JP2012106453A - Information processing device, image forming apparatus, and information processing method - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To shorten both man day and time for confirmation of setting while enabling efficiently finding combination of setting of desired image forming condition, when carrying out print output of an imaging object of extensive number of copies.SOLUTION: An information processing device includes: an image data storage part 503 which temporarily holds a setting data D54 which is computerized for setting image forming conditions when forming images based on an image data DIN; an operation control part 14 which receives selection or input of a plurality of setting items and setting values which compose the setting data D54 held here; an image control CPU 55 which generates the sample output candidates by combining image forming conditions based on whole or a portion of setting items and the set values of which selection or input is received; and a display part 18 which displays combinations of setting of image forming conditions of sample output candidates formed here collectively or separately as sample output forms.

Description

  The present invention forms a preview image created by combining image forming condition settings on a set paper before forming an image on a predetermined paper and outputting a large number of image formed materials (printed materials). The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus, an image forming apparatus, and an information processing method that can be applied to a color copying machine having a preview printing function for outputting a sample output (printed material), a multifunction peripheral, a printer, and the like.

  In recent years, digital color copiers that form color images on predetermined paper based on color image data relating to red (R), green (G), and blue (B) colors acquired from colored document images have been used. Has reached the point. According to this type of copying machine, image information of a document is read by a scanner or the like, and color image data related to the image information of the document is acquired.

  The copying machine is equipped with a laser recording device, and RGB image data obtained from a scanner or the like is converted into yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K) image data. An electrostatic latent image obtained by scanning a laser beam emitted from a semiconductor laser light source based on color-converted YMCK image data on a photosensitive drum having a predetermined potential, for example, by a polygon mirror (hereinafter referred to as a polygon mirror). Is made to record.

  The electrostatic latent image recorded on the photosensitive drum is developed with each color toner. For example, the colors are superimposed on the intermediate transfer member, and the color image is transferred from the intermediate transfer member to a predetermined sheet and fixed. As a result, a color original image can be copied. Test printing is often performed when outputting a large number of image formed products (printed materials) with this type of copying machine.

  In relation to an image forming apparatus having this type of test printing function, Patent Document 1 discloses a test printing control apparatus. According to the test print control apparatus, the test print control apparatus includes a first storage unit, a second storage unit, a determination unit, a search unit, and a test print execution unit. The first storage unit stores a plurality of pieces of print setting information including a combination of a plurality of print setting elements in the test printing. The second storage unit stores a plurality of documents for test printing.

  The determining unit determines desired print setting information from among the plurality of print setting information stored in the first storage unit as print setting information for performing test printing. The retrieval unit retrieves a document that matches a plurality of print setting elements included in the print setting information determined by the determination unit from among the plurality of documents stored in the second storage unit. Based on these assumptions, the test print execution unit executes the test print on the document searched by the search unit based on the print setting information determined by the determination unit. By configuring the test print control apparatus in this way, the efficiency of test print preparation and execution work can be improved, and the work time can be shortened.

  Further, Patent Document 2 discloses an image forming apparatus capable of trial printing according to setting contents. According to this image forming apparatus, the setting operation unit and the print processing unit are provided when a plurality of functions executed in association with printing are set in combination. The setting operation unit is provided with a display unit, and a setting confirmation screen is displayed on the display unit, listing the setting contents.

  The setting operation unit is operated to instruct trial printing according to the setting contents shown on the setting confirmation screen displayed on the display unit. Based on this assumption, when the print processing unit is instructed to perform test printing from the setting operation unit, the test printing is executed according to the setting contents. When the image forming apparatus is configured in this way, it is possible to check the listed setting contents on the setting confirmation screen at the time of trial printing, so that it is possible to execute the trial printing after confirming a plurality of set functions once. It is.

  Further, in relation to an image forming apparatus having a sample output function, Patent Document 3 discloses a printing apparatus, a printing method, a recording medium, and the like. This printing apparatus includes an image data reading unit, an image analysis unit, a determination unit, and a color processing unit when outputting a plurality of types of image data as samples. The image data reading means is provided with a storage medium mounting portion.

  In the printing apparatus, when printing is performed based on the image data stored in the storage medium, the image data reading unit reads the image data from the storage medium attached to the storage medium attachment unit. The image analysis means analyzes the image data read by the image data reading means. The determining unit determines a color processing parameter for performing color processing of the image data recorded on the storage medium based on the analysis result of the image analyzing unit.

  The color processing means performs a plurality of types of color processing on the image data stored in the storage medium using the color processing parameters determined by the color processing parameter determination means. Based on these assumptions, the output means outputs a plurality of types of image data subjected to color processing by the color processing means as samples. If the printing apparatus is configured in this way, printing reflecting the setting of image color processing can be executed.

  Further, Patent Document 4 discloses a test print creation method and a photographic image print method using the test print creation method. According to this test print creation method, when the print creation apparatus creates a test print of a photographic image, the predetermined area in the photographic image is set as the test print area and should be changed when performing the test print. A step of setting an image processing parameter in the image processing condition and an amount of the image processing, a step of changing the set image processing parameter in accordance with the set amount of swing for the digital image data in the test print area, and a change A step of obtaining a plurality of test print image data by performing image processing on the digital image data according to a plurality of later image processing conditions, and recording the plurality of test print image data obtained here on a predetermined recording medium in a predetermined layout And step to perform. By adopting such a test print creation method, it is possible to determine optimum image processing conditions and improve the processing efficiency at the time of print creation.

JP 2008-114539 A (page 5 FIG. 1) Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2006-043896 (FIG. 2 on page 4) Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2005-335298 (page 12 FIG. 6) Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2002-209090 (FIG. 3 on page 7)

  By the way, the image forming apparatus according to the conventional example is provided with a test print function, a test print function, a sample output function, a test print output function, and the like as seen in Patent Documents 1 to 4. With these functions, when printing a large number of copies and a large number of pages, if an undesired printing result is obtained, printing paper or the like is wasted. Used to prevent it.

  According to the sample output function of the conventional method, etc., the setting value for setting the items for setting the image forming conditions in detail is uniquely specified, and the output target of the printed matter is set to output one copy or only a part of the pages. This is often the case. However, if it is necessary to find the optimum image forming conditions by repeating trial and error until the desired print result (layout, image quality, finisher, etc.) is reached, the basic settings that make up the image forming condition items-output settings- The operation of confirming step-setting change-output setting-confirming step, etc. has to be repeated, and there is a problem that both man-hours and time are inefficient.

  Accordingly, the present invention solves the above-described problems, and enables to find a combination of desired image forming condition settings efficiently when printing out a large number of image formed materials and confirms the setting. It is an object of the present invention to provide an information processing apparatus, an image forming apparatus, and an information processing method capable of reducing both the man-hours and the time for processing.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, an information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein an item for setting an image forming condition when forming an image based on image information is an image forming condition item, and the image forming condition item is A storage unit for temporarily storing digitized setting information for setting the image forming conditions when an item to be set in more detail is a setting item and a value for setting the setting item in more detail is a setting value; An operation unit that accepts selection or input of a plurality of setting items and setting values constituting the setting information stored in the storage unit, and the entire setting items and setting values that are selected or input by the operation unit Alternatively, an information processing unit that generates a sample output candidate by combining the image forming conditions based on a part thereof, and an image forming condition of the sample output candidate generated by the information processing unit. It is characterized in that a display unit for displaying collectively or separately in combination of settings to as a sample output form.

  According to the information processing apparatus of the first aspect, the computerized setting information for setting the image forming conditions is temporarily stored in the storage unit. The operation unit is operated to accept selection or input of a plurality of setting items and setting values constituting the setting information stored in the storage unit. The information processing unit generates sample output candidates by combining image forming conditions based on all or part of the setting items and setting values that are selected or input by the operation unit. On the premise of this, the display unit displays a combination of sample output candidate image forming condition settings generated by the information processing unit as a sample output form all at once or separately. By this display, it becomes possible to freely select a combination of setting of image forming conditions of the optimum sample output candidate from a display screen displayed as a sample output form collectively or separately.

  An information processing apparatus according to a second aspect of the present invention is the information processing apparatus according to the first aspect, wherein the information processing section includes a setting unit that sets a combination upper limit value for determining the total number of combinations of the image formation condition settings of the sample output candidates. A comparison means for comparing the set combination upper limit value and the total number of combinations of the image output condition settings of the sample output candidates, and depending on the comparison result obtained from the comparison means, the image of the sample output candidate When the total number of combinations of setting of the forming conditions exceeds the above combination upper limit value, only a part of all the combinations of setting of the image forming conditions of the sample output candidates is sampled.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided the information processing apparatus according to the second aspect, wherein the information processing unit selects only a part of all combinations of image formation condition settings of the sample output candidates by the operation unit and outputs the sample. In this case, a combination of image forming condition settings of sample output candidates that are highly related to each other is extracted from all combinations of the image forming condition settings of the sample output candidates, and the extracted mutual combinations are extracted. A combination of setting of image forming conditions of highly relevant sample output candidates is preferentially output as a sample.

  The information processing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the information processing unit outputs the sample output when the information processing unit outputs only a part of all combinations of image formation condition settings of the sample output candidates. A sample output selected from all combinations of setting of candidate image forming conditions is statistically processed, and the priority is changed based on the result of the statistical processing.

  An information processing apparatus according to a fifth aspect of the present invention is the information processing apparatus according to the third or fourth aspect, wherein the information processing section selects and outputs only a part of all combinations of the image forming condition settings of the sample output candidates. A sample output candidate of a combination of the setting of the image forming conditions that has not been output as a sample is preview-displayed on the display unit.

  An information processing apparatus according to a sixth aspect is the information processing apparatus according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, wherein the information processing unit is configured such that a part of the setting value is a continuous value among combinations of setting items of the image forming condition of the sample output candidate. In the case where a part of the set value is a continuous value, a part of the continuous value is used as a set value and a sample is output.

  According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided the information processing apparatus according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, wherein the identification information includes the sample output candidate sampled based on the selected combination of the image forming condition settings or the sample output candidate previewed. Information providing means for providing information, information reading means for reading the identification information provided by the information providing means, and information confirmation means for determining a set value from the identification information read by the information reading means. It is characterized by this.

  An information processing apparatus according to an eighth aspect of the present invention is the information processing apparatus according to the seventh aspect, wherein the information determination unit selects only a part of all the combinations of the image formation condition settings of the sample output candidates and displays the sample output or a preview display. In this case, only a part of setting values of the identification information read by the information reading means is confirmed.

  The information processing apparatus according to claim 9 is the information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the operation unit includes a first operation mode for selecting a plurality of the set values and a second operation mode for selecting a single set value. It has the function to switch.

  The information processing apparatus according to a tenth aspect is the information processing apparatus according to the ninth aspect, wherein the switching between the first and second operation modes in the operation unit is performed by different setting operations.

  An information processing apparatus according to an eleventh aspect of the invention includes the information processing apparatus according to the ninth or tenth aspect, wherein the operation unit has a function of shifting from a state in which a plurality of setting values are selected to a selection state in which only the single setting value is selected. It is a feature.

  The image forming apparatus according to claim 12, wherein information processing means for displaying a combination of setting of image forming conditions of sample output candidates when forming an image based on image information as a sample output form collectively or separately, and An image forming unit that forms an image based on a combination of the setting of the image forming conditions selected from the sample output forms displayed collectively or separately on the information processing unit, and the information processing unit includes: 11. The information processing apparatus according to claim 11 or the information processing apparatus according to claims 1 to 11 is configured in combination.

  According to the image forming apparatus of the twelfth aspect, it is possible to freely select a combination of image forming condition settings of the optimum sample output candidates from a display screen displayed as a sample output form in a batch or separately. . Accordingly, when printing a large number of copies of an image formed product, the user can efficiently find a combination of setting of desired image forming conditions.

  14. The information processing method according to claim 13, wherein an item for setting an image forming condition when forming an image based on image information is set as an image forming condition item, and an item for setting the image forming condition item in more detail is set. The information processing apparatus temporarily stores the digitized setting information for setting the image forming condition, and when the setting value is a value for setting the setting item in more detail. A step of accepting selection or input of a plurality of setting items and setting values constituting the setting information, and a sample by combining the image forming conditions based on all or part of the setting items and setting values for which selection or input has been accepted Executing a step of generating an output candidate and a step of outputting a sample of a combination of the image output condition settings of the generated sample output candidate And it is characterized in and.

  According to the information processing apparatus according to the first aspect and the information processing method according to the thirteenth aspect, the combination of the image forming condition setting that is the sample output candidate is displayed collectively or separately as the sample output form.

  With this configuration, it is possible to freely select a combination of setting of image forming conditions of optimum sample output candidates from a display screen displayed as a sample output form in a batch or separately. Thus, the user can efficiently find a combination of desired image forming condition settings.

  According to the information processing apparatus of the second aspect, when the total number of combinations of the sample output candidate image forming conditions setting exceeds the combination upper limit value, a part of all the combinations of the sample output candidate image forming condition settings Since only the sample is output, the optimum sample output can be confirmed within a range not exceeding the combination upper limit value.

  According to the information processing apparatus according to claim 3, the combination of setting of the image forming conditions of the sample output candidates that are highly related to each other from all combinations of the setting of the image forming conditions of the sample output candidates is preferentially sample output. Therefore, it is possible to confirm an optimal sample output having a higher priority than the combination of setting of image forming conditions of other sample output candidates.

  According to the information processing apparatus of the fourth aspect, since the priority is changed based on the statistical processing of the sample output selected from all combinations of the image forming condition settings of the sample output candidates, the priority is fixed. Thus, the sample output based on the optimum priority can be confirmed as compared with the case of selecting the combination of the setting of the image forming conditions of the sample output candidate.

  According to the information processing apparatus of the fifth aspect, since the sample output candidate of the combination of the setting of the image forming conditions that has not been sampled is displayed on the display unit, the sample output candidate that has not been sampled is displayed on the display screen. It becomes possible to confirm.

  According to the information processing apparatus according to claim 6, it is determined whether or not a part of the setting value is a continuous value. When the part of the setting value is a continuous value, a part of the continuous value is determined. Is used as a set value for sample output, so that it is possible to optimally confirm a sample output in which a part of the set values for setting the setting items of the image forming conditions in detail are continuous values.

  According to the information processing apparatus of the seventh aspect, since the information confirmation means for confirming the setting value from the identification information given to the sample output candidate to be sampled or the sample output candidate to be previewed is provided, a large amount of images It is possible to set the image forming conditions of a job to be formed with good reproducibility.

  According to the information processing apparatus according to claim 8, since only a part of the setting values are confirmed among the identification information given to the sample output candidate to be sampled or the sample output candidate to be preview-displayed, the sample output candidate When only a part of all combinations of image formation conditions is selected and sample output or preview is displayed, only the set values for the image formation conditions for jobs that are to be formed in large quantities are set. become able to.

  According to the information processing apparatus of the ninth aspect, the first operation mode for selecting a plurality of setting values and the second operation mode for selecting a single setting value are switched using the function of the operation unit. Therefore, it is possible to improve the operability when combining the image forming condition settings of the sample output candidates.

  According to the information processing apparatus of the tenth aspect, when switching between the first operation mode for selecting a plurality of setting values and the second operation mode for selecting a single setting value, different setting operations can be performed. Therefore, it is possible to improve the operability when combining the setting of the image forming conditions of the sample output candidates.

  According to the information processing apparatus of the eleventh aspect, the function of the operation unit is used to shift from a state in which a plurality of setting values are selected to a selection state in which only a single setting value is selected. The operability when combining the setting of conditions can be improved.

  According to the image forming apparatus of the twelfth aspect, any one of the information processing apparatuses according to the present invention is provided on the information processing unit that displays the combination of the setting of the image forming conditions that are the sample output candidates as a sample output form collectively or separately. Or the said information processing apparatus is comprised combining.

  With this configuration, it is possible to freely select a combination of setting of image forming conditions of optimum sample output candidates from a display screen displayed as a sample output form in a batch or separately. Accordingly, when printing a large number of copies of an image formed product, the user can efficiently find a combination of setting of desired image forming conditions. As a result, troublesome work such as basic setting-output setting-confirmation process-setting change-output setting-confirmation process as in the conventional method can be omitted, and both man-hour and time for setting confirmation can be shortened. become.

1 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a configuration example of a color copying machine 100 as an embodiment according to the present invention. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a control system in the color copying machine 100. FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of sample output process block # 1. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a display of the accumulation | storage data selection screen P1. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a display of the preview screen P2. (A) And (B) is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a display at the time of the multiple setting in the sample output setting screens P31 and P32. It is a flowchart which shows the example of control at the time of sample output multiple setting in sample output process block # 1. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a display at the time of the sample output multiple setting in the sample output setting screen P4. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a display at the time of sample output setting cancellation | release in the sample output setting screen P5. (A) And (B) is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a display at the time of alternative selection setting in the sample output setting screen P61, P62. It is a flowchart which shows the example of control at the time of sample output selection selection in sample output process block # 1. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a display of action setting screen P7. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a display of continuous value multiple setting screen P81, P82. It is a flowchart which shows the example of control at the time of multiple continuous value setting in sample output process block # 1. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a display of other continuous value multiple setting screen P9. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a display of other continuous value multiple setting screen P10. (A) And (B) is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a display of numerical input multiple setting screen P21, P22. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a display of the preview screen P41 at the time of multiple setting. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a display of the preview screen P42 at the time of multiple setting. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a display of the preview screen P43 at the time of multiple setting. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a display of the combination preview screen P51. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a display of the sample output screen P71. It is an explanation showing a description example in the setting combination table # 2 for sample output printing. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a control at the time of the sample output print setting which concerns on 1st Example (the 1). 10 is a flowchart illustrating a control example (part 2) when setting sample output printing; It is a flowchart which shows the example of control (subroutine) at the time of setting combination production | generation. It is a flowchart which shows the example of control (subroutine) at the time of output object determination. It is a flowchart which shows the example of control at the time of the sample output in sample output process block # 1 which concerns on a 2nd Example. It is a block diagram which shows the example of a functional relevance definition in sample output process block # 1. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of identification information provision at the time of the sample output as a 3rd Example.

  Hereinafter, an information processing apparatus, an image forming apparatus, and an information processing method according to embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. A color copying machine 100 shown in FIG. 1 constitutes an example of an image forming apparatus. When a color image is formed on a plurality of sheets and output based on color image information (hereinafter referred to as image data DIN), output setting is performed. Corresponding to the operation, it has a function of previewing the sample output forms all at once or separately. Here, the sample output form refers to an output form when printing or displaying a sample output candidate (hereinafter simply referred to as sample output) created by a combination of selected image forming condition settings.

  The color copying machine 100 is an apparatus capable of continuously forming a color image composed of at least two colors. The color copying machine 100 includes an operation display unit 48, a copying machine main body 101, and an image reading device (hereinafter referred to as a scanner 102). The scanner 102 is installed on the upper part of the copying machine main body 101 and includes an automatic document feeder 201 and a document image scanning exposure device 202. For example, a colored document 30 placed on the document table of the automatic document feeder 201 is conveyed by a conveyance unit (not shown).

  The original 30 is scanned and exposed on one or both sides by an optical system of the original image scanning exposure apparatus 202, and incident light reflecting a color original image is read by a line image sensor (hereinafter referred to as CCD 11). The analog image signal for color photoelectrically converted by the CCD 11 is subjected to analog processing, analog / digital (A / D) conversion, shading correction, image compression processing, and the like in the scanner 102, and the digital color image data DIN (See FIG. 2).

  The copying machine main body 101 constitutes a tandem type color copying machine 100, and includes an endless intermediate transfer belt 6, a secondary transfer roller 7A, image forming units 10Y, 10M, 10C, and 10K, a fixing device 17, and a paper supply unit. 20 is provided. The image forming units 10Y, 10M, 10C, and 10K constitute an image forming unit (hereinafter referred to as a printer 80).

  The image forming unit 10Y that forms a yellow (Y) toner image includes a Y-color photosensitive drum 1Y, a charger 2Y, an image writing unit 3Y, a developing unit 4Y, and a cleaning unit 8Y. . In this example, a cleaning unit 8Y, a charger 2Y, an image writing unit 3Y, and a developing unit 4Y are arranged counterclockwise around the photosensitive drum 1Y with the intermediate transfer belt 6 as a reference.

  The photosensitive drum 1Y has a rotation shaft and a predetermined drum width, and is disposed so as to be rotatable in the vicinity of the intermediate transfer belt 6. An electrostatic latent image based on image data for Y-color image formation is written on the photosensitive drum 1Y. An organic photoconductor (OPC) drum is used as the photoconductor drum 1Y. A charger 2Y is disposed at a predetermined position on the outer peripheral portion of the photosensitive drum 1Y. The charger 2Y charges the photosensitive drum 1Y with a predetermined potential.

  In this example, an image writing unit 3Y is disposed at a position having a beam optical path between the charging unit 2Y and the developing unit 4Y and facing the photosensitive drum 1Y. The image writing unit 3Y exposes the photosensitive drum 1Y based on the image data for Y color image formation.

  The image writing unit 3Y generates laser beam light based on the image data for Y color image formation to expose the photosensitive drum 1Y. Image data for Y-color image formation is supplied from the control unit 15 to the image writing unit 3Y. The image writing unit 3Y is a polygon mirror scanning type laser beam writing unit that scans laser beam light with a polygon mirror, or an LPH (LD Printer Head) writing unit that arranges laser diode elements in a line and exposes them in a batch or separately. Is used.

  For example, in the polygon mirror scanning type image writing unit 3Y, when the point where the laser beam light starts scanning exposure of the photosensitive drum 1Y is set as the index position, the image writing start position set based on the index position is used as a reference. Thus, an electrostatic latent image for Y color is formed.

  A developing unit 4Y is disposed between the intermediate transfer belt 6 and the image writing unit 3Y at a predetermined position on the outer peripheral portion of the photosensitive drum 1Y. In order to perform reversal development, the developing device 4Y is applied with a developing bias in which an AC voltage is superimposed on a DC voltage having the same polarity (negative polarity in this embodiment) as the polarity of the toner to be used. The developing device 4Y is supplied with a developing bias and develops the electrostatic latent image written on the photosensitive drum 1Y with a Y-color toner member. The developed Y toner image is transferred from the photosensitive drum 1Y to the intermediate transfer belt 6 (primary transfer). The Y color toner image is superimposed on the other color toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 6 to form a color toner image.

  A cleaning unit 8Y is provided between the intermediate transfer belt 6 and the charger 2Y at a predetermined position on the outer peripheral portion of the photosensitive drum 1Y. The cleaning unit 8Y cleans the toner member remaining on the photosensitive drum 1Y after the primary transfer. Image forming units 10M, 10C, and 10K are arranged along the intermediate transfer belt 6 below the photosensitive drum 1Y. The image forming unit 10M that forms a magenta (M) color image includes a photosensitive drum 1M for M color, a charger 2M, an image writing unit 3M, a developing unit 4M, and a cleaning unit 8M. An image forming unit 10C for forming a cyan (C) color image includes a C-color photosensitive drum 1C, a charger 2C, an image writing unit 3C, a developing unit 4C, and a cleaning unit 8C.

  The image forming unit 10K that forms a black (BK) color image includes a photosensitive drum 1K for K color, a charger 2K, an image writing unit 3K, a developing unit 4K, and a cleaning unit 8K. For the internal configuration and functions of the image forming units 10M, 10C, and 10K, refer to Y in the above-described image forming unit 10Y by replacing Y with M, C, and BK, respectively.

  The intermediate transfer belt 6 disposed so as to be in contact with the photosensitive drums 1Y, 1M, 1C, and 1K is wound around a plurality of rollers and is rotatably supported. To the intermediate transfer belt 6, toner images of Y color, M color, C color, and K color formed by the respective photosensitive drums 1Y, 1M, 1C, and 1K are transferred (primary transfer). A secondary transfer roller 7 </ b> A is provided at a position below the intermediate transfer belt 6. The secondary transfer roller 7A transfers the color toner image superimposed on the intermediate transfer belt 6 onto a predetermined sheet P (secondary transfer). The paper P after the color toner image is transferred is also referred to as recording paper P ′.

  A fixing device 17 is disposed adjacent to the secondary transfer roller 7A. The fixing device 17 receives the recording paper P ′ and fixes the second transferred color image. The fixing device 17 includes a fixing roller, a pressure roller, a heating (IH) heater, a fixing cleaning unit, and the like (not shown). In the fixing process, the recording paper P ′ is heated and pressed by passing the recording paper P ′ between a fixing roller heated by a heater and a pressure roller. The recording paper P ′ on which the color image has been fixed is sandwiched between paper discharge rollers 24 and discharged onto a paper discharge tray 25 outside the apparatus.

  In this example, a cleaning unit 8A is provided on the upper left side of the intermediate transfer belt 6 and operates to clean the toner agent remaining on the intermediate transfer belt 6 after transfer. The cleaning unit 8 </ b> A has a neutralization unit (not shown) that neutralizes the charge of the intermediate transfer belt 6 and a pad that removes toner remaining on the intermediate transfer belt 6. The intermediate transfer belt 6 after the belt surface is cleaned by the cleaning unit 8A and discharged by the discharging unit enters the next image forming cycle.

  A paper supply unit 20 is provided below the printer 80 (image forming system) described above, and feeds (conveys) paper P to the printer 80. The paper supply unit 20 includes, for example, three paper supply trays 20A, 20B, and 20C. Conveying rollers 22A and 22B, a loop roller 22C, a registration roller 23, and the like are provided on a sheet conveying path from the sheet supply unit 20 to the lower side of the image forming unit 10K. In this example, the paper P fed out from the paper supply unit 20 is temporarily stopped by the registration roller 23 below the image forming unit 10K via the transport rollers 22A and 22B and the loop roller 22C, and has a predetermined timing. Is conveyed below the intermediate transfer belt 6 (secondary transfer position). These constitute the mechanical system of the color copying machine 100.

  Next, a configuration example of the control system of the color copying machine 100 will be described with reference to FIG. The color copying machine 100 shown in FIG. 2 corresponds to a sample output setting operation including a post-processing function, and forms a preview display or a sample output product to output the sample output form in a batch or separately, and outputs it. , The image processing unit 16, the paper supply unit 20, the operation display unit 48, the printer 80, and the scanner 102. In this example, a finisher 300 is connected to the color copying machine 100, and a finisher control unit (hereinafter referred to as an FNS control unit 301) is connected to the printer 80.

  The control unit 15 constitutes an example of an information processing unit, and generates sample output candidates by combining image forming conditions based on all or part of setting items and setting values that are selected or input by the operation control unit 14. The control unit 15 includes a read processing unit 51, a compression IC 52, an image memory 53, a nonvolatile memory 54, an image control CPU 55, a DRAM control IC 56, a data bus 58, and a write processing unit 59. In this example, the image control CPU 55 displays the operation display unit 48 so that a combination of setting of image forming conditions of sample output candidates when forming an image based on the image data DIN is collectively or separately displayed as a sample output form. Control.

  The operation display unit 48 includes the operation control unit 14 and the display unit 18. The operation control unit 14 constitutes an example of the operation unit, and accepts selection or input of a plurality of setting items and setting values constituting setting information (hereinafter referred to as setting data D54) stored in the nonvolatile memory 54 or the like of the control unit 15. Is operated as follows. Here, the setting item is an item for setting the image forming condition item in detail.

  The image forming condition item is an item for setting an image forming condition when an image is formed based on the image data DIN. The image forming condition items include basic setting, output setting, application setting, paper setting, printing surface, post-processing setting, image quality adjustment, and the like. The setting items include file name, number of copies, sorting, paper discharge surface, paper discharge order, booklet, aggregation, binding margin, stamp, double-sided, single-sided, staple, punch, color, image shift, and the like. The setting value is a value for setting the setting item in more detail.

  The operation control unit 14 is operated so as to set the image output conditions in the sample output mode and the normal operation mode. The sample output mode refers to an operation of displaying a sample output on the display unit 18 prior to printing and outputting a plurality of image formed products, or actually forming and outputting a sample output product. . The normal operation mode is an operation other than the sample output mode, and means an operation for forming an image on a sheet of a predetermined paper size based on an image forming condition set by the user.

  The operation display unit 48 includes a touch panel and a liquid crystal display (LCD). The operation display unit 48 uses GUI (Graphic User Interface) type input means. For example, when paper is set, an operation for selecting the paper feed trays 20A to 20C in which the paper P is stored is performed.

  Of course, when selecting the type of paper P (paper type), the paper size, or the like, or selecting the paper feed trays 20A to 20C, the “automatic” is touched, and the image forming conditions are set. The image forming conditions, paper feed tray selection information, and the like set in the operation display unit 48 are output to the image control CPU 55 as operation data D14. The image forming conditions and the like are displayed on the display unit 18 based on the display data D18. The display data D18 is output from the image control CPU 55 to the operation display unit 48.

  The display unit 18 displays a combination of sample output candidate image forming condition settings generated by the control unit 15 as a sample output form all at once or separately. In this example, the preview screen P2 shown in FIG. 5, the sample output setting screens P31 and P32 shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the sample output setting screen P4 shown in FIG. 8, and the sample output setting at the time of cancellation shown in FIG. A screen P5, sample output setting screens P61 and P62 shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, and an action setting screen P7 shown in FIG.

  Further, the continuous value plural setting screens P81 and P82 shown in FIGS. 13A and 13B, the continuous value plural setting screen P9 shown in FIG. 14, the continuous value plural setting screen P10 shown in FIG. 16, and the numerical values shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B. Input multiple setting screens P21 and P22, preview screens P41 to P43 shown in FIG. 18, preview screen P51 shown in FIG. 21, and sample output screen P71 shown in FIG.

  The scanner 102 includes a line image sensor (hereinafter referred to as CCD 11) that constitutes the document image scanning exposure apparatus 202 shown in FIG. 1, a scanner control unit 12, and the like. The CCD 11 reads the document 30 based on a reading instruction operation from the operation display unit 48 and the control of the scanner control unit 12, and outputs image data DIN obtained by reading to the control unit 15.

  The reading processing unit 51 is connected to the CCD 11 of the scanner 102. The reading processing unit 51 reads and processes image data DIN obtained from the CCD 11. A compression IC 52 is connected to the reading processing unit 51. The compression IC 52 compresses the image data DIN processed by the reading processing unit 51. The compressed image data DIN is transferred to the image memory 53 under the control of the DRAM control IC 56.

  A DRAM control IC 56 is connected to the compression IC 52. The DRAM control IC 56 executes memory control so that the image data DIN compressed by the compression IC 52 is written into the image memory 53. An image memory 53 is connected to the DRAM control IC 56. The image memory 53 includes a compression memory 31 and a page memory 32. The compressed memory 31 stores compressed image data DIN. The page memory 32 stores image data DIN for one page.

  In addition to the image memory 53, the DRAM control IC 56 is connected to a nonvolatile memory 54 that constitutes an example of a storage unit. The nonvolatile memory 54 stores setting data D54 at the time of setting the sample output. The setting data D54 is computerized information for setting image forming conditions. The setting data D54 includes image forming condition items, setting values, setting items, and the like.

  In addition to the compression IC 52, the decompression IC 57 is connected to the DRAM control IC 56 described above. The decompression IC 57 decompresses the image data DIN read from the image memory 53. A write processing unit 59 is connected to the decompression IC 57. The write processing unit 59 processes the image data DIN decompressed by the decompression IC 57 and outputs it to the printer 80.

  The printer 80 constitutes an example of an image forming unit, and forms an image based on a combination of image forming condition settings selected from sample output forms displayed collectively or separately by the image control CPU 55. The printer 80 includes a laser diode (hereinafter collectively referred to as an LD 81) that constitutes the image writing units 3Y, 3M, 3C, and 3K shown in FIG. 1, a printer control unit 82, and the like. An image is formed on a predetermined paper P supplied from the paper supply unit 20 and a sample output product (recording paper P ′) is output (see FIG. 30).

  The paper supply unit 20 is connected to the printer 80. The paper supply unit 20 selects the paper feed tray 20 </ b> A or the like based on an instruction operation from the operation display unit 48, and conveys the paper P having a predetermined paper size to the printer 80. The paper feed tray 20A and the like are selected not only in the normal operation mode but also in the sample output mode. An FNS control unit 301 is connected to the printer control unit 82. The FNS control unit 301 controls the finisher 300 that executes post-processing such as binding processing, stamp processing, stapling processing, and booklet creation processing.

  The above-described DRAM control IC 56 is connected to the data bus 58. The image processing means 16 is connected to the data bus 58. The image processing unit 16 includes a controller control IC 61, a DRAM control IC 62, an image memory 63, and a LANIF unit 64. One end of the LANIF unit 64 is connected to an external device such as a personal computer (hereinafter referred to as a personal computer 200). The other end of the LANIF unit 64 is connected to one end of the DRAM control IC 62.

  The other end of the LANIF unit 64 is connected to one end of the DRAM control IC 62. The other end of the DRAM control IC 62 is connected to the data bus 58. The DRAM control IC 62 is further connected to the controller control IC 61 and the image memory 63. The image processing unit 16 transfers the image data DIN received from the personal computer 200 via the LANIF unit 64 to the DRAM control IC 62. The DRAM control IC 62 is temporarily stored in the image memory 63 under the control of the controller control IC 61. Thus, the sample output mode can be executed for the image data DIN captured from the personal computer 200 without being limited to the image data DIN obtained from the scanner 102. Thus, a control system of the color copying machine 100 is configured.

  Next, a configuration example of the sample output processing block # 1 will be described with reference to FIG. In this example, at the time of sample output, input of a plurality of setting values is permitted for a plurality of setting items, and combinations thereof are sequentially sampled under certain conditions.

  The sample output processing block # 1 shown in FIG. 3 includes functional elements represented by the control unit 15, the operation display unit 48, the printer 80, and the FNS control unit 301 of the color copying machine 100 shown in FIG. The control unit 15 includes an image control CPU 55 and an image data storage unit 503.

  The image data storage unit 503 includes the reading processing unit 51, the compression IC 52, the image memories 53 and 63, the nonvolatile memory 54, the DRAM control ICs 56 and 62, and the writing processing unit 59 shown in FIG. The operation display unit 48 includes the operation control unit 14 and the display unit 18. The printer 80 includes an LD 81 and a printer control unit 82. The image data storage unit 503 stores image data DIN transmitted from the scanner 102 or the personal computer 200. When there is a request from the display unit 18 or the printer 80, the corresponding image data DIN is transmitted. The image control CPU 55 combines a plurality of print settings set by the operation control unit 14 and determines print settings to be sequentially output (sample output setting determination function).

  The operation control unit 14 constitutes an example of a setting unit, and is configured to set a combination upper limit value for determining the total number of combinations of sample output candidate image forming conditions. The operation control unit 14 is input so that the user selects a plurality of setting values for a plurality of functions. The input result is transmitted to the image control CPU 55. When the user selects the preview display, the operation control unit 14 requests the display unit 18 to display the preview.

  In this example, the operation control unit 14 has a function of switching between a first operation mode for selecting a plurality of set values and a second operation mode for selecting a single set value. When this function is used, when combining the image forming condition settings of the sample output candidates, the first operation mode for selecting a plurality of setting values can be easily changed to the second operation mode for selecting a single setting value. Since switching is possible, it is possible to improve the operability when combining the setting of the image forming conditions of the sample output candidates.

  For example, the switching of the first and second operation modes in the operation control unit 14 is different from the first setting operation with respect to the first setting operation for switching from the first operation mode to the second operation mode. This is performed by the second setting operation. According to the operation control unit 14, when switching between the first operation mode for selecting a plurality of set values and the second operation mode for selecting a single set value, different setting operations can be performed. The operability when combining the setting of candidate image forming conditions can be improved.

  In this example, the operation control unit 14 has a function of shifting from a state in which a plurality of setting values are selected to a selection state in which only a single setting value is selected. When this function is used, when switching between a first operation mode for selecting a plurality of set values and a second operation mode for selecting a single set value, a single set value is selected from the selected state. Since it is possible to easily shift to the selection state of only the setting value, it is possible to improve the operability when combining the setting of the image forming conditions of the sample output candidates.

  When the preview display is requested from the operation control unit 14, the display unit 18 receives the corresponding image data DIN from the image data storage unit 503 or the printer 80, and displays the image formation content based on the image data DIN on the preview screen. indicate. Information necessary other than image formation, for example, information related to post-processing (post-processing information) is received from the image control CPU 55, and post-processing information and the like are displayed (applied) on the preview screen in a form that can be read by the user.

  The printer 80 refers to the image data DIN stored in the image data storage unit 503 and forms an image with the LD 81 in accordance with an instruction from the printer control unit 82. The printer 80 notifies the image control CPU 55 of the result of image formation based on a request from the display unit 18. The printer control unit 82 controls the printing process for the printer 80 and the FNS control unit 301 in accordance with the print settings designated by the image control CPU 55. The printer control unit 82 requests the printer 80 and the FNS control unit 301 to perform print control sequentially because the image control CPU 55 requests a plurality of print settings in which the set values are combined.

  The FNS control unit 301 controls the finisher 300 (FNS) in order to execute various post-processing such as binding processing, stamp processing, stapling processing, and booklet creation processing in accordance with instructions from the printer control unit 82.

  The above-described image control CPU 55 constitutes an example of a comparison unit, and compares the combination upper limit value set by the operation display unit 48 with the total number of combinations of the sample output candidate image formation condition settings. If the total number of combinations of sample output candidate image formation conditions set exceeds the combination upper limit value based on the comparison result obtained by the comparison function, the image control CPU 55 determines that all combinations of sample output candidate image formation conditions are set. Only some of them are sampled.

  When the sample output processing block # 1 is configured as described above, when the total number of combinations of the image formation conditions for the sample output candidates exceeds the combination upper limit value, one of all combinations of the image formation conditions for the sample output candidates is set. Since only a part can be sampled, the optimum sample output can be confirmed within a range that does not exceed the combination upper limit value.

  Further, in the sample output processing block # 1, when only a part of all combinations of the sample output candidate image forming condition settings is selected by the operation control unit 14 and sample output is performed, the image control CPU 55 performs the sample output candidate. The image forming condition setting combinations of the sample output candidates that are highly related to each other are extracted from all the combinations of the image forming condition settings in the image, and the image forming of the sample output candidates that are highly related to each other is extracted here. The display unit 18, the printer 80, and the FNS control unit 301 are controlled so as to preferentially output a combination of condition settings.

  When the sample output processing block # 1 is configured in this way, the combination of the setting of the image forming conditions of the sample output candidates that are highly related to each other is preferentially sampled from all the combinations of the setting of the image forming conditions of the sample output candidates. Since it is output, it becomes possible to confirm an optimal sample output having a higher priority than the combination of image forming condition settings of other sample output candidates.

  Furthermore, in the sample output processing block # 1, when only a part of all the combinations of the sample output candidate image forming conditions is sampled, the image control CPU 55 sets all the combinations of the sample output candidate image forming conditions. The sample output selected from among is statistically processed, and the priority is changed based on the result of the statistical processing. For example, the differences in the sample output are totaled, the magnitudes of the differences are extracted, and the priority is changed in accordance with the magnitudes of the differences. Those with large differences are set with high priority, and those with small differences are set with low priority.

  By configuring the sample output processing block # 1 in this way, the priority is changed based on the statistical processing of the sample output selected from all combinations of the sample output candidate image forming condition settings, so the priority is fixed. Thus, the sample output based on the optimum priority can be confirmed as compared with the case of selecting a combination of setting of the image forming conditions of the sample output candidates.

  In addition, when the image control CPU 55 selects and outputs only a part of all the combinations of image formation condition settings of sample output candidates, sample output candidates of combinations of image formation condition settings that were not sampled are output. A preview is displayed on the display unit 18. If the sample output processing block # 1 is configured in this way, it becomes possible to confirm on the preview screen P2 (see FIG. 5) of the display unit 18 the sample output candidates of the combination of the image forming condition settings that were not sampled. These constitute sample output processing block # 1.

  Next, a display example of the accumulated data selection screen P1 will be described. The stored data selection screen P1 shown in FIG. 4 is displayed on the operation display unit 48 shown in FIG. 2 or 3 and is displayed when selecting image data DIN related to sample output. The storage data selection screen P <b> 1 is displayed on the operation display unit 48 when the display screen transitions from the menu screen when the storage data selection is instructed on the menu screen (not shown) of the operation display unit 48.

  According to the stored data selection screen P1, a display area I for searching for image data DIN is provided. In the display area I, as information for specifying the image data DIN, a thumbnail, a document name, an owner, The storage date / time, update date / time, number of pages, number of copies, representative print settings, and the like are displayed.

  In this example, the display area I includes “□ A Document 1.doc”, “□ B Document 2.doc”, “□ 123 Confidential.xls”, “□... Scan10”, “□. In addition to file character information such as “Scan 9”, scroll buttons B 1 and B 2 are displayed. An upward arrow is displayed on the button B1, and when the file character information is scrolled upward on the display area I, it is selected and pressed (touched).

  In this example, a display area II for icon buttons is allocated below the display area I and to the right end area thereof. In the display area II, “Preview”, “Print”, “Delete”, “Duplicate” and “Cancel” buttons B3 to B7 are displayed.

  The “Preview” button B3 is selected and pressed when requesting preview display of an image based on the image data DIN, changing print settings, or outputting a sample. When the button B3 is pressed, the display screen is switched from the stored data selection screen P1 to the preview screen.

  The “print” button B4 is selected and pressed when printing an image based on the selected image data DIN. Note that when the set value for the sample output is not uniquely determined and the image data DIN is stored, the selection and pressing of the button B4 cannot be executed.

  The “delete” button B5 is selected and pressed when deleting the selected image data DIN from the image data storage unit 503. The “Duplicate” button B6 is selected and pressed when the selected image data DIN is duplicated. The “Cancel” button B7 is selected and pressed when the stored data selection screen P1 is closed to return to the previous menu screen or the like. Thus, the accumulated data selection screen P1 is configured, and the image data DIN can be selected in the sampled data output mode on the accumulated data selection screen P1.

  Next, a display example of the preview screen P2 will be described. A preview screen P2 shown in FIG. 5 is displayed on the operation display unit 48 when previewing an image based on the image data DIN to be output as a sample. A preview image of each page based on the image data DIN is displayed on the preview screen P2.

  In this example, when the “Preview” button B3 shown in FIG. 4 is selected and pressed, the display screen is switched from the stored data selection screen P1 to the preview screen P2. According to the preview screen P2, a display area III for previewing an image based on the image data DIN is provided. In the display area III, for example, a character “A” based on the image data DIN is printed. The image is displayed together with the line drawing Pp (paper size = vertical × horizontal: image frame).

  In this example, in the display area III, a button B8 for an icon with a leftward Δ mark and a button B9 for an icon with a rightward Δ mark are displayed. For example, when the button B8 is selected and pressed, the page of the preview displayed image is paged up, and when the button B9 is selected and pressed, the page of the previewed image is paged down. Made. In this way, the page to be previewed can be switched.

  In addition to the buttons B8 and B9, a page display area IIIa is provided in the display area III. “1/50” is displayed in the page display area IIIa. “1/50” is a case where the image of the first page based on the image data DIN of all 50 pages is displayed. Thereby, the page to be previewed can be selected on the preview screen P2. In the preview display, the image can be enlarged by clicking the magnifying glass mark M1 in the figure.

  In this example, the display area II for icon buttons is assigned to the left and right end areas and the lower area of the display area III. In the display area II of the preview screen P2, a “basic setting” icon A1, an “output setting” icon A2, an “application setting” icon A3, a “paper setting” icon A4, a “printing surface” icon A5, An “post-processing setting” icon A6 and an “image quality adjustment” icon A7 are displayed.

  Below the icon A1, lower setting items a11 and a12 of basic settings such as “file name: document 1.doc” and “number of copies: 0001” are displayed. Below the icon A2, lower setting items a21 to a23 such as “sort: sort off”, “discharge surface: face down”, and “discharge order: forward direction” are displayed. Below the icon A3, lower-level setting items a31 to a34 such as “booklet: Off”, “aggregation: 2 in 1”, “binding margin: Off”, and “tamp: Off” are displayed.

  Below the icon A4, lower setting items a41 to a43 such as “size: A4”, “tray: automatic”, and “paper type: plain paper” are displayed. Below the icon A5, a setting item a51 on the lower side of the printing surface such as “both sides: Off” is displayed. Below the icon A6, lower setting items a61 to a63 of post-processing settings such as “staple: Off”, “punch: Off”, and “binding: Off” are displayed. Below the icon A7, lower setting items a71 to a73 for image quality adjustment such as “color: color”, “image shift: Off”, and “detail” are displayed.

  In addition to the “Cancel” button B7, a “sample output” button B10, a “combination review” button B11, and an “overwrite save” button B12 are displayed in the display area II. The “sample output” button B10 is selected and pressed when outputting a sample image based on the selected image data DIN. For example, when the button B10 is selected and pressed, the screen shifts to a sample output screen P71 as shown in FIG. 22, and a sample output mode can be set. Note that when the set value for the sample output is not uniquely determined and the image data DIN is stored, the selection and pressing of the button B10 is disabled.

  The “combination preview” button B11 is selected and pressed when a plurality of settings based on the selected image data DIN are combined. For example, when the button B11 is selected and pressed, a transition is made to a combination preview screen P51 as shown in FIG. 21, and when there are a plurality of setting items, a preview image relating to each combination can be displayed. Yes.

  The “overwrite” button B12 is selected and pressed when the selected image data DIN is overwritten and saved. For example, when the button B12 is selected and pressed, the set value can be stored in association with the image data DIN.

  In this example, when the “Cancel” button B7 is selected and pressed, the selected setting item is invalidated, the preview screen P2 is closed, and the stored data selection screen P1 of the previous screen is returned. Thus, the preview screen P2 is configured, and the preview image based on the image data DIN can be displayed on the preview screen P2 in the sample output mode on the preview screen P2.

  Subsequently, a display example at the time of a plurality of settings on the sample output setting screens P31 and P32 will be described with reference to FIGS. 6A and 6B. In this example, when printing is performed based on the image data DIN acquired by the scanner 102, the setting value must be unique. However, when setting sample output from the preview image, a plurality of setting values are selected. Allowed to do.

  The sample output setting screen P31 shown in FIG. 6A is displayed on the operation display unit 48 when setting the sample output from the preview image. On the sample output setting screen P31, an icon image for setting “aggregation” which is a lower setting item of the application setting is displayed.

  In this example, when the “Aggregation: 2 in 1” setting item a32, which is a lower level of the “Application setting” icon A3 on the preview screen P2 shown in FIG. 5, is selected and pressed, the display screen is displayed from the preview screen P2 to the sample output setting screen P31. Switches.

  According to the sample output setting screen P31, icons A8 and A9 of “horizontal order” and “vertical order” are provided in the display area II for icon buttons, and the setting item a32 of “aggregation” is set in more detail. Is made to select.

  Below the “horizontal order” icon A8, an aggregation “2in1” button B13, an aggregation “4in1” button B14, and an aggregation “8in1” button B15 are displayed. Below the “vertical order” icon A9, an aggregation “4in1” button B16 and an aggregation “8in1” button B17 are displayed. The above buttons B13 to B17 have a toggle function.

  In this example, a plurality of setting values are selected using the toggle function buttons B13 to B17 on the sample output setting screen P31 shown in FIG. 6A. A white arrow in the figure is a cursor 9 that can be operated on the operation display unit 48. For example, the cursor is clicked with the position of the button B13. As a result, the input is confirmed in the same manner as the selection and pressing. The cross hatch of the button B13 in the figure is that the background color of the button B13 is changed from the non-selected state to the selected state.

  In this example, the aggregation “2 in 1” is selected in the first step shown in FIG. 6A, and the aggregation “4 in 1” shown in FIG. 6B is selected in the next step. When printing is performed based on the image data DIN acquired by the normal scanner 102, the aggregation “2in1” that was previously enabled when the aggregation “4in1” that is the setting item of the application setting is selected is not displayed. Transition to the active state. However, in the system of the present invention, even after “4 in 1” is selected, the display of the aggregate “2 in 1” can remain in the active state as shown in FIG. 6B.

  In addition to the “Cancel” button B7, a “Function Off” button B18 and an “OK” button B19 are displayed in the display area II. The “function off” button B18 is selected and pressed when the toggle function of the buttons B13 to B17 is turned off. When the “OK” button B19 is selected and pressed, the selected setting value is validated, and the screen shifts to the preview screen P2 shown in FIG.

  In this example, when the “Cancel” button B7 is selected and pressed, the selected setting item is invalidated, the sample output setting screen P31 is closed, and the preview screen P2 of the previous screen is returned. Thus, the sample output setting screens P31 and P32 are configured, and in the sample output setting screens P31 and P32, in the sample output mode, a plurality of lower detailed setting values such as aggregation, which are setting items of application settings, can be selected. It becomes like this.

  Next, an example of control when multiple sample outputs are set in the sample output processing block # 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. In this example, when two or more set values are validated for sample output, as shown in FIG. 6A, after selecting “2 in 1” as the set value, the second set value in FIG. The aggregation “4 in 1” is selected and pressed. As shown in FIG. 8, a plurality of sample outputs can be set by sliding the cursor 9 indicated by the white arrow so as to widen the selection range while selecting the aggregate “2 in 1”.

  For example, in step ST1 shown in FIG. 7, the image control CPU 55 branches the control in response to the selection of the set value for the sample output. The setting value illustrated in FIG. 6A is the aggregation “2 in 1”. If the sample output set value is selected, in step ST2, the image control CPU 55 branches the control in accordance with the sample output set value == Off or On. If the set value of the aggregation “2 in 1” before selection is Off, the image control CPU 55 sets the set value to On in step ST3. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step ST5.

  If the set value of the aggregation “2 in 1” before selection is not Off and has already been selected, the image control CPU 55 turns off the set value in Step ST4 (toggle function). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step ST5, and the image control CPU 55 branches the control in accordance with whether or not there are two or more set values of On. As shown in FIG. 6B and FIG. 8, when there are two or more set values of On, such as aggregation “2 in 1”, aggregation “4 in 1”, etc., the process proceeds to step ST6, and the image control CPU 55 Generate a combination of sample output settings. Thereafter, the process returns to step ST1. Even when there is only one set value of On, the process returns to step ST1 to accept selection of the set value for the second transition.

  If no setting value is selected in step ST1, the process proceeds to step ST7, and the image control CPU 55 determines whether or not the setting of the sample output is completed. The termination determination at this time is determined, for example, by detecting whether or not there has been an input operation such as “setting end” from the user. When there is no input operation such as “end of setting”, the control returns to step ST1 and repeats the control of steps ST1 to ST7 described above. As a result, it is possible to execute control for enabling two or more set values with respect to the sample output.

  Here, with reference to FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, an example of operation display at the time of canceling the sample output setting or selecting the alternative will be described. In this example, when a plurality of setting values shown in FIG. 8, aggregation “2 in 1”, aggregation “4 in 1”, and the like are selected, some setting values, for example, aggregation “2 in 1” are deactivated. Take an example.

  In the sample output setting screen P4 shown in FIG. 9, the cursor 9 is positioned at the position of the button B13 of the aggregation “2 in 1” in the active state and is clicked. By selecting the toggle in the active state again, the aggregation “2 in 1” is selected. Can be set to inactive. Of course, the operation is not limited to the sample output setting cancellation operation, and the sample output setting cancellation operation can also be performed by double-clicking.

  For example, in the sample output setting screen P61 shown in FIG. 10A, by placing the cursor 9 on the position of the button B14 of the aggregation “4 in 1” in the active state and double-clicking, the toggle in the active state is selected again. As a result, the aggregation “2in1” can be set inactive as in the sample output setting screen P62 illustrated in FIG. 10B, and one aggregation “4in1” is selected from the aggregation “2in1” and the aggregation “4in1”. It becomes possible to choose alternatively.

  As a result, when only one set value is set in an active state from a plurality of set values and all other set values are set in an inactive state, a target set value can be quickly selected. It is also possible to assign a function in which the meaning of double-clicking is “selection selection” + “screen close”.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 11, an example of control when sample output selection is selected in the sample output processing block # 1 will be described. In this example, from the state where a plurality of setting values shown in FIG. 10A, the aggregation “2 in 1”, the aggregation “4 in 1”, and the like are selected, control for enabling one setting value, for example, the aggregation “4 in 1” is enabled. An example is given below.

  In step ST11 shown in FIG. 11, the image control CPU 55 branches the control in response to the selection of the sample output setting value. When the set value for the sample output is selected, the image control CPU 55 branches the control in step ST12 in accordance with whether or not it is within a predetermined time from the previous setting selection. In this case, the criterion is to start a timer at the start of sample output setting, detect whether or not a certain period of time has elapsed after the timer is started, and compare the time to determine timeout (determination time) with the elapsed time. The determination is made based on whether or not the elapsed time exceeds the determination time.

  If the time-out has not been reached since the previous setting selection and the time is within a certain time, the image control CPU 55 turns off all other than this setting value in step ST13. Thereafter, the process returns to step ST11. If a time-out occurs after a predetermined time from the previous setting selection, the image control CPU 55 branches control in step ST14 in accordance with the sample output setting value == Off or On. If the set value of aggregation “2 in 1” before selection is Off, the image control CPU 55 sets the set value to On in step ST15. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step ST17.

  If the set value of the aggregation “2 in 1” before selection is not Off and has already been selected, the image control CPU 55 turns off the set value in Step ST16 (toggle function). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step ST17, and the image control CPU 55 branches the control in accordance with whether or not there are two or more set values of On. If there are two or more set values of On, such as aggregation “2 in 1” and aggregation “4 in 1” shown in FIG. 9 and FIG. 10A, the process proceeds to step ST18, and the image control CPU 55 outputs the sample. Generate a combination of settings. Thereafter, the process returns to step ST11. Even when there is only one set value of On, the process returns to step ST11 to accept selection of the set value for the second transition.

  If no set value is selected in step ST11, the process proceeds to step ST19, and the image control CPU 55 determines whether or not the sample output setting is completed. The termination determination at this time is determined, for example, by detecting whether or not there has been an input operation such as “setting end” from the user. When there is no input operation such as “end of setting”, the control returns to step ST11 and repeats the control of steps ST11 to ST19 described above. As a result, it is possible to execute control for validating one set value alternatively from two or more set values regarding the sample output.

Here, a display example of the action setting screen P7 will be described with reference to FIG. In this example, setting values can be selected by placing the cursor 9 on the positions of the buttons B1 to B19 assigned to the setting values and clicking. Corresponding to the number of times the cursor 9 is clicked and a long press, the action setting screen P7 can assign a click function (meaning) to the setting operation. This click function is set separately.
The

  For example, according to the display example of the action setting screen P7 shown in FIG. 12, the “1 click” button B20, the “2 click” button B21, the “3 click” button B22, “ The “long press” button B23 is displayed.

  Corresponding to the button B20, character information for assigning “select” as a one-click function is displayed on the icon A10. The icon A10 is provided with a downward B mark button B24 so that a click function other than “select” can be set for search.

  Corresponding to the button B21, character information for assigning “selection selection” as a two-click (double-click) function is displayed on the icon A11. The icon A11 is provided with a downward B mark button B25 so that a click function other than “selection selection” can be searched and set.

  Corresponding to the button B22, character information for assigning “release” as a 3-click (triple click) function is displayed on the icon A12. The icon A12 is provided with a downward B mark button B26 so that a search function other than “cancel” can be set.

  Corresponding to the button B23, character information for assigning the click function “long press” is displayed on the icon A13. The icon A13 is provided with a button B27 with a downward Δ mark, and a click function capable of search setting such as “selection / selection / selection / selection + screen close...” Is displayed.

  If the “OK” button B19 in the display area II is selected and pressed, the click function is confirmed. In this example, when the “Cancel” button B7 is selected and pressed, the selected click function is disabled, the action setting screen P7 is closed, and the screen returns to the previous screen, for example, the preview screen P2.

  Thus, the action setting screen P7 is configured, and the action setting screen P7 can set (define) the click function (meaning) corresponding to the number of times the cursor 9 is clicked or long press in the sample output mode. Become. Note that the meaning of double-clicking may be assigned to a superposition function with “selection selection” + “screen close”.

  Subsequently, a display example of the continuous value plural setting screens P81 and P82 will be described with reference to FIG. In this example, “copy density” and “sharpness” are displayed as setting items on the continuous value plural setting screen P81.

  A long thin icon A14 for sliding is displayed between “copy density” and “sharpness” above the center of the display area II of the continuous value plural setting screen P81. A bar button B28 is displayed in a form substantially orthogonal to the icon A14. On the one side (left end) of the icon A14, “−100” indicating the minimum value of copy density is displayed, and “+100” indicating the maximum value of copy density is displayed on the opposite side (right end). The central part has an intermediate value “0”.

  Also, a long thin icon A15 for sliding is displayed below the center of the display area II and below “Sharpness”. A bar button B29 is displayed in a form substantially orthogonal to the icon A15. On the one side of the icon A15, “−100” indicating the minimum value of sharpness is displayed, and on the opposite side, “+100” indicating the maximum value of sharpness is displayed. The central part has an intermediate value “0”.

  According to the setting example of a plurality of continuous values, for example, the cursor 9 is positioned and dragged to the button B28 on the continuous value multiple setting screen P81 shown in FIG. 13A, and in the drag state, as shown in FIG. Slide along the icon A14 on the value multiple setting screen P82. As a result, a continuous value setting range can be selected (set).

  In order to distinguish from a normal slide operation, the start of setting a plurality of continuous values may be assigned so as to be set by a special action such as a double click. Accordingly, the continuous value multiple setting screens P81 and P82 are configured, and a plurality of continuous values can be set in the sample output mode on the continuous value multiple setting screens P81 and P82.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 14, an example of control at the time of setting a plurality of continuous values in the sample output processing block # 1 will be described. In this example, the image control CPU 55 shown in FIG. 3 determines whether or not a part of the setting value is a continuous value among the combinations of the setting items of the image forming conditions of the sample output candidates, and sets one of the setting values. When the part is a continuous value, sample output is executed using a part of the continuous value as a set value.

  Regarding the sample output setting mode, a continuous value multiple setting mode and a setting value change mode are prepared. The continuous value multiple setting mode refers to an operation (operation) for setting a plurality of continuous values in sample output. The set value change mode refers to an operation (operation) for changing the set value in the sample output.

  According to the setting example of a plurality of continuous values shown in FIG. 14, in step ST21, the image control CPU 55 branches the control in response to the selection of the sample output setting value. When the sample output setting value is selected, in step ST22, the image control CPU 55 branches the control in accordance with the sample output setting mode corresponding to the continuous value multiple setting mode or the setting value change mode.

  If the sample output setting mode is the continuous value multiple setting mode, the image control CPU 55 monitors (detects) the continuous value setting state in step ST23. In the continuous value setting state, as shown in FIG. 13B, a selection range from the start value to the end value is detected for the continuous value. Regarding the start value, for example, the cursor 9 is aligned with the button B28 on the icon A14, and the input is confirmed by detecting one click (selection).

  Thereafter, in step ST24, the image control CPU 55 branches the control based on whether or not the set value selection is cancelled. The determination criterion at this time is determined by detecting three clicks of the cursor 9 indicating the cancellation of the selection of the set value with respect to the continuous value setting.

  When the selection of the set value is canceled, the process proceeds to step ST25, and the image control CPU 55 sets a selection range from the start value to the end value for the continuous value. Thereafter, the process returns to step ST21. If the setting value selection has not been cancelled, the process returns to step ST23 to continue monitoring the continuous value setting state.

  When the set value change mode is selected in step ST22 described above, the process proceeds to step ST26, and the image control CPU 55 changes the set value of the sample output. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step ST27.

  If no setting value is selected in step ST21, the process proceeds to step ST27, and the image control CPU 55 determines whether or not the sample output setting is completed. The termination determination at this time is determined, for example, by detecting whether or not there has been an input operation such as “setting end” from the user. When there is no input operation such as “end of setting”, the control returns to step ST21 and repeats the control of steps ST21 to ST26 described above.

  As described above, according to the sample output processing block # 1, it is determined whether or not a part of the setting value is a continuous value. If the part of the setting value is a continuous value, one of the continuous values is determined. Since a part is used as a set value and sample output is performed, it is possible to optimally confirm a sample output in which a part of set values for setting detailed setting items of image forming conditions are continuous values.

  Here, with reference to FIG.15 and FIG.16, the example of a display of other continuous value multiple setting screens P9 and P10 is demonstrated. The icons A14 and A15 and the buttons B28 and B29 on the continuous value plural setting screens P9 and P10 are based on the continuous value plural setting screen P81 shown in FIG.

  When a plurality of continuous values are set on the continuous value plural setting screen P9 shown in FIG. 15, a plurality of corresponding portions are selected by clicking a plurality of portions. For example, when the cursor 9 is clicked at the position (lower limit) of the circled number “1” of the icon A14, the button B28 is moved to that position, and the display color changes, for example, from white (black white) to green. To do.

  After that, when the cursor 9 is clicked at the position (upper limit) of the circled number “2” of the icon A14, the button B28 is moved to that position, the display color is changed, and similarly, the white (black white) to green To change. Accordingly, the continuous value plural setting screen P9 is configured, and the plural continuous values (upper limit value-lower limit value) can be easily set in the sample output mode on the continuous value plural setting screen P9.

  Moreover, when setting a plurality of continuous values on the continuous value multiple setting screen P10 shown in FIG. 16, the setting range is specified by clicking the lower limit and upper limit portions and finally clicking the portion between them. To be made. For example, when the cursor 9 is clicked at the position (lower limit) of the circled number “1” of the icon A14, the button B28 is moved to that position, and the display color changes, for example, from white (black white) to green. To do.

  After that, when the cursor 9 is clicked at the position (upper limit) of the circled number “2” of the icon A14, the button B28 is moved to that position, the display color is changed, and similarly, the white (black white) to green To change. At this time, unlike the continuous value plural setting screen P9 shown in FIG. 15, the portion of the icon A14 between the position of the circled number “1” (lower limit) and the position of the circled number “2” (upper limit) is also displayed in the display color. In the same manner, white (black white) changes to green.

  Then, the setting range can be designated by clicking the portion of the icon A14 whose display color has changed, for example, the position (middle) of the circled number “3”. As a result, a continuous value multiple setting screen P10 is configured, and in the continuous value multiple setting screen P10, a plurality of continuous values (upper limit value-lower limit value) can be easily set in the sample output mode.

  Next, display examples of the numerical value input multiple setting screens P21 and P22 will be described with reference to FIGS. 17A and 17B. For example, when the numeric input regarding the setting value is instructed on the preview screen P2 shown in FIG. 4, the display is switched from the preview screen P2 to the numeric input multiple setting screen P21.

  In this example, a “magnification” icon A16 and a “1.00” icon A17 are displayed as setting items in the display area II of the numerical input multiple setting screen P21. Below the icons A17 and A18, a numeric keypad button B30 with numbers “0” to “9” is displayed, and a decimal point “•” button B31 is displayed adjacent to the number “0”. . Further, a “˜” button B32 indicating a range designation is displayed adjacent to the button B31.

  Below the button B30, the button B31, and the button B32, a “scroll bar display” button B33 is displayed. When the button B33 is selected and pressed, a bar (not shown) is scrolled.

  Here, a case where a lower limit value “1/00” to an upper limit value “1.414” are set as continuous values will be described. The lower limit value is “1.00” (default). Then, the “~” button B32 indicating the range shown in FIG. 17A is selected and pressed. Next, a numeric keypad button B30 shown in FIG. 17B is selected and pressed. After that, the decimal point “·” button B31 is selected and pressed. Further, the button B30 for the numeric keypad “4” is selected and pressed.

  Thereafter, the button B30 for the numeric keypad “1” is selected and pressed. Further, the button B30 for the numeric keypad “4” is selected and pressed. Thereby, “1/00 To 1.414” is displayed as a continuous value in the display area II. “Magnification” is displayed on the icon A16, “1.00” is displayed on the icon A17, “1.414” is newly displayed on the icon A18, and “˜” indicating the range designation is “ It is displayed by character information of “To”. As a result, a continuous value setting range can be selected (set).

  Thus, a plurality of numerical value input setting screens P21 and P22 are configured, and in the numerical value input multiple setting screens P21 and P22, a plurality of continuous values (upper limit value-lower limit value) can be easily input and set in the sample output mode. become. Of course, you may have a means to switch to another numerical value input method. Further, when an operation mode that does not allow multiple selections, for example, a printing mode or the like is designated from the normal scanner 102, a button icon representing a setting range may be hidden.

  Next, display examples of preview screens P41, P42, and P43 when a plurality of settings are made will be described with reference to FIGS. According to the display example of the sample output on the preview screen P41 at the time of multiple setting shown in FIG. 18, “2 in 1” is set, and the display area III includes “A” in the line drawing Pp of one sheet. The image of the first page for printing the character “and the image of the second page for printing the character“ B ”are displayed.

  In this example, setting items for which a plurality of setting values are set are highlighted such as changing the background color so that the setting values can be easily identified. For example, the background color of “aggregation: 2 in 1” indicated by the setting item a32 under the application setting of the icon A3 is changed to green. The background color of “image shift: Off” indicated by the setting item a72 under the image quality adjustment of the icon A7 is also changed to green. This makes it easy to discriminate the setting value in which the background color is changed to green while the setting item for which the setting value is not set is displayed in monochrome.

  Also in this example, a left-pointed icon button B8 and a right-pointed icon button B9 are displayed in the display area III. The functions thereof are displayed on the preview screen P2 shown in FIG. Since the explanation is given, the explanation is omitted.

  According to the preview screen P41, an icon button B34 for an upward Δ mark and a button B35 for an icon of a downward Δ mark are additionally displayed in the upper and lower directions of the line drawing Pp of the paper. The button B34 and the button B35 are configured to switch the aggregation function. For example, when the button B34 is selected and pressed, the aggregation function of the image “2 in 1” displayed in the preview is canceled, and the display screen is switched to the image “A” on the first page (see FIG. 5).

  When the button B35 is selected and pressed, the aggregated “2 in 1” image displayed in the preview is displayed in the aggregated “4 in 1” image, for example, the line drawing Pp of one sheet by the image shift On shown in FIG. , An image of the first page for printing the character “A”, an image of the second page for printing the character “B”, and an image of the third page for printing the character “C” And an image on the fourth page for printing the character “D”. In this way, the aggregation function of pages to be previewed can be switched.

  According to the preview screen P41, the page display area IIIa is moved above the display area III, and “1/50” is displayed in the page display area IIIa. Since “1/50” has been described with reference to FIG. 5, the description thereof will be omitted.

  According to the preview image display example at the time of multiple settings shown in FIG. 19, the display switching of the combination of settings is performed using the buttons B34 and B35 in the upper and lower parts of the line drawing Pp of the paper. However, the present invention is not limited to this. According to the preview screen P43 shown in FIG. 20, the combination switching buttons B36 and B37 are provided on the background part of the application setting setting item a32, the background part of the image quality adjustment setting item a72, and the like, which are subordinate to the image forming condition item. Deploy. For example, the button B36 is arranged in the background part of the aggregation “8 in 1” shown in FIG. 20, and the button B37 is arranged in the background part of the image shift “On”.

  The buttons B36 and B37 are each composed of a pair of downward and upward icon buttons with a Δ mark. When the upward triangle icon button or the downward triangle icon button of these buttons B36 and B37 is selected and pressed, the display screen of the preview image based on the combination of the corresponding settings is switched. As a result, on the preview screens P41 to P43, the preview image can be displayed under the image forming conditions based on a combination of different settings by selecting and pressing the buttons B34 and B37.

  Next, a display example of the combination preview screen P51 will be described with reference to FIG. In this example, the combination preview screen P51 is displayed in the operation display unit 48 shown in FIG. 3, and a plurality of previously selected setting values are combined and previewed in a list. When a preview image cannot be accommodated on one screen, the display screen is switched by a scroll function or the like.

  According to the display example of the combination preview screen P51 shown in FIG. 21, the preview area IV for displaying the combination preview image is provided in the substantially central portion of the display area II. The preview area IV is divided into three areas IVa, IVb and IVc. The region IVa is a (1 in 1) preview region in which one page of the image “A” or the like is formed on one vertically set sheet. In this example, the line drawing Pp1 of the paper on which the image “A” is formed, the line drawing Pp2 of the paper on which the image “B” is formed, and the line drawing Pp3 of the paper on which the image “C” is formed are displayed in the area IVa.

  The area IVb is a (2 in 1) preview area in which a two-page image “AB” or the like is reduced and formed on one sheet of paper set in landscape orientation. In this example, a line drawing Pp4 of the paper on which the image “AB” is formed, a line drawing Pp5 of the paper on which the image “CD” is formed, and a line drawing Pp6 of the paper on which the image “EF” is formed are displayed in the area IVb.

  The area IVc is a (4 in 1) preview area in which a four-page image “ABCD” or the like is reduced and formed on one vertically set sheet. In this example, the line drawing Pp7 of the paper on which the image “ABCD” is formed, the line drawing Pp8 of the paper on which the image “EFGH” is formed, and the line drawing Pp9 of the paper on which the image “IJKL” is formed are displayed in the area IVc.

  Also, in the area IVa, a check box C1, a leftward Δ mark button B40, and a rightward Δ mark button B41 are displayed. A check such as a check point can be described in the check box C1, and if a check point is described in the check box C1, for example, a scroll operation can be performed in the region IVa. The button B40 is used when scrolling the line drawings Pp1 to Pp3 of the paper to the left side. The button B41 is used when scrolling the line drawings Pp1 to Pp3 of the paper to the right.

  Also in the area IVb, a check box C2, a left-facing Δ mark button B42, and a right-facing Δ mark button B43 are displayed. A check mark can be described in the check box C2, and if a check mark is described in the check box C2, a scroll operation can be performed in the area IVb. The button B42 is used when scrolling the line drawings Pp4 to Pp6 of the paper to the left side. The button B43 is used when scrolling the line drawings Pp4 to Pp6 of the paper to the right side.

  Also in the area IVc, a check box C3, a left-pointed Δ mark button B44, and a right-pointed Δ mark button B45 are displayed. A check mark can be described in the check box C3. If a check mark is described in the check box C3, a scroll operation can be performed in the area IVc. The button B44 is used to scroll the line drawings Pp7 to Pp9 on the paper to the left. The button B45 is used when scrolling the line drawings Pp7 to Pp9 on the paper to the right.

  A slide icon A19 is provided at the right end of the preview area IV. A button B38 with an upward Δ mark is provided above the icon A19, and a button B39 with a downward Δ mark is provided below the icon A19. When the button B38 is selected and pressed, in the preview area IV, for example, it is used when the display contents of the areas IVa to IVc are shifted so as to be moved upward by one area. When the button B39 is selected and pressed, in the preview area IV, the display contents of the areas IVa to IVc are used to shift so as to be moved downward one area at a time.

  Thus, the combination preview screen P51 is configured, and in the combination preview screen P51, in the sample output mode, the preview image most suitable as the sample output can be narrowed down and selected from the preview images of each combination. In the case of sample output, one or a plurality of pages can be designated from each combination in preparation for printing only a specific page.

  Next, a display example of the sample output screen P71 will be described with reference to FIG. A combination setting display area V is provided at substantially the center of the display area II of the sample output screen P71 shown in FIG. On the upper left side of the combination setting display area V, a “sample output” icon A20 is displayed. The combination setting display area V is divided into two areas Va and Vb.

  The area Va is an area for selecting a combination of settings that does not depend on the page unit. In this example, a button B46 for selecting “all setting combinations”, a button B47 for selecting “selected setting combinations”, and a button B48 for selecting “displayed combination of settings” are displayed in the area Va. The In the region Vb, a button B49 for selecting “all pages” and a button B50 for selecting “representative pages” are displayed.

  According to the sample output screen P71, when the button B46 is selected and pressed, an “all setting combination” for which all combinations of the selected plurality of setting items are to be printed can be designated. When the button B47 is selected and pressed, it is possible to designate a “selected setting combination” whose printing target is the setting combination selected on the combination preview screen P51. When the button B48 is selected and pressed, it becomes possible to designate a “combination of displayed settings” for printing all combinations of a plurality of selected setting items whose print targets are the settings displayed on the preview screen P2. ing.

  Further, when the button B49 is selected and pressed, “all pages” for outputting only one copy of all pages can be designated. Further, when the button B50 is selected and pressed, a part of all pages such as the page selected on the combination preview screen P51, the page displayed on the preview screen P2, the top page, the page determined to have a large combination setting effect, and the like. "Representative page" that outputs only the sample can be specified.

  A “combination preview” button B11, a “print” button B4, and a “cancel” button B7 are displayed below the display area II. When the button B11 is selected and pressed, the screen shifts to a combination preview screen P51 as shown in FIG. When the button B4 is selected and pressed, “print” for executing sample output can be designated. When the button B7 is selected and pressed, the sample output screen P71 is closed (Closed), and “cancel” for shifting to the previous screen can be designated. Thus, the sample output screen P71 is configured, and the sample output mode can be selected in the sample output mode on the sample output screen P71.

  Next, a description example in the setting combination table # 2 for sample output printing will be described with reference to FIG. In this example, the setting combination table # 2 is stored in the nonvolatile memory 54 or the like based on the setting data D54. According to the combination table # 2 at the time of the sample output print setting shown in FIG. 23, the current various settings are displayed as a list.

  In this example, a plurality of setting items are described for a recording (registration) number (hereinafter referred to as a record number) relating to a combination of sample output print settings. Table # 2 is summarized in a table format. For example, in the table # 2, “file name”, “number of copies”, “sheet”, “discharge surface”, “discharge order”, “booklet”, “collection”, “binding margin” based on the record number , A description field such as “stamp” is provided. A serial number “12345678...” Is assigned to the record number column.

In the file name, “document 1.doc”, “document 2.doc”, “confidential.xle”, and the like are described. In the number of copies, “0001”, “1000”, etc. are described. In the sheet, “plain paper”, “thick paper”, “coated paper” and the like are described. “Face Down”, “Face Up”, and the like are described on the paper discharge surface. The “forward direction”, “reverse direction”, and the like are described in the discharge order.
In the booklet, “Off”, “On”, and the like are described. In the aggregation, “2 in 1”, “4 in 1”, “8 in 1”, and the like are described. In the binding margin, “Off”, “On”, and the like are described. “Off”, “On”, etc. are described in the stamp.

  In the combination table # 2, when there are a large number of setting items that cannot be accommodated on one screen, the display of the setting items is switched. As a result, the sample output print setting combination table # 2 is configured, and in the setting combination table # 2, in the sample output mode, the record contents relating to the sample output print setting combination can be easily confirmed.

  As described above, according to the color copying machine 100 including the sample output processing block # 1 as the embodiment, the electronic setting data D54 for setting image forming conditions is temporarily stored in the nonvolatile memory 54. . The operation control unit 14 is operated to accept selection or input of a plurality of setting items and setting values constituting the setting data D54 stored in the nonvolatile memory 54.

  The image control CPU 55 generates sample output candidates by combining image forming conditions based on all or part of the setting items and setting values that are selected or input by the operation control unit 14. On the premise of this, the operation display unit 48 displays a combination of setting of image forming conditions of sample output candidates generated by the image control CPU 55 as a sample output form in a batch or separately.

  By this display, it becomes possible to freely select a combination of setting of image forming conditions of the optimum sample output candidate from a display screen displayed as a sample output form collectively or separately. As a result, the user (user) can efficiently find a desired combination of image forming conditions.

  Next, regarding the information processing method according to the present invention, control examples (Nos. 1 and 2) at the time of sample output print setting according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. In this embodiment, digitized setting data D54 for setting image forming conditions is temporarily stored in the sample output processing block # 1. The operation display unit 48 accepts selection or input of a plurality of setting items and setting values constituting the stored setting data D54.

  The image control CPU 55 generates sample output candidates by combining the image forming conditions based on the whole or a part of the setting items and setting values that are selected or input on the operation display unit 48. An example will be given of a case where a sample output combination of image output condition settings generated here is output as a sample.

  First, in step ST31 shown in FIG. 24, the image control CPU 55 shifts to a preview screen P2 as shown in FIG. In step ST32, the image control CPU 55 branches the control in accordance with whether to change the function setting item. If an instruction to change the function setting item is given, the image control CPU 55 executes a setting value changing process in step ST33. Thereafter, in step ST34, the image control CPU 55 generates a combination of settings.

  For example, a subroutine shown in FIG. 26 is called to generate a sample output setting combination. In step ST51, the image control CPU 55 reads the set number of the i = n-th setting item. At this time, the image control CPU 55 refers to the table # 2 in the nonvolatile memory 54 and searches for the record number.

  In step ST52, the image control CPU 55 determines whether or not the set number is i ≧ 2, and branches the control. If the set number is i ≧ 2, the image control CPU 55 sets m = number of existing records in step ST53.

  Next, in step ST54, the image control CPU 55 adds m * (j-1) records to the table # 2. In step ST55, the image control CPU 55 duplicates the set value determined in the existing record (record) to a new record. Thereafter, in step ST56, the image control CPU 55 reads the k = 1st set value from the nonvolatile memory 54.

  In step ST57, the image control CPU 55 compares the k = 1st set value with the existing record number m and branches the control. If the k = 1st set value is smaller than the existing record number m, the image control CPU 55 reads the kth set value from the nonvolatile memory 54 in step ST58. Thereafter, in step ST59, the image control CPU 55 writes the k-th set value in m records.

  Then, after the k + 1th set value is read in step ST60, the process returns to step ST56 and the above-described control is repeated. If the k = 1st set value is larger than the existing record number m in step ST57, the process proceeds to step ST61, and the image control CPU 55 branches the control in accordance with whether or not the n + 1th set value exists. To do.

  If there is an (n + 1) th set value, the process proceeds to step ST62, and the image control CPU 55 executes n = (n + 1) to increment the set number of set items, and returns to step ST51. Thereafter, the above control is repeated. If there is no (n + 1) th set value, the process returns to step ST34 of the main flowchart. In step ST35, the image control CPU 55 generates a preview screen P2. Thereafter, the process returns to step ST32.

  When the function setting item is not changed in step ST32 described above, the image control CPU 55 branches control in step ST36 depending on whether or not the combination preview screen P51 is selected. If the combination preview screen P51 is selected, the image control CPU 55 proceeds to the combination preview screen P51 in step ST37.

  In step ST38, the image control CPU 55 generates preview screens P41, P42, P43 and the like. The preview screens P41, P42, P43 and the like are created based on the user input operation and the preview screen P41.

  In step ST39, the image control CPU 55 branches the control in response to an instruction as to whether or not to change the output target. The instruction to change the output target is given by the user performing an input operation on the operation display unit 48. If there is an instruction to change the output target, the image control CPU 55 changes the output target in step ST40. After changing the output target, the process proceeds to step ST41. If the output target is not changed, the process passes step ST40 and proceeds to step ST41.

  In step ST41, the image control CPU 55 branches the control in accordance with whether or not the screen is closed. If there is no instruction to close the screen, the process returns to step ST39. If there is an instruction to close the screen, the process returns to step ST32.

  If the combination preview screen P51 is not selected in step ST36 described above, the image control CPU 55 determines in step ST42 in FIG. 25 whether or not the selection of sample output has been completed. In this case, whether or not there is a selection is determined, for example, by detecting whether or not there has been an input operation such as sample output from the user. If there is no input operation such as sample output, the control is terminated.

  If there is an input operation such as sample output, the image control CPU 55 proceeds to the sample output screen P71 in step ST43. Thereafter, in step ST44, the image control CPU 55 branches the control in accordance with whether or not the print target has been changed. If there is no change in the print target, in step ST45, the image control CPU 55 branches the control in accordance with whether or not printing is selected.

  If printing is selected, the image control CPU 55 branches control in step ST46 in accordance with whether or not the combination preview screen P51 is selected. If the combination preview screen P51 is selected, the process returns to step ST37 in FIG. If the combination preview screen P51 is not selected, the process proceeds to step ST47.

  In step ST47, the image control CPU 55 branches the control in response to an instruction whether or not to close the screen. If there is no instruction to close the screen, the process returns to step ST44. If the print target is changed in step ST44, the image control CPU 55 changes the output target in step ST48. Thereafter, the process returns to step ST44.

  When printing is selected in step ST45 described above, the image control CPU 55 determines an output target in step ST49. For example, a sample output target is determined by calling a subroutine shown in FIG. In step ST71 of FIG. 27, the image control CPU 55 reads the set number of the i = 1th setting item from the nonvolatile memory 54. Thereafter, in step ST72, the image control CPU 55 reads the i-th record from the table # 2.

  In step ST73, the image control CPU 55 branches the control in accordance with whether or not the i-th sample output is selected. If the i-th sample output is selected, in step ST74, the image control CPU 55 branches the control in accordance with whether or not the i-th sample output combination is prohibited.

  If the i-th sample output combination is prohibited, the i-th sample output is registered as an output target in step ST75. Thereafter, in step ST76, the image control CPU 55 branches the control in accordance with whether or not the i-th sample is the last sample output. If the i-th is not the last sample output, the process proceeds to step ST78.

  If the i-th sample output is not selected in step ST73 and if the combination of the i-th sample output is not prohibited in step ST74, the process proceeds to step ST77. In step ST77, the image control CPU 55 registers the i-th sample output as an output target.

  Thereafter, the process proceeds to step ST78, and the image control CPU 55 executes i = (i + 1) to increment the i-th sample output and returns to step ST72. Thereafter, the above control is repeated. When the i-th sample output is the last sample output in step ST76 described above, the process returns to step ST49 of the main flowchart.

  In step ST50, the image control CPU 55 controls the printer 80 to print the output target. The printer 80 forms a preview image on the set paper and outputs a sample output (see recording paper P ′ shown in FIG. 30). After printing the output target, the process returns to step ST44. The image control CPU 55 executes the above-described control of step ST44 to step ST47, step ST32, and step ST36, and ends the control when there is no input operation such as sample output in step ST42. Note that the combination of samples that are not to be output may be presented by another method such as displaying on the preview screen P2.

  Subsequently, a control example at the time of sample output in the sample output processing block # 1 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. In this example, a case where samples are output in order from a sample output target with a high priority will be described as an example. At this time, an upper limit setting value of the sample output is determined, and printing cannot be performed exceeding this upper limit setting value (hereinafter referred to as the upper limit number). Here, the upper limit set value is an upper limit value (number) at which a preview image (sample) is formed on a predetermined sheet and can be sampled at a time.

  First, in step ST81 shown in FIG. 28, the image control CPU 55 determines an output target. Since the output target determination control has been described in the first embodiment, the description thereof is omitted (see FIG. 27).

  Next, in step ST82, the image control CPU 55 determines the output order of sample output targets. The output order of the sample output targets is determined with reference to, for example, the function relevance definition example in the sample output processing block # 1 shown in FIG. 29 so that the samples can be output in order from the sample output target with the highest priority.

  In this example, the printer 80, the finisher 300, and the like have information on relevance (influence and weight) indicating the degree of relevance to other functions related to each other in the image forming function and the post-processing function. is doing. In the sample output processing block # 1, the order (output order) in which the combination of settings for sample output is given priority is determined based on the total degree of association assigned to each function for which a plurality of setting items are selected. To be made.

  According to the configuration example at the time of defining the function relevance shown in FIG. 29, the stamp type Q1, aggregation Q2, image density Q3, color Q4, binding margin Q5, stamp position Q6, paper size Q7, staple Q8, booklet Q9, binding direction. Q10, the number of copies Q11, and the file name Q12 are listed as items (functions) with high relevance.

  For example, the stamp type Q1 is related to the stamp position Q6. The stamp position Q6 is related to the aggregation Q2, the binding margin Q5, the booklet Q9, and the binding direction Q10 in addition to the stamp type Q1. Aggregation Q2 relates to image density Q3 and paper size Q7 in addition to stamp position Q6. The image density Q3 is related to the color Q4 and the booklet Q9 in addition to the aggregate Q2.

  The binding margin Q5 is related to the staple Q8 and the booklet Q9 in addition to the aggregation Q2 and the stamp position Q6. In addition to the binding margin Q5, the booklet Q9 is associated with the staple Q8. The booklet Q9 is related to the binding direction Q10 in addition to the stamp position Q6.

  Numbers 1 to 4 in the figure are degrees of association. The smaller the number, the lower the degree of association, and the larger the number, the higher the degree of association. In this example, the degree of association is “1” between the aggregation Q2 and the binding margin Q5, between the binding margin Q5 and the booklet Q9, and between the staple Q8 and the booklet Q9.

  Further, between the stamp type Q1 and the stamp position Q6, between the aggregation Q2 and the stamp position Q6, between the aggregation Q2 and the paper size Q7, between the stamp position Q6 and the binding direction Q10, and the paper size Q7. And the booklet Q9 have a relevance of “2”.

  Further, the degree of association is “3” between the aggregate Q2 and the image density Q3, between the image density Q3 and the booklet Q9, and between the binding margin Q5 and the staple Q8. The degree of association between the image density Q3 and the color Q4 and between the binding margin Q5 and the stamp position Q6 is “4”. In this way, the relationship (tightness) between the function settings is defined in advance, and it is possible to access the nonvolatile memory 54 and the like storing these information and determine the output order by giving priority to the combination of sample outputs having a high relationship. become.

  In step ST83 of FIG. 28, the image control CPU 55 forms a preview image on the set paper and outputs a sample output. Thereafter, in step ST84, the image control CPU 55 branches the control in accordance with whether the output target is output. If the output target is not output, the number of sample outputs is compared with the upper limit number in step ST85, and the control branches according to the comparison result.

  If the number of sample outputs is equal to or greater than the upper limit, the control related to sample output is terminated. When the number of sample outputs has not reached the upper limit number, the process returns to step ST82 and the control related to the sample output is continued. As a result, within the range in which the upper limit set value of the sample output product is determined, it is possible to output samples in order from the sample output target with the highest priority.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 30, an example of providing identification information at the time of sample output as the third embodiment will be described. Identification information DX is given to the recording paper P ′ (sample output) at the time of sample output shown in FIG. The identification information DX includes a serial number, a barcode (including multi-dimensions), a wireless ID, and the like. When the identification information DX is given to the recording paper P ′ output as a sample, when a plurality of sample output products are output, other sample output products and the sample output product can be easily specified.

  The printer 80 of the sample output processing block # 1 shown in FIG. 3 constitutes an example of an information adding unit. The printer 80 is controlled to give the identification information DX to a sample output candidate that is output as a sample or a sample output candidate that is displayed as a preview based on the selected combination of image forming conditions.

  The scanner 102 shown in FIG. 2 reads the identification information DX given by the printer 80. The image control CPU 55 constitutes an example of an information confirmation unit, and confirms a set value from the identification information DX read by the scanner 102. By including the image control CPU 55 having such an information determination function, it is possible to set the image forming conditions of a job for forming a large amount of images with high reproducibility.

  Further, the image control CPU 55 selects one of the identification information DX read by the scanner 102 when only a part of all the combinations of the sample output candidate image formation condition settings is selected and displayed as a sample output or preview. Only the set value of the part is fixed. With this confirmation function, when only a part of all the combinations of the sample output candidate image formation condition settings is selected and sample output or previewed, the image formation condition of a job that is intended to form a large number of images is set. Only the set value that has been confirmed can be set.

  As described above, the color copying machine 100 having the scanner function can read the identification information DX. At this time, the color copying machine 100 can determine the corresponding set value based on the identification information DX. . If all combinations of sample outputs are not output due to reasons such as exceeding the upper limit setting value, the setting values that do not correspond to the identification information DX in the sample output are separated and edited. You can also.

  As described above, since the color copying machine 100 is configured by combining any one of the sample output processing blocks # 1 according to the first to third embodiments or a combination thereof, the sample output forms are displayed collectively or separately. From the combination preview screen P51, it is possible to freely select a combination of image formation condition settings for the optimum sample output candidates. Accordingly, when printing a large number of copies of an image formed product, a user (user) can efficiently find a combination of desired image forming condition settings. As a result, troublesome work such as setting-output-confirmation-setting change-output-confirmation as in the conventional method can be omitted, and both the man-hour and time for confirming the setting can be shortened.

  The present invention forms a preview image created by combining image forming condition settings on a set paper before forming an image on a predetermined paper and outputting a large number of image formed materials (printed materials). Thus, the present invention is extremely suitable when applied to a color copying machine, a multifunction peripheral, a printer, or the like having a preview printing function for outputting a sample output (printed material).

1Y, 1M, 1C, 1K Photosensitive drum (image carrier)
2Y, 2M, 2C, 2K charger (image forming unit)
3Y, 3M, 3C, 3K Image writing unit (image forming unit)
4K, 4M, 4C, 4K Developer (image forming unit)
6 Intermediate transfer belt (image carrier: image forming unit)
10Y, 10M, 10C, 10K Image forming unit (image forming unit)
11 CCD
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 12 Scanner control part 14 Operation control part 15 Control part 16 Image processing means 17 Fixing device 18 Display part 20 Paper supply part 31 Compression memory 32 Page memory 45 Timing generation part 48 Operation display part 51 Reading process part 52 Compression IC
53, 63 Image memory 54 Non-volatile memory 55 Image control CPU
56,62 DRAM control IC
57 Extension IC
59 Write processing unit 61 Controller control IC
64 LANIF section
80 Printer (image forming unit)
81 LD (image forming unit)
82 Printer control unit
100 color copier 300 finisher 301 FNS controller

Claims (13)

An item for setting an image forming condition when forming an image based on image information is set as an image forming condition item, an item for setting the image forming condition item in more detail is set as a setting item, and the setting item is set in more detail. When the value to be set is the set value,
A storage unit for temporarily storing digitized setting information for setting the image forming conditions;
An operation unit for receiving selection or input of a plurality of setting items and setting values constituting the setting information stored in the storage unit;
An information processing unit that generates sample output candidates by combining the image forming conditions based on all or part of the setting items and setting values that are selected or input by the operation unit;
An information processing apparatus comprising: a display unit configured to display a set of sample output candidate image forming condition settings generated by the information processing unit in a batch or separately as a sample output form. The information processing unit
Setting means for setting a combination upper limit value for determining the total number of combinations of setting of the image forming conditions of the sample output candidates;
Comparing means for comparing the combination upper limit value set by the setting means and the total number of combinations of the image forming condition settings of the sample output candidates;
According to the comparison result obtained from the comparison unit, when the total number of combinations of the image output condition settings of the sample output candidate exceeds the combination upper limit value,
The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein only a part of all combinations of setting of image formation conditions of the sample output candidates is sampled. The information processing unit
When only a part of all the combinations of the sample output candidate image formation condition settings is selected by the operation unit and the sample is output,
Extracting a combination of sample output candidate image formation condition settings that are highly related to each other from all combinations of image output condition settings of the sample output candidates,
3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the extracted combination of image forming condition settings of the sample output candidates that are highly related to each other is preferentially output as a sample. The information processing unit
When only a part of all the combinations of the image output condition setting of the sample output candidate is output as a sample,
4. The information according to claim 3, wherein the sample output selected from all combinations of image forming condition settings of the sample output candidates is statistically processed, and the priority is changed based on a result of the statistical processing. Processing equipment. The information processing unit
When outputting only a part of all combinations of the image output condition setting of the sample output candidate,
5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein a sample output candidate of a combination of the setting of the image forming conditions that has not been sampled is preview-displayed on the display unit. The information processing unit
It is determined whether or not a part of the setting value is a continuous value among the combination of setting items of the image forming conditions of the sample output candidate,
6. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when a part of the set value is a continuous value, the part of the continuous value is used as a set value and sampled. Information giving means for giving identification information to a sample output candidate to be sampled or a sample output candidate to be previewed based on the selected combination of the image forming conditions;
Information reading means for reading the identification information given by the information giving means;
The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: an information determination unit that determines a setting value from the identification information read by the information reading unit. The information confirmation means includes
Some setting values of the identification information read by the information reading means when only a part of all the combinations of the setting of the image forming conditions of the sample output candidate is selected and the sample output or preview is displayed The information processing apparatus according to claim 7, wherein only information is confirmed. The operation unit is
The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a function of switching between a first operation mode for selecting a plurality of set values and a second operation mode for selecting a single set value.   The information processing apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the switching between the first and second operation modes in the operation unit is performed by different setting operations. The operation unit is
The information processing apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the information processing apparatus has a function of shifting from a state in which a plurality of setting values are selected to a selection state in which only a single setting value is selected. Information processing means for displaying a combination of settings of image formation conditions of sample output candidates when forming an image based on image information as a sample output form in a batch or separately;
An image forming unit that forms an image based on a combination of the setting of the image forming conditions selected from the sample output form displayed collectively or separately on the information processing means;
An image forming apparatus comprising: the information processing unit configured by combining the information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11 or the information processing apparatus according to claims 1 to 11. . An item for setting an image forming condition when forming an image based on image information is set as an image forming condition item, an item for setting the image forming condition item in more detail is set as a setting item, and the setting item is set in more detail. When the value to be set is the set value,
Information processing device
Temporarily storing digitized setting information for setting the image forming conditions;
Receiving a selection or input of a plurality of setting items and setting values constituting the stored setting information;
Generating sample output candidates by combining the image forming conditions based on all or part of the setting items and setting values for which selection or input has been accepted;
And a step of outputting the generated combination of image forming condition settings of the sample output candidates as a sample.

Images