JP2003008814A - Information processor, control method for the information processor, program, and storage medium - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To output image without cutting even an image part lying outside of the printing area of an imaging device as to an image inputted by an image input device, even when the image inputted from the image input device is outputted to the imaging device, by using the simple copying function of a document server system. SOLUTION: When the image data inputted by the image input device, such as a scanner 106 and MFPs 104 and 105 are outputted to the imaging device, such as MFPs 104 and 105 and a printer 107, the document server 102 sets whether or not an image is formed on recording paper on the imaging device in conformity with an image-formable area, the enlargement/reduction rate of the image data inputted from the image input device is calculated according to the setting, and the image data which are inputted from the image input device and converted into data format that the imaging device handles are sent out to the imaging device together with the calculated enlargement/ reduction rate.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus capable of communicating with at least one image input apparatus and at least one image forming apparatus via a predetermined communication medium, an information processing apparatus control method, and a program. It relates to a storage medium.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in forming an image, a user selects a desired printer from a computer and then a LAN is used.
Via public line or dedicated interface such as
The desired job was printed on the selected printer.

In the light printing market called print-on-demand in recent years, a document server system in which a computer terminal is equipped with a print server function and an image forming apparatus connected to the computer terminal prints a large number of jobs is widespread. Is beginning to

Documents handled by the document server system may be paper documents as well as electronic files. In a document server system handling paper documents, an image input device such as a scanner is connected to a computer terminal.

A document server system in which an image input device and an image forming device are connected to such a computer terminal has a simple copy function for outputting a document input from the image input device to the image forming device via the computer terminal. Has been.

The configuration of a conventional document server system will be described below with reference to FIG.

FIG. 30 is a diagram showing the configuration of a conventional document server system.

In the figure, reference numeral 9902 is a conventional document server, which is connected to the network 101. 1
Computers 03a, 103b, and 103c are clients that send jobs to a document server (computer) 9902. Although not shown, a large number of clients are connected in addition to the computers 103a, 103b, 103c. Hereinafter, the client is represented as 103 on behalf.

Further, the network 101 includes an MFP.
(Multi Function Peripheral) 105a, 105b, 105c, 105d and the printer 107 are connected. Hereinafter, the MFP 10
5a, 105b, 105c, 105d on behalf of
It is written as. The MFP 105 scans in monochrome.
This is an MFP that performs printing, low resolution, simple binary color scanning, color printing, or the like.

Although not shown, the network 10
In addition to the above MFPs, a scanner, a printer, and other devices such as a FAX are also connected to the device 1.

The MFP 104 is a full-color MFP capable of scanning or printing in full color with high resolution and high gradation, and the network 10 via the server 108.
Connected to 1 to send and receive data.

Reference numeral 106 (106a, 106) is a scanner, which is a device for taking in an image image from a paper document, and a scanner 106a connected to the document server 9902 via a SCSI interface.
Document server 990 via network 101
There are two types of scanner 106b connected to the two.

Here, the client computer 103
Above, so-called DTP (DeskTop Public)
Various types of documents / figures are created / edited by operating application software that executes “shing”. The client computer 103 converts the created document / graphic into page description language (Page DescriptionL).
image), and is sent to the MFPs 104 and 105 via the network 101 to be printed out.

Each of the MFPs 104 and 105 has a communication means capable of exchanging information with the document server 9902 via the network 101.
Information or status of the client computer 103 via the document server 9902 or the document server 9902.
It is a mechanism to inform the side one by one.

Further, the document server 9902 (or the client 103) has utility software which operates by receiving the information, and the MFP
The computer 104 (or the client 103) manages 104 and 105.

Each of the MFPs 104 and 105 has a communication means capable of exchanging information with the document server 9902 via the network 101 or a dedicated interface, and the information and status of the MFPs 104 and 105 can be transferred to the document server 9902 or via the communication. Then, the client computer 103 side is sequentially notified. Further, the document server 9902 (or the client 103) has utility software that operates by receiving the information, and the MFP
The documents 104 and 105 are managed by the document server 9902 (or the server 108 and the client 103).

In such an image processing system, for example, when a job in which color / black and white are mixed is transmitted from the client computer 103 to the document server 9902, the document server 9902 causes the color / black and white to operate.
A job containing a mixture of black and white is divided into color / black and white on a page basis, and rasterized in color / black and white respectively. The color page is color MFP 104 and the black and white page is black and white MFP 1.
Send to 05 and output.

[0018]

However, in the conventional document server system as described above, the image input from the image input device such as the image input unit of the scanner 106 or the MFPs 104 and 105 is input in the same size as the paper size. However, while the MFP 104,
The image forming unit 105 and the image forming apparatus such as the printer 107 cannot form an image of the same size as the sheet size, and the image formable area is generally smaller than the sheet size.

Due to such a difference between the input image size and the image forming area, when the image input from the image input apparatus is output to the image forming apparatus by using the simple copy function in the document server system, it is not the print area. There was a problem that the image part of was cut and output.

The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus that outputs image data input from an image input apparatus to the image forming apparatus. It is set whether or not to form an image in accordance with the image-formable area on the recording paper, the enlargement / reduction ratio of the image data input from the image input device is calculated according to the setting, and the image input by the image input device is input. At least one image input device and at least one image input device via at least one communication medium by sending the image data converted into a data format that can be output by the forming device together with the calculated scaling ratio to the image forming device. Image input from an image input device using a simple copy function in a document server system capable of communicating with two image forming devices and information processing devices Information processing apparatus and control method and program capable of outputting an image input from an image input apparatus without being cut even in an image portion other than a print area of an image forming apparatus even when output to the apparatus And to provide a storage medium.

[0021]

The first aspect of the present invention is to provide at least one image input device (scanner 106, MFP 104, 1 shown in FIG. 1 through a predetermined communication medium.
05) and an information processing apparatus (print server 102 shown in FIG. 1) capable of communicating with at least one image forming apparatus (MFPs 104, 105 and printer 107 shown in FIG. 1), input image data from the image input apparatus. Input means (input device control unit 1201 shown in FIG. 13)
And a conversion unit that converts the image data input by the input unit into image data in a data format that can be output by the image forming apparatus (data conversion unit 1204 shown in FIG. 13).
And setting means for setting whether or not to form an image in accordance with an image formable area on a recording sheet of the image forming apparatus when the image data input from the image input apparatus is output to the image forming apparatus ( A check box 2205) shown in FIG. 24, and a calculation unit (a CPU (not shown) in the motherboard 110 shown in FIG. 1) that calculates the enlargement / reduction ratio of the image data converted by the conversion unit according to the setting of the setting unit. Output means for sending the image data converted by the converting means to the image forming apparatus together with the enlargement / reduction ratio calculated by the calculating means (output job control section 1205, output device control section 120 shown in FIG. 13).
6) and are included.

A second aspect of the present invention relates to at least one image input device (scanner 106, MFP 104, 105 shown in FIG. 1) and at least one image forming device (FIG. 1) via a predetermined communication medium. Shown in FIG.
105, the printer 107) and an information processing device (print server 102 shown in FIG. 1) capable of communicating with the printer, the input means (FIG. 13) for inputting image data from the image input device.
An input device control unit 1201) shown in FIG. 7, and a conversion unit (a data conversion unit 1204 shown in FIG. 13) that converts the image data input by the input unit into image data in a data format that can be output by the image forming apparatus. When the image data input from the image input device is output to the image forming device, setting means for setting whether or not to form an image on a recording sheet of the image forming device in accordance with an image formable region (FIG. 24). Check box 2205), calculation means for calculating the enlargement / reduction rate of the image data converted by the conversion means according to the setting of the setting means (a CPU (not shown) in the motherboard 110 shown in FIG. 1), The image data converted by the conversion means is subjected to scaling processing according to the scaling rate calculated by the calculation means,
An output unit (data conversion unit 120 shown in FIG. 13) for sending the image data subjected to the scaling processing to the image forming apparatus.
4, output job control unit 1205, output device control unit 1
206) and are included.

A third aspect of the present invention relates to at least one image input device (scanner 106, MFP 104, 105 shown in FIG. 1) and at least one image forming device (FIG. 1) via a predetermined communication medium. Shown in FIG.
105, the printer 107) and an information processing device (print server 102 shown in FIG. 1) capable of communicating with the printer, the input means (FIG. 13) for inputting image data from the image input device.
An input device control unit 1201) shown in FIG. 7, and a conversion unit (a data conversion unit 1204 shown in FIG. 13) that converts the image data input by the input unit into image data in a data format that can be output by the image forming apparatus. Calculation means (not shown in the motherboard 110 shown in FIG. 1) for calculating an enlargement / reduction ratio for forming an image by matching the image data input by the input means with an image formable area on a recording sheet of the image forming apparatus. CPU) and output means for causing the image forming apparatus to form an image according to the enlargement / reduction ratio calculated by the calculating means of the image data converted by the converting means (data converting section 1204 shown in FIG. 13).
Output job control unit 1205, output device control unit 120
6) and are included.

A fourth invention according to the present invention is characterized in that the output means sends the image data converted by the converting means to the image forming apparatus together with the enlargement / reduction ratio calculated by the calculating means. To do.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the output means performs enlarging / reducing processing on the image data converted by the converting means in accordance with the enlarging / reducing rate calculated by the calculating means, and the enlarging / reducing processing. The generated image data is sent to the image forming apparatus.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the method of controlling an information processing apparatus capable of communicating with at least one image input apparatus and at least one image forming apparatus via a predetermined communication medium, the image input An input step of inputting image data from the apparatus (step S2503 in FIG. 27),
A conversion step of converting the input image data into image data in a data format that can be output by the image forming apparatus (FIG. 27).
Step S2508) and when the image data input from the image input device is output to the image forming device,
A setting step for setting whether or not to form an image in accordance with the image-formable area on the recording paper of the image forming apparatus (FIG. 2).
Step S2501 before step 7) and a calculation step (step S in FIG. 27) of calculating the scaling ratio of the image data converted by the conversion step according to the setting.
2506, S2507, S2509, S2510),
An output step (step S2508 of FIG. 27) of sending the converted image data to the image forming apparatus together with the calculated scaling ratio is also included.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for controlling an information processing device capable of communicating with at least one image input device and at least one image forming device via a predetermined communication medium, wherein the image input is performed. An input step of inputting image data from the device (step S2503 of FIG. 28),
A conversion step of converting the input image data into image data in a data format that can be output by the image forming apparatus (FIG. 28).
Step S2608), and when the image data input from the image input device is output to the image forming device,
A setting step for setting whether or not to form an image in accordance with the image-formable area on the recording paper of the image forming apparatus (FIG. 2).
8 (not shown before step S2501) and a calculation step (step S2 in FIG. 28) for calculating the scaling ratio of the image data converted by the conversion step according to the setting.
506, S2507, S2509, S2510), and an output step of performing scaling processing on the converted image data according to the calculated scaling rate, and sending the scaled image data to the image forming apparatus. (Step S2608 of FIG. 28) is included.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, an information processing apparatus capable of communicating with at least one image input apparatus and at least one image forming apparatus via a predetermined communication medium provides an image from the image input apparatus. An input step of inputting data (step S2503 in FIG. 27) and a conversion step of converting the input image data into image data in a data format that can be output by the image forming apparatus (step S2 in FIG. 27).
508) and a setting for setting whether or not to form an image in accordance with an image formable area on a recording sheet of the image forming apparatus when the image data input from the image input apparatus is output to the image forming apparatus. Process (Step S in FIG. 27)
Steps before 2501) and a calculation step (steps S2506 and S2 in FIG. 27) for calculating the scaling ratio of the image data converted by the conversion step according to the setting.
507, S2509, S2510) and an output step of sending the converted image data together with the calculated scaling ratio to the image forming apparatus (step S25 of FIG. 27).
08) and are executed.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, an information processing apparatus capable of communicating with at least one image input apparatus and at least one image forming apparatus via a predetermined communication medium provides an image from the image input apparatus. An input step of inputting data (step S2503 in FIG. 28) and a conversion step of converting the input image data into image data in a data format that can be output by the image forming apparatus (step S2 in FIG. 28).
608) and setting for setting whether or not to form an image in accordance with an image formable area on a recording sheet of the image forming apparatus when the image data input from the image input apparatus is output to the image forming apparatus. Process (Step S in FIG. 28)
Steps before 2501) and a calculation step (steps S2506 and S25 in FIG. 28) for calculating the scaling ratio of the image data converted by the conversion step according to the setting.
07, S2509, S2510), and an output step of performing scaling processing on the converted image data according to the calculated scaling rate and sending the scaled image data to the image forming apparatus (FIG. 28-step S260
8) and are executed.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, at least one image input apparatus and an information processing apparatus capable of communicating with at least one image forming apparatus via a predetermined communication medium are provided with an image from the image input apparatus. An input step of inputting data (step S2503 in FIG. 27) and a conversion step of converting the input image data into image data in a data format that can be output by the image forming apparatus (step S2 in FIG. 27).
508) and a setting for setting whether or not to form an image in accordance with an image formable area on a recording sheet of the image forming apparatus when the image data input from the image input apparatus is output to the image forming apparatus. Process (Step S in FIG. 27)
Steps before 2501) and a calculation step (steps S2506 and S2 in FIG. 27) for calculating the scaling ratio of the image data converted by the conversion step according to the setting.
507, S2509, S2510) and an output step of sending the converted image data together with the calculated scaling ratio to the image forming apparatus (step S25 of FIG. 27).
08) and a program for executing (8) and (8) are stored in a storage medium in a computer-readable manner.

According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, an information processing apparatus capable of communicating with at least one image input apparatus and at least one image forming apparatus via a predetermined communication medium provides an image from the image input apparatus. An input step of inputting data (step S2503 in FIG. 28) and a conversion step of converting the input image data into image data in a data format that can be output by the image forming apparatus (step S2 in FIG. 28).
608) and setting for setting whether or not to form an image in accordance with an image formable area on a recording sheet of the image forming apparatus when the image data input from the image input apparatus is output to the image forming apparatus. Process (Step S in FIG. 28)
Steps before 2501) and a calculation step (steps S2506 and S25 in FIG. 28) for calculating the scaling ratio of the image data converted by the conversion step according to the setting.
07, S2509, S2510), and an output step of performing scaling processing on the converted image data according to the calculated scaling rate and sending the scaled image data to the image forming apparatus (FIG. 28-step S260
8) A program for executing the above and 8) is stored in a storage medium in a computer-readable manner.

[0032]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS [First Embodiment] [Outline of System] FIG. 1 shows the configuration of a document server system to which an information processing apparatus (document server) according to a first embodiment of the present invention can be applied. Is a figure,
It is drawn in comparison with the image forming system shown in FIG. 30 in the prior art section, and the same parts as those in FIG. 30 are designated by the same reference numerals.

In FIG. 1, in order to give priority to performance, the network 101 shown in FIG. 30 is divided into two systems, and they are referred to as a public network 101a and a private network 101b.

A document server (computer) 102 has two network interface cards (NIC) on hardware. One is a NIC 111 connected to the public network 101a side, and the other is a private network connected to the printer side. The NIC 112 is connected to the 101b side.

Computers 103a, 103b and 10
Reference numeral 3c is a client that sends a job to the document server. Although not shown, a large number of clients other than these are connected. Hereinafter, the client is represented as 103 on behalf.

Further, the private network 101
b is an MFP (Multi Function Pe)
ripheral: multifunction peripheral device) 1
05a, 105b, 105c, 105d and printer 1
07 is connected. Note that the MFP not shown
In addition to these, a large number may be connected. Less than,
The MFPs 105a, 105b, 105c, 105d, etc. are referred to as the MFP 105 as a representative. The MFP 105 scans or prints in monochrome, or performs simple low-resolution or binary color scan or color print.

Although not shown, an MFP other than the above, as well as other devices such as a scanner, a printer, and a FAX are connected to the private network 101b.

The MFP 104 is a full-color MFP capable of scanning or printing in full color with high resolution and high gradation, and may send and receive data by connecting to the private network 101b, but the amount of data is enormous. Here, it is assumed that a plurality of bits can be simultaneously transmitted / received by an independent interface, and the document server 102 and its own interface card (dedicated I / O
F) 113 is connected.

The scanners 106a and 106b are devices for capturing image images from paper documents, and the scanner 106a connected to the document server 102 via the SCSI interface 114 and the public network 101a (or private network 101b). Through the document server 10
There are two types of scanner 106b connected to the two.

Next, the hardware configuration of the document server 102 is such that an interface called a PCI bus is provided in a portion called a mother board 110 in which a CPU, a memory such as a ROM, a RAM, etc., which are not shown, are mounted, and the above-mentioned NIC (Network Interface Car).
d) 111, 112, a dedicated I / F card 113, a SCSI card 114, etc. are connected. The CPU (not shown) in the motherboard 110 is a ROM
The overall control of the document server 102 is performed based on a program stored in or other storage medium.

Computers such as the document server 102 and the client computer 103 are provided with input devices such as a keyboard and a pointing device (for example, a mouse) which are not shown, and display devices such as CRTs and LCDs, which the user can display on the display device. UI (especially GU
According to I), various settings and instructions can be made by giving instructions using a keyboard and pointing device.

Here, the client computer 103
Above, so-called DTP (DeskTop Public)
Various types of documents / figures are created / edited by operating application software that executes “shing”. The client computer 103 converts the created document / graphic into page description language (Page Description).
(Language), sent to the MFPs 104 and 105 via the network 101a and printed out.

Each of the MFPs 104 and 105 has a communication means capable of exchanging information with the document server 102 via the network 101b or the dedicated interface 109, and the information and status of the MFPs 104 and 105 can be sent to the document server 102 or via the document server 102. Then, the client computer 103 side is sequentially notified. Further, the document server 102 (or the client 103) has utility software that operates by receiving the information, and the MFP 1
04 and 105 are managed by the computer 102 (or the client 103).

[Arrangement of MFPs 104 and 105] Next, the MFPs 104 and 105 shown in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIGS.
The configuration and operation of will be described.

However, the difference between the MFP 104 and the MFP 105 is the difference between full color and monochrome, and in many parts other than the color processing, the full color device includes the configuration of the monochrome device. Therefore, only the full color device will be described here.
A description of monochrome devices will be added as needed.

FIG. 2 shows the MFPs 104 and 10 shown in FIG.
5 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of FIG. The configuration and operation will be described below.

As shown in the figure, the MFPs 104 and 105
Is a scanner unit 201 that reads an image, a scanner IP unit 202 that processes the image data of the image, a FAX unit 203 that sends and receives an image using a telephone line typified by a facsimile, and an image using a network. NIC (Network) for exchanging data and device information
ork Interface Card: network interface card section 204, full-color MFP 1
04, a dedicated I / F unit 205 for exchanging information with the H.04. Then, the core unit 206 temporarily stores the image signal and determines the route according to the usage of the MFPs 104 and 105.

Next, the image data output from the core section 206 is sent to the printer section 209 for forming an image via the printer IP section 207 and the PWM section 208.
The sheet printed out by the printer unit 209 is sent to the finisher unit 210, and the sheet sorting process and the sheet finishing process are performed.

[Configuration of Scanner Unit 201] The configuration and operation of the scanner unit 201 will be described below with reference to FIG.

FIG. 3 is a sectional view for explaining the structure of the scanner section 201 shown in FIG.

In the figure, reference numeral 301 denotes a platen glass on which a document 302 to be read is placed. The original 302 is illuminated by the illumination lamp 303, and its reflected light is reflected by the mirror 3.
After 04, 305, 306, the lens 307 causes CC
An image is formed on the D sensor 308. The first mirror unit 310 including the mirror 304 and the illumination lamp 303 moves at a speed V, and the second mirror unit 311 including the mirrors 305 and 306 moves at a speed 1/2 V, so that the original 3
The entire surface of 02 is scanned. The first mirror unit 310 and the second mirror unit 311 are driven by the motor 309.

[Configuration of Scanner IP Unit 202] The configuration and operation of the scanner IP unit 202 will be described below with reference to FIG.

FIG. 4 shows the scanner IP unit 20 shown in FIG.
2A and 2B are block diagrams illustrating 2; FIG. 7A corresponds to a color scanner (MFP 104), and FIG. 2B corresponds to a monochrome scanner (MFP 105).

As shown in FIG. 4A, in the case of a color scanner (that is, when image processing is performed by the MFP 104),
The input optical signal is converted into an electric signal by the CCD sensor 308. This CCD sensor 308 is RG
It is a color sensor of B3 line and is input to the A / D conversion unit 401 as RGB image signals. Here, after gain adjustment and offset adjustment, each color signal is converted into 8-bit digital image signals R0, G0, B0 by an A / D converter.

Thereafter, the shading correction unit 402 performs a known shading correction for each color using the read signal of the reference white plate. In addition, CCD sensor 3
Since the 08 color line sensors are arranged at a predetermined distance from each other, the line delay adjustment circuit (line interpolation section) 403 corrects the spatial deviation in the sub-scanning direction.

Next, the input masking section 404 uses the CCD
This is a part that converts the read color space determined by the spectral characteristics of the R, G, and B filters of the sensor 308 into the standard color space of NTSC, and takes various characteristics such as the sensitivity characteristics of the CCD sensor 308 / spectral characteristics of the illumination lamp into consideration. A 3 × 3 matrix operation is performed using the device-specific constants and input (R
0, G0, B0) signals are converted into standard (R, G, B) signals.

Further, the brightness / density conversion unit (LOG conversion unit) 405 is composed of a look-up table (LUT) RAM, and the RGB brightness signals are converted into C1, M1, and Y1 density signals, and the core unit is used. Sent to 206.

As shown in FIG. 4B, in the case of a monochrome scanner (that is, when image processing is performed by the MFP 105), the input optical signal is converted into an electric signal by the CCD sensor 308. This CCD sensor 308
Is a monochromatic color sensor for one line, which is input to an A / D converter (A / D converter) 401 as a monochromatic image signal, and is converted to an 8-bit monochromatic digital image signal by the A / D converter 401. .

After that, the shading correction unit 402 carries out shading correction, and then the data is sent to the core unit 206.

[Configuration of FAX Unit 203] The configuration and operation of the FAX unit 203 shown in FIG. 2 will be described below with reference to FIG.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram for explaining the configuration of the FAX unit 203 shown in FIG.

As shown in the figure, at the time of reception, the NCU section 501 receives the data coming from the telephone line, converts the voltage, and the demodulation section 504 in the modem section 502 performs the A / D conversion and the demodulation operation. Then, the decompression unit 506 develops raster data. Generally, a run length method or the like is used for compression / expansion by FAX. The image converted into raster data is temporarily stored in the memory unit 507, and after it is confirmed that the image data has no transfer error, it is sent to the core unit 206.

Further, at the time of transmission, the compression unit 50 applies to the image signal of the raster image coming from the core unit 206.
In step 5, the run-length method is used for compression, and the modem unit 502
After the D / A conversion and the modulation operation are performed in the modulation unit 503 therein, the data is sent to the telephone line through the NCU unit 501.

[Configuration of NIC Unit 204] The configuration and operation of the NIC unit 204 shown in FIG. 2 will be described below with reference to FIG.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram for explaining the configuration of NIC section 204 shown in FIG.

As shown in the figure, it is this NIC unit 204 that has the function of an interface to the network 101, for example, 10Base-T / 100Bas.
It plays a role of obtaining information from the outside or transmitting the information to the outside by using Ethernet cable such as e-TX.

When information is obtained from the outside, the voltage is converted by the transformer unit 601 and the LAN controller unit 602 is used.
Sent to. The LAN controller unit 602 has a first buffer memory (not shown) therein, determines whether the information is necessary information, and then sends the information to the second buffer memory (not shown). A signal is sent to the core unit 206.

When the information is provided to the outside, the data sent from the core unit 206 is added with necessary information in the LAN controller unit 602, and the transformer unit 60 is added.
1 is connected to the network 101.

[Structure of Dedicated I / F Unit 205] The dedicated I / F unit 205 shown in FIG. 2 is an interface with the full-color MFP 104 and is an interface in which multivalued bits of CMYK are sent in parallel. Color x 8
It consists of bit image data and a communication line. If Ether
When sending using the rnet cable, the MFP 104
It uses such a dedicated parallel interface because it cannot output at a speed commensurate with, and it sacrifices the performance of other devices connected to the network.

[Structure of Core Unit 206] The structure and operation of the core unit 206 shown in FIG. 2 will be described below with reference to FIG.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing the structure of the core section 206 shown in FIG.

In the core unit 206, a bus selector unit 611 plays a role of traffic control in using the MFPs 104 and 105. That is, the copy function,
Network scan, network print, fax transmission / reception, display, etc. M
The bus is switched according to various functions in the FPs 104 and 105.

The path switching patterns for executing each function are shown below.

Copy function: scanner unit 201 → core unit 2
06 → printer unit 209 ・ Network scan: scanner unit 201 → core unit 2
06 → NIC unit 204 ・ Network print: NIC unit 204 → Core unit 20
6 → printer unit 209 ・ facsimile transmission function: scanner unit 201 → core unit 2
06 → FAX unit 203 ・ Facsimile receiving function: FAX unit 203 → Core unit 20
6 → Printer unit 209 Next, the image data output from the bus selector unit 611 is sent to the printer unit 209 via the compression unit 612, the memory unit 613 including a large capacity memory such as a hard disk (HDD), and the decompression unit 614. To be As a compression method used in the compression unit 612, a general method such as JPEG, JBIG, ZIP may be used.

The image data compressed by the compression unit 612 is managed for each job and stored in the memory unit 613 together with additional data such as a file name, creator, creation date and time, and file size. Further, by providing a job number and password and storing them together, the personal box function can be supported. This is for temporary storage of data and printout only for specific people (HD
This is a function to prevent (reading from D).

When a printout instruction for the job stored in the memory unit 613 is issued, the password is authenticated, and then the memory unit 613 is called to decompress and restore the raster image. It is sent to the printer unit 207.

[Configuration of Printer IP Unit 207] The configuration and operation of the printer IP unit 207 shown in FIG. 2 will be described below with reference to FIG.

FIG. 8 shows the printer IP unit 20 shown in FIG.
7A and 7B are block diagrams illustrating the configuration of FIG. 7, where FIG. 7A corresponds to the case of a color printer and FIG. 7B corresponds to the case of a monochrome printer.

In the case of the color printer shown in FIG. 8A, reference numeral 701 denotes output masking (masking / UCR).
Circuit section), M1, C1, input from the core section 206
The Y1 signal is transferred to the toner colors C, M, Y of the image forming apparatus,
This is a part for converting the K signal using matrix calculation,
The C1, M1, Y1, and K1 signals based on the RGB signals read by the CCD sensor 308 are corrected to C, M, Y, and K signals based on the spectral distribution characteristics of the toner and output.

The C, M, Y and K signals output from the output masking / UCR circuit section 701 are then subjected to a gamma conversion (correction) section 702 in which a look-up table (in consideration of various tint characteristics of the toner) is displayed. The image signal is sent to the PWM unit 208 after being converted into C, M, Y, K data for image output using the LUT) RAM and subjected to sharpness or smoothing by the spatial filter 703.

Further, in the case of the monochrome printer shown in FIG. 8B, the monochromatic image signal input from the core unit 206 is processed by the gamma correction unit 702 in a look-up table in consideration of various tint characteristics of the toner. The image signal is converted into data for image output using a (LUT) RAM, sharpened or smoothed by a spatial filter 703, and binarized by a binarization circuit 704. It is sent to 208.

[Configuration of PWM Unit 208] The configuration and operation of the PWM unit 208 shown in FIG. 2 will be described below with reference to FIG.

FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the PWM unit 208 shown in FIG. 2, (a) corresponds to a block diagram of the PWM unit 208, and (b) is a signal generated by each unit of the PWM unit 208. Corresponding to.

Image data separated from the printer IP unit 207 into four colors of yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K) (MFP 105
In the case of, it becomes monochromatic image data)
An image is formed through each M portion 208.

In the PWM section 208, reference numeral 801 denotes a triangular wave generating section which generates a triangular wave (811a shown in FIG. 8B). 802 is a D / A converter (D / A converter)
Then, the digital image signal input from the printer IP unit 207 is converted into an analog signal (811b shown in FIG. 8B). Reference numeral 803 is a comparator, which is a triangular wave generator 801.
811c from the D / A converter 802 and the signal 811a from FIG.
A signal such as is generated and output to the laser drive unit 804. The CMYK signals output from the comparator 803 are converted into laser beams by the CMYK lasers 805.

Then, the polygon scanner 913 scans the respective laser beams and irradiates the respective photosensitive drums 917, 921, 925, 929.

[Configuration of Printer Unit 209 (Color MFP
104)] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the printer section shown in FIG. 2, which corresponds to the color printer section.

In the figure, 913 is a polygon mirror,
The four laser beams emitted from the four semiconductor lasers 805 are received. One of them is a mirror 914, 915, 9
16 scans the photosensitive drum 917, the next one scans the photosensitive drum 921 through the mirrors 918, 919 and 920, and the next one scans the photosensitive drum 925 through the mirrors 922, 923 and 924. Scan, the next one is the mirror 926,
The photosensitive drum 929 is scanned through 927 and 928.

On the other hand, reference numeral 930 is a developing device for supplying yellow (Y) toner, which follows the photosensitive drum 9 according to the laser beam.
A yellow toner image is formed on 17 and a developing device 931 supplies magenta (M) toner. The developing device forms a magenta toner image on the photosensitive drum 921 according to the laser beam, and 932 is cyan (C). Is a developing device that supplies a toner of No. 1 to form a cyan toner image on the photosensitive drum 925 according to the laser light, and 933 is a developing device that supplies black (K) toner to the photosensitive drum 9 according to the laser light.
A black toner image is formed on 29. The above four color (Y, M, C, K) toner images are transferred to the sheet, and a full-color output image can be obtained.

Sheets fed from any of the sheet cassettes 934 and 935 and the manual feed tray 936 are
After passing through the registration roller 937, it is adsorbed on the transfer belt 938 and conveyed. Toners of respective colors have been developed on the photosensitive drums 917, 921, 925, and 929 in advance in synchronization with the feeding timing, and the toners are transferred onto the sheet as the sheet is conveyed. The sheet onto which the toners of the respective colors have been transferred is separated and conveyed by the conveyor belt 939, and the fixing device 940 fixes the toner on the sheet. The sheet passing through the fixing device 940 is a flapper 950
Is temporarily guided downward by the flapper 9
After exiting 50, switch back and eject. As a result, the sheets are ejected in a face-down state, and when printed in order from the first page, the correct page order is obtained.

The four photosensitive drums 917, 921,
925 and 929 are arranged at equal intervals with a distance d, and the conveyance belt 939 causes the sheet to move at a constant speed V.
It is being transported in the
One semiconductor laser 805 is driven.

[Configuration of Printer 209 (Monochrome MF
P105)] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the printer section shown in FIG. 2, which corresponds to the monochrome printer section.

In the figure, 1013 is a polygon mirror, which receives the laser light emitted from the semiconductor laser 805. The laser light passes through mirrors 1014, 1015, 1016 and scans the photosensitive drum 1017. On the other hand, 1030 is a developing device for supplying black toner, which forms a toner image on the photosensitive drum 1017 in accordance with the laser beam, and the toner image is transferred to a sheet to obtain an output image.

A sheet fed from any one of the sheet cassettes 1034, 1035 and the manual feed tray 1036 passes through the registration roller 1037 and then the transfer belt 10.
38 is adsorbed on and conveyed.

Toner is developed on the photosensitive drum 1017 in advance in synchronism with the feeding timing, and the toner is transferred onto the sheet as the sheet is conveyed. The sheet onto which the toner has been transferred is separated, and the toner is fixed on the sheet by the fixing device 1040. Fixing device 1040
After passing through the sheet, the flapper 1050 once guides the sheet downward, and after the trailing edge of the sheet passes through the flapper 1050,
Switch back and eject. As a result, the sheets are ejected in a face-down state, and when printed in order from the first page, the correct page order is obtained.

In FIGS. 9, 10, and 11, the printer unit 209 is described as an example of the laser beam system, but the liquid crystal shutter may be used in an electrophotographic system (eg, LED system) other than the laser beam system. The present invention can be applied to any of a printing method, an inkjet method, a thermal transfer method, a sublimation method, and other printing methods.

[Structure of Finisher Unit 210] FIG.
FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the finisher part 210 shown in FIG. 2.

As shown in the drawing, the sheet exiting the fixing section 940 (or 1040) of the printer section 209 enters the finisher section 210. The finisher unit 210 has a sample tray 1101 and a stack tray 1102,
The sheets are discharged by switching according to the type of job and the number of sheets to be discharged.

Various functions of the finisher section 210 will be described below.

First, the sorting function will be described.

There are two sort methods, a bin sort method and a shift sort method. The bin sort method is a method having a plurality of bins and allocating to each bin. On the other hand, the shift sorting method is a method of performing sorting by shifting an electronic sorting function (described later) and a bin (or a tray) to the front side and distributing output sheets for each job.

The electronic sort function described above is called a collate, and if the large capacity memory described in the core unit 206 is available, this buffer memory is used to order the buffered page order. The function of electronic sorting can be supported by using the so-called collate function that changes the discharge order.

Next, the group function will be described.

The group function is a function for sorting each page, whereas sorting is for each job.

Next, the bind function will be described.

The binding function is executed by the stack tray 1102.
When the sheets are to be ejected, the sheets before being ejected are stored for each job, and the stapler 11 is ejected immediately before the ejection.
You can bind at 05.

In addition, a Z-folding machine 1104 for folding the paper into a Z shape and a puncher 11 for punching two (or three) holes for a file until reaching the above-mentioned two trays.
06, each processing can be performed according to the type of job.

Further, the saddle stitcher 1107 binds the central part of the sheet at two places and then folds the central part of the sheet by rollers to fold the sheet in half to create a booklet such as a weekly magazine or pamphlet. Perform processing. The sheets bound by the saddle stitcher 1107 are discharged to the booklet tray 1108.

In addition, although not shown, it is also possible to add binding (gluing) for bookbinding, or trim (cutting) for aligning the end faces on the opposite side to the binding side after binding.

Further, the inserter 1103 is the tray 11
This is for sending the sheet set in 10 to any of the trays 1101, 1102, 1108 without passing through the printer. As a result, the sheet set in the inserter 1103 can be inserted (middle insertion) between the sheets fed to the finisher unit 210. The tray 1110 of the inserter 1103 is set face-up by the user, and the pickup roller 1111 feeds sheets in order from the uppermost sheet.

Therefore, the sheet from the inserter 1103 is conveyed to the trays 1101 and 1102 as it is, and discharged in a face-down state. When the inserter 1103 is fed to the saddle stitcher 1107, the faces can be aligned by feeding the puncher 1106 once and then switching it back.

[Configuration of Document Server 102] Next, the document server 1 shown in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIG.
The configuration and operation of No. 02 will be described.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram for explaining the configuration of the document server 102 shown in FIG. 1. The same parts as those in FIG. 1 are designated by the same reference numerals.

In the figure, reference numeral 1201 denotes an input device control unit, and a job input from the NIC 111 or SCSI 114 enters the document server 102 (hereinafter referred to as a server) from the input device control unit 1201 and various client applications are loaded on the server. It plays that role in linking.

An input device control unit 1201 receives PDL (Page Description Language: Page Descri) as an input.
ption language) data and JCL (Jo
bControl Language) data is accepted. The PDL data and JCL data are status information regarding the printer and the server and correspond to various clients. Also, the output of this module is the appropriate PDL and J
It has the role of connecting all the components of CL.

An input job control unit 1202 manages the requested list of jobs input from the input device control unit 1201 and creates a job list for accessing each job submitted to the server. further,
This module has a job routing function that determines the route of the job, and RIP (Rasterize)
There are three functions: a job split function that controls whether to perform Image Processing) processing (raster expansion processing or rasterization processing), and a job scheduling function that determines the order of jobs.

1203a, 1203b, 1203c, ...
Is a raster expansion processing unit (RIP), and there are a plurality of them.
For example, 1203a, 1203b, 1203c, ... Or, it is possible to further increase the number as needed, but here it is collectively referred to as 1203. This RIP module RIP-processes PDLs of various jobs received from the input job control unit 1202, and creates bitmaps of appropriate sizes and resolutions. Regarding RIP processing, PostScript (registered trademark of Adobe)
In addition to the above, rasterization processing of various formats such as PCL, TIFF, JPEG, and PDF is possible.

Reference numeral 1204 denotes a data conversion unit (image compression / data conversion unit) which serves to compress the bitmap image created by the RIP unit 1203 and to perform format conversion, and an optimum image image matching each printer. Select a type. For example, if you want to handle jobs in page units, TIFF and JPEG
The RIP unit 1203 rasterizes the above items and attaches a PDF header to the bitmap data, and edits the PDF data as PDF data.

An output job control unit 1205 receives the page images of the job from the image compression / data conversion unit 1204 and manages how they are handled based on the command setting. For example, the page may be printed on a printer or a hard disk (Image Disk) 1207
Will be saved to. Further, it is possible to select whether or not to leave the printed job on the hard disk 1207, and when it is saved, it is possible to recall it. further,
This module is a hard disk 1207 and RAM12
Manages interaction with 08.

This hard disk 1207 or RAM1
In 208, programs and data to be processed by the document server 102 are stored.

An output device control unit 1206 controls which device the page image received from the output job control unit 1205 is output to, and which device is to be clustered (a plurality of devices are connected and printed simultaneously). , To the interface card 112 or 113 of the selected device. This module also plays a role of monitoring the status of devices (MFPs 104, 105, etc.) and transmitting the status of the apparatus to the document server 102.

The input device controller 1201, the input job controller 1202 and the RIP 120 shown in FIG.
3, the image compression / data conversion unit 1204, the output job control unit 1205, and the output device control unit 1206 each have a program stored in a ROM (not shown) or another storage medium, even though they are realized by hardware. It may be realized by being executed by a CPU (not shown).

[PDL (Page Description Language: Page D
Description Language]] Next, FIG.
The PDL data will be described with reference to FIG.

PDL represented by the PostScript (registered trademark) language of ADOBE is classified into the following three elements.

(A) Image description by character code (b) Image description by graphic code (c) Image description by raster image data That is, PDL is a language for describing an image formed by combining the above elements, The data described by this is called PDL data.

FIGS. 14A and 14B are views for explaining PDL data. FIG. 14A corresponds to a description example of PDL data, and FIG. 14B corresponds to a schematic diagram of raster expansion of PDL data shown in FIG. .

In FIG. 14A, R1301 is an example in which character information is described.

In the description of the character information R1301, L1
Reference numeral 311 is a description for designating the color of the character, and in parentheses are Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Bla in order.
It represents the concentration of ck. The minimum density is "0.0" and the maximum density is "1.0".

At L1311, it is designated that the character is black. Next, L1312 substitutes the character string "IC" into the variable String1. Next, in L1313,
The second parameter indicates the x coordinate and the y coordinate of the start position coordinates on the paper on which the character string is laid out, the third parameter indicates the size of the character, the fourth parameter indicates the character spacing, and the fifth parameter The parameter indicates the character string to be laid out. In short, L1313 has coordinates (0.0, 0.
From 0), the instruction is to lay out the character string "IC" with the size "0.3" and the interval "0.1".

Further, R1302 is an example in which graphic information is described. In the description of the graphic information R1302, L132
As with L1311, 1 designates a line color, and here, Cyan is designated. Next, L1322 is
This is for designating the drawing of a line, and the first and second parameters are the starting coordinate of the line and the third and fourth parameters are the ending coordinate, respectively, of the x and y coordinates. The fifth parameter indicates the line thickness.

Further, R1303 is an example in which raster image information is described. In the raster image information R1303,
L1331 substitutes the raster image for the variable image1. Here, the first parameter represents the image type of the raster image and the number of color components, the second parameter represents the number of bits per color component, and the third and fourth parameters are
It represents the image size of the raster image in the x and y directions. The fifth and subsequent parameters are raster image data.

The number of raster image data is the product of the number of color components forming one pixel and the image size in the x and y directions. In L1331, the CMYK image has four color components (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Blac).
k), the number of raster image data is (4 × 5 × 5 =) 100.

Next, L1332 is a coordinate (0.0, 0.5)
From that point, it is shown that the image1 is laid out in a size of 0.5 × 0.5.

The above-mentioned three image descriptions R in one page
FIG. 14B shows a state in which 1301, R1302, and R1303 are interpreted and expanded into raster image data.

In FIG. 14B, R1301 and R1
302 and R1303 are expanded PDL data. These raster image data are actually the RAM 1208 shown in FIG. 13 for each CMYK color component.
(Or ImageDisk 1207), for example, R1301 is the RA of each CMYK.
In M1208, C = 0, M = 0, Y = 0, K = 255 are written, and the R1302 portion has C = 2, respectively.
55, M = 0, Y = 0, K = 0 are written.

Within the document server 102, the PDL data sent from the client 103 (or the document server itself) remains as PDL data.
Alternatively, the RAM expanded in a raster image as described above
1208 (or ImageDisk 1207), and saved as necessary.

[Network 101a] Next, the network 101a shown in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 15 shows the network 10 shown in FIG.
It is a figure which shows the network environment of 1a.

As shown in the figure, the network 101a having the structure shown in FIG. 1 is connected by a device called a router for connecting the networks to each other, and the LAN (L
a further network called the O or Area Network).

The LAN 1406 is an internal router 1
Another LA through the leased line 1408 through 401
It is connected to the router 1405 inside the N1407 and these networks are stretched in multiple layers to construct a vast connection form.

Next, referring to FIG. 16, data flowing in the networks 101a and 101b shown in FIG. 1 will be described.

FIG. 16 shows the network 10 shown in FIG.
It is a figure which shows the data transfer in 1a, 101b. The network data transfer operation will be described below.

There is data 1421 existing in the device A (1420a) of the transmission source, and the data may be image data, PDL data, or a program. This data is sent to the network 101a (, 101b)
When the data is transferred to the device B (1420b) of the reception destination via the, the data 1421 is subdivided. Image 1
It divides like 422.

This divided data 1423, 142
4, 1426, etc., a destination address called a header 1425 (the destination IP address when the TCP / IP protocol is used) is added, and the packets are sequentially sent as packets 1427 to the network 101a. go. If the address of device B and the header 1431 of packet 1430 match, data 143
2, 1433 and 1434 are separated and reproduced in the data state 1436 which was in the device A.

[Scanner Driver] Next, referring to FIG. 17, the computer 102 (or 10) shown in FIG.
3) The scanner driver operating above will be described.

FIG. 17 shows the computer 10 shown in FIG.
2 (or 103) on the GUI (Graphic) of the scanner driver for instructing the scan operation.
FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a user interface (User Interface), and by instructing with this scanner driver, the user can instruct desired setting parameters and convert a desired image into data.

In the figure, reference numeral 1501 is a window of the scanner driver, and as a setting item therein, 1502 is a source device selection column for selecting a target transmission source. The source device to be selected is generally the above-mentioned scanner unit 201, but may be an image from a memory or a digital camera.

1503 is a property (Propert)
The y) key is for making detailed settings for the selected source device. When this key is clicked with a pointing device (not shown), setting information unique to that device is input on a separate screen, and special image processing ( For example, it is possible to select a character mode / photograph mode) and input an image in a processing mode suitable for it.

Next, 1504 is an image size (Ima
In the ge Size) column, make a selection that determines the image size of the image to be scanned. Reference numeral 1505 is a resolution input column for inputting the resolution. A color mode selection column 1506 selects a color mode.

Further, 1507 to 1509 are parts for determining the size of the image area (Image Area), and the unit (Unit) input column 1507 is for inputting the input unit of the image area size and the width (Widd).
The th) input column 1508 is for inputting the width (horizontal length) of the image area size, and the height (Height).
t) The input column 1509 is for inputting the height (vertical length) of the image area size.

When the pre-scan (PRE-SCAN) key 1512 is pressed after making these designations, the computer 102 (or 103) instructs the device selected in the source device selection column 1502 to input an image. To start. Since the image is pre-scanned here, the image is read with a coarser resolution than the actual resolution, and the obtained image is displayed in the preview image display area 1511 as a preview image. In displaying, the scale 151 is set in accordance with the unit 1507 of the image area described above.
0 is displayed.

If it is determined that the preview image is OK, the scan (SCAN) key 1513 is clicked, and this time the resolution is set.
If the preview image is NG, perform a prescan again to confirm, and if it is canceled, cancel (C
Click the cancel key 1514.

[Printer Driver] Next, the process of transmitting image data from the computer 102 (or 103) to the printer by the printer driver will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 18 shows the computer 10 shown in FIG.
2 (or 103) is a schematic diagram showing an example of a GUI of a printer driver for instructing a print operation. By instructing with this printer driver, the user instructs desired setting parameters to obtain a desired setting parameter. It is possible to send the image image of to the destination such as a printer.

In the figure, reference numeral 1601 denotes a printer driver window, and the setting items in the window are 160
2 is a destination selection column,
Select the target output destination. Generally, the above-mentioned MFPs 104 and 105 or the printer 107.

Reference numeral 1603 denotes a page (Pages) setting column for selecting an output page from a job. Which page of an image image created by application software operating on the computer 102 (or 103) is output. Decide what to do.

Reference numeral 1604 is a copy number setting column for specifying the number of copies. Reference numeral 1607 denotes a property (property) key, which is used to make detailed settings regarding the destination device selected in the destination selection column 1602. Click here to open another window (Job Ticket shown in FIG. 20 described later). (Setting screen)
By inputting the setting information peculiar to the device, special image processing, for example, by changing the parameters of the gamma conversion unit 702 and the spatial filter unit 703 in the printer IP unit 207, finer color reproduction and sharpness adjustment can be performed. It becomes possible to do.

When the desired setting is completed, printing is started by the OK key 1605. When canceling, printing is canceled by the cancel key 1606.

[Job Submitter] FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the GUI of the job submitter on the computer 102 (or 103) shown in FIG.

Reference numeral 1701 denotes a job submitter (Jo
b Submitter) screen, and the method of use is the same as the printer driver shown in FIG.
It is a tool to throw in data, and the printer driver starts data with the application on the client 103,
While the data is converted into a format such as PS (or PCL) and thrown into the document server 102 to be subjected to image forming processing by a designated image forming apparatus, the job submitter directly sends data in various formats to the document server. It is for sending to 102 and performing image forming processing by a designated image forming apparatus.

As a setting item, 1702 is a destination (De
(station) selection area and destination (De
1) in the selection area 1702
Reference numeral 703 denotes a destination selection column for selecting a target output destination. This output destination is generally the above-described MFP 104, 105 or printer 107. Further, 1704 is a property (property) key for making detailed settings. When this is clicked with a pointing device (not shown), a job ticket setting screen (job ticket menu) shown in FIG. 20, which will be described later, appears.

Reference numeral 1705 denotes an output source file (Source)
In the setting column, an output source file is selected, and an arbitrary file in the computer 102 (or 103) can be selected and thrown into the document server 102. The output source file may be an image file read by a scanner or the like by a simple copy function described later.

In the output source file (Source) setting column 1705, 1706 indicates a directory (Dir).
The input column is for inputting the storage location of the file. A file selection column 1707 is for displaying files in the directory indicated in the directory input column 1706 and selecting files. 1708 is a file name (Files
Name) Input column for inputting the file name. A file type input column 1709 is for inputting a file type.

When the desired setting is completed, the job is sent to the document server 102 by the OK key 1710, and when cancelled, the cancel key 17 is pressed.
It can be canceled by 11.

[Job Ticket] Next, the job ticket will be described with reference to FIG. When the printer driver as shown in FIG. 18 or the property key (1607 or 1704) of the job submitter as shown in FIG. 19 is clicked, a job ticket setting screen 1801 as shown in FIG. 20 appears.

FIG. 20 shows the computer 10 shown in FIG.
2 (or 103) on the MFP 104, 105,
Alternatively, it is a schematic diagram showing an example of a job ticket setting screen in which the user freely selects a function unique to each of the printer 107 and the like.

In the figure, reference numeral 1801 denotes a job ticket (Job Ticket) setting screen, which is used by the MFP 10
4, 105, or a setting screen in which the user can freely select functions unique to the printer 107 and the like, and different setting items 1802 are displayed according to the target output destination 1702. At that time, the user can select any setting item 1803.

For example, in the Duplex setting column,
ON and OFF are prepared. When ON, printing is performed by double-sided printing, and when OFF, printing is performed by single-sided printing. However, when a printer having no double-sided function is selected, this item itself is not displayed.

Frequently set default items are set in advance. Since Duplex frequently uses single-sided printing, OFF is selected as the default.

The items set here are not limited to the finishing function, but the basic functions of the printer such as image processing parameters, the number of copies, and the paper size can be selected and changed.

When the desired setting is completed, the OK key 18
The screen returns to the screen of the printer driver shown in FIG. 18 or the screen of the job submitter shown in FIG. 19 with 04, and when canceling, the cancel (Cancel) key 180
Cancel by 5.

[Device Status] MF shown in FIG.
The MIB (Management) is connected to the network interface part of the P104, 105 or the printer 107.
A standardized database called “ment Information Base” has been constructed, and SN
MP (Simple Network Management)
ent Protocol) to communicate with a computer on the network via a network management protocol, and the state of the devices connected to the network including the MFPs 104 and 105 is displayed on the computer 102.
(Or 103) and necessary information can be exchanged.

For example, as the equipment information of the MFPs 104 and 105, it is possible to detect what function the finisher unit 210 is connected to, or as status information, whether an error or jam is currently occurring, whether printing or idle is in progress, etc. Equipment information of the MFPs 104 and 105, device status, network settings, job history,
It is possible to obtain all kinds of static information such as usage management and control.

FIG. 21 is a block diagram of the computer 10 shown in FIG.
It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of GUI of the utility which shows a device status on 2 (or 103).

In the figure, reference numeral 1901 denotes a device status screen. For example, when the tab 1902 of the MFP 105a is selected, the equipment information of the device of the MFP 105a is represented by a graphic 1903, and the device information is displayed at 1904 and 1905. It is possible to determine the state of the above, and it is possible to know the other information of the device at 1906. Further, it is possible to know details such as equipment information with the detail display key 1907.

[Job Status] FIG. 22 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the GUI of the utility showing the job status on the computer 102 (or 103) shown in FIG.

In the figure, reference numeral 2001 denotes a job status (Job Status) screen. This job status screen 2001 is represented by three statuses, a job status 2002 for knowing the status of the job in the document server 102, and a print status (Pr) for notifying the status of the job passed to the printer.
finishing Status) 2003, and the finished job 20 that notifies the history of the finished job.
04.

The job status 2002 is Waiti
ng (before RIP) or Ripping (during RIP)
It is expressed by, and is passed to the next print status after RIP.

In the normal status, the print status 2003 is Waiting (waiting for Print) or Pr.
When an error or jam occurs, it is displayed and notified to the user. After printing, it is passed to the next finished job.

For the finished job 2004, the history of the job can be viewed.
Ted, Canceled is displayed at the time of midway cancellation.

[Job Merge Tool] FIG. 23 is a block diagram of the computer 102 (or 103) shown in FIG.
It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of GUI of the utility showing a job tool.

In the figure, 2101 is a screen of the job merge tool. The configuration and operation will be described below.

2104 imports / opens (Impor
Press the t / Open key to select the computer 102 (or
103) or when reading from a device connected to a network, a floppy (registered trademark) disk, or the like.

Specifically, first, Import / Open
The key 2104 is designated to read the first file from the computer 102 (or 103) or from a device or a floppy disk connected to the network. This read file is Chapter-1 and is displayed as 2102.

Then, again the Import / Open key 2
Instruct 104 to read the second file. This is the second file Chapter-2 added to the first file Chapter-1, and is displayed as 2103. Similarly, a number of files are sequentially added, and Chapter-3, Chapter-4, C
It can be added as chapter-5, ....

Next, a delete key 2105
Is used when you want to delete a Chapter or Page, and the edit (Edit) key 2106 is used when you want to add a header, a footer, renumbering, or the like.

Further, a print (Print) key 21
07 is clicked when the merged job is printed, and when clicked, the printer driver as shown in FIG. 18 is activated and printing can be performed.

[Simple Copy Function] Next, FIGS.
The simple copy function in the document server system of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

First, the scanner setting will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 24 shows the computer 10 shown in FIG.
2 (or 103) is a simple copy scanner setting screen (GUI) for setting whether or not the scanner of the document server system is connected (scanner connection status), the read image size at the time of simple copy, and the read resolution.

In the figure, 2201 (2201a, 22)
01b, 2201c) is a scanner name, and a list of scanners connectable to the system is displayed in the scanner names 2201a, 2201b, 2201c. 2202
(2202a, 2202b, 2202c) is a check box for setting whether or not the scanner corresponding to the scanner name 2201a, 2201b, 2201c is actually connected. An OK key 2206 is used to validate the settings and close the screen. A cancel key 2207 is used to invalidate the setting and terminate the screen.

2203 (2203a, 2203b, 22)
Reference numeral 03c) is an image size setting column in which the read image size at the time of simple copying can be set for the scanners corresponding to the scanner names 2201a, 2201b, 2201c.

2204 (2204a, 2204b, 22)
04c) is a resolution setting column for the scanner 22
The reading resolution at the time of simple copying can be set for 01a, 2201b, and 2201c.

Reference numeral 2205 denotes a check box for setting whether or not to print an image by enlarging or reducing the image in the printable area of each of the MFPs 104 and 105 and the printer 107 that are output destinations during simple copying. An OK key 2206 is used to validate the settings and close the screen. A cancel key 2207 is used to invalidate the setting and terminate the screen.

FIG. 25 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a read image and a simple copy result at the time of a simple copy of the document server system shown in FIG.

In the figure, reference numeral 2301 indicates an original input from the scanner, 2302 indicates a simple copy result when the check box 2205 shown in FIG. 24 is checked, and 2303 indicates the check box 2205 shown in FIG. The result of simple copy when not checked is shown.

As shown in FIG. 25, if the check box 2205 shown in FIG. 24 is checked, the image of the original 2301 input by the scanner is missing the read image as shown in the simple copy result 2302. It is printed in the print area without.

The check box 2 shown in FIG.
If 205 is not checked, the image of the original 2301 is missing in the portion outside the print area as shown in the simple copy result 2303, but when printing on a sheet of the same size as the original 2301, it is output at the same size. .

Next, with reference to FIG. 26, an operation screen for performing a simple copy will be described.

FIG. 26 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a simple copy operation screen displayed on the display unit of the document server 102 when the document server 102 shown in FIG. 1 executes the simple copy function.

In the figure, reference numeral 2401 denotes a scanner list display, which displays a scanner list for which connection is set in the check box 2202 of the simple copy scanner setting screen shown in FIG.

2402 is a simple copy (Quick C
The "opy" key is used to start the original reading of the simple copy by the scanner shown in the scanner list display 2401. Reference numeral 2403 denotes a close key, which is used to end the simple copy.

The simple copy operation will be described below.

When the simple copy is started, first, the scanner list display 2401 displays a list of scanners which are set to be connected in the check box 2202 of the simple copy scanner setting screen shown in FIG.

The user designates the simple copy key 2402 of the scanner on which a desired document is placed among the scanners shown in the scanner list display 2401. When the simple copy key 2402 is designated, the original is read and the read image data is transferred to the document server 102.

Then, a job submitter screen 1701 shown in FIG. 19 is displayed, an output destination is selected, and desired output settings are made. When performing a simple copy, the output source file 1705 shown in FIG. 19 becomes a read image file.

When the OK key 1710 is pressed,
The read image is output.

The operation of the document server 102 at the time of simple copy in this embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG.

FIG. 27 is a flow chart showing an example of the first control processing procedure of the server apparatus of the present invention. The document server 102 at the time of simple copying in this embodiment.
It corresponds to the control processing procedure of. The processing of this flowchart is assumed to be executed by a CPU (not shown) in the motherboard 110 shown in FIG. 1 based on a program stored in a ROM or another storage medium. In addition, S2501 to S2510 in the figure indicate each step.

The user can instruct execution of the following simple copy function from either the computer 103a to 103c or from the document server 102. For example, when instructed by the computer 103a, the instruction from the computer 103a is given. Based on this, the document server 102 controls the execution. At this time, the job submitter screen and the like displayed during execution of the simple copy are all displayed on the client 103 which is the instructing computer.
Will be displayed in. Hereinafter, description will be made assuming that the user has instructed the start of the simple copy from the client computer 103a, but the same applies to the case where the simple copy start is instructed from another device.

When the start of the simple copy is instructed by a keyboard, a pointing device, or the like (not shown) of the computer 103a, first, the simple copy operation screen shown in FIG. 26 is displayed on the display unit of the computer 103a, and in step S2501, the computer FIG. 26 from 103a
When the simple copy key 2402 shown in FIG. 24 is designated, in step S2502, the document server 102 sets the size and resolution set in the image size setting column 2203 and resolution setting column 2204 shown in FIG. 24 for the selected scanner. And instruct to scan the original.

Subsequently, in step S2503, the image data of the original read by the scanner is input to the document server 102. The longitudinal size of the image read at this time is IL, and the lateral size is IS.
And

Next, in step S2504, as shown in FIG.
The job submitter screen 1701 shown in FIG. 9 is displayed on the display unit of the computer 103a, and various settings such as the destination are made from the computer 103a (including the settings such as the paper size on the job ticket screen 1801 shown in FIG. 20). After that, when the OK key 1710 is pressed, the selected output destination and setting are recognized.

Then, in step S2505, it is determined whether or not the check box 2205 of the simple copy scanner setting screen (set from the computer 102 or 103 before starting the simple copy) shown in FIG. 24 is checked, If the setting for printing by enlarging or reducing the image in the printable area is checked, in step S2506, the size of the paper stored in the hard disk 1207 or the RAM 1208 as the data set in step S2504 as shown in FIG.
The printable area of the output destination selected in the transmission destination selection area 1702 shown in FIG. At this time, the longitudinal direction of the printable area is OiL and the lateral direction is OiS.

Then, in step S2507, the enlargement / reduction ratio OiL / IL in the longitudinal direction and the enlargement / reduction ratio OiS / IS in the short-side direction are calculated, and the smaller value is output to the enlargement / reduction ratio Oi. / I (enlargement / reduction rate O / I = Min (OiL / IL, OiS / IS)), and the process proceeds to step S2508.

On the other hand, in step S2505, the setting for enlarging or reducing the image in the printable area and printing is not checked (check box 2205 in the simple copy scanner setting screen shown in FIG. 24 is not checked). In this case, in step S2509, the paper size set in step S2504 is detected. At this time, the longitudinal direction of the paper size is OpL and the lateral direction is OpS.

In step S2510, the longitudinal enlargement / reduction ratio OpL / IL and the lateral enlargement / reduction ratio OpS / IS are calculated, and the smaller value is used as the output enlargement / reduction ratio O /. I (scale ratio O / I
= Min (OpL / IL, OpS / IS)), the process proceeds to step S2508.

Lastly, in step S2508, the read image data is transferred to the output destination, and O / I is instructed as the enlargement / reduction ratio at the time of output to be output. As a result, the PWM section 208 of the output device manipulates the wavelength of the image signal and outputs the image signal at the scaling ratio O / I.

As described above, even when the image input from the image input device is output to the image forming device by using the simple copy function in the document server system of the present embodiment, the image other than the print area is printed. The part can be output without being cut.

[Second Embodiment] In the first embodiment,
When performing a simple copy, the print server 102 calculates an enlargement / reduction ratio corresponding to the print area or the paper size of the output destination, and when the image data read to the output destination is transferred, the calculated enlargement ratio is calculated. The case where the instruction is given as the enlargement / reduction ratio at the time of output has been described. However, in the print server 102, the enlargement / reduction processing according to the calculated enlargement / reduction ratio is performed on the read image data to perform the enlargement / reduction The image data may be transferred to an output destination. The embodiment will be described below. The document server system of this embodiment is the same system as the first embodiment.

Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 28, the document server 10 at the time of simple copying in the second embodiment of the present invention.
The operation of No. 2 will be described.

FIG. 28 is a flow chart showing an example of the second control processing procedure of the server apparatus of the present invention, which corresponds to the control processing procedure of the document server 102 at the time of simple copying in the second embodiment of the present invention. The process of this flowchart is performed by the motherboard 110 shown in FIG.
It is assumed that it is executed based on a program stored in a ROM or other storage medium by a CPU (not shown) therein. In addition, S2501 to S2507 and S250 in the figure
9, S2510, S2608 indicate the respective steps, and FIG.
The same step number is assigned to the same step as 7. That is, S2501 to S2507, S2509,
The process of S2510 is the same as that of FIG. 27, and only the process of S2608 is different. Hereinafter, description will be made assuming that the user has instructed the start of the simple copy from the client computer 103a, but the same applies to the case where the simple copy start is instructed from another device.

When the start of the simple copy is instructed by the keyboard, pointing device, or the like (not shown) of the computer 103a, first, the simple copy operation screen shown in FIG. 26 is displayed on the display unit of the computer 103a, and in step S2501, the computer FIG. 26 from 103a
When the simple copy key 2402 shown in FIG. 24 is designated, in step S2502, the document server 102 sets the size and resolution set in the image size setting column 2203 and resolution setting column 2204 shown in FIG. 24 for the selected scanner. And instruct to scan the original.

Subsequently, in step S2503, the image data of the document read by the scanner is input to the document server 102. The longitudinal size of the image read at this time is IL, and the lateral size is IS.
And

Next, in step S2504, as shown in FIG.
The job submitter screen 1701 shown in FIG. 9 is displayed on the display unit of the computer 103a, and various settings such as the destination are made from the computer 103a (including the settings such as the paper size on the job ticket screen 1801 shown in FIG. 20). After that, when the OK key 1710 is pressed, the selected output destination and setting are recognized.

Then, in step S2505, it is determined whether or not the check box 2205 of the simple copy scanner setting screen (set from the computer 102 or 103 before starting the simple copy) shown in FIG. 24 is checked, If the setting for printing by enlarging or reducing the image in the printable area is checked, in step S2506, the size of the paper stored in the hard disk 1207 or the RAM 1208 as the data set in step S2504 as shown in FIG.
The printable area of the output destination selected in the transmission destination selection area 1702 shown in FIG. At this time, the longitudinal direction of the printable area is OiL and the lateral direction is OiS.

Then, in step S2507, the enlargement / reduction ratio OiL / IL in the longitudinal direction and the enlargement / reduction ratio OiS / IS in the short-side direction are calculated, and the smaller one is output. / I (enlargement / reduction rate O / I = Min (OiL / IL, OiS / IS)), and the process proceeds to step S2608.

On the other hand, in step S2505, the setting for printing by enlarging or reducing the image in the printable area is not checked (check box 2205 in the simple copy scanner setting screen shown in FIG. 24 is not checked). In this case, in step S2509, the paper size set in step S2504 is detected. At this time, the longitudinal direction of the paper size is OpL and the lateral direction is OpS.

In step S2510, the longitudinal enlargement / reduction ratio OpL / IL and the lateral enlargement / reduction ratio OpS / IS are calculated, and the smaller value is calculated as the output enlargement / reduction ratio O. / I (Scaling ratio O / I
= Min (OpL / IL, OpS / IS)), the process proceeds to step S2608.

Finally, in step S2608, the data conversion unit 1204 of the document server 102
The read image data is enlarged / reduced at an O / I enlargement / reduction rate, and then the reduced / enlarged image data is transferred to a predetermined output destination for output.

As described above, even when the image input from the image input device is output to the image forming device by using the simple copy function in the document server system, the image portion other than the print area is output without being cut. It is also possible.

In each of the above-described embodiments, the case where the printer unit (printer engine) is the laser beam system has been described as an example, but an electrophotographic system (for example, LED system) other than the laser beam system may be used as a liquid crystal shutter system. The present invention can be applied to any of an inkjet method, a thermal transfer method, a sublimation method, and other printing methods.

The document server 102 performs the above-described reduction / enlargement processing by combining the first embodiment and the second embodiment.
It may be configured such that it can be selected on the side of the output device or on the output device side.

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

FIG. 29 is a diagram for explaining a memory map of a storage medium for storing various data processing programs readable by the information processing apparatus according to the present invention.

Although not particularly shown, information for managing the program group stored in the storage medium, such as version information, creator, etc. is also stored, and information depending on the OS or the like on the program reading side, such as the program, is stored. In some cases, an icon or the like for identification and display is also stored.

Further, data dependent on various programs is also managed in the above directory. Also, if the program or data to be installed is compressed,
A program for decompressing may be stored.

The functions shown in FIGS. 27 and 28 in this embodiment may be performed by the host computer by a program installed from the outside.
In that case, the present invention is applied even when the information group including the program is supplied to the output device from a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, a flash memory, or an FD, or from an external storage medium via a network. It is a thing.

As described above, the storage medium recording the program code of the software that realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to the system or apparatus, and the computer (or CPU or MP of the system or apparatus is supplied.
It goes without saying that the object of the present invention can also be achieved by U) reading and executing the program code stored in the storage medium.

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

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

Further, by executing the program code read by the computer, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also the OS (operating system) running on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that this also includes the case where the above) performs a 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 in the memory provided in the function expansion board inserted into the computer or the function expansion unit connected to the computer, based on the instruction of the program code, The CPU or the like provided in the function expansion board or function expansion unit performs a part or all of the actual processing,
It goes without saying that the processing includes the case where the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized.

The present invention may be applied to a system composed of a plurality of devices or an apparatus composed of a single device. Further, it goes without saying that the present invention can be applied to the case where it 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 apparatus, the system or apparatus can enjoy the effects of the present invention. .

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

[0246]

As described above, according to the first, sixth, eighth and tenth aspects of the present invention, when the image data input from the image input device is output to the image forming device, the image forming device is formed. It is set whether or not to form an image in accordance with the image-formable area on the recording paper of the device, the enlargement / reduction ratio of the image data input from the image input device is calculated according to the setting, and the image data is input from the image input device. Since the image data converted into a data format that can be output by the image forming apparatus is sent to the image forming apparatus together with the calculated enlargement / reduction ratio, at least one image input device and at least one image input device via a predetermined communication medium. An image input from an image input device is used as an image forming device by using a simple copy function in a document server system capable of communicating with one image forming device and an information processing device. Even when the force in the image inputted from the image input device, image portions outside the printing area of the image forming apparatus can be output without being cut.

According to the second, seventh, ninth, and eleventh inventions, when the image data input from the image input device is output to the image forming device, it is adjusted to the image formable area on the recording paper of the image forming device. Whether or not to form an image is set according to the setting, the enlargement / reduction ratio of the image data input from the image input device is calculated, and the data is input into the image input device and converted into a data format that can be output by the image forming device. The scaled image data is scaled according to the calculated scaling rate, and the scaled image data is sent to the image forming apparatus. Therefore, at least one image is transmitted via a predetermined communication medium. A document server capable of communicating with an input apparatus and at least one image forming apparatus, particularly an image forming apparatus and an information processing apparatus in which the image forming apparatus cannot form an image at a specified enlargement / reduction ratio. Even when the image input from the image input device is output to the image forming device by using the simple copy function in the system, the image input device also includes an image portion other than the print area of the image forming device in the image input from the image input device. It can be output without being cut.

According to the third, fourth and fifth inventions, when the image data inputted from the image input device is outputted to the image forming device, the image forming is carried out in accordance with the image formable area on the recording paper of the image forming device. The image data enlargement / reduction ratio is calculated so that the image corresponding to the calculated enlargement / reduction ratio of the image data input from the image input device and converted into a data format that can be output by the image forming device is displayed as the image. Since the image is formed by the forming apparatus, the image is formed using the simple copy function in the document server system capable of communicating with at least one image input apparatus, at least one image forming apparatus and information processing apparatus via a predetermined communication medium. Even when the image input from the input device is output to the image forming device, in the image input from the image input device,
The image portion other than the print area of the image forming apparatus can be output without being cut.

Therefore, an image input from the image input device is sent to the image forming device by using the simple copy function in the document server system capable of communicating with the at least one image input device and the at least one image forming device and the information processing device. Even when it is output, there is an effect that the image portion other than the print area can be output without being cut.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a document server system to which an information processing apparatus (document server) according to a first embodiment of the present invention can be applied.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the MFP shown in FIG.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a configuration of a scanner unit illustrated in FIG.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a scanner IP unit shown in FIG.

5 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a FAX unit illustrated in FIG.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a NIC unit shown in FIG.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a core unit shown in FIG.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a printer IP unit illustrated in FIG.

9 is a diagram illustrating a PWM unit shown in FIG.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the printer unit shown in FIG.

11 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the printer unit shown in FIG.

12 is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the finisher portion shown in FIG.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the document server shown in FIG.

FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating PDL data.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a network environment of the network shown in FIG.

16 is a diagram showing data transfer in the network shown in FIG. 1. FIG.

17 is a GUI (Gr) of a scanner driver for instructing a scan operation on the computer shown in FIG.
It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of a apical User Interface).

18 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a GUI of a printer driver for instructing a print operation on the computer shown in FIG.

19 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a GUI of a job submitter on the computer shown in FIG.

20 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a job ticket setting screen on which the user can freely select a function unique to each of the MFP and the printer on the computer shown in FIG.

21 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a GUI of a utility showing a device status on the computer shown in FIG. 1. FIG.

22 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a GUI of a utility that represents a job status on the computer shown in FIG. 1. FIG.

23 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a GUI of a utility representing a job tool on the computer shown in FIG.

FIG. 24 is a simple copy scanner setting screen (GUI) for setting presence / absence of a scanner connection (scanner connection status) of the document server system and a read image size and a read resolution on the computer shown in FIG. 1; ) Is shown.

25 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a read image and a simple copy result at the time of a simple copy of the document server system shown in FIG.

26 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a simple copy operation screen displayed on the display unit of the document server when the document server shown in FIG. 1 executes the simple copy function.

FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing an example of a first control processing procedure of the server device of the present invention.

FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing an example of a second control processing procedure of the server device of the present invention.

FIG. 29 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs that can be read by the information processing apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 30 is a diagram showing a configuration of a conventional document server system.

[Explanation of symbols]

101 network 102 document server computer 103 client computer 104 color MFP 105 monochrome MFP 106 scanner

   ─────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continued front page    F term (reference) 5B021 AA01 BB01 BB04 CC05 EE04                       LB07                 5B057 AA11 BA01 BA24 BA26 CD05                       CH08 CH18 DA08                 5C062 AA05 AA13 AA35 AB38 AC41                       AC42 AC43 AF11 BA04                 5C076 AA19 AA21 AA22 CA02 CA10                       CB02

Claims (11)

[Claims] 1. At least 1 via a predetermined communication medium
One image input device, and an information processing device capable of communicating with at least one image forming device, wherein the image forming device inputs the image data from the image input device, and the image forming device receives the image data input by the input device. A conversion unit for converting the image data into a data format that can be output, and when the image data input from the image input device is output to the image forming device, the image forming device is adjusted to an image formable area on a recording sheet of the image forming device. Setting means for setting whether or not to form an image, a calculating means for calculating an enlargement / reduction rate of the image data converted by the converting means according to the setting of the setting means, and an image converted by the converting means. Output means for sending the data to the image forming apparatus together with the scaling ratio calculated by the calculating means. The information processing apparatus. 2. At least one via a predetermined communication medium.
One image input device, and an information processing device capable of communicating with at least one image forming device, wherein the image forming device inputs the image data from the image input device, and the image forming device receives the image data input by the input device. A conversion unit for converting the image data into a data format that can be output; and when the image data input from the image input device is output to the image forming device, it is adjusted to an image formable area on a recording sheet of the image forming device. Setting means for setting whether or not to form an image, a calculating means for calculating an enlargement / reduction rate of the image data converted by the converting means according to the setting of the setting means, and an image converted by the converting means. The data is enlarged / reduced according to the enlargement / reduction ratio calculated by the calculating means, and the enlarged / reduced image data is converted into the image form. The information processing apparatus characterized by comprising output means for delivering the device. 3. At least one via a predetermined communication medium.
One image input device, and an information processing device capable of communicating with at least one image forming device, wherein the image forming device inputs the image data from the image input device, and the image forming device receives the image data input by the input device. A conversion unit for converting the image data into a data format that can be output, and an enlargement / reduction ratio for forming the image data input by the input unit in accordance with the image formable area on the recording paper of the image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus further comprises a calculating unit for calculating, and an output unit for causing the image forming apparatus to form an image corresponding to the scaling ratio of the image data converted by the converting unit, which is calculated by the calculating unit. Information processing equipment. 4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the output unit sends the image data converted by the conversion unit to the image forming apparatus together with the scaling ratio calculated by the calculation unit. apparatus. 5. The output means performs enlarging / reducing processing on the image data converted by the converting means according to the enlarging / reducing rate calculated by the calculating means, and the image data subjected to the enlarging / reducing processing is subjected to the image formation. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the information processing apparatus sends the information to the apparatus. 6. At least one via a predetermined communication medium.
One image input device, and a method of controlling an information processing device capable of communicating with at least one image forming device, comprising: an input step of inputting image data from the image input device; and a step of inputting the input image data by the image forming device. A conversion step of converting the image data into a data format that can be output, and when the image data input from the image input device is output to the image forming device, the image forming device is adjusted to an image formable area on a recording sheet of the image forming device. Setting step for setting whether or not to perform image formation, a calculation step for calculating an enlargement / reduction rate of the image data converted in the conversion step according to the setting, and the converted image data And an output step of sending to the image forming apparatus together with an enlargement / reduction ratio. 7. At least one via a predetermined communication medium
One image input device, and a method of controlling an information processing device capable of communicating with at least one image forming device, comprising: an input step of inputting image data from the image input device; and a step of inputting the input image data by the image forming device. A conversion step of converting the image data into a data format that can be output, and when the image data input from the image input device is output to the image forming device, the image forming device is adjusted to an image formable area on a recording sheet of the image forming device. Setting step for setting whether or not to perform image formation, a calculation step for calculating an enlargement / reduction rate of the image data converted in the conversion step according to the setting, and the converted image data An output step of performing enlarging / reducing processing according to the enlarging / reducing rate and sending the image data subjected to the enlarging / reducing processing to the image forming apparatus. Method of controlling an information processing apparatus which. 8. At least one via a predetermined communication medium
An input step of inputting image data from the image input device to one image input device and an information processing device capable of communicating with at least one image forming device; and the image forming device can output the input image data. A conversion step of converting the image data into image data in a data format; and, when the image data input from the image input device is output to the image forming device, image formation is performed in accordance with an image formable area on a recording sheet of the image forming device. A setting step of setting whether or not to perform the setting, a calculation step of calculating a scaling rate of the image data converted by the conversion step according to the setting, and a scaling step of the converted image data. And an output step of sending to the image forming apparatus together with the program. 9. At least one via a predetermined communication medium.
An input step of inputting image data from the image input device to one image input device and an information processing device capable of communicating with at least one image forming device; and the image forming device can output the input image data. A conversion step of converting the image data into image data in a data format; and when the image data input from the image input device is output to the image forming device, image formation is performed in accordance with an image formable area on a recording sheet of the image forming device. A setting step of setting whether or not to perform the setting, a calculation step of calculating a scaling rate of the image data converted by the conversion step according to the setting, and a scaling step of the converted image data. An output step of performing enlarging / reducing processing according to the above, and sending the image data subjected to the enlarging / reducing processing to the image forming apparatus. Beam. 10. An input step of inputting image data from the image input device to an information processing device communicable with at least one image input device and at least one image forming device via a predetermined communication medium, A conversion step of converting the input image data into image data in a data format that can be output by the image forming apparatus; and the image forming when outputting the image data input from the image input apparatus to the image forming apparatus. A setting step for setting whether or not to form an image in accordance with an image-formable area on a recording sheet of the apparatus, and a calculation step for calculating an enlargement / reduction rate of the image data converted by the conversion step according to the setting. And an output step of sending the converted image data together with the calculated scaling ratio to the image forming apparatus. Yuta is readable manner to a storage medium. 11. An input step of inputting image data from the image input device to an information processing device capable of communicating with at least one image input device and at least one image forming device via a predetermined communication medium, A conversion step of converting the input image data into image data in a data format that can be output by the image forming apparatus; and the image forming when outputting the image data input from the image input apparatus to the image forming apparatus. A setting step for setting whether or not to form an image in accordance with an image-formable area on a recording sheet of the apparatus, and a calculation step for calculating an enlargement / reduction rate of the image data converted by the conversion step according to the setting. , Scaling the converted image data according to the calculated scaling ratio, and sending the scaled image data to the image forming apparatus. Storage medium having a computer is capable of storing read a program for executing an output process, the that.