JP3387565B2 - Composite image forming apparatus and control method for composite image forming apparatus - 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 and a composite image forming apparatus capable of expanding the function of the printer unit by connecting an external device to a digital copying apparatus for printing out an image read by a reader unit from the printer unit. How to control the device
It is about law .

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there has been proposed a composite image forming apparatus in which an external device is connected to a digital copying apparatus which prints out an image read by a reader section from a printer section so that the function of the printer section can be expanded.

In such a composite image forming apparatus, switching between the copying function and the printer function has been performed by the selection key of the operation unit of the copying apparatus.

However, in order to reduce the operation load on the operation section, there has been proposed a device capable of automatically switching such function switching. In this case, in order to prevent the print function process of the printer unit from being suddenly started during the setting of the copy function and the setting process to be interrupted, control for prohibiting the start of the print function process of the printer unit during the setting of the copy function, For example, it has been proposed to control the copy function processing so as not to switch to a print function processing for a certain period of time after an operation instruction is given to the operation unit of the copying apparatus.

[0005]

However, if the print function processing is prohibited for a certain period of time as described above, even if the printer start key is pressed on the operation unit while the copy function is not used, the operation is performed. After the instruction, the print function processing is not started for a certain time, and a waiting time of a certain time is always generated, which causes a problem that the print processing efficiency decreases.

The present invention has been made in order to solve the above problems, and the key operation from the operation unit is a print function.
Operate by judging whether it is an instruction and the copy function execution status
It was judged that the key input from the department was the print function instruction.
In this case, prohibit the start of print function processing of the printer unit.
Clearing the timekeeping time of the timekeeping means that keeps a fixed time
Depending on whether the copy function is not running, the printer
Of the composite image forming apparatus and the composite image forming apparatus capable of starting the print instruction when the key operation of the operation unit is the print function instruction and the copy function is in the idle state by canceling the print prohibited state of the copy section. The purpose is to provide a control method.

[0007]

In order to achieve the object of the present onset Ming, the printer unit,
And an image forming apparatus including the scanner unit, the composite image forming apparatus and an external device for extending handle connected to the print function processing to the image forming apparatus, a printer unit, a copying function by the scanner unit and the printing function of the printer unit operation unit and a counting means for counting a predetermined time for prohibiting the print function process start of the printer unit, key input from the operation unit print function instruction or by the instruction key with an instruction key for switching the functions of the And the execution status of the copy function .
The key input is the print function instruction by the instruction key.
If it is determined that the time measured by the time measuring means is cleared
Also, depending on the fact that the copy function is not
Ingredients and control means for releasing the print disabled state of the printer unit
It is equipped .

The control means starts the image data communication from the external device after releasing the print prohibition state of the printer section. Further, in the control method of the composite image forming apparatus having an image forming apparatus including a printer section and a scanner section, and an external apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus to extend print function processing, the printer section,
An operation step of performing a key input on an operation section having an instruction key for switching the function between the copy function of the scanner section and the print function of the printer section, and a time counting step of measuring a fixed time for prohibiting the start of the print function processing of the printer section And whether the key input from the operation unit is a print function instruction by the instruction key and the copy function execution state is determined, and it is determined that the key input from the operation unit is a print function instruction by the instruction key. And a control step of clearing the time counting time of the time counting step and canceling the print inhibition state of the printer unit when the copying function is not being executed. In the control step, after releasing the print prohibition state of the printer unit, the image data communication from the external device is started. Further, the image forming apparatus and the image forming apparatus can print.
And an external device which outputs a potential image data, the image data the image type to be output from the copy function and the external device
A composite image forming apparatus having a printing function of printing by forming device, until the key input from the operation unit including instruction keys for predetermined time has elapsed since been made to switch to the print function, printing of the print function The control unit has a control unit for prohibiting output, and the control unit determines whether a key input from the operation unit is a print function instruction by the instruction key and a copy function state, and the key input from the operation unit is the print function. When it is determined that the instruction is a function instruction and the copy function is not being executed, the prohibition state of the print function is released without waiting for the elapse of the predetermined time. Further, the control means maintains the prohibition state of the print function when it is determined that the copy function is being executed when it is determined that the print function instruction is given. Further, the control means notifies the external device of the print prohibited state and the printable state. Further, the external device includes means for performing facsimile transmission / reception. Furthermore, the external device includes means for receiving image data from a computer. Also,
Image forming apparatus and printable by the image forming apparatus
And an external device to output image data, copying function and before
The image data output from the serial external device the image forming instrumentation
A method for controlling a composite image forming apparatus having a print function for performing printing by means of a printer, wherein the print function is provided for a certain period of time after a key input is made from an operation unit having an instruction key for switching to the print function. And a control step of prohibiting the print output of
When it is determined that the key input from the operation unit is the print function instruction by the instruction key and the copy function state is determined, and the print function instruction is performed, and it is determined that the copy function is not being executed. The prohibition state of the print function is released without waiting for the elapse of the fixed time.

[0009]

[0010]

[0011]

[First Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically showing a composite image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

In the figure, reference numeral 1 is an image input device (reader unit) for reading a document and converting it into image data, and 2 is provided with a plurality of types of recording paper cassettes, and the image data is output as a visible image on the recording paper by a print command. An image output device (printer unit) 3 is an external device electrically connected to the reader unit 1, and has a formatter function for converting information from a computer into image data through a computer interface. CONTs 1 to 3 are controllers, and are configured to communicate with each other.
U, RAM, ROM, etc. are provided, and each unit is comprehensively controlled based on a control program stored in the ROM and communication between the controllers CONT1 to CONT3 is controlled. The interface for communication is S
It may be a general-purpose interface such as CSI or RS232C, or may be a dedicated interface.

In the composite image forming apparatus constructed as described above, the control means (controller CONT1 in this embodiment)
Clears the time measured by the time measuring means (by the internal counter of the controller CONT1) according to the key input from the operation unit, determines whether the key input is the print function instruction by the instruction key, and determines the copy function execution state, and the printer Since the release prohibition or continuation of the print prohibition state of the copy unit 2 is controlled, if the print function instruction is given from the operation unit and the copy function is suspended, the image from the printer unit 2 is not waited until the prohibition time elapses. Data output processing becomes possible.

Further, since the control means (controller CONT1 in this embodiment) releases the print prohibition state of the printer section 2 and starts image data communication from the external device 3, the print function instruction is given from the operation section. In this case, if the copying function is suspended, image data from an external device can be printed without waiting for the prohibition time to elapse.

FIG. 2 is a sectional view for explaining the structure of the reader unit 1 and the printer unit 2 shown in FIG. 1. The structure and operation will be described below.

The originals stacked on the original feeding device 101 are sequentially conveyed one by one onto the original table glass surface 102. When the original is conveyed 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 illuminate the document. The reflected light of the document is input to a CCD image sensor 109 (hereinafter referred to as CCD) via mirrors 105, 106, 107 and a lens 108.

The reflected light of the document irradiated on the CCD 109 is photoelectrically converted here. The converted electric signal is subjected to various kinds of image processing in the image processing unit 110, and the external switching circuit is a selector that switches the signal from the reader unit 1 to the printer unit 2 or the external device 3. It also has a function of selecting either the signal from the reader unit 1 or the signal from the external device 3 and connecting to the printer unit 2.

The electric signal contacted to the printer unit 2 by the external switching circuit of the image processing unit 110 is transferred to the exposure control unit 2.
The light signal is converted into an optical signal modulated by 01 and irradiates the photoconductor 202. 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 stacking unit 204 or the transfer paper stacking unit 205 in synchronization with the leading edge of the latent image, and then transferred to the transfer unit 206.
At, the developed image is transferred. The transferred image is fixed on the transfer paper by the fixing unit 207, and then the paper discharge unit 2
It is discharged to outside the device from 08. The transfer paper output from the paper output unit 208 is output 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, it is discharged to the uppermost bin of the sorter 220.

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

After the output sheet fixed by the fixing section 207 is once conveyed to the sheet discharge section 208, the conveying direction of the sheet is reversed and the re-transferred transfer sheet stacking section 210 is conveyed through the conveying 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-transferred transfer paper stacking section 210, so that two original images are output on the front and back sides of the same output paper. can do.

As shown in FIG. 1, the external device 3 includes a reader unit 1.
The core unit 10 in the external device 3 controls signals and controls each function. In the external device 3,
Facsimile unit for transmitting / receiving facsimiles 4, File unit for converting various manuscript information into electric signals and storing in the magneto-optical disk 5, Formatter unit 8 for developing code information from the computer into image information, LAN and interface with the computer It comprises a computer interface unit 7, an image memory unit 9 for storing information from the reader unit 1 and for temporarily storing information sent from a computer, and a core unit 10 for controlling each of the above functions.

3 and 4 are plan views showing an example of an operation panel arranged in the reader section 1 shown in FIG.

In these figures, reference numeral 301 denotes a display section which displays operating states and messages. In addition, the display unit 3
The surface of 01 is a touch panel, and touching the surface functions as a selection key. A numeral key 302 is a key for inputting a numerical value. Reference numeral 303 denotes a start key, and the operation is started by pressing this key.

By pressing the key 3011, the copy function processing status and various messages are displayed on the screen of the display 3013, and various copy functions can be set. Further, by pressing the key 3012, the status of the printer function and various messages are displayed on the screen of the display 3013, and various printer functions can be set.

Further, FIG. 4 shows a display state when the key 3012 is pressed. In this state, by pressing the key 401, the image density when printing the image output from the external device 3 is displayed. It can be adjusted with a soft switch.

The printer function switching instruction control operation in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the flow charts shown in FIGS.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of a printer function switching instruction control procedure in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention. Note that (1) to (13) indicate each step.

First, in step (1), it is determined whether or not any key of the operation unit has been pressed. When the key is pressed, in step (2), a counter (clocking means) for counting the time for prohibiting the selection of the printer function is activated.

On the other hand, when it is determined in step (1) that the key has not been pressed, it is determined in step (4) whether 30 seconds have elapsed since the key was previously pressed.

In step (3), it is determined whether or not the pressed key is a printer key for making various printer settings. If it is determined that the printer key has been pressed, the counter is stopped in step (12), the contents of the counter are cleared, and then step (7)
At, it is determined whether or not copying is in progress (copying function is being executed).

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (3) that the printer key has not been pressed, it is determined in step (13) whether or not the counter operation is stopped. Go to (7), N
If it is O, it is determined in step (4) whether 30 seconds have elapsed since the key was pressed on the operation unit. Here, when it is determined that 30 seconds have elapsed, the process proceeds to step (12), and then in step (7),
Determine if copying is in progress.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (4) that 30 seconds have not elapsed, then in step (5) the external device 3 is notified that the composite image forming apparatus is in the print prohibited state. Next, in step (6), a counter for counting a fixed inhibition time (in this embodiment, for example, 30 seconds) is added, and the process returns to step (1).

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (7) that copying is in progress, in step (11) the external device 3 is notified that the printing is prohibited, and the process returns to step (1) and copying is in progress. If not, the external device 3 is notified in step (8) that the composite image forming apparatus is in a printable state. Next, in step (9), it is determined whether or not the image from the external device 3 is received. If the image is not received, the process returns to step (1) to enter the key press standby state,
When the image is received, the received image is printed out in step (10), and then the process returns to step (1). Composite image forming apparatus configured as described above
In the control method of the
Clear the time (step (12) in Fig. 5) and enter the key
Force is the print function instruction by the instruction key, and
And the copy function execution state are determined (steps in FIG. 5).
(3), (7)), solution of the print prohibition state of the printer section
Removal (step (8) in FIG. 5) or continuation (step in FIG. 5).
Print (5), (11)) from the operation unit.
If a function instruction is given and the copy function is feeding,
Do not wait for the prohibition time to elapse, and
Data output processing becomes possible. Also, print on the printer section
After releasing the prohibition state, image data communication from an external device
Is started (steps (9) and (10) in FIG. 5),
When the print function is instructed from the operation unit, the copy machine
If it is not in operation, the external device must be installed without waiting for the prohibition time to elapse.
It is possible to print the image data from the storage.

FIG. 6 is a flow chart for explaining the operation of the external device 3 shown in FIG. Note that (1) to (3)
Indicates each step.

In step (1), the data obtained via the computer of the external device 3 is transferred to the printer unit 2
It is judged whether or not the image can be expanded as a bitmap image on the image memory for transmission to the device, that is, whether or not the image output preparation is completed (1). If it is judged that the image can be expanded, it is judged that the image can be output. Then, the process proceeds to step (2) and thereafter, and when there is no image to be output or when it is determined that the image cannot be developed, the process returns to step (1).

Next, in step (2), it is determined whether or not the printer unit 2 is capable of printing, based on the states of the signals transmitted from steps (5) and (7) shown in FIG. Then, when it is determined that the printable state is set, in step (3), the image is output,
Return to step (1). [Second Embodiment] FIG. 7 is a block diagram for explaining the arrangement of a composite image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention. The same parts as those in FIG. 1 are designated by the same reference numerals.

In the figure, 3A is an external device electrically connected to the reader unit 1 and has various functions.
That is, the external device 3A has a facsimile unit 4, a file unit 5, an external storage device 6 connected to the file unit 5, a computer interface unit 7 for connecting to a computer and a LAN, and information from the computer is visible. An image memory unit 9 for storing information from the formatter unit 8 for forming an image and the reader unit 1 or for temporarily storing information sent from a computer.
Further, it is provided with a core unit 10 and the like for controlling each of the above functional processes. An external device 3B corresponds to the external device 3 shown in FIG. 1 and is connected to the external device 3A via the core unit 10.
The PC / WS is a computer device such as a personal computer or a workstation.

FIG. 8 is a plan view showing an example of the operation panel arranged in the reader section 1 shown in FIG.

In the figure, reference numeral 801 denotes an operation mode selection key, which is constructed so that any one of a copy function, a facsimile function, a file function, and a print function can be selected and instructed. The display state) is displayed.

Reference numeral 301 denotes a display unit, which displays operating states and messages. The surface of the display unit 301 is a touch panel, and touching the surface functions as a selection key. A numeral key 302 is a key for inputting numbers. Reference numeral 303 denotes a start key, and the operation is started by pressing this key.

Each functional processing operation in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the flow charts shown in FIGS.

9 to 14 are flowcharts showing an example of each functional processing procedure in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention. Note that (1) ... In each figure shows each step.

First, after the power is turned on, the flow shown in FIG. 9 is started, and the initial setting is performed (1). Then, the operation mode selection key 8 is displayed on the display unit 301 of the operation panel shown in FIG.
01 is displayed, and the mode is selected by touching the panel above the select key. It is judged whether or not the selected mode is the copy mode (2), and when it is the copy mode, the process proceeds to step (1) of FIG.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (2) that the copy mode is not selected, it is determined whether the facsimile transmission mode is selected (3). The procedure moves to step (1) shown in 11.

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). When 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), and the input is made. When the mode is selected, the process proceeds to step (1) shown in FIG.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the input mode is not selected, it is determined whether or not the facsimile reception mode is selected (6). When the facsimile reception mode is selected, FIG. The process moves to step (1) shown in.

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.

When the copy mode is selected in the judgment of step (2) shown in FIG. 9, the flow shown in FIG. 10 is started, and the initialization of the copy operation is first performed ( 1) Read the key input from the operation panel to set copy conditions (2), and wait for the 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 the printer unit 2 performs printing (printing process based on the above-described operation description of FIG. 2) (5). When the printing is completed, the process returns to step (1) shown in FIG. 9 for the initial setting.

Further, if the facsimile transmission mode is selected in the judgment of step (3) shown in FIG. 9, the flow shown in FIG. 11 is started, and the initial setting of the facsimile transmission is performed (1 ), The keys input from the operation panel are read, the facsimile transmission conditions are set (2), and the input of the start key 303 is awaited (3).

When the start key 303 is pressed, the document is read by 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 judgment of step (4) shown in FIG. 9, the flow shown in FIG. 12 is started, and the initialization of the file operation is first 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 awaited (2). Next, when the recording key is selected, the recording condition is set (3), and the reader unit 1
Then, the original is read (4), the data is sent to the file section 5 and recorded in the external storage device 6 of the file section 5 (5).

On the other hand, when the file search key is selected in step (2), the search condition is set (6),
The file is searched from the external storage device 6 (7), and the result is output (8). Then, after the file recording or the file search is completed, the process returns to step (1) shown in FIG. 9 for initial setting.

Further, when command data is input from the outside in the determination of step (5) shown in FIG. 9, the flow shown in FIG. 13 is started, and first, the command is accepted by the computer interface section 7. (1), core part 10
The data is sent to the formatter unit 8 via the, and is interpreted and converted into meaningful information such as characters (2). Next, information is output, but it is confirmed whether the printer unit 2 is operating (3), and if the printer unit 2 is not operating, data is printed (4). Then, the process returns to step (1) shown in FIG.

If the printer unit 2 is in operation, it is stored in the image memory unit 9 (5) and the process returns to step (3).
When the printer unit 2 is not operating, the stored data is read and printed by the printer unit 2 (3) and (4). After outputting the data, the process returns to step (1) shown in FIG.

When it is determined in step (6) shown in FIG. 9 that facsimile reception is performed, the flow shown in FIG. 14 is started, and first, facsimile reception is performed by the facsimile section 4 (1). Then, it is determined whether the printer unit 2 is in operation (2). If not in operation, the data is sent to the printer unit 2 and printed (3).

On the other hand, when it is determined in step (2) that the printer unit 2 is in operation, it is stored in the hard disk (HD) of the facsimile unit 4 (4) and the printer unit 2 is not in operation. At times, it is printed out from the printer unit 2 (2) and (3). Then, after printing is completed, the process returns to step (1) shown in FIG. 9 for initial setting.

The above-described respective mode operations are performed by selecting them with the selection key 301 on the operation panel, receiving them by the facsimile section 4, or detecting external commands by the computer interface section 7.

Note that some of these operations can be performed in combination at the same time, and some operations can be performed independently at the same time, and the core unit 10 controls the priority setting and the like.

The operation correspondence between the first embodiment and the second embodiment will be described below.

As shown in FIG. 7, when the core unit 10 and the reader unit 1 and the printer unit 2 are configured to monitor the operating state by communication with each other, the external device 3B is instructed to prohibit printing and to permit printing. The core part 10 is formed. Therefore,
The operation of the reader unit 1 and the printer unit 2 (the procedure shown in FIG. 5) described in the first embodiment is executed by the core unit 10.

In this case, the core unit 10 determines whether the printer unit 2 is in use in step (7) shown in FIG. 5, outputs an image to the reader unit 1 in step (10), and outputs the image to the printer unit. The same operation is performed except that 2 prints out. The operation of the external device 3B is also shown in FIG.
Since the operation is performed according to the procedure shown in, details will be omitted.

In the above embodiment, the case where any key is processed as the timer clear key is pressed has been described, but a predetermined key of the operation unit may be assigned to the timer clear key.

Hereinafter, an operation procedure at the time of scanner composition 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 an operation procedure at the time of scanner composition in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention. The operation unit is composed of a touch panel type display DSP including keys K1 to K5.
An operation instruction is given by touching each key area displayed on the SP.

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

Here, on the editor which can be connected as an option, the area where the image is fitted is designated by two points on the diagonal with a pen, or the screen shown in FIG.
Display it on the SP, and enter the numerical value of the area where the image is to be inserted by using the ten-key input on the operation unit.

Then, when the coordinates of two points are input in (b) and (c) of FIG. 15, the input two points are displayed on the screen as shown in (d) of 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 where the image is fitted again. In addition, in the present embodiment, point clearing is performed one by one among the designated two points.

On the other hand, when the key area "OK" is pressed on the screen of FIG. 15 (d), the display DSP
Is switched to the screen shown in FIG. 16 (b), and it is instructed whether to combine the scanner document inside or outside the designated image fitting area. It should be noted that, in the present embodiment, this corresponds to the state in which “outside” that is highlighted is selected.

When the key area "Cancel" is pressed on the screen of FIG. 16 (b), the display on the display DSP is switched to the screen shown in FIG. 16 (a), and the area change can be instructed. When the key area “area clear” is pressed here, the display on the display DSP is switched to the screens shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B, and the area is designated again. If the key area “Cancel” is pressed on the screen of FIG. 16A, the screen of FIG.
The display content switches to the screen.

On the other hand, in FIG. 16A, the key area "O"
When “K” is pressed, the display on the display DSP is switched to the screen shown in FIG. 16B again, and when the key area “OK” is pressed on the screen, the display D is displayed.
The SP display switches to the screen shown in (c) of FIG.
Enter the number of pages of print data (any number between 1 and 999) using the numeric keypad, and press the key area "OK" on the screen.
When is pressed, the display on the display DSP is switched to the screen shown in FIG. 16D, and when the key area “scanner composite” is pressed on the screen, the display DSP is displayed.
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. Instruct whether the manuscript is " number of pages specified" or "continuous". When the key areas "Continuous" and "OK" are pressed on the screen, the display D
The SP display switches to the screen shown in Fig. 16 (d),
When the key area "Specify number of pages", "OK" or "Cancel" is pressed on the screen, the display DS
The display of P is switched to the screen shown in FIG. Then, when the scanner combining setting operation is completed, a screen for selecting paper (see ( b ) in FIG. 17) is displayed on the display DSP of the operation unit.

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

As shown in the figure, when the document to be combined with the scanner is set inside the designated area, the screen shown in FIG.
When a document to be combined with the scanner is set outside the designated area, the screen shown in (b) is displayed on the display DSP during the scanner combining standby.

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

When the screen shown in FIG. 19A is displayed on the display DSP, that is, when the key area "scanner composite" is highlighted, the key area "image quality" is pressed. The display screen of the display DSP is switched to the screen shown in FIG.
It is possible to specify (I-FI / character emphasis), sharpness, etc., and it is possible to adjust the print density and make the image black and white according to the type of original such as text original or photo original. Becomes When the key area “OK” or the key area “C” is pressed in the screen display state of FIG. 19B, the display DS
The display of P is switched to the screen shown in FIG. 19A, and the setting can be performed again.

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

When the screen shown in FIG. 20A is displayed on the display DSP, that is, the key area "scanner composite" is highlighted, the key area "image create" is pressed. , The display screen of the display DSP is switched to the screen shown in FIG. 20 (b), and various image creation processes such as each key area “outline”, “mesh”, “shadow”, “negative / positive inversion” are set. You can When the key area “OK” or the key area “C” is pressed in the screen display state of FIG. 20B, the display of the display DSP is switched to the screen shown in FIG. It is possible to set again.

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

When the screen shown in FIG. 21 (a) is displayed on the display DSP, that is, the key area "scanner composition" is highlighted, the key area "trimming move" is pressed. , Display DS
The display screen of P is switched to the screen shown in FIG. 21 (b), and the key area "trimming movement" is highlighted.

Here, an area in which an image is to be fitted is designated by two points on the editor with a pen which can be optionally connected, or two screens are displayed on the display DSP as shown in FIG. Use the ten-key pad to enter the area where the image will be inserted.

Then, when the coordinates of the two points are input in (b) and (c) of FIG. 21, the input two points are displayed on the screen as shown in (d) of 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 are input for the area where the image is fitted again. In addition, in the present embodiment, point clearing is performed one by one among the designated two points.

On the other hand, when the key area "OK" is pressed on the screen of FIG. 21D, the display DSP
22 is switched to the screen shown in FIG. 22B and the key area “trimming move” is pressed, the display of the display DSP is switched to the screen shown in FIG. 22A and the designated trimming is performed. The movement is displayed graphically. When the key area “OK” is pressed on this display screen, the display on the display DSP is displayed again in FIG.
The screen changes to the screen shown in, 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. 21B, and the trimming movement area is again displayed. It is configured to be able to specify.

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

When the screen shown in FIG. 23A is displayed on the display DSP, that is, the key area "scanner composition" is highlighted, the key area "trimming move" is pressed. , Display DS
The display screen of P is switched to the screen shown in (b) of FIG. 23, and the key area “zoom” is highlighted. When the key area "XY independent" is pressed while the screen is displayed, the display screen of the display DSP is switched to the screen shown in FIG. 23 (c), and the vertical and horizontal independent zoom settings (with a magnification of 100% as a reference ( 25 % to 400%)), and when the key area "XY same ratio" is pressed during the display of the screen, the display screen of the display DSP is shown in FIG.
When the key area “OK” is pressed on the screen shown in FIG. 23B and the screen shown in FIG. 23C, the display screen of the display DSP is changed to the screen shown in FIG.
The screen is switched to that shown in (a) of 3 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 (a) shown in FIG. 24, and the key area "XY independent" is displayed during the screen display.
When There is pressed, the display screen of the display DSP is 2
The screen is switched to that shown in (b) of 4, and vertical and horizontal independent zoom settings (magnification of 100% as a reference (( 25 % to 400
%)) Is enabled and the key area "X
24, the display screen of the display DSP is switched to the screen shown in ( a ) of FIG. 24, and the screen shown in ( a ) of FIG. 24 and the screen shown in (b) of FIG. 24 are displayed. 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.

In this way, by performing various scanner combining operations, a part of the letterhead, logo mark, illustration, etc. is scanned in a rectangular shape and printed on one sheet of paper by superimposing it on the data to be printed. It becomes possible.

[0089]

As described above, according to the present invention,
Control means determines the print function instruction key input by instructions key and whether copying function execution state of the operating unit
The key input from the operation unit is the finger.
If it is determined that the print function is instructed by the
Along with clearing the time measured by the time measuring means, the copy function is implemented.
Prohibit printing by the printer section because it is not on the line
Since the state is released, the image data output process from the printer unit can be performed without waiting for the prohibition time to elapse while the copying function is being fed.

Further, since the control means starts the image data communication from the external device after releasing the print prohibition state of the printer section, when the print function instruction is given from the operation section, the copying function may be suspended. For example, the image data from the external device can be printed without waiting for the prohibition time to elapse. Further, there is to determine the print function instruction key input by instructions key and whether copying function execution state of the operation unit, a key input from the operation unit
Is the print function instruction by the instruction key,
If the clock time is cleared, the clock function is cleared and the copy function is executed.
Depending on what is not inside, the printing prohibition letter of the printer section
Since the state is released, the image data output process from the printer unit can be performed without waiting for the prohibition time to elapse while the copying function is being fed. Also, since the image data communication from the external device is started after releasing the print prohibition state of the printer unit, when the print function instruction is given from the operation unit,
If the copying function is suspended, do not wait for the prohibition time to elapse,
Image data from an external device can be printed. Further, the control means gives an instruction to switch to the print function.
Fixed after key input from the operation unit with keys
Until the time elapses, the print output of the print function is performed.
Force is prohibited, and key input from the operation unit
Whether or not the print function is instructed by the instruction key and the copier
The key input from the operation unit
Copy function is executed when it is determined that the
If it is determined that it is not in the middle, do not wait for the fixed time
Since the prohibition status of the print function is released,
If the function is suspended, wait until the prohibited time elapses
Image data from the device can be printed. Well
In addition, the control means receives the print function instruction.
If it is determined that the copy function is being executed.
If set, the print function is kept disabled.
So, if the copy function is being executed, after the prohibition time has passed
Prevents printing of image data from external devices
can do. Further, the control means is
Notify the external device of the prohibited state and printable state
Therefore, depending on the print prohibited status and the print enabled status,
Control the reception of image data from external devices.
It Further, since the external device is provided with a means for transmitting and receiving a facsimile, it is possible to perform a facsimile reception data output process from the printer unit without waiting for the prohibition time to elapse while the copying function is being fed. Furthermore, outside
The device is a device that receives image data from a computer.
Since it is equipped with steps, if the copying function is feeding, the prohibited time
Computer from the printer without waiting for
Data output processing can be performed. Also printing machine
Key input from the operation unit that has an instruction key to switch to
From the time it is performed until a certain time has passed, the print
It is for prohibiting the print output of the function.
Key input from is the print function instruction by the instruction key
Whether the printing machine
When it is determined that the performance instruction has been given, the copy function is activated.
If it is determined that the activity is not in progress, wait for the elapse of the predetermined time.
Without releasing the print function prohibition,
If the copying function is not active, wait outside the
Image data from the device can be printed.

Therefore, when the key operation of the operation unit is the print function instruction and the copy function is in the rest state, the print function processing can be started.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an outline of a composite image forming apparatus showing a first embodiment of the present invention.

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

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

FIG. 4 is a plan view showing an example of an operation panel arranged in the reader section shown in FIG.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of a printer function switching instruction control procedure in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of the external device shown in FIG.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a composite image forming apparatus showing a second embodiment of the present invention.

8 is a plan view showing an example of an operation panel arranged in the reader section shown in FIG.

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

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

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of each functional processing procedure in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of each functional processing procedure in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of each functional processing procedure in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an example of each functional processing procedure 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 composition in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

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

FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an operating procedure at the time of scanner composition in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

[Explanation of symbols]

1 Reader section 2 Printer section 3 External device PC / WS computer equipment CONT1 controller CONT2 controller CONT3 controller

Claims (10)

(57) [Claims] 1. A composite image forming apparatus having an image forming apparatus including a printer section and a scanner section, and an external apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus to extend print function processing, comprising a printer section and a scanner section. An operation unit having an instruction key for switching the function between the copy function and the print function of the printer unit, a timekeeping unit for measuring a fixed time for prohibiting the start of the print function process of the printer unit, and a key input from the operation unit. When it is determined whether the print function is instructed by the instruction key and the copy function execution state, and when it is determined that the key input from the operation unit is the print function instruction by the instruction key, the time measured by the time measuring means is set. Control to clear and release the print prohibition status of the printer section when the copy function is not being executed A composite image forming apparatus comprising: 2. The composite image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control means starts image data communication from an external device after releasing the print prohibition state of the printer section. 3. A method of controlling a composite image forming apparatus, comprising: an image forming apparatus having a printer section and a scanner section; and an external apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus to extend print function processing. An operation step of performing a key input with an operation section having an instruction key for switching the function of the copy function of the printer section and the print function of the printer section, and a timing step of measuring a fixed time for prohibiting the start of the print function processing of the printer section. When the key input from the operation unit is a print function instruction by the instruction key and a copy function execution state is determined, and it is determined that the key input from the operation unit is a print function instruction by the instruction key, In addition to clearing the time count of the time count process, the print function of the printer unit is prohibited when the copy function is not in execution. A control method of releasing the stopped state, and a control method of the composite image forming apparatus, comprising: 4. The method for controlling a composite image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the control step starts image data communication from an external device after releasing the print prohibition state of the printer section. 5. An image forming apparatus and the image forming apparatus
Having an external device that outputs printable image data,
The image data outputted from the copy function and the external device
A composite image forming apparatus having a printing function of printing by the image forming apparatus, until the key input from the operation unit including instruction keys for predetermined time has elapsed since been made to switch to the print function, the print function Of the print operation is prohibited, the control means determines whether the key input from the operation unit is a print function instruction by the instruction key and the copy function state, and the key input from the operation unit is When it is determined that the print function is instructed, and when it is determined that the copy function is not being executed, without waiting for the elapse of the predetermined time,
A composite image forming apparatus, which releases the prohibition state of the print function. 6. The control means maintains the prohibition state of the print function when it is determined that the copy function is being executed when it is determined that the print function instruction has been issued. The composite image forming apparatus according to claim 5. 7. The composite image forming apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the control unit notifies the external device of a print prohibited state and a printable state. 8. The composite image forming apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the external device includes means for performing facsimile transmission / reception. 9. The composite image forming apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the external device includes means for receiving image data from a computer. 10. An image forming apparatus and the image forming apparatus
External device that outputs image data that can be printed
And a control method of the composite image forming apparatus the image data output from the copy function and the external device having a print function of printing by the image forming apparatus, from the operation unit including an instruction key for switching to the print function The method further comprises a control step of prohibiting print output of the print function until a certain time has elapsed after key input is performed, wherein the control step is such that key input from the operation unit is a print function instruction by the instruction key. If it is determined whether or not the print function instruction is given, and it is determined that the copy function is not being executed, it is determined whether or not the print function is being executed without waiting for the elapse of the predetermined time. A method of controlling a composite image forming apparatus, comprising: releasing a prohibited state.