JP2004202993A - Image recorder - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image recorder that discharges printed matters in a carbon print mode for printing an identical recording content on different printing papers by sorting them corresponding to different purposes or sets. <P>SOLUTION: This image recorder 1 is of a form overlay type capable of performing the printing by the carbon print mode for printing an identical recording content on respective different printing papers by accommodating different kinds of printing papers in a plurality of paper supply means 211a-211c, respectively. The image recorder has a control means 230 that controls each of operations of supplying papers, printing and discharging the papers so as to provide the printed matters by each kind or set by discriminating the operations based on cases of a plurality of pages of the manuscripts and one page thereof. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO&NCIPI

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a form overlay type image recording apparatus capable of printing in the carbon print mode for printing the same recorded content on different types of printing paper.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Conventionally, when printing the same recorded content in the carbon print mode to create a series of multiple-spelled recorded materials such as various forms and slips with a digital multifunction device, the form overlay method is mainly used Have been.
[0003]
In this method, for example, in order to complete a series of recorded materials of a plurality of sheets composed of a plurality of different types of recording paper, different types of recording paper are classified and set in advance in a plurality of paper feed trays. A printing apparatus has been proposed (for example, see Patent Document 1).
[0004]
In this printing apparatus, when recording an image, the paper feed tray for supplying the recording paper is switched, and the image of the document and the image of the form overlay are sequentially recorded on each recording paper to complete a series of recorded matter. Is configured.
[0005]
[Patent Document 1]
JP-A-11-105367 (FIG. 2, paragraphs “0018” to “0024”)
[0006]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
In a slip or the like, after printing, it is usually necessary to sort according to the use (or purpose). However, since the above-mentioned Patent Document 1 does not describe the operation of discharging the recorded matter, a plurality of uses are mixed. When the paper is discharged to the paper discharge tray in such a state, the user has to sort the recorded materials for each application, which is troublesome.
[0007]
In particular, when printing a multi-page document in the carbon print mode, or when printing a plurality of copies of the document in the carbon print mode, etc., the printing operation is performed by changing the number of copies for each type. Since the number of output sheets increases, the sorting of the recorded matter becomes even more troublesome, which requires a considerable amount of time.
[0008]
Also, when printing a series of recorded materials, such as a slip, with a conventional digital multifunction printer on a commercially available paper sheet in an arbitrary number of sheets spelled from the beginning, the printing order is as follows: If the pages are not arranged in order, printing cannot be performed correctly, and if the user makes a mistake in the specification, the printed result of the recorded matter may be erroneous, which is not convenient. Further, even when printing is performed correctly, sorting by type cannot be performed, and it is necessary for the user to manually rearrange the recorded materials.
[0009]
The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and provides an image recording apparatus that sorts and prints prints in a carbon print mode for printing the same recorded content on different types of printing paper by type or set. The purpose is to.
[0010]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
According to the present invention, means for solving the above-described problem are configured as follows.
[0011]
(1) An image recording apparatus capable of printing in a carbon print mode in which different types of printing papers are stored in a plurality of paper feeding units and the same recording content is printed on the different types of printing papers,
A control unit that controls each operation of feeding, printing, and discharging so as to distinguish between a plurality of pages and a single page of a document and to provide a printed material in a properly sorted state. It is characterized by having been provided.
[0012]
In this configuration, when the document is a slip, the content is a one-page multi-page spelled record, and when the document has a plurality of pages, that is, a booklet format record, It is possible to discriminate the handling in each operation between the printers, and to discharge the printed material in a state where the printed matter is appropriately sorted according to use (or purpose) or set, and the convenience is improved.
[0013]
(2) When the number of pages of the document is plural, the printed matter is discharged for each type.
[0014]
In this configuration, when there are a plurality of originals, the printed matter is discharged by type after printing in the carbon print mode, so that, for example, sorting by use or purpose can be performed. However, it is possible to eliminate the troublesome work of manually selecting and rearranging printed materials.
[0015]
(3) When the number of pages of the document is one, if the number of prints of each type is equal, the printed matter is discharged by set, while if the number of prints is different by the type, the printed matter is discharged by type. It is characterized by that.
[0016]
In this configuration, when the number of print copies for each type is the same, such as a slip, a series of printed materials of a plurality of sheets are fed, printed, and discharged in units of each set, and the printed materials discharged for each set are printed. This makes it easier for the user to organize and handle the printed matter after the paper is discharged. The “set” refers to a set of printed matter having the same recorded content for each use (or purpose). For example, in the case of a courier slip, the use or purpose is different for the same recorded content. There are three sets, one for customers, one for billing fares, and one for tags.
[0017]
Further, when the number of copies differs for each type, paper feeding, printing, and discharging can be performed for each type, and printed matter discharged for each type (by use or purpose) can be obtained. Makes it easier to organize and handle printed matter after paper ejection.
[0018]
(4) If the number of pages of the original is one and the number of copies of any one of the originals is plural, the printed matter is discharged by type. .
[0019]
In this configuration, a series of recorded materials, such as a slip, are spelled out, fed, printed, and ejected for each type, and the printed matter is ejected for each type (for each use or purpose). The user can easily arrange and handle the printed matter after the sheet is discharged.
[0020]
(5) In the case where a plurality of paper discharge means are provided and the printed matter is discharged by type, the printed matter is discharged to the paper discharge means different for each type.
[0021]
In this configuration, after printing in the carbon print mode, the position of a plurality of paper discharge means (paper discharge trays or the like) is changed, or the paper discharge path is changed, so that the paper discharge process is performed. The sorting (sorting, sorting) work for each type of printed matter can be performed more clearly, and the user can more easily arrange and handle the printed matter.
[0022]
(6) In the case where a plurality of paper discharging means are provided and the printed matter is discharged in each set, the printed matter is discharged to different paper discharging means in each set.
[0023]
In this configuration, after printing in the carbon print mode, by changing the position of a paper discharging means (paper discharging tray or the like) or changing the paper discharging path, the printed matter in the paper discharging process is changed. The sorting (sorting, sorting) work for each set can be performed more clearly, and the user can more easily arrange and handle the printed matter.
[0024]
(7) A carbon print mode that includes at least a single sheet feeding unit, a plurality of sheet discharging units, and a control unit that controls each operation of printing and sheet discharging, and prints the same recorded content on printing paper. In an image recording device capable of printing,
The paper feeding unit stores an arbitrary number of different types of printing paper, and when the number of pages of the document is plural, paper is fed from the paper feeding unit by a command from the control unit. After printing the same recorded content on the printing paper, each printed matter is discharged to the different paper discharging means for each type.
[0025]
In this configuration, for example, when the number of pages of a document is two, after performing printing in the carbon print mode, the position of a paper discharge unit (a paper discharge tray or the like) is changed, or the paper discharge path is changed. Is changed, each printed matter is sorted (sorted and sorted) into three different paper discharge means, for example, by three kinds of paper discharge means (by use or purpose), and the printed matter is arranged and handled. It becomes even easier.
[0026]
(8) At least a single sheet feeding unit, a plurality of sheet discharging units, and a control unit for controlling each operation of printing and sheet discharging, and a carbon print mode for printing the same recorded content on printing paper. In an image recording device capable of printing,
In the paper feed unit, an arbitrary number of different types of printing papers are stored, and when the number of output set copies of a document is plural, paper is fed from the paper feed unit by a command from the control unit. After printing the same recorded contents on the printing paper, each printed matter is discharged to a different discharging means for each set.
[0027]
In this configuration, for example, in the case of two sets of one page, after performing printing in the carbon print mode, the position of a paper discharge unit (paper discharge tray or the like) is changed, or the paper discharge path is changed. Is changed, the recorded matter is sorted (sorted, sorted) into two different paper discharge means for each set and discharged, so that the arrangement and handling of the printed matter is further facilitated.
[0028]
(9) At least a single sheet feeding unit, a plurality of sheet discharging units, and a control unit for controlling each operation of printing and sheet discharging, and a carbon print mode for printing the same recorded content on a printing sheet. In an image recording device capable of printing,
In the paper feed unit, an arbitrary number of different types of printing papers are stored, and when the number of output set copies of a document is plural, paper is fed from the paper feed unit by a command from the control unit. After the same recorded content is printed on the printing paper, each printed matter is discharged to the different paper discharging means for each type.
[0029]
In this configuration, for example, in a case where three sets of originals are included in one page, after performing printing in the carbon print mode, the position of a paper discharge unit (a paper discharge tray or the like) is changed, or a paper discharge path. , The printed matter is sorted (sorted and sorted) into three different paper discharge means for each type (for each purpose or purpose) and discharged, so that the arrangement and handling of the printed matter is further facilitated. .
[0030]
(10) When the number of the paper discharge units is smaller than the number of the types of the printing papers or the number of output sets, the printed matter of each set is discharged to the same paper discharge unit.
[0031]
If the number of paper ejection means (paper ejection trays, etc.) is smaller than the number of types of printing paper or the number of output sets, basically, paper cannot be output to each paper ejection means for each type (purpose) or for each set. Even if they are output, they must be forcibly dispersed and output to each sheet discharging means.
[0032]
Therefore, in this configuration, a conventional output mode, that is, a method of outputting for each set, is adopted so that the user can determine how the output is distributed and output. The effort required for organizing and handling is reduced.
[0033]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, an image recording apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 shows a configuration of a digital multifunction peripheral 1 as an image recording apparatus. This image recording apparatus 1 includes an image reading unit 110, an operation unit 112, an image forming unit 210, a device control unit 230, a communication unit 240, a hard disk 250 , A paper supply unit 211, and a paper discharge unit 220, and are connected to personal computers (PCs) (1) and (2) via a network such as a LAN.
[0034]
The above-described paper supply unit 211 includes a plurality of paper supply trays (paper supply means of the present invention) 211a, 211b, and 211c that respectively store different print papers. Paper discharge trays (paper discharge means of the present invention) 220a, 220b, and 220c for discharging paper by application or set.
[0035]
The above-described image reading device 110 includes, for example, a CCD reading device 116 for inputting image data, and the operation unit 112 includes an input unit 112a including various input keys and a display unit such as an LCD. It has a display unit 112b for inputting operation and conditions of the apparatus and displaying conditions and the like.
[0036]
The image forming unit 210 has a volatile memory 260 and a printing unit 227 such as an LSU (laser scanning unit), and outputs image data stored in an image data storage unit. The device control unit (control means of the present invention) 230 monitors the operation of each unit constituting the digital multi-function peripheral, and performs each of the paper feeding, printing, and discharging processes so that the multi-function peripheral operates properly. Control the entire device, including: The communication unit 240 controls communication with client machines such as personal computers installed on a network.
[0037]
The hard disk (HD) 250 stores image data input from each input unit (input path: each mode mounted as a digital multifunction peripheral, for example, a scanner, a facsimile, a network, and the like). The image data storage means can be configured as a storage device having a magnetic storage medium. Further, the management unit 270 manages information and the like necessary for controlling each unit of the device in the device control unit 230 described above.
[0038]
As described above, the paper feed unit 211 has, for example, three paper feed trays 1 (211a), a paper feed tray 2 (211b), and a paper feed tray 3 (211c), and is connected to the operation unit 112 or the network. When a printing instruction is issued from the PC (1) or the like, the printing paper of the paper size specified by the user is fed to the image forming unit 210.
[0039]
As described above, the paper discharge unit 220 has, for example, three paper discharge trays 1 (220a), a paper discharge tray 2 (220b), and a paper discharge tray 3 (220c), and is printed by the image forming unit 210. Store recordings. When there is a print instruction from the operation unit 112, the PC (1), or the like, the user designates the position by changing the position of the paper discharge tray or changing the paper discharge path to the paper discharge tray. The printed matter can be selectively output to the discharge trays 1 to 3 to be printed, and a plurality of copies of the printed matter can be sorted into a plurality of discharge trays.
[0040]
Next, a description will be given of a case where a printing process is performed on the digital multifunction peripheral 1 having the above configuration based on data transferred from an external device such as a PC (1) connected via a network. In the following description, sheet feed trays 1, 2, and 3 correspond to 211a, 211b, and 211c in FIG. 1, respectively, and sheet discharge trays 1, 2, and 3 correspond to 220a and 220a in FIG. 1, respectively. 220b and 220c.
[0041]
<< Embodiment 1 >>
When the PC (1) instructs the digital multifunction device 1 to perform a print process, first, as shown in FIG. 2, a print process instruction screen 301 is displayed on the display unit 300 of the PC (1). indicate. The print processing instruction screen 301 displays various print conditions and sets print conditions for executing the print processing.
[0042]
The print processing instruction screen 301 includes, for example, a check box 302 for selecting a function to be used (by putting a check, the function can be used) and a check box for selecting a paper feed tray (check The paper is fed from the paper feed tray) 303, 304, 305, 306, check boxes 307, 308, 309, 310 for inputting the number of copies, and the multifunction peripheral stored on the PC (1). A paper size display section 311 for displaying the paper size of the main body, an option for manually determining whether to automatically set the method of discharging printed printed matter, or to print in types or print in sets. 312, and a setting key 313 indicating completion of setting of each setting operation.
[0043]
The user uses the print processing instruction screen 301 to set various print conditions. For example, when a two-page print process is to be performed using a one-page document as shown in FIG. 3 as a three-page spelled record, the user may select the carbon print mode on the print process instruction screen 301. The user checks a check box 302 to determine whether or not to apply the carbon print function and set various print processing conditions at the bottom of the screen.
[0044]
Then, check the check box 303 of the sheet tray 1 (211a), the check box 304 of the sheet tray 2 (211b), and the check box 305 of the sheet tray 3 (211c). “2” is input to 307, “2” is input to the copy number input portion 308 of the tray 2, and “2” is input to the copy number input portion 309 of the tray 3.
[0045]
At this time, on the paper size display section 311 indicating the paper size of the paper feed tray of the digital multi-function peripheral 1, a paper feed tray item that is different from the paper size of the paper tray that was checked first, that is, check the manual feed tray The box 306 and the copy number setting column 310 cannot be set.
[0046]
Further, in the option 312 for determining the recording material discharge method, by setting the discharge method to “automatic”, the first set is the discharge tray 1 (220a), and the second set is the discharge tray 2 (220b) so that the sheet is discharged. Details of the method of determining the order of printing and discharging will be described with reference to FIG.
[0047]
After the above settings are made, when the setting key 313 is pressed and a normal print key is pressed, data relating to the print processing of the slip is transferred from the PC (1) to the digital multifunction peripheral 1 via the network.
[0048]
Further, when printing is to be performed on different printing papers, such as two copies of a multi-page booklet as shown in FIG. 4 for a doctor, one copy for a patient, and one copy for storage, etc. On the print processing instruction screen 301 in FIG. 2, the user checks the check box 302 for determining whether to apply the carbon print mode, applies the carbon print function, and sets various print processing conditions at the bottom of the screen. Enable settings.
[0049]
Then, check the check box 303 of the sheet feed tray 1 (211a), the check box 304 of the sheet feed tray 2 (211b), and the check box 305 of the sheet feed tray 3 (211c). “2” is input. Similarly, “1” is input into the number-of-copies input section 308 of the paper feed tray 2, and “1” is input into the number-of-copies input section 309 of the tray 3.
[0050]
At this time, on the display unit 311 indicating the paper size of the paper feed tray of the digital multi-function peripheral 1, an item of the paper feed tray different from the paper size of the paper tray that was checked first, that is, the check box 306 of the manual feed tray The setting of the number-of-copies setting column 310 becomes impossible as in the case of FIG.
[0051]
Further, in the option 312 for determining the method of discharging the recorded material, the determination of the discharging method is set to “automatic”, so that the recorded material for the doctor fed and printed from the paper feed tray 1 (211a) is discharged. The printed matter for the patient, which is fed from the paper feed tray 2 (211b) to the paper tray 1 (220a) and printed, is fed to the paper discharge tray 2 (220b) from the paper feed tray 3 (211c) and printed. The recorded material for storage is set to be discharged to the paper discharge tray 3 (220c). The details of the method of determining the order of printing and discharging will be described with reference to FIG.
[0052]
After the above settings are made, when the setting key 313 is pressed and a normal print key is pressed, data relating to the print processing of the slip is transferred from the PC (1) to the digital multifunction peripheral 1 via the network.
[0053]
The transfer data transferred from the PC (1) includes, as shown in FIG. 5, instruction information regarding print processing and page information for each page. The instruction information includes information regarding the size of the recording paper, the number of prints, the selected paper feed tray, and particularly, in the case of the carbon print mode, information such as which paper feed tray and how many papers are to be fed. Have been.
[0054]
The page information of each page is image data of each page recorded on a recording sheet by the printing process. The amount of this page information changes according to the number of pages to be printed.
[0055]
For example, if the transfer data is a three-sheet slip as shown in FIG. 3, as shown in FIG. 5, the print mode is set to the carbon mode together with the information such as the paper size and the number of prints as the instruction information. The information includes information indicating that printing is to be performed, and the operation of feeding paper one by one from each of the paper feed tray 1 (211a), the paper feed tray (211b), and the paper feed tray 3 (211c) is performed twice. At this time, the page information is not the image data of six pages (the number of paper feed trays 3 × the number of sets 2) but the original is one page, so the printing process can be performed by the image data of one page. is there.
[0056]
The transfer data relating to such a recorded material is received by the communication unit 240 and temporarily stored in the hard disk (HD) 250 as described with reference to FIG. Thereafter, a printing process is performed in the image forming unit 210 according to the flowchart shown in FIG. That is, when the data to which the carbon print function is applied is transferred on the print processing instruction screen 301 shown in FIG. 2, in step s501 in FIG. 6, the communication unit 240 of the digital multi-function peripheral 1 (see FIG. 1) Receives the transfer data shown in FIG. In step s502, the received transfer data is stored in the hard disk (HD) 250, and the process proceeds to step s503.
[0057]
In step s503, the device control unit 230 shown in FIG. 1 stores the sheet in the selected sheet tray included in the transfer data instruction information based on the sheet tray information managed by the management unit 270. If it is determined that the paper size is different from the paper size of the digital multifunction peripheral 1 stored on the PC (1), the process proceeds to step s504, and the display unit 30 (see FIG. 2) of the PC (1) displays the paper size. A confirmation message is displayed (not shown).
[0058]
In step s505, the user confirms the confirmation message, and changes the paper feed tray (changes the paper size setting of the selected paper feed tray or selects the paper feed tray on the print processing instruction screen 301 shown in FIG. 2). (Change the tray to another suitable tray).
[0059]
If the paper feed tray is changed in step s505, the flow returns to step s503 to perform the above determination again. On the other hand, in step s505, unless the paper feed tray is changed or the user does not cancel the job, the process waits until the paper feed tray is changed.
[0060]
If it is determined in step s503 that the sizes of all the recording sheets are appropriate, it is determined in step s506 whether the number of pages of the document is plural or one. If the number of pages of the document is plural, the process proceeds to step s508, where the document is printed and discharged by type. For example, in the case of FIG.
(1) The first copy for doctors, 1st page → 2nd page → 3rd page is the output tray 1 (220a)
(2) The second copy for doctors, 1st page → 2nd page → 3rd page is the output tray 1 (220b)
(3) 1st page → 2nd page → 3rd page for the patient is the paper discharge tray 2 (220b)
(4) 1st page → 2nd page → 3rd page for storage is the paper discharge tray 3 (220c)
Are printed and discharged in this order.
[0061]
In this example, the output is performed on a different paper output tray for each type. However, when there is only one paper output tray or when the number of paper types is smaller than the number of paper types, the output may be performed on the same paper output tray. .
[0062]
If it is determined in step s506 that the number of pages of the document is one, the process advances to step s507 to determine the number of sets of recorded materials. Here, the number of sets of recorded materials is equal to the set values of the setting positions 307, 308, 309, and 310 (FIG. 2) of the number of copies fed from each feed tray in the print processing instruction screen 301. The value of the case.
[0063]
For example, when the setting value of each of the check boxes 307, 308, 309, and 310 is “1”, the number of sets of recorded matter is determined to be one. On the other hand, when the set value of 307 is “2” and the set value of 308 is “1”, the set is not recognized and output is performed in units of types in step s508. If the number of sets is determined to be plural in step s507, an output is made for each set in step s509.
[0064]
That is, in the case of FIG. 4, the recorded matter of the paper in the paper feed tray 1 → the recorded matter of the paper in the paper feed tray 2 → the recorded matter of the paper feed tray 3 (first set): the discharge tray 1 → the paper of the paper feed tray 1 Printed matter on paper → recorded matter on paper in paper feed tray 2 → recorded matter on paper feed tray 3 (second set): printed and discharged in the order of paper discharge tray 2. In this embodiment, in the case of a plurality of sets of one page, the output for each set is output to each paper discharge tray in step s509. However, in the same case, depending on the specifications of the model, the output is performed in step s508. Then, the sheet may be discharged for each type (see claim 4).
[0065]
In this example, the output is performed to a different discharge tray for each set. However, when there is only one discharge tray or when the number is smaller than the number of types of paper, the output may be performed to the same discharge tray. .
[0066]
If it is determined in step s506 that the number of pages of the document is one and the number of sets of recorded matter is singular, in step s510, all the recorded matter is ejected to a single ejection tray. The point that all the recorded materials are discharged to a single tray is different from the case where the number of the recorded materials is plural. In addition, although the case where the setting of the printing and the discharging order is automatic is described above, the user can also manually set the order.
[0067]
Finally, in step s511, it is determined whether or not the recording paper is stored in all the selected paper feed trays. If it is determined in step s511 that all the selected paper feed trays contain recording paper, the print processing by the carbon print function ends.
[0068]
On the other hand, if it is determined that there is at least one paper feed tray in which no recording paper is stored, the process proceeds to step s512, and the print processing instruction screen 301 (see FIG. 2) of the PC (1) or the digital composite A confirmation message is displayed on the display unit 112b (see FIG. 1) of the device 1 (not shown), the process returns to step s511, and the determination is performed again. When the paper supply to all the selected paper feed trays is completed, the printing process by the carbon print function ends.
[0069]
<< Embodiment 2 >>
In the present embodiment, the digital multifunction peripheral is the same as in the first embodiment, and thus the description is omitted, and the process of the printing process will be described with reference to FIG.
[0070]
In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, a printed material such as a multi-sheet bound slip is used by using a predetermined number of printed sheets (in FIG. 7, four-sheet bound). Applied when creating. The printing paper bound in the arbitrary number is commercially available as a special printing paper, and the same printing process can be performed by the user himself even when the printing paper is overlapped.
[0071]
In the previous embodiment, a different number of copies can be set for each type of paper by setting a set value (307, 308, 309, 310 in FIG. 2) of the number of papers fed from each paper feed tray. In the embodiment, different sets of sheets cannot be set for each type of sheet because one set of sheets of different types is contained in the same sheet feed tray.
[0072]
For example, using a three-sheet printing paper set in a sheet feeding tray 1 (the top tray of the sheet feeding unit) as shown in FIG. If two sets of printing are desired, the number of spelled sheets of printing paper can be set by the printer driver as shown in 314, 315, 316, and 317 in FIG. The digital MFP 1 is notified when printing.
[0073]
In the case of the example of FIG. 8, “3” is input to the setting value 314 of the spelling number of the printing paper in the paper feed tray 1 as the setting value. Here, a description will be given below with reference to FIG. 10, but as another method, a method of setting in advance how many sheets of printing paper to be set on the paper feed tray setting screen of the main body may be set. Conceivable.
[0074]
In the print processing instruction screen 301 of FIG. 10, a check box 302 for determining whether to apply the carbon print mode is checked, the carbon print function is applied, and various print processing conditions can be set at the bottom of the screen. . Then, the user checks the check box 303 for determining the sheet feeding from the sheet feeding tray 1 (211a), and inputs "2" into the copy number input portion 307 of the tray 1.
[0075]
At this time, if the print / discharge order determination item 312 is set to “automatic” and the number of attached discharge trays is equal to or greater than the set number of copies (2 in this example), the set unit is set. Can be sorted. Details of the method of determining the order of printing and discharging will be described with reference to FIG.
[0076]
When the normal print key is pressed after the setting key 313 is pressed after performing the above setting, data relating to the print processing of the slip is transferred from the PC (1) to the digital multifunction peripheral 1 via the network. You.
[0077]
Further, for example, using a three-sheet spelled print sheet set in a sheet feed tray 1 (the uppermost tray of the sheet feeding unit) as shown in FIG. If it is desired to create one copy for each copy, the printer driver can be used to set the number of print sheets to be spelled, as shown at 314, 315, 316, and 317 in FIG. , The digital MFP 1 is notified when printing in the carbon print mode.
[0078]
In the case of the example of FIG. 9, “3” is input to the setting value 314 of the spelling number of the printing paper in the paper feed tray 1 as the setting value. Here, the following description will be made based on FIG. 10. However, a method of setting in advance how many print sheets to be set on the paper feed tray setting screen of the main body is also conceivable.
[0079]
In the print processing instruction screen 301 of FIG. 10, a check box 302 for determining whether to apply the carbon print mode is checked, the carbon print function is applied, and various print processing conditions can be set at the bottom of the screen. . Then, the user checks a check box 303 for determining paper feeding from the paper feeding tray 1 (211a), and inputs "1" to the number-of-copies input portion 307 of the tray 1.
[0080]
At this time, if the print / discharge order determination item 312 is set to “automatic”, printing is performed in the page order, and if the number of attached discharge trays is equal to or greater than the set number, the number of copies is set. Units can be sorted. The details of the method of determining the order of printing and discharging will be described with reference to FIG.
[0081]
When the normal print key is pressed after the setting key 313 is pressed after performing the above setting, data relating to the print processing of the slip is transferred from the PC (1) to the digital multifunction peripheral 1 via the network. You.
[0082]
As described with reference to FIG. 1 in the first embodiment, the transfer data relating to such a recorded material is received by the communication unit 240, temporarily stored in the hard disk 250, and then illustrated in FIG. The printing process is performed in the image forming unit 210 according to the flowchart. The flow from step s901 to step s905 in this flowchart is the same as that from step s501 to s505 in FIG. 6 described in the first embodiment, and a description thereof will be omitted.
[0083]
If it is determined in step s903 that the size of the recording sheet is appropriate, it is determined in step s906 whether the document is a plurality of pages or a single page. If the document is a plurality of pages, the process proceeds to step s908, and the total number of spelled sheets of print paper in the paper feed designation tray on the print processing instruction screen 301 in FIG. It is determined whether the number is greater than or less than the number of trays of the paper discharge unit 220.
[0084]
If the number of paper discharge trays is equal to or greater than the total number of spelled sheets, in step s910, output is performed in units of types. For example, in the case of FIG. 9, the spelling number of the sheet feeding tray 1 is “3”, and the other sheet feeding trays 2 and 3 are “0”. , And the process proceeds to step s910. At this time, the printing order is
One page for doctors → One page for patients → One page for storage →
→ 2 pages for doctors → 2 pages for patients → 2 pages for storage →
→ 3 pages for doctors → 3 pages for patients → 3 pages for storage
The page order is as follows, and this cannot be changed. However, at this time, the paper discharged to the paper discharge unit 220 is such that each page for the doctor is discharged to the discharge tray 1 (220a), each page for the patient is discharged to the discharge tray 2 (220b), and each page for storage is discharged. It becomes the paper discharge tray 3 (220c), and it becomes possible to organize by type.
[0085]
Such a paper discharge cannot be performed unless the number of paper discharge trays is greater than the number of types of print paper. Therefore, under other conditions, that is, when the total number of spells is smaller than the number of paper discharge trays of the digital multifunction peripheral 1 If the number is larger than the number, the paper discharge operation of outputting to the same paper discharge tray is performed in step s911 in the print order of the page order (see claim 10). Note that, in the case of FIG. 9, one set of the multi-page document is printed in the carbon print mode. However, when this is a plurality of sets of the multi-page document, the output for each type of printing paper is similarly performed. This is performed for each discharge tray.
[0086]
If the number of pages of the document is one, the process proceeds to step s909, and the number of discharge trays of the multifunction peripheral 1 is set to the number of sets of documents, that is, the copy number setting locations 307, 308, and 309 of each paper tray in FIG. , 310, the process proceeds to step s912, where the set is discharged to each discharge tray. For example, in the case of FIG. 9, the set value of the number of copies of the paper feed tray 1 is “2” and the set value of the number of copies of the other paper feed trays is “0”. Becomes greater than the set number “2”, and the process proceeds to step s912. At this time, the printing order is
1st sheet of set 1 → 2nd sheet of set 1 → 3rd sheet of set 1 →
→ 1st set 2 → 2nd set 2 → 3rd set 2
The set 1 is discharged to the discharge tray 1 (220a), the set 2 is discharged to the discharge tray 2 (220b), and the arrangement of each set is facilitated. However, this is the case of the above-described embodiment, and depending on the model, a paper output for each type may be used (see claim 9).
[0087]
In other conditions, that is, when the number of the output trays 220 is smaller than the number of sets of originals, in step s911, the output to be output to the same output tray for each set in the print order of the page order. A paper operation is performed (see claim 10). Note that the description regarding the order of printing and paper discharging so far describes the case where the setting is automatic, and the user can also perform manual setting. However, in the case where the document is one page and the number of sets is “1”, the order of printing and paper ejection cannot theoretically be changed.
[0088]
Finally, in step s913, it is determined whether or not the recording paper is stored in all the selected paper feed trays. If it is determined in step s913 that the recording sheets are stored in all the selected paper feed trays, the printing process by the carbon print function ends.
[0089]
On the other hand, if it is determined that there is at least one paper feed tray that does not contain recording paper, the process proceeds to step s914, and the PC (1) print processing instruction screen 301 (see FIG. 2) or the digital composite A confirmation message is displayed on the display unit 112b (see FIG. 1) of the device 1 (not shown), the process returns to step s913, and the determination is performed again. When the paper supply to all the selected paper feed trays is completed, the printing process by the carbon print function ends.
[0090]
Although not shown in the drawings, even when different types of paper are randomly stored in any one of the single paper feed trays (1 to 3) (including a case where the paper is incorrectly stored), It is also possible to discharge the printed matter in a state of being sorted for each type on the discharge trays 1 to 3.
[0091]
In this case, at least the type of the paper is determined at a position upstream of the image forming area where the printing process is performed in the paper feeding direction, and the paper output tray 1 is determined by a command from the device control unit 230 receiving the determination signal. By changing the positions of to 、 3 or changing the paper discharge path, the printed matter is sorted (sorted and sorted) to each of the paper discharge trays 1 to 3 by type and discharged. Good.
[0092]
【The invention's effect】
As is clear from the above description, the present invention has the following effects.
[0093]
(1) The paper feed, print, and paper discharge operations are controlled so as to discriminate between a plurality of pages and a single page of a document, and to provide a properly sorted printed material. Therefore, for example, when the document is a slip, there are two cases: a case where the content is a multi-page spelled record of one page; and a case where the document has a plurality of pages, that is, a booklet-type record. It is possible to discriminate the handling in each operation between the printers, and the printed matter can be discharged in a state where the printed matter is appropriately sorted according to use (or purpose) or set, and the convenience is improved.
[0094]
(2) When the number of pages of the document is plural, the printed matter is ejected by type. For example, if the printed matter is ejected by a different type for each application (or for each purpose), as in the conventional case, the user can manually eject the printed matter. In addition, the troublesome work of sorting and rearranging printed matters can be omitted.
[0095]
(3) When the number of pages of a document is one and the number of print copies for each type is the same, such as a slip, a series of recorded materials of a plurality of sheets are fed, printed, and discharged in units of each set. Thus, the printed matter discharged for each set can be obtained, and the user can easily arrange and handle the printed matter after the discharge.
[0096]
Further, when the number of copies differs for each type, paper feeding, printing, and discharging are performed for each type, and for example, printed matter discharged for each application (or for each purpose) can be obtained. Arrangement and handling of printed matter after paper ejection become easier.
[0097]
(4) If the number of pages of the document is one and the number of copies of any one of the documents is plural, the printed matter is discharged by type. Alternatively, the printed matter discharged for each purpose can be obtained, and the user can easily arrange and handle the printed matter after the sheet is discharged.
[0098]
(5) Since a plurality of paper discharge units are provided and printed matter is discharged to different paper discharge units for each type, after performing printing in the carbon print mode, the positions of the plural paper discharge units (paper discharge trays and the like) are changed. By changing the paper discharge path or by changing the paper discharge path, the sorting (sorting, sorting) operation of each type of printed material in the paper discharge process can be performed more clearly, and it is easier for the user to organize and handle the printed material. Become.
[0099]
(6) Since a plurality of paper discharge units are provided and the printed matter is discharged to different paper discharge units for each set, after performing printing in the carbon print mode, the position of the paper discharge unit (paper discharge tray or the like) is changed. In this way, or by changing the paper discharge path, the sorting (sorting, sorting) operation for each set of printed materials in the paper discharging process can be performed more clearly, and the arrangement and handling of the printed materials becomes easier for the user. .
[0100]
(7) The paper feeding unit stores an arbitrary number of different types of printing papers, and if the number of pages of the document is plural, each printed matter is discharged to the different paper discharging unit for each type. For example, when the number of pages of a document is two, after performing printing in the carbon print mode, changing the position of a paper discharging means (paper discharging tray or the like) or changing the paper discharging path. Thereby, each printed matter is sorted (sorted, sorted) and discharged to three different paper discharge means, for example, for each purpose (type), and the printed matter can be further easily arranged and handled.
[0101]
(8) In the paper feeding unit, an arbitrary number of different types of printing papers are stored, and when there are a plurality of output set copies of a document, each printed matter is discharged to a different paper discharging unit for each set. For example, in the case of two sets of originals per page, after performing printing in the carbon print mode, changing the position of the paper discharging means (paper discharging tray or the like) or changing the paper discharging path. Thereby, the recorded matter is sorted (sorted and sorted) into two different paper discharging means for each set and discharged, so that the arrangement and handling of the printed matter is further facilitated.
[0102]
(9) In the paper feeding unit, when an arbitrary number of different types of printing papers are stored and the number of output set copies of the document is plural, each printed matter is discharged to the paper discharging unit which is different for each type. Therefore, for example, in a case where three sets of originals are included in one page, after performing printing in the carbon print mode, the position of a paper discharge unit (a paper discharge tray or the like) is changed, or the paper discharge path is changed. In this way, the printed matter is sorted (sorted and sorted) into three different paper discharging means for each use (by type) and discharged, so that the printed matter can be further easily arranged and handled.
[0103]
(10) If the number of paper discharge units is smaller than the number of types of print paper or the number of output sets, the printed matter of each set is discharged to the same paper discharge unit. The user can determine whether the output has been made, and the effort required for organizing and handling the printed matter is reduced.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of a configuration of an image recording apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of a display unit of an external connection device connected to the image recording apparatus.
FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the print processing pattern.
FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing another example of the print processing pattern.
FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the transfer data.
FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a flowchart showing a flow from the data reception to the discharging operation.
FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram of the printing paper of the four-sheet spelling.
FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing still another example of the print processing pattern.
FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing another example of the print processing pattern.
FIG. 10 is another explanatory diagram of the display unit.
FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing another example of a flowchart showing a flow from the data reception to the discharging operation.
[Explanation of symbols]
1-Image recording device
211a, 211b, 211c—paper feeding means
220a, 220b, 220c-sheet discharging means
230-control means

Claims (10)

In an image recording apparatus capable of printing in a carbon print mode in which different types of printing papers are stored in a plurality of paper feeding units and the same recording content is printed on the different types of printing papers,
A control unit that controls each operation of feeding, printing, and discharging so as to distinguish between a plurality of pages and a single page of a document and to provide a printed material in a properly sorted state. An image recording apparatus, comprising: 2. The image recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the number of pages of the document is plural, the printed matter is discharged for each type. When the number of pages of the document is one, when the number of print copies of each type is equal to each other, the printed matter is discharged by set, while when the number of print copies is different by type, the printed matter is discharged by type. The image recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: 2. The printed matter is ejected by type when the number of pages of the original is one and the number of copies of any one of the originals is plural. An image recording apparatus according to claim 1. 5. The image recording apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a plurality of paper ejection units, wherein when the printed matter is ejected by type, the printed matter is ejected to the different paper ejection units by type. The image recording apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a plurality of paper discharge units, wherein when the printed matter is discharged in sets, the printed matter is discharged to the different discharge units for each set. Equipped with at least a single paper supply unit, a plurality of paper discharge units, and a control unit that controls each operation of printing and paper discharge, enabling printing in the carbon print mode for printing the same recorded content on print paper Image recording device,
The paper feeding unit stores an arbitrary number of different types of printing paper, and when the number of pages of the document is plural, paper is fed from the paper feeding unit by a command from the control unit. An image recording apparatus, wherein the same recorded content is printed on a print sheet, and then each printed matter is discharged to a different discharge means for each type. Equipped with at least a single paper supply unit, a plurality of paper discharge units, and a control unit that controls each operation of printing and paper discharge, enabling printing in the carbon print mode for printing the same recorded content on print paper Image recording device,
In the paper feed unit, an arbitrary number of different types of printing papers are stored, and when the number of output set copies of a document is plural, paper is fed from the paper feed unit by a command from the control unit. An image recording apparatus, wherein the same recorded content is printed on a print sheet, and then each printed matter is discharged to a different discharge means for each set. Equipped with at least a single paper supply unit, a plurality of paper discharge units, and a control unit that controls each operation of printing and paper discharge, enabling printing in the carbon print mode for printing the same recorded content on print paper Image recording device,
In the paper feed unit, an arbitrary number of different types of printing papers are stored, and when the number of output set copies of a document is plural, paper is fed from the paper feed unit by a command from the control unit. An image recording apparatus, wherein the same recorded content is printed on a print sheet, and then each printed matter is discharged to the different discharge means for each type. 8. The printing method according to claim 7, wherein when the number of the paper discharge units is smaller than the number of types of the printing paper or the number of output sets, printed matter for each set is discharged to the same paper discharge unit. 10. The image recording apparatus according to any one of 9 above.

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