JP3352163B2 - Composite image forming device - Google Patents

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a composite image forming apparatus capable of forming an image-processed composite image by connecting a digital image processing section having a scanner section and a printer section to an external device.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there has been proposed a composite image forming apparatus capable of forming a composite image subjected to image processing by connecting a digital image processing section having a scanner section and a printer section to an external device.

Further, this type of device has a memory for storing image data to be output after performing a composite image of an image input from an external device and a document image, and synthesizes the output image on this. .

[0004]

However, if the image reading direction of the document input from the scanner unit and the image output direction of the printer unit match, there is no problem, but on the other hand, they do not match. For example, when a projected image from an optical device such as a projector is input as an original image from a reader unit, an image read by a CCD or the like of the reader unit is subjected to mirror image processing. Therefore, when an externally input image and an image from the projector are combined, there is a problem that the top and bottom are inverted and output.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and has been made in consideration of the orientation of an image input from a reader unit .
And the direction of the image input externally and the direction of the recording medium match
If it is determined that the image is not to be output, the rotation process is performed on one of the images input to the printer unit, so that the orientation of the document image, the orientation of the image input externally, and the orientation of the recording medium
It is an object of the present invention to provide a composite image forming apparatus capable of obtaining an intended composite image without inconsistency even when does not match.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above problem, and compares the direction of an image input from a reader unit with the direction of an image input externally, based on the comparison result. By performing a rotation process on one of the images input to the printer unit, even if the orientation of the original image does not match the orientation of the externally input image, the intended composite image can be obtained without contradiction. It is an object to provide an image forming apparatus.

[0007]

First calling according to the present invention, in order to solve the problems]
Ming, a first image input means for inputting by converting the original image into a first image signal, and a second image input means for inputting a second image signal of the external or al, from the original image and the outside Second
Area specifying means for specifying an area for synthesizing the image signals of the first and second image signals ;
A first image signal from the image input means and the second image signal;
Synthesizing means for performing synthesizing processing with the second image signal from the force means, image outputting means for forming an image based on the image signal synthesized by the synthesizing means, and the first image signal and the second image signal. second image signal direction and the recording medium of the direction and the and a respective determination means, the determining means
Is the direction of the first image signal and the second image signal.
If the direction of the feeder and the recording medium is determined not to match, the less of the first image signal or the second image signal
And a rotating means capable of outputting to the image synthesizing means while rotating either one of them.

A second invention according to the present invention, a first image input means for inputting by converting the original image into a first image signal, a second inputting a second image signal externally et al Image input means, synthesizes a document image and an external second image signal
An area designating means for designating an area for, in accordance with the designation from said area designating means, from the first image input means
And the second image signal from the second image input means.
Combining means and said combining hands to perform synthesis processing of the image signal
It has an image output unit for forming an image based on the image signal synthesized processed by the step, and a determination means for the first copying mode set in the image signal of the determination unit
However, a copy mode for performing mirror image processing on the first image signal is
Rotating means capable of outputting to the image synthesizing means while rotating at least one of the first image signal and the second image signal when it is determined to be set. is there.

A third invention according to the present invention is directed to the second invention, wherein
The image input means inputs an image signal from a computer
Things.

[0010] A fourth invention according to the present invention is directed to the first embodiment.
The image input means converts the original image into a first image signal and inputs the first image signal.
It is a scanner that works. The fifth aspect of the present invention
In the invention, the area designating means is an operation unit.
You. In a sixth aspect according to the present invention, the area designating means comprises:
Numeric keypad. Seventh invention according to the present invention
Means that the area designating means is an editor.

[0011]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a composite image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 1, reference numeral 1 denotes an image input device (reader unit) for converting a document functioning as first image input means into image data, and 2 includes a plurality of types of recording paper cassettes functioning as image output means. An image output device (printer unit) 3 that outputs image data as a visible image on recording paper in response to a print command is an external device electrically connected to the reader unit 1 and has various functions. That is, the external device 3 functioning as the second image input means includes the facsimile unit 4, the file unit 5, and the file unit 5
An external storage device 6 connected to a computer, a computer interface unit 7 for connecting to a computer and a LAN, a formatter unit 8 for converting information from the computer into a visible image, and storing information from the reader unit 1 And an image memory unit 9 for temporarily storing information sent from a computer, and a core unit 10 for controlling each of the above-described functional processes. In the present embodiment, the core unit 10 also functions as a combining unit. Further, CONT1 is a reader control unit, and CONT2 is a printer control unit, which is configured to be able to communicate with the core unit of the external device 3, and includes a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, and the like.

In the first image forming apparatus configured as described above, the determining means (core unit 10) determines the directions of the first image signal and the second image signal and the direction of the recording medium, respectively. Based on the determination result, a rotation unit (a rotation processing unit (to be described in detail later) of the formatter unit 8) rotates either the first image signal or the second image signal while rotating the image combining unit (external switching). Circuit (see FIG. 11), the first image signal and the second
Even if the direction of the image signal does not match the direction of the recording medium, an intended composite image can be obtained using the first image signal and the second image signal.

In the second image forming apparatus constructed as described above, the determining means (core unit 10) determines whether the mode is the copy mode set in the first image signal, in this embodiment, the projector mode. On the basis of the determination result, the rotation unit (a rotation processing unit (described later in detail) of the formatter unit 8) rotates one of the first image signal and the second image signal while the image synthesis unit (external switching circuit ( FIG.
1)), it is possible to obtain an intended composite image based on the first image signal and the second image signal even when a transparent original image is input from the first image input unit. .

FIG. 2 is a sectional view for explaining the configuration of the reader unit 1 and the printer unit 2 shown in FIG. Hereinafter, the configuration and operation will be described.

The originals stacked on the original feeding device 101 are sequentially conveyed one by one onto the original platen glass surface 102. When the document is transported to a predetermined position on the glass surface 102,
The lamp 103 of the scanner unit is turned on, and the scanner unit 104 moves to irradiate the original. The reflected light of the document is input to a CCD image sensor 109 (hereinafter, referred to as a CCD) via mirrors 105, 106, 107 and a lens 108. Further, the projector shown in FIG. 13 is placed at a predetermined position on the platen glass surface 102, and is subjected to a predetermined pre-processing operation, whereby a transparent original (film) is obtained.
It is also possible to print from

In this case, when a film to be printed is set on the film carrier 1300 (see FIG. 13),
The image of the film is projected onto the platen glass surface 102, and the scanner unit 104 moves to transmit the transmitted light of the film to the reflection mirrors 105 to 107 and the lens 108.
Is input to the CCD image sensor 109 via the. C
The reflected light or transmitted light of the document irradiated on the CD 109 is
Here, photoelectric conversion is performed. The converted electric signal is sent to the image processing unit 110.

The image processing unit 110 performs image processing set by various operation units. It also has an image memory and has a function of rotating the output direction of an image. The image rotation processing is the same as the processing of the formatter unit 8 described later.

Further, when a projector image is printed, the image is projected on the platen glass surface 102 so as to be a normal image, and therefore, unlike a normal document, the image is input as a mirror image. For this reason, processing of a mirror image that makes the image input as a mirror image a normal image is also performed.

The external switching circuit of the image processing unit 110 includes a selector 1100 for switching a signal from the reader unit 1 to the printer unit 2 or the external device 3. And a function of selecting any one of these signals and connecting to the printer unit 2.

In an external switching circuit of the image processing unit 110, the electric signal connected to the printer unit 2 is converted into an optical signal modulated by the exposure control unit 201, and
Irradiate 2. The latent image formed on the photoconductor 202 by the irradiation light is developed by the developing device 203. The transfer paper is conveyed from the transfer paper loading unit 204 or the transfer paper loading unit 205 in synchronization with the leading end of the latent image, and the transfer unit 2
At 06, the developed image is transferred. After the transferred image is fixed on the transfer paper by the fixing unit 207, the image is discharged from the paper discharge unit 208 to the outside of the apparatus. The transfer paper output from the paper discharge unit 208 is discharged to each bin when the sort function of the sorter 220 is operating.

On the other hand, when the sorter function of the sorter 220 is not operating, the paper is discharged to the uppermost bin of the sorter 220.

Next, the direction in which images to be sequentially read are output on both sides of one output sheet will be described.

After the output sheet fixed by the fixing unit 207 is once conveyed to the sheet discharge unit 208, the sheet conveyance direction is reversed, and the transfer sheet stack unit 210 for re-feeding the sheet via the conveyance direction switching member 209. Transport to When the next manuscript is prepared,
The original image is read in the same manner as in the above process, but the transfer paper is fed from the re-feeding receiving paper stacking section 210, so that two original images are output on the front and back surfaces of the same output paper. can do.

As shown in FIG. 1, the external device 3 is a reader unit 1
Are connected by a cable, and the core unit 10 in the external device 3 controls signals and controls each function. In the external device 3,
A facsimile unit 4 for facsimile transmission / reception, a file unit 5 for converting various types of document information into electric signals and storing them on a magneto-optical disk, a formatter unit 8 for developing code information from a computer into image information, and an interface with a LAN and a computer. It comprises a computer interface unit 7, an image memory unit 9 for storing information from the reader unit 1 and temporarily storing information sent from the computer, and a core unit 10 for controlling the above functions.

FIG. 3 is a plan view showing an example of an operation panel provided in the reader unit 1 shown in FIG.

In the figure, reference numeral 301 denotes a display unit for displaying an operation state and a message. The surface of the display unit 301 is a touch panel, and functions as a selection key by touching the surface. 302 is a numeric keypad,
This key is used to enter numbers. Reference numeral 303 denotes a start key, and the operation is started by pressing this key.

Hereinafter, each function processing operation in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention will be described with reference to flowcharts shown in FIGS.

FIGS. 4 to 9 are flowcharts showing an example of a procedure of each function in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention. (1)... In each figure indicate steps.

First, after the power is turned on, the initialization shown in FIG. 4 is performed (1). An operation mode selection key is displayed on the display unit 301 of the operation panel, and a mode is selected by touching the panel above the selection key. It is determined whether the selected mode is the copy mode (2). If the selected mode is the copy mode, the process proceeds to step (1) in FIG.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (2) that the copy mode has not been selected, it is determined whether the facsimile transmission mode has been selected (3). The process proceeds to step (1) shown in FIG.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (3) that the facsimile transmission mode is not selected,
It is determined whether or not the file mode is selected (4). If the file mode is selected, the process proceeds to step (1) shown in FIG.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (4) that the file mode has not been selected, it is determined whether the input mode from the computer interface unit 7 has been selected (5). If the mode has been selected, the process proceeds to step (1) shown in FIG.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (5) that the input mode is not selected, it is determined whether the facsimile reception mode is selected (6), and the facsimile reception mode is selected. If there is, the process proceeds to step (1) shown in FIG.

On the other hand, if the facsimile reception mode is not selected in the determination in step (6), the process returns to step (2) and the same processing is repeated.

If the copy mode has been selected in the determination of step (2) shown in FIG. 4, the flow shown in FIG. 5 is started, and the initialization of the copy operation is first performed ( 1) Read the key input from the operation panel, set copy conditions (2), and wait for input of the start key 303 (3). Next, when the start key 303 is pressed, the document is read by the reader unit 1 (4), and printing (the above-described printing process) is performed by the printer unit 2 (5). And
When printing is completed, the process returns to step (1) shown in FIG. 4 for initial setting.

Further, if the facsimile transmission mode is selected in the determination of step (3) shown in FIG. 4, the flow shown in FIG. 6 is started, and the initial setting of facsimile transmission is performed (1). ), A key input from the operation panel is read, facsimile transmission conditions are set (2), and input of the start key 303 is awaited (3).

When the start key 303 is pressed, the original is read from the reader unit 1 (4), and the image data is sent to the facsimile unit 4. The facsimile unit 4 performs facsimile transmission according to the set format and the determined protocol (5), and after the transmission is completed, returns to step (1) shown in FIG.

If the file mode is selected in the determination in step (4) shown in FIG. 4, the flow shown in FIG. 7 is started, and first, initialization setting of the file operation is performed (1). ). A mode selection of file recording or file search is displayed on the operation panel, and a key input from the operator is waited (2). Next, when the recording key is selected, the recording conditions are set (3), the original is read from the reader unit 1 (4), the data is sent to the file unit 5, and the data is recorded in the external storage device 6 of the file unit 5. (5).

On the other hand, if a file search key is selected in step (2), search conditions are set (6).
A file search is performed from the external storage device 6 (7), and the result is output (8). Then, after completion of file recording or file search, the process returns to step (1) shown in FIG. 4 for initial setting.

Further, when command data is input from the outside in the determination in step (5) shown in FIG. 4, the flow shown in FIG. 8 is started, and the command is first received by the computer interface unit 7. (1) The data is sent to the formatter unit 8 via the core unit 10 and interpreted, and the information is developed on the bitmap memory (2). Subsequently, in the process of step (3), it is determined whether or not the printer unit 2 is operating, waiting for the operation to be completed, and when the operation is completed, an appropriate sheet is selected, and the sheet feeding is started. (4). Transfer receiving paper loading section (paper cassette) 204, 20
5, the paper is fed and moves to the transfer unit 206. Here, the image developed in the bitmap memory in the process of step (2) is read by performing a rotation process of the image by a method described later based on information such as the orientation and size of the paper. The read image information is sent to the exposure control unit 201, and performs the above-described printing process (5).
The process returns to step (1) shown in FIG. 4 for the initial setting.

Next, with reference to FIG. 14, an image rotation read processing operation in this embodiment will be described.

The image developed in the bit map memory in the process of step (2) shown in FIG. 8 is developed as shown in FIG.

In the bitmap expansion example of this embodiment, A4
In the example, the number of pixels is 4622 and the width is 2
It becomes a bitmap of 3296 pixels for 10 mm.

First, in the case of reading without rotation, the rotation control unit of the formatter unit 8 shown in FIG. 1 executes "0, 0"->"0,4622"-> as shown in FIG.
Reading is performed in the order of “1,0” → “1,4622”.

On the other hand, when reading out data by rotating it by 180 degrees,
As shown in FIG. 14B, the rotation control unit of the formatter unit 8 shown in FIG.
6,4622 "→" 3296,0 "→" 3295,46 "
22 "→" 3295,0 "in order.

On the other hand, in the case of reading by rotating by -90 degrees,
As shown in FIG. 14C, the rotation control unit of the formatter unit 8 shown in FIG.
“0,4622” → “3296,4622” → “0,4
621 "→" 3296,4621 "in order.

On the other hand, in the case of reading by rotating by 90 degrees, the rotation control unit of the formatter unit 8 shown in FIG. 1 changes the reading direction vertically and horizontally as shown in FIG.
“3296,0” → “0,0” → “3296,1” →
The data is sequentially read in the direction of “0, 1”.

If it is determined in step (6) shown in FIG. 4 that facsimile reception has been performed, the flow shown in FIG. 9 is started, and first, facsimile reception is performed in the facsimile unit 4 (1). It is determined whether the printer unit 2 is operating (2). If not, data is sent to the printer unit 2 and printed (3).

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (2) that the printer unit 2 is operating, the data is stored in the hard disk (HD) of the facsimile unit 4 (4), and the printer unit 2 is not operating. At times, it is printed out from the printer unit 2 (2), (3). Then, after printing is completed, the process returns to step (1) shown in FIG. 4 for initial setting.

The operation is performed by selecting one of the above modes with a selection key on the operation panel, receiving the command by the facsimile unit 4, or detecting an external command by the computer interface unit 7.

It should be noted that some of these movements can be operated in combination at the same time, while others can be operated independently at the same time.

Hereinafter, the keys 302 of the operation unit shown in FIG.
The formatter unit 8 according to the synthesis area designated from 303
The control operation for combining the image information converted in step 1 with the document image read by the reader unit 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the image synthesizing process in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention. In addition, (1) to (23) indicate each step.

If it is determined in step (5) shown in FIG. 4 that there is an external input, the process normally proceeds to the printing sequence shown in FIG. 8, but it is determined whether or not the combining mode is set. (1) If the combination mode is not set, the processing shown in FIG. 8 is started. If the combination mode is set, the combination sequence shown in FIG. 10 is started. Also, the use of the reader unit 1 during facsimile transmission or file recording is prohibited (2). This is because the target document is replaced with the document used in the other modes while waiting for the converted image to be sent from the formatter unit 8 when the combining mode is set. This is to prevent it. The formatter unit 8 converts the command into image information such as characters in the same manner as in the normal command conversion output (3),
(4). Next, when the output of the formatted image data is ready and the printer is not operating (5), the composite output operation is started. Here, it is determined whether or not the image combining mode of the original image is the mode for combining the projector image (16). In the case of the combining in the projector mode, the process proceeds to step (17) and otherwise, it is determined whether or not the feeder mode. Judge (6). In this determination, since the document setting state is monitored by a sensor (not shown) provided in the document feeding apparatus 101 shown in FIG. 1, if the document is set based on the sensor output, the document is read in advance. Pull in to the position (7). Subsequently, paper is fed from the appropriate paper cassettes 204 and 205 (8), and moves to the transfer unit 206.
Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the orientation is the same from the orientation of the fed paper and the orientation of the document (21) . If the orientation is the same, the process proceeds to step (9). If the orientation is different, the process proceeds to step (22). Is performed.

In the step (9), the scanner / scanner is operated so that the latent image of the output image is formed on the photosensitive member 202 at an appropriate timing in accordance with the timing of the fed paper.
The unit 104 moves and captures the original image data into the CCD 109.

Next, the read image is sent to the exposure control unit 201 according to the designated area by the external switching circuit shown in FIG. (10). The printing part is the same as each operation described so far, and the description is omitted.

On the other hand, in the process of step (22), the scanner unit 104 is moved and scanning is started to temporarily store the original image in the image memory in the image processing unit 110 in order to adjust the direction of the image. . Subsequently, in the process of step (23), the latent image of the output image is stored in the image memory so as to form the latent image of the output image on the photoconductor 202 at the right timing in accordance with the timing of the fed paper. The read direction is changed, rotated and read out in the same manner as the method shown in FIG. 14C or FIG. 14D, and the image formed by the formatter unit 8 and the portion of the external switching circuit are read out. Then, the data is selectively sent to the exposure control unit 201 depending on the designated area and printing is performed (10).

The processing when it is determined in step (16) that the project mode is combined will be described with reference to FIG.

In the project mode, as shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B, compared with the case of a normal original, the mirror image processing is performed as described above, so that the output result is upside down. Therefore, in the case of combining, as shown in (c) and (d) of FIG. 12, the image developed by the formatter unit 8 must be rotated by 180 degrees to convert the coordinates of the combining area. Then, step (17)
In the process (1), the coordinates of the synthesis area are converted.

In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12C, the combination area set by the operation unit shown in FIG.
Although they are set as 1, b0 and b1, since the image must be converted as rotated by 180 degrees, the combined area is converted and processed according to the following equations (1) to (4).

C0 = Px−a0−a1 (1) c1 = a1 (2) d0 = Py−b0−b1 (3) d1 = b1 (4) where Px, Py is the vertical and horizontal size of the image developed by the formatter unit 8.

Subsequently, in step (18), paper is fed from appropriate paper cassettes 204 and 205 and
Move to 06. At this time, the scanner unit 104 moves (19) so that the latent image of the output image is formed on the photoconductor 202 at the right timing (19).
The film image data is taken into the image sensor 109. The read original image is selectively sent to the exposure control unit 201 depending on the designated area in the image formed by the formatter unit 8 and the external switching circuit, and printing is performed (20). Since the printing process is as described above,
Description is omitted.

Here, the configuration of the external switching circuit will be described with reference to FIG.

In the drawing, reference numeral 1101 denotes an external image data signal; 1102, an image data signal from the image processing unit 110; 1100, a selector which selects either the image data signal 1101 or the image data signal 1102; I do. 1103 is a selected image data signal,
The image data signal 1103 is finally transmitted to the exposure controller 20.
1 to be used for forming a latent image. Area determining circuit 1105 in the main scanning direction and area determining circuit 1106 in the sub-scanning direction
Are the input reference signals 1108 and 1109 and the pixel clocks 1107 and 1107 representing the position of the converted image data, respectively.
By comparing the region data set in advance with the region data 1110, the inside and outside of the region in each direction are determined. Based on the result of the determination in each direction, the area determination circuit 1104 makes a final area determination, which is transmitted to the selector 1100, and an output signal is selected based on the result.

Next, a case where the image data of a plurality of originals are combined with the same external image data will be described with reference to the flow chart shown in FIG.

Although the description is partly duplicated, after the first composite image is printed (10), the document feeder 101 determines whether there is a next document (11). If it is determined in this determination that there is no original, the sequence is once exited, but if there is, the original is replaced as it is (7),
Feed the paper again.

Here, by repeating the above-described sequence, a plurality of original images can be combined with one external image data. In this embodiment, the formatter unit 8 can send the same image data to the external switching circuit any number of times by adjusting the timing of the reader unit 1.

Further, as described above, in this mode, other operations using the reader unit 1 are prohibited, so that when the necessary amount of combining is completed, the combining mode is canceled and the other mode is canceled. It is desirable to allow the operation of

Therefore, a method of canceling by specifying a page will be described below.

The number of pages can be specified from the keys 302 of the operation unit. When the output of the same page is completed for a plurality of originals, it is determined whether or not there is a page designation for determining release of the combining mode (12).

If specified in this determination, the number of pages from the output of the externally output image data at that time is counted, and the number is compared with the previously specified number of released pages (13).

In this comparison, if the specified number of released pages has been reached, the image composition mode is released (14), the use of the reader unit 1 is permitted (15), and the step (1) shown in FIG. Return to

Although the above embodiment has been described with reference to the case where the image composition mode is canceled based on the number of original pages specified by the operation unit, the number of images externally input from the second image input means is designated. Alternatively, the configuration may be specified so that the image synthesis mode is canceled based on the number of images.

Hereinafter, an operation procedure at the time of scanner combination in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

FIGS. 15 to 17 are diagrams showing the operation procedure when combining the scanners in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention. The operation unit includes keys K1 to K5 and a touch panel type display DSP.
An operation instruction is given by touching each key area displayed on the SP.

First, as shown in FIG. 15A, a key area "offline" is pressed to make the area highlighted. As a result, the printer goes offline. Here, when the key area “scanner composition” is pressed, the display on the display DSP is switched to the screen shown in FIG. 15B, and the key area “scanner composition” is highlighted.

At this point, the user can input two points to the area in which the image is to be inserted by using the pen of the editor to which the option can be connected, or display the screen shown in FIG.
It is displayed on the SP, and a numeric keypad is used to input an area into which an image is to be inserted by inputting numeric keys on the operation unit.

When the coordinates of two points are inputted in FIGS. 15B and 15C, the inputted two points are displayed on the screen as shown in FIG. When the key area "point clear" is pressed on the screen, the display on the display DSP is switched to the screen shown in FIG. 15B, and two points are input for the area for fitting the image again. In this embodiment, of the two designated points, point clear is performed one by one.

On the other hand, when the key area “OK” is pressed on the screen shown in FIG.
Is switched to the screen shown in FIG. 16B, and an instruction is made as to whether the scanner original is to be synthesized inside or outside the designated image fitting area. In the present embodiment, this corresponds to a state where “outside” which is highlighted is selected.

When the key area "cancel" is pressed on the screen shown in FIG. 16B, the display on the display DSP is switched to the screen shown in FIG. Here, if the key area "area clear" is pressed, the display on the display DSP is switched to the screens shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B, and the area is specified again. When the key area “cancel” is pressed on the screen of FIG.
The display content switches to the screen of.

On the other hand, in FIG.
When "K" is pressed, the display on the display DSP is switched again to the screen shown in FIG. 16B, and when the key area "OK" is pressed on this screen, the display D is displayed.
The display of SP switches to the screen shown in FIG.
Enter the number of pages (arbitrary number between 1 and 999) of the print data using the numeric keypad, and press the key area "OK"
Is pressed, the display on the display DSP is switched to the screen shown in FIG. 16D, and when the key area “scanner synthesis” is pressed on this screen, the display DSP
Is switched to the screen shown in FIG.

On the other hand, when the key area " continuous" is pressed in the screen display state shown in FIG. 16C, the display on the display DSP is switched to the screen shown in FIG. Indicates whether the document is “page number designation” or “continuous”. When the key areas “continuous” and “OK” are pressed on the screen, the display D
The display of SP is switched to the screen shown in FIG.
When the key area “Specify number of pages”, “OK” or “Cancel” is pressed on the screen, the display DS
The display of P switches to the screen shown in FIG. When the setting operation of the scanner synthesis is completed, (see FIG. 17 (b)) screen for sheet selection is displayed on the display DSP of the operating unit.

FIG. 18 is a view showing an example of a scanner synthesis standby screen in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

As shown in this figure, when the scanner original is set inside the designated area, the screen shown in FIG. 7A is displayed on the display DSP during the scanner combining standby, and the scanner original is set in the designated area. If it is set to the outside, the screen shown in (b) is displayed on the display DSP during scanner synthesis standby.

FIG. 19 is a view showing an example of a scanner combination option setting screen in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention, and particularly corresponds to an image quality setting operation screen.

When the key area “image quality” is pressed while the screen shown in FIG. 11A is displayed on the display DSP, that is, with the key area “scanner composition” highlighted, The display screen of the DSP switches to the screen shown in FIG. 19B, and the density (HI-
FI / character emphasis), sharpness, etc., can be specified, and the print density can be adjusted and the black and white of the image can be sharpened according to the type of the original such as a text original or a photo original. . It should be noted that FIG.
When the key area “OK” or the key area “C” is pressed in the screen display state of FIG. 19, the display on the display DSP is switched to the screen shown in FIG. 19A, and the setting can be performed again.

FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of a scanner combination option setting screen in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention, and particularly corresponds to an image create setting operation screen.

When the key area "image create" is depressed while the screen shown in FIG. 7A is displayed on the display DSP, that is, the key area "scanner composition" is highlighted. Display DS
The display screen of P is switched to the screen shown in FIG. 20 (b), and various image creation processes such as "contour", "net", "shadow", and "negative / positive inversion" can be set for each key area. . When the key area “OK” or the key area “C” is pressed in the screen display state of FIG. 20B, the display on the display DSP is switched to the screen shown in FIG. The setting can be made again.

FIGS. 21 and 22 are views showing an example of a scanner combining option setting screen in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention, and particularly correspond to a trimming movement setting operation screen.

When the screen shown in FIG . 21A is displayed on the display DSP, that is, when the key area “scanner composition” is highlighted and the key area “trimming movement” is pressed, The display screen of the display DSP is switched to the screen shown in FIG. 21B, and the key area “trimming movement” is highlighted.

At this point, the user inserts two points in the area where the image is to be inserted with the pen of the editor to which the option can be connected, or displays the screen shown in FIG.
It is displayed on the SP, and a numeric keypad is used to input an area into which an image is to be inserted by inputting numeric keys on the operation unit.

When the coordinates of two points are input in FIGS. 21B and 21C, the input two points are displayed on the screen as shown in FIG. When the key area “point clear” is pressed on the screen, the display on the display DSP is switched to the screen shown in FIG. 21B, and two points for inputting the image again are input. In this embodiment, of the two designated points, point clear is performed one by one.

On the other hand, when the key area “OK” is pressed on the screen shown in FIG.
Is switched to the screen shown in FIG. 22 (b), and when the key area "trimming movement" is pressed, the display on the display DSP is switched to the screen shown in FIG. 22 (a), and the designated trimming is performed. Movement is displayed graphically. When the key area “OK” is pressed on this display screen, the display on the display DSP is again displayed in FIG.
Is displayed, and the trimming movement setting operation is completed. When the key area “area clear” is pressed on the screen shown in FIG. 22A, the display on the display DSP is switched to the screen shown in FIG. It is configured to allow specification.

FIGS. 23 and 24 are views showing an example of a scanner combination option setting screen in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention, and particularly correspond to a zoom setting operation screen.

When the key area "trimming movement" is pressed while the screen shown in FIG . 23A is displayed on the display DSP, that is, the key area "scanner composition" is highlighted. The display screen of the display DSP is switched to the screen shown in FIG. 23B, and the key area “zoom” is highlighted. When the key area “XY independent” is pressed during the screen display, the display screen of the display DSP is switched to the screen shown in FIG. 23C, and the vertical and horizontal independent zoom settings (based on a magnification of 100% ( 25 % to 400%)), and if the key area “XY same rate” is pressed during the screen display, the display screen of the display DSP is switched to the screen shown in FIG. When the key area "OK" is pressed on the screen shown in FIG. 23 (b) and the screen shown in FIG. 23 (c), the display screen of the display DSP is changed to that shown in FIG.
The screen is switched to the screen shown in (a), and the zoom setting operation is completed.

On the other hand, in the screen display state of FIG.
When the key area “auto” is selected, the display screen of the display DSP is switched to the screen shown in FIG. 24A, and during the screen display, the key area “XY independent” is displayed.
Is pressed, the display screen of the display DSP is displayed as shown in FIG.
The screen is switched to the screen shown in FIG. 3 (c), and the vertical and horizontal zoom settings are set (from 25 % to 400% based on a magnification of 100%).
%)) Becomes possible, and the key area “X
When the “Y equal rate” is pressed, the display screen of the display DSP is switched to the screen shown in FIG. 24B, and the screen shown in FIG. 23B and the screen shown in FIG. When the key area “OK” is pressed, the display screen of the display DSP is switched to the screen shown in FIG. 23A, and the zoom setting operation is completed.

As described above, by performing various scanner synthesizing operations, a part of a letterhead, a logo mark, an illustration, or the like is scanned in a rectangular shape and is superimposed on data to be printed and printed on one sheet of paper. It becomes possible.

[0099]

As described above, the first embodiment according to the present invention is described.
In the invention, the determination unit determines that the directions of the first image signal and the second image signal do not match the direction of the recording medium.
When it is determined that the first image signal and the second image signal are output , the rotation unit outputs at least one of the first image signal and the second image signal to the image synthesis unit while rotating the image signal. Even when the direction of the signal and the direction of the recording medium do not match, an intended composite image based on the first image signal and the second image signal can be obtained.

In the second invention, a copy mode in which the determination means performs mirror image processing on the first image signal is set.
If it is determined that the rotating image is output to the image combining means while rotating at least one of the first image signal and the second image signal, a transparent original image is input from the first image input means. In this case, an intended composite image based on the first image signal and the second image signal can be obtained.

Therefore, even when the orientation of the original image does not match the orientation of the externally input image, it is possible to obtain the intended composite image without contradiction.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a composite image forming apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a configuration of a reader unit and a printer unit illustrated in FIG.

FIG. 3 is a plan view showing an example of an operation panel provided in the reader unit shown in FIG.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of each function processing procedure in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of each function processing procedure in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of each function processing procedure in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of each function processing procedure in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of each function processing procedure in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of each function processing procedure in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an image synthesis processing procedure in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating an example of an external switching circuit in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a composite image in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

13 is a schematic external view showing an example of a transparent document input device that can be placed on the glass surface of the reader unit shown in FIG.

FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of image rotation processing in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an operation procedure at the time of scanner combination in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an operation procedure at the time of scanner combination in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an operation procedure at the time of scanner combination in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating an example of a scanner synthesis standby screen in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating an example of a scanner combining option setting screen in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 20 is a view showing an example of a scanner combining option setting screen in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating an example of a scanner combining option setting screen in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating an example of a scanner combining option setting screen in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating an example of a scanner combining option setting screen in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 24 is a view showing an example of a scanner combining option setting screen in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Reader part 2 Printer part 3 External device 10 Core part CONT2 Printer control part CONT1 Reader control part 1100 Selector 1104 Area judgment circuit

──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continuing on the front page (72) Inventor Hideto Koya 3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo Inside Canon Inc. (72) Inventor Yoshihiko Suzuki 3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo Within Canon Inc. (72) Inventor Huang Matsuo 3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo Canon Inc. (56) References JP-A-3-65872 (JP, A) JP-A-57- 73560 (JP, A) JP-A-3-64254 (JP, A) JP-A-2-65368 (JP, A) JP-A-2-225096 (JP, A) (58) Fields investigated (Int. ⁷ , DB name) H04N 1/38-1/393

Claims (7)

(57) [Claims] And 1. A first image input means for inputting by converting the original image into a first image signal, and a second image input means for inputting a second image signal of the external or al, and the document image an area designating means for designating an area for synthesizing the second image signal from the outside, in response to designation from said area designating means, said first image
A first image signal from an input means and the second image input means;
Synthesizing means for synthesizing the second image signal from the stage, image output means for forming an image based on the image signal synthesized by the synthesizing means, the first image signal and the second image signal Yes and respective determination means the orientation of the image signal and the recording medium of the direction and the
And wherein the determination unit determines that the first image signal and the second image signal
Judges that the direction of the image signal and the direction of the recording medium do not match.
If the image formation and having a rotating means capable of outputting to said image synthesizing means while rotating at least one of the first image signal or the second image signal apparatus. 2. A first image input means for inputting by converting the original image into a first image signal, and a second image input means for inputting a second image signal of the external or al, and the document image Area specifying means for specifying an area for synthesizing a second image signal from the outside; and the first image according to the specification from the area specifying means.
A first image signal from an input means and the second image input means;
Synthesizing means for performing synthesizing processing with the second image signal from the stage, image output means for forming an image based on the image signal synthesized by the synthesizing means, and the first image signal. and a determination unit configured to copy mode, said determination means performs mirror image processing on the first image signal
If it is determined that the copy mode is set, it can be output to the image synthesizing unit while rotating one or at least have <br/> deviation of the first image signal or the second image signal an image forming apparatus comprising: the Do rotating means. (3) The second image input means is a computer
2. An image signal input from a data input device.
Or the image forming apparatus according to 2. (4) The first image input means is configured to input a document image
A scanner that converts and inputs the first image signal
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: (5) The area designating means is an operation unit
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: 6. The area designating means is a numeric keypad.
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: 7. The area designating means is an editor.
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: