JP2001350369A - Image processing operating method, image processing operating device and image processor - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image processing operating method, an image processing operating device and an image processor by which operability in terms of the setting of an additional function is improved. SOLUTION: An operational image plane including a set menu for making an operator set a function applicable to copying action before performing copying action in a copying machine CM is formed by the operational image plane display control part 13 of the image processing operating device 1 and displayed on a display device 11 so as to set a function by a function setting control part 14 based on input by the operator from an input device 12. Then, the additional function (for example, an original adding function) in terms of the copying action performed as a series of action is set for the copying action in the midst of setting the function in addition to the ordinary function for the copying action in the set menu included in the operational image plane. Thus, the operability in terms of the setting of the additional function is improved.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image processing operation method, an image processing operation apparatus, and an image processing apparatus applied to an image processing apparatus that performs an image processing operation based on a set function.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In image processing apparatuses such as copying machines,
2. Description of the Related Art An image processing operation device such as an operation panel is provided as a user interface for operating an image processing operation to be executed, such as various settings and operation instructions by an operator. This image processing operation device is, for example,
It comprises a display device such as a liquid crystal display and input devices such as a touch panel and operation buttons.

[0003] Each image processing operation executed in the image processing apparatus is executed by applying the contents of the set function to each function relating to the image processing operation. The setting of such a function is described above. This is performed by an operator operating the image processing operation device. That is, when an operation screen including a setting menu for setting a function as a display content is displayed on the display of the image processing operation device, the operator performs necessary settings for each function while referring to the display content. Then, when all the settings are completed, an instruction to execute an image processing operation based on those functions is issued.

[0004]

In an image processing apparatus such as a copying machine, it is possible to execute another image processing operation as a series of operations for an image processing operation whose function is being set by the image processing operation device. Some have additional functions (hereinafter referred to as additional functions).

As such an additional function, for example, there is a document adding function in a copying machine. In this document addition function, a predetermined number of documents are set in an automatic document feeder (ADF) or the like, and normal settings for functions required by the image processing operation device are performed. Start. At this time, on the execution screen displayed on the display during the execution of the copying operation, options for setting the original additional functions of “no next original” and “the next original” are displayed as additional function selection buttons. When the additional function selection button of “next document exists” is pressed, it is assumed that the application of the document addition function is set, and after the copying operation is performed, the copying operation is continuously performed on the added document. Execute.

[0006] Additional functions of the image processing apparatus, such as the above-mentioned original document addition function, are not applicable to image processing operations whose functions are being set by the operation when the function setting operation is being performed in the image processing operation apparatus. This function does not need to be set directly. For this reason, such an additional function allows the user to select the addition of an original on the execution screen as described above.
After the execution of the image processing operation is started, the setting of the function is performed.

However, when the setting of the additional function is performed during the execution of the image processing operation, the setting must be completed before the execution of the image processing operation ends. On the other hand, the execution time of the image processing operation differs greatly depending on the content of the function applied to each of them, the number of documents, and the like, so that sufficient time may not be secured for setting additional functions. Therefore, the setting of the additional function cannot be completed during the execution time of the image processing operation,
There was a problem in the operability of the setting of the additional function, for example, the setting was made in a hurry, resulting in an incorrect setting.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and provides an image processing operation method, an image processing operation apparatus, and an image processing apparatus which improve operability in setting additional functions. With the goal.

[0009]

In order to achieve the above object, an image processing operation method according to the present invention is used in an image processing apparatus that performs an image processing operation based on a set function. (1) creating an operation screen including a setting menu for setting a function for each of the image processing operations; And (2) a function setting step of operating a setting menu with reference to the displayed operation screen and setting a function from an input unit. (3) The operation screen includes: In the operation screen display step, it is possible to set an additional function for the image processing operation performed as a series of operations for the image processing operation for which the function is set on the operation screen. Characterized in that it is made containing a constant menu.

The image processing operation device is used in an image processing device that performs an image processing operation based on a set function, and is used to set a function to be applied to each image processing operation. (A) an operation screen display control means for creating an operation screen including a setting menu for setting a function for each of the image processing operations and displaying the operation screen on a display means; Function setting control means for operating the setting menu with reference to the screen and setting the function from the input means,
(C) The operation screen includes, in the operation screen display control means, a setting menu capable of setting an additional function for an image processing operation performed as a series of operations for an image processing operation for which a function is set on the operation screen. It is characterized by being created including.

In the image processing operation method and the image processing operation device described above, each image processing operation
At the stage of the operation screen for setting the content of the function to be applied before the execution, it is possible to set the above additional function to the image processing operation. This makes it possible to complete the setting of the additional function in advance without being affected by the execution time of each image processing operation and the like. And an operating device are realized.

Further, the image processing operation method further comprises a function notifying step of notifying the image processing apparatus of the function set in the (4) function setting step before executing the image processing operation. In the notification step,
As for the additional function, the additional function is notified only when the setting is performed and the setting is different from the initial value.

Similarly, the image processing operation device further comprises (d) function notifying means for notifying the image processing device of the function set by the function setting control means before executing the image processing operation, and (e) The function notifying means notifies the additional function only when the setting of the additional function is changed to a setting different from the initial value.

If the additional function is set before the execution of the image processing operation, the data amount of the function to be notified from the image processing operation device to the image processing device before the execution increases, and the data transmission is required. The time may be longer. On the other hand, the configuration in which the additional function is notified only when the setting is performed as described above can reduce the data transmission time in the normal image processing operation in which the additional function is not set. .

In the image processing operation method, an execution screen for indicating that the image processing operation is being executed is created during the execution of the image processing operation after the function for the image processing operation is set, and the display means The execution screen is displayed in the execution screen display step, and the execution screen is created including a reset menu in which additional functions can be reset.

Similarly, in the image processing operation device, the operation screen display control means indicates that the image processing operation is being executed during the execution of the image processing operation after the setting of the function for the image processing operation. An execution screen is created and displayed on the display means, and the execution screen is created by the operation screen display control means including a reset menu in which additional functions can be reset.

As described above, by enabling re-setting of the additional function in the execution screen, it is possible to change the setting of the additional function set before the execution of the image processing operation during the execution. For example, the operability of setting additional functions is further improved.

In the image processing operation method (image processing operation device), an execution screen including a resetting menu may be selected from a plurality of options for setting an additional function except for those already selected from the operation screen. It is characterized in that it is created by displaying options in a selectable manner.

At this time, on the execution screen, only the options not selected on the operation screen are displayed as additional function selection buttons, so that unnecessary options such as selecting an already selected and unnecessary option again are not required. Operation and erroneous operation can be prevented.

Further, the image processing apparatus according to the present invention is an image processing apparatus which performs an image processing operation based on a set function, wherein image data generated by reading an image of a supplied original by image reading means. Or an image forming means for forming an image on a sheet based on image data from an external device, and the above-described image processing operation device for setting a function to be applied to each of the image processing operations It is characterized by.

With such a configuration, in an image processing apparatus such as a copying machine having an additional function, the operability for setting the additional function is improved, for example, the setting of the additional function can be completed in advance. Image processing device is realized.

Further, the image processing apparatus is connected to the image processing control means for controlling execution of the image processing operation based on the function notified from the function notification means of the image processing operation device. An initial value function storage unit in which an initial value of the function is stored in advance.

At this time, if the additional function is not set on the operation screen and there is no notification from the image processing operation device, the image processing operation is performed using the initial value stored in the initial value function storage means. Can be performed.

Further, as an example of a specific additional function, the image processing operation method is such that the image processing operation reads an image of a supplied original to generate image data, and forms an image on paper based on the image data. In addition to the copying operation for forming an image, the additional function is
After the copying operation is performed, an additional document is supplied.
A configuration that is a document adding function of continuously performing a copying operation is possible.

In the image processing apparatus, the image processing operation
In addition to a copying operation in which image data is generated by an image reading unit and an image is formed by an image forming unit, additional functions include:
A configuration is possible in which an additional document is supplied to the copying operation for which the function is being set after the copying operation is performed, and the copying operation is continuously performed.

In addition to the document addition function, the image processing operation method and the operation device described above are also provided for various additional functions of the image processing operation and other image processing operations performed as a series of operations. It is possible to apply

[0027]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Preferred embodiments of an image processing operation method, an image processing operation apparatus, and an image processing apparatus using the same according to the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the drawings. In the description of the drawings, the same elements will be denoted by the same reference symbols, without redundant description. Also, the dimensional ratios in the drawings do not always match those described.

First, as an example of an image processing apparatus to which the image processing operation apparatus is applied, a copying machine having a copying function will be schematically described. FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram showing a copying machine which is an embodiment of an image processing apparatus to which an image processing operation method and an image processing operation apparatus according to the present invention are applied.

The copying machine CM shown in FIG.
Automatic document feeder (ADF) provided so as to open and close a copy glass 54 installed on the upper surface of the main body 52
The copy glass 54, the automatic document feeder 56, and the document reading unit 58 constitute an image reading unit (image reading unit) 50 for reading an image.

Inside the main body 52, an automatic document feeder 5
6, the moving original conveyed onto the copy glass 54 by
Alternatively, open the automatic document feeder 56 and open the copy glass 54.
A document reading unit 58 that reads an image of a fixed document placed thereon and converts the image into image data, and a recording sheet (hereinafter, simply referred to as a sheet) based on the image data received from the image reading unit 50. An image forming unit (image forming unit) 60 that forms an image, and a paper feeding unit (paper feeding unit) 62 that supplies paper to the image forming unit 60 are provided.

The image forming section 60 has a photosensitive drum 64 (image carrier) which rotates in the direction A (clockwise) in FIG.
And the transfer roll 65 rotating in the B direction (counterclockwise direction)
Are provided so as to approach each other at the transfer position P.

Around the photosensitive drum 64, a charging device 66 for uniformly charging the photosensitive drum 64 along a rotation direction thereof, and a laser beam or the like is driven based on image data received from the image reading section 50. Then, a writing device 68 for forming an electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 64, the electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 64 is visualized with four color toners of yellow, magenta, cyan, and black, Four developing devices 70 for forming a developed image are provided, and a cleaning device 72 for removing toner remaining on the photosensitive drum 64 after the transfer is provided across the transfer position P. The copier CM of the present embodiment is configured as a color copier capable of forming an image by full-color processing, black-and-white processing, single-color processing, and the like by installing the four developing devices 70 as described above. .

Inside the transfer roll 65 and at the transfer position P
Is transferred to a sheet supplied from the paper supply unit 62 and conveyed between the photoconductor drum 64 and the transfer roll 65 at a position facing the photoconductor drum 64. Transfer machine 74 is provided.

The image forming section 60 is provided with an image forming control section 75. The image forming control section 75 controls the charging device 66, the writing device 68, and the developing device 70, so that the photosensitive drum is controlled. The amount of toner adhering to the surface of the H.64 is controlled. Further, the image forming section 60 is provided with a fixing device 76 for fixing the image transferred onto the sheet by the transfer machine 74 to the sheet.

A paper supply unit 62 for supplying paper to the image forming unit 60 is provided at a lower portion of the main body 52, and includes three paper supply trays 78, 80, and 82 serving as paper supply means, A paper feed mechanism 84 is provided for each of the trays 78, 80, and 82. Each paper tray 7
Reference numerals 8, 80, and 82 denote sheets for forming an image, which are stacked and accommodated for each sheet type such as sheet size and sheet thickness, and are detachably attached to the main body 52. Then, when the paper is sent out from one of the paper feed trays, the image forming unit 60
A sheet is supplied for image formation in.

The paper feed mechanism 84 includes paper feed trays 78, 80,
A pickup roller 86 which abuts on the uppermost sheet in the sheet 82 and sequentially feeds the sheet, and receives the sheet sent by the pickup roller 86 and receives the sheet.
And a feed roller 88 and a retard roller 90, which are pairs of rollers for feeding out a sheet while preventing double feeding toward the sheet feeding device. The pickup roller 86 and the feed roller 88 rotate by driving a motor (not shown),
The retard roller 90 paired with the feed roller 88 is
The rotation follows the rotation of the feed roller 88.

A paper transport path 94 is formed by several sets of guide rollers 92 from each of the paper feed trays 78, 80, and 82 toward the image forming section 60. by this,
The paper fed from each of the paper feed trays 78, 80, and 82 is transferred along the paper transport path 94 to the transfer position P and the fixing device 7.
6 and are discharged to the outside via a discharge roller 96 provided on the downstream side of the fixing device 76 after the image formation is performed.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically showing the configuration of the copying machine shown in FIG. 1 and the configuration of an embodiment of an image processing operation apparatus applied to the copying machine. In FIG. 1, the image processing operation device is installed as a control panel or the like at a predetermined position inside the copying machine CM, for example, at a predetermined position on the upper surface side of the copying machine CM. It is possible to provide a configuration that is provided as an operation terminal or the like.

In the copying machine CM shown in FIG. 1, the components such as the image reading unit 50, the image forming unit 60, and the paper feeding unit 62 are driven and controlled by the image processing control unit 20,
Thereby, an image processing operation such as a copying operation is performed. The setting of the operation content such as the function applied to each of the image processing operations executed by the image processing control unit 20 and each operation condition, the instruction to start or stop the operation, and the like are provided as a user interface for the operator. The operation is performed by the image processing operation device 1.

Here, the copier CM performs a series of operations as a function of executable image processing operations, in contrast to a normal image processing operation executed by setting a function to be applied in the image processing operation device 1. (Additional function) which is a function of the (other) image processing operation performed.

More specifically, the image reading unit 50 reads the supplied image of the original, generates image data in the image reading unit 50, and performs an image forming operation on the sheet in the image forming unit 60 based on the image data. Thus, after the normal copying operation is performed, an additional document is supplied, and a document adding function for continuously performing the additional copying operation can be used. In the image processing operation device 1, as described later, the setting of the document adding function is performed similarly to the other functions.

The image processing operation device 1 shown in FIG. 2 includes a display device 11 for displaying an operation screen for presenting necessary information such as operation contents and operation method to an operator, and a display device 11.
Input device 12 for allowing the operator to perform operations such as setting of operation contents and operation instructions with reference to the operation screen displayed on the
And an operation screen display control unit 13 that creates an operation screen based on information input from the input device 12 and displays the operation screen on the display device 11.

As the display device 11, for example, a liquid crystal display or a CRT display is used, and an operation screen is displayed on its display surface. On the other hand, as the input device 12, a touch panel 12a installed to correspond to the display surface of the display device 11 is used in FIG. In addition, as the input device 12, a pointing device such as a mouse, a keyboard including ten keys and various operation buttons, or the like may be used in addition to the touch panel 12a, or a combination of these may be used.

The operation screen created by the operation screen display control unit 13 and displayed on the display device 11 allows the operator to set a function to be applied to each image processing operation executed by the copying machine CM. Is created by including a setting menu for display in the display contents. In particular, in the present embodiment, in addition to a normal function, the image processing operation for which a function is being set on the operation screen includes a setting menu capable of setting the above-described document addition function (additional function). An operation screen is created and displayed.

The image processing operation device 1 includes a function setting control unit 14 and a function notification unit 15. The function setting control unit 14 performs each of the image processing operations executed by the copying machine CM in accordance with the input contents from the input device 12 by the operation of the operator performed with reference to the operation screen displayed on the display device 11. On the other hand, a function to be applied or an additional function (hereinafter, the function includes the additional function) is set. The function setting control unit 14 includes a function storage unit 14a that stores the set function in the setting function storage unit 16,
It has a function determination unit 14b that determines a function whose setting is instructed from the input device 12, determines a function that has already been set, and the like.

The function notifying section 15 executes the image processing of the copying machine CM before executing the image processing operation, for the contents of the functions set by the operator for each image processing operation and stored in the setting function storage section 16. The control unit 20 is notified. Here, the copying machine CM has the document adding function as described above, but the function notifying section 15 of the present embodiment sets the document adding function which is an additional function to the normal function. Only when the setting (with original added) is different from the initial value (with original added), the image processing control unit 20 is notified of the additional function.

On the other hand, the image processing control section 20 of the copying machine CM is connected to an initial value function storage section 21 in which initial values of respective functions including additional functions are stored. The initial value function storage unit 21 is also connected to the function notification unit 15 of the image processing operation device 1, and the function setting control unit 14 of the image processing operation device 1 also refers to the initial value as necessary. It is possible.

The image processing operation method in the image processing operation device 1 having the above configuration is as follows. That is, the operation screen display control unit 13 includes an operation screen including a setting menu for setting the type and content of a function to be applied to each of the copying operations, which are image processing operations performed by the copying machine CM. And the display device 11
(Operation screen display step). The operator operates each setting menu with reference to the display contents of the operation screen displayed on the display device 11.

Next, the function setting control section 14 controls the input device 1
For each function including the additional function whose setting has been instructed from 2, the function determining unit 14b makes a necessary determination and sets the function to be applied to the copying operation. Also, information about the set function is stored in the function storage unit 14.
The setting is stored in the setting function storage unit 16 by a (function setting step).

After the setting of the necessary functions for the copying operation is completed, when the operator instructs the execution of the copying operation by pressing a start button or the like, the function notifying section 15 of the image processing operation device 1 sets the Image processing control unit 2
For 0, the function set and stored in the setting function storage unit 16 is notified (function notification step). At this time, the additional function set before the execution of the copying operation is notified only when the setting different from the initial value is set. If there is no notification of the additional function, the image processing control unit 20 reads and uses the initial value of the additional function stored in the initial value function storage unit 21 in advance.

When the execution of the copying operation is started, the operation screen display control unit 13 creates an execution screen for indicating that the copying operation is being executed during the execution of the copying operation, and sends it to the display device 11. Is displayed (execution screen display step).

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration used in the image processing operation device shown in FIG. The CPU 1a performs hardware functions such as hardware control functions of each unit of the image processing operation device 1 and software functions such as creation and display of operation screens by the operation screen display control unit 13 and setting of functions by the function setting control unit 14.
The CPU 1a is connected to a ROM 1b in which software programs and the like necessary for the operation of the present apparatus are stored, and a RAM 1c composed of a DRAM and the like and in which data is temporarily stored during execution of the programs.

Necessary data such as screen data used for creating an operation screen in the operation screen display control unit 13 is stored in an external storage device 1d such as a hard disk. Further, the external storage device 1d is also used as a setting function storage unit 16 for storing information on the set function.

The CPU 1a and the ROM 1
b, a RAM 1c, and a display device 11 for displaying an operation screen on the external storage device 1d, and a touch panel 1 on which operations such as setting of functions and operation instructions are performed according to the operation screen.
The image processing operation device 1 is configured by connecting the input device 12 such as 2a.

In the copying machine CM and the image processing operation device 1 according to the above-described embodiment, before executing each image processing operation, the operator can set a function to be applied to the image processing operation (copy operation). Next, an operation screen is displayed on the display device 11. Then, in a setting menu included as a display content on the displayed operation screen, it is possible to set a document addition function which is an additional function in addition to a normal function.

An additional function such as a document adding function is a function that does not need to be directly set for an image processing operation whose function is being set before execution. Therefore, conventionally, a method of setting an additional function from the execution screen during execution of the image processing operation instead of the operation screen before execution has been used. However, in this case, since the setting must be completed within a limited execution time of the image processing operation, it is difficult to ensure sufficient operability for the setting.

On the other hand, by enabling additional functions to be set on the operation screen before executing the image processing operation as described above, the operation time of each image processing operation is not affected. The operability for setting the additional function is improved, for example, the setting of the additional function can be completed in advance.

Further, in the notification of the function to the image processing control unit 20 by the function notification unit 15, the notification of the additional function is performed only when the setting of the additional function is set to a value other than the initial value. If there is no notification, an initial value prepared in advance in the initial value function storage unit 21 is used. At this time, when the additional function is not set, the transmission amount of the function data notified to the image processing control unit 20 is the same data amount as when the additional function cannot be set on the normal operation screen. This suppresses an increase in data transmission time due to an unnecessary increase in the amount of data to be notified. The function notification method and the use of the initial value may be similarly applied to a normal function other than the additional function.

Here, as for the execution screen displayed on the display device 11 during the execution of the image processing operation, the display content includes a reset menu in which the additional functions set on the operation screen can be reset. It is possible to create with. This makes it possible to change settings for additional functions that were set on the operation screen before the image processing operation was performed, or to set additional functions that were forgotten to be set. The operability of is further improved.

At this time, when there are a plurality of options for setting an additional function, the operation screen display control unit 13
A configuration in which, out of the plurality of options, each option except for those already selected and set on the operation screen (stored in the setting function storage unit 16) is displayed in a selectable manner on the execution screen. It is preferable to create an execution screen as follows. As a result, it is possible to prevent an unnecessary operation or an erroneous operation such as re-selecting a selected and unnecessary option.

The image processing operation method in the image processing operation apparatus 1 and the copying machine CM shown in FIG. 2 will be described more specifically together with the operation screen in one embodiment.

Here, in the following description of each operation screen and execution screen, each display section or operation screen in the operation screen corresponds to the fact that the touch panel 12a is installed on the display surface of the display device 11. In the display area, those that may function as an input unit used for setting functions, instructing screen transition, operating start instructions, etc. are described as “buttons” to distinguish them from those that simply display information etc. I do.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an operation screen including a setting menu for setting a function to be applied to each of the image processing operations executed by the copying machine CM. This operation screen 100 is located at the bottom of the screen,
An operation content display area 101 for displaying the content of an operation to be operated on the operation screen, and an instruction content display area 106 for displaying an instruction content for an operator are provided at the upper side of the screen. .

In the upper part of the operation content display area 101, five items of “basic copy”, “advanced copy”, “image quality adjustment”, “output format”, and “others” for which functions can be set in this embodiment are displayed.
Item tag 102a corresponding to one setting menu
〜１０102e are displayed. On the operation screen 100, the "other" menu item tag 102e on the right side corresponding to the "other" setting menu is displayed (operation target).
Has been selected as. These tags 102a-102
In the setting menu display area 103, which is located below e and is connected to the “other” menu item tag 102e, an “other” setting menu is operably displayed.

In the setting menu display area 103 of the operation screen 100, specifically, as a setting menu for setting functions applied to the copying operation, "job memory"
In addition to the function setting button 104a and the "document set direction designation" function setting button 104b, an "add document" additional function setting button 105 is provided. This is a setting button for making settings for the above-described original adding function, which is an additional function for the copying operation.

On the operation screen 100 shown in FIG.
FIG. 5 shows the configuration of another operation screen 110 which is displayed after shifting to the screen when the “add document” additional function setting button 105 is pressed. Like the operation screen 100, the operation screen 110 includes an operation content display area 111 on the lower side of the screen and an instruction content display area 116 on the upper side of the screen.

The operation screen 110 is the same as the operation screen 100
Of the five setting menus indicated by the two menu item tags 102a to 102e, the "contents added" submenu, which is a submenu (lower-level setting menu) of the "others" setting menu, is displayed. For this reason, a menu item display section 112 that displays a submenu item of “document addition” is provided above the operation content display area 111, and the menu item tag is not displayed. Also, the menu item display section 112 includes
A “cancel” button 112 a for canceling the setting on the operation screen 110 and a “close” button 112 b for closing the operation screen 110 are provided.

Further, in a setting menu display area 113 located below the menu item display section 112, an "add document" submenu is operably displayed. More specifically, a “no” (non-execution) additional function selection button 114a corresponding to two options for selecting non-execution / execution of the document addition function, which is an additional function, and a “Yes” (execution) addition A function selection button 114b is displayed. These additional function selection buttons 114a, 114
By pressing any of b, non-execution / execution of the document addition function is set.

As described above, on the operation screens 100 and 110 displayed before the execution of the copying operation, the setting menu which can be set for the original adding function is operably displayed, whereby the setting of the original adding function is completed in advance. For example, the operability of setting the document addition function is improved.

On the operation screen 110, the "do" additional function selection button 114b is pressed to select the execution of the document additional function, and the necessary functions are set in the setting menus or submenus of the other operation screens. Is completed and the execution of the copying operation is instructed, the execution of the copying operation to which the set function is applied is started, and an execution screen indicating that the copying operation is being executed is displayed.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the configuration of an example of such an execution screen. The execution screen 120 is located at the lower side of the screen, and displays the execution content display area 12 which displays the copying operation being executed at the time when the execution screen is displayed.
1 and an instruction content display area 126 located at the upper side of the screen to display the instruction content to the operator.

On the left side of the execution content display area 121,
An operation display unit 122 is provided for displaying the contents of the functions and operation conditions set for the copying operation being executed, such as “number of copies” and “document page”, or the operation status. On the right side of the operation display section 122, a “stop” button 123 for forcibly stopping the copying operation being executed and a “no next original” button 124 are displayed.

Here, the “no next document” button 124 is
A reset menu that allows resetting of the document addition function set in advance on the operation screens 100 and 110 before execution is configured. That is, the execution screen 12 during this execution
The “no next document” button 124 at “0” corresponds to the “do not” additional function selection button 114a on the operation screen 110 before execution.

In the copying operation being executed at the time when the execution screen 120 shown in FIG. 6 is displayed, the execution of the original adding function is previously selected and set as described above. On the other hand, by displaying a “no next document” button 124 indicating an option other than the selected option on the execution screen 120 so as to be selectable, the setting of the document addition function during the execution of the copying operation can be performed. Changes can be made.

Further, while the execution of the document addition function is selected before the execution of the copying operation, the resetting is performed so that only the "next document not available" button 124 is displayed without displaying the "next document present" button. By adopting a menu configuration, it is possible to prevent unnecessary or erroneous operations such as re-selection of a selected option.

In the execution screen 120, when all the copying operations for the supplied original are completed without pressing the "next original" button 124, the copying machine C
At M, after the additional document is set, the additional copying operation by the document adding function is continuously executed.

On the other hand, when the “no next document” button 124 is pressed, the function setting control unit 14 (see FIG. 2) changes the execution of the document addition function set in advance to non-execution. , The function notifying unit 15 includes an image processing control unit 20
To notify the non-execution of the document addition function. Then, in the copying machine CM, when all the copying operations for the supplied original document are completed, the copying operation is completed.

The image processing operation method, the image processing operation device, and the image processing device according to the present invention are not limited to the above-described embodiments and examples, and various modifications are possible. For example, in the above-described embodiment, the document addition function is not executed /
Although the execution can be selected on the operation screen, in addition to this, the operation content and other functions of the copy operation for the original added by the original addition function may be further settable. Specifically, the operation screen 110 shown in FIG.
In the area on the right side of the operation content display area 111, a setting menu for setting functions such as a paper tray and a magnification applied to the additional copying operation by the document adding function is displayed, and the execution of the document adding function is performed. A configuration that allows setting when selected is possible.

As for the reset menu displayed for resetting the additional function on the execution screen, the execution screen 120 shown in FIG. Only buttons are displayed. On the other hand, when the execution of the document addition function is not selected on the operation screen before the execution of the copying operation, it is preferable to display only the “next document present” button. Alternatively, as shown in the execution screen 130 of FIG. 7, regardless of whether the non-execution / execution of the document addition function is selected on the right side of the operation display unit 132,
"No next original" button 134 as a reset menu
In addition, a configuration may be employed in which a “next document present” button 135 is displayed.

In the above-described embodiment, only the set functions are notified by the function notifying section 15 to the image processing control section 20 in the above-described embodiment. As long as the transmission amount and the transmission time are within the permissible ranges, the contents set for all functions may always be notified.

The configuration of the image processing apparatus is not limited to the above-described copying machine capable of performing a copying operation, but may be a configuration of an image processing apparatus capable of executing a printing operation for forming an image using image data from an external device. Further, the additional functions are not limited to the original adding functions in the above-described copying operation.
The image processing operation method and the operation device described above can be similarly applied to various additional functions of the image processing operation and other image processing operations performed as a series of operations.

[0082]

As described above in detail, the image processing operation method, the image processing operation apparatus, and the image processing apparatus according to the present invention have the following effects. That is, before executing each image processing operation, an operation screen is displayed on the display device in order to allow the operator to set a function to be applied to the image processing operation (for example, a copying operation). Then, in the setting menu included as display content on the operation screen, in addition to the normal function, an additional function (for example, document addition) for an image processing operation performed as a series of operations for the image processing operation for which the function is set Function) can be set. As a result, the operability of the setting of the additional function is improved, for example, the setting of the additional function can be completed in advance without being affected by the execution time of each image processing operation.

In image processing apparatuses such as copiers and multifunction peripherals, the functions have been diversified rapidly, and it is expected that additional functions such as an original adding function will further increase in the future. On the other hand, if the image processing operation method and the operation device described above are applied, it is possible to realize an image processing device capable of suitably using the various additional functions.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram illustrating a copying machine that is an embodiment of an image processing apparatus to which an image processing operation device is applied.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the copying machine shown in FIG. 1 and a configuration of an embodiment of an image processing operation device applied to the copying machine;

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration used in the image processing operation device illustrated in FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a configuration of an example of an operation screen in an embodiment of an image processing operation method in the image processing operation device shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of another example of an operation screen.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an example of an execution screen.

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of another example of an execution screen.

[Explanation of symbols]

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Image processing operation device, 11 ... Display device, 12 ... Input device, 12a ... Touch panel, 13 ... Operation screen display control part, 14 ... Function setting control part, 14a ... Function storage part, 14
b: Function determination unit, 15: Function notification unit, 16: Setting function storage unit, 20: Image processing control unit, 21: Initial value function storage unit, CM: Copy machine, 50: Image reading unit, 52: Main unit, 6
0: image forming unit, 62: paper feeding unit, 100: operation screen, 1
01: operation content display area, 102a to 102e: menu item tag, 103: setting menu display area, 104
a, 104b: Function setting button, 105: Additional function setting button, 106: Instruction content display area.

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page F term (reference) 2C061 AP04 AQ06 AR01 CQ04 CQ24 CQ25 CQ34 2H027 DA31 EC20 EE07 EE08 EF06 EF09 FA01 FA02 FA22 FA23 FA24 GA03 GA12 GA32 GA43 GA47 GA56 GB05 GB14 5C062 AA05 AB20 AB23

Claims (12)

[Claims] 1. An image processing operation method for use in an image processing apparatus that performs an image processing operation based on a set function, wherein the function to be applied is set for each of the image processing operations. An operation screen including a setting menu for setting the function for each of the image processing operations, an operation screen display step of displaying the operation screen on a display unit, and the setting menu by referring to the displayed operation screen And a function setting step of setting the function from an input unit.The operation screen includes, in the operation screen display step, the image processing operation while the function is being set on the operation screen. The feature is that it is created including the setting menu capable of setting an additional function for an image processing operation performed as a series of operations. Image processing operation how. 2. The image processing apparatus further comprises: a function notification step of notifying the image processing apparatus of the function set in the function setting step before the image processing operation is performed. 2. The image processing operation method according to claim 1, wherein the additional function is notified only when the setting is performed and the setting is different from the initial value. 3. An execution screen for indicating that the image processing operation is being executed is created during the execution of the image processing operation after the setting of the function for the image processing operation, and the display unit displays the execution screen. The method according to claim 1, further comprising an execution screen displaying step for displaying, wherein the execution screen is created in the execution screen displaying step, the reset screen including a reset menu capable of resetting the additional function. Image processing operation method. 4. The execution screen including the resetting menu includes a plurality of options for setting the additional function, and each of the plurality of options other than those already selected from the operation screen is displayed so as to be selectable. The image processing operation method according to claim 3, wherein the image processing operation method is created. 5. The image processing operation is a copying operation in which an image of a supplied document is read to generate image data and an image is formed on a sheet based on the image data. A document adding function for supplying an additional document to the copying operation for which the function is being set after the copying operation is performed, and performing the copying operation continuously. Item 7. The image processing operation method according to Item 1. 6. An image processing operation device that is used in an image processing device that performs an image processing operation based on a set function, and that sets the function to be applied to each of the image processing operations. An operation screen including a setting menu for setting the function for each of the image processing operations, an operation screen display control means for displaying the operation screen on a display means, and the setting with reference to the displayed operation screen A function setting control means for operating a menu and setting the function from an input means, wherein the operation screen is the operation screen display control means, wherein the image processing while setting the function on the operation screen is performed. For the operation, it is created including the setting menu that can set an additional function for an image processing operation performed as a series of operations, That image processing operation device. 7. The image processing apparatus further includes a function notifying unit that notifies the image processing apparatus of the function set by the function setting control unit before the image processing operation is performed. 7. The image processing operation device according to claim 6, wherein the additional function is notified only when the function is set and the setting is different from the initial value. 8. An execution screen for indicating that the image processing operation is being executed during the execution of the image processing operation after the setting of the function for the image processing operation is performed. And displaying the execution screen on the display unit, and the execution screen is created by the operation screen display control unit including a reset menu that allows resetting of the additional function. 7. The image processing operation device according to 6. 9. The execution screen including the reset menu includes a plurality of options for setting the additional function, and the options except for those already selected from the operation screen are displayed so as to be selectable. 9. The image processing operation device according to claim 8, wherein the image processing operation device is created. 10. An image processing apparatus for performing an image processing operation based on a set function, wherein image data generated by reading an image of a supplied document by image reading means, or image data from an external device. 7. An image forming means for forming an image on a sheet based on the image processing device, and the image processing operation device according to claim 6, wherein said function to be applied is set for each of said image processing operations. Image processing device. 11. An image processing control unit for controlling execution of the image processing operation based on the function notified from the function notification unit of the image processing operation device; and Initial value function storage means in which initial values of functions are stored in advance,
The image processing apparatus according to claim 10, further comprising: 12. The image processing operation is a copying operation in which the image reading means generates the image data and the image forming means forms the image, and the additional function is setting the function. 11. The image processing apparatus according to claim 10, wherein an additional document is further supplied to the copying operation after the copying operation is performed, and the copying operation is continuously performed. apparatus.