACP) (256,132,64,30a) (31a); provided with,
Each of the scanner (210, 230), printer (100), operation board (220), and system controller (ACP) sets a function corresponding to the model code held in its own nonvolatile memory;
Image forming apparatus (FIGS. 9 and 14).

  According to this, the model code that realizes the highest function possible by the combination of the scanner (210, 230), printer (100), operation board (220), and system controller (ACP), which is each element, The data in the nonvolatile memory (256, 132, 64, 30a) is updated, and each element is set to each function that realizes the highest function. For example, if an input / output function that supports a server function that uses the system control device as a server can be set in the operation board (220), but the system control device does not have a server function element, the operation board (220 ) Is set to a low-level function that does not perform server input / output.

(5) A scanner (210, 230) having a model code generating means (257) and a nonvolatile memory (256) for reading a document image;
A printer (100) for forming an image on paper having a model code generating means (130) and a nonvolatile memory (132);
Operation board (220) having model code generation means (66) and nonvolatile memory (64);
A system control device (ACP) having a model code generating means (28a) and a nonvolatile memory (30a) for controlling the scanner and printer in response to instructions from the operation board and external devices;
Immediately after the power is turned on, the model code generated by the scanner model code generation means (257), the model code stored in the nonvolatile memory (256), the model code generated by the model code generation means (130) of the printer (100) And a model code held by the nonvolatile memory (132), a model code generated by the model code generating means (66) of the operation board (220), a model code held by the nonvolatile memory (64), and the system controller ( Of the model code generated by the ACP model code generation means (28a) and the model code stored in the non-volatile memory (30a), the model code of the lower function is displayed in the scanner (210, 230), printer (100), operation board. (220) and model code setting means (31a) to be held in the nonvolatile memory (256, 132, 64, 30a) of the system controller (ACP),
Each of the scanner (210, 230), printer (100), operation board (220), and system controller (ACP) sets a function corresponding to the model code held in its own nonvolatile memory;
Image forming apparatus (FIGS. 13 and 15). Also by this, the same effect as the above (4) can be obtained.

  (6) The model code setting means (31a) sets the model code after updating each model code of the nonvolatile memory to the highest model code immediately after power-on; (2) to (5) The image forming apparatus according to any one of FIGS. According to this, for example, any one of the scanner (210, 230), the printer (100), the operation board (220), and the system controller (ACP) is replaced, or the scanner (210, 230) or the operation board (220) is removed or added. When the element configuration (combination of elements) of the image forming apparatus is changed by, for example, each element has a function that automatically matches the highest function that can be executed with the latest element configuration when the image forming apparatus is turned on. Set automatically.

  (7) The model code setting means (31a) searches for the highest model code in each model code of the nonvolatile memory immediately after power-on, and searches all model codes in the nonvolatile memory. The model code is set after updating to the higher model code; the image forming apparatus according to any one of (2) to (5) (FIG. 18). Also by this, the same effect as the above (6) can be obtained.

  (8) The image forming apparatus according to any one of (1) to (7), wherein the model code generating means (257, 130, 66, 28a) is a hardware data generator (FIG. 9, FIG. 9). 13). In the embodiments described below, the data generator is a dip switch.

  (9) The image forming apparatus according to any one of (1) to (7), wherein the model code generating means is an information storage medium (ROM255, 133, 65, 29a) (FIGS. 14 and 15). ).

  (9a) The image forming apparatus according to (9), wherein the information storage medium (ROM 255, 133, 65, 29a) is a partial area of a Flash-ROM as a rewritable program storage memory.

  (9b) The image forming apparatus according to (9a), wherein the part of the area is outside an area where version upload of the program storage memory is rewritten.

  (10) The non-volatile memory (256, 132, 64, 30a) is a backup memory in which a model code indicating the highest model is stored as an initial setting value; any one of (1) to (9b) above Image forming apparatus. According to this, immediately after the first power-on after shipment, each element is automatically set to a function that matches the highest function that can be executed by the image forming apparatus components.

  Other objects and features of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of embodiments with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 shows a multi-function full color digital copying machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. This full-color copying machine is roughly constituted by units of an automatic document feeder (ADF) 230, an operation board 220, a color scanner 210, and a color printer 100. Note that the operation board 220 and the color scanner 210 with the ADF 230 are units that can be separated from the printer 100. The color scanner 210 includes a control board having a power device driver, sensor input, and controller. Communication with the system control device ACP (FIG. 6) of the in-machine control board is performed directly or indirectly to read the document image under timing control.

  A LAN (Local Area Network) connected to a personal computer PC is connected to the system controller ACP (FIG. 6), and a telephone line PN (facsimile communication line) is connected to the facsimile control unit FCU (FIG. 6). The exchange PBX is connected. The printed paper of the color printer 100 is discharged to the paper discharge stack 26 (FIG. 2).

  FIG. 2 shows the mechanism of the color printer 100. The color printer 100 of this embodiment is a laser printer. The laser printer 100 includes four sets of toner image forming units a to d for forming images of each color of magenta (M), cyan (C), yellow (Y), and black (black: K). Are arranged in this order along the moving direction (lower right to upper left direction y in the figure). That is, it is a four-drum type full-color image forming apparatus.

  A neutralizing device 5, a cleaning device 4, a charging device 2, and a developing device 3 are arranged on the outer periphery of the photosensitive member 1 that is rotatably supported and rotates in the direction of the arrow. A space for storing optical information emitted from the exposure device 6 is secured between the charging device 2 and the developing device 3. There are four photosensitive members 1 (a, b, c, d), and the components for image formation provided around each are the same. The color of the color material (toner) handled by the developing device 3 is different.

  The photoreceptor 1 is a photoreceptor in which an organic semiconductor layer, which is a photoconductive substance, is provided on the surface of an aluminum cylinder having a diameter of about 30 to 100 mm. A part thereof is in contact with the first transfer belt 7. The first transfer belt 7 is supported and stretched between the rotating rollers 8, 9 and 10 so as to be movable in the direction of the arrow, and on the back side (inside the loop), the first transfer device 11 is attached to the photoreceptor 1. It is deployed in the vicinity. A cleaning device 12 for the first transfer belt is disposed outside the belt loop. Unnecessary toner remaining on the surface after the transfer from the first transfer belt 7 is wiped off.

  The exposure device 6 irradiates the uniformly charged surface of the photoconductor as a latent image with optical information corresponding to full-color image formation by a known laser system. An exposure apparatus comprising an LED array and an image forming means can also be employed. The first transfer belt 7 is a belt having a base of a resin film or rubber having a base thickness of 50 μm to 600 μm, and has a resistance value capable of transferring toner from the photoreceptor 1.

  In FIG. 2, the second transfer belt 13 is disposed on the right side of the first transfer belt 7. The second transfer belt 13 is supported and stretched between the rotary rollers 14, 15 and 16 so as to be movable in the direction of the arrow, and a second transfer device 17 is provided on the back side (inside the loop). Outside the belt loop, a cleaning device 18 for the second transfer belt, a charger 19 and the like are provided. After the toner is transferred to the paper, the cleaning device 18 wipes away the remaining unnecessary toner.

  The first transfer belt 7 and the second transfer belt 13 come into contact with each other by the second transfer unit 17, the roller 16, and the roller 8 that supports the first transfer belt 7, thereby forming a predetermined transfer nip. The second transfer belt 13 is a belt having a base of a resin film or rubber having a base thickness of 50 μm to 600 μm, and is a belt having a resistance value capable of transferring toner from the first transfer belt 7.

  The paper 20 as a recording medium is stored in the paper feed cassettes 21 and 22 in the lower part of the figure, and the uppermost paper is conveyed one by one by the paper feed rollers 31 or 32 to the registration rollers 33 through a plurality of paper guides. Is done. Above the second transfer belt 13, a fixing device 23, a paper discharge guide 24, a paper discharge roller 25, and a paper discharge stack 26 are arranged.

  A storage section 27 that can store replenishment toner is provided above the first transfer belt 7 and below the paper discharge stack 26. The toner has four colors, magenta, cyan, yellow, and black, and is in the form of a cartridge 28. The developing device 3 corresponding to the corresponding color is appropriately supplied by a powder pump or the like.

  The frame 29, which is a part of the main body, has a structure that can be pivoted and opened around the opening / closing support shaft 30. Therefore, the conveyance path of the recording medium is greatly opened to facilitate the processing of the jammed recording medium (paper). ing.

  Here, the operation of each unit during duplex printing will be described. First, image formation by the photosensitive member 1 is performed. That is, by the operation of the exposure device 6, light from an LD light source (not shown) passes through an optical component (not shown), and among the photoconductors 1 uniformly charged by the charging device 2, the photoconductor of the image forming unit a. Then, a latent image corresponding to the writing information (information corresponding to the color) is formed. The latent image on the photoreceptor 1 is developed by the developing device 3, and a visible image with toner is formed and held on the surface of the photoreceptor 1. This toner image is transferred by the first transfer unit 11 to the surface of the first transfer belt 7 that moves in synchronization with the photoreceptor 1. The remaining toner on the surface of the photoreceptor 1 is cleaned by the cleaning device 4 and discharged by the charge removing device 5 to prepare for the next image forming cycle.

  The first transfer belt 7 carries the toner image transferred on the surface and moves in the direction of the arrow. A latent image corresponding to another color is written on the photoreceptor 1 of the image forming unit b, and developed with a toner of the corresponding color to become a visible image. This image is superimposed on the visible image of the previous color already on the first transfer belt 7, and finally four colors are superimposed. In some cases, only monochrome black is formed.

  At this time, the second transfer belt 13 moves in the direction of the arrow in synchronism, and the image formed on the surface of the first transfer belt 7 is transferred to the surface of the second transfer belt 13 by the action of the second transfer device 17. The The first and second transfer belts 7 and 13 are moved while the images are formed on the respective photoreceptors 1 of the four image forming units a to d in the so-called tandem format, and the image forming is advanced. Can be shortened.

  When the first transfer belt 7 moves to a predetermined position, a toner image to be created on another surface of the paper is formed again by the photoconductor 1 in the process as described above, and paper feeding is started. When the paper feed roller 31 or 32 rotates counterclockwise, the uppermost paper 20 in the paper feed cassette 21 or 22 is pulled out and conveyed to the registration roller 33.

  The toner image on the surface of the first transfer belt 7 is transferred by the second transfer unit 17 to one surface of the sheet fed between the first transfer belt 7 and the second transfer belt 13 through the registration roller 33. Further, the recording medium is conveyed upward, and the toner image on the surface of the second transfer belt 13 is transferred to the other surface of the sheet by the charger 19. At the time of transfer, the sheet is conveyed at a timing so that the position of the image is normal.

  In this embodiment, the polarity of the toner imaged on the photoreceptor 1 is negative. By applying a positive charge to the first transfer unit 11, the toner imaged on the photoreceptor 1 is transferred to the first transfer belt 7. By applying a positive charge to the second transfer unit 17, the toner transferred to the first transfer belt 7 is transferred to the second transfer belt 13. By feeding the paper between the first and second transfer belts 7 and 13 and applying a positive charge to the second transfer unit 17, the toner transferred to the first transfer belt 7 is transferred to one side of the paper, Further, the toner transferred to the second transfer belt 13 is given a positive polarity charge from the transfer charger 19, so that the negative polarity toner on the surface of the second transfer belt 13 is sucked and transferred to the other surface of the sheet. The

  The paper on which the toner images are transferred on both sides in the above steps is sent to the fixing device 23, where the toner images (both sides) on the paper are melted and fixed at one time. Are discharged to the paper discharge stack 26.

  As shown in FIG. 2, when the paper discharge units 24 to 26 are configured, the surface (page) of the double-sided image that is transferred to the paper later, that is, the surface that is directly transferred from the first transfer belt 7 to the paper is the lower surface. In order to align the pages, the second page image is created first, the toner image is held on the second transfer belt 13, and the first page is stored. The image is directly transferred from the first transfer belt 7 to the sheet.

  The image directly transferred from the first transfer belt 7 to the sheet is a normal image on the surface of the photoconductor, and the toner image transferred from the second transfer belt 13 to the sheet is a reverse image (mirror image) on the surface of the photoconductor. It is exposed as follows. Such image forming order for page alignment and image processing for switching between normal and reverse images (mirror images) are also performed by image data read / write control with respect to the memory MEM by the image memory access control IMAC shown in FIG. ing.

  After the transfer from the second transfer belt 13 to the paper, a cleaning device 18 including a brush roller, a collection roller, a blade, and the like removes unnecessary toner and paper dust remaining on the second transfer belt 13. In FIG. 2, the brush roller of the cleaning device 18 is in a state separated from the surface of the second transfer belt 13. The structure can swing around the fulcrum 18a and can contact and separate from the surface of the second transfer belt 13. Before the transfer to the paper, the second transfer belt 13 is released when the toner image is carried, and when the cleaning is necessary, the second transfer belt 13 is swung in the counterclockwise direction in FIG. The removed unnecessary toner is collected in the toner storage unit 34.

  The image forming process in the duplex printing mode in which the “duplex transfer mode” is set has been described above. In the case of duplex printing, printing is always performed by this image forming process. In the case of single-sided printing, there are two types of “single-sided transfer mode by the second transfer belt 13” and “single-sided transfer mode by the first transfer belt 7”, and the former single-sided transfer mode using the second transfer belt 13 is set. In this case, a visible image formed by superimposing four colors (or monochrome black) on the first transfer belt 7 is transferred to the second transfer belt 13 and transferred to one side of the paper. There is no image transfer on the other side of the paper. In this case, there is a printing screen on the upper surface of the printed paper discharged to the paper discharge stack 26.

  When the single-sided transfer mode using the latter first transfer belt 7 is set, a visible image formed by superimposing four colors (or single color black) on the first transfer belt 7 is transferred to the second transfer belt 13. Without being transferred to one side of the paper. There is no image transfer on the other side of the paper. In this case, there is a print screen on the lower surface of the printed paper discharged to the paper discharge stack 26.

  FIG. 3 shows a document image reading mechanism of the scanner 210 and the ADF 230 attached thereto. The document placed on the contact glass 231 of the scanner 210 is illuminated by the illumination lamp 232, and the reflected light (image light) of the document is reflected by the first mirror 233 in parallel with the sub-scanning direction y. The illumination lamp 232 and the first mirror 233 are mounted on a first carriage (not shown) that is driven at a constant speed in the sub-scanning direction y. Second and third mirrors 234 and 235 are mounted on a second carriage (not shown) that is driven in the same direction as the first carriage, and the image light reflected by the first mirror 233. Is reflected downward (z) by the second mirror 234, reflected by the third mirror 235 in the sub-scanning direction y, converged by the lens 236, irradiated to the CCD 207, and converted into an electrical signal. The first and second carriages are driven forward (original scanning) and backward (return) in the y direction using the traveling body motor 238 as a drive source.

  The scanner 210 is equipped with an automatic document feeder ADF230. The originals stacked on the original tray 241 of the ADF 230 are fed between the conveyance drum (platen) 244 and the pressing roller 245 by the pickup roller 242 and the registration roller pair 243, and are brought into close contact with the conveyance drum 244 and placed on the reading glass 240. , And are discharged onto a discharge tray 248 that also serves as a pressure plate below the document tray 241 by discharge rollers 246 and 247.

  When the image on the surface of the document passes through the reading glass 240 serving as a document reading window, the image is irradiated by the illumination lamp 232 that is moving immediately below the image, and the reflected light on the surface of the document is optical below the first mirror 233. The CCD 207 is irradiated through the system and subjected to photoelectric conversion. That is, it is converted into RGB color image signals. The surface of the transport drum 244 is a white back plate facing the reading glass 240 and is white so as to be a white reference plane.

  Further, the image on the back side of the document is read and photoelectrically converted by an image pickup apparatus 408 including a light source and an image pickup device. That is, it is converted into RGB color image signals. There is a white back plate 409 facing the imaging device 408, and the document passes between the imaging device 408 and the white back plate 409.

  Between the reading glass 240 and the scale 251 for positioning the starting edge of the document, there are a reference white plate 239 and a base point sensor 249 for detecting the first carriage. Although the reference white plate 239 reads a document having a uniform density due to variations in individual emission intensities of the illumination lamps 232, variations in the main scanning direction, sensitivity variations among the pixels of the CCD 207, and the like, It is prepared to correct the phenomenon in which read data varies (shading correction).

  FIG. 4 shows a configuration of an electric system for image reading of the scanner 10 and the ADF 230. The electrical signals output from the image sensor 207, that is, R, G, B color analog image signals are respectively amplified by the signal processing 208 and converted into digital image signals, that is, image data by the A / D conversion 209. The image data is output to an image data processor IPP described later in detail. In the A / D conversion 209, the digitally converted image data is converted into one obtained by removing the portion corresponding to the black offset. In this case, the offset from the black side includes a difference between channels when the output from the image sensor 207 has a two-channel configuration for each of the R, G, and B color components. The main purpose of the arithmetic processing here is to remove error components between channels.

  The R, G, B color analog image signals output from the imaging device 408 are amplified by the signal processing 208a and converted into image data by the A / D conversion 209a. This image data is also output to the IPP.

  The scanner control circuit 206 controls the lamp control circuit 205, the timing control circuit 211, and the motor control unit 260 in accordance with instructions from the system controller 31a and the process controller 131. The lamp control circuit 205 controls on / off of the exposure lamp 232 (232a, 232b) in accordance with an instruction from the scanner control circuit 206, and the brightness (time) of the exposure lamp 232 to the illuminance (light quantity) instructed by the process controller 131. Series average value or smooth value). Reference numerals 232a and 232b may be collectively indicated by reference numeral 232.

  The motor control unit 260 controls the sub-scanning drive motor 238 and the ADF motor 224 in accordance with instructions from the scanner control circuit 206. These motors are all stepping motors, and rotary encoders (E) 221 and 225 are connected to the shaft of the drive system. The scanning position (y) and drive amount of the first carriage, and the front and rear end positions and feed amount of the ADF feed document are grasped by counting the electric pulses generated by the rotary encoders 221 and 225. The paper sensor 223 shown in FIG. 4 includes a sensor that detects whether a document is on the document tray 241 of the ADF 30, a paper jam detection sensor, and a document size detection sensor.

  The timing control circuit 211 generates various signals in accordance with instructions or control signals from the scanner control circuit 206, the system controller 31a, and the process controller 131. That is, when image reading is started, a transfer gate signal for transferring data for one line to the shift register and a shift clock pulse for outputting the data of the shift register bit by bit are given to the image sensor 207, and the system controller 31a. In response to this, a pixel synchronization clock pulse CLK, a line synchronization signal LSYNC, and a main scanning effective period signal LGATE are output. The pixel synchronization clock pulse CLK is substantially the same signal as the shift clock pulse given to the image sensor 207. The line synchronization signal LSYNC is a signal corresponding to the line synchronization signal MSYNC output from the beam sensor of the image forming unit 135 of the printer 100, but output is prohibited when the image is not read. The main scanning effective period signal LGATE becomes high level H at a timing at which the image signal output from the image sensor 207 can be considered valid.

  Upon receiving a reading start instruction from the process controller 131, the scanner control circuit 206 controls the timing control circuit 211 to start reading of the image sensor 207, turns on the exposure lamp 232, and sub-scanning drive motor 238 (manual feed mode). Alternatively, driving of the ADF motor (ADF mode) is started. Further, the sub-scanning effective period signal FGATE is set to a high level H (outside the document area). This signal FGATE is switched to L indicating the inside of the document area when the first carriage reaches the document start end position (position from the home position HP to a + b) in the manual feed mode, and in the ADF mode, the document (from the registration roller) The feed conveyance amount at the front end is the HP position (“feed amount Df from registration roller 243 to base sensor 249” − “HP to base sensor 249”, which is the document reading position in the sheet-through image reading mode using ADF 30. When the feed amount a ") is reached, it is switched to L indicating the document area. When the first carriage passes through the document tail edge in the manual feed mode and when the document tail edge passes HP in the ADF mode, the sub-scan effective period signal FGATE is returned to H indicating the outside of the document area.

  FIG. 5 shows the configuration of the scanner control circuit 206. The CPU 254 performs input / output control of the scanner control circuit 206 and drive control of the sub-scanning drive motor 238 and the ADF motor. That is, in response to a command such as a test command or a document reading command from the system controller 31a (FIG. 6) or the process controller 131 (FIG. 6), carriage driving or ADF driving and image reading are performed.

  A control program for the scanner control circuit 206 is written in a ROM 255 which is a rewritable Flash ROM. The NVRAM 256, which is a non-volatile RAM, is a working memory (backup memory) used by the CPU 254.

  The ROM 255 has a plurality of reading sections such as full size (multiple standard sizes) reading, A4 size reading, color reading, monochrome (single color) reading, ADF reading (double-sided reading, single-sided reading) and flatbed reading. A program common to various reading modes, a program for each mode, control data (including parameters), and a setting program are stored. In response to the initialization instruction from the system controller 31a, the setting program is a program for executing each of the single or plural reading modes corresponding to the model code in the model code register allocated to one area of the NVRAM 256. The program is generated based on the common program in the ROM 255 and the program and control data for each mode and written in the program storage area of the NVRAM 256. When the writing is completed, the program in the NVRAM 256 is started and the program is executed.

  A dip switch 257 is connected to the input / output port 258 of the scanner control circuit 206, and the dip switch 257 is also a function identification code of the document scanner related to the combination of the scanner 210 and the ADF 230 (there is also no ADF). The model code is set. When the document scanner is shipped, the model code of the highest model of the product group (model) to which the document scanner belongs is written in the model code register of the NVRAM 256.

  The CPU 254 turns on the power of the document scanner, and after completing the hardware initialization that enables the state reading in the document scanner and the communication with the system controller 31a and the process controller 131, the model code output by the dip switch 257. In addition, the model code in the model code register of the NVRAM 256 is transmitted to the system controller 31a. After that, when the system controller 31a sends the model code, it updates and writes it in the model code register of the NVRAM 256, and executes a program for executing each of the single or plural reading modes corresponding to the model code in the ROM 255. The program is generated based on the common program and the program and control data for each mode and written in the program storage area of the NVRAM 256. When the writing is completed, the program of the NVRAM 256 is started and the program is executed. That is, the document scanner is set so that a single or a plurality of reading modes specified by the model code sent by the system controller 31a can be executed.

  FIG. 6 shows the system configuration of the image processing system of the copying machine shown in FIG. In this system, a color scanner 210 including a reading unit 211 and an image data output I / F (Interface) 212 is connected to an image data interface control CDIC (hereinafter simply referred to as CDIC) of the system controller ACP. A color printer 100 is also connected to the system controller ACP. The color printer 100 receives the recorded image data from the image data processor IPP (Image Processing Processor; hereinafter simply referred to as IPP) of the system controller ACP to the writing I / F 134 (YMCK), and prints it with the image forming unit 135. Out. The image forming unit 135 is shown in FIG.

  The system controller ACP (hereinafter simply referred to as ACP) includes a system controller 31a, DIP switch 28a, ROM 29a, NVRAM 30a, parallel bus Pb, image memory access control IMAC (hereinafter simply referred to as IMAC), image memory MEM (memory module) ; Hereinafter simply referred to as MEM), hard disk device HDD (hereinafter simply referred to as HDD), NVRAM 34a, ROM 35a, font ROM 36a, CDIC, IPP, and the like. A facsimile control unit FCU (hereinafter simply referred to as FCU) is connected to the parallel bus Pb. The operation board 220 is connected to the system controller 31a.

  The RGB image signals generated by the CCD 207 of the reading unit 211 and the imaging device 208 of the color scanner 210 for optically reading a document are processed on the sensor board unit SBU, converted into RGB image data, and The shading is corrected and sent to the CDIC via the output I / F 212.

  The CDIC performs communication between the output I / F 212, the parallel bus Pb, and the IPP, and the process controller 131 and the system controller 31a that controls the entire ACP with respect to the image data.

  In addition to the semiconductor memory MEM, there is an HDD for storing a lot of image data. By using the HDD, there is a feature that an external power source is unnecessary and an image can be held permanently. Many original images can be read by a scanner and held in the HDD, and many document images provided by the PC can be held. Image memory access control IMAC (hereinafter simply referred to as IMAC) controls writing / reading of image data and control data to / from MEM and HDD.

  The RGB image data read by the CCD 207 and the imaging device 208 of the scanner 210 and the ADF 230 is subjected to image processing for correcting reading distortion such as scanner gamma correction and filter processing by the IPP, and then stored in the MEM. When printing out MEM image data, IPP performs color conversion of RGB signals to YMCK signals, and performs image quality processing such as printer gamma conversion, gradation conversion, and gradation processing such as dither processing or error diffusion processing. The image data after the image quality processing is transferred from the IPP to the writing I / F 134. The writing I / F 134 performs laser control on the gradation processed signal by pulse width and power modulation. Thereafter, the image data is sent to the image forming unit 135, and the image forming unit 135 forms a reproduced image on the transfer paper.

  Based on the control of the system controller 31a, the IMAC controls the access of image data, MEM, and HDD, develops data for printing on a personal computer PC (hereinafter simply referred to as PC) connected to the LAN, and effectively uses the MEM and HDD. Compress / decompress image data for

  The image data sent to the IMAC is stored in the MEM or HDD after data compression, and the stored image data is read out as necessary. The read image data is decompressed, returned to the original image data, and returned from the IMAC to the CDIC via the parallel bus Pb. After transfer from the CDIC to the IPP, the image quality processing is performed and the image is output to the writing I / F 134, and a reproduced image is formed on the transfer paper (paper) in the image forming unit 135.

  In the flow of image data, the functions of the digital multi-function peripheral are realized by the bus control by the parallel bus Pb and the CDIC. Facsimile transmission is performed by performing image processing on the image data read by the scanner 210 and the ADF 230 with the IPP and transferring the image data to the FCU via the CDIC and the parallel bus Pb. The FCU performs data conversion to the communication network and transmits it as facsimile data to the public line PN. Facsimile reception is performed by converting line data from the public line PN into image data by the FCU and transferring it to the IPP via the parallel bus Pb and CDIC. In this case, no special image quality processing is performed, and the image is output from the writing I / F 134 and a reproduced image is formed on the transfer paper in the image forming unit 135.

  In a situation where a plurality of jobs, for example, a copy function, a facsimile transmission / reception function, and a printer output function operate in parallel, the usage rights of the reading unit 211, the image forming unit 135, and the parallel bus Pb are allocated to the system controller 31a and the process. Control is performed by the controller 131. The process controller 131 controls the flow of image data, and the system controller 31a controls the entire system and manages the activation of each resource. The function selection of the digital multi-function peripheral is performed on the operation board 220, and processing contents such as an image reading function, an image data registration function, a copy function, a print function, and a facsimile function are set by the selection input of the operation board 220.

  The system controller 31a and the process controller 131 communicate with each other via the parallel bus Pb, CDIC, and serial bus Sb. Specifically, communication between the system controller 31a and the process controller 131 is performed by performing data format conversion for data and interface between the parallel bus Pb and the serial bus Sb in the CDIC.

  Various bus interfaces such as a parallel bus I / F 37, a serial bus I / F 39, a local bus I / F 33AA, and a network I / F 38 are connected to the IMAC. The system controller 31a is connected to related units via a plurality of types of buses in order to maintain independence in the entire ACP.

  The system controller 31a controls other functional units via the parallel bus Pb. The parallel bus Pb is used for transferring image data. The system controller 31a issues to the IMAC an operation control command for storing image data in the MEM and HDD. This operation control command is sent via IMAC, parallel bus I / F 37, and parallel bus Pb.

  In response to this operation control command, the image data is sent from the CDIC to the IMAC via the parallel bus Pb and the parallel bus I / F 37. The image data is stored in the MEM or HDD under the control of the IMAC.

  On the other hand, the ACP system controller 31a functions as a printer controller, network control, and serial bus control in the case of a call from the PC as a printer function. In the case of via the network, the IMAC receives print output request data via the network I / F 38.

  In the case of a general-purpose serial bus connection, the IMAC receives print output request data via the serial bus I / F 39. The general-purpose serial bus I / F 39 corresponds to a plurality of types of standards.

  Print output request data from the PC is expanded into image data by IMAC. The development destination is an area in MEM. Font data necessary for expansion is obtained by referring to the font ROM 36a via the local bus I / F 33a and the local bus Rb. The local bus Rb connects the IMAC to the ROM 35a that is a rewritable Flash ROM and the NVRAM 34a that is a nonvolatile memory.

  Regarding the serial bus Sb, in addition to the external serial port 32a for connection with the PC, there is also an interface for transfer with the operation board 220 which is an operation unit of the ACP. This is not print development data, but communicates with the system controller 31a via the IMAC, accepts processing procedures, displays the system status, and the like.

  Data transmission / reception between the system controller 31a and the MEM, HDD, and various buses is performed via the IMAC. Jobs that use MEM and HDD are centrally managed in the entire ACP.

  The system controller 31a controls the operation of each component connected to the parallel bus Pb. A control program for the system controller 31a is written in the ROM 29a which is a rewritable Flash ROM. The NVRAM 30a, which is a non-volatile RAM, is a working memory (backup memory) used by the controller 31a.

  ROM 29a has various image processing controls such as printing using printer 100, reading using document scanner, copying using printer and document scanner, server using MEM and HDD for document storage, and facsimile using FCU (facsimile control unit). A program common to each image processing control mode composed of a plurality of combinations of sections, a program and control data for each mode, a “model determination” program (OTD), and a setting program (2b) are stored. The “model determination” program (OTD) will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 9, but in general, the model of each component (scanner, printer, operation board, ACP, FCU) of the multifunctional copying machine. The code is collected, the highest function that can be realized by a combination thereof (multifunction copying machine) is determined, and the model code of the determined function is given to each component. Each component writes an operation program (which realizes the function) specified by a given model code into NVRAM which is a working memory of each component, and starts the operation program. The setting program (2b) is a single or plural image processing control corresponding to the model code (the given model code addressed to itself) in the model code register assigned to one area of the NVRAM 30a by the system controller 31a. A program for executing each mode is generated based on the common program in the ROM 29a and the program and control data for each mode and written in the program storage area of the NVRAM 30a. When the writing is completed, the program in the NVRAM 30a is activated to The program is executed.

  A dip switch 28a is connected to an input / output port (not shown) in the system controller 31a, and a model code that is also an image processing control function identification code of the system controller ACP is set in the dip switch 28a. ing. When the system controller ACP is shipped, the model code of the highest model of the product group (model) to which the system controller ACP belongs is written in the model code register of the NVRAM 30a.

  The system controller 31a powers on the system controller ACP to read the status in the system controller ACP and to perform hardware initialization that enables communication with other components (scanner, printer, operation board, FCU). Is completed, the model code output from the DIP switch 28a and the model code in the model code register of the NVRAM 30a are read. Then, “model determination” (OTD) is executed, the model code is determined, the model code register of the NVRAM 30a is updated and written, and each of the single or plural image processing control modes corresponding to the model code is determined. Is generated on the basis of the common program in the ROM 29a and the program and control data for each mode and written in the program storage area of the NVRAM 30a. When the writing is completed, the program in the NVRAM 30a is started and executed. To do. That is, the system controller ACP is set so that a single or a plurality of image processing control modes specified by the determined model code can be executed.

  A control program for the printer 100 is written in a ROM 133 which is a rewritable Flash ROM of the printer 100. The NVRAM 132 which is a nonvolatile RAM is a working memory (backup memory) used by the process controller 131.

  ROM133 has full size (multiple standard size) printing, A4 size only printing, duplex printing, single side printing, color printing, monochrome (black single color) only printing, printing speed (high speed / medium speed / low speed) , Sorter useability, paper feed bank useability, large capacity tray useability, etc., a program common to various print modes consisting of multiple combinations of various print processing categories, and individual mode programs and control data (including parameters) ) And a setting program are stored. In response to the initialization instruction from the system controller 31a, the setting program is a program for executing each of the single or plural printing modes corresponding to the model code in the model code register allocated to one area of the NVRAM 132. The program is generated based on the common program in the ROM 133 and the program and control data for each mode and written in the program storage area of the NVRAM 132. When the writing is completed, the program in the NVRAM 132 is started and the program is executed.

  A dip switch 130 is connected to an input / output port (not shown) inside the process controller 131, and a model code that is also a function identification code of the printer 100 is set in the dip switch 130. When the printer 100 is shipped, the model code of the highest model of the product group (model) to which the document scanner belongs is written in the model code register of the NVRAM 132.

  The process controller 131 turns on the power of the printer 100 and completes the hardware initialization that enables the status reading in the printer 100 and the communication with the system controller 31a, and then the model code output by the DIP switch 130 and the NVRAM 132. Is sent to the system controller 31a. After that, when the system controller 31a sends a model code, it updates and writes it in the model code register of the NVRAM 256, and a program for executing each of the single or plural print modes corresponding to the model code is stored in the ROM 133. The program is generated based on the common program and the program and control data for each mode and written to the program storage area of the NVRAM 132. When the writing is completed, the program of the NVRAM 132 is started and the program is executed. That is, the printer 100 is set so that a single or a plurality of printing modes specified by the model code sent from the system controller 31a can be executed.

  Similarly to the document scanner and printer 100, the facsimile control unit FCU also includes a facsimile controller, a ROM that is a Flash ROM in which a facsimile control program is written, an NVRAM that is a working memory (backup memory) and a nonvolatile RAM, and There is a dip switch in which a model code which is also a function identification code of the FCU is set. The FCU is set so that the facsimile controller can execute a single or a plurality of facsimile processing modes designated by the model code sent from the system controller 31a in the same manner as the setting of the printer 100 described above.

  The operation board 220 inputs processing to be performed by the ACP. For example, the type of processing (copying, facsimile transmission, image reading, printing, etc.), the number of processings, etc. are input. Thereby, the image data control information can be input.

  FIG. 7 shows an electric control system of the operation board 220. The main body of this control system is a CPU 53 that communicates with the system controller 31a, reads the input of the operation board 220, controls the display on the operation board, and a rewritable Flash ROM in which a control program of the CPU 53 is stored. There are a ROM 65, an NVRAM 64 which is a working memory and a nonvolatile RAM, a VRAM 68 which stores drawing data of the liquid crystal panel 79, a liquid crystal display controller (LCDC) 67 which is connected to the VRAM 68 and controls drawing timing of the liquid crystal panel 79, and the like. A liquid crystal panel 79 having a CFL light source as a backlight 70 is connected to the LCDC 67. The CPU 53 further drives an inverter 69 that drives the CFL backlight 70, a key matrix 71 of operation key groups 54, 55, 57, 62, and 63, an LED matrix 72 of display LEDs 56, 58, 59, and 61, and those LEDs. An LED driving device 73, a dip switch 66, and the like are connected.

  The ROM 65 performs operation input / output between the system control device ACP and the printer 100 and the user, and depending on the model, performs operation input / output between each of the document scanners 210 and 230 and the FCU and the user. A program common to various input / output modes, a program and control data for each mode, and a setting program are stored. The setting program is a program for executing each of the single or plural input / output modes corresponding to the model code in the model code register allocated to one area of the NVRAM 64 in response to the initialization instruction from the system controller 31a. Is generated on the basis of the common program in the ROM 65 and the program and control data for each mode and written in the program storage area of the NVRAM 64. When the writing is completed, the program in the NVRAM 64 is started and the program is executed. .

  A dip switch 66 is connected to the input / output port of the CPU 53, and a model code that is also a function identification code of the operation board 220 is set in the dip switch 66. When the operation board 220 is shipped, the model code of the highest model of the product group (model) to which the operation board belongs is written in the model code register of the NVRAM 64.

  The CPU 53 turns on the power supply to the operation board 220 and completes the hardware initialization that enables the state reading in the operation board 220 and the communication with the system controller 31a, and then the model code output by the DIP switch 66 and the NVRAM 64. Is sent to the system controller 31a. Thereafter, when the system controller 31a sends a model code, the ROM 65 updates a program code in the model code register of the NVRAM 64 and executes a program for executing each of the single or plural input / output modes corresponding to the model code. Are generated based on the common program of each mode and the program and control data for each mode and written to the program storage area of the NVRAM 64. When the writing is completed, the program of the NVRAM 64 is started and the program is executed. That is, the operation board 220 is set so that a single or a plurality of input / output modes specified by the model code sent from the system controller 31a can be executed.

  FIG. 8 shows an outline of image processing control of the system controller 31a shown in FIG. When the copying machine MF1 is powered on and an operating voltage is applied from a power circuit (not shown) (step 1), the system controller 31a reads the status in the system controller ACP and other components (scanner, printer, Hardware initialization (initialization 1; step 2a) that enables communication with the operation board (FCU) is performed. In the following, the word “step” is omitted, and only the step number is written in parentheses.

  Next, the system controller 31a executes “model determination” (OTD) to determine the model of the copying machine.

  FIG. 9 shows the contents of “model determination” (OTD). Here, the system controller 31a includes components ACP, operation board 220, document scanner 210, printer 100 and FCU of the multi-function copying machine, DIP switches 29a, 66, 257, and 130, NVRAMs 30a, 64, 256, and 132, etc. Requesting and obtaining the model code transfer (31, 32), among the DIP switch model code and NVRAM model code of each component, the lower model code Aid (for ACP), Bid (for printer 100) 1), Cid (from the scanner 210), Did (from the operation board 220), and Eid (from the FCU) are extracted, and an integrated model code which is a set of these codes is generated (33). Table 1 shows function items and model codes of some components of the multi-function copying machine, and FIG. 13A shows the data configuration of the integrated model code.

  The model code (element model code) of each component of the multi-function copier is encoded (encoded) as shown in Table 1 and is a code bit group that indicates the presence or absence of a function item function content or the function content assigned to the function item. Aid to Eid mean the lower model code of the DIP switch model code and NVRAM model code of each component.

  Refer to FIG. 9 again. Next, the controller 31a compares the integrated model code with the highest model search table and uses a model code (all functions) that can be executed by the multi-function copier by using the integrated model code (combination of Aid to Eid) (the highest function). The highest model code) is determined (34). Then, the determined model code (maximum model code) is disassembled into component model codes, that is, component model codes mAid to mEid, and these are respectively converted into corresponding component elements (ACP, operation board 220, document scanner 210, printer 100, and printer 100). FCU), and each component updates the model code in the model code register of the NVRAM to the one received from the controller 31a this time (35). FIG. 13B shows the data structure of the highest model code.

  Referring again to FIG. 8, the controller 31a next instructs each component to perform initialization 2. In response to this, each component is read from the ROM, which is designated by the model code given from the controller 31a and updated and written in the NVRAM (which realizes this function), and is stored in the working memory of each component. Write to a certain NVRAM and start the operation program. That is, for example, the processor 31a of the system controller ACP also executes initialization 2 (2b) to execute each of the single or plural image processing control modes corresponding to the model code updated and written in the model code register of the NVRAM 30a. Is generated based on the common program of the ROM 29a and the program and control data for each mode, written to the program storage area of the NVRAM 30a, and when the writing is completed, the program of the NVRAM 30a is started and executed. It is. Other components (the operation board 220, the document scanner 210, the printer 100, and the FCU) also execute similar initialization 2.

  When the above initialization 2 is executed, the operation board 220 displays a copy mode input standby screen set to the default (standard) as shown in FIG. 10 on the liquid crystal panel 79 of the operation board 220 (step 3). ). The display on the liquid crystal panel 79 shown in FIG. 10 shows that the multi-function copier has the highest model code (all functions: full spec) in the model, and the NVRAM of the operation board 220 has the highest level corresponding to the full spec. This is the case where the element model code is written. Each of the other components corresponds to the highest model code of the multi-function copying machine, and is set to the highest element model code (all functions) in the model of each element. Therefore, the image processing control of the system controller 31a after step 4 in FIG. 8 executes the function of the type to which the multi-function copying machine shown in FIGS. 1 and 6 belongs.

  The system controller 31a reads the input to the operation board 220 and switches the display of the operation board 220 through the CPU in the operation board 220. In the following description, it is described that the operation is performed through the CPU. Is omitted and expressed as being performed by the operation board 220.

  FIG. 10 shows a part of the operation panel surface of the operation board 220 (the facsimile related part is omitted). The operation board 220 includes a liquid crystal panel 79, a numeric keypad 80a, a clear / stop key 80b, a start key 80c, a preheating key 80h, a reset key 80g, an initial setting key 80d, a copy key 80e, and a copy server key 80f. Displays a function key, the number of copies, a message indicating the state of the image forming apparatus, and the like. By pressing the initial setting key 80d, the initial state of the machine can be arbitrarily customized. The paper size stored in the machine can be set, or the state set when the copy function mode clear key is pressed can be arbitrarily set. Also, select applications that are preferentially selected when there is no operation for a certain period of time, set the transition time to low power according to the International Energy Star Plan, and set the transition time to auto-off / sleep mode. It is possible to set. When the preheat key 80h is pressed, the machine shifts from a standby state to a power reduction state, lowers the fixing temperature, or turns off the display on the operation unit. The preheating state means a low power state as referred to in the International Energy Star Program. In order to cancel the preheating state, the off state / sleep state, and shift to the standby state, the preheating key is pressed again. By pressing the copy key 80e, the copy function can be used. The copy server key 80f is used when editing existing copy image data (copy mode setting, printing, deletion). FIG. 10 shows a state in which a default copy condition input screen is displayed on the liquid crystal panel 79. When the “copy server” key 80f is touched in this state, the display on the liquid crystal panel 79 is switched to the copy server function selection screen shown in FIG. When the “copy” key displayed on the copy server function selection screen is touched, the display on the liquid crystal panel 79 returns to the copy condition input screen (FIG. 10) before switching to the copy server function selection screen. Details of the copy server function will be described later.

  Refer to FIG. 8 again. In the next “input reading” (4), user input to the operation board 220, or PC1 to PC3 or other PCs or devices via the network (all of the above may be expressed as external devices). Read access. If there is a copy (copying) condition input, it is read. If there is an operation of the start key 80c, copy processing control (5-9) is performed. In this copy processing control, the image data read from the scanner 210 is temporarily stored in the MEM or HDD for a specified number of copies, but is automatically deleted when the specified number of copies is completed. When a print instruction for a document provided by an external device such as a PC is received, the document is received and printed out (10, 11). In this case as well, the document data is temporarily stored in the MEM or HDD for printing the specified number of sheets, but is automatically deleted when the specified number of sheets are printed.

  When the “copy server” key 80f is touched, the operation board 220 switches the display on the liquid crystal panel 79 to the “copy server” function selection screen shown in FIG. 11 (5, 10, 11). The “Copy & Accumulation” key displayed on the screen designates a copy mode in which an original is read by the scanner 210 and accumulated in the HDD and is also printed out by the printer 100, and “Original Reading” is for reading the original by the scanner 210. The “document selection” key is used to specify the display of the document file list stored in the HDD, and the “printing condition” key is used to set the printing conditions. For displaying the input screen). If the start key 80c is pressed while an input screen for setting printing conditions is displayed, printing is started under the printing conditions displayed on the input screen. The “copy” key is used to designate a return to the copy mode input screen (FIG. 10).

  When the user touches the “copy & store” key, the operation board 220 displays a “copy & store” input screen on the liquid crystal panel 79. The “copy & storage” input screen is obtained by adding a “storage condition” key to the copy condition designation screen of the liquid crystal panel 79 shown in FIG. 10, and when the user touches this “storage condition” key, the operation board 220 is touched. Pops up an “accumulation condition” input screen on the liquid crystal panel 79.

  When the start key 80c is pressed, the system controller 31a starts copying, and the image data of the scanner 210 is filed under the selected storage condition using the IMAC and stored in the HDD (15).

  When the user touches the “original reading” key on the copy server screen (FIG. 11), the operation board 220 displays the “original reading” input screen on the liquid crystal panel 79. The “original reading” input screen is obtained by deleting a key block related to printout from the copy condition specifying screen of the liquid crystal panel 79 shown in FIG. 10 and adding an “accumulation condition” key. When the user touches the key, the operation board 220 pops up an “accumulation condition” input screen on the liquid crystal panel 79. When the start key 80c is pressed, the system controller 31a starts reading the document, and uses the IMAC to file the image data of the scanner 210 as a file under the selected storage condition and store it in the HDD (17).

  When the user touches a “text selection” key on the copy server screen (FIG. 11), the operation board 220 displays a “text selection” input screen on the liquid crystal panel 79 (18, 19). An example of the “text selection” input screen is shown in FIG. A list of document information files stored in the HDD is displayed on the liquid crystal panel 79. At this time, the job can be changed by pressing any key on the touch panel. For documents stored in the HDD, the user ID, the document name, the number of pages, and the time are displayed for each line of the document. A document name is assigned each time an image is stored. The number of pages is the number of accumulated original images. The accumulation time represents the time when the image is accumulated. Although only five lines are displayed in the display example of FIG. 12, image information that is not displayed can be displayed by pressing the “Previous” key and “Back” key of the scroll keys. When each line displayed in the display area is pressed, the line is inverted to black. This is called a selected state. A plurality of pieces of image information can be designated as the selected state. For the document information file on the list, “delete from list” and “print condition” can be instructed. When a document information file on the list is selected and the “delete from list” key is pressed, the selected document is deleted (20, 21). When a document information file is selected and the “print condition” key is pressed, the display on the touch panel becomes a print condition input screen. Here, the printing conditions are set and the start key 80c is pressed to print out the image of the selected file according to the designated printing conditions (22, 23).

  When there is an access from the external device such as a PC via the network (World Wide Web), the network control 178 (including the www server, FTP server, DNS server, and authentication server) is a standard feature on the Microsoft Windows. The “Net application” (23) for providing the document information file to the Internet Explorer (PC on which the browser is installed) is executed (22, 23).

  The content of the “display copy input screen” (3) is specified by the model code written in the NVRAM 64 of the operation board 220. For example, if the model code of the system controller ACP does not have a copy server function, the multifunction function copying machine has a model code without a copy server function. The liquid crystal panel is displayed with no copy server key 29, gray blank display or inaccessible gray character display. Therefore, the controller 31a and the operation board 220 do not execute “display copy server input screen” (13). Further, the controller 31a does not execute the server process control in steps 14-23. That is, the server processing control program is not included in the image processing control program of the NVRAM 30a.

  Also, for example, even if the model code of the system control device ACP has a copy server function, if the document scanner (210 + 230) is a model code that cannot be read on both sides, the model code of the copier is Double-sided scanning and storage are impossible, and double-sided scanning and double-sided printing are not possible. Both the operation board 220, system control unit ACP and FCU cannot be scanned on both sides, cannot be scanned and stored on both sides, and can be scanned simultaneously on both sides. The operation board 220 displays a manuscript reading operation screen which has no duplex reading instruction input means or is inaccessible in “original reading” (17) in FIG. In “Display Copy Input Screen” (8) and “Copy & Accumulate” (15), a copy input screen in which there is no instruction input means for simultaneous double-sided scanning and double-sided copying is displayed.

  Further, for example, when the printer 100 has a model code that does not have a duplex printing function, the model code of the copying machine is a model code that cannot be printed on both sides and cannot be copied, and “display copy input screen” (8), In "Copy & Accumulation" (15) and "Print" (23), an input screen is displayed in which there is no instruction input means for double-sided copying and double-sided printing or is invalid.

  The hardware of the second embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment, and the content of “model determination” is different. Other functions are the same as those in the first embodiment. FIG. 14 shows the contents of “model determination” (OTDa) in the second embodiment. As in the first embodiment, the system controller 31a according to the second embodiment obtains dip switches and NVRAM model codes of the respective components of the multifunction copying machine (31, 32). Of the DIP switch model code and NVRAM model code of each component, the lower model code Aid (ACP), Bid (printer 100), Cid (scanner 210), Did (operation board 220) And Eid (FCU) are extracted (33a). Next, each model code Aid to Eid is searched for the highest model code of the highest function that can be executed by the multi-function copying machine with the model code (element function), and among the searched highest model codes (five types). Is selected (34a). Then, the selected lowest model code is inversely converted (decoded) into an element model code addressed to each component, given to each component (35a), and initialization 2 is instructed to each component (36). .

  In the third embodiment, the ACP, operation board 220, scanner 210, printer 100, and FCU, which are components of the multifunction copying machine, are omitted, and the dip switches 28a, 66, 257, 130, etc. of the first embodiment are omitted. In the ROM 29a, 65, 255, 133, etc., the element model code is written in an area where rewriting is prohibited, different from the area where the program is written when the program is upgraded. FIG. 15 shows the contents of “model determination” (OTDb) of the third embodiment. This content corresponds to a case where “dip SW” in each step of “model determination” (OTD) shown in FIG. 9 of the first embodiment is replaced with “ROM”. In the description of the contents of the above “model determination” (OTD) with reference to FIG. 9, “dip SW” in the description of “ROM” is the description of the contents of “model determination” (OTDb) in FIG. 15.

  In the fourth embodiment, the ACP, operation board 220, scanner 210, printer 100, and FCU, which are components of the multifunction copying machine, are omitted, and the dip switches 28a, 66, 257, 130, etc. of the second embodiment are omitted. In the ROM 29a, 65, 255, 133, etc., the element model code is written in an area where rewriting is prohibited, different from the area where the program is written when the program is upgraded. FIG. 16 shows the contents of “model determination” (OTDc) in the fourth embodiment. This content corresponds to a case where “dip SW” in each step of “model determination” (OTDa) shown in FIG. 14 of the second embodiment is replaced with “ROM”. In the description of the content of “model determination” (OTDa) with reference to FIG. 14, “dip SW” in the description of “ROM” is the content description of “model determination” (OTDc) in FIG. 16.

-First Modification of Examples 1 to 4-
In the first modification of the first to fourth embodiments, the model code of the component is the component model code of each component. However, between each component and the system controller 31a, the model code of the multifunction function copying machine is used. The model code of each component is exchanged in the form of. For example, each component element writes its own element model code (for example, Bid) in the code writing area addressed to itself in the data frame shown in FIG. 13A, and the code writing area of the other component elements is blank ( (Or 0 or appropriate data) and transmitted to the controller 31a, the controller extracts the data of the write allocation area of the transmission source element as the model code of the element, and the controller 31a sends each component to ( The model code (data frame) shown in b) is transmitted, and each component device extracts the element model code (for example, mBid) in the writing area addressed to the received model code and writes it in the NVRAM.

-Second modification of Examples 1-4-
In the second modification of the first to fourth embodiments, when the process proceeds to “model determination”, the system controller 31a first sets each component (ACP, operation board, document scanner, printer, and FCU) as shown in FIG. Then, the element model code of each NVRAM is updated to the highest element model code of each element (30). The subsequent processing is the same as the processing after the first step 31 of “model determination” in the first to fourth embodiments. According to the second modification, after the “model determination” is performed once, if the component is deleted, replaced, added, etc., the copier is changed to the changed configuration (element It is automatically updated to the highest model code in the combination).

-Third Modification of Examples 1 to 4-
In the third modified example of the first to fourth embodiments, when the process proceeds to “model determination”, the system controller 31a executes each of the components (ACP, operation board, document scanner) as shown in FIG. , Printer and FCU) by searching for the highest possible copier model code that can be executed by the copier by each element model code of NVRAM, extracting the highest copier model code among them, and extracting the highest The copying machine model code is converted into each element model code and updated and written in the NVRAM of each component (323). The subsequent processing is the same as the processing after the third step 33 of “model determination” in the first to fourth embodiments. Also according to the third modification, when a component is deleted, replaced, or added after “model determination” is performed once, the copier has a changed configuration (a combination of components) immediately after the power is turned on. ) Automatically updated to the highest model code.

1 is a front view showing an appearance of a full-color copying machine having a composite image processing function according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an enlarged vertical sectional view of the color printer 100 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is an enlarged longitudinal sectional view of a color scanner 210 and an ADF 230 shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an electrical system of document scanner 210 and ADF 230 shown in FIG. 3. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a scanner control circuit 206 and a motor control unit 260 shown in FIG. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image processing system in the copying machine illustrated in FIG. 1. It is a block diagram which shows the electric system of the operation board 220 shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the outline | summary of the image processing control of the system controller 31a shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the "model determination" (OTD) shown in FIG. FIG. 7 is an enlarged plan view of a part of the operation board 220 shown in FIGS. 1 and 6. FIG. 11 is an enlarged plan view showing a copy server input screen that is switched and displayed on the liquid crystal panel 79 when a user touches the copy server key 80 f shown in FIG. 10. FIG. 12 is a plan view showing a document selection screen that is switched and displayed on the liquid crystal panel 79 when a user touches the “document selection” key shown in FIG. 11. FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a model code of the multifunction function copying machine shown in FIGS. 1 and 6. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the "model determination" (OTDa) which the system controller 31a of 2nd Example of this invention performs. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the "model determination" (OTDb) which the system controller 31a of 3rd Example of this invention performs. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the "model determination" (OTDc) which the system controller 31a of 4th Example of this invention performs. It is a flowchart which shows the change part of the 2nd modification common to the 1st-4th Example of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the change part of the 3rd modification common to the 1st-4th Example of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

1: Photoconductor 2: Charging device 3: Developing device 4: Cleaning device 5: Static eliminating device 6: Exposure device 7: First transfer belt 8-10: Roller 11: First transfer device 12: Cleaning device 13: Second transfer Belts 14 to 16: Rotating roller 17: Second transfer device 18: Cleaning device 19: Charger 20: Paper (recording medium)
21, 22: Paper feed cassette 23: Fixing device 24: Paper discharge guide 25: Paper discharge roller 26: Paper discharge stack 27: Replenishment toner storage 28: Cartridge 29: Frame 30: Opening and closing spindles 31, 32: Paper feed roller 33: Registration rollers 221, 225: Rotary encoder 224: Stepping motor 231: Document glass 232: Illumination lamp 233: First mirror 234: Second mirror 235: Third mirror 236: Lens 207: Image sensor 238: Stepping motor 239 : Reference white plate 240: Glass 241: Document tray 242: Pickup roller 243: Registration roller pair 244: Conveying drum 245: Pressing rollers 246 and 247: Paper discharge roller 248: Pressure plate also serving as a paper discharge tray 249: Base sensor 250: Shaft 251 : Scale 260: Motor Control unit 301: image data bus 408: imaging device 409: a white back plate

Claims (10)

In an image forming apparatus comprising a printer for forming an image on a sheet and a system control device for giving image forming information to the printer,
Model code generation means, non-volatile memory, model code that holds the lower function model code in the non-volatile memory among the model code generated by the model code generation means immediately after power-on and the model code held in the non-volatile memory An image forming apparatus comprising: setting means; and function setting means for setting the image forming apparatus to a function corresponding to a model code held in the nonvolatile memory. Each of the printer and the system control device includes a model code generating means and a nonvolatile memory;
The model code setting unit generates a model code generated by the model code generation unit of the printer and a model code of a lower function among the model codes held in the nonvolatile memory and the model code of the system control device immediately after the power is turned on. A printer and a system control device capable of realizing the highest function that can be executed by the image forming apparatus, which is determined by a combination of a model code generated by the means and a model code of a lower function among the model codes held in the nonvolatile memory Holding the model code in the non-volatile memory of the printer and system controller;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1. Each of the printer and the system control device includes a model code generating means and a nonvolatile memory;
The model code setting means includes a model code generated by the model code generating means of the printer and a model code held in the nonvolatile memory immediately after power-on, and a model code and nonvolatile memory generated by the model code generating means of the system control apparatus. A model code of a lower function among the model codes held by the printer and the nonvolatile memory of the system control device;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1. A scanner that reads the original image with model code generator and non-volatile memory;
A printer having a model code generating means and a non-volatile memory for forming an image on paper;
Operation board with model code generation means and non-volatile memory;
A system control device for controlling the scanner and the printer in response to an instruction from the operation board and an external device, having a model code generating means and a nonvolatile memory;
Immediately after the power is turned on, the model code generated by the scanner model code generating means and the model code of the lower function of the model codes held in the nonvolatile memory, and the model code generated by the printer model code generating means and the nonvolatile memory The model code of the lower function among the model codes held by the machine, the model code generated by the model code generating means of the operation board, the model code of the lower function among the model codes held by the nonvolatile memory, and the system control device Scanner and printer capable of realizing the highest function that can be executed by the image forming apparatus, which is determined by the combination of the model code generated by the model code generating means and the model code of the lower function among the model codes held in the nonvolatile memory , The model code of the operation board and system controller, the scanner, printer, operation board And model code setting means for retaining a non-volatile memory of the system control device; comprising the,
Each of the scanner, printer, operation board, and system control device sets a function corresponding to the model code held in its own nonvolatile memory;
Image forming apparatus. A scanner that reads the original image with model code generator and non-volatile memory;
A printer having a model code generating means and a non-volatile memory for forming an image on paper;
Operation board with model code generation means and non-volatile memory;
A system control device for controlling the scanner and the printer in response to an instruction from the operation board and an external device, having a model code generating means and a nonvolatile memory;
Immediately after power-on, the model code generated by the scanner model code generating means and the model code held in the nonvolatile memory, the model code generated by the printer model code generating means and the model code held in the nonvolatile memory, the operation board The model code generated by the model code generator and the model code held by the nonvolatile memory, and the model code generated by the model code generator of the system controller and the model code held by the nonvolatile memory A model code setting means for holding a model code in the nonvolatile memory of the scanner, printer, operation board, and system controller;
Each of the scanner, printer, operation board, and system control device sets a function corresponding to the model code held in its own nonvolatile memory;
Image forming apparatus.   The said model code setting means performs the said model code setting, after updating each model code of the said non-volatile memory to the highest model code immediately after power-on; The model code setting as described in any one of Claim 2 thru | or 5 Image forming apparatus.   The model code setting means searches for the highest model code in each model code of the nonvolatile memory immediately after power-on, and updates all model codes in the nonvolatile memory to the searched highest model code. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the model code is set.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the model code generation unit is a hardware data generator.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the model code generation unit is an information storage medium. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the nonvolatile memory is a backup memory in which a model code indicating the highest model is stored as an initial setting value.

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