JP2005196637A - Image forming apparatus and its control method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To execute various processing from a user interface to an image forming apparatus on a network. <P>SOLUTION: The processing can be executed to the image forming apparatus in response to the processing content of a command, by transmitting the command to a server by adding the command to paper with information, by using a system of combining the paper with information such as a position management code with an exclusive information reading device. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus in which a sheet with information and a dedicated information reading device are combined, and a control method thereof.

  Conventionally, a technique in which a sheet with information and a dedicated information reading device are combined is known. For example, according to Patent Document 1, when a user moves a dedicated pen on a sheet on which a pattern in which absolute coordinates are coded is recorded, one or a plurality of absolute coordinate data (x, y) is recorded. As a result, a system has been proposed in which handwriting information of the user can be obtained as a result of the recorded information being analyzed by a central device via a network.

  On the other hand, when executing commands such as printout processing, electronic data transmission processing, and electronic data storage processing to an image forming apparatus such as a copying machine connected to a network, the image forming apparatus directly A method is used in which a command is executed or a processing command is executed from a terminal such as a PC connected on the same network.

For example, when a user prints out a document to an image forming apparatus connected to a certain network, the printout process is executed from a terminal such as a PC on the same network. Similarly, when electronic data is transmitted from an image forming apparatus connected to a network to an image forming apparatus or PC on the same network, the counterpart image forming apparatus or PC that transmits on the transmitting image forming apparatus Execute the send command by specifying etc. Further, when electronic data is stored in the image forming apparatus connected to the network, the electronic data is selected by selecting a location for storing the electronic data directly from the image forming apparatus or from a PC on the same network. (For example, refer to Patent Document 2).
International Publication No. 01/48591 brochure Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 07-156466

  However, when performing processing on an image forming apparatus connected to a network, a user executes a processing command directly on the image forming apparatus or from another image forming apparatus or a terminal such as a PC on the same network. Must-have.

  The present invention has been made in view of such a problem, and an object of the present invention is to use print data stored in a storage medium connected to the image forming apparatus as a dedicated sheet for information. By using the technology of the information reading device, the user can easily cause the image forming apparatus to execute processing without executing processing commands from the image forming apparatus and a terminal on the same network. An object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus and a control method thereof.

  The present invention has achieved the above object by the following technical configuration.

  (1) Image reading means for reading a document image and converting it into digital data, detection means for detecting a prescribed pattern from the digital data input by the reading means, and analyzing and coding the prescribed pattern detected by the detecting means Converting means for recognizing, recognizing means for recognizing a command that can be processed for the code converted by the converting means, storage means for storing digital data input by the reading means, and recognizing means An image forming apparatus, wherein the digital data stored in the storage means is processed in accordance with the command recognized in step (b).

  (2) The image forming apparatus according to (1), wherein digital data from the image reading means for converting into the digital data can be transmitted / received via a network.

  (3) The image formation according to (1), wherein the digital data stored in the storage unit can be processed according to a command recognized by the recognition unit via a network. apparatus.

  (4) The image forming apparatus according to (1), wherein the command recognized by the recognition unit includes a printout processing command for printing out the digital data stored in the storage unit. .

  (5) The printout process command can be executed for another image forming apparatus connected to the same network as the image forming apparatus. Image forming apparatus.

  (6) The command recognized by the recognition means includes a processing command for transmitting the digital data stored in the storage means to another device connected to the same network, a terminal such as a PC, a network server, or the like. The image forming apparatus as described in (1) above, wherein

  (7) The image forming apparatus according to (1), wherein the command recognized by the recognition unit includes a processing command for storing digital data stored in the storage unit in a virtual electronic memory. .

  (8) The processing command for storing the digital data in the virtual electronic memory also executes processing for the virtual electronic memory prepared in another image forming apparatus connected to the same network as the image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus according to (7), wherein

  (9) Which of the image forming apparatus, another apparatus connected to the same network, a terminal such as a PC, and a network server is to be input by the reading means to process the command recognized by the recognition means. The image forming apparatus according to (1), wherein the determination is performed by identifying from the digital data.

  (10) Image reading means for reading a document image and converting it into digital data, detection means for detecting a prescribed pattern from digital data inputted by the reading means, and analyzing and coding the prescribed pattern detected by the detecting means Converting means for recognizing, recognizing means for recognizing a command that can be processed for the code converted by the converting means, storage means for storing digital data input by the reading means, and recognizing means A method of controlling an image forming apparatus, wherein the digital data stored in the storage means is processed in accordance with the command recognized in step (b).

  (11) The method for controlling an image forming apparatus according to (10), wherein digital data from the image reading means for converting into digital data can be transmitted / received via a network.

  (12) The image formation according to (10), wherein the digital data stored in the storage unit can be processed according to a command recognized by the recognition unit via a network. Control method of the device.

  (13) The image forming apparatus according to (10), wherein the command recognized by the recognition unit includes a printout processing command for printing out the digital data stored in the storage unit. Control method.

  (14) The printout process command can be executed for another image forming apparatus connected to the same network as the image forming apparatus. Image forming apparatus control method.

  (15) The command recognized by the recognition unit includes a processing command for transmitting the digital data stored in the storage unit to another device connected to the same network, a terminal such as a PC, a network server, or the like. The method for controlling an image forming apparatus according to (10), wherein:

  (16) The image forming apparatus according to (10), wherein the command recognized by the recognition unit includes a processing command for storing digital data stored in the storage unit in a virtual electronic memory. Control method.

  (17) The processing command for storing the digital data in the virtual electronic memory also executes processing for the virtual electronic memory prepared in another image forming apparatus connected to the same network as the image forming apparatus. The method of controlling an image forming apparatus according to (16), wherein

  (18) Which of the image forming apparatus, another apparatus connected to the same network, a terminal such as a PC, and a network server, which apparatus recognizes the command recognized by the recognition means is input by the reading means. The method of controlling an image forming apparatus according to (10), wherein the determination is performed by identifying the digital data.

  As in the present invention, by using a technical system combining a sheet with information such as a position management code and a dedicated information reading device as a user interface, the user interface can perform various operations from the user interface to the image forming apparatus on the network. Processing can be executed.

  The user can easily select a specific image forming apparatus on the network using the user interface as described above and output the data written on the information-added sheet to the image forming apparatus. Become.

  Data written on the information-added sheet can be transmitted to and stored in a specific image forming apparatus on the network and other apparatuses.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

  Exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

  ANOTO is a registered trademark of ANOTO AB.

  FIG. 1 shows a typical use example of a paper with information suitable for applying this embodiment.

  This usage example is a system that includes a paper 56 with information, an information reading device 57, a communication path 58, a network server 40, absolute coordinate code source information 50, and a PC terminal 60. When the pen-like information reading device 57 is traced, the locus can be displayed on the PC terminal 60.

  On the information-added paper 56, a two-dimensional absolute coordinate code is printed on the entire paper surface or at a necessary location. The code pattern indicating the absolute coordinates is used by cutting out a specified part from the absolute coordinate code source information 50 obtained by coding the absolute coordinates corresponding to a very large area. The absolute coordinate code sections 51 to 55 represent examples of ranges divided according to users or uses. The ink or toner used for printing the absolute coordinate code has a reflectance characteristic adapted to a sensor in the information reading device 57 described later.

  The information reading device 57 includes a sensor (not shown) for detecting the code pattern at the tip and a normal pen, and is a device that can be used with exactly the same feeling as a user fills in on a sheet.

  When the user moves the information reading device 57 on the information-added paper 56, the information is recorded as information including one or more coordinate points. The recorded information is transmitted to the network server 40 or the HDD 2004 automatically or in accordance with a transmission instruction via a communication path 58 that is a wired or wireless network. The memory 42 provided in the network server 40 or HDD 2004 stores software for processing by the CPU 41 based on the absolute coordinate code source information 50, information related to the classification, and received coordinate information. The CPU 41 executes the software stored in the memory 42 using the information stored in the memory 42 and the information received from the information reading device 57. With this software, the locus drawn by the user on the paper received as a set of coordinate information is converted into a format that can be handled as image information such as bitmap format or vector format, and conventionally known character recognition is performed as necessary. A character code string is generated by processing. Thereafter, the result obtained by the processing is transmitted to the PC terminal 60 in a specified file format, or the data string is transmitted to a specified application executable on the PC terminal 60.

  The processing unique to the present invention when copying the information-added paper 56 that is generally used as described above is performed by an image forming apparatus such as a copying machine, which will be described later.

  FIG. 2 is an explanation of the information reading device 57 used in this embodiment.

<Description of information reading device (pen-type device that reads position code)>
"Physical Description of Information Reading Device"
The information reading device 57 is covered with a pen-type cover 11, the tip of the cover 11 is open (12), and the optical reading device 14 and at least one light emitting diode 13 are stowed inside. Further, the central processing unit, the memory 16 and the battery 15 are confused.

  Further, a pen tip 17 having ink is present at the tip of the open cover 11. The information reading device 57 further includes a button 18 for controlling the information reading device 57 and a communication device 19 for communicating with other devices.

"Operational explanation of information reading device"
The tip of the pen-type cover 11 is open, and the optical reader 14 and the light emitting diode 13 are contained therein. The light emitting diode 13 illuminates the portion to be read and highlights a two-dimensional image (dot pattern). The illuminated dot pattern is read by the optical reader 14. Although not shown, it is possible to mount a lens system. A CCD or CMOS sensor is used as the reading device. Electronic components including the central processing unit are driven by the battery 15.

  Since the pen tip 17 is mounted on the tip of the pen-type cover 11, the user can use the pen tip 17 to draw with ink on the medium surface including the reading surface. In other words, the information reading device 57 can read the dot pattern on the surface being drawn at the same time as the user draws. The dot pattern read by the optical reading device 14 is stored in the memory 16 through the central processing unit.

  By providing the dot pattern with coordinate information (position information coding pattern), the read and stored dot pattern is analyzed by the central processing unit, and the trajectory moved by the information reading device 57 on the medium surface is converted into a polygon string. In addition, since coordinate information is stored in the dot pattern, it is easy to determine which coordinate dot pattern was, and not only the movement trajectory of the information reading device 57 but also which position on the medium surface has passed. It will be remembered at the same time.

  The information reading device 57 can also have a control button 18 so that the start of the unit and other controls can be controlled using the button. In addition, by having IrDA, Bluetooth or other communication devices, the information read, analyzed and stored can be transmitted at a timing designated to an external device such as a computer or a mobile phone.

<Description of paper with information (Anoto (R) paper)>
A part (or the whole) on the surface of the information-added paper 56 cannot be clearly seen by human eyes, and the position cannot be directly determined by a device that determines only the position on the surface. There is a location information coding pattern that is a raster. The position information coding pattern is composed of a collection of many symbols (dots) uniquely associated with a certain value.

  The partial regions 125a and 125b on the two surfaces shown in FIG. 3 are indicated by portions surrounded by rectangular lines.

  The first pattern area 125a, which is a part of the position information coding pattern (in this case, 4 × 4 symbols), codes the coordinates of a certain (first) point on the virtual surface. The next pattern area 125b encodes the coordinates of another (second) point on the virtual surface.

  Therefore, the position information coding pattern is a pattern shared by two adjacent points.

  FIG. 4 shows a specific example of symbols used by the position information coding pattern.

  The symbol is configured by a virtual raster point 130 and a dot 106 of one dot at a point where the raster lines intersect. The value of the symbol is expressed where this dot mark is.

  In the example of FIG. 4, four positions on the raster line extending from the virtual raster point are used.

  The distance from the virtual raster point is the same. The symbol in FIG. 4a has a value of 1, FIG. 4b has a value of 2, FIG. 4c has a value of 3, and FIG.

  In other words, there are four different symbols. The dots can of course have different shapes. Each symbol thus represents four values “1-4”.

  Virtual raster points and lines are determined by the distance between two adjacent symbols. Raster lines obtained from one pair are also applied to other pairs (see FIG. 5).

This value is divided into an X code and a Y code as follows, for example.
Value x y
1 1 1
2 0 1
3 1 0
4 0 0
That is, the x code and y code are expressed as a 4-bit sequence.

  The position information code is constructed by a numeric string of 0 and 1 having the characteristic that the 4-bit sequence appears only once in the same column. Therefore, the number sequence is periodic, meaning that the characteristics are applied even when the end of one number sequence is connected to the beginning of another number sequence.

  Therefore, the 4-bit sequence always has a clearly determined position in the numeric string.

  This number string can be 16 bits long, but will be described with 7 bits for simplicity.

0 0 0 1 0 1 0
Within this numeric string contains a unique 4-bit sequence, which encodes a position within the numeric string.

Position Sequence 0 0001
1 0010
2 0101
3 1010
4 0100
5 1000
6 0000

Coordinates included in the position information coding pattern are expressed using the sequence and position values.

  Therefore, by reading and analyzing the representation of the symbol on the surface of the medium as shown in FIG. 4, the coordinates of the read position information coding pattern are extracted and stored in the memory 16 in the information reading device 57.

  As described above, a 4 × 4 symbol and a 7-bit number string have been described. However, the symbols are not limited to combinations of the same number such as N × N (N × M combinations are possible). Also, the numeric string is not limited to binary numbers. Using numeric strings of different lengths, an x-code numeric string and a y-code numeric string code an X coordinate and a Y code, respectively. In general, 6 × 6 symbols are used.

  In the above example, the symbol is one dot, but it is conceivable that the symbol may have a different shape. The dotted line that continues from the virtual raster point is also possible, and the symbol can be a square, a triangle, or a circle. Also, the symbol itself can be a solid or hollow graphic. It is possible that the columns and rows are not at an angle of 90 degrees, and the positional information coding pattern itself is not necessarily a square (such as a hexagon).

  The actually recommended spacing between each symbol is 0.3 mm, and the position information coding pattern includes 6 × 6 symbols. Each imaginary point is represented by a position information coding pattern having a size of 1.8 mm × 1.8 mm. A 6 × 6 dot pattern can be read and coordinates can be determined with a single reading. Any medium can be used as long as the print resolution is 600 dpi.

<Description of system configuration in this embodiment>
FIG. 6 shows a network system configured according to this embodiment.

  Reference numeral 200 in the figure denotes an Internet communication network. A web server 201 is connected to the Internet 200 and provides a specific service to Internet users. Reference numeral 202 denotes an electronic money server that performs a settlement process between a financial institution and a consumer client. A service provider 204 performs a connection process between the personal user terminal and the Internet 200. A firewall 203 connects the inside of the LAN 2011 shown below and an external communication network (Internet 200), and performs security management and the like. Reference numeral 210 denotes each of the device management servers 211 to 214, 220 connected via the LAN 2011. Reference numeral 211 denotes a file server, which allows a plurality of users connected via the LAN 2011 to share data.

  An image forming apparatus 220 such as a digital copying machine mainly has an image input / output function. In this image forming apparatus 220, 140 is an operation unit for a user to perform various operations, 10 is an image scanner for reading an image in accordance with instructions from the operation unit 140 and PCs 212 and 213, and 20 is a PC 212 and 213. Or a printer that prints data from the file server 211 on paper.

  A controller unit 30 controls input / output of image data to the scanner 10 and the printer 20 based on data from the operation unit 140, the LAN 2011, and the MODEM 2050, and instructions from the PCs 212 and 213. For example, control such as receiving command data on the network via the LAN 2011 and accumulating the image data captured by the scanner 10 in a memory inside the controller, outputting it to the personal computers 212 and 213, or printing it with the printer 20 I do.

  A printer 214 can output image data from the personal computers 212 and 213 and the file server 211 onto a recording medium. Reference numerals 212 and 213 denote personal computers connected as terminal devices. Information provided from the web server 201 via the Internet 200 can be browsed, and image data can be output to the image forming apparatus 220 and the printer 214.

  In this embodiment, the image forming apparatus can directly receive information from the information reading device 57 from the Bluetooth 501, but can also receive the information via the LAN 2011 or MODEM 2050. When information from the information reading device 57 is received via the LAN 2011 or MODEM 2050, the image forming apparatus performs processing such as printout processing, SEND processing, and BOX processing according to the received data. Each processing operation of the image forming apparatus will be described later.

  Here, the BOX is a virtual electronic memory that spools image data fetched from the scanner 10 and image data sent from the PCs 212 and 213 via the LAN 2011 into the image forming apparatus. Some BOXs input a password for each individual and perform document operations such as printing. The BOX process refers to a processing operation for storing predetermined image data in the BOX.

  The SEND process refers to transmitting image and document electronic data from an image forming apparatus connected to a network such as the LAN 2011 to another image forming apparatus connected to the same network or the PCs 212 and 213. .

  In the above configuration, the LAN 2011 is connected to the Internet via the firewall 203, but the firewall 203 may be connected to the Internet via the service provider 204.

<Description of Configuration of Image Forming Apparatus>
The appearance of the image forming apparatus of the present invention is shown in FIG.

  The scanner unit 10 as an image input device irradiates a document image with a lamp, reads it with a CCD line sensor (not shown), and converts it into an electrical signal to process it as image data. The original paper is set on the original feeder 142, and when the apparatus user gives a reading start instruction from the operation unit 140, the feeder 2072 feeds the original paper one by one and performs an original image reading operation.

  The printer unit 20 that is an image output device is a part that converts image data into an image on paper. In the specification of this patent, the electrophotographic method using a photosensitive drum or a photosensitive belt will be described. An ink jet system that prints an image directly on a sheet by ejecting ink from a minute nozzle array may be used. The activation of the printing operation is started by an instruction from a controller (described later) inside the apparatus. The printer unit 20 has a plurality of paper feed stages so that different paper sizes or different paper orientations can be selected, and has paper cassettes 2101, 2102, 2103, and 2104 corresponding thereto. Further, the paper on which the image is formed is discharged onto the paper discharge tray 132.

  FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of the image forming apparatus of the present invention. Details of the operation will be described with reference to the drawings.

Reference numeral 101 denotes an original platen glass on which originals fed from the automatic document feeder 142 are sequentially placed at predetermined positions. Reference numeral 102 denotes a document illumination lamp composed of, for example, a halogen lamp, which exposes a document placed on the document table glass 101. Reference numerals 103, 104, and 105 denote scanning mirrors, which are accommodated in an optical scanning unit (not shown), and guide reflected light from the original to the CCD unit 106 while reciprocating. The CCD unit 106 includes an imaging lens 107 that forms an image of reflected light from an original on the CCD, for example, an image sensor 108 composed of a CCD, a CCD driver 109 that drives the image sensor 108, and the like. An image signal output from the image sensor 108 is converted into, for example, 8-bit digital data and then input to the controller unit 30. Reference numeral 110 denotes a photosensitive drum,
The pre-exposure lamp 112 is neutralized in preparation for image formation. A primary charger 113 uniformly charges the photosensitive drum 110. Reference numeral 117 denotes an exposure unit, which is composed of, for example, a semiconductor laser and exposes the photosensitive drum 110 based on image data processed by the controller unit 30 that controls image formation and overall apparatus, thereby forming an electrostatic latent image. . Reference numeral 118 denotes a developing device that contains a black developer (toner). Reference numeral 119 denotes a pre-transfer charger, which applies a high voltage before transferring the toner image developed on the photosensitive drum 110 onto a sheet. Reference numerals 120, 122, 124, 142, and 144 denote paper feed units (120 is a manual paper feed unit), and the transfer paper is fed into the apparatus by driving the paper feed rollers 121, 123, 125, 143, and 145. Then, the operation is temporarily stopped at the position where the registration roller 126 is disposed, and the writing timing with the image formed on the photosensitive drum 110 is taken and the paper is fed again. A transfer charger 127 transfers the toner image developed on the photosensitive drum 110 onto a transfer sheet to be fed. Reference numeral 128 denotes a separation charger that separates the transfer sheet on which the transfer operation has been completed from the photosensitive drum 110. The toner remaining on the photosensitive drum 110 without being transferred is collected by the cleaner 111. Reference numeral 129 denotes a conveyance belt which conveys the transfer sheet on which the transfer process has been completed to the fixing device 130 and is fixed by heat, for example. A flapper 131 controls the transfer path of the transfer sheet after the fixing process to one of the arrangement directions of the sorter 132 and the intermediate tray 137. Reference numerals 133 to 136 denote feed rollers, which feed the transfer paper once the fixing process is completed to the intermediate tray 137 by being reversed (multiple) or non-reversed (both sides). Reference numeral 138 denotes a re-feeding roller, which again conveys the transfer paper placed on the intermediate tray 137 to the position where the registration roller 126 is disposed.

  The controller unit 30 includes a CPU, a scanner image processing unit, a printer image processing unit, a position code management unit, and the like, which will be described later, and controls the above-described image forming operation. Details of the controller unit 30 will be described later.

<Description of operation unit of image forming apparatus>
The configuration of the operation unit 140 is shown in FIG. The LCD display unit 1032 has a touch panel sheet affixed on the LCD, displays an operation screen of the system, and transmits position information to the controller unit 30 when a displayed key is pressed. This will be described later with reference to FIG. The numeric keypad 1028 is used when inputting numbers such as the number of copies. A start key 1029 is used when starting a document image reading operation. A stop key 1030 is used to stop an operation in operation. A reset key 1031 is used to initialize settings from the operation unit.

  Reference numeral 1023 denotes a guide key. When the key function is not understood, an explanation of the key is displayed. Reference numeral 1024 denotes a copy mode key which is pressed when copying. Reference numeral 1025 denotes a fax key which is pressed to make settings related to fax. A file key 1026 is pressed to output file data. Reference numeral 1027 denotes a printer key, which is used to make settings relating to print output from an external device such as a computer.

  FIG. 14 is a basic screen displayed on the LCD display unit corresponding to the panel on the operation unit 140.

  Reference numeral 1001 denotes an extended function key. When this key is pressed, a mode such as double-sided copying, multiple copying, movement, binding margin setting, frame erasing setting, or the like is entered. An image mode key 1002 enters a setting mode for performing shading, shadowing, trimming, and masking on a copy image. Reference numeral 1003 denotes a user mode key, which can register a mode memory and set a standard mode screen for each user. Reference numeral 1004 denotes an applied zoom key, which enters a mode for independently scaling the X and Y directions of a document, and a zoom program mode for calculating a scaling factor from the document size and copy size. Reference numerals 1005, 1006, and 1007 denote an M1 key, an M2 key, and an M3 key, which are pressed when calling each mode memory.

  Reference numeral 1008 denotes a call key, which is pressed to call the copy mode that was previously set. An option key 1009 sets an optional function such as a film projector for copying directly from a film. Reference numeral 1010 denotes a sorter key for setting modes such as sort output and group output. Reference numeral 1011 denotes a document mixed loading key which is pressed when setting A4 size and A3 size or B5 size and B4 size documents together in the document feeder.

  Reference numeral 1012 denotes an equal magnification key which is pressed when the copy magnification is set to 100%. Reference numerals 1014 and 1015 denote a reduction key and an enlargement key, respectively, which are pressed when performing regular reduction or enlargement. Reference numeral 1016 denotes a zoom key which is pressed when performing non-standard reduction or enlargement in increments of 1%. A sheet selection key 1013 is pressed when selecting a copy sheet. The density keys 1018 and 1020 are darkly copied every time 1018 is pressed, and lightly copied every time 1020 is pressed.

  Reference numeral 1017 denotes a density display. When the density key is pressed, the display changes to the left and right. Reference numeral 1019 denotes an AE key which is pressed when a document having a dark background such as a newspaper is copied for automatic density adjustment. Reference numeral 1021 denotes a HiFi key, which is pressed when copying a document having a large halftone density such as a photographic document. Reference numeral 1022 denotes a character emphasis key which is pressed when it is desired to make a character stand out when copying a character document.

<Description of scanner and printer section of image forming apparatus>
FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating configurations of the scanner 10 and the printer 20 in the image forming apparatus.

  A CPU 751 controls the entire scanner 10 and sequentially reads and executes a program from a read-only memory 753 (ROM) storing a control program. The CPU address bus and data bus are connected to each load via a circuit including a bus driver and an address decoder 752. Further, it is connected to the CPU of the controller unit 30 and performs communication.

  Reference numeral 754 denotes a random access memory (RAM) as a main storage device used as input data storage, a working storage area, or the like. Reference numeral 755 denotes an I / O interface, and each load of devices such as a motor 756, a lamp 757, and a paper detection sensor 758 for detecting a sheet to be conveyed is driven. Connected to.

  The image data read by the CCD unit 106 is transferred to the controller unit 30.

  Next, reference numeral 701 denotes a CPU that controls the printer 20, and sequentially reads and executes a program from a read-only memory 703 (ROM) storing a control procedure (control program). The address bus and data bus of the CPU 701 are connected to each load through the bus driver circuit and address decoder circuit of 702.

  Reference numeral 704 denotes a random access memory (RAM) which is a main storage device used as a storage area for input data, a working storage area, or the like. Reference numeral 705 denotes an I / O interface, and motors 707, clutches 708, solenoids 709 for driving the paper feed system, transport system, and optical system, and paper detection sensors 710 for detecting the transported paper. Connected to each load of the device.

  The developing device 118 is provided with a toner residual detection sensor 711 that detects the amount of toner in the developing device, and its output signal is input to the I / O port 705. A high voltage unit 715 outputs a high voltage to the above-described primary charger 113, developing device 118, pre-transfer charger 119, transfer charger 127, and separation charger 128 in accordance with instructions from the CPU 701.

  The image signal output from the CCD unit 106 is subjected to image processing, which will be described later, by the controller unit 30 and outputs a control signal 117 of the laser unit according to the image data. Laser light output from the laser unit 117 irradiates and exposes the photosensitive drum 110, and a light emission state is detected by a beam detection sensor 713 serving as a light receiving sensor in a non-image area. 705 is input.

<Description of controller unit of image forming apparatus>
A block diagram of the controller unit 30 is shown in FIG. The controller unit 30 is connected to the scanner 10 as an image input device and the printer 20 as an image output device. On the other hand, the controller unit 30 is connected to a LAN 2011, a public line (WAN) 2051, and a Bluetooth 501 to read image information, device information, and information. Input / output information from the device 57 and control.

  A CPU 2001 is a controller that controls the entire system. A RAM 2002 is a system work memory for the CPU 2001 to operate, and is also an image memory for temporarily storing image data. A ROM 2003 is a boot ROM, which stores a system boot program.

  An HDD 2004 is a hard disk drive that stores system software, image data, software counter values, information input by a position management code reading pen (position information coding pattern, data managing position information), and the like.

  An operation unit I / F 2006 performs an interface with the operation unit 140 and outputs image data to be displayed on the operation unit 140 to the operation unit 140. Further, it plays a role of transmitting information input by the system user from the operation unit 140 to the CPU 2001. A network 2010 is connected to the LAN 2011 and inputs / outputs information. The Modem 2050 is connected to the public line 2051 and inputs / outputs information. The Bluetooth 501 inputs information from a position management code reading pen wirelessly.

  The ANOTO (R) unit 502 extracts information input by the position management code reading pen (position information coding pattern, data managing the position information, etc.) from the HDD 2004, recognizes the character, and performs image recognition on the image forming apparatus. Control to convert to commands that can be processed by.

  The scanner / printer communication I / F is an I / F for communicating with the CPUs of the scanner 10 and the printer 20. The above devices are arranged on the system bus 2007.

  An Image Bus I / F 2005 is a bus bridge that connects a system bus 2007 and an image bus 2008 that transfers image data at high speed, and converts a data structure. The image bus 2008 is configured by a PCI bus or IEEE1394. The following devices are arranged on the image bus 2008. A raster image processor (RIP) 2060 expands the PDL code into a bitmap image. The device I / F unit 2020 connects the scanner 10 and the printer 20 that are image input / output devices to the controller unit 30, controls the bus access sequence of image data, and performs synchronous / asynchronous conversion.

  A scanner image processing unit 2080 corrects, processes, and edits input image data. The printer image processing unit performs printer correction, resolution conversion, and the like on the print output image data. The image rotation unit 2030 rotates image data. The image compression unit 2040 performs compression / decompression processing of JPEG for multivalued image data and JBIG, MMR, and MH for binary image data.

  Hereinafter, each block in the controller unit 30 shown in FIG. 10 will be described.

  FIG. 11 shows the configuration of the scanner image processing unit 2080. The image bus I / F controller 2081 is connected to the image bus 2008 and controls the bus access sequence and generates control and timing of each device in the scanner image processing unit 2080. The filter processing unit 2082 performs a convolution operation with a spatial filter.

  For example, the editing unit 2083 recognizes a closed area surrounded by a marker pen from the input image data, and performs image processing such as shading, shading, and negative / positive inversion on the image data in the closed area. A scaling unit 2084 performs enlargement and reduction by performing an interpolation operation in the main scanning direction of the raster image when changing the resolution of the read image. The scaling in the sub-scanning direction is performed by changing the scanning speed of an image reading line sensor (not shown). A table 2085 is table conversion performed to convert image data, which is read luminance data, into density data. Binarization 2086 binarizes multi-value grayscale image data by error diffusion processing or screen processing.

  The processed image data is transferred to the image bus via the image bus controller 2081 again.

  The configuration of the printer image processing unit 2090 is shown in FIG. The image bus I / F controller 2091 is connected to the image bus 2008, and controls the bus access sequence and generates control and timing of each device in the scanner image processing unit 2090. A resolution conversion unit 2092 performs resolution conversion for converting image data coming from the network 2011 or the public line 2051 to the resolution of the printer 20. The smoothing processing unit 2093 performs processing to smooth out jaggies of the image data after resolution conversion (roughness of an image appearing at a black and white border such as an oblique line).

<Description of ANOTO (R) part of controller unit>
FIG. 15 shows an example in which the user transmits a command using the information-added paper 56 and the information reading device 57. A user document is entered on the document 504 corresponding to the information-added paper 56 by the information reading device 57, and a processing command requested by the user to the image forming apparatus is entered in the command input field 507.

  The ANOTO (R) unit 502 includes the command information and command destination list entered in the command input field 507 among the information (position information coding pattern and data managing the position information) input by the information reading device 57. Is received via the system bus 2007.

  Information input by the information reading device 57 (position information coding pattern and data managing the position information) is stored in the HDD 2004, and the command information entered in the command input field 507 and the command destination list are stored therein. The described command execution destination information is received via the system bus 2007. Alternatively, it may be received via the system bus 2007 directly via the Bluetooth 501, the LAN 2011, or the MODEM 2050.

  The ANOTO (R) unit 502 extracts the information of the position information coding pattern input to the command input field 507 from the received information reading device 57 and recognizes the character. After the character recognition, control is performed to convert the command into a command that can be processed on the image forming apparatus. The command includes a printout process, a SEND process, a BOX process, and the like. When converting to a command, if there is no command corresponding to the command processed by the image forming apparatus or if the character cannot be recognized, an error is determined and an error notification is sent to the CPU 2001.

  If the ANOTO (R) unit 502 can convert the command into the corresponding command, the ANOTO (R) unit 502 encodes the position information encoded in the command destination list power of the received information reading device 57 information. The pattern information is extracted, the position information code checked by the information reading device 57 is confirmed, and the code number of the checked command destination is determined. The image forming apparatus has a registration code numbered beforehand as a command destination capable of executing processing corresponding to the command. Next, it is determined whether the code number registered as the command destination matches the code number of the command destination checked by the information reading device 57.

  If they do not match, it is determined that the received information reading device 57 information is information for another image forming apparatus, and no processing is performed. The information of the received information reading device 57 may be erased.

  If they match, the ANOTO (R) unit 502 transmits a processing command instruction to the CPU 2001 in accordance with the converted command.

  Depending on the type of command to be converted by the ANOTO (R) unit 502, the format of the command input field 507, the format of the command destination list, and the like may change. Processing for executing each command will be described later.

<Description of Printout Processing of Present Embodiment>
The operation of the image forming apparatus when the printout processing command is executed will be described below.

  FIG. 15 and FIG. 16 show an example of performing the printout process in the present embodiment. A user document is entered by the information reading device 57 in a user text portion of the document 505 corresponding to the information-added paper 56, and the execution destination for performing printout processing on the user text is selected from the command destination list in the document 505. The information reading device 57 checks the corresponding command destination. 15 and 16 indicate that the image forming apparatus 520 is set to perform printout processing. Next, in order to print out the user text for the printout process execution destination checked in the command destination list, the characters indicating the print command are entered in the command input field 507 by the information reading device 57 and stored in the image forming apparatus. Data is transmitted to it (Anoto (R) information in FIG. 16). In the command input field 507, a predetermined character and format are input so that the ANOTO (R) unit 502 can determine that the command is a printout process command.

  With the above series of settings, the user text information described in the document 505 is printed out by the image forming apparatus 520.

  The operation of the ANOTO (R) unit 502 at this time will be described next.

  The ANOTO (R) unit 502 includes the command information and command destination list entered in the command input field 507 among the information (position information coding pattern and data managing the position information) input by the information reading device 57. Is received via the system bus 2007. Information input by the information reading device 57 (position information coding pattern and data managing the position information) is stored in the HDD 2004, and is described in the command information and command destination list entered in the command input field 507. The command execution destination information is received via the system bus 2007. Alternatively, it may be received via the system bus 2007 directly via the Bluetooth 501, the LAN 2011, or the MODEM 2050.

  The ANOTO (R) unit 502 character-recognizes information input to the command input field 507 among the received information reading device 57 information. After the character recognition, control is performed to convert the command into a command that can be processed on the image forming apparatus. When converting to a command, if the image forming apparatus corresponds to a command to be printed out, the image forming apparatus determines that the request is for a printout processing command.

  If it is determined that the request is for a printout processing command, the ANOTO (R) unit 502 extracts the positional information coding pattern information input to the command destination list power from the received information reading device 57 information. Then, the position information code checked by the information reading device 57 is confirmed, and the checked code number of the command destination is determined. The image forming apparatus has a registration code numbered in advance as a command destination that can execute processing input by the information reading device 57. Next, it is determined whether the code number registered as the command destination matches the code number of the command destination checked by the information reading device 57.

  If they do not match, it is determined that the received information reading device 57 information is information for another image forming apparatus, and no processing is performed. The information of the received information reading device 57 may be erased.

  If they match, the ANOTO (R) unit 502 sends an instruction to the CPU 2001 to print out the received information on the user text portion of the information reading device 57.

  When the CPU 2001 receives a printout processing command from the ANOTO (R) unit 502, the CPU 2001 executes the printout of the information on the user text portion of the information reading device 57.

<Description of SEND Process of this Embodiment>
The operation when the SEND processing command is executed will be described below.

  FIG. 17 shows an example of performing the SEND process in this embodiment.

  In the user text portion of the original 505 corresponding to the information-added paper 56, the user document is entered by the information reading device 57, and the SEND destination for performing the SEND processing on the user text is in the SEND destination list 509 in the original 505. And the information reading device 57 checks the corresponding SEND destination. In the case of FIG. 17, it is set to send to the image forming apparatus 521.

  Next, in order to digitize and transmit the user text to the SEND processing execution destination checked in the SEND destination list 509, a character indicating the SEND command is entered in the command input field 507 by the information reading device 57, and the image forming apparatus Data is transmitted to 520 (Anoto (R) information in FIG. 17). In the command input field 507, a predetermined character and format are input so that the ANOTO (R) unit 502 can determine that the command is a command for SEND processing.

  With the above series of settings, the user text information described in the document 505 is transmitted from the image forming apparatus 520 to the image forming apparatus 521, the server 522, the terminal 523, and the like checked in the SEND destination list 509. .

  Next, the operation of the ANOTO (R) unit 502 in the image forming apparatus at this time will be described.

  The ANOTO (R) unit 502 includes the command information entered in the command input field 507 and the SEND destination list among the information (position information coding pattern and data managing the position information) input by the information reading device 57. Information on the SEND execution destination described in 509 is received via the system bus 2007. Information input by the information reading device 57 (position information coding pattern and data managing the position information) is stored in the HDD 2004. Of these, the command information entered in the command input field 507 and the SEND destination list 509 are stored. The described SEND destination information is received via the system bus 2007. Alternatively, it may be received via the system bus 2007 directly via the Bluetooth 501, the LAN 2011, or the MODEM 2050.

  The ANOTO (R) unit 502 character-recognizes information input to the command input field 507 among the received information reading device 57 information. After the character recognition, control is performed to convert the command into a command that can be processed on the image forming apparatus. When converting to a command, if the image forming apparatus corresponds to a command for SEND processing, the image forming apparatus 520 determines that the request is for a SEND processing command.

  If it is determined that the request is a request for a SEND processing command, the ANOTO (R) unit 502 extracts the information of the positional information coding pattern input to the SEND destination list 509 from the received information reading device 57 information. The position information code checked by the information reading device 57 is confirmed, and the checked SEND destination code number is determined. Each image forming apparatus (521, etc.) connected to the LAN 2001 in advance, the server 522, and the terminal 523 have a registration code numbered as a SEND destination.

  The ANOTO (R) unit 502 transmits to the CPU 2001 a SEND processing command for the received user sentence part information with respect to the code number of the highest SEND destination.

  When the CPU 2001 receives a SEND processing command from the ANOTO (R) unit 502, the CPU 2001 adds the data of the user sentence part and the information of the code number indicating the SEND destination, and transmits it to the LAN 2001.

  The image forming apparatus 521, the server 522, and the terminal 523 connected to the LAN 2001 receive the information on the SEND process transmitted from the image forming apparatus 520, and look at the code number indicating the corresponding SEND destination. Compare with the numbered registration number. If the numbers match, the data of the user sentence portion sent SEND is received and a predetermined process is performed.

  After receiving the SEND data from the image forming apparatus 520 and performing predetermined processing, the image forming apparatus 520 is notified of reception completion via the LAN 2001. For example, when the server 522 receives the data, the user sentence data is managed on the server, and data indicating a reception completion notification is transmitted to the image processing apparatus 520. The image forming apparatus 521 and the terminal 523 whose send destination codes do not match do not perform any particular processing. If the image forming apparatus 520 does not receive a notification of completion of reception after transmitting SEND processing information via the LAN 2001, the CPU 2001 determines that the SEND destination for performing the SEND processing does not exist on the LAN 2001. And error notification.

  FIG. 18 shows a second example in which the SEND process in this embodiment is performed. The user document is entered by the information reading device 57 in the user text portion of the document 505. Next, an image forming apparatus destination that sends the electronic data of the user text is selected from the SEND destination list 509, and the corresponding image processing apparatus is checked by the information reading device 57.

  Next, the image forming apparatus that performs the SEND process is selected from the command destination list in the document 505, the corresponding image processing apparatus is checked by the information reading device 57, and data is transmitted to the server 522 (Anoto in FIG. 18). R) Information). The data transmission destination is not particularly limited as long as it is a device that can transmit ANOTO® information connected to the LAN 2001 to the LAN 2001. In the command input field 507, a predetermined character and format are input so that the ANOTO (R) unit 502 can determine that the command is a command for SEND processing. In the case of FIG. 18, it is shown that the user text is being sent from the image forming apparatus 520 to the terminal 523.

<Description of BOX processing of this embodiment>
The operation when the BOX processing command is executed will be described below.

  FIG. 19 shows an example of performing the BOX process in this embodiment.

  A user document is entered by the information reading device 57 in a user text portion of the document 505 corresponding to the information-added paper 56. Next, a BOX destination for storing the electronic data of the user text is selected from the BOX list sheet 510, and the corresponding BOX destination is checked by the information reading device 57. Next, a command for executing the BOX processing for the checked BOX destination in the BOX list sheet 510 is entered in the command input field 507 by the information reading device 57, and the data is transmitted to the image forming apparatus. In the command input field 507, a predetermined character and format are input so that the ANOTO (R) unit 502 can determine that the command is a BOX processing command.

  In the case of FIG. 19, the user text is stored in the BOX 3 in the image forming apparatus 520. By performing the BOX process according to the series of settings described above, the user text is stored in the virtual electronic memory of BOX 3 in the image forming apparatus 520 as digitized information.

  Next, the operation of the ANOTO (R) unit 502 in the image forming apparatus at this time will be described.

  The ANOTO (R) unit 502 includes the command information and command destination list entered in the command input field 507 among the information (position information coding pattern and data managing the position information) input by the information reading device 57. Is received via the system bus 2007. Information input by the information reading device 57 (position information coding pattern and data managing the position information) is stored in the HDD 2004, of which the command information written in the command input field 507 and the BOX destination list are described. BOX destination information is received via the system bus 2007. Alternatively, it may be received via the system bus 2007 directly via the Bluetooth 501, the LAN 2011, or the MODEM 2050.

  The ANOTO (R) unit 502 character-recognizes information input to the command input field 507 among the received information reading device 57 information. After the character recognition, control is performed to convert the command into a command that can be processed on the image forming apparatus. When converting to a command, if the image forming apparatus corresponds to a command for BOX processing, it is determined that the request is for a BOX processing command to the image forming apparatus.

  If it is determined that the request is for a BOX processing command, the ANOTO (R) unit 502 extracts the information of the positional information coding pattern input to the BOX destination list 510, and the code number of the checked BOX destination Is determined. In the image forming apparatus 520, a virtual electronic memory for performing BOX processing is prepared in advance as described in the BOX destination list 510.

  The ANOTO (R) unit 502 transmits a received BOX processing instruction to the CPU 2001 with respect to the code numbers of the received BOX destination list 501 with respect to the received user sentence part information.

  When the CPU 2001 receives a BOX processing command from the ANOTO (R) unit 502, the CPU 2001 stores the data of the user sentence part in the virtual electronic memory corresponding to the code number of the BOX destination list 510.

  FIG. 20 shows a second example in which the BOX process in the present embodiment is performed. The user document is entered by the information reading device 57 in the user text portion of the document 505. Next, an image forming apparatus destination that stores the electronic data of the user text is selected from the command destination list, and the information reading device 57 checks the corresponding image processing apparatus.

  Similarly, a BOX destination in the selected image processing apparatus is selected from the BOX list sheet 510, and the corresponding BOX destination is checked by the information reading device 57.

  Next, a command for executing the BOX processing on the BOX destination checked in the command destination list and the BOX list sheet 510 is entered in the command input field 507 by the information reading device 57, and the data is transmitted to the server 522. The data transmission destination is not particularly limited as long as it is a device that can transmit data transmitted from the information reading device 57 connected in the LAN 2001 to the LAN 2001. In the command input field 507, a predetermined character and format are input so that the ANOTO (R) unit 502 can determine that the command is a BOX processing command. In the case of FIG. 20, the user text is stored in the BOX 3 in the image forming apparatus 521.

  The ANOTO (R) unit 502 sends the received user sentence part information to the CPU 2001 only when the command destination list and the BOX destination checked in the BOX list sheet 510 correspond to the BOX list sheet. A BOX processing instruction is transmitted to the code number 510. When the CPU 2001 receives a BOX processing command from the ANOTO (R) unit 502, the CPU 2001 stores the data of the user sentence part in the virtual electronic memory corresponding to the code number of the BOX destination list 510. As a result, the user text is stored in the BOX checked in the BOX list sheet 510 for the image forming apparatus selected in the command destination list.

Diagram explaining the position code management system The figure explaining the information reading device Figure showing paper with information Figure showing explanation of paper with information Figure showing explanation of paper with information 1 is a diagram showing a network system including an image forming apparatus of the present invention. The figure which shows the external appearance of the image forming apparatus of this invention Sectional view showing overall configuration of image forming apparatus Block diagram showing configurations of scanner and printer in image forming apparatus Diagram showing the configuration of the controller unit The figure which shows the block diagram of the scanner image processing section The figure which shows the block diagram of the printer image processing section Diagram showing the operation unit Figure showing LCD display System diagram explained in this example System diagram for explaining the printout processing of the present embodiment System diagram for explaining the SEND process of this embodiment System diagram for explaining the second SEND process of the present embodiment System diagram for explaining the BOX processing of this embodiment System diagram for explaining the second BOX processing of this embodiment

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Scanner 11 Cover 13 Light emitting diode 14 Optical reader 15 Battery 17 Pen tip 18 Button 19 Communication apparatus 20 Printer part 30 Controller unit 40 Network server 41 CPU
42 Memory 50 Absolute coordinate code source information 56 Paper with information 57 Information reading device 58 Communication path 60 PC terminal 101 Original platen glass 102 Original illumination lamps 103, 104, 105 Scanning mirror 106 CCD unit 107 Imaging lens 108 Imaging element 109 CCD driver 117 Exposure means 140 Operation unit 142 Document feeder 200 Internet communication network 201 Web server 202 Electronic money server 203 Firewall

Claims (18)

  Image reading means for reading a document image and converting it into digital data, detection means for detecting a prescribed pattern from digital data inputted by the reading means, and conversion means for analyzing and coding the prescribed pattern detected by the detecting means Recognizing means for recognizing the code converted by the converting means as a command that can be processed, storage means for storing digital data input by the reading means, and recognizing by the recognizing means An image forming apparatus that processes digital data stored in the storage unit in accordance with a command.   2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein digital data from the image reading means for converting into the digital data can be transmitted / received via a network.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the digital data stored in the storage unit can be processed according to a command recognized by the recognition unit via a network.   2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the command recognized by the recognition unit includes a printout processing command for printing out digital data stored in the storage unit.   5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the printout processing command can be executed for another image forming apparatus connected to the same network as the image forming apparatus. .   The command recognized by the recognition means includes a processing command for transmitting the digital data stored in the storage means to another device connected to the same network, a terminal such as a PC, a network server, etc. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus is an image forming apparatus.   2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the command recognized by the recognition unit includes a processing command for storing digital data stored in the storage unit in a virtual electronic memory.   The processing command for storing the digital data in the virtual electronic memory can also execute processing for a virtual electronic memory prepared in another image forming apparatus connected to the same network as the image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus according to claim 7, which is possible.   Digital data inputted by the reading means to which of the image forming apparatus and another apparatus connected to the same network, a terminal such as a PC, or a network server, the command recognized by the recognition means is to be processed The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus is identified and determined.   Image reading means for reading a document image and converting it into digital data, detection means for detecting a prescribed pattern from digital data inputted by the reading means, and conversion means for analyzing and coding the prescribed pattern detected by the detecting means Recognizing means for recognizing the code converted by the converting means as a command that can be processed, storage means for storing digital data input by the reading means, and recognizing by the recognizing means A method for controlling an image forming apparatus, comprising: processing digital data stored in the storage unit according to a command.   11. The method of controlling an image forming apparatus according to claim 10, wherein digital data from the image reading means for converting into the digital data can be transmitted / received via a network.   11. The method of controlling an image forming apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the digital data stored in the storage unit can be processed according to a command recognized by the recognition unit via a network. .   11. The method of controlling an image forming apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the command recognized by the recognition unit includes a printout processing command for printing out digital data stored in the storage unit.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the printout processing command can be executed for another image forming apparatus connected to the same network as the image forming apparatus. Control method.   The command recognized by the recognition means includes a processing command for transmitting the digital data stored in the storage means to another device connected to the same network, a terminal such as a PC, a network server, etc. 11. The method of controlling an image forming apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the image forming apparatus is controlled.   11. The method of controlling an image forming apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the command recognized by the recognition unit includes a processing command for storing digital data stored in the storage unit in a virtual electronic memory.   The processing command for storing the digital data in the virtual electronic memory can also execute processing for a virtual electronic memory prepared in another image forming apparatus connected to the same network as the image forming apparatus. 17. The method of controlling an image forming apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the control method is possible.   Digital data inputted by the reading means to which of the image forming apparatus and another apparatus connected to the same network, a terminal such as a PC, or a network server, the command recognized by the recognition means is to be processed The method of controlling an image forming apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the determination is performed by identifying from the above.