JPH11116129A - Printing device and control method therefor - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To easily distinguish and acquire the printing result by cleanly defining the boundary of the printing result for a job using the job offset function with the printing results for other jobs. SOLUTION: A CPU 2001 judges whether a job offset function has been set in a job to be emitted as the output, and a RAM 2002 stores in memory the job offset discharge condition of each sheet discharge hole, and on the basis of the stored data, the CPU 2001 judges whether any recording medium discharged in job offset is placed at each discharged hole. On the basis of the result from judgement, the CPU 2001 controls separate sheet discharge of the output of a job in which the job offset function is set and other output of job free of such setting which are to be delivered to different discharge holes.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a printing apparatus having a job offset function and a plurality of paper outlets for changing a sheet discharging position for each job to clarify a boundary of a print result of each job, and a control of the printing apparatus. It is about the method.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there is provided a function (hereinafter referred to as a job offset function) for clarifying a job boundary by changing a discharge position for each job or changing a discharge position of a first page of a job to another page. In such a printing apparatus, a discharge port on which a job using the job offset function is stacked and a discharge port not using the job offset function are not particularly distinguished.

FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a case where a job using a job offset function and a non-use job are mixed and output to a discharge tray. FIG. 10A shows the discharge position of the first page of a job. (B) corresponds to a case where the discharge position is changed for each job.

[0004] In (a), reference numerals 801 and 803 denote outputs from a group of jobs that do not use the job offset function. Reference numeral 802 denotes output by a job group using the job offset function. The output position of the first page of the job is output while being shifted forward from the discharge position of another page.
In FIG. 2, the boundary with other jobs is clear, and there is no possibility that the user will confuse the printed matter.

[0005] In (b), reference numerals 804 and 806 denote outputs from a group of jobs not using the job offset function. Reference numeral 805 denotes output by a job group using the job offset function. The output position is shifted for each job, and the output position is shifted back and forth. The boundary with other jobs is clear, and the user may confuse the printed matter. There is no fear that it will.

[0006]

However, in the above-mentioned conventional example, unless the user pays special attention to separate the paper outlets,
A job that uses the job offset function and a job that does not use the job offset function are stacked on the same discharge port, and outputs 801 and 804 of the job that does not use the job offset function and output 802 of the job that uses the job offset function , 805,
Regardless of which type of job offset function is used, 802 and 805 are the outputs 80 of other jobs despite the use of the job offset function.
There is a problem that it becomes difficult for the user to identify and acquire the print result despite the use of the job offset function because the boundary between the print result and the reference number 1804 cannot be determined.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and it is an object of the first to eighth inventions according to the present invention to determine whether a job to be output has a job offset function. Is determined based on the discharge state using the job offset function of each discharge port stored in the memory.
It is determined whether or not a recording medium discharged based on a job offset function is placed at each paper output port, and based on the determination results, output of a job for which the job offset function is set is determined. By separately controlling the output of a job for which the job offset function is not set and the output of the job to a different output port, the boundary between the print result of a job using the job offset function and the print result of another job is clarified. Another object of the present invention is to provide a printing apparatus and a control method of the printing apparatus, which enable a user to easily identify and acquire a print result.

[0008]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there are provided a plurality of discharge ports (a main discharge port 115 and a first bin 141 shown in FIG. 1) for discharging a printed recording medium. ~ 3rd
Bin 143) and a recording medium printed based on image information transferred from an information processing apparatus (host computer 2000 shown in FIG. 2) via a predetermined communication medium (interface 2020 shown in FIG. 2). Paper discharge means (a flapper 112, paper discharge rollers 113, 114, finisher option unit 1 shown in FIG. 1) for discharging paper to a paper discharge port
40), and a shift unit (FIG. 1) for performing a shift discharge (discharge using a job offset function) for shifting the mounting position of the recording medium discharged by the discharge unit in a predetermined direction.
In the printing apparatus having the temporary trays 150 and 151 shown in FIG. 2, a first determination unit (CPU 2001 shown in FIG. 2) for determining whether or not a shift output (use of a job offset function) is set for a job to be output. Is ROM20
And a storage unit (for storing the job offset stacking information 400 shown in FIG. 3A) of the shift discharge state of each discharge port (the job offset stacking information 400 shown in FIG. 3A). RAM 200 shown in FIG.
2 or NVRAM 2003 or external memory 201
0) and a second step of judging whether or not the recording medium shifted and discharged in each of the discharge ports is placed based on the shift discharge state of each of the discharge ports stored in the storage means. (The CPU 2001 shown in FIG. 2 performs a determination process based on a program stored in the ROM 2004 or the external memory 2010) and the determination results of the first determination unit and the second determination unit. A control unit that separates and outputs the output of the job for which the shift discharge is set and the output of the job for which the shift discharge is not set to different discharge outlets (the CPU 2001 shown in FIG. (Separated sheet discharge processing based on the stored program).

According to a second aspect of the present invention, the control means (CPU 2001 shown in FIG. 2) sets the shift output to the job output by the first determination means (CPU 2001 shown in FIG. 2). It is determined that the setting of use of the offset function has not been performed), and the second determination unit (CPU 2001 shown in FIG. 2) has performed a shift discharge (discharge using the job offset function) to the designated discharge outlet. When it is determined that the recording medium is loaded, the output of the job is controlled to be discharged to any one of the other discharge outlets on which the shifted discharged recording medium is not loaded.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, the control means (CPU 2001 shown in FIG. 2) sets the shift output to the job output by the first determination means (CPU 2001 shown in FIG. 2). If the second determination means (CPU 2001 shown in FIG. 2) determines that the recording medium on which the shift processing (job offset function) has been performed is not loaded in the designated discharge port, The output of the job is controlled to be discharged to any one of the other discharge ports on which the recording medium shifted and discharged is stacked.

A fourth invention according to the present invention relates to each of the paper discharge ports (the main body discharge port 115, the first bin 141 to the third bin 141 shown in FIG. 1).
Detecting means (a sheet remaining amount detecting sensor 115S, 1 shown in FIG. 1) for detecting the amount of the recording medium placed on the bin 143).
41S to 143S) and updating means for updating the shift discharge state of each discharge port stored in the storage means based on the detection result of the detection means (the CPU 2001 shown in FIG. 2 stores the shift discharge state in the ROM 2004 or the external memory 2010). Update processing based on the stored program).

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a setting unit (an operation unit 128 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2) for setting whether or not to execute the sorting and discharging control by the control unit. The CPU 2001) shown in FIG. 2 restricts the execution of the sorting / discharging control based on the setting state of the setting unit.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the control means (CPU 2001 shown in FIG. 2) includes the first determination means (CPU 2001 shown in FIG. 2) and the second determination means (CPU 2001 shown in FIG. 2). ), When it is determined that the output of the job for which the shift discharge is set and the output of the job for which the shift discharge is not set cannot be separately discharged to the different discharge outlets, Notify that the paper cannot be sorted and discharged (notify an error message to the host computer 2000 shown in FIG. 2 and / or
This is displayed on the LCD (not shown) of the operation unit 128 shown in FIGS.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the shift means (temporary trays 150 and 151) sets the mounting position of the recording medium discharged by the discharge means for each job or only the first page of the job. Or only the last page of the job is shifted in a predetermined direction.

An eighth invention according to the present invention is a first invention for determining whether or not a shift output is set for a job to be output.
(Step (1) in FIG. 6, step (1) in FIG. 7, step (2) in FIG. 8, step (1) in FIG. 9) and the shift discharge of each discharge port stored in the memory. A second determination step (steps (2) and (3) in FIG. 6) and a second determination step (FIG. 7) for determining whether or not a recording medium that has been shifted and discharged is placed in each discharge port based on the paper state. Step (2),
(3), (6), (7), step (3) in FIG.
(4), steps (2), (3), (6) in FIG.
On the basis of the respective determination results, a paper discharge process of separating and discharging the output of the job for which the shift discharge is set and the output of the job for which the shift discharge is not set to different discharge outlets (FIG. 6).
Steps (4) and (5) of FIG. 7, Step (4) of FIG.
(8), steps (5) and (6) in FIG. 8, and steps (4) and (8) in FIG. 9).

[0016]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[First Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of a printing apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention. In particular, the case of a laser beam printer (hereinafter abbreviated as a printer) will be described.

In FIG. 1, reference numeral 101 denotes a printer main body. An operation panel 128 is provided with switches for operation, an LED display, and an LCD display. 103
Is an engine controller that controls the printing process of the printer, a video controller that analyzes the data from the host computer and converts it into image data, and an option that controls various optional units. The controller is housed.

Reference numeral 130 denotes a paper cassette which holds paper;
A mechanism is provided for electrically detecting the paper size by a partition plate (not shown). Reference numeral 131 denotes a cassette paper feed clutch, which is a cam that separates only the top sheet of the paper placed on the paper cassette 130 and transports the separated paper to a paper feed roller 104 by a driving unit (not shown). It rotates intermittently each time paper is fed, and feeds one sheet of paper corresponding to one rotation.

Reference numeral 129 denotes a registration shutter which presses a sheet to stop sheet feeding. The paper feed roller 104 conveys the leading end of the paper fed from the cassette paper feed clutch 131 to the registration shutter 129. Reference numeral 102 denotes a manual paper feed tray, and reference numeral 105 denotes a manual paper feed roller. The manual paper feed roller 105 conveys the leading edge of the paper to the registration shutter 129.

With the above configuration, the paper cassette 1
It is possible to selectively feed paper from the tray 30 and the manual paper feed tray 102. Downstream of the manual paper feed roller 105 and the cassette paper feed clutch 131, a paper feed roller 104 and a pair of registration rollers 106 for synchronously transporting the recording paper are provided, respectively. Image recording unit 1 that forms a toner image on recording paper by laser light emitted from 107
08 is provided.

Further, downstream of the image recording unit 108, a fixing unit 109 for thermally fixing the toner image formed on the recording paper is provided.
Downstream of the fixing device 109, a paper discharge sensor 110 for detecting a paper conveyance state of a paper discharge unit, a conveyance roller 111 for conveying recording paper, a flapper 112 for switching a conveyance direction of recording paper on which recording is completed, and the like. Is provided.

By switching the flapper 112, the recording paper passes through the discharge rollers 113 and 114 and is stacked on a stacking tray (main body discharge port) 115, or a face in the discharge option is transported to the discharge option. The sheet is conveyed to the flapper 144 for switching. The stacking tray (main body discharge port) 115 includes a sheet remaining amount detection sensor 115S, and detects the remaining amount of sheets stacked on the stacking tray (main body discharge port) 115 at regular intervals.

When the shift of the sheet is designated (use of the job offset function is designated) by the video controller through the option interface, the sheet is stored in the temporary tray 151 driven by a driving means (not shown), and the sheets are aligned. The paper is shifted (shifted in a predetermined direction) with respect to the tray, and then the stacking tray (main body discharge port) 11
Discharge to 5

Next, the laser scanner unit 107 outputs an image signal (image signal VD) sent from the printer controller.
O), a laser unit 116 that emits a laser beam modulated based on O), and a polygon mirror 11 that scans the photosensitive drum 122 with the laser beam from the laser unit 116.
7. Beam detector 1 for detecting laser beam position in scanning direction
18, an imaging lens group 119, a turning mirror 120, a light amount detection sensor 121 for detecting the light amount of the laser light, and the like.

The image recording unit 108 includes a photosensitive drum 122 for holding an electrostatic latent image formed by scanning with a laser scanner unit 107, which is necessary for a known electrophotographic process.
A pre-exposure lamp 123 for light-eliminating the photosensitive drum 122, a primary charger 124 for uniformly charging the photosensitive drum 122, a developing device 125 for developing the electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 122 with toner, and a developing device 125 for developing the electrostatic latent image. Transfer charger 126 for transferring the transferred toner image to the fed recording paper, and a cleaner 127 for cleaning residual toner on the photosensitive drum 122
And so on.

The control board storage unit 103 includes a video controller, an engine controller, and an option controller unit (not shown). The engine controller includes a laser scanner unit 107, an image recording unit 108, and a fixing unit 1.
The control of the electrophotographic process by 09 and the conveyance control of the recording paper in the printer main body 101 are performed. The video controller is connected to an external device (not shown) such as a personal computer by a general-purpose interface (Centronics interface, RS232C, or the like), develops image information sent via the general-purpose interface into bit data, The data is sent to the engine controller as a signal VDO.

Next, various optional units detachably connected to the printer main body 101 will be described. The option control unit is provided in the control board storage unit 103 and includes an option controller which is a controller for controlling various option units. The option controller is connected to a video controller via a control interface connected by a connector. You.

A finisher option unit 140 includes a plurality of discharge bins, a first bin 141, and a second bin 142.
And a third bin 143 for sorting and stacking the recorded recording paper. When the recording paper is sorted into the bins, the bins are moved up and down by the bin lifting motor 149.

The finisher option unit 140 is sorted by the flapper 112 of the printer
Are sent by the flapper 144 that switches the face of the sheet based on the designation from the video controller. In the case of face-up designation, the sheet is directly sent to the discharge port by the roller 145. In the case of face down designation, the trailing edge of the sheet is once pulled by the rollers 146 and 147 until it exceeds the roller 146, and once it exceeds the roller 146, the roller 147 is inverted and fed to the roller 148 from the trailing edge of the sheet. , Outlet 140
Sent to OUT.

When the shift of the paper is designated (use of the job offset function is designated) by the video controller through the option interface, the temporary tray 150 provided near the discharge port 140OUT driven by the driving means (not shown) is provided. The sheets are stored, the sheets are aligned, the sheets are shifted for each tray (shifted in a predetermined direction), and then discharged to any one of the first bin 141, the second bin 142, and the third bin 143.

The first bin 141, the second bin 142, and the third bin 143 are provided with remaining paper amount detection sensors 141S and 141S, respectively.
2S and 143S, and detects the remaining amount of paper stacked in each bin at regular intervals. The finisher option unit 140 is controlled by a finisher controller.

Although a laser beam printer having a paper discharge option having a plurality of paper outlets has been described as an example, the printing apparatus may have a plurality of paper outlets. Needless to say.

A printing device other than the laser beam printer, for example, an ink jet printing device may be used.

Further, the case has been described in which the first bin 140 to the third bin 143 of the finisher option unit 140 are provided with the remaining paper amount detection sensors 141S to 143S. And the remaining amount of paper in each bin may be detected by moving the bin up and down by the bin elevating motor 149.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram for explaining the control configuration of the printing apparatus 101 shown in FIG. 1, and the same components as those in FIG. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals. Note that, as long as the functions of the present invention are executed, the present invention is applicable to a single device, a system including a plurality of devices, and a system in which processing is performed via a network such as a LAN. It goes without saying that the invention can be applied.

In the figure, a host computer 2000 is connected to the printer 101 via a predetermined interface 2020.

In the printer 101, 2001 is a CP
U, the system bus 200 based on the control program or the like stored in the program ROM of the ROM 2004 or the control program or the like stored in the external memory 2010.
5 is controlled in general, and an image signal as output information is output to a printing unit (printer engine) 2009 connected via a printing unit interface 2007.

The program RO of the ROM 2004
M is C as shown in the flowcharts of FIGS.
The control program of the PU 2001 is stored. ROM2
The font ROM 004 stores font data (the actual font) used when generating output information, and the data ROM of the ROM 2004 has no external memory 2010 such as a hard disk.
Information and the like used on the host computer 2000 are stored.

Reference numeral 2006 denotes an input unit. The CPU 2001 can perform communication processing with the host computer 2000 via the input unit 2006, and can notify the host computer 2000 of information in the printer 101 and the like. Reference numeral 2002 denotes a RAM, which functions as a main memory, a work area, and the like of the CPU 2001, and is configured so that the memory capacity can be expanded by an optional RAM connected to an additional port (not shown).

Reference numeral 2003 denotes an NVRAM, which is used as a storage area for environmental data or a storage area for registered external characters. The external memory 2010 is connected as an option and includes a hard disk (HD), an IC card, and the like. Further, the external memory 2010 can also store font data, emulation programs, form data, and the like.

The number of the external memory 2010 is not limited to one, and at least one external memory is provided. In addition to the built-in fonts, an optional font card and a plurality of external memories storing programs for interpreting printer control languages of different language systems are provided. It may be configured to be connectable. 200
Reference numeral 8 denotes a memory controller (MC),
0 access is controlled.

Further, NVRAM 2003 or RA
M2002 or the external memory 2010 stores the state set in the job (for example, job setting information with / without use of a job offset function to be output, discharge port designation information, paper designation information, print resolution designation information, etc.), which will be described later. Job offset loading information 400 and paper remaining amount information 4 shown in FIG.
10 and the like are stored.

FIG. 3 shows the main body discharge ports 115 and 115 shown in FIG.
FIG. 8 is a data configuration diagram illustrating an example of a data structure of sheet loading information of a first bin 141 to a third bin 143, where (a) corresponds to job offset loading information, and (b) corresponds to remaining sheet information.

In (a), reference numeral 400 denotes job offset stacking information, which stacks the output of a job using the job offset function for each of the paper discharge outlets (main body discharge outlet 115, first bin 141 to third bin 143). There is an area for storing information indicating whether the medium is loaded (already loaded) or not loaded.

In the job offset loading information 400, 401 indicates that the main body discharge port 115 has not loaded the output of the job using, for example, the job offset function, and 402 indicates that the first bin 141 has used, for example, the job offset function. Loading job output (already loaded)
403 indicates that the second bin 142 is loading a job output using, for example, the job offset function (already loaded), and 404 indicates that the third bin 143 uses, for example, the job offset function. Indicates that the output of the completed job has not been loaded.

In FIG. 4B, reference numeral 410 denotes remaining paper amount information, which is the amount of paper remaining (stacked) for each paper outlet (main body paper outlet 115, first bin 141 to third bin 143). It has an area for storing information indicating the remaining amount of paper.

In the remaining paper amount information 410, 411 indicates that, for example, ten sheets are loaded in the main body discharge port 115, and 412 indicates that the first bin 141 has, for example, 20 sheets loaded. And 413 is the second bin 1
Reference numeral 42 indicates that, for example, 12 sheets are loaded, and reference numeral 414 indicates that the third bin 143 is loaded with, for example, 0 sheets (not loaded).

The job offset load information 400 and the load amount information 410 are stored in the NVRAM 20 shown in FIG.
03 or RAM 2002 or external memory 201
0 is stored.

The print processing operation of the printing apparatus according to the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of a first print processing procedure in the printing apparatus according to the present invention.
It corresponds to the main data processing procedure and is executed by the CPU 2001 based on a program stored in the ROM 2004. Note that (1) to (4) show each step.

First, the printing device is initialized (1), and thereafter, when the input unit 2006 detects the reception of data, the receiving unit executes the receiving process (2), and analyzes the received data in step (2). (3). Next, the data decompression process executed in step (3) is executed (4), the output process of the data decompressed in step (4) is executed (5), and the process returns to the reception process of step (2).

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of a second print processing procedure in the printing apparatus according to the present invention.
This corresponds to a stacking status reset processing routine for a job using a job offset function for each paper discharge port, and is executed by the CPU 2001 based on a program stored in the ROM 2004. Note that (1) to (6) indicate each step.

This routine is repeatedly called in a sufficiently short time for each discharge port.

First, NVRAM 2003 or RAM
Based on the job offset loading information 400 stored in the external memory 2002 or the external memory 2010, it is determined whether or not the designated discharge port is loading a job using the job offset function (1), and the job offset function is used. If it is determined that the loaded job is not being loaded, the process is terminated, and if it is determined that the job using the job offset function is being loaded, any of the paper remaining amount detection sensors (115S, 141S to 143S) is used. Then, the remaining amount of paper at the paper discharge port is detected (2).

Next, the remaining amount of paper detected by the remaining paper amount detection sensor is stored in NVRAM 2003 or RAM 200.
2 or the same as the previous remaining amount of paper (stacking amount information 410) stored for each paper discharge port in the external memory 2010 (3), and if it is determined to be equal, the process ends. .

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (3) that the remaining amount of paper detected by the remaining paper amount detection sensor is not equal to the previous remaining amount of paper stored for each discharge port, the remaining amount of paper is determined. It is determined whether there is no paper remaining (4). If it is determined that there is no remaining paper, the NVRAM 2003 or RAM
The state of the discharge port stored in the external memory 2002 or the external memory 2010 is updated to a state in which the job using the job offset function is not being loaded (not loaded) (5), and the process ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (4) that there is remaining paper, the NVRAM 2003 or RAM
In 2002, the remaining amount of paper (loading amount information 410) of the paper discharge port stored in the external memory 2010 is updated (6), and the process ends.

With the above processing, if there is no remaining paper at the discharge port from which the job using the job offset function has been discharged, the stored state of the discharge port is changed to the job using the job offset function. If the job using the job offset function is ejected once and the paper is removed by changing to the unloaded state, the job using the job offset function is reset to the unloaded state Thus, it is possible to accurately grasp the state of each paper discharge port.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of a third print processing procedure in the printing apparatus according to the present invention.
A ROM 200 corresponding to the output processing routine shown in FIG.
4 is executed by the CPU 2001 based on the program stored in the CPU 4. In addition, (1) to (5) indicate each step.

First, the NVRAM 200 determines whether the output job is a job using the job offset function.
3 or RAM 2002 or external memory 2010
(1), and if it is determined that the job offset function is to be used, the paper discharge specified explicitly by the received data or selected from the determination of the stacking status or the like. A discharge process is performed to the mouth (5), and the process ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (1) that the job offset function is not used, the NVRAM 20
03 or RAM 2002 or external memory 201
Based on the job offset loading information 400 stored in 0, it is determined whether or not the selected discharge port is loading a job using the job offset function (2), and it is not loaded (not loaded). If it is determined that the sheet is discharged, the sheet is discharged to the sheet discharge port explicitly specified by the received data or selected based on the determination of the stacking state or the like (5), and the processing ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (2) that the discharge port selected is loading a job using the job offset function, the NVRAM 2003 or RA
Based on the job offset stacking information 400 stored in the M2002 or the external memory 2010, it is determined whether or not there is a discharge port in which the job using the job offset function is not being loaded (unloaded discharge port) (3). If it is determined that there is no paper discharge port that is not being loaded (a paper discharge port that is not loaded), the discharge processing is performed to the paper discharge port that is explicitly specified by the received data or selected based on the determination of the loading status or the like. Perform (5) and end the process.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (3) that there is a discharge port where a job using the job offset function is not loaded (a discharge port that is not loaded), the job using the job offset function is loaded. A discharge process is performed to a discharge port that is not in the middle (a discharge port that is not loaded) (4), and the process ends.

By the above processing, it is possible to prevent the boundary between the two outputs from becoming unclear by superimposing the output not using the job offset function on the output using the job offset function.

Hereinafter, the fourth print processing operation in the printing apparatus according to the present invention will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of a fourth printing processing procedure in the printing apparatus according to the present invention.
A ROM 200 corresponding to the output processing routine shown in FIG.
4 is executed by the CPU 2001 based on the program stored in the CPU 4. (1) to (8) indicate each step.

First, the NVRAM 200 determines whether the output job is a job using the job offset function.
3 or RAM 2002 or external memory 2010
(1) based on the job setting information stored in the NVRAM 2003, and if it is determined that the job offset function is to be used, the job offset is selected based on the job offset loading information 400 stored in the NVRAM 2003, the RAM 2002, or the external memory 2010. It is determined whether or not the output port that is set is not loading a job using the job offset function (not loaded) (6). If it is determined that the job is loaded (not loaded), the received data explicitly indicates The discharge process is performed to the discharge port specified by the user or selected based on the determination of the stacking state or the like (5), and the process ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (6) that the selected discharge port is not loading a job using the job offset function (not loaded), it is stored in the NVRAM 2003, the RAM 2002, or the external memory 2010. According to the job offset loading information 400,
It is determined whether or not there is a discharge port where a job using the job offset function is being loaded (7). If it is determined that there is no discharge port where the job is being loaded, it is explicitly specified by the received data. Alternatively, a discharge process is performed to the discharge port selected based on the determination of the stacking state or the like (5), and the process ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (7) that there is a discharge port where the job using the job offset function is being loaded, the discharge processing is performed to the discharge port where the job is loaded (8).
The process ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (1) that the job offset function is not used, the NVRAM 20
03 or RAM 2002 or external memory 201
Based on the job offset loading information 400 stored in 0, it is determined whether or not the selected discharge port is loading a job using the job offset function (2), and it is not loaded (not loaded). If it is determined that the sheet is discharged, the sheet is discharged to the sheet discharge port explicitly specified by the received data or selected based on the determination of the stacking state or the like (5), and the processing ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (2) that the discharge port selected is loading a job using the job offset function, the NVRAM 2003 or RA
Based on the job offset stacking information 400 stored in the M2002 or the external memory 2010, it is determined whether or not there is a discharge port in which the job using the job offset function is not being loaded (unloaded discharge port) (3). If it is determined that there is no paper discharge port that is not being loaded (a paper discharge port that is not loaded), the discharge processing is performed to the paper discharge port that is explicitly specified by the received data or selected based on the determination of the loading status or the like. Perform (5) and end the process.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (3) that there is a discharge port where the job using the job offset function is not loaded (unloaded discharge port), the job using the job offset function is loaded. A discharge process is performed to a discharge port that is not in the middle (a discharge port that is not loaded) (4), and the process ends.

As described above, when the output port of the output destination is loaded with a job using the job offset function and the output job does not use the job offset function, the job using the job offset function is deleted. By discharging the paper to the other paper output port where the job is not loaded, it is possible to avoid discharging the job not using the job offset function to the paper output port where the job using the job offset function is loaded. In addition, it is possible to prevent the print result of a job that does not use the job offset function from being mixed with the print result of a job that uses the job offset function.

If the output destination discharge port is not loaded with a job using the job offset function and the output job uses the job offset function, the job loaded with the job offset function is loaded. By discharging the paper to the other paper output port in the state where the job is being used, it is possible to avoid discharging the job using the job offset function to the paper output port where the job using the job offset function is not loaded, It is possible to prevent the print result of a job using the job offset function from being mixed with the print result of a job not using the job offset function.

The job offset function described in the present embodiment clarifies the boundary with other jobs by changing the discharge position of each job, only the first page of the job, or only the last page of the job. Function.

[Second Embodiment] In the first embodiment,
Separate paper discharge control so that the print results of the job using the job offset function and the job not using the job offset function are not mixed in the same paper output port (the paper output port and the job offset for loading the job using the job offset function). Although the configuration has been described in which the discharge control is performed so as to separate the paper discharge outlets for loading the jobs that do not use the function, the execution / non-execution of the discharge control (separation / non-division of the paper discharge outlets) is set. May be configured.

Further, in the first embodiment, the loading status of each paper outlet is monitored by the processing shown in the flowchart of FIG. 5, but the loading status of each paper outlet is not monitored. In addition, the stacking state of the paper discharge port required for job output is determined by a remaining amount detection sensor 115S, 1 provided in the paper discharge port.
The detection may be performed by 41S to 143S. Hereinafter, the embodiment will be described.

Whether or not execution of the separated discharge control is performed so that the print results of the job using the job offset function and the job not using the job offset function are not mixed in the same discharge port (the job using the job offset function is loaded). The setting for separating / not dividing the paper discharge port to be loaded and the paper discharge port for loading a job not using the job offset function can be set from the host 2000 or the operation panel 128.

Hereinafter, the fifth print processing operation in the printing apparatus according to the present invention will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of a fifth printing processing procedure in the printing apparatus according to the present invention.
A ROM 200 corresponding to the output processing routine shown in FIG.
4 is executed by the CPU 2001 based on the program stored in the CPU 4. Note that (1) to (6) indicate each step.

First, sorting and discharging control is executed by the host computer 2000 or the operation panel 128 (a discharging port for loading a job using the job offset function and a discharging port for loading a job not using the job offset function are separated). Is determined (1), and if it is determined that the sorting / discharging control is not executed (the discharging port is not divided), it is explicitly instructed by the received data. Alternatively, a discharge process is performed to the discharge port selected from the determination of the stacking state or the like (6), and the process ends.

On the other hand, in step (1), it is set that the sorting / discharging control is executed (the discharging port for loading the job using the job offset function and the discharging port for loading the job not using the job offset function are separated). If it is determined that the job to be output is a job using the job offset function, it is determined based on the job setting information stored in the NVRAM 2003, the RAM 2002, or the external memory 2010 (2). If it is determined that the job offset function is to be used, a discharge process is performed to the discharge port explicitly specified by the received data or selected from the determination of the loading status or the like (6), and the process ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (2) that the job offset function is not used, the NVRAM 20
03 or RAM 2002 or external memory 201
Based on the job offset stacking information 400 stored at 0 and the detection result of the remaining amount detection sensor of the selected discharge port, it is determined whether the selected discharge port is loading a job using the job offset function. (3), and if it is determined that the paper is not being loaded (not loaded), the discharge processing is performed to the paper discharge port explicitly specified by the received data or selected from the determination of the loading status or the like (6). ), And terminate the process.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (3) that the discharge port selected is loading a job using the job offset function, the NVRAM 2003 or RA
Based on the job offset stacking information 400 stored in the M2002 or the external memory 2010 and the detection result of the remaining amount detection sensor of each discharge port, the discharge port in which the job using the job offset function is not being loaded (the unloaded discharge port) (4), and if it is determined that there is no paper discharge port that is not being loaded (a paper discharge port that is not loaded), it is explicitly instructed by the received data or the loading status, etc. The discharge process is performed to the discharge port selected from the determination (6), and the process ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (4) that there is a discharge port where a job using the job offset function is not being loaded (unloaded discharge port), the job using the job offset function is loaded. A discharge process is performed to a discharge port that is not in the middle (a discharge port that is not loaded) (5), and the process ends.

As described above, the presence / absence of the execution of the sorting / discharging control for controlling the printing result of the job using the job offset function and the printing result of the job not using the job offset function so as not to be mixed in the same discharge port (job offset function) By setting a paper discharge port for loading a job that uses a job and a paper discharge port for loading a job that does not use the job offset function, it is possible to respond to a wide range of user requests.

Further, the stacking state of the discharge port required for job output is determined by a remaining amount detection sensor 115 provided in the discharge port.
S, 141S to 143S make it possible to more accurately grasp the state of the paper discharge port.

[Third Embodiment] In the first and second embodiments, when a job using the job offset function is discharged, all available discharge outlets do not use the job offset function. When a job that does not use the job offset function is loaded and a job that does not use the job offset function is output, all available output ports are loaded with a job that uses the job offset function. Alternatively, the description has been given of the configuration in which the discharge process is performed to the discharge port selected in a state of being loaded or the like (in a mixed state) based on the determination of the stacking status. Alternatively, an LED or the like (not shown) may be turned on to prompt the user to perform a predetermined error process.

Hereinafter, the sixth print processing operation in the printing apparatus according to the present invention will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the sixth print processing procedure in the printing apparatus according to the present invention.
A ROM 200 corresponding to the output processing routine shown in FIG.
4 is executed by the CPU 2001 based on the program stored in the CPU 4. Note that (1) to (10) indicate each step.

First, the NVRAM 200 determines whether the output job is a job using the job offset function.
3 or RAM 2002 or external memory 2010
(1) based on the job setting information stored in the NVRAM 2003, and if it is determined that the job offset function is to be used, the job offset is selected based on the job offset loading information 400 stored in the NVRAM 2003, the RAM 2002, or the external memory 2010. It is determined whether or not the output port that is set is not loading a job using the job offset function (not loaded) (6). If it is determined that the job is loaded (not loaded), the received data explicitly indicates The discharge process is performed to the discharge port specified by the user or selected based on the determination of the stacking state or the like (5), and the process ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (6) that the selected discharge port is not loading a job using the job offset function (not loaded), it is stored in the NVRAM 2003, the RAM 2002, or the external memory 2010. According to the job offset loading information 400,
It is determined whether there is a discharge port where a job using the job offset function is being loaded (7). If it is determined that there is no discharge port where the job is being loaded, the host computer 2000 and the operation panel 128 An error notification (or an error notification by turning on an LED or the like not shown) is made to the LCD display unit (10), and the user performs predetermined error processing (such as removing the paper stacked on the paper discharge port). Then, the process returns to step (7).

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (7) that there is a discharge port where a job using the job offset function is being loaded, a discharge process is performed to the discharge port where the job is loaded (8).
The process ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (1) that the job offset function is not used, the NVRAM 20
03 or RAM 2002 or external memory 201
Based on the job offset loading information 400 stored in 0, it is determined whether or not the selected discharge port is loading a job using the job offset function (2), and it is not loaded (not loaded). If it is determined that the sheet is discharged, the sheet is discharged to the sheet discharge port explicitly specified by the received data or selected based on the determination of the stacking state or the like (5), and the processing ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (2) that the discharge port selected is loading a job using the job offset function, the NVRAM 2003 or RA
Based on the job offset stacking information 400 stored in the M2002 or the external memory 2010, it is determined whether or not there is a discharge port in which the job using the job offset function is not being loaded (unloaded discharge port) (3). If it is determined that there is no paper discharge port that is not loaded (a paper discharge port that is not loaded), an error notification (or L not shown) is sent to the host computer 2000 and the LCD display unit on the operation panel 128.
The ED or the like is turned on to notify an error (9), and the user is instructed to perform a predetermined error process (such as removing the paper stacked on the paper discharge port), and the process returns to the step (3).

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (3) that there is a discharge port where a job using the job offset function is not being loaded (unloaded discharge port), the job using the job offset function is loaded. A discharge process is performed to a discharge port that is not in the middle (a discharge port that is not loaded) (4), and the process ends.

As described above, when a job using the job offset function is discharged, when all available discharge ports carry a job not using the job offset function, When ejecting an unused job, if all available ejection outlets are loaded with a job using the job offset function, an error message is sent to the host computer 2000 as an error message. By displaying on the display unit (or turning on an LED (not shown)), the user is urged to perform predetermined error processing (such as removing paper stacked on the paper discharge port).
When ejecting a job that uses the job offset function, if all the available paper exits are loaded with a job that does not use the job offset function, or eject a job that does not use the job offset function When all available output outlets are loaded with a job using the job offset function, the print result of the job that does not use the job offset function and the print result of the job that uses the job offset function It is possible to avoid mixing with print results of other jobs.

As described above, the storage medium storing the program codes of the software for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to the system or the apparatus, and the computer (or CPU or MP) of the system or the apparatus is supplied.
It goes without saying that the object of the present invention is also achieved when U) reads out and executes the program code stored in the storage medium.

In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the novel function of the present invention, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.

As a storage medium for supplying the program code, for example, a floppy disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, CD-ROM, C
DR, magnetic tape, nonvolatile memory card, RO
M, EEPROM and the like can be used.

The functions of the above-described embodiments are realized when the computer executes the readout program codes, and the OS (Operating System) running on the computer is executed based on the instructions of the program codes. ) And the like perform part or all of the actual processing, and the processing realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments.

Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written into a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, based on the instruction of the program code, The CPU provided in the function expansion board or function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing,
It goes without saying that a case where the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by the processing is also included.

Further, the present invention may be applied to a system composed of a plurality of devices or an apparatus composed of one device. Needless to say, the present invention can be applied to a case where the present invention is achieved by supplying a program to a system or an apparatus. In this case, by reading a storage medium storing a program represented by software for achieving the present invention into the system or the apparatus, the system or the apparatus can enjoy the effects of the present invention. .

Further, by reading and reading a program represented by software for achieving the present invention from a database on a network by a communication program, the system or apparatus can be
It is possible to enjoy the effects of the present invention.

[0105]

As described above, the first embodiment according to the present invention is described.
According to the invention, the first determination unit determines whether or not the shift output is set for the job to be output, and the storage unit stores the shift discharge state of each of the discharge outlets. The second determination means determines whether or not the recording medium shifted and discharged in each of the discharge ports is placed on the basis of the shift discharge state of each of the discharge ports stored in the storage device. Based on the determination results of the first determination unit and the second determination unit, the control unit determines whether the output of the job for which the shift discharge is set and the output of the job for which the shift discharge is not set are different. Since the paper discharge control is performed separately for the mouth, in a job in which the shift paper discharge is set, it is possible to clarify the boundary with the output of another job.

According to the second aspect, the control unit determines that the shift output is not set for the job output by the first determination unit, and the second determination unit determines that the designated discharge is not performed. If it is determined that the recording medium shifted and discharged in the opening is stacked, the output of the job is controlled to be discharged to any of the other discharge openings where the recording medium shifted and discharged is not stacked. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the output of the job for which the shift discharge is not set from being mixedly loaded to the discharge outlet from which the job for which the shift discharge is set is output.

According to the third invention, the control means determines that the shift output is set for the job output by the first determination means, and the second determination means determines that the specified discharge is specified. If it is determined that the recording medium subjected to the shift process is not loaded in the opening, the output of the job is shifted to any one of the other discharge ports on which the recording medium discharged and shifted is loaded. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the output of the job for which the shift discharge is set from being mixed in the discharge outlet from which the job for which the shift discharge is not set is output.

According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the detecting means for detecting the amount of the recording medium placed on each of the paper discharge ports and the storage means stored in the storage means based on the detection result of the detecting means. Since the updating means for updating the shift discharge state of each discharge port is provided, it is possible to accurately grasp the shift discharge state of each discharge port.

According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided setting means for setting whether or not to execute the sorting / discharging control by the control means.
The control means, based on a setting state of the setting means,
Since the execution of the separate sheet discharge control is limited, a plurality of requests such as requesting / not requesting separate sheet discharge of the output of a job for which shift discharge is set and the output of a job for which shift discharge is not set. It is possible to respond to a request from the user.

According to the sixth aspect, the control means outputs the job for which the shift discharge is set and outputs the shift discharge based on the determination results of the first determination means and the second determination means. If it is determined that the output of the job for which the paper is not set is separated and discharged to a different discharge port, it is notified that the separated paper cannot be discharged. This makes it possible to prompt the user to perform a predetermined response process such as removing the recording medium remaining in the paper discharge port.

According to the seventh aspect, the shift means includes:
Since the placement position of the recording medium discharged by the paper discharging unit is shifted in a predetermined direction for each job, only the first page of the job, or only the last page of the job, the boundary of the output result for each job is clarified. , Can be easily distinguished from other output results.

According to the eighth aspect, it is determined whether or not shift output is set for a job to be output, and each sheet is output based on the shift output state of each output port stored in the memory. It is determined whether or not a recording medium that has been shifted and discharged is placed in the mouth, and based on each of the determination results, the output of the job for which the shift is set and the job for which the shift is not set Is output separately to a different paper output port, so in a job in which shift paper discharge is set, it is possible to clarify the boundary with the output of another job.

Therefore, the boundary between the print result of the job using the job offset function and the print result of another job is clarified, and the user can easily identify and acquire the print result.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a configuration of a printing apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a control configuration of the printing apparatus illustrated in FIG.

FIG. 3 is a data configuration diagram showing an example of a data structure of sheet loading information of a main body discharge port and first to third bins shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a first print processing procedure in the printing apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a second print processing procedure in the printing apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a third print processing procedure in the printing apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a fourth print processing procedure in the printing apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a fifth print processing procedure in the printing apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a sixth print processing procedure in the printing apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating a case where a job using a job offset function and a non-use job are mixed and output to a discharge tray.

[Explanation of symbols]

 101 printer 103 control board storage unit 128 operation panel 2000 host computer 2001 CPU 2002 RAM 2003 NVRAM 2004 ROM 2005 system bus 2006 input unit 2007 printing unit I / F 2007 memory controller 2009 printing unit 2010 external memory 2020 interface

Claims (8)

[Claims] A plurality of discharge ports for discharging a printed recording medium; and a recording medium printed based on image information transferred from an information processing apparatus via a predetermined communication medium. And a shift unit that shifts the mounting position of the recording medium discharged by the discharge unit in a predetermined direction. First determining means for determining whether or not shift discharge is set for a job; storage means for storing a shift discharge state of each discharge port; and each discharge port stored in the storage means. A second determining unit that determines whether or not a recording medium that has been shifted and discharged is placed in each of the discharge outlets, based on the shift discharging state of (a), the first determining unit and the second determining unit. Based on each determination result of the determination means, Printing apparatus characterized by having a control means for outputting a control fractionation sheet discharging a shift job sheet discharge is not set output to different paper discharge mouth of the job that is set. 2. The control unit determines that shift output is not set for the job output by the first determination unit, and the second determination unit determines that the shift output is performed to a designated discharge outlet. When it is determined that the recording medium is loaded, the output of the job is controlled to be discharged to any one of the other discharge ports on which the shifted recording medium is not loaded. Item 6. The printing device according to Item 1. 3. The control unit determines that shift output is set for the job output by the first determination unit, and the second determination unit performs a shift process on a designated discharge port. When it is determined that the recording medium is not loaded, the output of the job is controlled to be discharged to any of the other discharge ports on which the shifted recording medium is loaded. The printing device according to claim 1. 4. A detecting means for detecting an amount of a recording medium placed on each of the paper discharge ports, and a detecting means for each of the paper discharge ports stored in the storage means based on a detection result of the detecting means. 2. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising updating means for updating a shift discharge state. 5. A setting means for setting whether or not to execute the sorting / discharging control by the control means, wherein the control means is configured to perform a setting based on a setting state of the setting means.
The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein execution of the sorting / discharging control is restricted. 6. The output of a job for which the shift discharge is set and the shift discharge are not set, based on the determination results of the first determination means and the second determination means. 2. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when it is determined that the output of the job is not separated and discharged to a different discharge outlet, the fact that the separated discharge is not possible is notified. 7. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the shift unit shifts the placement position of the recording medium discharged by the discharge unit for each job, only the first page of the job, or only the last page of the job.
2. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the printing apparatus is shifted in a predetermined direction. 8. A first determining step of determining whether or not a shift output is set for a job to be output, and each discharge based on a shift discharge state of each discharge outlet stored in a memory. A second determining step of determining whether or not a recording medium shifted and discharged in the mouth is placed; and outputting a shift-discharged job based on each of the determination results. And a discharge step of separately discharging the output of the job for which no is set to a different discharge port.