JP2003162393A - Information processor, job processing method, storage medium, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To simultaneously select a plurality of candidates for image forming devices which process a job to be integrated after being output distributively in time of a single job processing to be integrated with a sheet post-processing. <P>SOLUTION: The information processor is characterized in having a constitution in which a printer driver 35407 outputs a single generated job distributively by an MFP, selects the MFP connected with a sheet post-processing device to integrate each job output which is output distributively into a single output from plural MFPs displayed on a display 35410, and transfers the distributed job of the single job to the selected MFP. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2003,JPO

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image processing system capable of communicating with a plurality of image forming apparatuses including an image forming apparatus connectable to a sheet post-processing apparatus via a predetermined communication medium. An information processing apparatus capable of inputting a job associated therewith, or an information processing apparatus capable of inputting a job involving predetermined image processing to an image processing system capable of communicating with a sheet post-processing apparatus or a plurality of image forming apparatuses via a predetermined communication medium, and The present invention relates to a job processing method, a storage medium, and a program.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Heretofore, an image forming apparatus has been proposed in which a paper discharge processing device (sheet post-processing device) is connectable, and performs paper discharge processing (stapling, punching, etc.) on a paper sheet on which an image is output. This is well known. It is also possible to build an image processing system on the network so that the image forming apparatus, the information processing apparatus, etc. can communicate with each other.

[0003]

However, in the above-mentioned conventional example, the same processing as that when one of the selected image forming apparatuses outputs the paper from the other image forming apparatus which constitutes the image processing system is performed. It has been impossible to perform continuously, that is, to process separated job outputs continuously as a series of jobs.

Further, it is impossible to combine the sheets output from the connected image forming apparatus and the sheets output from another image forming apparatus into one output. That is, in order to combine the sheets separated by different image forming apparatuses into one output bundle, there is no method other than the user collating the respective bundles of sheets and binding them with a normal stapler. It has been pointed out that the complicated image processing result cannot be automatically bound by the sheet post-processing by using it, and the distributed output form that may occur in network output cannot be flexibly dealt with.

The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and a first object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus to which a sheet post-processing apparatus can be connected via a predetermined communication medium. In an information processing apparatus capable of inputting a job involving predetermined image processing to an image processing system capable of communicating with a plurality of image forming apparatuses, one generated job is distributed and output by the plurality of image forming apparatuses, and the distributed output is performed. An image forming apparatus candidate to which a sheet post-processing apparatus that performs sheet post-processing that integrates each job output to be integrated into one output is connected is selected from the plurality of image forming apparatuses displayed on the display unit, and is selected. By transferring the distributed job of one job to each of the image forming apparatuses, the jobs to be integrated after being distributed and output at the time of one job processing that is integrated with sheet post-processing. Information processing apparatus and job processing method capable of simultaneously selecting a plurality of image forming apparatus candidates for processing a job and freely constructing an image processing environment capable of performing a series of distributed job processing involving sheet post-processing by a simple operation And a storage medium and a program.

A second object is an information processing apparatus capable of inputting a job involving predetermined image processing to an image processing system capable of communicating with a sheet post-processing apparatus or a plurality of image forming apparatuses via a predetermined communication medium. An image forming device candidate for distributed output of one generated job by a plurality of image forming devices and each job output of the distributed output are 1
A sheet post-processing apparatus candidate for performing sheet post-processing to be integrated into one output is selected from a plurality of image forming apparatuses and sheet post-processing apparatuses displayed on the display means, and 1 is selected for each of the selected image forming apparatuses. By transferring the distributed jobs of one job, it is possible to simultaneously select a plurality of image forming apparatus candidates for processing the jobs to be integrated after being distributed and output during one job processing that is integrated with sheet post-processing. An information processing apparatus, a job processing method, and a storage medium capable of freely constructing an image processing environment capable of selecting a sheet post-processing apparatus on a network and performing a series of distributed job processing involving sheet post-processing by a simple operation, To provide a program.

[0007]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, an image capable of being communicated by a plurality of image forming apparatuses including an image forming apparatus capable of connecting a sheet post-processing apparatus via a predetermined communication medium. Retrieval means (corresponding to the printer driver 35407 shown in FIG. 35) which is an information processing apparatus capable of submitting a job involving predetermined image processing to the processing system and which searches for an image forming apparatus operable on the image processing system.
And a display unit (display 354 shown in FIG. 35) for displaying the image forming apparatus candidates retrieved by the retrieval unit.
10)) and a sheet post-processing device that performs a sheet post-processing that causes one generated job to be distributed and output by a plurality of image forming apparatuses and integrates the job outputs that are distributed and output into one output. Selecting means (printer driver 35407 shown in FIG. 35) for selecting an image forming apparatus candidate among the plurality of image forming apparatuses displayed on the display means.
And a transfer unit (corresponding to the printer driver 35407 shown in FIG. 35) that transfers a distributed job of one job to each image forming apparatus selected by the selection unit.

A second aspect of the present invention is information capable of submitting a job involving predetermined image processing to an image processing system capable of communicating with a sheet post-processing apparatus or a plurality of image forming apparatuses via a predetermined communication medium. A processing device, which displays a search unit (corresponding to the printer driver 35407 shown in FIG. 35) for searching an image forming device operable on the image processing system, and an image forming device candidate searched by the searching unit. Display means (display 3 shown in FIG. 35)
(Corresponding to 5410), an image forming apparatus candidate for distributively outputting one generated job by a plurality of image forming apparatuses, and a sheet post-processing that integrates each job output that is distributively output into one output. Selection means (corresponding to the printer driver 35407 shown in FIG. 35) for selecting the sheet post-processing device candidate from the plurality of image forming apparatuses and sheet post-processing devices displayed on the display means, and the selection means. It is characterized by having a transfer unit (corresponding to the printer driver 35407 shown in FIG. 35) for transferring a distributed job of one job to each image forming apparatus.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, the selecting means causes one generated job to be distributed and output by a plurality of image forming apparatuses, and each job output thus distributed and output is integrated into one output. A plurality of image forming apparatus candidates to which a sheet post-processing apparatus that performs sheet post-processing is connected can be simultaneously selected from a plurality of image forming apparatuses displayed on the display unit.

A fourth invention according to the present invention is characterized in that the one job includes a series of output data including a page in which color output and monochrome output are mixed.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the transfer means selects one job including a page having a mixture of color output and black and white output by adding distinguishable job information to each color. It is characterized in that the transfer is distributed to the image forming apparatus.

The sixth invention according to the present invention is to generate 1
Distribute and output one job by multiple image forming devices,
Setting means (printer driver 35407 shown in FIG. 35) for setting whether or not to select the image forming apparatus candidate to which the sheet post-processing apparatus that performs the sheet post-processing that integrates the job outputs that are distributed and output is integrated into one output Equivalent to)
And a control means for permitting or prohibiting the selection of the image forming apparatus candidate to which the sheet post-processing apparatus is connected by the selecting means based on the setting state of whether the selection of the image forming apparatus candidate is performed by the setting means (see FIG. 35). Corresponding to the printer driver 35407 shown).

A seventh invention according to the present invention is to generate 1
The display means includes an image forming apparatus candidate for distributively outputting one job by a plurality of image forming apparatuses, and a sheet post-processing apparatus candidate for performing sheet post-processing for integrating each job output that is distributed and output into one output. Setting means (printer driver 3 shown in FIG. 35) for setting whether to select a plurality of image forming apparatuses and sheet post-processing apparatuses displayed in FIG.
(Corresponding to 5407) and the setting state of whether or not the selection of the image forming apparatus candidate by the setting means is permitted or prohibited based on the setting state of the sheet post-processing apparatus candidate and the image forming apparatus candidate by the selecting means (FIG. Corresponding to the printer driver 35407 shown in FIG. 35).

An eighth aspect of the present invention is directed to an image processing system capable of communicating with a plurality of image forming apparatuses including an image forming apparatus connectable to a sheet post-processing apparatus via a predetermined communication medium. A job processing method in an information processing apparatus capable of inputting a job accompanied by processing, comprising: a search step (step S101 shown in FIG. 28) for searching an image forming apparatus operable on the image processing system; A display step (step S101 shown in FIG. 28) of displaying the searched image forming apparatus candidates on the display means, and one generated job is distributed and output by a plurality of image forming apparatuses, and each job output is distributed and output. Is displayed on the display means. The image forming apparatus candidates to which the sheet post-processing apparatus for performing sheet post-processing for integrating That selection step of selecting from among a plurality of image forming apparatus (step S102 of FIG. 28, FIG. 3
0 in step S204, and step S3 in FIG. 33.
02) and a transfer step of transferring a distributed job of one job to each image forming apparatus selected in the selection step (step S104 shown in FIG. 28, step S206 shown in FIG. 30, step S30 shown in FIG. 33).
4) and are included.

A ninth aspect of the present invention is information capable of submitting a job involving predetermined image processing to an image processing system capable of communicating with a sheet post-processing apparatus or a plurality of image forming apparatuses via a predetermined communication medium. A job processing method in a processing apparatus, comprising: a search step (step S101 shown in FIG. 28) for searching an image forming apparatus operable in the image processing system; and an image forming apparatus candidate searched by the searching step. A display step (step S101 shown in FIG. 28) displayed on the means, an image forming apparatus candidate for distributedly outputting one generated job by a plurality of image forming apparatuses, and one job output for each distributed output. A sheet post-processing device candidate for performing sheet post-processing integrated into one output and a plurality of image forming apparatuses and a system displayed on the display means. Selecting step of selecting from among preparative post-processing apparatus (step S102 of FIG. 28, step S204 of FIG. 30, step S302 of FIG. 33)
And a transfer step (step S104 shown in FIG. 28, step S206 shown in FIG. 30, step S304 shown in FIG. 33) for transferring the distributed job of one job to each image forming apparatus selected in the selection step. It is characterized by having.

In a tenth aspect of the present invention, in the selecting step, one generated job is distributed and output by a plurality of image forming apparatuses, and each job output thus distributed is integrated into one output. A plurality of image forming apparatus candidates to which a sheet post-processing apparatus that performs sheet post-processing is connected can be simultaneously selected from a plurality of image forming apparatuses displayed on the display unit.

An eleventh invention according to the present invention is characterized in that the one job includes a series of output data including a page in which color output and monochrome output are mixed.

In a twelfth aspect of the present invention, in the transferring step, one job including a page in which color output and black-and-white output are mixed is separated for each color, and identifiable job information is added to each of the selected jobs. It is characterized in that the transfer is distributed to the image forming apparatus.

A thirteenth aspect of the present invention performs sheet post-processing in which one generated job is distributed and output by a plurality of image forming apparatuses, and each job output that is distributed and output is integrated into one output. According to the setting step (not shown) for setting the propriety of selection of the image forming apparatus candidate to which the sheet post-processing apparatus is connected, and the setting step of the propriety of selection of the image forming apparatus candidate in the setting step. A control step for permitting or prohibiting the selection of the image forming apparatus candidate to which the sheet post-processing apparatus is connected (steps S403 and S40 shown in FIG. 34).
4) and are included.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, an image forming apparatus candidate for distributing and outputting one job to be generated by a plurality of image forming apparatuses, and each job output to be distributed and output into one output. A setting step (not shown) for setting whether or not to select a plurality of image forming apparatuses and sheet post-processing apparatuses displayed on the display unit and a sheet post-processing apparatus candidate for performing sheet post-processing to be integrated; A control step (step S403 shown in FIG. 34) for permitting or prohibiting the selection of the sheet post-processing apparatus candidate and the image forming apparatus candidate in the selecting step based on the setting state of whether the selection of the image forming apparatus candidate is possible or not.
S404).

The fifteenth invention of the present invention is the eighth to first inventions.
It is a computer-readable storage medium that stores a program that implements any one of the job processing methods of 4 above.

The sixteenth invention according to the present invention is the eighth to first inventions.
It is a program that realizes any one of the job processing methods of No. 4 above.

[0023]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS [First Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of an image processing system to which an information processing apparatus according to the present invention can be applied.

In FIG. 1, the computers 102 and 103 connected to the network 101 play the roles of a server and a client, respectively. In reality, there are a plurality of computers 103 functioning as clients. Although indicated by 103b, it will be hereinafter referred to as the client 103 as a representative.

On the other hand, an MFP (Multi Function)
On Peripheral), the multipurpose network devices 104, 105, 106 are network 1
Reference numeral 104 denotes a color MFP capable of scanning and printing in full color.
Reference numerals 05 and 106 denote monochrome MFPs that perform scanning and printing in monochrome.

On the other hand, a network device that operates with a single function is also connected to the network 101, and there is a single-function printer 107 and the like.
Since it is almost equivalent to the FP, these devices will be collectively referred to as an MFP hereinafter.

Reference numeral 108 denotes a memory device connected to the network 101 for storing data, which can temporarily save / store various data sent via the network 101. Furthermore, this network 1
Although not shown in the figure, a client, various servers, and an MFP other than the above, as well as other devices such as a scanner, a printer, and a FAX are also connected.

On the computer 102 (or the client 103), a so-called DTP (Desk) is used.
Various types of documents / figures are created / edited by operating application software of Top Publishing). Computer 102 (or client 10
3) The created document / graphic is the PDL language (PageD
It is sent to the MFPs 104, 105 and 106 via the network 101 and output by being converted to the description language (page description language) and instructed by the startup software called a printer driver from the computer 102 (or the client 103). It

A document placed on the scanner unit of the MFP 104 or 105 is sent as image data to the network 101 by instructing it from the computer 102 (or the client 103) by a startup software called a scanner driver, and is stored in the memory. Device 108
Stored in the computer, displayed on the display of the computer 102 (or the client 103), or stored in the MFP 10
4, 105, and 106, and can be output.

Next, the MFPs 104, 105, 106
Computer 102 (or client 10 respectively)
3) has a communication means capable of exchanging information with the side via the network 101, and has a mechanism for sequentially informing the computer 102 (or client 103) side of the setting information and device status of the MFPs 104, 105. Furthermore,
The computer 102 (or client 103) has utility software that operates by receiving the information, and devices such as MFPs are centrally managed under the computer 102 (or client 103).

[Arrangement of MFPs 104, 105] Next,
The configurations of the MFPs 104 and 105 will be described with reference to FIGS. However, the difference between the MFP 104 and the MFP 105 is the difference between full-color and monochrome, and in many cases other than color processing, the full-color device includes the configuration of a monochrome device. Therefore, the monochrome part will be added as needed.

The MFP 106 is composed of a printer / scanner and a finisher 109. Normally, it appears as an integrated device from, for example, network utility software.

The finisher 109 of this embodiment also has means for connecting to the network.
Then, by switching between the normal operation and the independent operation, the network utility software can perform management and control as one device on the network. Other than that, M as a printer or scanner
It is the same as the FP105.

FIG. 2 shows the MFPs 104 and 10 shown in FIG.
5 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of Nos. 5 and 106. FIG.

In FIG. 2, a scanner unit 201 reads an image. An RGB-IP unit (image processing unit) 202 performs image processing on image data. 203 is a fax
The department sends and receives images using a telephone line such as a facsimile.

Reference numeral 204 denotes a NIC (Network Int)
The interface card section exchanges image data and device information using a network. 205 is PD
In the L section, the page description language (PDL) sent from the computer side is developed into an image signal. Reference numeral 212 denotes an add-on unit, which is normally through, but is effective when adding and releasing add-on information. Then, the MFPs 104 and 10
The image signal is temporarily stored in the core unit 206 or the route is determined according to the usage of the terminal 5.

Next, the image data output from the core unit 206 is sent to the PWM unit 208 via the CMYK-IP unit 207, and then the printer unit 209 for forming an image.
And is printed out by the finisher unit 210 for finishing the output finishing of the paper.

Further, the display unit 211 operates as a preview function for avoiding printing an image or determining whether the printing state is right or wrong.

[Structure of Scanner Unit 201] FIG.
3 is a schematic cross-sectional configuration diagram illustrating a configuration of a scanner unit 201 illustrated in FIG.

In FIG. 3, reference numeral 301 denotes a platen glass on which a document 302 to be read is placed. Manuscript 30
2 is illuminated by the illumination 303 and the mirrors 304, 30
An image is formed on the CCD sensor 308 by the optical system 307 through 5, 306. Furthermore, by the motor 309,
First mirror unit 3 including mirror 304 and illumination 303
10 is mechanically driven at a velocity V, and mirrors 305, 3
The second mirror unit 311 including 06 has a speed of 1/2 V.
Is driven, and the entire surface of the original 302 is scanned. Note that the scanner unit 201 reads an image of a document placed or conveyed during processing of a copying machine.

[Structure of RGB-IP Unit 202] FIG.
3 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of an image processing unit 202 shown in FIG. 2. FIG.

In FIG. 4, the input optical signal is
It is converted into an electric signal by the CCD sensor 308. The CCD sensor 308 is an RGB 3-line color sensor, and the A / D conversion unit 4 outputs RGB image signals.
01 is input. Here, after the gain adjustment and the offset adjustment are performed, the A / D converter outputs 8 bi for each color signal.
t digital image signals R0, G0, B0 are converted.
After that, the read signal of the reference white plate is used for each color in the shading correction of the shading correction unit 402,
Known shading correction is performed. Further, since the line sensors of the respective colors of the CCD sensor 308 are arranged at a predetermined distance from each other, the line delay adjusting section 40.
In 3, the spatial deviation in the sub-scanning direction is corrected.

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, a brightness / density converter (LOG converter)
A lookup table (LUT) RAM 405 converts RGB luminance signals into C1, M1, and Y1 density signals.

When the monochrome image processing is performed by the MFP 105, a monochromatic 1-line sensor is used to perform A / D conversion and shading correction for a single color, and then input / output masking, gamma conversion, and spatial filter are performed in this order. It may be processed.

[Structure of FAX Unit 203] FIG. 5 is a block diagram for explaining the structure of the FAX unit 203 shown in FIG.

In FIG. 5, at the time of reception, after the data coming from the telephone line is received by the NCU section 501, the voltage is converted, and the demodulation section 504 in the modem section 502 performs A / D conversion and demodulation operation. The decompression unit 506 develops raster data. Generally, the run-length method or the like is used for compression / expansion by FAX, but the description thereof is omitted here because it is known. 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.

Next, at the time of transmission, the compression unit 505 compresses the image signal of the raster image coming from the core unit by the run length method or the like, and the modulation unit 503 in the modem unit 502 performs D / A. After performing conversion and modulation operations, NC
It is sent to the telephone line via the U section 501.

[Configuration of NIC Unit 204 and PDL Unit 20]
5] FIG. 6 shows the NIC unit 204 and PD shown in FIG.
3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an L unit 205. FIG.

In FIG. 6, it is this NIC unit 204 that has a 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 an Ethernet (registered trademark) cable such as e-TX.

When information is obtained from the outside, the voltage is first converted by the transformer unit 601 and sent to the LAN controller unit 602. The LAN controller unit 602 has a buffer memory 1 (not shown) therein, determines whether the information is necessary information, sends the information to the buffer memory 2 (not shown), and then the PDL unit 602. A signal is sent to 205.

Next, when providing information to the outside, P
The data sent from the DL unit 205 is added with necessary information in the LAN controller unit 602, and the transformer unit 6
Connected to the network via 01.

In the PDL unit 205, 604 is a memory, which is composed of a hard disk, for example. 603
Is a CPU that receives PDL data received from the NIC unit 204 via the network in the memory 605 or the memory 60.
Save to 4. The memory 604 is composed of DRAM.

Next, the structure of the PDL unit 205 will be described.

Image data created by application software running on a computer is composed of documents, figures, photographs, etc.
It is composed of a combination of image code elements such as character codes, graphic codes, and raster image data.

This is the so-called PDL (Page De
Description Language (page description language), which is represented by the PostScript (registered trademark) language of Adobe Systems Incorporated.

Now, FIG. 6 is a portion showing a conversion process from the PDL data to the raster image data, which is the NIC.
The PDL data sent from the unit 204 is stored in the CPU unit 6
It is once stored in a large capacity memory 604 such as a hard disk (HDD) via 03, and is managed and stored here for each job.

Next, if necessary, the CPU unit 603
RIP (Raster Image Processin)
Rasterized image processing called g) is performed to develop the PDL data into a raster image. The raster image data thus developed is stored page by page for each job in a high-speed accessible memory 605 such as a DRAM for each CMYK color component, and again via the CPU unit 603 according to the status of the printer unit 209. It is sent to the core unit 206. The memory 604 is composed of a hard disk.

[Core 206 and CMYK-IP 2
Structure of 07] FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing the core unit 206 and CM shown in FIG.
3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a YK-IP unit 207. FIG.

In FIG. 7, a bus selector unit 701 of the core unit 206 is used for using the MFPs 104 and 105.
It plays a role of traffic control, so to speak. That is, copy function as stand-alone, network scan,
The bus is switched according to various functions of the MFPs 104 and 105 such as network print, facsimile transmission / reception, and display.

As a concrete example, in the case of a stand-alone copying machine, the scanner 201 → the core section 206 → the printer section 2
09, data flows to the scanner unit 201 → core unit 206 → NIC unit 204 in the case of network scan, and data flows to the NIC unit 204 → core unit 206 → printer unit 209 in the case of network print. , The scanner unit 201 for the facsimile transmission function
Data flows from the core unit 206 to the FAX unit 203, and in the case of the facsimile reception function, the FAX unit 203 to the core unit 2
06 → printer unit 209, and when the display function is provided, scanner unit 201 → core unit 206 →
Data flows to the display unit 210. However, the input source of the display function may be the FAX unit 203 or the NIC unit 204.

Next, the image data output from the bus selector unit 701 is compressed by a compression unit 702, a memory unit 703 including a large capacity memory such as a hard disk (HDD), and an expansion unit 7.
It is sent to the printer unit 209 or the display unit 210 via 04.

The compression method used here is JPEG,
A general one such as JBIG or ZIP may be used.

Next, the compressed image data is managed for each job and stored 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 a confidential function in which data can be temporarily stored and can be printed out (read out from the HDD) only by a specific person.

For each stored job, if a job is specified and called, the password is authenticated, then the HDD is called, the image is expanded, and the raster image is restored. Printer unit 20
Sent to 7. The configuration of the CMYK-IP unit 207 will be described below.

In FIG. 7, the data passed from the core unit 206 enters the output masking / UCR circuit unit 707, and C1, M1, Y1 after the LOG conversion (405) described in the RGB-IP unit 202 described above. The signal is a portion for converting the Y, M, C, K signals which are the toner colors of the image forming apparatus by using a matrix calculation, and C1, M1, Y1, K based on the RGB signals read by the CCD sensor 308.
One signal is C, M, Y, based on the spectral distribution characteristics of the toner.
Corrected to K signal and output.

Next, in the gamma correction unit 708, a look-up table (LUT) considering various tint characteristics of the toner.
After being converted into C, M, Y, K data for image output using the RAM and subjected to sharpness or smoothing in the spatial filter 709, the image signal is PWM.
Sent to section 208. Whether the image is black and white or color is determined by the balance of the C, M, Y and K signals.

[Configuration of PWM Unit 208] FIG. 8 is a block diagram for explaining the configuration of the PWM unit 208 shown in FIG. 2, and FIG. 9 is for explaining the operation of the PWM unit 208 shown in FIG. 2 is a timing chart of.

In FIG. 8, yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), which have come out of the CMYK-IP section 207,
Image data separated into four colors of black (K) (MF
In the case of P105a to 105d, a single color) is imaged through each PWM unit 208.

Reference numeral 801 is a triangular wave generator, and 802 is a D / A converter (D / A converter) for converting an input digital image signal into an analog signal. Triangle wave generator 801
9 (signal (a) shown in FIG. 9) and the signal from the D / A converter 802 (signal (b) shown in FIG. 9) are compared in magnitude by a comparator 803, and a signal (c) shown in FIG. Are sent to the laser driving unit 804, and are converted into respective laser beams by the respective semiconductor lasers 805 of Y, M, C and K.

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

[Configuration of Printer 209 (Color MFP
104)] FIG. 10 shows the printer unit 2 shown in FIG.
FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional configuration diagram showing an example of 09, which corresponds to the case where the printer unit 209 is the color MFP 104, for example.

In FIG. 10, a polygon mirror 913 receives four laser beams emitted from four semiconductor lasers. One of them is mirror 914, 915,
Scan the photosensitive drum 917 via 916, the next one scans the photosensitive drum 921 via mirrors 918, 919, 920, the next one scans the photosensitive drum 925 via mirrors 922, 923, 924, The next one is the mirror 92
The photosensitive drum 929 is scanned via 6, 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 magenta 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 that has passed through the fixing device 940 is once guided downward by a flapper 950, and after the trailing edge of the sheet has passed through the flapper 950, it is switched back and discharged. 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 carried in, and synchronization is made at this timing,
The four semiconductor lasers are driven.

[Configuration of Printer 209 (Monochrome MF
11 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of the monochrome MFP 105 shown in FIG.

In FIG. 11, reference numeral 1013 denotes a polygon mirror, which receives laser light emitted from one semiconductor laser. Laser light is reflected by mirrors 1014, 1015, 10
Then, the photosensitive drum 1017 is scanned via 16.

Reference numeral 1030 denotes 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 onto a sheet to obtain an output image.

A sheet fed from any one of the sheet cassettes 1034 and 1035 and the manual feed tray 1036 passes through the registration roller 1037 and the transfer belt 10.
38 is adsorbed on and conveyed. The toner is developed in advance on the photosensitive drum 1017 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. The sheet passing through the fixing device 1040 is flapper 105.
After being guided downward by 0, the trailing edge of the sheet passes through the flapper 1050, and then is switched back and discharged.
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.

[Structure of Display Unit 211] FIG.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the display unit 211 shown in FIG.

In FIG. 12, since the image data output from the core unit 206 is CMY data, it needs to be converted into RGB data by the inverse LOG conversion unit 1101. Next, a display device 1104 such as a CRT to be output.
The gamma conversion unit 1102 performs output conversion using a look-up table in order to match the color characteristics of the. The converted image data is once stored in the memory unit 1103 and displayed on the display device 1104 such as a CRT.

Here, the display section 211 is used to preview the output image in advance, to proof function to verify whether the output image is the intended one, or to display an image which does not need to be printed. This is to avoid waste of print paper when checking.

[Structure of Finisher Unit 210] FIG.
FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of the finisher section 210 shown in FIG.

In FIG. 13, the sheet exiting the fixing unit 940 (or 1040) of the printer unit 209 enters the finisher unit 210. The finisher unit 210 has a sample tray 1101 and a stack tray 1102, which are switched and discharged according to the type of job and the number of discharged sheets.

There are two sort methods, a bin sort method that has a plurality of bins and distributes to each bin, an electronic sort function to be described later, and a bin (or tray) is shifted to the front side and output for each job. There is a shift sort method that sorts sheets, and sorting can be performed by both sort methods.

Note that the electronic sort function is called collate, and if it has the large-capacity memory described in the above-mentioned core section, this buffer memory is used to change the order of buffered pages and the order of discharge. By using the so-called collate function, the electronic sorting function can be supported. Next, the group function is a function that sorts each job, whereas sorting sorts each job.

Further, when the sheets are discharged onto the stack tray 1102, it is possible to store the sheets before the sheets are discharged for each job and bind them with the stapler 1105 immediately before discharging.

In addition, a Z-folding machine 1104 for folding a 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 is performed according to the type of job.

Further, the saddle stitcher 1107 binds the central portion of the sheet at two places and then folds the sheet in half by engaging the central portion of the sheet with the rollers.
Performs the process of creating booklets such as weekly magazines and pamphlets. The sheets bound by the saddle stitcher 1107 are discharged to the booklet tray 1108.

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

The inserter 1103 is the tray 111.
Tray 1 without passing the sheet set to 0 to the printer
101, 1102, 1108. As a result, the sheet set in the inserter 1103 can be inserted (middle insertion) between the sheets sent to the finisher 210.

It is assumed that the tray 1110 of the inserter 1103 is set face up by the user, and the uppermost sheet is sequentially fed by the pickup roller 1111. Therefore, the sheet from the inserter 1103 is conveyed to the trays 1101 and 1102 as it is, and is discharged face down. When sending to the saddle stitcher 1107, once puncher 11
After sending it to the 06 side, switch it back and send it to match the face direction.

[Network 101] Next, the network 101 will be described.

FIG. 14 shows the network 10 shown in FIG.
FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a network configuration including 1;

In FIG. 14, the above-described configuration shown in FIG. 1 is connected by a device called a router for mutually connecting networks, and a LAN (Local Area Ne
Configure a further network called a network.

The LAN 1306 is the internal router 1
Another LA via 301 and leased line 1308
It is connected to the router 1305 inside the N1307, and these networks are stretched in multiple layers to form a vast connection form. An example of the data flow on the network is as shown in FIG.

FIG. 15 shows the network 10 shown in FIG.
It is a figure explaining the flow of the data on 1.

In FIG. 15, there is data 1421 existing in the transmission source device A (device 1400a),
The data may be image data, PDL data, or a program. This is the device B (device 14) of the recipient via the public network 101.
20b), the data 1421 is subdivided and image-wise divided like the data 1422. For this divided data 1423, 1424, 1426, etc., a destination address (TCP) called a header 1425 is used.
When the / IP protocol is used, the destination IP address) is added and the packets are sequentially sent as packets 1427 onto the public network 101. When the address of the device B and the header 1431 of the packet 1430 match, the data 1432 is separated and is reproduced in the data state suitable for the device A.

[Printer Driver] Next, referring to FIG. 16, the printer controller 102 or the client 1
The process of transmitting image data from 03 to the printer by the printer driver will be described.

FIG. 16 shows the printer controller 1 shown in FIG.
02 or a diagram showing an example of a printer operation screen displayed on a display device connected to the client 103. The printer driver is a GU for instructing a print operation.
I, which allows the user to instruct desired setting parameters and send a desired image to a destination such as a printer.

In FIG. 16, 1601 is a printer driver window in which user-settable setting items are displayed.

Reference numeral 1602 is a transmission destination selection column for selecting a target output destination. Generally, the aforementioned MFP
104, 105 or the printer 107.

Reference numeral 1603 is a page setting column for selecting an output page from the job, and determines which page of the image image created by the application software operating on the computer 102 or the client 103 is output.

Reference numeral 1604 is a copy number setting column for specifying the number of copies. Reference numeral 1607 denotes a property key for making detailed settings for the destination device selected in the destination selection column 1602. Click here to enter device-specific setting information on a separate screen for special image processing. For example, by changing the parameters of the gamma correction unit 702 and the spatial filter unit 703 in the printer IP unit 207, finer color reproduction and sharpness adjustment can be performed.

When the desired setting is completed, the OK key 1
Printing is started by 605. When canceling, printing is canceled by the cancel key 1606.

A finishing setting column 1608 is
The setting items for the finishing process are different depending on the function of the selected printer or the installed resource. The destination selection column 16
Printers and MFPs that can print by clicking on the right side of 02
Etc. is displayed, but to do this, you need to search for a printer on the network.

Specifically, the MF on the network 101
When searching for P or a printer, a so-called directory service is used. The directory service is, so to speak, a telephone directory related to the network and is used for storing various information. As an example of a directory system using the above directory service,
For example, LDAP (Lightweight Direc)
There is a tory Access Protocol).

The above-mentioned LDAP rule is IETF (Int
ernet Engineering Task Fo
RFC (Re), which is a standard specification issued by
quest For Commets) 1777.

By using the above directory service to search for a device connected to the network,
You can get a list of network addresses of devices available on the network. The computer 102 on the network 101 functions as an LDAP server and stores all information about devices on the network. The computer can search for a desired device by inquiring the LDAP server instead of searching for it by itself.

Further, by registering the position information of the device in accordance with the equipment information and the state of the device, it is possible to search for a device close to a computer or a printer closest to a desired printer and having a desired function. Is.

The position information defines, for example, the distance from the reference point for each floor in the XY directions, and also adds floor information and the like.

For example, when it is said that the corner on the second floor is 3 m in the X direction (a distance such as the third pillar may be used) and 5 m in the Y direction, information such as 3X5Y2 is given.

Using such a directory service, the driver can display a list of printers in the destination selection column 1602 by inquiring the LDAP server.

The conventional printer driver cannot select two printers at the same time, but in this embodiment, a key 1609 for selecting the next printer is provided. By pressing this key, a further printer selection column is displayed and a second printer or finisher can be selected.

When selecting another printer, the property key (property key) 1607 can be pressed to go to another setting screen to change the order of printer selection.

When the right end of the printer selection column 1602 of the normal print driver is clicked with the mouse, a list of selectable printers is displayed. At that time, as shown in FIG. 17, the printer displayed at the top of the list display can be changed according to various conditions. As a result, for example, it becomes easy to make a selection on the condition that the MFP is the closest to the first selected MFP.

FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of the printer operation screen displayed on the display device connected to the computer 102 or the client 103 in FIG. 1, and when the property key 1607 shown in FIG. 16 is instructed to be pressed. Corresponds to the screen example displayed in.

Further, when processing cannot be performed in the order of combination when two units are selected, for example, punching cannot be performed after stapling. In that case, a warning is displayed. When the desired setting is completed, printing is started by the OK key 1605. Cancel key 160 to cancel
Cancel printing with No. 6.

[Explanation of Network Utility Software] Utility software operating on the computer 102 (or the client 103) will be described below.

MIB (Management Information Format) is provided in the network interface portion of the MFPs 104, 105, 106 and the finisher 109.
A standardized database called nBase) has been constructed, and SNMP (Simple Network)
It is possible to communicate with a computer on a network through a network management protocol called k Management Protocol), and manage the MFPs 104 and 105, a scanner, a printer, or a FAX connected to the network.

On the other hand, a software program using MIB is running on the computer 102 (or the client 103), and the above S
Necessary information exchange becomes possible by using MIB by using NMP.

IfPhys defined in RFC1213
Address, sysObjectID or RFC1
MIB such as hrDeviceID defined in 514
By acquiring the information, the information specifying the device can be obtained. Equipment information and capabilities of the device are defined as the private MIB, and it is possible to detect whether or not the finisher is connected as the equipment information.

Further, even if the devices on the network are M
By acquiring the IB information, it is possible to communicate with each other and acquire information such as the status and capability of the device of the other party.

The computer 102 constantly communicates with the devices on the network or keeps track of the function, state, etc. of each device by transmitting from each device. Since the WEB server is constructed on the basis of the MIB data collected from each device, the client 103 uses the well-known browsing software by HTTP for the computer 10
It is possible to grasp the state of each device even when accessing 2.

All print jobs are once thrown to the computer 102, then the jobs are put into each printer from the computer 102, and the user name, department, file name, number of pages, JOB contents, etc. of the JOB are analyzed, and The number of prints and the total number of pages in each unit or department are stored. Further, by managing the number of prints of each device, the number of errors, the current remaining amount of paper and toner, and the like, it is possible to manage and operate devices on the network and jobs.

Further, the computer 102 also converts the print protocol. For example, if the MFP 105 is L
Although only PD is supported, the client 103 sends an IPP (Internet Printing Pr)
When a user tries to print with a printer, the computer 102 can automatically convert to LPR and throw a JOB to the MFP 105.

The printed data is stored in the memory 108.
The server automatically erases it according to parameters such as the remaining memory and date.

[Explanation of GUI] Next, GUI (Grap)
A screen of utility software that operates on the computer 102 (or the client 103) called "hic User Interface" is shown in FIG.
8, and will be described with reference to FIG.

18 and 19 are diagrams showing an example of the GUI displayed on the computer 102 (or the client 103) shown in FIG.
When the utility software is started up (or the client 103), a screen as shown in FIG. 18 is displayed.

In FIG. 18, 1701 indicates a status tab for opening a status page, 1702 indicates a JOB tab for opening a page for operating a print JOB inside the printer, 1703 indicates equipment of the apparatus and the like. An information tab for opening a page to be confirmed is shown, and 1704 is a network tab for opening a page for making network settings.

On the other hand, FIG. 19 shows a state page displayed, and 1705 is an external image of the apparatus, in which an image corresponding to equipment information such as a finisher or a deck is displayed.
On the right side, the information on the paper contained in each cassette is displayed as the information on the paper feed stage. Reference numeral 1706 indicates the operating state of the apparatus, which changes according to the operating state. This allows the user to easily visually confirm whether or not there is a finisher for the image processing apparatus that the user is going to select, whether or not there is a finisher option, and the like.

[Add-on] The addition of a command to be added-on will be described below with reference to FIG.

FIG. 20 is a schematic diagram for explaining add-on processing in the image processing system according to the present invention.

In FIG. 20, an original image 1801 is image data created by application software on the computer 102 (or the client 103), and a command image will be given to this.

The add-on information 1802 is, for example, an image pattern, which is used for carrying out the paper discharge process created by the printer driver when the image data created on the computer is transferred to the apparatus of this embodiment. The information is used for the finisher to operate the paper discharge process based on this information after the operation sensor such as stapling, punching, inserting, and the number of pages are read by the sensor of the finisher.

[Additional Pattern] FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating an example of an additional pattern in the image processing system according to the present invention.

In FIG. 21, in the case of 200-line processing, the 4 × 4 pixels included in the area 1901 are modulated so that the gradation of the image signal becomes + α, for example, and are included in the areas 1902 and 1903, respectively. The 2 × 4 pixels are modulated so that the gradation of the image signal becomes −α, for example, and the pixels other than the regions 1901-1903 are not modulated. Then, 8 × 4 pixels included in the regions 1901-1903 are set as unit dots of the additional pattern. In the case of 400 line processing, 4 × 4 pixel processing is performed. Further, in the case of 100 line processing, 2 × 2 or 1 pixel is used as an additional pattern. Since the processing method is the same, the description will be given below using 8 × 4 pixels as an example.

22 and 23 are diagrams showing an example of the add-on line in the image processing system according to the present invention. FIG. 22 shows the structure of the add-on line in the main scanning direction, and FIG. 23 shows the add-on line in the sub-scanning direction. Online configuration is shown.

In FIG. 22, reference numeral 2001 denotes an add-on line having a width of, for example, 4 pixels. 2001a-2001
e is the unit dot shown in FIG. 21, for example 8 ×
It has 4 pixels. The unit dots 2001a to 2001e are
In the main scanning direction, for example, an approximately constant period d1 of 128 pixels
They are lined up at d3.

Further, in FIG. 23, 2101 to 211
0 is an add-on line, which has a width of, for example, 4 pixels, and is arranged in the sub-scanning direction at a substantially constant period d11 of 16 pixels, for example. Although details will be described later, for example, one add-online represents 4-bit information, and the add-on 2102-
8 add-ons of 2109 are grouped together to form 32
It can represent additional information of bits. The add-on line is repeatedly formed in the sub-scanning direction, for example, as shown in FIG.
Add onlines 2101 to 2109 shown in FIG. 3 sequentially and repeatedly represent the same information.

FIGS. 24 and 25 are diagrams showing an example of a method of expressing information by the add online shown in FIG.

In FIG. 24, 2201 and 2202 are add-on lines, and both add-on lines are adjacent to each other in the sub-scanning direction. 2201a, 2201b and 2202
a is a unit dot, and adjacent add-online unit dots are adjacent to each other in the main scanning direction by at least d in order to prevent adjacent add-on unit dot comrades from approaching and conspicuous.
It is set so that an interval of 3 (for example, 32 pixels) is opened.

The data represented by the unit dot is determined by the phase difference between the unit dot 2202a and the unit dot 2201a.

FIG. 24 shows an example of representing 4-bit information, but the unit dot 2202a represents data "3". For example, if the unit dot 2202a is at the leftmost end, the data "0" is represented, and if the unit dot 2202a is at the rightmost end, the data "F" is represented.

In FIG. 25, of the set of add-on lines representing all the additional information, the line shown in (a) is the first add-on line Line 0, and the line shown in (b) is 4.
Represents the third add-on line Line3. As shown in FIG. 23, in Line 0, the original unit dot 2301a
To 2301d, dots 2302a to 2302d are added at intervals of d4 (for example, 16 pixels), and the original unit dots 2304a to 2304a to Line3 are added to Line3.
To the right of all 304d, d5 (eg 32 pixels)
Dots 2305a to 2305d are added at intervals of. These additional dots are markers for clarifying the order of each ad online.

The reason why the markers are added to the two add-on lines is that the upper and lower sides in the sub-scanning direction can be determined even from the output image.

For example, the pattern to be added is the MFP
In the case of a full-color MFP such as 104, the Y-color information is added only by utilizing the fact that the human eye has a low identification ability with respect to a pattern drawn with Y toner.
As a result, when printed out, no additional information is attached. When this information is added as black information, it is added as a visible image.

In the case of a black-and-white MFP such as the MFP 105, it is 256, for example, to the extent that it cannot be seen by human eyes.
If it is a density signal of gradation (8 bits), the signal value is -8
A value of about +8 is added and added as add-on information.

Further, the dot interval in the main scanning direction of the additional pattern and the repeating interval of all additional information in the sub scanning direction are
It is necessary to determine that all information is surely added to a thin and uniform area where dots can be surely identified in a specific original document. As a guide, information may be added at a pitch that is ½ or less of the width of a thin and uniform area that allows dots to be reliably identified in the target specific document.

When adding both the user information and the paper discharge processing information, it is conceivable to add them alternately, or to replace the information at every specific cycle. Also,
Since the Y add-on information and the black density conversion information can be mixed, they can be added at the same position.

The printed information of these additional information cannot be visually identified, but is sufficiently identifiable when read in the present embodiment. However, if this information is further copied, this information will be lost. Therefore, even if the copied paper is set in the finisher of this embodiment, the command is not effective.

Further, by printing out these additional information on both sides, it is possible to correspond to either the back side paper ejection or the front side paper ejection.

[Add-on Unit 212 in MFP 104, 105] Next, an add-on addition method will be described. This corresponds to the add-on unit 212 of FIG. 2, and its circuit will be described with reference to FIG. 26, for example.

FIG. 26 shows the add-on unit 212 shown in FIG.
3 is a circuit block diagram illustrating a configuration example of FIG.

In FIG. 26, the rasterized image signal 2401 is input from the PDL unit 205 in FIG. At this time, the add-on data is the image signal 2 from the add-on information page memory 2402 in which the add-on information as described above with reference to FIGS.
It is output in synchronization with 401.

That is, the add-on information page memory 24
In the inside of 02, it is stored as add-on data in an information format as shown in FIG. 27, for example, in an 8-bit data format in which the most significant bit is a code bit in the data of “-127” to “+127”. The part of "+4" and the part of "-4" are denoted by reference numerals 1901 to 19 in FIG.
It corresponds to the part of 03.

FIG. 27 is a diagram showing an example of the data format of the add-on information stored in the add-on information page memory 2402 shown in FIG.

Returning to FIG. 24 again, the image signal 2401 read in synchronization and the add-on information page memory 24 are read.
The add-on data of 02 is input to the adder 2403 or the subtractor 2404, and when it is saturated above “FFH” or below “00H”,
It enters the selector 2407 through the carrier signal and the OR gate 2405 or the AND gate 2406. The select signal 2408 of the selector is the most significant bit (sign bit) of the add-on information page memory, is switched according to the plus or minus of the add-on information as shown in FIG. 27, and is sent to the core unit 206.

On the contrary, when the image signal 2401 has already been added with the add-on data, the most significant bit (sign bit) of the add-on information page memory 2402 is inverted to cancel the signal. The movement is reversed,
If it is the same add-on data, it will be canceled.

The add-on addition circuit is added to the YMC and K signal systems. Each pattern can be added to an image by writing an additional pattern in each add-on information page memory 2402.

If a pattern is written only in the Y page memory, only Y is added. In the case of black add-on, if an additional pattern is written in the K page memory, the black add-on will be added.

Next, referring to the flowchart of FIG. 28 for the operation of each device in the case of performing printing and paper discharge processing, in this processing example, stapling processing is performed on a sheet bundle copied from a document in which black and white and color are mixed. The case will be described.

FIG. 28 is a flow chart showing the first data processing procedure in the image processing system according to the present invention. Note that S100 to S110 indicate each step.

First, in step S100, the operator operates the terminal of the client 103. An original of mixed color black and white is created by well-known DTP software or the like. Then, in step S101, the operable image forming apparatus is searched and the searched operable image forming apparatus is displayed.

Next, in step S102, when printing is performed, the screen of the printer driver shown in FIG. 16 is displayed on the display of the client 103. Then, stapling is designated by the finishing setting column 1608 on the screen of the printer driver. Further, the printer is designated in the transmission destination selection column 1602. If the finishing function or the like is unclear, detailed information is displayed by pressing the key 1602 to know the details (not shown).

Since the original is mixed in color and black and white, it is necessary to specify a black and white printer (first printer) and a color printer (second printer).

Therefore, in step S102, the printer selection column 16 is displayed on the setting screen of the printer driver.
At 02, the monochrome MFP 105 on the network is selected as the first printer candidate. Where the key 160
By pressing 9, the further printer selection column becomes valid and the second printer or finisher can be selected, and the color MFP 104 is selected as the second printer candidate.

When the OK key 1605 is pressed on the printer driver setting screen shown in FIG. 16, the process proceeds to step S103, and as shown in FIG.
A window prompting the user to display a number and enter a password is displayed on the display of the computer 103.

FIG. 29 shows the client 10 shown in FIG.
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a user identification information input screen displayed on screen 3.

In FIG. 29, the Job number is an arbitrary number created by the client 103 and the operator logs in.
The added character string and the like serve as information for identifying the operator and the manuscript.

The password is necessary for the operation described later, and for example, a combination of alphabets and numbers within 8 characters is input. Then, O on the screen shown in FIG.
When the K key is pressed, next, in step S104, the client 103 creates print data. To this print data, along with the conventional PDL drawing data, commands such as stapling processing, monochrome / color mixed processing, interlocking of two units, and add-on processing are added.

The paper discharge process is performed in the transmission destination selection column 160.
The MFP selected first in step 2 does this, or if the finisher is selected, the finisher is prioritized.

When the print data is created, the data is transferred to the two designated MFPs 104 and 105 on the printer driver setting screen shown in FIG.

Next, in step S105, when the MFP 105 receives the print data transferred from the client 103, it analyzes the processing command in the transferred print data, draws only the black and white page, and once writes it in the memory. Accumulate data. At that time, add-on is not performed.

Then, in step S106, the MFP 1
Reference numeral 04 analyzes the print data and draws only the color page, and the processing command in color, the job number and the page number input by the printer driver, etc. are added in yellow to start printing. Then, when the printing is finished, the end notice is sent to the client 103. The print data is stored in the memory 108 shown in FIG.

Next, in step S107, since the color printing is completed, the client 103 is instructed to set the discharged paper in the finisher of the MFP 105 (the display screen is not shown). This display is also displayed on the operation unit of the MFP.

Then, in step S108, the operator
The paper is taken out from the paper output unit of the FP 104, and the MFP 105
Paper is set in the insert tray 1003a of the finisher. Finisher operation unit or MFP 10
In the operation unit of 5, the job number is input or a list of jobs is displayed, and the job is designated from the list. At this time, the job number is directly input, and if there is no job with that number, a warning is displayed. If the processing is still in progress, the warning is displayed as such. When the job is specified, the password is input. This is the password displayed in the window shown in FIG. In addition, a warning message will be displayed even if the password cannot be processed by others and the password is incorrect.

When a sheet is set on the tray and the starter key (not shown) of the finisher is pressed, the finisher reads the add-on information with the sensor while moving the sheet to the tray 1003b. The job number is read from the add-on information and the password input standby state is entered.
If the order of the devices to be set is different, a warning is displayed on the operation unit.

When the password is normally input in this way, the process advances to step S109, and the MFP 105 reads the data for which drawing processing has already been completed from the memory and performs paper discharge processing. At this time, the paper is discharged in consideration of the order with the paper on the tray 1003 of the finisher.

For example, when the first and second pages are output from the MFP 105 and the third page is the first page of the MFP 104, the page number of the add-on information is “3”, and the MFP 105 ejects up to the second page. Then, the finisher feeds the sheet corresponding to the third page from the tray 1003b. This is the case of the back side sheet discharge, and in the case of the front side sheet discharge, the sheet is discharged from the last page.

Then, in step S110, when all the sheets are discharged and finishing processing such as stapling and punching is completed, a job end notification is sent to the client 103, and the data in the memory 108 is erased. A series of processing operations ends.

Next, the MFP 106 and the finisher 1
The processing operation of 09 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

FIG. 30 is a flow chart showing the second data processing procedure in the image processing system according to the present invention. Note that S201 to S211 indicate each step.

First, in step S201, the operator operates the terminal of the client 103 to create a print data by operating a well-known DTP software or the like on a document of mixed color black and white. Before starting the printing process, the state of each device is checked. This state check process is performed as shown in FIG.
As shown in FIG. 7, the display is performed by operating the utility software to acquire the status of the device such as the MFP on the network.

Next, in a step S202, the MFP 106
When the key for disconnecting the connection between the MFP and the finisher is pressed while not displayed (not shown), the MFP 106 becomes the MFP without the finisher. Further, the separation can be set by the operation unit of the MFP 106 or the finisher 109.

31 and 32 are views showing an example of the network status display screen displayed on the display device of the client 103 shown in FIG. 1, and correspond to the display in the administrator mode.

The display shown in FIG. 31 is based on the function of displaying a list of devices connected to the network, which is called a device list included in the utility software, and the main body of the MFP 106 shown in FIG. 1 and the finisher 109 are separated. This is the previous display, and there are three MFPs (device name: 300-405, CP660 PS-AP, i
(R5000-6000) When the displayed state disconnects the connection state of the finisher 109 from the main body, the finisher 109 starts the independent operation and SNMP.
32, as shown in FIG.
The finisher 109 is also displayed on the device list.

Next, in step S203, when the operator confirms the status of the device he / she wants to print and prints, the printer (display device) of the client 103 displays the printer driver shown in FIG. Is displayed.

Then, in step S204, in the printer selection column 1602 on the printer driver screen, the first
The MFP 106 for black and white, for example, as the printer candidate for the above, and the MF for color as the second printer.
Select P104. Further, the finisher 109 is selected to specify stapling. In this case, since the finisher 109 is specified, even if the MFP 104 or the like has a finisher, the setting for the finisher 109 is given priority, or if there is a process that is not in the finisher 109 and can be performed by the finisher of the MFP 104, the setting is performed. Is also valid.

Then, in step S205, the OK key 1
When 605 is pressed, the ID information input shown in FIG. 29 is prompted, that is, the job number display and password input window are displayed. Here, the job number is an arbitrary number created by the client 103,
Ginned character strings and the like are added and serve as information for identifying the operator and the document. The password is necessary for the operation described later, and for example, a combination of alphabets and numbers within 8 characters is input.

Next, when the OK key on the display screen shown in FIG. 29 is depressed in step S206, the client 10
3 creates print data. This print data includes stapling, monochrome / black and white, as well as conventional PDL drawing data.
Commands such as mixed color processing, interlocking of two units, and add-on processing are added.

The paper discharge process is performed in the column 1 shown in FIG.
The MFP selected first in step 602 does this, or if the finisher is selected, the finisher is prioritized.

When the creation of the print data is completed, the print data is transferred to the two MFPs and the finisher 109 designated by the user. On this occasion,
The transfer protocol is performed by well-known LPR or the like.

Next, in a step S207, the MFP 106
Analyzes the processing command in the transferred print data and draws and outputs only the black and white page. When it is finished, the end notice is sent to the client 103.

The color MFP 104 also analyzes the data, draws only the color page, and starts printing. When printing is completed, the end notification is sent to the client 103. Job numbers and page numbers are added to all the devices.

Next, in step S208, when the printing is completed, the client 103 displays an operation screen (not shown) that prompts the user to set the discharged paper in the finisher 109. This display is also displayed on the operation unit of each device.

Then, in step S209, the operator removes a sheet from the sheet discharge section of the MFP 104, 106 and insert trays 1003a, 1003c of the finisher 109.
Set the paper on. Then, the job number is input on the operation unit of the finisher, or a list of jobs is displayed, and the user selects and specifies the job from the list. At this time, the job number is directly input, and if there is no job with that number, a warning display is displayed. Further, if the processing is still in progress, the warning is displayed as such.

When the job is designated in this way, the password (password displayed in FIG. 29) is input. This is to prevent others from once processing, and at this time, if the entered password is incorrect, a warning to that effect is displayed.

When the sheet is set on the tray and the starter key (not shown) of the finisher is pressed, the finisher causes the sensor to read the add-on information while moving the sheet to the insert tray 1003b, 100d. The job number is read from the add-on information and the password input standby state is entered. If the order of the devices to be set is different, a warning is displayed on the operation unit.

Further, in the case of handling the paper without the add-on information of the finisher, it is possible to set the processing of the paper on each insert tray by the operation section of the finisher.

Next, in step S210, when the password is also normally input, the sheets in the insert trays b and d are fed in the designated order and the finishing process is performed.

Then, in step S211, when all the sheets are ejected and the finishing processing such as stapling and punching is completed, the client 103 is jo
The end notification of b is performed, and the process ends.

When the finisher 109 is reconnected to the main body, it becomes an MFP integrated with the main body, and is not displayed on the device list shown in FIG.

Next, a computer 1 that functions as a server
The operation of each device when 02 handles job is shown in FIG.
This will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

FIG. 33 is a flow chart showing an example of the third data processing procedure in the image processing system according to the present invention. Note that S301 to S310 indicate each step.

First, in step S301, the operator operates the terminal of the client 103. Print data is created using a well-known DTP software or the like for a mixed color black and white document.

When the operator confirms the status of the apparatus he / she wants to print and prints, the screen of the printer driver shown in FIG. 16 is displayed on the display of the client 103.

In step S302, the monochrome MFP 105 is selected as the first printer candidate in the printer selection column 1602 on the screen shown in FIG. 16, and the color MFP 104 is selected as the second printer candidate.
Select. Further, the finisher 109 is selected to specify stapling. In this case, since the finisher is designated, even if the MFPs 104 and 105 have finishers, the setting for the finisher 109 is prioritized, or if there is a process that is not in the finisher 109 and can be performed by the finisher of the MFP 105. That setting is also valid.

Then, in step S303, if the OK key 1605 is pressed, the window for displaying the job number and the password for prompting the ID information input shown in FIG. 29 is displayed. Here, the job number is an arbitrary number created by the client 103 and the operator logs
The added in-character string and the like serves as information for identifying the operator and the document.

The password is necessary for the operation described later and, for example, a combination of alphabets and numbers within 8 characters is input. Then, O on the screen shown in FIG.
When the K key is pressed, the client 103 creates print data. To this print data, along with the conventional PDL drawing data, commands such as stapling processing, monochrome / color mixed processing, interlocking of two units, and add-on processing are added.

The paper discharge process is performed by the MFP selected first in the column 1602. Alternatively, when the finisher is selected, the finisher is prioritized.

Next, in step S304, when the creation of the print data is completed, the print data is once transferred to the computer 102. Then, in step S305, the computer 102 analyzes the processing command in the transferred print data, reconstructs print data of only a monochrome page, and outputs a print command to the monochrome MFP 105. Also, by reconstructing the print data for color pages only,
A print command is issued to the FP 104.

Next, in step S306, each MFP 10
Reference numerals 4 and 105 execute print processing based on the received print data, and when the print processing is completed, the computer 102 is notified of the end of operation.

Next, in step S307, the computer 102 notifies the client 103 of an end notification.

At this time, since printing is completed in the client 103, the ejected paper is used for the finisher 10
An operation screen (not shown) that prompts the user to set 9 is displayed.

Then, the operator takes out the color output paper and the black-and-white output paper discharged from the paper discharge units of the MFPs 104 and 105, respectively, and sets the paper on the insert trays 1003a and 1003c of the finisher 109.

Next, in step S308, the operation unit of the finisher 109 logs into the computer 102.
Then, when you select and execute your own job from the list of jobs,
The computer 102 gives an operation instruction to the finisher 109. This instruction is for tray 1003a or 1003c
It contains the order of sheets and processing instructions for each color of paper.

Then, in step S309, the finisher 109 feeds the sheets in the trays 1003b and 1003d in the designated order and performs the finishing process.

Then, in step S310, when all the sheets are ejected and finishing processing such as stapling and punching is completed, j
When the end notification of ob is sent, the computer 102 totalizes the processing of each device, writes data in the memory 108,
Further, the end of the job is notified to the client 103, the end is displayed on the client 103, and the processing operation is ended.

FIG. 34 is a flow chart showing an example of the fourth data processing procedure in the image processing system according to the present invention, and corresponds to the detailed procedure of the device selection processing in step S102 shown in FIG. Note that S401 to S401
Reference numeral 407 indicates each step.

In the present embodiment, since the original is mixed in color and black as described above, it is necessary to specify a black and white printer and a color printer.

First, when the monochrome MFP 105 is selected in the printer selection column 1602, the MFP 105 is set as the first printer candidate in step S401.

Next, by pressing the set button of the selection column 1609, further printer selection column 1
609 becomes valid and the second printer candidate or finisher can be selected.

Then, in step S402, it is determined whether or not the print start is instructed. If it is determined that the print start is instructed, the step S shown in FIG.
When it is determined that the print start is not instructed in step 103, the selection column 1 is selected in step S403.
609 is in the selected state, it is determined whether the second printer candidate or the finisher can be selected, and if it is determined that the second printer candidate or the finisher can be selected, step S405.
When the selection column 1609 is right-clicked, selectable printers or finishers are displayed in order of name.

Then, in step S406, the second
If it is determined that the color MFP 104 is selected as the printer candidate of, and it is determined that the color MFP 104 is selected,
In step S407, the MF is selected as the second printer.
If P104 is selected, the process returns to step S401, and if it is determined that the color MFP 104 is not selected as the second printer candidate, the process directly returns to step S401.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S403 that the selection column 1609 is in the off state (non-selection state) and the selection of the second printer or finisher is prohibited, then in step S404 the second printer The setting is cleared and the process returns to step S401.

Then, in step S402, when the print start is instructed, that is, when the OK key 1605 is pressed, the process proceeds to step S103 shown in FIG.

FIG. 35 is a block diagram of the computer 10 shown in FIG.
2, a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the client 103.

In FIG. 35, reference numeral 35401 is a host computer which outputs print information including print data and control codes to the printing apparatus 300. The host computer 35401 includes a keyboard 35411 as an input device, a mouse 35412 as a pointing device, and a display 3 as a display device.
It is configured as one computer system including 5410. The host computer 3540
1 is operating with a basic OS such as MS-DOS or Windows (registered trademark).

On the host computer side, focusing only on the functional parts according to the present invention and roughly classifying the functions on the basic OS, an application 35402, a graphic system 35403 which is an image information processing means,
Spool system 35404, U including data storage means, print data storage control means, and communication means with the printing device
The I processing unit 35405 is roughly classified.

The application 35402 is, for example,
It refers to application software that runs on basic software such as word processors and spreadsheets. The graphic system 35403 is a Gra which is a part of the functions of the basic OS.
pic Device Interface (hereinafter,
35406 and printer driver 35 that is a device driver dynamically linked from the GDI.
407.

Here, the printer driver 35407 is G
A major role is to convert the drawing command called as DI into the PDL language. A gradation drawing command related to the present invention is received by a GDI drawing command or driver setting, and appropriate processing is performed.

Note that the printer driver 35407 displays the print setting screen shown in FIG. 16 on the display 35410, and sets one job involving sheet post-processing to a plurality of jobs (setting process shown in FIG. 28, FIG. 30, according to the procedures of the flowcharts shown in FIGS. 33 and 34).

The spool system 35404 is a system peculiar to the printer located in the latter stage of the graphic system 35403. The spooler 35408 temporarily stores the PDL data created in the graphic system 35403 and the spooler 35408 stored in the spooler 35408.
The printer I / F 35409 reads DL data and sends it to the MFPs 104 to 106.

The above-mentioned names and functional frameworks may differ slightly depending on the basic OS. However, as long as they are modules that can implement the technical means referred to in the present invention, those names and frameworks are It is not a big issue for the invention.

For example, a spooler can also be realized by incorporating processing in a module called a print queue in another OS. In addition,
Generally, a host computer 35401 including each of these functional modules has a central processing unit (CPU), a read only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a hard disk drive (HDD), various input / outputs, though not shown. Under the hardware such as a control unit (I / O), software called basic software controls the software, and under the basic software, each application software and system process operate as a functional module. ing.

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

FIG. 36 is a diagram for explaining a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs that can be read by the image processing system according to the present invention.

Although not particularly shown, information for managing the program group stored in the storage medium, such as version information and creator, is also stored, and information depending on the OS 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 directory. In addition, a program for installing various programs in a computer, or a program for decompressing the program to be installed when it is compressed may be stored.

28, 30, and 3 in this embodiment.
3, the functions shown in FIG. 34 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 flexible disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, CD-ROM,
CD-R, magnetic tape, non-volatile memory card, RO
M, EEPROM or the like can be used.

Further, by executing the program code read by the computer, not only the functions of the above-described embodiment are realized, but also the OS (operating system) running on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. 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.

[0250]

As described above, the first aspect of the present invention
According to the sixteenth invention, a job involving predetermined image processing in an image processing system capable of communicating with a plurality of image forming apparatuses including an image forming apparatus connectable to a sheet post-processing apparatus via a predetermined communication medium. Sheet post-processing apparatus in an information processing apparatus capable of inputting a job, in which one generated job is distributed and output by a plurality of image forming apparatuses, and each job output that is distributed and output is integrated into one output By selecting an image forming apparatus candidate to which is connected from among a plurality of image forming apparatuses displayed on the display means and transferring a distributed job of one job to each of the selected image forming apparatuses, At the time of one job processing that is integrated with sheet post-processing, it is possible to simultaneously select a plurality of image forming apparatus candidates for processing the jobs to be integrated after being distributed and output. A series of image processing environment of distributed job processing performed by a simple operation involving over preparative postprocessing can be constructed freely.

In addition, 1 is generated in an information processing apparatus capable of inputting a job involving predetermined image processing to an image processing system capable of communicating with a sheet post-processing apparatus or a plurality of image forming apparatuses via a predetermined communication medium. The display means includes an image forming apparatus candidate for distributively outputting one job by a plurality of image forming apparatuses, and a sheet post-processing apparatus candidate for performing sheet post-processing for integrating each job output that is distributed and output into one output. By selecting from among a plurality of image forming apparatuses and sheet post-processing apparatuses displayed on the screen, and transferring a distributed job of one job to each of the selected image forming apparatuses, sheet post-processing is integrated. It is possible to simultaneously select a plurality of image forming device candidates for processing jobs to be integrated after being distributed and output during one job processing. Select sheet post-processing apparatus is an effect such as an image processing environment that allows a set of distributed job processing with the sheet post-processing with a simple operation can be constructed freely.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of an image processing system to which an information processing apparatus according to the present invention can be applied.

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

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

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image processing unit illustrated 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 and a PDL unit shown in FIG.

7 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a core unit and a CMYK-IP unit shown in FIG.

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

9 is a timing chart for explaining the operation of the PWM unit shown in FIG.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional configuration diagram illustrating an example of the printer unit illustrated in FIG.

FIG. 11 is a schematic sectional view illustrating the configuration of the monochrome MFP shown in FIG.

12 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a display unit shown in FIG.

13 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of the finisher section shown in FIG.

FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining a network configuration example including the network shown in FIG.

FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a data flow on the network shown in FIG. 1.

16 is a diagram showing an example of a printer operation screen displayed on a display device connected to the computer shown in FIG. 1 or a client computer.

17 is a diagram showing an example of a printer operation screen displayed on a display device connected to the computer or client shown in FIG.

FIG. 18 shows G displayed on the computer shown in FIG.
It is a figure which shows an example of UI.

FIG. 19 shows G displayed on the computer shown in FIG.
It is a figure which shows an example of UI.

FIG. 20 is a schematic diagram illustrating add-on processing in the image processing system according to the present invention.

FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating an example of an additional pattern in the image processing system according to the present invention.

FIG. 22 is a diagram showing an example of an add-on line in the image processing system according to the present invention.

FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of an add-on line in the image processing system according to the present invention.

FIG. 24 is a diagram showing an example of a method of expressing information by the add online shown in FIG. 22.

FIG. 25 is a diagram showing an example of a method of expressing information by the add online shown in FIG. 22.

FIG. 26 is a circuit block diagram illustrating a configuration example of an add-on unit shown in FIG.

27 is a diagram showing an example of a data format of add-on information stored in the add-on information page memory shown in FIG. 26.

FIG. 28 is a first diagram of an image processing system according to the present invention.
3 is a flowchart showing the data processing procedure of FIG.

29 is a diagram showing an example of a user identification information input screen displayed on the computer shown in FIG.

FIG. 30 is a second view of the image processing system according to the present invention.
3 is a flowchart showing the data processing procedure of FIG.

31 is a diagram showing an example of a network status display screen displayed on the display device of the computer shown in FIG.

32 is a diagram showing an example of a network status display screen displayed on the display device of the computer shown in FIG.

FIG. 33 is a third view of the image processing system according to the present invention.
3 is a flowchart showing an example of the data processing procedure of FIG.

FIG. 34 is a fourth view in the image processing system according to the present invention.
3 is a flowchart showing an example of the data processing procedure of FIG.

FIG. 35 is a diagram illustrating the configurations of the client and the computer shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 36 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs that can be read by the image processing system according to the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

101 network 102 computer 103 client 104, 105, 106 MFP 204 NIC department 206 core 206A CPU 209 Printer section 210 Finisher

   ─────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continued front page    F-term (reference) 2C061 AP01 AP03 AP04 AP07 AQ06                       AS02 HJ06 HK05 HN05 HN18                       HQ12 HR07                 2H027 EJ08 EJ09 EJ11 EJ13 EJ15                       FA24 FA28 FD08 FD10 ZA07                 5B021 AA01 EE02 LG07 LL02

Claims (16)

[Claims] 1. A job involving predetermined image processing can be submitted to an image processing system capable of communicating with a plurality of image forming apparatuses including an image forming apparatus to which a sheet post-processing apparatus can be connected via a predetermined communication medium. An information processing apparatus, a search unit that searches for an image forming apparatus that can operate on the image processing system, a display unit that displays the image forming apparatus candidates searched by the searching unit, and one job that is generated The image forming apparatus candidates to which the sheet post-processing apparatus for performing the sheet post-processing for integrating the job outputs output in a distributed manner by the plurality of image forming apparatuses are displayed on the display unit. Selecting means for selecting from a plurality of image forming apparatuses to be selected, and a distributed job of one job is transferred to each image forming apparatus selected by the selecting means. The information processing apparatus characterized by having a transfer means. 2. An information processing apparatus capable of inputting a job involving predetermined image processing to an image processing system capable of communicating with a sheet post-processing apparatus or a plurality of image forming apparatuses via a predetermined communication medium, wherein: Retrieval means for retrieving an image forming apparatus operable on the processing system, display means for displaying the image forming apparatus candidates retrieved by the retrieving means, and one job generated is distributed and output by a plurality of image forming apparatuses. A plurality of image forming apparatuses and sheets are displayed on the display means, and image forming apparatus candidates for performing the sheet output processing and sheet sheet post-processing apparatus candidates for performing sheet post processing for integrating the job outputs that are distributed and output into one output. Selection means for selecting from among the post-processing apparatuses, and transfer means for transferring a distributed job of one job to each image forming apparatus selected by the selection means An information processing device comprising: 3. The sheet post-processing for performing sheet post-processing, in which the selecting unit disperses and outputs one generated job by a plurality of image forming apparatuses, and integrates the job outputs that are distributed and output into one output. 3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of image forming apparatus candidates to which the apparatus is connected can be simultaneously selected from a plurality of image forming apparatuses displayed on the display unit. 4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the one job includes a series of output data including a page in which color output and monochrome output are mixed. 5. The transfer means separates one job including a page in which color output and black-and-white output coexist by color, adds identifiable job information, and transfers the jobs separately to the selected image forming apparatuses. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the information processing apparatus is an information processing apparatus. 6. A sheet post-processing apparatus for performing sheet post-processing, in which one generated job is distributed and output by a plurality of image forming apparatuses, and the job outputs that are distributed and output are integrated into one output is connected. An image forming apparatus to which a sheet post-processing apparatus is connected by the selecting means based on a setting unit that sets whether to select an image forming apparatus candidate The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a control unit that permits or prohibits selection of candidates. 7. A sheet for performing sheet post-processing, which integrates image forming apparatus candidates for distributing and outputting one generated job by a plurality of image forming apparatuses, and each job output of the distributed output into one output. Setting means for setting whether or not to select a plurality of image forming apparatuses and sheet post-processing apparatuses displayed on the display means with the post-processing apparatus candidate, and a setting state of whether or not to select the image forming apparatus candidate by the setting means. 3. A control unit for permitting or prohibiting selection of a sheet post-processing device candidate and an image forming device candidate by the selection unit based on the above.
The information processing device described. 8. A job involving predetermined image processing can be submitted to an image processing system capable of communicating with a plurality of image forming apparatuses including an image forming apparatus connectable to a sheet post-processing apparatus via a predetermined communication medium. A job processing method in an information processing apparatus, comprising a search step of searching for an image forming apparatus operable on the image processing system, and a display step of displaying image forming apparatus candidates searched by the searching step on a display unit. An image forming apparatus connected to a sheet post-processing apparatus that performs a sheet post-processing that disperses and outputs one generated job by a plurality of image forming apparatuses and integrates the job outputs that are distributed and output into one output. A selection step of selecting a candidate from a plurality of image forming apparatuses displayed on the display means, and each of the selection steps performed by the selection step. Job processing method characterized by having a transfer step of transferring the distributed job of one job to the image forming apparatus. 9. A job processing method in an information processing apparatus capable of inputting a job involving predetermined image processing to an image processing system capable of communicating with a sheet post-processing apparatus or a plurality of image forming apparatuses via a predetermined communication medium. A search step of searching for an image forming apparatus operable on the image processing system, a display step of displaying the image forming apparatus candidates searched by the searching step on a display unit, and a plurality of one job to be generated. The image forming apparatus candidates for distributed output by the image forming apparatus and the sheet post-processing apparatus candidates for performing the sheet post-processing for integrating the distributed job outputs into one output are displayed on the display means. A selection step of selecting from a plurality of image forming apparatuses and a sheet post-processing apparatus, and each image formation selected by the selection step Job processing method characterized by having a transfer step of transferring the distributed job of one job to the location. 10. The sheet post-processing for performing the sheet post-processing, wherein the selected step causes one generated job to be distributed and output by a plurality of image forming apparatuses, and each job output thus distributed is integrated into one output. 10. The job processing method according to claim 8, wherein a plurality of image forming apparatus candidates to which the apparatus is connected can be simultaneously selected from a plurality of image forming apparatuses displayed on the display unit. 11. The job processing method according to claim 8, wherein the one job includes a series of output data including pages in which color output and monochrome output are mixed. 12. In the transfer step, one job including a page in which color output and monochrome output are mixed is separated for each color, identifiable job information is added, and the distributed transfer is performed to each selected image forming apparatus. 10. The job processing method according to claim 8 or 9, wherein: 13. A sheet post-processing device for performing a sheet post-processing, in which one generated job is distributed and output by a plurality of image forming apparatuses, and each job output that is distributed and output is integrated into one output is connected. An image forming apparatus to which the sheet post-processing apparatus according to the selecting step is connected based on a setting step for setting whether to select an image forming apparatus candidate 9. The job processing method according to claim 8, further comprising a control step of permitting or prohibiting selection of candidates. 14. An image forming apparatus candidate for distributing and outputting one generated job by a plurality of image forming apparatuses, and a sheet for performing a sheet post-processing for integrating each job output of the distributed output into one output. A setting step of setting the post-processing device candidate and the propriety of selection of a plurality of image forming devices and sheet post-processing devices displayed on the display means, and a setting state of propriety of selection of the image forming device candidate by the setting step. 10. The job processing method according to claim 9, further comprising a control step of permitting or prohibiting selection of the sheet post-processing device candidate and the image forming device candidate in the selection step. 15. A computer-readable storage medium that stores a program that implements the job processing method according to claim 8. Description: 16. A program for implementing the job processing method according to claim 8. Description: