JP2018144418A - Image formation apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To reduce the boredom of a user by displaying the progress of image processing executed during printing.SOLUTION: An image formation apparatus includes: a printing unit; an image processing unit which contains a module performing image processing; an engine control unit which receives from the image processing unit the immediately-previous image data being the image data immediately before printing whose processing by a module is complete at the time of the printing job, and causes the printing unit to form an image based on the immediately-previous image data; an extraction unit which extracts the immediately-previous image data transmitted to the engine control unit by the image processing unit; a display unit which displays the image; and a control unit which causes the display unit to display the progress image indicating the progress of image processing on the basis of the immediately-previous image data extracted by the extraction unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus including a display unit that displays an image.

  Some image forming apparatuses perform a preview image. The preview image shows the contents of the printed material to be printed. The preview image allows the user to confirm what kind of printing will be performed before starting printing. The user can check for missing settings before starting printing. Printing errors can be reduced. Patent Document 1 describes an example of an image forming apparatus that displays a preview image.

  In Patent Document 1, bitmap image data is displayed, data is received from the network, and when the compressed image data is received, the received portion is decompressed even before the entire compressed image data is received. A network terminal device that generates preview image data based on the preview image data and displays the preview image data is described. With this configuration, while receiving image data, decoding and reduction of the received image data are performed in parallel, and the generated reduced images are sequentially displayed to promptly display a preview (Patent Document 1: Claim 1, paragraph) [0004] etc.).

JP 2004-282382 A

  When a print job is executed using the image forming apparatus, the user must wait until the print job is completed. The greater the number of pages included in the print job, the longer the waiting time. For example, when executing a copy job, a document is scanned (read). Printing is started based on image data obtained by scanning. There is no particular operation to be performed by the user from the start of scanning to the completion of printing. The user only waits for completion of printing. Therefore, there is a problem of being bored during the waiting time.

  In the technique described in Patent Document 1, the contents of facsimile reception data are displayed as a preview image before printing. However, there is no particular description about the waiting time from the start of printing to the completion of printing. Therefore, the above problem cannot be solved.

  In view of the above-described problems of the prior art, the present invention displays the progress status of image processing executed during printing and reduces user boredom.

  In order to achieve the above object, an image forming apparatus according to a first aspect includes a printing unit, an image processing unit, an engine control unit, an extraction unit, a display unit, and a control unit. The printing unit performs printing. The image processing unit includes a module that performs image processing on image data. The engine control unit receives immediately preceding image data, which is the image data immediately before printing that has been processed by the module at the time of a print job, from the image processing unit, and forms an image on the printing unit based on the immediately preceding image data Let The extraction unit extracts the immediately preceding image data transmitted from the image processing unit to the engine control unit. The display unit displays an image. The control unit causes the display unit to display a progress image indicating a progress status of image processing based on the immediately preceding image data extracted by the extraction unit.

  According to the present invention, the progress of image processing executed during printing can be displayed. By displaying the progress image, the user's boredom can be reduced.

1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a multifunction machine according to an embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of control of the engine control part which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating an example of the image process of the image process part which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the progress display screen which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the change of the progress image which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the change of the alternative image which concerns on embodiment. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a flow of displaying a progress image in the multifunction peripheral according to the embodiment.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. In the following description, the multifunction peripheral 100 will be described as an example of the image forming apparatus. However, each element such as configuration and arrangement described in this embodiment does not limit the scope of the invention and is merely an illustrative example.

(Configuration of MFP 100)
First, an outline of a multifunction peripheral 100 (image forming apparatus) according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a multifunction peripheral 100 according to the embodiment.

  The multifunction device 100 includes a control unit 1 and a storage unit 2. The control unit 1 controls each unit of the multifunction device 100. The control unit 1 includes a CPU 11 and an image processing unit 3. The CPU 11 performs calculations and processes related to control. The image processing unit 3 performs processing related to image data. The storage unit 2 includes storage devices such as ROM, RAM, and HDD. The storage unit 2 stores a control program and various data. The control unit 1 performs processing based on the program and data stored in the storage unit 2.

  The multi-function device 100 includes a document conveying unit 4a and an image reading unit 4b. The document transport unit 4a automatically transports the set documents one by one. The control unit 1 causes the document conveying unit 4a to convey the document toward the reading position (conveyance reading contact glass). The sent document passes through the upper surface of the conveyance reading contact glass provided on the upper surface of the image reading unit 4b.

  The image reading unit 4b includes a placement reading contact glass. The image reading unit 4b can also read a document set on the placement reading contact glass. The control unit 1 causes the image reading unit 4b to read (scan) the transported document or the document set on the placement reading contact glass. The image reading unit 4b generates image data of the read document. The generated image data is stored in the storage unit 2 (RAM or HDD).

  The multifunction device 100 includes an operation panel 5. The operation panel 5 includes a display panel 51 (corresponding to the display unit), a touch panel 52 (corresponding to the operation unit), and hard keys 53 (corresponding to the operation unit). The control unit 1 causes the display panel 51 to display a screen related to the job. Further, the control unit 1 displays an operation image on the display panel 51. The operation image is, for example, a button, a soft key, a tab, or a switch. A touch panel 52 is provided for the display panel 51. The touch panel 52 detects a position (coordinates) touched by the user. Based on the output of the touch panel 52, the control unit 1 recognizes the operated operation image. The user can perform various settings related to the job by operating the display panel 51 (touch panel 52). For example, settings relating to document reading, settings relating to a copy job, and settings relating to a transmission job can be performed.

  A plurality of hard keys 53 can be provided. For example, a start key or a cancel key can be provided as the hard key 53. The start key is a key for instructing start of job execution. The cancel key is a key for canceling the job being executed. The control unit 1 recognizes the operation of the start key and the cancel key.

  The multifunction machine 100 includes an engine control unit 6 and a printing unit 7. The printing unit 7 includes a paper feeding unit 7a, a paper conveyance unit 7b, an image forming unit 7c, a fixing unit 7d, and a double-side conveyance unit 7e. The printing unit 7 feeds and conveys a sheet, and prints a toner image on the sheet. In the case of a print job, the control unit 1 instructs the engine control unit 6 to print. Based on the instruction, the engine control unit 6 controls the printing unit 7. The engine control unit 6 includes an engine CPU 61 and an engine storage unit 62. The engine storage unit 62 stores data and programs necessary for controlling the printing unit 7. The engine CPU 61 controls the printing unit 7 based on data and programs stored in the engine storage unit 62.

  The multifunction machine 100 includes a communication unit 12. The communication unit 12 is communicably connected to the control unit 1. The communication unit 12 communicates with the computer 200 and the FAX apparatus 300 via a network or a communication network. The computer 200 is, for example, a PC or a server. The communication unit 12 receives print data from the computer 200 or the FAX apparatus 300.

(Control of the printing unit 7 by the engine control unit 6)
Next, an example of control of the printing unit 7 by the engine control unit 6 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the control of the engine control unit 6 according to the embodiment.

  It is possible to cause the multifunction peripheral 100 to perform a print job. In the case of a print job, the engine control unit 6 controls the operation of the printing unit 7. The print job includes a copy job, a box print job, and a printer job.

  The copy job is a job for reading a set original and printing based on image data obtained by the reading. The user sets a document. In addition, the user performs settings related to the copy job on the operation panel 5. When the start key is operated, the control unit 1 causes the image reading unit 4b to read a document. In addition, the control unit 1 transmits a print instruction and image data to the engine control unit 6. Based on the instruction and the received image data, the engine control unit 6 causes the printing unit 7 to print.

  The box print job is a job for printing based on image data stored in the storage unit 2 in a nonvolatile manner. The user selects image data used for printing on the operation panel 5. Further, the user performs settings related to the box print job on the operation panel 5. When the start key is operated, the control unit 1 transmits a print instruction and image data to the engine control unit 6. Based on the instruction and the received image data, the engine control unit 6 causes the printing unit 7 to print.

  The printer job is a job for printing based on the print data received by the communication unit 12. When the communication unit 12 receives the print data, the control unit 1 transmits image data based on the print instruction and the print data to the engine control unit 6. Based on the instruction and the received image data, the engine control unit 6 causes the printing unit 7 to print.

  In the case of a print job, the engine control unit 6 sends out the sheets one by one to the paper supply unit 7a. The paper feed unit 7 a includes a paper feed cassette 71, a paper feed motor 72, and a paper feed roller 73. The paper feed cassette 71 accommodates a sheet bundle. The paper feed motor 72 rotates the paper feed roller 73. In the case of a print job, the engine control unit 6 operates the paper feed motor 72. As a result, the paper feed roller 73 rotates. A sheet in contact with the sheet feed roller 73 is sent out.

  In the case of a print job, the engine control unit 6 causes the paper transport unit 7b to transport the paper. The paper transport unit 7 b includes a transport motor 74 and a transport roller pair 75. The transport motor 74 rotates the transport roller pair 75. In the case of a print job, the engine control unit 6 operates the transport motor 74. Thereby, the conveyance roller pair 75 rotates. The paper is conveyed in the machine.

  In the case of a print job, the engine control unit 6 causes the image forming unit 7c to form a toner image. The image forming unit 7 c includes a photosensitive drum 76, a charging device 77, an exposure device 78, a developing device 79, a transfer device 710, and a main motor 711. The photosensitive drum 76 carries a toner image on its peripheral surface. The engine control unit 6 causes the charging device 77 to charge the photosensitive drum 76. The exposure device 78 includes a laser device, a polygon mirror, a polygon motor, a lens, and a mirror. The engine control unit 6 causes the exposure device 78 to scan and expose the photosensitive drum 76 with a laser beam. The exposure device 78 turns on / off the laser beam based on the immediately preceding image data (details will be described later) received from the control unit 1. As a result, an electrostatic latent image corresponding to the immediately preceding image data is formed. The engine control unit 6 causes the developing device 79 to develop the electrostatic latent image with toner. The engine control unit 6 causes the transfer device 710 to transfer the toner image onto the sheet. In the case of a print job, the engine control unit 6 rotates the main motor 711. The main motor 711 rotates the photosensitive drum 76, the rotating body included in the developing device 79, and the rotating body included in the transfer device 710.

  In the case of a print job, the engine control unit 6 causes the fixing unit 7d to fix the toner image transferred to the sheet. The fixing unit 7 d includes a fixing motor 712, a fixing roller pair 713, and a heater 714. The fixing motor 712 rotates the fixing roller pair 713. The heater 714 heats the fixing roller pair 713. The sheet enters the nip of the fixing roller pair 713. The fixing roller pair 713 applies heat and pressure to the paper. As a result, the toner image is fixed on the paper. The paper after fixing is discharged out of the apparatus by the paper transport unit 7b.

  When performing double-sided printing, the engine control unit 6 causes the double-sided conveyance unit 7e to convey the single-sided printed paper to the upstream side of the image forming unit 7c. The double-sided conveyance unit 7e includes a switchback mechanism (not shown) that reverses the front and back of the paper and the front and back. The engine control unit 6 joins the single-sided printed paper whose front and back and front and back sides are reversed upstream of the image forming unit 7c.

(Image processing by the image processing unit 3)
Next, an example of image processing of the image processing unit 3 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining an example of image processing of the image processing unit 3 according to the embodiment.

  The image processing unit 3 is, for example, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit). In other words, the image processing unit 3 is an integrated circuit designed for image processing. In the case of a print job, the image processing unit 3 performs image processing on the image data. In the case of a copy job or box print job, image processing is performed based on the settings made on the operation panel 5. Hereinafter, an example of the flow of image data processing for a copy job or a box print job will be described with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the image processing unit 3 includes a first module 31, a second module 32, a first buffer memory 33, a third module 34, a second buffer memory 35, and a fourth module 36. The first buffer memory 33 and the second buffer memory 35 are, for example, ring buffers.

  Based on the image data read by the image reading unit 4b, a copy job and a box print job are performed. Image data obtained by reading by the image reading unit 4 b is input to the image processing unit 3. The first module 31 compresses the input image data. The compressed image data is first stored in the storage unit 2 (RAM or HDD). In the case of a copy job, the compressed image data is read from the storage unit 2 as soon as the printing unit 7 is ready. In the case of a box print job, the compressed image data is read at a time when the user selects with the operation panel 5 at a later date.

  The compressed image data is input to the second module 32. The second module 32 decompresses the compressed image data. The second module 32 performs rotation and scaling (zooming) of the decompressed image data according to the setting. The second module 32 performs processing related to the overall layout of one page of image data. For example, when a plurality of pages of image data are included in one sheet, the second module 32 performs rotation processing and reduction processing.

  The image data processed by the second module 32 is output to the first buffer memory 33. The first buffer memory 33 temporarily stores image data. The image data stored in the first buffer memory 33 is sequentially output to the third module 34.

  The third module 34 is a module related to pixel value conversion. The third module 34 performs color conversion processing. The third module 34 performs, for example, an eco print process, a smoothing process, a screening process, and a halftone process as the color conversion process. The eco print process is a process for reducing the toner consumption. When the eco print is set, the third module 34 performs the eco print process. In the eco print process, the pixel value of each pixel is corrected in the direction of thinning. The smoothing process is a process that uses a smoothing filter to moderate variations in shades. Each pixel of the image data has a pixel value corresponding to the density. On the other hand, a toner image is formed based on a binary selection of whether or not toner is put on a pixel. The screening process and the halftone process are processes for reproducing the density of an image with halftone dots (dot density).

  The image data processed by the third module 34 is output to the second buffer memory 35. The second buffer memory 35 temporarily stores image data. The image data stored in the second buffer memory 35 is sequentially output to the fourth module 36.

  The fourth module 36 finally adjusts the position of the image. The fourth module 36 adjusts the position of the image according to the binding margin and the margin width set on the operation panel 5. For example, the fourth module 36 adjusts the position of the image in the sheet by inserting white pixels, deleting white pixels, or delaying the transmission timing of image data to the engine control unit 6.

  Further, the fourth module 36 transmits the image data to the engine control unit 6. The image data transmitted to the engine control unit 6 is image data immediately before printing. In this description, the image data transmitted from the image processing unit 3 to the engine control unit 6 is referred to as immediately preceding image data. That is, the image processing unit 3 (fourth module 36) generates immediately preceding image data that is image data immediately before printing. Then, the image processing unit 3 transmits the immediately preceding image data in response to a request from the engine control unit 6.

  The immediately preceding image data has already undergone screening processing and halftone processing. Therefore, the immediately preceding image data is used for turning on / off the laser beam in the exposure device 78. For example, a value of 1 is stored in a pixel that turns on a laser beam, and a value of 0 is placed in a pixel that does not turn on a laser beam. The immediately preceding image data can be said to be binary image data. The image processing unit 3 transmits the immediately preceding image data to the engine control unit 6. The engine control unit 6 causes the exposure device 78 to turn on / off the laser beam based on the received immediately preceding image data.

  Here, the storage capacities of the first buffer memory 33 and the second buffer memory 35 are for one band. The capacity of each buffer memory is smaller than the size of one page of image data. For example, image data is processed in band units. The size (width) of the band is appropriately determined according to the size of the buffer memory. For example, one band is 5.5 mm (width in the sub-scanning direction) × paper width (width in the main scanning direction). One band can be said to be a bundle of lines in the main scanning direction. The number of lines in the main scanning direction included in one band is the width in the sub-scanning direction / a pitch of one pixel (one dot). The fourth module 36 transmits the previous image data in units of one line in the main scanning direction, in units of a plurality of lines in the main scanning direction, or in units of bands.

(Display of progress image 8)
Next, an example of the display of the progress image 8 on the multifunction peripheral 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the progress display screen 5a according to the embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a change in the progress image 8 according to the embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a change in the substitute image 9 according to the embodiment. FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a flow of displaying the progress image 8 on the multifunction peripheral 100 according to the embodiment.

  First, the multifunction machine 100 includes an extraction unit 37 (see FIG. 3). The extraction unit 37 extracts (copies) the immediately preceding image data that the image processing unit 3 transmits to the engine control unit 6. Therefore, the extraction unit 37 is connected to a signal line for image data that connects the engine control unit 6 and the image processing unit 3. The extraction unit 37 is, for example, a high speed memory. The immediately preceding image data is sequentially transmitted. Therefore, the extraction unit 37 acquires image data (all the previous image data) for which all image processing has been completed in order from the top of the page.

  The control unit 1 displays the progress image 8 on the display panel 51 based on the extracted immediately preceding image data. The progress image 8 shows the progress status of the image processing. In other words, the progress image 8 indicates a portion that has been transmitted to the engine control unit 6 in the immediately preceding image data of one page. Since it is based on the image data immediately before printing, the progress image 8 also shows the print execution result.

  In order to display the progress image 8, the multi-function device 100 includes a display data generation unit 38 (see FIG. 3). The display data generation unit 38 includes a conversion processing unit 39 and a reduction processing unit 310. For display on the display panel 51, RGB format data is used. The conversion processing unit 39 generates conversion data in which the immediately preceding image data is converted to RGB format. Further, the number of pixels of the display panel 51 is smaller than that of the immediately preceding image data. Accordingly, the reduction processing unit 310 generates display image data by thinning (reducing) the converted data. The control unit 1 displays the progress image 8 on the display panel 51 based on the display image data.

  FIG. 4 shows an example of the progress display screen 5a. The control unit 1 displays a progress display screen 5a on the display panel 51 during execution of the print job. In FIG. 4, the left image is the progress image 8. FIG. 4 shows a state in which the entire progress image 8 of one page is displayed.

  Each time the extraction of the immediately preceding image data proceeds, the area of the displayed progress image 8 is gradually increased. The larger the area of the progress image 8 is, the more the generation and transmission of the immediately preceding image data is advanced. The user can intuitively grasp how much image processing has been completed from one page of image data according to the state of the progress image 8.

  Changes in the progress image 8 will be described with reference to FIG. First, the progress image 8 of one page is divided into a plurality of strip-like blocks b. The left end of the block b is the left end of the progress image 8. The right end of the block b is the right end of the progress image 8. The size of the block b may correspond to the size of the band. In other words, the number of bands included in the immediately preceding image data of one page may be equal to the number of blocks of the progress image 8. Further, the block b may be one horizontal line of the progress image 8. FIG. 5 shows an example in which one page is divided into six blocks b.

  The extraction unit 37 stores at least the immediately preceding image data necessary for generating display image data for one block. The extraction unit 37 may store the immediately preceding image data for one page.

  After the start of image processing, the extraction unit 37 starts extracting the previous image data. Eventually, the extraction unit 37 extracts the immediately preceding image data necessary for generating the display image data for the first block. Then, the display data generation unit 38 generates display image data for the top block portion. The generated display image data is stored in the storage unit 2. Based on the generated display data, the control unit 1 causes the display panel 51 to display the first block b in the progress image 8. The progress image 8 at the upper left of FIG. 5 shows a state in which only the first block b is displayed.

  As the transmission of the immediately preceding image data progresses, the extraction unit 37 extracts the immediately preceding image data necessary for generating the next one block of display image data. When the data has been extracted, the display data generation unit 38 generates display image data for the next one block. The generated display image data is stored in the storage unit 2. A new block b is added to the generated display image data. The control unit 1 additionally displays the next block b in the progress image 8 on the display unit. As a result, the progress image 8 appears to be added in units of blocks. Each time the extraction of the previous image data by the extraction unit 37 proceeds, the control unit 1 causes the display panel 51 to add a block b to be displayed. From the top to the bottom, the number of displayed blocks b gradually increases. FIG. 5 shows that the number of blocks b to be displayed increases as the previous image data extraction progresses.

  When the image processing unit 3 transmits all the previous image data of one page, the extraction of the previous image data necessary for generating the display image data of the last block b is completed. At this time, the display data generation unit 38 generates display image data for the last block b. The generated display image data of the last block b is stored in the storage unit 2. Based on the display data of the last block b, the control unit 1 displays the lowermost block b of the progress image 8. Finally, the control unit 1 causes the display panel 51 to display the entire page of the progress image 8.

  The progress image 8 shows the contents of printing. In some cases, the progress image 8 may not be viewed by a third party. Therefore, a secret protection button B1 is provided on the progress display screen 5a. When the secret protection button B1 is operated (when the secret protection operation is performed), the control unit 1 sets the display mode to the secret protection mode. When the secret protection button B1 is operated in the secret protection mode, the control unit 1 cancels the secret protection mode.

  In the secret protection mode, the control unit 1 displays a substitute image 9 instead of the progress image 8. When the secret protection mode is released, the control unit 1 displays the progress image 8 instead of the substitute image 9. When shifting to the secret protection mode while the progress image 8 is being displayed, the control unit 1 switches the progress image 8 to the alternative image 9. When the secret protection mode is canceled while the substitute image 9 is displayed, the control unit 1 switches the substitute image 9 to the progress image 8.

  The substitute image 9 is a black-painted image or a sample image. The sample image is determined as appropriate. The sample image is stored in the storage unit 2 in a nonvolatile manner. The storage unit 2 may store a plurality of types of sample images such as landscape images, person images, animal images, document images, and solid images. The operation panel 5 may accept an operation for selecting a sample image to be used as the substitute image 9. The control unit 1 uses the selected sample image as the substitute image 9.

  Even when the substitute image 9 is displayed, the extraction unit 37 extracts the previous image data. The display data generation unit 38 repeats the generation of display image data in units of blocks. The generated display image data is stored in the storage unit 2. Thereby, when the secret protection mode is canceled, the progress image 8 can be displayed immediately. In the secret protection mode, the control unit 1 does not give display image data of the progress image 8 to the display panel 51. Instead, the control unit 1 provides image data of the substitute image 9.

  FIG. 6 shows an example of switching of the substitute image 9. FIG. 6 shows an example in which a black-painted image is displayed as the substitute image 9. As shown in FIG. 6, the substitute image 9 is also divided into a plurality of strip-like blocks b. The left end of the block b is the left end of the substitute image 9. The right end of the block b is the right end of the substitute image 9. The number of blocks of the substitute image 9 and the size of one block are the same as the number of blocks of the progress image 8. 6 shows an example in which one page is divided into six blocks b as in FIG.

  The control unit 1 causes the display panel 51 to display the substitute image 9 instead of the progress image 8. When the number of display image data blocks of the generated progress image 8 is n, the control unit 1 causes the display panel 51 to display up to the nth block b of the substitute image 9. For example, when the display image data of the generated progress image 8 is only the first block, the control unit 1 causes the display panel 51 to display only the first block of the substitute image 9. When the display image data of the progress image 8 of the entire page is generated, the control unit 1 causes the display panel 51 to display the entire page of the substitute image 9.

  Further, the progress display screen 5a is provided with a page display field C1. The page display column C1 indicates the page number corresponding to the progress image 8 or the substitute image 9 in the print job. In other words, the control unit 1 causes the display panel 51 to display how many pages of the progress image 8 or the substitute image 9 of the print job are displayed.

  The progress image 8 allows the user to confirm what kind of printing result is obtained. When the progress image 8 is viewed, it may be noticed that a printed matter having a desired content cannot be obtained. A cancel button B2 is provided on the progress display screen 5a. As a result, the print job can be canceled (cancelled) immediately after seeing the progress image 8. Wasteful consumption of paper, toner, and power can be eliminated. When the cancel button B2 is operated, the control unit 1 instructs the engine control unit 6 to cancel printing. Based on the stop instruction, the engine control unit 6 causes the printing unit 7 to stop printing (paper feeding, paper conveyance, image formation, transfer, and fixing). Further, the control unit 1 causes the image processing unit 3 to stop image processing.

  Next, an example of the display flow of the progress image 8 when executing a print job will be described with reference to FIG. In the case of a copy job or a box print job, it is necessary to make settings on the original set or the operation panel 5. In these jobs, the user moves to the multifunction device 100 (display panel 51). Therefore, in the case of a copy job or a box print job, the control unit 1 displays the progress image 8 on the display panel 51.

  The start in FIG. 7 is a time point when the control unit 1 starts feeding the first sheet to the sheet feeding unit 7a. Before the first sheet is fed, a copy or box print job is set and the start key is operated. In the case of a copy job, scanning has started.

  The image processing unit 3 displays the progress display screen 5a on the display panel 51 (step # 1). Image processing of the page (image data) corresponding to the paper that has just started feeding (immediately fed paper) is started (step # 2). The image processing unit 3 starts image processing after feeding is started.

  And the control part 1 displays a page number on the page display column C1 (step # 3). For a plurality of print jobs, the control unit 1 causes the display panel 51 to change the page number each time paper is fed.

  In the case of single-sided printing, at the start of a print job, the control unit 1 displays “1” as a page number in the page display column C1. Each time the print job proceeds, the page number increases by one. In the multifunction device 100, the sheet is discharged with its front side facing down. In the case of duplex printing, printing is performed in the order of the back side to the front side so that the front side faces downward when discharging. In the case of duplex printing, at the start of a print job, the control unit 1 displays “2” as a page number in the page display field C1. Therefore, the order of the page numbers displayed in the page display column C1 may not match the page order.

  Eventually, the extraction unit 37 extracts the immediately preceding image data necessary for generating one block of display image data (step # 4). The display data generation unit 38 generates display image data for one block (step # 5). The control unit 1 stores the generated display image data in the storage unit 2 (step # 6). Then, the control unit 1 confirms whether or not it is a secret protection mode (step # 7). In other words, the control unit 1 confirms whether or not a secret protection operation has been performed.

  When not in the secret protection mode (No in Step # 7), the control unit 1 displays the progress image 8 on the display panel 51 (Step # 8). In the secret protection mode, the control unit 1 displays the substitute image 9 on the display panel 51 (step # 9). In step # 8 and step # 9, the block b to be displayed is added based on the addition of display image data for one block (steps # 4 to # 6).

  After step # 8 and step # 9, the control unit 1 confirms whether or not the entire page of the progress image 8 or the substitute image 9 has been displayed (step # 10). The control unit 1 checks whether or not the extraction (transmission / reception) of the immediately preceding image data of the page corresponding to the immediately preceding sheet is completed.

  When the entire page has not been displayed yet (No in step # 10), the flow returns to step # 4. When the entire page is displayed (Yes in step # 10), the control unit 1 checks whether image processing for all pages of the print job is completed (step # 11).

  When all the pages have not been completed (No in Step # 11), the control unit 1 continues to check whether or not feeding of the next sheet is started (No in Step # 12 and Step # 12 → Step # 12). 12). Note that when printing is performed continuously, the control unit 1 feeds the paper to the paper feeding unit 7a at a predetermined interval. The predetermined interval is determined by the printing speed of the multifunction device 100. In the case of the multifunction peripheral 100 that prints 30 sheets per minute, the predetermined interval is 60 seconds ÷ 30 sheets = 2 seconds.

  When feeding of the next sheet is started (Yes in Step # 12), the control unit 1 erases the displayed progress image 8 or alternative image 9 (Step # 13). Then, the flow returns to step # 2.

  When the image processing for all pages of the print job is completed (Yes in Step # 11), the control unit 1 deletes the progress display screen 5a (Step # 14). As a result, the control unit 1 causes the display panel 51 to display another screen. By step # 14, the progress image 8 or the substitute image 9 is also not displayed. Then, this flow ends (END).

  As described above, the image forming apparatus (multifunction peripheral 100) according to the embodiment includes the printing unit 7, the image processing unit 3, the engine control unit 6, the extraction unit 37, the display unit (display panel 51), and the control unit 1. . The printing unit 7 performs printing. The image processing unit 3 includes a module that performs image processing on image data. The engine control unit 6 receives immediately preceding image data, which is image data immediately before printing, which has been processed by the module for a print job, from the image processing unit 3 and causes the printing unit 7 to form an image based on the immediately preceding image data. The extraction unit 37 extracts the immediately preceding image data that the image processing unit 3 transmits to the engine control unit 6. The display unit displays an image. The control unit 1 causes the display unit to display a progress image 8 indicating the progress status of the image processing based on the immediately preceding image data extracted by the extraction unit 37.

  As a result, an image indicating the progress of image processing can be displayed during printing. By displaying visually appealing information during printing, user boredom can be reduced. The user can confirm how much image processing has progressed with the progress image 8. For example, it is possible to confirm how many pages of the print job image processing has been completed. The progress image 8 is based on image data used for printing. Therefore, it is possible to confirm whether or not a desired printed matter is output from the progress image 8.

  One page of the progress image 8 is divided into a plurality of strip-like blocks b. When displaying the progress image 8 of one page, the control unit 1 causes the display unit to display the top block b of the page after the extraction unit 37 starts extracting the immediately preceding image data of one page. Each time the extraction of the immediately preceding image data by the extraction unit 37 proceeds, the control unit 1 adds the block b to be displayed to the display unit. The control unit 1 finally displays one page of the progress image 8 on the display unit. Thereby, as the image processing progresses, the area indicating the contents of the printed matter in the progress image 8 gradually increases. An area indicating the contents of the printed material is added in units of blocks. The progress image 8 changes with time. The progress image 8 can be animatedly changed. Therefore, the user can be entertained visually. The user's boredom during the waiting time can be reduced.

  As described above, one page of the progress image 8 is divided into a plurality of strip-shaped (rectangular) blocks b. However, the block b may have a lattice shape (square). In this case, the display order of each grid is predetermined. When displaying the progress image 8 of one page, the control unit 1 causes the display unit to display the first (first) block b after the extraction unit 37 starts extracting the immediately preceding image data of one page. Each time the extraction of the previous image data by the extraction unit 37 proceeds, the control unit 1 causes the blocks b to be displayed to be sequentially added to the display unit. When the last block b is displayed, the entire progress image 8 of one page is displayed. Thus, it may be other than a strip shape (rectangular shape) or a lattice shape (square shape).

  An operation unit (touch panel 52) that receives a user operation is included. When the operation unit accepts a secret protection operation (touch of the secret protection button B1), the control unit 1 causes the display unit to display a predetermined alternative image 9 instead of the progress image 8. After the extraction unit 37 starts extracting the immediately preceding image data of one page, the control unit 1 displays the first block b of the substitute image 9 on the display unit. Each time the extraction unit 37 extracts the immediately preceding image data, the control unit 1 adds the block b of the alternative image 9 to be displayed. The control unit 1 finally displays one page of the substitute image 9 on the display unit. For the purpose of information security and confidentiality, when the progress image 8 is not desired to be seen by others, the progress image 8 can be prevented from being seen by others. Information and secret leaks can be prevented. Since the substitute image 9 is displayed instead of the progress image 8, the effect of reducing boredom is not lost.

  The substitute image 9 is a black paint image or a sample image. Thereby, the user waiting for the completion of printing can be visually enjoyed by the substitute image 9.

  The printing unit 7 includes a paper feeding unit 7a that supplies paper one by one. The engine control unit 6 causes the printing unit 7 to feed paper. The image processing unit 3 starts generating the immediately preceding image data of the page corresponding to the immediately preceding sheet that has been fed immediately before the sheet feeding is started. Prior to feeding the next sheet, the control unit 1 causes the display unit to display the entire progress image 8 or substitute image 9 of the immediately preceding sheet. As a result, after the start of feeding the page, it is possible to start displaying an image (the progress image 8 or the substitute image 9) corresponding to the immediately preceding sheet. Further, the entire display of the image corresponding to the immediately preceding sheet can be finished before the next sheet is fed. It is possible to display the contents (printing result) of a page that is actually image-processed in real time (rapidly).

  Further, the control unit 1 causes the display unit to display how many pages of the progress image 8 or the substitute image 9 of the print job are displayed. Thus, the user can check how many pages of the print job are currently processed.

  The operation unit (touch panel 52, cancel key) accepts a cancel operation (operation to the cancel button B2 or the cancel key) for canceling the print job. As a result, the print job can be canceled (cancelled) while viewing the progress image 8. When the progress image 8 different from the desired (expected) result is displayed, the user may cancel the print job. Waste of paper, time and power can be reduced.

  In addition, a display image data generation unit that generates display image data for displaying the progress image 8 on the display unit by converting the data into the data format of the immediately preceding image data extracted by the extraction unit 37 is included. The control unit 1 displays the progress image 8 on the display unit based on the display image data. As a result, display image data can be quickly generated after the previous image data is extracted. The progress image 8 can be updated quickly and in real time following the transmission of the immediately preceding image data.

  The embodiment of the present invention has been described above, but the scope of the present invention is not limited to this, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention.

  The present invention can be used in an image forming apparatus that processes and prints image data.

100 MFP (Image Forming Apparatus) 1 Control Unit 3 Image Processing Unit 31 First Module (Module)
32 Second module (module) 34 Third module (module)
36 Fourth module (module) 37 Extraction unit 38 Display data generation unit 51 Display panel (display unit)
52 Touch Panel (Operation Unit) 53 Hard Key (Operation Unit)
6 Engine control unit 7 Printing unit 7a Paper feeding unit 8 Progress image 9 Alternative image b Block

Claims (8)

A printing section for printing;
An image processing unit including a module for performing image processing on image data;
An engine control unit that receives immediately preceding image data, which is the image data immediately before printing, for which the processing by the module has been completed, from the image processing unit, and forms an image in the printing unit based on the immediately preceding image data in the case of a print job; ,
An extraction unit that extracts the immediately preceding image data that the image processing unit transmits to the engine control unit;
A display for displaying an image;
An image forming apparatus comprising: a control unit configured to display a progress image indicating a progress status of image processing on the display unit based on the immediately preceding image data extracted by the extraction unit. The progress image of one page is divided into a plurality of blocks,
When displaying the progress image of one page,
The controller is
After starting the extraction of the immediately preceding image data of one page by the extraction unit, the first block on the page is displayed on the display unit,
Each time the extraction of the previous image data by the extraction unit proceeds, the block to be displayed is added to the display unit,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the progress image of one page is finally displayed on the display unit. Including an operation unit that accepts user operations,
When the operation unit receives a secret protection operation,
The control unit displays a predetermined substitute image on the display unit instead of the progress image,
The controller is
After starting the extraction of the previous image data of one page by the extraction unit, the top block of the substitute image is displayed on the display unit,
Each time the extraction of the immediately preceding image data by the extraction unit proceeds, the block of the substitute image to be displayed is added,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the substitute image of one page is finally displayed on the display unit.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the substitute image is a black image or a sample image. The printing unit includes a paper feeding unit that supplies paper one by one,
The engine control unit causes the printing unit to feed paper,
The image processing unit starts generating the immediately preceding image data of the page corresponding to the immediately preceding sheet that has been fed immediately after the sheet feeding is started,
5. The control unit according to claim 1, wherein before the next sheet is fed, the control unit causes the display unit to display the entire progress image or the substitute image of the immediately preceding sheet. The image forming apparatus described in the item.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit causes the display unit to display how many pages of the progress image or the alternative image of the print job are displayed. apparatus. Including an operation unit that accepts user operations,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the operation unit receives a cancel operation for canceling a print job. Including a display data generating unit that converts the data format of the immediately preceding image data extracted by the extracting unit to generate display image data for displaying the progress image on the display unit,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit displays the progress image on the display unit based on the display image data.

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