JP2002152442A - Image forming equipment, control method thereof and storage medium - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To restrain waste like miscopy in the case of tab paper mode execution which is caused by setting error that both the tab paper mode such as a tab insertion mode and a tab forming mode and the process concerning a function which cannot be combined with the paper tab mode are set, and reduce labor hour of a user. SOLUTION: When the tab insertion mode wherein prescribed process is performed by accompanying the feeding of a tab sheet as a sheet having a tab and the tab paper mode like the tab forming mode are set with respect to an image forming job, a CPU 171 restrains the process concerning the function which is not capable of combination with the tab sheet mode like a staple function accompanying image rotation.

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 capable of feeding a tab sheet, which is a sheet with tabs, a control method for the image forming apparatus, and a storage medium.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a tab sheet creation mode in which an image is formed on a tab portion using a tab sheet with tabs, or an arbitrary position in an output bundle using tab sheets with tabs together with normal size paper. There has been proposed a copier and a printer provided with a tab interleaving mode for creating a document in which a tab sheet is inserted into a document and a heading and a chapter are divided.

On the other hand, conventionally, image forming apparatuses such as digital copiers and printers rotate an image once held by image data holding means such as a page memory in accordance with a paper size and a direction, and then perform image forming processing. There is something to do.

[0004] By combining this image rotation processing with post-processing such as stapling and punching, post-processing control that can be performed only at a "determined position" can be performed at an "arbitrary position" in view of an input image. It can be applied, and such devices have already been proposed.

For example, with respect to the output bundle discharging direction,
If there is a staple device that can provide a corner binding function in the two places at the back, if there is no rotation function, only the two upper and lower binding directions on the left (or right) side of the output bundle can be specified. By rotating the image by 180 degrees using the rotation function, four binding directions of upper left, lower left, upper right, and lower right can be designated. Similarly, in a staple device capable of binding two places on the left side, it is also possible to provide binding on two places on the right side, and also in the case where the staple apparatus has a punch hole forming function, it is possible to perform a hole forming process on the left and right sides. Become.

[0006] Conventionally, a document direction discriminating apparatus generally discriminates a document direction based on a character recognition result from a character recognizing apparatus. The document content on the original is represented by various patterns such as vertical writing and horizontal writing.

Usually, when these originals are read as image data by a scanner or the like, if they are read as one image data, they are treated as one image data, and the direction of the characters and the like shown on the original is recognized. Was not done. Therefore, the above-described document direction discriminating apparatus recognizes the direction of a character, discriminates the direction of the document in the document image, and converts the data into data.

There has been an image forming apparatus having a document direction detecting function for reading a document image by this document direction discriminating device and determining a direction in which the document image is output based on the character direction.

[0009]

However, the combination of the rotation function and the post-processing control in the above-described conventional image forming apparatus is based on the premise that the output sheet is a sheet having no problem even if rotated by 180 degrees. .

On the other hand, the tab sheet has a tab portion which is a protrusion at the right end (or left end) of the sheet, and the input image is 180 °.
If the image is rotated by an angle, it is highly likely that the output result will not be the one desired by the user, causing waste such as erroneous copying, and the user must perform the copying process again, which is very troublesome. There was a problem.

Further, in the image forming apparatus provided with the above-described document direction discriminating apparatus, a tab creation mode for moving the read original image so as to be printed on the tab portion of the tab sheet and printing, and an optional output bundle. When a tab paper insert mode is performed in which an arbitrary number of tab sheets are inserted at the position of, and an image is moved to form an image on the tab portion of the inserted tab sheet, a document for forming an image on the tab sheet is Since there are few cases where characters are present on the entire surface of the document and the characters are printed on the tab portion, there are many cases where only characters are present. When the document orientation detection is performed on such a document, there is a problem that the number of characters for determining the document orientation is small and the document orientation detection function may erroneously detect.

The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and an object of the first to twenty-seventh inventions according to the present invention is to accompany the feeding of a tab sheet which is a sheet with tabs. When a tab sheet mode such as a tab insert mode or a tab creation mode for performing a predetermined process is set for an image forming job, a process relating to a function that cannot be combined with the tab sheet mode such as a staple function involving image rotation is performed. Miscopying during execution of tab paper mode due to setting mistakes such as setting both tab paper mode such as tab insert mode and tab creation mode and processing relating to functions that cannot be combined with the tab paper mode Provided is an image forming apparatus, a control method of the image forming apparatus, and a storage medium that can reduce waste such as waste and reduce the labor of the user. Is Rukoto.

[0013]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, original image input means for inputting image data from an original, and the document is fed based on the image data input by the original image input means. 1. An image forming apparatus capable of executing an image forming job for forming and outputting an image on a sheet, comprising a feeding means (a cassette shown in FIG. 1, a non-image forming sheet inserting apparatus) capable of feeding a tab sheet which is a tabbed sheet. 19
6, multi manual feed 254 shown in FIG.
23, lower cassette 224, paper tray 291 etc.)
Tab sheet mode setting means (tab sheet key 801 shown in FIG. 8A and tab sheet shown in FIG. 26) for setting, for an image forming job, a tab sheet mode in which predetermined processing is performed in conjunction with feeding of a tab sheet by the feeding means. Paper insert key 1
021, a tab sheet creation key 1022) and a control unit (step S1304 in FIG. 12, FIG. 15) for limiting processing relating to functions that cannot be combined with the tab sheet mode when the tab sheet mode is set by the tab sheet mode setting unit. Step S1405, Step S1505 in FIG. 11, Steps S1205 to S1 in FIG.
206, and steps S2405 to S2406 in FIG. 37).

A second invention according to the present invention is characterized in that the function which cannot be combined with the tab sheet mode includes a process of rotating the image forming direction of the image data input by the original image input means on a sheet in an arbitrary direction. Image rotation post-processing function (staple function with rotation processing) for performing predetermined post-processing on sheets and sheet bundles formed and output as images, and characters included in image data input by the original image input means It has a function of detecting the direction of a row and rotating the image forming direction of the image data on the sheet based on the detected direction of the character string (document orientation detection, image rotation processing function).

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a document image input means for inputting image data from a document, and forming an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by the document image input means. 2. An image forming apparatus capable of executing an image forming job to be output, wherein the image forming unit rotates the image forming direction of the image data input by the document image input unit on a sheet in an arbitrary direction (FIG. 2). CPU 171), a post-processing unit (post-processing device 190 shown in FIG. 1) for performing predetermined post-processing on the sheet and the sheet bundle on which the image is formed and output, and a predetermined post-processing by the post-processing unit An image rotation post-processing mode for performing post-processing control on an input image in an arbitrary direction by executing control in combination with image rotation processing in an arbitrary direction by the image rotation means. And a lower right key 905 shown in FIG. 10 and a feeding means (FIG. 1) capable of feeding a tab sheet that is a tabbed sheet. Cassettes 131, 132, non-image forming sheet insertion device 196, etc.)
Tab sheet mode setting means (tab paper key 801 shown in FIG. 8A) for setting a tab sheet mode for performing a predetermined process with feeding of the tab sheet by the feeding means for an image forming job; When the tab sheet mode is set by the tab sheet mode setting means, a control means (CPU 171 shown in FIG. 2 and a step shown in FIG. 12) for controlling the setting of the image rotation post-processing mode by the image rotation post-processing mode setting means is prohibited. S1304, FIG.
6 in step S1505).

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a document image input means for inputting image data from a document, and forming an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by the document image input means. 2. An image forming apparatus capable of executing an image forming job to be output, wherein the image forming unit rotates the image forming direction of the image data input by the document image input unit on a sheet in an arbitrary direction (FIG. 2). CPU 171), a post-processing unit (post-processing device 190 shown in FIG. 1) for performing predetermined post-processing on the sheet and the sheet bundle on which the image is formed and output, and a predetermined post-processing by the post-processing unit An image rotation post-processing mode for performing post-processing control on an input image in an arbitrary direction by executing control in combination with image rotation processing in an arbitrary direction by the image rotation means. And a lower right key 905 shown in FIG. 10 and a feeding means (FIG. 1) capable of feeding a tab sheet that is a tabbed sheet. Cassettes 131, 132, non-image forming sheet insertion device 196, etc.)
Tab sheet mode setting means (tab paper key 801 shown in FIG. 8A) for setting a tab sheet mode for performing a predetermined process with feeding of the tab sheet by the feeding means for an image forming job; When the tab sheet mode setting unit sets the tab sheet mode and the image rotation post-processing mode setting unit executes the image forming job in which the image rotation post-processing mode is set, the tab sheet mode is set by the image rotation post-processing mode setting unit. And a control unit (CPU 171 shown in FIG. 2, step S1405 in FIG. 15) for invalidating the post-rotation image processing mode and performing image forming output.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a document image input means for inputting image data from a document, and forming an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by the document image input means. 2. An image forming apparatus capable of executing an image forming job to be output, wherein the image forming unit rotates the image forming direction of the image data input by the document image input unit on a sheet in an arbitrary direction (FIG. 2). CPU 171), a post-processing unit (post-processing device 190 shown in FIG. 1) for performing predetermined post-processing on the sheet and the sheet bundle on which the image is formed and output, and a predetermined post-processing by the post-processing unit An image rotation post-processing mode for performing post-processing control on an input image in an arbitrary direction by executing control in combination with image rotation processing in an arbitrary direction by the image rotation means. And a lower right key 905 shown in FIG. 10 and a feeding means (FIG. 1) capable of feeding a tab sheet that is a tabbed sheet. Cassettes 131, 132, non-image forming sheet insertion device 196, etc.)
Tab sheet mode setting means (tab paper key 801 shown in FIG. 8A) for setting a tab sheet mode for performing a predetermined process with feeding of the tab sheet by the feeding means for an image forming job; Prohibition means for prohibiting the combination setting of the tab sheet mode setting by the tab sheet mode setting means and the post-rotation processing mode setting by the post-rotation processing mode setting means (CP shown in FIG. 2).
U171, steps S1304, S1309 in FIG.
Steps S1505 and S1510 in FIG. 16).

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a document image input means for inputting image data from a document, and forming an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by the document image input means. 2. An image forming apparatus capable of executing an image forming job to be output, wherein the image forming unit rotates the image forming direction of the image data input by the document image input unit on a sheet in an arbitrary direction (FIG. 2). CPU 171), a post-processing unit (post-processing device 190 shown in FIG. 1) for performing predetermined post-processing on the sheet and the sheet bundle on which the image is formed and output, and a predetermined post-processing by the post-processing unit An image rotation post-processing mode for performing post-processing control on an input image in an arbitrary direction by executing control in combination with image rotation processing in an arbitrary direction by the image rotation means. And a lower right key 905 shown in FIG. 10 and a feeding means (FIG. 1) capable of feeding a tab sheet that is a tabbed sheet. Cassettes 131, 132, non-image forming sheet insertion device 196, etc.)
Tab sheet mode setting means (tab paper key 801 shown in FIG. 8A) for setting a tab sheet mode for performing a predetermined process with feeding of the tab sheet by the feeding means for an image forming job; When the tab sheet mode is set by the tab sheet mode setting means and the post-image rotation processing mode is set by the image rotation post-processing mode setting means, display means for displaying that the combination is impossible (step S1605 in FIG. 18) , FIG. 19).

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the predetermined post-processing performed by the post-processing means includes a staple process.

In an eighth aspect according to the present invention, the predetermined post-processing performed by the post-processing means includes punching.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, in the tab sheet mode, the tab sheet is fed by the feeding means, and the tab sheet is inserted into at least one or more predetermined positions in the output sheet bundle. This includes a slip sheet mode (tab insert mode).

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in the tab sheet mode, a tab sheet is fed by the feeding means and formed based on image data input from a series of document bundles by the document image input means. This includes a tab output mode (tab creation mode) for forming an arbitrary number of output bundles consisting only of tab sheets.

According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, when an image is formed on a tab sheet, the image forming position of the image data input by the original image input means is moved on the sheet, and the image is formed on the tab portion of the tab sheet. It is provided with an image moving unit (main body control unit 2100 shown in FIG. 20) for performing formation.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a document image input means for inputting image data including a character string from a document,
An image forming apparatus capable of executing an image forming job for forming and outputting an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by the original image input means, wherein the image forming apparatus receives the image data input by the original image input means. Detecting means for detecting the direction of a character string included in image data (character string direction / document direction determining unit 2120 shown in FIG. 20), and determining for determining a rotation angle based on the direction of the character string detected by the detecting means Means (body control unit 2100 shown in FIG. 20), and rotation means (body control unit 2100 shown in FIG. 20) for rotating the image forming direction of the image data on the sheet based on the rotation angle determined by the determination means. ) And feeding means capable of feeding a tab sheet that is a sheet with tabs (for a multi-manual feed 254, an upper cassette 223, and a lower cassette 224 shown in FIG. 21). A tray 291, etc.), when executing the tab sheet mode in which an image formed on the tab portion of the tab sheets fed by said feeding means, inhibiting means for inhibiting the rotation processing by the rotation means (main body control unit 21 shown in FIG. 20
00).

According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a document image input means for inputting image data including a character string from a document,
An image forming apparatus capable of executing an image forming job for forming and outputting an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by the original image input means, wherein the image forming apparatus receives the image data input by the original image input means. Detecting means for detecting the direction of a character string included in image data (character string direction / document direction determining unit 2120 shown in FIG. 20), and determining for determining a rotation angle based on the direction of the character string detected by the detecting means Means (body control unit 2100 shown in FIG. 20), and rotation means (body control unit 2100 shown in FIG. 20) for rotating the image forming direction of the image data on the sheet based on the rotation angle determined by the determination means. ) And feeding means capable of feeding a tab sheet that is a sheet with tabs (for a multi-manual feed 254, an upper cassette 223, and a lower cassette 224 shown in FIG. 21). A rotation prohibition setting unit (tray 291 or the like) and a rotation prohibition setting unit for setting whether to prohibit the rotation process by the rotation unit when executing the tab sheet mode for forming an image on the tab portion of the tab sheet fed by the feeding unit. Control means for controlling the rotation processing by the rotation means when executing the tab sheet mode based on the setting of the automatic document orientation detection button 1365 shown in FIG. 36 and the setting of the rotation inhibition setting means (the main body control unit shown in FIG. 20). 2100).

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a document image input means for inputting image data from a document, and forming an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by the document image input means. In a control method of an image forming apparatus capable of executing an image forming job to be output and output, when a tab sheet mode for performing a predetermined process with feeding of a tab sheet as a tabbed sheet is set for the image forming job, A restricting process for restricting processing relating to functions that cannot be combined with the tab sheet mode (step S1304 in FIG. 12, step S1405 in FIG. 15, and FIG. 16)
Step S1505, Step S1205 in FIG.
S1206, steps S2405 to S240 in FIG.
6).

According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a document image input means for inputting image data from a document, and forming an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by the document image input means. A method for controlling an image forming apparatus capable of executing an image forming job to be output, wherein a tab sheet mode in which predetermined processing is performed with feeding of a tab sheet, which is a tabbed sheet, is set, and an image is formed and output. Setting of an image rotation post-processing mode for executing a combination of predetermined post-processing to be performed on a given sheet and a sheet bundle and rotation processing for rotating the image forming direction of the input image data on the sheet in an arbitrary direction Is prohibited (step S1304 in FIG. 12 and step S1505 in FIG. 16).

According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a document image input means for inputting image data from a document, and forming an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by the document image input means. A method of controlling an image forming apparatus capable of executing an image forming job to be output, wherein a tab sheet mode for performing a predetermined process with feeding of a tab sheet as a tab sheet is set, and an image is formed and output. An image rotation post-processing mode is set in which a combination of a predetermined post-processing performed on a sheet and a sheet bundle and a rotation processing for rotating the image forming direction of the input image data on the sheet in an arbitrary direction is performed. When executing the image forming job, there is a canceling step (step S1405 in FIG. 15) in which the image rotation post-processing mode is invalidated and the image forming output is performed. Is shall.

According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a document image input means for inputting image data from a document, and forming an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by the document image input means. A method for controlling an image forming apparatus capable of executing an image forming job to be output, comprising: setting a tab sheet mode for performing a predetermined process with feeding of a tab sheet as a tabbed sheet; And a setting of an image rotation post-processing mode, which is executed by combining a predetermined post-processing performed on a sheet bundle and a rotation processing for rotating the image forming direction of the input image data on the sheet in an arbitrary direction. A setting prohibition process of prohibiting setting (steps S1304 and S130 in FIG. 12)
9, steps S1505 and S1510 in FIG. 16).

According to an eighteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a document image input means for inputting image data from a document, and forming an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by the document image input means. A method of controlling an image forming apparatus capable of executing an image forming job to be output, wherein a tab sheet mode for performing a predetermined process with feeding of a tab sheet as a tab sheet is set, and an image is formed and output. An image rotation post-processing mode is set in which a combination of a predetermined post-processing performed on a sheet and a sheet bundle and a rotation processing for rotating the image forming direction of the input image data on the sheet in an arbitrary direction is performed. At this time, a display step (Step S1605 in FIG. 18) for displaying that the combination is impossible is provided.

According to a nineteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a document image input means for inputting image data including a character string from a document,
A method of controlling an image forming apparatus capable of executing an image forming job for forming and outputting an image on a sheet fed based on image data input by the original image input means, wherein the original image input means A detecting step of detecting the direction of a character string included in the input image data (step S1213 in FIG. 35), and rotating the image forming direction of the image data on a sheet based on the detected direction of the character string Rotation processing step (step S121 in FIG. 35)
4) and when executing the tab sheet mode in which an image is formed on the tab portion of the fed tabbed sheet, the rotation processing in the rotation processing step is prohibited (FIG. 3).
5 of steps S1202 to S1210).

According to a twentieth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a document image input means for inputting image data including a character string from a document,
A method of controlling an image forming apparatus capable of executing an image forming job for forming and outputting an image on a sheet fed based on image data input by the original image input means, wherein the original image input means A detecting step of detecting the direction of a character string included in the input image data (step S2413 in FIG. 37), and rotating the image forming direction of the image data on a sheet based on the detected direction of the character string Rotation processing step (step S241 in FIG. 37)
4) and a rotation prohibition setting step for setting whether to prohibit the rotation processing in the rotation processing step when executing the tab sheet mode for forming an image on the tab portion of the fed tab sheet (before step S2401 in FIG. 37). Based on the setting by the rotation prohibition setting step.
A control method (steps S2401 to S2410 in FIG. 37) for controlling the rotation processing in the rotation processing step when the tab sheet mode is executed.

According to a twenty-first aspect of the present invention, there is provided original image input means for inputting image data from an original, and forming an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by the original image input means. When the tab sheet mode for performing a predetermined process with the feeding of the tab sheet, which is a tabbed sheet, is set for the image forming job in the image forming apparatus capable of executing the image forming job to be output, Restriction process for restricting the processing relating to functions that cannot be combined (step S1304 in FIG. 12, step S1405 in FIG. 15, step S150 in FIG. 16)
5, steps S1205 to S1206 in FIG. 35, and FIG.
(Steps S2405 to S2406) are stored in a storage medium in a computer-readable manner.

According to a twenty-second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a document image input means for inputting image data from a document, and forming an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by the document image input means. When a tab sheet mode in which a predetermined process is performed in conjunction with feeding of a tab sheet, which is a tabbed sheet, is set in an image forming apparatus capable of executing an image forming job to be output and output, an image formed and output sheet and sheet A setting prohibition step of prohibiting the setting of an image rotation post-processing mode for executing a combination of a predetermined post-processing performed on a bundle and a rotation processing of input image data on a sheet in an image forming direction in an arbitrary direction (Step S1304 in FIG. 12 and Step S1505 in FIG. 16) are stored in a storage medium in a computer-readable manner. It is intended.

According to a twenty-third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a document image input means for inputting image data from a document, and forming an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by the document image input means. In the image forming apparatus capable of executing the image forming job to be output, a tab sheet mode in which a predetermined process is performed along with the feeding of the tab sheet, which is a tab sheet, is set. An image forming job in which an image rotation post-processing mode in which a predetermined post-processing to be performed on the sheet and a rotation processing of input image data on a sheet in an arbitrary direction for forming an image on a sheet are executed is executed. In this case, the program for executing the canceling step (step S1405 in FIG. 15) for invalidating the post-image rotation processing mode and outputting the image is output. In which the computer is allowed to readably stored in the storage medium.

According to a twenty-fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a document image input means for inputting image data from a document, and forming an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by the document image input means. In the image forming apparatus capable of executing the image forming job to be output, the setting of the tab sheet mode for performing the predetermined processing accompanied by the feeding of the tab sheet as the tabbed sheet is performed, and the sheet and the sheet bundle in which the image is formed and output are set. Setting that inhibits the combination of the setting of the image rotation post-processing mode, which is executed by combining the predetermined post-processing to be performed and the rotation processing of rotating the image forming direction of the input image data on the sheet in an arbitrary direction. Prohibition process (Fig. 1
A program for executing steps S1304 and S1309 of FIG. 2 and steps S1505 and S1510 of FIG. 16 is stored in a storage medium in a computer-readable manner.

According to a twenty-fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided original image input means for inputting image data from an original, and forming an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by the original image input means. In the image forming apparatus capable of executing the image forming job to be output, a tab sheet mode in which a predetermined process is performed along with the feeding of the tab sheet, which is a tab sheet, is set. When the image rotation post-processing mode is set to execute a combination of a predetermined post-processing to be performed on the sheet and a rotation processing of input image data on the sheet in an image forming direction in an arbitrary direction, the combination cannot be performed. The program for executing the display step (step S1605 in FIG. 18) for displaying the fact is stored in a storage medium in a computer-readable manner. Than it is.

According to a twenty-sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a document image input means for inputting image data including a character string from a document,
An image forming apparatus capable of executing an image forming job for forming and outputting an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by the original image input means, For detecting the direction of the character string included in the character string (step S121 in FIG. 35)
3), a rotation processing step of rotating the image forming direction of the image data on the sheet based on the detected direction of the character string (step S1214 in FIG. 35), and a fed sheet with tabs. When executing the tab sheet mode for forming an image on the tab portion of the tab sheet, the computer reads a program for executing a step (steps S1202 to S1210 in FIG. 35) of prohibiting and prohibiting the rotation processing in the rotation processing step on a storage medium. It is stored as possible.

According to a twenty-seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a document image input means for inputting image data including a character string from a document,
An image forming apparatus capable of executing an image forming job for forming and outputting an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by the original image input means, For detecting the direction of the character string included in the character string (step S241 in FIG. 37)
3), a rotation processing step of rotating the image forming direction of the image data on the sheet based on the detected direction of the character string (step S2414 in FIG. 37); When the tab sheet mode for forming an image is executed, a rotation prohibition setting step (step not shown before step S2401 in FIG. 37) for setting whether to prohibit the rotation processing in the rotation processing step, and a rotation prohibition setting step When the tab sheet mode is executed based on the setting, a program for executing a step of controlling the rotation processing in the rotation processing step (steps S2401 to S2410 in FIG. 35) is stored in a storage medium in a computer-readable manner. It is a thing.

[0040]

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

In FIG. 1, reference numeral 100 denotes an image forming apparatus main body (or simply, an image forming apparatus); and 180, an automatic document feeder (ADF).

Reference numeral 101 denotes a platen glass as a document table. Reference numeral 102 denotes a scanner, and a document illumination lamp 10
3. It is composed of a scanning mirror 104 and the like. Scanner 102
Are reciprocally scanned in a predetermined direction by a motor (not shown) to illuminate the entire original. The reflected light from the original is
The light is transmitted through the lens 108 through the lens 106 and forms an image on a CCD image sensor unit (CCD) 109.

Reference numeral 120 denotes an exposure control unit, which comprises a laser, a polygon scanner, and the like. This exposure control unit 120
A laser beam 1 converted into an electric signal by the CD 109 and modulated based on an image signal subjected to predetermined image processing described later.
29 is irradiated on the photosensitive drum 110.

Around the photosensitive drum 110, a primary charger 112, a developing unit 121, a transfer charger 118, a cleaning device 116, and a pre-exposure lamp 114 are provided, and constitute an image forming unit 126. This image forming unit 12
At 6, the photosensitive drum 110 is rotated by a motor (not shown) in the direction of the arrow in the figure. After being charged to a desired potential by the primary charger 112, the laser beam 129 from the exposure control unit 120 is irradiated. , An electrostatic latent image is formed. The electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 110 is
The toner image is developed by the toner image 21 and visualized as a toner image.

The transfer paper fed from the upper cassette 131 or the lower cassette 132 by the pickup rollers 133 and 134 is sent to the image forming apparatus main body 100 by the feed rollers 135 and 136, and is transferred by the registration roller 137 to the transfer belt 130. Is transferred to the transfer paper by the transfer charger 118.

After the transfer, the photosensitive drum 110 is cleaned of residual toner by the cleaner device 116 and the residual charge is erased by the pre-exposure lamp 114.

On the other hand, the transfer paper after the transfer is transferred to the transfer belt 13.
The toner image is separated from zero, the toner image is recharged by the pre-fixing chargers 139 and 140, sent to the fixing device 141, fixed by pressure and heat, and discharged out of the image forming apparatus main body 100 by the discharge roller 142.

The image forming apparatus main body 100 is equipped with a deck 150 capable of storing, for example, 4000 transfer sheets. The lifter 151 of the deck 150 rises according to the amount of transfer paper so that the transfer paper always contacts the paper feed roller 152. Also, it can accommodate 100 transfer papers,
A multi-bypass 153 is provided.

Further, reference numeral 154 denotes a paper discharge flapper which switches the path between the double-side recording side or the multiple recording side and the paper discharge side. The transfer paper fed from the paper discharge roller 142 is switched by the paper discharge flapper 154 to a double-sided recording side or a multiple recording side.

Reference numeral 158 denotes a lower transport path, which guides the transfer paper sent out from the paper discharge roller 142 to the re-feed tray 156 by turning the transfer paper upside down via the reversing path 155. Further, reference numeral 157 denotes a multiplex flapper for switching the path between double-sided recording and multiplex recording. When the flapper is tilted to the left, the transfer paper is led directly to the lower transport path 158 without passing through the reverse path 155.

Reference numeral 159 denotes a paper feed roller which feeds the transfer paper to the photosensitive drum 110 through a path 160. A discharge roller 161 is disposed near the discharge flapper 154 and discharges the transfer sheet switched to the discharge side by the discharge flapper 154 to the outside of the apparatus.

During double-sided recording (double-sided copying) or multiple recording (multiple copying), the discharge flapper 154 is raised upward to transfer the copied transfer sheet to the reversing path 155 and the lower transport path 1.
The sheet is stored in the re-feeding tray 156 via 58. At this time, the multiplex flapper 157 is tilted rightward during double-sided recording, and the multiplex flapper 157 is tilted leftward during multiplex recording. The transfer paper stored in the re-feeding tray 156 is moved one by one from the bottom by the paper feeding roller 159 to the path 160.
Through the registration roller 137 of the main body.

On the other hand, when the transfer paper is inverted and discharged from the image forming apparatus main body 100, the discharge flapper 154 is raised upward, the multiple flapper 157 is tilted rightward, and the copied transfer paper is moved to the reversing path 155 side. After the sheet is conveyed and the rear end of the transfer sheet passes through the first feed roller 162, the reversing roller 1
The transfer paper is conveyed to the second feed roller 162 a side by 63, and the transfer paper is turned over by the discharge roller 161 and discharged out of the apparatus.

Reference numeral 190 denotes a post-processing device,
The transfer paper discharged from 0 is aligned and closed. At this time, if a post-discharge bundle processing operation such as sorting or stapling is not set in the operation unit 172 shown in FIG. 6 described later, the sheet passes through the transport path 194 and passes through the discharge tray 191 without passing through the processing tray 193. It is discharged every sheet. On the other hand, when the post-discharge bundle post-processing operation is set, the transfer sheets discharged one by one through the transport path 195 are stacked and aligned on the processing tray 193. When a part of the image formation and the discharge of the transfer paper are completed, the transfer paper bundle is stapled and discharged to the discharge tray 191 or 192 as a bundle. When the post-discharge bundle post-processing operation is set, the bundle is discharged onto the discharge tray 192 basically.
Control to switch to the paper discharge tray 191 is performed according to conditions such as a full load state.

The discharge trays 191 and 192 are controlled to move up and down by a motor (not shown), and move so that the tray to be stacked is at the position of the processing tray before the image forming operation is started. 1
Reference numeral 96 denotes a non-image forming sheet insertion device, and a post-processing device 190.
And a non-image forming sheet such as a tab sheet (an image is sometimes formed on the tab portion) between the discharged transfer sheets. When a setting for performing a non-image forming sheet insertion operation such as a cover mode is set on an operation unit 172 illustrated in FIG. 6 described below, the non-image forming sheet stored in the non-image forming sheet insertion device 196 in advance is conveyed. Road 19
7, the sheet is merged with the conveyance path 194 or 195 and discharged to the same discharge port as the transfer paper discharged from the image forming apparatus main body 100.

FIG. 2 shows the image forming apparatus main body 1 shown in FIG.
It is a block diagram showing a control configuration of 00.

A CPU 171 performs basic control of the image forming apparatus 100. The CPU 171 and a ROM 174 in which a control program executed by the CPU 171 is written.
, A work RAM 175 used as a work area for the CPU 171 to perform processing, an input / output port (I / O) 1
73 are connected by an address bus and a data bus.

The input / output port (I / O) 173 receives various loads (not shown) such as a motor and a clutch for controlling the image forming apparatus 100 and inputs (not shown) such as a sensor for detecting the position of paper. It is connected.

The CPU 171 performs input / output control sequentially via the input / output port 173 according to the contents of the ROM 174 to execute an image forming operation. An operation unit 172 is connected to the CPU 171 and controls a display unit and a key input unit of the operation unit 172. The operator instructs the CPU 171 to switch the image forming operation mode and display through the key input unit, and the CPU 171 displays the state of the image forming apparatus 100 and the operation mode setting by key input.

The CPU 171 includes the image sensor unit 10
9, an image processing unit 170 for processing the signal converted into the electric signal, and an image memory unit 3 for storing the processed image.
And the external I / F processing unit 4 are connected.

Hereinafter, the image processing section 170 shown in FIG. 2 will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the image processing section 170 shown in FIG. 2. The same components as those in FIG. 2 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

The original image formed on the CCD 109 via the lens 108 is input as Black luminance data, and is converted into an analog electric signal by the CCD 109. The converted image information is input to an analog signal processing unit (not shown), and after performing dark level correction and the like, the A / D / SH unit 301 performs sample & hold and analog / digital conversion (A / D conversion). Conversion), and the digitized signal is subjected to shading correction (correction of variations in a sensor for reading a document and light distribution characteristics of a document illumination lamp).

After that, it is sent to the log converter 302.
The log conversion unit 302 stores an LUT (look-up table) for converting the input luminance data into density data, and outputs a table value corresponding to the input data, thereby obtaining the luminance data. Is converted to density data. After that, the image is scaled to a desired magnification by the scaling processing unit 303 and input to the γ correction unit 304.

When outputting the density data, the γ correction unit 304 performs conversion using an LUT in consideration of the characteristics of the printer, and adjusts the output according to the density value set by the operation unit. After that, it is sent to the binarization unit 305. Binarization unit 30
In 5, the multi-value density data is binarized and the density value is "0".
Alternatively, it becomes “255”. The 8-bit image data is
The image data is binarized and converted into 1-bit image data of “0” or “1”, and the amount of image data stored in the memory is reduced.

However, when an image is binarized, the number of gradations of the image is changed from 256 to two, and when image data having a large number of halftones such as a photographic image is binarized, image deterioration generally deteriorates. Remarkable. Therefore, it is necessary to perform pseudo halftone expression using binary data. Here, an error diffusion method is used as a method for pseudo-halftone expression using binary data. According to this method, when the density of a certain image is larger than a certain threshold value, it is determined that the density data is “255”. When the density is less than a certain threshold value, it is determined that the density data is “0”. In this method, the difference between the data and the binarized data is distributed to surrounding pixels as an error signal.
The distribution of the error is performed by multiplying the weighting coefficient on the matrix prepared in advance by the error generated by the binarization, and adding the result to surrounding pixels.

As a result, the density average value of the entire image is stored, and the halftone can be represented in a pseudo binary manner. The binarized image data is sent to the image memory unit 3, where the image is stored. Also, image data from the computer input from the external I / F processing unit 4 is
Since it has been processed as binary image data by the F processing unit 4, it is sent to the image memory unit 3 as it is. The image memory unit 3 has a high-speed page memory and a large-capacity memory (hard disk) capable of storing a plurality of page image data.

The plurality of image data stored in the hard disk are output in an order according to the editing mode specified by the operation unit of the image forming apparatus 100. For example, in the case of sorting, the images of the document bundle read from the ADF 180 are sequentially output. The image data of the document once stored is read from the hard disk, and this is repeated a plurality of times and output.
Thereby, it can play the same role as a sorter having a plurality of bins.

The image data output from the image memory unit 3 is sent to a smoothing unit 306 in the printer unit 2. The smoothing unit 306 performs data interpolation so that the line ends of the binarized image become smooth, and outputs image data to the exposure control unit 120. The exposure controller 120 forms image data on transfer paper by the above-described processing.

Hereinafter, the image memory unit 3 shown in FIG. 2 will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the image memory unit 3 shown in FIG. 2. The same components as those in FIG. 2 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

As shown in FIG.
Page memory unit 401 composed of a memory such as a RAM
In addition, writing of a binary image from the external I / F processing unit 4 and the image processing unit 170 via the memory controller unit 402,
The image reading to the printer unit 2 and the input / output access of the image to the hard disk 404 which is a large-capacity storage device are performed.

The memory controller 402 generates a DRAM refresh signal for the page memory 401, and arbitrates access from the external I / F processor 4, image processor 170, and hard disk 404 to the page memory 401. I do. Further, the CPU 171 shown in FIG.
In accordance with the instruction, a write address to the page memory unit 401, a read address from the page memory unit 401,
It controls the reading direction and the like. Thus, the CPU 171 shown in FIG. 2 performs a layout by laying out a plurality of document images in the page memory unit 401 and outputting to the printer unit 2, a function of cutting out and outputting only a part of the image, and an image rotating function. Control.

Hereinafter, the configuration of the external I / F processing unit 4 shown in FIG. 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 5 shows the external I / F processing unit 4 shown in FIG.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of FIG.

The external I / F processing section 4 fetches the binary image data of the reader section 1 into the external I / F processing section via the image memory section 3 as described above, and outputs the binary image data via the image memory section 3. Then, binary image data from the external I / F is output to the printer unit 2 to form an image.

The external I / F processing unit 4 includes a core unit 506, a facsimile unit 501, a hard disk 502 for storing communication image data of the facsimile unit 501, and an external computer (PC) or workstation (WS). PC / WS) 11, a computer interface unit 503 connected to the PC 11, and a formatter unit 5.
04, and an image memory unit 505.

The facsimile unit 501 is connected to a public line via a modem (not shown), and receives facsimile communication data from the public line and transmits facsimile communication data to the public line. Further, the facsimile unit 501 performs processing such as performing facsimile transmission at a designated time or transmitting image data in response to an inquiry about a designated password from the other party by storing a facsimile image on the hard disk 502.

Thus, once the image is transferred from the reader unit 1 to the facsimile unit 501 and the facsimile hard disk 502 via the image memory unit 3, the reader unit 1 and the image memory unit 3 are used for the facsimile function. No facsimile transmission can be performed.

The computer interface unit 503 includes:
An interface unit for performing data communication with an external computer 11, a local area network (hereinafter, LAN) such as Ethernet (registered trademark), a serial I / O
F, SCSII / F, Centro I / F for printer data input, etc. Via this I / F, the statuses of the printer unit 2 and the reader unit 1 are notified to the external computer 11, and the image read by the reader unit 1 is transferred to the external computer 11 at the instruction of the computer.

The computer interface unit 50
3 receives print image data from the external computer 11. Since the print data notified from the external computer 11 via the computer interface unit 503 is described in a dedicated printer code (for example, a page description language such as PostScript), the formatter unit 504 stores the code in the image memory unit. The image data is converted into raster image data for forming an image by the printer unit 2 via the printer 3.

The formatter unit 504 develops raster image data on the image memory unit 505. As described above, the image memory unit 505 is
4 is used as a memory for developing raster image data, or when the image of the reader unit 1 is sent to the external computer 11 via the computer interface unit 503 (image scanner function), the image sent from the image memory unit 3 It is also used in a case where data is once expanded in the image memory unit 505, converted into a format of data to be sent to the external computer 11, and sent out from the computer interface unit 503.

The core unit 506 includes a facsimile unit 501,
It controls and manages data transfer among the computer interface unit 503, the formatter unit 504, the image memory unit 505, and the image memory unit 3. Thus, even if the external I / F processing unit 4 has a plurality of image output units or the image memory unit 3 has only one image transfer path, the core unit 506
, Exclusive control and priority control are performed, and image output is performed.

The operation section 172 for setting the copying operation of the image forming apparatus of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIG.

FIG. 6 is a plan view showing the configuration of the operation unit 172 shown in FIG.

In the figure, reference numeral 621 denotes a power lamp, which indicates that the power is on. The power lamp 621 is turned on and off by the power switch 613 in accordance with the turning on / off of the power.

Reference numeral 622 denotes a numeric keypad used to set the number of images to be formed and to input numerical values for mode setting. On the facsimile setting screen, the ten keys 622 are used to input a telephone number. Reference numeral 623 denotes a clear key for clearing the settings entered with the ten keys 622. Reference numeral 616 denotes a reset key for returning the set number of images to be formed, the operation mode, the selected paper feed stage, and other modes to default values (initial values).

A start key 614 starts an image forming operation when the key is pressed. In the center of the start key 614 is a red and green LE indicating whether or not the start is possible.
D (not shown), the red LED is turned on when starting is not possible, and green L when starting is possible.
ED lights up. A stop key 615 is used to stop the copying operation.

Reference numeral 617 denotes a guide key. When another key is pressed after pressing this key, a description of a function which can be set by the key is displayed on the display panel. To cancel the guide display, the guide key 617 is pressed again.

Reference numeral 618 denotes a user setting key. When this key is pressed, the user can change the settings of the image forming apparatus. The settings that can be changed by the user include time until the settings are automatically cleared, settings related to timer settings, settings for dedicated trays, common settings for printers, copies, or general functions unique to each function. When the user setting key 618 is pressed, setting screens for setting each function (for example, FIGS. 7A and 7B described later) are hierarchically displayed on the display panel 620.

Reference numeral 619 denotes an interrupt key. When this key is depressed during an image forming operation, other image forming operations are stopped, and copying can be performed without using the automatic document feeder 180.

The display panel 620 is composed of a liquid crystal or the like.
The display contents change according to the setting mode in order to facilitate detailed mode setting. The surface of the display panel 620 is provided with a touch sensor. In the example of FIG. 6,
An example in which a setting screen of a copy operation mode is displayed on the display panel 620 is shown.

In the copy operation mode setting screen displayed on the display panel 620, keys 624 to 631 are keys. By touching the displayed positions of the keys, it is determined that the key is pressed, and the mode is set. Reference numeral 627 denotes a sheet selection key. When this key is pressed, the cassettes 131 and 1 are pressed.
32, a setting screen for setting which of the deck 150 and the manual feed tray 153 to feed paper is displayed on the display panel 620.

Keys 628 to 631 are used to set the copy magnification of the copying operation. When the reduction key 628, the same magnification key 629, and the enlargement key 630 are depressed, the fixed magnification, the same magnification, and the fixed magnification are set. You can set the magnification,
By pressing the zoom key 631, an arbitrary magnification can be set.

Reference numeral 626 denotes an application mode setting key. When this key is pressed, a screen for setting an application function mode such as a multiplex operation, a reduced layout mode, and a cover / insert mode (see FIG. 8A to be described later). The setting screen for each application function mode shown) is displayed on the display panel 620, and the setting of the application mode is enabled.

Reference numeral 624 denotes a setting key for double-sided operation.
Three types of two-sided mode: "one-sided mode" for outputting two-sided originals from one sided document, "two-sided mode" for two-sided output from two-sided originals, and "two-sided mode" for outputting two single-sided originals Make the settings for Reference numeral 625 denotes a post-processing setting (sort) key.
0, and a screen for setting an output paper sorting mode using an image memory (for example, FIG.
0) is displayed on the display panel 620.

Reference numeral 632 denotes a proof print mode (trial copy) key. When the sorting mode is set by the post-processing setting key 625, when a plurality of copies are output, the printing operation is temporarily stopped when the output of one copy is completed. Then, the user can confirm the finish, and can set a proof print mode (trial copy) in which the user can select continuation if OK, or cancel if NG.

A discharge tray key 633 is used to set an initial value of the discharge tray for each job type with the user setting key 618. When the discharge tray key 633 is pressed, a discharge tray for each job is displayed. Can be set individually.

When the mode of the display key cannot be set in addition to the normal display in the display panel 620, the display line is changed to a dotted line (shaded) so that the key can be operated. It is meant to indicate that you cannot do it.

In the example shown in FIG. 6, the contents set for the copy operation (magnification 100%, auto paper selection, number of copies 1) are displayed above the display panel 620, and the current operation state (copy is possible). ) Is displayed. In addition, at the upper left of the screen, there is a display indicating which screen of this function screen is in each of the function modes described later. Here, the setting screen of copy A is shown. In addition, here, the characters are shown, but a symbol indicating each may be used.

Further, below the display panel 620, the operating state of another function mode, which will be described later, is displayed in a range that can be displayed on one line. The example of FIG. 6 indicates that the copy B is being output to the printer unit.

Application mode key 62 on display panel 620
Next to 6 are keys that can be changed by the user, and up to two function keys that can be set on the application mode setting screen can be registered. By displaying the application mode setting key at the position shown in the figure, the registered mode can be set more easily.

Reference numerals 601 to 612 denote function switching keys and LED displays for switching the display of the operation unit for setting each function of the copying operation and the system operation using the image forming apparatus 100.

Reference numerals 601, 604, 607, and 610 are function switching keys for switching each function (copy A function, copy B function, facsimile function, printer function), and these keys are translucent key buttons. There is a display lamp (not shown) such as an LED inside the key. When the operation screen is selected by pressing these keys, the lamps inside the keys are turned on. This lamp inside each key is controlled so that only the lamp inside the key of the selected operation function screen is turned on, and the lamp inside the other keys is turned off.

Each function switching key (601, 60
4,607,610) to the right of the green LED (60
3,606,609,612) are arranged and this LED
Indicates the operation status of each function by the lighting control of the LED. For example, the LED 606 of the copy B is controlled to be turned off while the copy B is in a standby state, and is controlled to blink when the copy A is performing an output operation as in the example shown in FIG. When the image of the copy A is stored in the hard disk 404 of the image memory and the print operation of the copy A is not performed, the lighting is controlled.

Similarly, for example, a facsimile LED 60
Reference numeral 9 denotes a flashing control during a facsimile communication operation, a facsimile printing operation, and a facsimile reading operation, and lighting control when a facsimile unit hard disk 502 has a facsimile image.

Further, each function switching key (601, 6
04, 607, 610), a red LED (60
2,605, 608, 611), and these L
The ED indicates that an abnormal condition of each function has occurred by controlling the lighting of the LED. For example, copy B LED6
In the case 05, the LED 605 is controlled to blink when an abnormality such as interruption of the copy B without paper or a jam (paper jam) occurs.
At this time, by pressing the copy B function key 604 and switching the display of the operation unit to copy B, the status of copy B is displayed on the display panel, and the details of the abnormal status can be confirmed.

These function switching keys can be pressed at any time regardless of the operation status of each function, and the operation unit can be switched.

When the copy A function and the copy B function can be switched as in this embodiment, the stop key 615, the start key 614, and the reset key 61 are used.
Keys (hard keys) other than the keys (soft keys) displayed on the display panel 620 such as the function switching key 6
The user operates the function selected by 01 or 604.

For example, in the example of FIG. 6, when the copy A operation screen is displayed on the display panel 620, even if the stop key 615 is pressed, the copy operation is stopped for the copy B output operation. It is not possible.

To stop the copy B copying operation, the copy B function key 604 is pressed, and then the stop key 615 is pressed, so that the output of the copy B is stopped. The data set by the user setting key 618 has data on each of the screens where the copy A and copy B operation units are selected, and the setting operation can be performed independently on each screen.

Hereinafter, various setting screens of the image forming apparatus of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

FIGS. 7A and 7B are schematic diagrams showing an example of a display screen using the user setting keys and an example of a setting screen for each item. FIG. 7A corresponds to an example of a setting screen for the printer and copy common functions. b) corresponds to an example of the staple inhibition setting screen in the tab mode.

The setting screen for the printer and copy common function shown in FIG. 7A is displayed on the user setting key 618 shown in FIG.
Is displayed on the display panel 620 by pressing.

In FIG. 7A, reference numeral 701 denotes a staple prohibition key in a tab mode, which prohibits a combination of a tab mode described later and a staple mode set on a setting screen displayed by pressing a sort key 625. .

Stapling prohibition key 7 in this tab mode
By pressing “01”, a stapling prohibition setting screen in the tab mode shown in FIG.
ON / OFF of staple (combination of tab mode and staple mode) prohibition in tab mode with FF key 703
OFF can be selected. Also, the "OK" key is
Enable the screen settings shown in (b), and press the "Cancel" key.
The setting of the screen of (b) is invalidated, and the screen returns to the screen of FIG.

FIGS. 8 and 9 are schematic diagrams showing an example of the application mode setting screen and an example of the tab interleaving mode setting screen.
FIG. 8A corresponds to an example of the application mode setting screen, and FIG.
FIG. 9B corresponds to the tab interleaving mode setting screen, and FIG.
9B corresponds to a tab sheet feed stage setting screen, and FIG. 9B corresponds to a tab insert position setting screen.

The application mode setting screen shown in FIG. 8A is displayed on the display panel 620 by pressing the application mode key 626 shown in FIG.

In FIG. 8A, a tab paper key 801 is pressed to display a tab mode setting screen shown in FIG. 8B.

In FIG. 8B, reference numeral 802 denotes a tab creation mode setting key. When this key is pressed, the number of output sheets determined from the set number of tab sheets only and the number of originals is set from the tab sheet feeding tray. A tab creation mode is set in which an image is formed and output, and a mode such as image movement is automatically set so as to form an image on the tab portion.

Reference numeral 803 denotes a tab insert mode setting key. When this key is depressed, an arbitrary number of tab sheets are inserted into an arbitrary position of the output bundle and an image is moved to form an image on the tab portion of the inserted tab sheet. The tab insert mode, which is also automatically set, is set. Further, the “OK” key enables the screen setting of FIG. 8B, and the “Cancel” key invalidates the screen setting of FIG. 8B and returns to the screen of FIG. 8A.

The tab sheet feeding stage setting screen shown in FIG. 9A is for setting the tab sheet feeding stage.

In this screen, the sheet feeding tray for setting the tab sheet is restricted. In this figure, only the third sheet feeding tray and the fourth sheet feeding tray are candidates for the tab sheet feeding tray. Paper feed tray setting key 807 and fourth paper feed tray setting key 8
08 can be designated, and other paper feed stage setting keys 804 to
806 and 809 are shaded to indicate that the instruction cannot be made.

The tab creation mode setting key 802 and tab insert mode setting key 803 shown in FIG.
9A, the tab sheet feeding stage setting screen shown in FIG. 9A is displayed, and the setting of the tab sheet feeding stage can be performed.

The tab insertion position setting screen shown in FIG. 9A is for setting the tab insertion position, and the tab sheet is inserted at the insertion position set on this screen.

After the tab insert mode setting key 803 shown in FIG. 8B is selected and the tab sheet feeding position is selected on the tab sheet feeding stage setting screen shown in FIG. The tab insert position setting screen shown in ()) is displayed, and the tab insert position can be set. First, a tab sheet is selected on FIG. 9B, and the page in which the selected tab sheet is to be inserted is displayed on the numeric keypad 622 shown in FIG.
Enter by. This process is performed on all the tab sheets (the first tab sheet, the second tab sheet,..., The seventh tab sheet,...) To be inserted.

It is assumed that the tab sheet is inserted before the page of the output bundle specified by the ten keys 622. Further, the “OK” key enables the setting of the screen of FIG. 9B, and the “Cancel” key invalidates the setting of the screen of FIG. 9B.

FIGS. 10A and 10B are schematic diagrams showing an example of a post-processing mode setting screen and an example of a staple mode detailed setting screen as an example. FIG. 10A corresponds to the post-processing mode setting screen, and FIG. Corresponds to the detailed mode setting screen.

Note that the post-processing mode setting screen shown in FIG. 10A is displayed on the display panel 6 when the sort key 625 is pressed.
20 is displayed.

In FIG. 10A, when the "sort" key is pressed, a sort mode for aligning and stacking output bundles for each bundle is set. When a “staple sort” key 901 is pressed, a staple sort mode is set in which the sorted output bundle is further subjected to a binding process using a stapler. Pressing the “Group” key sets the group mode to divide each sheet of the original bundle into a set number of bundles, align and stack, and press the “Punch Hole” key to punch on the output paper. A punching mode for making holes is set, and by pressing a “Z-folding” key, a Z-folding mode for folding output paper into a Z-shape and discharging the sheet is set.

When the “staple sort” key 901 described above is selected and the “OK” key is pressed, FIG.
A stapling mode setting screen of 0 (b) is displayed, and a stapling mode can be selected on this screen.

In FIG. 10B, reference numeral 906 denotes a corner selection key.
A corner staple mode in which staple processing is performed at one corner is selected, and an upper left key 902, a lower left key 903, an upper right key 904, and a lower right key 905 are displayed. It can be set at any corner of the lower staple.

Reference numeral 907 denotes a double selection key. By depressing this key, a double stapling mode for stapling two positions on one side of the output bundle is selected, and a left two-point binding key and a right two-point binding key (not shown) are set. Is displayed,
The stapling position can be set to either the left-side binding or the right-side binding of the output bundle.

Further, the "OK" key enables the screen setting of FIG. 10B, and the "Cancel" key invalidates the screen setting of FIG. 10B.

FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a method for realizing each corner staple mode in the image forming apparatus of the present invention.

In the image forming apparatus of the present embodiment, the post-processing device 190 has a stapler (not shown), and the stapler can be moved to the back side and the front side in the direction perpendicular to the sheet conveying direction. I have.

As shown in the figure, the upper left staple and the lower left staple are realized by properly using the positions of the staple and the back side, the near side, and the front side.

On the other hand, since the upper right staple and the lower right staple cannot be realized as they are, the image is rotated by 180 degrees by using the image rotation processing by the image memory unit 3, and furthermore, the above-described stapling between the back side and the near side is performed. This is achieved by using different positions.

Hereinafter, the control processing operation of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the first control processing procedure of the image forming apparatus of the present invention.
Is executed based on a program stored in the ROM 174 or another storage medium (not shown). Note that S1309 to S1309 indicate each step.

In step S1301, the mode setting of a new copy job is started, and when any of the mode setting screens is displayed, in step S1302, the currently displayed setting screen is changed to the staple mode with image rotation. It is determined whether or not the setting screen for setting the staple mode (FIG. 10B) is displayed. If it is determined that the setting screen for setting the staple mode involving image rotation is displayed, step S13 is performed.
At 03, it is determined whether or not the tab sheet output mode (tab creation mode and tab insert mode) is set in the image forming mode of the currently set copy job.

If it is determined in step S1303 that the tab paper output mode has been set, then in step S1304, processing is performed to prohibit the setting of the staple mode involving image rotation. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 13, the setting keys 904 and 905 of the upper right corner staple and the lower right corner staple are shaded so that the setting cannot be performed. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S1305.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1303 that the tab sheet output mode has not been set, then in step S1305, a copy job start request is generated by pressing the copy key (the copy key 614 is turned on).
It is determined whether or not a copy job start request has occurred (step S1306).
To start the copy job and the image forming process.

On the other hand, no copy job start request has been issued in step S1305 (the copy key 614 is
N is not determined), step S130
2 and the above-described processing is repeated.

On the other hand, if the setting screen for setting the staple mode with image rotation is not displayed in step S1302, the setting screen currently displayed is changed to the setting screen for starting the setting of the tab output mode in step S1307. It is determined whether or not (FIG. 8A).
If it is determined in step S1307 that the screen is the setting screen for starting the setting of the tab output mode, step S1
At 308, it is determined whether the staple mode with image rotation is set in the image forming mode of the copy job currently set.

If it is determined in step S1308 that the staple mode with image rotation has been set, a process is performed in step S1309 to inhibit the setting key that can start setting the tab output mode. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 14, the tab paper key 801 is shaded so that setting cannot be performed. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S1305.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1307 that the setting screen for starting the setting of the tab output mode has not been set, or if it has been determined in step S1308 that the staple mode involving image rotation has not been set. In both cases, the process proceeds directly to step S1305. Subsequent processing is the same as that described above, and will not be described.

FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a setting screen for realizing mode combination prohibition in the image forming apparatus of the present invention, and corresponds to the staple mode setting screen shown in FIG. The same components as those in (b) are denoted by the same reference numerals.

FIG. 14 is a schematic view showing an example of a setting screen for realizing the mode combination prohibition in the image forming apparatus of the present invention, and corresponds to the application mode setting screen shown in FIG. The same components as those in (a) are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[Second Embodiment] In the first embodiment,
When one of the modes in which the combination is prohibited (for example, the tab output mode and the staple mode with image rotation) is set, the configuration in which the other setting is prohibited has been described. If both of the modes (for example, the tab output mode and the staple mode with image rotation) are set, any of the modes may be canceled and executed.
Hereinafter, the embodiment will be described.

The hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus of this embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment.

Hereinafter, the control processing operation of the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of the second control processing procedure of the image forming apparatus of the present invention.
Is executed based on a program stored in the ROM 174 or another storage medium (not shown). S1401 to S1406 indicate each step.

In step S1401, when a request to start a new print job (hereinafter referred to as job A) is issued, in step S1402, a job mode for outputting tab sheets in the image forming mode of job A is set. Make a judgment as to whether or not.

If it is determined in step S1402 that the job mode for outputting tab paper has been set, it is determined in step S1403 whether the staple mode has been further set in the image forming mode of job A. .

If it is determined in step S1403 that the staple mode has been set, the process proceeds to step S1404.
It is determined whether the staple mode is a staple mode involving image rotation.

If it is determined in step S1404 that the staple mode involves image rotation, the process proceeds to step S14.
At step 05, a staple mode cancel process is performed so that the staple process is not performed at the post-processing device 190. At step S1406, the print operation of job A is started.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1402 that the job mode for outputting tab sheets is not set, or if it is determined in step S1403 that the staple mode is not set, or if step S1 is determined.
If it is determined in step 404 that the mode is not the staple mode with image rotation, the process advances to step S1406 to start the print operation of job A.

In the present embodiment, a configuration has been described in which, when both the tab output mode and the staple mode with image rotation are set, the staple mode with image rotation is canceled and executed. Or the user may select one of them, execute the selected mode, and cancel the other.

[Third Embodiment] In the first embodiment,
The case where the setting of the staple mode accompanied by image rotation is prohibited when the tab mode is set has been described. However, the setting of prohibiting the combination of the tab sheet output mode and the staple mode and the tab mode are set. In such a case, any stapling mode setting may be prohibited. Hereinafter, the embodiment will be described.

The hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus of this embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment.

Hereinafter, the control processing operation of the image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of the second control processing procedure of the image forming apparatus of the present invention.
Is executed based on a program stored in the ROM 174 or another storage medium (not shown). S1501 to S1510 indicate each step.

In step S1501, the mode setting of a new copy job starts, and when any of the mode setting screens is displayed, in step S1502, the combination of the tab sheet output mode and the staple mode is prohibited. It is determined whether the setting has been made (the setting in which the ON key 702 is selected on the staple inhibition setting screen in the tab mode shown in FIG. 7B).

If it is determined in step S1502 that the setting for prohibiting the combination of the tab sheet output mode and the staple mode has been set, the process proceeds to step S1.
At 503, it is determined whether or not the currently displayed setting screen is a setting screen (FIG. 10A) capable of starting staple mode setting, and a setting screen capable of starting staple mode setting is displayed. If it is determined that there is
At 1504, it is determined whether or not the tab sheet output mode (tab creation mode and tab insert mode) is set in the image forming mode of the copy job currently being set.

If it is determined in step S1504 that the tab sheet output mode has been set, then in step S1505 processing is performed to inhibit the setting key that can start the stapling mode setting. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 17, a “staple sort” key 901 (that is, a setting key that can start the staple mode setting) on the setting screen that can start the staple mode is shaded, and the staple sort is performed. Disable mode setting. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S1506.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1504 that the tab sheet output mode has not been set, it is determined in step S1506 whether a copy job start request has been issued by pressing the copy key. If it is determined that a copy job start request has occurred (the copy key 614 has been turned ON), the process proceeds to step S1.
At 507, a copy job is started, and an image forming process is started.

On the other hand, in step S1506, no copy job start request has been issued (copy key 614 is
N is not determined), step S150
2 and the above-described processing is repeated.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1503 that the setting screen capable of starting the staple mode has not been displayed, then in step S1508 the currently displayed setting screen starts setting the tab output mode. It is determined whether or not a possible setting screen (FIG. 8A) is displayed. If it is determined in step S1508 that the screen is a setting screen on which tab output mode setting can be started, it is determined in step S1509 whether the staple mode is set in the image forming mode of the currently set copy job. Do.

If it is determined in step S1509 that the staple mode has been set, step S1510
Performs processing to prohibit the setting key that can start setting of the tab output mode. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 14, the tab paper key 801 (that is, a setting key for starting the setting of the tab output mode) is shaded so that the setting cannot be performed. Thereafter, while the process proceeds to step S1506, if it is determined in step S1508 that the setting screen is not such that the tab output mode can be set, or it is determined in step S1509 that the staple mode has not been set. In all cases, or when it is determined in step S1502 that the setting for prohibiting the combination of the tab sheet output mode and the staple mode has not been made, the process directly proceeds to step S1506. Subsequent processing is the same as described above, and a description thereof will not be repeated.

FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a setting screen for realizing mode combination prohibition in the image forming apparatus of the present invention, and corresponds to the post-processing mode setting screen shown in FIG. 10 (a) are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[Fourth Embodiment] In the second embodiment,
When the tab output mode and the staple mode with the image rotation are both set, the configuration in which the staple mode with the image rotation is simply canceled and executed has been described, but the tab output mode and the staple mode with the image rotation are both set. In such a case, a warning message may be displayed to allow the user to confirm whether or not the setting is incorrect. Hereinafter, the embodiment will be described.

The hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus of this embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment.

Hereinafter, the control processing operation of the image forming apparatus according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing an example of the fourth control processing procedure of the image forming apparatus of the present invention.
Is executed based on a program stored in the ROM 174 or another storage medium (not shown). S1601 to S1607 indicate each step.

In step S1601, the mode setting of a new copy job is started, and any one of the mode setting screens is displayed. In step S1602, the tab sheet is set in the image forming mode of the copy job currently set. It is determined whether or not the job mode for outputting is set.

If it is determined in step S1602 that the job mode for outputting tab sheets has been set, in step S1603, it is determined whether the staple mode has been further set in the image forming mode of the copy job currently set. Make a judgment.

If it is determined in step S1603 that the staple mode has been set, step S1604
It is determined whether the staple mode is a staple mode involving image rotation.

If it is determined in step S1604 that the staple mode involves image rotation, the process proceeds to step S16.
At step 05, a process is performed to display a warning message (FIG. 19) for asking the user who is currently setting the image forming mode of the copy job whether there is a setting error. Specifically, a warning message as shown in FIG. 13 is displayed on display panel 620. The user who sees this warning message can perform resetting such as canceling one of the settings at that time, or press the start key 614 shown in FIG. .

Thereafter, in step S1606, it is determined whether or not a copy job start request by pressing the copy key has occurred (the start key 614 shown in FIG. 6 has been turned on). If it is determined in step S1606 that a copy job start request has occurred, step S16
At 07, a copy job is started to start image forming processing.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1606 that a copy job start request has not been issued (the start key 614 shown in FIG. 6 has not been turned ON), the process returns to step S1602 and the above-described processing is repeated.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1602 that the job mode for outputting tab sheets is not set, or if it is determined in step S1603 that the staple mode is not set, or if step S160
If it is determined in step 4 that the mode is not the staple mode involving image rotation, the process directly proceeds to step S1606. Subsequent processing is the same as that described above, and will not be described.

FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a setting screen for realizing mode combination prohibition in the image forming apparatus of the present invention, and corresponds to a copy setting screen.

In the figure, reference numeral 1201 denotes a warning message for allowing a user who is currently setting the image forming mode of a copy job to confirm whether there is a setting error.

In each of the above embodiments, the case where the combination of the tab output mode and the staple mode involving image rotation is prohibited or warned has been described. The present invention is not limited to the combination of the staple mode with the image rotation and the tab output mode and other post-processing control modes with the image rotation (for example, the punching mode with the image rotation, the Z-folding mode with the image rotation, the image rotation). And a warning may be issued in all combinations with the bookbinding mode.

As described above, a post-processing mode in which an image of a copy job or a print job can be formed, a post-processing apparatus is provided, and post-processing such as stapling is performed on an output sheet, and a tab sheet is fed by feeding a tab sheet. In an image forming apparatus that provides an output mode, by prohibiting a combination of a tab sheet output mode and a post-processing mode involving image rotation, waste such as erroneous copying can be suppressed and the user's labor can be reduced.

Also, when the combination of the tab sheet output mode and the post-processing mode with image rotation is set,
By showing a display that calls attention to the user, it is possible to similarly suppress a setting error that causes a miscopy.

In each of the above embodiments, the case where an image is formed based on a document image read by the reader unit has been described. However, the case where image formation is performed based on image data input from an external device is described. Even so, the present invention is applicable.

[Fifth Embodiment] FIG. 20 shows a fifth embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration of a control circuit of the image forming apparatus according to the exemplary embodiment.

In the figure, reference numeral 2100 denotes a main body control unit (hereinafter referred to as a main body control unit) of the post-image forming apparatus for controlling the driving of the image reading unit and the image forming unit. RA that provides a working area for this CPU
M and a ROM storing a control program for the entire image forming apparatus including a program for executing each operation mode described later.

For example, the main body control unit 2100
The image data read by D2101 is converted into desired image data by an image processing unit 2102, and the read image data is converted by an image data selector 2103 into a laser unit 2104, an image data compression / decompression unit 2107, an image memory 2108, It controls which of the scan image conversion unit 2113 and the print image conversion unit 2114 the image is to be sent, issues a document feed command to the document feed device control unit 2116, and controls the post-processing device control unit 21
The control unit 17 performs device control of the image forming apparatus and image data control for instructing what mode to set, and further executes a tab sheet insert mode and a tab sheet creation mode described later.

Reference numeral 2101 denotes a CCD, which captures reflected light of a document image obtained by document irradiation from a document reading unit 2118 including a document table, a document irradiation unit, an optical system, and the like, performs photoelectric conversion, and outputs image data. The image processing unit 2102 performs image processing corresponding to the image processing function set by the operation unit 2119 on the image data output from the CCD 2101. Reference numeral 2103 denotes an image data selector, which is connected to a laser unit 2104, an image data compression / decompression unit 2107, an image memory 2108, a scan image conversion unit 2113, a print image conversion unit 2114, a function control unit 2109, and an image data bus. , Body control unit 2100 that determines the flow of image data
, The direction in which the image data flows is selected.

A laser unit 2104 performs laser exposure on an image forming unit 2105 for developing image data on paper. An image forming unit 2105 actually develops the laser-exposed image data on paper as described above. Reference numeral 2106 denotes an inter-CPU communication I / F (interface) for communicating control information between the main body control unit 2100 and a function control unit 2109 described later.
It is. When storing image data output from the image data selector 2103 in a hard disk (HD) which is a large-capacity nonvolatile memory, the image data is compressed to reduce the occupation rate of the image data on the HD. An image data compression / expansion unit that expands the original image data when transferring the compressed image data on the HD to the image data selector 2103. Reference numeral 2108 denotes an image memory including a volatile memory for temporarily storing the image data sent from the image data selector 2103 and transferring the temporarily stored image data to the image data selector 2103.

2109 The function control section communicates with the main body control section 2100, and the image data selector 21
03 to the scan image converter 21 to be described later.
13 or a print image conversion unit 2114 to be described later.
Data for flowing image data to the image data selector 2103, and image forming apparatus control information from the operation unit 2119 of the main body.
Main unit control unit 2100 via U-to-U communication I / F 2106
Communicate with

Reference numeral 2110 denotes an HD control unit 2111 described later.
A communication I / F for communicating control information of image data stored in the HD between the CPU and the main body controller 2100. The CPU 2111 controls the image data flowing from the image data compression / expansion unit 2107 to the HD 2112 or reads out the image data stored in the HD 2112 and sends the image data to the image data compression / expansion unit 2107 between the CPUs. H performed based on control information from the main body control unit 2100 transmitted through the communication I / F 2110
D control unit.

Reference numeral 2112 denotes an HD which is a non-volatile memory for writing and reading image data transmitted from or transmitted from the image data compression / decompression unit 2107 under the control of the HD control unit 2111. 2113
Denotes a scan image conversion unit, and a main body control unit 2100
The image data sent from the image data selector 2103 based on the control of the network communication I / F 2
At 115, conversion is performed so that application software running on a host computer connected to the network can read the application software. Reference numeral 2114 denotes an image forming unit 2105 of the image forming apparatus that converts image data described by PDL transferred from application software operating on a host computer connected to a network in a network communication I / F 2115 described below.
Is a print image conversion unit that converts the image data into printable image data.

Reference numeral 2115 denotes a communication I / F for connecting to the image forming apparatus via a network. The communication I / F communicates image data and control information with a device (computer or the like) on the network based on a specific communication protocol (protocol). Do.
Reference numeral 2116 denotes a document feeder control unit that controls a document feeder that feeds a plurality of documents to a platen described in detail in FIG. 3, and feeds a document based on control information from the main body control unit 2100. I do. Reference numeral 2117 denotes a post-processing device control unit that performs post-processing of the output sheet described in detail in FIG. 2, and performs post-processing of the output sheet based on control information from the main body control unit 2100. An original reading unit 2118 includes an optical unit driving device that drives an optical unit including an original irradiating unit and an optical unit. The original reading unit 2118 irradiates the original based on control information from the device control unit and drives the optical unit. This gives the CCD 2101 the reflected light of the original image.

Reference numeral 2119 denotes an operation unit of the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention. The key information input from the operation unit 2119 is notified to the function control unit 2109. The function control unit 2109 analyzes the command of the key. Notify through / F2106.

In order to explain the basic operation in the circuit configuration of FIG. 20, a 50% reduced copy is taken as an example.
A brief description will be given. First, a reduction 5
The displayed key of 0% is pressed, and the function control unit 2109 is notified. Function control unit 2
At 109, a command analysis is made that the 50% key has been pressed, and that information is stored in the function control unit. Next, in the operation unit 2119, the copy start button is pressed and notified to the function control unit 2109. The function control unit 2109 analyzes the command that the copy start button is pressed, and
Main unit control unit 210 through PU communication I / F 2106
0 copy mode, 50% reduction, number (number of copies:
In this case, a copy start is notified together with copy information such as 1).

The main body control unit 2100 receives the notification from the function control unit 2109, and monitors the state of the HD control unit 2111 through the document feeding device control unit 2116, the post-processing device control unit 2117, and the communication I / F 2110 between the CPUs. After determining that copy start is possible, since the reduction is 50%, the setting is made in the image processing unit 2102, and since the mode is the copy mode,
Image data compression /
An image path is set so that an image flows to the decompression unit 2107, the image memory 2108, and the laser unit 2104. Since copying is started, the state of the document feeder is checked through the document feeder control unit 2116. If the document exists, an instruction is sent to the document feeder control unit 2116 to feed the document, and the document reading unit 2118 is
An instruction is issued to move the original fed from the original feeder to a position where the original can be read. At the same time, the status of the post-processing device is confirmed through the post-processing device control unit 2117, and an instruction is issued to allow the image forming unit 2105 to receive the paper output for printing. Further, since the read image of the document is written to the HD through the image data selector 2103 and the image data compression / decompression unit 2107, the image writing to the HD and the case of a plurality of documents or a case where the number of placed images is plural are performed. Is also read from the HD, and issues an instruction to the HD control unit 2111 through the inter-CPU communication I / F 2110 to perform the setting.

In order to perform a copy operation, CC
D2101, laser unit 2104, image forming unit 21
05, the document feeding device controls the document feeding device control unit 2116 to send the document to the document reading position, and the post-processing device discharges the print output sheet from the image forming unit 2105. When the document reading unit 2118 reaches a position where the document on the platen can be read from the post-processing device control unit 2117, the image forming unit 2105
The image processing unit 2102 confirms that the print output paper is ready for printing, and receives image data in which the CCD 2101 photoelectrically converts reflected light of a document image to start image reading and image print output. , The image data selector 2103, the image memory 2108, the image data compression / decompression unit 2107, and the HD control unit 2111 to instruct the start of image data capture.

Since the set number is 1, the time when the image data written in the image memory 2108 is written to a point where printing can be performed is measured by the main body control unit 2100. Selector 21
03, instruct the laser unit 2104 and the image forming unit 2105 to start printing.

The character string direction / document direction determining unit 2120
Refer to the character recognition dictionary and set several types of character areas in the document to 0.
, 180 degrees, 270 degrees,
Further, by detecting vertical and horizontal oblique shadows of the entire document, a discrimination process between the document direction and the character string direction of the document is performed.

The main body control unit 2100 determines whether the document
The rotation angle of the image is determined based on the result of the determination processing of the document direction and the character string direction of the original by the character string direction determination unit 2120, and the image forming direction of the image data on the sheet is determined based on the determined rotation angle. Is rotated.

FIG. 21 is a sectional view showing the structure of an image forming apparatus according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

In the figure, reference numeral 200 denotes an image forming apparatus main body, 280
, An automatic document feeder (ADF); and 201, a platen glass serving as a document table. A scanner 202 includes a document illumination lamp 203, a scanning mirror 204, and the like. The scanner 202 is reciprocally scanned in a predetermined direction by a motor (not shown), and the reflected light of the original is scanned by scanning mirrors 204 to 20.
6 through the lens 207 and the image sensor unit 2
The image is formed on the CCD 2101 in the image 08.

Reference numeral 209 denotes an exposure control unit composed of a laser, a polygon scanner, or the like. A laser light converted into an electric signal by the image sensor unit 208 and modulated based on an image signal subjected to predetermined image processing described later. 219 is irradiated on the photosensitive drum 211. Around the photosensitive drum 211, a primary charger 212, a developing device 213, a transfer charger 21
6. A pre-exposure lamp 214 and a cleaning device 215 are provided.

In the image forming section 210, the photosensitive drum 211 is rotated by a motor (not shown) in the direction of the arrow in the figure, and is charged to a desired potential by the primary charger 212. The laser beam 219 is irradiated to form an electrostatic latent image. The electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 211 is developed by the developing device 213,
It is visualized as a toner image.

On the other hand, pickup rollers 225, 226, and 2 are provided from right cassette deck 221, left cassette deck 222, upper cassette 223 or lower cassette 224.
Transfer paper fed by the feed rollers 27 and 228
The toner image is fed to the main body by the transfer rollers 29, 230, 231 and 232, is fed to the transfer belt 234 by the registration roller 233, and is transferred to the transfer paper by the transfer charger 216. After transfer, the photosensitive drum 211 is cleaned of residual toner by the cleaner device 215, and residual charge is erased by the pre-exposure lamp 214.

The transfer paper after the transfer is separated from the photosensitive drum 211 by the separation charger 217 and the transfer belt 23
4 to the fixing device 235. In the fixing unit, pressurization,
The toner is fixed by heating, and the main body 20 is fixed by the discharge roller 236.
It is discharged out of zero. The main body 200 has, for example, 4000
A deck 250 capable of storing a sheet of transfer paper is provided. The lifter 251 of the deck 250 rises according to the amount of transfer paper so that the transfer paper always contacts the pickup roller 252, and the transfer paper is sent to the main body by the paper feed roller 253. Further, a multi-bypass tray 254 capable of storing 100 transfer sheets is provided.

Further, reference numeral 237 denotes a paper discharge flapper, which switches the path between the transport path 238 and the discharge path 243. 2
Reference numeral 40 denotes a lower transport path, which transfers the transfer sheet sent from the discharge roller 236 through the reversing path 239, turns the transfer sheet over, and guides the transfer sheet to the re-feeding path 241. Re-feeding path 2 for paper
It is led to 41. Reference numeral 242 denotes a re-feed roller for re-feeding the transfer sheet to the image forming unit 210. The paper discharge flapper 237 is disposed near the paper discharge flapper 237.
7 is a discharge roller that discharges the transfer paper switched to the discharge path 243 side by outside.

At the time of double-sided recording (double-sided copying), the discharge flapper 237 is raised upward, and the copied transfer sheet is guided to the re-feeding path 241 via the transport path 238, the reversing path 239, and the lower transport path 240. At this time, the rear end of the transfer paper is completely pulled out of the transport path 238 by the reversing roller 245, and is pulled into the reversing path 239 to a position where the transfer paper is bitten by the reversing roller 245. Send to pass 240.

When the transfer paper is inverted and discharged from the main body, the discharge flapper 237 is raised upward, and
5, the rear end of the transfer paper is drawn into the reversing path 239 to a position where the rear end of the transfer paper remains in the conveying path 238,
By reversing 5, the transfer paper is turned over and sent out to the discharge roller 244 side.

[0214] Reference numeral 290 denotes a paper discharge processing unit which closes the transfer papers discharged from the image forming apparatus main body 200, and stacks the transfer papers discharged one by one on the processing tray 294 and aligns them. When the discharge of a part of the image formation is completed, the transfer paper bundle is stapled and discharged to the discharge tray 292 or 293 as a bundle.

The paper discharge tray 293 is controlled to move up and down by a motor (not shown), and moves to the position of the processing tray before the start of the image forming operation. Reference numeral 291 denotes a sheet tray on which a separator sheet to be inserted between the discharged transfer sheets is loaded.
Is a Z-folder for Z-folding the discharged transfer paper. Reference numeral 296 denotes a bookbinding machine which performs bookbinding by folding the center of a part of the transferred transfer papers together and performing stapling. The bound paper bundle is discharged to a discharge tray 297.

FIG. 22 shows the operation unit 2119 shown in FIG.
It is a top view which shows in detail.

In the figure, reference numeral 2301 denotes a numeric keypad used for inputting the number of copies, the amount of image movement, and the like. A start key 2302 is used to start a copy job. Reference numeral 2303 denotes a stop key, which can be stopped by depressing the started job when it is desired to stop the job halfway.

Reference numeral 2304 denotes an LCD touch panel (display and input unit) which is generally used for setting a copy job mode and displaying the operation state of the copying machine.

Reference numeral 2305 denotes a user mode key for setting each item of the user mode for performing an operation to be reflected in the standard mode relating to the copying machine and a display.

Hereinafter, the setting of the tab sheet feeding stage in the user mode of the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

FIG. 23 is a schematic diagram showing a setting screen of a tab sheet feeding stage in the image forming apparatus of the present invention. When the user mode key 2305 shown in FIG.
This corresponds to a user mode screen displayed on the D touch panel 2304.

In the figure, reference numeral 1000 denotes a tab sheet feeding stage setting screen. Items to be set are listed in a window 1001. By using the up scroll key 1002 and the down scroll key 1003, the window 100 is moved to another item.
1 is moved and displayed. In FIG. 23, since there is no item on the upper side, the upper scroll key 1002 is shaded and displayed, and does not respond when pressed.

Reference numeral 1004 denotes a tab paper feed stage setting key for setting the tab paper feed stage. When this key is pressed, a tab paper feed stage setting subwindow 10 shown in FIG.
10 is displayed. Reference numeral 1005 denotes an OHP insertion tab sheet setting key. When this key is pressed, automatic sorting is turned ON / OFF.
Is displayed. Reference numeral 1006 denotes a setting key of a favorite key, which displays a setting key for an application mode, scaling, or the like on a part of a standard screen described later, and displays a subwindow for setting a favorite function for jumping the setting operation.

At 1007, after the setting of the user mode is completed,
A close key for returning to a standard screen described later. Also, even if the user mode key 2305 shown in FIG. 22 is pressed, the screen is similarly shifted to the standard screen.

FIG. 24 is a schematic diagram showing a setting screen of a tab sheet feeding stage in the image forming apparatus of the present invention. When the tab sheet feeding stage setting key 1004 shown in FIG. 23 is depressed, FIG. This corresponds to the tab paper feed stage setting subwindow displayed on the user mode screen shown.

In the figure, reference numeral 1011 denotes a manual feed selection key, which is depressed when selecting the multi manual feed 254 as a tab sheet feeding stage. A first paper feed stage selection key 1012 is pressed when the first paper feed stage (right cassette deck 221) is selected as a tab paper feed stage. A second paper feed stage selection key 1013 is pressed to select the second paper feed stage (left cassette deck 222) as the tab paper feed stage.

Reference numeral 1014 denotes a third paper feed stage selection key, which is depressed when selecting the third paper feed stage (upper cassette 223) as the tab paper feed stage. A fourth paper feed stage selection key 1105 is pressed to select the fourth paper feed stage (lower cassette 224) as the tab paper feed stage.

A fifth paper feed stage selection key 1106 is depressed when the fifth paper feed stage (deck 250) is selected as a tab paper feed stage.

Here, the unselectable paper feed trays are shaded, and the paper feed trays 101 that can be selected as tab paper feed trays are displayed.
Paper feed tray 101 that cannot be selected as 1,1014,1015
2, 1013, and 1016.

[0230] Reference numeral 1018 denotes an OK key, which is depressed after selecting a paper feed stage, reflects the tab paper feed stage setting, and returns to the user mode screen of FIG. A cancel key 1017 cancels the tab sheet feeding stage setting and returns to the user mode screen of FIG.

Here, when the tab sheet feeding stage is not set, in the application mode screen for performing various mode settings for copying as shown in FIG.
No tab sheet-related mode setting key is displayed, and tab sheet-related settings are not possible.

However, when the OK key 1018 is pressed to set the tab sheet feeding stage, a tab sheet insert mode key 1021 and a tab sheet creation mode key 1022 are displayed as shown in FIG. Related settings can be made.

FIGS. 25 and 26 are schematic diagrams showing an application mode screen in the image forming apparatus of the present invention. The application displayed on the LCD touch panel 2304 when an application mode key 2311 shown in FIG. Corresponds to the mode screen.

FIG. 25 corresponds to a state before the tab sheet feeding stage is set in the tab sheet feeding stage setting sub-window 1010 in FIG. 24. Setting is impossible.

On the other hand, FIG. 26 corresponds to a state after the tab sheet feeding stage is set in the tab sheet feeding stage setting subwindow 1010 in FIG. 24, and a tab sheet insert mode key 1021 and a tab sheet creation mode key 1022 are displayed. , Tab paper-related settings are possible.

Hereinafter, referring to FIGS. 27 to 32, FIG.
A display example of the LCD touch panel 304 shown in FIG.

FIG. 27 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on LCD touch panel 2304 shown in FIG. 22, and corresponds to a standard screen.

In the figure, reference numeral 2311 denotes an application mode icon (key). When this icon is pressed, a subwindow (FIGS. 25 and 26) for setting various modes is opened.
Reference numeral 2312 denotes a paper feed stage selection icon. When this icon is pressed, a sub window for selecting a paper feed stage as shown in FIG. 28 to be described later is opened, and the display and selection of the paper feed stage can be performed.

Reference numeral 2313 denotes a trial copy key, which is used when only one copy is trial copied and a sample is output when a plurality of copies are set. 231
Reference numeral 4 denotes a group of keys for determining an image mode, which selects an image mode such as an automatic density correction, a character mode, a character / photo mode, and a photo mode. By the key of body
The concentration can be varied.

Reference numeral 2315 denotes a key group for changing the magnification of the document. The key group includes a zoom key at 100% magnification, reduction, enlargement, 1%, and a slightly smaller key used for copying the entire document. In either case, the magnification of the document is changed, and after the magnification is set, the set magnification is displayed.

Reference numeral 2316 denotes a sorter key for setting finishing after a sheet is output. For example, a sort mode for outputting a plurality of copies of one set of a plurality of documents, a group sort for outputting a set number of pages of each document, and a sheet output in the sort mode for each group. And staple mode.

A double-sided key 2317 is used to set a double-sided mode of reading or outputting a document or paper on one side. Single-sided mode for reading originals on one side and outputting on both sides of paper, Dual-sided mode for reading originals on both sides and outputting on both sides, dual-sided mode for reading originals on both sides and outputting on one side of paper, This includes a continuous page duplex mode in which one side is divided into two and read and output on both sides of a sheet.
Here, a display example in which the single-sided mode in the double-sided mode is set is shown, and a single-sided balloon is displayed above the double-sided icon.

In the setting of the favorite function 1003 shown in FIG. 23, the setting when single-sided copying is performed is displayed as a favorite key. The mode is set.

FIG. 28 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on LCD touch panel 2304 shown in FIG. 22, and corresponds to a sub-window displayed when paper selection key 2312 shown in FIG. 27 is pressed. . This sub-window is used to select a paper feed tray to be selected from the paper feed trays of the right cassette deck 221, the left cassette deck 222, the upper cassette deck 223 or the lower cassette deck 224, the deck 250, and the multi-bypass tray 254 of the image forming apparatus main body 200. Is set.

In the figure, reference numeral 2321 denotes a manual feed selection key, which is depressed when the multi-manual feed 254 is to be set as a paper feed tray for selection.

Reference numeral 2322 denotes a first paper feed stage selection key, which indicates that A4 paper is currently inserted in the first paper feed stage (right cassette deck 221). Press to set a column. Reference numeral 2323 denotes a second paper feed stage selection key, which indicates that A3-size paper is currently stored in the second paper feed stage (left cassette deck 222), and a paper feed stage for selecting the second paper feed stage. Press to set to.

Reference numeral 2324 denotes a third paper feed stage selection key, which indicates that the third paper feed stage (upper cassette 223) is set as a tab paper feed stage. It also indicates that a tab sheet of A4 size is currently inserted, and is pressed to set the third paper feed tray to a paper feed tray to be selected. By displaying the tab sheet feeding stage, the user can easily recognize where the tab sheet is set or where it is set.

Reference numeral 2325 denotes a fourth paper feed stage selection key, which indicates that A4 paper is currently set in the fourth paper feed stage (lower cassette 224) but no paper is present. Press this button to set the tab paper feed stage to be selected. 23
Reference numeral 26 denotes a fifth paper feed stage selection key.
0) indicates that A3 paper is currently inserted, and is pressed to set the fifth paper feed stage to the tab paper feed stage.

Reference numeral 2327 denotes an automatic paper feed selection key. When automatic paper feed is selected by pressing this key, the optimum paper detection is automatically performed based on the original size and the set copy mode, and no automatic paper feed is detected. In this case, a second candidate paper size is selected.

Reference numeral 2328 denotes a close key. When pressed after selecting a paper feed tray, the paper feed tray selection setting is reflected.
Return to the screen of.

FIG. 29 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on LCD touch panel 2304 shown in FIG. 22, and shows a sub-window (applied mode) displayed when application mode key 2311 shown in FIG. 27 is pressed. Screen), and icons of functions for setting respective copy modes are displayed.

In the figure, reference numeral 2340 denotes a page continuous shooting key which is depressed when setting a page continuous shooting mode in which a document is regarded as a two-page spread and divided into two and read as two documents. A cover / interleaf key 2341 is pressed to set a cover / interleaf mode in which a cover sheet, a back cover, and a slip sheet for a partition are selected as output sheets and a copy of one copy is output.

A bookbinding mode key 2342 is depressed to set a bookbinding mode in which a copy of a document is output like a two-page spread when the document is folded at the center of the output sheet. A negative / positive inversion key 2343 is pressed to set a negative / positive inversion mode for copying a white portion of a document image to black and a black portion to white.

Reference numeral 2345 denotes a tab paper creation key. When the upper cassette 223 is set to the tab paper feed stage as shown by the third paper feed stage selection key 2324 in FIG. 28 (tab paper is not stored in the upper cassette 223). When the tab paper feed mode is set, the tab paper is fed, the image corresponding to the tab part printed on the document is moved to the tab position, and the tab paper creation mode is printed on the tab part of the tab paper. Press.

Reference numeral 2344 denotes a tab paper insert key.
When the upper cassette 223 is set to the tab paper feed stage as shown by the third paper feed stage selection key 2324 of No. 8 (when the tab paper is stored in the upper cassette 223), the tab paper is interleaved. The button is pressed to set a tab paper insert mode in which an image is moved or the like in order to print on a tab with a copy document corresponding to the tab portion as used as partition paper as shown in FIG.

Reference numeral 2346 denotes a mode memory key, which is an application mode or a sort mode set in the sorter key 2316;
Zoom mode set in key group 2315, key group 23
This button is pressed when various mode settings such as the image mode set in the area 14 are stored together.

Reference numeral 2347 denotes a call key, which is pressed to set a call mode in which the settings at the time of the previous copy can be recalled. Reference numeral 2348 denotes an image synthesizing key which is depressed when a background image is registered or when a previously registered background image is superimposed on a document and output.

An original mixing key 2349 is pressed to set an original mixing mode which is set when a plurality of originals are placed on the automatic original feeder 280 and A4 and A3 are mixed. Reference numeral 2350 denotes an OHP insertion key, which is used when OHP paper is set by the multi-bypass tray 254 or the like.
OHP is fed from the multi-manual feeder 254, printed, and the same image is printed on plain paper from another paper feed stage, or an OHP intermediate paper that is output without printing is inserted between the OHPs. Press to set the mode.

Reference numeral 2351 denotes a movement key which is depressed when setting a movement mode in which the original image is to be moved with respect to the sheet to be output. Reference numeral 2352 denotes a binding margin key, which is a mode for moving an image in order to create a binding margin on a sheet on which a document image is output. Reference numeral 2353 denotes a frame erase key which is pressed to set a margin margin mode for erasing an outer frame of a document image or erasing an image of an outer frame of a sheet at the time of printing.

A reduced layout key 2354 is pressed to set a reduced layout mode in which a plurality of documents are laid out on one sheet and printed. Reference numeral 2355 denotes an enlarged layout key which is pressed to set an enlarged layout mode for dividing and printing a plurality of images per sheet created by the reduced layout key 2354 or the like. 23
Reference numeral 56 denotes a key for closing the sub window of the application mode and returning to the standard screen 2310.

FIG. 30 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on LCD touch panel 2304 shown in FIG. 22 when tab paper creation key 2345 and tab paper insert key 2344 shown in FIG. 29 are pressed. Is a sub-window for inputting the number of tab divisions.

In general, the tab paper is generally a five-tab sheet made of one set of five sheets. In the present embodiment, however, it is possible to handle 12 tab sheets made of one set of two sheets from two sets of two tab sheets. It is possible to make various settings. The number of divisions here indicates the number of tab sheets per set.

In the figure, reference numeral 2360 denotes the number of divisions to be set at present, and the minus key 2361,
By pressing the plus key 2362, the number can be increased or decreased.

An OK key 2363 can reflect the input setting of the number of divisions. Reference numeral 2364 denotes a cancel key which is depressed when returning from the subwindow for inputting the number of tab divisions to the subwindow of the application mode without setting.

FIG. 31 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on LCD touch panel 2304 shown in FIG. 22. Sub window displayed after OK key 2363 of the number of tab divisions shown in FIG. 30 is pressed. This is for setting the moving amount of the image.

This moving amount is a moving amount for moving the image printed on the tab portion included in the document to be printed on the tab portion.

Normally, the tab sheet of A4 size may be moved by about 12 mm. In this embodiment, the moving amount changes depending on the size of the character to be printed on the tab and the position on the document. It can be set to be movable by width.

In the figure, reference numeral 2330 denotes a minus key.
A key for reducing the normal movement amount of 12 mm (initial value). A plus key 2331 is a key for increasing the normal movement amount of 12 mm (initial value). 2
Reference numeral 332 denotes a portion that displays the amount of movement currently being set. A cancel key 2333 is a key for canceling the setting of the moving amount and returning to FIG. 29 which is an input screen for setting the number of tab divisions. Reference numeral 2334 denotes an OK key which is a key for reflecting the value displayed in the portion 2332 displaying the movement amount at the time of printing.

As a result, the main controller 21 shown in FIG.
When an image is formed on the tab sheet, the image forming position of the input original image data on the sheet is moved by the moving amount set by the sub-window shown in FIG. 31 to form the image on the tab portion of the tab sheet. Is performed.

FIG. 32 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on LCD touch panel 2304 shown in FIG. 22. When tab sheet insert key 2344 shown in FIG. 29 is depressed, tab division shown in FIG. OK key for number 2363
Is pressed, and the OK key 23 of the tab division number shown in FIG.
A subwindow displayed after the button 34 is pressed, for setting the number of pages into which tab sheets are inserted.

In the figure, reference numeral 2370 denotes an insertion page window showing a page to be inserted. When selecting the first tab sheet, the first sheet is pressed, and the tab sheet is inserted by the ten keys 2301 shown in FIG. Enter the number of pages you want. In this figure, the first sheet is set before the second page. Similarly, this corresponds to a case where before the third page of the second sheet, before the fourth page of the third sheet, before the fifth page of the fourth sheet, and before the eighth page of the fifth sheet.

A cancel key 2371 cancels the number of pages into which the tab sheet is to be inserted, and returns to the sub-window shown in FIG. 30 for setting the amount of image movement to the tab sheet. 2372
Is a key for scrolling up the insertion page window 2370 when there are seven or more pages into which tab sheets are to be inserted. Reference numeral 2373 denotes a down scroll key, which is used to scroll down the insertion page window 2370 when there are seven or more pages into which tab sheets are to be inserted.

Reference numeral 2374 denotes an OK key for reflecting the tab sheet insertion page set in the insertion page window 2370 in the copy job, whereby the setting of the tab sheet insert mode is completed.

In the copy job from the tab sheet number, the tab sheet image moving amount, and the tab sheet insertion page set in FIG. 30 to FIG. 32, the tab sheet is inserted at any position and printed on the tab section. , The amount of image movement and the page to which the tab sheet should be fed are determined.

FIG. 33 is a view showing the tab insert setting set by the tab paper insert key 2344 shown in FIG.
FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a document to be copied and output paper,
(A) corresponds to a document, and (b) corresponds to output paper.

Here, the document size and the paper size match, but the size of the tab document and the size of the tab paper differ only in the tab portion.

In FIG. 33A, reference numeral 400 denotes a document 4
01 is the document to be printed on the tab paper sandwiched between them. FIG. 33B shows the output paper corresponding to the output.

In FIG. 33B, reference numeral 410 denotes a tab sheet. The image printed on the tab document 400 is moved by the moving amount set by the window shown in FIG. You.

FIG. 34 shows the tab creation key sheet 2 shown in FIG.
FIG. 8A is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a document to be copied and an output sheet according to a tab sheet creation mode setting set in 345;
Corresponds to the original, and (b) corresponds to the output paper.

Here, although the document size and the paper size match, the size of the tab document differs from that of the tab paper only in the tab portion.

FIG. 34B shows a tab sheet after printing.
The image printed on the tab document in (a) is moved by the moving amount set in FIG. 31 and is printed on the tab portion of the tab sheet as shown in FIG. 34 (b).

Here, for example, when the document orientation detection is performed on the document shown in FIG.
There is a possibility of erroneous detection. Therefore, when the tab sheet insert mode or the tab sheet creation mode is selected and a document is read, the output as shown in FIG. 34B is performed without detecting the document orientation and rotating the read image.

The control processing operation of the image forming apparatus according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing an example of the fifth control processing procedure of the image forming apparatus of the present invention.
0 is executed by a CPU (not shown) in the main body control unit 2100 based on a program stored in a ROM or another storage medium (not shown). Note that S12
01 to S1217 indicate each step.

When a document is placed on the automatic document feeder 280 and the start key 2302 shown in FIG. 22 is pressed, first, it is determined whether a tab paper mode (tab paper insert mode or tab paper creation mode) is set. Judgment (S1
201), if it is determined that the tab paper mode (tab paper insert mode or tab paper creation mode) is set, it is determined whether or not there is a document in the automatic document feeder 280 (S1202).

If it is determined in step S1202 that there is a document, a document reading operation is started (S120).
3) It is determined whether the read document is to be printed on tab paper (that is, whether or not tab paper is fed) (S120).
4) If it is determined to print on the tab paper (feed the tab paper), the tab paper is fed from the tab paper feeding stage containing the tab paper (S1205), and the fed paper is fed. An image is formed on the tab sheet and the tab portion (S1206), the tab sheet on which the image is formed is discharged (S1207), and the process returns to step S1202.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1204 that printing on tab paper is not to be performed (that is, tab paper is not to be fed), plain paper is fed (S1208), and an image is printed on the fed plain paper. The plain paper on which the image is formed is discharged (S1209), and the process returns to step S1202.

Steps S1202 to S1210 are repeated until it is determined in step S1202 that there is no original. If it is determined that there is no original, the process ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1201 that the tab paper mode (tab paper insert mode or tab paper creation mode) is not set, it is determined whether there is a document in the automatic document feeder 280 (S121).
1).

If it is determined in step S1211 that there is a document, reading of the document is started (S1212), and the document direction and character direction of the read document are detected (S121).
3), the direction of the paper size to be fed and the above step S12
The rotation angle of the image data of the read document is calculated from the detection result of 13, and the image data is rotated based on the calculated rotation angle (S1214).

Subsequently, a sheet for forming an image is fed (S1215), and an image is formed on the sheet based on the image data subjected to the rotation processing in step S1214 (S1).
216), and discharge the sheet on which the image is formed (S121).
7), and return to step S1211.

Steps S1211 to S1217 are repeated until it is determined in step S1211 that there is no original. If it is determined that there is no original, the process ends.

[Sixth Embodiment] In the first embodiment,
When the tab paper mode (tab paper insert mode or tab paper creation mode) is set, the configuration has been described in which control is performed so as not to detect the orientation of the original. However, the tab paper mode (tab paper insert mode or tab paper creation mode) is set. When the setting is made, it may be configured such that whether or not to perform the document direction detection control can be set. Hereinafter, the embodiment will be described.

Note that the hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus of the present embodiment is the same as that of the fifth embodiment.

FIG. 36 is a schematic view showing an example of a screen displayed on the LCD touch panel 2304 shown in FIG. 22 when the tab paper creation key 2345 and the tab paper insert key 2344 shown in FIG. 29 are pressed. The sub-window for setting whether to automatically detect the orientation of the original when the number of tab divisions and the tab paper mode are set. The same components as those in FIG. 30 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

In the figure, reference numeral 1365 denotes a document orientation detection setting button. When this key is depressed and the document orientation detection setting button 1365 is inverted to black, the document orientation detection is performed even in the tab sheet insert mode and the tab sheet creation mode. I do.

When this sub-window is opened, the document direction detection setting button 1365 is white, and the document direction detection setting is not performed. When the document direction detection setting button 1365 is not inverted to black (white), document direction detection is not performed in the tab sheet insert mode and the tab sheet creation mode.

The control processing operation of the image forming apparatus according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

FIG. 37 is a flowchart showing an example of the sixth control processing procedure of the image forming apparatus of the present invention.
0 is executed by a CPU (not shown) in the main body control unit 2100 based on a program stored in a ROM or another storage medium (not shown). Note that S24
01 to S2421 indicate each step.

When the tab sheet insert mode is set and the start key 2302 is pressed, first, it is determined whether or not the set original direction detection setting is a setting for detecting the original direction (S2401). If it is determined that the orientation detection setting is such that the document orientation is not detected, it is determined whether or not there is a document in the automatic document feeder 280 (S2402).

If it is determined in step S2402 that there is a document, a document reading operation is started (S240).
3) It is determined whether to print on tab paper based on the read document (ie, whether or not to feed tab paper) (S2404), and it is determined to print on tab paper (to feed tab paper). Then, the tab sheet is fed from the tab sheet feeding stage containing the tab sheet (S2405), and an image is formed on the fed tab sheet and the tab portion on the tab sheet (S2406). The tab sheet is discharged (S2407), and the process returns to step S2402.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S2404 that printing on tab paper is not to be performed (that is, no tab paper is to be fed), plain paper is fed (S2408) and the fed plain paper is An image is formed (S2409), the plain paper on which the image is formed is discharged (S2410), and step S2402 is performed.
Return to

Steps S2402 to S2410 are repeated until it is determined in step S2402 that there is no document. If it is determined in step S1402 that there is no document, the process ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S2401 that the document orientation detection setting is such that the document orientation is detected, it is determined whether or not there is a document in the automatic document feeder 280 (S2411). If it is determined, reading of the document is started (S2412), the document direction and character direction of the read document are detected (S2413), and the read document is detected from the direction of the paper size to be fed and the detection result of step S2413. The rotation angle of the image data is calculated, the image data is rotated based on the calculated rotation angle (S2414), and it is determined whether or not to print on the tab sheet based on the read original (that is, feed the tab sheet). Is determined (S2415), and if it is determined that printing is to be performed on tab paper (tab paper is to be fed), the tab paper feeding tray containing the tab paper is determined. Feeds a Luo tab paper (S241
6), an image is formed on the fed tab sheet and the tab portion on the tab sheet (S2417), the tab sheet on which the image is formed is discharged (S2418), and the process returns to step S2411.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S2415 that printing is not to be performed on tab paper (that is, tab paper is not to be fed), plain paper is fed (S2419), and plain paper is fed to the fed plain paper. An image is formed (S2420), the plain paper on which the image is formed is discharged (S2421), and step S2411 is performed.
Return to

The processes in steps S2411 to S2421 are repeated until it is determined in step S2411 that there is no original. When it is determined in step S2411 that there is no original, the process ends.

As described above, in the image forming apparatus having the document direction detection processing for automatically determining the character direction of the document and the tab sheet mode for inserting the tab sheet between the sheet feeding of the text, In the tab paper insert mode and tab paper creation mode, document orientation detection is not performed, thereby preventing erroneous detection of document orientation detection when reading a document for tab paper creation in advance. Desired tab paper printing can be performed.

In each of the above embodiments, the case where the printer unit (printer engine) is of a laser beam type has been described as an example. However, in an electrophotographic type (for example, an LED type) other than the laser beam type, a liquid crystal shutter type may be used. The present invention is applicable to ink jet systems, thermal transfer systems, sublimation systems, and other printing systems.

Further, the image forming apparatus of the present invention has the first
A configuration obtained by combining any one of the embodiments to the sixth embodiment may be employed. For example, when the tab paper mode is set, a function that cannot be combined with the tab paper mode (a stapling operation involving image rotation, a punching processing function, and a direction of a character string included in the original image data are detected and the detection is performed). Restricting the image rotation processing function based on the direction of the given character string (disabling the setting of the function that cannot be combined, canceling the function that cannot be combined when executing an image forming job, For example, a warning indicating that it is impossible may be displayed).

Therefore, when the job mode including the tab sheet is set, the post-processing mode (staple mode including image rotation, punching mode) realized by rotating the input image by 180 degrees is set by the user. By prohibiting or ignoring the setting, it is possible to suppress a setting error that causes a miscopy, to suppress waste such as a miscopy, and to reduce a user's trouble.

When the tab sheet creation mode or the tab sheet insert mode is executed, the document orientation detection function is automatically prohibited, thereby suppressing erroneous detection of the document orientation for a document for forming an image on tab paper. Then, the user can print an image at a desired tab portion position.

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

FIG. 38 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. are also stored, and information dependent on the OS or the like on the program reading side, for example, An icon or the like for identification display may also be stored.

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

FIGS. 12, 15, and 1 in this embodiment.
6, the functions shown in FIG. 18, FIG. 35, and FIG. 37 may be performed by a host computer by a program installed from the outside. And in that case, C
The present invention is applicable even when a group of information including a program is supplied to an output device from a storage medium such as a D-ROM, a flash memory, an FD, or an external storage medium via a network.

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 a novel function of the present invention, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.

As storage media for supplying the program code, for example, 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 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 functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing is also included.

The present invention may be applied to a system constituted by a plurality of devices or to an apparatus constituted by a single device. Needless to say, the present invention can be applied to a case where the present invention is achieved by supplying a program to a system or an apparatus. In this case, by reading a storage medium storing a program represented by software for achieving the present invention into the system or the apparatus, the system or the apparatus can enjoy the effects of the present invention. .

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

[0324]

As described above, according to the first, fourteenth, and twenty-first aspects of the present invention, the tab sheet mode in which the predetermined processing is performed in conjunction with the feeding of the tab sheet, which is the tab-attached sheet, is used for the image forming job. If set for
Since the processing related to the function that cannot be combined with the tab sheet mode is limited, a mistake in setting the tab sheet mode and the processing related to the function that cannot be combined with the tab sheet mode due to a setting mistake or the like. Waste can be suppressed and the user's labor can be reduced.

According to the second aspect, the function that cannot be combined with the tab sheet mode is to rotate the image forming direction of the image data input by the original image input means on the sheet in an arbitrary direction. An image rotation post-processing function for performing predetermined post-processing on a sheet and a sheet bundle on which an image is formed and output, detecting a direction of a character string included in image data input by the original image input means, and Since it includes a function of rotating the image forming direction of the image data on the sheet based on the direction of the character string, the tab sheet mode and the staple mode with the rotation processing and the direction of the character string included in the document are detected and performed. Suppresses waste such as erroneous copying when executing the tab sheet mode due to setting mistakes such as simultaneous setting of image rotation processing, etc., and reduces user's trouble. Door can be.

According to the third, fifteenth, and twenty-second inventions of the present invention, when the tab sheet mode in which the predetermined processing is performed in conjunction with the feeding of the tab sheet as the tabbed sheet is set, an image is formed and output. The image rotation post-processing mode, which is a combination of a predetermined post-processing performed on the sheet and the sheet bundle and a rotation processing for rotating the image forming direction of the input image data on the sheet in an arbitrary direction, is set. Since the setting is prohibited, it is possible to prevent a setting error such as setting the tab sheet mode and the post-processing involving the rotation processing at the same time in advance.

According to the fourth, sixteenth, and twenty-third aspects of the present invention, a tab sheet mode in which a predetermined process is performed in conjunction with the feeding of a tab sheet, which is a tab-attached sheet, is set, and an image-formed and output sheet is set. An image in which an image rotation post-processing mode is set to execute a combination of predetermined post-processing to be performed on a sheet bundle and rotation processing for rotating the image forming direction of input image data on a sheet in an arbitrary direction. When a forming job is executed, the image formation output is performed with the image rotation post-processing mode invalidated, so that a setting error such as setting the tab sheet mode and post-processing involving rotation processing simultaneously is made. However, miscopying can be prevented.

According to the fifth, seventeenth, and twenty-fourth aspects of the present invention, setting of a tab sheet mode for performing a predetermined process in conjunction with feeding of a tab sheet, which is a tab-attached sheet, and setting of an image formed and output sheet Combination setting with the setting of the image rotation post-processing mode, which is executed by combining predetermined post-processing to be performed on the sheet bundle and rotation processing for rotating the image forming direction of the input image data on the sheet in an arbitrary direction Is prohibited, setting errors such as setting the tab sheet mode and post-processing involving rotation processing at the same time can be prevented in advance.

According to the sixth, eighteenth, and twenty-fifth aspects of the present invention, a tab sheet mode in which a predetermined process is performed in conjunction with feeding of a tab sheet, which is a tab-attached sheet, is set, and an image-formed and output sheet is set. When an image rotation post-processing mode is set to execute a combination of a predetermined post-processing performed on a sheet bundle and a rotation processing of rotating the image forming direction of the input image data on the sheet in an arbitrary direction,
Since it is displayed that the combination is impossible, it is possible to prevent a setting error such as setting the tab sheet mode and the post-processing involving the rotation processing at the same time in advance.

According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, since the predetermined post-processing performed by the post-processing means includes staple processing, the tab sheet mode and the staple mode with rotation processing are set at the same time. Settings can be prevented in advance.

According to the eighth aspect of the present invention, since the predetermined post-processing performed by the post-processing means includes punching, a tab sheet mode and a punching mode involving rotation are simultaneously set. It is possible to prevent setting mistakes such as mistakes in advance.

[0332] According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, in the tab sheet mode, the tab sheet is fed by the feeding means, and the tab sheet is inserted into at least one or more predetermined positions in the output sheet bundle. Since the tab interleaving mode is included, a setting error such as setting the tab interleaving mode and post-processing involving rotation processing at the same time can be prevented in advance.

According to the tenth aspect of the present invention, in the tab sheet mode, a tab sheet is fed by the feeding means, and based on image data input from a series of document bundles by the document image input means. Tab output mode for forming an arbitrary number of output bundles consisting only of tab sheets formed in the same manner, it is possible to prevent in advance setting errors such as simultaneously setting the tab output mode and post-processing involving rotation processing. it can.

According to the eleventh aspect of the present invention, when forming an image on a tab sheet, the image forming position of the image data input by the original image input means is moved on the sheet to change the tab portion of the tab sheet. Since an image moving unit for forming an image is provided, it is possible to prevent a setting error such as setting the tab sheet mode and the post-processing involving the rotation processing at the same time in advance.

According to the twelfth, nineteenth, and twenty-sixth aspects of the present invention, the direction of a character string included in input image data is detected, and a sheet of the image data is detected based on the detected direction of the character string. When the tab sheet mode in which the image forming direction described above is rotated and the image is formed on the tab portion of the tab sheet which is the tab sheet to be fed is executed, the rotation processing by the rotation processing step is prohibited. In the tab sheet mode such as the insert mode and the tab sheet creation mode, the document orientation detection is not performed so that the document orientation detection when the document for tab sheet creation is read and the false detection of the document orientation are performed. Printing errors during execution of the tab sheet mode can be prevented in advance, and tab paper printing desired by the user can be performed.

According to the thirteenth, twentieth and twenty-seventh aspects of the present invention, the direction of a character string included in input image data is detected, and a sheet of the image data is detected based on the detected direction of the character string. When performing the tab sheet mode in which the image forming direction above is rotated and the image is formed on the tab portion of the fed tab sheet, it is set whether or not to prohibit the rotation process in the rotation process step, and When the tab sheet mode is executed, the rotation processing in the rotation processing step is controlled, so that setting is made so that the document orientation detection is not performed in the tab sheet mode such as the tab sheet insert mode and the tab sheet creation mode. Erroneous detection of document orientation detection when reading a document for creating tab paper, and printing errors during execution of tab sheet mode due to the erroneous detection are prevented in advance, and the It is possible to carry out the tab sheet printing.

Therefore, it is possible to suppress the waste such as erroneous copying at the time of executing the tab sheet mode due to the setting error such as setting both the tab sheet mode and the processing relating to the function which cannot be combined with the tab sheet mode, and reduce the trouble of the user. And the like.

[Brief description of the drawings]

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

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a control configuration of the image forming apparatus main body illustrated in FIG. 1;

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

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image memory unit illustrated in FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an external I / F processing unit illustrated in FIG. 2;

FIG. 6 is a plan view illustrating a configuration of an operation unit illustrated in FIG. 2;

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display screen using a user setting key and an example of a setting screen for each item.

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an application mode setting screen and an example of a tab interleaving mode setting screen.

FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an application mode setting screen and an example of a tab interleaving mode setting screen.

FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a post-processing mode setting screen and an example of a staple mode detailed setting screen as an example thereof.

FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a method of realizing each corner staple mode in the image forming apparatus of the present invention.

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

FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a setting screen for realizing mode combination prohibition in the image forming apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a schematic view showing an example of a setting screen for realizing mode combination prohibition in the image forming apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a second control processing procedure of the image forming apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a second control processing procedure of the image forming apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a setting screen for realizing mode combination prohibition in the image forming apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a fourth control processing procedure of the image forming apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a schematic view showing an example of a setting screen for realizing mode combination prohibition in the image forming apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 20 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration of a control circuit of an image forming apparatus according to a fifth exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a configuration of an image forming apparatus according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 22 is a plan view showing the operation unit shown in FIG. 20 in detail.

FIG. 23 is a schematic view showing a setting screen of a tab sheet feeding stage in the image forming apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 24 is a schematic view showing a setting screen of a tab sheet feeding stage in the image forming apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 25 is a schematic diagram showing an application mode screen in the image forming apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 26 is a schematic diagram showing an application mode screen in the image forming apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 27 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the LCD touch panel shown in FIG.

FIG. 28 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the LCD touch panel shown in FIG.

FIG. 29 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the LCD touch panel shown in FIG.

30 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the LCD touch panel shown in FIG.

FIG. 31 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the LCD touch panel shown in FIG.

FIG. 32 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the LCD touch panel shown in FIG.

FIG. 33 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a document to be copied and an output sheet according to the tab insert setting set by the tab sheet insert key shown in FIG. 29;

FIG. 34 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a document to be copied and an output sheet according to a tab sheet creation mode set by the tab creation key shown in FIG. 29;

FIG. 35 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a fifth control processing procedure of the image forming apparatus of the present invention.

36 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the LCD touch panel shown in FIG.

FIG. 37 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a sixth control processing procedure of the image forming apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 38 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]

 1 reader unit 2 printer unit 3 image memory unit 171 CPU 172 operation unit 174 ROM 175 RAM 401 page memory unit

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page (72) Inventor Rieko Akiba 3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo Inside Canon Inc. (72) Inventor Nobuo Sekiguchi 3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo Canon Inside (72) Inventor Tadaaki Saida 3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo Inside Canon Inc. (72) Inventor Yuichiro Maeda 3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo Canon Inc. F Terms (reference) 2H027 FA21 FA30 FD01 FD08 GB04 GB14 ZA07 5C062 AA05 AB02 AB08 AB17 AB20 AB23 AB30 AB32 AB41 AB42 AC05 AC24 AD06 BA00 BA01 5C076 AA24 BA02

Claims (27)

[Claims] 1. A document image input means for inputting image data from a document, and an image forming job for forming and outputting an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by the document image input means. A feeding unit capable of feeding a tab sheet, which is a tabbed sheet, and a tab sheet mode for performing a predetermined process with the feeding of the tab sheet by the feeding unit, for an image forming job. Tab sheet mode setting means for setting, and when the tab sheet mode is set by the tab sheet mode setting means, control means for limiting processing relating to functions that cannot be combined with the tab sheet mode,
An image forming apparatus comprising: 2. A function which cannot be combined with the tab sheet mode is performed by rotating an image forming direction on a sheet of image data input by the original image input means in an arbitrary direction and forming and outputting an image. An image rotation post-processing function for performing predetermined post-processing on a sheet and a sheet bundle, detecting the direction of a character string included in image data input by the original image input means, and detecting the direction of the detected character string; 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a function of performing a rotation process on an image forming direction of the image data on a sheet based on the image data. 3. A document image input means for inputting image data from a document, and an image forming job for forming and outputting an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by the document image input means. An image forming device capable of rotating an image forming direction on a sheet of image data input by the original image inputting device in an arbitrary direction; and an image forming and outputting sheet. A post-processing unit that performs predetermined post-processing on the sheet bundle; and a combination of predetermined post-processing control by the post-processing unit and image rotation processing in an arbitrary direction by the image rotation unit. An image rotation post-processing mode setting means for setting an image rotation post-processing mode for performing post-processing control in an arbitrary direction with respect to the image forming job; Feeding means capable of feeding a tab sheet which is a tab sheet, tab sheet mode setting means for setting a tab sheet mode for performing predetermined processing with feeding of the tab sheet by the feeding means for an image forming job, and the tab sheet Control means for controlling the setting of the post-image rotation processing mode by the image rotation post-processing mode setting means when the tab sheet mode is set by the mode setting means. . 4. An original image input means for inputting image data from an original, and an image forming job for forming and outputting an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by the original image input means. An image forming device capable of rotating an image forming direction on a sheet of image data input by the original image inputting device in an arbitrary direction; and an image forming and outputting sheet. A post-processing unit that performs predetermined post-processing on the sheet bundle; and a combination of predetermined post-processing control by the post-processing unit and image rotation processing in an arbitrary direction by the image rotation unit. Image rotation post-processing mode setting means for setting an image rotation post-processing mode for performing post-processing control in an arbitrary direction with respect to an image forming job; Feeding means capable of feeding a tab sheet which is a tab sheet, tab sheet mode setting means for setting a tab sheet mode for performing predetermined processing with feeding of the tab sheet by the feeding means for an image forming job, and the tab sheet When the tab sheet mode is set by the mode setting means and the image forming job in which the post-rotation processing mode is set by the post-rotation processing mode setting means is executed, the setting is made by the post-rotation processing mode setting means. Control means for performing control so as to perform image forming output while disabling the image rotation post-processing mode. 5. A document image input means for inputting image data from a document, and an image forming job for forming and outputting an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by the document image input means. An image forming device capable of rotating an image forming direction on a sheet of image data input by the original image inputting device in an arbitrary direction; and an image forming and outputting sheet. A post-processing unit that performs predetermined post-processing on the sheet bundle; and a combination of predetermined post-processing control by the post-processing unit and image rotation processing in an arbitrary direction by the image rotation unit. Image rotation post-processing mode setting means for setting an image rotation post-processing mode for performing post-processing control in an arbitrary direction with respect to an image forming job; Feeding means capable of feeding a tab sheet which is a tab sheet, tab sheet mode setting means for setting a tab sheet mode for performing predetermined processing with feeding of the tab sheet by the feeding means for an image forming job, and the tab sheet An image forming apparatus comprising: a prohibition unit that prohibits a combination setting of a tab sheet mode setting by a mode setting unit and a post-image rotation processing mode setting by the image rotation post-processing mode setting unit. 6. A document image input means for inputting image data from a document, and executing an image forming job for forming and outputting an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by the document image input means. An image forming device capable of rotating an image forming direction on a sheet of image data input by the original image inputting device in an arbitrary direction; and an image forming and outputting sheet. A post-processing unit that performs predetermined post-processing on the sheet bundle; and a combination of predetermined post-processing control by the post-processing unit and image rotation processing in an arbitrary direction by the image rotation unit. An image rotation post-processing mode setting means for setting an image rotation post-processing mode for performing post-processing control in an arbitrary direction with respect to the image forming job; Feeding means capable of feeding a tab sheet which is a tab sheet, tab sheet mode setting means for setting a tab sheet mode for performing predetermined processing with feeding of the tab sheet by the feeding means for an image forming job, and the tab sheet Display means for displaying that the combination is impossible when the tab sheet mode is set by the mode setting means and the post-rotation processing mode is set by the post-rotation processing mode setting means. Image forming apparatus. 7. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the predetermined post-processing performed by the post-processing unit includes a staple process. 8. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the predetermined post-processing performed by the post-processing means includes punching. 9. The tab sheet mode includes a tab interleaving mode in which a tab sheet is fed by the feeding unit and the tab sheet is inserted into at least one or more predetermined positions in the output sheet bundle. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 3, 4, 5, and 6. 10. The tab sheet mode is a mode in which a tab sheet is fed by the feeding means, and an output bundle consisting only of tab sheets formed based on image data input from a series of document bundles by the document image input means. 7. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, further comprising a tab output mode for forming an arbitrary number of copies. 11. An image moving means for forming an image on a tab portion of a tab sheet by moving an image forming position on a sheet of image data input by the document image input means when forming an image on a tab sheet. The image forming apparatus according to claim 9, wherein: 12. A document image input means for inputting image data including a character string from a document, and an image for forming and outputting an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by said document image input means. An image forming apparatus capable of executing a forming job, comprising: a detecting unit that detects a direction of a character string included in image data input by the document image input unit; and a detecting unit that detects a direction of the character string detected by the detecting unit. Determining means for determining a rotation angle based on the rotation angle; rotating means for rotating an image forming direction of the image data on the sheet based on the rotation angle determined by the determining means; and a tab sheet which is a tabbed sheet can be fed. And a rotation by the rotation unit when executing a tab sheet mode for forming an image on a tab portion of a tab sheet fed by the feeding unit. An image forming apparatus comprising: the prohibiting means for prohibiting the physical, the. 13. An original image input means for inputting image data including a character string from an original, and an image for forming and outputting an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by the original image input means. An image forming apparatus capable of executing a forming job, comprising: a detecting unit that detects a direction of a character string included in image data input by the document image input unit; and a detecting unit that detects a direction of the character string detected by the detecting unit. Determining means for determining a rotation angle based on the rotation angle; rotating means for rotating an image forming direction of the image data on the sheet based on the rotation angle determined by the determining means; and a tab sheet which is a tabbed sheet can be fed. And a rotation by the rotation unit when executing a tab sheet mode for forming an image on a tab portion of a tab sheet fed by the feeding unit. Rotation prohibition setting means for setting whether or not to prohibit processing, and control means for controlling rotation processing by the rotation means when executing the tab sheet mode based on the setting of the rotation prohibition setting means. An image forming apparatus comprising: 14. A document image input means for inputting image data from a document, and executing an image forming job for forming and outputting an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by said document image input means. In a control method of a possible image forming apparatus, when a tab sheet mode for performing a predetermined process with feeding of a tab sheet as a tab sheet is set for an image forming job, the tab sheet mode cannot be combined with the tab sheet mode. A method for controlling an image forming apparatus, comprising a restriction step of restricting processing relating to a function. 15. A document image input means for inputting image data from a document, and an image forming job for forming and outputting an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by the document image input means. A method of controlling an image forming apparatus, comprising: setting a tab sheet mode in which a predetermined process is performed in conjunction with feeding of a tab sheet, which is a tabbed sheet; Prohibiting the setting of the image rotation post-processing mode, which is executed by combining the predetermined post-processing performed by the image processing and the rotation processing for rotating the image forming direction of the input image data on the sheet in an arbitrary direction. A method for controlling an image forming apparatus, comprising: 16. A document image input means for inputting image data from a document, and executing an image forming job for forming and outputting an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by the document image input means. A control method of an image forming apparatus, comprising: setting a tab sheet mode for performing predetermined processing with feeding of a tab sheet, which is a tabbed sheet, and applying the tab sheet to an image formed and output sheet and a sheet bundle When executing an image forming job in which an image rotation post-processing mode is set to execute a combination of predetermined post-processing and rotation processing for rotating the image forming direction of input image data on a sheet in an arbitrary direction, And a canceling step of disabling the image rotation post-processing mode and performing image forming output. 17. A document image input unit for inputting image data from a document, and an image forming job for forming and outputting an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by the document image input unit. A method of controlling an image forming apparatus, comprising: setting a tab sheet mode for performing a predetermined process with feeding of a tab sheet as a tabbed sheet; A setting prohibition step of prohibiting a combination setting of an image rotation post-processing mode setting executed by combining the post-processing and the rotation processing for rotating the image forming direction of the input image data on the sheet in an arbitrary direction. A method for controlling an image forming apparatus, comprising: 18. An original image input unit for inputting image data from an original, and an image forming job for forming and outputting an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by the original image input unit. A control method of an image forming apparatus, comprising: setting a tab sheet mode for performing predetermined processing with feeding of a tab sheet, which is a tabbed sheet, and applying the tab sheet to an image formed and output sheet and a sheet bundle When the image rotation post-processing mode is set to execute a combination of a predetermined post-processing and a rotation processing for rotating the image forming direction of the input image data on the sheet in an arbitrary direction, the combination is impossible. A method for controlling an image forming apparatus, comprising a display step of displaying a message indicating that the image forming apparatus is in effect. 19. An original image input means for inputting image data including a character string from an original, and an image for forming and outputting an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by the original image input means A method for controlling an image forming apparatus capable of executing a forming job, comprising: a detecting step of detecting a direction of a character string included in image data input by the document image input means; A rotation processing step of performing rotation processing on an image forming direction of the image data on the sheet based on the sheet data; and a rotation processing step of executing a tab sheet mode for forming an image on the tab portion of the fed tab sheet. A prohibition step of prohibiting rotation processing by the image forming apparatus. 20. A document image input means for inputting image data including a character string from a document, and an image for forming and outputting an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by the document image input means. A control method of an image forming apparatus capable of executing a forming job, comprising: a detecting step of detecting a direction of a character string included in image data input by the document image input means; When executing a rotation processing step of rotating the image forming direction of the image data on the sheet based on the sheet, and a tab sheet mode of forming an image on the tab portion of the fed tab sheet, the rotation processing by the rotation processing step is prohibited. A rotation prohibition setting step of setting whether or not, based on the setting in the rotation prohibition setting step, when executing the tab sheet mode, the rotation processing step Method of controlling an image forming apparatus comprising: the control step of controlling that rotation processing, the. 21. A document image input means for inputting image data from a document, and an image forming job for forming and outputting an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by the document image input means. When a tab sheet mode for performing a predetermined process accompanied by feeding of a tab sheet, which is a tabbed sheet, is set for an image forming job in a possible image forming apparatus, a process related to a function that cannot be combined with the tab sheet mode And a computer-readable storage medium storing a program for executing a restriction step for restricting a program. 22. A document image input means for inputting image data from a document, and an image forming job for forming and outputting an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by the document image input means. When a tab sheet mode in which a predetermined process is performed in conjunction with feeding of a tab sheet, which is a tabbed sheet, is set in a possible image forming apparatus, after a predetermined period of time is applied to a sheet and a sheet bundle output and formed with an image. A program for executing a setting prohibition step of prohibiting the setting of the post-image rotation processing mode, which is executed by combining the processing and the rotation processing of rotating the image forming direction of the input image data on the sheet in an arbitrary direction. Computer-readable storage medium. 23. A document image input means for inputting image data from a document, and an image forming job for forming and outputting an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by the document image input means. In a possible image forming apparatus, a tab sheet mode in which a predetermined process is performed with feeding of a tab sheet, which is a tabbed sheet, is set, and a predetermined post-process is performed on a sheet and a sheet bundle that are formed and output images. When executing an image forming job in which a post-image rotation processing mode is performed in combination with a rotation process of rotating the image forming direction of the input image data on the sheet in an arbitrary direction, the image rotation is performed after the image rotation. Computer-readable storage medium for storing a program for executing a canceling step of performing image formation output while disabling processing mode 24. A document image input means for inputting image data from a document, and an image forming job for forming and outputting an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by the document image input means. In a possible image forming apparatus, setting of a tab sheet mode for performing a predetermined process accompanied by feeding of a tab sheet as a tabbed sheet, and predetermined post-processing and input to be performed on an image-formed and output sheet and a sheet bundle A program for executing a setting prohibition step of prohibiting the combination setting with the setting of the image rotation post-processing mode, which is executed in combination with the rotation processing in any direction of the image forming direction of the image data on the sheet, is performed. Computer-readable storage medium. 25. A document image input means for inputting image data from a document, and executing an image forming job for forming and outputting an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by the document image input means. In a possible image forming apparatus, a tab sheet mode in which a predetermined process is performed with feeding of a tab sheet, which is a tabbed sheet, is set, and a predetermined post-process is performed on a sheet and a sheet bundle that are formed and output images. A display step of displaying that the combination is not possible when an image rotation post-processing mode is set to be executed in combination with a rotation process of rotating input image data on a sheet in an image forming direction in an arbitrary direction. A storage medium storing a computer-readable program for executing the program. 26. A document image input means for inputting image data including a character string from a document, and an image for forming and outputting an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by the document image input means. A detecting step of detecting a direction of a character string included in the image data input by the document image input means in an image forming apparatus capable of executing a forming job; and detecting the direction of the image data based on the detected direction of the character string. When performing a rotation processing step of rotating the image forming direction on the sheet and a tab sheet mode for forming an image on the tab portion of the tab sheet that is a fed tab sheet, the rotation processing by the rotation processing step is prohibited. And a computer-readable storage medium storing a program for executing the prohibition step. 27. A document image input means for inputting image data including a character string from a document, and an image for forming and outputting an image on a sheet fed based on the image data input by said document image input means. A detecting step of detecting a direction of a character string included in the image data input by the document image input means in an image forming apparatus capable of executing a forming job; and detecting the direction of the image data based on the detected direction of the character string. When a rotation processing step of rotating the image forming direction on the sheet and a tab sheet mode for forming an image on the tab portion of the fed tab sheet are performed, whether or not the rotation processing by the rotation processing step is prohibited is set. A rotation prohibition setting step, and a rotation processing in the rotation processing step when the tab sheet mode is executed based on the setting in the rotation prohibition setting step. Storage medium having a computer is capable of storing read a program for executing a control process, the of.