JP2004088418A - Image processing method, image processor, control program of image processor, and storage medium - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image processing method which improves the operability of a user remarkably, and also to provide an image processor, a control program of the image processor, and a storage medium. <P>SOLUTION: An image processor has a display means for displaying a first input image for inputting an image reading instruction from an image input-output system 100 and a second input image for inputting an instruction for making PCs 191 and 192 occupy a reader part 139 or an instruction for releasing the reader part 139 from the PCs 191 and 192, and a controller 160 that performs control so as to make the PCs 191 and 192 occupy the reader part 139 at timing that makes a shift from the first input image so that the second input image can receive an image reading instruction from the PCs 191 and 192. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
According to the present invention, image data is read by image reading means in response to an image reading instruction from an external device such as a host computer, and the read image data is transmitted to the external device. The present invention relates to an image processing method, a control program for controlling the image processing apparatus, and a storage medium storing the control program.
[0002]
[Prior art]
2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, some image processing apparatuses such as copiers have a network scanner function that accepts a scan operation in accordance with an instruction from a host computer, which is an external device connected to a network, in addition to performing a scan operation in accordance with an instruction from an operation unit thereof. Proposed.
[0003]
Such an image processing apparatus has a configuration in which a user inputs an instruction to occupy a scanner (image reading unit) in either the image processing apparatus or the host computer in order to exclusively control a scan operation instruction. I have.
[0004]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, in the above-described conventional image processing apparatus, when a network scan instruction is issued from the host computer in a state where the image processing apparatus occupies the scanner, an instruction to occupy the scanner must be input to the host computer. However, since it is not possible to receive a network scan instruction, the operation for occupying the scanner in the host computer is very complicated.
[0005]
Further, when the host computer occupies the scanner and issues a copy operation or scan operation instruction from the operation unit of the image processing apparatus, the copy operation or the scan operation must be input from the host computer before the copy operation or the scan operation is input. There is a problem that the operation for releasing the scanner from the host computer is very complicated because the scanner is not in a state of receiving a scan operation instruction.
[0006]
SUMMARY An advantage of some aspects of the invention is that it solves the problems of the related art described above and has an object to provide an image processing method, an image processing apparatus, and a control of an image processing apparatus that can significantly improve user operability. To provide a program and a storage medium.
[0007]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to achieve the above object, an image processing method according to the present invention is directed to an image processing method which reads image data with an image reading unit in response to an image reading instruction from an external device, and transmits the read image data to an image processing device capable of transmitting the image data to the external device. An image processing method for processing, wherein a first input screen for inputting an image reading instruction from the image processing apparatus and an instruction for occupying the image reading means in the external device or the image reading means from the external device A display step of displaying a second input screen for inputting an instruction to release the image, and occupying the image reading means in the external device at a timing when the first input screen is switched to the second input screen. And a control step of performing control so that an image reading instruction from the external device can be received.
[0008]
According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image processing apparatus capable of reading image data with image reading means in response to an image reading instruction from an external device, and transmitting the read image data to the external device. A first input screen for inputting an image reading instruction from the image processing apparatus and an instruction for occupying the image reading means in the external device or releasing the image reading means from the external device. Display means for displaying a second input screen for inputting an instruction; and the external device occupying the image reading means at the timing of transition from the first input screen to the second input screen. And control means for controlling so as to be able to receive an image reading instruction from the user.
[0009]
In order to achieve the above object, a control program for an image processing apparatus according to the present invention can read image data with image reading means in response to an image reading instruction from an external device and transmit the read image data to the external device. A computer-readable control program for controlling an image processing apparatus, comprising: a first input screen for inputting an image reading instruction from the image processing apparatus; and an instruction for occupying the image reading means in the external device. A display step of displaying a second input screen for inputting an instruction to release the image reading unit from the external device; and a display step of transitioning from the first input screen to the second input screen. Control is performed such that the image reading means is occupied by an external device and an image reading instruction from the external device can be received. Characterized in that it consists of program code for executing the control step to the computer.
[0010]
Further, in order to achieve the above object, a storage medium of the present invention stores the control program.
[0011]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.
[0012]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image input / output system that is an image processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0013]
In the present embodiment, an image input / output system having a copy function, a box function, a network scanner function, a printer function, and a transmission function will be described as an example of an image processing apparatus.
[0014]
In FIG. 1, reference numeral 100 denotes an image input / output system, which includes a reader unit 139, a printer unit 149, a control device 160, and an operation unit 170.
[0015]
The reader unit 139 includes a document feed unit (RDF) 136 for feeding a document, and a scanner unit (image reading means) 138 for reading an image on the document fed from the document feed unit 136. Have. The image data read by the scanner unit 138 is input to the control device 160.
[0016]
The printer unit 149 includes a paper feeding unit 148, a marking unit 151, and a paper discharging unit 135. The paper feeding unit 148 has a plurality of cassettes each containing recording paper of a different size, and feeds the recording paper from each cassette. The marking unit 151 is a unit having an image forming process based on an electrophotographic method. In the marking unit 151, paper is supplied from a paper supply unit 148 based on image data input from a PC (host computer) 191 or 192 or an external device connected to the LAN 190 via the control device 160 from the scanner unit 138. An image is formed on the recorded recording paper. The paper discharge unit 135 performs processing such as sorting and stapling the recording paper on which an image has been formed by the marking unit 151 and discharges the recording paper outside the apparatus.
[0017]
The control device 160 is electrically connected to the reader unit 139 and the printer unit 149, and is also connected to the LAN 190 that accommodates the PCs 191 and 192.
[0018]
The control device 160 realizes a copy function by reading the image data of the document by the reader unit 139, outputting the image data to the printer unit 149, and controlling the image data to be formed on the recording paper.
[0019]
Further, a hard disk drive (HD drive) 180 is connected to the control device 160, and a storage area of the hard disk drive 180 is divided into a plurality of areas, and each area stores image data.
[0020]
The control device 160 realizes a box function using the hard disk of the hard disk drive 180.
[0021]
The control device 160 stores the image data read by the reader unit 139 in a storage area of the hard disk drive 180, converts the stored image data into code data, and transmits the code data to the PCs 191 and 192 via the LAN 190. By performing such control, the network scanner function is realized.
[0022]
Further, the control device 160 implements a printer function by converting code data received from the PCs 191 and 192 via the LAN 190 into image data and controlling the image data to be output to the printer unit 149.
[0023]
Further, the control device 160 reads the image data of the document by the reader unit 139, transmits the image data via the LAN 190 using a transmission protocol such as FTP or SMB, or transmits the image data in a file format such as TIFF or PDF. The transmission function is realized by controlling transmission so as to be attached.
[0024]
The operation unit 170 has various keys for inputting an instruction to the control device 160 and a liquid crystal display panel for displaying an interface screen with a user, and generates a corresponding signal according to the operation of the various keys. , To the control device 160.
[0025]
Next, a hardware configuration of the reader unit 139 and the printer unit 149 will be described with reference to FIG.
[0026]
FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically illustrating a hardware configuration of the reader unit 139 and the printer unit 149 of the image input / output system 100 of FIG.
[0027]
In FIG. 2, reference numeral 100 denotes an image input / output system (hereinafter, referred to as a main body), which includes a reader unit 139 and a printer unit 149. An original feeding unit 136 automatically feeds an original to the original mounting table 101. A paper discharge unit 135 sorts recording paper discharged from the main body 100. The document feeding unit 136 and the paper discharging unit 135 are configured to be freely used in combination with the main body 100.
[0028]
A paper discharge tray 137 discharges the document fed to the document table 101 by the document feed unit 136. 146 and 147 are bins for discharging the recording sheets sorted by the sheet discharging unit 135. The document placing table 101 is for placing a document fed from the document feeding unit 136, and is made of transparent glass. Reference numeral 102 denotes an optical system for performing an exposure operation on a document image placed on the document placing table 101, and includes a document illumination lamp (exposure lamp) 103, a scanning mirror 145, a lens 143, a motor 104, and the like.
[0029]
106 is a primary charger, 107 is a blank exposure unit, 108 is a potential sensor, 109 is a developing device, 110 is a transfer charger, 111 is a separation charger, and 112 is a cleaning device, which are arranged around the photosensitive drum 105. Is done. These units 106 to 112 and the photosensitive drum 105 constitute an image forming unit.
[0030]
A motor 113 rotationally drives the photosensitive drum 105 in the direction of the arrow (clockwise) in the figure. Reference numeral 114 denotes an upper cassette, and 115 denotes a lower cassette, in which recording paper is stored. Paper feed rollers 118 and 119 convey the recording paper picked up by the pickup rollers 116 and 117 from the upper cassette 114 and the lower cassette 115 to the paper feed roller 132.
[0031]
Reference numeral 124 denotes a deck, which is mounted on the main body 100 and can store, for example, 4000 sheets of recording paper. Reference numeral 125 denotes a lifter which rises in accordance with the amount of recording paper so that the recording paper stored in the deck 124 always contacts the paper feed roller 126. Reference numeral 120 denotes a registration roller, and the recording paper is adjusted so that the timing of the leading edge of the recording paper conveyed by the paper feeding roller 132 or the paper feeding roller 126 of the deck 124 coincides with the timing of the leading edge of the toner image developed on the photosensitive drum 105. To the photosensitive drum 105.
[0032]
A conveyance belt 121 conveys the recording paper onto which the toner image has been transferred to the fixing device 122. A fixing device 122 fixes the toner image on the recording paper by pressing and heating the recording paper with a fixing roller 144. A discharge roller 123 discharges the recording paper on which the toner image is fixed. Reference numeral 127 denotes a paper discharge flapper that switches the conveyance path of the recording paper sent from the discharge roller 123 to either the double-sided printing side or the multiple printing side and the discharging side (paper discharging unit 135). Here, when double-sided printing or multiple printing is set, the transport path of the recording sheet sent from the discharge roller 123 is switched to the double-sided printing side or the multiple printing side.
[0033]
A lower transport path 128 guides the recording sheet sent from the discharge roller 123 through the reversing path 129 to the re-feed tray 130 with the recording sheet turned over. Reference numeral 131 denotes a multiplex flapper, which switches the conveyance path for double-sided printing and multiplex printing. By inverting the conveyance path to the left, the recording paper can be directly guided to the lower conveyance path 128 without passing through the reverse path. Reference numeral 130 denotes a re-feed tray, which temporarily stores recording paper conveyed from the lower conveyance path 128. The paper feed roller 132 feeds the recording paper through the path 133 to the photosensitive drum 105 side. Reference numeral 134 denotes a paper discharge roller which is disposed near the paper discharge flapper 127 and discharges the recording paper switched to the discharge side by the paper discharge flapper 127 to the outside of the main body.
[0034]
Hereinafter, the operation of each unit will be described.
[0035]
The exposure lamp 103 and the scanning mirror 145 are driven by the motor 104 to illuminate the original with the exposure lamp 103 while scanning the original placed on the original mounting table 101, and reflected light from the original is scanned by the scanning mirror 145 and the lens 143. Irradiates the photosensitive drum 105. The photosensitive drum 105 is rotated by the main motor 113 in the direction of the arrow shown in FIG. The surface of the photoconductor drum 105 is corona-charged by the primary charger 106, and when an optical system 102 irradiates reflected light of a document, an electrostatic latent image is formed on the surface of the photoconductor drum 105. This electrostatic latent image is developed by the developing device 109 and is visualized as a toner image.
[0036]
On the other hand, the recording paper sent from the upper cassette 114 or the lower cassette 115 to the main body 100 by the paper feed rollers 118 and 119 via the pickup rollers 116 and 117 is moved by the registration rollers 120 so that the leading end of the toner image and the leading end of the recording paper are separated. After the timing is set so as to match, the sheet is fed to the photosensitive drum 105, and the toner image is transferred by the transfer charger 110.
[0037]
After the toner image is transferred to the recording paper, the recording paper is separated from the photosensitive drum 105 by the separation charger 111, guided to the fixing device 122 by the conveyor belt 121, and pressurized and heated to form the toner image on the recording paper. Be established. Thereafter, the sheet is discharged by the discharge roller 123. Further, the surface of the photosensitive drum 105 is cleaned by the cleaning device 112.
[0038]
At the time of double-sided printing, the discharge flapper 127 is raised upward, and the recording paper is stored in the re-feed tray 130 via the reversing path 129 and the transport path 128 such that the surface on which the image of the recording paper has already been formed faces upward. At this time, the multiple flapper 131 is tilted rightward in the figure.
[0039]
On the other hand, at the time of multiplex printing, the recording paper is stored in the re-feeding tray 130 such that the surface on which the image has already been formed is positioned downward, and the multiplex flapper 131 is tilted leftward in the drawing. Then, at the time of the next back side printing or multiplex printing, the recording paper stored in the re-feeding tray 130 is guided to the registration roller 120 of the main body 100 via the path 133 by the feeding roller 132 one by one from below. I will
[0040]
When the recording paper is inverted and discharged from the main body 100, the discharge flapper 127 is raised upward in the figure, the multiple flapper 131 is tilted rightward in the figure, and the recording paper is transported to the transport path 129 side. After the trailing edge of the recording paper has passed through the feed roller 140, the recording paper is conveyed to the feed roller 141 by the reversing roller 142, and the recording paper is reversed by the discharge roller 134 and discharged out of the main body.
[0041]
Next, a detailed configuration of the control device 160 will be described with reference to FIG.
[0042]
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the control device 160 in the image input / output system 100 of FIG.
[0043]
As shown in FIG. 3, the control device 160 has a main controller 201 for controlling the entire device. The main controller 201 includes a CPU 202, a bus controller 203, various I / F controller circuits (not shown), and the like. Is provided. The main controller 201 is connected to a ROM 204 via an I / F (interface) 205 and a DRAM 206 via an I / F (interface) 207.
[0044]
The CPU 202 performs various processes according to a program read from the ROM 204 via the I / F 205. For example, PDL data received from each of the PCs 191 and 192 (see FIG. 1) is interpreted, and expansion processing and the like for expanding to raster image data are performed. The work area of the CPU 202 is provided by the DRAM 206. The DRAM 206 also stores image data. In the control processing shown in a flowchart described later in the image processing apparatus, a control program stored in a ROM 204 or a hard disk (HD) 180a described later is read out to a DRAM 206, and the CPU 202 processes based on the control program. Is realized by:
[0045]
Further, a codec (Codec) 208 is connected to the main controller 201 via an I / F (interface) 209. The codec 208 compresses the raster image data stored in the DRAM 206 by a method such as MH / MR / MMR / JBIG, and decompresses the condensed and stored code data into raster image data. A work area associated with the processing of the codec 208 is provided by the SRAM 210. Data transfer between the codec 208 and the DRAM 206 is performed by the DMA method, and the control is performed by the bus controller 203.
[0046]
A network controller 211 is connected to the main controller 201 via an I / F (interface) 212. The network controller 211 has a network function such as Ethernet (registered trademark). The network controller 201 is provided with a connector 213, which is connected to the LAN 190 (see FIG. 1).
[0047]
An extension connector 214 for connecting an extension board and an I / O control unit 215 are connected to the main controller 201 via a general-purpose high-speed bus 216. The general-purpose high-speed bus 216 includes, for example, a PCI bus.
[0048]
The I / O control unit 215 includes a 2-channel asynchronous serial communication controller 217 for transmitting and receiving control commands to and from each CPU of the reader unit 139 and the printer unit 149 (see FIG. 1). It is connected to a scanner I / F (interface) 219 and a printer I / F (interface) 220 via the interface.
[0049]
A panel I / F 221 is connected to the I / O control unit 215 via an I / F (interface) 222. The panel I / F 221 is an interface with the operation unit 170 (see FIG. 1). An LCD controller 223 is connected to the panel I / F 221. The LCD controller 223 drives a liquid crystal display panel provided on the operation unit 170 (see FIG. 1). The panel I / F 221 includes an I / F 222 for capturing a key signal input in response to an operation of a hard key or a soft key of the operation unit 170 (see FIG. 1).
[0050]
The I / O control unit 215 is connected to a real-time clock module 223 and an E-IDE connector 224 for updating and storing the date and time managed in the device. The real-time clock module 223 is backed up by a backup battery 225. The E-IDE connector 224 is a connector for connecting an external storage device. By connecting an external storage device such as a hard disk or an MO drive to the E-IDE connector 224, image data is written to the external storage device. , Can also be read.
[0051]
In the present embodiment, a hard disk drive (HD drive) 180 is connected to the E-IDE connector 224, and the HD drive 180 drives a hard disk 180a.
[0052]
The scanner I / F 219 is connected to the main controller 201 via the scanner bus 226, and is provided with a connector 227 for connecting to the reader unit 139 (see FIG. 1). The scanner I / F 219 and the connector 227 are connected via the asynchronous serial I / Fs 228 and 229. The scanner I / F 219 has a processing function of performing optimal binarization processing, scaling processing, and the like on an image received from the reader unit 139 (see FIG. 1). Further, the scanner I / F 219 has a function of generating a control signal based on a video control signal received from the reader unit 139 (see FIG. 1), and outputting the control signal to the main controller 201 via the scanner bus 226. Here, data transfer from the scanner bus 226 to the DRAM 206 is controlled by the bus controller 203.
[0053]
Similarly, the printer I / F 220 is connected to the main controller 201 via the printer bus 230. Further, the printer I / F 220 is provided with a connector 231 connected to the printer unit 149. The printer I / F 220 and the connector 231 are connected via a synchronous serial I / F 232 and a video I / F 233.
[0054]
The printer I / F 220 has a function of performing smoothing processing on the image data output from the main controller 201 and outputting the image data to the printer unit 149 (see FIG. 1). The printer I / F 220 has a function of generating a control signal based on a video control signal received from the printer unit 149 (see FIG. 1), and outputting the control signal to the main controller 201 via the printer bus 230.
[0055]
The transfer of the raster image data developed on the DRAM 206 to the printer unit 149 (see FIG. 1) is controlled by the bus controller 203, and the printer unit 149 (see FIG. 1) via the printer bus 230 and the video I / F 233. Transferred to
[0056]
Next, a detailed configuration of the operation unit 170 will be described with reference to FIG.
[0057]
FIG. 4 is a plan view showing a key arrangement of the operation unit 170 in the image input / output system (main body) 100 of FIG.
[0058]
In FIG. 4, reference numeral 401 denotes a power switch, which controls energization of the main body 100 (see FIG. 1). A preheating key 402 is used to switch ON / OFF of a preheating mode. A start key 403 is used to instruct the start of a copy operation or a scan operation. A stop key 404 is used to interrupt or stop a copy operation or a scan operation. A reset key 405 is used to return to the standard mode during standby.
[0059]
Reference numeral 406 denotes a guide key, which is used to know each function. A user mode key 407 is used when the user changes the basic settings of the main body 100 (see FIG. 1). A numeric keypad 408 is used for inputting numerical values. A clear key 409 is used to clear a numerical value. An ID key 410 is used to shift to an ID input mode when using a copying machine. A counter confirmation key 411 is used to display the total number of copies used so far on the LCD touch panel 413. An adjustment key 412 is used to adjust the contrast of the LCD touch panel 413.
[0060]
Reference numeral 413 denotes an LCD touch panel, which is a combination of a liquid crystal screen and a touch sensor. An individual setting screen is displayed for each function, and further, various detailed settings can be performed by touching drawn keys. It is. The LCD touch panel 413 also displays the operation status of each job. Reference numeral 414 denotes an LED (light emitting diode) that indicates that a job is being executed or image data is being accumulated, and blinks green. An error LED 415 flashes in red when a device such as a jam or a door is in an error state. A power LED 416 indicates that the power of the main body 100 is ON / OFF.
[0061]
FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a copy standard screen displayed on the operation unit 170 of the image input / output system (main body) 100 in FIG. 1. When the power is turned on, after the reset key 405 shown in FIG. Is displayed on the LCD touch panel 413 in a standard state such as after the copy operation is completed.
[0062]
In FIG. 5, reference numeral 501 denotes a message display column, which displays the status of the main body 100, the RDF 136, the sorter 135, and the like, the set number, the set magnification, the designated paper size, and the like. Reference numeral 502 denotes a status display column, which displays low-priority alarms that do not need to be displayed in the message display column 501, execution states of other functions, and the like.
[0063]
Reference numerals 503 and 505 denote density adjustment keys. Reference numeral 503 denotes a key used to reduce the copy density, and 505 denotes a key used to increase the copy density. An automatic key 504 is used when it is desired to automatically adjust the copy density with respect to the density of the original.
[0064]
Reference numeral 506 denotes a magnification key, which is used for setting a magnification and performing copying, and for automatically calculating a magnification based on a document size and a paper size, or an auto zoom function or an image length on a document and an image length after copying. This key is used when performing a zoom program function of calculating magnification by designating. Reference numeral 507 denotes an equal-magnification key, which is used to set the magnification to 100%.
[0065]
A paper selection key 508 is used when an automatic paper selection function for automatically selecting a transfer paper from a document size and a copy magnification is used or when a paper size is designated. Reference numeral 509 denotes a sorter key, which is displayed only when the sorter 135 is mounted, and is used to set the output form of the sorter 135, the stapling position, and the like. A double-sided key 510 is used to output a document image read on both sides of a transfer sheet or to handle a double-sided document.
[0066]
An automatic color selection key 511 is a key used to automatically determine whether a document is color or black and white, and to set a mode for scanning in color if it is color, and in monochrome if it is black and white. A character / photo / map key 512 is used to set a character / photo / map mode for automatically setting a density suitable for copying a document in which characters, photos, and a map are mixed. Reference numeral 513 denotes an interrupt key, which is used when the user wants to interrupt and copy during the copy operation.
[0067]
An application mode key 514 is used to perform various functions of the copying apparatus. Reference numeral 519 denotes a system status key, which is used when the user wants to know the status of the system currently performed in the main body 100. The system status key 519 always appears at this position, as well as the copy standard screen. By using this key at any time, the system status can be viewed.
[0068]
A copy key 515 is used to select a copy function from a plurality of functions. A transmission key 516 is used to select a transmission function from a plurality of functions. When the transmission key 516 is pressed, a transmission standard screen (not shown) is displayed. A box key 517 is used to select a box function from a plurality of functions. When the box key 517 is pressed, a box standard screen (not shown) is displayed. An extension key 518 is used to select a network scanner function from a plurality of functions. When the extension key 518 is pressed, a network scanner standard screen 600 shown in FIG. 6 described later is displayed.
[0069]
FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a network scanner standard screen displayed on the operation unit 170 of the image input / output system (main body) 100 of FIG. 1, and a copy displayed on the LCD touch panel 413 shown in FIG. It is displayed by pressing the extension key 518 on the standard screen 500, the transmission standard screen or the box standard screen.
[0070]
6, the same parts as those in FIG. 5 are denoted by the same reference numerals.
[0071]
In FIG. 6, 600 is a network scanner standard screen, 601 is an online key, 602 is an offline key, 603 is a scanner function status display column, and displays the status of the network scanner function.
[0072]
The online key 601 is a key used when executing the network scanner function. By depressing the online key 601, the PCs 191 and 192 (see FIG. 1) occupy the reader unit 139 (see FIG. 1), and the PC 191 and 192 can receive a scan operation instruction. At this time, a message “Scanner is online” is displayed in the status display column 502.
[0073]
Note that when a transition is made from the copy standard screen 500, the transmission standard screen, or the box standard screen to the network scanner standard screen 600, the online key 601 is being pressed.
[0074]
The offline key 602 is a key used to interrupt a job being executed in the network scanner function or to stop transferring image data from the main body 100 to the PCs 191 and 192 (see FIG. 1). By depressing the offline key 602, the reader unit 139 (see FIG. 1) is released from the PCs 191 and 192 (see FIG. 1), and a scan operation instruction from the PCs 191 and 192 (see FIG. 1) cannot be accepted. State.
[0075]
In FIG. 6, when the copy key 515, the transmission key 516, or the box key 517 is pressed, the reader unit 139 (see FIG. 1) is released from the PCs 191 and 192 (see FIG. 1). 1) cannot be accepted.
[0076]
Hereinafter, the procedure for controlling the reception of the scan operation instruction will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG.
[0077]
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a control procedure for accepting a scan operation instruction in the image input / output system 100 of FIG.
[0078]
First, in step S701, an input from the touch panel 413 is monitored. If there is any input, the process proceeds to step S702, and it is determined whether the extension key 518 shown in FIG. 5 has been pressed. If it is determined that the button has not been pressed, the process returns to step S701 to monitor an input from the touch panel 413.
[0079]
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S702 that the extension key 518 has been pressed, in step S703, the reader 139 is occupied by the PC 191 or PC 192.
[0080]
Next, in step S704, the network scanner standard screen 600 shown in FIG. 6 is displayed on the touch panel 413, and the process proceeds to the next step S705, where the online key 601 is pressed.
[0081]
Next, in step S706, when a connection request is received from the PC 191 or PC 192 to the reader unit 139, it is determined in the next step S707 whether a job using the reader unit 139 exists. If it is determined that there is a job using the reader unit 139, the process proceeds to the next step S708, and the PC 191 or the PC 192 that issued the connection request issues a warning message stating "Cannot connect because scanner is used". Is displayed, and the process returns to step S706.
[0082]
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S707 that there is no job using the reader unit 139, the PC 191 or PC 192 is connected to the reader unit 139 in the next step S709.
[0083]
Next, in step S710, a job using the network scanner function is input from the PC 191 or PC 192. When a job is submitted, in the next step S711, the reader unit 139 reads image data from a document, and stores the read image data in the storage area of the hard disk drive 180.
[0084]
Next, after converting the image data into code data in step S712, the code data is transferred to the PC 191 or PC 192 in the next step S713. Next, in step S714, the connection between the PC 191 or PC 192 and the reader unit 139 is disconnected, and then this processing operation ends.
[0085]
Hereinafter, the release control procedure of the reader unit 139 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
[0086]
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a release control procedure of the reader unit 139 in the image input / output system (main body) 100 of FIG.
[0087]
First, in step S801, an input from the touch panel 413 is monitored. If there is any input, the process moves to the next step S802, and it is determined whether the system status key 519 shown in FIG. 6 has been pressed. If it is determined that the system status key 519 has been pressed, the process moves to the next step S803, where a system status screen (not shown) is displayed on the touch panel 413, and the present processing operation ends.
[0088]
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S802 that the system status key 519 has not been pressed, the process advances to step S804 to release the reader unit 139 occupied by the PC 191 or PC 192.
[0089]
Next, in step S805, it is determined whether the copy key 515 shown in FIG. 6 has been pressed. If it is determined that the copy key 515 has been pressed, the process advances to the next step S806 to display the copy standard screen shown in FIG. 5 on the touch panel 413, and then ends this processing operation.
[0090]
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S805 that the copy key 515 has not been pressed, it is determined in step S807 whether the transmission key 516 shown in FIG. 6 has been pressed. If it is determined that the transmission key 516 has been pressed, the process proceeds to the next step S808, where a transmission standard screen (not shown) is displayed on the touch panel 413, and the present processing operation ends.
[0091]
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S807 that the transmission key 516 has not been pressed, it is determined in step S809 whether the box key 517 shown in FIG. 6 has been pressed. If it is determined that the box key 517 has been pressed, the process proceeds to the next step S810, where a box standard screen (not shown) is displayed on the touch panel 413, and the present processing operation ends.
[0092]
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S809 that the box key 517 has not been pressed, it is determined in step S811 that the offline key 602 shown in FIG. 6 has been pressed, and after the offline key 602 has been pressed, The processing operation ends.
[0093]
As described above, according to the present embodiment, in an image processing apparatus having a network scanner function, an instruction of a network scanner function is input from a screen for inputting an instruction of a function other than the network scanner function such as a copy function and a transmission function. At the time of transition to the input screen, network scan instructions from the host computers 191 and 192 can be accepted, that is, network scan instructions from the host computer in conjunction with transition to the screen for inputting an instruction for the network scanner function. Can be accepted, and an instruction for a copy operation or a scan operation can be accepted at a timing when a screen for inputting an instruction for a function other than the network scanner function is switched from a screen for inputting an instruction for the network scanner function, that is, a network scanner. Function In response to the transition to the screen for inputting the instruction of the function of the user, an instruction for a function other than the network scanner function is made receivable so that the user can operate the host computers 191 and 192 to occupy the scanner and the host computer Since the operation for releasing the scanner from 191 and 192 is omitted, a great improvement in operability for the user can be expected.
[0094]
(Other embodiments)
An object of the present invention is to supply a storage medium storing program codes of software for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or an apparatus, and a computer (or CPU, MPU, or the like) of the system or the apparatus stores the storage medium in the storage medium. It goes without saying that this can also be achieved by reading and executing the stored program code.
[0095]
In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the functions of the above-described embodiment, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.
[0096]
Examples of a storage medium for supplying the program code include a floppy (registered trademark) disk, hard disk, magneto-optical disk, CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-ROM, DVD-RAM, and DVD. -RW, DVD + RW, magnetic tape, nonvolatile memory card, ROM, and the like can be used.
[0097]
When the computer executes the readout program code, not only the functions of the above-described embodiment are realized, but also an OS (Operating System) running on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that a case where some or all of the actual processing is performed and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing is also included.
[0098]
Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written into a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, the function expansion is performed based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that a CPU or the like provided in the board or the function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing, and the processing realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments.
[0099]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the present invention, when an image reading instruction is issued from an external device, an operation by the user to occupy the image reading unit in the external device can be omitted. Can be significantly improved.
[0100]
Further, according to the present invention, the operation for releasing the image reading unit from the external device by the user can be omitted, and the operability of the user can be significantly improved.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image input / output system that is an image processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically showing a hardware configuration of a reader unit and a printer unit in the image input / output system shown in FIG.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a control device in the image input / output system shown in FIG.
FIG. 4 is a plan view showing a key arrangement of an operation unit in the image input / output system shown in FIG.
FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a copy standard screen displayed on an operation unit in the image input / output system shown in FIG.
6 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a network scanner standard screen displayed on an operation unit in the image input / output system shown in FIG.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a control procedure for receiving a scan operation instruction in the image input / output system shown in FIG. 1;
8 is a flowchart showing a release control procedure of a reader unit in the image input / output system shown in FIG.
[Explanation of symbols]
100 Image input / output system (image processing device, main unit)
101 Document Placement Table
102 Optical system
103 Document illumination lamp (exposure lamp)
104 motor
105 Photoconductor drum
106 Primary charger
107 Blank exposure unit
108 Potential sensor
109 Developer
110 transfer charger
111 Separator charger
112 These are arranged around the photosensitive drum 105 by the cleaning device.
113 motor
114 Upper cassette
115 Lower cassette
116 Pickup roller
117 Pickup roller
118 Paper feed roller
119 Paper feed roller
120 Registration roller
121 conveyor belt
122 Fixing unit
123 discharge roller
124 decks
125 lifter
126 Paper feed roller
127 Paper ejection flapper
128 Lower transport path
129 Reverse path
130 Refeed tray
131 Multiple Flapper
132 Paper feed roller
133 routes
134 paper ejection roller
135 paper ejection unit
136 Document feed unit (RDF)
137 Output tray
138 Scanner unit (image reading means)
139 Leader
140 feed roller
141 feed roller
142 reversing roller
143 lens
144 fixing roller
145 mirror
146 bins
147 bins
148 Paper feed unit
149 Printer section
151 Marking unit
160 control device
170 Operation unit
180 Hard Disk Drive (HD Drive)
180a Hard Disk (HD)
190 LAN
191 PC (host computer, external device)
192 PC (host computer, external device)
201 Main controller
202 CPU
203 bus controller
204 ROM
205 I / F (interface)
206 DRAM
207 I / F (interface)
208 Codec
209 I / F (interface)
210 SRAM
211 Network controller
212 I / F (interface)
213 Connector
214 expansion connector
215 I / O control unit
216 General-purpose express bus
217 Synchronous Asynchronous Serial Communication Controller
218 I / O bus
219 Scanner I / F (Interface)
220 Printer I / F (interface)
221 Panel I / F
222 I / F (interface)
223 LCD controller
224 Real-time clock module
225 E-IDE Connector
226 Backup Battery
227 Scanner Bus
228 connector
229 Synchronous step synchronous serial I / F
230 Synchronous step synchronous serial I / F
231 Printer Bus
232 connector
233 Asynchronous asynchronous serial I / F
234 Video I / F
401 Power switch
402 Preheating key
403 Start key
404 stop key
405 Reset key
406 Guide key
407 User mode key
408 numeric keypad
409 Clear key
410 ID key
411 Counter confirmation key
412 Adjustment key
413 LCD touch panel
414 LED (Light Emitting Diode)
415 Error LED
416 Power LED touch panel
500 Copy standard screen
501 Message display field
502 Status display field
503 Density adjustment key
504 automatic key
505 Density adjustment
506 Magnification key
507 1: 1 key
508 Paper selection key
509 Sorta key
510 Double-sided key
511 Automatic color selection key
512 Character / Photo / Map key
513 Interrupt key
514 Application mode key
515 Copy key
516 transmission key
517 Box key
518 Expansion key
519 System status key
600 Network Scanner Standard Screen
601 online key
602 offline key
603 Scanner function status display field

Claims (10)

An image processing method of reading image data by image reading means in accordance with an image reading instruction from an external device, and performing image processing by an image processing device capable of transmitting the read image data to the external device,
A first input screen for inputting an image reading instruction from the image processing apparatus and an instruction for occupying the image reading means in the external device or an instruction for releasing the image reading means from the external device; A display step of displaying a second input screen;
A control step of controlling the external device to occupy the image reading means at a timing when the first input screen is changed to the second input screen so that the external device can receive an image reading instruction from the external device; An image processing method comprising: In the control step, the image reading unit is released from the external device at a timing when the second input screen is changed to the first input screen, and an image reading instruction from the image processing apparatus can be received. The image processing method according to claim 1, wherein: The image processing method according to claim 1, wherein the external device is a host computer. An image processing apparatus capable of reading image data with image reading means according to an image reading instruction from an external device and transmitting the read image data to the external device,
A first input screen for inputting an image reading instruction from the image processing apparatus and an instruction for occupying the image reading means in the external device or an instruction for releasing the image reading means from the external device; Display means for displaying a second input screen;
Control means for controlling the external device to occupy the image reading means at the timing of transition from the first input screen to the second input screen so as to receive an image reading instruction from the external device; and An image processing apparatus comprising: The control means releases the image reading means from the external device at a timing when the second input screen is changed to the first input screen, and can receive an image reading instruction from the image processing apparatus. The image processing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein: The image processing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the external device is a host computer. A computer-readable control program for controlling an image processing device capable of reading image data by image reading means in response to an image reading instruction from an external device and transmitting the read image data to the external device, A first input screen for inputting an image reading instruction from a processing device, and a second input for inputting an instruction to occupy the image reading means in the external device or an instruction to release the image reading means from the external device. A display step of displaying the input screen of the first input screen, and at the time of transition from the first input screen to the second input screen, the external apparatus occupies the image reading means and issues an image reading instruction from the external apparatus. And a control step of controlling the computer to accept the program. A control program of an image processing apparatus characterized by. In the control step, the image reading unit is released from the external device at a timing when the second input screen is changed to the first input screen, and an image reading instruction from the image processing apparatus can be received. A control program for an image processing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein: 9. The control program according to claim 7, wherein the external device is a host computer. A storage medium storing the control program according to claim 7.

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