JP2005102034A - Information processor and image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To improve the user-friendliness of an information processor remarkably by acquiring information from various storage media and executing various functions such as an e-mail transmission function and an image editing function. <P>SOLUTION: An operation panel P is provided with a storage medium unit 9b having a slot for allowing the insertion of a storage medium to write/read information to/from the storage medium for each type of a storage medium. This can acquire information from various storage media and execute various functions such as an e-mail transmission function and an image editing function to be able to improve the user-friendliness of the information processor remarkably. In addition, slots SL3 and SL4 at a lower step correspond to storage media wider than those of slots SL1 and SL2 at an upper step to thereby enable an operator to visually recognize all storage media inserted into the slots SL1 to SL4 even when a plurality of types of storage media are used at a time. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus such as a digital color multifunction peripheral called an MFP (Multi Function Peripheral) and an image forming apparatus.

  2. Description of the Related Art Nowadays, a digital multi-function peripheral called a so-called MFP (Multi Function Peripheral) that combines a copy function, a facsimile (FAX) function, a print function, and a scanner function is provided (for example, see Patent Document 1).

  According to such a digital multi-function peripheral, handwritten documents and paper materials can be digitized and shared and utilized on a network. That is, such a digital multi-function peripheral is positioned as one terminal on the network.

JP 2001-31389 A

  By the way, in recent years, in order to effectively use the image processing function of a digital multifunction peripheral, a function for performing processing control of a category different from the image processing function is often added to the digital multifunction peripheral. Here, as a function for performing processing control in a category different from the image processing function, an input image (an original image read by the scanner function, an image input by the printer function or the FAX function, an image photographed by a digital camera or the like) is used. -E-mail transmission function to send by attaching to mail, distribution function to distribute input image from digital multi-function peripheral to specified personal computer, image editing function to edit input image based on various layouts, etc. is there.

  By the way, in order to execute the E-mail transmission function and the image editing function as described above, for example, it is necessary to acquire an image photographed with a digital camera or the like. ) Is diversified, and it is desired that a digital multi-function peripheral can acquire an input image from various media (storage media) and execute an e-mail transmission function and an image editing function.

  It is an object of the present invention to acquire information from various storage media and execute various functions such as an E-mail transmission function and an image editing function, thereby dramatically improving the usability of the information processing apparatus.

  An information processing apparatus according to a first aspect of the present invention is an information processing apparatus including an operation panel that accepts an operation by an operator, wherein a slot for allowing insertion of a storage medium and writing / reading information to / from the storage medium is stored in the information storage apparatus. A storage medium unit for each type of medium is provided in the operation panel. The storage medium unit is provided with a plurality of slots in the vertical direction, and the lower slot is compared to the upper slot. It corresponds to the wide storage medium.

  Therefore, since the storage medium unit can write / read information to / from various storage media, it can acquire information from various storage media and execute various functions such as an E-mail transmission function and an image editing function, The usability of the information processing device is dramatically improved. In addition, the lower slot corresponds to a wider storage medium than the upper slot, so that even when a plurality of types of storage media are used at one time, all of the slots inserted by the operator into the slot are used. The storage medium can be visually recognized.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the information processing apparatus according to the first aspect, the information is written / read to / from the storage medium inserted into any one of the slots of the storage medium unit on the operation panel. It further includes a slot access LED for access recognition that lights up.

  Therefore, the operator can recognize at a glance that the storage medium is being accessed in any of the slots.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the information processing apparatus according to the second aspect, the slot access LED is provided at a corner located at an end of the operation surface of the operation panel.

  Accordingly, without providing two slot access LEDs, the operator can recognize that the storage medium is being accessed in either the slot from the top or the front.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the information processing apparatus according to any one of the first to third aspects, the slots included in the storage medium unit are configured to guide the storage medium into the slots. Guide members are respectively disposed.

  Therefore, it is possible to reliably guide each storage medium into each corresponding slot.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the information processing apparatus according to the fourth aspect, the guide member has a guide surface formed substantially the same width as the storage medium inserted into each slot, and stands from the guide surface. It comprises a pair of guide walls.

  Therefore, the guide member for guiding each storage medium into the corresponding slot can be configured simply.

  According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the information processing apparatus according to the fifth aspect, the guide surface of the guide member is formed with a semicircular cutout that is cut out so as to accept insertion of an operator's finger. Yes.

  Therefore, the operator can grab the storage medium in a state where the operator is slightly popped out of the slot by inserting a finger into the notch.

  According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the information processing apparatus according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, monitoring is performed as to whether or not the storage medium inserted in the slot where the writing / reading of information has been completed is removed. Sampling monitoring means, elapsed time measuring means for measuring an elapsed time after the slot access LED is turned off upon completion of information writing / reading, and the memory inserted in the slot where information writing / reading is completed Informing means for informing that the storage medium is inserted in the slot when the medium is not removed even after a lapse of a certain time.

  Therefore, if the storage medium inserted into the slot where the writing / reading of information has not been removed after a certain period of time, it is notified that the storage medium has been inserted into the slot. It is possible to avoid a situation in which the user forgets and remains in the slot.

  The information processing apparatus according to an eighth aspect of the invention supports the storage medium of the first standard removably and supports the storage of the first standard when supporting the storage medium of the first standard. A first read / write device that reads / writes information from / to a medium, and the first read / write device reads / writes information from / to the storage medium of the first standard During this time, a first in-operation notification means for informing that the first reading / writing device is in operation and a storage medium of a second standard different from the first standard are removably supported. And a second reading / writing device that reads / writes information from / to the storage medium of the second standard when the storage medium of the second standard is supported, and the second reading book Read information from the storage medium of the second standard. Or during the writing operation, a second in-operation notification means for informing that the second reading / writing device is operating, and the first reading / writing device or the second reading device. During the third operation for notifying that the first reading / writing device or the second reading / writing device is operating while at least one of the writing devices is reading or writing information. And an informing means.

  Therefore, the first operation informing means notifies that the first reading / writing device is reading or writing information to the storage medium of the first standard, and the second in-operation notification means. It is informed that the second reading / writing device is reading or writing information to the storage medium of the second standard, and the first reading / writing device or It is informed that at least one of the second reading / writing devices is reading or writing information. This makes it possible to recognize that any reading / writing device is reading or writing information from / to the storage medium.

  An image forming apparatus according to a ninth aspect of the present invention is directed to an instruction means for instructing start of an image forming operation, a first information reading / writing device for reading / writing information from / to a semiconductor storage medium, and an optical storage medium And a second information reading / writing device that reads / writes information to / from the first information reading / writing device, and the first information reading / writing device is disposed at a position corresponding to a lower portion of the instruction means.

  Therefore, the instruction means for instructing the start of the image forming operation is most frequently used for operating the image forming apparatus, and is often used by being pressed from above. Since vibration is generated in the periphery due to pressing, the first information reading / writing device corresponding to the vibration-resistant semiconductor storage medium is arranged at a position corresponding to the lower portion of the pointing means, so that the pressing of the pointing means is performed. Thus, it becomes possible to prevent an error in reading or writing information due to vibration generated.

  According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image forming apparatus comprising: instruction means for instructing start of an image forming operation; a first information reading / writing apparatus that reads / writes information from / to a semiconductor storage medium; and an optical storage medium. And a second information reading / writing device for reading / writing information, and the second information reading / writing device is arranged at a position not corresponding to the lower part of the instruction means.

  Therefore, the instruction means for instructing the start of the image forming operation is most frequently used for operating the image forming apparatus, and is often used by being pressed from above. Since vibration is generated in the periphery due to pressing, the second information reading / writing device corresponding to the optical storage medium that is weak against vibration is arranged at a position not corresponding to the lower portion of the pointing means, so that the pressing of the pointing means is performed. Thus, it becomes possible to prevent an error in reading or writing information due to vibration generated.

  According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image forming apparatus comprising: instruction means for instructing start of an image forming operation; a first information reading / writing apparatus that reads / writes information from / to a semiconductor storage medium; and an optical storage medium. A second information reading / writing device that reads / writes information from and to the first information reading / writing device at a position corresponding to a lower portion of the instruction means, and The second information reading / writing device is arranged at a position not corresponding to the lower part of the instruction means.

  Therefore, the instruction means for instructing the start of the image forming operation is most frequently used for operating the image forming apparatus, and is often used by being pressed from above. Since vibration is generated in the periphery due to pressing, the first information reading / writing device corresponding to the semiconductor storage medium that is resistant to vibration is arranged at a position corresponding to the lower part of the instruction unit, and the optical storage medium is susceptible to vibration. By disposing the corresponding second information reading / writing device at a position not corresponding to the lower part of the instruction unit, it is possible to prevent an information reading error or a writing error due to vibration generated when the instruction unit is pressed. Become.

  An image forming apparatus according to a twelfth aspect of the present invention is an input unit that sets and inputs at least the number of times of image forming operation, a first information reading / writing device that reads / writes information from / to a semiconductor storage medium, and an optical storage And a second information reading / writing device that reads / writes information from / to the medium, and the first information reading / writing device is disposed at a position corresponding to a lower portion of the input means.

  Therefore, the input means for setting and inputting at least the number of times of image forming operation is most frequently used for operating the image forming apparatus, and is often used when pressed from above. Since the vibration caused by pressing occurs around the means, the first information reading / writing device corresponding to the vibration-resistant semiconductor storage medium is arranged at a position corresponding to the lower part of the input means, thereby pressing the input means. Thus, it becomes possible to prevent an error in reading or writing information due to the vibration generated.

  According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image forming apparatus for setting and inputting at least the number of image forming operations, a first information reading / writing apparatus for reading / writing information on a semiconductor storage medium, and an optical storage. And a second information reading / writing device that reads / writes information from / to the medium, and the second information reading / writing device is arranged at a position not corresponding to the lower part of the input means.

  Therefore, the input means for setting and inputting at least the number of times of image forming operation is most frequently used for operating the image forming apparatus, and is often used when pressed from above. Since a vibration is generated in the vicinity of the means due to the pressing, the second information reading / writing device corresponding to the optical storage medium susceptible to the vibration is disposed at a position not corresponding to the lower part of the input means, thereby pressing the input means. Thus, it becomes possible to prevent an error in reading or writing information due to the vibration generated.

  An image forming apparatus according to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention is an input means for setting and inputting at least the number of times of image forming operation, a first information reading / writing apparatus for reading / writing information on a semiconductor storage medium, and an optical storage And a second information reading / writing device that reads / writes information from / to the medium, and the first information reading / writing device is disposed at a position corresponding to a lower portion of the input means. The second information reading / writing device is arranged at a position not corresponding to the lower part of the input means.

  Therefore, the input means for setting and inputting at least the number of times of image forming operation is most frequently used for operating the image forming apparatus, and is often used when pressed from above. Since vibration is generated in the vicinity of the means when pressed, the first information reading / writing device corresponding to the semiconductor storage medium resistant to vibration is disposed at a position corresponding to the lower part of the instruction means, and the optical storage is weak against vibration. By disposing the second information reading / writing device corresponding to the medium at a position not corresponding to the lower part of the instruction unit, it is possible to prevent an information reading error or writing error due to vibration generated when the input unit is pressed. It becomes possible.

  According to the information processing apparatus of the first aspect of the present invention, information can be acquired from various storage media and various functions such as an E-mail transmission function and an image editing function can be executed, thereby greatly improving usability. Can do. Further, even when a plurality of types of storage media are used at a time, all the storage media inserted into the slots can be visually recognized by the operator.

  According to the second aspect of the invention, the operator can recognize at a glance that the storage medium is being accessed in any of the slots.

  According to the third aspect of the invention, without providing two slot access LEDs, the operator can recognize that the storage medium is being accessed in either the slot from the top or the front. it can.

  According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, each storage medium can be reliably guided into the corresponding slot.

  According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the guide member for guiding each storage medium into the corresponding slot can have a simple configuration.

  According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, the operator can grab the storage medium in a state where the operator is slightly popped out of the slot by inserting a finger into the notch.

  According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, it is possible to avoid a situation in which the user forgets to remove the storage medium and remains inserted in the slot.

  According to the information processing apparatus of the eighth aspect of the invention, the first reading / writing device is in the process of reading or writing information from / to the storage medium of the first standard by the first operating notification means. And informing that the second reading / writing device is reading or writing information from / to the storage medium of the second standard by the second operating informing means, and in the third operating Information on the storage medium in any of the reading / writing devices is provided by notifying that at least one of the first reading / writing device or the second reading / writing device is reading or writing information by the notifying means. It can be recognized that the reading or writing operation is being performed.

  According to the image forming apparatus of the ninth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to prevent an information reading error or writing error due to vibration generated when the instruction unit is pressed.

  According to the image forming apparatus of the tenth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to prevent an error in reading or writing information due to vibration generated when the instruction unit is pressed.

  According to the image forming apparatus of the eleventh aspect of the present invention, it is possible to prevent an information reading error or a writing error due to vibration generated when the instruction unit is pressed.

  According to the image forming apparatus of the twelfth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to prevent an information reading error or a writing error due to vibration generated when the input unit is pressed.

  According to the image forming apparatus of the thirteenth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to prevent an error in reading or writing information due to vibration generated when the input unit is pressed.

  According to the image forming apparatus of the fourteenth aspect, it is possible to prevent an information reading error or a writing error due to vibration generated when the input unit is pressed.

  An embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. In this embodiment, as an information processing apparatus (image forming apparatus), a copy function, a facsimile (FAX) function, a print function, a scanner function, and an input image (an original image read by a scanner function or an image input by a printer or a FAX function) ) Is applied to a digital color multifunction peripheral called a so-called MFP (Multi Function Peripheral) that combines functions and the like.

[1. Description of system including digital color MFP 1]
FIG. 1 is a system configuration diagram including a digital color MFP 1 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, in the present embodiment, a server computer 3 that is an information processing apparatus that executes various types of information processing via a local area network (LAN) 2 that is a communication network is connected to the digital color multifunction peripheral 1. Assume a system in which a plurality of client computers 4 are connected. The server computer 3 supports, for example, the FTP and HTTP protocols, and realizes functions such as a Web server, a mail server, and a DNS (domain name server). That is, in this system, there is an environment in which image processing functions such as an image input function (scanner function), an image output function (print function), and an image storage function provided in the digital color multifunction peripheral 1 can be shared on the LAN 2. It has been built.

  Such a system is connected to the Internet network 6 via the communication control unit 5 and is constructed so as to be able to communicate data with an external environment via the Internet network 6. The communication control unit 5 is generally a router, an exchange, a modem, a DSL modem, or the like, but it is sufficient that TCP / IP communication is possible at a minimum. The LAN 2 is not limited to wired communication, and may be wireless communication (infrared rays, radio waves, etc.). Further, an optical fiber may be used.

[2. Description of the configuration of the digital color MFP 1]
Next, the digital color multifunction peripheral 1 will be described. Here, FIG. 2 is an external perspective view showing the digital color MFP 1. As shown in FIG. 2, the digital color multifunction peripheral 1 has an image reading device 8 that is an image reading unit that reads an image from a document on an upper part of a printing device 7 that is an image forming unit that forms an image on a medium such as transfer paper. It is set as the structure which arranged.

  On the outer surface of the image reading device 8, there is provided an operation panel P that allows various inputs such as display to the operator and function setting from the operator.

  Here, FIG. 3 is an external perspective view showing the configuration of the operation panel P. FIG. As shown in FIG. 3, the operation panel P includes a display device 40 that functions as a display unit, for example, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), and an operation input device 41. The operation input device 41 includes a touch panel 41a that is a coordinate input unit such as an ultrasonic elastic wave method, which is stacked on the surface of the display device 40, and a keyboard 41b having a plurality of keys. On the keyboard 41b, a start key S that functions as an instruction unit that instructs the start of an image forming operation, a numeric keypad T that functions as an input unit that sets and inputs at least the number of image forming operations, and a transmission destination of the read image data are set. A reading condition setting key, a clear key, and the like are provided.

  The operation panel P is an external device that reads a program code, an image file, or the like stored in the storage medium M (see FIG. 5) or writes a program code, an image file, or the like to the storage medium M. A media input / output device 9 is provided with an insertion opening allowing insertion of the storage medium M exposed outside. The external media input / output device 9 according to the present embodiment uses an optical disc (CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-ROM, DVD-RAM, DVD-R, DVD + R, DVD-RW) as the storage medium M. , DVD + RW or other optical storage medium), an optical disk unit 9a that is a second information reading / writing device, and a semiconductor medium (memory stick (trademark of Sony Corporation), SD memory card) as the storage medium M Memory compatible with (Semiconductor storage media such as Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd., SanDisk Corporation, Toshiba Corporation), SmartMedia (Trademark of Toshiba Corporation), CompactFlash (registered trademark of SanDisk Corporation, USA) And a semiconductor media unit 9b which is a medium unit (first information reading / writing device). And which are respectively provided on both sides the lower sandwiching the display device 40 of the operation panel P. Note that the start key S and the numeric keypad T of the keyboard 41b are used most frequently when operating the digital color multifunction peripheral 1, and are used when pressed from above. The vibration accompanying the pressing occurs around the key. Therefore, in the digital color multifunction peripheral 1 of the present embodiment, the semiconductor media unit 9b corresponding to the semiconductor media which is a storage medium resistant to vibration is disposed under the start key S or the numeric keypad T, and the storage medium is susceptible to vibration. A storage medium that requires an optical disk unit 9a corresponding to a certain optical disk or the like is not arranged under the start key S or the numeric keypad T. A function key F for selecting a function of the digital color multifunction device 1 is disposed on the operation panel P of the digital color multifunction device 1 on the opposite side of the numeric keypad T and the start key S across the display 40. These function keys F are not so frequently used, and an optical disk unit 9a corresponding to an optical disk or the like is disposed below the function keys F. By arranging in this way, it is possible to prevent an error in reading or writing information due to vibrations that occur when the start key S or the numeric keypad T is pressed.

  Here, the semiconductor media unit 9b will be described in detail. Here, FIG. 4 is an enlarged perspective view showing the semiconductor media unit 9b. The semiconductor media unit 9b includes a memory stick slot SL1 that is a reading / writing device that allows reading and writing of information by allowing insertion of a memory stick, and a reading book that allows reading and writing of information by allowing insertion of an SD memory card. SD memory card slot SL2 which is a read-in device, smart media slot SL3 which is a read / write device which allows reading and writing of information by allowing the insertion of smart media, and information reading / reading which allows the insertion of a compact flash A compact flash slot SL4, which is a reading / writing device for writing, is provided. In the present embodiment, the slots SL1 to SL4 are arranged in two upper and lower stages, a memory stick slot SL1 and an SD memory card slot SL2 having a narrow slot width are arranged in the upper stage, and a slot width is arranged in the lower stage. A slot for smart media SL3 and a slot for compact flash SL4 are provided. As described above, the semiconductor media unit 9b of the present invention has a plurality of slots (read / write devices) for semiconductor media having different standards. Among them, a two-layer configuration in which a relatively small size semiconductor media slot (read / write device) is arranged in the upper stage and a relatively large size semiconductor media slot (read / write device) is arranged in the lower stage. have. The relatively small slots (read / write devices) arranged in the upper stage are arranged so as to be within the width of the relatively large slots (read / write apparatuses) arranged in the lower stage. Has been.

  Each of the slots SL1 to SL4 is provided with guide members X1 to X4 for guiding the respective semiconductor media into the slots. The guide members X1 to X4 are configured by a guide surface a formed substantially the same width as the semiconductor medium inserted in each of the slots SL1 to SL4, and a pair of guide walls b standing from the guide surface a. . However, since the card eject lever L is provided in the compact flash slot SL4 according to the specification, in the guide member X4 provided in the compact flash slot SL4, a semiconductor medium (compact flash) is ejected from the slot. One guide wall b is substituted by the card eject lever L. In addition, for the memory stick slot SL1, SD memory card slot SL2, and smart media slot SL3, if you lightly press the semiconductor media (memory stick, SD memory card, smart media) inserted in the slot and release your hand, the card will become a little bit. It is designed to jump out of the slot. In addition, the guide surface a is formed with a semicircular cutout c cut out so as to accept insertion of an operator's finger. By providing the notch c in this manner, the operator grasps the semiconductor media (memory stick, SD memory card, smart media, compact flash) that has been slightly popped out of the slot by inserting a finger into the notch c. be able to.

  In addition, it is assumed that the semiconductor media (memory stick, SD memory card, smart media, compact flash) is left slightly out of the slot. Since the corresponding slot for the smart media SL3 and the slot for the compact flash SL4 are used, the semiconductor media (memory stick, SD memory card) is slightly ejected from the slot in the upper memory stick slot SL1 and SD memory card slot SL2. Even so, the operator can visually recognize all the semiconductor media inserted in the slots. That is, the lower stage is a smart media slot SL3 and a compact flash slot SL4 corresponding to wide semiconductor media, so that even when a plurality of types of semiconductor media are used at one time, they are inserted into the slot by the operator. It is possible to see all the semiconductor media.

  In addition, next to the slots SL1 to SL4 of the semiconductor media unit 9b, information is being read or written to the semiconductor media (memory stick, SD memory card, smart media, compact flash) in the slots SL1 to SL4. An access recognition individual access LED 60 that functions as an in-operation notification means for notifying that there is an event is provided.

  In addition, the operation panel P notifies the user that the information is being read or written to the semiconductor media (memory stick, SD memory card, smart media, compact flash) in any of the slots SL1 to SL4. A slot access LED 61 for access recognition functioning as a means is provided. The slot access LED 61 is provided at a corner portion located at the upper end of the operation panel P located above the semiconductor media unit 9b. The slot access LED 61 is provided at the corner of the operation panel P in this way because the individual access LED 60 provided beside each of the slots SL1 to SL4 of the semiconductor media unit 9b looks at the operation panel P from above. This is because it is difficult for the operator to see. Therefore, by providing the slot access LED 61 at the corner located at the upper end of the operation panel P, the operator can use the semiconductor media (memory stick, memory stick, (SD memory card, smart media, compact flash) can be recognized.

  Here, FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an electrical connection of each part of the digital color multifunction peripheral 1. As shown in FIG. 5, the structure of the digital color multifunction peripheral 1 is roughly divided into an image processing unit A and an information processing unit B, and the printing device 7 and the image reading device 8 have image processing. The operation panel P and the external media input / output device 9 belong to the information processing unit B.

[2-1. Explanation about image processing unit A]
First, the image processing unit A will be described. The image processing unit A including the printing device 7 and the image reading device 8 includes an image processing control unit 10 that performs overall control of image processing in the image processing unit A. The image processing control unit 10 includes a printing unit. A print control unit 11 that controls the apparatus 7 and an image reading control unit 12 that controls the image reading apparatus 8 are connected.

  The print control unit 11 outputs a print instruction including image data to the printing apparatus 7 under the control of the image processing control unit 10, and causes the printing apparatus 7 to form and output an image on a medium such as transfer paper. The printing device 7 is capable of full-color printing. In addition to the electrophotographic method, the printing method includes various methods such as an inkjet method, a sublimation type thermal transfer method, a silver salt photography method, a direct thermal recording method, and a melt type thermal transfer method. Can be used.

  The image reading control unit 12 drives the image reading device 8 under the control of the image processing control unit 10, and reflects the reflected light of the lamp irradiation on the surface of the document to a light receiving element (for example, a CCD (Charge Coupled Device)) using a mirror and a lens. Light is collected and read, and A / D converted to generate 8-bit RGB digital image data.

  Such an image processing control unit 10 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 13 which is a main processor and a memory device which temporarily stores the image data read from the image reading device 8 so as to be imaged by the printing device 7 ( For example, SDRAM (Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory) 14, ROM (Read Only Memory) 15 storing a control program, and system log / system setting / log information etc. are recorded even when the power is turned off. The microcomputer has a configuration in which NVRAM 16 that can be held is connected by a bus.

  Further, the image processing control unit 10 includes an image processing unit via an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 17 serving as a storage device for storing a large amount of image data and a job history, and a HUB 19 which is a concentrator provided inside the device. A LAN control unit 18 for connecting the part A to the LAN 2 and a FAX control unit 20 for performing FAX control are connected. The FAX control unit 20 is connected to a private branch exchange (PBX) 22 that communicates with a public telephone network 21, so that the digital color multifunction peripheral 1 can communicate with a remote facsimile.

  In addition, a display control unit 23 and an operation input control unit 24 are connected to the image processing control unit 10. The display control unit 23 outputs an image display control signal to the information processing unit unit B via the communication cable 26 connected to the control panel I / F 25 under the control of the image processing control unit 10. The image display is controlled on the operation panel P. Further, the operation input control unit 24 connects an input control signal corresponding to the function setting or input operation by the operator from the operation panel P of the information processing unit B to the control panel I / F 25 by the control of the image processing control unit 10. Input via the communication cable 26. In other words, the image processing unit A is configured to be able to directly monitor the operation panel P of the information processing unit B via the communication cable 26.

  Therefore, the image processing unit A is configured such that the communication cable 26 is connected to the image processing unit provided in the conventional information processing apparatus and the operation panel P of the information processing unit B is used. That is, the display control unit 23 and the operation input control unit 24 of the image processing unit A operate as if they are connected to the operation panel P.

  With this configuration, the image processing unit A analyzes the print data that is image information from the outside (server computer 3, client computer 4, facsimile, etc.) and a command that instructs printing, and uses the print data as output image data. The bitmap is developed so that it can be printed, and the print mode is analyzed from the command to determine the operation. The print data and command are received and operated through the LAN control unit 18 or the FAX control unit 20.

  Further, the image processing unit A externally print data stored in the SDRAM 14 or the HDD 17, document reading data, output image data processed for output, and compressed data obtained by compressing them externally (server computer 3, Client computer 4, facsimile, etc.).

  Further, the image processing unit A transfers the read image data of the image reading device 8 to the image processing control unit 10, corrects signal deterioration due to quantization to the optical system and digital signals, and stores the image data in the SDRAM 14. Write. The image data stored in the SDRAM 14 in this way is converted into output image data by the print control unit 11 and output to the printing apparatus 7.

[2-2. Explanation of information processing unit B]
Next, the information processing unit B including the operation panel P will be described. The information processing unit part B has a microcomputer configuration controlled by a general-purpose OS (Operating System) used in an information processing apparatus generally called a personal computer. Although not particularly illustrated, the information processing unit B of the present embodiment is disposed on the back surface of the digital color multifunction peripheral 1 except for the operation panel P. The information processing unit section B has a CPU 31 that is a main processor, and the CPU 31 includes a memory unit that includes a ROM that is a read-only memory that stores a RAM that is a work area of the CPU 31, a startup program, and the like. 32 and a storage device control unit 35 that controls input / output of data to / from a storage device 34 such as an HDD that stores an OS (Operating System) and application programs are connected via a bus.

  The CPU 31 is connected to a LAN control unit 33 for connecting the information processing unit unit B to the LAN 2 via the HUB 19. The IP address that is the network address assigned to the LAN control unit 33 is different from the IP address assigned to the LAN control unit 18 of the image processing unit A described above. That is, two IP addresses are assigned to the digital color multifunction peripheral 1 of the present embodiment. That is, the image processing unit part A and the information processing unit part B are connected to the LAN 2 and can exchange data between the image processing unit A and the information processing unit part B. Yes.

  Since the digital color multifunction peripheral 1 is connected to the LAN 2 via the HUB 19, it appears that only one IP address is assigned. Therefore, the aesthetic appearance is not impaired, and handling such as connection can be facilitated.

  Further, a display control unit 36 and an operation input control unit 37 that control the operation panel P are connected to the CPU 31. The display control unit 36 outputs an image display control signal to the display device 40 via the control panel I / F 38 and causes the display device 40 to display predetermined items corresponding to the image display control signal. On the other hand, the operation input control unit 37 receives, via the control panel I / F 38, an input control signal corresponding to the function setting or input operation by the operator in the operation input device 41.

  In addition, a control panel communication unit 39 connected to the control panel I / F 25 of the image processing unit A via the communication cable 26 is connected to the CPU 31. The control panel communication unit 39 receives the image display control signal output from the image processing unit unit A, and receives the input control signal according to the function setting or input operation by the operator from the operation panel P. Forward to. More specifically, the image display control signal from the image processing unit A received by the control panel communication unit 39 is subjected to data conversion processing for the display device 40 of the operation panel P and then output to the display control unit 36. Input control signals according to function settings and input operations by the operator from the operation panel P are input to the control panel communication unit 39 after being subjected to data conversion processing in a format according to the specifications in the image processing unit A.

  As described above, the storage device 34 stores an OS (Operating System) and application programs executed by the CPU 31. In this sense, the storage device 34 functions as a storage medium that stores application programs. In the digital color multifunction peripheral 1, when the operator turns on the power, the CPU 31 activates the activation program in the memory unit 32, reads the OS from the storage device 34 into the RAM in the memory unit 32, and activates the OS. Such an OS activates a program, reads information, and stores information in accordance with the operation of the operator. As a representative OS, Windows (registered trademark) and the like are known. These operation programs running on the OS are called application programs. The OS of the information processing unit section B is the same OS as the information processing apparatus (server computer 3, client computer 4, etc.), that is, a general-purpose OS (for example, Windows (registered trademark)).

  As described above, the digital color multifunction peripheral 1 according to the present embodiment includes the storage medium M that stores various program codes (control programs) such as the OS, device drivers, and various application programs, image files, and the like. , Flexible disk (FD), hard disk, optical disk (CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-ROM, DVD-RAM, DVD-R, DVD + R, DVD-RW, DVD + RW, etc.), magneto-optical disk (MO) ), A flexible disk drive device, an optical disk drive device, which is a device that reads a program code, an image file, or the like stored in a storage medium M such as a semiconductor medium, or writes a program code, an image file, or the like to the storage medium M, MO drive device, Medi External media input-output device 9 of the drive apparatus and the like are mounted. Such an external media input / output device 9 functions as a medium reading device, and is controlled by an input / output device control unit 42 connected to the CPU 31 by a bus.

  Therefore, the application program stored in the storage device 34 may be one in which the application program recorded in the storage medium M is installed. Therefore, the storage medium M can also be a storage medium that stores application programs. Further, the application program may be imported from the outside via, for example, the Internet network 6 and the LAN 2 and installed in the storage device 34.

  Here, the electrical connection between the semiconductor media unit 9b, which is one of the external media input / output devices 9, and the input / output device control unit 42 will be described in detail. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing electrical connection between the semiconductor media unit 9 b and the input / output device control unit 42. As shown in FIG. 6, a memory stick slot SL1, an SD memory card slot SL2, a smart media slot SL3, and a compact flash slot SL4 provided in the semiconductor media unit 9b are each a USB (Universal Serial Bus) controller 62. To the input / output device control unit 42 via USB. Further, an individual access LED 60 for access recognition is provided between the slots SL1 to SL4 and the USB controller 62, and each semiconductor medium (memory stick, SD memory card, smart media, compact flash) in the slots SL1 to SL4 is provided. ), When the CPU 31 performs a write / read access, the individual access LED 60 beside the slots SL1 to SL4 to which the write / read access is performed is turned on.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the slot access LED 61 provided on the operation panel P is input with a signal obtained by ORing write / read access to each of the slots SL1 to SL4. That is, the slot access LED 61 is lit when a write / read access to a semiconductor medium (memory stick, SD memory card, smart media, compact flash) in any of the slots SL1 to SL4 occurs.

  Note that various interfaces 43 such as USB, IEEE 1394, and SCSI are also connected to the input / output device control unit 42, and various external devices (such as digital cameras) can be connected via the various interfaces 43.

  The information processing unit B is connected to a server computer 3 that implements functions such as a mail server and DNS (domain name server) via the LAN 2 and is connected to the Internet network via the communication control unit 5. 6 is connected. Accordingly, on the condition that the mail software as an application program is installed in the storage device 34 and a mail account (email address) is given to the information processing unit B, the E-mail is processed in the information processing unit B. Can be sent and received.

[3. Description of characteristic functions of digital color MFP 1]
Next, characteristic functions provided in the digital color multifunction peripheral 1 will be described. Since the functions of the image processing unit A of the digital color multifunction peripheral 1 are not different from the functions of the conventional digital color multifunction peripheral, the description thereof is omitted. Here, a characteristic process of the present embodiment will be described below among various arithmetic processes executed by the CPU 31 of the information processing unit B of the digital color multifunction peripheral 1 according to an application program operating on the OS. Here, a description will be given of a process for preventing forgetting to remove a medium in the semiconductor media unit 9b.

[3-1. Preventing forgetting to remove media]
In the digital color multifunction peripheral 1 according to the present embodiment, as described above, the individual access LED 60 and the slot access LED 61 write to the respective semiconductor media (memory stick, SD memory card, smart media, compact flash) in the slots SL1 to SL4. / Since it is lit only when read access occurs, the individual access LED 60 and the slot access LED 61 are turned off after the processing is completed, and the semiconductor media (memory stick, SD memory inserted in any of the slots SL1 to SL4) It is assumed that you forget to remove cards, smart media, and compact flash. Therefore, under certain conditions, the operator is notified of forgetting to remove the semiconductor media (memory stick, SD memory card, smart media, compact flash).

  Here, FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the flow of the process for preventing forgetting to remove the media. As shown in FIG. 7, when the write / read access by the CPU 31 to any of the semiconductor media (memory stick, SD memory card, smart media, compact flash) in the slots SL1 to SL4 based on the predetermined processing is completed (step (Y in S1), the individual access LED 60 and the slot access LED 61 beside the slots SL1 to SL4 for which the write / read access has been completed are turned off (step S2).

  Thereafter, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the semiconductor media (memory stick, SD memory card, smart media, compact flash) inserted in the slots SL1 to SL4 where the write / read access has been completed has been removed. (Step S3: sampling monitoring means) and the elapsed time after the individual access LED 60 and the slot access LED 61 are turned off are counted (Step S4: elapsed time counting means).

  If the semiconductor media (memory stick, SD memory card, smart media, compact flash) inserted in the slots SL1 to SL4 for which write / read access has been completed cannot be removed after a certain period of time (N in step S3, step (Y of S4), it progresses to step S5 and a warning alerting | reporting process is performed. In the warning notification process, for example, a message is displayed on the display device 40 that the medium is still inserted in the slot, and the operator is notified that the medium has been forgotten to be removed. Here, the function of the notification means is executed. Note that the method for notifying the operator of forgetting to remove the media is not limited to this, and may be notified by voice, or the individual access LED 60 and the slot access LED 61 blink. Also good. As a result, when the semiconductor media inserted into the slots SL1 to SL4 in which the writing / reading of information has been completed cannot be removed even after a predetermined time has passed, it is notified that the semiconductor media has been inserted into the slots SL1 to SL4. Therefore, it is possible to avoid a situation in which the user forgets to remove the semiconductor medium and remains inserted in the slots SL1 to SL4.

  Here, since the semiconductor media unit 9b can write / read information to / from various semiconductor media, it can acquire information from various semiconductor media and execute various functions such as an E-mail transmission function and an image editing function. As a result, usability can be dramatically improved. In addition, since the lower slots SL3 to SL4 correspond to wider semiconductor media than the upper slots SL1 to SL2, the slot SL1 can be received from the operator even when a plurality of types of semiconductor media are used at one time. All semiconductor media inserted in the SL4 can be visually recognized.

  In the present embodiment, an application example of a digital color multi-function peripheral called a so-called MFP is shown as an information processing apparatus (image forming apparatus). However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the server computer 3 and the client computer 4 are not limited thereto. And at least one of image forming means (printing device 7) for forming and outputting an image based on image data on a medium and image reading means (image reading device 8) for reading a document image. Any processing device may be used. For example, the present invention may be applied to digital monochrome multifunction peripherals, monochrome copying machines, color copying machines, scanner devices, monochrome printer devices, color printer devices, and the like.

1 is a system configuration diagram including a digital color multifunction peripheral according to an embodiment of the present invention. 1 is an external perspective view showing a digital color multifunction peripheral. It is an external appearance perspective view which shows the structure of an operation panel. It is a perspective view which expands and shows a semiconductor media unit. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing electrical connections of each part of the digital color multifunction peripheral. It is a block diagram which shows the electrical connection of a semiconductor media unit and an input / output device control unit. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the forgetting to remove a medium.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Information processing apparatus, image forming apparatus 9a 2nd information reading / writing apparatus 9b Storage medium unit, 1st information reading / writing apparatus 60 In-operation notification means 61 Slot access LED, In-operation notification means M Storage medium P Operation panel S instruction means T input means SL1 to SL4 slot, reading / writing device X1 to X4 guide member a guide surface b guide wall c notch

Claims (14)

In an information processing apparatus including an operation panel that receives an operation by an operator,
The operation panel includes a storage medium unit that has a slot for each type of the storage medium that allows the storage medium to be inserted and writes / reads information on the storage medium.
The storage medium unit has the slots arranged in a plurality of stages in the vertical direction, and the lower slot corresponds to the storage medium that is wider than the upper slot.
An information processing apparatus characterized by that. The operation panel further includes a slot access LED for access recognition that is lit when writing / reading information to / from the storage medium inserted into any of the slots of the storage medium unit.
The information processing apparatus according to claim 1. The slot access LED is provided at a corner located at an end of the operation surface of the operation panel.
The information processing apparatus according to claim 2. Each slot of the storage medium unit is provided with a guide member for guiding each storage medium into each slot.
The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the information processing apparatus is an information processing apparatus. The guide member is composed of a guide surface formed substantially the same width as the storage medium inserted into each slot, and a pair of guide walls standing from the guide surface.
The information processing apparatus according to claim 4. The guide surface of the guide member is formed with a semicircular cutout that is cut out to the extent that it accepts insertion of an operator's finger.
The information processing apparatus according to claim 5. Sampling monitoring means for monitoring whether or not the storage medium inserted in the slot where writing / reading of information has been completed;
An elapsed time measuring means for measuring an elapsed time after the slot access LED is turned off upon completion of writing / reading of information;
Informing means for informing that the storage medium is inserted in the slot when the storage medium inserted in the slot where the writing / reading of information has not been removed even if a predetermined time has passed,
An information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising: A first standard storage medium is removably supported, and when the first standard storage medium is supported, information is read / written to / from the first standard storage medium. 1 reading and writing device;
While the first reading / writing device is reading or writing information from / to the storage medium of the first standard, the first reading / writing device notifies that the first reading / writing device is operating. 1 in-operation notification means;
A storage medium of a second standard different from the first standard is removably supported, and a storage medium of the second standard is supported when the storage medium of the second standard is supported. A second reading / writing device for reading / writing information;
While the second reading / writing device is reading or writing information from / to the storage medium of the second standard, the second reading / writing device notifies that the second reading / writing device is operating. 2 in-operation notification means;
While at least one of the first read / write device or the second read / write device is reading or writing information, the first read / write device or the second read / write device. A third in-operation notification means for notifying that the device is operating;
An information processing apparatus comprising: Instruction means for instructing the start of an image forming operation;
A first information reading / writing device for reading / writing information from / to a semiconductor storage medium;
A second information reading / writing device for reading / writing information from / to an optical storage medium;
Comprising
An image forming apparatus, wherein the first information reading / writing device is disposed at a position corresponding to a lower portion of the instruction means. Instruction means for instructing the start of an image forming operation;
A first information reading / writing device for reading / writing information from / to a semiconductor storage medium;
A second information reading / writing device for reading / writing information from / to an optical storage medium;
Comprising
An image forming apparatus, wherein the second information reading / writing device is arranged at a position not corresponding to a lower portion of the instruction means. Instruction means for instructing the start of an image forming operation;
A first information reading / writing device for reading / writing information from / to a semiconductor storage medium;
A second information reading / writing device for reading / writing information from / to an optical storage medium;
Comprising
The first information reading / writing device is disposed at a position corresponding to a lower portion of the instruction means, and the second information reading / writing device is disposed at a position not corresponding to a lower portion of the instruction means. Image forming apparatus. An input means for setting and inputting at least the number of image forming operations;
A first information reading / writing device for reading / writing information from / to a semiconductor storage medium;
A second information reading / writing device for reading / writing information from / to an optical storage medium;
Comprising
An image forming apparatus, wherein the first information reading / writing device is disposed at a position corresponding to a lower portion of the input unit. An input means for setting and inputting at least the number of image forming operations;
A first information reading / writing device for reading / writing information from / to a semiconductor storage medium;
A second information reading / writing device for reading / writing information from / to an optical storage medium;
Comprising
An image forming apparatus, wherein the second information reading / writing device is disposed at a position not corresponding to a lower portion of the input means. An input means for setting and inputting at least the number of times of image forming operation;
A first information reading / writing device for reading / writing information from / to a semiconductor storage medium;
A second information reading / writing device for reading / writing information from / to an optical storage medium;
Comprising
The first information reading / writing device is disposed at a position corresponding to a lower portion of the input means, and the second information reading / writing device is disposed at a position not corresponding to a lower portion of the input means. Image forming apparatus.

Images