JP2004114527A - Printing equipment - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To enable smooth printing operations by enabling continuation of printing processing which is suspended so as to avoid a print jam, in printing equipment with a structure wherein prints ejected from a printer are collected into a single take-out port and stacked. <P>SOLUTION: A central processing unit (CPU) 10 suspends the ongoing printing processing which is performed by a printing engine 51 and displays a message for inducing the take-out of the prints 80 on the screen of a touch panel monitor 41, when detecting that the prints 80, stacked on the take-out port 62, reach a prescribed height, by a detection signal of a stacking sensor 71. The stacked prints 80 are taken out by a user; a stand-by state is maintained until the detection signal of the take-out sensor 72 is eliminated; at the elimination of the detection signal of the take-out sensor 72, display on the screen of the monitor 41 is restored to normal display; and the suspended printing processing is continued. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a printing apparatus, and more particularly to control of printing processing of a printer for avoiding a discharge failure due to accumulation of printed matter discharged from the printer.
[0002]
[Prior art]
2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, as an apparatus for efficiently printing a large number of printed materials, a device in which a plurality of printers are controlled to print, and the printed materials discharged from the printer are guided to a single outlet through a common discharge path and accumulated There is.
[0003]
According to such an apparatus, if a large amount of discharged printed matter accumulates at the outlet, or if the printed matter is caught in the discharge route and remains, it becomes an obstacle to the printer discharge port. There is a risk of failure.
[0004]
As a technique for solving the above problem, for example, a technique is disclosed in which the amount of printed matter deposited on a tray is detected in a copying machine or the like, and the operation of the apparatus is stopped when the allowable amount is exceeded (patent) Reference 1).
[0005]
[Patent Document 1]
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 5-134491
[0006]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, according to the above-described method, the operation of the apparatus is “stopped” when the accumulated amount of the printed material exceeds the allowable amount, so that the interrupted printing process can be continued even if the printed material is removed. Therefore, it was necessary to make print settings again, and smooth printing work could not be performed.
[0007]
The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and after interrupting the printing process to avoid a discharge failure or failure of the printer, the interrupted printing process can be continued and a smooth printing operation can be performed. An object of the present invention is to provide a printing apparatus capable of performing the above.
[0008]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
A first printing apparatus according to the present invention is a printing apparatus having a structure in which printed matter discharged from one or a plurality of printers is collected and accumulated at one outlet, and the accumulated printed matter is approximately at a predetermined height. Deposition detection means for directly or indirectly detecting arrival, extraction detection means for detecting that accumulated printed matter has been taken out from the outlet, and outputting a warning signal in response to detection by the deposition detection means A warning signal output means and a control means for interrupting the printing process of the printer in response to the detection by the deposition detection means and continuing the interrupted printing process in response to the detection by the removal detection means To do.
[0009]
Here, the “predetermined height” is the height of the printed material that has been accumulated to such an extent that the operator can easily remove the printed material from the outlet without blocking the discharge port of the printer.
[0010]
“Directly or indirectly” means “directly detect” means that whether or not the accumulated printed matter has reached a predetermined height is detected by monitoring the height itself. To do. As the detection means, for example, an optical reflection sensor or a transmission sensor is installed inside the outlet so as to react when the accumulated printed matter reaches a predetermined height position, and a detection signal that the sensor reacts and outputs is detected. For example, a means for detecting that the printed matter deposited on the basis of the above has reached a predetermined height can be considered.
Further, “indirect detection” means that whether or not the accumulated printed matter has reached a predetermined height is detected by monitoring other than that height. As the detection means, for example, the weight of the printed material accumulated up to a predetermined height is measured in advance, and a weight sensor is installed at the outlet so as to react when the accumulated printed material reaches its weight. Based on the detection signal output in this way, there can be considered a means for detecting that the accumulated printed matter has reached a predetermined height. The weight sensor may not only react when it reaches a predetermined weight, but may output an output signal corresponding to the weight. In this case, the output signal is monitored and a predetermined output value is monitored. It is sufficient to provide means for determining whether or not
[0011]
As the take-out detection means, for example, an optical reflection sensor or transmission sensor is installed inside the take-out so as to react to the presence of the printed matter in the take-out, and based on the detection signal output by the sensor reacting. Means that detect that the accumulated printed matter has been taken out (if the detection signal is not output, determine that printing has been taken out) or remove the drawer where the printed matter is loaded. Installed in a form that is housed in the outlet, a sensor that detects that the drawer is pulled out is installed in the outlet or the drawer, and the printed material accumulated based on the detection signal output by the sensor reacting A means for detecting that removal has been performed may be considered.
[0012]
The warning signal is a signal for notifying the operator that the accumulated printed matter has reached a predetermined height. For example, an image / message displayed on the screen, a voice / chime / buzzer output from the speaker, and the like. The light emitting element can be turned on and off, but it is not limited to these.
[0013]
The control unit may request the operator to confirm the continuation of the printing process when the printing process interrupted in response to the detection by the take-out detection unit is continued, such as a confirmation button. This input means may be provided, and after the detection by the take-out detection means, when the confirmation button is pressed by the operator, the interrupted printing process may be continued.
[0014]
The accumulation detection means may also serve as an extraction detection means. For example, the accumulation detection means is output from an optical reflection sensor or transmission sensor installed so as to react when the accumulated printed matter reaches a predetermined height. If the detection signal is output based on the detected signal, it is detected that the accumulated printed matter has reached a predetermined height. If the detection signal is not output, it is detected that the accumulated printed matter has been taken out. Try to detect.
[0015]
The second printing apparatus according to the present invention is a printing apparatus having a structure in which printed materials discharged from one or a plurality of printers are collected and accumulated at one outlet, and the number of discharged printed materials is a predetermined number. The discharge number detection means for detecting that the amount has reached, the removal detection means for detecting that the accumulated printed matter has been taken out from the outlet, and a warning signal output for outputting a warning signal in response to detection by the discharge number detection means And a control means for interrupting the printing process of the printer in response to the detection by the discharge number detecting means and continuing the interrupted printing process in response to the detection by the take-out detecting means. It is.
[0016]
Here, the “predetermined number” is determined as a “predetermined height” which is determined as a height at which an operator can easily take out the printed matter from the outlet without blocking the discharge port of the printer. "Means the number of printed materials accumulated up to". The “predetermined number” can be estimated by measuring the thickness per printed matter in advance.
[0017]
According to a third printing apparatus of the present invention, in a printing apparatus having a structure in which printed materials discharged from one or a plurality of printers are collected and accumulated at one outlet, the number of discharged printed materials is a predetermined number. A discharge number detection means for detecting that the output has reached, an input means for inputting an instruction to continue printing by an operator, a warning signal output means for outputting a warning signal in response to detection by the discharge number detection means, and a discharge number detection Control means for interrupting the printing process of the printer in response to the detection by the means and continuing the interrupted printing process in response to the input of the print continuation instruction by the input means.
[0018]
Here, “input of print continuation instruction by the operator” means an input by the operator for continuing the interrupted printing process. For example, a confirmation button is provided outside the printing apparatus and the operation is performed. It is conceivable that the person presses the button for instructing the continuation of the printing process after taking out the printed matter.
[0019]
A fourth printing apparatus according to the present invention is a printing apparatus having a structure in which printed matter discharged from one or a plurality of printers is collected and accumulated at one outlet, and the accumulated printed matter is approximately at a predetermined height. Deposition detection means for directly or indirectly detecting the arrival, input means for inputting an instruction to continue printing by an operator, warning signal output means for outputting a warning signal in response to detection by the deposition detection means, Control means for interrupting the printing process of the printer in response to the detection by the accumulation detecting means and continuing the interrupted printing process in response to the input of the print continuation instruction by the input means. is there.
[0020]
A fifth printing apparatus according to the present invention is a printing apparatus having a structure in which printed matter discharged from one or a plurality of printers passes through the discharging route and is collected and accumulated at one outlet, and the printed matter in the discharging route. An obstacle detection means for detecting an obstacle that prevents the passage of the obstacle, a removal detection means for detecting that the obstacle has been removed, and a warning signal output means for outputting a warning signal in response to detection by the obstacle detection means, And a control means for interrupting the printing process of the printer in response to the detection by the obstacle detection means and continuing the interrupted printing process in response to the detection by the removal detection means. .
[0021]
Here, the “discharge path” is a path that connects the discharge port of the printer and the discharge port for guiding the printed material discharged from the printer to the outlet.
[0022]
As an obstacle that prevents passage of the printed material in the discharge path, for example, a printed material discharged from the printer may be caught on the way and remain, but is not limited thereto.
[0023]
As the obstacle detection means, for example, an optical reflection sensor or transmission sensor is installed in the discharge path so as to react to an obstacle present in the discharge path, and a detection signal output in response to the sensor is also provided. A means for detecting obstacles can be considered. Further, not only one sensor but also a plurality of sensors may be provided. For example, the sensors may be installed near the discharge port of each printer.
[0024]
As the removal detection means, as with the obstacle detection means, for example, an optical reflection sensor or transmission sensor is installed in the discharge path so as to react to an obstacle present in the discharge path, and the sensor reacts. Based on the detection signal output in this way, it is possible to detect that the obstacle has been removed (when the detection signal is not output, it is determined that the obstacle has been removed). . Further, not only one sensor but also a plurality of sensors may be provided. For example, the sensors may be installed near the discharge port of each printer.
[0025]
The obstacle detection means may also serve as a removal detection means. For example, the obstacle detection means is output from an optical reflection sensor or transmission sensor installed so as to react to an obstacle present in the discharge path. Based on the detection signal, if a detection signal is output, the presence of an obstacle is detected. If the detection signal is not output, it is detected that the obstacle has been removed.
[0026]
A sixth printing apparatus according to the present invention is a printing apparatus having a structure in which printed matter discharged from one or a plurality of printers passes through the discharging route and is collected and accumulated at one outlet, and the printed matter in the discharging route is An obstacle detection means for detecting an obstacle that prevents passage of an object, an input means for inputting an instruction to continue printing by an operator, a warning signal output means for outputting a warning signal in response to detection by the obstacle detection means, and an obstacle Control means for interrupting the printing process of the printer in response to detection by the object detection means, and for continuing the interrupted printing process in response to an input of a print continuation instruction by the input means. Is.
[0027]
【The invention's effect】
According to the first printing apparatus of the present invention, in the printing apparatus having a structure in which printed materials discharged from one or a plurality of printers are collected and accumulated at one outlet, the accumulated printed materials have a predetermined height. The printing process is interrupted when it is reached and a warning signal is output, and it is detected that the accumulated printed matter has been taken out and the interrupted printing process is continued. The printing process is interrupted before the discharge port is closed, and the printer discharge failure or failure that may occur due to the accumulated printed matter blocking the printer discharge port can be avoided. Therefore, it is possible to perform a smooth printing operation without requiring a complicated operation such as resetting the printing process as in the prior art.
[0028]
In the first printing apparatus, if the deposition detecting means also serves as the take-out detecting means, the configuration of the apparatus can be simplified and the manufacturing cost of the apparatus can be suppressed.
[0029]
According to the second printing apparatus of the present invention, in a printing apparatus having a structure in which printed materials discharged from one or a plurality of printers are collected and accumulated at one outlet, the number of discharged printed materials is predetermined. The printing process is interrupted and the warning signal is output and the interrupted printing process is continued by detecting that the accumulated printed matter has been taken out. The printing process is interrupted before the printer outlet is blocked, and it is possible to avoid printer discharge failures and failures that may occur due to the accumulated printed matter blocking the printer outlet, and when the accumulated printed matter is removed Since it is possible to continue the printing process, it is possible to perform a smooth printing operation without requiring a complicated operation such as resetting the printing process as in the prior art.
[0030]
According to the third printing apparatus of the present invention, in a printing apparatus having a structure in which printed materials discharged from one or a plurality of printers are collected and accumulated at one outlet, the number of discharged printed materials is predetermined. The printing process is interrupted and the warning signal is output, and the interrupted printing process is continued in response to the input of the print continuation instruction by the operator. The printing process can be interrupted before closing the printer's discharge port, and the printer's discharge failure or failure that can occur due to the accumulated printed matter blocking the printer's discharge port can be avoided. A smooth printing operation can be performed without requiring a complicated operation. In addition, the interrupted printing process can be continued at the timing desired by the operator.
[0031]
According to the fourth printing apparatus of the present invention, in the printing apparatus having a structure in which printed matter discharged from one or a plurality of printers is collected and accumulated at one outlet, the accumulated printed matter has a predetermined height. The printing process is interrupted when it is reached, and a warning signal is output, and the interrupted printing process is continued in response to an input of an instruction to continue printing by the operator. The printing process is interrupted before the outlet is blocked, and it is possible to avoid a printer discharge failure or failure that may occur due to the accumulated printed matter blocking the printer discharge port. A smooth printing operation can be performed without any work. In addition, the interrupted printing process can be continued at the timing desired by the operator.
[0032]
According to the fifth printing apparatus of the present invention, in the printing apparatus having a structure in which printed matter discharged from one or a plurality of printers passes through the discharge path and is collected and accumulated in one outlet, When the obstacle that hinders the passage of the printed material is detected, the printing process is interrupted and a warning signal is output, and it is detected that the obstacle is removed and the interrupted printing process is continued. When the printer outlet is blocked, the printing process is interrupted, and it is possible to avoid printer discharge failures and failures that may occur when obstacles block the printer outlet. Thus, a smooth printing operation can be performed without the need for an unnecessary operation.
[0033]
In the fifth printing apparatus, if the obstacle detection unit also serves as the removal detection unit, the configuration of the apparatus can be simplified and the manufacturing cost of the apparatus can be suppressed.
[0034]
According to the sixth printing apparatus of the present invention, in a printing apparatus having a structure in which printed matter discharged from one or a plurality of printers passes through the discharge path and is collected and accumulated at one outlet, When an obstacle that prevents the passage of printed material is detected, the printing process is interrupted and a warning signal is output, and the interrupted printing process is continued in response to the input of the print continuation instruction by the operator. When the printer outlet is blocked, the printing process is interrupted, and it is possible to avoid printer discharge failures and failures that may occur when obstacles block the printer outlet. Thus, a smooth printing operation can be performed without the need for an unnecessary operation. In addition, the interrupted printing process can be continued at the timing desired by the operator.
[0035]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
[0036]
First, a first embodiment of the printing apparatus of the present invention will be described. The printing apparatus according to the first embodiment reads image data from various image recording media (hereinafter referred to as media) on which image data obtained by photographing with a digital camera or the like is recorded, and prints an image represented by the image data on a paper medium. This is a self-service printing device intended to be supplied to consumers.
[0037]
FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a configuration of a printing apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment.
The printing apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 1 is connected to a bus 90 which is a common signal path for exchanging various data, and is read from a system memory 21 described later and executed. CPU 10 (control means) for controlling the entire apparatus, system memory 21 for storing a predetermined program, storage 22 for storing various data when CPU 10 executes the program, and insertion slot for inserting media A media reading unit 31 for reading image data from the inserted media, a media interface 32 for connecting the media reading unit 31 to the bus 90, an image / message, etc., and an input from the user Accepted touch panel monitor 41 (input means, warning signal output means) and connected to the bus 90 An input / output controller 42 that controls input / output with respect to the touch panel monitor 41, a print engine 51 including a plurality of printers, a printer interface 52 for connecting the print engine 51 to the bus 90, and the print engine 51 A discharge path 61 through which the printed product 80 that has been printed and discharged passes, a take-out port 62 in which the print prints 80 that have passed through the discharge path 61 are collected and deposited, and a print print 80 that has accumulated in the take-out port 62 have a predetermined height. The accumulation sensor 71 (deposition detection means) for detecting that the print print has been reached, the take-out sensor 72 (removal detection means) for detecting that the accumulated print print 80 has been taken out, and the passage of the print print in the discharge path 61 Obstacle sensor 73 (obstacle detection means, removal detection) A configuration in which a unit) and.
[0038]
The CPU 10 reads and executes a predetermined program from the system memory 21 to temporarily store the image data read from the medium by the media reading unit 31 in the storage 22, and based on the image data according to the user's desired setting. Then, image data for printing (hereinafter referred to as print data) is generated, and the print engine 51 is controlled to perform printing. Further, the CPU 10 monitors detection signals from the accumulation sensor 71 and the obstacle sensor 73. When the detection signal is detected, the CPU 10 temporarily interrupts the printing process by the print engine 51 and sends a message as a warning signal to the touch panel monitor 41. When the reason for interrupting the printing process is resolved, the interrupted printing process is continued.
[0039]
The media reading unit 31 can read image data from a plurality of different types of media, and the supported media are smart media (SM), compact flash (registered trademark) (CF), memory stick (MS), SD card (SDC). ) Etc.
[0040]
The touch panel monitor 41 displays on the screen a menu screen, a print setting screen, a message to the user, an image represented by the image data read by the media reading unit 31, and the like. In addition, buttons for selecting menus and settings and confirming the execution of processing are displayed, and the user selects an item by touching the position on the screen where the button is displayed with a finger or the like. And input for confirmation. In addition, by touching a desired image among a plurality of displayed images, an image to be printed can be selected.
[0041]
The print engine 51 includes four printers 51a to 51d, and these printers are installed so as to be stacked in the vertical direction. The print engine 51 is connected to the printer interface 52 through an interface cable. When print data is sent through this cable, the print engine 51 performs print processing of an image represented by the data. The print processing of each of these printers is controlled by the CPU 10, and sharing of tasks for efficiently printing images, and print processing for avoiding the occurrence of printer discharge failures and failures (hereinafter referred to as print jams). Suspend or continue. Each printer discharges the printed printed matter 80 from the discharge port, and drops and accumulates on the outlet 62 through a common discharge path 61 extending in the vertical direction.
[0042]
The deposition sensor 71 is an optical reflection sensor that reacts to the reflected light of the emitted light, and is installed on the side surface of the outlet 62. When the deposited printed matter 80 reaches a predetermined height, the light emitted from the deposition sensor 71 strikes the printed matter 80 and is reflected by the depositing sensor 71, and the deposition sensor 71 outputs a detection signal in response to the reflected light. . Based on the output of this detection signal, the CPU 10 detects that the accumulated printed matter 80 has reached a predetermined height.
[0043]
The take-out sensor 72 is an optical reflection sensor, like the deposition sensor 71, and is installed on the bottom surface of the take-out port 62. When all the accumulated printed matter 80 is taken out, the light emitted from the takeout sensor 72 is not reflected by the printed matter 80, and the takeout sensor 72 does not react, so the detection signal is canceled. The CPU 10 detects that the accumulated printed matter 80 has been taken out by eliminating the detection signal.
[0044]
The obstacle sensor 73 is an optical reflection sensor, like the deposition sensor 71, and consists of a total of four sensors 73a to 73d. These sensors are installed on the side surface of the discharge path 61 so as to be positioned in front of the discharge ports of the printers 51a to 51d. In the discharge path 61, particularly in the vicinity of the discharge port of each printer, when the discharged printed matter 80 or the like is caught and remains as an obstacle, the light emitted from the obstacle sensor 73 hits the obstacle and is reflected. The obstacle sensor 73 outputs a detection signal in response to the reflected light. The detection signals output from these four sensors are sent to the CPU 10 separately, and by knowing which sensor is reacting, it is possible to know where an obstacle exists. It can be done. If the discharge path 61 is not a complicated structure and the path length is not so long, the detection signals of the four sensors may be combined and sent to the CPU 10 instead of separately.
[0045]
Next, the operation of the printing apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment will be described.
[0046]
FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an outline of a processing flow in the printing apparatus according to the first embodiment. First, when the printing apparatus 1 is turned on and started up, the CPU 10 reads a predetermined program from the system memory 21 and executes it (step S1). On the screen of the touch panel monitor 41, a TOP screen is displayed so that the print type can be selected (step S2). FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a TOP screen. On the screen, “digital camera print”, “split print”, and “index print” are displayed as selectable print types. The user selects a desired type from these (step S3). The selection operation is performed by touching a place where each type is displayed on the screen. In this embodiment, “digital camera print” is selected. Next, the medium on which the image data is recorded is inserted into the insertion slot of the media reading unit 31. The media reading unit 31 reads the image data (step S4), and the image data is stored in the storage 22. The CPU 10 generates display data based on the stored image data, and displays various setting buttons and the like on the screen of the touch panel monitor 41 together with the image represented by the display data (step S5). FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a screen on which images and various setting buttons are displayed, and shows a display example when the print type is digital camera print. A thumbnail image of the read image data is displayed on the right side of the screen, and the image selected therein is displayed largely on the left side. On this screen, the user sets the selection, editing, number of prints, etc. of the image to be printed (step S6). When the setting is completed, the CPU 10 generates print data based on the setting (step S7), sends the data to the print engine 51, and the print engine 51 performs print processing based on the received print data. Perform (step S8). The printed matter 80 printed by the print engine 51 is discharged from the discharge port of the printer and accumulates on the outlet 62 through the discharge path 61. When the printing process ends, the TOP screen is displayed again on the screen of the touch panel monitor 41, and the printing apparatus 1 enters a standby state.
[0047]
By the way, if a large amount of printing is performed at a time during the printing process, a large amount of discharged printed matter 80 is deposited on the outlet 62. If the accumulated printed matter 80 reaches the upper printer outlet, there is a risk of causing a print jam. Therefore, when the CPU 10 detects that the outlet 62 is filled with the printed matter 80 by the detection signal of the accumulation sensor 71, the CPU 10 temporarily interrupts the printing process by the print engine 51 and avoids the print jam. On the other hand, a message notifying the interruption of the printing process and a message prompting to take out the printed matter 80 are displayed. Thereafter, when the CPU 10 detects removal of the printed material, the CPU 10 automatically continues the printing process.
[0048]
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a processing flow when a large amount of the printed matter 80 is deposited on the outlet 62 during the printing process, and the deposition sensor 71 reacts and outputs a detection signal. When the CPU 10 detects that the accumulated printed matter 80 has reached a predetermined height based on the detection signal of the accumulation sensor 71, the CPU 10 temporarily suspends the currently performed printing process (step S11) and A message on the screen as a warning signal, for example, “The print exit is full.” “The print process is interrupted.” “Please remove the print.” “Printing resumes automatically when the print is removed. Is displayed "(step S12). Until the printed printed matter 80 accumulated by the user is taken out, that is, until the detection signal from the take-out sensor 72 is canceled (step S13), when the detection signal from the take-out sensor 72 is cleared, the screen of the touch panel monitor 41 is displayed. The upper display is returned to a normal display such as “printing” (step S14). Then, the interrupted print processing is continued (step S15).
[0049]
In addition to the above-described accumulated printed matter 80, obstacles that suddenly appear in the discharge path 61 can be cited as causes that cause print jams. As an obstacle, the printed matter 80 discharged from the printer may be caught in the discharge path 61 and remain. The print jam may occur because the discharge port of the printer may be blocked by the obstacle itself or the printed matter 80 blocked by the obstacle, and needs to be removed. Therefore, when the CPU 10 detects the presence of an obstacle in the discharge path 61 from the detection signal of the obstacle sensor 73, the CPU 10 temporarily interrupts the print processing by the print engine 51 and avoids the print jam. Are displayed on the screen of the touch panel monitor 41, and a message that informs the occurrence of an error and a message that prompts maintenance (removal of obstacles) by the worker. Thereafter, when the CPU 10 detects the removal of the obstacle, the CPU 10 automatically continues the printing process.
[0050]
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a processing flow when an obstacle appears in the discharge path 61 during the printing process, and the obstacle sensor 73 reacts and outputs a detection signal. When the CPU 10 detects an obstacle appearing in the discharge path 61 based on the detection signal of the obstacle sensor 73, the CPU 10 temporarily interrupts the print processing currently being performed (step S21), and on the screen of the touch panel monitor 41, A message as a warning signal, for example, “An error has occurred in the discharge route.” “Print processing is interrupted.” “Call a worker.” Is displayed (step S22). Until the obstacle is removed by the worker, that is, until the detection signal of the obstacle sensor 73 is eliminated (step S23), when the detection signal of the obstacle sensor 73 is eliminated, the touch panel monitor 41 The display on the screen is returned to a normal display such as “printing” (step S24). Then, the interrupted print processing is continued (step S25).
[0051]
As described above, in the printing apparatus as described above, even if the printing process is temporarily interrupted, the interrupted printing process can be continued after the reason for the interruption is resolved. Smooth printing can be done without doing this.
[0052]
In the first embodiment described above, separate sensors are used for the accumulation sensor 71 and the take-out sensor 72. In this case, if all the printed matter 80 deposited on the take-out port 62 is not taken out, the take-out sensor Since the detection signal from the sensor 72 is not eliminated and the printing process is not continued, there is an advantage that it is possible to prevent the user from forgetting to remove the printed matter 80. On the other hand, if the accumulation sensor 71 is also used as the take-out sensor 72 to detect the removal of the accumulated printed print 80 when the detection signal of the accumulation sensor 71 is canceled, the print printed matter 80 is not all. Even if a part is taken out, the printing process can be continued. However, by using one sensor, the manufacturing cost of the printing apparatus can be reduced and the structure can be simplified.
[0053]
Further, in the first embodiment, as a method of detecting that the printed matter 80 has been taken out, the take-out sensor 72 that is an optical reflection sensor is installed on the bottom surface of the outlet 62, and the Although the method of detecting by canceling the detection signal is used, as another method, for example, as shown in FIG. 7, the drawer portion 63 on which the printed matter 80 is stacked is accommodated in the outlet 62. An optical reflection sensor 75 is provided on the bottom surface of the outlet 62 to detect that the drawer portion 63 is pulled out, and the detection signal output from the sensor 75 is once canceled and then output again. Thus, it may be detected that the drawn printed matter 80 has been removed by opening and closing the drawer 63.
[0054]
Further, as the deposition sensor 71 and the take-out sensor 72, not only an optical reflection sensor but also an optical transmission sensor or a weight sensor can be used. FIG. 8A is a diagram illustrating an example in which an optical transmission sensor 76 is used. The light emitting surface of the transmission sensor 76 is installed on one of the opposing side surfaces in the outlet 62, and the light receiving surface of the transmission sensor 76 is installed in the opposite direction. When the light emitted from the light emitting surface is blocked by the printed printed matter 80, the light receiving surface does not receive the light, and the detection signal from the transmission sensor 76 is canceled. Thereby, it can be detected that the accumulated printed matter 80 has reached a predetermined height. FIG. 8B is a diagram illustrating an example in which the weight sensor 77 is used. A weighing platform for the weight sensor 77 is installed on the bottom surface of the outlet 62. It is possible to indirectly detect that the accumulated printed matter 80 has reached a predetermined height by a detection signal output in response to the stacked printed matter 80 reaching a predetermined weight. Note that the predetermined weight may be obtained by measuring the weight of the printed matter at a predetermined height in advance.
[0055]
In the first embodiment, the CPU 10 automatically continues the interrupted print process when the interrupt reason is resolved after interrupting the print process. Alternatively, it may be requested to input a continuation instruction, and the print processing may be continued after receiving the input. For example, a confirmation button is displayed on the screen of the touch panel monitor 41 together with a message “Print has been taken out. Printing will resume.” When the user touches the confirmation button, the printing process is resumed. To do.
[0056]
Next, a second embodiment of the printing apparatus of the present invention will be described.
[0057]
FIG. 9 is a schematic block diagram illustrating the configuration of the printing apparatus 1 according to the second embodiment. The printing apparatus 1 according to the second embodiment shown in FIG. 9 has a configuration in which the deposition sensor 71 and the removal sensor 72 are removed based on the configuration of the first embodiment.
[0058]
In the first embodiment, the print processing 80 is detected by detecting the detection signal output from the deposition sensor 71 that the printed printed matter 80 accumulated at the outlet 62 has reached a predetermined height, and the printed printed matter 80 is The removal is detected by canceling the detection signal output from the take-out sensor 72, and the interrupted print processing is continued. In the second embodiment, the CPU 10 discharges from the print engine 51. The number of printed prints 80 that have been printed is counted, and by detecting that the number of discharged printed sheets has reached a predetermined number (discharge number detecting means), the printed print 80 that has accumulated at the outlet 62 has a predetermined height. The printing process is interrupted by detecting that it has been reached, and the interrupted printing process is continued by inputting a print continuation instruction from the user.
[0059]
FIG. 10 is a processing flow when the CPU 10 detects that the number of ejected printed matter 80 has reached a predetermined number during the printing process and detects that the printed matter 80 has accumulated in a large amount at the outlet 62. FIG. When the CPU 10 detects that the number of discharged printed products 80 has reached a predetermined number, and detects that the accumulated printed products 80 have reached a predetermined height, the CPU 10 temporarily performs the current print processing. At the same time as the interruption (step S31), a message as a warning signal on the screen of the touch panel monitor 41, for example, “the print outlet is full”, “print processing is interrupted”, “printing is performed after taking out the print” Press the resume button "and the like, and the resume button is displayed (step S32). As the input of the print continuation instruction, the standby state is maintained until the user touches the resume button displayed on the screen (step S33). When the user touches the resume button, the display on the touch panel monitor 41 is normally displayed. Is returned to, for example, “printing” (step S34). Then, the interrupted print processing is continued (step S35).
[0060]
As described above, in the printing apparatus as described above, even if the printing process is temporarily interrupted, the interrupted printing process can be continued by the input of the print continuing instruction from the user, as in the first embodiment. Thus, a smooth printing operation can be performed without re-setting the conventional print settings. In addition, since no sensor is used, the manufacturing cost of the printing apparatus can be reduced and the structure can be simplified.
[0061]
In addition to the first and second embodiments, the means for detecting that the printed matter 80 has reached a predetermined height and the means for continuing the interrupted printing process are replaced, for example, The CPU 10 counts the number of printed matter 80 discharged from the print engine 51, and detects that the number of discharged printed matter has reached a predetermined number (discharge number detecting means), whereby the printed matter that has accumulated at the outlet 62. The printing process is interrupted by detecting that 80 has reached a predetermined height, and the interrupted printing process is continued by detecting that the printed matter 80 has been taken out by eliminating the detection signal output from the take-out sensor. Or by detecting that the printed product 80 has reached a predetermined height based on a detection signal output from the deposition sensor 71, the printing process is stopped. Is allowed, the input of a print continuation instruction from the user, may be so as to continue the printing process is interrupted.
[0062]
Note that the warning signal is not limited to displaying a message on the screen as described above, and may be, for example, an image display, a message by sound, a buzzer sound, a lamp flashing, or the like.
Further, the warning signal may be output not only once, but may be repeatedly output when taking out of the printed matter 80 or input of a print continuation instruction is not confirmed within a predetermined time.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of a printing apparatus according to a first embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an outline of a processing flow in the printing apparatus according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a TOP screen displayed on the touch panel monitor screen.
FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a screen on which images and various setting buttons are displayed on the touch panel monitor screen.
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a processing flow when a deposition sensor reacts and outputs a detection signal during a printing process.
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a processing flow when an obstacle sensor reacts and outputs a detection signal during print processing.
FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining a technique for detecting that a drawer portion provided in the outlet is pulled out;
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example in which an optical transmission sensor or a weight sensor is used to detect that the accumulated printed matter has reached a predetermined height.
FIG. 9 is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of a second embodiment of the printing apparatus of the present invention.
FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a processing flow in a case where the CPU detects that the number of discharged printed materials has reached a predetermined number during the printing process.
[Explanation of symbols]
1 Printing device
10 CPU
21 System memory
22 Storage
31 Media reader
32 Media interface
41 Touch panel monitor
42 I / O controller
51 print engine
52 Printer Interface
61 Discharge route
62 Exit
71 Deposition sensor
72 Extraction sensor
73 Obstacle Sensor
75 Optical reflection sensor
76 Optical transmission sensor
77 Weight sensor
80 printed matter
90 bus

Claims (8)

In a printing apparatus having a structure in which printed matter discharged from one or more printers is collected and accumulated at one outlet,
Deposition detection means for directly or indirectly detecting that the deposited printed matter has substantially reached a predetermined height;
An extraction detecting means for detecting that the printed matter that has been deposited is taken out from the outlet;
Warning signal output means for outputting a warning signal in response to detection by the deposition detection means;
And a control unit that interrupts the printing process of the printer in response to the detection by the accumulation detection unit and continues the interrupted printing process in response to the detection by the take-out detection unit. apparatus. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the accumulation detection unit also serves as the extraction detection unit. In a printing apparatus having a structure in which printed matter discharged from one or more printers is collected and accumulated at one outlet,
A discharge number detection means for detecting that the number of discharged printed matter has reached a predetermined number;
An extraction detecting means for detecting that the printed matter that has been deposited is taken out from the outlet;
Warning signal output means for outputting a warning signal in response to detection by the discharge number detection means;
Control means for interrupting print processing of the printer in response to detection by the discharge number detection means and continuing the interrupted print processing in response to detection by the take-out detection means. Printing device. In a printing apparatus having a structure in which printed matter discharged from one or more printers is collected and accumulated at one outlet,
A discharge number detection means for detecting that the number of discharged printed matter has reached a predetermined number;
An input means for inputting an instruction to continue printing by the operator;
Warning signal output means for outputting a warning signal in response to detection by the discharge number detection means;
Control means for interrupting print processing of the printer in response to detection by the discharge number detection means, and continuing the interrupted print processing in response to input of the print continuation instruction by the input means. A printing apparatus characterized by the above. In a printing apparatus having a structure in which printed matter discharged from one or more printers is collected and accumulated at one outlet,
Deposition detection means for directly or indirectly detecting that the deposited printed matter has substantially reached a predetermined height;
An input means for inputting an instruction to continue printing by the operator;
Warning signal output means for outputting a warning signal in response to detection by the deposition detection means;
Control means for interrupting the printing process of the printer in response to the detection by the accumulation detecting means and continuing the interrupted printing process in response to the input of the print continuation instruction by the input means. Characteristic printing device. In a printing apparatus having a structure in which printed matter discharged from one or a plurality of printers passes through a discharge path and is collected and accumulated at one outlet.
Obstacle detection means for detecting obstacles that prevent passage of the printed matter in the discharge path;
A removal detection means for detecting that the obstacle has been removed;
Warning signal output means for outputting a warning signal in response to detection by the obstacle detection means;
Control means for interrupting print processing of the printer in response to detection by the obstacle detection means, and continuing the print processing interrupted in response to detection by the removal detection means. Printing device. The printing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the obstacle detection unit also serves as the removal detection unit. In a printing apparatus having a structure in which printed matter discharged from one or a plurality of printers passes through a discharge path and is collected and accumulated at one outlet.
Obstacle detection means for detecting obstacles that prevent passage of the printed matter in the discharge path;
An input means for inputting an instruction to continue printing by the operator;
Warning signal output means for outputting a warning signal in response to detection by the obstacle detection means;
Control means for interrupting the printing process of the printer in response to detection by the obstacle detection means, and for continuing the interrupted printing process in response to an input of the print continuation instruction by the input means. A printing apparatus characterized by that.

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