JP2001024826A - Composite picture processor, device and method for processing data, and storing medium storing computer- readable program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To enable a composite picture processor to accept a request for another functional processing without hindrance and start the functional processing in parallel even when the processor is in execution of one preceding functional processing without expanding the storing capacity of the processor. SOLUTION: When a composite picture processor accepts a request for another functional processing while a facsimile function section 4, a printer function section 5, or a copying function section 6 is in execution of its functional processing, the processor transfers a functional processing information group based on the accepted functional processing to a storing section 17 provided in a host computer 13 and, after the picture processing by the section is completed, controls the picture processing performed by another functional processing means based on the functional processing information group read out from the storing section 17 and transferred from the computer 13 by means of a picture output control section 8.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a composite image processing apparatus capable of executing different image processing functions via an image input apparatus and an image output apparatus by communicating with a data processing apparatus via a predetermined communication medium, and a data processing apparatus. The present invention relates to an apparatus, a data processing method, and a storage medium storing a computer-readable program.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a host computer system or the like is connected to a multi-function printing apparatus capable of processing a plurality of functions such as copying, printing, facsimile, etc. A function printing system (a composite image processing system including a data processing apparatus and a composite image processing apparatus including an image input apparatus and an image output apparatus) has been proposed. In the multi-function printing apparatus, any one of the functions is provided. If processing of another function is accepted during processing (for example, facsimile reception during printer printing or facsimile reception data copying, etc.),
Until the first accepted processing is completed, other functions will not be accepted, or even if other functions are accepted, a large capacity memory is required in the multi-function printing device, and the subsequent data is temporarily stored in the memory. Was secured.

[0003]

In the conventional composite image processing apparatus having a multi-function, when the memory in the composite image processing apparatus has a small capacity, the function processing is completed while any one of the functions is being executed. Until the next function processing is performed, the work efficiency of the user is significantly impaired.

As a solution to this, if a plurality of functions are to be processed in parallel by adding a large-capacity memory to the composite image processing apparatus, a large-capacity memory must be mounted in the composite image processing apparatus. In addition, there is a problem that the size of the composite image processing apparatus cannot be reduced and the cost increases.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to receive a function processing request from another function processing unit while performing image processing by one of the function processing units. Transfer the function processing information group based on the received other function processing means to the second storage means provided in the data processing device, and after the image processing by any of the function processing means, By controlling image processing by the other function processing unit based on the function processing information group read from the second storage unit and transferred from the data processing device, the storage capacity of the composite image processing device side Even if one preceding function processing is being executed, another function processing request is accepted in parallel and another function processing is started, and the subsequent function processing request is delayed. A composite image processing apparatus, a data processing apparatus, a data processing method, and a storage medium storing a computer-readable program that can avoid waiting and greatly reduce the time required from the reception of each function processing request to the end of the function processing It is to provide.

[0006]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, an image input device (an image input unit shown in FIG. 1) and an image output device communicate with a data processing device via a predetermined communication medium. A composite image processing apparatus capable of executing different image processing functions via (an image output unit 11 shown in FIG. 1), and selectively operates an image input apparatus and an image output apparatus to perform different predetermined image processing. A plurality of function processing units (facsimile function unit 4, printer function unit 5, copy function unit 6 shown in FIG. 1) and any one of the function processing units perform image processing.
A receiving unit (an image output control unit 8 shown in FIG. 1) for receiving a function processing request from another function processing unit, and a first storage unit (FIG. 1) for storing a function processing information group based on any of the function processing units Storage unit 12), and a second storage unit (FIG. 1) in which a function processing information group based on another function processing unit received by the reception unit is provided in the data processing device (host computer 13 shown in FIG. 1). A transfer unit (data transmission / reception unit 9 shown in FIG. 1) for transferring data to the storage unit 17 shown in FIG. 1; Output control means (image output control unit 8 shown in FIG. 1) for controlling image processing by the other function processing means based on the function processing information group transferred from the data processing device.

In a second aspect according to the present invention, the transfer means stores the function processing information group based on the other function processing means received by the reception means in the data processing device. The transfer is performed sequentially.

In a third aspect according to the present invention, the output control means is configured to perform image processing by the other function processing means based on an output condition added to the function processing information group transferred from the data processing device. Is executed.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, when a function processing request by the other function processing means is received, a storage capacity capable of processing the function processing request by the other function processing means is stored in the first storage means. Capacity determination means (image output control unit 8 shown in FIG. 1) for determining whether or not it is possible to secure a function processing request by another function processing means. In this case, the function processing information group based on the other function processing unit received by the transfer unit by the transfer unit is stored in the second storage unit (the storage unit 17 shown in FIG. 1) provided in the data processing device. When the capacity determination unit determines that a storage capacity capable of processing a function processing request by another function processing unit can be secured, the reception unit receives the request. The stores the functional processing information group based on the vignetting of other features processing unit to the first storage means 1
(Image output control unit 8 shown in FIG. 1).

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a power supply state determining means (FIG. 1) for determining whether or not the power of the data processing apparatus is turned on when receiving a function processing request from the other function processing means. The image output control unit 8 shown in (1) performs determination processing by communication with the host computer 13), and
When the power state determination unit determines that the power of the data processing device is turned on, the transfer unit transfers the function processing information group based on the other function processing unit received by the reception unit to the data processing unit. And a second reception control means (image output control unit 8 shown in FIG. 1) for transferring the data to a second storage means provided in the data processing apparatus.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the plurality of function processing means for performing different predetermined image processing can execute any one of facsimile transmission / reception function processing, print function processing, and copy function processing. .

In a seventh aspect according to the present invention, the function processing information group includes identification information for identifying the function processing and target data to be subjected to the function processing.

An eighth invention according to the present invention is a data processing apparatus capable of communicating with a composite image processing apparatus (multi-function printing apparatus 1 shown in FIG. 1) capable of executing different image processing functions via a predetermined communication medium. Generating means (printer function unit 5 shown in FIG. 1) for generating print data; and determining means (system control unit shown in FIG. 1) for determining whether predetermined image processing by the composite image processing apparatus has been completed. Part 16),
A storage unit (the storage unit 17 shown in FIG. 1) for sequentially storing a group of function processing information received and transferred by the composite image processing apparatus; and a case in which the determination unit determines that the predetermined image processing has been completed. And a transfer unit (the data transmission / reception unit 14 shown in FIG. 1) for reading out the function processing information group stored in the storage unit in the order of storage and transferring it to the composite image processing apparatus.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, when the determination means determines that the predetermined image processing has not been completed, the print data generated by the generation means is stored in the storage means. A transfer unit that is stored in the storage unit when the determination unit determines that the predetermined image processing has been completed. The function processing information group or the print data is sequentially read and transferred to the composite image processing apparatus.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a data processing apparatus capable of communicating with a composite image processing apparatus (multi-function printing apparatus 1 shown in FIG. 1) capable of executing different image processing functions via a predetermined communication medium. Determining means (system control unit 16 shown in FIG. 1) for determining whether or not predetermined image processing by the composite image processing apparatus has been completed; and function processing received and transferred by the composite image processing apparatus Storage means (storage unit 17 shown in FIG. 1) for sequentially storing information groups;
Selecting means (user interface unit 15 shown in FIG. 1) for selecting a desired function processing information group to be transferred from a plurality of function processing information groups stored in the storage means; If it is determined that the processing has been completed, the function processing information group stored in the storage means is read out in the storage order and transferred to the composite image processing apparatus until the desired function processing information group is selected by the selection means. Transfer control means for transferring the selected desired function processing information group to the composite image processing apparatus in the order of selection after the selection of the desired function processing information group by the selection means (the system shown in FIG. 1). And a control unit 16).

An eleventh invention according to the present invention comprises setting means (user interface unit 15 shown in FIG. 1) for setting output conditions for a desired function processing information group selected by said selecting means, and The control means adds the output conditions set by the setting means to a desired function processing information group and transfers the information.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, the composite image processing apparatus can execute any one of a facsimile transmission / reception function process, a print function process, and a copy function process.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the function processing information group includes identification information for identifying a function processing and target data to be subjected to the function processing.

According to the fourteenth and twenty-seventh aspects of the present invention, an image input device (image input unit 10 shown in FIG. 1) and an image output device (FIG. 1) communicate with a data processing device via a predetermined communication medium. A data processing method in a composite image processing apparatus capable of executing different image processing functions via an image output unit 11), or by communicating with the data processing apparatus via a predetermined communication medium, A storage medium storing a computer-readable program for controlling a composite image processing apparatus capable of executing different image processing functions via an image output apparatus, wherein the image input apparatus and the image output apparatus are selectively operated. A receiving step of receiving a function processing request by another function processing unit during image processing by any one of the plurality of function processing units performing different predetermined image processing ( And step S200) shown in 2,
The function processing information group based on any of the function processing means
A first storage step (step S204 shown in FIG. 2) for storing in the storage device, and a second function processing information group based on the other function processing means received in the receiving step. After the transfer step (step S202 shown in FIG. 2) for transferring the image data to the storage device and the image processing by any one of the function processing units, the data is read from the second storage device and transferred from the data processing device. An output control step (step not shown in FIG. 2) of controlling image processing by the other function processing means based on the function processing information group.

According to a fifteenth and twenty-eighth aspect of the present invention, in the transfer step, a function processing information group based on another function processing means received in the receiving step is provided in the data processing device. The data is sequentially transferred to the storage device.

According to a sixteenth and twenty-ninth aspect of the present invention, in the output control step, the output condition (such as the number of output copies shown in FIG. 5) added to the function processing information group transferred from the data processing device The image processing by the other function processing means is executed based on the above.

According to the seventeenth and thirtieth aspects of the present invention, when the function processing request by the other function processing means is received, the storage capacity capable of processing the function processing request by the other function processing means is increased by the first capacity. Capacity determination step of determining whether it can be secured in the storage device (step S705 shown in FIG. 7)
When the capacity determination step determines that it is not possible to secure a storage capacity capable of processing the function processing request by the other function processing unit, A function processing information group based on the function processing information is transferred to a second storage unit provided in the data processing device, and the storage capacity capable of processing a function processing request by another function processing unit can be secured by the capacity determination step. If it is determined, the function processing information group based on the other function processing means received in the receiving step is stored in the first processing unit.
(Steps S706 and S707 shown in FIG. 7).

According to an eighteenth and thirty-first aspect of the present invention, a power supply state determining step for determining whether or not the power of the data processing apparatus is on when receiving a function processing request from the other function processing means. (Step S shown in FIG. 8)
805) and a function process based on another function processing unit received by the reception unit in the transfer step when the power processing state determination step determines that the power of the data processing apparatus is turned on. A second reception control step of transferring the information group to a second storage device provided in the data processing device (step S80 shown in FIG. 8)
6, S807).

In the nineteenth and thirty-second inventions according to the present invention, the plurality of function processing means for performing different predetermined image processing can execute any one of facsimile transmission / reception function processing, print function processing, and copy function processing. Things.

According to a twentieth and thirty-third aspect of the present invention, the function processing information group includes identification information for identifying a function processing and target data to be subjected to the function processing.

The twenty-first and thirty-fourth inventions according to the present invention are data processing methods in a data processing device capable of communicating with a composite image processing device capable of executing different image processing functions via a predetermined communication medium, Alternatively, a computer-readable program for controlling a data processing device capable of communicating with a complex image processing device (the multi-function printing device 1 shown in FIG. 1) capable of executing different image processing functions via a predetermined communication medium is stored. A generating step (not shown) for generating print data and a determining step for determining whether or not predetermined image processing by the composite image processing apparatus has been completed (steps S302 and S305 shown in FIG. 3).
And a storage step (Step S301 shown in FIG. 3) for sequentially storing the function processing information group received and transferred by the composite image processing apparatus in the storage device, and that the predetermined image processing has been completed by the determination step. If it is determined,
And a transfer step (Step S303 shown in FIG. 3) of reading out the function processing information group stored in the storage device in the order of storage and transferring it to the composite image processing apparatus.

According to the twenty-second and thirty-fifth aspects of the present invention, when the determination step determines that the predetermined image processing has not been completed, the print data generated in the generation step is stored in the storage device. And a management step (Step S306 shown in FIG. 3) for accumulating and managing the image data. The transfer step (Step S307 shown in FIG. 3) is performed when the predetermined image processing is determined to be completed by the determination step. To
The function processing information group or the print data stored in the storage device is sequentially read and transferred to the composite image processing apparatus.

The twenty-third and thirty-sixth inventions according to the present invention provide a composite image processing apparatus (multi-function printing apparatus 1 shown in FIG. 1) capable of executing different image processing functions via a predetermined communication medium.
A data processing method in a data processing device capable of communicating with a computer, or a computer controlling a data processing device capable of communicating with a composite image processing device capable of executing different image processing functions via a predetermined communication medium is readable A determination step (step S602 shown in FIG. 6) for determining whether or not predetermined image processing by the composite image processing apparatus has been completed. A storage step of sequentially storing the transferred function processing information groups in the storage device (step S601 shown in FIG. 6), and a desired function processing information group to be transferred from a plurality of function processing information groups stored in the storage device (Step S60 shown in FIG. 6)
3) and when the predetermined image processing is determined to be completed by the determination step, the function processing information stored in the storage device until a desired function processing information group is selected by the selection step. It is reserved that the groups are read out in the order of storage and transferred to the composite image processing apparatus, and after the desired function processing information group is selected in the selecting step, the selected desired function processing information group is sorted in the selected order in the composite image processing apparatus. And a transfer control step (step S604 shown in FIG. 6) for transferring the data to the device.

The twenty-fourth and thirty-seventh inventions according to the present invention have a setting step (included in step S603 shown in FIG. 6) for setting output conditions for a desired function processing information group selected in the selection step. In the transfer control step, the output condition set in the setting step is added to a desired function processing information group and transferred.

According to a twenty-fifth and thirty-eighth aspect of the present invention, the composite image processing apparatus comprises a facsimile transmission / reception function process,
One of the print function processing and the copy function processing can be executed.

In the twenty-sixth and thirty-ninth aspects of the present invention, the function processing information group includes identification information for identifying the function processing and target data to be subjected to the function processing.

[0032]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram for explaining a configuration of a printing system to which a printing control apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention can be applied. A multifunction printing apparatus 1 and a host computer 13 have a bidirectional communication interface. 18 corresponds to a case where a multi-function printing system communicable via the system 18 is configured.

In the figure, reference numeral 2 denotes a communication line, which is a line for facsimile communication. The transmission control unit 3 of the multi-function printing device 1 performs a transmission procedure for facsimile transmission and reception and communication control.

The facsimile function unit 4 has a function of compressing and converting image data read by the image input unit 10 for transmission on a communication line, and a function of expanding and converting facsimile data sent from the communication line 2. I have.

A data transmission / reception unit 9 is connected to the host computer 13 and controls communication for receiving print image data from the host computer 13. The data transmission / reception unit 9 also includes function identification information generated by the multi-function printing apparatus 1 and the like. It also has a function of controlling transmission of print image data. Reference numeral 5 denotes a printer function unit, which has a function of analyzing drawing data sent from the host computer 13 and developing the drawing data into bitmap data.

Reference numeral 6 denotes a copy function unit having a function of converting the resolution of data read by the image input unit 10 and processing the data. Reference numeral 7 denotes a panel unit, on which switches (keys) for operation, an LED display, an LCD display, a touch panel, and the like are arranged. Selection of each function unit (4, 5, 6) and environment setting for each function are performed. Used to do.

Reference numeral 11 denotes an image output unit which has a function of controlling output of image data generated by each function unit on a paper surface. If the printer engine is an LBP, a laser driver, a rotating polygon mirror, an electrostatic It is composed of a drum, a developing unit and the like, and in the case of an ink jet system, it is composed of a print head and a carriage motor for driving the print head.

Reference numeral 8 denotes an image output control unit which has a function of controlling the multi-function printing apparatus 1 in a comprehensive manner.
The function processing of each of the functional units (4, 5, and 6) is realized based on the information set in step (1), the image data generated by each of the functional units is transferred to the image output unit 11 via the storage unit 12, The data read by the image input unit 10 is transferred to each functional unit via the storage unit 12.

Further, the image output control section 8 outputs data generated in each function section based on execution command information of each function from each function section, panel section 7, image input section 10, and data transmission / reception section 9. It also has a function of transferring data to the host computer 13. The above-described functional units, control units, and the like are generally controlled by a CPU (not shown).

On the other hand, the host computer 13 communicated by the two-way communication 18 is a general computer system, and the data transmission / reception unit 14 is an interface for two-way communication. Printer data, and conversely, the multi-function printer 1
Used to receive data from

A user interface unit 15 has a user data input function including a keyboard and a mouse and a display function including a display. 17 is a storage unit,
The printing control program according to the present invention includes a hard disk capable of storing a boot program, various application programs, font data, user files, etc., a RAM, a ROM, and an external memory such as a floppy (registered trademark) disk and a flash PROM. It is used not only for storing, but also for storing identification information, printing or output data received from the multi-function printing apparatus 1.

Reference numeral 16 denotes a system control unit, which controls the entire host computer (groups of various devices connected to a system bus (not shown)) including the aforementioned functional units (14, 15, and 17) by a CPU. .

[First Embodiment] An operation control procedure of the multi-function printing system having the above configuration will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a flowchart on the multi-function printing device side.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing an example of a first data processing procedure in the print control apparatus according to the present invention. In addition, S200 to S205 indicate each step.

The control program of the multi-function printing apparatus 1 determines whether the image output control unit 8 has received a start instruction corresponding to each function (S200).

For example, in the transmission control unit 3, the communication line 2
The data transmission / reception unit 9 determines whether a facsimile image has been received.
, Whether a copy start key or an image reading key for starting facsimile has been pressed on the panel unit 7, whether the image input unit 10 is executing image reading by pressing the key, Alternatively, after being generated as a second function information group (identification information and printing or output data, hereinafter simply referred to as output data) by the once-multifunction printing apparatus 1 described later, and transferred to and stored in the host computer 13. Any method may be used, such as whether the output data retransmitted from the host computer 13 to the multi-function printing apparatus 1 is received by the data transmission / reception unit 9.

In step (S200), if a start instruction is received, it is determined whether the input function is the first process (S201). If the input function is the first process, the multi-function printing apparatus 1 is determined. The status “BUSY” is turned ON so that the device connected to the communication line 2 and the data transmitting / receiving unit 14 can identify that the process is being executed (S20).
3) The first function is executed via the storage unit 12.

For example, if facsimile data is received, the data is expanded by the facsimile function unit 4 and the expanded data is transferred to the image output unit 11 via the storage unit 12;
When the print data is received, the data is analyzed in the printer function unit 5 and the expanded data is transferred to the image output unit 11 via the storage unit 12.

When the copy is executed, the image is read by the image input unit 10, and the data subjected to the necessary resolution conversion and processing by the copy function unit 6 is transferred to the image output unit 11 via the storage unit 12. Complete each function (S2
04). Then, when the first function processing is completed, the status “BUSY” is returned to OFF (S20).
5) Return to step S200.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S201 that the processing of one of the functions has already been performed, the process proceeds to step S202, and the output data of the function is stored in each of the functional units (4, 5, and 6). Memory, or first
The function is transferred to the host computer 13 using the work area of the storage unit 12 having such a small capacity as not to hinder the processing of the function.

The output data to be transferred is identification information of the second function and processing data of the function, and the identification information includes, for example, reception of a facsimile function, transmission of a facsimile function,
In the case of the facsimile function, the processed data is the received data, the data decompressed after the reception, the data read by the image input unit 10, and the data compressed after the read. In the case of the copy function, the processed data is the image input unit. This is the data read at step 10 or the data processed after reading.

In the case of the printer function, since the print data has not been transmitted from the host computer 13 yet, the print data is not transmitted from the multi-function printing apparatus 1 and the print data is directly stored in the storage unit 17 of the host computer 13.
Is secured.

Next, data processing on the host computer 13 side will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing an example of a first data processing procedure in the data processing apparatus according to the present invention. FIG. 3 (A) stores data transferred from the multi-function printing apparatus 1 and retransmits the data. (B) corresponds to print data storage and transmission processing on the host computer 13 side. Note that S300 to S303, S3
05 to S307 indicate each step.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of data stored in the storage unit 17 shown in FIG.

In the present embodiment, the data to be output to the image output unit 11 of the multi-function printing apparatus 1 corresponding to the function identification information (information for identifying facsimile reception, printer function, etc.) is stored as described later.

The multi-function printing system program stored in the storage unit 17 of the host computer 13 includes output data transmitted from the multi-function printing apparatus 1 via the data transmission / reception unit 9 and the data transmission / reception unit 14. (S300), and when it is determined that there is received output data, as shown in the example of FIG. 4, the multi-function corresponding to the function identification information (information for identifying facsimile reception, printer function, etc.) in the order of data reception. Data to be output to the image output unit 11 of the functional printing device 1 is sequentially stored in the storage unit 17 (S301).

The output data stored in the storage unit 17 determines whether or not the first function processing has been completed in the multi-function printing apparatus 1 based on whether or not the status "BUSY" is OFF (S302). If it is determined that the processing has been completed, the output data is sequentially read and transmitted to the multi-function printing apparatus 1 in the order in which the reception and storage of the output data in the storage unit 17 have been received in step S303, and the print processing and the communication line 2 to complete the data transfer process.

The multifunction printing system program of the host computer converts the print data (print data generated by a print instruction from an application stored in the host computer 13) which is not output data received from the multifunction printing apparatus 1 into the print data. If accepted, first, in FIG. 3B, it is determined whether the status of the multi-function printing device 1 is "BUSY" status (S305), and if it is not "BUSY" status, printing is performed on the multi-function printing device 1 as it is. Transfer the data (S30
7) Printing is completed, but in the case of "BUSY", the data is stored in the storage unit 17 in the output data format as shown as an example in FIG.
6), end the process. Note that the data storage structure example shown in FIG. 4 is an example, and the present invention is not limited to this.

[Second Embodiment] In the first embodiment,
The case has been described where the output data received by the host computer 13 is sequentially read out in the order of storage and re-transferred to the multi-function printing apparatus 1, but the user selects the output data received by the host computer 13 and transfers the output data to the multi-function printing apparatus. It may be configured as follows. Hereinafter, the embodiment will be described.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the multi-print dialog displayed on the user interface unit 15 of the host computer 13 shown in FIG.

In the figure, WSD is a list of selected data,
The reception output data identification information stored in the storage unit 17 is displayed. VR is a number-of-prints designation unit, which is capable of numerically designating the number of copies intended by the user. BT1 is an OK button, and BT2 is a cancel button. The form of the dialog is not limited to this example, and various displays are possible. Instead of displaying the reception output data identification information in a list, for example, an icon may be displayed.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the second data processing procedure in the data processing device according to the present invention. Note that S600 to S604 indicate each step. The processing on the multi-function printing apparatus side is the same as the processing in the flowchart (FIG. 2) shown in the first embodiment.
Further, the processing from S600 to S602 is the same as the processing from S300 to S302 in the first embodiment, and thus will be omitted, and the subsequent processing will be described.

Now, in step S600, whether the received output data does not exist or in step S602
In the case where the multi-function printing device 1 is not in the “BUSY” state, for example, if the output data as shown in FIG.
The program according to the present embodiment includes a user interface unit 1
5, a dialogue for selecting the output data as shown in FIG. 5 as an example is displayed, and the output data is arbitrarily selected regardless of the reception order of the output data received by the user (S603), and the multi-function printing is performed. By transmitting the output data to the device 1 (S604), each functional process can be completed.

In the example of the dialog shown in FIG. 5, not only the selection of the output data to be received but also the setting of the number of copies can be made.

That is, according to the program of the present invention, a plurality of copies can be printed by copying the output data received by the number of copies specified in the dialog of FIG. It is also possible to transfer only the copy number information and the received output data to the multi-function printing device 1 and output a plurality of copies in the multi-function printing device 1.

[Third Embodiment] In the first embodiment,
While the first function processing is being performed in the multi-function printing apparatus 1, when the start of another function is received, data based on the second function processing received without considering the free space in the storage unit 12 is transmitted to the host. Although the case of transferring to the computer 13 has been described, while the first function processing is being performed in the multi-function printing apparatus 1 and the start of another function is received, the free space is stored in the storage unit 12 in the multi-function printing apparatus 1. The output data may be transferred to the host computer only when there is no data. Hereinafter, the embodiment will be described.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the second data processing procedure in the print control apparatus according to the present invention. Note that S700 to S707 indicate each step.
Further, the processing from steps S700 to S704 is performed in the first
Since the processing is the same as that of steps S200 to S205 in the embodiment, steps S705 to S707 will be described.

If it is determined in step S701 that the function that has received the start instruction is not the first function,
The program according to the present embodiment checks the free space in the storage unit 12 of the multi-function printing apparatus 1 (S705), and if sufficient free space is obtained, stores the second output data in the storage unit 12 (S707). ), And waits for output until the first processing is completed.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S705 that sufficient free space has not been obtained, the second output data is transferred to the host computer 13 (S70).
6), store it in the storage unit 17 of the host computer 13, and return to step S701.

[Fourth Embodiment] In the first embodiment,
While the first function processing is being performed in the multi-function printing apparatus 1 and the start of another function is accepted, it is assumed that the host computer 13 is turned on when it is started. 1, while the first function processing is being executed, when the start of another function is received, it is checked whether the host computer 13 is turned on. When the power is turned off, the output data is stored in the multi-function printing apparatus 1. You may comprise so that it may secure in the memory | storage part 12.
Hereinafter, the embodiment will be described.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the third data processing procedure in the print control apparatus according to the present invention. In addition, S800 to S808 indicate each step.
Also, the processing from S800 to S804 is the same as the processing from steps S200 to S205 in the first embodiment, and thus steps S805 to S808 will be described.

In step S801, if the function that has received the start instruction is not the first function, the program of the present invention determines whether there is a response to the host computer 13 by the data transmitting / receiving unit 9 and the data transmitting / receiving unit 14.
(S805), and if it is determined that there is a response and the power is on, the second output data is transferred to the host computer 13 (S80).
6).

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S805 that the power supply of the host computer 13 is in the power-off state, the free space of the storage unit 12 of the multi-function printing apparatus 1 is checked (S807). For example, the second output data is stored in the storage unit 12 (S808),
The output standby state is set until the first processing is completed.

On the other hand, if a sufficient free space cannot be obtained in S807, data cannot be accepted.
Returning to step S800, an error is returned to the transmission destination for facsimile reception, and a start key input of the function is rejected for copy or facsimile transmission.

[Fifth Embodiment] The configuration of the present invention is not limited to the configuration example shown in FIG. 1, but may be a configuration in which each functional unit (4, 5, 6) is detachable. Therefore, even in a configuration in which all three functional units shown in the example are not provided (for example, only the printer function and the copy function, only the facsimile function and the printer function), the effects of the present invention are not impaired.

According to each of the above embodiments, in a system capable of controlling a plurality of functions, when a plurality of processes must be performed at one time, the processing of the second function is performed even if the first function is being processed. Since the parallel processing can be performed without completely stopping the processing, the total processing time can be reduced. Further, according to the present invention, the storage unit of the multi-function printing apparatus and the storage unit of the host computer can be used in cooperation with each other, so that the storage unit of the multi-function printing apparatus can be minimized. The size and cost can be reduced.

The configuration of a data processing program readable by a composite image processing system to which the composite image processing device and the data processing device according to the present invention can be applied will be described below with reference to a memory map shown in FIG.

FIG. 9 is a view for explaining a memory map of a storage medium for storing various data processing programs which can be read by a composite image processing system to which the composite image processing apparatus and data processing apparatus according to the present invention can be applied.

Although not shown, information for managing a group of programs stored in the storage medium, for example, version information, a creator, etc. are also stored, and information dependent on the OS or the like on the program reading side, for example, An icon or the like for identification display may also be stored.

Further, data dependent on various programs is also managed in the directory. In addition, a program for installing various programs on a computer or a program for decompressing a program to be installed when the program to be installed is compressed may be stored.

The functions shown in FIG. 2, FIG. 3, and FIG. 6 to FIG. 8 in this embodiment may be executed by a host computer by a program installed from the outside. In this case, the present invention is applied even when a group of information including a program is supplied to the output device from a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, a flash memory, or an FD, or from an external storage medium via a network. Things.

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 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.

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

When the computer executes the readout program code, not only the functions of the above-described embodiment are realized, but also the OS (Operating System) running on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. ) 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.

[0089]

As described above, the first embodiment according to the present invention is described.
According to the thirty-third invention, when a function processing request by another function processing unit is received during image processing by one of the function processing units, the function processing information based on the received other function processing unit The group is transferred to a second storage unit provided in the data processing device, and after the image processing by any of the function processing units is completed, the group is read from the second storage unit and transferred from the data processing device. By controlling image processing by the other function processing means based on the group of function processing information, even if one preceding function process is being executed without expanding the storage capacity of the composite image processing apparatus side In parallel, another function processing request is accepted without any trouble, another function processing is started, and a situation in which a subsequent function processing request is delayed is avoided. The time required to finish can be greatly reduced.

Therefore, without expanding the memory resources,
A composite image processing environment that can sequentially receive other function processing requests while executing any function processing, immediately start function processing after the preceding function processing is completed, and greatly reduce the processing time required for each function processing request. In addition to being able to be maintained freely, there are effects such as downsizing of the apparatus and drastic cost reduction.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a printing system to which a print control device according to a first embodiment of the present invention can be applied.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a first data processing procedure in the print control apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a first data processing procedure in the data processing device according to the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of data stored in a storage unit illustrated in FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a multi-print dialog displayed on a user interface unit of the host computer shown in FIG.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a second data processing procedure in the data processing device according to the present invention.

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

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

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs that can be read by a composite image processing system to which the composite image processing device and the data processing device according to the present invention can be applied.

[Description of Signs] 1 Multi-function printing device 2 Communication line 13 Host computer system 18 Two-way communication

Continued on the front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification code FI Theme coat II (reference) H04N 1/21 H04N 1/21 F term (reference) 2C087 AA03 AA09 BA03 BC02 BC06 BC18 BD41 2H027 DA33 DE07 EE07 EE08 EE10 EJ15 FA35 FB02 FC02 FC03 FD08 ZA07 ZA09 5B021 AA01 AA05 BB05 DD20 5C062 AA02 AA05 AB17 AB21 AB38 AB42 AC02 AC03 AC21 AC22 AC34 AC43 AE15 AF14 5C073 BC02

Claims (39)

[Claims] 1. A composite image processing apparatus capable of executing different image processing functions via an image input device and an image output device by communicating with a data processing device via a predetermined communication medium, A plurality of function processing means for selectively operating an image output device to perform different predetermined image processing; a reception means for receiving a function processing request by another function processing means during image processing by one of the function processing means; A first storage unit for storing a function processing information group based on any one of the function processing units; and a function processing information group based on another function processing unit received by the reception unit, provided in the data processing device. Transfer means for transferring to the second storage means, and after completion of image processing by any of the function processing means, the data is read from the second storage means and transferred to the data processing device. Composite image processing apparatus characterized by having the output control means for controlling the image processing by the other function processing unit based on the functional processing information group to be transferred. 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the transfer unit sequentially transfers a function processing information group based on another function processing unit received by the reception unit to a second storage unit provided in the data processing device. The composite image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein 3. The image processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the output control unit causes the other function processing unit to execute image processing based on an output condition added to the function processing information group transferred from the data processing device. The composite image processing apparatus according to claim 1. 4. When a function processing request from the other function processing unit is received, it is determined whether a storage capacity capable of processing the function processing request from the other function processing unit can be secured in the first storage unit. Another function received by the transfer unit when the capacity determination unit determines that a storage capacity capable of processing a function processing request by another function processing unit cannot be secured; A function processing information group based on a processing unit is transferred to a second storage unit provided in the data processing device, and the storage capacity determining unit can secure a storage capacity capable of processing a function processing request by another function processing unit. If it is determined that the function processing information group based on the other function processing means received by the receiving means is stored in the first storage means, And reception control means,
The composite image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: 5. A power status determining means for determining whether or not the power of the data processing device is turned on when receiving a function processing request from the other functional processing means; Providing a function processing information group based on another function processing means received by the transfer means by the transfer means in the data processing device when it is determined that the apparatus is turned on; 2. The composite image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: second reception control means for transferring the data to the storage means. 6. A composite according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of function processing means for performing different predetermined image processing can execute any of facsimile transmission / reception function processing, print function processing, and copy function processing. Image processing device. 7. The composite image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the function processing information group includes identification information for identifying the function processing and target data to be subjected to the function processing. 8. A data processing device capable of communicating with a composite image processing device capable of executing different image processing functions via a predetermined communication medium, comprising: a generation unit configured to generate print data; Determining means for determining whether predetermined image processing has been completed; storage means for sequentially storing a group of function processing information received and transferred by the composite image processing apparatus; And a transfer unit that reads out the function processing information group stored in the storage unit in the order of storage and transfers it to the composite image processing device when it is determined that the processing has been completed. 9. A management unit for storing and managing the print data generated by the generation unit in the storage unit when the determination unit determines that the predetermined image processing is not completed. The transfer unit sequentially reads out the function processing information group or the print data stored in the storage unit when the determination unit determines that the predetermined image processing has been completed; 9. The data processing device according to claim 8, wherein the data is transferred to the data processing device. 10. A data processing device capable of communicating with a composite image processing device capable of executing different image processing functions via a predetermined communication medium, wherein a predetermined image processing by the composite image processing device is completed. Determining means for sequentially determining function processing information groups received and transferred by the composite image processing apparatus; and a request to be transferred from a plurality of function processing information groups stored in the storage means. Selecting means for selecting a group of function processing information, and when the determination means determines that the predetermined image processing has been completed, the storage means until a desired function processing information group is selected by the selecting means. To reserve the function processing information group stored in the storage order and transfer it to the composite image processing apparatus, and after selecting the desired function processing information group by the selecting unit, A data processing device and having a transfer control means for transferring said composite image processing apparatus in the selected order the selected desired function processing information group, the. 11. Setting means for setting an output condition for a desired function processing information group selected by said selecting means, wherein said transfer control means sets said output condition set by said setting means to a desired function. 11. The data processing apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the data is transferred after being added to the processing information group. 12. The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the composite image processing apparatus is capable of executing one of a facsimile transmission / reception function process, a print function process, and a copy function process.
Or the data processing device according to 10. 13. The data processing apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the function processing information group includes identification information for identifying the function processing and target data to be subjected to the function processing. 14. A data processing method in a compound image processing device capable of executing different image processing functions via an image input device and an image output device by communicating with a data processing device via a predetermined communication medium, comprising: A function processing request from another function processing unit is received during image processing by one of a plurality of function processing units for selectively operating an input device and an image output device to perform different predetermined image processing. A reception process, and a function processing information group based on any one of the function processing means
A first storage step of storing in the storage device, and a second function processing information group based on other function processing means received in the receiving step, provided in the data processing device.
A transfer step of transferring to the storage device, and after the image processing by any one of the function processing units, the function processing information group read from the second storage device and transferred from the data processing device. An output control step of controlling image processing by the other function processing means based on the data processing method. 15. The transfer step includes sequentially transferring a function processing information group based on another function processing unit received in the reception step to a second storage device provided in the data processing device. The data processing method according to claim 14, wherein 16. The image processing method according to claim 16, wherein the output control step causes the other function processing unit to execute image processing based on an output condition added to the function processing information group transferred from the data processing device. The data processing method according to claim 14. 17. When accepting a function processing request from the other function processing means, determining whether a storage capacity capable of processing the function processing request from the other function processing means can be secured in the first storage device. A capacity determining step, and when the capacity determining step determines that it is not possible to secure a storage capacity capable of processing a function processing request by another function processing unit, the other function received by the transfer step in the receiving step The function processing information group based on the processing means is transferred to the second storage means provided in the data processing device, and the capacity determination step can secure a storage capacity capable of processing a function processing request by another function processing means. If it is determined that the first processing device stores the function processing information group based on the other function processing means received in the receiving step in the first storage device, The data processing method according to claim 14, wherein a has only a control step. 18. A power status determination step for determining whether or not the power of the data processing device is turned on when receiving a function processing request from the other function processing means; When it is determined that the power of the apparatus is turned on, a second function processing information group based on another function processing unit received by the transfer step in the transfer step is provided in the data processing apparatus. 15. A second reception control step of transferring the data to a storage device.
Data processing method described. 19. The data according to claim 14, wherein the plurality of function processing means for performing different predetermined image processing can execute any one of facsimile transmission / reception function processing, print function processing, and copy function processing. Processing method. 20. The data processing method according to claim 14, wherein the function processing information group includes identification information for identifying the function processing and target data to be subjected to the function processing. 21. A data processing method in a data processing device capable of communicating with a composite image processing device capable of executing different image processing functions via a predetermined communication medium, comprising: a generating step of generating print data; A determining step of determining whether or not predetermined image processing by the image processing apparatus has been completed; a storing step of sequentially storing a group of function processing information received and transferred by the composite image processing apparatus in a storage device; Transferring the function processing information group stored in the storage device in the order of storage and transferring to the composite image processing device when it is determined that the predetermined image processing is completed by Data processing method. 22. A management step of storing and managing the print data generated in the generation step in the storage device when it is determined in the determination step that the predetermined image processing is not completed. The transfer step includes sequentially reading out the function processing information group or the print data stored in the storage device when the predetermined image processing is determined to be completed by the determination step, and reading the composite image processing apparatus. 22. The data processing method according to claim 21, wherein the data is transferred to the data processing device. 23. A data processing method in a data processing device capable of communicating with a composite image processing device capable of executing different image processing functions via a predetermined communication medium, wherein the predetermined image processing by the composite image processing device is performed. A determination step of determining whether or not the processing has been completed; a storage step of sequentially storing a group of function processing information received and transferred by the composite image processing apparatus in a storage device; and a plurality of function processing information stored in the storage device A selecting step of selecting a desired function processing information group to be transferred from the group; and, when the determining step determines that the predetermined image processing is completed, selecting the desired function processing information group by the selecting step. Until the selection, the function processing information group stored in the storage device is read out in the storage order and transferred to the composite image processing apparatus. After selection of the desired function processing information group, the data processing method characterized by having a transfer control step of transferring the composite image processing apparatus in the selected order the desired function processing information group is the selected. 24. A setting step of setting an output condition for a desired function processing information group selected by the selecting step, wherein the transfer control step sets the output condition set by the setting step to a desired function. 24. The data processing method according to claim 23, wherein the data is transferred after being added to the processing information group. 25. The composite image processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein any one of facsimile transmission / reception function processing, print function processing, and copy function processing can be executed.
24. The data processing method according to 1 or 23. 26. The data processing method according to claim 21, wherein the function processing information group includes identification information for identifying the function processing and target data to be subjected to the function processing. 27. A computer-readable program for controlling a composite image processing apparatus capable of executing different image processing functions via an image input apparatus and an image output apparatus by communicating with a data processing apparatus via a predetermined communication medium. A plurality of function processing means for selectively operating an image input device and an image output device to perform different predetermined image processing, and A receiving step of receiving a function processing request by the function processing means of the first function processing means;
A first storage step of storing in the storage device, and a second function processing information group based on other function processing means received in the receiving step, provided in the data processing device.
A transfer step of transferring to the storage device, and after the image processing by any one of the function processing units, the function processing information group read from the second storage device and transferred from the data processing device. An output control step of controlling image processing by the other function processing means based on the computer-readable storage medium storing a computer-readable program. 28. The transfer step, wherein a group of function processing information based on another function processing unit received by the reception unit is sequentially transferred to a second storage device provided in the data processing device. A storage medium storing the computer-readable program according to claim 27. 29. The output control step, wherein the other function processing means executes image processing based on an output condition added to the function processing information group transferred from the data processing device. A storage medium storing the computer-readable program according to claim 27. 30. When accepting a function processing request from the other function processing means, determining whether a storage capacity capable of processing the function processing request from the other function processing means can be secured in the first storage device. A capacity determining step, and when the capacity determining step determines that it is not possible to secure a storage capacity capable of processing a function processing request by another function processing unit, the other function received by the transfer step in the receiving step The function processing information group based on the processing means is transferred to the second storage means provided in the data processing device, and the capacity determination step can secure a storage capacity capable of processing a function processing request by another function processing means. If it is determined that the first processing device stores the function processing information group based on the other function processing means received in the receiving step in the first storage device, Storage medium according to claim 27, wherein the computer has stored readable program characterized by having only a control step. 31. A power status determination step for determining whether or not the power of the data processing device is turned on when receiving a function processing request from the other function processing means; Providing a function processing information group based on another function processing unit received by the reception unit in the transfer step in the data processing device when it is determined that the apparatus is in a power-on state; 28. A second reception control step of causing a transfer to the storage device.
A storage medium storing the computer-readable program according to the above. 32. The computer according to claim 27, wherein the plurality of function processing units that perform different predetermined image processing can execute any one of a facsimile transmission / reception function process, a print function process, and a copy function process. A storage medium that stores a program that can be read. 33. The computer-readable computer according to claim 27, wherein the function processing information group includes identification information for identifying the function processing and target data to be subjected to the function processing. A storage medium that stores programs. 34. A storage medium storing a computer-readable program for controlling a data processing apparatus capable of communicating with a composite image processing apparatus capable of executing different image processing functions via a predetermined communication medium, comprising: A generation step of generating data; a determination step of determining whether or not predetermined image processing by the composite image processing apparatus has been completed; and a function processing information group received and transferred by the composite image processing apparatus to a storage device. A storage step of sequentially storing, and when it is determined in the determination step that the predetermined image processing has been completed, the function processing information group stored in the storage device is read out in the storage order and transferred to the composite image processing apparatus A storage medium storing a computer-readable program. 35. A management step of storing and managing the print data generated in the generation step in the storage device when it is determined in the determination step that the predetermined image processing is not completed. The transfer step, when it is determined in the determination step that the predetermined image processing is completed, sequentially reads out the functional processing information group or the print data stored in the storage device and outputs the composite image processing apparatus; 35. The storage medium storing a computer-readable program according to claim 34, wherein the program is transferred to a computer. 36. A storage medium storing a computer-readable program for controlling a data processing device capable of communicating with a composite image processing device capable of executing different image processing functions via a predetermined communication medium, A determining step of determining whether or not predetermined image processing by the composite image processing apparatus has been completed; a storage step of sequentially storing a group of function processing information received and transferred by the composite image processing apparatus in a storage device; A selection step of selecting a desired function processing information group to be transferred from a plurality of function processing information groups stored in the apparatus; and, if the predetermined image processing is determined to be completed by the determination step, the selection is performed. Until a desired function processing information group is selected by a process, the function processing information group stored in the storage device is read out in the storage order and the composite image processing is performed. A transfer control step of, after selecting the desired function processing information group by the selection step, transferring the selected desired function processing information group to the composite image processing apparatus in the order of selection. A storage medium storing a computer-readable program, characterized by comprising: 37. A setting step of setting an output condition for a desired function processing information group selected by the selecting step, wherein the transfer control step sets the output condition set by the setting step to a desired function. 37. The storage medium storing a computer-readable program according to claim 36, wherein the storage medium is transferred by being added to a processing information group. 38. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the composite image processing apparatus can execute any one of a facsimile transmission / reception function process, a print function process, and a copy function process.
A storage medium storing a computer-readable program according to 4 or 37. 39. The computer-readable computer according to claim 34, wherein the function processing information group includes identification information for identifying the function processing and target data to be subjected to the function processing. A storage medium that stores programs.