JP2013038575A - Information processing apparatus and image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To make it possible to increase functions selectable by a user.SOLUTION: The information processing apparatus comprises: acquiring means that acquires document data on a document, N (N represents an integer equal to or greater than 2) area data items, and identification data representing identification information respectively identifying S (an integer satisfying 2≤N<S) groups to which respective areas represented by the N area data items belong; setting means in which, in each of the S groups, a command to be executed for the document data in the areas represented by the N area data items is set; execution means that executes the command set by the setting means in each of the S groups for the document in the areas represented by area data items belonging to each of the S groups or document data on the document; and output means that outputs the document data for which the command has been executed by the execution means.

Description

  The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus and an image forming apparatus.

  For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for performing stencil printing using a command sheet. In this technique, a manuscript and a command sheet showing an area (enclosed line) are read. Then, the image in the document area and the image outside the document area are printed separately. For example, the image inside the area is printed in red, the image outside the area is printed in black, or the image inside the area and the image outside the area are printed on different sheets.

  In the technique described in Patent Document 1, as described above, the image in the area is printed in red, the image outside the area is printed in black, or the image in the area and the image outside the area are separated on separate sheets. There is a problem that the user can only select to print.

  According to the present invention, in view of such a problem, an information processing apparatus and an image forming apparatus having further increased functions that can be selected by the user are proposed.

  In order to achieve the above object, document data on a document, N (N is an integer of 2 or more) area data, and S (2 ≦ N <S) to which each of the areas indicated by the N area data belongs. An identification data indicating identification information for identifying each of the (integral integer) groups; an acquisition means for acquiring the identification data; and executing the document data in the area indicated by the N area data for each of the S groups A setting means for setting a command to be set, and a command set by the setting means for each of the S groups for the original in the area indicated by the area data belonging to each of the S groups or the original Execution means for executing the original data, and output means for outputting the original data for which a command has been executed by the execution means. Processor, to provide an image forming apparatus.

  The information processing apparatus and the image forming apparatus of the present invention can further increase the functions that can be selected by the user.

1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment. The figure which showed the function structural example in case an image forming apparatus is a stencil printing apparatus. The figure which showed an example of the operation means. The figure which showed the function structural example of the information processing apparatus of a present Example. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a document according to the present exemplary embodiment. The figure which showed an example of the command sheet of a present Example. The figure which showed an example of the printing result thing of a present Example. The figure which showed an example of the printing result thing of a present Example. The figure which showed an example of the setting screen of a present Example. The figure which showed an example of another setting screen of a present Example. The figure which showed an example of another setting screen of a present Example. The figure which showed an example of another setting screen of a present Example. The figure which showed an example of another setting screen of a present Example. The figure which showed an example of the corresponding | compatible table of a present Example. The figure which showed an example of the command sheet of another embodiment. The figure which showed an example of the corresponding | compatible table of another embodiment. The figure which showed an example of the command sheet of another embodiment. The figure which showed an example of the corresponding | compatible table of another embodiment. The figure which showed the processing flow of another embodiment. The figure which showed an example of the original document of another embodiment. The figure which showed an example of the command sheet of another embodiment. The figure which showed an example of the printing result thing of another embodiment. The figure which showed an example of the printing result thing of another embodiment. The figure which showed an example of the corresponding | compatible table of another embodiment. The figure which showed the processing flow of another embodiment. The figure which showed an example of the original document of another embodiment. The figure which showed an example of the command sheet of another embodiment. The figure which showed an example of the printing result thing of another embodiment. The figure which showed an example of the printing result thing of another embodiment. The figure which showed an example of the command sheet of another embodiment. The figure which showed an example of the original document of another embodiment. The figure which showed an example of the command sheet of another embodiment. The figure which showed an example of the printing result thing of another embodiment. The figure which showed an example of the printing result thing of another embodiment. The figure which showed an example of the corresponding | compatible table of another embodiment. The figure which showed an example of the command sheet of another embodiment. The figure which showed an example of the setting screen of another embodiment. The figure which showed an example of the electronic paper. The figure which showed an example of the electronic paper of another embodiment. The figure which showed an example of the setting screen of another embodiment. The figure which showed an example of the corresponding | compatible table of another embodiment. The figure which showed an example of the original document of another embodiment. The figure which showed an example of the command sheet of another embodiment. The figure which showed the processing flow of another embodiment. The figure which showed the function structural example of the information processing apparatus of another embodiment. The figure which showed an example of the setting screen of another embodiment. The figure which showed an example of the setting screen of another embodiment. The figure which showed an example of the setting screen of another embodiment. The figure which showed the example of the conveyance body of a present Example. 1 is a diagram illustrating a functional configuration example of an image forming system.

[Embodiment 1]
First, terms will be explained. Examples of the image forming apparatus include a printer, a facsimile, a copying apparatus, a plotter, and a complex machine of these. The recording medium is a medium such as paper, thread, fiber, leather, metal, plastic, glass, wood, ceramics. Image formation means that an image such as a character, a figure, or a pattern is applied to a recording medium, and a droplet (ink) is landed on the recording medium. In the following description, the recording medium is described as paper, and image formation is described as printing.

  In addition, the image forming apparatus of the present embodiment can be applied to any apparatus that can print on paper, such as a digital stencil printing apparatus, an ink jet recording apparatus, an electrophotographic recording apparatus, and a multifunction peripheral. .

Further, in each of the following embodiments, the same means and the same process are denoted by the same reference number and step number, and redundant description is omitted.
[Hardware configuration of image forming apparatus]
FIG. 1-1 shows a hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus. As illustrated in FIG. 1A, the image forming apparatus 10 according to the present exemplary embodiment includes an information processing apparatus 11, a main storage unit 12, an auxiliary storage unit 13, an external storage unit I / F unit 14, and a network I / F unit 16. Operation means 17, display means 18, and engine means 19.

  The information processing device 11 controls each device, calculates and processes data in a computer, and serves as a control unit (CPU). The information processing apparatus 11 is an arithmetic unit that executes a program stored in the main storage unit 12, receives data from the outside, calculates and processes the data, and then outputs the data.

  The main storage unit 12 is a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), or the like, and stores or temporarily stores programs and data such as an OS and application software that are basic software executed by the information processing apparatus 11. Device.

  The auxiliary storage means 13 is an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or the like, and is a storage device that stores data related to application software or the like. The external storage device I / F unit 14 is an interface between the image forming apparatus 10 and a recording medium 15 (for example, a flash memory) connected via a data transmission path such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus).

  Further, a predetermined program is stored in the recording medium 15, and the program stored in the recording medium 15 is installed in the image forming apparatus via the external storage device I / F unit 14, and the installed predetermined program is an image. It can be executed by the forming apparatus.

  The network I / F means 16 is an external device 550 (for example, connected via a network such as a LAN (Local Area Network) or a WAN (Wide Area Network) constructed by a data transmission path such as a wired and / or wireless line (for example, , PC) and the image forming apparatus 10.

  The operation unit 17 and the display unit 18 include a key switch (hard key) and an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) having a touch panel function (including GUI software key: Graphical User Interface), and the image forming apparatus 10 has. It functions as a UI (User Interface) when using the function. The operation unit 17 and the display unit 18 are collectively set as a setting unit 23, and the user performs settings from the setting unit 23 when performing various settings.

  The engine unit 19 is a portion that drives an image forming unit 20 that prints on a sheet, a scanner unit 21 that reads a document or a command sheet (described later), motors, and the like. When the image forming apparatus 10 is a stencil printing apparatus, the image forming unit 20 is a printing drum or a master 1107 (see FIG. 1-2) wound around the printing drum. When the image forming apparatus 10 is an ink jet recording apparatus, the image forming unit 20 is a recording head (not shown).

  FIG. 1-2 illustrates the basic configuration in the case where the image forming apparatus of the present embodiment is a stencil printing apparatus 1000. The stencil printing apparatus 1000 includes a printing drum 1101 around which a master 1107 is wound around an outer peripheral surface, a press roller 1102 serving as a printing pressure unit, a plotter 1103 serving as a plate making apparatus, and a plate discharging unit. 1104. Then, the sheet 1106 fed from the sheet feeding unit 1105 disposed on the right side of the stencil printing apparatus 1000 is pressed against the printing drum 1101 by the press roller 1102, so that the image of the wound master 1107 is applied to the sheet 1106. Transcript.

  In the case of single-sided printing, the transport unit 1108 transports the image-transferred paper 1106 to a paper discharge unit 1109 disposed on the left side of the main body of the stencil printing apparatus 1000 and discharges the paper. In the case of double-sided printing, the transport unit 1108 prints on the back side by transporting the paper on which single-sided printing has been completed to the re-feed unit 1122 by the switching member 1121 and feeding it again. Furthermore, an inkjet unit 1150 for multi-color printing, full-color printing, and variable printing is disposed in the paper conveyance path of the stencil printing apparatus 1000.

A scanner unit 21 (see FIG. 1-1) is disposed on the stencil printing apparatus 1000. The scanner unit 21 reads a document image and acquires image data used for plate making. An operation means 17 (operation panel) for performing various operations of the stencil printing apparatus 1000 is disposed on the upper front of the stencil printing apparatus 1000 main body.
FIG. 1-3 shows a detailed example of the operation means 17. In the example of FIG. 1-3, the operation unit 17 includes a print / plate making switching button 1113, a start button 1114, a display unit 18, an initial setting / printer setting button 1116, a print position adjustment button 1117, a print speed setting button 1118, and the like. Is deployed. As described above, the display means 18 is composed of an LCD touch panel, and various guidance information and various operation screens are appropriately displayed on the screen. When the operation screen is operated by the user, the content corresponding to the switch displayed on each screen is set in the information processing apparatus 11 and the stencil printing apparatus 1000.
[Specific processing]
Next, specific processing of the information processing apparatus 11 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 shows a functional configuration example of the information processing apparatus 11 of the present embodiment, and FIG. 3 shows a processing flow of the information processing apparatus 11 of the present embodiment. Also, the user sets, for example, a document to be printed and a command sheet in the automatic paper feeder (ADF) of the image forming apparatus 11 of the present embodiment.

  FIG. 4 shows an example of the document 100, and FIG. 5 shows an example of the command sheet 120. Further, it is assumed that the user desires to output the print result 140 and the print result 160 shown in FIG. 6 from the document 100 and the command sheet 120 using the image forming apparatus 10 of the present embodiment. Here, the document 100 and the command sheet 120 are preferably the same size. In this example, both are assumed to be A4.

  Further, the command sheet 120 describes N areas (N is an integer of 2 or more) and an identification code. In the example of FIG. 5, N = 2. In the example of FIG. 5, the area 122 and the area 124 are each composed of a surrounding line.

  Here, the identification code is an image for dividing N areas into S groups. S is an integer greater than or equal to N. In the example of FIG. 5, two identification codes are described: an identification code 1222 “M” and an identification code 1242 “OP”. Here, it is assumed that the identification code M is an identification code for identifying a machining function group (described later). The identification code OP is an identification code for identifying an output function group (described later) that is an output. In the following description, the area 122 is referred to as “machining function area 122” and the area 124 is referred to as “output function area 124”.

  When the user sets the document 100 and the command sheet 120, the user presses a start button 1114 (see FIG. 1-3) displayed on the display unit 18.

  The determination unit 112 determines whether or not the start button has been pressed by the user (step S2). When the determination unit 112 determines that the start button has been pressed (Yes in step S2), the process proceeds to step S4. Further, the process waits until the determination unit 112 determines that the start button has been pressed (No in step S2).

  Then, the scanner unit 21 (see FIG. 1-1) optically reads the document 100 and the command sheet to generate document data and command sheet data (step S4). The document data is, for example, electronic data regarding the document 100 shown in FIG. The command sheet data is electronic data for the command sheet 120 shown in FIG.

  Then, the reading unit 114 reads area data and identification data from the command sheet data. The reading unit 114 is assumed to be an OCR (Optical Character Recognition N), for example. Therefore, the reading unit 114 can convert the identification code “M” and the identification code “OP” into text data, and obtain identification data for the identification code “M” and identification data for the identification code “OP”. I can do it. Further, the reading unit 114 and the scanner unit 21 may be integrated.

  In addition, the area data is specifically a set of coordinate data of all points in the area surrounded by a surrounding line.

  Then, the acquisition unit 116 acquires document data, area data, and identification data (step S6). Next, the determination means 112 determines whether or not the machining function has been set by the user (step S10) and whether or not the output function has been set (step S14).

  Here, the setting of the machining function by the user and the setting of the output function by the user will be described. The setting of the machining function by the user and the setting of the output function by the user are performed before the start key in step S1 is pressed.

  The processing function refers to a function that changes the attribute of an image of a document, and is also referred to as a “make-up function”. Here, the attributes of the image include color, size, and the like, and when the image is a character, “font” and the like are also included. “Image attribute change” means, for example, that an image is a character, a character described in a single color is changed to a hollow character, a character color is changed, or a character of a single color is changed. Or change to pattern letters. When the image is a color photograph, for example, the color photograph is changed to a monochrome photograph.

  The output function is a function for changing the specification of the output setting although document data is output from the output unit 120 described later. For example, the change in the specification of the output setting is a change in the output destination of the document data (for example, paper or electronic paper described later).

  Then, the execution unit 118 compares the set of coordinates in the processing function area 122 acquired by the acquisition unit 116 and the set of coordinates in the output function area 124 with the original, and the execution unit 118 images the original 100 in the processing function area 122. 102 (hereinafter referred to as “processing function target image 102”) and an image 104 of the original 100 within the output function area 124 (hereinafter referred to as “output function target image 104”). In other words, the execution unit 118 designates the processing function area 122 and the output function area 124 for the document, and recognizes the image in the processing function area 122 and the image in the output function area 124.

  When the processing function target image 102 exists, the reading unit 114 converts the processing function target image 102 into text data by OCR or the like. Then, the acquisition unit 116 acquires text data of the processing function target image 102.

  In the example of the document 100 in FIG. 4, the processing function target image 102 is a text “new product concept”, and the output function target image 104 is an image of “key technology SIP...”.

  Then, the user sets the processing function and the output function by the setting unit 23, and the execution unit 118 executes the set processing function on the image data of the processing function target image 102. Further, the execution unit 118 causes the output function target image 104 to execute the set output function.

  FIG. 8 shows an example of the setting screen displayed on the display means 18. In FIG. 8, it is possible to select the number of copies of the original 100 on which the processing function has been executed and the size of the paper on which the original 100 is printed. In the example of FIG. 8, an edit button 182 and the like are electronically displayed. Description of other buttons is omitted. The user presses the edit button 182 when setting an output function or a processing function. If it does so, it will change to the setting screen shown in FIG. In the setting screen of FIG. 9, a processing function button 183, an output function button 184, and the like are electronically displayed. In the setting screen shown in FIG. 8 and the like, the user adds hatching to the select / press down button.

  First, processing function settings will be described. When the user uses the processing function, the user presses the processing function button 183. If it does so, it will change to the processing function setting screen of FIG.

  In the processing function setting screen of FIG. 10, a location 185 where the area designation method can be set, a location 186 where the marker designation method can be set, and a location 187 where the document within the processing function area 122 can be changed (hereinafter referred to as “187”). , And a place 188 (hereinafter, referred to as “in-area setting place 188”) where it is possible to set how to change the document outside the processing function area 122.

  The user looks at the command sheet 120 set by himself / herself and presses the encircling button 189 because the area 122 and the area 124 are composed of encircling lines. If the areas 122 and 124 are configured with diagonal lines, the user presses the diagonal button 191.

  The “marker” in the marker designation method 186 indicates a description method of the areas 122 and 124 in the command sheet. For example, it indicates whether the area is described with a monochrome marker or a color marker. Since the areas 122 and 124 of the command sheet 120 in the example of FIG. 5 are described with monochrome markers, the user presses the monochrome marker button 190. Further, when the area of the command sheet 120 is described by a color marker, the user presses the color marker button 192.

  Next, the user selects processing to be performed on the processing function target image 102 in the processing function area 122 at the in-area setting location 187. If the user desires a hollowing process for the characters of the “new product concept” that is the processing function target image 102, the user presses a hollowing process button 193 as shown in FIG. The user can also select processing of an image of a document outside the processing function area 122. In the example of FIG. 10, processing is not selected for the image of the document outside the processing function area 122.

  When all the settings are completed, the user presses an OK button 194 and ends. In addition, the user presses the release button 195 when selecting again.

  Next, output function setting will be described. When the user sets the output function, the user presses the output function button 184 shown in FIG. If it does so, it will change to the output function setting screen shown in FIG.

  The output function setting screen of FIG. 11 includes a part 201 where an area designation method can be set, a part 202 where a marker designation method can be set, a part 203 where mode specification can be set, and a part 204 where an output destination of document data can be set. .

  As for the location 201 where the area designation method can be set and the location 202 where the marker designation method can be set, a location 185 where the area designation method can be set and a location 186 where the marker designation method can be set in the processing output function setting screen of FIG. The explanation is omitted because it is the same as.

  The user can set the output mode of the output function target image 104 at the location 203 where the mode designation can be set. In the example of FIG. 11, when the user wants to copy a predetermined number of copies of the output function target image 104, the user presses a copy (copy) button 205. When the user wants to cut the output function target image 104, the user presses a cut (cut) button 206.

  In addition, the user can set the output destination of the output function target image 104 at the location 204 where the output destination can be set. In the example of FIG. 11, the user can select whether to output the output function target image 104 on paper or to output the output function target image 104 so as to be displayed on the electronic paper. Here, the electronic paper is a screen that can display the output function target screen 104 of A2 size, for example. The details of the electronic paper will be described in Embodiment 8. When the user selects to print the output function target screen 104 on paper and output it, the user presses the print paper button 207. When the user selects to output the output function target screen 104 to the electronic paper, the user presses the electronic paper button 208.

  Further, the user can make detailed settings for the output function target screen 104. The user presses a detailed setting 209 button when performing detailed setting for the output function target screen 104. If it does so, it will change to the detailed setting screen shown in FIG. In the detailed setting screen of the output function shown in FIG. 12, a location 219 where the size of the paper to be printed can be set, a location 210 where the orientation of the paper on which the output function target image 104 is printed, and the rotation direction of the output function target image 104 There are a part 211 for setting the number of copies of the output function target image 104, and a part 213 for setting the scaling of the output function target image 104.

  Thus, in the following description, executing a processing function or an output function on a document in (or outside) the processing function area 122 or a document in (or outside) the output function area 124 is referred to as a “command”. That is, the user sets a “command” from the setting means 32.

  The user can freely make these settings. In the example of FIG. 12, the user has pressed the A4 button 218 because the paper size is set to A4. Further, the user has pressed the automatic button 214 because the paper orientation is set to automatic. Since the image rotation direction is set to automatic, the automatic button 215 is pressed. Further, since the user has set the number of prints to “3”, the counter 216 is set to “3”. Further, since the user has set zooming to paper designation, the user presses the paper designation button 217.

  Returning to FIG. The determination unit 112 determines whether or not the machining function is set (step S10). If the determination unit 112 determines that the processing function is set (Yes in step S10), the execution unit 118 executes the set command on the document data in the processing function area 122 (step S12). In the example of FIG. 10, as the processing function, a command for performing a hollow process is set for the processing function target image 102 (that is, text data “new product concept”). Therefore, the execution means 118 executes the hollowing process for “text data“ new product concept ”” in the document data. If the determination unit 112 determines that the machining function is not set (No in step S10), the process proceeds to step S18.

  Further, the determination unit 112 determines whether or not the output function is set (step S14). If the determination unit 112 determines that the output function has been set (Yes in step S14), the execution unit 118 executes the set command on the document data in the output function area 122 (step S16). In the example of FIGS. 11 and 12, as the output function, an output function of copying three sheets on A4 paper is set for the output function target image 104 (that is, “key technology or image”). (See FIG. 12). Therefore, the execution unit 118 executes a process of printing the output function target image 104 on three A4 sheets and outputting them. If the determination unit 112 determines that the output function is not set (No in step S14), the process proceeds to step S18.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 13, the main storage unit 12 stores a correspondence table in which identification codes are associated with functions. Then, the execution means 118 executes the machining function and the output function while referring to the correspondence table (Steps S12 and S16 in FIG. 3).

  In this way, the execution means 118 executes the command set for the output function on the document. The command set for the output function may be executed for the document data. The execution unit 118 executes a command set for the processing function on the document data.

  Next, the display control unit 122 causes the display unit 23 to display document data (that is, an image image of the final printed matter) on which the processing function and the output function have been executed in order to make the user confirm (Step S18). The display unit 18 may be, for example, electronic paper.

  When the user confirms the document data displayed on the display unit 18 and determines that printing can be performed as it is, the user presses an OK button (not shown) displayed on the display unit 18 or the like. The determination unit 112 determines whether or not the OK button has been pressed (Step S20). If it is determined that the OK button has been pressed (Yes in Step S20), the output unit 120 is displayed on the display unit 23. Print out the original data and output it. The printed result is as shown in FIG. 6 and FIG.

  If the user does not press the OK button in step S20, for example, if the NG button is pressed (No in step S20), error processing is performed (step S24). The error process refers to, for example, causing the user to perform the process from step S2 again. In addition, the processes of step S18, step S20, and step S24 may be omitted.

  According to the first embodiment, N areas (two in the first embodiment) are described in the command sheet 120 shown in FIG. Each of the N areas is divided into one of S groups (the processing function group and the output function group in the first embodiment). In each area, an identification code of a group to be divided is added. In the example of FIG. 5, the identification code “M” is added to the area 122, and the identification code “OP” is added to the area 124. The user can set a command for each of the S groups, and the command set for the group is executed for the document data in the area belonging to the group.

  Therefore, the user can set and execute commands for a plurality of groups, and the functions that the user can select can be increased.

  The image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment can be used, for example, when creating conference materials or presentation materials. For example, the manuscript is printed for distribution to meeting attendees. The important part (output function target image 104) is designated in the area (output function area 124), and the designated original image is printed out or displayed on electronic paper. And by posting and displaying the important part at all times during the meeting, it can be effectively used for making impressions and interests to the attendees of the meeting.

  Next, a modification of the first embodiment will be described. In the above description, the identification codes are “M” and “OP”, but other identification codes may be used. In the above description, the functions used are the processing function and the output function, but other functions may be used.

  Further, the processing function group or / and the output function group may be two or more. In this case, the user can make settings for two or more machining function groups and / or two or more output function groups.

  The image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment may be a hybrid stencil printing apparatus. In this case, the inkjet unit constituting the hybrid stencil printing apparatus may be a so-called full line type head in which printing in the main scanning direction can be covered with one inkjet head and the head is fixed. In addition, a so-called shuttle head may be used in which the inkjet head length is shorter than the main scanning direction length and the head is scanned in the main scanning direction to form an image in the main scanning direction length.

  Further, the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment may be duplex printing or simplex printing. In the case of duplex printing, it is possible to use a document printed on both sides and a command sheet printed on both sides.

  In addition, an output process by the output unit 120 in step S22 when outputting the printing paper of FIGS. 6 and 7 when the image forming apparatus of this embodiment is a stencil printing apparatus will be described. In this case, first, the output unit 120 performs master plate-making for the document (shown in FIG. 6). Then, stencil printing is performed, and printing is performed for the designated number of sheets (three sheets in this example). Here, for the paper to be printed, an image for which the processing function has been executed (in this example, an image subjected to a hollowing process) is also included. Next, the output function target image 104 is printed out.

Further, an image forming apparatus adopting a stencil printing method and an ink jet method may be used. In such an image forming apparatus, image formation may be performed by switching between the stencil printing method and the ink jet method depending on the number of printed sheets. For example, when the number of printed sheets is one, an ink jet method may be employed for printing out from the viewpoint of image formation cost.
[Embodiment 2]
Next, the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment will be described. In the first embodiment, it has been described that identification codes are added to all N areas. In the second embodiment, an embodiment in which an identification code need not be added will be described.

  FIG. 14 shows an example of the command sheet 120 ′ of the second embodiment. In the command sheet 120 ′ shown in FIG. 14, the machining function area 122 is replaced with the machining function area 122 ′ and the identification code 1222 “M” is deleted as compared with the command sheet of FIG. In addition, the marker color of the machining function area 122 is “black”, whereas the marker color of the machining function area 122 ′ is “red”.

  As described above, the processing function area 122 has a marker color different from that of the other areas (in the example of FIG. 14, the output function area 124), so that the execution unit 118 and the like have the processing function area 122, the output function area 124, and the like. Can be identified. In this case, the main storage unit 12 stores a correspondence table as shown in FIG. In the example of FIG. 15, when the marker color of the area is red, it indicates that the area is a processing function, and when the marker color of the area is black, the area is an output function. And the execution means 118 performs a process function and an output function, referring the correspondence table of FIG.

  When the marker color is colored as in the processing function area 122 ′, the user needs to press the color marker 192 at the marker designation method location 186 for the processing function shown in FIG. Further, in the marker designation method 202 for the output function illustrated in FIG. 11, the user presses the monochrome marker 190. Further, when reading the color marker command sheet, the scanner means 21 needs to be able to read a color image.

  When the output function area is colored and the processing function area is monochrome, the user presses the monochrome marker 190 at the marker specification method location 186 for the processing function, and the marker specification method location for the output function. In 202, the color marker 192 is pressed.

  In addition, since the scanner unit 21 and the reading unit 114 may not be able to determine the marker color, the identification code “M” may be added to the processing function area 122 ′ for insurance purposes.

  FIG. 16 shows an example of a command sheet 120 ″ according to another embodiment of the second embodiment. The command sheet 120 '' of FIG. 16 differs from the command sheet 120 of FIG. 5 in that the identification code 1222 is deleted. In addition, the marker color is the same color (black) as the processing function area 122 of the command sheet 120 ″.

  As shown in FIG. 16, when there are two types of areas, an identification code 1242 is added for one type of area (output function area 124), and for another type of area (processing function area 122), Since the identification code is not added, the execution means 118 can identify the output function area 124 and the machining function area 122. The correspondence table stored in the main storage means 12 in this case is as shown in FIG.

  That is, the identification code can be deleted from only one group out of the S groups, and the execution means 118 can identify all the groups by adding the identification code to the S-1 groups. I can do it. By doing in this way, the execution means 118 etc. can identify the group to which the identification code is not added and the S-1 groups to which the identification code is added.

  That is, in the command sheet of the present embodiment, the identification code can be deleted. For example, the identification code can be identified by the color of the area or the identification code can be deleted. In this embodiment, the identification code is added to identify the other group, the area color is changed from the area belonging to the other group to identify the other group, and the identification code is deleted. And “identification information” including identification with other groups to which an identification code is added. That is, the correspondence tables described in FIGS. 13, 15, and 17 are information in which identification information and functions are associated with each other.

According to the image forming apparatus of the second embodiment, the identification code can be deleted from the command sheet, and the identification code addition processing cost can be reduced at the command sheet creation stage.
[Embodiment 3]
Next, an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 3 will be described. In the first embodiment, the identification information is added to the area and the command is set by the setting unit 23. However, in the third embodiment, the command is added to the area. Here, the command indicates the content of processing performed by the image forming apparatus.

  The functional configuration example of the information processing apparatus 11 of the image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment is the same as that illustrated in FIG. FIG. 18 shows a processing flow of the image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment. FIG. 19 shows an example of the document 300, FIG. 20 shows an example of the command sheet 320, and FIGS. 21 and 22 show examples of output results desired by the user.

  In the example of FIG. 20, the command sheet 320 has three areas 322, 324, and 326. An identification code OP is added to each of the three areas 322, 324, and 326, and as described above, the identification code OP indicates an output function area.

  In addition, a command “dest: paper” is added to the area 324, and this command indicates that the output destination is paper. In addition, a command “count: 40” is added to the area 324, and this command indicates that 40 sheets are printed. In addition, a command “size: A4” is added to the area 326, and this command indicates that the size of the printing paper is A4. In addition, the command “id: UNASF94” is added to all the areas 322, 324, and 326, and the documents in the area to which the command is added are collected and printed on one printing sheet. It shows that. The processing contents of the image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment will be described below.

  In step S4, the scanner unit 21 reads the original 300 and the command sheet 320, and acquires original data and command sheet data that is data on the command sheet. Then, the reading unit 114 converts the command described in the command sheet into text data from the command sheet data by OCR or the like. Then, the acquiring unit 116 acquires “command data“ dest: paper ”, command data“ size: A4 ”, and command data“ id: UNASF94 ”converted to text data (step S34).

  Then, the execution means 118 executes the command indicated by the command data for the area data for the document or document data in the area (step S34). As shown in FIG. 19, areas 322. The execution unit 118 executes a command for the image of the document in the area 324 and the area 326, that is, the in-area image 302, the in-area image 304, and the in-area image 306.

  In addition, a correspondence table in which the text data of the command is associated with the processing performed by the command is stored in the main storage unit 12 in advance. In the example of FIG. 23, for example, the process corresponding to the command “dest: paper” is “use output destination as printing paper”.

  The execution means 118 executes processing with reference to this correspondence table. That is, the execution unit 118 terminates the in-area images 302, 304, and 306 with id: UNASF, sets the output destination to paper, sets the paper size to A4, and sets the number of prints to 40.

  It should be noted that the output setting of the original without any processing as shown in FIG. 21 may be performed from the setting screen shown in FIG.

  In step S18, the display control unit 122 may cause the display unit 18 to display the image to be printed shown in FIG. 21 or FIG. Since the processing after step S20 is as described above, the description thereof is omitted.

  As in the image forming apparatus of the third embodiment, commands are added to the command sheet. By doing in this way, the user's trouble to set from the setting means 23 can be omitted.

  Moreover, according to Embodiment 3, it can implement as follows, for example. The paper in FIG. 21 is printed on several tens to several hundreds for posting on a poster or for distribution to an unspecified number of people. And when a participant is decided, the case where it distributes to a participant as a digest version of the paper of FIG. 22 can be considered. In the example of FIG. 10, the digest is the in-area images 302, 304, and 306. In this case, at the time of distributing the digest version, the number of printed sheets is limited to 40 groups for participants (groups), so the number of printed sheets can be designated as 40 sheets. In addition, information on guides and application methods (images other than in-area images 302, 304, and 306) are unnecessary and can be deleted.

  A modification of the third embodiment will be described. The image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment is not limited to the commands illustrated in FIG. 23, and other commands may be used.

  In the command sheet of FIG. 20, id: is only one type, but it may be two or more types.

Further, the user may be able to freely change the layout of the three in-area images 302, 304, and 306 collected by the setting means 23. In addition, by default, layout processing such as vertical uniform alignment, vertical center alignment, horizontal uniform alignment, and horizontal center alignment may be automatically performed. Further, the layout of the area and the print (display) position may be designated by parameter items.
[Embodiment 4]
Next, an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 4 will be described. In the image forming apparatus according to the fourth embodiment, an embodiment using both identification information (described in the first and second embodiments) and a command (third embodiment) will be described.

  The information processing apparatus 11 of the image forming apparatus according to the fourth embodiment is the same as that shown in FIG. 2, and FIG. 24 shows a processing flow. FIG. 25 shows an example of the original 400 according to the fourth embodiment, FIG. 26 shows an example of the command sheet 420 according to the fourth embodiment, and FIGS. 27 and 28 show examples of printed output products desired by the user. Show.

  In the command sheet shown in FIG. 26, an identification code (identification information) “M” is added to the area 422. Therefore, the area 422 is a machining function area 422 (see the description of the first embodiment). In addition, an identification code “OP” is added to the area 424. Therefore, the area 424 is an output function area 424.

  Furthermore, commands “dest; paper”, “size: A4”, and “count: equ” are added to the output function area 424. As described in the third embodiment and FIG. 23, the command “dest; paper” is a command for setting the output destination to print paper, and “size: A4” is a command for printing on a paper of size A4. “count: equ” ”is a command for printing the same number as the number of printed originals (that is, the number of printed results in FIG. 27). Further, it is assumed that the document is printed with a processing function.

  Further, it is assumed that the user desires to perform a hollow process on the image (processing function target image 402) in the processing function area 422 (see FIG. 10).

  And after the process of step S4, the acquisition means 116 acquires area data, identification data, and command data (step S42). The identification data and command data acquired here are as described with reference to FIG.

  Then, the determination unit 112 determines Yes in both steps S10 and S14. And the execution means 118 performs a process function and an output function based on the acquired area data, identification data, and command data (step S12, S16).

  Then, the output unit 120 outputs the print result shown in FIGS. 27 and 28 (step S22).

  In the image forming apparatus according to the fourth embodiment, a desired function can be executed using both the identification code and the command, which further improves the usability for the user.

Further, as a default setting, it is assumed that the size of the printing paper is “A3” and the number of printed sheets is one. By using the command sheet 420 as described in the fourth embodiment, it is possible to realize an output function and a processing function desired by the user without the user confirming default settings.
[Embodiment 5]
Next, an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 5 will be described. In the third embodiment, as shown in FIG. 20, all commands are indicated by text data, but in the fifth embodiment, a part of the commands is indicated by area colors. FIG. 29 shows an example of the command sheet 320 ′ of the fifth embodiment. When the command sheet 320 ′ is compared with the command sheet 320 shown in FIG. 20, the areas 322 ′ and 324 ′ and the area 326 ′ of the command sheet 320 ′ are described in red, but the areas 322 and 324 of the command sheet 320 are 326 is described in black. In the command sheet 320 ′, the text data of the identification code “OP” and the command “id: UNASF94” added to the areas 322, 324, and 326 is omitted.

  In the command sheet 320 ′, the area is described in red instead of describing the text data of the command “id: UNASF94”. In addition, the fact that the marker color of the area is “red” indicates that the main memory means 12 is text data of the identification code “OP” and the command “id: UNASF94”.

  Then, the acquisition unit 116 acquires command data and area data indicating the coordinates of the areas 322 ′, 324 ′ and area 326 ′ and the marker color (“red” in this example). And the execution means 118 performs the process based on the acquired area data and command data.

According to the fifth embodiment, since the color of the area described in the command sheet can be used as the content of the command, the description of the text data of the command can be omitted.
[Embodiment 6]
Next, an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 6 will be described. FIG. 30 shows an example of a document 400 according to the sixth embodiment, FIG. 31 shows an example of a command sheet 420 ′ according to the sixth embodiment, and FIGS. 32 and 33 show examples of printed results. The document shown in FIG. 30 is the same as that shown in FIG. 25, and the printed product shown in FIG. 33 is the same as that shown in FIG. In addition, since the functional configuration example of the information processing apparatus 11 of Embodiment 6 is the same as that in FIG. 2, the processing flow is the same as that in FIG.

  The command sheet 420 ′ is different from the command sheet 420 shown in FIG. 26 in that an output function area 426 is added. In the output function area 426, an identification code IP and commands “source: HDD” and “file: logo” are added. Here, the identification code IP is an identification code for identifying the input and the input function. The commands “source: HDD” and “file: logo” are commands for adding image data stored in advance in a logo file in the HDD to the document data in the output function area 426.

  That is, in step S <b> 16, the execution unit 118 executes a command for adding “logo” image data to the output function target image 406 (output function target area) of the document 400. The print result with the “logo” added is printed with an image 405 added as shown in FIG.

  Further, in FIG. 34, a correspondence table in which file names are associated with image data to be added is stored in the main storage unit 12 or the auxiliary storage unit 13. Then, the execution unit 118 analyzes the commands “dest: HDD” and “file: logo” acquired by the acquisition unit 116, extracts the “file: logo” logo from the correspondence table, and stores it in the output function area 426. Append.

In the image forming apparatus according to the sixth embodiment, a command for adding image data 404 stored in advance to document data in an area (output function area 426) is included. Therefore, it is more convenient for the user.
[Embodiment 7]
Next, an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 7 will be described. FIG. 35 shows an example of the command sheet 520 of the seventh embodiment. An area 522 and an area 524 are described in the command sheet 520 of the seventh embodiment. Although an example of a document is omitted, the document described in the first to sixth embodiments may be used. The area 524 includes commands “dest: network” and “IPaddress: 192.168.118.13” as text data. This command is sent to the external device 550 (see FIG. 1-1) whose IP address is “192.168.118.13” by the network I / F means 16 (see FIG. 1-1) via the network. The image in the area 524 of the document is transmitted. The external device 550 is, for example, an image forming apparatus, and the image forming apparatus can print the transmitted image data.

  In the case of the seventh embodiment, the area includes a command for transmitting the image data in the document data area to the external apparatus. Then, the identification information of the destination external device is included in the command. Here, the identification information includes an IP address, a MAC address, and the like. By doing so, the network I / F unit 16 can transmit the image data in the area to the external device based on the identification information.

  For example, the user desires to perform color printing of an image of area image data. The image forming apparatus includes a scanner unit 21 that can read a command sheet or a document. There may be no means. In this case, the image data in the area can be transmitted to an image forming apparatus capable of color printing, and the image forming apparatus can perform color printing.

Further, in the image forming apparatus according to the seventh embodiment, another image forming apparatus connected to an output target LAN or the like is transmitted using a page description language (Page Description Language) using SNMP (Simple Network Management protocol) or the like. : PDL) level is limited to those equivalent to or more compatible with the stencil printing system. However, even in other image forming apparatuses, when the PDF (Portable Document Format) and PS (Post Script) are supported as general-purpose formats, the output image data is converted into the format. Thus, it is possible to print out.
[Embodiment 8]
Next, an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 8 will be described. In the image forming apparatus according to the eighth embodiment, the output destination of the output unit 120 will be described in more detail. In the seventh embodiment, the example in which the output destination of the document data in the output function area is the external device has been described.

  As output destinations of the eighth embodiment, (1) printing paper (described in the first embodiment), (2) electronic paper, (3) an external device (described in the seventh embodiment), and (4) a recording medium can be used.

FIG. 36 shows an example of the setting screen of the eighth embodiment. The example shown in FIG. 36 is obtained by changing the setting screen shown in FIG. 11. The print paper button 207 and the electronic paper button 208, the send button 560, and the recording media button 562 in the output destination setting location 204 shown in FIG. Have been added. That is, the example of FIG. 36 is a screen on which the output destination of the output target image 104 shown in FIG. 4 can be set. In the example of FIG. 36, when the user presses the print paper button 207, the output function target image is set to be printed and output on (1) print paper (described in the first embodiment). When the user presses the electronic paper button 208, the output function target image is set to (2) be output to the electronic paper. When the user presses the send button 560, the output function target image 104 is set to be output to (3) an external device (described in the seventh embodiment). When the user presses the recording medium button 562, the output function target image is set to be output to (4) the recording medium.
<About the electronic paper button 208>
First, electronic paper will be described. Examples of the electronic paper according to the eighth embodiment include electronic paper mounted on the main body cover of the image forming apparatus and portable electronic paper that can be transported by the user. FIG. 37 shows an example of two external electronic papers 602 and 604 mounted on the main body cover 600. In the example of FIG. 37, a document (a document in which a processing function is applied to the processing target image 102 as shown in FIG. 6) is displayed on the electronic paper 602. Further, the output function target image 104 is displayed on the electronic paper 604.

  FIG. 38 shows an example of portable electronic paper. In the example of FIG. 38, it is composed of two electronic papers 606 and 608. In the example of FIG. 38, two portable electronic papers that can display the A3 size and can display the A2 size are provided. Also, the electronic paper shown in FIG. 38 is used as a simple projector instead or as a screen for assisting the projector. In the example of FIG. 38, the output function target image 104 is integrally displayed on the two electronic papers 606 and 608.

  In the example of FIG. 38, the electronic paper may be electronic paper that allows pen input, and an electronic file is created by adding to the displayed output function target image or by synthesizing the displayed output function target image and the added image. You may make it. Alternatively, the electronic file may be returned to the image forming apparatus 10 and returned to the main storage unit 12.

  The user can select the output electronic paper shown in FIGS. 37 and 38 from the setting screen shown in FIG. The setting screen shown in FIG. 39 is changed by pressing a detailed setting button 209 (see FIG. 36). In the example of FIG. 39, output destinations EP (Electronic Paper) 1 to 4 can be set. For example, when the user presses the output destination EP1 button 620 and the output destination EP2 button 624, the output function target image 104 is displayed on the electronic paper 602 and 604. When the user presses the output destination EP3 button 626 and the output destination EP4 button 628, the output function target image 104 is displayed on the electronic paper 606 and 608.

  When the EP link button 630 is pressed, a submenu screen (not shown) is further opened, and a connection pattern or the like can be designated. As a result, as shown in FIGS. 37 and 38, two electronic papers capable of displaying A3 size can be linked and used as one virtual electronic paper capable of displaying A2 size. .

  Further, in the image forming apparatus of the eighth embodiment, by pressing the precise designation button 632, the confidential designation can be set from the viewpoint of the confidentiality of the document. For display of electronic paper, a sub-menu screen (not shown) is displayed by pressing the confidential designation button 632 as necessary. By inputting the password on the submenu screen, the password can be transferred to the electronic paper shown in FIGS. 37 and 38, and the protection function can be operated.

  As another password input method, a password can be described as a command in the designated area. In this case, since the password remains in the plaintext on the command sheet, it is easy for the third party to see and there is a problem from the viewpoint of security. Therefore, in such a case, a special ink that can be erased over time may be used.

  When the image forming apparatus 10 provided with the electronic paper 602 and 604 shown in FIG. 37 and the portable and screen-type electronic paper 606 and 608 shown in FIG. 38 are placed in the conference room, The user can generate conference materials and presentation materials while confirming the actual appearance by setting the electronic papers for image confirmation and multi-function output to the same screen-type electronic papers 606 and 608. it can. In addition, if the electronic paper shown in FIG. 38 is a type that allows pen input, an electronic blackboard that can write on the displayed image can be used instead.

  Further, the electronic paper may be used to make the user confirm the document data after the execution of the function in step S18 shown in FIG. For example, as shown in FIG. 37, there are cases where only two electronic papers 602 and 604 are provided as electronic paper. In such a case, priority may be given to the display, print paper output may be displayed with priority, or transferred as a plurality of pages, and each may be confirmed by the page turning function of the electronic paper. By adopting such a configuration, when the image forming apparatus 10 is a stencil printing apparatus, remaking of plate making / printing leads to consumption of a high-cost master, so that the printing cost can be suppressed.

  The electronic paper of the eighth embodiment may be an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display that is a self-luminous display.

In addition, as the electronic paper according to the eighth embodiment, a portable terminal such as a small-sized portable electronic paper, a tablet PC, or a slate PC may be used.
<About the send button>
Next, the send button 560 will be described. For example, when the user desires to transmit the output function target image 104 to the external apparatus 550 connected to the image forming apparatus 10 via the network, the user may press the transmission button 560. In the seventh embodiment, identification information (IP address, MAC address, etc.) of the destination external device 550 is added to the output function area, and the output function target image is transmitted based on the identification information.

In the eighth embodiment, the user inputs identification information from an identification information input screen (not shown), and the network I / F unit 16 outputs the output function target image based on the input identification information. 104 is transmitted. Therefore, the user can transmit a desired image in the document to a desired apparatus.
<Recording media button>
Next, the recording media button 562 will be described. By pressing a recording medium button 562, the user can store the output target image 104 in the recording medium. Here, the recording medium is, for example, an HDD (for example, the main storage unit 12 shown in FIG. 1A) provided in the image forming apparatus 10 or an external unit connected to the external storage unit I / F unit 14. A USB memory or an SD card (corresponding to the recording medium 15 in FIG. 1-1) to be connected.

  An example of a recording method on a recording medium will be described with reference to FIGS. 41 and 42. FIG. 41 differs from the original 400 in FIG. 30 in that an image 440 is added. Further, the command sheet 420 ″ of FIG. 42 is different from the command sheet of FIG. 31 in that the area 426 is replaced with an area 426 ′. The printed result is the same as that shown in FIGS.

  In the command of area 426 ′, an identification code OP and commands “dest: HDD” and “file: logo” are added. This command outputs (stores) the image 440 of the document 400 ′ in the area 426 ′ to the HDD logo file. Thus, for example, by storing an image of a document as image data in a storage medium (for example, HDD), the command sheet using the identification code IP (described in the sixth embodiment) is used to store the image on the storage medium. It can be extracted from the stored image data and printed out.

  FIG. 43 describes the output processing in step S22 of the eighth embodiment. The execution means 118 performs the determination process of steps S40, S44, S48, and S52 in series or in parallel.

  The execution unit 118 determines whether there is a print sheet output setting (step S40). If there is a setting for printing paper output (Yes in step S40), the execution unit 118 causes the image forming unit 20 to print the output function target image 104 on paper and output it (step S42). If there is no setting for printing paper output (No in step S40), the execution unit 118 ends the output process without performing any process.

  The execution unit 118 determines whether there is an electronic paper output setting (step S44). If there is an electronic paper output setting (Yes in step S44), the execution unit 118 outputs the output function target image 104 to at least one of the electronic papers 602, 604, 606, 608, and the like (see FIGS. 37 and 38). Are output and displayed (step S46). If the electronic paper output is not set (No in step S44), the execution unit 118 ends the output process without performing any process.

  The execution unit 118 determines whether there is an external device output setting (step S48). When the external device output is set (Yes in step S48), the execution unit 118 outputs the external device 550 via the network I / F unit 16 (step S50). If the external device output is not set (No in step S48), the execution means 118 ends the output process without performing any process.

  The execution unit 118 determines whether there is a recording medium output setting (step S52). When the recording medium output is set (Yes in step S52), the execution unit 118 outputs the output function target image 104 to the recording medium 15 through the external storage device I / F unit 14 for recording (step). S54). If there is no recording media output setting (No in step S52), the execution means 118 ends the output process without performing any process.

  Further, in the above description, the user has set the output destination from the setting screen shown in FIG. As another embodiment, an output destination may be added as a command to the output function area. In the case of this configuration, the user does not need to set the output destination from the setting screen.

  Also, as shown in FIG. 40, the output function area may be color-coded so that the color of the output function area corresponds to the output destination. The correspondence table shown in FIG. 40 is stored in advance in the main storage unit 12 shown in FIG. Then, the acquisition unit 116 acquires the color or the like of the output function area, and the execution unit 118 refers to the correspondence table shown in FIG. 40 and outputs it to the output destination corresponding to the acquired output function area.

For example, when the acquisition unit 116 acquires blue as the color of the function output area, the execution unit 118 transmits the document data in the output function area to the external device corresponding to the blue. As described above, by coloring the output function area and making the association as shown in FIG. 40, the user can transmit the document data to a plurality of output destinations without setting the output destination from the setting screen. I can do it.
[Embodiment 9]
Next, an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 9 will be described. In the first to eighth embodiments, the acquisition unit 116 acquires area data, identification data, and command data by reading a command sheet. In the ninth embodiment, instead of from a command sheet, the acquisition unit 116 acquires area data, identification data, and command data stored in the main storage unit 12.

  For example, the same command sheet may be used repeatedly by the user. In such a case, reading the same command sheet many times increases the complexity of the user and is inefficient. Therefore, after the command sheet is first read, the area data, identification data, and command data acquired as a result of the reading are stored in the main storage unit 12 or the like. By doing in this way, even when the same command sheet is used after the second time, the reading process of the command sheet by the user can be omitted.

  FIG. 44 shows a functional configuration example of the information processing apparatus of the image forming apparatus according to the ninth embodiment. The example of FIG. 44 differs from FIG. 2 in that a calling unit 124, a storage control unit 126, and a creation unit 128 are added as compared to FIG. FIG. 45 shows an example of an output function setting screen according to the ninth embodiment. 45 is different from FIG. 11 in that a command sheet setting portion 701 is added.

  First, the registration button 702 of the command sheet setting location 701 will be described. When it is clear that the same command sheet is used a plurality of times by the user, the user presses the registration button 702 to obtain area data, identification data, command data (hereinafter, referred to as the following) from the same command sheet. "Command sheet data") can be stored in the main storage means 12.

  Specifically, after the user presses the registration button 702, the user transitions to a setting screen shown in FIG. In the example of FIG. 46, a data storage location setting location 705, an output file name setting location 706, a storage format setting location 707, a data setting location 708 to be registered, and a data import setting location 709 are provided.

  A data storage location setting location 705 can set a location for storing command sheet data. In the example of FIG. 46, the location where the command sheet data is stored is set to be a USB memory (for example, corresponding to the recording medium 15 shown in FIG. 1-1). In the output file name setting portion 706, an output file name can be set. In the example of FIG. 46, the output file name is set to “new product concept”. In the save format setting location 707, the save format of the command sheet data can be set. In the example of FIG. 46, the storage format of the command sheet data is set to be the XMN format.

  In the data setting location 707 to be registered, the user can select “all settings” or “sheet settings only”. As all settings, command sheet data including not only command sheet data described in the command sheet but also default data set in the image forming apparatus 10 is stored.

  Also, at the data acquisition setting location 709, the timing for acquiring command sheet data can be set. In the example of FIG. 46, for example, it is possible to select an immediate scan immediately after reading a command sheet, on-memory, or the like when executing a job such as a print job.

  When the setting shown in the example of FIG. 46 is performed by the user, the storage control unit 126 stores the command sheet data acquired from the command sheet in the main storage unit 12 or the like based on the setting.

  Next, the call button (see FIG. 45) will be described. This calling process is a process of calling the command sheet data stored in the congratulation storage unit 12 by the storage control unit 126 using the acquired command sheet data. When the user presses the call button 704, the screen transitions to the setting screen illustrated in FIG.

  In the example of FIG. 47, the calling unit 124 is set to call the command sheet data calling location from “USB memory” for the output file name “new product concept”. Furthermore, the file name memorize | stored in the past and the preservation | save month day are matched and memorize | stored.

  Next, a process for creating a command sheet by printing on a paper medium or the like based on the stored command sheet data will be described. When creating a command sheet, the user can create a command sheet by pressing a creation button 706 (see FIG. 45) shown in FIG. By this command sheet creation process, a command sheet reflecting the default data set in the image forming apparatus 10 can be created.

  By registering or calling such command sheet data, it is possible to save labor for the user. Further, when a command sheet of a paper medium is read a plurality of times, variations and swings occur depending on the state of the scanner means 21 and setting conditions, and as a result, the command, identification code, and area described in the command sheet are changed. Misrecognition may occur. Therefore, such inconvenience can be eliminated by storing and reusing guaranteed image data.

  Furthermore, it is preferable to store the command sheet data as parameterized data instead of image data. Here, the parameters include a set of area coordinate values, an area size value, an area marker color or marker color code, an analyzed / coded command, an identification code, and the like. Thus, by storing the command sheet data as parameters, the analysis process from the image data can be omitted, so that the speed can be further increased. In particular, if the storage format is a text file such as XML, it can be edited on the setting screen displayed on the display means 18, so that the misrecognized portion can be corrected, the data can be changed and transferred, etc. More flexible and advanced use is possible.

  Further, by storing the command sheet data in a portable storage device (for example, a USB memory), the command sheet data can be used universally for different image forming apparatuses.

According to the image forming apparatus of the ninth embodiment, by using command sheet data, it is possible to omit command sheet reading processing and the like, which is more convenient for the user.
[Embodiment 10]
Next, an image forming apparatus according to the tenth embodiment will be described. FIG. 48 shows an example of a conveyance body (for example, a conveyance belt) of the image forming apparatus according to the tenth embodiment. In the example of FIG. 48, the direction scanned by the scanner means is the main scanning direction, and the direction in which the document or command sheet is conveyed is the sub-scanning direction.

  Further, the scanner unit 210 has a readable area 210 a that is an area that the scanner unit 210 can read. The readable area 210a includes a white reference plate 210b serving as a white reference, an original reading area 210c capable of reading an original or a command sheet, and a black and white reference area 210d capable of referring to black and white. Further, the scanner means 210 includes a PN marker area 210e.

  When the scanner unit 21 reads the PN marker 210f described in the PN marker area 210e during the scanner process, scanning control of the scanner unit 21 and paper and command sheet feed control can be performed. Details of the principle using the PN marker are described in JP 2011-042058 A and the like.

Conventionally, scanning control of the scanner unit 21 based on the home position and paper and command sheet feed control have been performed. By applying the principle to the scanner unit 21, the degree of freedom of scanning control of the scanner unit 21 and paper and command sheet feed control is increased, so that the image is re-read only in the area (processing function area and output function area). Can be performed quickly.
[Embodiment 11]
Next, Embodiment 11 will be described. In the eleventh embodiment, the embodiment in which the information processing apparatus is integrated with the image forming apparatus has been described. In the eleventh embodiment, an embodiment in which the information processing apparatus and the image forming apparatus are separated will be described. FIG. 49 shows an example of the image forming system 850 of the eleventh embodiment.

  In the example of FIG. 49, the image forming apparatus 800, the information processing apparatus 11, the scanner unit 21, and the setting unit 23 are separated from each other. The user causes the scanner unit 21 to read a document or a command sheet. In addition, the user performs the setting described in the first to tenth embodiments from the setting unit 23 on the setting screen illustrated in FIG. Command sheet data and document data acquired by the scanner unit 21 and setting information set by the setting unit 23 from the setting unit 23 are input to the information processing apparatus 11. Then, the information processing apparatus 11 performs a processing function and an output function on the input document data based on the command sheet and setting information. The information processing apparatus 11 transmits document data on which the processing function and the output function are executed to the image forming apparatus 800. The image forming apparatus 800 prints the document data on which the processing function and the output function are executed by printing on paper or outputs the electronic paper or the like.

  According to the eleventh embodiment, the load on the image forming apparatus 800 can be distributed.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 11 Information processing apparatus 12 Main storage means 13 Auxiliary storage means 14 External storage device I / F means 15 Recording medium 16 Network I / F means 17 Operation means 18 Display means 19 Engine means 20 Image forming means 21 Scanner means 112 Determination means 114 Reading Means 116 Acquisition means 118 Execution means 120 Output means 122 Display control means

JP-A-5-254237

Claims (10)

Document data about the document, N pieces of area data (N is an integer of 2 or more), and S groups (integers satisfying 2 ≦ N <S) to which the areas indicated by the N area data belong respectively. An acquisition means for acquiring identification data indicating identification information for identification;
Setting means for setting a command to be executed for the document data in the area indicated by the N area data for each of the S groups;
The command set by the setting means is executed for each of the S groups on the document in the area indicated by the area data belonging to each of the S groups or document data regarding the document. Execution means;
An information processing apparatus comprising: output means for outputting the document data on which the command is executed by the execution means. An acquisition means for acquiring document data about the document, area data, and command data about the area data;
Execution means for executing a command indicated by the command data for the area data on the original in the area indicated by the area data or the original data for the original;
An information processing apparatus comprising: output means for outputting the document data on which the command is executed by the execution means. The area data is N (N is an integer of 2 or more),
The acquisition means also acquires identification data indicating identification information for identifying each of the areas indicated by the N area data, each of which is an S group (an integer satisfying 2 ≦ N <S),
Setting means for setting a command to be executed on the document data in the area indicated by the N area data for each of the S groups;
The execution means executes the command set by the setting means on the document data in the area indicated by the area data belonging to each of the S groups for each of the S groups. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2.   The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the identification information includes a color of the area.   The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the command includes a color of the area.   The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the command includes a command for changing a specification of output of the document data by the output unit.   The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the command includes a command for changing an attribute of the document data in an area indicated by the area data.   The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the command includes a command for adding image data stored in advance to document data in an area indicated by the area data.   The command includes a command for transmitting document data in an area indicated by the area data based on identification information included in the command for identifying an external device. 8. The information processing apparatus according to any one of 8. Including the information processing apparatus according to claim 1;
The output means includes
Electronically outputting the original data in the area indicated by the plurality of area data, and forming and outputting an image on a recording medium based on the original data in the area indicated by the plurality of area data; An image forming apparatus that performs at least one of the above.

Images