JP2019068181A - Image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide an image forming apparatus that, even when adding new information to information in an identification code obtained from a document and forming an image representing the identification code to which the new information is added on a sheet, can form the image representing the identification code on the sheet without violating restrictions.SOLUTION: An image forming apparatus detects image data representing an identification code from image data output from a scanner, establishes information representing a new identification code including information included in the detected image data and new information, when determining that the established information violates at least one restriction, executes at least one re-establishment such that the established information becomes information not violating at least one restriction, and forms, on a sheet, an image representing the identification code represented by the information obtained through the execution of at least one re-establishment and an image represented by information other than the information representing the identification code in the image data output from the scanner.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus including a scanner that outputs image data corresponding to an image on a document, an image forming unit that forms an image on a sheet, and a control unit.

Conventionally, when managing highly confidential documents, there has been a demand that information such as the name of a person who made a copy of the document and the date and time of making a copy be known.
Therefore, an image forming apparatus has been proposed in which tracking information such as the name of a person who made a copy and the date and time of making a copy is made identification code, and the identification code tracking code is printed on a sheet together with an image on a document. (Patent Document 1). Since the tracking code is printed on the sheet on which the document has been copied by the image forming apparatus together with the image on the document, the identification code reader reads the tracking code to find out the name and copy of the person who made the copy. You can track the date and time you did the

Unexamined-Japanese-Patent No. 2007-166361

By the way, in order to be able to know who and when copied the manuscript, including the copy before this copy, it is possible to copy the manuscript with the tracking code every time it is copied. It is necessary to add new tracking information to the tracking information about the copy and to make it identification code and to print the identification coded tracking code on the sheet together with the image on the manuscript.
On the other hand, there are some limitations when printing the tracking code on a sheet. For example, there are restrictions such as printing to fit within the printable area of the sheet, printing not to overlap with the image on the document, and printing with a size readable by the identification code reader.
However, as new tracking information is added each time copying of the document with tracking code is performed, the amount of tracking information to be identified is increased, so the tracking code can be placed on the sheet without breaking the above restriction. Printing may not be possible.

  Therefore, the present invention has been created to solve the above problems, and adds new information to the information possessed by the identification code obtained from the manuscript, and an image representing the identification code to which the new information is added. An object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus capable of forming an image representing an identification code on a sheet without being against the restriction even in the case of forming the sheet.

In order to achieve the above-described object, an image forming apparatus according to the present invention includes a scanner that outputs image data corresponding to an image on a document, an image forming unit that forms an image on a sheet, and a control unit.
Then, the control unit detects image data representing the identification code from the image data output by the scanner, and constructs information representing a new identification code including information included in the detected image data and new information. An image representing an identification code represented by the constructed information when it is determined whether the constructed information violates at least one constraint and it is determined that the constructed information does not violate at least one constraint; The image forming unit is controlled to form an image represented by information other than the information representing the identification code among the image data output by the scanner on a sheet.
In addition, when it is determined that the constructed information violates at least one constraint, the control unit reconstructs the constructed information at least once so that the information does not violate at least one constraint, An image representing an identification code represented by information that has been restructured at least once and an image represented by information other than the information representing the identification code among image data output by the scanner are formed on a sheet Control the image forming unit.
The image forming apparatus of the present invention is characterized by the above.

  When the control unit determines that the constructed information violates at least one constraint, at least one reconstruction is performed on the constructed information so that the information does not violate the at least one constraint, and at least one In order to form on the sheet, an image representing the identification code represented by the information that has been reconstructed several times and an image represented by the information other than the information representing the identification code among the image data output by the scanner Control the image forming unit.

  If the image forming apparatus according to the present invention is implemented, new information is added to the information included in the identification code obtained from the original, and an image representing the identification code to which the new information is added is formed on the sheet, An image representing the identification code can be formed on the sheet without violating the constraints.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of a multifunction peripheral according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the main electrical configuration of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. 1 in blocks. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the process which CPU10 shown in FIG. 2 performs. It is a flowchart which shows the continuation of the process shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the continuation of the process shown in FIG. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram of a document image G1 printed on a sheet, an old tracking code image BC1, and the like. FIG. 16 is a schematic view showing a state in which the new tracking code image BC3 does not fit in the printable area E. FIG. 6 is an explanatory view showing a state in which a reduced new tracking code image BC3 is printed on a sheet P. It is explanatory drawing which shows the state in which new tracking code image BC3 was printed on the coordinate different from the old tracking code coordinate. It is explanatory drawing which shows the state which new tracking code image BC3 overlapped with footer information image G2. It is a flowchart which abbreviate | omits and shows one part the flow of the process which CPU10 performs in 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which abbreviate | omits and shows one part the flow of the process which CPU10 performs in 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which partially omits and shows the flow of the process which CPU10 performs in 4th Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which partially omits and shows the flow of the process which CPU10 performs in 5th Embodiment of this invention.

In the following embodiments, a multifunction peripheral is described as an example of the image forming apparatus of the present invention.
First Embodiment
[Schematic configuration of MFP]
A schematic configuration of a multifunction peripheral according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 1 showing the same.

  The multifunction device 1 according to this embodiment includes a print function, a copy function, a scanner function, a telephone function, a fax transmission / reception function, an e-mail transmission / reception function, and the like. As shown in FIG. 1, the multifunction device 1 includes a housing 21, a document platen cover 6, an ADF (Auto Document Feeder) 7, sheet feed trays 3 and 4, a sheet discharge tray 5, an operation panel 2 and a USB receptacle (USB memory The plug is inserted into the socket 9) and so on. The housing 21 is substantially box-shaped, and a platen cover 6 covering a platen (not shown) is disposed at the top. The platen cover 6 has a pivot shaft (not shown) at the rear, and can pivot upward. The multifunction device 1 includes a first sensor 31 (FIG. 2), which is an image sensor, below the document table. When the document is placed on the document table, the scanner 30 (FIG. 2) moves the first sensor 31 from the left to the right with respect to the document supported by the document table to move one side of the document read.

  The ADF 7 is disposed on the upper left side of the document platen cover 6. The ADF 7 has an ADF cover 7a, a mechanism (not shown) driven by a motor to convey a document, and a second sensor 32 (FIG. 3) which is an image sensor. The ADF cover 7a has a pivot shaft (not shown) at the right end, and can pivot upward. The ADF cover 7a can be changed between the closed position shown in FIG. 2 and the open position which is pivoted upward and slightly inclined obliquely upward from the pivot axis. The ADF cover 7a in the open position supports the document on its upper surface. The ADF 7 takes in the document supported by the ADF cover 7a in the open position from the opening (not shown), and moves the document relative to the first sensor 31 which is stationary below the left end of the document table , One side of the document is read, and the document is discharged onto the upper surface of the platen cover 6.

As described above, when the scanner 30 reads only one side of the document, the first sensor 31 reads it. On the other hand, when the scanner 30 reads both sides of one side and the other side of the original, the original is taken in from the opening of the ADF 7, the second sensor 32 reads the other side of the original, and the first sensor 31 makes the original Below the left end of the table, read one side of the moving document.
In addition to the touch panel 8, the operation panel 2 has operation keys (not shown) such as a menu key, a copy key, a numeric keypad, and a start key. The operation panel 2 and the USB receptacle 9 are disposed on the front side of the housing 21. The USB receptacle 9 is a USB standard receptacle.

  The paper feed trays 3 and 4 are vertically disposed below the front surface of the housing 21 and are detachable. The discharge tray 5 is disposed at a position slightly recessed from the front surface of the housing 21. Further, inside the housing 21, a feeding unit (not shown), an image forming unit 37 (FIG. 3), and a discharging unit (not shown) are provided. The sheet (image forming medium such as copy sheet) supported by the sheet feeding tray 3 or the sheet feeding tray 4 is conveyed to the image forming unit 37 by the feeding unit, and the image forming unit 37 receives the conveyed sheet. Form an image. The discharge unit discharges the sheet on which the image is formed to the sheet discharge tray 5.

[Main electrical configuration of MFP]
Next, the main electrical configuration of the multifunction machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG.
In the following description, the identification code includes a two-dimensional code such as QR code (registered trademark) in addition to a one-dimensional code such as a barcode.

  The MFP 1 has an electrical configuration such as a CPU 10, a RAM 11, a ROM 12, an NVRAM (nonvolatile memory) 40, an image forming unit 37, a scanner 30, a FAX communication unit 33, a user interface 35, a USB interface 36, and a network interface 38. Each electrical configuration is electrically connected by a bus 34. The scanner 30 reads an image on a document by at least one of the first sensor 31 and the second sensor 32, and outputs image data corresponding to the image on the document. The image data output from the scanner 30 is stored in the read image storage area 41 of the NVRAM 40. The CPU 10, which is an example of the control unit, controls each electrical configuration to execute the above-described functions of the multifunction device 1. The ROM 12 stores a computer program that the CPU 10 executes in a readable manner. The computer program stored in the ROM 12 includes a computer program for controlling the operation of the scanner 30, a process of detecting an identification code image from image data output by the scanner 30, and a process of decoding the detected identification code image Processing for constructing new tracking information by adding print information of this time which is an example of new information to the old tracking information when the decoded identification code is the tracking information, and the new tracking information thus constructed A process of reconstructing new tracking information when it violates a restriction set in advance in the multifunction machine 1, and a process of controlling the image forming unit 37 to print the reconstructed new tracking information on a sheet Computer programs to be executed are included.

The RAM 11 temporarily stores the processing result of the CPU 10 and the like. Further, in the RAM 11, a work area for temporarily storing a computer program read from the ROM 12 is set. The CPU 10 develops the computer program read from the ROM 12 in the work area of the RAM 11 and executes it.
Further, an identification code storage area 42 in which data for creating an identification code image such as a tracking code image representing tracking information is recorded is stored in the NVRAM 40, and data indicating restriction contents when printing the identification code image on a sheet And the restriction content storage area 43 in which the
The image forming unit 37 prints a color or monochrome image on a sheet by electrophotography according to, for example, a print job. The image forming unit 37 has four process cartridges corresponding to four colors of black, cyan, magenta, and yellow, not shown, an exposure unit, a transfer roller, a fixing unit, and the like. Each process cartridge has a photosensitive drum, a developing roller, a toner container, etc., which are not shown. The exposure unit forms an electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photosensitive drum. The developing roller supplies toner to the electrostatic latent image to form a toner image. The transfer roller transfers the toner image to the sheet. The fixing unit thermally fixes the toner to the sheet.

  The FAX communication unit 33 transmits / receives FAX data to / from another multifunction machine or FAX communication device via a connected communication line (not shown). The user interface 35 displays various setting screens and the operation state of the apparatus on the touch panel 8 (FIG. 1) provided on the operation panel 2. Further, the user interface 35 outputs, to the CPU 10, a signal corresponding to an operation performed by the user on the touch panel 8 and the operation key. The USB interface 36 reads data from and writes data to the USB memory connected to the USB receptacle 9 in accordance with the USB standard. The network interface 38 communicates with the PC 50 and the like via a communication line such as a LAN line.

[Printing process of tracking code]
Next, the flow of processing executed by the CPU 10 of the multifunction device 1 to print the tracking code on a sheet will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. The step executed by the CPU 10 is abbreviated as S.

When the operator of multifunction machine 1 rotates document platen cover 6 (FIG. 1) to set the document to be copied on document platen (not shown) and operates the copy button provided on operation panel 2 The CPU 10 (FIG. 2) controls the scanner 30 (FIG. 2) to read the image on the document, and stores the image data on the read document in the read image storage area 41 (S1 in FIG. 3) . Subsequently, the CPU 10 analyzes the image data stored in the read image storage area 41, and whether or not the identification code image can be detected from the image data, that is, whether the identification code image exists in the read image It is determined whether or not it exists (S2), and when it is determined that it exists (S2: Yes), the detected identification code image is decoded (S3). For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the document image G1 is printed in the printable area E of the sheet P, and the footer information image G2 and the identification code image corresponding to the old tracking information are below the document image G1. If a certain old tracking code image BC1 is printed, it is determined that an identification code image exists, and the old tracking code image BC1 is decoded. The document image G1 and the footer information image G2 are an example of an image represented by information other than the information representing the identification code. The print area of the document image G1 and the footer information image G2 is an example of an image formation area for forming an image other than the image representing the identification code. The printable area E is an example of an image formable area.
Subsequently, the CPU 10 determines whether the decoded identification code is an identification code representing tracking information (S4). Here, the tracking information is information indicating the name of the person who made the copy, or the model name or serial number of the copying machine such as a multifunction machine, the date and time of making the copy, and the serial number of the number of copies. That is, the tracking information is information that can track who made a copy and when, etc. by reading the identification code printed on the sheet together with the image on the document.

  Here, when it is determined that the CPU 10 is the tracking information (S4: Yes), the print information of this time is added to the tracking information decoded this time (hereinafter referred to as old tracking information), and new tracking information (Hereinafter referred to as new tracking information) is constructed (S5). Here, the current print information is information corresponding to the tracking information, but the information is not limited to the same type as the old tracking information. For example, the type of tracking information to be identification-coded may differ depending on the device having the copy function, such as a multifunction peripheral. Then, the CPU 10 determines whether the amount of information of the new tracking information is within the upper limit of the identification code specification (S6). The upper limit value of the information amount is stored in the restriction content storage area 43 (FIG. 2) as one of a plurality of restriction contents. For example, it is assumed that the identification code is a barcode of CODE 128, and the maximum reading width of a reader such as a barcode reader that reads the identification code is 150 mm. Since the CODE 128 can represent ASCII characters, the maximum number of ASCII characters that can be accommodated in 150 mm is set as the upper limit value of the information amount. The information amount of the new tracking information is an example of the information amount of the identification code represented by the constructed information.

  Here, when the CPU 10 determines that the information amount of the new tracking information is within the upper limit of the identification code specification (S6: Yes), an image representing the new tracking code corresponding to the new tracking information (hereinafter referred to as a new tracking code image No.) is constructed (S7). For example, the old tracking information is only one tracking information consisting of the 2015.08.31 (the date of copying) + A (the name of the person who made the copy) + Z1 (the model name of the copying machine). When the print information is the information composed of 2017.09.20 + B + Z2, the information of (2017.08. 31 + A + Z1) (2017.09.20 + B + Z2) is identified and coded according to the JIS standard or ISO standard of CODE 128 A code is created, and data necessary for creating a new tracking code image representing the new tracking code is read out from the identification code storage area 42, and a new tracking code image is constructed. The new tracking code image is an example of an image representing an identification code represented by the constructed information.

  Subsequently, when the CPU 10 arranges the new tracking code image constructed in S7 at the old tracking code coordinates (coordinates in the print area where the old tracking code image was printed), the new tracking code image is within the printable area. That is, it is determined whether the new tracking code image can be printed so as to fit in the printable area (S8). For example, it is assumed that the old tracking code image BC1 is printed on the right side of the footer information image G2 indicating the footer information as shown in FIG. 6, and the current printing is performed on the right end of the old tracking code image BC1 as shown in FIG. It is assumed that the new tracking code image BC3 is obtained by arranging the current tracking code image BC2 corresponding to the information. In this case, as shown in FIG. 7, when the new tracking code image BC3 is arranged at the coordinates of the old tracking code image BC1, the new tracking code image BC3 extends out of the printable area E. It is determined that there is not.

  Here, when it is determined that the new tracking code image is not within the printable area (S8: No), the CPU 10 determines whether the new tracking code image can be reduced (S10 in FIG. 4). If it is determined that the tracking code image can be reduced (S10: Yes), the new tracking code image is reduced by one step (S11). Subsequently, the CPU 10 returns to S8 (FIG. 3) again, and in the case where the new tracking code image reduced by one step in S11 is arranged at the old tracking code coordinates, determines whether it is within the printable area or not. If it is determined not to be within (S8: No), it is again determined whether the new tracking code image can be reduced (S10), and if it is determined that reduction is possible (S10: Yes), the new tracking code is again performed. The image is further reduced by one step (S11). That is, when the new tracking code image is arranged at the old tracking code coordinates, the reduction of the new tracking code image is repeated stepwise in the collapsible range until it is determined to be within the printable area.

  For example, the reduction rate of the new tracking code image is set in a plurality of stages, it is determined in each stage whether or not the new tracking code image can be decoded, and if decodable, it is determined that reduction is possible. The determination as to whether or not decoding is possible is necessary for decoding because the error in the ratio between the width of the bars that make up the reduced tracking code image and the width of the space between the bars becomes large, making decoding impossible. The minimum error is stored in advance in the constraint content storage area 43 (FIG. 2) as one of the constraints. Then, as a result of analyzing the reduced new tracking code image, if the ratio between the width of the bar and the width of the space between the bars is larger than the above-mentioned minimum error, it is determined that decoding is impossible. That is, it is determined that reduction is impossible. The process of S11 is an example of at least one reconstruction.

Then, if the reduced new tracking code image is arranged at the old tracking code coordinates, and if it is determined to be within the printable area (S8 in FIG. 3: Yes), is the reduced new tracking code image not overlapping another image? It is determined whether or not (S9 in FIG. 4). For example, as shown in FIG. 8, when the reduced new tracking code image BC3 does not overlap with the document image G1 and the footer information image G2, it is determined that the new tracking code image does not overlap with another image. Here, when it is determined that the new tracking code image does not overlap another image (S9: Yes), the CPU 10 arranges the new tracking code image at the old tracking code coordinates (S16).
When the CPU 10 determines in S10 that the new tracking code image can not be reduced (S10: No), the CPU 10 determines whether or not there is an area where the new tracking code image can be moved in the same sheet (S10). S12). For example, as shown in FIG. 9, when the new tracking code image BC3 can be printed between the document image G1 and the footer information image G2, there is an area where the new tracking code image can be moved within the same sheet. Determine that there is.

Here, when the CPU 10 determines that there is an area where the new tracking code image can be moved in the same sheet (S12: Yes), the CPU 10 arranges the new tracking code image at the arrangeable coordinates (S13). When it is determined that there is no area where the new tracking code image can be moved in the same sheet (S12: No), the old tracking code image detected in the previous S2 is held without being discarded (S14). Subsequently, the CPU 10 constructs a new tracking code image only with the print information of this time (S15), and arranges the constructed new tracking code image at the old tracking code coordinates (S16). The process of S13 or the process of S15 and S16 is an example of at least one reconstruction.
When the CPU 10 arranges the new tracking code image at the old tracking code coordinates when S8 (FIG. 3) is first executed, the CPU 10 determines that it is within the printable area (S8: Yes). It is determined whether the tracking code image does not overlap other images (S9 in FIG. 4). For example, as shown in FIG. 10, when the new tracking code image BC3 is arranged at the old tracking code coordinates, when overlapping with the footer information image G2, it is determined that the new tracking code image overlaps with another image. Here, when it is determined that the new tracking code image does not overlap another image (S9: Yes), the CPU 10 arranges the new tracking code image at the old tracking code coordinates (S16).

If the CPU 10 determines in S6 (FIG. 3) that the amount of information on the new tracking information is not within the upper limit of the identification code specification (S6: No), the old tracking code image detected in S2 is discarded. Do not hold (S17). Subsequently, the CPU 10 constructs a new tracking code only with the print information of this time (S18), and arranges a new tracking code image representing the constructed new tracking code in the old tracking code coordinates (S16).
When it is determined in S9 (FIG. 4) that the new tracking code image does not overlap another image (S9: Yes), the CPU 10 arranges the new tracking code image in the old tracking code coordinates (S16).
Then, the CPU 10 determines whether or not the old tracking code image is held (S19 in FIG. 5), and when it is determined that the old tracking code image is held (S19: Yes), the old tracking code image is contained in the same sheet. It is determined whether there is an area that can be arranged (S20). Here, when the CPU 10 determines that there is an area where the old tracking code image can be arranged in the same sheet (S20: Yes), the old tracking code image is arranged in the above-described arrangeable area (S21). The printing on the image is executed (S22). When it is determined in S2 (FIG. 3) that no identification code image is present in the read image (S2: No), the CPU 10 executes printing of the read image read in S1 (S22 in FIG. 5). When the CPU 10 determines that the old tracking code image is not held in S19 (FIG. 5) (S19: No), printing on a sheet is executed (S22).
Further, as described above, when the CPU 10 determines that there is no area where the new tracking code image can be moved in the same sheet (S12: No), the following process is performed until the printing process (S22) is performed. The new tracking code image is reconstructed by not executing the process of printing the new tracking code image on the sheet (S15). The processes of S19 to S21 are an example of at least one reconstruction.

[Effect of First Embodiment]
(1) In the MFP 1 according to the first embodiment described above, the amount of information of new tracking information constructed by adding the print information of this time to the decoded old tracking information exceeds the upper limit of the identification code specification, and the restriction Even if it violates the above, new tracking information can be reconstructed so as not to violate the restriction.
(2) Furthermore, in the first embodiment, when the new tracking code image BC3 representing the new tracking information constructed by adding the print information of this time to the decoded old tracking information is arranged in the old tracking code coordinates. Even if it does not fit in the printable area E, the new tracking code image BC3 is arranged at the arrangeable coordinates and printed on the sheet P by performing reconstruction so as to reduce the new tracking code image BC3. be able to.

(3) Furthermore, the MFP 1 according to the first embodiment reduces the size of the new tracking code image BC3 to a new tracking code image even if it does not fit in the printable area E when placed in the old tracking code coordinates. It is possible to print on the sheet P by reconstructing the code image BC3 at the arrangeable coordinates.
(4) Further, in the first embodiment, when the new tracking code image BC3 representing the new tracking information constructed by adding the print information of this time to the decoded old tracking information is disposed at the old tracking code coordinates. When it fits in the printable area E but overlaps with other images, the new tracking code image BC3 is arranged at the arrangeable coordinates and printed on the sheet P by performing reconstruction so as to reduce the new tracking code image BC3. be able to.
(5) Further, the MFP 1 according to the first embodiment reconstructs the new tracking code image BC3 so as not to violate all the constraints, even when a plurality of constraints are set. The new tracking code image BC3 can be printed on the sheet P by repeating.
(6) In other words, if the MFP 1 of the first embodiment is implemented, the new tracking code image BC3 representing the new tracking information in which the current tracking information is added to the old tracking information possessed by the identification code obtained from the document is restricted. It is possible to print on the sheet P without contradiction.

(7) Further, when there is no area to which the reduced new tracking code image BC3 can be moved, the MFP 1 according to the first embodiment constructs the new tracking code image using only the print information of this time, and constructs the new tracking code image. Since the new tracking code image can be arranged at the old tracking code coordinates and printed on the sheet P, there is no risk of losing the current print information, that is, the latest tracking information.
(8) Further, when there is no area where the new tracking code image BC3 can be moved within the same sheet P, the multifunction device 1 of the first embodiment does not print the new tracking code image BC3 on the next sheet. There is no risk of losing the new tracking code image BC3.

Second Embodiment
Next, a multifunction peripheral according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing executed by the CPU 10 in the present embodiment with a part thereof omitted. In addition, description is simplified or abbreviate | omitted about the same process as 1st Embodiment.

The CPU 10 executes the same processes S1 to S5 (FIG. 3) as in the first embodiment to construct new tracking information (S5). Subsequently, the CPU 10 constructs a new tracking code image corresponding to the new tracking information constructed in S5 (S6A), and the print size (print area) when printing the new tracking code image on the sheet is within the upper limit or not Is determined (S6B). For example, if the maximum reading width of a reader such as a bar code reader for reading a new tracking code image is 150 mm and 150 mm is a print size limitation, whether the print size of the new tracking code image is within 150 mm or not judge. Here, when the CPU 10 determines that the print size of the new tracking code image is not within the upper limit (S6B: No), the new tracking code image, the tracking code image corresponding to the current print information, and the old tracking code The image is divided into (S17A). That is, the new tracking code image is divided so as not to violate the image print size restriction.
Subsequently, the CPU 10 arranges the tracking code image corresponding to the current print information generated by the division in S17A as the new tracking code image at the old tracking code coordinates (S17B). Thereafter, the CPU 10 executes the same processing as S9 to S22 (FIGS. 4 and 5) of the first embodiment. Printing is an example of formation, and print size is an example of formation size.
If there are a plurality of old tracking code images, in S17A, the tracking code image corresponding to the current print information and the latest old tracking code image (the old tracking code image printed in the previous print), It can also be divided into other old tracking code images. Also, the new tracking code image can be divided into three or more tracking code units. The process of S17A or S17B is an example of at least one reconstruction. In addition, the print information of this time in S17A is an example of a new unit of information included each time the image forming unit 37 forms an image on a sheet.

[Effect of Second Embodiment]
(1) The MFP 1 according to the second embodiment described above prints the new tracking code image as the current print information even if the print size when printing the new tracking code image on the sheet exceeds the upper limit. Can be divided into the tracking code image and the old tracking code image, and the tracking code image corresponding to the current print information can be arranged as the new tracking code image at the old tracking code coordinates and printed on the sheet. Also, if there is an area where the old tracking code image can be placed in the same sheet, the old tracking code image can also be printed on the same sheet.
That is, if the MFP 1 according to the second embodiment is implemented, even if the new tracking code image violates the print size constraint, the new tracking code image is divided so as not to violate the constraint. As a result, it is possible to increase the certainty of printing a new tracking code image on a sheet.

(2) Furthermore, the MFP 1 according to the second embodiment uses the tracking code image corresponding to the current print information as the new tracking code image, the old tracking code coordinates, that is, the fixed position at which the tracking code image has been printed so far. Since printing can be performed, there is no possibility that the old tracking code image is read by mistake when reading the tracking code using an identification code reader such as a bar code reader.
(3) Further, the MFP 1 according to the second embodiment divides the new tracking code image into tracking code units, that is, units of new information added each time the image on the document is printed once on the sheet. There is no risk that the added information will be lost due to the division.

Third Embodiment
Next, a multifunction peripheral according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing executed by the CPU 10 in the present embodiment with a part omitted. The description of the same processing as in the first and second embodiments will be simplified or omitted.

  When the CPU 10 executes the same processing S1 to S8 (FIG. 3) as the first embodiment and arranges the new tracking code image at the old tracking code coordinates, it is determined that the new tracking code image is not within the printable area (S8 in FIG. 3: No), it is determined whether or not the new tracking code image can be reduced (S10 in FIG. 12). Here, when it is determined that the new tracking code image can be reduced (S10: Yes), the CPU 10 reduces the new tracking code image by one step (S11). Subsequently, the CPU 10 determines whether or not the new tracking code image has been reduced to a readable lower limit (S11A). If it is determined that the new tracking code image has been reduced to a lower limit (S11A: Yes), the new tracking code image When arranged in the old tracking code coordinates, it is determined whether the new tracking code image is within the printable area (S11B), and when it is determined not within the printable area (S11B: No) It is determined whether there is an area in which the tracking code image can be moved (S12). Here, when it is determined that there is a movable area (S12: Yes), the new tracking code image is arranged at the arrangeable coordinates (S13). The processes of S11 to S13 are an example of at least one reconstruction.

  If the CPU 10 determines in S11A that the new tracking code image has not been reduced to the lower limit (S11A: No), the CPU 10 executes S8 (FIG. 3) again to set the new tracking code image to the old tracking code. When arranged in coordinates, if it is determined that the new tracking code image is within the printable area (S8: Yes), it is determined whether the new tracking code image does not overlap with another image (S11C in FIG. 12) ). Here, when it is determined that the CPU 10 does not overlap another image (S11C: Yes), the new tracking code image is arranged at the old tracking code coordinates (S16). If the CPU 10 determines in S10 that the new tracking code image can not be reduced (S10: No), or if it determines in S11 C that the new tracking code image overlaps with another image (S11 C) No: it is determined whether there is an area where the new tracking code image can be moved within the same sheet (S12), and if it is determined that the movable area is available (S12: Yes), the new tracking code image Are arranged at possible coordinates (S13). If the CPU 10 determines in S12 that there is no coordinate at which the new tracking code image can be arranged on the same sheet (S12: No), the CPU 10 holds the detected old tracking code image (S14), and the new tracking code An image is constructed using only the print information of this time (S15).

[Effect of Third Embodiment]
The MFP 1 according to the third embodiment described above can arrange the new tracking code image even if the new tracking code image can not be arranged at the old tracking code coordinates even if the new tracking code image is reduced. Can be placed at any coordinate.
That is, if the MFP 1 according to the third embodiment is implemented, even if the new tracking code image is reduced, even if it is arranged at the old tracking code coordinates, printing is performed within the printable area, or the new tracking code image is Even if it is against the constraint that they do not overlap with the image of the image, it is possible to reconstruct the configuration by changing the arrangement coordinates of the new tracking code image so as not to violate the constraints. The tracking code image can be printed on the sheet.

Fourth Embodiment
Next, a multifunction peripheral according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing executed by the CPU 10 in the present embodiment with a part thereof omitted. The description of the same processes as in the first to third embodiments will be simplified or omitted.

  When the CPU 10 executes the same processing S1 to S8 (FIG. 3) as the first embodiment and arranges the new tracking code image at the old tracking code coordinates, it is determined that the new tracking code image is not within the printable area (S8 in FIG. 3: No), it is determined whether or not the new tracking code image can be reduced (S10 in FIG. 13). Here, when it is determined that the new tracking code image can be reduced (S10: Yes), the CPU 10 reduces the new tracking code image by one step (S11). Subsequently, the CPU 10 determines whether or not the new tracking code image has been reduced to a readable lower limit (S11A). If it is determined that the new tracking code image has been reduced to a lower limit (S11A: Yes), the new tracking code image When arranged in the old tracking code coordinates, it is determined whether the new tracking code image is within the printable area (S11B), and when it is determined not within the printable area (S11B: No), the new tracking code image , And the tracking code image corresponding to the current print information and the old tracking code image (S17A). Subsequently, the CPU 10 arranges the tracking code image corresponding to the current print information generated by the division in S17A as the new tracking code image at the old tracking code coordinates (S17B). The process of S17A or S17B is an example of at least one reconstruction. Also, the current print information in S17A is an example of a new information unit.

[Effect of Fourth Embodiment]
The MFP 1 according to the fourth embodiment described above divides the new tracking code image even if the new tracking code image can not be placed at the old tracking code coordinates even if the new tracking code image is reduced. Thus, the new tracking code image can be printed on the sheet.
That is, if the MFP 1 according to the fourth embodiment is implemented, even if the new tracking code image is reduced, even if it is arranged at the old tracking code coordinates, printing is performed within the printable area, or the new tracking code image is The new tracking code image can be reconstructed by dividing the new tracking code image so as not to go against the constraints even if it violates the constraint of not overlapping with the image of Can be printed on a sheet.

Fifth Embodiment
Next, a multifunction peripheral according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing executed by the CPU 10 in the present embodiment with a part omitted. The description of the same processes as in the first to fourth embodiments will be simplified or omitted.

  When the CPU 10 executes the same processing S1 to S8 (FIG. 3) as the first embodiment and arranges the new tracking code image at the old tracking code coordinates, it is determined that the new tracking code image is within the printable area (S8 in FIG. 3: Yes), it is determined whether the new tracking code image does not overlap with another image (S9 in FIG. 14). Here, when it is determined that the CPU 10 overlaps (S9: No), it is determined whether or not there is an area where the new tracking code image can be moved in the same sheet (S12). If it is determined (S12: Yes), the new tracking code image is arranged at the arrangeable coordinates (S13). When it is determined that there is no area where the new tracking code image can be moved in the same sheet (S12: No), the old tracking code image detected in the previous S2 is held without being discarded (S14). Subsequently, the CPU 10 constructs a new tracking code image only with the print information of this time (S15), and arranges the constructed new tracking code image at the old tracking code coordinates (S16). The process of S13 is an example of at least one reconstruction.

[Effects of the fifth embodiment]
The MFP 1 according to the fifth embodiment described above arranges the new tracking code image in another area when the new tracking code image is overlapped with the other image when trying to arrange the new tracking code image in the old tracking code coordinates. Code images can be printed on sheets.
That is, if the MFP 1 according to the fifth embodiment is implemented to place the new tracking code image at the old tracking code coordinates, even if it violates the constraint that it does not overlap other images. The new tracking code image can be printed on the sheet, since the new tracking code image can be reconstructed to be placed at other coordinates so as not to violate the constraint.

Other Embodiments
(1) When the CPU 10 determines in S20 (FIG. 5) that there is no area where the old tracking code image can be arranged in the same sheet (S20: No), the old tracking code image is stored in the identification code storage area 42 (FIG. It can also be configured to be stored in a storage area such as 2). With this configuration, it is possible to cope with the process of printing the old tracking code all at once.
(2) In the case where the old tracking information can not be printed, notification means can be provided to notify that fact. For example, a message indicating that the old tracking information could not be printed may be displayed on a display unit such as the touch panel 8 or the like.
(3) When the new tracking code image can not be printed on the old tracking code coordinates because the new tracking code image violates at least one constraint, that is, the printing position of the new tracking code image is In the case of a change, notification means may be provided to notify that fact. For example, a message indicating that the print position of the new tracking code image has been changed may be displayed on a display unit such as the touch panel 8 or the like.

(4) It is configured to print the new tracking code image or the old tracking code image on the other side of the same sheet when the new tracking code image or the old tracking code image can not be printed on one side of the same sheet You can also
(5) The new tracking code image can be configured to be printed next to the sheet header information. Also, the new tracking code image can be configured to be printed in the margin around the document image G1.
(6) If you are subject to restrictions when constructing a new tracking code image by adding the print information of this time to the old tracking information, one-dimensional new tracking code image such as QR code (registered trademark) It is also possible to change to a two-dimensional barcode and configure it so as not to violate the constraints.
(7) If you add the print information of this time to the old tracking information and build a new tracking code image, you will be constrained, and even if you rebuild the new tracking code image, it still violates the restriction. In this case, the printing size of the document image G1 may be reduced or the formation position may be shifted to print the new tracking code image.
(8) The present invention can also be applied to a system in which the image data output by the multifunction device 1 is sent to a PC and printed by a printer connected to the PC.

1 MFP 2 Operation panel 8 Touch panel 10 CPU
30 Scanner BC1 Old tracking code image BC2 Current tracking code image BC3 New tracking code image E Printable area G1 Document image G2 Footer information image P sheet

Claims (15)

A scanner that outputs image data according to an image on a document;
An image forming unit for forming an image on a sheet;
An image forming apparatus including a control unit;
The control unit
Detecting image data representing an identification code from image data output from the scanner;
Constructing information representing a new identification code, including information contained in the detected image data and new information;
Determining whether the constructed information violates at least one constraint;
When it is determined that the constructed information does not violate the at least one constraint, an image representing an identification code represented by the constructed information, and information other than the information representing the identification code among the image data output by the scanner Controlling the image forming unit to form an image represented by information on a sheet;
At least one reconstruction is performed on the constructed information so that the constructed information does not violate the at least one constraint when it is determined that the information violates the at least one constraint;
An image representing an identification code represented by the information subjected to the at least one reconstruction and an image represented by information other than the information representing the identification code among the image data output by the scanner And controlling the image forming unit to form the image.   2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the at least one restriction is that the amount of information of the identification code represented by the constructed information does not exceed the amount of information set in the image forming apparatus. Image forming apparatus.   The at least one restriction is that a formation size when forming an image representing an identification code represented by the constructed information on a sheet does not exceed a formation size set in the image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus is characterized.   The at least one restriction is that the formation area when forming an image representing the identification code represented by the constructed information on the sheet does not overlap with the image formation area forming the image other than the image representing the identification code. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the image forming apparatus is provided.   5. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the at least one constraint is that an image representing an identification code represented by the constructed information is formed so as to fit within an image formable area of a sheet. An image forming apparatus according to any one of the items.   The at least one reconstruction is characterized in that the constructed information is divided and each divided information can be formed in a sheet so as not to violate the at least one constraint. An image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5. Said at least one reconstruction is
The constructed information is divided into the information representing the identification code of the information contained in the detected image data and the information representing the identification code of the new information, and the new information among the divided information is handled. The image representing the identification code is the same as the formation area in which the image representing the identification code of the information included in the detected image data is formed among the formable areas of the sheet. The image representing the identification code corresponding to the information contained in the detected image data is in a formable state so as not to be formed is a formation area for forming an image representing the identification code corresponding to the new information in the sheet. 7. The image forming apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the image forming apparatus is capable of forming in a formation area other than the at least one restriction region.   The at least one reconstruction reduces the formation size when forming the image representing the identification code represented by the constructed information on the sheet to a formation size detectable by the control unit, and The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the image representing the formed identification code of the formed size does not violate the at least one restriction.   In the at least one reconstruction, the image representing the identification code of the reduced formation size is formed in the same manner as the formation region in which the image representing the identification code of the information included in the image data detected by the control unit is formed. If forming in the region violates the at least one constraint, it is characterized in that it can be formed in a formation region other than the same formation region so as not to violate the at least one constraint. An image forming apparatus according to claim 8.   In the at least one reconstruction, the image representing the identification code of the reduced formation size is formed in the same formation region as the formation region in which the image representing the identification code of the information included in the detected image data is formed. If it is against the at least one constraint if formed, the image representing the identification code of the reduced formation size is divided so as not to violate the at least one constraint. 8. The image forming apparatus according to 8.   The unit of the division is a unit of the new information that is included each time the image forming unit forms an image on a sheet once. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.   In the at least one reconstruction, an image representing an identification code of the information included in the detected image data is formed in a formation region when forming an image representing the identification code represented by the constructed information on the sheet. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein an area other than the area which has been set is changed so as not to violate the at least one restriction.   The at least one reconstruction is performed such that an image representing an identification code represented by the constructed information is not formed on the next sheet. An image forming apparatus according to claim 1.   The at least one reconstruction changes the constructed information into only information corresponding to the new information, and an identification code of the information included in the detected image data, an image representing an identification code corresponding to the information The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the image forming apparatus can be formed in the same formation area as the formation area on which the image representing the image is formed. Multiple constraints are set,
The reconstruction of the constructed information is repeated until the at least one reconstruction does not violate all of the plurality of constraints. Image forming apparatus as described.

Images