JP2001092309A - Picture recording device, picture recording system, control method of picture recording device, control method of picture recording system, and storage medium - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To discharge paper to the same paper discharge port even if paper is removed during the processing of a job for dynamically allocating the paper discharge port and discharging paper and to make easily recognizable its own printed matter. SOLUTION: An outer unit 101A adds a designated identification neme to print data transmitted to a printer 102 and displays a warning message informed from the printer 102 when paper cannot be classified/discharged. The printer 102 decides a paper discharge port based on the retrieval result of the existence of the paper discharge port to which the identification name added to print data is registered and the retrieval result of the empty paper discharge port. When the identification name of the decided paper discharge port is not registered in a memory, the identification name is registered as the identification name of the decided paper discharge port. The registered identification name is deleted if a job designating the identification name similar to the paper discharge port to be designated is not being processed when the paper amount of the paper discharge port becomes zero.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image recording apparatus capable of discharging a print result of a print job received from a plurality of data processing apparatuses communicably connected via a predetermined communication medium to a plurality of paper output ports. The present invention relates to an apparatus, an image recording system, a method for controlling an image recording apparatus, a method for controlling an image recording system, and a storage medium.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, computers (LANs) have been used.
1 Area Network), and a LAN connection is possible not only for a printer but also for various peripheral devices such as a multifunction image processing apparatus having a copy and fax function.

In such an environment, users with all needs share an image recording apparatus. For example, even if the user uses the same image in the same office, the number of users differs.
The use environment varies, such as whether to use various paper sizes, often go to get the print immediately or leave it for a long time, and the operation method also changes depending on the time and case Therefore, there is a demand for an image recording apparatus having a function capable of responding to each operation method.

In the conventional image recording apparatus, even when the image recording apparatus is used in a network environment by connecting to a LAN, the discharge port of the image recording apparatus is a place for temporarily storing the discharge of a user who has performed printing. In most cases, for example, when distributing printed documents to required locations, the printed materials printed by the printer are sorted and copied by the required number of copies using a copier, and the printed materials are copied to the box that holds each distributed material. It was taken out and distributed.

[0005] Further, when an image recording apparatus such as a printer having a plurality of paper discharge ports is shared and used by a plurality of users, (1) one job separation in which paper is discharged to an empty paper discharge port for each job; Mode (2) Printer driver UI on host computer
Thus, a name is fixedly assigned to the paper output port, and sorting is performed in a pseudo mailbox mode or the like in which the paper output port is switched by designating the name.

[0008] Each of (1) and (2) will be described based on respective conceptual diagrams of FIGS. 28 and 29.

First, (1) one job separation will be described.

FIG. 28 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a conventional sorting method (1) 1-job separation.

First, with respect to (1) one-job separation, the example shown in FIG. 28 is for a user kakky → user yuichi → user jmori → user sakai.
→ User kakky → User sakai → User sak
This is an example in which print jobs are transmitted to the printer in the order of ai.

In this example, the switching of the job is detected in the printer regardless of the owner of the job, and when a new job is transmitted, a discharge port with zero loading capacity is searched, and the job is started. The discharge is continued to the discharge port determined at the time until the end of the job. By changing the paper discharge port for discharging paper in one job unit and performing discharge, mixed loading of jobs is prevented.

Next, (2) the pseudo mailbox will be described.

FIG. 29 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a conventional sorting method (2) pseudo mailbox.

[0013] Regarding the pseudo-mailbox of (2), the example shown in FIG. 29 is a method for realizing a pseudo-mailbox by operating settings on the host computer.

When seven printers are shared by seven users, the sharing user sets the name of the paper discharge port of the shared printer on each host computer. At this time, it is necessary to set the same user name on all the shared host computers.

In FIG. 29, bin 1 is the manager, bin 2 is the room manager, bin 3 is the chief, bin 4 is the room member A, bin 5 is the room member B,
The bin 6 is designated as a room member C and the bin 7 is designated as a general affair, and the operation is performed. At the time of printing, by specifying a name, a fixed designation is given to a discharge port corresponding to the name, and pseudo sorting is performed. To go. Jobs are prevented from being mixedly loaded by giving meaning to the paper discharge port that appears on the screen of the host computer.

However, the conventional examples (1) and (2) have the following problems.

(1) In the one-job separate mode, as described above, even when there is a large amount of data with a small number of jobs, the discharge port is switched for each job regardless of the owner of the job and the sheet is discharged. As a result, the sheet may become full before the stacking capacity of the discharge port can be fully used.

(2) In the pseudo-mailbox mode, the method of registering the discharge port name of the image recording apparatus on the host computer and converting it into a fixed designation for the discharge port with that name is used. It was necessary to register the same name on all the host computers sharing the device. Therefore, it is troublesome to adjust the settings on all the host computers sharing the image recording apparatus, and if this operation is neglected, the paper may be ejected to a paper ejection port not intended by the user. was there.

For example, as shown in FIG. 29, since the room manager mistakenly sets the bin of the manager and the bin of the room, the bin 1 and the bin 2 contain the job of the manager and the job of the room. The problem of mixed loading easily occurs.

In order to solve the problems of the above (1) and (2) paper discharge methods, there have been cases where operation is performed by the following paper discharge method.

(3) A paper discharging method disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. HEI 2-10068, in which an empty paper discharging port is dynamically allocated to each user based on user information included in print data and paper is discharged.

Hereinafter, (3) the paper discharging method disclosed in Japanese Patent Application No. 2-10068 will be described.

FIG. 30 is a conceptual diagram for explaining a conventional sorting method (3) a paper discharging method disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. Hei.

Regarding the paper discharging method described in (3) of Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. HEI 2-10068, the example shown in FIG. 30 is such that a user name is added to the print data and the paper discharging used by the user is used. If there is no outlet or a discharge outlet used by the user, a discharge outlet with a zero stacking amount is searched, and discharge is performed there, and at the same time, registration is performed as the discharge outlet of the user. .

When paper is discharged by this method, a certain discharge bin always discharges only one user's job.
The bins used for each user are reliably separated. Furthermore, 1
Since a plurality of jobs of the same user can be discharged to the bin, there is no longer a problem that the job becomes full immediately, which is a problem at the time of (1) separating one job.

Further, unlike the pseudo mailbox of (2), it is not necessary to perform troublesome settings on the host computers of all users sharing the printer, and it is possible to prevent mixed loading of jobs.

Further, once all the paper of the registered paper outlet is removed, the registration of the paper outlet is released, and the paper outlet is released as a paper outlet that can be used by anyone, so that it can be shared by more users. .

[0028]

However, the prior art (3) has the following problems.

In the case of the paper discharging method disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. HEI 2-10068 (3), only sorting for each user is possible, and sorting according to the purpose of the user cannot be performed.

For example, the paper outlet is switched for each host computer used. -Switch the paper outlet for each application used.・ Switch the paper outlet for each paper type used.・ Switch the paper outlet for each file to be printed.・ Switch the paper outlet for each time period used. Etc. could not be selected by the user.

In order to successfully operate a discharge method in which a used discharge bin is dynamically registered at the time of printing and the registration is released by a user's operation to release a usable bin, it is necessary for the user to operate the discharge bin to some extent. It is necessary to make empty bottles frequently.

For this reason, some users perform operations such as removing the paper before all the print jobs transmitted by the user have been discharged, and the registered bin information is released by removing the paper. As in a conventional example shown in FIG. 31 described later, if there is an empty bin having a higher priority than the bin that is currently discharging paper, the paper is discharged to the next bin.

In order to perform the operation smoothly, it is necessary to remove the paper sheet to some extent.
As shown in the figure, if the paper is removed during the printing process, the paper ejection outlet will change even for the same job, and it will be difficult to know in which bin the print job has been ejected without checking the contents. There was a problem.

FIG. 31 is a view for explaining the case where the paper is removed during the printing process in the conventional sorting method (3) shown in FIG.

As shown in the drawing, during printing of a print job of user sakai discharged to bin 4,
When the paper in bin 4 is removed, the user sakai who is
Of the same job is discharged to the bin with the highest priority, in this case, bin 1, and the user
Unless the contents are checked, it is difficult to understand in which bin the print job is discharged, and it is very confusing.

The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and an object of the first to twenty-first inventions according to the present invention is to allow a data processing apparatus to determine a paper outlet. The identification name or the type of the identification name is specified, and the specified identification name or the identification name determined according to the type of the specified identification name is added to the print data to be transmitted to the image recording apparatus, and the printing is performed. A warning message notified from the image recording apparatus when sorting and discharging by the identification name added to the data is not possible is notified to the user, and the image recording apparatus is notified of the same identification name as the identification name added to the print data. Is searched for a discharge port registered in the memory, an empty discharge port is searched for from each of the discharge ports, and a discharge result for discharging the print result of the print data based on each search result. Determine the paper port and make the decision If the identification name of the output port is not registered in the memory, the identification name added to the print data is registered in the memory as the identification name of the determined output port. The print processing of a print job in which the same identification name as the identification name of the discharge port is designated when the load amount of the discharge port whose identification name is registered in the memory becomes zero when the load amount is monitored. If you have not
By deleting the registered identification name of the paper discharge port from the memory, the paper discharge port is dynamically allocated, and during the processing of the job of sorting and discharging various kinds of printed matter according to the purpose, the paper discharge port can be used. Even if the stacked paper removal operation is performed frequently and the output volume of each output port fluctuates dynamically, the same job is output to the same output port, making it easier to print one's own work without confusion. It is an object of the present invention to provide an image recording apparatus, an image recording system, a method of controlling the image recording apparatus, a method of controlling the image recording system, and a storage medium, which can construct a shared image recording environment that can be recognized by the user.

[0037]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, a print result of a print job received from a plurality of data processing apparatuses communicably connected via a predetermined communication medium is output to a plurality of paper discharge apparatuses. In an image recording apparatus capable of discharging paper to a paper outlet, a detecting means for detecting the amount of paper loaded in each paper discharge outlet (the CPU 409 shown in FIG. 15 performs detection processing based on a program stored in the ROM 404 or another storage medium not shown). Storage means (EEPROM 410 shown in FIG. 15) for storing, for each paper discharge port, the paper stacking amount of each paper discharge port detected by the detection means and the identification name of each paper discharge port registered. First search means (CPU 409 shown in FIG. 15 determines whether the same identification name as the identification name specified in the print job is present in the storage means in the ROM 404 or the ROM 404 or not). Second search means for searching a search processing based on a program stored in the show no other storage medium), an empty discharge outlet from the respective sheet discharge outlet (15
CPU 409 performs a search process based on a program stored in the ROM 404 or another storage medium (not shown)), and prints the print job based on the search results of the first search unit and the second search unit. Determination means for determining a paper discharge port for discharging the result (the CPU 40 shown in FIG. 15)
9 is performed based on a program stored in the ROM 404 or another storage medium (not shown)), and when the identification name of the discharge port determined by the determination unit is not registered in the storage unit, A registration unit (FIG. 15) for registering the identification name specified in the job as the identification name of the discharge port determined by the determination unit in the storage unit;
The CPU 409 shown in FIG. 4 executes EEP based on a program stored in the ROM 404 or another storage medium (not shown).
(The registration processing is performed in the ROM 410), and the stacking amount of each sheet outlet stored in the storage unit is monitored, and when the stacking amount of the sheet outlet whose identification name is registered in the storage unit becomes zero,
Deletion means (FIG. 1) for deleting the discharge port identification name from the storage means when the printing process of the print job in which the same identification name as the discharge port identification name is not performed.
5 is executed by the CPU 409 based on a program stored in the ROM 404 or another storage medium (not shown).
(Deletion process from the PROM 410).

According to a second aspect of the present invention, when the stacking amount of the paper ejection outlets whose identification names are registered in the storage unit becomes zero, the deletion unit keeps a fixed amount after the printing process is completed. When a time print job has not been received, the identification name of the discharge port is deleted from the storage unit.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, when the stacking amount of a plurality of paper discharge ports registered with the same identification name in the storage means becomes zero, the deletion means may be configured to store the same identification name. In the case where the print processing of the print job in which the same identification name as the identification name is specified is being performed, the identification of the discharge outlets other than the discharge outlet having the highest priority (the uppermost discharge outlet) is performed. The name is deleted from the storage means.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, when the stacking amount of the plurality of paper discharge ports registered with the same identification name in the storage means becomes zero, the deletion means may be configured to store the same identification name. When a print job of a print job in which the same identification name as the identification name is specified is being performed, a discharge other than the discharge outlet (current discharge outlet) determined as the discharge destination of the print job is performed. The identification name of the paper port is deleted from the storage means.

A fifth invention according to the present invention provides a warning message (“Sorting cannot be performed because all bins are in use,” if the sort and discharge by the identification name specified in the print job cannot be performed. For all the users who are using the printer, "Please take out the paper in the bin." For the user who is not using the bin, "Cannot discharge the paper separately." This is provided with a notifying means for notifying the data processing apparatus that has transmitted the data (the CPU 409 shown in FIG. 15 performs notification processing based on a program stored in the ROM 404 or another storage medium (not shown)).

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the detecting means detects at least three levels of detection, that is, no paper is loaded, paper is loaded, and full loading, for each discharge port. Things.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the storage means stores the sheet stacking status, identification name, use status, and the like of each discharge port for each discharge port.

In an eighth aspect according to the present invention, the first search means determines whether there is a paper exit in which the same name as the identification name added to the print data is registered. And selecting one of the paper outlets having the same name with the lowest priority by searching from the paper outlets with the lowest priority. The determining means is added to the print data as a result of the search by the first searching means. If the discharge port having the same name as the identification name is selected and the discharge port is not full, the discharge port is determined as the discharge port of the print result of the print data.

In a ninth aspect according to the present invention, the deciding unit selects a discharge port having the same name as the identification name added to the print data, as a result of the search by the first searching unit. When the discharge port is full, the continuous discharge port is determined as the discharge port for discharging the print result of the print data only when the discharge port continuous to the discharge port is empty. It is.

[0046] In a tenth aspect according to the present invention, the deciding means selects, as a result of the retrieval by the first retrieval means, a paper outlet having the same name as the identification name added to the print data, When the paper discharge port is full, the paper discharge port having the next priority is discharged from the paper discharge port having the next priority only when the paper discharge port having the next priority is empty. It is decided to be a paper door.

[0047] In an eleventh aspect according to the present invention, the deciding means selects, as a result of the retrieval by the first retrieval means, a paper exit having the same name as the identification name added to the print data, If the paper ejection outlet is full and the paper ejection outlet of the next priority to the paper ejection outlet is not empty, the empty paper ejection outlets searched by the second search means in descending order of priority are printed. The print result of the data is determined as a paper discharge port for discharging the paper.

In a twelfth aspect according to the present invention, the determination means determines that, as a result of the search by the first search means, there is no paper exit having the same name as the identification name added to the print data. And determining an empty paper discharge port searched by the second search means in descending order of priority as a paper discharge port for discharging a print result of the print data.

[0049] In a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the priority order is such that a paper outlet located at an upper or lower level is a paper outlet having a higher priority.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the identification name is a user name (kaky, sakai shown in FIG. 1).
Etc.), a host name, a group name, a department name, a file name, a paper type, and a date.

In a fifteenth aspect according to the present invention, the notifying means displays a discharge destination of the print result of the print data determined by the determining means on a display unit at the end of discharge of the print result of the print data. And / or notify the data processing device.

In a sixteenth aspect according to the present invention, the plurality of paper outlets are a plurality of paper outlets provided in the image recording apparatus main body, and a plurality of paper output ports provided in an optional device connected to the image recording apparatus main body. Of the paper.

According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, a plurality of data processing apparatuses and a print result of a print job received from the plurality of data processing apparatuses via a predetermined communication medium are discharged to a plurality of discharge ports. In an image recording system configured with a possible image recording apparatus, the plurality of data processing apparatuses include an identification name or a type of identification name for determining a discharge port (see FIGS. 4 and 5). Bin name setting area 603 and bin name input area 6 of the discharge mode setting screen shown
04) and an identification name specified by the specification unit or an identification name determined according to the type of the specified identification name is added to print data to be transmitted to the image recording apparatus, and the identification name is discharged. Creating means for creating the previously specified print job (CPU 1 shown in FIG. 6 adds an identification name based on a program stored in ROM 3 or another storage medium (not shown) to create a print job) The image recording apparatus includes a detecting unit (a CPU 409 shown in FIG.
404 or other storage medium (not shown)), and the stacking amount of paper detected by the detecting means and the identification name of each registered paper discharge outlet are stored in each discharge outlet. A storage means (EEPROM 410 shown in FIG. 15) for storing each paper port and a search are made as to whether or not there is a paper discharge port in which the same identification name as that specified in the print job is registered in the storage means. A first search unit (the CPU 409 shown in FIG. 15 performs a search process based on a program stored in the ROM 404 or another storage medium not shown) and a second search unit that searches for an empty discharge port from each of the discharge ports. Search means (the CPU 409 shown in FIG.
The search processing is performed based on a program stored in the OM 404 or another storage medium (not shown)), and the print result of the print job is discharged based on the search results of the first search unit and the second search unit. Determining means for determining a discharge port to be used (the CPU 409 shown in FIG. 15 performs a determination process based on a program stored in the ROM 404 or another storage medium not shown), and identification of the discharge port determined by the determining means If the name is not registered in the storage unit, the registration unit (CPU 409 shown in FIG. 15) registers the identification name specified in the print job as the discharge port identification name determined by the determination unit. Is R
The registration processing is performed in the EEPROM 410 based on a program stored in the OM 404 or another storage medium (not shown)), the loading capacity of each paper discharge port stored in the storage unit is monitored, and the identification name is registered in the storage unit. When the stacking amount of the discharged paper outlet becomes zero, and the printing process of the print job in which the same identification name as the paper discharge outlet is not performed is not performed, There is provided a deletion means for deleting the identification name from the storage means (the CPU 409 shown in FIG. 15 performs deletion processing from the EEPROM 410 based on a program stored in the ROM 404 or another storage medium not shown).

According to an eighteenth aspect of the present invention, a print result of print data received from a plurality of data processing apparatuses communicably connected via a predetermined communication medium can be discharged to a plurality of discharge ports. In the control method of the image recording apparatus, a detecting step (step S701 in FIG. 25) for detecting the paper stack amount of each of the paper discharge ports, and the detected paper stack amount of each of the paper discharge ports is performed. A storage step (step S702 in FIG. 25) for storing in the memory for storing the paper stacking amount and the identification name of each paper discharge port registered, and storing the same identification name as the identification name added to the print data in the memory. A first search step (step S601 in FIG. 24) for searching whether or not there is a paper discharge port registered in the printer, and a second search step for searching for an empty paper discharge port from each of the paper discharge ports ( Steps S605 and S609 in FIG. If, based on each search result, step S604 of determining step (Fig. 24 to determine the paper discharge port for discharging a printing result of the printing data, S607, S61
1) and when the determined discharge port identification name is not registered in the memory, the identification name added to the print data is registered in the memory as the determined discharge port identification name. Registration process (step S608 in FIG. 24,
S612) and monitoring the stacking amount of each sheet ejection outlet stored in the memory, and when the stacking amount of the sheet ejection outlet whose identification name is registered in the memory becomes zero, identification of the sheet ejection outlet. A deletion step (steps S703 to S703 in FIG. 25) of deleting the identification name of the discharge port from the memory when the printing process of the print job in which the same identification name as the name is specified is not performed.
705).

According to a nineteenth aspect of the present invention, a plurality of data processing apparatuses and a print result of a print job received from the plurality of data processing apparatuses via a predetermined communication medium are discharged to a plurality of discharge ports. In a method for controlling an image recording system including a possible image recording apparatus, a designation step (FIG. 7) for designating an identification name or a type of an identification name for determining a discharge port by the plurality of data processing apparatuses. Step S3
04, S305), and the specified identification name or the identification name determined according to the type of the specified identification name is added to the print data to be transmitted to the image recording apparatus, and the identification name is output to the discharge destination. (Steps S405 and S403 in FIG. 8) for creating a print job designated
A detecting step (step S701 in FIG. 25) for detecting the amount of paper loaded at each of the paper discharge ports by the image recording apparatus, and determining the detected amount of paper loaded at each of the paper discharge ports by loading the paper at each of the paper discharge ports. A storage step of storing the amount and the identification name of each paper discharge port to be registered in a memory (step S70 in FIG. 25).
2) and a first search step (step S in FIG. 24) of searching for whether or not there is a paper ejection outlet registered with the same identification name as the identification name added to the print data in the memory.
601) and a second search step of searching for an empty discharge port from each of the discharge ports (steps S605 and S609 in FIG. 24).
And a determining step (steps S604, S607, and S611 in FIG. 24) for determining a discharge port for discharging the print result of the print data based on each search result, and an identification name of the determined discharge port Is not registered in the memory,
A registration step (steps S608 and S612 in FIG. 24) of registering the identification name added to the print data in the memory as the identification name of the determined discharge port; When the stacking amount of the paper ejection outlet whose identification name is registered in the memory becomes zero when the stacking amount is monitored, printing of the print job in which the same identification name as the identification name of the paper ejection outlet is designated. A deletion step (steps S703 to S705 in FIG. 25) for deleting the discharge port identification name from the memory when the processing is not performed.

According to a twentieth aspect of the present invention, a print result of print data received from a plurality of data processing apparatuses communicably connected via a predetermined communication medium can be discharged to a plurality of discharge ports. A detecting step (step S701 in FIG. 25) for detecting the amount of paper loaded in each of the paper discharge ports by the image recording apparatus;
A storage step of storing the detected paper stacking amount of each paper ejection outlet in a memory for storing the paper stacking amount of each paper ejection outlet and the identification name of each paper ejection outlet registered (step S7 in FIG. 25).
02), and a first search step (step S601 in FIG. 24) for searching whether or not there is a paper discharge port registered with the same identification name as the identification name added to the print data in the memory. A second search step (steps S605 and S60 in FIG. 24) for searching for an empty discharge port from each of the discharge ports.
9), a determining step (steps S604, S607, and S611 in FIG. 24) of determining a discharge port for discharging the print result of the print data based on each search result; If the identification name is not registered in the memory, a registration step (steps S608 and S612 in FIG. 24) of registering the identification name added to the print data in the memory as the identification name of the determined discharge port. Monitoring the stacking amount of each sheet ejection outlet stored in the memory, and when the stacking amount of the sheet ejection outlet whose identification name is registered in the memory becomes zero, the same as the identification name of the sheet ejection outlet. And performing a deletion step (steps S703 to S705 in FIG. 25) of deleting the discharge port identification name from the memory when the print job of the print job for which the identification name is specified is not performed. Blog The beam computer is one that was stored in readable storage medium.

According to a twenty-first aspect of the present invention, a plurality of data processing apparatuses and a print result of a print job received from the plurality of data processing apparatuses via a predetermined communication medium are discharged to a plurality of discharge ports. A designation step (steps S304 and S305 in FIG. 7) of designating an identification name or a type of an identification name for determining a paper discharge port in the plurality of data processing apparatuses of the image recording system including the possible image recording apparatuses. ) And the specified identification name or the identification name determined according to the type of the specified identification name is added to the print data to be transmitted to the image recording apparatus, and the identification name is designated as the paper discharge destination. Creation process for creating a print job (step S in FIG. 8)
405 and S403), and the image recording apparatus detects the amount of paper loaded in each of the paper discharge ports (FIG. 25).
Step S701), and a storage step of storing the detected paper stacking amount of each paper ejection outlet in a memory for storing the paper stacking amount of each paper ejection outlet and the identification name of each paper ejection outlet registered. (Step S702 in FIG. 25) and a first search step (FIG. 24) in which a search is made to determine whether or not there is a discharge port in which the same identification name as that added to the print data is registered in the memory. Step S601), a second search step (steps S605 and S609 in FIG. 24) of searching for an empty discharge port from each of the discharge ports, and discharging the print result of the print data based on each search result. A determining step of determining a paper discharge port for paper (steps S604 and S607 in FIG. 24)
S611), and if the determined discharge port identification name is not registered in the memory, the identification name added to the print data is registered in the memory as the determined discharge port identification name. Registration process (Step S6 in FIG. 24)
08, S612), and monitor the stacking amount of each sheet ejection port stored in the memory, and when the stacking amount of the sheet ejection outlet whose identification name is registered in the memory becomes zero, the sheet ejection port. A deletion step (step S70 in FIG. 25) of deleting the identification name of the paper discharge port from the memory when the print processing of the print job in which the same identification name as the identification name is not performed.
3 to S705) are stored in a computer-readable storage medium.

[0058]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS [First Embodiment] An embodiment of the present invention will be described below.

FIG. 1 shows a method for smoothly realizing the operation in the user-separated automatic mode in which the discharge bins of the image recording apparatus shared by a plurality of users are dynamically allocated at the time of printing using their own discharge bins. Is a conceptual diagram showing the actual operation.

It should be noted that the paper discharging method of the present invention flexibly sorts print jobs according to purposes, and is not limited to each job or each user. , And is called a user-separate automatic mode.

As shown in the figure, an example in which the image recording apparatus is shared and used by five host computers, that is, five users will be described.

In the figure, reference numeral 102 denotes an image recording device (printer), which is an external device (host computer 101 (10)
1A, 101B, 101C, 101D, 101E)) via a predetermined communication medium, for example, a LAN such as Ethernet, and performs image recording on a recording medium based on image information transmitted from each host computer.
To 7 are output.

Each host computer 101A, 101
Users of B, 101C, 101D, and 101E are sakai, utsu, kakky, yuichi, j, respectively.
The name is registered as a default value when the user starts up the host computer and logs in with mori.

This name can be edited by the user and can be input from a UI (user interface) on the host computer.

First, after deciding the operation of the image recording apparatus,
About the setting of the paper ejection mode of the image recording apparatus, the operation panel of the image recording apparatus or a host application.
The user separate automatic mode indicating the mode of the present embodiment is selected.

FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram showing a method for smoothly realizing the operation of the user separate automatic mode shown in FIG.

As shown in the drawing, during the printing process of the print job of the user sakai discharged to the bin 4,
Even if the paper in bin 4 is removed, user saka
The print job i is discharged to the same bin 4.

FIG. 3 shows the printer 1 by the host application on each host computer 101 shown in FIG.
FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a screen for setting a paper ejection mode of a second computer, and a host computer 101 illustrated in FIG.
Is displayed on the CRT 10.

In the figure, reference numeral 500 denotes a sheet supply / discharge setting screen.
A feed mode and a discharge mode of the image recording apparatus 102 can be set.

Reference numeral 501 denotes a sheet feeding section setting area, in which "automatic" is set. Reference numeral 502 denotes an automatic paper feed display area, and a paper feed unit that can feed paper is displayed when the paper feed unit setting area 501 is set to “automatic”. Reference numeral 503 denotes a tray priority setting area. When the sheet feeding unit setting area 501 is set to “automatic”, it is possible to select whether or not tray priority is set. Here, tray priority is selected.

Reference numeral 504 denotes a tray paper size setting unit which can set the paper size stored in the tray, for example, A4, B5, letter, executive and the like. In this case, "executive" is set. Reference numeral 505 denotes a paper name setting window display button. By instructing this button with a keyboard or a pointing device (not shown), a paper name setting window (not shown) is displayed.
A paper name can be set.

Reference numeral 511 denotes a paper discharge section setting area, in which "automatic" is set. Reference numeral 512 denotes an automatic paper discharge setting area, which can be set when the paper discharge unit setting area 511 is set to "automatic". In this example, "user separate" is set. A user separation setting area 513 is “automatic” or “fixed” when the automatic paper discharge setting area 512 is set to “user separation”.
Can be selectively set, and here, automatic is set.

A bin name setting window display button 514 is “fixed” in a user separate setting area 513.
Is selected, this button can be designated with a keyboard or a pointing device (not shown) to display a bin name setting window (not shown) to set a bin name.

Reference numeral 521 denotes an OK button. By instructing this button with a keyboard or a pointing device (not shown), the setting of the paper supply / discharge setting screen 500 is made valid (that is, a registration instruction is transmitted to the printer 102). The paper supply / discharge setting screen 500 is terminated. Reference numeral 522 denotes a cancel button. By instructing this button using a keyboard or a pointing device (not shown), the setting of the paper supply / discharge setting screen 500 is invalidated, and the paper supply / discharge setting screen 500 is terminated.

Reference numeral 523 denotes an update button. By instructing this button with a keyboard or a pointing device (not shown), the setting of the paper supply / discharge setting screen 500 is made valid (that is, a registration instruction is transmitted to the printer 102). Can be. Reference numeral 524 denotes a help button. By instructing this button with a keyboard or a pointing device (not shown), a help window (not shown) can be displayed.

In the example shown in FIG.
Is set to "user separate automatic".

The sheet supply / discharge setting screen 5 shown in FIG.
Normally, the setting of the paper feed mode and the paper discharge mode by 00 need only be performed once when the image recording apparatus is installed after the operation method is determined.

Next, a description will be given of a case where an identification name is set according to purpose at the time of printing.

FIGS. 4 and 5 are schematic views showing an example of a screen for setting a paper discharge mode at the time of printing by the host application on each host computer 101 shown in FIG. 1, and is shown in FIG. It is displayed on the CRT 10 of the host computer 101.

In FIGS. 4 and 5, reference numeral 600 denotes a discharge mode setting screen for printing.

Reference numeral 601 denotes a 7-bin sorter mounted display, which indicates that the image recording apparatus 102 is mounted with a 7-bin sorter. Reference numeral 602 denotes a paper discharge method setting area in which a user separate is set.

When a user separate is selected, a UI (bin name setting area 6) that matches the type (automatic) of the user separate set in the printer 102 in advance is selected.
03, bin name input area 604) is displayed.

The bin name setting area 603 allows the user to select “use login name as bin name” or “customize and use bin name” at the time of automatic user separation setting.

A bin name input area 604 is used to input a bin name when “customize and use bin name” is selected in the bin name setting area 603, such as “Kakiki” or “host name”. "Sorting", "sorting by group name", "sorting by application",
"Sorting by paper size", "paper type such as paper type",
One is selected from options such as "sort by file name", "sort by time zone", and "sort by date". In addition, "sort by host", "sort by group name",
Options such as “sort by application”, “sort by paper size”, “paper type such as paper type”, “sort by file name”, “sort by time zone”, and “sort by date” will be described later with reference to FIG. ROM 3, the nonvolatile memory in the RAM 2, or the external memory 11 or the like. The bin name newly input to the bin name input area 604 is stored in the nonvolatile memory in the RAM 2 in FIG.
Alternatively, the information may be stored in the external memory 11 or the like, and may be configured as one of options from the next time.

Reference numeral 605 denotes a button for returning to the standard state. When this button is designated by a keyboard or a pointing device (not shown), a discharge mode setting screen 600 for printing is set.
To the default settings.

Reference numeral 610 denotes a copy unit print designation check box. When a plurality of copies are to be printed by designating this check box with a keyboard or a pointing device (not shown), the print unit is set.

Reference numeral 606 denotes an OK button. By instructing this button with a keyboard or a pointing device (not shown), the setting of the paper discharge mode setting screen 600 at the time of printing is enabled, and the paper discharge mode setting screen 600 at the time of printing is set. To end. Reference numeral 607 denotes a cancel button. By instructing this button with a keyboard or a pointing device (not shown), the setting of the paper ejection mode setting screen 600 at the time of printing is invalidated, and the paper ejection mode setting screen 600 at the time of printing is invalidated.
To end.

Reference numeral 608 denotes an apply button. By designating this button with a keyboard or a pointing device (not shown), the setting of the paper discharge mode setting screen 600 at the time of printing can be made valid. 609 is a help button,
By instructing this button with a keyboard or a pointing device (not shown), a help window (not shown) can be displayed.

FIG. 4 corresponds to the case where “use login name as bin name” is selected in the bin name setting area 603 (default setting), and print jobs from users who make this setting are sorted by user. Paper is discharged. FIG. 5 corresponds to the case where “customize and use bin name” is selected in the bin name setting area 603, and the print job from the user who has made this setting is input to the bin name input area 604. It is sorted by Kakigi and discharged.

In the present embodiment, the case of sorting for each user or sorting for each purpose is described. However, for a user who wants to perform the operation for sorting for each user, the default setting is sufficient and no operation is performed. May be.
In FIG. 4, by instructing an OK button 606, sorting can be performed for each user.

On the other hand, as for the user who wants to sort by purpose, as shown in FIG.
Select "Use customized bin name" and enter the name to be used in the bin name input area 604 or select "Sort by host", "Sort by application", "Sort by paper size", or "Sort by paper size". Paper type, etc. "," Sorting by file name "," Sorting by time zone "
One of the options is selected, and an OK button 606 is designated.

After the above-mentioned necessary settings have been made, the user can sort by purpose only by giving a print instruction by designating the user separate.

As can be seen from the screens of FIGS. 4 and 5 (discharge mode setting screen 600 at the time of printing), the user does not need to specify the discharge port, but only transmits the print data in the user separate setting. Thus, it is possible to perform a desired sorting that has been set in advance on the discharge mode setting screen 600 for printing in FIGS. 4 and 5.

Assume that each user discharges paper in the user-separated automatic mode, for example, as shown in FIG. 2, bin 1 to bin 3 are used by user kakky and bin 4 is used by user saka.

In FIG. 2, the loading capacity of each bin is 100% for bin 1, 100% for bin 2, and 2 for bin 3, respectively.
0%, bin 4 100%, bin 5 0%, bin 6 0
%, Bin 7 ... 0%.

In this situation, the user kakky removes his or her own print job in bin 1 to bin 3 because print jobs are accumulated. In addition, user sakai is in the middle of printing, but wants to obtain an earlier output result. It is assumed that all the print jobs of the bin 4 have been removed, and all the bins have become empty as a result.

In the user-separated automatic mode in which the registration is dynamically performed at the time of printing and the registration is canceled by removing the paper, the registration of the name of the discharge bin which is empty in the above situation is cancelled. After checking the job being processed, determine whether to actually delete it.

That is, for the bins 1 to 3 used by the user kakky, the registration of the user kakky is canceled because there is no print processing job of the user kakky in the image processing apparatus. Since the printing process is still in progress, the registration is not canceled even if the bin becomes empty.

In this way, even if the user performs a paper removing operation during the printing process, the registration is not canceled for the once determined paper output bin, and the user sets the discharge position of the remaining print job. Make it easy to judge.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of host computer 101 shown in FIG.

In FIG. 1, reference numeral 1 denotes a CPU, which can communicate data with the printer 102 based on programs (various application programs, printer drivers, etc.) stored in a program ROM of the ROM 3 and is connected to the system device 4. And overall control of each device.

The font ROM of the ROM 3 stores font data and the like, and the data ROM of the ROM 3 stores various data. Reference numeral 2 denotes a RAM, which functions as a main memory, a work area, and the like of the CPU 1.

Reference numeral 5 denotes a keyboard controller (KBC)
Controls key input from the keyboard 9a or a pointing device (not shown). Reference numeral 6 denotes a CRT controller (CRTC) which controls display on a CRT display (CRT) 10. 7 is a memory controller (MC)
It controls access to an external memory 11 such as a hard disk (HD) or a floppy disk (FD) for storing font data, user files, edited files, and the like.

Reference numeral 8 denotes a printer controller (PRTC)
Then, the printer 102 is connected to the printer 102 via a predetermined communication medium (a local interface defined by IEEE1284 or a network interface such as Ethernet), and executes a communication control process with the printer 102.

The CPU 1 executes an outline font developing process on the display information RAM set on the RAM 2, for example, to enable WYSIWYG on the CRT 10.

Further, the CPU 1 opens various registered windows based on commands specified by a mouse cursor (pointer) or the like (not shown) on the CRT 10 and executes various data processing.

Further, the RAM 2 has a nonvolatile memory such as an NVRAM inside.

Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, a detailed description will be given of the concept of an image recording system to which the data processing apparatus and the image recording apparatus of the present invention shown in FIG. 1 can be applied at the time of printing.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a first processing procedure of an image recording system to which the data processing apparatus and the image recording apparatus of the present invention can be applied, and selects an identification name to be used when user-separated automatic discharge is designated. According to the processing procedure, C in the host computer 101 shown in FIG.
The PU 1 executes based on a program stored in the ROM 3 or another storage medium. Note that S301 to S30
6 shows each step.

First, in step S301, it is determined whether or not to register an identification name. That is, it is determined whether or not the user has instructed paper discharge in the user separate automatic mode.

In step S301, no identification name is registered.
That is, when the user instructs paper ejection other than the user-separated automatic mode, there is no need to register an identification name, and the process ends as it is.

On the other hand, when the identification name is registered in step S301, that is, when the user instructs the discharge in the user separate automatic mode, the user selects the identification name to be used in the bin name setting area 603. Step S
Proceed to 302.

In step S302, it is determined whether or not to edit the identification name, that is, whether or not to customize and use the bin name, and do not edit the identification name. If "use" is selected), the process is terminated as it is not necessary to edit the identification name.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S302 that the identification name is to be edited (“customize and use login name” is selected in the bin name setting area 603),
In step S303, it is determined whether or not to select the genre of the identification name. If it is determined that the genre of the identification name is selected, the process proceeds to step S305. One is selected from “sorting by host”, “sorting by application”, “sorting by paper size”, “sorting by file name”, “sorting by time zone”, etc., and step S306.
Proceed to.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S303 that the genre of the identification name is not selected, step S30
The process proceeds to step S4, where a name is input in the bin name input area 604, and the process proceeds to step S306.

Next, in step S306, the user setting information (information (identification name, etc.) set on the discharge mode setting screen 600) is stored in the nonvolatile memory in the RAM 2 or the external memory 11 such as a hard disk. To end.

Note that the stored user setting information is used to determine information to be added to print data at the time of printing in the user separate automatic mode designation.

Next, the process of creating and transmitting print data after the user gives a print instruction after the user setting shown in the flowchart of FIG. 7 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a second processing procedure of an image recording system to which the data processing apparatus and the image recording apparatus of the present invention can be applied. The print data transmitted to the image recording apparatus when a print instruction is issued is shown. The CPU 1 in the host computer 101 shown in FIG. 6 executes based on a program stored in the ROM 3 or another storage medium. Note that S401 to S405 indicate each step.

Upon receiving a print instruction from the user, first, in step S401, control information such as paper supply / discharge setting is created.

Next, in step S402, it is determined whether or not the user-separated automatic mode is designated. If it is determined that the mode is not the user-separated automatic mode, in step S403, the paper discharge is designated according to each mode, and the data is output. Then, in step S404, the data is transmitted to the image recording apparatus.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S402 that the user separate automatic mode has been designated, in step S405, based on the user setting information for identification stored (set) in S306 in FIG. The identification name to be added to the print data is determined.

If a login name is registered by default and a user-edited name is registered, a previously entered user name is added, and other sorting by host (host ID) and sorting by application (identifier) are performed. If selections such as sorting by paper size (specified paper size), sorting by file name (file name), sorting by time zone (time), etc. are made, it is decided to add each information managed in the host computer. I do.

Next, in step S403, data is created. At this time, if there is identification information determined to be added in step S405, a print job in which the identification information is added to the print data is created.

Next, in step S404, the data of the print job is transmitted to the image recording apparatus 102.

When the discharge of the print job is completed, a job end notification is received from the image recording apparatus 102, and a display as shown in FIG. 9, for example, is performed on the host computer 101, and the discharge actually used by the user is performed. Paper bins can be recognized.

FIG. 9 shows the image recording apparatus 102 shown in FIG.
FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing a print end notification sent to the host computer 101 from the host computer 101 and is displayed on the display unit of the host computer 101.

By this display, the user can recognize at a glance in which bin the print job of the user has been discharged.

Next, the configuration of the image recording apparatus 102 shown in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIGS.

FIG. 10 shows the image recording apparatus 10 shown in FIG.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a laser beam printer to which No. 2 is applicable.

The image recording apparatus to which the present embodiment is applied is not limited to a laser beam printer, but it is needless to say that another printing method such as an ink jet printer may be used.

In the following description and drawings, an example in which two optional units are connected will be described. However, more optional units can be connected, and the functions of the optional units may be shared by the main body. Absent.

In the figure, a laser beam printer (printer) 102 can be connected to various optional devices, and can be connected to an external device 101 such as a host computer by a general-purpose interface (for example, Centronics, RS232C, U232).
SB, etc.), network (for example, Ethernet etc.)
Connected to the external device 10 via a general-purpose interface.
1 (control information such as code data based on a predetermined printer language, for example, Post Scr).
ipt, LIPSIII, LIPSIV, image data, etc.).

A video controller 103 is connected to the external device 101 via the general-purpose interface, receives code data (ESC code, various PDL data, etc.) transferred from the external device 101 via the general-purpose interface, and It generates page information including dot data and the like based on the data, transmits image data (binary or multi-valued) to an engine controller 105 to be described later via the video interface 80, and transmits the image data (binary or multi-valued) to the after-mentioned interface via the general interface 90. A command for specifying sheet feeding and discharging is transmitted to the option controller unit 106. The engine controller 105 forms a latent image on a photosensitive drum by a well-known electrophotographic process based on the image data transferred from the video controller 103, transfers the latent image to a supplied sheet, and performs printing. At this time, the control unit 106 instructs the option controller unit 106 to supply and discharge paper.

Reference numeral 104 denotes a panel unit, which is an interface with a user including various switches (buttons) for operation, an LED display, an LCD display, and the like. Can be instructed to perform a predetermined operation. Various data and the like set by the user are stored and managed in a non-illustrated non-volatile memory, for example, NVRAM, EEPROM, or the like.

The option controller unit 106 includes a CPU, a ROM, a RAM (not shown), and the like. This is a general controller for controlling the above optional devices (units) collectively, and communicates with an optional controller unit included in various optional devices via the optional unit interface 70 to control the various optional devices collectively.

In the RAM of the option controller unit 106, there is a shared memory (shown in FIG. 16 to be described later) which can be accessed by the video controller 103. The shared memory has a transport status management area of about 40 pages, The video controller 10 includes a status area, a command status management area, a start-up processing area, and the like.
Reference numeral 3 designates designation of each optional device via each area of the shared memory.

The transfer status management area is set by the video controller 103 in the printing method (sheet feeding port, sheet discharging port, color,
An area for notifying each optional device of stapling, shifting, and the like, and an area for notifying the video controller 103 of each option state (how much data has been printed, discharge has been completed, and the like).

Further, the basic status area indicates an abnormality of each optional device (JAM, no paper, no staple, etc.).
Is notified to the video controller 103, and the command & status management area is
The start-up processing area is an area in which the command status is exchanged with the device 3 and the video controller 103 specifies the start-up processing of each optional device.

Reference numeral 107 denotes a paper feed option device (unit)
For example, a paper deck option unit has a paper deck controller (large-capacity paper feed cassette controller) 107 a therein, and performs paper feed control based on control information transmitted from the option controller unit 106. The paper deck controller 107a
Has a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM (not shown), and the CPU controls the sheet feeding option device 107 based on a program stored in the ROM. Further, the ROM stores extended information of the paper feed option device 107, for example, information on paper sizes that can be stored in the paper deck.

Reference numeral 108 denotes a paper discharge option device (unit)
For example, a sorter option unit having a sort function has a sorter controller (large-capacity sheet discharge stacker controller) 108a inside, and performs a sort operation and a sheet discharge operation based on control information transmitted from the option controller unit 106. Do. The sorter controller 108a includes a CPU, ROM, RA (not shown).
M, and the CPU controls the paper discharge option device 108 based on a program stored in the ROM. Also, R
In the OM, extended information of the paper discharge option device 108, for example,
The number of output bins, the presence of a sort function, the presence of a staple function, the presence or absence of a shift function to shift the output paper in a predetermined direction,
Information on the presence / absence of a reversing function for reversing the direction of the face of the discharged paper is stored.

The paper feed option device 107 and the paper discharge option device 108 are provided with operation units (controllers) 107b and 108b having a display unit and various keys, respectively. Can be displayed and operated.

Reference numeral 109 denotes a control unit, which is an engine controller 105 for controlling a printing process of the printer 102, a video controller 103 for controlling the entire printer 102 and analyzing data from an external device 101 such as a host computer and converting the data into image data. , And an optional controller unit 106 for controlling various optional units.

The option controller 106
Manages each option unit by a common option unit interface 70, and communicates with the video controller 103 via the general interface 90.
This embodiment is characterized in that the video controller 103 controls each paper supply / discharge option unit via the option controller unit 106.

FIG. 11 shows the printer 102 shown in FIG.
11 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of FIG. 10, and the same components as in FIG. 10 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

In the drawing, reference numeral 230 denotes a paper cassette which holds the recording paper S and has a mechanism for electrically detecting the size of the recording paper S by a partition plate (not shown). Reference numeral 231 denotes a cassette paper feed clutch, which separates only one of the uppermost recording papers of the recording paper S placed on the paper cassette 230, and feeds the separated recording paper S by a driving unit (not shown) to the paper feed roller 20.
This cam rotates intermittently every time paper is fed, and feeds one sheet of recording paper corresponding to one rotation. 23
A recording paper detection sensor 0S detects the amount of the recording paper S held in the paper cassette 230.

Reference numeral 227 denotes a registration shutter which presses a sheet to stop sheet feeding. The paper feed roller 204 is a recording paper S
Is transported to the resist shutter 227. 20
Reference numeral 2 denotes a manual tray on which the recording paper S is placed. Reference numeral 203 denotes a manual feed clutch, which conveys the recording paper S placed on the manual tray 202 to the registration shutter 227. 2
33 is an optional paper feed roller (paper feed relay conveyance roller)
Then, the recording paper S fed from the paper feed option 107 is supplied into the main body of the printer 102.

The manual paper feed roller 203, cassette paper feed clutch 231, optional paper feed roller 233
A registration roller pair 205 for synchronously transporting the recording paper S is provided downstream of the registration roller. A laser image emitted from a laser scanner unit 206 is provided downstream of the registration roller to form a toner image on the recording paper S by a known electrophotographic method. An image recording unit 207 formed by a process is provided.

In the laser scanner unit 206, 215
Is a laser unit that emits laser light based on an image signal (VDO signal) sent from the video controller 103. The laser light emitted from the laser unit 215 is scanned by the polygon mirror 216, and is passed through the image forming lens group 218 and the folding mirror 219.
A latent image is formed on 0. A beam detector 217 detects a laser beam emitted from the laser unit 215 and outputs a main scanning synchronization signal. A light amount sensor 270 detects the light amount of the laser light emitted from the laser unit 215.

In the image recording unit 207, 222
Is a primary charger, which charges the photosensitive drum 220 uniformly. A developing unit 223 is charged by the primary charging unit 222, and develops a latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 220 by laser exposure by the laser scanner unit 206 with toner. 2
A transfer charger 24 transfers the toner image on the photosensitive drum 220 developed by the developing device 223 to the registration roller 20.
5 is transferred to the recording paper S fed. A cleaner 225 removes residual toner on the photosensitive drum 220.
Reference numeral 221 denotes a pre-exposure lamp that removes electricity from the photosensitive drum 220 by light.

A fixing unit 208 thermally fixes the toner image formed on the recording paper S by the image recording unit 207 to the recording paper S. Reference numeral 210 denotes a conveyance roller for discharging and conveying the recording paper S. A paper discharge sensor 209 detects a paper discharge state of the recording paper S. Reference numeral 211 denotes a flapper, which changes the transport direction of the recording sheet S on which recording has been completed to the sheet ejection tray 213 side or the sheet ejection option 10.
Switch to 8 side. 214 and 212 are paper discharge rollers,
The recording paper S conveyed by switching the flapper 211 is discharged to the stacking tray 213. Reference numeral 213S denotes a discharged paper stacking amount detection sensor, which is the recording paper S stacked on the stacking tray 213.
Detect the loading capacity of

The engine controller 105 in the control unit 109 controls the electrophotographic process by the laser scanner unit 206, the image recording unit 207, and the fixing unit 208, and controls the conveyance of the recording paper in the main body of the printer 102.

Further, the video controller 103 is connected to the external device 101 such as a personal computer by a general-purpose interface (for example, Centronics, RS232C, etc.), and develops image information sent via the general-purpose interface into bit data. Bit data to V
The DO signal is sent to the engine controller 105 via the video interface 80.

Next, various optional units detachably connected to the printer 102 will be described.

The option controller section 106 shown in FIG. 10 is provided in the printer main body shown in FIG.
Various optional units are configured to be communicable with the same protocol via the optional unit interface 70 serving as a common path. The option controller unit 106 is connected to the video controller 103 via the general interface 90.

In the paper feeding optional device 107 such as a paper deck optional unit, reference numeral 241 denotes a paper deck on which a large amount of recording paper S is loaded on a deck that moves up and down.
Reference numeral 242 denotes a paper deck paper feed roller.
The recording paper S stacked on the paper 1 is fed.

Reference numeral 244 denotes a conveying roller which conveys the recording paper S fed from the paper deck feeding roller 242 toward the optional feeding roller 233. Reference numeral 243 denotes a paper feed relay roller, which is fed from another paper feed system optional unit (an optional unit capable of feeding recording paper of different size or the same size) detachably connected to a plurality of lower portions of the paper deck option. Relay the recording paper. Also,
Reference numeral 241 denotes a recording paper storage amount detection sensor.
1 to detect the amount of the recording paper S placed thereon.

The paper feeding optional device 107 such as a paper deck optional unit is controlled by a paper deck controller 107a.

In the discharge options 108 such as a sorter option unit, reference numerals 251 to 257 denote first to seventh discharge bins for performing face-down discharge, which sort and stack the recorded recording paper S. It is. Also, 2
Reference numeral 58 denotes an eighth discharge bin for directly passing the paper conveyed to the sorter option as it is and performing face-up discharge. Reference numeral 280 denotes a flapper, which performs transport switching so that the recording paper S sorted by the flapper 211 of the printer 102 and sent to the sorter option unit 108 is switched based on an instruction from the video controller 103. 261
S to 268S are paper discharge empty detection sensors that detect the presence or absence of stacked recording paper discharged to the first discharge bin 251 to the eighth discharge bin 258.

Further, the discharged paper stacking amount detection sensor 271S-
278S are the first discharge bin 251 to the eighth discharge bin 2
Loading capacity of the recording paper loaded on 58 (zero loading capacity (empty)
~ Full), and the height of the recording paper stacked in the first discharge bin 251 to the eighth discharge bin 258 is, for example, 18 m.
m (corresponding to about 120 images), the sorter controller 108a fills the video controller 103 via the option controller 106 with
Notify.

Each of the first discharge bin 251 to the eighth discharge bin 258 can load about 120 sheets in each bin, that is, about 960 sheets in 8 bins.
The seventh to seventh discharge bins 257 can perform sorted discharge.

When the face-up is designated by the video controller 103 through the general interface 90, the face-up flapper 280 is turned on to perform sorting, and the sorted recording paper S is sent to the paper discharge port by the roller 290 as it is. When face down is designated by the video controller 103 through the general interface 90, the face up flapper 280 is turned off and sorting is performed. The sheet is conveyed until it exceeds the up flapper 280, and then the roller 291 is reversed and fed into the vertical path from the rear end of the recording sheet S, and the bin flappers 281 to 282 are designated by the designated discharge bin.
86 is driven at a predetermined timing to perform distribution to each face-down discharge port, and the discharge is completed in the face-down state. When the discharge bin is the seventh discharge bin 257, the face-down discharge is completed by directly discharging the paper without driving the bin flapper.

Further, when stapling is specified by the stapler (not shown) by the video controller 103 through the overall interface 90, the recording paper S is stored in a staple tray (not shown), and the recording paper S is aligned.
The stapler executes the stapling and executes the first output bins 251 to 251.
The sheet is discharged to one of the eighth discharge bins 258. When the shift is designated by the video controller 103 through the general interface 90, the sheets are stored in a staple tray (not shown), the recording paper S is aligned, and the recording The recording paper S to be discharged is shifted, that is, the placement area (tray) of the discharged recording paper S is shifted, and then the recording paper S is discharged to any of the first to eighth discharge bins 251 to 258. The staple also has a staple remaining amount detection sensor (not shown), and detects a staple remaining amount stored in the staple.

The sorter option unit 108
Is controlled by the sorter controller 108a.

Also, the option controller 106,
The paper deck controller 107a and the sorter controller 108a are connected by connectors, respectively, and perform serial communication by the option unit interface 70. Both are connected in series by the same connector,
Therefore, the paper deck option unit 107 and the sorter option unit 108 can be connected in a different order.

The manual paper feed roller 203, the cassette paper feed clutch 231 and the paper deck paper feed roller 24
The pair of registration rollers 205 for transporting the recording paper S, the paper supply roller 204, and the conveyance roller 244 are provided downstream of the pair 2, and the laser emitted from the laser scanner unit 206 is provided downstream of the pair of registration rollers 205. Image recording unit 20 that forms a toner image on recording paper S by light
7 are provided. Further, a fixing unit 208 for thermally fixing the toner image formed on the recording paper S is provided downstream of the image recording unit 207, and a discharge unit for detecting a conveyance state of a discharge unit is provided downstream of the fixing unit 208. A paper sensor 209, a transport roller 210 for transporting the recording paper, a flapper 211 for switching a transport direction of the recording paper S on which recording is completed, and the like are provided.

FIG. 12 shows the printer 102 shown in FIG.
11 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of FIG. 10, and the same components as those in FIG. 10 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

In the figure, reference numeral 91 denotes a serial communication interface, from which commands such as designation of paper feeding to the paper deck option unit 107 and designation of a discharge bin to the sorter option unit 108 are transmitted from the video controller 103 to the option controller unit 106. The statuses such as the paper presence / absence state of the paper deck option unit 107, the stacking state of each paper discharge bin of the sorter option unit 108, and the staple presence / absence state are determined by the option controller unit 106 and the video controller 103.
You can also connect directly by U bus.

Reference numeral 92 denotes an OPTRDY signal, which functions as a signal indicating whether an option designated by the video controller 103, for example, whether or not staples can be used, is transmitted from the option controller 106 to the video controller 103. Reference numeral 93 denotes a POUTT signal, which functions as a timing signal for the printer 102 to discharge recording paper. A PFEDT signal 94 functions as a signal indicating the timing at which the printer 102 receives recording paper from the optional unit. 95 is SP
The CNG signal functions as a signal for lowering the speed of the recording paper S conveyed at a high speed in the option unit to match the conveyance speed of the printer 102 main body.

Reference numeral 81 denotes a communication interface,
02 and the printer 102
Commands such as designation of paper ejection to the paper ejection tray 231 of the main body and printing are transmitted from the video controller 103 to the engine controller 105, and the status of the cassette 230 in the main body of the printer 102, such as a paper presence state and a paper jam, is transmitted from the engine controller 105. Video controller 103
Sent to. A VDO signal 82 indicates bit data transmitted from the video controller 103.

In addition, although not shown, control of each process by the engine controller 105 is executed based on signals exchanged with the video controller 103, and the signals include / CPRDY and / PPR.
DY, / RDY, / PRNT, / VSREQ, / VSY
NC, / BD, / SCLK, / CMD, / CBSY, /
STS, / SBSY, / CCRT (Condition
Change Report), and details thereof are as shown in FIG.

FIG. 13 shows a video controller (VC) 1
FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining signals exchanged between the engine controller 03 and an engine controller (EC) 105.

[0173] If the method of using the / CCRT signal among the above signals is shown, the processing is as in the following procedure 1 and procedure 2.

(Procedure 1) The video controller 103 checks the normal / RDY signal and the / CCRT signal, and if there is a change in these signals, reads the status information. At this time, the / CCRT signal becomes "FALS
E "and the / RDY signal becomes" FALSE ", the status of contents such as misprint, wait, sleep, and operator call is checked. See the status for details.

(Procedure 2)-When the / CCRT signal is "TR"
UE ", the status of contents such as paper size change, paper presence / absence change, paper feed function change, and warning content change is read, and the type of the changed status is recognized. In addition, the engine controller 105 sequentially reads the statuses of the group and recognizes the details of the reset procedure of the / CCRT signal. The change of the warning state is constantly checked, and if there is a change, the higher-level state change status is set to "1" and the / CCRT signal, which is a hard signal, is set to "TRUE". Receiving a status request command from the controller 103 and reading the status change status into the video controller 103 It was with it, to "FALSE" the / CCRT signal.

The overall interface 90 includes a serial communication interface 91, an OPTRDY signal 92,
An OUTT signal 93, a PFEDT signal 94, and an SPCNG signal 95 are configured by five hard signals.

Note that three signals of the POUTT signal 93, the PFEDT signal 94, and the SPCNG signal 95 are output from the engine controller 105,
The signal is input to the option controller unit 106 through the video controller 103 via “0”. Details of each of the above signals are as shown in FIG.

FIG. 14 shows a video controller (VC) 1
03 is a diagram illustrating signals exchanged between an engine controller (EC) 105 and an option controller (OC) unit 106.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of video controller 103 shown in FIG.
The same components as those described above are denoted by the same reference numerals.

In the figure, reference numeral 401 denotes a panel interface (I / F), which receives various settings and instructions from the operator from the panel 104 by data communication with the panel 104. 402 is a host interface (I / F)
And an input / output unit for signals with the external device 101 such as a host computer. Reference numeral 406 denotes an engine interface (I / F), which is an input / output unit for signals with the engine controller 105, which sends out data signals from an output buffer register (not shown) and controls communication with the engine controller 105.

Reference numeral 403 denotes an image data generator, which is an external device 1
Bit map data for actual printing is generated on the basis of the control code data sent from 01. An image memory 405 stores image data.

Reference numeral 409 denotes a CPU, which is a video controller 1
03 controls the entire system. Reference numeral 404 denotes a ROM, and the CPU 40
9 is stored. 407 is a RAM, a CPU
409 functions as temporary storage means. 410
Denotes an EEPROM, which is composed of a nonvolatile memory medium.

Reference numeral 408 denotes a DMA control unit which transfers bitmap data in the image memory 405 to the engine interface unit 406 in accordance with an instruction from the CPU 409. 4
Reference numeral 12 denotes an option interface (I / F) unit, which communicates with the option controller unit 106 in accordance with an instruction from the CPU 409. Further, the POUTT signal 93, the PFEDT signal 94, and the SPCNG signal 95 are sent from the engine interface unit 406 to the overall interface 90 through.

A system bus 411 has an address bus and a data bus. Panel interface unit 401,
Host interface unit 402, image data generation unit 40
3, ROM 404, image memory 405, engine interface unit 406, RAM 407, DMA control unit 40
8, a CPU 409, an EEPROM 410, and an option interface unit 412 are connected to a system bus 411, and can access all functional units on the system bus 411.

The control code for controlling the CPU 409 is constituted by an OS for performing time-division control in units of load modules called tasks by a system clock (not shown) and a plurality of load modules (tasks) operating in units of functions. Shall be.

With the above configuration, the video controller 1
Reference numeral 03 denotes a printer having a plurality of paper supply / discharge ports, and controls handling of a recording medium to be fed or discharged to a printer 102 capable of recording an image on the recording medium based on print information input from the external device 101.

Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17, video controller 103 is connected to option controller section 106.
A description will be given of a control method for integrally controlling each optional device.

FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram of a shared memory with the video controller 103 secured in the RAM provided in the option controller unit 106 shown in FIG.

The shared memory shown in FIG. 16 is used to specify a page, to convey a conveyance status management area for knowing the conveyance status of a sheet, a basic status section for knowing an abnormal state of each option, and a command status for exchanging command status. And a start-up processing unit that specifies start-up processing of the optional device.

The start-up processing section is the video controller 10
3 is a start-up designation part for designating from 3, and a completion notification part for notifying that each option has completed processing as a result of the designation.

The video controller 103 performs start-up processing for each option by designating the start-up processing section. When the power is turned on, the video controller 103 informs the start-up designated portion of the initialization designation of the shared memory, the designation of acquisition of configuration information of each option required by the option controller unit 106, the completion of information acquisition, etc. The completion notification portion is monitored to determine whether or not the process has been completed. When all the processes have been completed, the startup process ends.

The transport status management area includes a paper feed port, a paper discharge port,
A part that specifies the printing method such as color / monochrome, staple position and execution, and a part that tells you the optional status such as how far the paper has been fed, whether a print signal can be output, and whether the paper has been discharged Consists of The video controller 103 executes the printing while specifying the printing method and grasping the status of each option.

The above specification can be performed for a maximum of 40 pages. The specification is performed for each page in order. The area where the discharge has been completed is regarded as an empty area, and the area is initialized so that the specification can be performed again. Use as

The basic status section is an area for notifying an abnormal state of each device, and obtains from this area information such as no paper, paper size mismatch, door open, paper jam, failure, full load, and no staples. More detailed information is acquired from the contents of the basic status by the command status.

The command status section is an area for obtaining detailed information of each option and controlling the operation of each option. In this area, a command is designated as necessary and information is obtained. For example, the information that can be obtained includes the device name, paper feed mounting paper size, paper feed remaining amount, paper jam position, type, access point, stacking amount of discharged paper, failure details, and the like, which will be described later. As shown in FIG. 17, commands corresponding to each situation are issued and status is received. The command status section also controls options such as shifting to a power saving mode, emergency stop at the time of a paper jam, movement of a discharge bin, and execution of reset.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a third processing procedure of an image recording system to which the data processing apparatus and the image recording apparatus of the present invention can be applied. The video controller 103 shown in FIG. The CPU 409 in the video controller 103 shown in FIG. 15 executes based on a program stored in the ROM 404 in correspondence with a procedure for issuing a command status to the CPU and acquiring detailed information of each input / output option. (A)
Corresponds to the case where an abnormality of the input device is found, and (b)
Corresponds to a case where an abnormality of the output device is found. Also,
S101 to S108 and S111 to S117 indicate each step.

First, as shown in (a), when the video controller 103 discovers an abnormality in the input device from the basic status section of the shared memory shown in FIG. 16 (S10)
1) A command is specified in the command status section, and an abnormal device (if a plurality of input optional devices are connected, which input device is specified) is specified (S102).

Further, a command is specified in the command status section, and the content of the abnormality (paper missing, paper size mismatch, door open, paper jam, failure, etc.) is specified (S103).

Next, a command corresponding to the specified abnormality content is designated. For example, when there is no paper, a paper-less deck is specified (S104), and a paper-free factor is specified (S104).
105) Also, in the case of a paper jam, the location of the paper jam is specified (S106), and in the case of a failure, the failure location is specified (S107).

Then, a message indicating the content of the abnormality acquired by the above command is sent to the panel unit 104 and the operation unit 107.
b, Displayed on the display unit or the like of the external device 101.

Further, as shown in (b), when the video controller 103 detects an abnormality of the output device from the basic status section of the shared memory shown in FIG. 16 (S11).
1) A command is specified in the command status section, and an abnormal device (when a plurality of output optional devices are connected, which output device is specified) is specified (S112).

Further, a command is specified in the command status section, and the content of the abnormality (full load, no staples, door open, paper jam, failure, etc.) is specified (S113).

Next, a command corresponding to the specified content of the abnormality is specified. For example, when the load is full, the full deck is specified (S114). In the case of a paper jam, the position of the paper jam is specified. (S115) In the case of a failure, the location of the failure is specified (S116).

Then, a message indicating the content of the abnormality acquired by the above command is sent to the panel unit 104 and the operation unit 107.
b, Displayed on the display unit or the like of the external device 101.

As described above, the video controller 103 obtains the above information, executes printing in a state where there is no abnormality, and issues a command status for specifying an abnormal part when an abnormality is detected from the basic status. The contents of the abnormality are specified for the device, and detailed information collection and control according to the abnormality are performed.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a fourth processing procedure of the image recording system to which the data processing apparatus and the image recording apparatus of the present invention can be applied. The video controller 103 shown in FIG. In response to the procedure for accessing the shared memory and exchanging command status with each option and exchanging information, the video controller 10 shown in FIG.
3 is executed by the CPU 409 based on the program stored in the ROM 404. S201 to S211 indicate each step.

To acquire the option information, the command is specified in the command status management area in the memory of the option controller unit 106, and the information is received. In the command specification area, an ID for identifying the type of necessary information is specified at a predetermined address (S201), the number of data specified to the option controller unit 106 by the execution command is specified at a predetermined address (S202), and the specified content is specified. Is designated as a predetermined address (S203).

Then, the fact that the command has been transmitted is notified, and the option controller unit 106 exchanges information with each of the optional devices to generate a trigger for acquiring information (S204).

[0209] Based on the trigger and the specified contents in step S204, the option controller unit 106 performs serial communication with necessary optional devices to obtain the specified information. On the other hand, a timer is started until the option controller unit 106 completely obtains information, and it is monitored whether or not the video controller 103 is in a state where status information can be obtained (S205, S206).

If the status does not shift to the status information obtainable state in step S206 even after a certain period of time in step S205, status information cannot be obtained, and a retry notification is issued to execute the command again (S21).
1), end the process.

On the other hand, before shifting to the status information obtainable state in step S206 before the predetermined time elapses in step S205, the status ID is obtained and it is confirmed whether or not the status information is for the specified command (S
207).

Next, the number of status data is obtained (S20).
8) Acquire status data for the number of status data (S209), notify the option controller unit 106 of completion of status acquisition (S210), and end the process.

Hereinafter, referring to FIGS. 19 to 22, FIG.
The data flow from the external device 101 to the option controller unit 106 and the engine controller 105 shown in FIG.

FIG. 19 shows the external device 101 shown in FIG.
FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a data flow from to the option controller unit 106 and the engine controller 105.

A control code for controlling the CPU 409 of the video controller 103 shown in FIG. 15 includes an OS for performing time division control in units of load modules called tasks by a system clock (not shown) and a plurality of operating units for operating in units of functions. Of the load module (task).

The translator processing system (analysis development task 1001), scheduling system (page operation task 1002), engine I / F system (engine I / F task 1003), option I shown in FIG.
/ F system (option I / F task 1004)
As described above, it is a task that has the CPU 409 as an entity, and operates logically in parallel.

FIG. 20 shows the structure of the page table stored in RAM 407 shown in FIG.

In the figure, reference numeral 1100 denotes a page table for storing page information. This page table 110
0 is a table for logically recognizing each page in the CPU 409, and the page table 1100
Are “page number” 1101 and “raster pointer” 11
02, “status flag” 1103,..., “Paper feed mode”
1104, “Requested paper size” 1105, “Copy page ID” 1106, “Process number” 1107, “Discharge mode” 1108, “Identification name” 1109, “Number of copies” 1
An actual entity exists as a continuous area in a control information storage area (not shown) of the RAM 407 shown in FIG. 15, and is acquired and released by a page management function unit or the CPU 409 (not shown). Be managed.

A "raster pointer" 1102 in the page table 1100 is a head pointer of an area for one page in the image memory 405 shown in FIG.
Reference numeral 9 designates an area (not shown) in the image memory 405 which is divided for each page at the time of power-on initialization, and is linked thereto.

The "status flag" 1103 is an area for storing a flag indicating the status of the page. As shown in FIG. 20, the "expansion end flag" 1103a indicating the end / incomplete of the page development and the page designation A “page designation end flag” 1103 b indicating end / unfinished, a “print start flag” 1103 c indicating page printing start / unstart, and a “discharge end flag” 110 indicating page discharge end / unfinished.
3d, a "release flag" 1103e indicating that the page information development area is being released / not released, and the like, and it is possible to determine what state the created page information is in based on this state flag.

Further, a "paper feed mode" 1104 instructs a method of determining paper feed means, and includes "automatic paper feed", "cassette 1 (cassette 230) paper feed", and "paper deck (not shown)". Cassette 107) paper feed "," MP tray (manual paper tray 202) paper feed ", etc., and" automatic paper feed "means that a predetermined priority This is a mode in which search and determination are performed in order.

[0222] The "requested paper size" 1105 stores a numerical representation of the paper size for which the engine controller 105 is requested to feed paper.

[0223] Further, in the "identification name" 1109, a numerical value indicated by a character string representing the discharge port name of the discharge destination is stored.
The “number of copies” 1110 stores a numerical value indicating the number of copies. The “paper discharge port” 1111 stores a numerical value representing the paper discharge port of the paper discharge destination.

FIG. 21 is a diagram showing the structure of the engine status table stored in the RAM 407 shown in FIG.

In the figure, reference numeral 1200 denotes an engine status table, which includes the engine controller 105 and the option (1
06, 107, and 108).
"/ RDY state" 1201, "/ CCRT state" 120
2,..., “Number of paper feed stages” 1203, “presence or absence of paper in cassette 1” 1204, “presence of paper in cassette 1” 1205, “presence or absence of paper deck paper” 1206, “paper deck paper size” 1207, “presence or absence of MP tray paper” 1208, “MP
Tray paper size "1209 and the like, and the actual engine controller 105 and options (106,
107, 108) are not the same, and the engine controller 10
5 and the options (106, 107, 108).

For example, the “/ RDY state” 1201 is a flag reflecting the state of the / RDY signal shown in FIG. 13, and the engine I / F task determines whether the / RDY signal “FALS”
Set to "TRUE" while detecting "E".

The "/ CCRT state" 1202 is a flag reflecting the state of the / CCRT signal shown in FIG.
The state of the signal is reflected. Engine I / F task is / C
By detecting "TRUE" of the CRT signal and acquiring the state of the engine controller 105 by predetermined serial communication, the / CCRT signal becomes "FAL" as described above.
SE ”.

[0228] Further, the "number of paper feed stages" 1203 is the number of paper feed stages that can be selected by reflecting the attachment of the optional cassette unit and the like.

The “presence / absence of one sheet of cassette” 1204 is
This is the presence or absence of paper in the cassette 230. Further, the “cassette 1 paper size” 1205 is a paper size set by a dial (not shown) of the cassette 230, and it is assumed that the operator has loaded the same paper as the dial value. Recognized as size.

Also, “paper deck paper presence” 1206
Is the presence or absence of paper in the paper feed option device 107. “Paper deck paper size” 1207 is a paper size set by a partition plate (not shown) of the paper feed option device 107, and it is assumed that the operator has placed the same paper as the value of the partition plate. It is recognized as the paper size of the paper feed option device 107.

The “presence or absence of MP tray paper” 1208 is the presence or absence of paper in the manual feed tray 202. The “MP tray paper size” 1209 is a paper size detected by a sensor (not shown) of the manual feed tray 202.

Note that both the page table shown in FIG. 20 and the engine status table (not shown in FIG. 21) shown in FIG. 21 are used for analysis expansion task, page operation task, engine I / F task, option I Referenced / updated from / F task.

FIG. 22 is a diagram showing the structure of the job control table stored in the RAM 407 shown in FIG.

[0234] In the figure, reference numeral 1300 denotes a job control table, which is a table for controlling jobs in the CPU 409. The job control table 1300 has "job ID" 1301, "job completed state" 1302, ...
…, “Sort designation” 1303, “Available bin number” 1304, “Sort copy number” 1305, “Original page number” 1306, “Page number fixed state” 1
307 and the like, and the entity is the RAM 4 shown in FIG.
07 exists as a continuous area in a control information storage area (not shown), and acquisition and release are managed by the CPU 409.

Hereinafter, the data flow of FIG. 19 will be described.

As shown in FIG. 19, print data (control code, PDL, etc.) input from the external device 101 is stored in the host interface unit 402 in a predetermined block unit.

The “analysis development task” 1001 is executed by the host I
When data is detected by the / F section 402, the page table 1100 shown in FIG. 20 is obtained. Then, the data is analyzed in units of one block, and the image formation information (graphic drawing command of PDL, character code, etc.) is used by using the image data generation unit 403 shown in FIG.
The image is developed by itself and stored in the area indicated by the “raster pointer” 1102 of the page table 1100 shown in FIG.

The control information (number of copies, paper feed selection, etc.) for the printer is stored in the page table 1100 shown in FIG. After the data of one page has been analyzed and developed, the “development end flag” in the “status flag” is set to TRUE and enqueued in a page queue having a FIFO structure (for example, provided in the image memory 405 or the EEPROM 410).

The “page operation task” 1002 is shown in FIG.
With reference to the job control table 1200 shown in (1), the “status flags” 1103 in all the page tables 1100 in the page queue described above are monitored simultaneously, and the transport procedure is changed according to the status to realize printing.

At this time, printing is specified by the optional I / F unit 412 such as a paper feeding unit, a paper discharging unit, and a print mode, and the setting of the paper feeding unit and the like is set to the engine controller 105 by the esidin I / F unit 406. Actually do it. The page table 1100 for which the “discharge end flag” 1103 c is TRUE is dequeued from the page queue and returned to a page management function unit (not shown).

The “engine I / F task” 1003 and the “option I / F task” 1004 communicate with the engine controller 105 and the option controller unit 106 via the engine I / F unit 406 and the option I / F unit 412, respectively. The communication is performed in the cycle described above, and when a factor that changes the state of the page occurs, the above-mentioned “status flag” 1103 is updated.

Also, a change in the / RDY signal is monitored and TR
With respect to the change from UE to FALSE, the status of the printer is set to an error and the cancellation of the error is monitored.
Further, it monitors state changes such as the / RDY signal and the / CCRT signal, executes the above-mentioned (procedure 1) and (procedure 2), and executes the “engine state table” 12 shown in FIG.
Update 00.

The operation mode designation (the number of copies, paper feed selection, etc.) from the panel unit 104 is transmitted to the panel I / F unit 401.
Is stored. The printer control task (not shown) patrols the panel I / F unit 401 at appropriate intervals, stores the data in the EEPROM 410 when data exists, and simultaneously stores the control information in a control information storage area (not shown) of the RAM 407. By storing the data in the EEPROM 410, the printer can be operated in a mode desired by the user even after the power of the printer is once turned off.

Hereinafter, referring to FIG. 23, image recording apparatus 1
02 will be described from the reception of print data from an external device such as a host computer to the completion of printing.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing a fifth control processing procedure of an image recording system to which the data processing apparatus and the image recording apparatus of the present invention can be applied. CPU 409 shown in FIG. 15 executes processing based on a program stored in ROM 404 or another storage medium (not shown) in response to processing from reception of print data to completion of printing. Note that S501 to S518 indicate each step.

First, in step S501, print data (control information and drawing information) sent from the external device 101 such as a host computer is analyzed, and step S502 is performed.
, The control information is stored in the memory (RAM 407), and the drawing information is expanded and stored in the memory (RAM 407). In step S503, it is determined from the control information stored in the memory whether the paper discharge mode is automatically specified.
In step 12, a fixedly designated discharge port is selected based on the control information as a process at the time of fixing, and the process proceeds to step S514.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S503 that the paper discharge mode is automatically specified from the control information, it is determined in step S504 whether or not automatic user separation is specified, and automatic user separation is specified. If it is determined that the search has been performed, in step S505, a search process (shown in FIG. 24 described later) at the time of user separate automatic designation is performed, and the process proceeds to step S514.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S504 that the automatic user separation is not specified, it is determined in step S506 whether or not the fixed user separation is specified, and it is determined that the fixed user separation is specified. If the search is performed, in step S507, a search process is performed when the user separates and is fixed.
Proceed to step S514.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S506 that the fixed user separation is not specified, it is determined in step S508 whether or not sorting is specified. If it is determined that sorting is specified, In step S509, a search process at the time of specifying the sort is performed, and the process proceeds to step S514.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S508 that sorting is not specified, it is determined in step S510 whether a stack is specified. If it is determined that a stack is specified, step S510 is performed. In step S511, a search process when the stack is specified is performed.
Proceed to step S514.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S510 that the stack has not been specified, in step S513, a search process for improper specification is performed.
Proceed to 4.

Next, in step S514, the EEP
Checking of the loading state and the like stored in the ROM 410 and sensors (not shown) are performed to determine whether there is an abnormality such as full load. If it is determined that there is no abnormality, the engine control process (step S515) is performed. Print processing)
Is executed, and when all the discharges of the print job are completed, the discharge bin having the identification name specified in the print job is transmitted to the host computer, and the bin that has discharged the paper is displayed on the UI of the host computer to the user. Notification (and / or FIG. 1)
0 is displayed on the display unit of the panel unit 104), and the printing process is terminated. In the printing process in the case where the automatic user separation is specified, the printing and discharging process of the number of copies determined for each of the paper discharge ports determined by the automatic user separating search process shown in FIG.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S514 that there is an abnormality (for example, there is an abnormality such as full load),
In step S516, an error display corresponding to the content of the error is displayed on the panel unit 104 of the image recording apparatus 102, and the content of the error and an event of the error display are notified to the host computer 101. In step S517, the user operation is performed. If it is determined that the abnormality has been cleared after waiting for the abnormality to be cleared, in step S518, the error display on the panel unit 104 is canceled, and an event for canceling the error display is notified to the host computer 101, and step S503 is performed. Is performed again from the process of and the recovery process is started.

Hereinafter, a description will be given, with reference to FIG. 24, of the paper discharge port search processing in the user separate automatic mode.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing a sixth control processing procedure of the image recording system to which the data processing apparatus and the image recording apparatus of the present invention can be applied. The search is performed by the CPU 409 shown in FIG. 15 based on a program stored in the ROM 404 or another storage medium (not shown) in response to the search process at the time of the user separate automatic designation in step S505 of step S505. In addition, S601 to S613 indicate each step.

When the user-separate automatic search process starts, first, in step S601, a discharge bin having the same name as the identification name specified in the print data is searched, and the same name registered in the EEPROM 410 shown in FIG. If there is a discharge bin, the bin is set as a tentatively determined bin. At this time, the search is performed from the bins with the lowest priority, and if there are a plurality of bins, one bin with the lowest priority (the paper discharge bin with the same name that was registered last) is selected.

Next, in step S602, it is determined whether or not there is a search bin in step S601, that is, whether or not there is a discharge bin having the same name as the identification name specified in the print data. If it is determined, in step S603, it is determined whether or not the bin is full based on the stacking state of the discharge bins stored in the EEPROM 410 shown in FIG. , Step S604, Step S6
01 is determined (selected) as the formal bin determined as the formal bin, that is, “discharge port” 11 in page table 1100.
A numerical value representing the selected paper discharge port is stored in 11 and paper discharge is performed.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S603 that the discharge bin having the same name as the identification name specified in the print data is full, in step S605 the next bin after the provisionally determined bin searched in step S601 is determined. The EEPR shown in FIG. 15 determines whether or not the priority bins (bins that are continuous with the tentatively determined bins searched in step S601) are empty.
FIG. 16 shows the stacked state of the discharge bins stored in the OM 410 or FIG.
If the bin is not empty, it is determined that the bin is not empty. In step S604, the provisionally determined bin searched in step S601 is determined (selected). ), That is, a numerical value representing the selected paper discharge port is stored in the “paper discharge port” 1111 in the page table 1100.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S606 that the bin of the next priority order after the provisionally determined bin searched in step S601 is empty, then in step S607, the bin next to the temporarily determined bin searched in step S601 is determined. The priority bin is determined (selected) as a formal bin, that is, a numerical value representing the selected paper discharge port is stored in the “paper discharge port” 1111 in the page table 1100. In step S608, print data is set as the bin name of the bin. Is registered in the EEPROM 410 shown in FIG.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S602 that there is no paper discharge bin having the same name as the identification name specified in the print data as a result of the search in step S601, in step S609, the empty bin is shifted from the highest priority bin to the empty bin. The bin is searched based on the stacked state of the discharge bin stored in the EEPROM 410 shown in FIG. 15 or the shared memory shown in FIG. 16, and in step S610, the search result in step S609 indicates whether there is an empty bin. Judge,
If it is determined that there is an empty bin, step S611
In step S612, the highest priority bin among the empty bins is determined as the formal bin, and in step S612, the identification name specified in the print data is registered in the EEPROM 410 shown in FIG. 14 as the bin name of the bin.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S610 that there is no empty bin as a result of the search in step S609, it is in a state that all other users are already using the bin and there is no new bin to be allocated. Step S61
In step 3, when the output cannot be performed as specified, the escape bin for discharging the paper is determined as the formal bin, and a warning message (warning) such as "All the bins are in use and cannot be sorted and printed" is displayed on the panel unit 104. L not shown
Notify the CD and / or the host computer and end the search process.

During the display of the warning message, if the specified sheet cannot be discharged, the sheet is discharged to an escape bin for discharging the sheet.

As described above, by notifying the user sharing the image recording apparatus that there is a possibility that the paper in the user separate automatic mode cannot be discharged, the user is requested to remove the paper from the bin used by the user. Prompt the user to make an empty bin.

In this embodiment, it is assumed that the upper bin is a bin having a higher priority.

Hereinafter, the process of updating the information on the discharge bin will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing a seventh control processing procedure of the image recording system to which the data processing apparatus and the image recording apparatus of the present invention can be applied. CPU 40 shown in FIG.
9 is executed based on a program stored in the ROM 404 or another storage medium (not shown). Note that S70
1 to S711 indicate each step.

The state of the paper discharge port changes with status information (option controller 106
14 to access the shared memory (FIG. 16), exchange options and command status, acquire status information, and update (EEPR shown in FIG. 14).
OM410).

First, in step S701, it is determined with reference to the shared memory shown in FIG. 16 whether or not there is a change in the stacking amount (state) of each discharge bin, and there is a change in the stacking amount of each discharge bin. If it is determined in step S702, the stacking state of the output bins (stacking state of the output bins whose state has changed) stored in the EEPROM 410 shown in FIG. 15 is updated in step S702, and the process proceeds to step S703.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S701 that there is no change in the stacking amount of each discharge bin, the process proceeds directly to step S703.

Next, in step S703, it is determined whether or not there is a paper discharge bin having a stacked amount of zero. If it is determined that there is a paper discharge bin having a stacked amount of zero, step S704 is performed. , It is determined whether there is a print job having the same name as the identification name of the paper discharge bin whose loading amount is zero (that is, the print job is being processed), and there is a print job having the same name (that is, If it is determined that the print job is being processed, the process proceeds to step S706.
Proceed to.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S704 that there is no print job having the same name as the identification name of the paper discharge bin having the loaded amount of zero (that is, the print job is not being processed), the process proceeds to step S705. At the time of the user-separate automatic search process shown in FIG. 24, the identification name of the bin registered in the EEPROM 410 shown in FIG. 15 is deleted to make the bin empty, and the process proceeds to step S706.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S703 that there is no paper discharge bin with the stacking amount of zero, the process proceeds directly to step S706.

Next, in step S706, it is determined whether all the bins are in use. If it is determined that all the bins are in use, in step S707, the message "ZENBIN PRINTED (because all the bins are in use) A warning display (warning message display) such as "" is performed on the panel unit 104 shown in FIG. 10, and the process proceeds to step S709.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S706 that all bins are not in use, that is, there are unused bins, in step S708, the warning display on the panel unit 104 shown in FIG. Proceed to S709.

Next, in step S709, warning display or cancellation is performed in step S707 or S708 to determine whether there has been a state change. If it is determined that there has been a state change, in step S710, the state is sent to the host computer. A change ("Warning display such as" ZENBIN CHIN CHOOSE ") is newly performed / canceled), and the process proceeds to step S711.

On the other hand, in step S709, if it is determined in step S707 or S708 that a warning has been displayed or canceled and no state change has occurred, the flow directly advances to step S711.

Thereafter, in step S711, the process waits for a predetermined time, and the process in step S701 is repeated.

In step S704, the determination as to whether or not a job having the same name as the discharge bin whose registration is to be deleted is being processed is held in the page table 1100 shown in FIG. 20 until the discharge is completed. Information, the identification name 1109 of the page table 1100
Is compared with the identification name of the discharge bin for which the zero load amount has been detected, and a search is performed. That is, if the identification name 1109 of the currently processed page table 1100 is different from the identification name of the discharge bin for which the loading amount of zero is detected, the registration of the discharge bin is deleted. Registration is retained.

With the above processing, based on the registered state of the output bin name, the printing process is performed while the registration and deletion of the output bin are dynamically performed, and the sorting by the identification name is realized.

It should be noted that the detailed description of the search processing at the time of fixed user separation designation at step S507, the search processing at the time of sort designation at S509, the search processing at the time of stack designation at S511, and the search processing at the time of illegal designation at S512 in FIG. Is omitted in the present embodiment.

The processing procedure for updating the information and display indicating the printer status on the host computer 101 will be described below with reference to FIG.

FIG. 26 is a flow chart showing an eighth control processing procedure of the image recording system to which the data processing apparatus and the image recording apparatus of the present invention can be applied. The host computer 1 shown in FIG.
1 based on a program stored in a ROM or other storage medium. In addition, S801-
S803 indicates each step.

First, in step S801, an event notification (notification of the bin that discharged paper in step S515 of FIG. 23, notification of error display in step S516, notification of error display cancellation, step S71 in FIG. 25).
0, etc.), and if the state of the printer changes and it is determined that an event notification has been received, the notified event is received, and in step S802, the content (the bin where the paper was discharged) is received. , Notification of error display, notification of error display cancellation, etc.).

[0284] Next, in step S803, the contents of the notification are displayed or canceled based on the result of the analysis, and the user is notified of a change in the status of the printer.

For example, in the user separate automatic mode, the discharge bins are dynamically allocated.
The user does not know in which bin the paper was discharged.
Therefore, at the end of the print job, the bin information in which the identification name specified in the job is registered is notified to the host computer, and "the bin used by you is bin 1 to bin 3" or "all bins" Message is displayed on the CRT 10 shown in FIG. 6 to notify the user of discharge bin information such as bin use status.

[Second Embodiment] In the first embodiment, a description is given of a configuration in which the condition for releasing the registered name is when the load capacity of the paper discharge port is zero and a print job with the same name is not being processed. However, instead of judging the contents of the print job being processed internally, the print job must still be received after the loading capacity of the paper exit is zero and a certain time has elapsed after the printing process is completed. For example, the registration name may be released.

[Third Embodiment] In the first embodiment, the case where the user sakai has only one bin has been described. Even if a plurality of users sakai are registered, it is also possible to operate so as not to cancel the registration of all the names and maintain the current paper discharge bin. However, in order to use the paper discharge bin effectively, When the stacking capacity of a plurality of bins having the same name becomes zero, a bin other than the discharge bin having the highest priority or the current discharge bin (the discharge bin determined as the discharge destination of the job being processed) The registration of the names of other bins may be released, and only one bin may be registered.

[Fourth Embodiment] In the first embodiment, the case where the upper bin is the higher priority bin has been described. However, the lower bin is the higher priority bin. May be configured.

Thus, when a plurality of bins are used in the user-separated automatic mode, the sheets are discharged in the same manner as when the sheets are discharged in a stack, and the paper is removed from the upper stage in the state of being pinched. The print results are in the correct order.

As described above, in the shared use of the image recording apparatus, identification names can be registered and selected, and sorting by identification name can be performed instead of sorting by one job, so that the stacking capacity of the discharge port can be improved. It is possible to sort print jobs while maximizing performance.

Further, the sorting and discharging of the print job can be easily performed only by selecting the discharging mode at the time of printing without making any troublesome settings on the host computer and the image recording apparatus.

Furthermore, by enabling registration and selection of identification names by an application on the host computer, not only sorting for each user, but also various sort methods according to the purpose can be selected for each user. In addition, different sorting methods can be simultaneously realized for each user.

Further, by making it possible to register the same name in a plurality of paper discharge outlets, it is possible to share one image recording apparatus with more users and to use a large number of paper discharges in the shared use. It is possible to achieve both.

Further, even if the user frequently performs a paper removing operation and empties the discharge bin, the registered name is not released and the same job is controlled to discharge to the same discharge outlet. Thus, it is possible to make the discharge position of the print job easy to understand.

Hereinafter, the configuration of a data processing program readable by an image recording system to which the data processing apparatus and the image recording apparatus according to the present invention can be applied will be described with reference to a memory map shown in FIG.

FIG. 27 is a diagram for explaining a memory map of a storage medium for storing various data processing programs readable by an image recording system to which the data processing apparatus and the image recording apparatus according to the present invention can be applied. is there.

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, 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.

In this embodiment, FIGS. 7, 8, 17,
The functions shown in FIG. 18, FIG. 23, FIG. 24, FIG. 25, and FIG. 26 may be performed by a host computer by a program installed from the outside. And
In this case, the present invention is applicable even when a group of information including a program is supplied to an 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. is there.

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

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

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

[0303] When the computer executes the readout program code, not only the functions of the above-described embodiment are realized, but also the OS (Operating System) running on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. ) And the like perform part or all of the actual processing, and the processing realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments.

[0304] Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written in the memory provided in the function expansion board inserted into the computer or the 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 using a communication program, the system or apparatus can be
It is possible to enjoy the effects of the present invention.

[0307]

As described above, the first embodiment according to the present invention is described.
According to the inventions, the sixth invention, the seventh invention, and the sixteenth invention, the detecting means detects the amount of paper loaded in each of the paper outlets, and the paper loading of each paper outlet detected by the detecting means. The amount and the identification name of each paper outlet to be registered are stored in the storage means for each paper outlet, and the first retrieval means determines that the same identification name as the identification name specified in the print job is stored in the storage means. Whether there is a paper discharge port registered in the printer or not,
An empty paper discharge port is searched for from each of the paper discharge ports, and based on the search results of the first search means and the second search means, the determining means discharges the print result of the print job. When the identification name of the discharge port determined by the determination unit is not registered in the storage unit, the registration unit determines the identification name specified in the print job. It is registered in the storage means as the identification name of the paper discharge port, and the loading capacity of each paper discharge port stored in the storage means is monitored. When the number becomes zero, if the print processing of the print job in which the same identification name as that of the paper discharge port is not performed is not performed, the deletion unit stores the identification name of the paper discharge port in the storage unit. , So multiple users share the image recording device Even in this case, the paper ejection outlets are dynamically allocated according to the current usage status of the paper ejection outlets and the identification name specified by the user, and not only the user name but also the sorting and ejection of various types of printed matter according to the purpose can be performed for each user. The same job is discharged to the same discharge port, and the discharge position of the print job of the user is changed even if the user frequently performs a paper removing operation and empty the discharge bin. Can be easily understood, and confusion of the user and misunderstanding of the print result can be prevented.

[0308] According to the second aspect of the present invention, when the stacking amount of the sheet ejection outlets whose identification names are registered in the storage unit becomes zero, the deleting unit ends the printing process. When a print job has not been received for a certain period of time, the identification name of the paper discharge port is deleted from the storage means. Can discharge paper to the same paper discharge port, make it easier to understand the paper discharge position of its own print job, and prevent user confusion and misinterpretation of print results.

[0309] According to the third aspect of the present invention, when the stacking amount of a plurality of paper ejection outlets registered with the same identification name in the storage means becomes zero, the deletion means is configured to execute the paper ejection. If the printing process is performed for a print job in which the same identification name as that of the mouth is specified, the identification names of the paper ejection outlets other than the paper ejection outlet having the highest priority are deleted from the storage unit. Therefore, even if the user frequently performs a paper removing operation and empty the output bin, the same job is output to the output port having the same identification name and the highest priority, and the print job of the own print job is performed. The discharge position can be easily understood, and the limited discharge ports can be used more effectively.

[0310] According to the fourth invention of the present invention, when the stacking amount of a plurality of paper discharge ports registered with the same identification name in the storage means becomes zero, the deletion means is configured to perform the discharge. If the printing process is performed for a print job in which the same identification name as the identification name of the mouth is being performed, the identification name of the paper ejection outlet other than the paper ejection outlet determined as the paper ejection destination of the print job Is deleted from the storage means, so that the user frequently performs a paper removing operation and emptyes the discharge bin,
The same job should be discharged to the highest priority outlet with the same identification name to make it easier to understand the discharge position of your print job, and to use the limited outlets more effectively. Can be.

[0311] According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, a warning message is displayed on the display unit and / or the print data is transmitted when sorting and discharging by the identification name specified in the print job is impossible. Since the notification means for notifying the data processing device is provided, the user can be easily informed of the situation even in the event that sorting and discharging is impossible, and prompt action can be taken.

[0312] According to the eighth aspect of the invention, the first retrieving means determines whether or not there is a paper exit in which the same name as the identification name added to the print data is registered. A paper outlet having the same name with the lowest priority is selected by searching from a paper outlet having a lower priority, and the deciding means includes a search result of the first searching means, If a paper output port having the same name as the added identification name is selected and the paper output port is not full, the paper output port is determined as a paper output port of the print result of the print data. Even when the user uses the image recording apparatus in a shared manner, a discharge port to be dynamically used is allocated according to the current use state of the discharge port while maximizing the stacking capacity of the discharge port. One image recording device can be shared by more users.

[0313] According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, the deciding means selects, as a result of the retrieval by the first retrieval means, a paper outlet having the same name as the identification name added to the print data. If the discharge port is full, the continuous discharge port is determined as the discharge port for discharging the print result of the print data only when the discharge port continuous to the discharge port is empty. So
When the discharge port of the identification name added to the print data is full, continuous discharge ports can be assigned and output,
Recognition of the printed matter discharged over a plurality of discharge outlets becomes easy, and both shared use by a plurality of users and large-capacity discharge can be realized.

[0314] According to the tenth aspect of the present invention, the deciding means selects a discharge port having the same name as the identification name added to the print data, as a result of the search by the first searching means. When the discharge port is full, the discharge port with the next priority is discharged only when the discharge port with the next priority to the discharge port is empty. When the discharge port of the identification name added to the print data is full, the next discharge port can be allocated and output, and the discharge is performed across a plurality of discharge ports. This makes it easy to recognize the order in which the printed materials are discharged, and can achieve both shared use by a plurality of users and large-capacity discharge.

[0315] According to the eleventh aspect of the present invention, the deciding means selects a discharge port having the same name as the identification name added to the print data as a result of the search by the first searching means. If the paper ejection outlet is full and the paper ejection outlet of the next priority to the paper ejection outlet is not empty, the empty paper ejection outlets searched by the second search means in descending order of priority are determined. Since the print result of the print data is determined as the discharge port for discharging, when the discharge port with the identification name added to the print data is full, the discharge port with a higher priority can be assigned and output. In addition, it is easy to recognize the discharge order of printed matter discharged over a plurality of discharge ports, and it is possible to achieve both shared use and large-capacity discharge by a plurality of users.

[0316] According to the twelfth aspect of the present invention, the deciding means determines that, as a result of the search by the first searching means, a paper exit having the same name as the identification name added to the print data exists. If not, an empty paper discharge port searched by the second search unit in the order of higher priority is determined as a paper discharge port for discharging the print result of the print data. Therefore, a plurality of users share the printer. In this case, a discharge port to be used can be dynamically allocated according to the purpose in addition to the user name by the identification name specified by the user.

[0317] According to the thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the priority order is such that the discharge port at the upper or lower level is the discharge port with the higher priority. In the case of shared use, a discharge port to be used can be dynamically allocated from the upper or lower row in accordance with the current use state of the discharge port.

According to the fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the identification name is used to sort a print result of the print data including a user name, a host name, a group name, a department name, a file name, a paper type, and a date. When multiple users share a printer, not only the user name but also the discharge port to use depends on the purpose, such as host name, group name, department name, file name, paper type, date, etc. To sort printed materials.

[0319] According to the fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the notifying means displays the discharge destination of the print result of the print data determined by the determining means when the discharge of the print result of the print data is completed. And / or notify the data processing device, the user is notified of the discharge port dynamically allocated in accordance with the use state of the discharge port and the purpose of the user, and the user can print out the printed material from the discharge port. Recognition at the time of acquisition can be facilitated.

[0320] According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, in the plurality of data processing devices, the specifying means specifies the identification name or the type of the identification name for determining the paper discharge port, and the creating means includes: The identification name specified by the specification unit or the identification name determined according to the type of the specified identification name is added to the print data to be transmitted to the image recording apparatus, and the identification name is specified as a discharge destination. Create a print job,
In the image recording apparatus, the detecting means detects the amount of paper loaded in each of the paper outlets, and the amount of paper loaded in each of the paper outlets detected by the detecting means and the identification name of each of the paper outlets registered are output to each of the discharged paper outlets. The storage means is stored for each paper outlet, and the first searching means searches whether or not there is a paper outlet in which the same identification name as that specified in the print job is registered in the storage means. , Second
Search means for searching for an empty paper exit from each of the paper exits,
Based on the search results of the first search unit and the second search unit, a determination unit determines a discharge port for discharging a print result of the print job, and the discharge port determined by the determination unit. Is not registered in the storage means,
Registering means for registering, in the storage means, the identification name specified in the print job as the identification name of the discharge port determined by the determination means, and setting a stacking amount of each discharge port stored in the storage means; When the stacking amount of the paper ejection outlet whose identification name is registered in the storage unit becomes zero, the printing process of the print job in which the same identification name as the identification name of the paper ejection outlet is designated is monitored. When not performed, the deletion unit deletes the identification name of the paper discharge port from the storage unit. Therefore, even when a plurality of users share the image recording apparatus, the data can be specified by the data processing apparatus. It is possible to specify not only the user name but also the discharge destination of the print data according to the purpose without having to perform complicated settings for each processing device, and to match the current use status of the discharge port and the identification name specified by the user. Output dynamically , It is possible to simultaneously sort and discharge various types of printed matter for each user according to the purpose in addition to the user name, and also to empty the discharge bin by frequently performing the paper removing operation by the user. In addition, the same job is discharged to the same discharge port, so that the discharge position of the print job can be easily understood, and confusion of the user and mistake of the print result can be prevented.

[0321] According to the eighteenth and twentieth aspects of the present invention, the paper stacking amount of each of the above-mentioned paper discharge outlets is detected, and the detected paper stacking amount of each of the paper discharge outlets is detected. The paper stacking amount of the outlet and the identification name of each of the paper outlets registered are stored in a memory for storing the same identification name as the identification name added to the print data. Is searched for, an empty discharge port is searched for from each of the discharge ports, and a discharge port for discharging the print result of the print data is determined based on each search result. If the identification name of the output port is not registered in the memory, the identification name added to the print data is registered in the memory as the identification name of the determined output port, and is stored in the memory. Monitor the stacking capacity of each paper exit, and register the identification name in the memory. When the stacking amount of the discharged paper outlet becomes zero and the printing process of the print job in which the same identification name as that of the discharged paper outlet is not performed is performed, the identification of the discharged paper outlet is performed. Since the name is deleted from the memory, even when a plurality of users share the image recording apparatus, the discharge port is dynamically allocated according to the current use state of the discharge port and the identification name specified by the user. In addition to being able to simultaneously sort and discharge various types of printed matter for each user according to the purpose in addition to the user name, the same job can be performed even if the user frequently performs paper removal operations and empty the discharge bin. Can discharge paper to the same paper discharge port, make it easier to understand the paper discharge position of its own print job, and prevent user confusion and misinterpretation of print results.

According to the nineteenth and twenty-first aspects of the present invention, an identification name or a type of an identification name for determining a paper discharge port is designated by a plurality of data processing devices. Creating a print job in which the identification name or the identification name determined according to the type of the specified identification name is added to the print data to be transmitted to the image recording apparatus, and the identification name is specified as a paper discharge destination; The image recording device detects the amount of paper loaded in each of the paper discharge outlets, and identifies the detected amount of paper loaded in each of the paper discharge outlets with the amount of paper loaded in each of the paper discharge outlets. A name is stored in a memory for storing the same, and an identification name identical to the identification name added to the print data is searched to determine whether or not there is a paper discharge port registered in the memory. Search for empty paper exits, and based on each search result Determining a discharge port for discharging a print result of the print data, and if the identification name of the determined discharge port is not registered in the memory, the identification name added to the print data is changed. It is registered in the memory as the identification name of the determined discharge port, the load amount of each discharge port stored in the memory is monitored, and the load amount of the discharge port whose identification name is registered in the memory is determined. When the value becomes zero, if the printing process of the print job in which the same identification name as the discharge port is not performed, the identification name of the discharge port is deleted from the memory. Even when an image recording device is shared and used by a plurality of users, it is not necessary to make troublesome settings for each data processing device by specifying from the data processing device, and the discharge destination of the print data can be determined according to the purpose as well as the user name. Can be specified By dynamically assigning the paper ejection outlets according to the current usage status of the paper ejection outlets and the identification name specified by the user, not only the user name but also the sorting and ejection of various types of printed matter according to the purpose can be performed simultaneously for each user. The same job can be output to the same output slot and the output position of the print job can be determined even if the user frequently performs paper removal operations and empty the output bin. This makes it possible to prevent user confusion and misunderstanding of the print result.

Therefore, during the processing of the job of dynamically allocating the paper discharge port and sorting and discharging various kinds of printed matter according to the purpose, the operation of removing the paper stacked on the paper discharge port is frequently performed. Even if the paper discharge amount of each paper discharge port changes dynamically, the same job is discharged to the same paper discharge port, and a shared image recording environment that can easily recognize its own printed matter without being confused can be constructed. And so on.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram showing a method for smoothly realizing operation of a user-separated automatic mode using a discharge bin of an image recording apparatus shared by a plurality of users.

FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram showing a method for smoothly realizing the operation of the user separate automatic mode shown in FIG.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a screen for setting a paper discharge mode of a printer by a host application on each host computer shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a schematic view showing an example of a screen for setting a paper discharge mode at the time of printing by a host application on each host computer shown in FIG. 1;

5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a screen for setting a paper discharge mode at the time of printing by a host application on each host computer shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a host computer shown in FIG.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a first processing procedure of an image recording system to which the data processing device and the image recording device of the present invention can be applied.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a second processing procedure of an image recording system to which the data processing device and the image recording device of the present invention can be applied.

FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating a print end notification notified from the image recording apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1 to a host computer.

10 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a laser beam printer to which the image recording device illustrated in FIG. 1 can be applied.

11 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of the printer illustrated in FIG.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the printer illustrated in FIG.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating signals exchanged between a video controller (VC) and an engine controller (EC).

FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating signals exchanged between a video controller (VC), an engine controller (EC), and an option controller (OC).

FIG. 15 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a video controller shown in FIG.

FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram of a shared memory with a video controller secured in a RAM provided in the option controller shown in FIG. 10;

FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating a third processing procedure of the image recording system to which the data processing device and the image recording device of the present invention can be applied.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating a fourth processing procedure of the image recording system to which the data processing device and the image recording device of the present invention can be applied.

19 is a diagram showing a data flow from the external device shown in FIG. 10 to the option controller and the engine controller.

FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a structure of a page table stored in a RAM shown in FIG.

21 is a diagram showing a structure of an engine status table stored in a RAM shown in FIG.

FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a structure of a job control table stored in a RAM shown in FIG.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart illustrating a fifth control processing procedure of the image recording system to which the data processing device and the image recording device of the present invention can be applied.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart illustrating a sixth control processing procedure of the image recording system to which the data processing device and the image recording device of the present invention can be applied.

FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing a seventh control processing procedure of the image recording system to which the data processing device and the image recording device of the present invention can be applied.

FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing an eighth control processing procedure of the image recording system to which the data processing device and the image recording device of the present invention can be applied.

FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs that can be read by an image recording system to which the data processing device and the image recording device according to the present invention can be applied.

FIG. 28 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a conventional sorting method (1) 1-job separation.

FIG. 29 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a conventional sorting method (2) pseudo mailbox.

FIG. 30 shows a conventional sorting method (3).
FIG. 7 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a paper discharging method disclosed in Japanese Patent Publication No. 68-68.

FIG. 31 is a diagram illustrating a case where a sheet is removed during a printing process in the conventional sorting method (3) illustrated in FIG. 30;

[Explanation of symbols]

 101A to 101D External device (host computer) 102 Image recording device (printer) 1 CPU 2 RAM 3 ROM 404 ROM 407 RAM 409 CPU 410 EEPROM

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page F term (reference) 2C061 AP01 HH01 HJ04 HK11 HK23 HN05 HN06 HN18 2H027 ED22 EJ04 GB13 5B021 AA01 CC05 CC06 EE01 KK06 5C062 AA13 AA35 AB22 AB25 AB35 AB42 AB53 AC15 AC21 AC23 AF43 9A001 HH34 JJ35 KK42 LL09

Claims (21)

[Claims] An image recording apparatus capable of discharging a print result of a print job received from a plurality of data processing apparatuses communicably connected via a predetermined communication medium to a plurality of paper output ports, Detecting means for detecting the amount of paper loaded in the paper outlet; storage means for storing the paper loaded amount of each paper outlet detected by the detecting means and the identification name of each paper outlet registered for each paper outlet; A first search unit for searching whether or not there is a paper ejection outlet registered with the same identification name as the identification name specified in the print job in the storage unit; Second search means for searching for a paper outlet; determining means for determining a paper outlet for discharging a print result of the print job based on search results of the first search means and the second search means; The identification name of the paper outlet determined by the determining means is stored in the storage device. A registration unit that registers the identification name specified in the print job in the storage unit as the identification name of the discharge port determined by the determination unit; Monitor the loading capacity of the paper exit,
When the stacking amount of the paper ejection outlet whose identification name is registered in the storage unit becomes zero, the printing process of the print job in which the same identification name as the identification name of the paper ejection outlet is not performed. And a deletion unit for deleting the identification name of the discharge port from the storage unit. 2. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the deletion unit has not received a print job for a certain period of time after the end of the printing process when the stacking amount of the paper ejection outlet whose identification name is registered in the storage unit becomes zero. 2. The image recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, in such a case, the identification name of the discharge port is deleted from the storage unit. 3. When the stacking amount of a plurality of paper outlets registered with the same identification name in the storage unit becomes zero, the deletion unit changes the same identification name as the identification name of the paper outlet. 2. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the printing process of the designated print job is being performed, the identification names of the outlets other than the outlet having the highest priority are deleted from the storage unit.
The image recording apparatus as described in the above. 4. When the stacking amount of a plurality of paper outlets registered with the same identification name in the storage unit becomes zero, the deletion unit changes the same identification name as the identification name of the paper outlet. In a case where the printing process of the designated print job is being performed, the identification names of the discharge ports other than the discharge port determined as the discharge destination of the print job are deleted from the storage unit. The image recording apparatus according to claim 1. 5. A notifying means for displaying a warning message on a display unit and / or notifying a data processing apparatus which has transmitted the print data when sorting and discharging by an identification name specified in the print job is impossible. The image recording device according to claim 1, wherein the image recording device is provided. 6. The detecting means includes: at least a sheet is not loaded; a sheet is loaded;
The image recording apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the detection of the stage is detected for each discharge port. 7. The storage device according to claim 1, wherein the storage unit stores a sheet stacking status, an identification name, a use status, and the like of each of the discharge ports for each of the discharge ports. Image recording device. 8. The first retrieval means retrieves from a lower-priority discharge port whether there is a discharge port in which the same name as the identification name added to the print data is registered. And selecting one of the paper ejection outlets having the same name with the lowest priority order, wherein the deciding means has the same name as the identification name added to the print data as a result of the search by the first search means. 8. If the discharge port is selected and the discharge port is not full, the discharge port is determined as a discharge port of a print result of the print data. The image recording apparatus according to claim 1. 9. The determination means selects a paper ejection port having the same name as the identification name added to the print data as a result of the search by the first retrieval means, and the paper ejection port is full. In this case, only when the discharge port continuous to the discharge port is empty, the continuous discharge port is determined as the discharge port for discharging the print result of the print data. 9. The image recording apparatus according to any one of 8. 10. The determination means selects a paper ejection port having the same name as the identification name added to the print data as a result of the search by the first retrieval means, and the paper ejection port is full. In the case, only when the discharge port of the next priority order after the discharge port is empty, the discharge port of the next priority order is determined as the discharge port for discharging the print result of the print data. The image recording apparatus according to claim 1. 11. The deciding unit selects a discharge port having the same name as the identification name added to the print data as a result of the search by the first search unit, and the discharge port is full. If the discharge port having the next highest priority to the discharge port is not empty, the print result of the print data is discharged from the empty discharge ports searched by the second search unit in the order of higher priority. The image recording apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the discharge port is determined. 12. The deciding unit, if the result of the search by the first searching unit does not include a paper exit having the same name as the identification name added to the print data, the second searching unit The image recording apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein an empty paper discharge port searched in the order of higher priority is determined as a paper discharge port for discharging a print result of the print data. 13. The discharge port according to claim 8, wherein the priority order is such that a discharge port located at an upper level or a lower level has a higher priority. The image recording apparatus as described in the above. 14. The method according to claim 1, wherein the identification name is identification information for sorting a print result of the print data including a user name, a host name, a group name, a department name, a file name, a paper type, and a date. An image recording apparatus according to claim 1. 15. The data processing device according to claim 15, wherein the notification unit displays a discharge destination of the print result of the print data determined by the determination unit on a display unit at the end of discharge of the print result of the print data. The image recording apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the notification is sent to the image recording apparatus. 16. The image forming apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the plurality of paper outlets include a plurality of paper outlets provided in the main body of the image recording apparatus, and a plurality of paper outlets provided in an optional device connected to the main body of the image recording apparatus. An image recording apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein 17. A data processing apparatus comprising: a plurality of data processing apparatuses; and an image recording apparatus capable of discharging print results of a print job received from the plurality of data processing apparatuses via a predetermined communication medium to a plurality of paper output ports. In the image recording system described above, the plurality of data processing devices include: a designation unit that designates an identification name or a type of the identification name for determining a paper discharge port; and an identification name designated by the designation unit. Creating means for creating a print job in which the identification name determined according to the type of the identification name is added to print data to be transmitted to the image recording apparatus and the identification name is specified as a paper discharge destination; The image recording apparatus includes: a detecting unit configured to detect a paper stack amount of each of the discharge outlets; and a sheet loading amount detected by the detecting unit and an identification name of each of the registered discharge outlets. Remember by mouth A first retrieval unit for retrieving whether or not there is a paper exit registered with the same identification name as the identification name specified in the print job in the storage unit; and each of the paper exits. A second search means for searching for an empty paper discharge port from the printer, and a discharge port for discharging the print result of the print job based on the search results of the first search means and the second search means. Determining means for determining, and if the identification name of the discharge port determined by the determining means is not registered in the storage means, the identification name specified in the print job is determined by the determination means. Registering means for registering in the storage means as an identification name; monitoring a stacking amount of each paper discharge port stored in the storage means;
When the stacking amount of the paper ejection outlet whose identification name is registered in the storage unit becomes zero, the printing process of the print job in which the same identification name as the identification name of the paper ejection outlet is not performed. And a deletion unit for deleting the identification name of the discharge port from the storage unit. 18. A method for controlling an image recording apparatus capable of discharging print results of print data received from a plurality of data processing apparatuses communicably connected via a predetermined communication medium to a plurality of paper output ports. A detecting step of detecting the paper stacking amount of each of the discharge outlets; and determining the detected paper stacking amount of each of the discharge outlets by identifying the paper stacking amount of each of the discharge outlets with the identification name of each of the discharge outlets. A storage step of storing in a memory for storing; a first search step of searching whether or not there is a paper ejection port registered with the same identification name as the identification name added to the print data in the memory; A second search step of searching for an empty discharge port from each of the discharge ports, a determining step of determining a discharge port for discharging a print result of the print data based on each search result; The determined discharge port identification name is registered in the memory. If not, a registration step of registering the identification name added to the print data in the memory as the identification name of the determined discharge port, and monitoring a stacking amount of each discharge port stored in the memory; When the stacking amount of the paper ejection outlet whose identification name is registered in the memory becomes zero, and the print processing of the print job in which the same identification name as the identification name of the paper ejection outlet is not performed. And a deleting step of deleting the identification name of the discharge port from the memory. 19. A data processing apparatus comprising: a plurality of data processing apparatuses; and an image recording apparatus capable of discharging a print result of a print job received from the plurality of data processing apparatuses via a predetermined communication medium to a plurality of paper output ports. A specifying step of specifying an identification name or a type of an identification name for determining a paper discharge port by the plurality of data processing devices; and Creating a print job in which the identification name determined according to the type of the identification name is added to print data to be transmitted to the image recording apparatus and the identification name is specified as a paper discharge destination, A detecting step of detecting the amount of paper loaded in each of the paper discharge ports by the image recording apparatus; and detecting each of the detected amount of paper loaded in each of the paper discharge ports as the amount of paper loaded in each of the paper discharge ports. Write the mouth identification name A first retrieval step of retrieving whether or not there is a discharge port in which the same identification name as the identification name added to the print data is registered in the memory; A second search step of searching for an empty discharge port from each of the discharge ports; a determining step of determining a discharge port for discharging a print result of the print data based on each search result; A registration step of registering, in the memory, the identification name added to the print data as the identification name of the determined discharge port, if the identification name of the discharged sheet output port is not registered in the memory; The stacking amount of each sheet ejection outlet stored in the memory is monitored, and when the stacking amount of the sheet ejection outlet whose identification name is registered in the memory becomes zero, the same identification name as the identification name of the sheet ejection outlet is used. Performs print processing for print jobs for which A deleting step of deleting the identification name of the paper discharge port from the memory when the document is not loaded. 20. An image recording apparatus capable of discharging a print result of print data received from a plurality of data processing devices communicably connected via a predetermined communication medium to a plurality of paper output ports, A detecting step of detecting a paper stack amount of the paper outlet, and storing the detected paper stack amount of each paper outlet in the paper loading amount of each paper outlet and an identification name of each paper outlet to be registered. A first retrieval step of retrieving whether or not there is a paper exit in which the same identification name as the identification name added to the print data is registered in the memory; A second search step of searching for an empty discharge port from the discharge port, and a determining step of determining a discharge port for discharging a print result of the print data based on each search result; If the identification name of the paper exit is not registered in the memory, A registration step of registering the identification name added to the printing data in the memory as the identification name of the determined discharge port; monitoring a stacking amount of each discharge port stored in the memory; When the stacking amount of the paper ejection outlet registered with the name becomes zero, and when the print processing of the print job in which the same identification name as the identification name of the paper ejection outlet is not performed, the discharge A computer-readable storage medium storing a program for executing a deleting step of deleting an identification name of a paper port from the memory; 21. A plurality of data processing apparatuses, and an image recording apparatus capable of discharging a print result of a print job received from the plurality of data processing apparatuses via a predetermined communication medium to a plurality of paper output ports. A designation step of designating an identification name or a type of the identification name for determining a paper discharge port in the plurality of data processing devices of the image recording system to be executed; Creating a print job in which the identification name determined according to the type is added to the print data to be transmitted to the image recording apparatus and the identification name is specified as a paper discharge destination. A detecting step of detecting the amount of paper loaded in each of the discharge ports; and the identification name of each discharge port registered with the detected amount of paper loaded in each of the discharge ports as the amount of paper loaded in each of the discharge ports. To the memory for storing A first search step of searching whether or not there is a discharge port registered in the memory with the same identification name as the identification name added to the print data; and A second search step of searching for an empty discharge port; a determining step of determining a discharge port for discharging a print result of the print data based on each search result; When the identification name is not registered in the memory, a registration step of registering the identification name added to the print data in the memory as the identification name of the determined discharge port; The stacking amount of the paper outlet is monitored, and when the stacking amount of the paper outlet registered with the identification name in the memory becomes zero, the printing in which the same identification name as the identification name of the paper outlet is designated. If the print processing of the job is not A computer-readable storage medium storing a program for executing a step of deleting a mouth identification name from the memory.