JP2002271563A - Imaging device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an imaging device capable of providing various kinds of processing for efficiently handling image data in different data forms. SOLUTION: In the imaging device, provided with an image reading part for reading the image of an original, imaging part for forming an image on a recording member, first storage means for temporarily storing imaging composed of image data and setting data as JOB, second storage means for storing the JOB arbitrarily selected from among this first storage means and selecting means for selecting any arbitrary JOB out of a plurality of JOB stored in the second storage means, this device is equipped with a communication means for performing data communication via a network with a user terminal and a control means for performing control for forming an image by making the second storage means store the JOB, based on printer data inputted from the user terminal via the network to the communication means, reading the JOB arbitrarily selected by the selecting means from among the second storage means, making the first storage means store the JOB, coupling a plurality of selected jobs and performing them as a single coupled JOB.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention comprises a communication means for communicating with another device, and stores image information input through the communication means or image information of a document in a storage means. The present invention relates to a digital image forming apparatus that forms an image by using a digital method.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art A digital image forming apparatus converts image information of a document optically read into electrical image information by an image sensor, and digitizes the electrical image information to obtain image information. The image data is stored in a storage unit, and an image is formed on a predetermined recording medium based on the image data and output at a predetermined time.

As described above, since a document is temporarily stored in storage means as image data, a function of performing various processes using the image data has been proposed. As an example of the function, image data read from a document and setting data (operating environment conditions and the like) in which processing for forming the image data and the like are set are registered (stored) as “JOB”.
There is something to do. A plurality of jobs can be registered by making various settings, and the image forming apparatus forms an image as set in the jobs.

The job is stored as a set of image data and setting data in a volatile first storage means, and the image data sequentially stored is used to form an image based on the setting data, and the job is executed. You. The executed JOB contents are
Since they are only stored in the volatile first storage means, they are sequentially deleted.

When the set job is to be reused later, the contents of the job are copied (data copied) to the non-volatile second storage means and stored semi-permanently. Can be. As the nonvolatile second storage means, for example, a hard disk (HDD) whose specifications such as storage capacity and read / write speed are suitable is used. The jobs are sequentially stored in the second storage means, and are accumulated with the passage of time.
Is stored. When these jobs are reused, there is a case where an image is formed alone and a case where a plurality of desired jobs are output in combination (image formation). When a plurality of JOBs are combined in this way, common processing settings are performed for a plurality of JOBs each storing different setting data as “JOB combination”, and the plurality of JOBs are set.
It was also possible to edit the image data over the OB collectively and form an image.

[0006] The image forming means reads an image of a document and converts it into digital image data.
Since the image data and the digital image data handled by a general personal computer or the like have different (digital) data formats, it is impossible to handle them in the same manner and to form an image in the same manner. The use form of the device was limited.

[0007]

Therefore, in the present invention,
The image forming apparatus is provided with communication means for enabling data communication with another apparatus or the like, and this communication means is connected to a network or the like to input image data or the like from another apparatus or output to another apparatus or the like. By combining the image data communicated via these networks with the JOB stored in the image forming apparatus, an image can be formed.
It is an object of the present invention to provide an image forming apparatus which realizes various use modes enabled by a network connection.

[0008]

According to the first aspect of the present invention,
An image reading unit that reads an image of a document, an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording material, a first storage unit that temporarily stores image information including image data and setting data as a job, and a first storage unit. An image forming apparatus comprising: a second storage unit configured to store the JOB arbitrarily selected from the storage unit; and a selection unit configured to select an arbitrary JOB from a plurality of JOBs stored in the second storage unit. A communication unit for performing data communication with the user terminal via a network, and the second storage unit stores a job based on printer data input from the user terminal to the communication unit via the network, and The JOB arbitrarily selected by the means is read from the second storage means and stored in the first storage means, and the plurality of selected JOBs are read.
Control means for performing control to form an image by combining OBs and executing them as one combined JOB.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, the control means includes:
The second storage unit stores a job based on printer data input from the user terminal to the communication unit via a network and a job based on scan data input from the image reading unit. Arbitrarily selected jobs are read from the second storage means and stored in the first storage means, and the selected plurality of jobs are combined and executed as one combined job to perform control for forming an image. The invention according to claim 1 characterized by the following.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, the communication means includes:
A communication data storage unit for storing printer data transmitted from the user terminal, and converting image data of the printer data stored in the communication data storage unit into the same data format as the image data of the scan data. A communication control means for sending data to the control means is provided.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image reading unit for reading an image of a document, an image forming unit for forming an image on a recording material, and image information comprising image data and setting data being JO.
B, a first storage means for temporarily storing as B
An image forming apparatus comprising: a second storage unit that stores the JOB arbitrarily selected from the storage unit; and a selection unit that selects an arbitrary JOB from a plurality of JOBs stored in the second storage unit. A communication unit for performing data communication with a user terminal via a network, and a second storage unit that stores a job based on the scan data input from the image reading unit and is arbitrarily selected by the selection unit. The job is read from the second storage means and stored in the first storage means, and the selected plurality of jobs are combined into one combined job, and the combined job is combined.
Control means for controlling transmission of image data relating to B to the user terminal by the communication means.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the communication means includes:
Communication data storage means for storing image data to be transmitted to the user terminal; converting the image data relating to the scan data into a data format handled by the user terminal; storing the data in the communication data storage means; And a communication control means for transmitting the information to the user terminal in a timely manner.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image reading section for reading an image of a document, an image forming section for forming an image on a recording material, and image information comprising image data and setting data in a JO format.
B, a first storage means for temporarily storing as B
An image forming apparatus comprising: a second storage unit that stores the JOB arbitrarily selected from the storage unit; and a selection unit that selects an arbitrary JOB from a plurality of JOBs stored in the second storage unit. Communication means for performing data communication with a user terminal via a network; input means for inputting an e-mail transmission address; and a second storage means for storing a job based on the scan data input from the image reading section. Is read out from the second storage means, and the selected plurality of JOBs are stored in the first storage means.
B to form a combined JOB, attach image data relating to the combined JOB to an e-mail, and transmit the image data to a user terminal having an address input by the input unit using the communication unit. Means.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the communication means has a communication data storage means for storing the contents of an electronic mail to be transmitted to the user terminal, and a data format for handling the image data relating to the scan data by the electronic mail. 7. An apparatus according to claim 6, further comprising communication control means for converting and storing the contents of the stored e-mail to the user terminal in a timely manner. It is.

[0015]

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an embodiment in which an image forming apparatus 1 is connected to a network N. The network N is a communication network such as a LAN. This network N has user terminals PC2 such as a plurality of personal computers.
Are connected to each other, and each device connected to the network N can communicate with each other. Further, a terminal device PC1 such as a personal computer can be directly connected to the image forming apparatus 1 without passing through the network N, and can be arbitrarily provided to extend the usability of the image forming apparatus 1.

FIG. 2 is a schematic configuration diagram showing an example of the image forming apparatus 1. The image forming apparatus 1 includes an image reading unit 10,
Image writing unit 20, image forming unit 30, output paper transport unit 4
0, an output paper discharge section 50, and an output paper reversing section 60, the main body of which is provided.
L, an output post-processing unit 70 is provided.

The image reading section 10 is configured to read a character string or a drawn image or the like described on the original S as optical information by irradiating light from a light source and convert the optical information into electrical information. The document S is directly placed so that the document surface faces the upper surface of the platen glass 11, and a light source 12 is arranged so as to irradiate light to the document surface. The light-irradiated original surface is projected on a mirror 13 as optical information. The light source 12 and the mirror 13 are configured to be movable along the longitudinal direction of the platen glass 11, and scan the entire document S placed on the upper surface of the platen glass 11.

The image forming apparatus 1 exemplified here is
The automatic document feeder includes an automatic double-sided document feeder 100 that reads both sides of one document. The automatic double-sided document transport unit 100 separates a plurality of documents S stacked on the document placing table 101 one by one,
It is sent out by 2a and 102b and supplied to the upper surface of the platen glass 11 via a roller 102c. A fixed light source 12A and a mirror 13A are provided under the platen glass 11A. With these configurations, the document surface can be continuously read for a bundle of the plurality of documents S, as described above.

Further, in the configuration of the automatic double-sided document feeding section 100 and the platen glass 11A, both the front and back sides of the document S can be read, and one side of the document S
A, the document S is once sent out to the right in the drawing by the reversing roller 102, and then the reversing roller 102 is turned over to convey the document S having read the one document surface to the left in the drawing. Roller 100
c, and the document S is sent out with the other document surface facing the platen glass 11A surface. The originals S thus supplied from the automatic double-sided original transport unit 100 are sequentially read by the light source 12A, and are stacked on the paper discharge tray 103.

As described above, the light source 12 or the light source 1
The optical information on the document surface read by 2A is as follows.
The reflection is repeated by the mirrors 14 ₁ and 14 ₂ or the mirrors 15 ₁ and 15 ₂ , and reaches the CCD imaging device 17 via the imaging optical system 16. The CCD imaging device 17 has a photoelectric surface on which a plurality of pixels having a photoelectric conversion function are arranged, and by these pixels, optical information including image information on the document surface is received and converted into electrical information. Is done.

The image writing unit 20 outputs a laser beam controlled based on the electrical information obtained as described above,
Irradiation (writing) on a photosensitive drum 31 described later,
This is a portion where an electrostatic latent image is formed on the photosensitive drum 31.

The optical information on the document surface is converted, and the electrical information including the image information is used to control a laser beam oscillated from a semiconductor laser (not shown). The laser beam oscillated based on the electric information is applied to a polygon mirror 22 which is rotatable by a drive motor 21 connected to the center, and the laser beam reflected therefrom is reflected via a reflection mirror 23. The light is irradiated onto the photosensitive drum 31. When the polygon mirror 22 rotates while reflecting the laser beam, the laser beam irradiated on the photosensitive drum 31 is scanned, and an electrostatic latent image based on the electric information is formed on the photosensitive drum 31. Is formed.

The image forming section 30 includes the photosensitive drum 3
1 is a portion where an image is formed on the output paper P based on the electrostatic latent image formed on the output paper P.

As described above, an electrostatic latent image is formed on the photosensitive drum 31 by irradiating a laser beam.
2 to uniformly charge. The developing unit 33 makes charged toner adhere to the electrostatic latent image to visualize the toner. The transfer unit 34 outputs the output paper P supplied separately.
The toner is attached to the surface to form a toner image.

Thereafter, the output paper P adsorbed on the photosensitive drum 31 is separated by the separating unit 35, and the cleaning unit 36 cleans the toner remaining on the photosensitive drum 31 to reveal a clean surface. Then, uniform charging by the charging unit 32 and formation of an electrostatic latent image by laser beam irradiation are performed normally again. On the other hand, the output paper P
7 and is conveyed to the fixing unit 38. The fixing unit 38 applies pressure and heat to the output paper P by the heat rollers 38a and 38b to fix the toner image on the output paper P. Thereafter, the output paper P is output to the outside of the image forming apparatus 1 through a plurality of rollers provided in the output paper discharge unit 50. Thus, the formation (copying) of the image on the document surface is completed.

In addition, the image forming measure 1 exemplified here includes:
Since an image can be formed on both sides of the output paper P, a case where images are formed on both sides of the output paper P will be described. As described above, the output paper P having the toner image fixed on one surface by the fixing unit 38 is carried out to the output paper reversing unit 60. At this time, the conveyance path of the output paper P is switched by the guide unit 61, the conveyance path from the fixing unit 38 to the output paper discharge unit 50 is cut off, and a conveyance path is provided so as to go to the output paper reversing unit 60. . By the guide part 61,
When the transport path is switched so that the output paper P is transported downward in the drawing, the output paper P is carried out to the reversing unit 63 via the reversing roller 62. Next, when a predetermined amount of output paper P (image formed on one side) is carried into the reversing unit 63, the reversing roller 62 is reversed and the output paper P in the reversing unit 63 is reversed and conveyed one by one. The output paper P is carried out toward the path 64, passes through the reverse conveyance path 64, and reaches the conveyance upstream side of the photosensitive drum 31 again. At this time, a surface of the output paper P that is different from one surface on which an image has already been formed (a surface on which no image has been formed) faces the surface of the photosensitive drum 31.
Generally, new image information is written on the photosensitive drum 31 by the image writing unit 20 before the inverted output paper P reaches the photosensitive drum 31. Thereafter, the image forming process is performed on the output sheet P in the same manner as described above, and the output sheet P is discharged to the outside of the image forming apparatus 1.

Further, a device is provided below the illustrated image forming apparatus 1.
The obtained output paper transporting section 40 includes an image forming section 30 (photoconductor).
This is a section for supplying and transporting the output paper P to the drum 31).
Constituting a paper feeding unit 41 provided in the image forming apparatus 1;
For example, a plurality of paper feed cassettes 41 provided in a step shape₁, 4
1_Two, 41_ThreeOn the tray 42 provided in each cassette
Laminated and placed. These paper cassettes 41₁, 41_Two,
41_ThreeIs for sending the output paper P to the image forming unit 30
In the main body of the image forming apparatus 1 and replenish the output paper P
To be pulled out of the main body of the image forming apparatus 1.
It is configured to be possible. In addition, these paper cassettes 41
₁, 41_Two, 41_ThreeEach, for example, the first paper cassette
To 41₁"A4", the second paper feed cassette 41_Two"A
3 "Output papers P of different sizes etc. are stored in correspondence.
And the first paper cassette 41 ₁Has a thickness of "A4"
Paper, second paper cassette 41_TwoContains "A4" thin paper
Like, it is possible to store each according to the paper type
It is possible.

As described above, the output paper is stored in each paper feed cassette, and if the size designation and the paper type designation regarding the output paper P are specified at the time of image formation, the output paper P is fed out from the corresponding paper feed cassette in accordance with the designation. To the image forming unit 30.

In the image forming apparatus 1 illustrated in FIG. 2, the sheet feeding means 41 is constituted by a sheet feeding cassette 41.
_{In addition to 1} , 41 ₂ and 41 ₃ , a manual feed tray 41H and an external paper feeding means 41L (so-called LCT) capable of storing a large amount of output paper P in advance are provided.
The manual feed tray 41H is used when an image is formed on a special output sheet, an OHP sheet, or the like. Further, the external paper feeding unit 41L is used for image forming processing that requires a large amount of output paper P.

Although FIG. 2 illustrates the image forming apparatus 1 in which a three-stage paper feed cassette is provided with a manual feed tray and a large-capacity external paper feeder, in the present invention, the form and provision of the paper feeder are provided. The number and the like to be obtained are not limited to those shown here.

Next, the output post-processing unit 70 will be described. The output post-processing unit 70 passes through the output paper transporting unit 40 and the image forming unit 30 (and also passes through the output paper reversing unit 60 when images are formed on both sides), and the output paper on which the image is formed is formed. P is a part for performing post-processing such as sorting, stapling, and punching.

The sorting process is a process of arranging output papers P which are continuously discharged in a desired order or laminating them in this order. For example, when the automatic double-sided document feeder 100 is used, the document table 10
This corresponds to a case in which “multiple copies” of output sheets P are discharged in a desired order so as to be the same as the stacking order of the document bundle placed on the first stack. When the sorting process is performed, the output post-processing unit 70 sequentially changes the paper discharge position (performs the bundle of output paper) and performs the paper discharge process so that the sheets can be separated one by one.

The stapling process is, for example, a process similar to stapling in general. When a plurality of output sheets P on which images are formed are stacked, a binding device is provided at a predetermined position. The binding process is performed on a plurality of output sheets P. Further, in the punching process, instead of providing a binding tool in the stapling process, a "binding hole" for passing a binding string or the like is formed at a predetermined position of the output papers P stacked in a plurality. Processing.

Next, the electrical configuration of the image forming apparatus 1 having the above-described mechanism is shown in the block diagram of FIG. The mechanisms of the image reading unit 10, the image writing unit 20, the image forming unit 30, the output paper transporting unit 40, the output paper reversing unit 60, and the output post-processing unit 70 described above are centrally controlled as shown in FIG. The means C controls the entire system. The central control means C includes an input means C1, a first storage means C2, and a second storage means C3 which is a nonvolatile storage means such as a hard disk (HDD).
Further, the communication control unit 110 includes a processor (control unit), a storage unit, and the like, and has, for example, the same configuration and function as a general personal computer, and connects the image forming apparatus 1 to a network N or the like. When used as a printer shared by a plurality of user terminals, it functions as a printer controller for transmitting and receiving printer data to and from each user terminal.

The first storage means C2 constituting the central control means C is a volatile memory such as an E-RDH, for example, and stores image data (for example, a document read by the image reading section 10). Is used to temporarily store the information.

The second storage means C3 stores a plurality of jobs
Is stored in a nonvolatile manner, and is constituted by a hard disk or the like as described above. "JO
"B" is defined as "one unit" of image information composed of image data and setting data for setting an operating environment and the like of the image forming apparatus 1 when forming an image based on the image data.

The image data is, for example, data representing a character, a picture, or the like described in a document, and the setting data is related to the image forming apparatus 1 when forming an image based on the image data. This is data representing control conditions. The setting data includes, for example, the size of the image data (for example, the paper size assumed when creating the image data),
This is data relating to settings such as the magnification at the time of image formation, the size and paper quality of the output paper P, the density at the time of image formation, and post-processing (stapling, etc.) of the output paper P on which an image has been formed.

An example of the configuration of the communication control unit 110 is shown in the block diagram of FIG. Communication control means 111
Is configured by a processor (CPU) and the like, and controls each data processing, each storage means, and data input / output with the outside of the communication control unit 110. The ROM 112 is a non-volatile storage unit, and stores a control program of the communication control unit 111, font data corresponding to image data, and the like. RAM 113 is a volatile storage means,
For example, the memory is used as an extended work area (frame memory) when converting image data input in a certain data format into another data format.

The communication data storage means 115 is, for example, an HD
A relatively large-capacity nonvolatile storage means such as D, which can easily store or erase data;
User terminal PC2 connected via network N or the like
In order to perform data transmission / reception (and processing inside the communication control unit 110) smoothly in data communication with the server, data waiting for transmission or received data is stored. The data input / output conversion unit 116 is connected to the central control unit C, the image forming unit 30 and the like shown in the block diagram of FIG. Input / output means (an interface with an engine for forming an image).

The network connection means 117 is a network card or the like used when connecting the image forming apparatus 1 to a network. Parallel port connection means 118
Is used, for example, when a personal computer or the like is directly connected to the image forming apparatus 1, and particularly, mutually transmits and receives parallel data which is advantageous when the image forming apparatus 1 and the personal computer are arranged at a short distance. Things. The terminal device PC
1 is connected to the parallel port connection means 118. The PCI bridge 114 arranges data buses and signal lines input and output from the communication data storage unit 115 (HDD or the like), the data input / output conversion unit 116, the network connection unit 117, and the parallel port connection unit 118. For example, a signal transmission / reception destination of data or the like, or an input / output destination is sorted and connected so that a control signal issued from the communication control unit 111 is transmitted to a plurality of predetermined parts. This is to prevent obstacles such as data collision and overlap.

(Image formation of scan data) Next, each operation after inputting an image described in a document from the image reading section 10 will be described. The input means C1 shown in FIG.
Is, for example, a touch panel 90 and a display means 9 such as an LCD.
1 and a predetermined item (data or the like) is input by directly pressing down a predetermined portion on a screen displayed on the input unit C1 with a finger or the like.
An example of the display screen is shown in the explanatory diagrams of FIGS.

On the screen D1 shown in FIG. 5, it is possible to set the density and magnification at the time of image formation and the output setting of the output sheet P (setting such as sorting and stapling). The input means C1
Will also serve as display means for transmitting the current apparatus setting status and the like to the user, and will display a plurality of jobs described later in a window format. Each window has its own J
The format of the OB image data, the format of the setting data, the setting status, and the like are displayed.

The setting (registration) of the job is performed by pointing to the tab button 92 displayed on the screen D1 shown in FIG. 5 and selecting an arbitrary "JOB number" (in FIG. 5, "free JOB1").
0)) and input the image described in the original in this JOB, the user operates the “original read” button 93 displayed at the lower right corner of the screen D1 to read the image data of the original. Let it do. The job setting data (setting of the operating environment conditions of the image forming apparatus 1) is also stored in the screen D1.
The user operates the various icons displayed on the screen to make desired settings.

Thereafter, as described in the description of the image reading section 10, for example, the original S is transferred to the automatic double-sided original transport section 100.
And read the image. At this time, the image data and the setting data that have been read (hereinafter, the image data and the setting data input from the image reading unit 10 are referred to as scan data) are registered in the job. J as described above
The scan data stored as the OB content is stored in the first storage unit C2 (a plurality of JOBs can be stored in the first storage unit C2). Thereafter, the sequentially registered JOBs are processed, and J
OB is deleted from the first storage means C2.

Further, since the user sometimes uses the job once set, the content stored in the first storage means C2 is erased when the user wants to store the content of the job semi-permanently. By operating the input means C1 before, a desired job is selected from the jobs stored in the first storage means C2, and the job is stored in the second storage means C3.
Duplicate the contents of At this time, the operation and the screen displayed on the input means C1 are performed by operating the button M of the basic screen D1 shown in FIG. 5 to display the setting screen D2 of FIG. 6, and the "image saving" button in the setting screen D2. Operate M1. Button M
1 is operated, the selected job is sent to the central control means C.
From the first storage means C2 to the second storage means C3
Then, the contents of the job can be stored in the image forming apparatus 1 even after the job has been subjected to output processing.

According to the image save button M1, FIG.
As shown in FIG. 2, as the second storage unit C3, a storage unit provided in a personal computer or the like displayed as "PC" can be used in addition to the HDD provided in the image forming apparatus 1. This personal computer or the like is a terminal device PC1 connected to the network connection means 117 shown in FIG. 4, and is set to be usable as the storage means.

The J stored in the second storage means C3
The OB can be deleted by operating the button M1. Furthermore, when a job is stored in the second storage means, a "file name" can be added and stored, and a password is set so that others cannot change the contents of the job or destroy data without permission. You can also.

(Image formation by inputting printer data)
The above description is based on the case where the image forming apparatus 1 handles only scan data obtained from a document by the image reading unit 10.
And the operation of each device. This image forming apparatus 1
Can be connected to a plurality of personal computers or the like via a network N, and can form an image based on printer data set by the personal computers.

The case where an image is formed based on the image data created by the personal computer will be described. A user forms image data using a variety of software on a personal computer (user terminal PC or terminal device PC1), and uses a printer driver (software) installed in the personal computer to set data relating to image formation. (Setting data related to image formation) is input.
When the image data and the setting data are transmitted together as printer data to the image forming apparatus 1, an image is formed based on the printer data in the same manner as the scan data described above.

[0050] Even when the printer data is created using either the terminal device PC1 or the user terminal PC2, the same processing is performed in the image forming apparatus 1, so the case where the user terminal PC2 is used will be described below.
The user terminal PC2 connected to the image forming apparatus 1 performs setting related to image formation instead of the input unit C1 described above, and an example of a screen (of a printer driver) displayed on the user terminal PC2 at that time. Is shown in the explanatory diagram of FIG. This screen U1 is operated in the same manner as “print setting” displayed on a general personal computer in a window format, and discrimination information relating to the size of the original and the output paper such as A4 / B5, as well as plain paper / thick paper / thin paper (type ), And information relating to the magnification (zoom) of the image when the image is formed on output paper. Further, as the simple processing of the output paper, it is possible to perform the setting of the order, the boundary, the setting of the stapling process, the setting of forming the image on both sides or one side of the output paper, the setting of the punch hole processing, and the like regarding the page layout.

Image forming apparatus 1 using printer driver
In the case of setting, the general setting items such as the number of output copies, selection of a discharge tray for discharging output paper, sorting performed when the number of output copies is large, or selection regarding output post-processing such as sorting are performed. Further, regarding the processing of the printer data, “normal printing”, “HDD saving”, and “HDD saving + printing” can be selected by the button M10.

In the "normal printing", after each setting is performed in the printer driver, the image data currently loaded in the user terminal PC2 and the setting data are transmitted to the image forming apparatus 1, and the image is sequentially formed based on the data. (This is the same as screen printing of a general personal computer).

"Save in HDD" indicates that the current user terminal PC2
Is transmitted to the image forming apparatus 1 together with the setting data as described above, and is stored in the second storage unit C3 of the image forming apparatus 1 (the same as the JOB storage described above). In particular, after this, the output operation of image formation is not performed unless instructed.

In the "HDD save + print", the image data and the setting data sent from the user terminal PC2 are stored in the second storage means C3 in the same manner as the description of the "HDD save", and The output operation and processing are performed by forming an image based on the data.

The printer data transmitted from the user terminal PC2 is received by the printer controller (communication control unit 110) provided in the image forming apparatus 1. Thereafter, the control performed by the communication control unit 111 of the communication control unit 110 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. When the communication control unit 110 receives the printer data (image data and setting data), the communication control unit 111 stores the data in the communication data storage unit 115 (Step 100; hereinafter, step is described as S). The communication control unit 111 reads the printer data from the communication data storage unit 115 at appropriate times, performs data conversion on the image data,
Drawing data for a group (for example, for one page of output paper) is formed on the RAM 113 (S101).

The initially created drawing data for one page is stored in the data input / output conversion means 116 together with the setting data.
(For example, in accordance with the IEEE 1394 standard) to the central control means C and stored in the first storage means C2 (S102). Thereafter, the communication control unit 111
Reads the image data sequentially from the communication data storage unit 115 and creates the next one page of drawing data on the RAM 113 (S103). This drawing data is transferred from the RAM 113 to the central control means C and the first storage means C2 as described above (S104). The creation and transfer of the drawing data are continued until all the image data of the printer data is processed (S105).

As described above, the drawing data for each page (of the output paper) is sequentially created on the RAM 113, and the printer data (the drawing data created from the image data and the setting data) is first stored as one JOB. It is stored in the means C2. At this time, the printer data (the drawing data and the setting data) stored in the first storage unit C2
Has the same data format as the scan data.

Next, the control performed by the central control means C when forming an image based on the printer data will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. As described above, R
The drawing data created on the AM 113 is obtained by the communication control unit 111 converting data of image data created by a user using predetermined application software (for example, word processing software). When the printer data (drawing data and setting data) is transferred from the communication control unit 110, the central control unit C stores the printer data in the first storage unit C2 (S200).

In the printer driver, when the user selects “normal printing”, the central control means C
It is determined whether the printer data includes setting data indicating "normal printing" (S201). "Normal printing"
Is set, the central control means C controls the image formation based on the printer data and performs an output process (S205). If "normal printing" has not been set, the central control means C determines whether "save HDD" has been set (S202). If the setting has been made, the printer data is transferred (stored) from the first storage means C2 to the second storage means C3 (S204).
If "Save to HDD" is not set,
It is determined whether "Save + Print" is set (S20).
3). Here, if the setting has not been made, it is determined again whether or not “normal printing” has been set (S201). "HDD
When it is determined that “Save + Print” is set (S20
In 3), the printer data in the first storage unit C2 is copied to the second storage unit C3 (S204), and
Image formation and output control are performed (S205). In addition, the determination regarding the setting described here (S201, S202,
The order of S203) and the like are not limited to those illustrated, and the process may be performed in any order as long as the same operation and effect can be obtained.

When the user selects “Save to HDD” or “Save to HDD + Print” and stores the printer data as a JOB in the second storage means C3, each data input and set from the user terminal PC2 is set. As for (printer data), similarly to the case where scan data is stored, an operation (image formation) such as setting and processing can be performed in a timely manner by the input unit C1 provided in the image forming apparatus 1.

(Job Combining Function) The job stored in the second storage means C3 can output (image formation) a plurality of jobs at once using the "Job combining" function. This function is to copy a plurality of JOBs selected from the JOBs stored in the second storage unit C3 to the first storage unit C2, and process (image formation) as a new one JOB. .

The case where the job combining is performed by operating the input means C1 of the image forming apparatus 1 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. Multiple selections stored in the second storage means C3. The image information (image data and setting data) relating to the selected JOB is copied onto the first storage means C2 (S301). At this time, when the user displays the screen D2 shown in FIG. 6 described above and operates the “read image” button M2, each operation screen described later is displayed,
JOB binding is performed. Until the user completes the job selection (S302), the image information of each job is stored in the first image information.
Is copied to the storage means C2.

When the job selection is completed, the central control means C
Refers to the first storage means C2, "Job-joins" each of the selected JOBs, and regards them as one "new JOB" (S303). At this time, when the user selects a plurality of jobs, it is possible to appropriately instruct through the input means C1 that the jobs are to be combined. When a job connection is instructed by the user and the central control unit C performs a predetermined job connection process, each unit is controlled so that an image is formed and output next (S304).

(Functions Related to JOB Combination and Output According to Selection Order) In the case where JOB combination is performed, a case where image formation is performed by combining a plurality of JOBs according to the selected order will be described. FIG. 6 displayed on the input means C1 by the user
When the button M2 of the screen D2 is operated, the display is sequentially switched to the screens shown in the explanatory diagrams of FIGS. 11 to 15, and detailed settings for the job combination are performed on each display screen.

On the screen D3 shown in FIG. 11, the display on the left side in the figure indicates each J stored in the second storage means C3.
An icon 94 indicating OB. Each JO shown here
B indicates, for example, “ABCD222” in the icon 94.
2 1999/11/17 "and the like. On the screen D3, when the user
The operation of selecting an OB is performed by the icon 9 indicating each job.
4 is performed by designating a desired icon (JOB) with a finger.

When a password is set in the job displayed on the screen D3, a screen D7 of FIG. 15 is displayed prior to FIG. 11, and a screen is displayed so that a password is input on the screen D7. The display should be configured.

When the user operates the arrow button 95 displayed in the figure on the screen D3, the input means C1 changes to the screen D4 shown in FIG. On the screen D4, the selected job is shifted and displayed in the already-selected job display area 96. The job displayed in the selected job display area 96 indicates that the data copy to the first storage unit C2 has been completed (FIG. 10, S301, S302).
Applicable).

In the case of further selecting a job, FIG.
14, the user operates the icon 94 indicating the job to be selected, and operates the arrow button 95 to change the selected job display to the already-selected job, as shown in a screen D6 in FIG.
The display shifts to the B display area 96. In this way, jobs are sequentially selected by repeating a series of operations.

When it is desired to delete the selected job from the job combination, the user designates the job to be deleted in the selected job display area 96 and operates the arrow button 97 shown on the screen D6 to display the selected job. The job display disappears from the area, and the job content is deleted from the first storage means C2.

The job selected by the operation described above
Are displayed side by side in the order selected from the top of the screen, as in the example shown in screen D6. JOB binding is this J
OBs are combined in the display order of OB, and "O" displayed on the screen D6 is displayed.
By operating the "K" button 98, image formation is sequentially performed. Note that the already-selected job display area 96 described above is used.
By combining the operation of shifting the job display and the operation of deleting the job, the job display can be rearranged.
The order of the B bond can be changed.

(Job already selected and job selected later)
The function relating to the prohibition of image formation and the warning due to inconsistency of the setting data of the above) In the job combination, since the setting data differs between the selected job and the job selected afterward, the central control means C that has determined that the settings related to image formation do not match Is J
The image formation by the OB combination is prohibited, and a warning is issued to that effect.

For example, on the screen D4, for the already selected JOB having the file name "ABCD1111 1999/1103", the file name "ABCD2222 (displayed on the left side in the figure) to be selected next" is displayed. "
For the JOB, the setting related to “stapling / non-stapling” in both setting data is “executed” in the former,
In the latter case, the control (processing) of the central control means C will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

Jobs to be joined are sequentially selected.
The contents of the job are copied from the second storage means C3 to the first storage means C2 (S401), and it is determined whether or not there is an inconsistency in the setting data of the job selected later with respect to the selected job (S402). ). If the job selected later contains inconsistent setting data, a warning (display or the like) is issued (S403). Further, control is performed to prohibit the subsequent image formation by JOB combination (S404). If no mismatch is found in the setting data, as described above, if the job selection is completed (S40).
5), job combination is performed (S406), an image is formed, and an output operation is performed (S407).

As described above, by prohibiting the combination and output of JOBs having conflicting setting data of “staple execution” and “staple non-execution”, occurrence of an apparatus error is avoided in advance, and reliable apparatus operation is performed. Making it possible.

In the above description, “staple execution / non-stapling” is exemplified as the setting data. However, setting data that becomes an obstacle in the operation of the apparatus by executing the job combination, or
The “unmatch determination” is performed on the setting data that will cause conflicting control to be performed on the image forming apparatus. Such examples include, in addition to “stapling / non-stapling”, for example, when each job has setting data with different output paper sizes, when each job has setting data with different paper types, and different image resolutions. When each job has setting data When a mixed original mode is selected and when it is not, a different page editing related application function is selected
There are cases such as OB.

The “image resolution” is, for example, 400 dpi
(Dot per inch) or the like, which defines the fineness of image formation, and is realized by changing the scanning interval of the laser oscillated from the semiconductor laser described above. The “mixed original mode” is, for example, A
When a document bundle of 4 size and B5 size is placed on the document placing table 101 of the image forming apparatus 1, a predetermined magnification is applied, and both perform image formation on A3 size output paper. It is such a function.

The "application functions related to page editing" include an inter-sheet function, a chaptering function, a synthesizing function, an image forming function in a booklet format, an image forming function in an OHP slip sheet, and an image in an insertion page Forming function, etc.
A brief description of these is summarized in Table 1 below.

[0078]

[Table 1]

In the above description, a case in which a warning is displayed when the setting data does not match is exemplified. However, when the job is actually combined, the setting data often mismatches. Image data (drawing data)
May be combined with each other, and the setting for image formation may be performed again.

S404 shown in the flowchart of FIG.
, The image forming apparatus 1 inputs a screen (for example, a screen D1 in FIG. 5) for setting the image data (drawing data) JOB-combined while prohibiting the image formation by the input unit C.
1 is displayed. The user sets the output paper size, output post-processing, and the like again, and performs image formation by operating as described above.

(Function of Transmitting Scan Data to User Terminal) The image forming apparatus 1 stores the scan data obtained by reading the image described in the document from the image reading section 10 as a job in the second storage means C3. Can be. The function of transmitting the job image data stored in the second storage unit C3 from the image forming apparatus 1 to the user terminal PC2 via the network N will be described.

(Data transmission function by operation of user terminal) In order to enable transmission of scan data stored as a job in the image forming apparatus 1 to the user terminal PC2, an operation previously performed in the image forming apparatus 1 and a central processing unit The control performed by the control means C will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

The user operates the input means C1 to display the screen D2 of FIG. 6, and operates the button M3 to switch the display to the screen D8 shown in the explanatory diagram of FIG. On this screen D8, a user ID number registered in the image forming apparatus 1 in advance is input. Here, the input of the user ID number is required to prevent the contents stored in the image forming apparatus 1 from being transmitted to the outside without permission, thereby preventing unauthorized data leakage.

The central control means C recognizing the user ID number inputted on the screen D8 (S501) displays the job selection screen shown in FIGS. 11 to 14 (or up to FIG. 15). In the same manner as described above, a job is selected (the selected job is
JOB connection is performed as described above. It is also possible to select a single job). When such an operation is performed, the central control unit C copies the contents (each data) stored in the second storage unit C3 to the first storage unit C2 for the job selected by the user (S502). . When the job selection operation is completed (S503), the contents of all the selected jobs are duplicated on the first storage means C2, which means that the job combination described above has been performed (S504). ). The data copied to the first storage unit C2 is transmitted to the communication control unit 110 (S505).

The (JOB) data transferred to the communication control unit 110 is converted into a predetermined data format (for example, PFD format) on the RAM 113 (excluding the setting data) by the communication control unit 111 with respect to the image data (excluding the setting data). You. The communication control unit 111 stores the converted image data and, for example, an identification index (data storage unit 1).
15 and the like (data format such as date and time, image data size, number of pages, etc.) are stored in the communication data storage unit 115 (excluding the setting data) as transfer data.
As described above, the image forming apparatus 1 is operated, and the transfer data is stored in the communication control unit 115.

In the above description, the job stored in the second storage means C3 is described as scan data. However, any job stored in the second storage means C3 may be used. Even if the job is input as data, the communication data storage
5 can be stored as transfer data.

When the transfer data is stored in the communication data storage means 115, the transfer data can be fetched into the user terminal PC2 via the network N in a timely manner. For example, software (a tool for controlling data communication) such as a “TWIN driver” is started in the user terminal PC2, and the communication control unit 110 (image forming apparatus 1) is accessed and stored in the communication data storage unit 115. The desired transfer data is transmitted to the user terminal PC2.

"TWIN" displayed on the user terminal 2
The "driver" screen is shown in the explanatory diagram of FIG. A screen U2 illustrated in FIG. 19 includes a “box” selection button M20 that classifies devices connected to the network N, and a “scanner” (image forming) stored together with other devices in the “box”. Device), and a display field M for displaying a list of transfer data (for example, the index of the transfer data) stored in the selected “scanner” (communication data storage unit 115 in the above description).
22 are provided.

The user, for all the transfer data displayed in the display field M22 or the transfer data selected (for example, by touching the cursor or the like to the index of the transfer data), is displayed as “Read” displayed below the screen U2. Button M23 to transmit the transfer data to the communication control unit 111, and the image forming apparatus 1
2. Transfer data is taken in.

As described above, the original can be read in the image forming apparatus 1, the image data can be set to be transmittable, and the user terminal PC2 can be operated to transfer the image data later. Forming device 1
It can be used as a scanner connected to an area network such as an AN.

(Scan Data Transmission Function Using E-mail) The image forming apparatus 1 operates the input unit C1 to convert the JOB image data stored in the second storage unit C3 into a PDF or the like. It can be converted, attached to an electronic mail (according to the SMPT protocol), and transmitted to the user terminal PC2.

When the user causes the input means C1 to display the screen D2 of FIG. 6 in the same manner as described above, and operates the button M4, the display is switched to the screen D9 shown in the explanatory diagram of FIG. On this screen D9, for example, the user terminal P
The e-mail address of C2 is input by operating the alphanumeric keys shown on the right side in the figure. Thereafter, the central control means C
The display is switched to the job selection screen D3 described above. The user can proceed in the same manner as described above (screens D3, D3).
4, D5, D6, and further, operation on screen D7) to select the job to be transmitted. The central control means C
B from the second storage means C3 to the first storage means C2.
(See S502 in FIG. 18), and when the selection of the job to be transmitted is completed (see S503), the copy (JOB) is performed.
The contents of the combined job are transmitted to the communication control unit 110 (see S504 and S505).

Job transferred to communication control section 110
Among the contents, the image data is converted into MIME code data on the RAM 113 by the communication control unit 111. The image data converted into the MIME code is stored in the communication data storage unit 115 together with the e-mail address input on the screen D9 (setting data is not stored). The communication control unit 111 converts the image data such as PDF stored in the communication data storage unit 115 into a MIME code at an appropriate time when it can be controlled, and sends the MIME code to the user terminal PC2 having the address, for example, the SMTP protocol or the like. It is transmitted as e-mail in a communication manner.

In this manner, the image data transmitted as an e-mail from the image forming apparatus 1 is transmitted to the user terminal PC.
Upon receipt of the email, the email opens in the same manner as a general electronic mail, and can be displayed as an image on the user terminal PC2 using image processing software such as a graphic or word processor. Further, this image can be further changed, edited, and the like in the user terminal PC2.

[0095]

According to the present invention as described above, even if the format of digital image data handled by a general personal computer or the like is different from that of image data obtained by reading a document image,
An image forming apparatus capable of performing various processes can be provided by handling a series of jobs of selective connection and output of a job through a network connection.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an embodiment in which an image forming apparatus according to the present invention is connected to a network.

FIG. 2 is a schematic configuration diagram illustrating an example of an image forming apparatus.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an electrical configuration of the image forming apparatus.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a communication control unit.

FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing a display screen displayed on an input unit.

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing a display screen displayed on an input unit.

FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing a screen displayed on the user terminal.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating control performed by a communication control unit.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating control performed by a central control unit.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing control performed by a central control unit in JOB connection.

FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing a display screen displayed on an input unit.

FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing a display screen displayed on an input unit.

FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a display screen displayed on the input unit.

FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing a display screen displayed on the input unit.

FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing a display screen displayed on the input unit.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the control performed by the central control means in the job connection.

FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram showing a display screen displayed on the input unit.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of the image forming apparatus and a control performed by a central control unit.

FIG. 19 is an explanatory diagram showing a screen displayed on the user terminal.

FIG. 20 is an explanatory diagram showing a display screen displayed on the input unit.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Image forming apparatus 10 Image reading part 20 Image writing part 30 Image forming part 40 Output paper conveyance part 50 Output paper discharge part 60 Output paper reversal part 70 Output post-processing part 100 Automatic two-sided original conveyance part 110 Communication control part

Continued on the front page F term (reference) 2C087 AB01 AB05 AC08 BA03 BB03 BB10 BC14 BD52 CB17 CB18 DA02 DA11 DA14 2C187 AC07 AE01 CD15 GD02 HA27 5B021 AA01 BB01 BB04 BB10 CC05 EE01 5C062 AA05 AA24 AB22 AB22 AB22

Claims (7)

[Claims] An image reading unit for reading an image of a document;
An image forming unit for forming an image on a recording material, a first storage unit for temporarily storing image information including image data and setting data as a job, and the job arbitrarily selected from the first storage unit The second to memorize
A communication unit for performing data communication with a user terminal via a network, comprising: a storage unit for selecting an arbitrary JOB from a plurality of JOBs stored in the second storage unit; The second storage unit stores a job based on the printer data input from the user terminal to the communication unit via a network, and reads out the job arbitrarily selected by the selection unit from the second storage unit. And stores the selected plurality of JOBs in the first storage means.
And control means for performing control to form an image by executing the image forming apparatus. 2. The control means according to claim 1, wherein said second storage means is based on a job based on printer data input from said user terminal to said communication means via a network and scan data input from said image reading section. JOB
Is read out from the second storage means and stored in the first storage means, and the selected plurality of JOBs are combined to form one combined JOB.
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus executes control to form an image. 3. The communication means includes communication data storage means for storing printer data transmitted from the user terminal, and image data relating to the printer data stored in the communication data storage means as an image corresponding to the scan data. 3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a communication control unit that converts the data into the same data format and sends the data to the control unit. 4. An image reading section for reading an image of a document,
An image forming unit for forming an image on a recording material, a first storage unit for temporarily storing image information including image data and setting data as a job, and the job arbitrarily selected from the first storage unit The second to memorize
A communication unit for performing data communication with a user terminal via a network, comprising: a storage unit for selecting an arbitrary JOB from a plurality of JOBs stored in the second storage unit; The second storage unit stores a job based on the scan data input from the image reading unit, reads out the job arbitrarily selected by the selection unit from the second storage unit, and stores the job in the first storage unit. Memorize and combine the selected plurality of jobs into one combined job,
An image forming apparatus comprising: a control unit that controls transmission of the image data related to the combined job to the user terminal by the communication unit. 5. The communication unit according to claim 1, wherein the communication unit stores image data to be transmitted to the user terminal, and converts the image data relating to the scan data into a data format handled by the user terminal. 5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, further comprising communication control means for storing the stored data in a means and transmitting the stored data to the user terminal in a timely manner. 6. An image reading unit for reading an image of a document,
An image forming unit for forming an image on a recording material, a first storage unit for temporarily storing image information including image data and setting data as a job, and the job arbitrarily selected from the first storage unit The second to memorize
Communication means for performing data communication with a user terminal via a network, comprising: a storage means, and a selection means for selecting an arbitrary JOB from a plurality of JOBs stored in the second storage means; An input unit for inputting an e-mail transmission address; and a second storage unit that stores a job based on the scan data input from the image reading unit, and stores the job arbitrarily selected by the selection unit in the second storage unit. Is read out from the storage means and stored in the first storage means, and the plurality of selected jobs are combined into one combined job,
Control means for controlling the transmission of the image data relating to the combined job to an e-mail to the user terminal having the address input by the input means using the communication means. Forming equipment. 7. A communication data storage means for storing the contents of an e-mail to be transmitted to the user terminal, and converting the image data relating to the scan data into a data format handled by an e-mail. 7. The image forming apparatus according to claim 6, further comprising communication control means for storing the contents of the stored e-mail to the user terminal in a timely manner.