JPH08116429A - Network system for digital copying machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE: To improve the operability and the job efficiency by automatically processing documents set to a document feeder of digital copying machines on a network different from a control equipment as a series of document to allow one printer to print out document set to respective document feeders(DFs). CONSTITUTION: Each of digital coping machines 85a-85h is provided with a document feeder, and an original set to a document feeder of the digital copying machine 85a of a control equipment side and documents set to each document feeder of the digital copying machines 85b-85h on a network different from that for the control equipment 85a are processed automatically as a series of document. Thus, in the case of copy not set in one DF, all documents are set to some DFs and the documents set to each DF are read automatically and one printer executes printing, then the operability and the job efficiency for many documents especially are improved.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a network system of a digital copying machine, and more particularly, it can be applied to a network technology of a digital copying machine, and in particular, the number of copies that cannot be set in one DF is large. When performing, all the originals can be set in several DFs, and the originals set in each DF can be printed by one printer, which improves operability and work efficiency. The present invention relates to a network system of a digital copying machine.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In a conventional image forming system, a plurality of image signal output means for outputting image signals of an image scanner, a word processor, a personal computer and the like, and image signals output from the respective image signal output means. A system has been proposed in which image forming means such as a plurality of printers, which form image images based on the above, respectively, are recorded on recording paper.

Conventionally, a plurality of image signal output devices and a plurality of image forming devices are organically combined by a multifunctional function such as recording, storage and communication of image information to freely access from any place to another place. An image processing system that can be performed is disclosed in Japanese Patent Publication No. 2-21190. This conventional image processing system includes a storage unit for storing at least one screen of image data received from an external device, and the image data received and stored in the storage unit is scanned with a beam on a recording material. On the basis of a line synchronizing signal generated from the recording means in synchronism with the above, DMA transfer is performed line by line to the recording means via the bus line.

Therefore, the image data received regardless of the recording operation speed of the recording means can be supplied to the recording means in accordance with the recording operation of the recording means.
By repeatedly scanning the recording material with the beam, there is an advantage that image recording based on image data received from an external device can be executed at high speed. Conventionally, a digital copying apparatus that can connect a data copying machine to increase the copying operation speed is disclosed in, for example, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 5-3.
There is one reported in 04575.

This conventional digital copying apparatus outputs a copying control signal and a digital image signal to a transmission cable to which another digital copying apparatus is connected so that another digital copying apparatus performs the same copying operation. , A means for inputting a copy control signal and a digital image signal of another digital copying apparatus from a transmission cable to which the other digital copying apparatus is connected to execute the same copying operation as that of the other digital copying apparatus, or It is equipped with both.
Therefore, there is an advantage that one manuscript can be copied by a plurality of digital copying devices by a simple addition of hardware, and a large amount of copying and reduction of copying work time can be performed.

[0006]

However, in the network system of the conventional digital copying machine as described above, although one digital copying machine is connected through the network, one DF ( When copying the number of sheets that cannot be set in the document feeder), all the originals must be set separately in each DF and set in a single DF for copying, which is troublesome and has poor operability. There was a problem that it decreased.

Therefore, according to the present invention, when copying the number of sheets that cannot be set in one DF, all originals are set in several DFs, and the originals set in each DF are set in one. It is an object of the present invention to provide a network system of a digital copying machine capable of executing a printing operation by one printer and improving operability and work efficiency.

[0008]

According to the first aspect of the present invention,
In a network system of digital copying machines, in which at least two or more digital copying machines are provided with communication means for communicating operation commands and image information, each digital copying machine has a document feeder and an operating machine side. Automatically process a document set in the document feeder of the digital copying machine and a document set in the document feeder of another digital copying machine on the network other than the operating machine as a series of documents It has a manuscript processing means.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect of the present invention, a document processing order control for preferentially processing a document set in the document feeding device of the digital copying machine other than the operating machine. It is characterized by having means. According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the first and second aspects of the invention, when there is no document in the digital copying machine that is set to process a document, it is automatically skipped and set to operate. It is characterized in that it has a skip operation means for performing.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the first to third aspects of the present invention, when there is no original in the digital copying machine set to process the original, the original is set when the operation is executed and set. When there is a document table that has not been operated, a warning unit is provided to warn the user without executing the operation. According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the case of the first to fourth aspects of the present invention, when the originals are not confirmed after being set in each digital copying machine after the operation is started, It is characterized in that it has a warning means for interrupting the operation and giving a warning.

The invention according to claim 6 is characterized in that, in the invention according to claims 1 to 5, there is provided a switching means for switching between the system according to claim 3 and the system according to claim 4. The invention according to claim 7 is
The invention according to any one of claims 1 to 6 is characterized in that it has an informing means for informing that an original is remotely operated when the original is fed by the digital copying machine other than the operating machine. is there.

[0012]

According to the first aspect of the present invention, each digital copying machine has a document feeding device, and the document processing means causes the document set in the document feeding device of the digital copying machine on the operating machine side to be operated. Other than the copying machine, the originals set in the original feeding device of the digital copying machine on the other network are automatically processed as a series of originals.

For this reason, when copying a number of sheets that cannot be set in one DF, all originals are set in several DFs and the originals set in each DF are automatically read. Since the printing operation can be executed by one printer, the operability and work efficiency can be improved especially when copying a large number of documents. Further, particularly when the connection between the separated originals is important, such as the single-sided → double-sided mode, it is possible to prevent a copy error by a simple operation.

According to the second aspect of the invention, the document processing order control means preferentially processes the document set in the document feeding device of the digital copying machine other than the operating device. Therefore, since the originals of the digital copying machine other than the operating machine can be preferentially processed, the occupation time of the copying machine used remotely can be minimized. Therefore, the operating efficiency of the entire system can be improved, and a highly efficient system can be realized.

According to the third aspect of the present invention, when there is no original in the digital copying machine set to process the original, the skip operation means automatically skips the operation as if it was not originally set. Configure. For this reason, when there is no original in the digital copier that is set to process originals, it can be automatically skipped as if it was not originally set, and it can be used by someone skilled in the operation. The operation is not stopped rather than displaying a warning, etc., and when a DF occurs that does not require the actual number of originals even though the mode is set, the operation can be performed without resetting the mode, and work efficiency is improved. Can be increased. Moreover, since it is not necessary to prepare a warning display or the like, the cost of the display unit can be reduced.

According to another aspect of the present invention, when there is no document in the digital copying machine set to process a document, if the document set is not confirmed by checking the document set when the operation is performed, a warning is issued. By the means, the warning is issued without executing the operation. For this reason, it is possible to confirm the setting of the originals when executing the operation and warn without executing the operation if there is an original table that is not set.
It is possible to prevent a document setting mistake and prevent a mistaken copy. This is especially effective when the copy order is wrong and the one-sided → double-sided mode or the like.

According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, when the document feeding is started in each digital copying machine after the operation is performed, the document is confirmed to be set, and if the document is not set, the operation is interrupted by the warning means. To warn you. For this reason, at the time of starting the document feeding in each digital copying machine after the execution of the operation, it is possible to confirm the setting of the original and if the original is not set, the operation can be interrupted and a warning can be given. It is possible to prevent erroneous copying due to the fact that a manuscript is removed by a person. This is especially effective when the copy order is wrong and the one-sided → double-sided mode or the like.

According to a sixth aspect of the invention, the switching means switches between the system according to the third aspect and the system according to the fourth aspect. Therefore, claim 3,
Since the system of 4 can be appropriately switched, the operational operation can be appropriately selected according to the usage pattern,
Operability can be improved efficiently.

According to the seventh aspect of the invention, when the original is fed by a digital copying machine other than the operating machine, the informing means informs that the original is remotely operated. Therefore, when a document is fed by a digital copying machine other than the operating device, it can be informed that the document is being operated remotely, so that an erroneous operation can be prevented.

[0020]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. The terms commonly used in this embodiment will be described and defined below. First, the image reading device and the image reading unit will be described. An image reading device used in a digital copying machine has a function of irradiating a document with a light source, receiving reflected light reflected by the document, converting it into an electric signal by a solid-state image forming device (CCD), and performing necessary image processing. A device that has is used.

Here, necessary image processing includes processing such as quantization, shading correction, MTF correction, and scaling processing. Quantization is a process of converting analog data converted into an electric signal by the CCD into binary or multi-valued data, and shading correction is a process of correcting irradiation spots of a light source for irradiating a document and sensitivity variations of the CCD. Is.

The MTF correction is a process for correcting blur caused by the optical system, and the scaling process is a process for changing the reading density of an image and performing data interpolation using the read image data. Next, the image forming apparatus and the image writing unit will be described. An image forming apparatus or an image writing unit used in a digital copying machine is an apparatus for forming an image image sent by an electric signal on plain paper, thermal paper or the like by means of electrophotography, heat sensitive, thermal transfer, inkjet or the like.

Next, the video signal and the image data will be described. The electric signal of the image converted by the image reading apparatus, the electric signal of the image input to the image forming apparatus, and the signal for synchronizing with the electric signal of the image are collectively expressed as a video signal or image data. next,
The control signals and commands will be described.

In order to exchange the video signal among the image reading device, the image forming device and the application, it is necessary to transfer information between the devices. This means is expressed as control signal or command issue. Next, the extended function, application (hereinafter referred to as application), memory function and memory unit will be described.

A major feature of the digital copying machine is that an image is converted into an electric signal and read, and the electric signal is restored by an image forming apparatus. At this time, the read electrical signal changes variously,
By having the transmitting means, it can be applied to fields other than the conventional analog copying machine. In addition to being able to realize functions such as a FAX, page printer, scanner, and file system, recently, even when the copying function is executed, the read image data is temporarily stored in a storage device such as a DRAM and, if necessary, A function to execute multiple prints in one scan or to print multiple originals on one sheet of transfer paper when reading multiple copies by reading out image data (hereinafter referred to as memory function)
And so on. Functions that can be realized by these digital copier systems are expressed as extended functions or applications.

In the present invention, the memory unit is also used as a buffer for transferring image data between machines on the network. Next, the system controller and system will be described. When the copy mode is executed, the image writing unit forms an image, so paper conveyance processing, electrophotographic process processing, in-machine monitoring of abnormal status and paper feed cassette status (paper presence, etc.), and image reading section To scan the scanner and turn on the light source
Controllers that control ON / OFF and the like are collectively referred to as a system controller.

Further, recent digital copying machines are not only equipped with one extended function, but are also equipped with a plurality of applications simultaneously. In this way, a digital copying machine that shares one resource may be expressed as a system, and a controller that controls this system may be expressed as a system controller. Next, resources and resources will be described.

A functional unit unit shared by a plurality of applications is expressed as a resource. The system controller described above controls the system in units of this resource. The resources managed by the digital copying machine of this embodiment are the image reading device, the image forming device, the operation unit, the memory, and the peripheral devices (ADF, sorter, automatic duplex unit, etc.).
Etc.

Next, user restrictions will be described. In particular, a digital copying machine using an electrophotographic process consumes a large amount, and thus it may not be desired to permit unlimited use. At this time, in order to identify, limit, and manage the use, a user-restricted device such as a coin rack, a key counter, a key card, a prepaid card, or a personal identification code is used.

Next, user setting will be described. When the system becomes complicated, it is necessary to support each user individually. Satisfying all of these measures at the time of factory shipment is
Since it is difficult in practice, it is essential to deal with it in the market.
Therefore, normally, a nonvolatile RAM is installed and system setting is performed according to a user's request, and this function is expressed as user setting.

Next, the idle state will be described. A state in which no user operation is performed for a certain period is referred to as an idle state, and other states are referred to as a busy state. The user can set the time from the busy state to the idle state. For example, not only during the copying operation, but also for a certain period after the copying operation ends,
If the non-operation state by the user does not continue, it does not transit to the idle state.

Next, the human body detection sensor will be described.
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a human body detection sensor. The human body detection sensor 1 includes an infrared ray emitting diode, an optical system that limits the emission of infrared rays in a certain direction, and an infrared light receiving sensor that detects reflected light of emitted infrared rays, and an object (operator) within a certain distance from the sensor. Is detected, and a signal is sent to the main body control plate 2.

Further, a detection distance changeover switch is provided inside the human body detection sensor 1, and the detection distance can be changed over in two steps. By arranging the human body detection sensor 1 on the front surface of the image forming apparatus, it is possible to confirm whether or not an operator is in front of the apparatus. Next, the weekly timer will be described.

The weekly timer means a function of turning on / off the power according to the ON / OFF time set for each day of the week. In order to perform this function, the operation to adjust the time of the clock module and ON / OFF for each day of the week
An operation to set the OFF time is required. Next, preheating will be described.

Preheating is performed by fixing the fixing temperature to a constant temperature, for example, 10
It is a mode to save power consumption by lowering the temperature by ℃ to control and turning off the display on the operation panel. The setting of this mode is automatically set after a certain period of time after the operation and the operation are stopped depending on the key input on the operation unit or the machine setting.
This mode is released when the human body detection sensor detects a person standing in front of the machine by key input on the operation unit or machine setting.

Next, reloading will be described. When the fixing temperature reaches the fixable temperature and copying is possible, it is called reloading. Next, the interrupt mode will be described. The interrupt mode is a mode in which copying is temporarily interrupted to perform copying during execution and operation of the copying operation. By setting this mode, if the previous copy mode and copying are in progress, the midway progress information is stored in the non-volatile RAM and the mode is changed to the interrupt mode.
Initialize the mode.

When the interrupt mode is released after executing the copy operation, the mode and information stored in the non-volatile RAM are returned to restore the state before setting the interrupt mode, and the mode before interrupt is continued by restarting. You can The setting / cancellation of this mode can be performed using the keys of the operation unit. Next, the DF (document feeder) will be described.

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the DF. D
F is a device that separates a stack of documents one by one and sends them on the contact glass for setting. The DF has two DC servomotors, a transport motor and a paper discharge motor, and makes the paper feed unit, the reversing unit, and the paper discharge unit independent. The reversing unit and the paper discharging unit have a reversing mechanism so that one-sided copying of a double-sided original can be performed.

When the original is placed on the original table 3 and is inserted until it is slightly abutted, the original set detection device 4 detects the original and the original insertion display is turned off. Here, when you press the start key of the digital copier, the calling solenoid,
Paper feed spring The electromagnetic clutch is turned on. Next, the conveyance motor is turned on and the document is fed. At this time, as for the fed original, only the lowermost original is fed by the separation belt 5 and the separation roller 6.

Next, the document passing through the separation roller 6 is detected by the resist detection / document width detection device 7, the pulse generator 8 and the document length detection device 9 for the document size.
When the trailing edge of the document passes through the registration detecting device 7,
The registration detection device 7 is turned off, and the carry motor is turned off when the designated pulse is reached. As a result, the transport belt stops and the document stops at the designated position.

Next, when the reading of the original image is completed and the original replacement signal is sent, the conveying motor and the paper discharge motor are turned on to discharge the original and feed the next original. In the case of a double-sided original, there is an original reversing mechanism in which the original once passes over the contact glass, the original is inverted by the reversing unit and the paper discharge unit, and the original is conveyed again onto the contact glass. Here, the number of documents that can be set on the document table 3 is limited by the opening of the insertion section, the separation mechanism, and the like. At this time, if the number of sheets exceeds the allowable number, paper jam or double feeding may occur.

The DF is connected by a communication line for transmitting and receiving commands to and from the power source of the digital copying machine, operates in accordance with commands such as paper feeding and paper discharging from the digital copying machine, and the state of the DF such as the presence or absence of a document. To send. Here, FIG.
In the figure, 10 to 16 are a document scale, a calling roller, a calling lever, a paper discharge roller, a reversal switching claw, a reversal paper ejection detection device, and a reversal roller, respectively.

Next, the CSS (remote diagnosis system or image forming apparatus management system) will be described. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the image forming apparatus management system. A management device 25 installed at a service base and a device such as a digital copying machine 26 installed at a user's source are connected via a public line network 27.

On the user side, a communication control device 28 for controlling communication with the management device 25 is installed, and the user's original digital copying machine 26 is connected to this communication control device 28. Communication control 2
A telephone 29 or a facsimile 30 can be connected to the device 8 so that the device 8 can be installed by inserting it into the existing line of the user.

A plurality of digital copying machines 26 can be connected to the communication control device 28, but a single device may be used. These digital copiers 26
Need not be of the same type, may be of different models, and may be a device other than the digital copying machine 26. Here, for convenience of explanation, one communication control device 28
Up to five digital copiers 26 can be connected to the computer. The communication control device 28 and the plurality of digital copying machines 26 are multi-drop connected according to the RS-485 standard. Communication control between the communication control device 28 and each digital copying machine 26 is performed by a basic type data transmission control procedure. By establishing a data link by the polling / selecting method of centralized control using the communication control device 28 as a control station, communication with an arbitrary digital copying machine 26 can be performed. A unique value can be set in each digital copying machine 26 by an address setting switch, whereby the polling address and selecting address of each digital copying machine 26 are determined.

Next, the operation section will be described. FIG. 4 is an external view showing the configuration of the operation unit. The operation unit in the illustrated example is configured by hard keys such as a numeric keypad and touch panel keys arranged on the liquid crystal. In FIG. 4, 31 is a ten-key for setting the number of copies, etc., 32 is a liquid crystal display screen serving as a touch panel for displaying operation status and messages, and 33 is a mode for displaying a description of functions and a method of operation. This is a guidance key used when making a transition. 34 is a program key that is used when registering or calling frequently used settings, 35 is an area processing key that is used when specifying an area or setting a copy mode for each area, and 36 is a liquid crystal display. This is a brightness adjustment knob used when adjusting the brightness of the display screen.

Reference numeral 37 is a mode clear / preheat / timer key used when canceling the set contents or setting the preheat state by continuously pressing for a certain time or longer, and 38 is an interrupt during copying operation and another original It is an interrupt key used when copying. Next, FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the configuration of the touch panel detection circuit. In FIG. 5, 41 is a controller that controls the entire touch panel detection circuit, and 42 is an A / A that converts an analog signal into a digital signal.
It is a D converter.

The detection terminal is set to High by the controller 41.
In the h state, Al, A2, B1 and B2 are set based on the combination table shown in FIG. 6, and the circuits B1 and B2 are pulled up.
Becomes + 5V, and when ON, it becomes 0V. Therefore, A
The ON / OFF state is confirmed from the output of the / D converter 42.

When the controller 41 detects the touch panel ON state, it switches to the measurement mode. In the A direction, A1 becomes + 5V, A2 becomes 0V, the potential at the input position is connected to the A / D converter 42 through B1, and the coordinates are calculated. The coordinates in the B direction are calculated in the same manner by switching the circuit, and the touched position of the touch panel is detected.

Next, FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing the structure of the operation unit. In FIG. 7, reference numeral 45 is a CPU that controls the entire operation unit, 46 is an address latch, 47 is a ROM, and 48 is a system reset connected to the CPU 45. 49 is an address decoder, 50 is an LED driver, 51 is a keyboard, and 52 is an LCD controller.

The LCD controller 52 includes a CPU 45
In addition to the address bus and data bus from the LED driver 50, keyboard 51, analog touch panel 5
3, LCD module 54, and RO for display data
M55, RAM56, etc. are connected. Also, CPU
An optical transceiver 57 that executes serial communication with the outside is connected to 45.

In the above configuration, the address signal from the CPU 45 is taken in by the address latch 46 and the CP
It is controlled by the signal from U45. Address latch 4
A part of the signal output from 6 is the address decoder 4
9 is input, and a chip select for each IC is created here and used for creating a memory map. In addition, the addresses include memories such as ROM and RAM, and the LCD controller 5.
2 is entered and used for addressing.

On the other hand, the data bus from the CPU 45 is connected to the memory and the LCD controller 52, and bidirectional communication of data is executed. Also, the LCD controller 52
Controls display on the LCD module 54 by creating display data from the data stored in the ROM 55 and the RAM 56 by a signal from the keyboard 51 and a signal from the touch panel 53.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a display example of a liquid crystal display screen. In FIG. 8, the upper left is a message area 61 for displaying a message such as “Ready to copy” and “Please wait”, the right is a copy number display section 62 for displaying the set number, and the image density below is automatically displayed. Automatic density key 63 for automatic adjustment, automatic paper selection key 64 for automatically selecting transfer paper, sort key 65 for specifying a process for arranging copies part by page, and stack for specifying a process for sorting copies by page. A key 66, a staple key 67 for specifying a process of binding the sorted products one by one, an equal size key for setting the magnification to the same size, a scaling key 68 for setting the enlargement / reduction ratio, and a duplex mode for setting the double-sided mode. Key 69, erase / move key 70 for setting the binding margin mode, etc. Look, an original consolidated mode 71 to be printed out together. Keys are shaded in the selected mode.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a screen display for setting what DF of the digital copying machine is used to realize in the document connection mode. What digital copier to choose
Selection is made by pressing the keys 75a to 75h of each digital copying machine. When the setting end key 76 is pressed after the setting of which digital copying machine is used, the screen shown in FIG. 10 is displayed and the document connection mode 71 is set.
When canceling the original connection mode 71, pressing the key 71 cancels it, and pressing the key 71 again brings up the screen display of FIG.

Next, FIG. 11 is a view showing a warning display displayed on the operation section of another digital copying machine when the document connection mode is set by the operation machine. This warning display is a display for warning that a person other than the operator does not set a document or remove the set document. Next, FIG. 12 is a view showing a warning display which is displayed when the original is not set on the original table to be set in the original connecting mode. The same message is displayed when the copy operation is started and the warning is displayed during the copy process. This screen is cleared by pressing the confirmation key 77.

Next, FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a screen display of user settings when the operation is switched depending on the usage pattern of the user. User settings are continued key 78 and suspend key 79.
Setting can be performed by pressing, and the user can exit the user setting screen by pressing the end key 80. The way to enter this screen is switched to this screen when the ten keys 1, 2, and 3 are pressed at the same time.

The structure and operation of the embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing the system configuration of a digital copying machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. 14
As shown in FIG. 3, the digital copying machine 85 is a document feeder (ADF; Auto Document Feed).
r) 86, operation unit 87, image reading device 88, image forming device 89, duplex unit 90, paper discharge sorting device 91,
Paper feed cassette 92, extended function 93, user restricted device 94
It is composed by.

The document feeding device 86 automatically scans a plurality of sheet documents set on a document table by the image reading device 8.
Sent one by one in sequence. The operation unit 87 is an MMI (M
It has an LCD display unit for providing an anMachine Interface) to a user, an LCD display unit, and a key input unit. The image reading device 88 irradiates a document sheet with light emitted from a light source, and reflects the reflected light on a charge coupled device CCD (Charge Coupled Device).
In step e), the image forming apparatus 89 converts the image into an electric signal, and the image forming apparatus 89 uses an electrophotographic image using the photoelectric effect and the electrostatic adsorption phenomenon, or a thermosensitive recording in which a pulsed voltage is applied to generate heat. The image is formed on recording paper such as plain paper or thermal paper by image forming means such as ink jet recording that deflects ink droplets ejected from the nozzles.

The double-sided unit 90 temporarily withdraws the recording paper on which one side of the image is formed by the image forming apparatus 89 when making a double-sided copy, reverses the front and back of this recording paper, and feeds it to the image forming apparatus 89. The discharge sorting device 91 has a sorting function and a stacking function. The sorting function collects the discharged recording paper sheet by sheet in the discharge order, and the stacking function sorts the discharged recording papers into pages. Sort by each. Paper feed cassette 92
In order to feed the recording sheets set in the vertical direction or the horizontal direction, after the sheets are set in the cassette tray, they are sequentially fed one by one as needed.

The extended function 93 is a ROM card or R for providing an application according to the use of an individual user.
By mounting the OM cassette, the read image data is temporarily stored, and the image data is controlled to be read out as necessary. For example, in the case of a plurality of copies, a memory for executing a plurality of prints in one scan.・ The retention function and the memory function such as the in-to-one function to print multiple originals on one sheet of recording paper can be realized.

The user restriction device 94 is a device for managing the amount of recording paper consumption by mounting a coin rack, a key counter, a key card, a prepaid card or the like to identify or limit the user. In particular, it is effective in a digital copying machine using an electrophotographic process.
Next, FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a digital copying machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 15, a digital copying machine 85 is provided.
Are the system controller 101 and the image reading unit 10.
2, image writing unit 103, memory unit 104, C
The SS 105, a clock unit 106, a user restriction device 107, and a human body detection sensor 108 are included. The system controller 101 performs program control by the internal CPU using information for specifying / limiting / managing users set in the user-restricted device 107 and presence / absence of an operator detected by the human body detection sensor 108 as parameters. Each part is controlled based on. In addition, the system controller 101 has an internal RAM and temporarily stores the operation information set by the operation unit 87.

The image reading section 102 outputs image data after performing necessary image processing on the electric signal of the original sheet read by the image reading device 88. In the image processing here, for example, in quantization, the analog data converted into an electric signal by the CCD is converted into binary or multivalued data. In the shading correction, the irradiation unevenness of the light source for irradiating the original and the sensitivity fluctuation of the CCD are corrected. In MTF correction, image blur due to the optical system is corrected. Further, in the scaling process, the read image data is interpolated to change the image read density.

The image writing unit 103 forms an image image of the input image data by the image forming means and copies it on a recording paper such as plain paper or thermal paper. The memory unit 104 includes a compression block 109a and a DRAM (Dyna).
micRandom Access Memory block 109b and DMA (Direct Memory)
The inside is configured by a y Access) block 109c. The compression block 109a compresses the input image data based on an encoding / decoding method such as the MH method, the MR method, and the MMR method in order to improve the use efficiency of the DRAM block 109b, and the compressed image data is compressed. Decompress data into image data. The DRAM block 109b stores the image data read from the image reading unit 102 in a DRAM (Dynamic Random).
The image data stored in the image writing unit 103 is transferred to the image writing unit 103 according to a request from the system controller 101. DM
An A (Direct Memory Access) block 109c transfers the input image data without the intervention of the system controller 101.

The CSS 105 has a monitor function for automatically notifying the service center when an error occurs in the digital copying machine and for remotely monitoring the execution / use status of the digital copying machine. Clock section 106
Notifies the system controller 101 that a specific time has come in order to realize a weekly timer function when booting or shutting down a program when the digital copying machine is started up. The weekly timer function is a function to turn on / off the power according to the ON / OFF time set for each day of the week, and the ON / OFF time is set for each day of the week in order to adjust the time of the clock unit 106. Operation is required.

The user restriction device 107 is equipped with a coin rack, a key counter, a key card, a prepaid card, etc., and inputs a personal identification code for specifying or limiting the user,
It is for controlling the amount of recording paper consumed, and is particularly effective in a digital copying machine using an electrophotographic process. The human body detection sensor 108 detects a human body within a certain distance and sends a detection signal to the system controller 101.

The memory unit 104 is necessary only when realizing the memory function, and is not necessary when only realizing the normal copy function. Further, the clock unit 106, when a specific time comes,
Only needed to implement weekly timer functions such as booting or shutting down a machine. Further, the human body detection sensor 108 is necessary only when realizing a function of automatically canceling the preheating mode when the user approaches the machine in the preheating mode.
S105 is a function for remote diagnosis, that is, when a machine error occurs, the function is automatically notified to the service center and the execution status / usage status of the machine is remotely monitored. It should be installed only when necessary.

The image reading unit 102, the image writing unit 103, the memory unit 104, and the CSS 105 are controlled by the 1CPU 110 of the system controller 101.
It is controlled only by itself. FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a digital copying machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 16, a digital copying machine 85
Is the system controller 111 and the image reading unit 11
2, image writing unit 113, memory unit 114, C
The SS 115, a clock unit 116, a user restriction device 117, and a human body detection sensor 118 are included. The image reading unit 112, the image writing unit 113, and the memory unit 114 each have a CPU 119 as a controller.
a, 119b, and 119c are built in, and a command from the system controller 111 to each controller is configured to be transmitted by a control signal line. The system hardware configuration is arbitrary, and the basic function is the same as that of the digital copying machine 85 shown in FIG.

Next, FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a connection of a network system of a digital copying machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. The illustrated example shows a system example of network copy. Here, as shown in FIG. 17, eight digital copying machines 85a to 85h are connected to form a network to form a network system of the digital copying machine, but the present invention is not limited to this. Instead, the number of digital copying machines connected to the network may be two or more.

Next, FIG. 18 shows a second embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a configuration in which two digital copying machines are connected via a network. The illustrated example shows a hardware configuration example. As shown in FIG. 18, a digital copying machine 85
The components a and 85b are composed of a system controller 101, an image reading unit 102, an image writing unit 103, a memory unit 104a, a CSS 105, a clock unit 106, a user restriction device 107, and a human body detection sensor 108. The system controller 101, the image reading unit 102, the image writing unit 103, the CSS 105, the clock unit 106, the user restriction device 107, and the human body detection sensor 108 of the digital copying machines 85a and 85b are the same as those shown in FIG.
Since the function of each part of the digital copying machine 85 is the same, the description thereof will be omitted.

Here, the memory unit 104a constituting the digital copying machines 85a and 85b will be described. The memory unit 104a includes a DRAM block 109b,
Compressed block 109a, DMA block 109c and S
It is configured by the CSI controller 121. The compression block 109a converts the input image data into M blocks in order to improve the use efficiency of the DRAM block 109b.
The compression is performed based on an encoding / decoding method such as the H method, the MR method, and the MMR method, and the compressed data is expanded into image data.

The DRAM block 109b temporarily stores the image data in the DRAM, and the DMA block 109c
The input image data is transferred without the intervention of the system controller 101. SCSI (Small Compu
A ter System Interface) controller 121 controls data transfer with peripheral devices connected in a daisy chain system. In particular, in this embodiment, SCSI is used as a network for connecting a plurality of digital copying machines.

As shown in FIG. 18, a digital copying machine 85
The hardware configurations of a and 85b are approximately the same as those shown in FIG. 15, but the read image is transferred to the external network or the image data from the network is stored in the memory unit 104a. The SCSI and SCSI controller 121 is used as a network means for storing in the DRAM block unit 109b in the memory unit 104a.

As a matter of course, as the network communication means, for example, Ethernet is used as the physical means, and OSI (Open System Inte) is used for digital communication.
rface) Various means such as using TCP / IP communication of the reference model are conceivable. Further, by using such a configuration, as described above, not only the transfer of image data but also the notification of the in-machine state of each machine existing on the network, the control command such as a remote output command described later, and the setting command We are also transferring.

The connection form of the two digital copying machines shown in FIG. 18 is provided for the convenience of explanation, and the present invention is not limited to this. It can also be applied to the network system of the digital copying machine shown in FIG. FIG. 19 shows FIG.
It is a block diagram which shows the network software structure of the digital copying machines 85a and 85b shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 18, a digital copying machine 85
The network software a, 85b is configured by a three-layer structure of a device control layer 125, a system control layer 126, and an application layer 127. In the input / output control, the device control layer 125 logically transfers data between the digital copying machine 85a and the digital copying machine 85b.
It is a layer (device driver) that performs physical conversion.

The SCSI controller 121 manages the ID number of the partner SCSI controller 121 set individually with the peripheral device connected in the daisy chain system, and controls the data transfer by designating the ID number. And is widely used as an interface for small computer systems. The SCSI controller 121 communicates control commands and image data via the memory unit 104a.

In this example, the SCSI controller 1
In the present invention, the SC is used.
A LAN controller can be used instead of the SI controller 121. LAN controller has T
CP / IP (Transmission Control)
l Protocol / Internet Proto
col) software and the like.

The system control layer 126 is a system controller 101 that constitutes a system control unit that controls each unit that constitutes the system of the digital copying machines 85a and 85b.
An operation unit controller 128, a peripheral device controller 129, an image forming apparatus controller 130, an image reading apparatus controller 131, and a memory unit 10.
4a.

The system controller 101 controls the paper conveying process and the electrophotographic process process for forming an image in the image writing section 103 in the copy mode, and the paper feed cassette condition including the abnormal condition and the detection of the presence or absence of the recording paper. In addition to monitoring the inside of the machine, the scanner operation for reading an image by the image reading unit 102 and the ON / OFF of the light source.
And so on.

The operation unit controller 128 is a layer for performing MMI such as LCD display, LED turn-on / off and key input scan, and a logical level. Peripheral controller 1
Reference numeral 29 is a layer for executing control of a peripheral unit mounted on an automatic duplex unit or a digital copying machine such as a sorter and an ADF at a logical level. The image forming apparatus controller 130 is a layer that controls to form an image image such as an electrophotographic image, a thermal recording image, and an inkjet recording image from image data. The image reading device controller 131 is a layer that controls quantization, shading correction, MTF correction, scaling processing, and the like. The memory unit 104a is a layer that controls compression processing, DMA transfer setting processing, and the like.

The application layer 125 is composed of the copy application 132 and the daemon process 133. The copy application 132 is an application that executes a copy operation based on a copy sequence. When a print request is requested from another digital copying machine via the network, the daemon process 133 reads out the image data stored in the memory unit 104a and transfers the image data to the image writing unit 103 of the own machine. Application.

As a matter of course, the daemon process 13
Image transfer from other machines on the network must be completed before the image data is read from the memory unit 104a by the printer 3 and the print operation is executed. Here, the operation unit 87, the peripheral device, the image forming device 89, the image reading device 88, and the memory unit 104a are handled as resources possessed by the digital copying machine. When the digital copying machine 85a uses each of its own resources to perform a copying operation (when the print start key is pressed), the system controller 101 is instructed by the image forming apparatus 89, the image reading apparatus 88, or as necessary. The system controller 101 that configures each resource of the peripheral unit and the memory unit 104a as a system control unit.
To request.

In response to the request from the copy application 132, the system controller 101 arbitrates the right to use the resource and notifies the copy application 132 of the arbitration result (usability). When the digital copying machine 85a is used standalone (when it is not connected to the network), the copy application 132 can occupy all the resources owned by the system, so that the copying operation is executed immediately.

On the other hand, as in the present embodiment, the resources of another machine existing on the network (hereinafter referred to as a remote digital copying machine) are used to make the system controller of the remote digital copying machine which executes the printing operation. Request the right to use the resource. The system controller of the remote digital copying machine arbitrates the resources according to the request and notifies the application of the requesting machine of the result. If the usage right is permitted, the application reads the image, and when the image storage in its own memory unit is completed, the application outputs the machine to the remote output destination via the external interface (SCSI in this embodiment). Image transfer to the memory unit.

When the image transfer is completed, the print start command is transmitted after transmitting the conditions such as the paper feed port, the paper discharge port, the number of prints, etc. for executing the print to the daemon process of the remote output destination machine. . When the remote output destination daemon process receives the print start command, it requests the start of printing to its own system controller (the machine that executes the remote output), and the remote output is executed by the system controller.

When the memory unit 104a of the digital copying machine 85b is used by the digital copying machine 85a, as shown in FIGS. 20 and 21, which will be described later, the memory unit 104a of the digital copying machine 85b is the digital copying machine 85b or When a plurality of digital copying machines as shown in FIG. 17 are connected on the network, the use of applications of the digital copying machines other than the digital copying machine 85a is disabled.

The FGATE from the system controller 101 to the daemon process 133 shown in FIGS.
The assert command is a command that is issued when the transfer paper that has been fed reaches the registration roller position, and is required to synchronize the leading edge of the transfer paper and the writing position of the output image from the memory unit 104a. . next,
20 and 21 are diagrams showing the operation flow of the digital copying machines 85a and 85b according to the embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIGS. 20 and 21, the image data read by the digital copying machine 85a is stored in the memory unit 104.
a, and the image writing unit 10 of the memory unit 104a of the digital copying machine 85b connected to the network.
The operation (remote output) of transferring the image data to No. 3 and copying from the image writing unit 103 will be described. Note that FIG.
The memory use requests 0 and 21 are issued by the digital copying machine 85.
a is a control command similar to the remote output request indicating that the image data stored in the memory unit 104a of the own machine is transferred to the digital copying machine 85b, stored therein, and then copied.

First, the copy application 132 of the digital copying machine 85a issues a memory use request for requesting the use of the memory unit 104a of the own machine to the system controller 101 of the own machine. For example, in the case of copying a total of four images by two copies by the operating side (self machine) digital copying machine 85a and the partner side digital copying machine 85b, if the images are not sent from the digital copying machine 85a to the digital copying machine 85b, Since the digital copier 85b on the other side cannot make a copy, the resource request for the memory unit 104a of the self is made. Next, when the memory unit 104a of the system controller 101 is in the usable state, the system controller 101 returns the use permission to the copy application 132.

Next, the copy application 132 of the digital copying machine 85a issues an external memory use request to its own system controller 101, and the SC of the digital copying machine 85a is sent.
From SI controller 121 to SCSI network 12
The memory use request is transferred to the SCSI controller 121 of the digital copying machine 85b via the memory 2. Then, the memory use request is transferred from the SCSI controller 121 of the digital copying machine 85b to the system controller 101.

Upon receipt of this memory use request, the system controller 101 of the digital copying machine 85b, when its own memory unit 104a is in the usable state, causes its own SCSI controller 121 to display the memory unit 104a.
Issue a usage permit that permits the use of a. Next, the SCSI controller 121 of the digital copying machine 85b transfers the use permission to the SCSI controller 121 of the digital copying machine 85a via the SCSI network 122. Next, the SCSI controller 121 of the digital copying machine 85a transfers the use permission of the memory unit 104a of the digital copying machine 85b to the system controller 101 of its own machine as an external memory use permission. Then
Copy application 1 from your system controller 101
This external memory use permission is transferred to 32.

By communicating the permission to use the memory unit 104a of the digital copying machine 85b, the other digital copying machines 85b connected to the network prohibit the use of the memory unit 104a of the digital copying machines 85a and 85b. The usage is disabled, and resource usage conflicts are avoided. When the memory use request is issued from the copy application 132 of the digital copying machine 85b when the memory unit 89a of the digital copying machine 85b is in the use prohibited state, the system controller 101 uses the own memory unit 104a. Since it is in the prohibited state, the memory unusable indicating that the memory unit 104a cannot be used is issued to the copy application 132.

Next, the copy application 132 of the digital copying machine 85a, which has received the permission to use the external memory, causes the DRAM block 109 in the DMA unit of the memory unit 104a.
The write start address of b and the transfer data amount are set. In this way, the memory unit 104a of the own device is set to the standby state where the image data can be transferred. Next, the copy application 132 issues an image reading start to start reading the image data to the memory unit 104a of its own machine, and turns on the scanner operation for reading the image or the light source to the image reading unit 102 in order. Read the image. In this way, the image data output from the image reading unit 102 is transferred to and written in the memory unit 104a of the digital copying machine 85a.

Next, the copy application 132 of the digital copying machine 85a having received the image reading end from the image reading unit 103 issues the image data reading end to the memory unit 104a of its own. The memory unit 104a which has received the image reading ends is the copy application 1 of its own device.
A read end of image data is issued to 32. Next, the copy application 132 which has received the reading end issues an image transfer request for requesting the transfer of the image data stored in the memory unit 104a of the own device.

Next, the SCSI controller 121 of the digital copying machine 85a receiving the image transfer request transfers the image data recorded in the memory unit 104a of the digital copying machine 85a to the memory of the digital copying machine 85b via the SCSI network 122. Initiate the transfer as written to unit 104a. Here, the digital copying machine 85a
When the transfer of the image data stored in the memory unit 104a of the above is completed, the SCS of the digital copying machine 85b is
Issue the end of transfer to the I controller 121.

Next, the SCSI controller 121 of the digital copying machine 85a issues a transfer end notification to the copy application 132 of its own. Next, the copy application 132 of the digital copying machine 85a which has received the transfer ends the SCSI parameter setting which sets the paper feed port, the paper ejection port, the number of prints, etc. in order to start the printing operation in the digital copying machine 85b.
Issued to the controller 121. Then, this parameter is transferred from the SCSI controller 121 of the digital copying machine 85a to the SCSI controller 121 of the digital copying machine 85b.

Next, the SCSI controller 121 of the digital copying machine 85b sets this parameter in the daemon process 133 of its own machine. The daemon process 133 of the digital copying machine 85b acquires necessary parameters such as a paper feed port, a paper ejection port, and the number of prints from this parameter, and then sets this parameter in its own system controller 85b.

Next, the copy application 132 of the digital copying machine 85a issues a print start command to the SCSI controller 121 to cause the digital copying machine 85b to start the printing operation. Next, digital copier 8
The print start command is transferred from the SCSI controller 121 of 5a to the SCSI controller 121 of the digital copying machine 85b.

Next, the SCSI controller 121 of the digital copying machine 85b sets this print start command in its own daemon process 133. The daemon process 133 of the digital copying machine 85b, based on this print start command, sends its own system controller 101
This print start command is issued to. Next, the system controller 101 of the digital copying machine 85b which receives the print start command starts feeding the transfer paper from the paper feed port instructed by the daemon process 133 in order to start the printing operation according to the print start command. To do. Next, the system controller 101 issues to the SCSI controller 121 via the daemon process 133 a paper feed start indicating that the transfer paper has been fed from the paper feed port.

Next, the SCSI controller 121 transfers this paper feed start to the SCSI controller 121 of the digital copying machine 85a. Next, digital copier 85a
The SCSI controller 121 is a copy application 132
Transfer the paper feed start received in. Next, digital copier 8
In 5b, when the fed transfer sheet reaches the image forming start position (registration roller position), the FGATE assertion permission command is issued to the daemon process 133 of the digital copying machine 85b. The daemon process 133 that has received this FGATE assert permission command requests the SCSI controller 121 of the digital copying machine 85b to transfer the image data to the image writing unit 103, and the SCSI controller 121 makes the image writing unit 1
The transfer of the image data to 03 is started.

Further, when the transfer paper is ejected, the system controller 101 of the digital copier 85b notifies the daemon process 133 of the digital copier 85b of the paper ejection execution. Next, the daemon process 133 that has received this paper discharge execution issues a paper discharge execution to the SCSI controller 121. Next, the SCSI controller 121
Transfers the paper discharge execution to the SCSI controller 121 of the digital copying machine 85a. Next, the SCSI controller 121 of the digital copying machine 85a transfers the received paper discharge execution to the copy application 132.

In response to this paper discharge execution, the digital copying machine 85
The copy application 132 of “a” issues an external memory resource release to the SCSI controller 121 of its own. Next, the SCSI controller 12 of the digital copying machine 85a
1 transfers the external memory resource release to the SCSI controller 121 of the digital copying machine 85b via the SCSI network 122. Next, digital copier 85
The external memory resource release is transferred from the SCSI controller 121 of b to the system controller 101.

20 and 21, the image data read by the image reading unit 102 of the digital copying machine 85a is converted into the image writing unit 103 of the digital copying machine 85b.
Only the flow to be output to is described. However, after the transfer of the image data from the digital copying machine 85a to the memory unit 104a of the digital copying machine 85b is completed, the digital copying machine 85a and the digital copying machine 85b are
Can operate completely independently, the image data stored in the memory unit 104a of the digital copying machine 85a can be used as the image of the own copying machine when the printing operation is started by the digital copying machine 85b. It is also possible to transfer the data to the writing unit 103 for printing operation.

It should be noted that in FIGS. 20 and 21, only the minimum information necessary for the operation to execute the remote output in the digital copying machine 85b is described. However, when actually using a peripheral device of a digital copying machine existing in a remote place, it is necessary to request only the right to use the memory unit to the digital copying machine and also request the use of peripheral device resources. is there. In particular, when the paper discharge sorting apparatus 91 that executes the sorter function is used and the arbitration of the usage right is insufficient, the digital copying machine 8
At the sheet discharge port of 5b, a problem occurs such that the output paper of the remote output from the digital copying machine 85a and the output paper of the digital copying machine 85b (transfer paper) are mixed.

Next, FIG. 22 shows a second embodiment of the present invention.
It is a figure which shows the operation | movement flow of the arbitration process of one digital copying machine. The memory use request shown in FIG. 22 is a remote output request indicating that the digital copying machine 85a transfers the image data stored in its own memory unit 104a to the digital copying machine 85b for storage and then copying. It is a similar control command.

First, the copy application 132 of the digital copying machine 85a issues a memory use request for requesting the use of the memory unit 104 of the own machine to the system controller 101 of the own machine. Next, the system controller 101
When the memory unit 104a of the own device is in the usable state, the use permission is returned to the copy application 132. Next, the copy application 132 of the digital copying machine 85a issues an external memory use request to the system controller 104 of its own machine, and then the system controller 101 sends a SCSI message.
An external memory use request is issued to the controller 121.
Then, the memory use request is transferred from the SCSI controller 121 of the digital copying machine 85a to the SCSI controller 121 of the digital copying machine 85b via the SCSI network 122. Then, the memory use request is transferred from the SCSI controller 121 of the digital copying machine 85b to the system controller 101.

Upon receipt of this memory use request, the system controller 101 of the digital copying machine 85b performs an arbitration process according to the system use status and issues an arbitration result to its own SCSI controller 121. Next, the SCSI controller 121 of the digital copying machine 85b transfers the arbitration result to the SCSI controller 121 of the digital copying machine 85a via the SCSI network 122.

Next, the SCSI controller 121 of the digital copying machine 85a transfers the arbitration result of the memory unit 104a of the digital copying machine 85b to its own system controller 101. Next, the arbitration result is transferred from the system controller 101 of the own device to the copy application 132. As described above, when the system controller 101 of the digital copying machine 85b receives the memory use request from the digital copying machine 85a, it executes the arbitration processing according to the usage status of the system, and as a result of the arbitration processing, the arbitration result is digitally displayed. As the reply is sent to the copier 85a,
As shown in 0 and 21, permission to use the memory unit 104a of the digital copying machine 85b may be returned as a result of the arbitration. On the other hand, when the use refusal is returned as a result of the arbitration, the digital copying machine 55a suspends the remote output processing or continues the copying processing by using only the resources possessed by the digital copying machine 85a.

20 and 21, as described above, the image read by the digital copying machine 85a is displayed on the digital copying machine 85a.
Although the operation flow for executing transfer / print (remote output) to the image forming apparatus of FIG. 2B is shown, the remote output is possible because the memory use request from the digital copying machine 85a to the digital copying machine 85b (see FIG. 20, The command is valid only when the system controller gives a use permission (command of FIGS. 20 and 21) to the command of 21).

That is, as shown in FIG. 22, when the system controller 66 of the digital copying machine 85a receives the memory use request (command of FIG. 22) from the digital copying machine 85a, the system controller 66 of the system, as shown in FIG. Arbitration processing is executed according to the usage status, and the result of the arbitration processing (command of FIG. 22) is returned to the digital copying machine 85b.

As a matter of course, as shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, as a result of the arbitration, the right of use request of the memory unit 104a of the digital copying machine 85b may be permitted.
The right to use request may be denied. When the request for the usage right is rejected, the digital copying machine 85a interrupts the process or continues the process by using only the resource owned by itself.

20 and 21, only the minimum information necessary for the operation for executing remote output is described, but in the case of using a peripheral unit of a remote digital copying machine, the memory usage right is actually used. It is necessary to request not only the remote digital copying machine but also the peripheral remote. In particular, with respect to the use of the paper discharge sorting device (sorter), if the arbitration is insufficient, the digital copying machine 85
There occurs a problem that a and the output paper (transfer paper) of the digital copying machine 85b are mixed at the paper exit.

Next, FIGS. 23 to 31 are flow charts showing the processing flow of the original connection mode operation of one embodiment according to the present invention. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 23, first, the document connection mode is set (step S1), and when the copy button is pressed to execute the copy operation (step S2), the digital copying machine 85a is set. (Step S3) If there is a document before the document feeding operation is completed in the digital copying machine which is not the own machine (steps S4 to S4).
6), the digital copying machine 85a (remote machine) directly executes the document feeding operation, reads the document, and outputs the image (step S7).

On the other hand, when no document is placed on the digital copying machine 85a (step S6) and the document feeding operation is in progress (step S8), the digital copying machine 85a ends the document feeding operation (step S6). Step S9). If no document is placed on the digital copying machine 85a and the document feeding operation is not in progress (step S8), the interruption setting is made (step S10), and the copying operation is interrupted (step S11).
A warning is displayed (step S12). If the interruption is not set (step S10), the digital copying machine 85a
The document feeding operation ends (step S9).

Next, when the document link mode is set (step S1) and the copy button is pressed to execute the copy operation (step S2), the digital copying machine 85a is not set (step S3), and the process shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 24, if the digital copying machine 85b is set (step S13) and there is a document before the document feeding operation is completed in the digital copying machine which is not the own machine (steps S14 to S16), the digital copying machine 85b. The (remote machine) directly executes the document feeding operation, reads the document, and outputs the image (step S17).

On the other hand, when no document is placed on the digital copying machine 85b (step S16) and the document is being fed (step S18), the digital copying machine 85b
The document feeding operation ends (step S19). If no document is placed on the digital copying machine 85b and the document feeding operation is not in progress (step S18), the interruption setting is made (step S20), the copying operation is interrupted (step S21), and a warning is displayed. (Step S22). When the interruption setting is not made (step S20), the digital copying machine 85b ends the document feeding operation (step S1).
9).

Next, when the original connection mode is set (step S1) and the copy button is pressed to execute the copy operation (step S2), the digital copying machines 85a and 85a are used.
5b is not set (step S13), the digital copying machine 85c is set as shown in FIG. 25 (step S2).
3) If there is a document before the document feeding operation is completed in the digital copying machine which is not the own machine (steps S24 to S2)
6) The digital copying machine 85c (remote machine) directly executes the document feeding operation, reads the document, and outputs the image (step S27).

On the other hand, when the original is not placed on the digital copying machine 85c and the original is being fed (step S).
28), the digital copying machine 85c ends the document feeding operation (step S30). Also, digital copier 85c
If no document is placed on the document and the document is not being fed (step S28), the interruption setting is made (step S29),
The copy operation is interrupted (step S31) and a warning is displayed (step S32). If the interruption is not set (step S29), the digital copying machine 85c ends the document feeding operation (step S30).

Next, when the copy mode is set (step S1) and the copy button is pressed to execute the copy operation (step S2), the digital copying machines 85a to 85a-8.
5c is not set (steps S3, S13, S2
3) As shown in FIG. 26, the digital copying machine 85d is set (step S33), and if there is a document before the document feeding operation is completed in the digital copying machine which is not its own machine (steps S34 to S36), The digital copying machine 85d (remote machine) executes the document feeding operation as it is, reads the document, and outputs the image (step S37).

On the other hand, when no document is placed on the digital copying machine 85d (step S36) and the document is being fed (step S38), the digital copying machine 85d
The document feeding operation is ended (step S39). If no document is placed on the digital copying machine 85d and the document feeding operation is not in progress (step S38), the interruption setting is made (step S40), the copying operation is interrupted (step S41), and a warning is displayed. (Step S42). If the interruption is not set (step S40), the digital copying machine 85d ends the document feeding operation (step S3).
9).

Next, when the copy mode is set (step S1) and the copy button is pressed to execute the copy operation (step S2), the digital copying machines 85a to 85a-8.
5d is not set (steps S3, S13, S23,
S33), as shown in FIG. 27, the digital copying machine 85e is set (step S43), and if there is a document before the document feeding operation is completed in the digital copying machine which is not its own machine (steps S44 to S46), Digital copier 85e
The (remote machine) directly executes the document feeding operation, reads the document, and outputs the image (step S47).

On the other hand, when no document is placed on the digital copying machine 85e (step S46) and the document is being fed (step S48), the digital copying machine 85e
The document feeding operation ends (step S49). If no document is placed on the digital copying machine 85e and the document feeding operation is not in progress (step S48), interruption setting is made (step S50), the copying operation is interrupted (step S51), and a warning is displayed. (Step S52). If the interruption is not set (step S50), the digital copying machine 85e ends the document feeding operation (step S4).
9).

Next, when the copy mode is set (step S1) and the copy button is pressed to execute the copy operation (step S2), the digital copying machines 85a to 85a-8.
5e is not set (steps S3, S13, S23,
28, the digital copying machine 85f is set (step S53), and if there is a document before the document feeding operation is completed in the digital copying machine which is not its own (steps S54 to S56). ), Digital copier 8
5f (remote machine) directly executes the document feeding operation,
The original is read and the image is output (step S57).

On the other hand, when the document is not placed on the digital copying machine 85f and the document is being fed (step S).
58), the digital copying machine 85f ends the document feeding operation (step S59). In addition, digital copying machine 85f
If no document is placed on the document and the document is not being fed (step S58), the interruption setting is made (step S60),
The copy operation is interrupted (step S61) and a warning is displayed (step S62). If the interruption is not set (step S60), the digital copying machine 85f ends the document feeding operation (step S59).

Next, when the copy mode is set (step S1) and the copy button is pressed to execute the copy operation (step S2), the digital copying machines 85a to 85a-8.
5f is not set (steps S3, S13, S23,
S33, S43, S53), the digital copying machine 85g is set (step S63), and if there is a document before the document feeding operation is completed by the digital copying machine which is not the own machine (steps S64 to S66), digital copying is performed. The machine 85g (remote machine) executes the document feeding operation as it is, reads the document, and outputs the image (step S67).

On the other hand, when no document is placed on the digital copying machine 85g (step S66) and the document is being fed (step S68), the digital copying machine 85g
The document feeding operation is ended (step S70). If no document is placed on the digital copying machine 85g and the document feeding operation is not in progress (step S68), the interruption setting is made (step S70), the copying operation is interrupted (step S71), and a warning is displayed. (Step S72). If the interruption is not set (step S69), the digital copying machine 85g ends the document feeding operation (step S7).
0).

Next, when the copy mode is set (step S1) and the copy button is pressed to execute the copy operation (step S2), the digital copying machines 85a to 85a-8.
5g is not set (steps S3, S13, S23,
S33, S43, S53, S63), digital copying machine 8
5h is set (step S73), and if there is a document before the document feeding operation is completed in the digital copying machine which is not the own machine (steps S74 to S76), the digital copying machine 85
The h (remote machine) executes the document feeding operation as it is, reads the document, and outputs the image (step S77).

On the other hand, when no document is placed on the digital copying machine 85h (step S76) and the document is being fed (step S78), the digital copying machine 85h
The document feeding operation ends (step S79). If no document is placed on the digital copying machine 85h and the document is not being fed (step S78), the interruption setting is made (step S80), the copying operation is interrupted (step S81), and a warning is displayed. (Step S82). If the interruption is not set (step S80), the digital copying machine 85h ends the document feeding operation (step S7).
9).

Next, when the copy mode is set (step S1) and the copy button is pressed to execute the copy operation (step S2), the digital copying machines 85a to 85a-8.
5h is not set (steps S3, S13, S23,
S33, S43, S53, S63, S73), the digital copying machine of the own machine is set (step S83), and when there is a document in the digital copying machine of the own machine (step S8).
4), the digital copying machine 85h (remote machine) executes the document feeding operation, reads the document and outputs the image (step S85).

On the other hand, when the original is not placed in the digital copying machine of the own machine (step S84) and the digital copying machine of the own machine is in the original feeding operation (step S86), the digital copying of the own machine is performed. The machine ends the document feeding operation (step S87), and ends the copying operation (step S8).
8). When no original is placed on the digital copying machine of the own machine (step S84) and the original is not being fed (step S86), the interruption setting is made (step S8).
9) Then, the copy operation is interrupted (step S90) and a warning is displayed (step S91). If the interruption setting is not set (step S89), the digital copying machine of the own machine ends the document feeding operation (step S87) and ends the copying operation (step S88).

Next, FIGS. 32 to 34 are flow charts showing a check processing flow for the document continuous shooting mode at the start of copying according to the embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment,
First, there is a copy operation start request (step S10).
1) If the document continuous shooting mode is set to be interrupted (steps S102 and S103), interrupt RQ (REQUEST)
The flag is set (step S104). On the other hand, when there is no request to start the copy operation (step S101), when the document continuous shooting mode is not set (step S102), or when the interruption setting is not made (step S103), the copy operation is started (step S105).

Next, after the interruption RQ flag is set (step S104), if the original is not placed on the digital copying machine 85a even though the digital copying machine 85a is set (steps S105 and S106), digital copying is performed. Machine 85
a No-document warning interruption RQ flag is set (step S107). Next, after the original copy interruption RQ flag is set in the digital copying machine 85a (step S107), or when the digital copying machine 85a is not set (step S1).
05) or if there is a document in the digital copying machine 85a (step S106), the document is not placed in the digital copying machine 85b even though the digital copying machine 85b is set (steps S108, S109). Digital copy machine 85b Sets the RQ flag for interrupting warning of no original (step S110).

Next, in the digital copying machine 85b, after no original document interruption RQ flag is set (step S110), or when the digital copying machine 85b is not set (step S1).
08) or if there is a document in the digital copying machine 85b (step S109), if the document is not placed in the digital copying machine 85c even though the digital copying machine 85c is set (steps S111 and S112), Digital copy machine 85c The warning interruption RQ flag indicating that there is no original is set (step S113).

Next, in the digital copying machine 85c, after the manuscript interruption RQ flag is set (step S113), or when the digital copying machine 85c is not set (step S1).
11) or if there is a document in the digital copying machine 85c (step S112), the document is not placed in the digital copying machine 85d even though the digital copying machine 85d is set (steps S114 and S115). The digital copying machine 85d sets the warning RQ flag for the warning of no original document (step S116).

Next, in the digital copying machine 85d, after the document-free interruption RQ flag is set (step S116), or when the digital copying machine 85d is not set (step S1).
14) or if there is a document in the digital copying machine 85d (step S115), if the document is not placed in the digital copying machine 85e even though the digital copying machine 85e is set (steps S117, S118), Digital copy machine 85e The original absence warning interruption RQ flag is set (step S119).

Next, in the digital copying machine 85e, after the original absence interruption RQ flag is set (step S119), or when the digital copying machine 85e is not set (step S1).
17) or if there is an original in the digital copying machine 85e (step S118), the original is not placed in the digital copying machine 85f even though the digital copying machine 85f is set (steps S120, S121). Digital copy machine 85f The document interruption warning interruption RQ flag is set (step S122).

Next, after the original no-interruption RQ flag is set in the digital copying machine 85f (step S122), or when the digital copying machine 85f is not set (step S1).
20) or if there is a document in the digital copying machine 85f (step S121), the document is not placed in the digital copying machine 85g even though the digital copying machine 85g is set (steps S123, S124). Digital copier 85g No original warning interrupt RQ flag is set (step S125).

Next, after the original no-interruption RQ flag is set in the digital copying machine 85g (step S125), or when the digital copying machine 85g is not set (step S1).
25) or if there is a document in the digital copying machine 85g (step S126), the document is not placed in the digital copying machine 85h even though the digital copying machine 85h is set (steps S126 and S127). Digital copy machine 85h A document absence warning interruption RQ flag is set (step S128).

Next, after the original no-interruption RQ flag is set in the digital copying machine 85h (step S128), or when the digital copying machine 85h is not set (step S1).
26) or if there is a document in the digital copying machine 85h (step S127), if the interruption RQ flag is set (step S129), the copy operation start is stopped (step S130). When the interruption RQ flag is not set (step S129), the copy operation is started (step S131). 23-
As shown in the process flow of the document concatenation mode operation in FIG. 31, when the copy operation is being executed in the document concatenation mode, this process is executed, and the process is performed by the arrangement that the process having the smaller copy machine number is preferentially executed. For digital copier 85
Execute from a. Enter the execution order in advance on the operation unit,
You may make it perform in that order.

Here, the degree of freedom is suppressed and the operability is emphasized. From the viewpoint of shortening the occupation time of the machine that operates remotely, the operating machine is not the processing if it is the last machine to process the operating machine last. If the original document feeding operation is not completed and there is an original document, the original document feeding operation is executed and the image is read and the image is output by the printer of the paper itself. If there is no original and the original feeding operation was being performed, it is determined that the original has run out because the original has been fed, and it is determined that the original for that machine has run out and that the original feeding operation for that machine has ended. Remember.

When there is no original document and the original document feeding operation is not performed, it is determined that there is no original document in the machine from the beginning, and if the interruption setting is made by the user setting, the copy operation is interrupted and the machine is stopped. A warning is displayed to notify that there is no document. When the continuation setting is set instead of the interruption setting, the original document feeding operation is forcibly transitioned, the machine in which the mode is set is skipped, and the processing is continued. These processes
The process is executed up to the digital copying machine 85h existing in this embodiment.

Finally, the original document of its own machine (operating machine) is processed.
The process is the same as that of the other digital copying machines, but the copy operation is ended when the document is completely fed. In the image output process during this process, the document is read by the remote machine except the time, the image is transmitted to the operation machine through the connection interface, and is printed out. The own machine is processed in the own machine.

Next, when there is a copy operation start request and the user setting is not the interruption setting when there is no original in the original continuous shooting mode as in the check processing flow for the original continuous shooting mode at the start of copying described above. , The copy operation is started without this processing. First, the interruption RQ flag for storing during the process that the copy operation is not executed is reset,
If the digital copying machine 85a is set as a document feeding target in the document continuous shooting mode and there is no document on the platen of the digital copying machine, a warning of no document of the digital copying machine 85a is issued and the interruption RQ flag is set. These processes are executed up to the digital copying machine 85h.

Further, in each warning display, all the digital copiers that have not been set in the set digital copier are collectively displayed on the common screen (see the warning display in the above description of the operation section). Finally, if the interruption RQ flag is set, the copy operation is stopped without starting. If the flag is not set, the copy operation is started. As described above, in the present embodiment (Claim 1), each digital copying machine has a document feeding device, and the manuscript set in the document feeding device of the digital copying machine on the operating machine side and the operating machine are It is configured such that different originals and originals set in the original feeder of the digital copying machine on the network are automatically processed as a series of originals.

Therefore, when the number of copies that cannot be set in one DF is made, all originals are set in several DFs and the originals set in each DF are automatically read. Since the printing operation can be executed by one printer, the operability and the work efficiency can be improved especially when the number of documents is large. Especially one side →
When the connection between the separated originals is important as in the double-sided mode, it is possible to prevent copy mistakes by a simple operation.

In this embodiment (claim 2), a document set in a document feeding device of a digital copying machine other than the operating device is preferentially processed. Therefore, since the originals of the digital copying machine other than the operating machine can be preferentially processed, the occupation time of the copying machine used remotely can be minimized. Therefore, the operating efficiency of the entire system can be improved, and a highly efficient system can be realized.

In this embodiment (claim 3), when there is no original in the digital copying machine which is set to process the original, it is automatically set as the original and the operation is skipped. ing. Therefore, when there is no original in the digital copier that is set to process originals,
Since it can be automatically skipped and operated as if it was not originally set, people who are skilled in the operation should not stop the operation rather than displaying a warning or the like, but actually set the mode. When a DF is generated that does not require the number of originals, the operation can be performed without resetting the mode, and the workability can be efficiently improved.
Moreover, since it is not necessary to prepare a warning display or the like, the cost of the display unit can be reduced.

In the present embodiment (claim 4), when there is no original in the digital copying machine set to process the original,
When the operation is executed, the setting of originals is confirmed, and if there is an original table that is not set, the operation is not executed and a warning is issued. For this reason, if there is a document table that is not set by checking the document set when the operation is executed, it is possible to warn without executing the operation, so you can prevent document setting mistakes and prevent miscopying. can do. This is particularly effective when the copy order is wrong and the one-sided → double-sided mode is selected.

In this embodiment (Claim 5), when the document feeding is started in each digital copying machine after the operation is executed, the setting of the document is confirmed, and if the document is not set, the operation is interrupted and a warning is issued. Is configured as follows. For this reason, if the originals are not set after checking the originals when starting the original feeding in each digital copying machine after the operation is executed,
Since the operation can be interrupted and a warning can be issued, it is possible to prevent erroneous copying caused by a person other than the operator removing the document. This is particularly effective when the copy order is wrong and the one-sided → double-sided mode is selected.

In this embodiment (claim 6), the system according to the invention of claim 3 and the system according to the invention of claim 4 are switched. Therefore, the systems of claims 3 and 4 can be appropriately switched,
The operation on operation can be appropriately selected according to the usage pattern, and the operability can be efficiently improved. In this embodiment (claim 7), when a document is fed by a digital copying machine other than the controller, it is informed that the document is being operated remotely.

Therefore, when a document is fed by a digital copying machine other than the operating unit, it can be informed that the document is being operated remotely, so that an erroneous operation can be prevented.

[0155]

According to the present invention, when copying a number of sheets that cannot be set in one DF, all originals are set in several DFs and the originals set in each DF are set. The printing operation can be executed by one printer, and operability and work efficiency can be improved.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a human body detection sensor.

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of a DF mechanism.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an image forming apparatus management system.

FIG. 4 is an external view showing a configuration of an operation unit.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a configuration of a touch panel detection circuit.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a detection terminal that is set to Hi by the controller shown in FIG.
It is a figure which shows the output state of X1, X2, Y1, Y2, when it is set to the gh state.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an operation unit.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a display example of a liquid crystal display screen.

[FIG. 9] What digital copier D in the original continuous mode
It is a figure which shows the screen display which sets whether it implement | achieves using F.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a screen display in which a document connection mode is set by pressing a setting end key.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a warning display displayed on the operation unit of another digital copying machine when the document connection mode is set on the operation machine.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a warning display displayed when a document is not set on a document table to be set in the document connection mode.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a screen display of user settings when the operation is switched depending on the usage pattern of the user.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a system configuration of a digital copying machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a digital copying machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a digital copying machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a connection of a network system of a digital copying machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a block diagram showing a configuration in which two digital copying machines according to an embodiment of the present invention are connected via a network.

19 is a block diagram showing a network soft wafer configuration of the digital copying machine shown in FIG.

FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an operation flow of two digital copying machines of one embodiment according to the present invention.

FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an operation flow of two digital copying machines of one embodiment according to the present invention.

FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing an operation flow of arbitration processing of two digital copying machines according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 23 is a flow chart showing a processing flow of a document connection mode operation according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing the processing flow of the original connection mode operation according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing a processing flow of a document connection mode operation according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing a processing flow of a document connection mode operation according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 27 is a flow chart showing a processing flow of a document connection mode operation according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing the processing flow of the original connection mode operation according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing a processing flow of a document connection mode operation according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing a processing flow of a document connection mode operation according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 31 is a flow chart showing a processing flow of a document connection mode operation according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing a check processing flow for a document continuous shooting mode at the start of copying according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing a check processing flow for a document continuous shooting mode at the start of copying according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing a check processing flow for a document continuous shooting mode at the start of copying according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

1 Human body detection sensor 2 Main body control plate 3 Original table 4 Original setting detection device 5 Separation belt 6 Separation roller 7 Registration detection / Document width detection device 8 Pulse generator 9 Original length detection device 10 Original scale 11 Call roller 12 Call lever 13 Ejection Paper roller 14 Reverse switching claw 15 Reversed paper discharge detection device 16 Reversed roller 25 Management device 26 Digital copying machine 27 Public line network 28 Communication control device 29 Telephone 30 Fax machine 31 Numeric keypad 32 Liquid crystal display screen 33 Guidance key 34 Program key 35 Area processing key 36 Brightness Adjustment Knob 41 Controller 42 A / D Converter 45 CPU 46 Address Latch 47 ROM 48 System Reset 49 Address Decoder 50 LED Driver 51 Keyboard 52 LCD Control 53 Touch panel 54 LCD module 55 ROM 56 RAM 57 Optical transceiver 61 Message area 62 Number of copies display 63 Automatic density key 64 Automatic paper selection key 65 Sort key 66 Stack key 67 Staple key 68 Magnification key 69 Double-sided key 70 Erase / move Key 71 Original connection mode 75a to 75h Digital copier key 76 Setting end key 77 Confirmation key 78 Continuation key 79 Interruption key 80 End key 85, 85a, 85b, 85c, 85d, 85e, 85
f, 85g, 85h Digital copying machine 86 Original feeding device 87 Operation unit 88 Image reading device 89 Image forming device 90 Image forming device 90 Duplex unit 91 Paper ejection sorting device 92 Paper feed cassette 93 Extended function 94 User restricted device 101 System controller 102 Image reading unit 103 image writing unit 104, 104a memory unit 105 CSS 106 clock unit 107 user restricted device 108 human body detection sensor 109a compression block 109b DRAM block 109c DMA block 110 CPU 111 system controller 112 image reading unit 113 image writing unit 114 memory unit 115 CSS 116 Clock part 117 User restricted device 118 Human body detection sensor 119a, 119b, 119c CPU 121 SCSI controller 22 SCSI network 125 device control layer 126 system control layer 127 application layer 128 operation unit controller 129 peripheral controllers 130 image forming apparatus controller 131 image reader controller 132 the copy application 133 daemon process

Claims (7)

[Claims] 1. A network system of digital copying machines, comprising at least two or more digital copying machines provided with communication means for communicating operation commands and image information, wherein each digital copying machine has a document feeder. However, the original set in the original feeder of the digital copier on the operating machine side and the original set in the original feeder of the digital copier on the other network different from the operating machine as a series of originals. A network system for a digital copying machine, which has a document processing unit for automatically processing. 2. A document processing sequence control means for preferentially processing a document set in the document feeding device of the digital copying machine other than the operating device.
The network system of the described digital copying machine. 3. A skip operation means for automatically skipping and operating as an unset document when there is no document in the digital copying machine set to process the document. , 2. The network system of the digital copying machine described in 2. 4. When there is no original in the digital copying machine that is set to process originals, when the operation is executed, if there is an original platen that is not set and the original is set, a warning is given without executing the operation. 4. The network system for a digital copying machine according to claim 1, further comprising: 5. When an original is fed in each digital copying machine after the operation has been executed, the apparatus has a warning means for confirming the setting of the original and interrupting the operation if the original is not set. The network system for a digital copying machine according to claim 1. 6. A network system for a digital copying machine according to claim 1, further comprising switching means for switching between the system according to claim 3 and the system according to claim 4. 7. A digital device according to claim 1, further comprising an informing means for informing that an original is remotely operated when the original is fed by the digital copying machine other than the operating machine. Copier network system.