JP2001356646A - Image forming device, its control method and recording medium - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To facilitate an operation in consideration of a recording medium type, as in the case of PDL printing, by setting the recording medium type other than conventional information required for device control, such as information on a fixing process, and performing an output processing in accordance with the recording medium type. SOLUTION: A sheet type to be set for every paper feeding origin is stored previously in a non-volatile memory in a RAM of a control part 109 by an operation part 102, then a CPU of the control part 109 controls the print output processing in consideration of the type of a recording medium to be outputted to be printed.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a method for sequentially storing input image data, reading the stored image data,
The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus capable of sequentially outputting prints on a recording medium selectively fed from a plurality of paper sources, a control method of the image forming apparatus, and a storage medium.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In a conventional image forming apparatus, different control is performed for a paper type such as OHP, cardboard, or the like, which requires a different control process (especially a fixing process) from that for forming an image on plain paper as a device. In order to judge, paper type was set.

For example, a PDL printer (PDL (Pag
e Description Language) printer, the paper type is sent from the printer driver to the image forming apparatus in the same manner as the paper size or the paper cassette instruction, and the image forming apparatus performs fixing processing and the like in accordance with the paper type setting. I was going.

[0004]

However, in the conventional image forming apparatus, setting and processing corresponding to the paper type (OHP sheet, thick paper, etc.) essential for controlling the equipment such as fixing processing are performed. However, other paper types (eg, recycled paper, colored paper, letterhead, form, label, card, etc.) have not been set and processed according to the paper type.

Therefore, for example, even if an automatic paper selection function for automatically selecting and feeding paper from any of the paper feed cassettes according to the image size and the specified output magnification is set, the desired paper size can be obtained. Since the type of paper cannot be automatically selected, the user must open the cassette, check the paper type, and manually specify the cassette containing the desired paper type as the paper source.

In addition, an automatic cassette change function for automatically selecting and feeding paper of the same size from another paper feed cassette when paper in the selected paper feed cassette runs out during continuous printing is set. However, if the paper runs out during continuous printing, there is a risk of selecting paper of the same size but of a different type. Could not continue.

As described above, the conventional image forming apparatus has a problem that the automatic paper selecting function and the automatic cassette changing function which are very convenient and frequently used by the user cannot be used according to the paper type. there were.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and it is an object of the first to ninth inventions according to the present invention to set a paper type for each paper source (cassette) in advance. By setting and memorizing and controlling the print output process in consideration of the paper type for print output,
Performs output processing according to the recording medium type other than the recording medium type essential for control of the conventional device such as the fixing process, and easily performs the operation conscious of the recording medium type similarly to PDL printing. It is an object of the present invention to provide an image forming apparatus, a control method of the image forming apparatus, and a storage medium which can be used.

[0009]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided image input means for inputting image data (a reader unit 103, a facsimile unit 106, a computer interface unit 107 shown in FIG. 1), and the image input unit. Image storage means (FIG. 1) for sequentially storing the image data inputted by the means.
And an image output unit (printer unit shown in FIG. 1) for sequentially reading out the image data stored in the image storage unit and sequentially printing out to a recording medium selected and supplied from a plurality of paper supply sources. 104), the recording medium type setting means (FIG. 11A,
(B)) and a recording medium type storage means (non-volatile memory provided in the RAM of the control unit 109 shown in FIG. 1) for storing the recording medium type for each paper source set in the recording medium type setting means. ) And control means for controlling the print output process in consideration of the type of the recording medium to be printed out (the CPU of the control unit 109 shown in FIG. 1 is based on a program stored in a ROM or another storage medium not shown). Control).

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided an automatic paper selection printing function for automatically selecting and feeding a recording medium from any one of the paper sources according to the size of the image data and a designated output magnification. Paper feed function setting means for setting an automatic cassette change function for automatically selecting and feeding a recording medium of the same size from another paper source when the recording medium of the paper source selected during printing runs out (see FIG. 11). An automatic paper selection key 726 shown in FIG. 10C is provided.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in a print output process in which an automatic paper selection print function and an automatic cassette change function are set by the paper feed function setting means, it is determined whether or not the recording medium type is considered. This is provided with a recording medium type consideration setting means (paper type consideration key 614 shown in FIG. 10B) to be selectively set.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, a recording medium type for each paper source set in the recording medium type setting means is displayed, and a recording medium to be printed out is fed while referring to the display. As a source, a paper source specifying means (FIG. 11 (c)) for selecting and specifying one of the above-mentioned paper sources is provided.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a recording medium specifying means (FIG. 4) for selecting and specifying a paper source and a recording medium size of a recording medium to be printed out, a recording medium type or a recording medium size, and a recording medium size. Paper selection key 41 shown
0, (c) of FIG. 11).

A sixth invention according to the present invention has a printer or copy function, a printer function, and a facsimile function.

In a seventh aspect according to the present invention, the control means considers the type of the recording medium to be printed out in any of the printer or copy function, printer function, and facsimile function modes. It controls print output processing.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image input means for inputting image data, an image storage means for sequentially storing the image data input by the image input means, and an image storage means for storing the image data. A method of controlling an image forming apparatus having image output means for reading out image data and sequentially printing out on a recording medium selected and fed from a plurality of paper sources, wherein a recording medium type is set in advance for each paper source. Medium type setting step (step not shown before step S1 in FIG. 12) and print output processing step for performing print output processing in consideration of the recording medium type of the print medium to be printed out (steps S9 to S12 in FIG. 12). And

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, there is provided image input means for inputting image data, image storage means for sequentially storing the image data input by the image input means, and image data stored in the image storage means. A recording medium type setting for setting a recording medium type for each paper source in advance in an image forming apparatus having image output means for reading image data and sequentially printing out a recording medium selected and supplied from a plurality of paper sources. Step (not shown before step S1 in FIG. 12)
And a print output processing step of performing a print output process in consideration of the type of the print medium to be printed out (FIG. 1).
The program for executing steps S9 to S12) of the second method is stored in a storage medium in a computer-readable manner.

[0018]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an image forming apparatus (image input / output apparatus) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 1, reference numeral 101 denotes a digital copying machine main body, an operation unit 102, a reader unit 103, and a printer unit 104.
Consists of

The operation unit 102 is a digital copier main body 10.
1 and the image input / output control unit 105. The reader unit 103 reads an image of a document, and outputs image data corresponding to the document image to the printer unit 104 and the image input / output control unit 105. The printer unit 104 records an image corresponding to image data from the reader unit 103 and the image input / output control unit 105 on recording paper.

The image input / output control unit 105 includes the reader unit 10
3 and includes a facsimile unit 106, a computer interface unit 107, an image memory 108, and a control unit 109.

Facsimile section 106 expands the compressed image data received via the telephone line, transfers the expanded image data to control section 109, and compresses the image data transferred from control section 109. Then, the compressed image data is transmitted via a telephone line. Facsimile unit 1
The compressed image data received in step 06 can be temporarily stored in an image memory (for example, a hard disk) 108.

The computer interface unit 107 includes:
Personal computer or workstation (PC
/ WS) 110 and an interface between the control unit 109 and code data (PDL; Page Description) representing an image transferred from the PC / WS 110.
n Language) into image data recordable by the printer unit 104 and passed to the control unit 109.

The control unit 109 has a CPU, ROM,
The CPU is provided with a RAM, and the CPU reads the reader unit 103 and the facsimile unit 10 based on a program stored in the ROM.
6. It controls the flow of data between the computer interface unit 107 and the image memory 108 and the functions of each unit. The RAM in the control unit 109
Is used as a work area of the CPU, has a nonvolatile memory therein, and has an operation unit 102 or a PC / WS.
Various settings from 110 can be stored.

FIG. 2 is a sectional view for explaining the configuration of the reader unit 103 and the printer unit 104 shown in FIG.

In the reader unit 103, reference numeral 201 denotes a document feeder (RDF), which feeds the documents one by one on the platen glass 202 in the final order, and after reading the document,
The original on the platen glass 202 is discharged.
When the document is conveyed onto the platen glass 202, the lamp 203 is turned on, the movement of the scanner unit 204 is started, and the document is exposed and scanned. The reflected light from the original at this time is guided to a CCD image sensor (hereinafter, referred to as a CCD) 209 by mirrors 205, 206, 207 and a lens 208. Thus, the scanned image of the original is read by the CCD 209 and
The image data output from 9 is subjected to predetermined processing and then transferred to the control unit 109 of the printer unit 104 and the image input / output control unit 105.

In the printer unit 104, a laser driver 221 drives the laser light emitting unit 210 and causes the laser light emitting unit 210 to emit a laser beam corresponding to the image data output from the league unit 103. This laser beam is applied to the photosensitive drum 211, and the photosensitive drum 211
Is formed with a latent image corresponding to the laser beam. A developer is attached to a portion of the latent image on the photosensitive drum 211 by a developing device 212. Then, at a timing synchronized with the start of the irradiation of the laser beam, the recording paper is fed from one of the cassettes 213 and 214 and is conveyed to the transfer unit 215, and the developer attached to the photosensitive drum 211 is transferred to the recording paper. I do.

The recording paper on which the developer is loaded is conveyed to the fixing unit 216, and the developer is fixed on the recording paper by the heat and pressure of the fixing unit 216. The recording paper that has passed through the fixing unit 216 is discharged by discharge rollers 217, and the sorter 220 stores the discharged recording paper in each bin and sorts the recording paper, or staples the sorted recording paper. Note that the sorter 220 stores the recording paper in the uppermost bin when the sorting is not set.

When double-sided recording is set,
After the recording paper is conveyed to the discharge roller 217, the rotation direction of the discharge roller 217 is reversed, and the flapper 218 is rotated.
To the re-feeding conveyance path 219. When multiple recording is set, the flapper 218 controls the re-feeding conveyance path 219 so that the recording paper is not conveyed to the discharge roller 217.
Lead to. The recording paper guided to the re-feeding conveyance path 219 is supplied to the transfer unit 215 at the timing described above.

FIG. 3 is a plan view showing a key arrangement of the operation unit 102 shown in FIG.

In the figure, reference numeral 301 denotes a power switch, which controls power supply to the main body. A preheating key 302 is used to turn on / off a preheating mode. A copy mode key 303 is used to select a copy mode from a plurality of functions.

A fax mode key 304 is used to select a fax mode from a plurality of functions. A personal box key 305 is used to select a personal box mode from a plurality of functions. The personal box function is a function that has a storage area in a memory (image memory 108) in the copying machine for each user or department, stores a PDL or a scanned image in the storage area, and outputs the image at any time. 306 is an extension key,
Used when performing operations on PDL.

A copy start key 307 is used to instruct the start of copying. The copy start key 307 has a fingerprint detection sensor and detects copy fingerprint data at the same time as a copy start instruction.

A stop key 308 is used to interrupt or stop copying. 309
Is a reset key, which operates as a key to return to the standard mode during standby. Reference numeral 310 denotes a guide key which is used when it is necessary to know each function.

Reference numeral 311 denotes a user mode key which is used when the user changes the basic settings of the system. Reference numeral 312 denotes an interrupt key which is used when an interrupt is required during copying and the user wishes to copy. Numeral 313 is a numeric keypad used for inputting numerical values.

A clear key 314 is used to clear a numerical value. An ID key 315 is used to shift to an ID input mode when using a copying machine.

Reference numeral 316 denotes a touch panel (liquid crystal display operation unit) composed of a combination of a liquid crystal screen and a touch sensor. An individual setting screen is displayed for each mode, and further, touching a key drawn (displayed) on the touch panel. Thus, various detailed settings can be made.

Reference numeral 317 denotes a tally lamp which indicates the communication status of the network, which is normally lit in green, flashes in green when communication is in progress, and lights in red in case of a network error.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram for explaining an example of a screen displayed on the liquid crystal display operation unit (touch panel) 316 shown in FIG.

In FIG. 3A, reference numeral 400a denotes a standard screen (basic screen). When the power is turned on, the reset key 3 shown in FIG.
This is a screen displayed on the liquid crystal display operation unit 316 in a standard state, such as after pressing the button 09 or after the copy operation ends.

Reference numeral 401 denotes a status display column, which is a copy device, RDF
201, the state of the sorter 220, etc., the set number,
The set magnification, the specified paper size, etc. are displayed.

Reference numeral 402 denotes a reduction key which is depressed when the user wants to reduce the standard size to another standard size. Reference numeral 403 denotes an equal-size key, which is pressed when it is desired to perform 100% equal-size copying. An enlargement key 404 is depressed when the user wants to enlarge the standard size to another standard size. Reference numeral 405 denotes a slightly smaller key, which is used when it is desired to copy at a slightly smaller magnification than the set magnification (the slightly smaller initial magnification is 93%, and the change is performed according to the specification setting in the operator mode. Do).

Reference numeral 416 denotes a magnification key which is used to set the magnification and perform an automatic zooming operation by automatically calculating the magnification from the original size and the paper size, or the length on the original and the output length. Press to execute the zoom program function that calculates the magnification by specifying.

Reference numeral 407 denotes a thin key which is depressed when it is desired to reduce the copy density. 408 is an AE (automatic) key,
Press this button to automatically adjust the copy density with respect to the density of the original. A body key 409 is used to increase the copy density.

Reference numeral 410 denotes a paper selection key, which is an automatic paper selection (A) for automatically selecting paper from the original size and the copy magnification.
Press to use the PS) function or to specify the paper size.

Reference numeral 411 denotes a sorter key which is displayed only when the sorter 220 is mounted, and is depressed when setting the output form (non-sort, sort, group sort, staple sort, etc.) of the sorter 220, staple position, and the like. I do.

A double-sided key 412 is depressed to output a document image read on both sides of a transfer sheet or to handle a double-sided document. An application mode key 413 is pressed to perform various functions of the copying apparatus. When the application mode key 413 is pressed, an application mode screen 400b shown in FIG.

Reference numeral 414 denotes a double-sided setting content display field, in which a double-sided setting is provided (when the double-sided key 412 is inverted), the type of double-sided is displayed.

Reference numerals 415 and 417 denote favorite keys. When a favorite function is set in the operator mode, the key set in the part indicated by the favorite key 415 is displayed in the favorite function setting 1 and the favorite function setting 2 is displayed. In, the key set in the portion indicated by the favorite key 417 is displayed. Here, a display screen in a case where “binding margin” is set in the favorite function setting 1 and “border erase” is set in the favorite function setting 2 is shown.

In (b), reference numeral 400b denotes an application mode screen, which is displayed when the application mode key 413 is pressed as described above.

Reference numeral 430 denotes a frame erasing key which is depressed when erasing a frame in accordance with a mode. The modes are sheet frame erasing (creating a frame for the sheet size), document frame erasing (creating a frame according to the document size. Specifying the document size), and book frame erasing (to the spread size of the book). Create a blank in the frame and center. Specify the spread size of the book. Eliminate the punch holes (blank the punched part so that the shadow of the hole is not copied when copying an original with a punched hole. Setting the hole width).

Reference numeral 431 denotes a binding margin key which is depressed when a binding margin is to be created at one end (up, down, left, or right) of the sheet. Reference numeral 432 denotes a cover / insert key, which is pressed to insert a cover, a back cover, and an insert into the output result. A reduction layout key 433 is pressed when a plurality of originals are enlarged and reduced to one sheet and copied. For example, when copying four originals onto one transfer sheet, 4 inl is specified, and when two originals are copied into one sheet, 2 inl is specified.

Reference numeral 434 denotes an OHP insertion key, which is pressed to set a mode for automatically performing insertion when copying on OHP paper. Can also be set. 435
Is a page continuous shooting key, and is a platen glass 20 shown in FIG.
The copy area of the original placed on two sides is divided into two parts,
Press this button to perform continuous copying in which each of the divided images is automatically copied onto two sheets of transfer paper (for example, settings such as right-opening book, left-opening book, and reverse discharge).

Reference numeral 436 denotes an enlarged layout key which is pressed to set a mode for returning a document copied in the reduced layout mode to its original state. Reference numeral 437 denotes a multiplex key, which is pressed when copying in a multiplex mode, a page continuous multiplex mode, or the like. Reference numeral 438 denotes a document mixed key, which is the RDF 20 shown in FIG.
When a document of a different size is mixedly loaded on the RDF 201 when copying is performed using the button 1, the button is pressed.

A photo key 439 is depressed when copying a photo original. Reference numeral 440 denotes a mode memory key which is depressed when storing an arbitrary combination of modes (copy mode) such as the number of copies, density, and magnification set by the operator.
Used to call the stored copy mode.

Reference numeral 441 denotes an end key.
When the key is pressed, the standard screen 400a shown in FIG. 4A is displayed on the liquid crystal display operation unit 316.

It should be noted that the “binding margin” and “border erase” of the favorite keys 415 and 417 displayed on the standard screen 400a shown in FIG. 4A are applied to the application mode screen 400b shown in FIG. Are the keys having the same functions as the binding margin key 431 and the frame erase key 430.

Hereinafter, referring to FIGS. 5 to 11, in the image forming apparatus of the present invention, cassette auto selection ON / OF
F. Each screen displayed on the liquid crystal display operation unit 316 shown in FIG. 3 when registering the paper type (also called media type or recording medium type) in the cassette will be described.

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a user mode type selection screen in the image forming apparatus of the present invention, which is displayed on the liquid crystal display operation unit 316 shown in FIG.

In FIG. 5, reference numeral 500 denotes a user mode type selection screen. When the standard screen 400a shown in FIG. 4A is displayed, the user mode key 3 shown in FIG.
11 is pressed, the liquid crystal display operation unit 3 shown in FIG.
16 is displayed.

A common specification setting key 501 is depressed when it is desired to set a common specification for each function such as setting a screen at power-on. By pressing this key, a common specification setting screen shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B described later is displayed.

Reference numeral 502 denotes a copy specification setting key which is depressed when it is desired to make copy function specification settings such as changing the standard mode of copy settings. By pressing this key, a copy specification setting screen shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B described later is displayed.

A timer setting key 503 is depressed when various timer settings such as an auto sleep time are to be set. By pressing this key, FIG.
The timer setting screens shown in (a) and (b) are displayed.

Reference numeral 504 denotes an adjustment / cleaning key which is pressed when performing adjustment / cleaning such as fine adjustment of zoom. By pressing this key, an adjustment / cleaning screen shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B described later is displayed.

A close key 599 is depressed when the user mode type selection screen 500 is to be terminated and the user wants to return to the standard screen 400a.

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a common specification setting screen in the image forming apparatus of the present invention, which is displayed on the liquid crystal display operation unit 316 shown in FIG.

In FIG. 6, (a) corresponds to the first page (1/2) of two pages of the common specification setting screen, and (b) corresponds to the second page (2/2) of two pages of the common specification setting screen. ). In addition,
This common specification setting screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display operation unit 316 when the common specification setting key 501 is pressed on the user mode type selection screen 500 shown in FIG.

In FIGS. 6A and 6B, reference numeral 505 denotes an initial function setting key which is depressed when an initial function setting is desired. Reference numeral 506 denotes a function setting key after auto clear, which is pressed when a function setting after auto clear is desired. 507
Is a buzzer setting key, which is pressed when a buzzer setting is desired. Reference numeral 508 denotes an ON / OFF key for automatic cassette selection, which is pressed when ON / OFF of automatic cassette selection is desired. By pressing this key, ON / OFF of the cassette automatic selection shown in FIG.
The OFF setting screen is displayed.

Reference numeral 509 denotes an initialization key for common specification setting, which is pressed when initialization of common specification setting is desired. Reference numeral 510 denotes a paper type registration key in the cassette, which is pressed when registering the paper type in the cassette. By pressing this key, a paper type setting screen shown in FIG. 11A to be described later is displayed.

Reference numeral 511 denotes a dedicated tray setting key which is depressed when setting of a dedicated tray is desired. Reference numeral 512 denotes a print priority key, which is depressed when print priority is to be set. A page transition key 123 is depressed when it is desired to switch the page from 1/2 to 2/2. A close key 598 is pressed to return to the user mode type selection screen 500.

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a copy specification setting screen in the image forming apparatus of the present invention, which is displayed on the liquid crystal display operation unit 316 shown in FIG.

In FIG. 7, (a) corresponds to the first page (1/2) of the two pages of the copy specification setting screen, and (b) corresponds to the second page (2/2) of the two pages of the copy specification setting screen. ). The copy specification setting screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display operation unit 316 when the copy specification setting key 502 is pressed on the user mode type selection screen 500 shown in FIG.

In FIGS. 7A and 7B, reference numeral 513 denotes a setting key for the favorite key 1, which is depressed when the setting of the favorite key 1 is desired. Reference numeral 514 denotes a setting key for the favorite key 2, which is pressed when it is desired to set the favorite key 2. 51
An automatic sort setting key 5 is depressed when it is desired to perform automatic sort setting. Reference numeral 516 denotes a photographic paper photo mode setting key.
Press this button to set photographic paper photo mode.

Reference numeral 517 denotes ON / OF of the copy waiting time display.
Press this button to set ON / OFF of the copy waiting time display with the F setting key. 518 is an image orientation priority ON /
Press the OFF key to turn on / off image orientation priority. A standard mode change key 519 is depressed when the user wants to change the standard mode. Reference numeral 520 denotes a specification setting initialization key, which is pressed when the user wants to initialize the specification setting.

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a timer setting screen in the image forming apparatus of the present invention, which is displayed on the liquid crystal display operation unit 316 shown in FIG.

In FIG. 8, (a) corresponds to the first page (1/2) of the two pages of the timer setting screen, and (b) corresponds to the second page (2/2) of the two pages of the timer setting screen. Equivalent to. The timer setting screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display operation unit 316 when the timer setting key 503 is pressed on the user mode type selection screen 500 shown in FIG.

In FIGS. 8A and 8B, reference numeral 521 denotes a date / time setting key which is depressed when it is desired to set the date / time. An auto sleep time change key 522 is pressed when the user wants to change the auto sleep time. An auto clear time change key 523 is depressed when it is desired to change the auto clear time. 524
Is a key for changing the power failure mode transition time, and is pressed when it is desired to change the power failure mode transition time. Reference numeral 525 denotes a silent mode shift time key which is pressed when a silent mode moving time is to be set. Reference numeral 526 denotes a weekly timer setting key which is depressed when it is desired to set the weekly timer.

FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the adjustment / cleaning screen in the image forming apparatus of the present invention.
Is displayed on the liquid crystal display operation unit 316 shown in FIG.

In FIG. 9, (a) corresponds to the first page (1/2) of two pages of the adjustment / cleaning screen, and (b) corresponds to the second page (2/2) of two pages of the adjustment / cleaning screen. ). This adjustment / cleaning screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display operation unit 316 when the adjustment / cleaning key 504 is pressed on the user mode type selection screen 500 shown in FIG.

In FIGS. 9A and 9B, reference numeral 527 denotes a fine zoom adjustment key which is pressed when fine zoom adjustment is desired. A wire cleaning key 528 is depressed when the user wants to clean the wire. A double binding staple width change key 529 is pressed when the user wants to change the double binding staple width. Reference numeral 530 denotes a saddle-stitching stitch key, which is depressed when it is desired to set a stitch-stitching stitch. Reference numeral 531 denotes a saddle stitching position change key which is pressed when the user wants to change the saddle stitching position.

FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an ON / OFF setting screen for cassette auto selection in the image forming apparatus of the present invention, which is displayed on the liquid crystal display operation unit 316 shown in FIG.

FIG. 10A shows O of cassette auto selection.
In the N / OFF setting screen, with the standard screen 400a shown in FIG. 4A being displayed, the user mode key 311 shown in FIG. 3 and the common specification setting key 50 shown in FIG.
1. The cassette auto selection ON / OFF setting key 508 shown in FIG.
4 is a screen displayed on the liquid crystal display operation unit 316 shown in FIG. 3 when setting / OFF.

In FIG. 10A, a copy function selection key 601 is depressed when setting for a copy function is performed. Reference numeral 602 denotes a printer function selection key, which is pressed when setting for a printer function is performed. 60
Reference numeral 3 denotes a box function selection key, which is pressed when setting for a box function is performed. Reference numeral 604 denotes another function selection key, which is depressed when performing settings for functions other than copy / printer / box. A close key 605 is pressed when the user wants to end the cassette auto selection ON / OFF setting screen and return to the common specification setting screen shown in FIG.

FIG. 10B shows an ON / OFF setting screen of the cassette automatic selection for the copy function. A screen displayed on the liquid crystal display operation unit 316 shown in FIG. 3 when the copy function selection key 601 is selected. Automatic paper selection (a function that automatically selects the appropriate paper according to the original size and set magnification (at the time of copying)) and auto cassette change (when the paper in the cassette runs out during continuous printing, It is possible to set, for each stage, a cassette to be subjected to automatic paper feeding from another cassette in which paper is set.

In FIG. 10B, reference numeral 606 denotes a manual tray setting stage, and reference numerals 607 to 611 denote cassette setting stages. The manual tray and each cassette stage are subjected to automatic selection (automatic paper selection, automatic cassette change). Select ON if you want to do it, and OFF if you want to make it non-target. This setting can be made for each function (copy, printer, box, etc.), and is set when it is desired to use a cassette for each function.

By pressing the paper type consideration key 614, it is possible to set whether or not to consider the paper type.

The cassette numbers in the figure correspond to those in FIG.
This corresponds to the cassette mounting location in the present embodiment shown in FIG.

Reference numeral 612 denotes a cancel key, which is depressed when the setting of the ON / OFF setting screen for cassette auto selection is invalidated to terminate the screen and return to the common specification setting screen shown in FIG. 6A.

Reference numeral 613 denotes an OK key which is depressed when the setting of the ON / OFF setting screen for cassette auto selection is validated to terminate the screen and return to the common specification setting screen shown in FIG.

FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a paper type registration setting screen in a cassette in the image forming apparatus of the present invention, which is displayed on the liquid crystal display operation unit 316 shown in FIG.

FIG. 11A shows a paper type registration setting screen in the cassette, which is a standard screen 400 shown in FIG.
In the state where “a” is displayed, the user mode key 311 shown in FIG. 3, the common specification setting key 501 shown in FIG.
When the paper type registration key 510 in the cassette shown in FIG.
6 is a screen displayed on the liquid crystal display operation unit 316 shown in FIG.

In FIG. 11A, 701 to 705
Is a paper type registration cassette selection key for selecting a cassette for registering a paper type in order to register a paper type in the cassette. Paper type registration cassette selection key 701
When any one of .about.705 is selected, a screen shown in FIG. 11B is displayed. A close key 706 is pressed when the user wants to end the screen of FIG. 11A and return to the common specification setting screen of FIG.

In FIG. 11B, reference numerals 707 to 716 denote paper type selection keys, "plain paper", "thick paper",
"Recycled paper", "colored paper", "letterhead", "forms",
"2nd original drawing", "OHP film", "label paper",
This button is pressed when it is desired to register the paper type corresponding to the selection key of “card stock” as the paper type in the cassette selected in FIG. 11A.

A cancel key 717 is depressed when the user wants to invalidate the settings on the screen shown in FIG. 11B. 7
A return key 18 is pressed to return to the screen shown in FIG. An OK key 719 is depressed when the user wants to validate the settings on the screen in FIG.

The procedure for registering the paper type in the cassette will be described below.

First, on the screen shown in FIG. 11A, a paper type registration cassette selection key 701 to 705 is used to select a cassette for registering a paper type in order to register a paper type in the cassette. Next, in FIG. 11B, the paper type to be set in the selected cassette is selected by the paper type selection keys 707 to 716, and the setting is validated by the OK key 719.

According to this procedure, the recycled paper is placed in the cassette 3 and
When colored paper is set in cassette 4 and a form is set in cassette 5,
The paper type set here is 723, 7 in FIG.
As shown at 24 and 725, they are displayed on the paper selection screen of each function, and 720, 721 and 722 correspond to the case where the paper type has not been set yet. These paper selection keys 72
By pressing 0 to 725, the paper feed source can be selected while checking the paper type registered in the cassette stage. An automatic paper selection key 726 is pressed when the automatic paper selection (auto paper selection) function is to be set to ON.

The above-mentioned various settings are registered in the control unit 1.
09 is stored in a non-volatile memory provided inside the RAM.

Further, it is possible to designate a paper size to be printed and a paper type to be printed by using keys (not shown) of the operation unit 102.

Hereinafter, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 12, an example of copying in a setting in which the paper type is considered or not in the present embodiment will be described.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the first control processing procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, which corresponds to an example of the print processing procedure.
Is executed based on the program stored in the ROM. In addition, S1 to S12 indicate each step. Note that the various settings shown in FIGS. 5 to 11 are set in advance before the print processing is executed, and are stored in the nonvolatile memory in the RAM of the control unit 109.

First, the liquid crystal display operation unit 316 shown in FIG.
Displays the standard screen 400a shown in FIG.
It is determined whether the start key 307 shown in FIG. 3 has been pressed (S1). If it is determined that the start key 307 has not been pressed, the process returns to step S1, and if the start key 307 has been pressed. If you decide,
Proceed to step S2.

In step S2, a document reading operation is performed to create image data. In step S3, it is determined whether there is a document to be read. If it is determined that there is still a document to be read, the process returns to step S2. If it is determined that there is no original to be read, the process proceeds to step S4.

In step S4, before the start key 307 is pressed, the printing operation of the image read according to the paper cassette, paper size, and paper type selected on the paper selection screen is started.

In step S5, it is determined whether or not there is image data. If it is determined that there is image data, the process proceeds to step S6. On the other hand, if it is determined that there is no image data, the copy operation is terminated.

In step S6, it is determined whether or not there is a recording sheet in the paper cassette selected automatically or manually. If it is determined that there is a recording sheet, the process returns to step S4. If determined, step S
Proceed to 7.

In step S7, it is determined whether or not the selected cassette has a cassette automatic change setting (paper feed stage set to "ON" in FIG. 10B). No (O in FIG. 10B)
If it is determined that the sheet feed tray is set to “FF”, the process returns to step S6. In this case, the apparatus waits until the selected cassette is refilled with paper.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S7 that there is a cassette auto change setting (the paper feed stage set to "ON" in FIG. 10B), the process proceeds to step S8. In step S8, it is determined whether or not there is paper of the same paper size in another cassette of the auto cassette ON, and if it is determined that there is no recording paper of the same paper size, the process returns to step S6. If it is determined that there is paper, the process proceeds to step S9.

In step S9, it is determined whether or not the setting is such that the paper type is considered (the paper type consideration key 614 in FIG. 10B is pressed). If it is determined that the consideration is not given, the process proceeds to step S11. In step S11, in order to print on the recording paper of the paper source determined in step S8, the paper source is changed to the selected cassette in step S8 (the cassette determined to have recording paper of the same paper size in step S8). It returns to step S4.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S9 that the paper type is to be considered (the paper type consideration key 614 in FIG. 10B has been pressed), the process proceeds to step S10.
In step S10, it is determined whether or not there is recording paper of the same paper size and paper type in another cassette of the automatic cassette ON. If it is determined that there is no recording paper of the same paper size and paper type, the process returns to step S6. In this case, the apparatus waits until recording paper of the same paper size and paper type is replenished in one of the cassettes in the automatic cassette ON.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S10 that there is a recording sheet of the same paper size and paper type in another cassette with the auto cassette ON, the process proceeds to step S12.
In step S12, in order to print on the recording paper of the paper source determined in step S10, the paper source is set in the selected cassette in step S10 (the cassette determined in step S10 that there is a recording paper of the same paper size and paper type). change,
It returns to step S4.

Hereinafter, the image forming apparatus of the present invention does not consider the paper type / does (media type processing OFF / O
The paper selecting operation in the case of N) will be described for each function.

First, the paper selection operation when the media type processing is OFF, that is, when the paper type is not considered (when the paper type consideration key 614 shown in FIG. 10B is not pressed) will be described.

When the automatic paper selection function is set (when the automatic paper selection key 726 in FIG. 11C is depressed): J is determined based on the detected paper size as before.
At the time of OB execution, the cassette stage of the cassette automatic selection ON set in FIG. 10B is selected. At this time, J
OB media type attribute is undefined or auto,
The media type set in the cassette is not considered.

When the manual paper selection function is set (when the automatic paper selection key 726 in FIG. 11C is not pressed): Execution is performed by the selected cassette stage as in the conventional case. If there is no paper, a cassette with the same paper size information is selected from the cassettes with the cassette auto selection ON.
At this time, the media type set in the cassette is not considered.

At the time of remote copy, paper size selection (FIG. 1)
(1) When a fax is received via the telephone line shown in (1) or when a paper size is selected from PC / WS 110 shown in FIG. 1 and a print instruction is issued): Selected paper size (FA
X source document size, PC / WS 110 shown in FIG.
(The paper size selected in step 2)), and selects the cassette stage for which the cassette automatic selection is ON at the time of JOB execution. At this time, the media type set in the cassette is not considered.

Next, when the media type process is ON, that is,
When the paper type is considered (when the paper type consideration key 614 shown in FIG. 10B is pressed)
The paper selection is shown for each setting.

When the automatic paper selection function is set (when the automatic paper selection key 726 in FIG. 11C is pressed): The media type attribute of JOB is set to indefinite or auto and set in the cassette. Media type is not considered. JOB with the detected paper size as before
At the time of execution, select the cassette stage for which cassette auto selection is ON.

When manual paper selection is set (when automatic paper selection key 726 in FIG. 11C is pressed): Executed only when the information of the selected cassette stage, paper size, and media type are the same. I do. If the paper size and media type of the selected cassette stage are not the same, or if the selected cassette stage has no paper, a cassette with the same paper size and media type information is selected from cassettes with cassette auto selection ON.

At the time of remote copy, paper size + media type selection (for example, when a FAX indicating the media type is received via the telephone line shown in FIG. 1, when a FAX is received via the telephone line shown in FIG. 1, PC shown in FIG.
/ WS 110 when paper size + media type is selected and print instruction is issued): selected paper size + media type (FAX transmission source document size + specified media type, PC / WS 110 shown in FIG. 1) Select the cassette stage for which cassette auto selection is ON during JOB execution with (paper size selected in step + media type).

In the above embodiment, the copying apparatus is described as an example. However, the above embodiment is applied to a printer or a multifunction copying machine having a copy function, a printer function, a facsimile function and the like. Is also good. In this case, it is assumed that the above-described processing is performed not only in the copy mode but also in the print processing in the multifunction copying machine such as the print mode and the facsimile mode.

As described above, paper types other than the paper types essential for the control of conventional equipment such as fixing processing, for example, all types of paper types such as recycled paper, colored paper, letterhead, forms, labels, and cards are supplied. By setting the printing for each paper source and performing the printing process based on the paper type, it is possible to provide an image processing apparatus that can operate consciously of the paper type similarly to PDL printing. In addition, by having a setting of considering or not considering the paper type, it is possible to select a conventional usage that does not consider the paper type.

Therefore, for example, in a state in which the automatic paper selection function is set, the user simply designates a desired paper type without having to be aware of which type of paper is set in which cassette. Thus, an image can be formed by automatically selecting a desired sheet from any of the plurality of cassettes.

Further, when the automatic cassette change function is set, even if the paper runs out during continuous printing, it is possible to automatically select the same type of paper as during printing and continue image formation. it can.

As described above, the automatic paper selection function, automatic cassette change function, and the like, which are frequently used by the user, can be used according to the paper type, and the usability of the image forming apparatus can be significantly improved.

Note that the image forming apparatus of the present invention can be used in an electrophotographic system, an inkjet system, a thermal transfer system,
The sublimation method or another method may be used.

Hereinafter, the configuration of a data processing program that can be read by the image forming apparatus according to the present invention will be described with reference to a memory map shown in FIG.

FIG. 13 is a view for explaining a memory map of a storage medium for storing various data processing programs which can be read by the image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

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

Further, data dependent on 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.

The functions shown in FIG. 12 in this embodiment may be performed by a host computer by a program installed from the outside. In this case, the present invention is applied even when a group of information including a program is supplied to the output device from a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, a flash memory, or an FD, or from an external storage medium via a network. Things.

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0139]

As described above, according to the first, second, fourth to ninth aspects of the present invention, the recording medium type previously set for each paper feed source by the recording medium type setting means is set to the recording medium type. Stored in the type storage means, and the control means
Since the print output process is controlled in consideration of the recording medium type of the recording medium to be printed out, settings are made for recording medium types other than the recording medium types necessary for control of conventional devices such as fixing processing, and output according to the recording medium type. By performing the processing, it is possible to easily perform an operation conscious of the recording medium type as in the PDL print.

According to the third invention, in the print output processing in which the automatic paper selection print function and the automatic cassette change function are set by the paper supply function setting means, it is selectively set whether or not the recording medium type is considered. The recording medium type consideration setting means is provided to take the recording medium type into consideration /
With the setting of “no”, it is possible to select a usage that does not consider the type of recording medium as in the past.

Therefore, in the state where the automatic paper selection function is set, the user simply designates a desired paper type without having to be conscious of which type of paper is set in which cassette. An image can be formed by automatically selecting a desired sheet from any of the plurality of cassettes.

In the state where the automatic cassette change function is set, even if the paper runs out during continuous printing, it is possible to automatically select the same type of paper as during printing and continue image formation. it can. Thus, the automatic paper selection function frequently used by the user,
The automatic cassette change function and the like can be used according to the paper type, and there are effects that the usability of the image forming apparatus can be remarkably improved.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image forming apparatus (image input / output apparatus) according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a configuration of a reader unit and a printer unit illustrated in FIG.

FIG. 3 is a plan view showing a key arrangement of the operation unit shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a liquid crystal display operation unit (touch panel) shown in FIG.
FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a screen displayed on a screen.

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a user mode type selection screen in the image forming apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a common specification setting screen in the image forming apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a copy specification setting screen in the image forming apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a timer setting screen in the image forming apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an adjustment / cleaning screen in the image forming apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a cassette auto selection ON / OFF setting screen in the image forming apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a paper type registration setting screen in a cassette in the image forming apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a first control processing procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs that can be read by the image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 102 operation unit 103 reader unit 104 printer unit 106 facsimile unit 107 computer interface unit 108 image memory 109 control unit

──────────────────────────────────────────────────の Continued on the front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification symbol FI Theme coat ゛ (Reference) B65H 3/44 342 B65H 3/44 342 344 344 H04N 1/00 108 H04N 1/00 108M F term (reference) 2C061 AP03 AP04 AQ04 AQ05 AQ06 AR03 AS02 HK07 HL01 HN15 HN17 2H027 DC19 ED17 EK10 FA04 FA05 FA06 FA30 FB06 FB12 FB13 FB14 FD08 ZA07 3F343 FA02 FB02 FC30 HC28 MA03 MA23 MA26 MB03 MB13 AC21 AB02 AB06 AC13 AB21

Claims (9)

[Claims] 1. An image input means for inputting image data,
An image storage means for sequentially storing the image data input by the image input means; and sequentially reading out the image data stored in the image storage means, and sequentially printing out to a recording medium selectively fed from a plurality of paper sources. A recording medium type setting unit for setting a recording medium type for each paper source in advance, and a recording medium type for each paper source set in the recording medium type setting unit. An image forming apparatus comprising: a storage medium type storage unit for storing; and a control unit for controlling a print output process in consideration of a storage medium type of a print medium for print output. 2. An automatic paper selection print function for automatically selecting and feeding a recording medium from any of the paper sources according to the size of the image data and a designated output magnification, and a paper feed selected during continuous printing. 2. A paper feed function setting means for setting an automatic cassette change function for automatically selecting and feeding a print medium of the same size from another paper feed source when the original print medium runs out. Image forming apparatus. 3. A recording medium type consideration setting for selectively setting whether or not to consider the recording medium type in a print output process in which an automatic paper selection print function and an automatic cassette change function are set by the paper supply function setting means. 3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising a unit. 4. A recording medium type set for each paper source set by the recording medium type setting means is displayed. 4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a paper source specifying unit for selecting and specifying a paper source. 5. A recording medium specifying means for selecting and specifying a paper source and a recording medium size, a recording medium type or a recording medium size, and a recording medium size of a recording medium to be printed out. 3. The image forming apparatus according to any one of 3. 6. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus has a printer or a copy function, a printer function, and a facsimile function. 7. The control means controls print output processing in any of the printer or copy function, printer function, and facsimile function modes in consideration of the type of recording medium to be printed. The image forming apparatus according to claim 6, wherein: 8. An image input means for inputting image data,
An image storage unit for sequentially storing the image data input by the image input unit; and image data stored in the image recording unit, and sequentially printing out to a recording medium selected and fed from a plurality of paper sources. In the method for controlling an image forming apparatus having an image output unit, a print medium type setting step of setting a print medium type for each paper source in advance, and a print output process in consideration of a print medium type of a print medium to be printed out. And a print output processing step to be performed. 9. An image input means for inputting image data,
An image storage unit for sequentially storing the image data input by the image input unit, and reading out the image data stored in the image storage unit, and sequentially printing out to a recording medium selectively fed from a plurality of paper sources. A recording medium type setting step for setting a recording medium type for each paper source in advance and a print output for performing a print output process in consideration of a recording medium type of a recording medium to be printed out in an image forming apparatus having an image output unit. A storage medium storing a processing step and a program for executing the processing in a computer-readable manner.