JP2002057821A - Image formation apparatus as well as control method therefor and storage medium - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image formation apparatus whose operability is enhanced by a method wherein, even when the image formation of a control card, a code number or the like is limited, a preview operation is permitted and set and the preview of an image to be input or the display of an image stored in a memory can be performed without performing the input of the control card or the code number. SOLUTION: The image formation apparatus is constituted in such a way that, when the formation of the image is limited, whether a preview display by a monitor 219 is limited or not is selected and that the use of an image memory 208 and the monitor 291 is permitted when it is selected that the preview display is not limited.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus having an image storing means for sequentially storing a plurality of pieces of image information, and an image forming means for forming an image on a recording medium based on the image information stored in the storing means. The present invention relates to a forming apparatus, a control method for an image forming apparatus, and a storage medium.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in order to output image data read from a scanner or an image created by a host computer, PDL data is sent via a network, and image data expanded into a bitmap is temporarily stored in a memory such as a hard disk. An image forming apparatus such as a digital color copying machine having a function of repeatedly reading out image data of an arbitrary document from the memory and printing out the image data is known.

[0003] However, digital color copiers have been improved in image quality and functions, and have come to be able to meet user expectations with respect to color and editing processing of output images. However, in order to obtain desired output images, In many cases, images must be displayed on recording paper many times, which is inefficient in terms of time and cost.

Therefore, an image forming apparatus having a so-called preview function for confirming an image by displaying the processed image on a display device such as a CRT without outputting the image on recording paper has been proposed and commercialized.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a conventional image forming apparatus having a preview function.

In the figure, blocks denoted by reference numerals 101 to 112 constitute a full-color copying machine, reference numeral 113 denotes a controller for inputting external image data to the full-color copying machine, and blocks denoted by reference numerals 114 and 219 realize a preview function.

The image forming apparatus shown in FIG. 13 scans a document once, records the scanned image in a memory, and outputs the information in color on a recording sheet.

Referring to the figure in more detail, FIG.
Reference numeral 1 denotes a CCD image sensor which reads an original image
A B image signal (an image signal expressed by additive color mixture) is output. Reference numeral 102 denotes an A / D & S / H unit which performs sample hold and analog / digital conversion. A shading correction unit 103 performs shading correction. Reference numeral 104 denotes an input masking unit which converts the color space of the input image signal into R
Change to the GB standard color space.

Reference numeral 112 denotes a selector for selecting a read image and a controller image. 105 is L
The OG conversion unit converts the RGB luminance signal into a YMCK density signal (an image signal expressed by subtractive color mixing). A masking / UCR unit 106 performs a UCR process and a masking process according to the color reproducibility of the printer. An editing circuit 107 performs various image processing such as trimming, masking, painting, and scaling. Reference numeral 108 denotes an edge enhancement unit that enhances the edges of the image. A printer unit 109 such as a color laser beam printer (LBP) forms an image on a recording sheet.

The external data created by the host computer is converted into PDL data, sent to the controller 113 via the network and expanded, and then sent to the image forming apparatus.

Reference numeral 110 denotes an image memory, which is a selector 1
The RGB signals output from the memory 12 are stored. A memory control unit 111 controls reading and writing of the image memory 110, that is, output of an address value and exchange between the CPU and the image memory 110. A preview processing unit 114 performs control for displaying an image represented by the image signal stored in the image memory 110. 219 is C for displaying.
Monitors such as RT and LCD.

[0012]

In the image forming apparatus having the above-described preview function, the output of an image can be restricted by a control card, a management key, a password, or the like for preventing unauthorized copying and copy management.

As described above, when the output of an image is restricted, a preview is performed to check the layout and color of the image, data in an image memory is previewed, and image recording in the memory is performed. However, there is a problem that the operation of the operation unit is restricted when the user attempts to perform the operation, so that the user must input a password and prepare a control card.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and an object of the first to ninth inventions according to the present invention is to use a monitor when image formation is restricted. Select whether or not to restrict the preview display, and if it is selected not to restrict the preview display, permit the use of the image memory and the monitor to restrict image formation such as a control card and password. Can be set to allow preview operations,
In that case, without inputting a control card or a password, it is possible to preview an input image or to display an image stored in a memory, thereby significantly improving operability. An object of the present invention is to provide a method for controlling an image forming apparatus and a storage medium.

[0015]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a storage means (an image memory 208 shown in FIG. 2) for sequentially storing a plurality of pieces of image information, and the image information stored in the storage means. In an image forming apparatus having an image forming means (a printer unit 352 shown in FIG. 1) for forming an image on a recording medium based on the editing processing means for editing the image information stored in the storage means (FIG. 3 and a display means for displaying an image edited by the editing means (the monitor 21 shown in FIG. 1).
9).

A second invention according to the present invention is directed to a first invention for selecting an arbitrary image from a plurality of images stored in the storage means.
Selection means (previous document display key (upward arrow of display image selection key 806), next document display key (downward arrow of display image selection key 806) shown in FIG. 9), and the display means The image selected by the selection means is displayed.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, a limiting means (CPU 240 shown in FIG. 2) for limiting the image forming means is provided.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, when the image forming is restricted by the restricting means, the second selecting means selects whether or not to restrict the use of the display means by the restricting means. (A preview operation selection screen at the time of output restriction of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. 8).

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, when the image forming is restricted by the restricting means, and when the use of the display means is not restricted by the second selecting means, the restricting means is used. Does not restrict the use of the storage means and the display means.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the restriction means includes a copy counter, a control card (control card 606 shown in FIG. 5), a management key, and a password (input from a password input screen shown in FIG. 7). The above-mentioned restriction is released by a password.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the storage means includes a hard disk, an MO, and a semiconductor memory.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image storing means for sequentially storing a plurality of pieces of image information, an image forming means for forming an image on a recording medium based on the image information stored in the storing means, Limiting means for restricting image formation by the image forming means, editing processing means for editing the image information stored in the storage means, and display means for displaying the edited image on a display unit; A selection step (not shown) for selecting whether to restrict the use of the display means when image formation is restricted by the restriction means, and When it is selected that the use of the display means is not restricted by the process, the storage means includes a permission step (step S1002 in FIG. 11) for permitting use of the display means.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image storage means for sequentially storing a plurality of pieces of image information, an image forming means for forming an image on a recording medium based on the image information stored in the storage means, Limiting means for restricting image formation by the image forming means, editing processing means for editing the image information stored in the storage means, and display means for displaying the edited image on a display unit; A selection step (not shown) for selecting whether to restrict the use of the display means when image formation is restricted by the restriction means, and displaying the image data by the selection step. If you choose not to restrict the use of the means,
A program for executing a permission step (step S1002 in FIG. 11) for permitting use of the storage means and the display means is stored in a storage medium in a computer-readable manner.

[0024]

FIG. 1 is a sectional view showing the structure of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in the figure, this image forming apparatus has a color reader section (hereinafter, referred to as a reader section) 351 for reading a color original and further performing digital editing processing and the like, and a reader section 351 having a different image carrier for each color. Printer unit 352 that reproduces a color image according to the digital image signal of each color sent from
The monitor 219 such as T is connected to the image forming apparatus main body by a VGA interface. (Structure of Reader Unit) In the reader unit 351, reference numeral 354 denotes a pressure plate, and a document placed on the platen 353 is used to move the original.
Press 355 is a light source, for example, a halogen lamp,
The document on the document table 353 is irradiated with predetermined light. Reference numeral 201 denotes a CCD image sensor (hereinafter, referred to as a CCD) that reflects reflected light of a light source 355 from a document onto mirrors 356, 357, 358, and
The signal is input through a lens 359 and converted into an electric signal.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a digital image processing unit in the reader unit 351 shown in FIG. 1. The same components as those in FIG. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

The configuration and operation will be described below.

A color document on the document table 353 shown in FIG. 1 is exposed by a halogen lamp 355. As a result, the reflected image is picked up by the CCD 201, and the three-color analog signals RGB represented by the additive color mixture are output, and the A / D & S /
After being sampled and held by the H section 202, the digital signal is A / D converted, and a digital signal of three colors of RGB (luminance signal; a digital signal of three colors RGB expressed by additive color mixing) is generated. Each color separation data (digital signal) is subjected to shading and black correction by a shading correction unit 203, correction to an NTSC signal by an input masking unit 204, color conversion by a color conversion unit 205, and the result is input to a synthesis unit 206. I do.

The synthesizing unit 206 is a unit for synthesizing the image data of the reflection document with the output data of the image memory unit 208. The result is subjected to a LOG correction process in the LOG conversion unit 207 to express the subtractive color mixture. Digital signal CM of three colors
Y is output, and the first scaling section 234 performs scaling processing (when scaling is set).

Here, in the scaling process, since the compression process performed in the image memory unit 208 functions as a low-pass filter, a specific enlargement process is performed. Further, the output of the first scaling unit 234 is input to the image memory unit 208.

The image memory unit 208 is composed of three units, a compression unit, an image memory, and a decompression unit, and reads CMY data (24 bits × 4) before output masking corresponding to each of the four drums.

Reference numeral 212 denotes a masking / UCR unit which generates color signals (density signals; four-color digital signals CMYK expressed by subtractive color mixing) for each drum, and generates color signals suitable for printer characteristics. An editing processing unit 213 performs free color processing and paint processing.
The editing result of the editing processing unit 213 is subjected to γ correction by the gamma correction unit 214, scaling (specifically, reduction processing) by the second scaling unit 211, edge enhancement by the edge enhancement unit 215, and printer unit (color LBP) ) 352.

A preview processing unit 217 includes a monitor image memory for storing edited image data and a memory control unit for controlling the monitor image memory. C
A monitor 219 such as an RT or LCD displays data in a monitor image memory. Details of the preview processing unit 217 and the monitor 219 will be described later.

Reference numeral 220 denotes a first area generation unit, which is a main scanning synchronization signal (HSNC) 229 (either a signal generated inside the first area generation unit 220 or a signal of the BD signal 228 sent from the printer unit 352); Output DTOP of image sensor
Signal 226, ITO generated inside printer unit 352
P signal 227 (at the time of printer output, a total of seven signals (two write enable signals (main scanning (227-1) not shown), Scanning (227-2), and one read enable signal (main scanning (227-
3) One line, sub-scan (227-M, 227-C, 227-
Y, 227-K) 4)), a signal 221 for controlling the image memory in the image memory unit 208, the ITOP signal 22
7, a signal 238 (main scanning write enable signal 238-1, sub-scanning) generated in consideration of the delay of each of the compression unit and the expansion unit in the image memory unit 208 to adjust the timing of the image signal and the area signal in synchronization with Write enable signal 238-2, main scan read enable signal 2
38-3, a sub-scanning enable signal (238-M, 238
-C, 238-Y, 238-K)), an enable signal 225 for the monitor image memory in the preview processing unit 217.
(One main scan and one sub-scan).

Reference numeral 230 denotes a second area generation unit which generates an area signal for each editing process. This portion includes a bitmap memory unit that stores each area signal and a bitmap memory control unit that controls the bitmap memory (for example, an AGDC (Advanced Graph)) as described later.
ic Display Controller), writing is performed by the CPU, and reading is performed by the DTOP.
226, synchronized with the HSNC 229 (synchronous with the optically scanned document image data).

The second area generating section 230 outputs a color conversion enable signal 222, an image synthesis enable signal 223, and a free color / paint enable signal 236.

A delay unit DL232 for delaying the image synthesis enable signal 223, a delay unit DL237 for delaying the free color / paint enable signal 236, an area memory 231 to which the free color / paint enable signal 236 is input, and a third scaling unit 235. And area memory 231
This is a configuration for timing adjustment for motivating the image signal and the area signal of each of the delay units 233 for delaying the output signal of FIG.

Specifically, the DL 232 is connected to the color conversion unit 205.
The image synthesis enable signal is delayed by a time corresponding to the processing time of the image synthesis. DL233 is masking / UC
The signal 22 corresponding to the processing time by the R unit 212
Delay 4 DL 237 is a color conversion unit 205 and a synthesis unit 2
06 and the signal 236 are delayed by a time corresponding to the processing time of the LOG conversion unit 207. In any DL, the delay per pixel is performed by a D flip-flop and the delay per line is performed by a FIFO.

Further, the third scaling unit 235 includes the first scaling unit 2.
The same processing as the enlargement processing in 34 is performed, and the processing time is also the same.

The area memory 231 delays the signal 236 by a time corresponding to the writing / reading time in the image memory unit 208.

A CPU 240 controls the entire image forming apparatus based on a program stored in the ROM 241 or another storage medium (not shown). A RAM 242 is used as a work area of the CPU 240.
An operation unit 244 is shown in detail in FIG. RAM
242 has a nonvolatile storage unit such as NVRAM inside, and can store the setting from the operation unit 244 in a nonvolatile manner.

Note that the image forming apparatus of the present invention can input image data from a computer, a scanner, a digital camera, a memory, or the like and store the image data in the image memory unit 208 via an external interface (not shown).

The image memory unit 208 may be a hard disk, an MO, a semiconductor memory, or another storage device. (Signal Flow in Each Image Mode) Hereinafter, the flow of the video signal and the setting of the I / O port in each mode will be described with reference to FIG. [Normal Copy] The video flow in normal copy is C
CD 201 → A / D & S / H section 202 → Shading correction section 203 → Input masking section 204 → Color conversion section 20
5 → synthesis unit 206 (A input → C output) → LOG conversion unit 2
07 → first scaling unit 234 → image memory unit 208 → masking / UCR unit 212 → edit processing unit 213 → gamma correction unit 214 → second scaling unit 211 → edge enhancement unit 215 → printer unit 352.

At this time, the sub-scanning enable signal 221-M
221-K and 238-M to 238-K are controlled to be enabled with the interval of each color drum. [Display RGB system editing process (color conversion) result on monitor] R
The video flow when displaying the result of the GB editing process (color conversion) on the monitor is as follows: CCD 201 → A / D & S / H unit 2
02 → shading correction section 203 → input masking section 204 → color conversion section 205 → synthesis section 206 (A input → B output) → LOG conversion section 207 → first scaling section 234 → image memory section 208 → masking / UCR section 212 → edit processing unit 213 → gamma correction unit 214 → second scaling unit 211 → edge enhancement unit 215 → preview processing unit 217 → monitor 2
It becomes 19.

In this mode, the data written to the memory in the image memory unit 208 changes every time the editing contents are corrected in the preview mode, so that the writing (display on the monitor) starts from reading the original ( The video flow is repeated from the CCD 201).

At this time, the sub-scanning read enable 221-
M-221-K and 238-M-238-K rise simultaneously and fall simultaneously.

Confirmation by preview in this mode is OK
The printout after the time is performed only by reading from the image memory unit 208 without performing optical scanning. At this time,
The sub-scanning enable signals 221-M to 221-K are controlled to be enabled with an interval of each color drum. [Display of CMYK Editing Process (Paint, Free Color) Result on Monitor] The video flow when displaying the CMYK editing process (paint, free color) result on the monitor is as follows: CCD 201 → A / D & S / H unit 202 → Shading correction unit 203 → input masking unit 204 → color conversion unit 205 → synthesis unit 206 (A input → C output) → LOG conversion unit 207 → first scaling unit 234 → image memory unit 208 →
Masking / UCR section 212 → Editing processing section 213 → Gamma correction section 214 → Second scaling section 211 → Edge enhancement section 21
5 → Preview processing unit 217 → Monitor 219.

In this mode, since the data written to the memory in the image memory unit 208 is not affected by the editing contents in the preview mode, the optical scanning is not performed in the second and subsequent writing (display on the monitor), and the editing is not performed. This is performed only by changing the parameters and reading from the image memory unit 208 (the flow of the video starts from the image memory unit 208).
1-K and 238-M to 238-K rise simultaneously and fall simultaneously.

Confirmation by preview in this mode is OK
The printout after the time is performed only by reading from the image memory unit 208 without performing optical scanning. At this time,
The sub-scanning enable signals 221-M to 221-K are controlled to be enabled with an interval of each color drum. [Displaying Synthesis Result on Monitor] (1) The video flow at the time of writing the first image is a CCD
201 → A / D & S / H section 202 → shading correction section 203 → input masking section 204 → color conversion section 205 →
Synthesis unit 206 (A input → C output) → LOG conversion unit 207
→ the first scaling unit 234 → the image memory unit 208.

(2) (2-1) The video flow when combining with the second image and writing it again to the image memory in the image memory unit 208 is as follows: memory output (image memory unit 208) → masking / UCR unit 212 → edit processing section 213 → gamma correction section 214 → second scaling section 211 → edge emphasis section 215
→ It becomes the synthesizing unit 206. Here, the masking / UCR section 212 is set to the through state, and the inverse LOG table is set for the γ correction.

(2-2) The video flow of the reflection original is C
CD 201 → A / D & S / H section 202 → Shading correction section 203 → Input masking section 204 → Color conversion section 20
5 → combining unit 206

(3) The video flow of the synthesizing and monitor output is as follows: the synthesizing section 206 → LOG converter 207 → image memory section 208 (memory writing) Image memory section 208 → masking / UCR section 212 → edit processing section 213 → gamma Correction section 214 → second magnification section 21
1 → the edge enhancement unit 215 → the preview processing unit 217 → the monitor 219. (Configuration of Printer Unit) Hereinafter, the configuration and operation of the printer unit 352 will be described with reference to FIG.

In FIG. 1, reference numeral 301 denotes a polygon scanner which scans a photosensitive drum with laser light. Reference numeral 302 denotes a first-stage magenta (M) image forming unit. Image forming units for cyan (C), yellow (Y), and black (K) have the same configuration and are denoted by 303, 304, and 305.

The polygon scanner 301 scans a laser beam from a laser element driven independently of MCYK by a laser control unit (not shown) on a photosensitive drum of each color. This is a BD detection unit that detects a scanned laser beam and generates a main scanning synchronization signal. When two polygon mirrors are arranged on the same axis and rotated by one motor as in this embodiment, for example, magenta (M), cyan (C), yellow (Y), and black (K) are used. With the laser beam, the scanning directions of the main scanning are opposite to each other. Therefore, normally, one magenta (M) and cyan (C) images and the other yellow (Y) and black (K) image data are mirror images in the main scanning direction.

In the image forming section 302, a photosensitive drum 318 forms a latent image by exposure to a laser beam. 313
Denotes a developing device, which performs toner development on the photosensitive drum 318.
A sleeve 314 in the developing device 313 applies a developing bias to perform toner development. A primary charger 315 charges the photosensitive drum 318 to a desired potential. A cleaner 317 cleans the surface of the photosensitive drum 318 after the transfer.

Reference numeral 316 denotes an auxiliary charger, which removes electricity from the surface of the photosensitive drum 318 cleaned by the cleaner 317 so that the primary charger 315 can obtain good charge. 3
Reference numeral 30 denotes a pre-exposure lamp for erasing residual charges on the photosensitive drum 318. 319, a transfer charger;
To discharge the toner image on the photosensitive drum 318 to the transfer member.

Reference numerals 309 and 310 denote cassettes for accommodating transfer members. Reference numeral 308 denotes a paper feed unit, and cassettes 309 and 310
Supplies the transfer member. Reference numeral 311 denotes an adsorption charger, which adsorbs the transfer member fed by the sheet feeding unit to the transfer member.
A transfer belt roller 312 is used to rotate the transfer belt 306 and, at the same time, makes a pair with the attraction charger 311 to attract and charge the transfer member to the transfer belt 306.

Reference numeral 324 denotes a static eliminator for facilitating separation of the transfer member from the transfer belt 306. 32
Reference numeral 5 denotes a peeling charger, which prevents image disturbance due to peeling discharge when the transfer member is separated from the transfer belt 306. 32
Reference numeral 6,327 denotes a pre-fixing charger, which supplements the toner attraction force on the transfer member after separation to prevent image disturbance. 322,32
Reference numeral 3 denotes a transfer belt static eliminator, which is used to neutralize the transfer belt 306 and electrostatically initialize the transfer belt 306.

Reference numeral 328 denotes a belt cleaner, which is a transfer belt 3
06 stains are removed. A fixing device 307 thermally fixes the toner image on the transfer member separated from the transfer belt 306 and recharged by the pre-fixing chargers 326 and 327 onto the transfer member. Reference numeral 340 denotes a paper ejection sensor that detects a transfer member on a conveyance path that passes through the fixing device 307.

Reference numeral 329 denotes a paper edge sensor which detects the edge of the transfer member fed onto the transfer belt 306 by the paper feed unit 308. The detection signal from the paper leading edge sensor 329 is sent from the printer unit to the reader unit, and is used to generate a sub-scanning synchronization signal when a video signal is sent from the reader unit 351 to the printer unit 352. (Explanation of Preview Processing Unit) FIG. 3 is a block diagram for explaining the configuration of the preview processing unit 217 shown in FIG. 2, in which the read image data is the final image obtained through the processing circuit of the image processing unit. Is displayed on the monitor 219.

Referring to FIG. 2, reference numeral 200 denotes an image processing unit.
A / D & S / H section 202, shading correction section 203, input masking section 204, color conversion section 205,
Synthesis unit 206, LOG conversion unit 207, first scaling unit 23
4, image memory unit 208, masking / UCR unit 21
2, an edit processing section 213, a gamma correction section 214, a second scaling section 211, an edge enhancement section 215, and the like.
In step 01, image processing is performed on the image data read.

The final image data Y1, M1, C1, and K1 (each 8 bits of YMCK data) output from the image processing section 200 are first corrected by a 4 × 3 inverse masking correction circuit 217-.
1 and the following calculation is performed. This performs the inverse operation of the masking / UCR unit 212 shown in FIG. Y2 = a11.times.Y1 + a12.times.M1 + a13.times.C1 + a14.times.K1 M2 = a21.times.Y1 + a22.times.M1 + a23.times.C1 + a24.times.K1 C2 = a31.times.Y1 + a32.times.M1 + a33.times.C1 + a34.times.K1 It is possible to set an arbitrary coefficient.

Here, from the information of four colors, the information of two colors Y2, M
2, C2 and then a correction circuit 217 for antilogarithmic conversion
-2 is input.

Here, the LOG conversion unit 20 shown in FIG.
7 is configured by an LUT (Look Up Table) to perform an inverse operation of the LOG processing of the CPU 7 as described above.
With 0, any correction data can be set.

By this operation, the YMCK density data is converted into luminance data and displayed on a monitor such as a CRT or LCD.
There are many types of monitors and the color reproduction range is also different, and a means for adjusting these is required. Next 21
The 3 × 3 monitor color correction of 7-3 is for correcting the color characteristics of the monitor, and the following calculation is performed. R2 = b11.times.R1 + b12.times.G1 + b13.times.B1 G2 = b21.times.R1 + b22.times.G1 + b23.times.B1 B2 = b31.times.R1 + b32.times.G1 + b33.times.B1 As with the inverse masking of 217-1, an arbitrary coefficient is set.

The next monitor gamma correction 217-4 is a circuit for correcting the gamma characteristic of each monitor in the same manner.
, Arbitrary correction data can be set.

Next, the display / editing circuit 217-5 is a circuit for performing various editing and controlling the monitor when displaying on the monitor.

FIG. 4 shows the display editing circuit 217 shown in FIG.
FIG. 5 is a block diagram for explaining the configuration of −5 in detail, and includes a portion that processes an image that is roughly divided and read, and a portion that generates additional information such as a frame or a character in the image.

As shown in the figure, the monitor gamma correction 217
-4 data after R3, G3, and B3 are stored in memory 2
17-11, 217-12, 217-13,
According to the address 217-21 of the write address control circuit 217-17 in the display controller 217-10, C is written so that writing can be performed from an arbitrary position in the memory.
The PU 240 can set a start address and an end address in the X and Y directions from the CPU bus 245. In this embodiment, the size of the memory is 640 × 480.
It is composed of three colors of × 9 × (8 bits).

When writing, it is possible to write in a reduced size according to the original image size, and the magnification is set to the CPU.
240 can be set. Further, the writing address control unit controls the image data to be arbitrarily rotated depending on whether the displayed image size is portrait or landscape. At this time, in the area other than the start address / end address, that is, in the area where the image is not written, the previous image remains or the display color is fixed. The display color can be set by the CPU 240 so that the color can be displayed.

Next, after the data is written into the memory, the CPU 240 specifies an arbitrary coordinate from the read address control unit 217-18 in order to specify from which part of the memory the data is to be read for display on a monitor such as a CRT or LCD. It is possible to do. This can be displayed in real time by a touch panel key of the operation unit described later. Further, since the image size of the monitor of this embodiment is 640 × 480 dots, it is necessary to query and display the image in order to display the entire memory, and this also enables the CPU 240 to set the thinning rate. ing. In this embodiment, as will be described later, a 1 × mode for displaying the entire memory, a 2 × mode for displaying 4/9 of the memory, and a 3 × mode for displaying 1/9 of the memory can be selected.

Next, a memory 217-20 is a memory for adding various figures and characters to the image information separately from the image information, and has a size of 640.times.480.times.9.times. (4 bits).
Configuration. That is, different figures and characters for four sides can be developed independently of each other.

In the present embodiment, these pieces of information are
Although the information is directly expanded on the memory from 0, the information may be expanded through a dedicated controller such as AGDC (trade name of NEC Corporation) which can expand the information at high speed. The read address control circuit 217-19 can set the read start position and set the thinning rate in the same manner as the read address control circuit 217-18 described above.

Next, the data read from each of these memories is input to the selector 217-14. The selector 217-14 outputs the image data 217-25 to 217-27 as it is when the signal 217-24 is "L" and outputs "H" when the signal 217-24 is "L" in accordance with the signal read from the memory 217-20. At the time, R, G, and B (8-bit) data corresponding to the four surfaces of the memory 217-20 are output. These R, G, and B data can be set by the CPU 240, and it is possible to add any color to figures and characters drawn on each of the four surfaces of the memory 217-20.

The signal processed by the selector 217-14 is converted into an analog signal for monitoring by the D / A converter 217-16, and the final image is displayed on the monitor 219. FIG. 5 shows the operation unit 244 shown in FIG.
It is a top view which shows the structure of.

In the figure, reference numeral 601 denotes a numeral key, which is used to input a numerical value. A copy start key 602 is pressed to start a copy operation. A stomp key 603 is depressed to stop the copy operation.
A mode setting key group 604 is pressed to set various copy modes. For example, a mode setting key group 604
By pressing a not-shown double-sided mode setting key, a not-shown one-sided / two-sided setting screen is displayed, and copy modes such as one-sided original-one-sided copy, one-sided original-two-sided copy, and two-sided original-two-sided copy are set. can do. Further, a preview mode can be selected by pressing a preview selection key (not shown) in the mode setting key group 604. 605 is a liquid crystal display (LC)
A display unit such as D) has a touch panel on the surface. Reference numeral 606 denotes a control card unit.

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the standard screen displayed on the display unit 605 shown in FIG.

As shown in the figure, on the standard screen of the display unit 605, reference numeral 701 denotes an apparatus state, which displays the state of the apparatus. Reference numeral 702 denotes the number of copies, which displays the set number of copies. A paper size 703 displays the set paper size. A copy magnification 704 displays the set copy magnification.

Reference numeral 706 denotes an equal-size key, which is pressed to set an equal-size copy. A reduction key 707 is pressed when setting a reduction copy. Reference numeral 708 denotes an enlargement key which is pressed when setting enlargement copy. A zoom key 709 is pressed when setting a zoom. A paper selection key 710 is pressed when a recording paper is selected.

Reference numerals 711 and 713 denote density adjustment keys which are depressed when an automatic density adjustment mode is set. An automatic density adjustment mode setting key 712 is pressed when setting the automatic density adjustment mode. 714 is a character / print photo key,
Press to set the text original copy mode or print photo original copy mode.

As described above, the standard screen as shown in FIG. 6 is normally displayed. However, the control card 606 is controlled by the CPU 240 to prevent unauthorized copying and manage copy output.
If the output (image formation) is restricted by a password or a management key (not shown), a password, or the like, a message prompting each input is displayed (hereinafter, a password input screen shown in FIG. 7).

FIG. 7 shows a password input screen displayed on the display unit 605 shown in FIG. 5, which corresponds to a case where a password is set.

In the figure, reference numeral 1001 denotes a numeric keypad for inputting a password registered in advance, and the password input from the numeric keypad 1001 is displayed on the display unit 100.
3 is displayed with a face-down character (for example, “*”).

The operator inputs a pre-registered password using the numeric keypad 1001 and presses the OK key 1002. If the entered password is correct, the screen transitions to the standard screen of FIG. 6, and if incorrect, the screen transitions to the password input screen of FIG.

When the output is restricted as shown in the figure, the numeric key 601, copy start key 602, stop key 603, mode setting key 604 shown in FIG.
Key input is rejected, and it cannot be set off. Therefore mode setting key 6
04, the transition to the preview screen is prohibited even if the preview key is pressed.

However, if the administrator has enabled the preview operation on a selection screen as shown in FIG. 8 described later in advance, the mode is displayed while the password input screen of FIG. 7 is displayed. When a preview is selected by the setting key 604, the screen transits to a preview screen as shown in FIG. 9 and the document is read by the reader unit 351, an image is input from an external interface (not shown), and the image is obtained from the reader unit 351 and an external interface (not shown). The CPU 240 permits storage of the obtained image data in the image memory unit 208 and preview display on the monitor 291 (use of each unit is not restricted).

The above restriction may be released not only by using a password but also by using a copy counter, a control card, a management key, or the like.

FIG. 8 is a preview operation selection screen displayed on the display unit 605 shown in FIG. 5 when the output of the image forming apparatus is limited. When the copy operation is prohibited, whether the preview operation is enabled or disabled is determined. Make a selection. Note that the preview operation selection screen at the time of output restriction is displayed in the administrator mode by the mode setting key 604 shown in FIG.

In the figure, reference numeral 1101 denotes an effective key, and when this key is pressed, a preview operation when the output of the image forming apparatus is limited is set to be effective. Reference numeral 1102 denotes an invalid key. By depressing this key, the preview operation of the image forming apparatus when the output is restricted is invalidated.

FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a preview operation screen displayed on the display unit 605 shown in FIG.
The preview is selected by the mode setting key 604 when the administrator has enabled the preview operation on a selection screen as shown in FIG. 8 described below in advance and the password input screen of FIG. 7 is displayed. It is displayed by being done.

In the figure, reference numeral 801 denotes a preview start (image reading) key, which is pressed when a preview display is performed. A display direction setting (rotation) key 802 is pressed to set the direction (vertical or horizontal) of an image to be preview-displayed. A display magnification setting key 805 is pressed when setting a preview display magnification. Reference numeral 804 denotes a display position setting key. When the display magnification is set to 2 or 3 times by the display magnification setting key 805, the memory 217-
This button is pressed to set a display position (upper left, upper, upper right, left, center, right, lower left, lower, lower right area to be enlarged and displayed) in the image stored in 11 to 217-13.
An area monitor 803 displays which area of the image is preview-displayed on the monitor 219 according to the setting of the display position setting key 804.

Reference numeral 806 denotes a display image selection key. When there are a plurality of originals, a previous original display key (display image selection key 806) is displayed.
Up arrow), next document display key (display image selection key 8)
06 down arrow) to select an image to be preview-displayed.

Hereinafter, an example of memory registration by image reading and preview display will be described.

The operator sets a document on the document table and sets the display direction (vertical or horizontal) of the document using the display direction setting key 802. The display direction is such that the image from the original abutment position on the original platen is the write address control
The memory 217-11, 217-12, and 21 by -17
The data is written to 7-13 and displayed from the upper right of the monitor 219.

When the display direction setting key 802 is pressed, the display of the display direction setting key is reversed to black, and the image from the document abutting position is written in the write address control rotation 217-.
Rotate 90 degrees by 17 and memory 217-11, 217
The image rotated by 90 degrees is written on the monitor 219 to be written to -12, 217-13.

When the operator presses the preview start key 801, the document placed on the document table 353 is scanned,
Data is written to the image memory unit 208. The data read from the image memory unit 208 is subjected to various set editing processes, and then subjected to a preview processing unit 217-
After the signals are sent to the 217-2 and 217-2 and converted into RGB, the signals are corrected by the 3 × 3 monitor color correction 217-3 and the monitor gamma correction 217-4 according to the characteristics of the monitor 219, and are displayed by the display editing circuit 217-5. The memory 217-11, based on the set display direction, magnification, document size, etc.
The most efficient size that fits the entire image in the area of 217-12 and 217-13 is calculated and data is written, and the display controller 217-10 controls the monitor 219.
And the preview image is displayed.

To display an image previously registered in the image memory unit 208 on the monitor 219, an image to be displayed is selected by a display image selection key 806.

For example, the next page key (display image selection key 80
6 down arrow) is selected, the next image of the currently selected image recorded in the memory is read from the memory, and the next page image is displayed as a preview image on the monitor 219 by the display controller 217-10. Is displayed. When the previous page key (up arrow of the display image selection key 806) is selected, an image preceding the currently displayed image in the image memory unit 208 is read from the memory and displayed on the monitor 219.

By the way, the size of this image memory is
R, G, B image size 640x of monitor 219 each
It has a size of 1920 × 1440 dots, which is nine times as large as 480 dots. Therefore, when transferring data from the image memory to the monitor 219, the display controller changes the image memory data from the image size of the monitor 219 and the display magnification set by the display magnification setting key 705 and transfers the data to the monitor 219. It is necessary to do.

Hereinafter, a specific example of the preview display will be described.

FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a preview display in the image forming apparatus of the present invention.

As shown in the figure, the display controller 217-10 stores an image 901 in the memory 217-.
11 to 217-13. At this time, when the display magnification “1 ×” is set by the display magnification setting key 805, the entire data area of the memories 217-11 to 217-13 is set to 1 by the display controller 217-10.
/ 9 is displayed on the monitor 219 as shown at 902.

Also, "2 times" of the display magnification setting key 805
When the key is pressed, the memory 217-11 to 217-1
The data in the area of 4/9 of 3 is reduced to 1/4 by the display controller 217-10 and transferred, and 902
Is displayed on the monitor 219, a part of the memory is enlarged and displayed twice as large as the display at the time of one time. The same applies when the "3 times" key of the display magnification setting key 805 is pressed.
By transferring 1/9 of the area to the display memory at the same magnification, a part of the image is magnified three times and displayed on the monitor 219 as shown by 903.

Also, the display magnification setting key 805 is used to set the magnification to 2 ×, 3 ×
When the double is set, a part of the memory is
9 is transferred to the monitor 219 after changing the reading position of the memory area, a portion that is not displayed on the monitor 219 can be displayed. That is, when the display magnification setting key 805 is set to 2 ×, an image of an arbitrary ４ size of the memory is displayed on the monitor 219.

At this time, if the downward key of the display position setting key 804 is pressed, the size of 1/4 from the position where the memory reading start position has moved downward by 4 dots is transferred to the monitor 219. An image at the bottom of the screen that has not been displayed in 219 can be displayed.

At this time, if a part of the read area of the memory is located at the end of the memory, if the read start position is moved next to the end, the read start position is out of the range of the image memory. In order to make the operator recognize that the user cannot move, the display position setting key in the end direction is shaded, and the key sense cannot be performed. An area monitor 803 is displayed so that the operator can recognize which area of the memory is displayed on the monitor 219 when the image is moved. (Operation when Setting Image Output Restriction) Hereinafter, preview display when image output restriction setting is set will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a first control processing procedure of the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, which corresponds to an example of a preview display processing procedure when an image output restriction setting is set. CPU 240 shown is ROM2
41 or a program stored in another storage medium (not shown). Note that S1001 to S10
Reference numeral 15 denotes each step.

First, in step S1001, the operator selects a preview mode with a preview selection key (not shown) in the mode setting key group 604. In step S1002, the preview operation when the output of the image forming apparatus is limited is set to be valid. It is determined whether or not the setting has been made. If it is determined that the setting has been made valid, the process proceeds to step S1005.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1002 that the preview operation when the output of the image forming apparatus is restricted is not set to be valid (is set to be invalid), the flow advances to step S1003.

Next, in step S1003, the personal identification number is input. In step S1004, it is determined whether or not the input personal identification number is a correct personal identification number, and it is not a correct personal identification number (an incorrect personal identification number). In this case, the process is terminated as it is, and when it is determined that the password is correct, use of the reader unit 351, an external interface (not shown), the image memory unit 208, and the monitor 219 is permitted (document reading, external input, memory The execution of the image recording and the preview operation is permitted), and the process proceeds to step S1005.

In step S1005, the original is placed on a feeder (not shown), and in step S1006,
When the operator presses the preview start key 801,
In step S1007, the document is pulled into the document table from a feeder (not shown), and the document is read.
8 is recorded. This operation (S1007, S1008)
Until the document in the feeder runs out (the image of the second document is stored in the next position (area) in the image memory unit 208 where the image of the first document is stored). That is, in step S1009, it is determined whether or not there is a document in the feeder. If it is determined that there is still a document, the process returns to step S1007. The process proceeds to S1010.

In step S1010, the document number M is set to 1 (M = 1), and step S1011 is executed.
The image of the document number M recorded in the M-th area of the image memory unit 208 (here, the image of the first document stored in the first memory) is stored in the image memory unit 208.
(M-th area of the image memory unit 208), and 3 × 4 inverse masking 2 in the preview processing unit 217.
17-1, the signal is sent to the inverse logarithmic conversion 217-2,
After being converted to B, it is corrected by the 3 × 3 monitor color correction 217-3 and the monitor gamma correction 217-4 according to the characteristics of the monitor 219, and the display direction, magnification, document size, etc. set by the display editing circuit 217-5. From memory 21
The most efficient size in which the entire image fits into the area of 7-11, 217-12, and 217-13 is calculated and data is written, sent to the monitor 219 by the display controller 217-10, and the preview image is displayed. .

Next, in step S1012, it is determined whether or not the next document display key (downward arrow of the display image selection key 806) has been pressed. If it is determined that the key has been pressed, then in step S1014 the document number M Is advanced by one page (M = M + 1), and the process returns to step S1011.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1012 that the next document display key (the downward arrow of the display image selection key 806) has not been pressed, in step S1013, the previous document display key (the upward arrow of the display image selection key 806) is displayed. It is determined whether or not the arrow (arrow) is pressed. If it is determined that the arrow has been pressed, the document number M is returned by one page (M = M−1) in step S1015, and step S1012 is performed.
Return to

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1013 that the previous document display key (upward arrow of the display image selection key 806) has not been pressed, the process directly proceeds to step S1013.
Return to 12.

That is, when displaying the next original, the operator presses the next original display key (upward arrow of the display image selection key 806) as in step S1012 described above. When the button is pressed, the image of the image number M + 1 stored in the area of the image memory unit 208 one page after the currently displayed document number M is read from the image memory unit 208 and displayed on the monitor 219.

If the operator presses the previous document display key (downward arrow of the display image selection key 806) as in step S1013, the operator displays the previous document. The image of the image number M-1 stored in the area of the image memory unit 208 one page before the number M is read out from the image memory unit 208 and
9 is displayed.

According to the above-described processing, when the output of the image is restricted, whether or not the preview operation is permitted is selected. When the preview operation is permitted, the image is input without inputting the control card or the password. The operability can be remarkably improved by realizing the reading, the image recording to the memory, and the preview operation.

In the present invention, any image forming apparatus may be used as long as it has a preview system in an electronic server or a copying machine having an image storage memory.

As described above, the image forming apparatus of the present invention has a selection means of permitting or not permitting the preview operation when the output of the image is restricted. When the preview operation is permitted, the control card is provided. The image reading, the image recording in the memory, and the preview operation can be realized without inputting a password or a password.

Although the monitor 219 and the display unit 605 on the operation panel 244 are different in the above embodiment, the preview image is displayed on the display unit 6 on the operation panel 244.
05 may be displayed in a predetermined area.

Further, in the present embodiment, the configuration including the next original display key (downward arrow of display image selection key 806) and the next original display key (downward arrow of display image selection key 806) has been described. The image may be specified by a page.

The image forming apparatus to which the present invention can be applied may be an electrophotographic system using a laser beam, another electrophotographic system such as an LED, an inkjet system, a sublimation system, a thermal transfer system, or another system. .

As described above, reading means for scanning a document to read an image, image input means for inputting image data input from the outside, means for sequentially storing the image obtained by the reading means and the input means Image forming means for forming an image on a sheet based on the stored image; means for performing an editing process on the image or the stored information; and display means for displaying the edited image In the preview system consisting of the following, it is possible to set the preview operation to be allowed even if the output of images such as a control card and a password is restricted. Since the preview and the display of the image stored in the memory can be performed, the operability can be improved.

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

FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining a memory map of a storage medium for storing various data processing programs that 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, such as version information and a creator, is also stored, and information dependent on the OS or the like on the program reading side, such as a program, An icon or the like for identification display may also be stored.

Further, data 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. 11 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 (registered trademark) disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, C
D-ROM, CD-R, DVD-ROM, magnetic tape,
A non-volatile memory card, ROM, EEPROM, silicon disk, or 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 instructions 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 by a communication program, the system or apparatus can be
It is possible to enjoy the effects of the present invention.

[0137]

As described above, according to the first and second aspects of the present invention, the editing processing means performs editing processing on a plurality of image information sequentially stored in the storage means. Since the image edited and processed by the processing means is displayed on the display means, the preview layout of the output layouts of a plurality of originals can be confirmed before output, thereby reducing erroneous copying.

According to the third to ninth aspects, when the image forming is restricted by the restricting means, it is possible to select whether or not to restrict the use of the display means and not restrict the use of the display means. When selected, the use of the storage means and the display means is permitted, so that even if image formation is restricted, a setting for permitting the preview display processing can be made. It is possible to perform a preview of the input image and display of the image stored in the memory without inputting the information.

Therefore, even when image forming restrictions such as a control card and a password are imposed, a setting for permitting the preview operation can be made. In this case, the input image can be input without inputting the control card or the password. Since the preview of the image and the image stored in the memory can be displayed, operability can be significantly improved.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a digital image processing unit in the reader unit shown in FIG.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a preview processing unit illustrated in FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a display editing circuit shown in FIG. 3 in detail.

FIG. 5 is a plan view illustrating a configuration of an operation unit illustrated in FIG. 2;

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a standard screen displayed on the display unit shown in FIG.

FIG. 7 is a view showing a password input screen displayed on the display unit shown in FIG. 5;

8 is a diagram showing a preview operation selection screen displayed on the display unit shown in FIG. 5 when the output of the image forming apparatus is restricted.

9 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a preview operation screen displayed on the display unit shown in FIG.

FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a preview display in the image forming apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a first control processing procedure of the image forming apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 12 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.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a conventional image forming apparatus having a preview function.

[Explanation of symbols]

 208 Image memory unit 217 Preview processing unit 217-5 Display editing circuit 240 CPU 241 ROM 242 RAM 244 Operation unit 351 Scanner unit 352 Printer unit

──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification code FI Theme coat ゛ (Reference) G03G 21/04 G03G 21/00 382 H04N 1/387 390 // B41J 29/00 B41J 29/00 TF term (Ref.)

Claims (9)

[Claims] 1. An image forming apparatus comprising: a storage unit for sequentially storing a plurality of pieces of image information; and an image forming unit for forming an image on a recording medium based on the image information stored in the storage unit. An image forming apparatus, comprising: an editing unit that edits image information stored in an image processing unit; and a display unit that displays an image edited by the editing unit. 2. A method according to claim 1, further comprising: first selecting means for selecting an arbitrary image from the plurality of images stored in the storage means, wherein the display means displays the image selected by the first selecting means. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: 3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a limiting unit that limits the image forming unit. 4. When the image forming is restricted by the restricting means, a second selecting means is provided for selecting whether to restrict the use of the display means by the restricting means. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3. 5. When the image forming is restricted by the restricting unit, and when the use of the display unit is not restricted by the second selecting unit, the restricting unit includes the storing unit and the display unit. 5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, wherein use of the means is not restricted. 6. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein said restriction means releases the restriction by using a copy counter, a control card, a management key, and a personal identification number. 7. The storage means includes a hard disk, an M
7. The semiconductor device according to claim 1, further comprising a semiconductor memory.
The image forming apparatus according to any one of the above. 8. A storage unit for sequentially storing a plurality of pieces of image information, an image forming unit for forming an image on a recording medium based on the image information stored in the storage unit, and restricting image formation by the image forming unit. And a display unit for displaying the edited image on a display unit. The control method of the image forming apparatus, comprising: a limiting unit that performs editing processing on the image information stored in the storage unit; and a display unit that displays the edited image on a display unit. When the image forming is limited by the limiting unit,
A selection step of selecting whether to restrict the use of the display means, and permission to permit use of the storage means and the display means when not restricting the use of the display means is selected in the selection step. And a control method for the image forming apparatus. 9. A storage unit for sequentially storing a plurality of pieces of image information, an image forming unit for forming an image on a recording medium based on the image information stored in the storage unit, and limiting image formation by the image forming unit. An image forming apparatus comprising: a limiting unit that performs editing processing on image information stored in the storage unit; and a display unit that displays the edited image on a display unit. When image formation is restricted by means,
A selection step of selecting whether to restrict the use of the display means, and permission to permit use of the storage means and the display means when not restricting the use of the display means is selected in the selection step. And a storage medium in which a program for executing the steps is stored in a computer-readable manner.