JP2001061030A - Image copying system, scanner system, image input device, image storage device, image output device, control method for image copying system, and storage medium storing computer-readable program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To obtain image data optimum to each of a plurality of kinds of difference recording media through one image reading and to very quickly copy continuously outputting the same picture to a plurality of kinds of the recording media with high quality. SOLUTION: Image processing suitable for an image output to a plurality of kinds of different recording media is simultaneously applied to one set of image information read by a scanner section 500 to generate a plurality of sets of image information, which are simultaneously outputted to a large capacity image memory section 501. The large capacity image memory section 501 simultaneously receives a plurality of sets of the image information simultaneously outputted from the scanner section 500 and stores them to a memory, a printer section 502 sequentially selects a plurality of sets of the image information suitable for an image output stored in the large capacity image memory section 501 and acquires them and sequentially output them to a plurality of kinds of the recording media as its control.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

The present invention relates to an image input device for inputting an image, an image storage device for storing image information input by the image input device, and a recording medium based on the image information stored in the image storage device. Copying system, scanner system, image input device, and image storage device, comprising an image output device capable of forming an image on a recording medium, and capable of executing a copying operation for continuously outputting the same image to a plurality of different types of recording media The present invention also relates to an image output device, a control method for an image copying system, and a storage medium storing a computer-readable program.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there has been a copying machine capable of executing a copying operation in an OHP insertion mode for alternately outputting the same image to OHP paper and plain paper.

[0003]

However, since the transfer conditions and the like are greatly different between OHP paper and plain paper, the original image read by scanning the original must be processed by a method suitable for each of the OHP film and plain paper. No.

In particular, it is necessary to appropriately perform density non-linear correction (γ correction) of a document image read by document scanning according to the type of recording medium such as an OHP film and plain paper.

[0005] Therefore, the same original must be read twice (scanned) when outputting to OHP paper and when outputting to plain paper, which is time-consuming and inefficient. In addition, there is a problem that the life of the reading unit is shortened.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the first to twelfth inventions according to the present invention is to provide an image input apparatus which reads one image information. Image processing suitable for image output to a plurality of different types of recording media such as OHP film and plain paper, and simultaneously generates a plurality of image information and simultaneously outputs the generated information to an image storage device. A plurality of pieces of image information output simultaneously from the device are simultaneously input and stored in the memory of the image storage device, and the image output device stores the O information stored in the image storage device.
A plurality of image information suitable for image output to a plurality of different types of recording media such as an HP film and plain paper are sequentially selected and acquired, and the images are sequentially output to a plurality of types of recording media such as an OHP film and plain paper. By controlling to
By a single image reading operation, optimal image data can be obtained for each of a plurality of types of recording media such as OHP film and plain paper, and an OHP insert that continuously outputs the same image to a plurality of types of recording media. An image copying system, a scanner system, an image input device, an image storage device, an image output device, a control method of an image copying system, and a computer readable program capable of executing a copying operation such as a mode very quickly and with high quality. The purpose of the present invention is to provide a storage medium having stored therein.

[0007]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image input apparatus (a scanner section 500 shown in FIG. 1), an image storage apparatus (a large-capacity image memory section 501 shown in FIG. 1), and an image output apparatus. In the image copying system constituted by the apparatus (the printer section 502 shown in FIG. 1), the image input apparatus comprises image input means for reading an image (the CCD section 120 in the color scanner section 380 shown in FIG. 2), and One image information read by the image input means is simultaneously subjected to image processing corresponding to image output to a plurality of different types of recording media to generate a plurality of image information, and the plurality of image information are simultaneously output to the image storage device. Image processing means (image processing units 121a to 121c, printer I / F 353 shown in FIG. 1)
a to 353c), wherein the image storage device simultaneously inputs and stores a plurality of pieces of image information suitable for image output to a plurality of different types of recording media that are simultaneously output from the image input device. (The scanner I / F 38 shown in FIG. 1
3a to 383c, the RAM 2002 shown in FIG. 6 in the large-capacity image memory 201), and in response to a request from the image output device, output any of the image information stored in the storage means to the image output device. Output means (the memory controller 2003 shown in FIG.
The image output device performs an output process via an image output device, and the image output device selects any one of image information stored in the image storage device based on a type of a recording medium on which the image is output (FIG. 1). Printer CPU 384 performs a selection process based on a program stored in a ROM or a storage medium (not shown)) and an acquisition unit that requests the image storage device to acquire the image information selected by the selection unit ( The printer CPU 384 shown in FIG. 1 performs an acquisition process based on a program stored in a ROM or a storage medium (not shown)) and an image output unit that outputs an image to a recording medium based on the image information acquired by the acquisition unit ( A color printer unit 381) shown in FIG. 2 and a plurality of images suitable for image output to a plurality of different types of recording media stored in the image storage device. Acquired sequentially selects information, the plurality of types of recording said selecting means and control means for controlling said acquiring means and the image output means to sequentially image output to the medium (the printer CPU384 shown in Figure 1 is R
OM or control processing based on a program stored in a storage medium (not shown)).

[0008] A second invention according to the present invention is directed to the image input device, wherein image processing information of the plurality of image information based on image processing performed by a plurality of image processing means (image processing information (image processing information shown in FIG. 14) Information table)) to the image storage device (the scanner CPU 30 shown in FIG. 1).
0 performs a notification process based on a program stored in a ROM or a storage medium (not shown)), and stores image processing information notified from the image input device in the image storage device (FIG. RAM 20 shown in FIG.
02, and an image processing information output unit (FIG. 2) that outputs the image processing information stored in the image processing information storage unit to the image output device in response to a request from the image output device. 6, the memory controller 2003 performs an output process via the CPU I / F 2017), and requests the image output device to acquire image processing information of a plurality of pieces of image information stored in the image storage device. Processing information acquisition means (printer C shown in FIG. 1)
The PU 384 performs an acquisition process based on a program stored in a ROM or a storage medium (not shown)), and the selection unit of the image output device includes a plurality of storage units stored in the image storage device acquired by the image processing information acquisition unit. Any one of the image information stored in the image storage device is selected based on the image processing information of the image information and the type of the recording medium on which the image is output.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, the image processing corresponding to the image output to a plurality of different types of recording media simultaneously performed by the plurality of image processing means of the image input apparatus is OHP.
The image processing includes image processing based on a density non-linear correction table for film output (γ correction table 3001 shown in FIG. 13) and image processing based on a density non-linear correction table for plain paper output (γ correction table 3000 shown in FIG. 13). The selection means of the image output device selects the image information subjected to the image processing for OHP film output when outputting an image to an OHP film, and performs the image processing for plain paper output when outputting the image to plain paper. This is for selecting image information.

A fourth invention according to the present invention relates to an image input device (scanner section 500 shown in FIG. 1) and an image storage device (FIG. 1).
And a large-capacity image memory unit 501 shown in FIG. 1 and capable of communicating with an image output device (printer unit 502 shown in FIG. 1). Color scanner unit 3
And a plurality of image information generated by simultaneously performing image processing corresponding to image output to a plurality of different types of recording media on one image information read by the image input means. , A plurality of image processing means (image processing units 121a to 121c, printer I / Fs 353a to 353 shown in FIG.
c), wherein the image storage device simultaneously inputs and stores a plurality of pieces of image information suitable for image output to a plurality of different types of recording media that are simultaneously output from the image input device (FIG. Scanner I / Fs 383a to 38 shown in FIG.
3c, RAM 2 shown in FIG.
002) and output means for outputting any of the image information stored in the storage means to the image output device in response to a request from the image output device (the memory controller 2003 shown in FIG. Output processing).

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the image processing corresponding to the image output to a plurality of different types of recording media simultaneously performed by the plurality of image processing means of the image input device is OHP.
The image processing includes image processing based on a density non-linear correction table for film output (γ correction table 3001 shown in FIG. 13) and image processing based on a density non-linear correction table for plain paper output (γ correction table 3000 shown in FIG. 13).

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image input apparatus (scanner section 500 shown in FIG. 1) capable of communicating with an image storage apparatus (large-capacity image memory section 501 shown in FIG. 1). The input means (CCD section 120 in the color scanner section 380 shown in FIG. 2) and image processing corresponding to image output to a plurality of different types of recording media for one image information read by the image input means are simultaneously performed. A plurality of image processing means (image processing units 121a to 121c, printer I / F 353 shown in FIG. 1) for simultaneously generating a plurality of pieces of image information and outputting the same to the image storage device.
a to 353c).

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the image processing corresponding to image output to a plurality of different types of recording media simultaneously performed by the plurality of image processing means, a density non-linear correction table for OHP film output (FIG. Image processing based on the γ correction table 3001 shown in FIG. 13 and a density non-linear correction table for plain paper output (the γ correction table 300 shown in FIG. 13)
0).

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, an image storage device (shown in FIG. 1) capable of communicating with an image input device (the scanner portion 500 shown in FIG. 1) and an image output device (the printer portion 502 shown in FIG. 1). A large-capacity image memory unit 501) for simultaneously inputting and storing a plurality of pieces of image information which are simultaneously output from the image input device and are suitable for outputting images to a plurality of different types of recording media (the scanner shown in FIG. 1) I / Fs 383a to 383c, a RAM 2002 shown in FIG. 6 in the large-capacity image memory 201) and any one of the image information stored in the storage means in response to a request from the image output device. Output means (the memory controller 2003 shown in FIG.
Output processing via F2017).

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, an image is output in an image output device (a printer unit 502 shown in FIG. 1) which can communicate with an image storage device (a large capacity image memory unit 501 shown in FIG. 1). Selection means for selecting any image information stored in the image storage device based on the type of recording medium (the printer CPU 384 shown in FIG. 1 performs a selection process based on a program stored in a ROM or a storage medium (not shown)) ) And acquisition means for requesting and acquiring the image information selected by the selection means from the image storage device (obtained by the printer CPU 384 shown in FIG. 1 based on a program stored in a ROM or a storage medium not shown). Processing) and image output means for outputting an image to a recording medium based on the image information acquired by the acquisition means (the color printer shown in FIG. 2). Counter 381) and a plurality of image information suitable for image output to a plurality of different types of recording media stored in the image storage device are sequentially selected and acquired and sequentially output to the plurality of types of recording media. Control means for controlling the selection means, the acquisition means, and the image output means (the printer CPU 384 shown in FIG.
OM or control processing based on a program stored in a storage medium (not shown)).

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, the plurality of different types of image processing performed on the one piece of image information is a density non-linear correction table for OHP film output (a γ correction table 3001 shown in FIG. 13). ), A density non-linear correction table for plain paper output (FIG. 13)
The image output device includes image processing based on a γ correction table 3000), and when outputting an image to an OHP film, selects the image information that has been subjected to the image processing for OHP film output and outputs the image information to plain paper. When outputting images,
This selects image information that has been subjected to plain paper output image processing.

An eleventh invention according to the present invention relates to a method for controlling an image copying system comprising an image input device, an image storage device and an image output device, wherein an image input step of reading an image by said image input device (FIG. 15 steps S1
05) and simultaneously performing image processing corresponding to image output to a plurality of different types of recording media on the read one piece of image information to generate a plurality of pieces of image information. An image processing step of simultaneously outputting to the apparatus (step S105 in FIG. 15) and simultaneously inputting a plurality of pieces of image information suitable for image output to a plurality of different types of recording media simultaneously output from the image input apparatus, A storing step of storing the image information in the memory of the storage device (step S204 in FIG. 16) and, in response to a request from the image output device, outputting any of the image information stored in the memory from the image storage device to the image output device An output step of outputting to an apparatus (step S208 in FIG. 16), and a plurality of steps suitable for outputting images to a plurality of different types of recording media stored in the image storage device. A plurality of selection steps for sequentially selecting image information (steps S305 and S310 in FIG. 17); and a plurality of acquisition steps for sequentially requesting and acquiring the image information sequentially selected in the plurality of selection steps from the image storage device. Steps (Steps S307 to S308, S312 to S31 in FIG. 17)
3) and a plurality of image output steps for sequentially outputting images to the plurality of types of recording media based on the image information sequentially acquired in the plurality of acquisition steps (steps S309 and S309 in FIG. 17).
314).

A twelfth invention according to the present invention is directed to a storage medium storing a computer-readable program for controlling an image copying system comprising an image input device, an image storage device, and an image output device. An image input step (step S105 in FIG. 15) of reading an image by the input device and image processing corresponding to image output to a plurality of different types of recording media on the read one piece of image information are simultaneously performed to obtain a plurality of images. An image processing step of generating information and simultaneously outputting the information from the image input device to the image storage device (step S105 in FIG. 15), and outputting images to a plurality of different types of recording media simultaneously output from the image input device Storage step of simultaneously inputting a plurality of pieces of image information suitable for the same and storing the information in the memory of the image storage device (FIG. 1)
And step S204 of outputting the image information stored in the memory from the image storage device to the image output device in response to a request from the image output device (step S204 of FIG. 16). S208), and a plurality of selection steps (steps S305 and S310 in FIG. 17) for sequentially selecting a plurality of pieces of image information suitable for outputting images to a plurality of different types of recording media stored in the image storage device.
A plurality of acquisition steps for sequentially requesting and acquiring the image information sequentially selected in the plurality of selection steps from the image storage device (steps S307 to S308 and S312 in FIG. 17).
S313) and a plurality of image output steps for sequentially outputting images to the plurality of types of recording media based on the image information sequentially acquired in the plurality of acquisition steps (step S30 in FIG. 17).
9, S314) stored in a storage medium.

[0019]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS A basic configuration of an image copying apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS.

(Logical Configuration of Image Copier Main Body) FIG.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a logical configuration of an image copying apparatus and a flow of image data signals according to an embodiment of the present invention.

In the figure, reference numeral 500 denotes a scanner unit which reads image information from a document and transmits it to a large-capacity image memory unit 501. The large-capacity image memory unit 501 includes the scanner unit 50
The image information read from 0 is stored. A printer unit 502 records the image information stored in the large-capacity image memory unit 501 on a recording medium such as plain paper or an OHP film.

In the scanner section 500, reference numeral 120 denotes a CC.
In the D part, a CCD image sensor (C
A plurality of image processing units 121a to 121 which are configured by a CD) 101 and a CCD substrate 311 to read reflected light from a document (details will be described later) and arrange image signals in parallel.
1c. In addition, the image processing units 121a to 121a
The number 121c is not limited to three, but may be one or more.

The image processing units 121a to 121c are CCDs
The input image signal read from the unit 120 is subjected to predetermined image processing. Reference numerals 353a to 353c denote printer interfaces (printer I / F), and the image processing unit 121a
And the same number as the image processing units 121a to 121c.
In step 0c, transmission of each image signal subjected to image processing to the large-capacity image memory unit 501 is controlled.

Reference numeral 300 denotes a scanner CPU;
M and RAM, and controls the entire scanner unit 500 based on a program stored in a ROM or a storage medium (not shown).

In the large-capacity image memory unit 501, reference numerals 383a to 383c denote scanner interfaces (scanner I / Fs), and printer I / Fs 353a to 353c.
And the printer I / F3 of the scanner unit 500
It receives signals respectively transmitted from 53a to 353c and outputs them to a large-capacity image memory (memory) 201. The memory 201 has scanner I / Fs 383a to 383a.
c stores and holds the image signals respectively output from c.

Further, the printer unit 502 includes a memory 20
One of the images stored in the storage unit 1 is selected, read, and output to a recording medium. In the printer unit 502, 3
84, a printer CPU having a ROM and a RAM;
Based on M or a program stored in a storage medium (not shown), the entire printer unit 502 is totally controlled.

The memory 201 can hold an image received from an external device via an external interface (external I / F) 382, and the external device is connected to an external I / F 382 like the printer unit 502. , One of the images held in the memory 201 can be selected and read.

The external I / F 382 can be connected to another scanner, printer, or computer.

Further, a connection may be made to a computer network through the external I / F 382 to exchange image data and image information with other scanners, printers, computers, and the like on the network.

The scanner CPU 300 that controls the scanner section 500 can write and read image information to and from the memory 201, and notifies the memory 201 when writing image data.

Similarly, a printer CPU 384 that controls the printer unit 502 can write and read image information to and from the memory 201, and notifies the memory 201 when reading image data.

Further, from an external device communicable via the external I / F 382, similar image information writing / reading, image data writing / writing, and the like can be performed via the external I / F 382.
A read notification can be made.

Further, the scanner CPU 300 and the printer CPU 384 communicate data other than image data and commands via the command communication line 503. What is communicated here is the timing of scanning and printing, details regarding image data in the memory 201, and the like.

The above-described scanner unit 500, large-capacity image memory unit 501, and printer unit 502 can be used independently as a scanner device, a large-capacity storage device, and a printer device, respectively. The high-capacity image memory unit 501 and the printer unit 502 are connected to be used as an image copying apparatus (system), and the scanner unit 500 and the large-capacity image memory unit 501 are connected to be used as a scanner apparatus (system) or an electronic file device. It is possible.

The operation will be described below.

First, the input image signals read from the CCD unit 120 are converted into image processing units 121a to 121a arranged in parallel.
121c. Image processing units 121a-1
The signals processed in 21c are image processing units 121a to 121a.
the same number of printer interfaces 353a-3
The data is sent to the large-capacity memory unit 501 through 53c.

In the large-capacity memory unit 501, the scanner unit 50
0 from the scanner interface 38
3a to 383c, and holds the data in the memory 201.

The printer unit 502 selects and reads one of the images stored in the memory 201, and outputs it to a recording medium.

The memory 201 can store at least one or more pieces of image data for image output.
Output of an image by the printer unit 502 is performed by the scanner unit 50.
0 can be performed asynchronously with the image input start timing.

FIG. 2 is a sectional view for explaining the overall structure of the image copying apparatus shown in FIG. 1, and the same components as those in FIG. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

In the figure, reference numeral 380 denotes a color scanner, which includes the scanner 500 shown in FIG. Also, 38
Reference numeral 1 denotes a color printer unit including the large-capacity image memory unit 501 and the printer unit 502 shown in FIG.

The color scanner unit 380 is used as a scanner device, and the color printer unit 381 is used independently as a large-capacity storage device and a printer device. Alternatively, the color scanner unit 380 and the color printer unit 381 are used.
Can be connected to be used as an image copying apparatus and an electronic file device.

(Configuration of Color Scanner) First, the configuration of the color scanner section 380 shown in the broken line in the figure will be described.

(Explanation of Name of Apparatus) Color Scanner 3
At 80, reference numeral 301 denotes a platen glass (platen);
Place the original to be scanned. 302 is a document feeder (DF)
Then, the original placed on the original platen is fed to the original platen glass 301 one by one from above or below. It should be noted that a configuration in which a pressure plate (not shown) is mounted in place of the document feeder 302 may be employed.

Reference numerals 303 and 304 denote a light source such as a halogen lamp or a fluorescent lamp, which illuminates a document on the platen glass 301. 305 and 306 are reflectors, and light sources 303 and 304
Is focused on the original. Reference numerals 307 to 309 denote mirrors for optically guiding a document set on a platen to the CCD 101.

Reference numeral 310 denotes a lens which condenses the projection light from the mirror on the CCD 101. A first mirror stand (carriage) 314 accommodates the halogen lamps 303 and 304, the reflectors 305 and 306, and the mirror 307. Reference numeral 315 denotes a second mirror base which houses the mirrors 308 and 309. 31
Reference numeral 6 denotes a stepping motor driving unit, which is a first mirror base 314.
And the second mirror combination 315 is driven in the sub-scanning direction (the left-right direction in the figure).

In the CCD 101, light receiving sensors are arranged in the main scanning direction (front-back direction in the figure), and an analog voltage proportional to the amount of light is sequentially output from a register corresponding to the light receiving sensor at regular intervals. It is possible to take in
By repeating the continuous scanning in the main scanning direction and the movement for driving in the sub-scanning direction, it is possible to capture the entire surface of the document as a two-dimensional image (two-dimensional image data has a one-dimensional array on the time axis). ), This image data is
Output to CD substrate 311.

Further, the CCD substrate 311
1 is a mounted substrate.

Reference numeral 312 denotes an IP substrate (image processing substrate).
An image processing unit 121 that performs digital image processing after digitizing an analog image signal sent from the CD substrate 311
a to 121c (shown in FIG. 1).

An external interface 313 controls communication with other devices. Although not shown in this embodiment, the external interface is read by a color scanner unit 380 such as a LAN interface device for connecting to a network, a SCSI interface device for connecting to a personal computer, a FAX device for operating as a facsimile, and the like. It is possible to connect a device (external device) required to use the scanner image
The scanner CPU 300 and the CPU of the external device communicate with each other via the external I / F, and the determined image data can be output from the external interface 313 at the determined timing.

The printer I / F 353 (the printer I / Fs 353a to 353c shown in FIG. 1), when using the color scanner unit 380 as an image copying apparatus, transmits image information and instructions to a printer device in charge of image output. This is a dedicated interface for communication.

An operation unit 390 includes a display unit (not shown) and various keys, and can instruct various settings and operations of the color scanner unit 380.

When the color scanner section 380 is connected to a printer and used as an image copying apparatus, various settings and operations of the image copying function can be instructed.

(Explanation of how to read the original) The DF 302 or the original placed on the original platen glass 301 by the user presses a copy button (not shown) of the operation unit 390, an instruction from an external device via the external interface 313, or the like. In response to the document reading event, the scanner CPU 300 gives an instruction to perform image reading to various places.

Specifically, the light sources 303 and 304 are turned on, the CCD substrate 311 is made operable, and image processing parameters are set on the image processing substrate 312. When each preparation is completed, the stepping motor drive unit 316 is operated to drive the first mirror base 314 at a constant speed V in the sub-scanning direction,
The entire surface of the document is illuminated in order. At this time, the second mirror base 315 is 速度 of the speed of the first mirror base 314 (that is, V / V).
It is mechanically optically designed to be driven in 2), and accurately irradiates the CCD 101 with light on the original.

The CCD 101 has light receiving sensors arranged in the main scanning direction (front-rear direction in the figure) as described above.
An analog voltage proportional to the light amount is sequentially taken in, and the whole original is taken in a two-dimensional image by repeating the continuous taking in the main scanning direction and the movement for driving in the sub-scanning direction (two-dimensional image data is time axis). Takes a one-dimensional array).

The image data sent out by the CCD 101 is transferred from the CCD substrate 311 to the image processing substrate 312 and, after being subjected to appropriate image processing, to the external interface 3.
13 or outputs the image to the outside of the scanner via the printer interface 353.

(Structure of Color Printer Unit) Next, the structure of the color printer unit 381 indicated by a broken line in the figure will be described.

(Explanation of Name of Apparatus) Color Printer 3
In 81, the scanner I / F 383 (scanner I / Fs 383a to 383c shown in FIG. 1) serves as an interface for connecting a scanner device when using the color printer unit 381 as an image copying apparatus.

Although not shown in this embodiment, the external I / F 382 includes a LAN interface device for connecting to a network, and a SCSI for connecting to a personal computer.
It is possible to connect a device that is required to output an image to the printer, such as an interface device. The printer CPU 384 communicates with the CPU of the external device via the external I / F 382, and At the timing, the determined image data is transferred to the external I / F3.
82.

317 is a magenta image forming section (M image forming section), 318 is a cyan image forming section (C image forming section),
Reference numeral 19 denotes a yellow image forming unit (Y image forming unit), and 320 denotes a black image forming unit (K image forming unit). 317-
Since the configuration of each image forming unit up to 320 is the same, the M image forming unit 317 will be described in detail below, and the description of the other image forming units will be omitted.

In the M image forming unit 317, reference numeral 342 denotes a photosensitive drum, on which a latent image is formed by light from the LED array 210. A primary charger 321 charges the surface of the photosensitive drum 342 to a predetermined potential to prepare for forming a latent image. Reference numeral 322 denotes a developing device,
The upper latent image is developed to form a toner image. The developing device 322 includes a sleeve 361 for applying a developing bias to develop.

Reference numeral 323 denotes a transfer charger, which is a transfer belt 333.
, The toner image on the photosensitive drum 342 is transferred to a recording paper (a plain paper, a recording medium such as an OHP film) on the transfer belt 333. In this embodiment, since the transfer efficiency is high, the configuration is such that the cleaner portion is not disposed. However, it is needless to say that the configuration in which the cleaner portion is mounted does not matter.

Reference numerals 340 and 341 denote cassettes for storing recording paper (plain paper, recording medium such as an OHP film). 33
Reference numerals 8 and 339 denote pickup rollers, which are cassettes 340 and
The recording paper and the like stored in the storage 341 are separated and fed one by one.
Reference numerals 336 and 337 denote paper feed rollers.
The recording paper fed from the transfer belts 338 and 339 is transferred to the transfer belt 333.
Supply on top.

Reference numeral 346 denotes a suction charger, which is a sheet feeding roller 33.
6, 337, the recording paper fed is charged. 34
A transfer belt roller 8 drives the transfer belt 333,
In addition, the recording paper or the like is charged in pairs with the adsorption charger 346, and the recording paper or the like is adsorbed on the transfer belt 333.

Reference numeral 347 denotes a paper edge sensor, which is a transfer belt 33.
3 to detect the leading edge of the recording paper or the like. The detection signal of the paper leading edge sensor 347 is sent from the color printer unit 381 to the color scanner unit 380, and the color scanner unit 380
Is used as a sub-scanning synchronization signal when a video signal is sent from the printer to the color printer unit 381.

The transfer belt 333 transfers the recording paper on the transfer belt 333 to the M image forming unit 317, the C image forming unit 318,
The sheet is conveyed in the order of the Y image forming section 319 and the K image forming section 320. Reference numeral 349 denotes a static eliminator, which neutralizes recording paper or the like that has passed through the K image forming unit 320 in order to facilitate separation from the transfer belt 333. Reference numeral 350 denotes a peeling charger, which prevents image disturbance due to peeling discharge when recording paper or the like is separated from the transfer belt 333.

Reference numerals 351 and 352 denote pre-fixing chargers for charging recording paper and the like separated from the transfer belt 333 in order to supplement the toner attraction force and prevent image disturbance. A fixing unit 334 thermally fixes the toner image on the recording paper to the recording paper.
Reference numeral 335 denotes a discharge tray on which discharged recording paper and the like are stacked.

(Image Forming Method) Next, a procedure for forming an image on a recording medium such as recording paper will be described.

The recording papers and the like stored in the cassettes 340 and 341 are supplied onto the transfer belt 333 by sheet feed rollers 336 and 337 one by one by pickup rollers 338 and 339. The fed recording paper is charged by the adsorption charger 346. The transfer belt roller 348 is a transfer belt 3
33 is driven, and the recording paper or the like is charged in a pair with the adsorption charger 346 to cause the transfer belt 333 to adsorb the recording paper or the like.

The transfer belt 333 is detected by the paper edge sensor 347.
When the leading end of the recording paper or the like is detected, the leading end sensor 347 is detected.
Is sent from the color printer unit 381 to the color scanner unit 380, and this signal is used as a sub-scanning synchronization signal by the color scanner unit 380.
1 is sent a video signal.

Thereafter, the recording paper or the like is conveyed by the transfer belt 333, and the image is formed on each surface of the image forming units 317 to 320 in the order of magenta (M), cyan (C), yellow (Y), and black (K). A toner image is formed.
The recording paper or the like that has passed through the K image forming section 320 is easily discharged from the transfer belt 333 by a static eliminator 349.
, And is separated from the transfer belt 333. At this time, the image is prevented from being disturbed by the peeling discharge when the charged recording paper or the like is separated from the transfer belt 333 by the peeling charger 350.

The recording paper and the like separated from the transfer belt 333 are charged by pre-fixing chargers 351 and 352 in order to compensate for toner attraction and prevent image disturbance, and then the toner image is fixed by the fixing device 334. After heat-fixing, the output tray 3
35 is discharged.

(Description of Scanner Image Processing System) Next, FIG.
The digital image processing units (the CCD unit 120, the image processing units 121a to 121a to
121c) will be described in detail.

FIG. 3 shows the image processing substrate 312 shown in FIG.
Digital image processing unit (CCD unit 12 shown in FIG. 1)
0, a block diagram for explaining in detail the configuration of the image processing units 121a to 121c), and the same components as those in FIG. 2 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the image processing unit 121 (image processing units 121a to 121c) and the printer interface 353 (printer I / F 353a to 353c) are provided for one CCD unit 120. There are a plurality of image processing units 121 and the printer interface 3 to simplify the flow of image processing.
The case where there is one 53 will be described.

In the figure, reference numeral 102 denotes a clamp & Amp.
In the & S / H & A / D section, an original on the original platen glass 301 is read, and the CCD 101 is read.
It may be a CD mounted in-line on a CD in RGB order, or a three-line CCD, in which an R filter, a G filter, and a B filter are arranged for each CCD.
An electrical signal (analog image signal) output from a different configuration may be sampled and held (S /
H) Then, the dark level of the analog image signal is clamped to the reference potential, amplified to a predetermined amount (the processing order is not limited to the notation order), A / D converted, and, for example, a digital signal of 8 bits each of RGB. Convert to

Reference numeral 103 denotes a shading portion, which includes a clamp &
Amp. RG output from & S / H & A / D section 102
Shading correction and black correction are performed on the B signal. 104
Is a connection & MTF correction & original detection unit, which receives the RGB signal output from the shading unit
When 01 is a three-line CCD, the splicing process differs in the reading position between the lines. Therefore, the delay amount for each line is adjusted according to the reading speed, and the signal timing is corrected so that the reading positions of the three lines become the same. , MTF correction depends on the reading speed and magnification, and the MTF (Modulation Tr
transfer function), the change is corrected, and the document detection recognizes the document size by scanning the document on the platen glass.

Reference numeral 105 denotes an input masking unit,
The spectral characteristics of the CCD 101, the light sources 303 and 304, and the reflectors 305 and 306 are applied to the digital signal whose reading position timing is corrected by the TF correction and document detection unit 104.
Is corrected.

Reference numeral 106 denotes a selector.
05 and an external I / F signal input from the external interface 313 via the external I / F unit 114 can be switched.

The signal output from the selector 106 is input to the color space compression & background removal & LOG conversion unit 107 and background removal unit 115.

The background removal unit 115 removes the background of the input signal, and then inputs the signal to a black character determination unit 116 that determines whether or not the document is a black character of the original.
16 generates a black character signal from the original.

On the other hand, the color space compression & background removal & LOG conversion section 107 to which another output of the selector 106 is input.
Is a color space compression process that determines whether the read image signal is within the range that can be reproduced by the printer, and if so, corrects it so that it is within the range that can be reproduced by the printer. Is performed, and then a background removal process is performed, and a LOG conversion process for converting an RGB signal into a CMY signal is performed.

A delay unit 108 corrects (adjusts) the timing between the signal generated by the black character determination unit 116 and the output signal of the color space compression / background removal / LOG conversion unit 107.
Reference numeral 109 denotes a moiré removing unit, which outputs the signal generated by the black character determination unit 116, the color space compression, the background removal, and the LOG conversion unit 107.
The moiré of two types of output signals is removed. 110
Is a scaling unit for scaling the output from the moiré removing unit 109 in the main scanning direction.

Reference numeral 111 denotes a UCR & masking & black character reflection unit.
A UMY process is performed on the MY signal to generate a CMYK signal, a masking process is performed on the CMYK signal to correct the signal that was present at the output of the printer, and the determination signal generated by the black character determination unit 116 is converted into a CMYK signal. Is subjected to black character reflection processing to be fed back.

Reference numeral 112 denotes a γ correction unit which performs density adjustment (non-linear density correction based on a γ table set by the scanner CPU 300) on the signal processed by the UCR & masking & black character reflection unit 111. A filter unit 113 performs smoothing or edge processing on the signal whose density has been adjusted by the γ correction unit 112.

Reference numeral 117 denotes a binary conversion unit.
Is converted from an 8-bit multilevel signal to a binary signal. The conversion method is dither method, error diffusion method,
Any of the improved error diffusions may be used.

Through these processes, an image is sent from the printer interface 353 or the external interface 313 to a printer or other device.

Hereinafter, a case where the color printer section 381 operates as an image copying apparatus will be described.

First, the original on the original platen glass 301 is CC
D101 is converted into an electric signal, and the electric signal (analog image signal) is input to the image processing unit 312,
Clamp & Amp. The sample / hold (S / H) in the & S / H & A / D unit 102 clamps the dark level of the analog image signal to the reference potential, amplifies it to a predetermined amount (the above processing order is not limited to the notation order), and It is D-converted and converted into a digital signal of, for example, 8 bits for each of RGB.

The RGB signals are transmitted to the shading unit 1
03, after shading correction and black correction are performed,
In the connection & MTF correction & document detection unit 104, the CCD 10
If 1 is a 3-line CCD, the splicing process differs in the reading position between the lines. Therefore, the delay amount for each line is adjusted according to the reading speed, and the signal timing is corrected so that the reading positions of the three lines become the same. , MTF correction changes the reading MTF depending on the reading speed and the magnification, so the change is corrected,
The document detection recognizes the size of the document by scanning the document on the platen glass.

Next, a connection & MTF correction & original detection unit 1
The digital signal whose reading position timing has been corrected in step 04 is input to the input masking unit 105 to output the spectral characteristics of the CCD 101 and the light sources 303 and 304 and the reflectors 305 and 3.
06 is corrected. Input masking unit 105
Is a selector 1 that can be switched with an external I / F signal.
06 and output from the selector 106 are input to the color space compression & background removal & LOG conversion unit 107 and background removal unit 115.

After the signal input to the background removal unit 115 is removed from the background, the signal is input to a black character determination unit 116 that determines whether or not the document is a black character of the document, and a black character signal is generated from the document.

On the other hand, the color space compression & background removal & LOG conversion unit 107 to which the output of the other selector 106 is input.
Then, determine whether the read image signal is within the range that can be reproduced by the printer, and if so, perform color space compression to correct the image signal so that it is within the range that can be reproduced by the printer. L to convert the RGB signals into CMY signals
Perform OG conversion.

The output signal of the color space compression & background removal & LOG conversion unit 107 is adjusted by the delay unit 108 in order to correct the signal and timing generated by the black character determination unit 116. The two types of signals are subjected to moiré removal by the moiré removal unit 109 and subjected to scaling processing in the main scanning direction by the scaling unit 110.

The signal processed by the scaling unit 110 is U
CR & Masking & Black text input to 111
The MY signal is subjected to UCR processing to generate a CMYK signal,
The signal is subjected to a masking process, corrected to a signal that was present at the output of the printer, and subjected to a black character reflection process to perform black character determination.
The determination signal generated at 16 is fed back to the CMYK signal.

UCR & Masking & Black Character Reflection Unit 111
Is subjected to density adjustment by the γ correction unit 112 and then subjected to smoothing or edge processing by the filter unit 113.

The signal processed as described above is converted to a binary
Is converted from an 8-bit multilevel signal to a binary signal. Through these processes, an image is sent from the printer interface 353 or the external interface 313 to a printer or another device.

(Structure of Image Signal) FIG. 4 is a view for explaining the structure of an image signal flowing inside the color scanner section 380 shown in FIG. 5 is a timing chart for explaining timing, and FIG. 6B is a diagram showing correspondence between an image of a read document and an image signal.

In FIG. 10A, reference numeral 401 denotes a V-ENBL representing an effective image section in the sub-scanning direction. An H-SYNC 402 is a synchronization signal in the main scanning direction. Reference numeral 403 denotes a V-CLK which is a synchronization signal of one pixel in the main scanning direction.
Reference numeral 404 denotes DATA which is an image signal read from the CCD and subjected to A / D conversion (here, although only one DATA is described, Data-R, Data-G, Data
−B exists), and 411 to 421 correspond to each pixel of the image signal. Since 422 cannot be described in its entirety, it is for omitting portions other than the characteristic portions.

Note that V-ENBL401, H-SYNC
402 and V-CLK 403 are oscillated by an oscillator (not shown) in the scanner CPU 300 or the scanner unit 500.

The main scanning direction in (b) is the Y direction indicated by the arrow in the figure, and the sub-scanning direction is the X direction indicated by the arrow in the figure.

That is, the CCD 101 has pixels in the Y direction (front-back direction in FIG. 2), and in FIG. 2B, the image moves while moving from left to right (left-right direction in FIG. 2). Take in.

The V-ENBL 401 shown in FIG.
Indicates the effective area of the image, drives the first mirror base 314 at a constant speed, and sets the pixel 41 at the original reading start point ((b)).
(At position 1), the V-ENBL 401 becomes the valid level, indicating the head of the image data and the valid area. In other words, the first mirror table 314 moves
The images projected on the CCD 101 are 411 to 111 in FIG.
An image of the first line 414 in the main scanning direction is obtained.

At this time, H- which is a synchronization signal in the main scanning direction
Triggered by the valid edge of SYNC 402, V-CLK4
The image from the CCD 101 is read out in synchronization with 03. The read image of the CCD 101 is transmitted to the clamp & Amp. & S / H & A / D section 102
Is converted to digital data by (411) in (b).
, 414, 414, are converted as image data of the area indicated by 414.

The first mirror base 314 is accurately controlled so as to move to the next fetch line for the time (1 cycle) of 1H of the H-SYNC 402. After the fetch of the first line is completed, the first mirror base 314 is similarly controlled. 2 lines (415 to 4 in (b))
17).

This operation is repeated sequentially and continuously until the last line (lines 418 to 420 in (b)) is fetched. Since the capture in the main scanning direction has been completed, V-
ENBL is set to OFF, indicating that the image data has become invalid. That is, 421 in (b) is image data outside the effective image.

As described above, it is possible to capture a read original as two-dimensional image data.

(Explanation of Printer Image Processing System) FIG. 5 is a block diagram for explaining a control configuration of the color printer unit 381 shown in FIG.

Hereinafter, the structure and operation, particularly, the control operation of the LED arrays 210 to 213 shown in FIG. 2 will be described.

First, the color scanner section 38 shown in FIG.
0 printer I / F 353 (the printer I / F shown in FIG. 1).
The images output from F353a to F353c) are input to the scanner interface 383 (the scanner I / Fs 383a to 383c shown in FIG. 1) of the color printer unit 381. This means that a scanner image is input from the scanner I / F 383 in the figure.

The image data input from the scanner I / F 383 is stored in the memory 201. The memory 20
Reference numeral 1 denotes a semiconductor memory, a fixed storage device, a combination thereof, or any configuration as long as it is a memory for storing an image.

At the same time as or after storing the image in the memory 201, in response to an image output request such as a paper leading edge signal from the paper leading edge sensor 347, the image data is read out from the memory 201, 202-2
05.

The delay units 202 to 205 correspond to the image forming units 317 to 320 shown in FIG. 2, and wait for a predetermined delay of each of the colors M, C, Y, and K, and then wait for each of the colors M, C, Y, and K. The image signal is output to the LED driving units 206 to 209 to adjust the difference in the distance between the paper edge sensor 347 and each image forming unit. This makes it possible to print M, C, Y and K colors at predetermined positions.

The LED driving units 206 to 209 are
02 to 205, based on the respective color image signals.
A signal for driving the LEDs 210 to 213 is generated. The LEDs 210 to 213 are connected to the LED driving units 206 to 2.
Light emission is performed based on a drive signal input from the image sensor 09 to form an electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drums 342 to 345.

(Configuration of Image Memory) FIG. 6 is a block diagram for explaining the configuration of the large-capacity image memory 201 shown in FIG. 1 in detail. The same components as those in FIG. is there.

In the figure, reference numeral 2001 denotes a FIFO unit which includes a plurality of FIFOs (First-InFirst-Out).
FIFO1 (2004) and FIFO2 (2
005),..., FIFO 9 (2006), and can simultaneously receive a plurality of image signals from the scanner I / F 383 or the external I / F 382 as shown in FIG.

The image data read as described above and sent from the color scanner unit 380 is
It is written in the IFO unit 2001 at the timing of the synchronization signal for reading an image by the scanner.

In FIG. 6, nine FIFOs of FIFO01, FIFO2,...
Although the IFOs are illustrated, the number is not limited to nine, and any number may be implemented.

FIFO1 (2004), FIFO2 (2
005),..., FIFO9 (2006) are connected to an image data bus 2010,
FIFO1 (2004), FIFO2 (2005), ...
.., The image data output from the FIFO 9 (2006) is transmitted to the image data 201 via the image data bus 2010.
1 is output to the RAM 2002 and stored (written).

The data stored in the RAM 2002 is read from the printer unit 502 through the output port 2015.

A memory controller 2003 includes a CPU, ROM, and RAM therein. The CPU controls the memory 201 based on a program stored in the ROM or a storage medium (not shown). Further, the memory controller 2003 controls the FIFO1 (2004) and the FIFO2 (2
005),..., FI9 against FIFO9 (2006)
FO selection signals 2007, 2008, and 2009 are output, and a RAM write signal (WR) 2012, a RAM read signal 2013, RA
An M address signal (WADR) 2014 is output.

A scanner CPU interface (CPU I / F) 2016 controls communication with the scanner CPU 300. 2017, a printer CPU interface (CPU I / F) for controlling communication with the printer CPU 384;

FIG. 7 is a memory map schematically showing a method of holding image data in the RAM 2002 shown in FIG.

In the figure, a RAM 2002 stores images 1 to
Like image 9, image data is stored and held as a page image. Also, 2104 to 2106 represent the image 1 respectively.
To the storage address of the image 9, the memory controller 200
3 generated RAM address signal (WADR) 2014
Is indicated by Further, an image information area 2100 holds image processing information, for example, an image information table for images 1 to 4 stored in the RAM 2100 as shown in FIG.

(Writing of Image Data) Referring to the timing chart of FIG. 8, the RAM 20 shown in FIG.
02 will be described.

FIG. 8 is a timing chart for explaining the timing of writing image data to the RAM 2002 shown in FIG.

First, the memory controller 2003 sets C
It operates in synchronization with CLK2201 having a higher frequency than the image clock VCLK2200 input from the scanner unit 500 via the PUI / F2016. This CLK2
Reference numeral 201 denotes a frequency at which pulses corresponding to the number of FIFOs in the FIFO unit 2001 can be output within one period of VCLK2200.

The memory controller 2003 supplies VCLK2
In synchronization with the rise 2203 of CLK 2201 following the rise 2202 of 200, the FIFO1 selection signal 20
07 is enabled and the RAM address signal (WADR) 20
14 points to address 2104 on RAM
An address signal (WADR) 2014 is generated. By doing so, the FIFO1 is connected to the image data bus 2010.
(2004) appears.

Then, the next RAM write signal (WR)
At the time of 2204 when 2012 becomes effective,
Image 1 which is the data of O1 (2004) has the address 21
The data is written to the position indicated by 04.

Next, the rising edge 220 of CLK 2201
5, the memory controller 2003 invalidates the FIFO1 selection signal 2007 and sets the FIFO2 selection signal 20
08, the RAM address signal (WADR) 20
14 generates a RAM address signal (WADR) 2014 so as to point to the address 2105, and validates the RAM write signal (WR) 2012 (2206).
02 is written to address 2105.

By repeating the same cycle as many times as the number of FIFOs, the image data held in all FIFOs is written to appropriate addresses on the RAM. In this manner, by writing the VCLK 2200 to the memory in a time-division manner, the image data can be pseudo-simultaneously stored in the RAM 200.
Write to 2.

The data written on the RAM 2002 is sent to the printer unit 50 through the data output port 2015.
2 is read. At the time of reading, when the CPU I / F 2017 receives a read request from the printer unit 502, the memory controller 2003 enables the RAM read signal 2013 and sets the RAM address signal (WAD
R) 2014 so that the requested data appears at the RAM data output port 2015.

The VCLK 2200 is connected to the scanner CP
It is assumed that the signal is oscillated by the U300 or an oscillator (not shown) in the scanner unit 500. The CLK 2201 is oscillated by an oscillator (not shown) in the memory controller 2003.
First CLK22 after rising edge of LK2200
Processing of the image data is started from the rising edge of 01 (2203).

(Details of Image Information) An example of the image information table held in the image information area 2100 shown in FIG. 7 will be described below with reference to FIG.

FIG. 9 shows the image information area 210 shown in FIG.
FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image information table held at 0, and corresponds to detailed information of a plurality of image data based on image processing performed by the image processing units 121a to 121c illustrated in FIG.

In the figure, the image information table includes a column 2300 of storage areas corresponding to image numbers, a column 2305 of storage areas corresponding to image sizes, a column 2306 of storage areas corresponding to color information, and density correction values. Column 2307 of storage area, column 2308 of storage area corresponding to image mode, column 23 of storage area corresponding to output paper type
09.

Here, a row 2301 of the storage area corresponding to the image number 1 indicates that a standard A4 size, a color original, a density correction value 1, a text / photograph map mode, and a plain paper output are used.

Similarly, the row 2302 of the storage area corresponding to the image number 2 is a standard A4 size, monochrome original,
Indicates that the density correction value is 1, black and white character mode, and plain paper output.

This image information table is stored in the scanner CPU interface 2016 of the image memory unit 501 by the scanner CPU 300 immediately before writing of image data.
Written through.

The scanner unit 500 sets an image processing unit corresponding to each image and performs scanning so as to perform optimal image processing according to the image processing information transmitted by itself.

The printer CPU 384 is a printer CPU.
The image processing information (image information table) can be read through the interface 2017.

Similarly, the printer CPU 384 notifies the memory controller 2003 of image data (a request to read image data) to be output to the data port 2015 via the printer CPU interface 2017. Upon receiving this notification, the memory controller 2003
Enables the RAM read signal 2013 and controls the RAM address signal (WADR) 2014 so that the requested data appears at the data output port 2015.

As described above, the printer unit 502 can select and output an image on which appropriate image processing has been performed based on the image information table.

An external device capable of communicating via the external I / F 382 can read the image information table (FIG. 9) stored in the image information area 2100 in the RAM 2002 described above.

Further, an external device capable of communicating via the external I / F 382 notifies the memory controller 2003 of image data (a read request for image data) to be output via the external I / F 382 via the external I / F 382. I do. Upon receiving this notification, the memory controller 2003
Controls image reading from the RAM 2002,
The requested data is output via the external I / F 382.

As described above, the external device communicable via the external I / F 382 can select and output an image subjected to appropriate image processing based on the image information table shown in FIG. Becomes

(Image Copying Operation) When a copy button (not shown) arranged on the operation unit 390 as the image copying apparatus shown in FIG. 2 is pressed, the color scanner unit 380 sends an image to the color printer unit 381. Output request.

Then, an image reading request is given from the color printer unit 381 to the color scanner unit 380.
Image reading is started as described above. Simultaneously with this, or after the image reading is completed, the color printer unit 381 can discharge the image input from the color scanner unit 380 to the paper output tray 335 as described above, thereby enabling the copying operation. It has a configuration.

(How to Create an Automatic Discrimination Area Signal) FIG.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an automatic discrimination area signal generation circuit provided in the scanner section 500 illustrated in FIG. 1.

In the figure, reference numeral 1300 denotes an automatic discrimination area signal generation circuit, which is a signal (V-ENBL) shown in FIG.
401, H-SYNC 402, V-CLK 403, DA
TA404), an automatic discrimination area signal 1301 is generated.

Reference numerals 1302 to 1305 denote registers 1 to 4 which store values for determining an area in which the reading range set by the scanner CPU 300 is to be subjected to automatic discrimination (ACS, automatic density correction). In addition,
In the present embodiment, a configuration is adopted in which the range is determined independently for the document.

Reference numeral 1306 denotes an area detection circuit.
-ENBL401, H-SYNC402, V-CLK4
03, DATA404 and register 1 (1302)-
An automatic discrimination area signal 1301 is generated based on the register value of the register 4 (1305).

Referring to FIG. 11, a method of generating automatic discrimination area signal 1301 by automatic discrimination area signal generation circuit 1300 shown in FIG. 10 will be described.

FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining the automatic discrimination area signal 1301 generated by the automatic discrimination area signal generation circuit 1300 shown in FIG. 10, and FIG. 11A shows the generation timing of the automatic discrimination area signal 1301. 13B corresponds to the timing chart, and FIG. 14B corresponds to a diagram illustrating a region determined by the automatic determination region signal 1301.

The register 1 (130) shown in FIG.
2) stores a register value 1407, and the register 2
It is assumed that the register value 1408 is stored in (1303), the register value 1409 is stored in the register 3 (1304), and the register value 1410 is stored in the register 4 (1305).

In the figure, reference numeral 1501 denotes an automatic discrimination area signal in the sub-scanning direction, which is a signal generated inside the area detection circuit 1306.

The area detection circuit 1306 shown in FIG.
H-SY at valid edge of input V-ENBL401
The NC 402 starts counting. The automatic determination area signal 1501 in the sub-scanning direction at this point is set to the invalid level “L” (corresponding to the section 1504). And H-SYNC40
2 and the register value 1407 stored in the register 1 (1302), a compare match occurs (the count value of the H-SYNC 402 and the register 1 (13
02) and the automatic discrimination area signal 1501 in the sub-scanning direction are set to the effective level “H” (corresponding to the section 1505).

Next, the area detection circuit 1306 performs H-SY
When a compare match occurs between the count value of NC 402 and the register value 1408 stored in register 2 (1303) (the count value of H-SYNC 402 matches the register value 1408 stored in register 2 (1303)) The automatic discrimination area signal 1501 in the sub-scanning direction is returned to the invalid level “L” (corresponding to the section 1506).

Reference numeral 1502 denotes an automatic determination area signal in the main scanning direction, which is a signal generated inside the area detection circuit 1306.

The area detecting circuit 1306 receives the input H-
The counting of V-CLK 403 starts at the valid edge of SYNC 402. At this time, the automatic determination area signal 1502 in the main scanning direction is set to the invalid level “L” (section 1507).
Equivalent). Then, the count value of the V-CLK 403 and the register value 14 stored in the register 3 (1304) are set.
09 occurs (V-CLK 403).
And the value 1409 stored in the register 3 (1304) match) and the automatic determination area signal 1502 in the main scanning direction are set to the effective level “H” (corresponding to the section 1508).

Next, the area detection circuit 1306 determines whether the V-CL
A compare match occurs between the count value of K403 and the register value 1410 stored in register 4 (1305) (the count value of V-CLK 403 and register 4
(The values stored in (1305) match) and the automatic determination area signal 1502 in the main scanning direction is returned to the invalid level “L” (corresponding to the section 1509).

The area detection circuit 1306 performs a logical AND operation on the automatic discrimination area signal 1501 in the sub-scanning direction and the automatic discrimination area signal 1502 in the main scanning direction, and outputs the result as an automatic discrimination area signal 1301.

That is, the automatic determination area signal 1301 is a signal obtained by performing a logical AND operation on the automatic determination area signal 1501 in the sub-scanning direction and the automatic determination area signal 1502 in the main scanning direction.

The automatic discrimination area signal 1301 corresponds to the original as shown in FIG. 1520
(The outer square) is a normal image reading area, and 15
30 (the inner square) is an automatic determination area. Section 150
The size of each of 4 to 1509 is the register 1 (1302) to
Register value 140 stored in register 3 (1304)
It changes corresponding to 7-1400, and is created by the range represented by sections 1504 to 1509 in FIG.

The automatic discrimination area 1530 thus created
Operates as an enable signal of an automatic determination unit (for example, a color determination unit 1403 shown in FIG. 12 described later) based on the automatic determination area signal 1301.

The above-mentioned automatic discrimination area signal 1301
Is generated during the pre-scan operation before the image reading operation.

(Description of Auto Color Select (ACS)) The configuration of the auto color select section provided in the scanner section 500 will be described below with reference to FIG.

FIG. 12 shows the scanner section 500 shown in FIG.
11 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an auto color selection unit provided therein, and the same components as those in FIG. 10 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

Here, the automatic color selection (hereinafter referred to as A
CS) indicates whether the original is color or black and white. In other words, color determination is performed based on how many pixels that are equal to or greater than a threshold value for calculating the saturation of each pixel.

However, even in the case of a black-and-white original, there are many color pixels around the edge when viewed microscopically due to various effects such as MTF, and it is difficult to simply perform the ACS determination in pixel units. Various methods are provided for the ACS method, but in the present embodiment, the method is not limited to the ACS method (the ACS may be performed by any method), and therefore, the description will be made using a very general method. Do.

As described above, since there are a large number of color pixels in a black-and-white image when viewed microscopically, whether a pixel is really a color pixel depends on the information of the peripheral color pixel with respect to the target pixel. It is necessary to judge by.

In the figure, reference numeral 1401 denotes a filter.
This is for referencing peripheral pixels with respect to the pixel of interest, and therefore has a FIFO structure. Scanner C
The PU 300 determines an area on which the ACS is applied to the read range, and registers 1 (1302) to 4 (1
305) with respect to the register values 1407 to 1407 shown in FIG.
1410 (in the present embodiment, a range is determined independently for the document).

The automatic discrimination area signal generating circuit 1300 outputs the register values 1407 to 1407 to the register 1 (1302) to the register 4 (1305) from the scanner CPU 300.
Based on 1410, an automatic discrimination area signal 1301 indicating an area to which ACS is applied is created.

Reference numeral 1403 denotes a color determination unit which determines whether the pixel of interest is a color pixel or a black and white pixel by referring to peripheral pixels in the memory of the filter 1401 for the pixel of interest.
06 is output.

More specifically, the color judgment section 1403 operates in an area where the automatic judgment area signal 1301 generated by the automatic judgment area signal generation circuit 1300 is at the effective level “H”.
The color determination unit 1403 reads the red component data (DATA-R), green component data (DATA-G), and blue component data (DATA-B) read from the document.
The absolute value of the difference between the two values obtained by subtracting the minimum value from the other two components is used as the saturation, and pixels with a saturation greater than a certain threshold value can confirm specific continuity with the target pixel. Only when this occurs, a count-up signal (color determination signal) 1406 is output.

Reference numeral 1404 denotes a counter, which is a color judgment unit 1
The number of the color determination signals 1406 output by 403 is counted.

After the scan is completed, the scanner CPU 300
Reads the counter value of the counter 1404 via the path 1411, and determines whether the document is color or monochrome based on the counter value of the counter 1404.

The above-described auto color select (A
CS) is performed during the pre-scan operation before the image reading operation.

(Explanation of Automatic Density Correction) The automatic density correction function is also called background removal, and is used to copy an image when the background of the original is not white and an image exists in the entire background of the original with a light color. Is performed, the copied image portion may be difficult to see. A means for manually adjusting the density is usually provided to prevent this, but this is a function for performing this automatically. Here, it is assumed that the operation is performed by the scanner CPU 300.

Hereinafter, a general procedure of the automatic density correction will be described.

First, the original is scanned to create a histogram of the density in the original image. This histogram is created at the same time as the scanning, and its effective range is the automatic discrimination area signal 13 generated by the auto discrimination area signal generation circuit 1300.
01 is valid “H”.

After removing and smoothing the isolated points from the histogram thus obtained, the most frequent density is determined, and a density correction value corresponding to the determined density is determined. Here, the density correction value is
“0” to “8” corresponding to the low to high density
Is an integer value of 9 steps.

The color space compression / background removal / LOG converter 107 (FIG. 3) in the image processor 121 is set using the density correction values obtained here. Here, nine LOG conversion tables corresponding to each of the nine density correction values are prepared, and the use of the LOG conversion table corresponding to the obtained density correction values is based on the color space compression & background removal & LOG conversion unit 1.
07 is set. After such setting, scanning is performed to obtain an image whose density has been corrected.

The above-described automatic density correction is performed during a pre-scan operation before an image reading operation.

(Description of γ Correction Table) The γ correction table used in the γ correction section 112 of the image processing section shown in FIG. 3 will be described below.

FIG. 13 is a characteristic diagram showing an example of the γ correction table used in the γ correction section 112 shown in FIG.

In the figure, reference numeral 3000 denotes a gamma correction table (density nonlinear correction table for plain paper output) used when outputting to plain paper, and 3001 denotes a gamma correction table (OHP film output) used when outputting to OHP film. Density non-linear correction table).

The horizontal axis of the gamma correction tables 3000 and 3001 indicates the input density, and the vertical axis indicates the output density.
For input pixel densities up to “255”, “0” to “2”
The density up to 55 "is output.

The scanner CPU 300 shown in FIG. 1 sets these γ correction tables 3000 or 3001 to the γ correction section 112 in the image processing section 121 shown in FIG. Γ correction using the correction table 3000 or the γ correction table 3001 can be performed.

As a result, it is possible to switch between the γ correction when outputting to plain paper and the γ correction when outputting to OHP film.

Hereinafter, an image copy control operation in the OHP insertion mode will be described.

When the user sets the OHP insertion mode on the operation unit (not shown) and presses the copy button to start copying, the scanner CPU 300 of the scanner unit 500
The first image processing unit (for example, the image processing unit 1 shown in FIG. 1)
21a), the OHP film γ correction table 3001 is set in the γ correction section 112, and the γ correction section 11 of the second image processing section (for example, the image processing section 121b shown in FIG. 1) is set.
2, the gamma correction table 3000 for plain paper is set.

Next, the scanner CPU 300 notifies the large-capacity image memory unit 501 of image processing information. The image processing information notified here is as shown in FIG. 14 described later.
That is, the number of images is 2 (image number 1 and image number 2), and the image processing information 3201 corresponding to image number 1 is a standard A4
The size, color document, density correction value 1, text / photo map mode, OHP film output, and image processing information 3202 corresponding to image number 2 include a standard A4 size, color document, density correction value 1, text / photo map mode, Output paper type (image number 1 is OH) of two images stored in column 2309 of the storage area corresponding to the output paper type.
Each item except the P film and the image number 2 is plain paper has the same value. Here, when the actual scanning is performed, the image memory unit 501 stores the image data for the OHP film in the image 1 and the image data for the plain paper in the image 2.

Upon receiving notification of the image processing information from the scanner unit 500, the large-capacity image memory unit 501 uses the notified image processing information as an image information table shown in FIG. 14 in the image information area in the RAM 2002 shown in FIG. 2100.

Next, the scanner section 500 performs an original reading scan. At this time, the large-capacity image memory unit 501 actually stores the image data of the image 1 subjected to the color image processing by the first image processing unit and the image data of the image 2 subjected to the monochrome image processing by the second image processing unit. The data is written as shown in FIG.

After the scan is completed, the scanner CPU 300
Notifies the printer unit 502 of the end of scanning.

Next, the scanner CPU 300 determines whether or not there is a document to be scanned. If it is determined that there is no document to be scanned, the process is terminated as it is, and it is determined that there is a document to be scanned. If the original is replaced, the original is replaced (if the original is set in the original feeder (DF) 302 shown in FIG. 2), the original is automatically replaced, and then the original is placed in the original feeder (DF) 302. If the document is not set or if the document feeder (DF) 302 is not provided, the document is automatically exchanged manually and then the copy start button is pressed again), and the image is output to the printer unit 502 again. The process returns to the process of notifying that the process is performed, and the above process is repeated.

The printer CPU 384 of the printer unit 502
Controls to output an image in the order of the OHP film and the plain paper after the end of the scan.

In the printer section 502, the scanner section 500
After receiving the notification of the scan end from, the image processing information is acquired from the large-capacity image memory unit 501.

Here, the image processing information obtained by the printer unit 502 is the image information table shown in FIG. 14 written in the large-capacity image memory unit 501 by the scanner unit 500.

The printer CPU 384 scans the obtained image information table and finds that the image 1 is image data for an OHP film and the image 2 is image data for plain paper. The mode is set, and the image is output in the order of the OHP film and the plain paper.
Is selected, and the OHP film is fed.

When the fed OHP film moves to a predetermined position, the printer unit 502 transmits an image output start signal to the large capacity image memory unit 501.

Upon receiving the selection signal corresponding to image 1 from printer unit 502, large-capacity image memory unit 501 outputs image data corresponding to image 1 to data output port 2015.
, Output to the printer unit 502 is started. The printer unit 502 receives the image data output from the large-capacity image memory unit 501, and forms an image on an OHP film after the reception is completed.

After the image formation on the OHP film is completed, the printer CPU 384 notifies the large-capacity image memory unit 501 that the image 2 is to be selected, and feeds plain paper.

When the fed plain paper moves to a predetermined position, the printer unit 502
, An image output start signal is transmitted.

Upon receiving a selection signal corresponding to image 2 from the printer unit 502, the large-capacity image memory unit 501 outputs image data corresponding to image 2 to the data output port 2015.
, Output to the printer unit 502 is started. The printer unit 502 receives the image data output from the large-capacity image memory unit 501, and forms an image on plain paper after the reception is completed.

In this way, the copy operation in the OHP insertion mode is executed.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of image processing information (image information table) notified from the scanner section 500 to the large-capacity image memory section 501. The same reference numerals as in FIG. 9 denote the same parts. The image processing unit 1 shown in FIG.
It corresponds to image processing information of a plurality of image data based on the image processing performed by 21a to 121c.

As shown in the figure, the image processing information 3201 corresponding to the image number 1 includes a standard A4 size, a color original,
The image processing information 3202 corresponding to the image number 2 with the density correction value 1, the text / photo map mode, and the OHP film output
Are the standard A4 size, color original, density correction value 1, text / photo map mode, and plain paper output. The output paper type (image number) of the two images stored in the column 2309 of the storage area corresponding to the output paper type 1 is an OHP film, image number 2
Are the same values except for plain paper).

Hereinafter, the image copy control operation in the OHP insertion mode of the image copy system of the present invention will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of a first image copying control procedure of the image copying system according to the present invention, which corresponds to the image copying control procedure in the OHP insertion mode. The scanner CPU 300 executes the program based on a program stored in a ROM or a storage medium (not shown). Note that S101
Steps S107 to S107 indicate each step.

First, when the OHP insertion mode is set and the copy button is pressed, the printer unit 502 is notified in step S101 that image output is to be performed in the OHP insertion mode. At this point, the printer unit 502 starts preparing for image output.

Next, the process proceeds to step S102, where the first image processing unit (for example, the image processing unit 121a shown in FIG. 1)
Is set to the image processing mode for OHP film. Specifically, the γ correction unit 112 shown in FIG.
A gamma correction table 3001 for an HP film is set.

Further, in step S103, the second image processing unit (for example, the image processing unit 121b shown in FIG. 1)
Is set to the image processing mode for plain paper. Specifically, the gamma correction table 3000 for plain paper shown in FIG. 13 is set in the gamma correction unit 112 shown in FIG.

Thus, when the scanner unit 500 reads an original, an image 1 subjected to the OHP image processing in the first image processing unit and an image 2 subjected to the plain paper image processing in the second image processing unit are generated. Will be done.

Next, the image processing information is notified to the large-capacity image memory unit 501 in step S104. The image processing information notified here is as shown in FIG. That is, the image processing information 3201 corresponding to the image number 1 is a standard A4 size, a color original, a density correction value 1, a character photograph map mode, and an OHP film output, and the image processing information 3202 corresponding to the image number 2 is a standard form. A4 size, color original, density correction value 1, text / photo map mode, plain paper output.

Next, an original reading scan is performed in step S105. At this time, the image data of the image 1 that has been actually subjected to the OHP film image processing in the first image processing unit and the image 2 that has been subjected to the plain paper image processing in the second image processing unit are written into the large-capacity image memory unit 501. (Output).

After the end of the scan, the flow advances to step S106 to notify the printer section 502 of the end of the scan. Thereafter, in step S107, it is determined whether or not there is a document to be scanned. If it is determined that there is no document to be scanned, the process is terminated. If it is determined that there is a document to be scanned, After the original is exchanged (when an original is set in the original feeder (DF) 302 shown in FIG. 2), the original is automatically exchanged, and then the original feeder (DF) 3
If the original is not set on the original document 02 or if the original document feeder (DF) 302 is not provided, the original is automatically exchanged manually, and then the copy start button is pressed again.
Returning to step S101, the processing of steps S101 to S107 is repeated.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of the second image copy control procedure of the image copy system of the present invention.
003 is executed based on a program stored in a ROM or a storage medium (not shown). Note that S20
1 to S208 indicate each step.

First, in step S201, the scanner unit 5
It is determined whether or not the notification of the image processing information from 00 has been received. If it is determined that the notification has been received, step S202
Then, the received image processing information is used as an image information table shown in FIG.
Then, the process proceeds to step S203.

On the other hand, in step S201, the scanner unit 5
If it is determined that the image processing information notification from 00 has not been received, the process proceeds to step S203.

Next, in step S203, the scanner unit 5
It is determined whether or not the image data (image 1 and image 2) has been received. If it is determined that the image data (image 1 and image 2) has been received, the received image data (image 1 and image 2) is stored in the RAM 2002 in step S204. The data is stored as shown in FIG. 7, and the process proceeds to step S205.

On the other hand, in step S203, the scanner unit 5
If it is determined that image data has not been received from 00, the process proceeds to step S205.

Next, in step S205, the printer unit 5
It is determined whether or not a request for image processing information has been received from step S02. If it is determined that the request has been received, step S206 is performed.
Then, the image processing information stored in the image information area 2100 in the RAM 2002 is transmitted to the printer unit 502, and the process proceeds to step S207.

On the other hand, in step S205, the printer unit 5
If it is determined that the request for the image processing information from No. 02 has not been received, the process proceeds to step S207.

Next, in step S207, the printer unit 5
It is determined whether a request for image data (any one of the plurality of image data stored in the RAM 2002, that is, image 1 or image 2) has been received. If it is determined that the request has been received, the process proceeds to step S208. The requested image data is transmitted to the printer unit 502, and the process returns to step S201.

On the other hand, in step S207, the printer unit 5
If it is determined that the request for the image data from No. 02 has not been received, the process returns to step S201.

Then, steps S201 to S2 are performed.
Step 08 is repeated.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing an example of a third image copy control procedure of the image copy system of the present invention. The third example corresponds to an image copy control procedure in the OHP insertion mode.
Alternatively, it is executed based on a program stored in a storage medium (not shown). In addition, S301 to S314 indicate each step.

Upon receiving a notification from the scanner section 500 that an image is to be output in the OHP insertion mode, preparation for printing (image output) is started in step S301.

Next, in step S302, the scanner unit 5
It is determined whether or not a notification of the end of the original reading scan has been received from 00. If it is determined that the notification has not been received, the process waits until it is received. If it is determined that the notification has been received, the process proceeds to step S303. It requests image processing information from the image memory unit 501.

Next, in step S304, the image processing information is received from the large-capacity image memory unit 501, and in step S3
At step 05, image data subjected to image processing for an OHP film is selected based on the received image processing information.

Next, in step S306, when an OHP film is fed and the OHP film reaches a predetermined position,
In step S307, the image data for the selected OHP film is requested to the large-capacity image memory unit 501. In step S308, the O data requested from the large-capacity image memory unit 501 is requested.
The image data of the HP film is received.

Next, in step S309, an image based on the received image data is output to an OHP film.

In step S310, image data subjected to image processing for plain paper is selected based on the image processing information.

Next, in step S311, plain paper is fed, and when the plain paper reaches a predetermined position, in step S312
Then, the selected plain paper image data is requested from the large capacity image memory unit 501, and the requested plain paper image data is received from the large capacity image memory unit 501 in step S313.

Next, in step S314, an image based on the received image data is output on plain paper.

According to the above-described processing, it is possible to obtain the optimum image data for each of the OHP film and the plain paper by a single image reading operation. Therefore, the copying operation in the OHP insertion mode is executed very quickly and with high quality. be able to.

[Other Embodiments] In the above embodiment,
As shown in FIG. 1, in the image copying apparatus including the scanner unit 500, the large-capacity image memory unit 501, and the printer unit 502, the case where the printer unit 502 outputs image information read by the scanner unit 500 has been described. However, the image information read by the scanner unit 500 may be output as an image by another printer connected via a network. Hereinafter, the embodiment will be described.

Hereinafter, the image copying system of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

FIG. 18 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the image copying system of the present invention.

In the figure, reference numeral 3901 denotes an image copying apparatus including the scanner section 500, the large-capacity image memory section 501, and the printer section 502 shown in FIG. Note that the image copying apparatus 3901 does not necessarily need to include the printer unit 502.

The image copying apparatus 3901 is connected to a network 3900 such as Ethernet (registered trademark) through an external interface 382, and is connected to another device on the network (a color printer 3902 connected to the network 3900, a monochrome printer 3900). 390
3), image data, image processing information (image information table shown in FIG. 9, image information table shown in FIG. 14) and the like can be exchanged.

A color printer 3902 and a monochrome printer 3903 are provided in the printer section 50 of the image copying apparatus 3901.
2, the image copying apparatus 39
01 and image processing information (the image information table shown in FIG. 9,
It is possible to exchange (image information table shown in FIG. 14), image data, etc. (designate and acquire image data in the RAM 2002), and to alternate between a plurality of types of recording media such as an OHP insertion mode. It may have a different configuration as long as it can output an image.

In FIG. 18, the network 3900
A case where one image copying apparatus, one color printer, and one monochrome printer are connected to the network 3900, a plurality of image copying apparatuses, a plurality of color printers, a plurality of monochrome printers and the like are mixedly connected to the network 3900. May be configured.

When the image read by the image copying apparatus 3901 is output to the color printer 3902 (monochrome printer 3903) in the OHP insertion mode, the user operates the operation unit 390 (FIG. 2) attached to the image copying apparatus 3901.
Is selected (specified) to set the OHP insertion mode and output to the color printer 3902 (monochrome printer 3903), and press a copy button (not shown). Pressing the copy button starts an image copy control operation in the OHP insertion mode.

The image read by the image copying apparatus 3901 is converted into a color printer 3902 (monochrome printer 391).
03), the image copying apparatus 390 described above is also used.
This can be performed in the same procedure as in the case of outputting to one printer unit 502.

In this case, communication of image processing information and image data between the image copying apparatus 3901 and the color printer 3902 (monochrome printer 3903) is performed by the external I / F 382.
And via the network 3900.

As a result, it is possible to obtain optimal image data for each of the OHP film and the plain paper by a single image reading operation, and to perform a copy operation in the OHP insertion mode by another printer connected via a network. It can be performed very quickly and with high quality.

In the present embodiment, the case where the image copying process is performed in the OHP insertion mode in which the same image (an image based on one original image) is alternately formed on the OHP film and the plain paper has been described. However, the operation mode is not limited to the OHP film and the plain paper, and any operation mode may be used in which the same image (an image based on one image) is alternately formed on a plurality of types of recording media (for example, plain paper and thick paper). May be something.

According to the above-described processing, it is possible to obtain optimal image data for a plurality of types of recording media by a single image reading operation. Therefore, an image based on the same original image is copied to a plurality of types of recording media. The copying operation in the mode can be executed extremely quickly and with high quality.

With the above processing, an image input device capable of simultaneously outputting a plurality of images obtained by applying a plurality of types of image processing to one image, an image storage device capable of simultaneously writing a plurality of images, In an image copying apparatus including an image output device capable of selecting and outputting one image from a plurality of images in an image storage device, a plurality of types of output sheets are provided for a document image input from an image input device. A plurality of images to which image processing suitable for the image processing is applied are simultaneously written to the image storage device, and the image output device performs image processing suitable for each output paper when forming images continuously on a plurality of types of output paper. The image data to which is applied is selected from the image storage device and used for output, that is, scanning for each output sheet is not performed, and the output image data is output for one original read image. The same number of images to which the image processing suitable for each type has been applied are created in the same number as the output paper type, and stored in the image memory at the same time. The operation makes it possible to execute a copy operation in the OHP insertion mode.

The color printer unit 3 shown in FIG.
The present invention can be applied to the color printer 3902 and the monochrome printer 3903 shown in FIG.

In this embodiment, the scanner section 500
Image processing units 121a to 121c store an image obtained by performing an image processing for an OHP film and an image obtained by performing an image processing for plain paper on the read original image in the large capacity image memory unit 501 at the same time. The case where the printer unit 502, the color printer 3902, and the monochrome printer 3903 perform selection and print processing has been described.
The large-capacity image memory unit 501 simultaneously processes not only images for P-films and plain papers but also images for a plurality of recording media such as OHP films, plain papers, cardboards, and envelopes. , And the printer may select the most suitable image for the recording medium and perform the printing process.

Also, in the present embodiment, the image copying apparatus 39
01, which is obtained by subjecting a scan input image from the scanner unit 500 to image processing suitable for output of each of a plurality of types of recording media such as an OHP film, plain paper, and the like, is simultaneously stored in an image memory and output. Has been described, the printer that performs the selection selects the image to be output by alternately selecting them, but the external interface 31 shown in FIG.
3 (for example, an image captured by a digital camera or the like and input from the external interface 313) is subjected to image processing suitable for output of each of a plurality of types of recording media. May be configured such that a printer that stores and outputs the images selects them and selects an image to be output.

As a result, image data suitable for the output of each of a plurality of types of recording media such as OHP film and plain paper can be obtained from the image captured by the digital camera. It is possible to output an optimum image to a recording medium.

Hereinafter, the configuration of a data processing program readable by the image copying system according to the present invention will be described with reference to a memory map shown in FIG.

FIG. 19 is a view for explaining a memory map of a storage medium for storing various data processing programs which can be read by the image copying system according to the present invention.

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

Further, data subordinate to various programs is also managed in the directory. Also, if the programs and data to be installed are compressed,
A program for decompressing may also be stored.

FIGS. 15, 16, and 1 in this embodiment.
The function shown in FIG. 7 may be performed 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.

As a storage medium for supplying the program code, for example, a floppy (registered trademark) disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, C
D-ROM, CD-R, magnetic tape, nonvolatile memory card, ROM, EEPROM, etc. can be used.

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

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.

[0270]

As described above, the first embodiment according to the present invention is described.
According to the second and third aspects of the present invention, in an image copying system including an image input device, an image storage device, and an image output device, a plurality of image processing units of the image input device include Outputting a plurality of image information generated by simultaneously performing image processing corresponding to image output to a plurality of different types of recording media on one image information read by the input means to the image storage device;
The storage unit of the image storage device inputs and stores a plurality of pieces of image information output simultaneously from the image input device, and in response to a request from the image output device, the output unit stores the image information in the storage unit. Output to the image output device, and the control means of the image output device outputs a plurality of images suitable for image output to a plurality of different types of recording media stored in the image storage device. The information is sequentially selected and acquired, and the selection unit and the acquisition unit and the image output unit are controlled so as to sequentially output images to the plurality of types of recording media. Optimum image data can be obtained, and a copying operation for continuously outputting the same image to a plurality of types of recording media can be performed extremely quickly and with high quality.

According to the third aspect, the image processing corresponding to the image output to a plurality of different types of recording media simultaneously performed by the plurality of image processing means of the image input apparatus is a density non-linear correction table for OHP film output. Image processing based on
The image output apparatus includes image processing based on a density non-linear correction table for plain paper output, and when outputting an image to an OHP film, selects the image information that has been subjected to the OHP film output image processing. When outputting an image on paper, the image information subjected to the image processing for plain paper output is selected, so that a single image reading operation can obtain optimal image data for OHP film and plain paper, respectively. An OHP insertion mode for alternately outputting the same image to plain paper can be executed very quickly and with high quality.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in a scanner system comprising an image input device and an image storage device and capable of communicating with an image output device, the plurality of image processing means of the image input device are A plurality of pieces of image information generated by simultaneously performing image processing corresponding to image outputs to a plurality of different types of recording media on one piece of image information read by the image input unit of the image input device are simultaneously stored in the image storage device. Output, the storage means of the image storage device simultaneously inputs and stores a plurality of pieces of image information output simultaneously from the image input device, and in response to a request from the image output device, the output means stores Outputting any of the image information stored in the means to the image output device,
By a single image reading operation, optimal image data can be simultaneously stored in a plurality of types of recording media, and any one of the image data can be output to the printer in response to a request from the printer.

According to the fifth aspect, the image processing corresponding to the image output to a plurality of different types of recording media simultaneously performed by the plurality of image processing means of the image input device is a density non-linear correction table for OHP film output. Image processing based on
Since image processing based on the density non-linear correction table for plain paper output is included, the OHP
Optimum image data can be simultaneously stored in film and plain paper, respectively, and any one of the image data can be output to the printer in response to a request from the printer.

According to the sixth aspect, in the image input device capable of communicating with the image storage device, the plurality of image processing means include:
1 which is read by the image input means of the image input device
One image information is simultaneously output to a plurality of image information generated by simultaneously performing image processing corresponding to image output to a plurality of different types of recording media to the image storage device, by a single image reading operation, Optimum image data can be obtained for each of a plurality of types of recording media.

According to the seventh aspect, the image processing corresponding to the image output to a plurality of different types of recording media simultaneously performed by the plurality of image processing means is an image processing based on a density non-linear correction table for OHP film output. , Including image processing based on the density non-linear correction table for plain paper output,
By one image reading operation, it is possible to obtain optimal image data for each of the OHP film and the plain paper.

According to the eighth aspect, in an image storage device capable of communicating with an image input device and an image output device, an image corresponding to image output to a plurality of different types of recording media simultaneously output from the image input device is provided. A plurality of pieces of image information that have been processed are simultaneously input to and stored in the storage unit, and in response to a request from the image output device, the output unit converts the one of the image information stored in the storage unit into the image. Since the image data is output to the output device, a plurality of image data subjected to image processing corresponding to image output to a plurality of different types of recording media simultaneously output from the image input device can be simultaneously input and stored, and Any one of the image data can be output to the printer in response to a request from the printer.

According to the ninth aspect, in the image output device communicable with the image storage device, the control means controls the plurality of image output devices suitable for outputting images to a plurality of different types of recording media stored in the image storage device. Since the image information is sequentially selected and acquired, and the selection unit and the acquisition unit and the image output unit are controlled so as to sequentially output images to the plurality of types of recording media,
Image data optimal for output of a plurality of types of recording media stored in the image storage device can be sequentially output to a plurality of types of recording media.

According to the tenth aspect, the plurality of different types of image processing performed on the one piece of image information are OH
Image processing based on a density non-linear correction table for P-film output, and image processing based on a density non-linear correction table for plain paper output;
When outputting an image to an HP film, the image information subjected to the image processing for OHP film output is selected. When outputting an image to plain paper, the image information subjected to the image processing for plain paper output is selected. Optimized image data for OHP film and plain paper stored in the storage device
The printing operation in the OHP insertion mode for sequentially outputting to the P film and the plain paper can be quickly executed.

According to the eleventh and twelfth aspects, a control method of an image copying system comprising an image input device, an image storage device and an image output device, and a storage medium storing a computer readable program In the above, an image is read by the image input device, a plurality of image information is generated by simultaneously performing image processing corresponding to image output to a plurality of different types of recording media on the read one image information, A plurality of image information suitable for image output to a plurality of different types of recording media that are simultaneously output from the image input device to the image storage device and simultaneously output from the image input device are input to the memory of the image storage device. And stores any of the image information stored in the memory in response to a request from the image output device. Output to the image output device from a plurality of selection steps, sequentially select a plurality of image information suitable for image output to a plurality of different types of recording media stored in the image storage device, a plurality of acquisition steps The image information sequentially selected in the plurality of selection steps is sequentially requested and acquired from the image storage device, and the plurality of image output steps are performed based on the image information sequentially acquired in the plurality of acquisition steps. Since images are sequentially output to the plurality of types of recording media, optimal image data can be obtained for each of the plurality of types of recording media by a single image reading operation. It is possible to execute the copying operation to output the image very quickly and with high quality.

Therefore, by one image reading operation,
OHP that can obtain optimal image data for a plurality of types of recording media such as OHP film and plain paper, and continuously output the same image to a plurality of types of recording media.
It is possible to perform the copying operation such as the insertion mode in a very quick and high quality.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a logical configuration of an image copying apparatus and a flow of image data signals according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the overall configuration of the image copying apparatus shown in FIG.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating in detail a configuration of a digital image processing unit (CCD unit and image processing unit illustrated in FIG. 1) in the image processing board illustrated in FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an image signal flowing inside the color scanner unit illustrated in FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a control configuration of a color printer unit illustrated in FIG. 2;

FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the large-capacity image memory shown in FIG. 1 in detail.

FIG. 7 is a memory map schematically showing a method of holding image data in a RAM shown in FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is a timing chart for explaining the timing of writing image data to the RAM shown in FIG. 6;

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image information table held in the image information area illustrated in FIG. 7;

FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an automatic discrimination area signal generation circuit provided in the scanner section shown in FIG.

11 is a diagram illustrating an automatic determination area signal generated by the automatic determination area signal generation circuit shown in FIG.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an auto color select unit provided in the scanner unit shown in FIG.

FIG. 13 is a characteristic diagram illustrating an example of a γ correction table used by the γ correction section illustrated in FIG. 3;

FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of image processing information (image information table) notified from a scanner unit to a large-capacity image memory unit.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a first image copying control procedure of the image copying system of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of a second image copy control procedure of the image copy system of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a third image copy control procedure of the image copy system according to the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image copying system according to the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs that can be read by the image copying system according to the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 121a to 121c Image processing unit 201 Large capacity image memory 300 Scanner CPU 382 External I / F 384 Printer CPU 500 Scanner unit 501 Large capacity image memory unit 502 Printer unit

Continued on the front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification symbol FI Theme coat II (Reference) G06T 1/00 B41J 3/00 A H04N 1/04 107 G06F 15/66 J F term (Reference) 2C262 AA10 BB29 BC01 BC05 EA04 EA11 2H027 DC02 EA18 FA30 FB05 FB06 FB15 5B057 AA11 BA02 BA11 CA01 CA08 CA12 CA16 CB01 CB08 CB12 CB16 CC01 CE11 CH07 CH11 CH18 5C062 AA05 AB01 AB17 AB22 AB42 AB44 AB46 AC21 AC22 5C072 AA01 UA01 UA03 AA01 UA03 An image copying system, a scanner system, an image input device, an image storage device, an image output device, a control method of the image copying system, and a storage medium storing a computer readable program.

Claims (12)

[Claims] 1. An image copying system comprising an image input device, an image storage device, and an image output device, wherein the image input device includes: an image input unit that reads an image;
Generating a plurality of image information by simultaneously performing image processing corresponding to image output to a plurality of different types of recording media on one image information read by the image input unit;
A plurality of image processing means for simultaneously outputting to the image storage device, wherein the image storage device has a plurality of image information suitable for image output to a plurality of different types of recording media which are simultaneously output from the image input device. Storage means for simultaneously inputting and storing
Output means for outputting any one of the image information stored in the storage means to the image output device in response to a request from the image output device, wherein the image output device records Selecting means for selecting any image information stored in the image storage device based on the type of medium, and obtaining means for requesting and obtaining the image information selected by the selecting means from the image storage device And image output means for outputting an image to a recording medium based on the image information acquired by the acquisition means, and a plurality of images suitable for image output to a plurality of different types of recording media stored in the image storage device Control means for controlling the selection means and the acquisition means and the image output means so as to sequentially select and acquire information and sequentially output images to the plurality of types of recording media. And an image copying system. 2. The image input device further comprises: a notifying unit that notifies the image storage device of image processing information of the plurality of pieces of image information based on image processing performed by a plurality of image processing units. An image processing information storage unit that stores image processing information notified from the image input device; and the image processing information stored in the image processing information storage unit in response to a request from the image output device. Image processing information output means for outputting to an output device, wherein the image output device is provided with image processing information acquisition means for requesting and acquiring image processing information of a plurality of image information stored in the image storage device, The selecting means of the image output device performs image processing information and image output of a plurality of image information stored in the image storage device acquired by the image processing information acquiring means. 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein any one of the image information stored in the image storage device is selected based on a type of the recording medium.
An image copying system as described. 3. An image processing corresponding to an image output to a plurality of different types of recording media simultaneously performed by a plurality of image processing means of the image input apparatus is an image processing based on a density non-linear correction table for OHP film output. The image output device includes image processing based on a density non-linear correction table for paper output. When outputting an image to an OHP film, the selecting unit selects image information subjected to the image processing for OHP film output, 2. The image copying system according to claim 1, wherein when the image is output to the printer, the image information subjected to the image processing for plain paper output is selected. 4. A scanner system comprising an image input device and an image storage device and capable of communicating with an image output device, wherein: the image input device reads an image;
Generating a plurality of image information by simultaneously performing image processing corresponding to image output to a plurality of different types of recording media on one image information read by the image input unit;
A plurality of image processing means for simultaneously outputting to the image storage device, wherein the image storage device has a plurality of image information suitable for image output to a plurality of different types of recording media which are simultaneously output from the image input device. Storage means for simultaneously inputting and storing
Output means for outputting any of the image information stored in the storage means to the image output device in response to a request from the image output device. 5. An image processing corresponding to an image output to a plurality of different types of recording media simultaneously performed by a plurality of image processing means of the image input device, the image processing based on a density non-linear correction table for OHP film output. 2. The image copying system according to claim 1, further comprising image processing based on a density non-linear correction table for paper output. 6. An image input device capable of communicating with an image storage device, comprising: image input means for reading an image; and image output to a plurality of different types of recording media for one image information read by the image input means. Performing the corresponding image processing simultaneously to generate multiple image information,
An image input device, comprising: a plurality of image processing means for simultaneously outputting to the image storage device. 7. Image processing corresponding to image output to a plurality of different types of recording media simultaneously performed by the plurality of image processing means includes image processing based on a density non-linear correction table for OHP film output, and image processing for plain paper output. 7. The image processing method according to claim 6, further comprising image processing based on a density non-linear correction table.
The image input device according to the above. 8. An image storage device capable of communicating with an image input device and an image output device, wherein a plurality of image information suitable for image output to a plurality of different types of recording media simultaneously output from the image input device are simultaneously input. Storage means for storing and storing, according to a request from the image output device, output means for outputting any of the image information stored in the storage means to the image output device. Image storage device. 9. An image output device capable of communicating with an image storage device, wherein: a selection unit for selecting any one of image information stored in the image storage device based on a type of a recording medium for outputting an image; Acquiring means for requesting and acquiring the image information selected by the means from the image storage device; image output means for outputting an image to a recording medium based on the image information acquired by the acquiring means; The selection unit and the acquisition unit sequentially select and acquire a plurality of pieces of image information suitable for outputting images to a plurality of different types of recording media stored in a storage device, and sequentially output the images to the plurality of types of recording media. Means for controlling the image output means, and control means for controlling the image output means. 10. A plurality of different types of image processing performed on one piece of image information include image processing based on a density non-linear correction table for OHP film output, and image processing based on a density non-linear correction table for plain paper output. The image output device includes: an image output device for outputting an image on an OHP film; and an image output device for outputting an image on a plain paper. 10. The image output device according to claim 9, wherein the processed image information is selected. 11. A control method for an image copying system including an image input device, an image storage device, and an image output device, wherein: an image input step of reading an image by the image input device; An image processing step of simultaneously performing image processing corresponding to image output to a plurality of different types of recording media to generate a plurality of image information, and simultaneously outputting the image information from the image input device to the image storage device; A storage step of simultaneously inputting a plurality of pieces of image information suitable for image output to a plurality of different types of recording media output simultaneously from an input device and storing the information in a memory of the image storage device; and a request from the image output device. Responsively, outputting any of the image information stored in the memory from the image storage device to the image output device; A plurality of selection steps for sequentially selecting a plurality of pieces of image information suitable for outputting images to a plurality of different types of recording media stored in the storage device; and storing the image information sequentially selected in the plurality of selection steps in the image storage device. A plurality of acquisition steps for sequentially requesting and acquiring the plurality of types of recording media, and a plurality of image output steps for sequentially outputting images to the plurality of types of recording media based on the image information sequentially acquired in the plurality of acquisition steps. A method for controlling an image copying system, comprising: 12. A storage medium storing a computer-readable program for controlling an image copying system including an image input device, an image storage device, and an image output device, the image input device reading an image by the image input device. And simultaneously performing image processing corresponding to image output to a plurality of different types of recording media on the read one piece of image information to generate a plurality of pieces of image information, and from the image input device to the image storage device An image processing step of simultaneously outputting a plurality of pieces of image information suitable for image output to a plurality of different types of recording media simultaneously output from the image input device and storing the information in a memory of the image storage device And storing, in response to a request from the image output device, the image information stored in the memory in the image storage device. An output step of outputting to a plurality of different types of image media suitable for image output to a plurality of different types of recording media stored in the image storage device; A plurality of acquisition steps for sequentially requesting and acquiring the image information sequentially selected in the selection step from the image storage device, and the plurality of types of recording media based on the image information sequentially acquired in the plurality of acquisition steps And a plurality of image output steps for sequentially outputting images. A storage medium storing a computer-readable program.