JP2014061709A - Image recording apparatus and program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To save power while enhancing security.SOLUTION: Image data stored in a main memory connected to a main CPU is transferred to an image processing work memory connected to an image processing CPU and converted into drive data (S106). The drive data stored in the image processing work memory are saved in the main memory before authentication information related to secure print is input (S108: NO) and a sleep mode starts (S110: YES), and electric power supplied to the image processing CPU and the image processing work memory is cut off (S115). When the sleep mode is released (S116: YES), the drive data saved in the main memory are returned to the image processing work memory (S117).

Description

  The present invention relates to an image recording apparatus and a program for recording an image on a recording medium.

  In order to increase the security of printed matter, a printer that performs printing related to image data by transmitting an image data of an image to be printed by the user from the terminal to the printer and then performing an authentication procedure in the printer is known. (For example, refer to Patent Document 1).

JP 2009-61634 A

  In the above-described printer, from the viewpoint of security, in many cases, when the working memory is removed and the power supply is stopped, the working memory is a volatile memory so that stored image data is erased. However, when the work memory is a volatile memory, it is necessary to hold image data, and during standby until the user authentication procedure is performed, the sleep for stopping power supply to the arithmetic processing unit including the work memory During this time, it becomes difficult to save power.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a recording apparatus and a program that can save power while increasing security.

  The image recording apparatus of the present invention includes a recording unit that records an image on a recording medium, a receiving unit that receives image data relating to an image transmitted from the outside, and the image data received by the receiving unit. A calculation means for performing a calculation for converting into drive data for driving the means; a first memory which is a volatile memory in which the drive data or the image data converted by the calculation means is stored; and the image Input means for inputting authentication information related to data or the drive data, authentication judgment means for judging whether or not the authentication information inputted by the input means comprises predetermined information, and the drive data Or transfer means for transferring the drive data or the image data between the second memory for storing the image data and the first memory and the second memory. And restricting means for restricting the supply of electric power to said calculation means and said first memory, said recording means, an image recording apparatus and control means for controlling said transfer means and said limitation means. The control means includes the drive data stored in the first memory or the image data stored in the first memory after the authentication determination means determines that the authentication information includes predetermined information. Based on the drive data converted by the calculation means, the recording means is controlled so that the image is recorded on a recording medium, and the authentication determination is made that the authentication information includes predetermined information. The transfer means is controlled to transfer the drive data or the image data from the first memory to the second memory when the power supply is restricted by the restriction means before the means judges. When there is no free space in the second memory for storing the image data or the drive data stored in the first memory, supply of power to the arithmetic device and the first memory is not limited.

  From another viewpoint, the image recording apparatus of the present invention includes a recording unit that records an image on a recording medium, a receiving unit that receives image data relating to an image transmitted from the outside, and the reception unit that receives the image data. A calculation unit that performs calculation for converting image data into drive data for driving the recording unit; and a volatile memory that stores the drive data or the image data converted by the calculation unit. An authentication determination for determining whether or not the authentication information input by the input means includes predetermined information, and an input means for inputting authentication information related to the image data or the drive data; Means, a second memory for storing the drive data or the image data, and a priority thereof, and the drive data or the previous data between the first memory and the second memory. Transfer means for transferring image data; restriction means for restricting power supply to the arithmetic means and the first memory; and control means for controlling the recording means, the transfer means, and the restriction means. An image recording apparatus. The control means includes the drive data stored in the first memory or the image data stored in the first memory after the authentication determination means determines that the authentication information includes predetermined information. Based on the drive data converted by the calculation means, the recording means is controlled so that the image is recorded on a recording medium, and the authentication determination is made that the authentication information includes predetermined information. The transfer means is controlled to transfer the drive data or the image data from the first memory to the second memory when the power supply is restricted by the restriction means before the means judges. The image data or the drive data corresponding to the image data or the drive data in ascending order of priority associated with the image data or the drive data when there is no empty area for storing the new image data or the drive data in the second memory Is deleted from the second memory, and the transfer means is controlled to transfer the new image data or drive data to the second memory.

  The program of the present invention drives a recording means for recording an image on a recording medium, a receiving means for receiving image data relating to an image transmitted from the outside, and the recording means received by the receiving means. A calculation means for performing a calculation for conversion to drive data for the first data, a first memory which is a volatile memory in which the drive data or the image data converted by the calculation means is stored, the image data or the drive data Input means for inputting the authentication information, authentication determination means for determining whether or not the authentication information input by the input means has predetermined information, and a first storage for storing the drive data or the image data 2 memory, transfer means for transferring the drive data or the image data between the first memory and the second memory, and the calculation An image recording apparatus provided with a limiting means for limiting the power supply to the stage and the first memory, said recording means, said transfer means and a program causing a computer to function as a control means for controlling said limiting means. The control means includes the drive data stored in the first memory or the image data stored in the first memory after the authentication determination means determines that the authentication information includes predetermined information. Based on the drive data converted by the calculation means, the recording means is controlled so that the image is recorded on a recording medium, and the authentication determination is made that the authentication information includes predetermined information. The transfer means is controlled to transfer the drive data or the image data from the first memory to the second memory when the power supply is restricted by the restriction means before the means judges. When there is no free space in the second memory for storing the image data or the drive data stored in the first memory, supply of power to the arithmetic device and the first memory is not limited.

  From another viewpoint, the program of the present invention includes a recording unit that records an image on a recording medium, a receiving unit that receives image data related to an image transmitted from the outside, and the image data received by the receiving unit. A first memory that is a volatile memory in which the driving data or the image data converted by the calculating means is stored; a first memory that performs a calculation for converting to drive data for driving the recording means; Data or input means for inputting authentication information related to the drive data, authentication determination means for determining whether or not the authentication information input by the input means includes predetermined information, the drive data or the A second memory for storing image data and its priority, and a transfer of the drive data or the image data between the first memory and the second memory. And an image recording apparatus comprising a restricting means for restricting power supply to the arithmetic means and the first memory, and a computer as a control means for controlling the recording means, the transferring means, and the restricting means Is a program that allows The control means includes the drive data stored in the first memory or the image data stored in the first memory after the authentication determination means determines that the authentication information includes predetermined information. Based on the drive data converted by the calculation means, the recording means is controlled so that the image is recorded on a recording medium, and the authentication determination is made that the authentication information includes predetermined information. The transfer means is controlled to transfer the drive data or the image data from the first memory to the second memory when the power supply is restricted by the restriction means before the means judges. The image data or the drive data corresponding to the image data or the drive data in ascending order of priority associated with the image data or the drive data when there is no empty area for storing the new image data or the drive data in the second memory Is deleted from the second memory, and the transfer means is controlled to transfer the new image data or drive data to the second memory.

  According to the present invention, even if drive data or image data stored in the first memory is lost by restricting the power supply to the arithmetic device and the first memory before making the authentication determination, the second memory Since the drive data or image data remains, image recording of the drive data or image data can be performed after the restriction is released, and power saving can be achieved while increasing security. Moreover, since the image data or the drive data is stored in the second memory only when power supply to the arithmetic device and the first memory is limited, it is possible to suppress the use of the second memory in vain. . When there is no free space in the second memory for storing the image data or the drive data stored in the first memory, the limiting means limits the power supply to the arithmetic device and the first memory. Therefore, it is possible to reliably record the image related to the image data or drive data stored in the second memory. Further, the second memory stores the image data or the drive data and the priority thereof, and the control means has a free area for storing the new image data or the drive data in the second memory. When not existing in the memory, the image data or the drive data corresponding to the image data or the drive data associated with the drive data in the order of low priority is deleted from the second memory, and the new image data or the Since the transfer means is controlled to transfer the drive data to the second memory, it is possible to preferentially record an image with high priority.

  In the present invention, the transfer unit causes the drive data or the image data stored in the second memory to be transferred to the first memory when the control unit releases the restriction by the restriction unit. It is desirable to control. By returning the drive data or image data to the original first memory after the restriction is released, it is possible to record an image of the drive data or image data without requiring special processing.

  Further, in the present invention, the transfer means further has a function of compressing and decompressing the image data or the drive data, and the control means stores the image data or the drive data stored in the first memory. The compressed image data is transferred to the second memory while being compressed, and the image data or the driving data stored in the compressed state in the second memory is transferred to the first memory while being decompressed. Preferably, the transfer means is controlled. According to this, the capacity of the second memory can be reduced.

  In the present invention, the second memory is preferably a volatile memory. According to this, when the power supply of the second memory is cut off due to movement of the device or theft, the contents stored in the second memory are erased, so that the security can be further increased.

  In the present invention, it is preferable that the limiting unit completely cuts off the power supply to at least one of the calculating unit and the first memory. According to this, further power saving can be achieved.

  In the present invention, it is preferable to further include a non-volatile third memory, and it is more preferable that the control means store in the third memory that the image data or the drive data is deleted from the second memory. . According to this, even if the power supply to the recording apparatus is interrupted, the information in the third memory is not erased, so that the user can know the image data or drive data that has been forcibly deleted.

  Furthermore, in the present invention, it is more preferable to further include display means for displaying information stored in the third memory or transmission means for transmitting the information to the outside. According to this, the user can easily know the image data or the drive data deleted forcibly.

  In the present invention, it is preferable that the control means does not erase the image data or the drive data stored in the second memory until the image recording by the recording means is completed. According to this, even when the recording medium is jammed and the image recording is interrupted, the image recording can be retried thereafter.

  According to the present invention, even if drive data or image data stored in the first memory is lost by restricting the power supply to the arithmetic device and the first memory before making the authentication determination, the second memory Since the drive data or image data remains, image recording of the drive data or image data can be performed after the restriction is released, and power saving can be achieved while increasing security. Moreover, since the image data or the drive data is stored in the second memory only when power supply to the arithmetic device and the first memory is limited, it is possible to suppress the use of the second memory in vain. .

1 is a network diagram including an inkjet printer according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a schematic side view of the inkjet printer shown in FIG. It is a functional block diagram of the control apparatus shown in FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing a printing operation of the ink jet printer shown in FIG. 1. It is a flowchart which shows the printing operation which concerns on a 1st modification. It is a flowchart which shows the printing operation which concerns on a 2nd modification.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the inkjet printer 1 is a shared printer connected to a LAN (Local Area Network) 70 together with a plurality of client terminals 71. The user transmits a print command for printing a desired image on the paper P from the client terminal 71 to the inkjet printer 1 via the LAN 70.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the inkjet printer 1 includes a conveyance mechanism 20, four inkjet heads 2 that respectively eject black, magenta, cyan, and yellow ink droplets onto a sheet P that is conveyed by the conveyance mechanism 20. A mechanism 20 and a control device 16 are included. In the transport mechanism 20, the transport belt 8 rotates together with the belt rollers 6 and 7, so that the paper P placed on the transport belt 8 is transported between the four inkjet heads 2 and the platen 10. Is done. At this time, a desired image is printed on the paper P by ejecting ink droplets from each inkjet head 2 onto the paper P.

  The ink jet printer 1 has an operation panel 61 (see FIG. 3) on which a touch panel display is arranged.

Next, the control device 16 will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 3, the control device 16 includes a receiving unit 41, a main CPU (Central Processing Unit) 42, a main memory (second memory) 43, and a status storage unit (third memory, maximum storage time storage means). ) 44, an image processing CPU (calculation means) 45, an image processing work memory (first memory) 46, and a power supply unit 47. Programs executed by the main CPU 42 and the image processing CPU 45 are stored in the nonvolatile memory 56, and each functional unit constituting the control device 16 is constructed in cooperation with these hardware and software in the nonvolatile memory 56. . This program is stored in various recording media such as a flexible disk, a CD-ROM, and a memory card, and is installed in the nonvolatile memory 56 from these recording media. The control program recorded on the recording medium may be directly executable by the main CPU 42 and the image processing CPU 45, or may be executable only after being installed in the nonvolatile memory 56. Further, it may be encrypted or compressed.

  The receiving unit 41 receives a print command from the client terminal 71 via the LAN 70. The print command includes data indicating a print mode and image data relating to an image to be printed on the paper P. Print modes include secure printing and normal printing. Secure printing is a printing operation in which the inkjet printer 1 does not start printing according to the print command until the user who has transmitted the print command from the client terminal 71 to the inkjet printer 1 inputs authentication information. As described above, in secure printing, printing is started under user monitoring, so that the security of the printed matter is increased. Further, normal printing is a printing operation in which when the inkjet printer 1 receives a print command transmitted from the client terminal 71, printing according to the print command is immediately started.

  The main CPU 42 is a general-purpose CPU that performs calculations for controlling the overall operation of the inkjet printer 1. The main memory 43 is a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) connected to the main CPU 42 via a data bus. The main memory 43 functions as a work memory for the main CPU 42.

The status storage unit 44 is a nonvolatile memory that stores various statuses of the inkjet printer 1. The status includes a maximum storage time in which drive data (described later) for driving the inkjet head 2 can be stored in the main memory 43, a save time saved in the main memory 43 for each drive data, and a save time And a log indicating whether or not the drive data has been deleted from the main memory 43 when the maximum storage time has elapsed. When the drive data is deleted from the main memory 43, the log is displayed on the operation panel 61 and a signal for notifying the log is transmitted to the plurality of client terminals 71. As a result, the user can easily know that the drive data waiting for authentication has been deleted.

  The image processing CPU 45 is a CPU dedicated to image processing that performs calculations related to image processing for converting image data indicating an image to be printed on the paper P into drive data for driving the inkjet head 2. The image processing work memory 46 is a DRAM (volatile memory) connected to the image processing CPU 45 by a high-speed data bus. The drive data converted from the image data by the image processing CPU 45 is stored in the image processing work memory 46. As described above, the image processing CPU 45 and the image processing work memory 46 can perform image processing independently, so that the main CPU 42 can occupy the main memory 43 and use it efficiently. As for drive data, in the case of an inkjet head, the drive data is data representing the amount of ink ejected from the inkjet head for each unit area of the recording medium, and is described in image data (for example, PDL) using a known error diffusion process. Data) to drive data. (So-called multi-value processing is performed.) When the recording device is a so-called laser printer, print data (PDL data) is converted into drive data (laser recording unit drive data) using a known dithering process. Is done. The drive data includes not only quantitative data (so-called print data such as ink amount and density value) recorded for each unit area of the recording medium, but also data for controlling the drive of the printing unit 66. Also good.

  The power supply unit 47 supplies 3.3V voltage power to the main CPU 42, the main memory 43, the status storage unit 44, the image processing CPU 45 and the image processing work memory 46 based on the power received from the outside. Further, when the sleep unit 55 outputs a sleep mode start signal, the power supply unit 47 completely cuts off only the power supplied to the image processing CPU 45 and the image processing work memory 46. Thereafter, when the sleep unit 55 stops outputting the sleep mode start signal, the interrupted power is restored (described later). In order to perform image processing in a short time, the image processing CPU 45 often uses a CPU having a calculation processing speed higher than that of the main CPU 42. In this case, the image processing CPU 45 is frequently accessed by the power consumption and the image processing CPU 45. Since the power consumption of the image processing work memory 46 is larger than the power consumption of the main CPU 42 and the main memory 43, the sleep mode that completely cuts off the power supplied to the image processing CPU 45 and the image processing work memory 46 is performed. Power consumption can be reduced more efficiently.

  The main CPU 42 functions as an authentication determination unit 51, a data conversion unit 52, a transfer unit 53, a control unit 54, and a sleep unit 55 by cooperating with the main memory 43. Hereinafter, each functional unit will be described.

When the reception unit 41 receives a print command, the authentication determination unit 51 determines whether the print command is secure printing or normal printing. Usually, this determination is made based on the identification data (data indicating the print mode) included in the print command, the format of the image data, and the like. The authentication determination unit 51 further determines whether or not the authentication information input to the user via the operation panel 61 includes predetermined information when determining that secure printing is performed. The predetermined information corresponds to a match with a password included in the print command or a match with user information stored in the printer. As for the input by the user, in addition to the input by the operation panel 61, information stored in a card or the like may be input by causing the reading device connected to the ink jet printer 1 to read the information.

  The transfer unit 53 transfers data between the main memory 43 and the image processing work memory 46. Further, the transfer unit 53 stores the image data received by the receiving unit 41 in the image processing work memory 46 via the main memory 43. Thereafter, the image data stored in the image processing work memory 46 is converted into drive data by the image processing CPU 45 and stored again in the image processing work memory 46. As described above, the image data received before authentication, which will be described later, is converted into drive data for the inkjet head 2, so that printing can be quickly executed after the authentication procedure by the user is completed. Further, when the sleep mode is started, the transfer unit 53 saves the drive data stored in the image processing work memory 46 in the main memory 43 while compressing the drive data prior to the start of the sleep mode. The driving data compression work may be performed on the image processing work memory 46 or may be performed on the main memory 43. At this time, the transfer unit 53 stores the save time related to the drive data in the status storage unit 44. Thereafter, when the sleep mode is canceled, the transfer unit 53 restores the compressed drive data stored in the main memory 43 to the image processing work memory 46 while decompressing the compressed drive data. The decompression operation of the drive data may be performed on the image processing work memory 46 or may be performed on the main memory 43.

  The sleep unit (restricting unit) 55 determines to start a sleep mode that saves power when a predetermined time has elapsed since the last user operation or data transmission to the inkjet printer 1. When the sleep unit 55 determines to start the sleep mode, the sleep unit 55 outputs a sleep start signal to the power supply unit 47. The sleep unit 55 determines to cancel the sleep mode when a user operation or data transmission is performed on the inkjet printer 1 in the sleep mode, and outputs a sleep end signal to the power supply unit 47 or the sleep mode. Stops the output of the start signal.

  The control unit 54 controls the transport mechanism 20, the four inkjet heads 2 (only one is shown in FIG. 3), the transfer unit 53, and the sleep unit 55. When the authentication determination unit 51 determines that the received print command is secure printing, the control unit 54 determines that the authentication information input by the user via the operation panel 61 includes predetermined information. The user inputs authentication information via the operation panel 61, and when the authentication determination unit 51 determines that the authentication information includes predetermined information, the paper P The drive data stored in the image processing work memory 46 is transferred to each inkjet head 2 so that the image of the image data related to secure printing is printed on the paper P while controlling the transport mechanism 20 so that the transport mechanism 20 is transported at the transport speed. And the inkjet heads 2 are driven based on the drive data. Then, after the printing on the paper P is completed, the control unit 54 deletes the drive data stored in the image processing work memory 46 and the drive data saved in the main memory 43.

  On the other hand, when the authentication determination unit 51 determines that the received print command is normal printing, the control unit 54 performs normal printing while controlling the transport mechanism 20 so that the paper P is transported at a predetermined transport speed. The drive data stored in the image processing work memory 46 is transmitted to each inkjet head 2 so that the image of the image data is printed on the paper P, and each inkjet head 2 is driven based on the drive data.

When the control unit 54 determines that the sleep unit 55 starts the sleep mode, the drive data stored in the image processing work memory 46 is compressed before the sleep start signal is output to the power supply unit 47. The transfer unit 53 is controlled so as to be saved in the main memory 43. Then, after the sleep unit 55 determines the cancellation of the sleep mode and outputs the sleep end signal to the power supply unit 47 or stops outputting the sleep start signal, the control unit 54 performs the compressed drive saved in the main memory 43. The transfer unit 53 is controlled so that the data is restored to the image processing work memory 46 while being decompressed.

  When there is no free space in the main memory 43 for saving the drive data newly stored in the image processing work memory 46, the control unit 54 refers to the status storage unit 44 and stores it in the main memory 43 first. Of the drive data related to secure printing, the drive data whose elapsed time from the save time exceeds the maximum storage time is deleted from the main memory 43. Thereafter, the transfer unit 53 is controlled such that new drive data is saved in the main memory 43 while being compressed. At this time, the fact that the drive data stored in the main memory 43 has been deleted is stored in the status storage unit 44.

  Hereinafter, the printing operation of the inkjet printer 1 will be described with reference to FIG. As illustrated in FIG. 4, the reception unit 41 determines whether or not a print command transmitted from the client terminal 71 has been received (S101). When the receiving unit 41 has not received a print command (S101: NO), it is determined whether or not there is a waiting for input of authentication information by the user for the print command previously received by the receiving unit 41 (S102). If the user is not waiting for input of authentication information (S102: NO), the process returns to the determination of whether the receiving unit 41 has received a print command (S101). If waiting for input of authentication information by the user (S102: YES), the authentication determination unit 51 determines whether or not authentication information has been input to the user via the operation panel 61 (S108).

  On the other hand, when the receiving unit 41 receives the print command (S101: YES), it is determined whether or not the sleep unit 55 is in the sleep mode (S103). If it is not in the sleep mode (S103: NO), The control unit 54 controls the transfer unit 53 so that the image data received by the receiving unit 41 is stored in the image processing work memory 46 (S105). If the sleep mode is set (S103: YES), the sleep unit 55 starts the sleep mode release process, and outputs the sleep end signal to the power supply unit 47 or stops outputting the sleep start signal. Thereby, the supply of power to the image processing CPU 45 and the image processing work memory 46 is started (S104).

  Then, the control unit 54 controls the transfer unit 53 so that the image data received by the receiving unit 41 is stored in the image processing work memory 46 (S105). The image processing CPU 45 converts the image data stored in the image processing work memory 46 into drive data. As a result, the drive data is stored in the image processing work memory 46 (S106).

  Then, the authentication determination unit 51 determines whether the print command received is secure printing or normal printing (S107). If the received print command is normal printing (S107: NO), the control unit 54 controls the transport mechanism 20 so that the paper P is transported at a predetermined transport speed, and the image of the image data related to normal printing. Is printed on the paper P, the drive data stored in the image processing work memory 46 is transmitted to each inkjet head 2, and each inkjet head 2 is driven based on the drive data. (S118).

If the received print command is secure printing (S107: YES), the authentication determination unit 51 determines whether authentication information is input to the user via the operation panel 61 (S108). If the authentication information is not input (S108: NO), the sleep unit 55 determines whether or not the sleep mode is set (S109). If the sleep mode is set (S109: YES), the process returns to the determination of whether or not the receiving unit 41 has received a print command (S101). If the sleep mode is not set (S109: NO), the sleep unit 55 saves power when a predetermined time has elapsed since the last user operation or data transmission to the inkjet printer 1 was performed. (S110). When the sleep unit 55 does not start the sleep mode (S110: NO), the process returns to the determination of whether or not the reception unit 41 has received a print command (S101).

  When the sleep unit 55 determines to start the sleep mode (S110: YES), the control unit 54 determines whether there is a free area in the main memory 43 for saving the drive data newly stored in the image processing work memory 46. It is determined whether or not (S111). If there is an empty area (S111: YES), the control unit 54 starts the sleep start process and transfers the drive data stored in the image processing work memory 46 so as to be saved in the main memory 43 while being compressed. After controlling the unit 53, the sleep unit 55 outputs a sleep start signal to the power supply unit 47. Thereby, the sleep mode is started, and only the power supplied to the image processing CPU 45 and the image processing work memory 46 is completely cut off (S115).

  On the other hand, if there is no free space (S111: NO), the control unit 54 refers to the status storage unit 44, and among the drive data previously stored in the main memory 43, the elapsed time from the save time is the maximum. It is determined whether there is drive data exceeding the storage time (S112). If there is no drive data that exceeds the maximum storage time (S112: NO), the control unit 54 returns to the determination of whether or not the reception unit 41 has received a print command (S101). If there is drive data that exceeds the maximum storage time (S112: YES), the controller 54 deletes the drive data from the main memory 43 (S113). At this time, the fact that the drive data previously stored from the main memory 43 has been deleted is stored in the status storage unit 44. Thereafter, it is determined again whether or not there is a free area in the main memory 43 for saving the drive data newly stored in the image processing work memory 46 (S114). If there is an empty area (S114: YES), the control unit 54 starts a sleep start process (S115). On the other hand, if there is no empty area (S114: NO), the control unit 54 returns to the determination of whether or not the receiving unit 41 has received a print command (S101). When the sleep mode is started by the sleep start process (S115), the process returns to the determination of whether or not the receiving unit 41 has received a print command (S101).

  On the other hand, if authentication information is input in secure printing (S108: YES), it is determined whether or not the sleep unit 55 is in the sleep mode (S116), and if it is not in the sleep mode (S116: YES). ), The control unit 54 controls the transport mechanism 20 so that the paper P is transported at a predetermined transport speed, and the image processing work memory so that the image of the image data related to secure printing is printed on the paper P. The drive data stored in 46 is transmitted to each inkjet head 2, and each inkjet head 2 is driven based on the drive data (S118). If the sleep mode is set (S116: YES), the sleep release process is started. At this time, the control unit 54 controls the transfer unit 53 so that the compressed drive data saved in the main memory 43 is restored to the image processing work memory 46 while being decompressed (S117). Then, the control unit 54 controls the transport mechanism 20 so that the paper P is transported at a predetermined transport speed, and the image processing work memory so that the image of the image data related to secure printing is printed on the paper P. The drive data stored in 46 is transmitted to each inkjet head 2, and each inkjet head 2 is driven based on the drive data (S118). After the printing on the paper P is completed, the control unit 54 deletes the drive data stored in the image processing work memory 46 and the drive data saved in the main memory 43 (S119). Above, the flowchart of FIG. 4 is complete | finished.

As described above, according to the inkjet printer 1 of the present embodiment, the power supplied to the image processing CPU 45 and the image processing work memory 46 is limited by starting the sleep mode before performing authentication related to secure printing. Even if the drive data stored in the image processing work memory 46 is lost, the drive data remains in the main memory 43. Therefore, it is possible to record an image of the drive data after the sleep mode is canceled. Therefore, it is possible to save power while increasing security. Further, since the drive data is saved in the main memory 43 only when the sleep mode is started, it is possible to prevent the main memory 43 from being wasted.

  In addition, since the drive data is returned from the main memory 43 to the image processing work memory 46 after the sleep mode is canceled, an image can be recorded for the drive data without requiring special processing.

  Further, since the main memory 43 is a volatile memory, the drive data saved in the main memory 43 is erased when the power of the inkjet printer is turned off. Thereby, security can be further increased.

  Further, when the sleep mode is started, the power supplied to the image processing CPU 45 and the image processing work memory 46 is completely cut off, so that further power saving can be achieved.

  In addition, since the compressed drive data is saved in the main memory 43, the capacity of the main memory 43 can be reduced.

  Further, when there is no empty area in the main memory 43 for saving the drive data, the control unit 54 deletes the drive data whose elapsed time from the save time exceeds the maximum storage time from the main memory 43, Since the drive data is saved in the main memory 43, a new image can be preferentially printed.

  Furthermore, since the status storage unit 44, which is a non-volatile memory, stores a log indicating that the drive data has been deleted from the main memory 43 when the maximum storage time has elapsed from the save time, the power of the inkjet printer 1 is turned on. Even if it is cut, the user can know that the drive data waiting for authentication has been deleted.

  Further, the log stored in the status storage unit 44 is displayed on the operation panel 61, and the user can easily know that the drive data waiting for authentication has been deleted by transmitting a notification signal to the plurality of client terminals 71. Can do.

  In addition, since the drive data saved in the main memory 43 is not deleted until the printing on the paper P is completed, even if the paper P is jammed and the printing is interrupted, the printing is retried thereafter. Can do.

<First Modification>
In the above-described embodiment, when there is no free area in the main memory 43 for saving the drive data, after the drive data whose elapsed time from the save time exceeds the maximum storage time is deleted from the main memory 43, The drive data is saved in the main memory 43, but this is not restrictive. For example, in the first modification, the priority is associated with the drive data, and as shown in FIG. 5, the control unit, when there is no free area in the main memory 43 for saving the drive data (S111: NO), After the drive data associated with the priorities are deleted from the drive data stored in the main memory 43 in the descending order of priority (S201), the sleep start process is started (S115). According to this, it is possible to preferentially print an image having a high print command priority.

<Second Modification>
In the above-described embodiment and the first modification, the received image data is immediately converted into drive data, and in secure printing, the drive data is saved in the main memory 43. However, the image data is stored in the main memory. 43 may be retracted. For example, in the second modified example, as shown in FIG. 6, the control unit 54 transfers the image data received by the receiving unit 41 to the image processing work memory 46 via the main memory 43. 53 is controlled (S105). At this time, the main memory 43 is deleted from the image data. When the sleep mode is started, the control unit 54 controls the transfer unit 53 so that the image data stored in the image processing work memory 46 is saved in the main memory 43, and then the sleep unit 55 starts the sleep. The signal is output to the power supply unit 47. Thereby, the sleep mode is started, and only the power supplied to the image processing CPU 45 and the image processing work memory 46 is completely cut off (S301). At this time, if there is no empty area for saving the image data in the main memory 43 (S111: NO), the process returns to the determination of whether or not the receiving unit 41 has received the print command without starting the sleep mode. (S101).

  When performing sleep release processing in secure printing, the control unit 54 controls the transfer unit 53 so that the image data saved in the main memory 43 is restored to the image processing work memory 46 (S302). Then, when printing is started, the image processing CPU 45 converts the image data stored in the image processing work memory 46 into drive data and stores it in the image processing work memory 46 (S303). Drive data stored in the image processing work memory 46 so that an image of image data related to secure printing is printed on the paper P while controlling the transport mechanism 20 so that the paper P is transported at a predetermined transport speed. Is transmitted to each inkjet head 2, and each inkjet head 2 is driven based on the drive data (S118). Note that the drive data may be saved in the main memory 43 instead of the image data as in the above-described embodiment.

  The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made as long as they are described in the claims. For example, in the embodiment described above, the image data received by the receiving unit 41 is converted into drive data by the image processing CPU 45 before the authentication input is completed. The image data may not be converted into drive data until the completion. In this case, the amount of data stored in the memory can be reduced by configuring the image data with a page description language or the like. In the above-described embodiment, the drive data is saved in the main memory 43 before the sleep mode is started. However, the image data may be saved in the main memory 43. . In this case, after the sleep mode is canceled, the image data is restored to the image processing work memory 46, and when the authentication input is completed and printing is canceled, the image data is converted into drive data.

  Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the main memory 43 is a volatile memory, but the main memory 43 may be a non-volatile memory.

  In the above-described embodiment, the drive data saved in the main memory 43 in the sleep mode is restored to the image processing work memory 46 after the sleep mode is canceled. However, the drive data saved in the image processing work memory 46 is not restored. It may be. In this case, the control unit 54 transmits the drive data stored in the main memory 43 during printing to each inkjet head 2, and drives each inkjet head 2 based on the drive data.

In the above-described embodiment, when the sleep mode is started, the power supplied to the image processing CPU 45 and the image processing work memory 46 is completely cut off. However, when the sleep mode is started, the image processing is performed. The power supplied to only one of the CPU 45 and the image processing work memory 46 may be completely cut off, or the power supplied to at least one of the image processing CPU 45 and the image processing work memory 46 may be completely supplied. The configuration may be limited so long as it is not blocked. For example, when the image processing CPU 45 has a sleep function that allows only a part of the functional units to operate, the sleep function of the image processing CPU 45 may be used. Specifically, a sleep function that stops the refresh operation of the image processing work memory 46 and also stops the operation of the image processing CPU 45 may be used. In this case, it is in a low power consumption state in which only the input of the return interrupt signal from the main CPU 42 is monitored, and it can be recovered at a higher speed than when the power is turned off.

  Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the transfer unit 53 saves the drive data in the main memory 43 before starting the sleep mode, but the transfer unit does not compress the drive data. The configuration may be such that the main memory 43 saves.

  In the above-described embodiment, the sleep mode is not started when there is no free area in the main memory 43 for saving the drive data newly stored in the image processing work memory 46, but the free area is secured. Until then, the drive data related to secure printing previously stored in the main memory 43 may be deleted from the main memory 43. In this case, the drive data may be deleted in order from the longest elapsed time from the save time.

  In addition, in the above-described embodiment, the status storage unit 44 that is a non-volatile memory is configured to store a log indicating that drive data has been deleted from the main memory 43, but the log is stored in the main memory 43. May or may not be stored.

  In the above-described embodiment, the drive data saved in the main memory 43 is not deleted until the printing on the paper P is completed. However, the drive data saved in the main memory 43 is released from the sleep mode. May be deleted at the same time.

  In addition, in the above-described embodiment, the receiving unit 41 is configured to receive image data (print command) via the LAN 3, but is input via another device such as a memory card reader separately provided in the inkjet printer. The image data may be received.

  In the above-described embodiment, the touch panel display is arranged on the operation panel 61. However, the operation panel 61 is not limited to the touch panel display, and may be an input form such as a switch or a button.

  In the above-described embodiment, the main processing unit including the main CPU 42 and the main memory 43 and the image processing unit including the image processing CPU 45 and the image processing work memory 46 may be configured on different substrates or the same. It may be configured on a substrate.

  The present invention is also applicable to a liquid ejecting apparatus that ejects liquid other than ink. It can also be applied to laser printers. Further, the present invention is not limited to a printer, and can be applied to other apparatuses that perform image recording, such as a facsimile machine and a copier.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Inkjet printer 2 Inkjet head 16 Control apparatus 41 Receiving part 42 Main CPU
43 Main memory 44 Status storage unit 45 Image processing CPU
46 Image processing work memory 47 Power supply unit 51 Authentication judgment unit 52 Data conversion unit 53 Transfer unit 54 Control unit 55 Sleep unit 61 Operation panel 71 Client terminal

  The present invention relates to an image recording apparatus and a program for recording an image on a recording medium.

  In order to increase the security of printed matter, a printer that performs printing related to image data by transmitting an image data of an image to be printed by the user from the terminal to the printer and then performing an authentication procedure in the printer is known. (For example, refer to Patent Document 1).

JP 2009-61634 A

  In the above-described printer, from the viewpoint of security, in many cases, when the working memory is removed and the power supply is stopped, the working memory is a volatile memory so that stored image data is erased. However, when the work memory is a volatile memory, it is necessary to hold image data, and during standby until the user authentication procedure is performed, the sleep for stopping power supply to the arithmetic processing unit including the work memory During this time, it becomes difficult to save power.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a recording apparatus and a program that can save power while increasing security.

The image recording apparatus of the present invention includes a recording unit that records an image on a recording medium, a receiving unit that receives image data relating to an image transmitted from the outside, and the image data received by the receiving unit. A calculation means for performing a calculation for converting into drive data for driving the means; a first memory which is a volatile memory in which the drive data or the image data converted by the calculation means is stored; and the image Input means for inputting authentication information related to data or the drive data; a second memory different from the first memory; a power supply for supplying power; the recording means; the receiving means; the computing means , The input means, and a control means for controlling the power supply unit, wherein the control means receives the authentication information received from the input means as a predetermined value. And authentication judgment processing for judging whether that comprises a multi-address, and a transfer process for transferring the driving data and the image data between the first memory and the second memory, the arithmetic means and the a power supply control processing for controlling the power supply unit so that for the first memory limits the supply of electric power, said controlling the power supply unit to perform the releasing of the power supply to said calculating means and said first memory limit a power supply restriction release processing is executable, the in the authentication judgment processing, after the authentication information is judged when is provided with predetermined information, the drive data stored in said first memory, or based on the image data stored in the first memory to the drive data converted by said operation means, and controlling said recording means so that the image is recorded on the recording medium, and, prior to In the authentication determination process, the authentication information when executing the power supply control processing before judged when is provided with predetermined information, to perform the transfer process.

The program of the present invention drives a recording means for recording an image on a recording medium, a receiving means for receiving image data relating to an image transmitted from the outside, and the recording means received by the receiving means. A calculation means for performing a calculation for conversion to drive data for the first data, a first memory which is a volatile memory in which the drive data or the image data converted by the calculation means is stored, the image data or the drive data In an image recording apparatus comprising an input means for inputting the authentication information, a second memory different from the first memory, and a power supply unit for supplying power, the recording means, the receiving means, the computing means, A program for causing a computer to function as control means for controlling the input means and the power supply unit, wherein the control means is the input means. Performing the authentication information received with authentication judgment processing for judging whether that includes predetermined information, the transfer of the drive data and the image data between the first memory and the second memory Ri and transfer process, the release of the the power supply control processing for controlling the power supply unit so that relative calculating means and the first memory to limit the supply of electricity, the supply of electric power to said calculation means and said first memory limit a power supply restriction release process for controlling the power supply unit to perform, are possible execution, in the authentication judgment processing, after the authentication information is judged when is provided with predetermined information, the first memory The image is recorded on a recording medium based on the drive data stored in the memory or the drive data obtained by converting the image data stored in the first memory by the calculation means. The controls the recording means, and, in the authentication judgment processing, when the authentication information to perform the power supply control processing before judged when is provided with predetermined information, perform a pre-Symbol transfer process To do .

According to the present invention, even if drive data or image data stored in the first memory is lost by restricting the power supply to the arithmetic device and the first memory before making the authentication determination, the second memory Since the drive data or image data remains, image recording of the drive data or image data can be performed after the restriction is released, and power saving can be achieved while increasing security. Moreover, since the image data or the drive data is stored in the second memory only when power supply to the arithmetic device and the first memory is limited, it is possible to suppress the use of the second memory in vain. .

  According to the present invention, even if drive data or image data stored in the first memory is lost by restricting the power supply to the arithmetic device and the first memory before making the authentication determination, the second memory Since the drive data or image data remains, image recording of the drive data or image data can be performed after the restriction is released, and power saving can be achieved while increasing security. Moreover, since the image data or the drive data is stored in the second memory only when power supply to the arithmetic device and the first memory is limited, it is possible to suppress the use of the second memory in vain. .

1 is a network diagram including an inkjet printer according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a schematic side view of the inkjet printer shown in FIG. It is a functional block diagram of the control apparatus shown in FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing a printing operation of the ink jet printer shown in FIG. 1. It is a flowchart which shows the printing operation which concerns on a 1st modification. It is a flowchart which shows the printing operation which concerns on a 2nd modification.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the inkjet printer 1 is a shared printer connected to a LAN (Local Area Network) 70 together with a plurality of client terminals 71. The user transmits a print command for printing a desired image on the paper P from the client terminal 71 to the inkjet printer 1 via the LAN 70.

As shown in FIG. 2, the inkjet printer 1 includes a conveyance mechanism 20, four inkjet heads 2 that respectively eject black, magenta, cyan, and yellow ink droplets onto a sheet P that is conveyed by the conveyance mechanism 20. A mechanism 20 and a control device 16 are included. In the transport mechanism 20, the transport belt 8 rotates together with the belt rollers 6 and 7, so that the paper P placed on the transport belt 8 is transported between the four inkjet heads 2 and the platen 10. Is done. At this time, a desired image is printed on the paper P by ejecting ink droplets from each inkjet head 2 onto the paper P.

  The ink jet printer 1 has an operation panel 61 (see FIG. 3) on which a touch panel display is arranged.

Next, the control device 16 will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 3, the control device 16 includes a receiving unit 41, a main CPU (Central Processing Unit) 42, a main memory (second memory) 43, and a status storage unit (third memory, maximum storage time storage means). ) 44, an image processing CPU (calculation means) 45, an image processing work memory (first memory) 46, and a power supply unit 47. Programs executed by the main CPU 42 and the image processing CPU 45 are stored in the nonvolatile memory 56, and each functional unit constituting the control device 16 is constructed in cooperation with these hardware and software in the nonvolatile memory 56. . This program is stored in various recording media such as a flexible disk, a CD-ROM, and a memory card, and is installed in the nonvolatile memory 56 from these recording media. The control program recorded on the recording medium may be directly executable by the main CPU 42 and the image processing CPU 45, or may be executable only after being installed in the nonvolatile memory 56. Further, it may be encrypted or compressed.

  The receiving unit 41 receives a print command from the client terminal 71 via the LAN 70. The print command includes data indicating a print mode and image data relating to an image to be printed on the paper P. Print modes include secure printing and normal printing. Secure printing is a printing operation in which the inkjet printer 1 does not start printing according to the print command until the user who has transmitted the print command from the client terminal 71 to the inkjet printer 1 inputs authentication information. As described above, in secure printing, printing is started under user monitoring, so that the security of the printed matter is increased. Further, normal printing is a printing operation in which when the inkjet printer 1 receives a print command transmitted from the client terminal 71, printing according to the print command is immediately started.

  The main CPU 42 is a general-purpose CPU that performs calculations for controlling the overall operation of the inkjet printer 1. The main memory 43 is a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) connected to the main CPU 42 via a data bus. The main memory 43 functions as a work memory for the main CPU 42.

  The status storage unit 44 is a nonvolatile memory that stores various statuses of the inkjet printer 1. The status includes a maximum storage time in which drive data (described later) for driving the inkjet head 2 can be stored in the main memory 43, a save time saved in the main memory 43 for each drive data, and a save time And a log indicating whether or not the drive data has been deleted from the main memory 43 when the maximum storage time has elapsed. When the drive data is deleted from the main memory 43, the log is displayed on the operation panel 61 and a signal for notifying the log is transmitted to the plurality of client terminals 71. As a result, the user can easily know that the drive data waiting for authentication has been deleted.

The image processing CPU 45 is a CPU dedicated to image processing that performs calculations related to image processing for converting image data indicating an image to be printed on the paper P into drive data for driving the inkjet head 2. The image processing work memory 46 is a DRAM (volatile memory) connected to the image processing CPU 45 by a high-speed data bus. The drive data converted from the image data by the image processing CPU 45 is stored in the image processing work memory 46. As described above, the image processing CPU 45 and the image processing work memory 46 can perform image processing independently, so that the main CPU 42 can occupy the main memory 43 and use it efficiently. As for drive data, in the case of an inkjet head, the drive data is data representing the amount of ink ejected from the inkjet head for each unit area of the recording medium, and is described in image data (for example, PDL) using a known error diffusion process. Data) to drive data. (So-called multi-value processing is performed.) When the recording device is a so-called laser printer, print data (PDL data) is converted into drive data (laser recording unit drive data) using a known dithering process. Is done. The drive data includes not only quantitative data (so-called print data such as ink amount and density value) recorded for each unit area of the recording medium, but also data for controlling the drive of the printing unit 66. Also good.

  The power supply unit 47 supplies 3.3V voltage power to the main CPU 42, the main memory 43, the status storage unit 44, the image processing CPU 45 and the image processing work memory 46 based on the power received from the outside. Further, when the sleep unit 55 outputs a sleep mode start signal, the power supply unit 47 completely cuts off only the power supplied to the image processing CPU 45 and the image processing work memory 46. Thereafter, when the sleep unit 55 stops outputting the sleep mode start signal, the interrupted power is restored (described later). In order to perform image processing in a short time, the image processing CPU 45 often uses a CPU having a calculation processing speed higher than that of the main CPU 42. In this case, the image processing CPU 45 is frequently accessed by the power consumption and the image processing CPU 45. Since the power consumption of the image processing work memory 46 is larger than the power consumption of the main CPU 42 and the main memory 43, the sleep mode that completely cuts off the power supplied to the image processing CPU 45 and the image processing work memory 46 is performed. Power consumption can be reduced more efficiently.

  The main CPU 42 functions as an authentication determination unit 51, a data conversion unit 52, a transfer unit 53, a control unit 54, and a sleep unit 55 by cooperating with the main memory 43. Hereinafter, each functional unit will be described.

  When the reception unit 41 receives a print command, the authentication determination unit 51 determines whether the print command is secure printing or normal printing. Usually, this determination is made based on the identification data (data indicating the print mode) included in the print command, the format of the image data, and the like. The authentication determination unit 51 further determines whether or not the authentication information input to the user via the operation panel 61 includes predetermined information when determining that secure printing is performed. The predetermined information corresponds to a match with a password included in the print command or a match with user information stored in the printer. As for the input by the user, in addition to the input by the operation panel 61, information stored in a card or the like may be input by causing the reading device connected to the ink jet printer 1 to read the information.

The transfer unit 53 transfers data between the main memory 43 and the image processing work memory 46. Further, the transfer unit 53 stores the image data received by the receiving unit 41 in the image processing work memory 46 via the main memory 43. Thereafter, the image data stored in the image processing work memory 46 is converted into drive data by the image processing CPU 45 and stored again in the image processing work memory 46. As described above, the image data received before authentication, which will be described later, is converted into drive data for the inkjet head 2, so that printing can be quickly executed after the authentication procedure by the user is completed. Further, when the sleep mode is started, the transfer unit 53 saves the drive data stored in the image processing work memory 46 in the main memory 43 while compressing the drive data prior to the start of the sleep mode. The driving data compression work may be performed on the image processing work memory 46 or may be performed on the main memory 43. At this time, the transfer unit 53 stores the save time related to the drive data in the status storage unit 44. Thereafter, when the sleep mode is canceled, the transfer unit 53 restores the compressed drive data stored in the main memory 43 to the image processing work memory 46 while decompressing the compressed drive data. The decompression operation of the drive data may be performed on the image processing work memory 46 or may be performed on the main memory 43.

  The sleep unit (restricting unit) 55 determines to start a sleep mode that saves power when a predetermined time has elapsed since the last user operation or data transmission to the inkjet printer 1. When the sleep unit 55 determines to start the sleep mode, the sleep unit 55 outputs a sleep start signal to the power supply unit 47. The sleep unit 55 determines to cancel the sleep mode when a user operation or data transmission is performed on the inkjet printer 1 in the sleep mode, and outputs a sleep end signal to the power supply unit 47 or the sleep mode. Stops the output of the start signal.

  The control unit 54 controls the transport mechanism 20, the four inkjet heads 2 (only one is shown in FIG. 3), the transfer unit 53, and the sleep unit 55. When the authentication determination unit 51 determines that the received print command is secure printing, the control unit 54 determines that the authentication information input by the user via the operation panel 61 includes predetermined information. The user inputs authentication information via the operation panel 61, and when the authentication determination unit 51 determines that the authentication information includes predetermined information, the paper P The drive data stored in the image processing work memory 46 is transferred to each inkjet head 2 so that the image of the image data related to secure printing is printed on the paper P while controlling the transport mechanism 20 so that the transport mechanism 20 is transported at the transport speed. And the inkjet heads 2 are driven based on the drive data. Then, after the printing on the paper P is completed, the control unit 54 deletes the drive data stored in the image processing work memory 46 and the drive data saved in the main memory 43.

  On the other hand, when the authentication determination unit 51 determines that the received print command is normal printing, the control unit 54 performs normal printing while controlling the transport mechanism 20 so that the paper P is transported at a predetermined transport speed. The drive data stored in the image processing work memory 46 is transmitted to each inkjet head 2 so that the image of the image data is printed on the paper P, and each inkjet head 2 is driven based on the drive data.

  When the control unit 54 determines that the sleep unit 55 starts the sleep mode, the drive data stored in the image processing work memory 46 is compressed before the sleep start signal is output to the power supply unit 47. The transfer unit 53 is controlled so as to be saved in the main memory 43. Then, after the sleep unit 55 determines the cancellation of the sleep mode and outputs the sleep end signal to the power supply unit 47 or stops outputting the sleep start signal, the control unit 54 performs the compressed drive saved in the main memory 43. The transfer unit 53 is controlled so that the data is restored to the image processing work memory 46 while being decompressed.

  When there is no free space in the main memory 43 for saving the drive data newly stored in the image processing work memory 46, the control unit 54 refers to the status storage unit 44 and stores it in the main memory 43 first. Of the drive data related to secure printing, the drive data whose elapsed time from the save time exceeds the maximum storage time is deleted from the main memory 43. Thereafter, the transfer unit 53 is controlled such that new drive data is saved in the main memory 43 while being compressed. At this time, the fact that the drive data stored in the main memory 43 has been deleted is stored in the status storage unit 44.

Hereinafter, the printing operation of the inkjet printer 1 will be described with reference to FIG. As illustrated in FIG. 4, the reception unit 41 determines whether or not a print command transmitted from the client terminal 71 has been received (S101). When the receiving unit 41 has not received a print command (S101: NO), it is determined whether or not there is a waiting for input of authentication information by the user for the print command previously received by the receiving unit 41 (S102). If the user is not waiting for input of authentication information (S102: NO), the process returns to the determination of whether the receiving unit 41 has received a print command (S101). If waiting for input of authentication information by the user (S102: YES), the authentication determination unit 51 determines whether or not authentication information has been input to the user via the operation panel 61 (S108).

  On the other hand, when the receiving unit 41 receives the print command (S101: YES), it is determined whether or not the sleep unit 55 is in the sleep mode (S103). If it is not in the sleep mode (S103: NO), The control unit 54 controls the transfer unit 53 so that the image data received by the receiving unit 41 is stored in the image processing work memory 46 (S105). If the sleep mode is set (S103: YES), the sleep unit 55 starts the sleep mode release process, and outputs the sleep end signal to the power supply unit 47 or stops outputting the sleep start signal. Thereby, the supply of power to the image processing CPU 45 and the image processing work memory 46 is started (S104).

  Then, the control unit 54 controls the transfer unit 53 so that the image data received by the receiving unit 41 is stored in the image processing work memory 46 (S105). The image processing CPU 45 converts the image data stored in the image processing work memory 46 into drive data. As a result, the drive data is stored in the image processing work memory 46 (S106).

  Then, the authentication determination unit 51 determines whether the print command received is secure printing or normal printing (S107). If the received print command is normal printing (S107: NO), the control unit 54 controls the transport mechanism 20 so that the paper P is transported at a predetermined transport speed, and the image of the image data related to normal printing. Is printed on the paper P, the drive data stored in the image processing work memory 46 is transmitted to each inkjet head 2, and each inkjet head 2 is driven based on the drive data. (S118).

  If the received print command is secure printing (S107: YES), the authentication determination unit 51 determines whether authentication information is input to the user via the operation panel 61 (S108). If the authentication information is not input (S108: NO), the sleep unit 55 determines whether or not the sleep mode is set (S109). If the sleep mode is set (S109: YES), the process returns to the determination of whether or not the receiving unit 41 has received a print command (S101). If the sleep mode is not set (S109: NO), the sleep unit 55 saves power when a predetermined time has elapsed since the last user operation or data transmission to the inkjet printer 1 was performed. (S110). When the sleep unit 55 does not start the sleep mode (S110: NO), the process returns to the determination of whether or not the reception unit 41 has received a print command (S101).

  When the sleep unit 55 determines to start the sleep mode (S110: YES), the control unit 54 determines whether there is a free area in the main memory 43 for saving the drive data newly stored in the image processing work memory 46. It is determined whether or not (S111). If there is an empty area (S111: YES), the control unit 54 starts the sleep start process and transfers the drive data stored in the image processing work memory 46 so as to be saved in the main memory 43 while being compressed. After controlling the unit 53, the sleep unit 55 outputs a sleep start signal to the power supply unit 47. Thereby, the sleep mode is started, and only the power supplied to the image processing CPU 45 and the image processing work memory 46 is completely cut off (S115).

On the other hand, if there is no free space (S111: NO), the control unit 54 refers to the status storage unit 44, and among the drive data previously stored in the main memory 43, the elapsed time from the save time is the maximum. It is determined whether there is drive data exceeding the storage time (S112). If there is no drive data that exceeds the maximum storage time (S112: NO), the control unit 54 returns to the determination of whether or not the reception unit 41 has received a print command (S101). If there is drive data that exceeds the maximum storage time (S112: YES), the controller 54 deletes the drive data from the main memory 43 (S113). At this time, the fact that the drive data previously stored from the main memory 43 has been deleted is stored in the status storage unit 44. Thereafter, it is determined again whether or not there is a free area in the main memory 43 for saving the drive data newly stored in the image processing work memory 46 (S114). If there is an empty area (S114: YES), the control unit 54 starts a sleep start process (S115). On the other hand, if there is no empty area (S114: NO), the control unit 54 returns to the determination of whether or not the receiving unit 41 has received a print command (S101). When the sleep mode is started by the sleep start process (S115), the process returns to the determination of whether or not the receiving unit 41 has received a print command (S101).

  On the other hand, if authentication information is input in secure printing (S108: YES), it is determined whether or not the sleep unit 55 is in the sleep mode (S116). If it is not in the sleep mode (S116: YES). ), The control unit 54 controls the transport mechanism 20 so that the paper P is transported at a predetermined transport speed, and the image processing work memory so that the image of the image data related to secure printing is printed on the paper P. The drive data stored in 46 is transmitted to each inkjet head 2, and each inkjet head 2 is driven based on the drive data (S118). If the sleep mode is set (S116: YES), the sleep release process is started. At this time, the control unit 54 controls the transfer unit 53 so that the compressed drive data saved in the main memory 43 is restored to the image processing work memory 46 while being decompressed (S117). Then, the control unit 54 controls the transport mechanism 20 so that the paper P is transported at a predetermined transport speed, and the image processing work memory so that the image of the image data related to secure printing is printed on the paper P. The drive data stored in 46 is transmitted to each inkjet head 2, and each inkjet head 2 is driven based on the drive data (S118). After the printing on the paper P is completed, the control unit 54 deletes the drive data stored in the image processing work memory 46 and the drive data saved in the main memory 43 (S119). Above, the flowchart of FIG. 4 is complete | finished.

  As described above, according to the inkjet printer 1 of the present embodiment, the power supplied to the image processing CPU 45 and the image processing work memory 46 is limited by starting the sleep mode before performing authentication related to secure printing. Even if the drive data stored in the image processing work memory 46 is lost, the drive data remains in the main memory 43. Therefore, it is possible to record an image of the drive data after the sleep mode is canceled. Therefore, it is possible to save power while increasing security. Further, since the drive data is saved in the main memory 43 only when the sleep mode is started, it is possible to prevent the main memory 43 from being wasted.

  In addition, since the drive data is returned from the main memory 43 to the image processing work memory 46 after the sleep mode is canceled, an image can be recorded for the drive data without requiring special processing.

  Further, since the main memory 43 is a volatile memory, the drive data saved in the main memory 43 is erased when the power of the inkjet printer is turned off. Thereby, security can be further increased.

  Further, when the sleep mode is started, the power supplied to the image processing CPU 45 and the image processing work memory 46 is completely cut off, so that further power saving can be achieved.

  In addition, since the compressed drive data is saved in the main memory 43, the capacity of the main memory 43 can be reduced.

  Further, when there is no empty area in the main memory 43 for saving the drive data, the control unit 54 deletes the drive data whose elapsed time from the save time exceeds the maximum storage time from the main memory 43, Since the drive data is saved in the main memory 43, a new image can be preferentially printed.

  Furthermore, since the status storage unit 44, which is a non-volatile memory, stores a log indicating that the drive data has been deleted from the main memory 43 when the maximum storage time has elapsed from the save time, the power of the inkjet printer 1 is turned on. Even if it is cut, the user can know that the drive data waiting for authentication has been deleted.

  Further, the log stored in the status storage unit 44 is displayed on the operation panel 61, and the user can easily know that the drive data waiting for authentication has been deleted by transmitting a notification signal to the plurality of client terminals 71. Can do.

  In addition, since the drive data saved in the main memory 43 is not deleted until the printing on the paper P is completed, even if the paper P is jammed and the printing is interrupted, the printing is retried thereafter. Can do.

<First Modification>
In the above-described embodiment, when there is no free area in the main memory 43 for saving the drive data, after the drive data whose elapsed time from the save time exceeds the maximum storage time is deleted from the main memory 43, The drive data is saved in the main memory 43, but this is not restrictive. For example, in the first modification, the priority is associated with the drive data, and as shown in FIG. 5, the control unit, when there is no free area in the main memory 43 for saving the drive data (S111: NO), After the drive data associated with the priorities are deleted from the drive data stored in the main memory 43 in the descending order of priority (S201), the sleep start process is started (S115). According to this, it is possible to preferentially print an image having a high print command priority.

<Second Modification>
In the above-described embodiment and the first modification, the received image data is immediately converted into drive data, and in secure printing, the drive data is saved in the main memory 43. However, the image data is stored in the main memory. 43 may be retracted. For example, in the second modified example, as shown in FIG. 6, the control unit 54 transfers the image data received by the receiving unit 41 to the image processing work memory 46 via the main memory 43. 53 is controlled (S105). At this time, the main memory 43 is deleted from the image data. When the sleep mode is started, the control unit 54 controls the transfer unit 53 so that the image data stored in the image processing work memory 46 is saved in the main memory 43, and then the sleep unit 55 starts the sleep. The signal is output to the power supply unit 47. Thereby, the sleep mode is started, and only the power supplied to the image processing CPU 45 and the image processing work memory 46 is completely cut off (S301). At this time, if there is no empty area for saving the image data in the main memory 43 (S111: NO), the process returns to the determination of whether or not the receiving unit 41 has received the print command without starting the sleep mode. (S101).

When performing a sleep release process in secure printing, the control unit 54 transfers the image data saved in the main memory 43 to the image processing work memory 46 so that the transfer unit 5
3 is controlled (S302). Then, when printing is started, the image processing CPU 45 converts the image data stored in the image processing work memory 46 into drive data and stores it in the image processing work memory 46 (S303). Drive data stored in the image processing work memory 46 so that an image of image data related to secure printing is printed on the paper P while controlling the transport mechanism 20 so that the paper P is transported at a predetermined transport speed. Is transmitted to each inkjet head 2, and each inkjet head 2 is driven based on the drive data (S118). Note that the drive data may be saved in the main memory 43 instead of the image data as in the above-described embodiment.

  The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made as long as they are described in the claims. For example, in the embodiment described above, the image data received by the receiving unit 41 is converted into drive data by the image processing CPU 45 before the authentication input is completed. The image data may not be converted into drive data until the completion. In this case, the amount of data stored in the memory can be reduced by configuring the image data with a page description language or the like. In the above-described embodiment, the drive data is saved in the main memory 43 before the sleep mode is started. However, the image data may be saved in the main memory 43. . In this case, after the sleep mode is canceled, the image data is restored to the image processing work memory 46, and when the authentication input is completed and printing is canceled, the image data is converted into drive data.

  Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the main memory 43 is a volatile memory, but the main memory 43 may be a non-volatile memory.

  In the above-described embodiment, the drive data saved in the main memory 43 in the sleep mode is restored to the image processing work memory 46 after the sleep mode is canceled. However, the drive data saved in the image processing work memory 46 is not restored. It may be. In this case, the control unit 54 transmits the drive data stored in the main memory 43 during printing to each inkjet head 2, and drives each inkjet head 2 based on the drive data.

  In the above-described embodiment, when the sleep mode is started, the power supplied to the image processing CPU 45 and the image processing work memory 46 is completely cut off. However, when the sleep mode is started, the image processing is performed. The power supplied to only one of the CPU 45 and the image processing work memory 46 may be completely cut off, or the power supplied to at least one of the image processing CPU 45 and the image processing work memory 46 may be completely supplied. The configuration may be limited so long as it is not blocked. For example, when the image processing CPU 45 has a sleep function that allows only a part of the functional units to operate, the sleep function of the image processing CPU 45 may be used. Specifically, a sleep function that stops the refresh operation of the image processing work memory 46 and also stops the operation of the image processing CPU 45 may be used. In this case, it is in a low power consumption state in which only the input of the return interrupt signal from the main CPU 42 is monitored, and it can be recovered at a higher speed than when the power is turned off.

  Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the transfer unit 53 saves the drive data in the main memory 43 before starting the sleep mode, but the transfer unit does not compress the drive data. The configuration may be such that the main memory 43 saves.

In the above-described embodiment, the sleep mode is not started when there is no free area in the main memory 43 for saving the drive data newly stored in the image processing work memory 46, but the free area is secured. Until then, the drive data related to secure printing previously stored in the main memory 43 may be deleted from the main memory 43. In this case, the drive data may be deleted in order from the longest elapsed time from the save time.

  In addition, in the above-described embodiment, the status storage unit 44 that is a non-volatile memory is configured to store a log indicating that drive data has been deleted from the main memory 43, but the log is stored in the main memory 43. May or may not be stored.

  In the above-described embodiment, the drive data saved in the main memory 43 is not deleted until the printing on the paper P is completed. However, the drive data saved in the main memory 43 is released from the sleep mode. May be deleted at the same time.

  In addition, in the above-described embodiment, the receiving unit 41 is configured to receive image data (print command) via the LAN 3, but is input via another device such as a memory card reader separately provided in the inkjet printer. The image data may be received.

  In the above-described embodiment, the touch panel display is arranged on the operation panel 61. However, the operation panel 61 is not limited to the touch panel display, and may be an input form such as a switch or a button.

  In the above-described embodiment, the main processing unit including the main CPU 42 and the main memory 43 and the image processing unit including the image processing CPU 45 and the image processing work memory 46 may be configured on different substrates or the same. It may be configured on a substrate.

  The present invention is also applicable to a liquid ejecting apparatus that ejects liquid other than ink. It can also be applied to laser printers. Further, the present invention is not limited to a printer, and can be applied to other apparatuses that perform image recording, such as a facsimile machine and a copier.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Inkjet printer 2 Inkjet head 16 Control apparatus 41 Receiving part 42 Main CPU
43 Main memory 44 Status storage unit 45 Image processing CPU
46 Image processing work memory 47 Power supply unit 51 Authentication judgment unit 52 Data conversion unit 53 Transfer unit 54 Control unit 55 Sleep unit 61 Operation panel 71 Client terminal

Claims (11)

Recording means for recording an image on a recording medium;
Receiving means for receiving image data relating to an image transmitted from outside;
Arithmetic means for performing an operation for converting the image data received by the receiving means into drive data for driving the recording means;
A first memory that is a volatile memory in which the drive data or the image data converted by the computing means is stored;
Input means for inputting authentication information related to the image data or the drive data;
Authentication determination means for determining whether or not the authentication information input by the input means includes predetermined information;
A second memory for storing the drive data or the image data;
Transfer means for transferring the drive data or the image data between the first memory and the second memory;
Limiting means for limiting power supply to the computing means and the first memory;
A control means for controlling the recording means, the transfer means and the restriction means,
The control means includes the drive data stored in the first memory or the image stored in the first memory after the authentication determination means determines that the authentication information includes predetermined information. Based on the drive data obtained by converting the data by the calculation means, the recording means is controlled so that the image is recorded on a recording medium, and the authentication information includes predetermined information. Controlling the transfer means to transfer the drive data or the image data from the first memory to the second memory when the power supply is restricted by the restriction means before the judgment means judges;
The power supply to the arithmetic unit and the first memory is not restricted when there is no free area in the second memory for storing the image data or the drive data stored in the first memory. Image recording device. Recording means for recording an image on a recording medium;
Receiving means for receiving image data relating to an image transmitted from outside;
Arithmetic means for performing an operation for converting the image data received by the receiving means into drive data for driving the recording means;
A first memory that is a volatile memory in which the drive data or the image data converted by the computing means is stored;
Input means for inputting authentication information related to the image data or the drive data;
Authentication determination means for determining whether or not the authentication information input by the input means includes predetermined information;
A second memory for storing the drive data or the image data and the priority thereof;
Transfer means for transferring the drive data or the image data between the first memory and the second memory;
Limiting means for limiting power supply to the computing means and the first memory;
A control means for controlling the recording means, the transfer means and the restriction means,
The control means includes the drive data stored in the first memory or the image stored in the first memory after the authentication determination means determines that the authentication information includes predetermined information. Based on the drive data obtained by converting the data by the calculation means, the recording means is controlled so that the image is recorded on a recording medium, and the authentication information includes predetermined information. Controlling the transfer means to transfer the drive data or the image data from the first memory to the second memory when the power supply is restricted by the restriction means before the judgment means judges;
The image data or the drive data corresponding to the image data or the drive data in ascending order of priority associated with the image data or the drive data when there is no empty area for storing the new image data or the drive data in the second memory Is deleted from the second memory, and the transfer means is controlled to transfer the new image data or the drive data to the second memory.   The control means controls the transfer means to transfer the drive data or the image data stored in the second memory to the first memory when the restriction by the restriction means is released. The image recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image recording apparatus is an image recording apparatus. The transfer means further has a function of compressing and decompressing the image data or the drive data,
The control means stores the image data or the drive data stored in the first memory in a compressed state so as to be transferred to the second memory while being compressed. 4. The image recording apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the transfer unit is controlled so that the image data or the drive data is transferred to the first memory while being decompressed.   The image recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second memory is a volatile memory.   The image recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the limiting unit completely cuts off power supply to at least one of the arithmetic unit and the first memory. A non-volatile third memory;
The image recording apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the control unit stores in the third memory that the image data or the drive data has been deleted from the second memory.   The image recording apparatus according to claim 7, further comprising a display unit that displays information stored in the third memory, or a transmission unit that transmits the information to the outside.   9. The control unit according to claim 1, wherein the control unit does not erase the image data or the drive data stored in the second memory until image recording by the recording unit is completed. The image recording apparatus described in 1. Recording means for recording an image on a recording medium, receiving means for receiving image data relating to an image transmitted from the outside, and converting the image data received by the receiving means into drive data for driving the recording means A calculation means for performing calculation, a first memory which is a volatile memory in which the drive data or the image data converted by the calculation means is stored, and authentication information relating to the image data or the drive data is input. Input means, authentication judgment means for judging whether or not the authentication information input by the input means comprises predetermined information, a second memory for storing the drive data or the image data, the first Transfer means for transferring the drive data or the image data between the memory and the second memory, and the calculation means and the first memory An image recording apparatus provided with a restricting means for restricting the supply of power to said recording means, a said transfer means and a program causing a computer to function as a control means for controlling the limiting means,
The control means includes the drive data stored in the first memory or the image stored in the first memory after the authentication determination means determines that the authentication information includes predetermined information. Based on the drive data obtained by converting the data by the calculation means, the recording means is controlled so that the image is recorded on a recording medium, and the authentication information includes predetermined information. Controlling the transfer means to transfer the drive data or the image data from the first memory to the second memory when the power supply is restricted by the restriction means before the judgment means judges;
The power supply to the arithmetic unit and the first memory is not restricted when there is no free area in the second memory for storing the image data or the drive data stored in the first memory. Program to do. Recording means for recording an image on a recording medium, receiving means for receiving image data relating to an image transmitted from the outside, and converting the image data received by the receiving means into drive data for driving the recording means A calculation means for performing calculation, a first memory which is a volatile memory in which the drive data or the image data converted by the calculation means is stored, and authentication information relating to the image data or the drive data is input. Input means, authentication determination means for determining whether or not the authentication information input by the input means includes predetermined information, the drive data or the image data, and a priority level thereof are stored. 2 memory, transfer means for transferring the drive data or the image data between the first memory and the second memory, and the computing means; An image recording apparatus provided with a restricting means for restricting the supply of power to the serial first memory, said recording means, a said transfer means and a program causing a computer to function as a control means for controlling the limiting means,
The control means includes the drive data stored in the first memory or the image stored in the first memory after the authentication determination means determines that the authentication information includes predetermined information. Based on the drive data obtained by converting the data by the calculation means, the recording means is controlled so that the image is recorded on a recording medium, and the authentication information includes predetermined information. Controlling the transfer means to transfer the drive data or the image data from the first memory to the second memory when the power supply is restricted by the restriction means before the judgment means judges;
The image data or the drive data corresponding to the image data or the drive data in ascending order of priority associated with the image data or the drive data when there is no empty area for storing the new image data or the drive data in the second memory Is deleted from the second memory, and the transfer means is controlled to transfer the new image data or the drive data to the second memory.

Images