JP2008011556A - Image processor and image processing method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image processor where the operability of a continuation mode is improved, wherein the image processing apparatus is provided with the continuation mode for continuously reading the originals whose number of sheets exceeds the number of sheets that can be set in an automatic original feeder, or for starting reading of originals set in the automatic original feeder in succession, after the finishing of the reading of originals have been set therein. <P>SOLUTION: In the image processor, the continuation mode is set (ST7), when a continuation icon is pushed down (ST5, "YES") during execution of an image reading mode for reading the images of originals set in a step ST3. In the case originals are not set on an original feeding pedestal (ST2, "NO"), setting originals is demanded (ST10) if a start button is pushed down for the first time (ST9, "NO"). If the start button is depressed for the second time, from the setting of the continuation mode (ST9, "YES"), the continuation mode is stopped, and the image data corresponding to the original images read in the image reading previous mode are stored in a storage means so as not to erase the image data. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus and an image processing method having a continuation mode.

  In recent years, an original image is optically read to generate image data corresponding to the original image, the image data is temporarily stored, and an image is printed on a sheet based on the image data stored at a predetermined timing. The digital copying apparatus to be formed has been put into practical use.

  This digital copying apparatus is formed so that a plurality of originals can be set, and an automatic original feeder for feeding the set originals to a predetermined position on the original table at a predetermined timing. A scanner unit that reads an image of a placed document and converts image information into image data, an image memory that temporarily stores image data of a document image read by the scanner unit, and image data stored in the image memory And a printer unit for forming an image on a sheet as a recording medium.

In the automatic document feeder of this digital copying apparatus, the number of originals that can be set is determined in advance, for example, 50. In the digital copying apparatus having such a configuration, when more than 50 originals are continuously read to store image data of all originals in the image memory, or reading of the set original image is started. In order to deal with the case where you want to continue scanning the original after that, after reading all the originals set on the automatic document feeder, continue reading the originals set on the automatic document feeder. Some have a continuation mode to start. Such a continuation mode is set by pressing a continuation icon arranged on the control panel of the digital copying apparatus.
JP 09-163042 A

  However, conventionally, the digital copying apparatus having the continuation mode as described above does not have a configuration for canceling the set continuation mode when the user accidentally presses the continuation icon.

  In other words, if the user accidentally presses the continuation icon and sets the continuation mode during the reading operation of the document set on the automatic document feeder, reading of all the set documents is completed. After that, a screen prompting the user to set the next document on the automatic document feeder is displayed on the display screen on the control panel. At this time, since the set continuation mode cannot be canceled, the continuation mode is forcibly executed even when there is no document to be set, or the all clear key on the control panel is pressed until now. You have to reset all the actions you have performed. When the all clear key is pressed, all the image data of the original that has been read is cleared, so it was necessary to set the original again on the automatic document feeder and read the original from the beginning. .

  As described above, in the conventional digital copying apparatus, the number of originals that can be set in the automatic document feeder is limited, so that after all the originals set in the automatic document feeder have been read, If the user sets the continuation mode by mistake even though it has a continuation mode that starts reading the original set on the automatic document feeder, this cannot be canceled. Have the problem. For this reason, there arises a problem that the operability for setting or canceling the continuous mode is extremely deteriorated.

  Accordingly, the present invention has been made in view of the above-described points. When the number of originals exceeding the number of originals that can be set is continuously read and image data of the original is stored in the image memory, After reading of the original set on the feeder, reading of the original set on the automatic document feeder is started, and the continuous mode that handles the documents set in multiple times as a series of originals An object of the present invention is to provide an image processing apparatus capable of improving the operability in the continuous mode.

  In order to achieve the above object, an image processing apparatus according to the present invention includes a conveying unit that conveys a set original to a predetermined position on the original table; and an image of the original that is conveyed to a predetermined position on the original table by the conveying unit. Reading means for creating image data by reading the image; storage means for storing the image data created by the reading means; and after reading the image of the document previously set on the conveying means by the reading means The image of the next document set on the transport unit is continuously read by the reading unit, and a continuation mode is set in which the document set on the transport unit in a plurality of times is handled as a series of documents. A setting unit; a canceling unit for canceling the continuous mode set by the setting unit; and the continuous mode set by the setting unit If it is canceled by, already a control means for holding in the storage unit the image data of the series of document stored in the storage means is read by said reading means; characterized by comprising a.

  In order to achieve the above object, the image processing apparatus of the present invention determines whether or not to execute the continuation mode is set by the setting unit while the document is being read by the reading unit. Features.

  In order to achieve the above object, the image processing apparatus of the present invention is characterized in that the setting means also serves as the stopping means when further operated when the continuation mode is set.

  In order to achieve the above object, the image processing apparatus of the present invention includes an input key for instructing reading of an image of a document and start of image formation, and the input key is set when the continuation mode is set. When the second operation is performed, it also serves as the stopping means.

  In order to achieve the above object, the image processing apparatus of the present invention includes a detection unit that detects whether or not a document is set on the transport unit when the reading unit performs image reading of the document; A notification for notifying that the original is set on the conveying means when the detecting means detects that the original is not set on the conveying means before the reading of the original image is started by the reading means. Means.

  In order to achieve the above object, in the image processing apparatus of the present invention, the setting unit displays the first display mode when the continuation mode is set and stops the continuation mode. And an icon displayed in a second display mode different from the first display mode.

  In order to achieve the above object, an image processing apparatus of the present invention causes a reading unit to read an image of a document set first on a conveyance unit, and reads image data of the previous document read by the reading unit. After storing in the storage unit, the image of the next document set on the transport unit is continuously read by the reading unit, and the document set on the transport unit in a plurality of times is used as a series of documents. A continuation mode to be handled is set; the set continuation mode is stopped, and the image data of the series of documents already read by the reading unit and stored in the storage unit is held in the storage unit. And

  According to the present invention, when a document exceeding the number of documents that can be set is continuously read and image data of the document is stored in the image memory, or all documents set in the automatic document feeder An image processing apparatus capable of improving the operability of the continuous mode in an image forming apparatus having a continuous mode for starting reading of a document set on the automatic document feeder after the reading of Can be provided.

Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
[First Embodiment]
The image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention includes, for example, a copying function for copying a document image, a facsimile function for transmitting and receiving image data via a communication line, and an external device via an external I / F. It is configured as an image forming apparatus having a printer function for printing based on supplied image data, that is, a composite digital copying apparatus (hereinafter abbreviated as a copying apparatus).

  FIG. 1 is a sectional view schematically showing the internal structure of the copying apparatus. As shown in FIG. 1, an image forming apparatus of the present invention, for example, an electrophotographic digital copying apparatus 2, is based on an image reading unit 4 that functions as a reading unit that reads a document image and generates image data, and the image data. The image forming unit 6 functions as image forming means for forming an image. Further, the copying apparatus 2 is formed on the upper part of the image reading unit 4 so as to be openable and closable with respect to a later-described document table, that is, a document table of the image reading unit 4, and the document D as a reading object is directed toward the document table. An automatic document feeder 8 is provided as a conveying unit that feeds one sheet at a time and functions as a document presser for bringing the document D placed on the document table into close contact with the document table.

  The image reading unit 4 is disposed at the upper part of the document table 11 made of transparent glass, facing the automatic document feeder 8 in the closed state and on which the document D is set, and one end of the document table 11. And a document scale 12 indicating a position where the document D is to be set on the document table 11.

  Below the document table 11, an exposure lamp 13 for illuminating the document D placed on the document table 11, an auxiliary reflector 14 for condensing the light beam from the exposure lamp 13 on the document D, and the document D A first mirror 15 that bends the reflected beam from the left side in the figure is arranged. The exposure lamp 13, the auxiliary reflector 14, and the first mirror 15 are fixed to the first carriage 16, and are arranged so as to be movable in parallel with the document table 11 as the first carriage 16 moves. The first carriage 16 is moved in parallel along the document table 11 by receiving a driving force of a pulse motor (not shown) via a toothed belt (not shown).

  A second carriage 20 is disposed on the left side of the document table 11 in the drawing, that is, in the direction in which the reflected beam reflected by the first mirror 15 is guided. In the second carriage 20, a second mirror 21 that folds the reflected beam from the document D guided by the first mirror 15 downward and a third mirror 22 that folds rightward in the drawing are arranged at right angles to each other. . The second carriage 20 is driven by the first carriage 16 by a toothed belt (not shown) that drives the first carriage 16 and is parallel to the first carriage 16 along the document table 11 at a half speed. Moved to.

  An imaging lens that forms an image of the reflected beam from the second carriage 20 at a predetermined magnification in a plane below the first carriage 16 and including the optical axis of the beam folded back through the second carriage 20. 23, and a CCD image sensor 24 for converting the reflected beam, which is focused by the imaging lens 23, into an electrical signal, that is, image data.

  The image forming unit 6 includes a photoconductive drum 30 that is rotatably positioned at substantially the center of the copying apparatus 2. The photosensitive drum 30 is rotated at a predetermined rotation speed by a motor (not shown).

  At a predetermined position around the photosensitive drum 30, a charging charger 31 that charges the drum surface to a predetermined charge, a laser exposure device 32 that forms an electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 30, and an electrostatic latent image A developing device 33 that develops toner with a developer containing toner to form a toner image, and transfers the toner image formed on the photosensitive drum 30 to a copy sheet P as a recording medium supplied from a sheet cassette, which will be described later. A transfer / peeling charger 34 for separating the paper P on which the image has been transferred from the photosensitive drum 30, a peeling claw 35 for peeling the copy paper P from the surface of the photosensitive drum 30, and toner remaining on the surface of the photosensitive drum 30 A cleaning device 36 that cleans the toner and a neutralizing device 37 that neutralizes the potential remaining on the surface of the photosensitive drum 30 are sequentially arranged.

  The laser exposure device 32 includes a semiconductor laser element that generates a laser beam modulated based on image data, an optical deflection device 32 a that deflects the laser beam, and an image that forms an image of the deflected laser beam on the photosensitive drum 30. It has optical systems 32b, 32c, 32d and the like. The laser exposure device 32 irradiates the surface of the photosensitive drum 30 with an electrostatic latent image by irradiating the surface of the photosensitive drum 30 with the laser beam generated from the semiconductor laser element along the axial direction of the photosensitive drum 30. Form an image.

  The developing device 33 includes a developer including toner and a carrier that frictionally charges the toner to a predetermined polarity and forms a magnetic brush. Further, the developing device 33 has a developing roller 33a that develops at a desired image density by supplying a developer onto the surface of the photosensitive drum 30 and attaching toner to the electrostatic latent image.

  At the bottom of the copying apparatus 2 positioned below the photoconductive drum 30, a multi-stage sheet feeding apparatus 40 that is detachably mounted in multiple upper and lower stages from the front side of the copying apparatus 2 is disposed.

  The multi-stage paper feeding device 40 includes an upper cassette 41, a middle cassette 42, and a lower cassette 43 for storing a plurality of types of copy paper P having various sizes. Each of the cassettes 41, 42, and 43 can store, for example, about 500 sheets of A4 size copy paper, B4 size copy paper, and A3 size copy paper placed so as to be conveyed along the longitudinal direction. Is formed.

  At predetermined positions of the upper cassette 41, the middle cassette 42, and the lower cassette 43, pickup rollers 44a, 44b, and 44c for taking out the paper P one by one from the respective cassettes 41, 42, and 43 are arranged.

  Conveying rollers 45a, 45b for separating the paper P one by one and the positions where the leading ends of the paper P taken out from the cassettes 41, 42 and 43 are passed by the respective pickup rollers 44a, 44b and 44c, and 45c and separation rollers 46a, 46b and 46c arranged integrally with the respective conveying rollers are arranged. The separation rollers 46a, 46b, and 46c are arranged so that their axes are in parallel with the transport rollers combined with each other at a predetermined pressure and rotate in a direction opposite to the rotation direction of the transport rollers. As a result, only the uppermost sheet P of the paper P taken out from each cassette is sent out to a conveyance path described later.

  On the right side of the multi-stage sheet feeding device 40, a large-capacity feeder 47 formed so as to be able to store about 3000 sheets of frequently used size paper, for example, A4 size paper P, is provided. At a predetermined position of the large-capacity feeder 47, a pickup roller 48 that takes out the sheets P stored in the large-capacity feeder 47 one by one is arranged. A separation mechanism 49 including a transport roller 49a and a separation roller 49b, which are combined in a pair of upper and lower sides, is disposed between the pickup roller 48 and the photosensitive drum 30. The separation mechanism 49 rotates the separation roller 49b in the direction opposite to the direction in which the transport roller 49a rotates, so that only the uppermost sheet P of the paper P taken out from the large-capacity feeder 47 by the pickup roller 48 is removed. It is sent to a conveyance path to be described later.

  A manual feeder 50 capable of feeding the copy paper P is formed on the large-capacity feeder 47 independently of the cassettes 41, 42, 43 and the large-capacity feeder 47.

  Between the manual feeder 50 and the photosensitive drum 30, a manual pickup roller 51 that takes in the paper P inserted into the manual feeder 50, a manual guide 52 that guides the paper P taken in by the pickup roller 51, and a manual feed A conveyance roller 53 is provided for conveying the paper P guided toward the photosensitive drum 30 via the guide 52.

  Between the respective cassettes 41, 42 and 43 and the large capacity feeder 47 and the photosensitive drum 30, the conveyance of guiding the paper P from the respective cassettes 41, 42 and 43 and the large capacity feeder 47 toward the photosensitive drum 30. A path 54 is formed. The conveyance path 54 further extends to the outside of the copying apparatus 2 through a transfer region defined between the photosensitive drum 30 and the transfer / peeling charger 33. Further, the transport path 54 is provided with a plurality of transport rollers 55 for transporting the paper P fed from any cassette, a large capacity feeder or a manual feed guide toward the photosensitive drum 30.

  In the vicinity and upstream of the photosensitive drum 30 in the conveyance path 54, the inclination of the copy paper P guided through the conveyance path 54 is corrected, and the leading edge of the toner image on the photosensitive drum 30 and the copy paper P An aligning roller 56 for feeding the copy paper P to the transfer area at the same speed as the moving speed of the outer peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 30 is provided. Further, an aligning sensor 56 a that detects the arrival of the copy paper P to the aligning roller 56 is provided in front of the aligning roller 56, that is, on the side of the conveying roller 55.

  A conveyance belt 57 that conveys the paper P is incorporated in the direction in which the paper P that has passed through the transfer region travels. The sheet in which the sheet P is conveyed by the conveyance belt 57 and is difficult to apply heat to the photosensitive drum 30 includes a pair of heat rollers whose roller surfaces are pressed against each other, and the sheet onto which the toner image has been transferred. A fixing device 58 for fixing the toner image on the paper P by pressing the toner image and the paper P while melting the toner image by heating P is provided.

  A finisher 59 for discharging the paper P on which the toner image is fixed by the fixing device 58 is disposed on the side wall of the copying apparatus 2 facing the fixing device 58. The finisher 59 includes a roller pair 59a that faces down the copy paper P discharged from the paper discharge roller 62, a paper discharge tray 59b from which the paper P is discharged by the roller pair 59a, and a copy in the staple sort mode. A stapler 74c for stapling is provided.

  Between the fixing device 58 and the finisher 59, a discharge switching unit 60 for guiding the copy paper P on which the toner image has been fixed by the fixing device 58 to either a paper reversing unit or the finisher 59 described later is disposed. .

  The discharge switching unit 60 is disposed between the first and second discharge rollers 61 and 62 that propel the paper P that has passed through the fixing device 58, and the first and second discharge rollers 61 and 62, and is fixed. A distribution gate 63 is provided for selectively distributing the copy sheet P that has passed through the apparatus 58 to either the finisher 59 or a sheet reversing unit described later.

  The reversing mechanism 64 reverses the front and back of the copy paper P that has already passed through the transfer area and the fixing device 58 and temporarily accumulated the copy paper P that has passed through the fixing device 58 to the temporary stacking portion 65. A reversing path 66 for guiding, a pick-up roller 67 for taking out the copy sheets P collected in the temporary stacking unit one by one, a transporting path 68 for guiding the paper P accommodated in the temporary stacking unit 65 to the aligning roller 56 again, and transporting A paper feed roller 69 that feeds the paper P guided to the path 68 toward the aligning roller 56 is provided.

  The automatic document feeder 8 has a cover 71 whose rear edge is attached to the upper rear edge of the copying apparatus 2 via a hinge device (not shown), and if necessary, the automatic document feeder By rotating the entire 8, the document table 11 of the image reading unit 4 can be opened and closed as described above.

  A document feed stand 72 capable of holding a predetermined number of, for example, 50 documents D, is provided at a slightly leftward position on the upper surface of the cover 71. On the left side of the document feeder 72, that is, one end of the automatic document feeder 8, the documents D set on the document feeder 72 are sequentially taken out one by one, and the image reading unit is started from the left end in the diagram. A pickup roller 73 for supplying to one end side of the four document tables 11 is arranged.

  An empty sensor 72a serving as a document detection sensor that functions as detection means for detecting whether or not the document D is set on the document feed table 72 is disposed at a predetermined position on the document feed table 72. Note that a document width detection sensor (not shown) that functions in the same manner as the document position detection sensor 17 that detects the position where the document D is set on the document table 11 may be disposed on the document feed table 72.

  With respect to the document take-out direction of the pickup roller 73, the paper feed roller 74 that sends the document D taken out by the pickup roller 73 toward the document table 11, and the leading edge of the document D fed by the paper feed roller 74 are aligned. An aligning roller 75 is disposed.

  Between the aligning roller 75 and the paper feed roller 74, an aligning sensor 75a for detecting the arrival of the document D at the aligning roller 75 is disposed. At a position inside the cover 71 and facing the document table 11 of the image reading unit 4 in a state where the automatic document feeder 8 is closed, a size that covers almost the entire document table 11 is given. A transport belt 76 is disposed for transporting the document D transported from the document feed table 72 to the predetermined position of the document table 11 via the pickup roller 73, the feed roller 74 and the aligning roller 75. The conveyor belt 76 is stretched around a pair of belt rollers 77 arranged on the left and right sides in the figure, and is rotated in both directions on the right side in the figure and the left side in the figure by a belt drive mechanism (not shown).

  On the right side portion of the automatic document feeder 8, the document D is fed to a reversing roller 78 and a reversing roller 78 for feeding the document D moved from the left side to the right side in the drawing by the conveying belt 76 toward the outside of the cover 71. A flapper 80 and a flapper 80 for switching whether the document D conveyed by the pressing pinch roller 79, the reverse roller 78 and the pinch roller 79 is returned to the conveying belt 76 or discharged onto a predetermined discharge position, that is, the cover 71, are disposed on the discharge side. A paper discharge roller 81 that discharges the document D conveyed by the reversing roller 78 and a jam sensor 82 that detects a jam of the document in the vicinity of the reversing roller 78 are disposed.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 2, a control panel 200 for inputting various copy conditions, a copy start signal for starting a copy operation, and the like is provided on the front upper portion of the apparatus body 2.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the control panel 200 executes a copy button 202 for setting a copy mode for executing a copy function, a FAX button 204 for setting a FAX mode for executing a facsimile function, and a printer function. A printer button 206 for setting a printer mode is provided.

  The control panel 200 has a numeric keypad 208 for inputting numerical values such as the number of copies in the copy mode, a start button 210 for instructing the start of copying, and is used to correct the number of copies or to stop the copying operation. A clear / stop button 212, an all clear button 214 for clearing all selected modes and various set conditions, and a magnification setting button 216 for setting a copying magnification are provided.

  The start button 210 functions as input means for instructing the start of reading of a document set on the document feed tray 72 and for instructing the formation of an image based on the image data. Further, as will be described later, a document set on the document feed table 72 is continuously read after a series of reading of the document set on the document feed table 72 is completed, and the document is set in a plurality of times. It also functions as a canceling means for canceling the continuation mode that handles a series of documents.

  Further, the control panel 200 includes a paper size button 218 for selecting and setting the size of the paper on which an image is to be formed, and automatic paper for detecting the size of the document placed on the platen and automatically setting the paper size. A selection button 220, a document size button 222 for setting a document size, and an automatic magnification selection button 224 for automatically setting a copy magnification based on the paper size set by the paper size button 218 and the detected document size. Is provided.

  In addition to these various setting buttons, the operation guide button 226 for displaying guidance information such as the contents of the set mode and the operation procedure, the preheat button 228 for setting the preheat state, and instructing interruption during the operation of the printer unit An interrupt button 230 is provided.

  At the approximate center of the control panel 200, there is a touch panel type liquid crystal display (LCD) that functions as a notification means for displaying various messages and characters to the user in the state of the device, the operation procedure, and the user. A configured display panel 240 is provided. The display panel 240 displays the operation for each function on the screen.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the display panel 240 has a message area 242 composed of three areas of an upper stage 242a, a middle stage 242b, and a lower stage 242c for providing information to the user, and a title area 244 in which title switching buttons are arranged. And a field area 246 for displaying icons.

  The upper area 242a of the message area 242 displays the copy magnification, the number of copies, the paper size, the remaining memory capacity of an image memory M (to be described later) that temporarily stores the read image data, and the like.

  In the field area 246, after a series of reading operations of the document set on the document feeding table 72 is completed, the setting is continued as a setting unit for setting a continuous mode for reading the document set on the document feeding table 72. An icon 248 is arranged. The continuation icon 248 is displayed in the first display mode when pressed, that is, when the continuation mode is set, and is different from the first display mode in the normal mode where the continuation mode is not set. Displayed in the second display mode. For example, when the continuation mode is set, the continuation icon 248 is displayed in the first display mode obtained by inverting the second display mode in the normal mode.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram schematically showing a configuration of a control circuit for controlling the digital copying apparatus 2 as the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 4, the copying apparatus 2 has a main CPU 100 as a control unit that performs overall control of the entire apparatus. Connected to the main CPU 100 are the scanner unit 4 as the reading unit, the printer unit 6 as the image forming unit, the document feeding device 8 as the conveying unit, and the image memory M and the hard disk drive 144 as the storage unit. In addition to controlling these driving operations, processing of image data of a document read by the scanner unit 4 and image data supplied via the scanner unit 4, the printer cable 402, and the telephone line 404 are formed on a sheet. Control is performed so that image data corresponding to the image to be output is output to the printer unit 6.

  The main CPU 100 includes a ROM 102, a RAM 104, an image memory M, an internal interface 122, an external interface 123, a facsimile interface 126, a printer interface 128, an auxiliary storage device interface 130, an image conversion circuit for enlarging or reducing binary image data, and an image. An image processing unit 132 including a compression / decompression circuit that compresses and decompresses data is connected.

  The control panel 200 already described with reference to FIG. 2 is connected to the internal interface 122. An external device 124 is connected to the external interface 123. An external communication device 137 such as an external facsimile is connected to the facsimile interface 126 via a telephone line 404. An external device 138 such as a personal computer is connected to the printer interface 128 via a printer cable 402. An IC card reader / writer 142, a hard disk drive 144, and the like are connected to the auxiliary storage device interface 130.

  The image memory M and the hard disk drive 144 serving as storage means are supplied from the external communication device 137 via the telephone line 404 and the facsimile interface 126 as copy data as image data corresponding to the original image read by the scanner unit 4. Facsimile data as image data and print data as image data supplied from the external device 138 via the printer cable 402 and the printer interface 128 are stored.

  The main CPU 100 temporarily stores the print data supplied from the external device 138 via the printer cable 402 and the printer interface 128 in the image memory M, and then compresses the compressed data by the image processing unit 132. When storing in the hard disk drive 144 and forming an image, the data stored in the hard disk drive 144 is decompressed and restored, and the restored image data is temporarily stored in the image memory M, The printer unit 6 has a printer function of converting the image data into printable image data and outputting the image data to the printer unit 6.

  The main CPU 100 also temporarily stores received image data, which is facsimile data supplied via the telephone line 404, in the image memory M, and then compresses the compressed data by the image processing unit 132. When storing the image in the drive 144 and forming an image, the data stored in the hard disk drive 144 is decompressed and restored, and the restored image data is temporarily stored in the image memory M to be printed. The image forming apparatus converts the image data into printable image data by the unit 6 and processes the image data of the original read by the scanner unit 4 into transmission image data and outputs the image data to the facsimile interface 126. The facsimile function also has a function of outputting image data of a document read by the scanner unit 4 to the printer unit 6.

  Further, the main CPU 100 controls the image processing unit 132 and the image memory M, temporarily stores the image data of the original read by the scanner unit 4 in the image memory M, and then compresses the image data by the image processing unit 132. When the compressed data is stored in the hard disk drive 144 and an image is formed, the data stored in the hard disk drive 144 is decompressed and restored, and the restored image data is temporarily stored in the image memory M. A copy function for storing the image data, converting the image data into printable image data by the printer unit 6, and outputting the image data to the printer unit 6.

  That is, when transmitting image data such as a document using the facsimile function, the main CPU 100 reads out, for example, the image data of the document captured from the scanner unit 4 from the hard disk drive 144 and stores it in the image memory M. The stored image data is enlarged or reduced by the image conversion circuit of the image processing unit 132 as necessary according to the paper size of the transmission destination, and the size-converted image data is compressed / decompressed by the image processing unit 132. Then, the data is transmitted to the destination external communication device 137 via the facsimile interface 126 and the telephone line 404.

  When image data is received from the outside using the facsimile function, the image data supplied from the transmission source external communication device 137 via the telephone line 404 and the facsimile interface 126 is stored in the image memory M and the image data is received. It is compressed by the processing unit 132 and stored in the hard disk drive 144. At this time, the image data is read from the hard disk drive 144 and decoded by the compression / decompression circuit of the image processing unit 132, and then temporarily stored in the image memory M and converted into image data that can be printed by the printing unit 6. And output to the printer unit 6 at a predetermined timing.

  When copying a document image using the copy function, the main CPU 100 stores image data such as a document taken in from the scanner unit 4 in the image memory M, and then stores the data compressed by the image processing unit 132 on the hard disk. Store in the drive 144. Further, when forming an image, the stored image data is read out from the hard disk drive 144 and restored, and the image processing unit 132 performs predetermined image processing to convert the image data into printable image data. To output to the printer unit 6.

  When outputting image data supplied from the outside using the printer function, image data supplied from the external device 138 via the printer cable 402 and the printer interface 128 is stored in the image memory M and the image processing unit 132. And stored in the hard disk drive 144. At this time, the stored image data is read from the hard disk drive 144, decoded by the compression / decompression circuit of the image processing unit 132, temporarily stored in the image memory M, and printable by the printing unit 6. The data is converted and output to the printer unit 6 at a predetermined timing.

  Image data is stored / recalled by the main CPU 100. For example, when storing image data, image data read by the scanner unit 4, image data as FAX data supplied via the telephone line 404, and image as print data supplied via the printer cable 402 The data is stored in the image memory M according to an instruction from the main CPU 100 and then stored in the hard disk drive 144. The instruction of the main CPU 100 is performed according to the mode determined by the mode designation key input from the control panel 200.

  A parameter table is set in the RAM 104. In this parameter table, various conditions set by key operations on the control panel 200 are stored, and conditions that are not set correspond to, for example, specified values stored in the ROM 102. The parameters set as the conditions are image processing parameters at the time of copying, various setting conditions, on / off of a scaling setting function, a telephone number registered as a transmission destination, and the like.

  By the way, in the image forming apparatus having the functions as described above, the copying function includes an image reading mode for reading an original image and generating image data corresponding to the original image, and forming an image on a sheet based on the image data. And an image forming mode.

  In the image reading mode, when the main CPU 100 detects that a document is set on the document feeding table 72 of the automatic document feeder 8 based on an output signal from the empty sensor 72a, the start button 210 is pressed. At this timing, the set originals are fed one by one to a predetermined position on the original table 11, and the scanner unit 4 is driven to store image data corresponding to the original image in the storage means. Then, image data corresponding to the images of all the originals set on the original feeder 72 is stored in the storage means.

  In the image forming mode, the image data stored in the storage means is output at the timing when the start button 210 is pressed, and an image is formed on the sheet based on the output image data. Then, an image corresponding to all the image data stored in the storage means is output on a sheet.

  In addition, since the copy function has a limit on the number of documents that can be set on the document feeder 72 of the automatic document feeder, the document continues after reading of all the documents set on the document feeder 72 is completed. A continuation mode for starting reading of the original set on the paper feed tray 72 is provided. In this continuous mode, all the first documents initially set on the document feeder 72 are read and converted into first image data corresponding to the first document, stored in the storage means, and then stored in the document feeder 72. Subsequently, the set second document is read and converted into second image data corresponding to the second document, and the second image data is stored following the first image data stored in the storage means. That is, the first document and the second document set on the document feeder 72 in a plurality of times are handled as a series of documents.

  This continuation mode is set by pressing the continuation icon 248 as shown in FIG. 3 during the reading operation for reading the first document set on the document feeding table 72. The user has been notified that the continuation mode has been set by pressing the continuation icon 248 by changing the display mode of the continuation icon 248.

  The continuation mode is used when the start button 210 is pressed twice after the continuation mode is set, that is, after the continuation icon 248 is pressed and no document is set on the document feeder 72. Will be cancelled. Then, an image forming mode for forming an image is executed based on the image data of the document read in the previous image reading mode.

  For example, if the continuation icon 248 is pressed while the first image reading mode for reading the image of the first document is being executed, the continuation mode is set. When the start button 210 is pressed for the first time after the end of the first image reading mode, the second document is urged to be set on the document feeding table 72 when there is no document on the document feeding table 72. Then, when the start button 210 is pressed for the second time when there is no document on the document feeder 72, the continuation mode is canceled. At this time, the image data read in the first image reading mode and stored in the storage unit is held in the storage unit without being erased. Further, the image data corresponding to the first document read in the first image reading mode is read from the storage means, and the first image forming mode for forming an image based on the image data is executed.

  The flow of processing in the continuous mode as described above will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a flowchart for explaining a continuation mode applied to the image forming apparatus shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 5, first, the main CPU 100 determines whether or not the start button 210 on the control panel 200 has been pressed (ST1). If the main CPU 100 determines that the start button 210 has been pressed (ST1 YES), then the main CPU 100 determines the document feed base based on the output signal from the empty sensor 72a of the automatic document feeder 8. It is determined whether a document is set in 72 (ST2). That is, when the empty sensor 72a outputs an ON signal, the main CPU 100 determines that a document is set on the document feeding table 72. When the empty sensor 72a outputs an OFF signal, the main CPU 100 determines that the document is set on the document feeding table 72. It is determined that no original is set.

  When the empty sensor 72a outputs an ON signal, that is, when a document is set on the document feed tray 72 (ST2 YES), the image reading mode is executed (ST3). That is, in the image reading mode, first, the automatic document feeder 8 is driven to feed the documents set on the document feeding table 72 one by one to a predetermined position on the document table 11. Then, the scanner unit 4 is driven to read an image of a document placed at a predetermined position on the document table 11 and convert it into image data corresponding to the document image. This image data is stored in the storage means.

  This image reading mode is continuously executed until all the originals set on the original feeder 72 are exhausted. That is, the main CPU 100 determines whether or not the empty sensor 72a outputs an off signal (ST4). Then, while the empty sensor 72a outputs an ON signal, that is, while a document set on the document feed table 72 is detected (ST4, NO), the image reading mode is continuously executed.

  When the empty sensor 72a outputs an off signal, that is, when the document set on the document feeder 72 is not detected (ST4 / YES), the main CPU 100 continues to press the continuation icon 248. It is determined whether or not there is (ST5). That is, the main CPU 100 determines whether or not the continuation icon 248 has been pressed while the image reading mode is being executed.

  If the main CPU 100 determines that the continuation icon 248 has not been pressed (ST5, NO), it executes the image forming mode (ST6). That is, the main CPU 100 drives the printer unit 6 to form an image on the sheet based on the image data corresponding to the document image stored in the storage unit in the image reading mode in step ST3.

  On the other hand, if the main CPU 100 determines that the continuation icon 248 has been pressed (ST5, YES), the main CPU 100 highlights the continuation icon 248 and sets the continuation mode (ST7). Then, returning to step ST2, the main CPU 100 detects again whether or not a document is set on the document feed table 72 of the automatic document feeder 8 based on the output signal from the empty sensor 72a.

  On the other hand, when the empty sensor 72a outputs an OFF signal in step ST2, that is, when the main CPU 100 determines that no document is set on the document feeder 72 based on the output signal from the empty sensor 72a. (ST2 · NO), the main CPU 100 determines whether or not the continuation mode is set by pressing the continuation icon 248 (ST8).

  In step ST8, when the main CPU 100 determines that the continuation mode is not set (ST8 / NO), the main CPU 100 determines that the copy mode is for a single document without using the automatic document feeder 8. That is, when the start button 210 is pressed in step ST1 (ST1 · YES), the scanner unit 4 is driven to a predetermined position on the document table 11 according to the off signal output from the empty sensor 72a (ST2 · YES). If the continuation icon 248 is not pressed (ST5, NO), the printer unit 6 is driven. Then, an image corresponding to the original image is formed on the paper (ST6).

  If the main CPU 100 determines in step ST8 that the continuation mode is set (ST8 / YES), the main CPU 100 determines whether or not the start button 210 is pressed twice while the continuation mode is set. (ST9).

  That is, when the main CPU 100 determines that the start button 210 is pressed while the continuous mode is set, the main CPU 100 determines how many times the start button 210 is pressed. When the start button 210 is pressed for the first time after the continuation mode is set (ST9, NO), a message prompting the user to set a document to be continuously read is displayed on the display panel. It is displayed in one of the message areas 242 of 240 (ST10). Then, the process returns to step ST2.

  When the main CPU 100 determines that the start button 210 is further pressed while the continuous mode is set, that is, if the main CPU 100 determines that the start button 210 is pressed for the second time (ST9 YES). Cancel the set continuous mode. At this time, the main CPU 100 holds the image data corresponding to the original image read in the previous image reading mode in the storage means without erasing, moves to step ST6, and reads out the image data from the storage means. Then, the printer unit 6 is driven to form an image corresponding to the image data on the paper (ST6).

  As described above, according to the image forming apparatus, the continuous mode in which reading of the original set on the automatic document feeder is started after all the originals set on the automatic document feeder are completed. Even if the continuation mode is set at an undesired timing, it is possible to cancel the continuation mode by pressing the start button twice, and it is necessary to read the document again from the beginning. The problem can be solved. In addition, it is possible to automatically drive the printer unit and form an image on a sheet based on image data corresponding to an original image read in the previous image reading mode. Therefore, the operability in the continuous mode can be improved.

  In the above-described embodiment, the stop unit for canceling the continuation mode is configured by pressing the start button twice. However, the present invention is not limited to this example, and other forms are also possible. Good.

[Second Embodiment]
Hereinafter, a second embodiment for canceling the continuation mode will be described.
FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of another configuration for canceling the set continuous mode. That is, as shown in FIG. 6, in the field area 246 of the display panel 240, in addition to the continuation icon 248 for setting the continuation mode, there is a cancel icon 250 for canceling the set continuation mode, that is, for canceling. Has been placed. The cancel icon 250 is pressed when canceling the continuation mode set by pressing the continuation icon 248 while the image reading mode is being executed, for example.

  When the cancel icon 250 is pressed, the set continuation mode is cancelled. At this time, the main CPU 100 causes the storage unit to store image data corresponding to the original image read in the previous image reading mode, reads out the image data from the storage unit, and forms an image based on the image data. An image forming mode is executed.

  That is, in the flowchart shown in FIG. 5, when the main CPU 100 detects an off signal from the empty sensor 72a in step ST4 (ST4 / YES), it is determined that all the documents set on the document feeding table 72 are gone. Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the continuation icon 248 is pressed during the image reading mode that has been executed (ST5).

  In step ST3, if the continuation icon 248 is pressed while the image reading mode is being executed (ST5 / YES), the continuation mode is set (ST7).

  Thereafter, the process returns to step ST2. At this time, the main CPU 100 determines whether or not the cancel icon 250 is pressed. If the main CPU 100 determines that the cancel icon 250 has been pressed, the main CPU 100 cancels the set continuation mode and does not erase the image data corresponding to the original image read in the previous image reading mode. It is held in the storage means. Next, the process proceeds to step ST6, where the image data is read from the storage means and the image forming mode is executed. That is, the main CPU 100 drives the printer unit 6 to form an image on a sheet based on image data of a document read in the image reading mode.

  As described above, according to this image forming apparatus, since the cancel icon for instructing to cancel the set continuous mode is provided, the continuous mode is set at an undesired timing. However, by pressing the cancel icon, it is possible to cancel the continuation mode, and it is not necessary to read the original from the beginning, and the problem can be solved. In addition, it is possible to automatically drive the printer unit and form an image on a sheet based on image data corresponding to an original image read in the previous image reading mode. Therefore, the operability in the continuous mode can be improved.

[Third Embodiment]
FIGS. 7A and 7B are diagrams illustrating an example of a configuration for canceling the set continuation mode according to the third embodiment. That is, as shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, a continuation icon 248 for setting the continuation mode is arranged in the field area 246 of the display panel 240. As shown in FIG. 7A, the continuation icon 248 is displayed in the first display mode 248A. When the continuation icon 248 is pressed for the first time, the continuation icon 248 is shown in FIG. 7B. Thus, the display is performed in the second display mode 248B obtained by inverting the first display mode.

  That is, the continuation icon 248 is displayed in the first display mode 248A as shown in FIG. 7A in the normal mode in which the continuation mode is not set. When the continuation icon 248 is pressed once, the main CPU 100 is instructed to set the continuation mode, and the continuation icon 248 is displayed in the second display mode as shown in FIG. 7B. Is done. When the continuation icon 248 is pressed for the second time, the main CPU 100 is instructed to cancel the set continuation mode, and the continuation icon 248 is displayed in the first state as shown in FIG. Displayed in display mode.

  As described above, in the image forming apparatus according to this embodiment, when the continuation icon 248 is pressed for the first time, the continuation mode is set, and when the continuation icon 248 is pressed for the second time, the set continuation mode is set. Is configured to cancel. Then, by changing the display mode of the continuation icon 248 according to the number of times of pressing, it is possible to reliably notify the user whether or not the continuation mode is set.

  When the continuation icon 248 is pressed for the second time, the set continuation mode is canceled and an image is formed based on the image data of the original read in the image reading mode executed before that. An image forming mode is executed.

  That is, in the flowchart shown in FIG. 5, when the main CPU 100 detects an off signal from the empty sensor 72a in step ST4 (ST4 / YES), it is determined that all the documents set on the document feeding table 72 are gone. Subsequently, for example, it is determined whether or not the continuation icon 248 is pressed during the image reading mode that has been executed so far (ST5).

  In step ST3, if the continuation icon 248 is pressed for the first time while the image reading mode is being executed (ST5, YES), the continuation mode is set (ST7).

  After that, returning to step ST2, the main CPU 100 detects again whether or not a document is set on the document feed table 72 of the automatic document feeder 8 based on the output signal from the empty sensor 72a. When the empty sensor 72a outputs an off signal in step ST2, the main CPU 100 determines whether or not the continuation mode is set by pressing the continuation icon 248 for the first time (ST8). In step ST8, when the main CPU 100 determines that the continuation mode is set (ST8 / YES), the continuation icon 248 is further pressed while the continuation mode is set, that is, the continuation icon 248 is pressed for the second time. It is determined whether or not the button has been pressed (ST9). If the main CPU 100 determines that the continuation icon 248 is pressed for the second time, the main CPU 100 cancels the set continuation mode and executes the image formation mode in step ST6. That is, the main CPU 100 holds the image data corresponding to the original image read in the previous image reading mode in the storage means so as not to erase, reads out the image data from the storage means, and drives the printer unit 6 Then, an image is formed on the paper based on the image data.

  As described above, according to this image forming apparatus, when the continuation icon is pressed for the first time, the continuation mode is set, and when the continuation icon is pressed for the second time, the set continuation mode is canceled. Instruct them to do so. For this reason, even if the continuation mode is set at an undesired timing, the continuation mode can be canceled by pressing the continuation icon for the second time, and the original is read again from the beginning. There is no need to solve the problem. In addition, it is possible to automatically drive the printer unit and form an image on a sheet based on image data corresponding to an original image read in the previous image reading mode. Therefore, the operability in the continuous mode can be improved.

  In addition, this invention is not limited to said embodiment. For example, the copying function of the present embodiment does not require image formation on paper, and can be implemented with various modifications without departing from the spirit of the invention.

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, that is, a digital copying apparatus. FIG. 2 is a plan view schematically showing a control panel provided in the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is a plan view showing the configuration of the display panel in the control panel shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of the control circuit of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing processing steps in the continuous mode applied to the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of another configuration for canceling the set continuous mode. (A) and (b) of Drawing 7 are figures showing an example of other composition for canceling the set continuation mode.

Explanation of symbols

2. Image forming apparatus
4 ... Scanner section
6 ... Printer section
8 ... Automatic document feeder
11 ... Original table
72 ... Document feeder
72a ... Empty sensor
100: Main CPU
102 ... ROM
104 ... RAM
132: Image processing unit
200 ... Control panel
210 ... Start button
240 ... display panel
246 ... Field area
248 ... Continuation icon
250 ... Cancel icon
M ... Image memory

Claims (7)

Conveying means for conveying the set document to a predetermined position on the document table;
Reading means for reading the image of the original conveyed to a predetermined position on the original table by the conveying means to create image data;
Storage means for storing the image data created by the reading means;
After the image of the original document previously set on the conveying means is read by the reading means, the image of the original document set next on the conveying means is continuously read by the reading means, and the conveying means Setting means for setting a continuation mode in which the document set in a plurality of times is handled as a series of documents;
Canceling means for canceling the continuous mode set by the setting means;
When the continuation mode set by the setting unit is canceled by the canceling unit, the image data of the series of documents already read by the reading unit and stored in the storage unit is held in the storage unit Control means for causing;
An image processing apparatus comprising:   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein whether or not to execute the continuous mode is set by the setting unit while the document is being read by the reading unit.   3. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the continuation mode is set, the setting unit also serves as the stop unit when further operated. An input key for instructing reading of an image of a document and start of image formation;
The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the input key also serves as the canceling unit when the second operation is performed when the continuation mode is set. Detecting means for detecting whether or not an original is set on the conveying means when the original is read by the reading means;
A notification for notifying that the original is set on the conveying means when the detecting means detects that the original is not set on the conveying means before the reading of the original image is started by the reading means. The image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising: means.   The setting means displays in the first display mode when the continuous mode is set, and displays in a second display mode different from the first display mode when the continuous mode is stopped. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an icon to be displayed. The image of the original document set first on the conveying means is read by the reading means, the image data of the previous original document read by the reading means is stored in the storage means, and then the original document set next on the conveying means A continuous mode is set in which the document is continuously read by the reading unit and the document set on the conveying unit in a plurality of times is handled as a series of documents;
An image processing method in which the set continuous mode is stopped and image data of the series of documents already read by the reading unit and stored in the storage unit is held in the storage unit.

Images