JPH08272266A - Copying device - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE: To execute a copying operation at the arbitrary point of time by informing an external device to the effect that an interruption copying mode is released and restarting the interrupted printing operation by shifting to a printer mode. CONSTITUTION: A state data storing part 24 is provided in a copy/printer body part 2. The copy/printer main body part 2 and the external device 4 are connected through an external interface part 3 and a connection circuit 5. An operating part is provided with a setting means for the printer interruption copy mode enabling a copying operation by interrupting the printing operation currently executed when the copy mode is set while continuing the printing operation in the printer mode. When the printer interruption copying mode is set while the printing operation is continued in the printer mode, the external device 4 is informed that the printing operation is interrupted, and when the printer interruption mode is released, the external device 4 is informed to that effect and the printing operation interrupted is restarted by shifting the printer mode to the one set before the interruption.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a copying machine having a copy function and a printer function, which is used by being connected to a personal computer, a workstation, an electronic filing device or the like through an external interface device, and more particularly, The present invention relates to a copying apparatus in which usage efficiency is improved by giving priority to a copy operation that requires a user to move to a place where the apparatus is installed, over a printer operation that can be operated from a location remote from the apparatus.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art A printer connected to an information processing device such as a personal computer is an output device dedicated to printing. Then, when one printer is connected to a personal computer or a host device to form a system, a select / deselect key is provided on the printer side, and by pressing this key, the interface ( The communication line) is in a busy state, and has a function of temporarily not accepting print data from the host device.

Thus, for example, a particular personal computer can use the printer. In this way, in the case of a printer that functions only as a printing device, no matter which device in the system uses it, it always operates as a printer, so even if only a specific device can be used on the printer side. , No particular inconvenience occurs.

However, in recent years, a copying apparatus having both a copy function and a printer function, that is, a so-called copy / printer composite machine has appeared. A copy / printer multi-function peripheral having such a function can be used in addition to a normal information processing apparatus such as a conventional personal computer, a LAN (local
It is also used in systems such as area networks. This multi-function printer / printer is basically a digital copying machine, which itself has an image reading means such as a scanner.

Then, the read image information is digitally processed, and a printing means (plotter) such as a laser printer is provided.
Record on paper by. The user goes to the place where the copying apparatus is installed, sets a desired document or the like, and copies the document. Such a function includes a function common to a printer such as a personal computer. Therefore, if a copying apparatus having this digital function is connected to a personal computer or the like (hereinafter referred to as an external device), it is used as a printer function. can do.

In this case, since it is used as a copying apparatus which is an original function and also as a printer function, the usage state becomes complicated. For example, the external device may be used as a copying device or may be used for other purposes after the print output is temporarily stopped during the printing operation as the printer function.

Therefore, when the print output is temporarily stopped during the printing operation of the external apparatus, the internal state of the controller of the copying apparatus or the contents of the buffer memory may be changed without the external apparatus being aware of it. There is a possibility that it will be cleared. Therefore, when the external device resumes the temporarily stopped printing operation, it is necessary to know again the current operating state of the copying apparatus, that is, the internal state of the controller and the contents of the buffer memory. Therefore, the user who has gone to the copying apparatus cannot use the original copy mode during the printing operation in the printer mode, and the operability is deteriorated.

[0008]

In the conventional information processing apparatus consisting of one copying apparatus and at least one external apparatus, the copy mode is given priority over the printer mode. Even if the user goes to the installation place of the copying machine and sets the copy mode during the printing operation by, it cannot be used until the ongoing printing operation ends, so there is a disadvantage that the operability deteriorates. . In the present invention, priority is given to the copy mode in principle, but while the printing operation in the printer mode is continuing, it is possible to newly set the printer interrupt copy mode and temporarily suspend the printing operation in progress. An object of the present invention is to provide a copying apparatus with improved operability by enabling a copying operation in the copy mode (the invention of claim 1).

Further, in this case, a copying apparatus with improved operability is provided by allowing the copying operation in the copy mode to be performed at a time point when the print data is separated without interrupting the printing operation which is being executed immediately. It is intended to do so (the invention of claim 2). Furthermore, it is an object of the present invention to provide a copying apparatus that restarts an interrupted printing operation by notifying the external apparatus that the copying apparatus has switched to the printer mode when the copying operation in the printer interrupt copy mode is completed. (The inventions of claims 3 and 4).

[0010]

According to the present invention, firstly,
An operation unit such as an operation panel for giving instructions for copying operation,
A copy mode that is connected to an external device such as a personal computer and that performs a printing operation according to an instruction from the external device, performs a copy operation according to an instruction from the operation unit, and prints according to an instruction from the external device In a copying apparatus capable of setting a printer mode in which an operation is performed, when the copy mode is set while the printing operation in the printer mode is continued, the printing operation currently being executed is interrupted to enable the copying operation. When the printer interrupt copy mode is set while the printing operation in the printer mode is continuing, the external unit is notified that the printing operation is interrupted. When the printer interrupt copy mode is canceled, the fact is notified to the external device, and before the interruption. Shifts to the printer mode, is configured to resume the interrupted printing operation.

Secondly, it is provided with an operation unit such as an operation panel for giving an instruction for a copying operation, and a function of being connected to an external device such as a personal computer and performing a printing operation according to an instruction from the external device. In a copying apparatus capable of setting a copy mode in which a copying operation is performed according to an instruction from the operation unit and a printer mode in which a printing operation is performed according to an instruction from the external device, while the printing operation in the printer mode continues, When the copy mode is set, the operation unit is provided with a designation means for instructing a transition to a printer interrupt copy mode for interrupting the print operation currently being executed and enabling the copy operation. If it is instructed to enter the printer interrupt copy mode while continuing, the instruction to enter the printer interrupt copy mode is given. What has been notified to the external device,
The external device is configured to stop the transfer of the print data and shift to the printer interrupt copy mode at a time point when the output of the print data is good.

Thirdly, in the first or second copying apparatus, when the copying operation in the printer interrupt copy mode is completed, the operator operates a predetermined key of the operation unit to change from the printer interrupt copy mode to the printer mode. The printer is configured to notify the external device that the printer mode has been entered, as well as to re-enter the printer mode.

Fourthly, in the first or second copying apparatus, when there is no key operation on the operation unit within a predetermined time after the copying operation in the printer interrupt copy mode is completed, the printer interrupt copy mode is set. The printer mode is configured to be re-shifted to the printer mode and the external device is notified of the shift to the printer mode.

[0014]

The principle and operation of the present invention is basically the same as the conventional one in that the user gives priority to the copy mode which must be used by going to the installation place of the copying machine, but at a remote place. Considering the operability of the user who is also using it, it is possible to set a new printer interrupt copy mode (hereinafter abbreviated as interrupt copy mode) while the printing operation in the low priority printer mode continues. Point (invention of claim 1), and when the interrupt copy mode is set, the mode is switched to the copy mode at a time point (easy break point) at which printing operation can be easily resumed without immediately switching to the copy mode. The feature is in the point (the invention of claim 2). Therefore, the next 4
It enables two states (modes).

FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining four modes that can be set and a transition state between the modes in the copying apparatus of the present invention.

Of these four modes, the fourth mode is the newly established mode, and the other modes are common to the conventional apparatus. The first is a state in which the power of the copying apparatus is turned off (hereinafter referred to as a power-off mode). It goes without saying that neither the copying operation nor the printing operation is possible in this power-off mode.

The second is a normal copy mode in which the copying operation can be performed immediately. The third is a printer mode, in which a print operation can be performed by transferring print data from an external device located at a remote place.
The fourth is a newly provided interrupt copy mode, which can be set during execution of the printing operation in the printer mode.

The above four types of modes can be switched to each other by the following operation. In the first power off mode,
When the power switch is turned on, the second copy mode is entered, and the normal copying operation is possible. This copy mode is shifted to the third printer mode by a printer mode switching request command (use right acquisition command) from an external device, but the second copy mode has priority.

Therefore, during the copying operation, even if there is a request command, it does not shift immediately. The third printer mode is shifted to the second copy mode again by the execution end command from the external device or when the printing operation is not performed for the predetermined time.

Further, in the third printer mode,
During the printing operation, if there is an interruption command from the copying apparatus, the mode is changed to the fourth interrupt copy mode. The interrupt copy mode is shifted to the third copy mode again by the execution end command from the copying apparatus or when the copying operation is not performed for a predetermined time. In each of the second to fourth modes, when the power switch is turned off, the first state (power off mode) is entered.

As described above, in the copying apparatus of the present invention,
In addition to the conventional three modes, a fourth interrupt copy mode is added to enable four modes. Next, a processing sequence between the copying apparatus and the external apparatus according to the present invention will be described.

First, when the power is turned on, the copying machine
The copy mode (a mode in which normal copying operation is possible) is entered. Also, when the power of the external device is turned on, the system is activated. Then, when the application of the external device prints, a "printer mode switching request command (use right acquisition command)" is sent from the external device side to the copying device by the communication means (device driver).
To issue. At this time, the communication means issues an "operation check command" before issuing this command, and obtains a response from the copying apparatus to know the operating state of the copying apparatus in advance. In this case, the format of the "operation check command" and its "response" is as follows.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an embodiment of the format of the operation check command and its response in the copying machine of the present invention.

The "operation check command" issued from the external device to the copying machine is composed of 1 byte as shown in the upper part of FIG. Similarly, the "response" issued from the copying apparatus to the external apparatus is also composed of 1 byte as shown in the lower part of FIG. In the embodiment of FIG. 3, each 1 bit of "0 to 2" is assigned to the copy mode, the printer mode, and the interrupt copy mode, and the corresponding mode is set to "1".

Further, each 1 bit of "5 to 7" is assigned to copy operation (during copying operation), warm-up, and abnormality (error occurrence). These pieces of information are stored in the status data storage section 24 provided in the copy / printer main body section 2 in FIG.

Since the response according to the state (1 or 0) of each bit shown in the lower part of FIG. 3 is sent from the copying apparatus to the external apparatus, the external apparatus can know the operating state of the copying apparatus. Then, when the current operating state of the copying apparatus is the copy mode and the copying operation is not in progress, the external apparatus issues the "printer mode switching request command".

When the printer mode is set by issuing this request command, the copying machine, which originally performs the copying operation as the copying function, operates as an online printer of the external apparatus. As a result, it becomes possible to control the LED or LCD of the operation panel of the copying apparatus from an external device.

For example, in order to indicate that the printer mode is currently set, a character string of "printer mode" is displayed on the LCD screen on the operation panel, the copy enable LED and the start key LED are turned off, and other information is displayed. The LED of is also changed so as to match the printer setting status set by the printer device controller or the like on the external device side. The printer setting status is, for example, lighting of the LED of the default paper feed cassette.

After that, the printer driver of the external device is
The print operation is started by receiving print data from the application and outputting it to the copying apparatus. However, this device (copy / printer multifunction peripheral) is only a copying device, and there is a possibility that another user may want to use the copying function even during the printing operation by such an external device. In this case, the copying operation can be performed by temporarily stopping the printing operation in the printer mode and returning to the copy mode (transition to the interrupt copy mode).

[0030]

Embodiment 1 Next, the copying apparatus of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. This embodiment mainly corresponds to the invention of claim 1, but is also related to the inventions of claims 2 to 4.

In the first embodiment, the interrupt copy mode for interrupting the print operation currently being executed and enabling the copy operation can be set, and the interrupt copy mode is set while the print operation in the printer mode is continued. When the interrupted copy mode is released, the external device is notified that the print operation has been interrupted, and when the interrupt copy mode is canceled, the external device is notified of that effect, and the printer mode before the interrupt is entered and the interrupted operation is performed. The feature is that the printing operation performed is restarted.
The outline of the means having the necessary functions will be described.

First, a communication means for transmitting and receiving commands and responses between the copying apparatus and an external apparatus (host apparatus). The second is a means by which the key input on the operation panel of the copying apparatus can be taken in by the external device side. The third is a means for performing display control from an external device on the operation panel of the copying apparatus, such as an LED or LCD for displaying various states.

The fourth is the operation mode of the copying machine.
It is a means for setting the states of the copy mode, the printer mode, and the printer interrupt copy mode, and for instructing the change of each mode by a command from an external device. The fifth is means for monitoring that no operation has been performed for a certain period of time in the printer interrupt copy mode (the invention of claim 4).

The sixth means that in the printer interrupt copy mode, when there is no operation for a certain period of time, the copying machine side causes the external device to switch from the printer interrupt copy mode state to the previous printer mode. Is a means for emulating the state where a key on the operation panel is pressed. The copying machine of the present invention is configured by the means having the above six functions. The function is realized by the following functional blocks, but also includes control by software executed by the system control unit and the like.

FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram showing an embodiment of the main configuration of a system connected to an external device in the copying apparatus of the present invention. In the figure, 1 is an operation panel, 2 is a copy / printer main unit, 21 is an operation panel control unit, 22 is a copy system control unit, 23 is a frame memory, 24 is a status data storage unit, 25 is a scan control unit, and 26 is A print control unit, 3 is an external interface unit, 4 is an external device, and 5 is a connection line.

The copying apparatus of FIG. 1 is basically the same as the conventional one in terms of hardware structure, and the copying / printer main body 2
The difference is that a state data storage unit 24 is provided inside. Then, the copy / printer main body 2 constituting the main part of the copying apparatus and the external device 4 such as a personal computer are connected by an external interface section 3 which is a communication means (device driver) and a connection line 5.

As the external interface section 3,
An RS232C, RS422, a bidirectional Centro, a SCSI device or the like capable of bidirectional communication is used. copy/
The printer main body 2 and the external device 4 communicate with each other by a command and a response using the external interface unit 3 as described above.

FIGS. 4 and 5 are diagrams showing an example of a communication procedure with an external device in the copying apparatus of the present invention.
In the figure, the center of the vertical line indicates communication information such as commands, the left side indicates the operation on the copying apparatus side, and the right side indicates the operation on the external apparatus side.

When the power is turned on, the copy mode in which the copying operation is possible is set immediately (initial setting). But,
The copying operation is not always performed, and in many cases, the copying machine is waiting in the copy mode. In this state, when there is a print request from the application software in the external device, an operation mode check command is sent and a response is returned from the copying device (operation mode check of the copying device).

In this copy mode (during non-copying operation), since the printer mode can be set, a printer mode switching request command (use right acquisition command) is sent out, and the copying machine side is set to the printer mode. Transition. When the external device receives the response indicating that the printer mode has been entered, the copy enable LED and the start key LED required for the operation in the copy mode are turned off, and instead, the designated paper feed cassette L required for the printer mode operation is set.
A control signal for turning on / off the LED is sent to turn on the ED or the like.

Next, a character string such as a printer mode is displayed on the LCD (display screen), and then print data is sent out to perform a printing operation. When a print interrupt key (interrupt copy mode setting key) is pressed on the operation panel of the copying machine during execution of the printing operation in this printer mode, a key press notification is sent to the external device (claim). Invention 1).

Upon receiving this notification, the external device side
The mode is changed to the interrupt copy mode, the command for suspending the printer mode is sent, and the printer mode is awaited again. Also in this case, the LED that was previously turned off or the LED that was turned on should be turned on to match the current mode.
Is turned off. On the other hand, the copying apparatus starts the copying operation and, when the copying operation is completed, presses the printer interrupt copy end key to send the printer mode restart command (the invention of claim 3). In addition, by the timer,
Even if the copying operation is not performed within a certain period of time, if the printer mode restart command is sent, the utilization efficiency is improved (the invention of claim 4).

When the printer mode is restarted, the control for turning on / off the LED, the display of the character string on the LCD, the transmission of the print data, and the like are performed as before the interruption. When the output of all the print data is completed, a command to terminate the printer execution is sent from the external device, and the copying machine shifts to the copy mode. As described above, in the copying apparatus of the present invention, printing in the printer mode is enabled in the non-copying state while giving priority to the copy mode.
The copy operation can be performed by setting the interrupt copy mode. Here, a command communication procedure and a command format according to the present invention will be described.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a command communication procedure and a command format in the copying apparatus of the present invention. (1) is a communication procedure, (2) is a communication command format, and (3) is Indicates key press notification and key code. In (1) of the figure, the left side shows the external device 4 side, and the right side shows the external interface section 3 side.

The command format in this case is shown in FIG.
The configuration is as shown in (2). As shown in FIG. 6 (1), first, when the external interface unit 3 side notifies the external device 4 (host device) of the number of transmission bytes, the external device 4 side returns a reception code.

Next, from the external interface section 3 side,
Send the command number and command parameter. Also,
When the interrupt copy key on the operation panel is pressed,
As shown in FIG. 6C, the key press notification and the command parameter of the key code (preset parameter) are sent from the copying apparatus side to the external device 4 via the external interface unit 3.

Next, the operation of the copying apparatus described above, particularly the operation in the system which is connected to the external apparatus and operates in the copy mode and the printer mode as shown in FIG. 1, will be described with reference to a flowchart. First, a case in which the external device switches the mode of the copying device to the printer mode and performs the printing operation will be described.

FIG. 7 is a flow chart showing the main processing flow when shifting to the printer mode in the first embodiment of the present invention. In the figure, # 1 to # 7 indicate steps.

When a printer mode switching request command is received from the external device 4 of FIG. 1, the flow of FIG. 7 starts, and in step # 1, the current operation mode of the copying machine is checked. In the next step # 2, it is determined whether the copy mode is set.

If it is not the copy mode, the external device 4 is notified of the error and the flow of FIG. 7 is terminated.
If it is the copy mode, the process proceeds to step # 3 and it is determined whether or not the state of the copying apparatus is in the standby state.

If not in standby, the external device 4 is notified that an error has occurred, and the flow of FIG. 7 ends. if,
If it is on standby, information about the operation panel set in the current copy mode is displayed in step # 4 in FIG.
The data is stored in the state data storage unit 24.

In the next step # 5, the copying machine is switched to the copy mode. In step # 6, the external device 4 is notified of normal termination, and the flow of FIG. 7 is terminated.

The processing corresponding to the printer mode switching request command as described above is performed, and the copy / printer main body 2 on the copying machine side shifts from the copy mode to the printer mode. Next, description will be given of the processing when the printer device is set to the printer mode and the printer device is switched to the printer interrupt copy mode.

FIG. 8 is a flow chart showing the main processing flow when the mode switching key is pressed in the first embodiment of the present invention. In the figure, # 11 to # 18 indicate steps.

In step # 11, the mode switching key is pressed on the operation panel 1 shown in FIG. Step # 1
In step 2, the current operation mode of the copying machine is checked. At the next step # 13, it is determined whether the printer interrupt copy mode is set.

In the printer interrupt copy mode,
Proceeding to step # 14, the setting information of the printer interrupt copy mode is stored in the state data storage section 24 of FIG. In the next step # 15, the external interface unit 3
Then, the external device 4 is notified that the printer interrupt copy key has been pressed, and the flow of FIG. 8 ends.

On the other hand, as a result of the judgment in the previous step # 13, when the printer interrupt copy mode is not set, the process proceeds to step # 16 and it is judged whether or not the printer mode is set.

If it is not the printer mode, the key input is ignored (error). In the printer mode, the copying apparatus is switched to the printer mode in step # 17. In step # 18, the external interface unit 3 is notified to the external device 4 that the printer mode has been restarted, and the flow of FIG. 8 ends.

By performing the processing according to the mode switching key as described above, the copy / printer main body 2 on the copying machine side is switched to the printer interrupt copy mode and again to the printer mode. Next, the processing performed between the external device and the copying device at the time of shifting to the printer interrupt copy mode described with reference to FIG. 8 above will be described.

FIG. 9 is a flow chart showing the main processing flow when shifting to the printer interrupt copy mode in the first embodiment of the present invention. In the figure, # 21 to # 26 indicate steps.

When the printer mode interruption command is received from the external device 4 of FIG. 1, the flow of FIG. 9 starts. In step # 21, the current operation mode of the copying machine is checked. In the next step # 22, it is determined whether the printer mode is set.

If the printer mode is not set, step # 2
3 to notify the external device 4 that there is an error,
The flow of FIG. 9 ends. If the result of determination in step # 32 is printer mode, step # 3
4, the copying apparatus is reset to the setting information of the printer interrupt copy mode stored in the state data storage unit 24 of FIG.

At step # 25, the copying machine is switched to the copy mode. In step # 26, the external device 4 is notified of the normal end, and the flow of FIG. 9 ends.

By the above processing, the printer mode is shifted to the printer interrupt copy mode. Next, a process performed between the external device and the copying device at the time of shifting to the copy mode at the end of the printing operation in the printer mode will be described.

FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing the main processing flow at the time of shifting to the copy mode after the printing operation of the printer mode is completed in the first embodiment of the present invention. In the figure, # 31 to # 36 indicate steps.

When the printer mode execution end command is received from the external device 4 of FIG. 1, the flow of FIG. 10 starts. In step # 31, the current operation mode of the copying machine is checked. In the next step # 32, it is determined whether the printer mode is set.

If it is not the printer mode, step # 3
3 to notify the external device 4 that there is an error,
The flow of FIG. 10 ends. Also, the previous step # 32
If the printer mode is determined as a result of the determination in step #
In step 34, the copying machine is reset to the copy mode setting information stored in the state data storage section 24 of FIG.

At step # 35, the copying machine is switched to the copy mode. In step # 36, the normal termination is notified to the external device 4, and the flow of FIG. 10 is terminated. The above is the processing when the printing operation in the printer mode is completed. In the first embodiment, the case where one external device (4 in FIG. 1) uses the printer function of one copying device (copy / printer main body 2) has been mainly described.
However, the same can be implemented when a plurality of external devices use a single copying device.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an embodiment of a network composed of one copying apparatus and a plurality of external apparatuses. In the figure, 11 is a copy / printer multifunction machine, 12
Reference numerals a to 12n denote external devices, and 13 denotes a system bus.

The copying apparatus (copy / printer main body 2) and the external apparatus (4) shown in FIG. 1 are shown by the copy / printer multifunction machine 11 and the external apparatus 12a in FIG. This external device 12a and another external device 12b
.. to 12n are mutually connected by a system bus 13, a personal computer is usually used as the external device 12a, and functions as a print server on the network.

According to the system shown in FIG. 11, each of the external devices 12b to 12n has a copy / printer multifunction device 1
The print function of the copy / printer multifunction device 11 can be used via the external device 12a directly connected to the printer 1. In particular, in recent years, even external devices having different basic software systems can be connected to each other by conversion software, so that each external device 12b to 12n is in the same state as if it has its own printer. , The copy / printer multifunction machine 11 can be used.

Therefore, it becomes possible to use one copying machine (copy / printer multifunction machine 11) as a shared resource on the network. With the system configuration as shown in FIG. 11, it is possible to perform the printing operation in the printer mode for the copy / printer multifunction machine 11 from the external device 12a and the other external devices 12b to 12n via the external device 12a. Yes, the same processing is performed for the interrupt copy mode.

[0073]

[Embodiment 2] This embodiment mainly corresponds to the invention of claim 2, but is also related to the inventions of claim 3 and claim 4. In the second embodiment as well, in the first embodiment, the interrupt copy mode for interrupting the print operation currently being executed and enabling the copy operation can be set, and the print operation in the printer mode is continued. , When the interrupt copy mode is set, the external device is notified that the printing operation has been interrupted. When the interrupt copy mode is canceled, the external device is notified of that effect, and the printer mode before the interruption is set. The common point is to shift to and restart the interrupted printing operation. Therefore, the hardware configuration is as shown in FIG.
And is similar to FIG.

However, in the second embodiment, in preparation for the restart of the printer mode, when the interrupt copy mode is set, the mode is not immediately changed to the copy mode, and the print data is output at a point where the output of the print data is good. The feature is that the transfer is stopped (the invention of claim 2).
Further, the second embodiment is characterized by the processing when the interrupt copy mode is finished and when the printer mode is restarted (the inventions of claims 3 and 4).

As already described in the first embodiment, even in the system configuration in which one external device uses one copying device as the configuration of FIG. 1, the copying device is set to the original copy mode. It can operate in two modes, the printer mode. In particular, as shown in FIG. 11, in the case of a system configuration in which a plurality of external devices use a single copying device, the use of the copying device as a printer increases and the usage efficiency improves. On the other hand, when using the copy mode, there are many cases where the printer mode has already been set or the printing operation is currently being executed.

Therefore, in the conventional device, the user
When it is desired to perform the copy work by the original function of the copying apparatus, the usability is deteriorated. However, according to the present invention, even if the external apparatus is used, the printer interrupt copy key is operated to enter the copy mode. Since it can be transferred, the operability is improved. The user can confirm the current status of the copying machine by pressing the L
Whether the print output is being performed (whether in the printer mode or not) can be known from the display of the character string of the CD and the lighting state of the LED.

Therefore, if the printer interrupt copy key is operated as necessary, the operation panel control unit 21 of FIG.
Detects the key press and notifies the external device 4 of it. In this case, the key code as shown in FIG. 6 (3) is used. The external device 4 side recognizes the pressing of the "printer interrupt copy" key by receiving this key code, and the position where the print data output is well separated,
For example, page breaks on a page-by-page basis
Save the status (setting information) set in the copying machine.

After that, a command is issued from the external device 4 side to switch the mode of the copying machine to the interrupt copy mode. As described above, in the second embodiment, when the interrupt copy mode is set, the mode is not immediately changed to the copy mode, and the transfer of the print data is stopped at a time point when the output of the print data is good (claim 2). invention).

Therefore, after the copying operation by the user is completed and the printer mode is returned to, the processing of the state before the interruption of the printing operation performed on the external device side, that is, the copying apparatus is reset by the setting information before the interruption, Processing such as outputting the remaining print data becomes easy. In this case, if the user presses the interrupt copy end key on the operation panel when the copy operation is completed, the printer mode restart command is issued, so that the external device 4 can return to the printer mode. Invention of Item 3).

However, there is a possibility that the user forgets to press the interrupt copy end key or does not perform the copy operation for a certain period of time or longer. Therefore, on the copying apparatus side, the copy system control unit 22 monitors the copy operation and the key operation on the operation panel of the user, and when the non-operation state continues for a certain time or more, the printer mode restart command is issued. Issuing and controlling to return to the printer mode (the invention of claim 4). When the printer mode restart command issued in this way is received, the external device can display the LED or LCD on the operation panel.
Reset the lighting status of, paper tray selection, etc.
Then, the interrupted printing operation is restarted and the remaining print data is transferred.

As described above, in the second embodiment, when the interrupt copy mode is set, the transfer of print data is stopped at a time when the print data output break is good, so that the process at the time of restart is performed. Making it easy.
Here, the flow of the second embodiment described above will be shown.

FIG. 12 is a flow chart showing the main processing flow during the printing operation by the external device in the second embodiment of the present invention. In the figure, # 41 to # 54
Indicates a step.

At step # 41, an operation mode check command is issued to the copying machine. Step # 42
Then, the response from the copying machine is received. In the next step # 43, it is determined whether the copying machine is in the standby state.

When it is detected in step # 43 that the printer is on standby, a printer mode switching request command is issued in step # 44. In step # 45, the response is received. At the next step # 46, it is determined whether or not the interrupt key is pressed on the operation panel of the copying apparatus.

If the interrupt key is not pressed, the process proceeds to step # 47 and print data is output. In step # 48, it is determined whether or not one page has been output. When one page has been output, the process proceeds to the next step # 49, in which it is determined whether or not all printing has been completed. .

When all printing is completed, step #
At 50, a printer mode execution end notification command is issued to the copying apparatus, and the flow of FIG. 12 ends.
Further, as a result of the determination made in step # 46, when the interrupt key is pressed on the operation panel of the copying apparatus,
Proceed to step # 51 to proceed to the LED or LCD on the operation panel.
Etc. and the setting information of the copying apparatus are saved.

At step # 52, a printer mode interruption command is issued to the copying machine. Next step #
At 53, the printer device waits for the printer mode restart notification command from the copying machine. When the command is received, at step # 54, the copying machine sets the information on the LED or LCD on the operation panel and the setting information of the copying machine. Reset. Then, the process proceeds to the previous step # 47 to restart the interrupted printing operation. The printing operation by the external device is performed by the above processing.

[0088]

According to the present invention, it is possible to set the interrupt copy mode for interrupting the print operation currently being executed and enabling the copy operation, and the interrupt copy mode is set while the print operation in the printer mode continues. When set,
Notify the external device that the printing operation was interrupted, and when the interrupt copy mode is released, notify the external device to that effect and shift to the printer mode before the interruption,
The suspended printing operation is restarted. Therefore, it is possible to perform the copy operation, which is the original function of the copying apparatus, at any time.

In the invention of claim 2, the interrupt copy mode can be set as in the invention of claim 1,
When the interrupt copy mode is set, the transfer of the print data is stopped at the time when the output of the print data is good. Therefore, after the user finishes the copying work and returns to the printer mode, the process performed by the external device side, that is, the process of resetting the copying device according to the setting information before the interruption, outputting the remaining print data, and the like. Will be easier.

According to the invention of claim 3, claim 1 and claim 2
In the invention, when the copying operation is completed, the user presses the interrupt copy end key on the operation panel to return to the printer mode. Therefore, the same effects as those of the first and second aspects of the invention can be obtained.

According to the invention of claim 4, claim 1 and claim 2
In the invention described above, when the non-operation state continues for a certain time or more after the transition to the interrupt copy mode, the control is returned to the printer mode. Therefore, even if the user forgets to press the interrupt copy end key, it is possible to return to the printer mode.
In addition to the effect of the invention of claim 2 and claim 2, the use efficiency of the copying apparatus is improved.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram showing an embodiment of a main part configuration of a system connected to an external device in a copying apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating four modes that can be set and a transition state between the modes in the copying apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an embodiment of a format of an operation check command and its response in the copying apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a communication procedure with an external device in the copying apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a communication procedure with an external device in the copying apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a command communication procedure and a command format in the copying apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a main processing flow when shifting to a printer mode according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the main processing flow when the mode switching key is pressed in the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a flow chart showing a main processing flow when shifting to a printer interrupt copy mode in the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing a main processing flow at the time of shifting to the copy mode after completion of the printing operation in the printer mode according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an embodiment of a network including one copying apparatus and a plurality of external apparatuses.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a main processing flow during a printing operation by an external device according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 1 Operation Panel 2 Copy / Printer Main Body 3 External Interface 4 External Device 5 Connection Line 11 Copy / Printer Multifunction Machine 12a-12n External Device 13 System Bus 21 Operation Panel Control 22 Copy System Control 23 Frame Memory 24 Status Data Storage Part 25 Scan control part 26 Print control part

Claims (4)

[Claims] 1. An operation unit such as an operation panel for giving an instruction for a copying operation, and a function of performing a printing operation in response to an instruction from the external device, which is connected to an external device such as a personal computer. In a copying apparatus capable of setting a copy mode in which a copying operation is performed in accordance with an instruction from a printer and a printer mode in which a printing operation is performed in accordance with an instruction from the external device, the copy mode is set while the printing operation in the printer mode continues. Is set, the operation unit is provided with a printer interrupt copy mode setting means for interrupting the current print operation and enabling the copy operation, and the printer interrupt copy mode is set while the print operation in the printer mode continues. When is set, the external device is notified that the printing operation has been interrupted, and the printer interrupt copy mode is set. When released, a copying apparatus with notifies to the external device, the process proceeds to the printer mode before interruption, characterized in that to resume the interrupted printing operation. 2. An operation unit such as an operation panel for giving an instruction for a copying operation, and a function of performing a printing operation in response to an instruction from the external device, which is connected to an external device such as a personal computer. In a copying apparatus capable of setting a copy mode in which a copying operation is performed in accordance with an instruction from a printer and a printer mode in which a printing operation is performed in accordance with an instruction from the external device, the copy mode is set while the printing operation in the printer mode continues. Is set, the operation unit is provided with a designation means for instructing a transition to a printer interrupt copy mode for interrupting a print operation currently being executed and enabling a copy operation, and the print operation in the printer mode is continued. When the transition to the printer interrupt copy mode is instructed,
The external device is notified that the transition to the printer interrupt copy mode has been instructed. Characteristic copying machine. 3. The copying apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the copying operation in the printer interrupt copy mode is completed, the operator operates a predetermined key of the operation unit to change the printer interrupt copy mode to the printer mode. A copying apparatus characterized by re-shifting and notifying an external apparatus of shifting to a printer mode. 4. The copying apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein when no key operation is performed on the operation unit for a predetermined time after the copying operation in the printer interrupt copy mode is completed, the printer is changed from the printer interrupt copy mode to the printer. A copying machine characterized by switching to the mode again and notifying the external device of the shift to the printer mode.