JP2006093862A - Image-forming device, image-forming system, image formation method, and program for enabling computer to execute image formation method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To improve operability by performing print setting by using a template manuscript in which a finish image is expressed for enabling a finished state to be predicted, by using an actual manuscript as the template manuscript, and by enabling set information to be added or changed easily. <P>SOLUTION: Before a user performs print setting by using an operation panel 18, an image reader 11 reads the template manuscript 22a, and an image analyzer 15 analyzes the image data, thus extracting a characteristic value for indicating the attribute of the manuscript. A set item retrieval 16 refers to set items DB 161 in which set items related to the characteristic value are stored for retrieval, and performs print setting automatically based on the retrieved set items. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention analyzes in advance at least image data obtained by reading a template document representing a finished image, extracts characteristic values representing attributes of the template document, and sets print settings based on setting items related to the characteristic values. The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, an image forming system, an image forming method, and a program for causing a computer to execute the method to perform image data processing and finishing processing based on the set print setting items.

  Conventionally, image formation such as a scanner that reads a document image, a copier that prints a document image read by the scanner, a printer or facsimile machine that prints image data input from the outside, or a multifunction device that combines these functions Devices are commonly used.

  In this type of image forming apparatus, settings relating to the state of the original such as the type and density of the original, settings relating to various image processing such as the enlargement / reduction ratio, single side / double side, or margin size, sorting, stapling, or punching It is necessary to make settings related to various functions such as settings related to finishing processing such as drilling. For this reason, the user has to find out a desired function from a very large selection of items related to print settings, and to perform accurate setting input.

  This tendency is particularly noticeable in devices that have abundant functions from frequently used to infrequently used devices such as recent image forming apparatuses, or multifunction devices that combine them. is there.

  Therefore, as a method for performing print setting without using a user interface such as an operation panel, for example, a mark sheet format print setting sheet called a job sheet is used, and a mark necessary for the print setting is marked and an optical character reader ( OCR) and others read setting information.

  In addition to this, the setting information on the image forming conditions and the setting card on which the visually understandable pattern in which the setting information is represented by pictures and characters are set on the platen and the start key on the operation panel is pressed. The setting information recorded on the card is optically read by the scanner unit, etc., and recognized by the image processing unit, so that the image forming conditions can be automatically set in the setting data table in the RAM of the basic unit CPU. There has been an image forming apparatus capable of improving (see Patent Document 1).

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 9-261382

  However, in such background technology, instead of checking the selection items on the print setting screen such as the operation panel, a print setting sheet called a job sheet is marked and the setting information is read by OCR or the like and printed. When setting, it can be said that the operability is improved in that the job sheet once checked can be used again and again by other image forming apparatuses. However, there is a problem in that the trouble of creating a job sheet for the first time is the same as in the case of the operation panel as long as the number of print setting selection items does not change.

  Furthermore, Patent Document 1 is similar to the template document of the present invention in that it uses a setting card on which image formation condition setting information and a visually understandable pattern in which the setting information is represented by a picture or character are recorded. Looks like you are. However, in the setting card of Patent Document 1, the setting information of the image forming conditions is displayed as a barcode, and the setting information is only displayed as a pattern that can be visually understood by icons or characters. In addition, it is difficult for a user who does not understand the convention to predict the finished state even if he / she sees this, and it is very difficult to change the information of the setting card once set.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above, and since a template document for print setting is expressed by a finished image, a finished state can be easily predicted, and an actual document is used as a template document. Image forming apparatus, image forming system, image forming method, and program for causing a computer to execute the method can be provided to perform print setting work appropriately and efficiently. The purpose is to do.

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, the invention according to claim 1 is a document reading unit that reads at least a template document expressing a finished image, and analyzes the read image data to set the attributes of the template document. Image analysis means for extracting characteristic values to be represented, and user setting means for performing print setting using the characteristic values of the template document extracted by the image analysis means, wherein the user setting means is print setting by a user. Prior to this, the image data of the read template original is analyzed by the image analysis means to extract the characteristic value of the original, and the print setting is performed based on the characteristic value.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided an original reading means for reading at least a template original representing a finished image, an image processing means for performing image processing on the read image data, and image data read by the original reading means. Analyzing the image and extracting a characteristic value representing the attribute of the template document, a printing unit for printing the image data image-processed by the image processing unit on paper, and various finishing processes for the printed printing paper Finishing processing means for performing image processing, and user setting means for performing print settings relating to image processing of image data and finishing processing for printed paper after printing, using the characteristic values of the template document extracted by the image analysis means. The user setting means reads the template document read prior to various print settings by the user. By analyzing the image data by the image analysis means extracts a characteristic value of the original, and performs print settings for the image processing and finishing processing based on the characteristic value.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the first or second aspect of the present invention, the image forming apparatus further includes an image storage unit that holds the image data at least temporarily.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to third aspects, the image analysis unit is configured to determine the size of the original based on the read image data of the template original. And at least one characteristic value for recognizing the layout described in the manuscript, and a plurality of setting item information related to print settings stored in association with each characteristic value extracted by the image analysis means Item setting means, and setting item search means for searching for setting items related to characteristic values by collating the characteristic values extracted by the image analysis means with the setting item storage means, the user setting means Is characterized in that print settings are made based on the setting items related to the extracted characteristic values.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the fourth aspect, the recognition of the layout in the image analyzing means is a layout shape, a coordinate position where the shape exists, and a color representing the shape. Recognizing at least one piece of information.

  According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the fourth or fifth aspect, the image analyzing unit can recognize a handwritten layout.

  According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the fourth or fifth aspect, a finishing process layout is formed by actually performing a finishing process on the template original, and the template original is converted into the template original. Characteristic values relating to the layout of the finishing process can be extracted by the image reading means after being read by the document reading means.

  According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to any one of the fourth to sixth aspects, a imitation pattern having a predetermined shape corresponding to a finishing process is entered on the template document, and a finishing process is performed. The template document is read by the document reading unit, and the characteristic value relating to the layout of the finishing process can be extracted by the image analysis unit.

  According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to any one of the fourth to eighth aspects, the image analyzing means has a circular layout recognition shape and the circular coordinate position. Is determined to be at either the left edge or the upper edge of the document, a characteristic value corresponding to the punch hole is extracted, and the user setting means performs print settings relating to the punch hole finishing process.

  According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to any one of the fourth to eighth aspects, the image analysis unit is configured such that the recognized shape of the layout is a linear shape, and the coordinate position of the linear shape. Is determined to be at either the left edge or the upper edge of the document, a characteristic value corresponding to staples is extracted, and the user setting means performs print settings relating to staple finishing processing.

  According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the eighth aspect, when the imitation pattern corresponding to the finishing process is entered on the template document, the linear seal corresponding to the stapler is stamped. It is characterized by using possible imitation tools.

  According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the eighth aspect, a circular seal corresponding to a punch is provided when a mimic pattern corresponding to a finishing process is entered on the template document. It is characterized by using imitation tools that can be imprinted.

  According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects, the document reading unit is configured to perform a predetermined process while sequentially transporting a plurality of pages of documents set on a document tray. And an automatic document feeder that can automatically and continuously read one or both sides of the document, and recognizes the first document set on the document tray as a template document. Then, the print setting is performed, and the second and subsequent originals are printed based on the print setting.

  According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to thirteenth aspects, the template document includes items necessary for print setting in addition to the representation of the finished image. And the image analyzing means extracts characteristic values corresponding to the symbols and the code in addition to characteristic values relating to the finished image, and the user setting means is the finished image represented on the template document. And print settings based on symbols and codes.

  According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a document reading device that reads at least a template document representing a finished image, an image processing device that performs image processing on the read image data, and image data read by the document reading device. Analysis device for extracting characteristic values representing attributes of template originals, a printing device for printing image data image-processed by the image processing device on paper, and various finishing processes for printed printing paper And a user setting device for performing print settings relating to image processing of image data and finishing processing for printed paper after printing using the characteristic values of the template document extracted by the image analysis device. , At least part of the devices are connected via a network, and the user setting device is Prior to various print settings by the user, the image data of the read template original is analyzed by the image analysis device to extract the characteristic value of the original, and print settings relating to image processing and finishing processing are performed based on the characteristic values. It is characterized by that.

  According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, an original reading step for reading a template original representing a finished image, an image analysis step for analyzing the read image data and extracting a characteristic value representing an attribute of the template original are extracted. A user setting step for performing print settings using the characteristic values of the template original, wherein the user setting step analyzes the image data of the read template original and prints the characteristics of the original prior to the print setting by the user. A value is extracted, and print setting is performed based on the characteristic value.

  According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a document reading step for reading a template document expressing a finished image, an image processing step for performing image processing on the read image data, and image data read by the document reading step. An image analysis step for analyzing and extracting characteristic values representing attributes of the template document, a printing step for printing the image data image-processed in the image processing step on paper, and various finishing processes for the printed printing paper A finishing processing step to be applied; and a user setting step for performing print settings relating to image processing of image data and finishing processing for printed paper after printing using the characteristic values of the template document extracted in the image analysis step; The user setting step precedes various print settings by the user. Te, analyzes the image data of the read template document to extract the characteristic values of the original, and performs print settings for the image processing and finishing processing based on the characteristic value.

  According to an eighteenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming method according to the sixteenth or seventeenth aspect, the image analysis step is described in the size of the original and the original based on the read image data of the template original. A setting item storage step of extracting at least one characteristic value for recognition of the layout, and storing a plurality of setting item information relating to print settings in association with each characteristic value extracted in the image analysis step; and the image analysis step A setting item retrieval step for retrieving the setting item related to the characteristic value by comparing the characteristic value extracted in step with the stored content in the setting item storage step, and the user setting step includes the extracted characteristic value The print setting is performed based on the setting items related to.

  According to a nineteenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming method according to the eighteenth aspect, the recognition of the layout in the image analysis step includes a layout shape, a coordinate position where the shape exists, and a color representing the shape. Recognizing at least one piece of information.

  The invention according to claim 20 is the image forming method according to claim 18 or 19, wherein the image analysis step is capable of recognizing a handwritten layout.

  The invention according to claim 21 is the image forming method according to claim 18 or 19, wherein a finish processing layout is formed by actually performing a finishing process on the template document, and the template document is converted into the template document. Characteristic values relating to the layout of the finishing process can be extracted by the document reading step and the image analysis step.

  According to a twenty-second aspect of the present invention, in the image forming method according to any one of the eighteenth to twentieth aspects, the imitation pattern having a predetermined shape corresponding to a finishing process is entered on the template document, and the finishing process is performed. The template document is read in the document reading step, and the characteristic value relating to the layout of the finishing process can be extracted in the image analysis step.

  The invention according to claim 23 is the image forming method according to any one of claims 18 to 22, wherein the image analysis step includes a circular recognition shape and a coordinate position of the circular shape. Is determined to be at either the left edge or the upper edge of the document, a characteristic value corresponding to the punch hole is extracted, and print setting relating to punch hole finishing processing is performed in the user setting step.

  According to a twenty-fourth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming method according to any one of the twenty-eighth to twenty-second aspects, the image analyzing step includes a linear recognition shape of a layout and a coordinate position of the linear shape. Is determined to be at either the left edge or the upper edge of the document, a characteristic value corresponding to staples is extracted, and print settings relating to staple finishing processing are performed in the user setting step.

  According to a twenty-fifth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming method according to the twenty-second aspect, a linear seal corresponding to a stapler is imprinted when an imitation pattern corresponding to a finishing process is entered on the template document. It is characterized by using possible imitation tools.

  According to a twenty-sixth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming method according to the twenty-second aspect, when a imitation pattern corresponding to a finishing process is written on the template document, a circular seal corresponding to a punching machine is provided. It is characterized by using imitation tools that can be imprinted.

  According to a twenty-seventh aspect of the present invention, in the image forming method according to any one of the sixteenth to twenty-sixth aspects, the document reading step is performed while sequentially conveying a plurality of pages of documents set on a document tray. Further includes an automatic document transport step in which the document is set at a reading position and one or both sides of the document can be automatically read continuously, and the first document set on the document tray is recognized as a template document. Then, the print setting is performed, and the second and subsequent originals are printed based on the print setting.

  The invention according to claim 28 is the image forming method according to any one of claims 16 to 27, wherein the template document includes items necessary for print setting in addition to the representation of the finished image. And the image analysis step extracts characteristic values corresponding to the symbol and the code in addition to characteristic values relating to the finished image, and the user setting step includes a finished image represented on the template document. And print settings based on symbols and codes.

  The invention according to claim 29 is a program that causes a computer to execute the method according to any one of claims 16 to 28.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, prior to the print setting by the user, the template original on which the finished image is expressed by the original reading unit is read, and the characteristic value of the template original is extracted by analyzing by the image analysis unit, Since the print settings are made by the user setting means based on the characteristic values, the finished state can be easily predicted, the actual original can be used as a template original, and setting information can be added or changed later. Therefore, the print setting operation can be performed appropriately and efficiently.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, prior to the print setting by the user, the template document on which the finished image is expressed by the document reading unit is read, and the characteristic value of the template document is extracted by analyzing by the image analysis unit, Based on the characteristic values, the user setting means performs print settings relating to image processing of image data and finishing processing for printed paper after printing, so that the finished state can be easily predicted, and an actual original is also used as a template original. In addition, since print setting information related to image processing and finishing processing can be added or changed later, print setting work can be performed appropriately and efficiently.

  According to the third aspect of the present invention, since the image storage means for holding the image data at least temporarily is further provided, the acquired image data and the read image data are temporarily held in the image storage means. Is read out and analyzed by the image analysis means to extract the characteristic value of the document, and image processing can be easily and freely performed on the image data.

  According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, based on the image data of the template document read by the image analysis means, the characteristic value related to recognition of the size of the document and the layout described in the document is extracted, and the characteristic value is set as the setting item. Since the retrieval means collates with the setting item storage means, retrieves the setting item related to the characteristic value, and performs the print setting based on the setting item, the characteristic value representing the attribute is extracted from the template document. Thus, it is possible to efficiently search for setting items related to print settings, and to perform easy and appropriate print settings.

  According to the invention of claim 5, the recognition of the layout by the image analysis means is performed by at least one of the layout shape described in the template document, the coordinate position where the shape exists, and the color information representing the shape. Because it is recognized, for example, a template-descripted document that is simply expressed by enclosing the character position of the document in a frame, or an actual document that contains characters, can be used to properly recognize the layout. There is an effect that can be.

  According to the invention of claim 6, since the handwritten layout can be recognized by the image analysis means, a template document can be created by handwriting, or an existing template document or an actual document can be easily laid out later by handwriting. Thus, it is possible to easily create a desired template document.

  According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, the template document that has been subjected to the actual finishing process is read by the document reading unit, and the characteristic values relating to the layout of the finishing process can be extracted by the image analysis unit. Thus, there is an effect that the layout relating to the finishing process can be easily recognized only by using the processed original as it is or by using the template original that has been subjected to the finishing process.

  According to the eighth aspect of the present invention, the imitation pattern having a predetermined shape corresponding to the finishing process is entered on the template document to form the layout of the finishing process, and the template document is read by the document reading unit and finished by the image analysis unit. Since the characteristic values related to the process layout are extracted, the layout of the finish process can be recognized not only by actually performing the finish process, but also by imitation pattern entry. There is an effect that it can be created.

  According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, when the image analysis unit recognizes the circular layout and determines that the circular coordinate position is at either the left end or the upper end of the document, the characteristic value corresponding to the punch hole is obtained. Since the user setting means performs print settings related to the punch hole finishing process, it recognizes that the punch hole finishing process is performed according to the recognized state of the layout, and relates to the punch hole finishing process. The print setting can be automatically performed.

  According to the tenth aspect of the present invention, when the image analysis means recognizes the linear layout and determines that the coordinate position of the linear shape is at either the left edge or the upper edge of the document, the characteristic value corresponding to the staple is obtained. Since the print setting related to the staple finishing process is performed by the user setting means, it is recognized that the staple finishing process is performed according to the layout recognition state, and the print setting related to the staple finishing process is automatically performed. The effect that it can be performed automatically is produced.

  According to the invention of claim 11, when the imitation pattern corresponding to the finishing process is entered on the template document, the imitation tool capable of imprinting the linear stamp corresponding to the stapler is used. There is an effect that it is possible to easily create a layout from which characteristic values relating to staples can be extracted simply by imprinting a linear seal without placing staples on a template document.

  According to the invention of claim 12, when the imitation pattern corresponding to the finishing process is entered on the template document, the imitation tool capable of stamping the circular seal corresponding to the punching machine is used. In addition, it is possible to easily create a layout from which characteristic values relating to punch holes can be extracted by simply impressing a circular seal without punching holes in the template document.

  According to the invention of claim 13, the document reading means further includes an automatic document conveying means that can automatically read one or both sides of the document continuously while sequentially conveying a plurality of pages of the document set on the document tray, The first document set on the document tray is recognized as a template document, print settings are made, and the second and subsequent documents are printed based on the print settings. Just by setting or setting an actual original suitable for print settings to the first sheet, appropriate print settings are automatically set, and a multi-page original can be printed appropriately and quickly. There is an effect.

  According to the fourteenth aspect of the present invention, in addition to the representation of the finished image on the template document, the items necessary for the print setting are represented using predetermined symbols and codes, and the image analysis means adds the characteristic values relating to the finished image. Because it is possible to extract characteristic values related to symbols and codes, and to make print settings based on the finished image and symbols and codes expressed in the template document by the user setting means, print setting items that cannot be expressed only with the finished image Also, there is an effect that print setting can be performed using a template document. For example, as a setting item that cannot be recognized only by reading an image expressed on one side of the first template document, a double-sided printing is instructed, a monochrome original is instructed to be printed in a predetermined monocolor, a color original May be instructed to print in monochrome. In this way, symbols and codes that assist print settings can be used for print setting items that cannot be expressed by the finished image alone.

  According to the fifteenth aspect of the present invention, prior to the print setting by the user, the template document on which the finished image is expressed by the document reader is read and analyzed by the image analyzer to extract the characteristic value of the template document. Since the user setting device performs print settings relating to image processing of image data and finishing processing for printed paper after printing based on the characteristic value, and at least a part of the devices is connected via a network, In addition to being applied to one image forming apparatus, there is an effect that the above functions can be similarly applied even in the case of configuring an image forming system in which the above functions are distributedly processed via a network.

  According to the sixteenth aspect of the present invention, prior to the print setting by the user, the template document on which the finished image is expressed by the document reading step is read, and the characteristic value of the template document is extracted by performing analysis at the image analysis step. Since the print settings are set in the user setting step based on the characteristic values, the finished state can be easily predicted, the actual original can be used as a template original, and setting information can be added or changed later. As a result, the print setting operation can be performed appropriately and efficiently.

  According to the seventeenth aspect of the present invention, prior to the print setting by the user, the template document on which the finished image is expressed by the document reading step is read, and the characteristic value of the template document is extracted by performing analysis at the image analysis step. Based on the characteristic values, print settings relating to image processing of image data and finishing processing for printed paper after printing are performed in the user setting step, so that the finished state can be easily predicted, and an actual original is also used as a template original. In addition, since print setting information related to image processing and finishing processing can be added or changed later, print setting work can be performed appropriately and efficiently.

  According to the invention of claim 18, based on the image data of the template document read in the image analysis step, the characteristic value relating to the recognition of the size of the document and the layout described on the document is extracted, and the characteristic value is The setting item search step searches for setting items related to the characteristic values stored in the setting item storage step, and print settings are performed based on the searched setting items. By extracting values and efficiently searching for setting items related to print settings, it is possible to perform print settings easily and appropriately.

  According to the invention of claim 19, the recognition of the layout in the image analysis step is performed by at least one of the layout shape described in the template document, the coordinate position where the shape exists, and the color information representing the shape. Because it is recognized, for example, a template-descripted document that is simply expressed by enclosing the character position of the document in a frame, or an actual document that contains characters, can be used to properly recognize the layout. There is an effect that can be.

  According to the invention of claim 20, since the handwritten layout can be recognized by the image analysis step, a template document can be created by handwriting, or an existing template document or an actual document can be easily laid out later by handwriting. Thus, it is possible to easily create a desired template document.

  According to the twenty-first aspect of the present invention, the template document that has been subjected to the actual finishing process is read in the document reading step, and the characteristic values relating to the layout of the finishing process can be extracted in the image analysis step. Thus, there is an effect that the layout relating to the finishing process can be easily recognized only by using the original as it is or by using the template original that has been subjected to the finishing process.

  According to the twenty-second aspect of the present invention, the imitation pattern having a predetermined shape corresponding to the finishing process is entered on the template document to form the layout of the finishing process, the template document is read in the document reading step, and the finishing is performed in the image analysis step. Since the characteristic values related to the processing layout are extracted, the layout for the finishing process can be recognized not only by actually performing the finishing process, but also by imitation pattern entry. There is an effect that it can be created.

  According to the invention of claim 23, when a circular layout is recognized in the image analysis step and it is determined that the circular coordinate position is at either the left end or the upper end of the document, it corresponds to a punch hole. Since characteristic values are extracted and print settings related to punch hole finishing are performed in the user setting step, punch hole finishing is recognized according to the recognition status of the layout, and punch hole finishing is performed. There is an effect that print settings relating to processing can be automatically performed.

  According to the twenty-fourth aspect of the present invention, when the linear layout is recognized in the image analysis step and it is determined that the coordinate position of the linear shape is at either the left edge or the upper edge of the document, the characteristic corresponding to the staple is obtained. Since the value is extracted and the print setting related to the staple finishing process is performed in the user setting step, the print setting related to the staple finishing process is recognized by recognizing that the staple finishing process is performed according to the recognized state of the layout. There is an effect that can be automatically performed.

  According to the invention of claim 25, when the imitation pattern corresponding to the finishing process is entered on the template document, the imitation tool capable of imprinting the linear stamp corresponding to the stapler is used. There is an effect that it is possible to easily create a layout from which characteristic values relating to staples can be extracted simply by imprinting a linear seal without placing staples on a template document.

  According to the invention of claim 26, when the imitation pattern corresponding to the finishing process is entered on the template document, the imitation tool capable of stamping the circular stamp corresponding to the punching machine is used. In addition, it is possible to easily create a layout from which characteristic values relating to punch holes can be extracted by simply impressing a circular seal without punching holes in the template document.

  According to the invention of claim 27, the document reading step further includes an automatic document conveyance step capable of automatically continuously reading one or both sides of the document while sequentially conveying a plurality of pages of documents set on the document tray, The first document set on the document tray is recognized as a template document, print settings are made, and the second and subsequent documents are printed based on the print settings. Just by setting or setting an actual original suitable for print settings to the first sheet, appropriate print settings are automatically set, and a multi-page original can be printed appropriately and quickly. There is an effect.

  According to the invention of claim 28, in addition to the representation of the finished image on the template document, the items necessary for print settings are represented using predetermined symbols and codes, and in addition to the characteristic values relating to the finished image in the image analysis step. Because it is possible to extract characteristic values related to symbols and codes and make print settings based on the finished image and symbols and codes expressed in the template document in the user setting step, print setting items that cannot be expressed only with the finished image Also, there is an effect that print setting can be performed using a template document. For example, as a setting item that cannot be recognized only by reading an image expressed on one side of the first template document, a double-sided printing is instructed, a monochrome original is instructed to be printed in a predetermined monocolor, a color original May be instructed to print in monochrome. In this way, symbols and codes that assist print settings can be used for print setting items that cannot be expressed by the finished image alone.

  Further, according to the invention of claim 29, there is an effect that it is possible to cause a computer to execute the method described in any one of claims 16 to 28.

  DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Exemplary embodiments of an image forming apparatus, an image processing system, an image forming method, and a program for causing a computer to execute the method according to the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments.

[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an image forming apparatus according to the present invention. A feature of the present invention is that the print setting template document 22a representing a finished image is read (pre-scanned) prior to the user's print setting operation in the image forming apparatus. This analyzes the image data of the read template original 22a, extracts characteristic values representing original attributes, and searches for setting items related to print settings related to the characteristic values. The setting items searched in this way are print setting items necessary for image formation after the template document, and are displayed as set items on the display unit 181 of the operation panel 18 which is a user interface, so that the print settings are displayed. The work is performed appropriately and efficiently, and the setting work can be saved as much as possible. Here, the image forming apparatus is implemented using a multifunction peripheral (MFP) having functions such as a scanner, a copier, and a printer.

  An image forming apparatus 10 shown in FIG. 1 includes a document reading unit 11 serving as a document reading unit, a scanner 111 and a scanner controller 112 constituting the document reading unit 11, and an ADF (auto document feeder) 113 serving as an automatic document transport unit. , An image storage unit 12 as an image storage unit, an image processing unit 13 as an image processing unit, a printing unit 14 as a printing unit, a printer 141 and a printer controller 142 constituting the printing unit 14, and a finishing process as a finishing processing unit Unit 143, image analysis unit 15 as image analysis means, setting item search unit 16 as setting item search means, setting item DB 161 as setting item storage means to be collated by setting item search unit 16, and operation panel for controlling the operation panel The control unit 17 allows the user to operate the image forming apparatus and print settings. Operation panel 18 as a user setting unit, a display unit 181 and input unit 182 constituting the operation panel 18, and is made of such as a system controller 19, and a communication control unit 20 controls the entire apparatus. The image forming apparatus 10 is connected to the network 21 via the communication control unit 20.

  Then, the image forming apparatus 10 analyzes the image data obtained by reading the template original 22a, searches for a setting item related to the characteristic value of the obtained original, and performs print setting based on the setting item. The print setting based on the template original 22a is applied to the image data of the original 22 to be subsequently read, subjected to image processing, printed, and subjected to finishing processing, and output as a printed matter 23.

  The template document 22a of the present invention is characterized in that it uses a document that represents a user's finished image in a layout, so that the finished image can be easily grasped, and a normal document can be used as it is as a template document. You can easily add or change the finished image later. The layout of the template document may be printed or of course described by handwriting by the user.

  The document reading unit 11 reads an image of the document 21 set at a predetermined reading position by the scanner 111 and converts it into digital image data. The scanner controller 112 performs operation control thereof. The document reading unit 11 is equipped with an ADF 113 that can continuously read a document while automatically feeding one page at a time to a reading position when a plurality of pages of document is set on a document tray. As described above, when a plurality of pages of documents are set on the document tray, for example, the first sheet is recognized as a template document and print settings are performed, and the second and subsequent documents are printed based on the print settings. It is also possible to set to. The ADF 113 described above also has a reversing function capable of automatically reading both sides by reversing not only a single-sided original printed on one side of a sheet but also a double-sided original printed on both sides during conveyance. .

  The image storage unit 12 is a buffer memory that temporarily stores image data read by the document reading unit 11 and image data input from the outside.

  The image processing unit 13 performs γ correction, MTF correction, and the like on the multi-value data read by the scanner 111 and temporarily stored in the image storage unit 12, and then performs gradation processing such as slice processing and dither processing. Image processing (enlargement / reduction, density / color adjustment, etc.) and layout processing processing (double-sided printing / single-sided) corresponding to various printing functions set by the user using the operation panel 18 Printing, collective printing, margin size adjustment, etc.).

  Here, based on the image data processed by the image processing unit 13, the printing unit 14 is generated by, for example, deflecting and scanning a light beam and developing the electrostatic latent image formed on the photoreceptor using toner. The printer 141 uses an electrophotographic technique for transferring a toner image onto a transfer sheet and performing a fixing process. The printing unit 14 sorts the printed material 23 by the number of copies or in units of pages based on the print settings set using the template original 22a expressing the characteristic finished image of the present invention. Further, a finishing processing unit 143 that performs finishing processing such as stapling processing for aligning a plurality of printed materials 23 and binding them with staples or punching processing for punching holes for binding the plurality of printed materials 23 to a binder or a file is further installed. ing.

  The image analysis unit 15 performs OCR (Optical Character Recognition) processing that performs optical character recognition on the image data stored in the image storage unit 12, and displays various attributes representing the attributes of the template document 22 a. A document characteristic value is calculated. This document characteristic value can be broadly divided into three categories: image relationship, layout relationship, and ADF (automatic document conveyance) relationship. For example, in the case of images, the image type (character, photograph, illustration, or a mixture thereof), the color used (color information used in the document, monochrome / color distinction), document density, pixel density (whole document The area ratio of the pixel portion in FIG. In addition, the layout relationship is a numerical value of the document direction (positional relationship information on the top, bottom, left, and right of the document), document size, top, bottom, left and right margin dimensions, layout information (whether it is a columnar document), or the like. Further, in the ADF relation, the number of pages of a document, the document surface (a distinction between double-sided documents / single-sided documents), etc. are quantified. Of these characteristic values, regarding the quantitative values, statistical values such as an average value, maximum value, and minimum value in the template document can be calculated and used.

  The image analysis unit 15 in the first embodiment analyzes the image data read by the document reading unit 11 and extracts characteristic values for performing print settings of the image forming apparatus. The document characteristic value is extracted by determining the length or recognizing the layout.

  When various characteristic values related to the template document calculated by the image analysis unit 15 are input, the setting item search unit 16 searches for setting items related to print settings related to the characteristic values. The setting item search unit 16 is connected to a setting item DB 161 in which individual characteristic values and a plurality of setting item information related to print settings are stored in association with each other. For this reason, the setting item search unit 16 uses the setting item DB 161 to search for setting items related to the characteristic values of the template document input from the image analysis unit 15, so that the print setting items to be set by the template document are determined. It becomes possible to search.

  The operation panel 18 is a user interface when the user operates the image forming apparatus 10, and includes a display unit 181 for displaying operation information and the like, an input unit 182 for performing operation and setting input, and the like. When the print setting is performed by using the template document, when the setting item searched by the setting item search unit 16 is input to the operation panel control unit 17, the corresponding item is selected from the selection items to be displayed on the display unit 181 of the operation panel 18. Items to be automatically set as set items. When the user performs print settings using the operation panel 18, a function desired to be executed by the image forming apparatus 10 is arbitrarily selected from the selection items on the display unit 181 and set. Here, as the input unit 182 for selecting the selection item, a touch panel that is attached to the surface of the display unit 181 and can directly input by touching the display content is used. However, a keyboard provided separately is used. Of course, you can enter them.

  The system control unit 19 is connected to each component unit and controls the entire image forming apparatus 10. The system control unit 19 includes a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, and the like, and the CPU executes various processes using a work area of the RAM based on a basic program stored in the ROM.

  The communication control unit 20 is connected to a network 20 such as a LAN (local area network) or the Internet, and exchanges image data, control data, and the like with other devices connected to the network according to a communication protocol. is there.

  The image forming apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment is configured as described above. Next, the operation will be described. When the user copies the original 22 shown in FIG. 1, the user reads the template original 22a on which the desired finished image is expressed as the first original and the original 22 is the second original or later. Set it on the document tray. First, the scanner 111 reads the first template original 22 a and temporarily stores the image data in the image storage unit 12. The image analysis unit 15 analyzes the image data in the image storage unit 12 and extracts characteristic values representing the attributes of the document. The setting item search unit 16 searches for setting items corresponding to individual characteristic values stored in the setting item DB 161 based on the extracted characteristic values. The operation panel control unit 17 displays the selection items related to the template original 22a in a set state on the display unit 181 of the operation panel 18. If the user presses the start button if the print settings are unchanged, the original 22 is copied with the print settings. In this way, the user does not think about irrelevant selection items or erroneously selects irrelevant selection items, and can easily perform print settings according to the finished image of the template document 22a in a short time. .

  In this way, when the print setting is performed by the template document 22a, the image data is processed by the image processing unit 13 based on the setting content, and is printed by the printing unit 14. In addition, when settings relating to finishing processing such as staples and punch holes are made, the printed material 23 is bundled, staple processing and punch hole punching processing are performed in the finishing processing unit 143, and the paper is discharged to the tray.

  As described above, according to the first embodiment, prior to the user's print setting, the characteristic value representing the original attribute is extracted from the image data of the read template original 22a, and the setting items related to the characteristic value are extracted. Thus, the print setting is performed, so that the print setting according to the image expressed in the template original 22a can be automatically performed. Further, even when the user makes a change to the setting contents, it is only necessary to set the narrowed selection items, so that it can be performed more easily and appropriately.

[Second Embodiment]
In the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, all processes are performed in the image forming apparatus 10, but the present invention is not necessarily limited to this. The second embodiment is characterized in that an image forming apparatus similar to that shown in FIG. 1, a scanner having a document reading function, a printer having a printing function, and the like are connected to the image forming apparatus 10 via a network, and a template The present invention is configured such that a characteristic value is extracted from image data obtained by reading an original, print settings are performed, and a series of processes for performing print processing, finishing processing, and the like based on the print settings are performed at different locations. Is regarded as an image forming system.

  FIG. 2 is a network configuration diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an image forming system according to the second embodiment. The image forming system shown in FIG. 2 is connected to the image forming apparatus 10 shown in FIG. 1 via a network 21 such as the Internet, and a scanner that can read an image of a template original or a normal original. Are connected to a document reading device 114 having a printing function, a printing device 144 having a printing function, an image processing device 131 for processing image data read by a scanner into printing data, and the like. As described above, the image forming apparatus 10 of FIG. 2 can execute the processing of the present invention alone. However, the template original is read by another original reading apparatus 114, and the image data is transmitted via the network 21. Then, the image data is sent to the image forming apparatus 10 (see FIG. 1), and the image data is temporarily stored in the image storage unit 12, and a characteristic value representing the attribute of the template document is extracted using the image analysis unit 15, and By searching the setting item search unit 16 for setting items for performing the print settings and passing the search result to the operation panel control unit 17, it is possible to narrow down the setting items to be displayed on the operation panel 18 and to perform print settings. It becomes.

  The print setting information set by the image forming apparatus 10 in FIG. 2 is sent to the image processing apparatus 131 via the network 21, and the image data of the document 22 read by the image reading apparatus 114 also passes through the network 21. Via the image processing apparatus 131. In the image processing apparatus 131, the image data of the document 22 is processed according to the print setting information, and the processed data is sent to the printing apparatus 144 via the network 21 to perform printing processing, finishing processing, and the like. .

  As described above, according to the second embodiment, the processing functions of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment can also be applied to processing that is shared between apparatuses connected via a network. In the same manner as in the first embodiment, the print setting is performed using the template document representing the finished image, so that the print setting as the image can be performed. Even when the user makes changes or additions to the setting contents, the template document only needs to be corrected according to the image, so that easy and appropriate changes can be made.

[Third Embodiment]
In the third embodiment, an example will be described in which the document analysis unit 15 extracts the characteristic value by determining the size of the document from the template document 22a.

  When the characteristic value is extracted by determining the size of the template document 22a, first, the size of the document is determined when the template document 22a is read using the scanner 111 of the document reading unit 11. Since the technology for automatically determining the size of the read document can be implemented using a known technology, description thereof is omitted here. After determining the size of the template document 22a, the size of the actual document 22 to be copied is determined using an automatic determination technique similar to that described above. At this time, if the document analysis unit 15 determines that the template document 22a and the actual document 22 are the same size, the document analysis unit 15 extracts a document characteristic value of “same size”. As another example, if the size of the template document 22a is A3 size and the actual size of the document 22 is A4 size, the copy is enlarged from A4 to A3. The original characteristic value “141% enlarged” is extracted.

  As described above, according to the third embodiment, only by reading a document, a characteristic value related to the size of the document is extracted, and an enlargement / reduction operation desired by the user on the operation panel 18 as a user interface is extracted. It is possible to make print settings related to the operability, improving operability.

[Fourth Embodiment]
In the fourth embodiment, a case where the document analysis unit 15 recognizes a layout from image data of the template document 22a and extracts a characteristic value will be described. The recognition of the layout described here includes not only the recognition of the layout shape, but also the recognition of the coordinate position where the shape exists and the color information representing the shape, etc., which are realized using existing pattern recognition technology. can do. Specific examples of layout recognition can be divided into aggregation processing, color conversion processing, finishing processing (staples, punch holes), and the like, and will be described with reference to FIGS.

(Aggregation processing)
FIG. 3A is a diagram of a template document showing a layout example of two-sided aggregation, and FIG. 3-2 is a diagram of a template document showing a layout example of four-sided aggregation. First, as shown in FIG. 3A, when two rectangular frames 30 are entered in the template document 22a, the image analysis unit 15 recognizes that there are two rectangular frames 30 based on the image data. In addition, it can be seen from the coordinate position where both rectangles exist that both rectangles are symmetrical and drawn relatively large in the template document.

  When recognizing such a layout, the image analysis unit 15 extracts a characteristic value of “two-sided aggregation” indicating that two originals are aggregated and copied on one sheet. As shown in FIG. 3B, when the image analysis unit 15 recognizes a layout in which four rectangular frames 31 are entered in the template original 22a, the four originals are collected on one sheet. The characteristic value of “4-sided aggregation” that means copying is extracted. Further, although not shown, when the image analysis unit 15 recognizes a layout in which eight rectangular frames are entered in the template original 22a, it means that eight originals are aggregated and copied on one sheet. The characteristic value of “8-side aggregation” is extracted.

  As described above, when a rectangular frame having various aggregated faces is entered in the template document 22a, it is possible to extract the characteristic value of the aggregated faces according to the number, and the setting items shown in FIG. The search unit 16 searches for setting items related to aggregation, and the operation panel control unit 17 performs print settings corresponding to the number of aggregated characteristic values.

(Color conversion processing)
FIG. 4 is a diagram of a template document in which a rectangular frame is drawn in blue in a two-sided layout example. As shown in FIG. 4, when the rectangular frame 32 of the template document 22 a is drawn in blue, the image analysis unit 15 can also extract characteristic values relating to color information of the rectangular frame 32 whose layout has been recognized. For this reason, in the case of FIG. 4, the characteristic value of the “two-sided aggregation” and the characteristic value of “color conversion” for converting the printing color at the time of copying from normal “black” to “blue” are extracted. To do.

  As described above, when the rectangular frame 32 indicating the number of aggregated faces is entered in the template document 22a and the color of the rectangular frame 32 is drawn in a color other than black, the number of aggregated faces corresponding to the number is drawn. In addition to the characteristic value, the color conversion characteristic value can be extracted. The setting item search unit 16 in FIG. 1 searches for setting items related to aggregation and color conversion, and the operation panel control unit 17 sets the setting items. Corresponding print settings are made.

(Finishing-Staple)
FIG. 5A is a diagram of a template document showing that a staple finishing process is performed at two positions on the left end of the document. FIG. 5B is a diagram illustrating a staple finishing process performed at one upper left position of the document. FIG. 5C is a diagram of a template document showing that staple finishing processing is performed at two upper ends of the document. The stapling processes shown in FIGS. 5A to 5C are based on a copying machine or a multi-function machine having a built-in stapler for automatically binding a plurality of pages of originals using staples. . For example, as shown in FIG. 5A, the user actually uses the stationery to place two staples 40a in the graphic area 40 provided at the left end of the rectangular frame 30 that is the description range of the template original 22a. It was created. Thereby, the user can hold a more specific finished image.

  In the case of FIG. 5B, the layout is created by the user actually placing one staple 41a in the graphic area 41 provided at the upper left of the rectangular frame 30 of the template original 22a using stationery. . In the case of FIG. 5C, the user actually uses the stationery to place two staples 42a in the graphic area 42 provided at the upper end of the rectangular frame 30 of the template original 22a to create a layout. . The difference between these staple positions is properly used depending on how to describe the manuscript (horizontal writing, vertical writing), or a simple document or a formal document.

  The template document 22a created in this way is read by the document reading unit 11 in FIG. 1, the characteristic value is extracted by the image analysis unit 15, and the setting item search unit 16 searches for related setting items, thereby operating the template document 22 a. The panel controller 17 can make print settings as per the image.

  Further, as described above, the staple is actually applied to the template original 22a so that the original reading unit 11 can read the staple position. However, when the ADF is used, the ADF may be damaged if the template document is actually stapled. Therefore, the imitation pattern corresponding to the staple may be entered on the template original 22a and read by the original reading unit 11, and the same effect as described above can be obtained. Here, the imitation tool capable of imprinting a linear seal corresponding to a staple is used to stamp at a predetermined position on the template original 22a. However, it may be handwritten with a pen or the like.

  When using a staple imitation tool to stamp a linear seal corresponding to a staple, the stamp is stamped on the graphic area 40 of the template document 22a in FIG. The image analysis unit 15 analyzes the image data of the template original 22a in FIG. 5A. The recognized shape is a straight line having a short length, which is much shorter than the original, and the coordinate position at the time of recognition is the original. If the number of recognized shapes is determined to be 2, the characteristic value of “two places on the left of the staples” is extracted. Further, the image analysis unit 15 analyzes the image data of the template original 22a in FIG. 5B. If the coordinate position at the time of recognition is at the upper end of the original and the number of recognized shapes is 1, the “on staple” ”Is extracted. Further, the image analysis unit 15 analyzes the image data of the template original 22a in FIG. 5C, and determines that the coordinate position at the time of recognition is at the upper end of the original and the number of recognized shapes is 2, The characteristic value of “2 places” is extracted.

  In this way, even when a template document layout is created using a counterfeit tool that reproduces the stapled state, the user can feel the finishing process and read the template document to extract characteristic values. Desired print settings can be made. Note that the stapling layout can be created by handwriting by using a known technique (for example, see Japanese Patent No. 3024680) of the handwritten pattern recognition method for the document analysis unit 15.

(Finishing process-punch holes)
FIG. 6A is a diagram of a template document showing that punch hole finishing processing is performed at two positions on the left end of the document. FIG. 6B is a diagram illustrating punch hole finishing processing performed at two positions on the upper end of the document. FIG. The punching process shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B is a copying machine or a multi-function machine having a built-in punching machine for punching punched holes for bundling or binding a plurality of pages after copying a plurality of pages. Is assumed. For example, as shown in FIG. 6A, the user actually uses the stationery to open two punch holes 52a in the graphic area 50 provided at the left end of the rectangular frame 30 which is the description range of the template original 22a. Is created. Thereby, the user can hold a more specific finished image.

  In the case of FIG. 6B, the layout is created by the user actually opening two punch holes 51a using a stationery in the graphic area 51 provided at the upper end of the rectangular frame 30 of the template original 22a. is there. These punch hole positions are used differently depending on how the document is written (horizontal writing, vertical writing).

  The template document 22a created in this way is read by the document reading unit 11 in FIG. 1, the characteristic value is extracted by the image analysis unit 15, and the setting item search unit 16 searches for related setting items, thereby operating the template document 22 a. The panel controller 17 can make print settings as per the image.

  The reason why the punch holes are actually formed in the template original 22a is to enable the original reading unit 11 to read the punch hole positions. Therefore, the imitation pattern corresponding to the punch hole may be entered on the template original 22a and read by the original reading unit 11, and the same effect as described above can be obtained. In this case, a circular stamp corresponding to a punch hole is used for stamping, and it is written at a predetermined position on the template original 22a. However, it may be handwritten with a pen or the like.

  When using a punch hole imitation tool to stamp a circular seal corresponding to a punch hole, the stamp is stamped on the graphic area 50 of the template original 22a in FIG. The image analysis unit 15 analyzes the image data of the template document 22a in FIG. 6A. The recognized shape is a circle, the size of the circle is much smaller than that of the document, and the coordinate position at the time of recognition is the position of the document. If it is determined that it is at the left end, the characteristic value of “punch left” is extracted. Further, the image analysis unit 15 analyzes the image data of the template original 22a in FIG. 6B, the coordinate position at the time of recognition is at the upper end of the original, the recognized shape is a circle, and the size of the circle is the original. If it is determined that the characteristic value is very small as compared with the above, the characteristic value “on punch hole” is extracted.

  In this way, even when a template document layout is created using a counterfeit tool that reproduces the punched state, the user can feel the finishing process and read the template document to extract characteristic values. Then, desired print settings can be made. Note that the punch hole processing layout can also be created by handwriting in the document analysis unit 15 using the handwritten pattern recognition method of a known technique (see Japanese Patent No. 30246680), as in the case of stapling. .

  In addition, as a characteristic value of a document that can be extracted at the time of creating a layout by handwriting, there is “thin document”. This characteristic value is extracted when it is determined that the template original 22a is thin by density determination processing by the original analysis unit 15 when a layout is created using a thin pencil such as 2H, for example.

  When the print setting is performed using the template original 22a, there are setting items that cannot be expressed only by the finished image. For example, with only the image of the finished image expressed on one side of a template document, it is instructed to print on both sides, to instruct to print a monochrome document in a predetermined mono color, or to print a color document in monochrome. There are cases where it cannot be done. For this reason, in the fourth embodiment, in addition to the finished image on the template original 22a, symbols and codes are used in combination to assist the print setting.

  Unlike the finished image, the symbols and codes for assisting the print setting need to be given meanings in advance for the symbols and codes used when creating the template document. As a specific example, a symbol for double-sided printing of a single-sided document is expressed on a template document using an icon or the like, and when the icon is recognized by the image analysis unit 15, a characteristic value corresponding to this is extracted and printed. Settings can be made. The icon used here can extract a characteristic value corresponding to any icon that has a meaning (promise) in advance. However, the template document of the present invention is basically characterized in that it represents a finished image. Therefore, from the standpoint of the user, it is desirable to use an icon that is as close to the image as possible. In addition, when an abstract barcode or the like must be used, it is desirable to place an image represented in the vicinity.

  As described above, according to the fourth embodiment, for the print setting items that cannot be expressed only by the finished image as the expression of the template document, more symbols and codes for assisting the print setting are used together. It is possible to automatically set print setting items.

[Fifth Embodiment]
In the fifth embodiment, an operation for automatically performing print setting using a template document expressed by a finished image or the like will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a main routine of the print setting operation in the image forming apparatus of the present invention, and FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of document characteristic value calculation processing of FIG. First, as shown in FIG. 7, a template document on which a user's finished image is expressed is set on the scanner 111 of the document reading unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 10 (step S100), and the user enters the input unit 182 of the operation panel 18. The process waits until the provided reading start button is pressed (step S101).

  When the reading start button is pressed, reading of the template original 22a is started (step S102), and the read image data is temporarily stored in the image storage unit 12 (step S103). The image analysis unit 15 reads the image data of the template document 22a saved in the image storage unit 12, and calculates a characteristic value representing the attribute of the document (step S104).

  The document characteristic value calculation process in step S104 is performed as in the subroutine of FIG. That is, the image analysis unit 15 first determines the size of the document (step S200), and then determines the figure shape expressed in the template document (step S201). In the embodiment described above, the shapes of the rectangular frames 30, 31, 32 indicating the document content description range, the staples 40a, 41a, 42a, the punch holes 51a, 52a, and the like are determined.

  Subsequently, the graphic coordinates whose shape has been determined are determined (step S202). The graphic coordinates can be determined by determining the coordinate positions of the rectangular frames 30, 31, 32, and counting the number of aggregated surfaces.

  Next, a graphic area in which a graphic whose shape has been determined exists is determined (step S203). This graphic region can be determined by determining the region in which the staples 40a, 41a, 42a or the punch holes 51a, 52a are present, and which type of finishing processing should be performed.

  Further, the graphic color is determined in the rectangular frames 30, 31, and 32 whose coordinate positions have been determined (step S204). The graphic color in the rectangular frame 32 is changed from normal “black” to “blue”, which means that the print color is color-converted from normal “black” to “blue”.

  As described above, the respective characteristic values are calculated based on the respective determination results in the subroutine of the original characteristic value calculation process in step S104, and the calculated characteristic values are collected (step S205).

  When the characteristic values of the template original 22a collected in this way are sent to the setting item search unit 16, the setting item search unit 16 stores various characteristic values and setting items necessary for print settings in association with each other. A setting item related to the collected characteristic value is searched against the setting item DB 161 (step S105 in FIG. 7).

  The retrieved setting items are sent to the operation panel control unit 17, and print settings relating to the processing of the original image or the finishing process of the printing paper are automatically performed (step S106 in FIG. 7).

  As described above, according to the fifth embodiment, prior to the user's print setting, the image forming apparatus 10 simply reads the template document 22a on which the finished image is expressed, and the print setting according to the image is performed. And operability related to print settings can be improved. Since the template document to be used only needs to express a finished image, it is possible to use a normal document as a template document.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming apparatus in the first to fifth embodiments described above includes a CPU, ROM, RAM, and the like in the system control unit 19, and the operation panel 18 includes a display device and the like. An apparatus including a display unit 181 and an input unit 182 using a touch panel and the like, and further including an external storage unit such as an HDD or a CD drive (not shown) is becoming popular.

  The program executed by the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment having such a hardware configuration may be configured to be provided by being incorporated in advance in a ROM or the like. These files may be provided by being recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM.

  Furthermore, the program executed in the image forming apparatus of the present embodiment may be configured to be provided or distributed by being downloaded via the network 21 such as the Internet.

  The program executed in the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment is generated by being loaded onto a main storage device such as an HDD when a CPU (processor) reads the program from a recording medium such as a ROM and executes it. It has become.

  As described above, the image forming apparatus, the image forming system, the image forming method, and the program for causing the computer to execute the method according to the present invention can store the image data of the template original representing the finished image prior to the print setting by the user. Analysis, extraction of characteristic values representing document attributes, and retrieval of setting items related to characteristic values, such as copiers, facsimiles, printers, and complex machines that automatically perform print settings It is suitable for an image forming apparatus, an image forming system, an image forming method, and a program for causing a computer to execute the method.

1 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an image forming apparatus of the present invention. It is a network block diagram explaining schematic structure of the image forming system concerning 2nd Embodiment. It is the figure of the template manuscript which showed the layout example of 2 side aggregation. It is the figure of the template manuscript which showed the layout example of 4 sides aggregation. FIG. 10 is a diagram of a template document in which a rectangular frame is drawn in blue in a two-sided layout example. FIG. 4 is a diagram of a template document showing that staple finishing processing is performed at two positions on the left end of the document. FIG. 10 is a diagram of a template document showing that a staple finishing process is performed on one upper left position of the document. FIG. 6 is a diagram of a template document showing that staple finishing processing is performed at two upper ends of the document. FIG. 5 is a diagram of a template document showing that punch hole finishing processing is performed at two positions on the left end of the document. FIG. 5 is a diagram of a template document showing that punch hole finishing processing is performed at two upper ends of the document. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a main routine of a print setting operation in the image forming apparatus of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of the document characteristic value calculation process of FIG.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Image forming apparatus 11 Document reading part 111 Scanner 112 Scanner controller 113 ADF
114 Document Reading Device 12 Image Storage Unit 13 Image Processing Unit 131 Image Processing Device 14 Printing Unit 141 Printer 142 Printer Controller 143 Finishing Processing Unit 144 Printing Device 15 Image Analysis Unit 16 Setting Item Search Unit 161 Setting Item DB
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 17 Operation panel control part 18 Operation panel 181 Display part 182 Input part 19 System control part 20 Communication control part 21 Network 22 Original 22a Template original 23 Printed matter 30, 31, 32 Rectangular frame 40, 41, 42 Graphic area 40a, 41a, 42a Staple 50, 51 Graphic area 51a, 52a Punch hole

Claims (29)

Document reading means for reading at least a template document expressing a finished image;
Image analysis means for analyzing the read image data and extracting characteristic values representing the attributes of the template document;
User setting means for performing print setting using the characteristic value of the template document extracted by the image analysis means;
The user setting means, prior to print setting by the user, analyzes the image data of the read template original by the image analysis means, extracts the characteristic value of the original, and sets the print setting based on the characteristic value. An image forming apparatus. Document reading means for reading at least a template document expressing a finished image;
Image processing means for performing image processing on the read image data;
Image analysis means for analyzing image data read by the original reading means and extracting characteristic values representing attributes of the template original;
Printing means for printing image data image-processed by the image processing means on paper;
Finishing processing means for performing various finishing processes on the printed printing paper;
User setting means for performing print settings relating to image processing of image data and finishing processing for printed paper after printing using the characteristic values of the template document extracted by the image analysis means;
The user setting unit analyzes the image data of the read template document by the image analysis unit prior to various print settings by the user, extracts the characteristic value of the document, and performs image processing based on the characteristic value. And an image forming apparatus that performs print settings relating to finishing processing.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an image storage unit that holds the image data at least temporarily. The image analysis means extracts at least one characteristic value of the size of the document and the recognition of the layout described in the document based on the read image data of the template document,
A setting item storage unit that stores a plurality of setting item information related to print settings in association with each characteristic value extracted by the image analysis unit;
A setting item search unit that searches the setting item related to the characteristic value by comparing the characteristic value extracted by the image analysis unit with the setting item storage unit;
Further comprising
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the user setting unit performs print setting based on a setting item related to the extracted characteristic value.   5. The image formation according to claim 4, wherein the recognition of the layout in the image analysis means recognizes at least one of a layout shape, a coordinate position where the shape exists, and color information representing the shape. apparatus.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the image analysis unit recognizes a handwritten layout.   A finishing process layout is formed by actually performing a finishing process on the template document, and the template document can be read by the document reading unit, and a characteristic value related to the finishing process layout can be extracted by the image analysis unit. The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the image forming apparatus is an image forming apparatus.   The imprint pattern of a predetermined shape corresponding to the finishing process is entered into the template document to form a finishing process layout, the template document is read by the document reading unit, and the characteristics relating to the finishing process layout by the image analyzing unit 7. The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, wherein a value can be extracted.   When the image analysis means determines that the recognized shape of the layout is a circular shape and the coordinate position of the circular shape is at either the left end or the upper end of the document, it extracts a characteristic value corresponding to a punch hole, and the user The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the setting unit performs print settings related to a punch hole finishing process.   When the image analysis unit determines that the recognized shape of the layout is a linear shape and the coordinate position of the linear shape is at either the left end or the upper end of the document, the image analysis unit extracts a characteristic value corresponding to a staple, and the user setting 9. The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the printing setting relating to the finishing processing of the staple is performed by the means.   9. The image forming apparatus according to claim 8, wherein when imitation patterns corresponding to finishing processing are entered on the template document, imitation tools capable of imprinting a linear seal corresponding to a stapler are used.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 8, wherein when imitation patterns corresponding to finishing processing are entered on the template document, an imitation tool capable of stamping a circular seal corresponding to a punch is used. . The document reading means sets a document at a predetermined reading position while sequentially transporting a plurality of pages of documents set on a document tray, and automatically scans one or both sides of the document automatically. Further comprising means,
13. The first document set on the document tray is recognized as a template document, print settings are made, and the second and subsequent documents are printed based on the print settings. The image forming apparatus according to any one of the above. The template document expresses items necessary for print settings in addition to the expression of the finished image using predetermined symbols and codes,
The image analysis means extracts a characteristic value corresponding to the symbol or the code in addition to a characteristic value related to a finished image,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the user setting unit performs print setting based on a finished image expressed on a template document, a symbol, and a code. A document reading device that reads at least a template document representing a finished image;
An image processing apparatus that performs image processing on the read image data;
An image analyzer that analyzes image data read by the document reader and extracts characteristic values representing attributes of the template document;
A printing device for printing image data image-processed by the image processing device on paper;
A finishing device that performs various finishing processes on the printed printing paper;
A user setting device for performing print settings relating to image processing of image data and finishing processing for printed paper after printing using the characteristic values of the template document extracted by the image analysis device;
And at least a part of the devices is connected via a network, and the user setting device analyzes image data of the read template document with the image analysis device prior to various print settings by the user. An image forming system characterized in that a characteristic value of a document is extracted and print settings relating to image processing and finishing processing are performed based on the characteristic value. A document reading step for reading a template document representing the finished image;
An image analysis step of analyzing the read image data and extracting characteristic values representing attributes of the template document;
A user setting step for performing print setting using the extracted template document characteristic value;
The user setting step includes analyzing the image data of the read template document prior to print setting by the user, extracting a characteristic value of the document, and performing print setting based on the characteristic value. Image forming method. A document reading step for reading a template document representing the finished image;
An image processing step for performing image processing on the read image data;
An image analysis step of analyzing the image data read in the document reading step and extracting a characteristic value representing an attribute of the template document;
A printing step of printing the image data image-processed in the image processing step on paper;
Finishing processing steps for performing various finishing processes on the printed printing paper;
A user setting step for performing print settings relating to image processing of image data and finishing processing for printed paper after printing using the characteristic values of the template document extracted in the image analysis step;
The user setting step includes analyzing the image data of the read template document and extracting the characteristic value of the original document before performing various print settings by the user, and printing related to image processing and finishing processing based on the characteristic value. An image forming method comprising performing setting. The image analyzing step extracts at least one characteristic value of the size of the document and the recognition of the layout described in the document based on the read image data of the template document,
A setting item storage step for storing a plurality of setting item information related to print settings in association with each characteristic value extracted in the image analysis step;
A setting item search step for searching for a setting item related to the characteristic value by comparing the characteristic value extracted in the image analysis step with the stored content in the setting item storage step;
Further including
18. The image forming method according to claim 16, wherein the user setting step performs print setting based on a setting item related to the extracted characteristic value.   19. The image formation according to claim 18, wherein the recognition of the layout in the image analysis step is to recognize at least one of a layout shape, a coordinate position where the shape exists, and color information representing the shape. Method.   20. The image forming method according to claim 18, wherein the image analyzing step makes it possible to recognize a handwritten layout.   A finishing process layout is formed by actually performing a finishing process on the template original, and the template original is read in the original reading step, and a characteristic value related to the finishing process layout can be extracted in the image analysis step. The image forming method according to claim 18, wherein the image forming method is an image forming method.   The imprint pattern of a predetermined shape corresponding to the finishing process is entered in the template document to form a finishing process layout, the template document is read in the document reading step, and the characteristics relating to the finishing process layout in the image analysis step 21. The image forming method according to claim 18, wherein a value can be extracted.   If the image analysis step determines that the recognized shape of the layout is a circular shape and the coordinate position of the circular shape is at either the left edge or the upper edge of the document, a characteristic value corresponding to a punch hole is extracted, and the user The image forming method according to any one of claims 18 to 22, wherein print setting relating to punch hole finishing processing is performed in the setting step.   When the image analysis step determines that the recognized shape of the layout is a linear shape and the coordinate position of the linear shape is at either the left end or the upper end of the document, a characteristic value corresponding to a staple is extracted, and the user setting 23. The image forming method according to claim 18, wherein print setting relating to a finishing process of the staple is performed in the step.   23. The image forming method according to claim 22, wherein a imitation tool capable of imprinting a linear seal corresponding to a stapler is used when an imitation pattern corresponding to finishing processing is entered on the template document.   23. The image forming method according to claim 22, wherein when imitation patterns corresponding to finishing processing are entered on the template document, a counterfeiting tool capable of impressing a circular seal corresponding to a punch is used. . In the document reading step, automatic document conveyance is performed in which a document is set at a predetermined reading position while sequentially conveying a plurality of pages of documents set on a document tray so that one or both sides of the document can be automatically read continuously. Further comprising steps,
27. The first document set on the document tray is recognized as a template document, print settings are made, and the second and subsequent documents are printed based on the print settings. The image forming method according to any one of the above. The template document expresses items necessary for print settings in addition to the expression of the finished image using predetermined symbols and codes,
The image analysis step extracts a characteristic value corresponding to the symbol or the code in addition to a characteristic value related to a finished image,
The image forming method according to any one of claims 16 to 27, wherein the user setting step performs a print setting based on a finished image expressed on a template document, a symbol, and a code.   A program that causes a computer to execute the method according to any one of claims 16 to 28.

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