JP3937859B2 - Image forming apparatus and image forming system - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus.as well asImage forming systemToIn particular, an image forming apparatus suitable for saving labor in an image forming system in which a plurality of image forming apparatuses are connected to a network.as well asImage forming systemToRelated.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Conventionally, in a system in which an image forming apparatus such as a copying apparatus is connected to a network, when printing out a plurality of originals in which color originals and black and white originals are mixed, the user must use the color image forming apparatus (color copying apparatus) to Printed out, a printed matter in which color pages and black and white pages were mixed was obtained.
[0003]
On the other hand, the color copying apparatus takes more time and cost to form an image than the black and white copying apparatus, so only a black and white original is printed out by the black and white copying apparatus among a plurality of originals in which color originals and black and white originals are mixed. There is a desire to make it happen. Therefore, when printing out a plurality of originals in which color originals and black and white originals are mixed, it is conceivable that black and white originals are printed out by a black and white copying apparatus, and color originals are printed out by a color copying apparatus.
[0004]
In this case, in order to combine the recording paper printed out by the black-and-white copying apparatus and the recording paper printed out by the color copying apparatus like a plurality of original documents, the user outputs the recording paper from one copying apparatus. The recording paper output by the other copier must be inserted (inserted) between the recording papers and the page order must be adjusted manually.
[0005]
In this way, when a plurality of printed images are to be made into one document, there are portions that cannot be processed on the computer, and the user has to manually spread the printed out images on the desk. The efficiency is poor and it is desired to save labor in this respect.
[0006]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
As a method of solving the troublesomeness when a plurality of images printed out as described above are used as one document, a color image printed in advance on an inserter device mounted on a black and white image forming apparatus is used. There is a mixing control method in which output paper is stacked and fed again. In the mixing control method, output from a color image forming apparatus, which is generally inferior in output speed to monochrome output, is temporarily stored in an insert tray, and various information for color / monochrome mixing, that is, the job number of the job to be printed Specify the information such as the paper size, number of copies, paper stacking status in the inserter device and material (paper type such as plain paper or cardboard) using the operation unit, etc. A color image is formed by downloading from a server connected to a network or reading from storage means in the image forming apparatus, and performing a mixing operation with the black and white image.
[0007]
However, in the copy processing using the conventional mixing control method, there is still a heavy burden on the user due to the occurrence of miscopy due to user input mistakes and the troublesomeness of complicated settings. In particular, when multiple monochrome / color image forming devices are connected via a network, the mistake of mixing color output paper and monochrome output paper in an inappropriate state due to an installation error of the inserter device is There was a problem of causing a large downtime.
[0008]
  The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and eliminates input errors and complicated input operations when setting a mixing operation for mixing color image output paper and black and white image output paper into one group. Image forming apparatus capable of reducing burdenas well asImage forming systemTheThe purpose is to provide.
[0010]
Further, the present invention provides an image forming unit that forms an image on a sheet based on image data and output setting information, a storage unit that stores a plurality of image-formed sheets discharged from the image forming unit, and the storage An image forming apparatus comprising: an image forming sheet stored in the storage unit; and an inserting unit configured to mix the image formed sheet discharged from the image forming unit. Storage means for storing storage information relating to an image-formed sheet that is installed in the storage means and stored in the storage means, and is stored in the storage means in accordance with the attachment of the storage means to the insertion means. The image forming means and a control means for controlling the insertion means in accordance with the stored information.
[0011]
Further, the present invention provides an image forming unit that forms an image on a sheet based on image data and output setting information, a storage unit that stores a plurality of image-formed sheets discharged from the image forming unit, and the storage An image forming apparatus comprising: an image forming sheet stored in the storage unit; and an inserting unit configured to mix the image formed sheet discharged from the image forming unit. A first storage unit that stores apparatus information of the image forming unit, and a second storage unit that stores output information that is included in the storage unit and that includes output setting information relating to an image-formed sheet stored in the storage unit. The storage information is read from the second storage means in response to the storage means and the storage means being attached to the insertion means, and the storage information does not match the device information. It is characterized by a control means for controlling so as to prohibit the operation of the insertion means.
[0014]
The present invention also provides an image forming system for forming an image by distributing an image forming job output from an information processing apparatus via a network by a plurality of image forming apparatuses, and the image forming job is discharged from the first image forming apparatus. A plurality of image-formed sheets, storage means equipped with storage means capable of reading and writing information relating to the stored image-formed sheets, and the storage means can be detachably mounted and stored An image forming sheet stored in the image forming unit and an insertion unit that mixes the image formed sheet discharged from the second image forming apparatus, and the second image forming apparatus includes the insertion unit with respect to the insertion unit. Depending on the mounting of the storage means, according to the storage information stored in the storage means of the storage means, the image-formed sheet stored in the storage means and the front And executes the image forming job by controlling so that interwoven the second image-formed sheets discharged from the image forming apparatus.
[0021]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
First, an outline of an embodiment of the present invention will be described. According to an embodiment of the present invention, at least one or more color image forming apparatuses, black and white image forming apparatuses, and image forming systems in which computers are connected to a network are connected to a color image forming apparatus or a black and white image based on a job output from the computer. Color image output paper or monochrome image output paper on which image formation has been completed by the forming apparatus is stored in the storage means, and the stored color image output paper or monochrome image output paper is stored in the storage means provided in the storage means. Based on the information, the sheet is inserted between the monochrome image output paper or the color image output paper on which the image formation discharged from the monochrome image forming apparatus or the color image forming apparatus has been completed, and mixed into one group. In other words, when the stacker tray is attached to the stacker or inserter connected to the image forming apparatus, information is read from the storage means inside the stacker tray, and the state in the stacker tray is automatically recognized, so that a setting error by the user as in the past has occurred. This eliminates the need for complicated settings and reduces the burden on the user. Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.
[0022]
<Outline of image forming system>
FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram showing an overall configuration of an image forming system in which a plurality of image forming apparatuses and a plurality of computers according to an embodiment of the present invention are network-connected. The image forming system includes computers 102, 103 a and 103 b and MFPs (Multi Function Peripheral) 104 and 105 which are image forming apparatuses on a network 101. Although not shown in the drawing, other devices such as an MFP other than the MFPs 104 and 105, a scanner, a printer, and a FAX are connected to the network 101.
[0023]
The computer 102 connected to the network 101 is configured as a server computer, and the computers 103a and 103b are configured as client computers. Although not shown in the figure, many other clients are connected. Hereinafter, the client is represented as 103. The MFP 104 connected to the network 101 is a color MFP that performs full color scanning, printing, and the like, and output sheets thereof are sequentially stacked and stored on a stacker tray 1207 in the stacker 107 mounted on the MFP 104. The MFP 105 connected to the network 101 is a monochrome MFP that scans and prints in monochrome, and the output paper is a black and white image output paper and a color image output paper on a stacker tray 1207 in the inserter 108 mounted on the MFP 105. After being mixed, the stacker 109 connected to the inserter 108 is sequentially loaded and stored.
[0024]
The stacker tray 1207 in the stacker 107 mounted on the MFP 104 and the stacker tray 1207 in the inserter 108 mounted on the MFP 105 are configured to be removable. In the MFP 105, the sheets stacked on the stacker tray 1207 are set in the inserter 108 via the stacker tray 1207, so that the MFP 105 can mix color image output paper and monochrome image output paper. The output paper mixed in the MFP 105 is temporarily stored in an offline post-processing bucket (external to the MFP 105), and bookbinding or the like is executed by a post-processing device (not shown).
[0025]
On the computer 103, application software that executes so-called DTP (Desk Top Publishing) can be operated to create / edit various documents / graphics. The computer 103 converts the created document / graphic into PDL (Page Description Language). Data subjected to PDL conversion by the computer 103 is sent to the MFPs 104 and 105 via the network 101 and printed out.
[0026]
Each of the MFPs 104 and 105 has a communication unit that can exchange information with the computers 102 and 103 via the network 101, so that the information and status of the MFPs 104 and 105 are sequentially notified to the computers 102 and 103. ing. Further, the computers 102 and 103 are provided with utility software that operates in response to information from the MFPs 104 and 105, and the MFPs 104 and 105 can be managed by the computers 102 and 103.
[0027]
<Configuration of MFPs 104 and 105>
Next, the configuration of the MFPs 104 and 105 will be described with reference to FIGS. However, the difference between the MFP 104 and the MFP 105 is a difference between full color and monochrome, and in many parts other than color processing, the full color device often includes the configuration of a monochrome device. Therefore, a description of the monochrome device will be added as needed.
[0028]
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of MFPs 104 and 105 that are image forming apparatuses according to the present embodiment. The MFPs 104 and 105 include a scanner unit 201, an IP unit (image processing unit) 202, a FAX (facsimile) unit 203, a NIC (network interface card) unit 204, a PDL unit 205, and a core unit 206, respectively. , A PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) unit 207, a printer unit 208, and a display unit 210. In the figure, reference numeral 107 denotes a stacker unit.
[0029]
The scanner unit 201 reads an image from a document. The IP unit 202 performs image processing on the image data read by the scanner unit 201. The FAX unit 203 is typified by a facsimile or the like, and transmits / receives an image using a telephone line. The NIC unit 204 exchanges image data and device information with the computers 102, 103, and the like using a network. The PDL unit 205 expands the page description language (PDL) sent from the computer 103 into an image signal. The core unit 206 temporarily stores an image signal and determines a path of the image signal according to how the MFPs 104 and 105 are used.
[0030]
The PWM unit 207 performs pulse width modulation on the image data output from the core unit 206. The printer unit 208 forms an image on a sheet based on the image data output from the PWM unit 207. That is, the image data output from the core unit 206 is sent to the printer unit 208. The sheets printed out by the printer unit 208 are sent to the stacker 107 and sequentially stacked. The display unit 210 is used to check the contents of an image without printing the image by the printer unit 208, or to check the appearance of the image before printing the image by the printer unit 208 (preview).
[0031]
<Configuration of Scanner Unit 201>
FIG. 3 is a configuration diagram showing the configuration of the scanner unit 201 of the MFPs 104 and 105 which are image forming apparatuses according to the present embodiment. The configuration of the scanner unit 201 will be described with reference to FIG. The scanner unit 201 includes an original table glass 301, a first mirror unit 310 having a mirror 304 and an illumination lamp 303, a second mirror unit 311 having mirrors 305 and 306, a lens 307, a CCD sensor 308, and an image processing unit (IP unit). 202.
[0032]
A document 302 to be read is placed on the upper surface of the document table glass 301. The original 302 is irradiated with an illumination lamp 303, and the reflected light passes through mirrors 304, 305 and 306, and is imaged on a CCD sensor 308 by a lens 307. The first mirror unit 310 including the mirror 304 and the illumination lamp 303 moves at a speed v, and the second mirror unit 311 including the mirrors 305 and 306 moves at a speed (1/2) v, so that the entire surface of the original 302 is moved. Scan. The first mirror unit 310 and the second mirror unit 311 are driven by a motor 309.
[0033]
<Configuration of Image Processing Unit 202>
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an image processing unit (IP unit) 202 of MFPs 104 and 105 which are image forming apparatuses according to the present embodiment. The configuration of the image processing unit (IP unit) 202 will be described with reference to FIG. An image processing unit (IP unit) 202 includes an A / D conversion unit 401, a shading correction unit 402, a line interpolation unit (line delay adjustment circuit) 403, an input masking unit 404, a LOG conversion unit (luminance / density conversion unit) 405, An output masking / UCR circuit unit 406, a gamma conversion unit 407, and a spatial filter 408 are provided. In the figure, reference numeral 308 denotes a CCD sensor.
[0034]
The optical signal input to the scanner unit 201 is converted into an electrical signal by the CCD sensor 308. The CCD sensor 308 is an R, G, B3 line color sensor, and is input from the CCD sensor 308 to the A / D converter 401 as R, G, B image signals. After performing gain adjustment and offset adjustment, the A / D conversion unit 401 converts the R, G, and B color signals into 8-bit digital image signals R0, G0, and B0. Thereafter, the shading correction unit 402 performs a known shading correction using a read signal of the reference white plate for each color. Further, since the color line sensors of the CCD sensor 308 are arranged at a predetermined distance from each other, the line interpolation unit (line delay adjustment circuit) 403 corrects the spatial deviation in the sub-scanning direction.
[0035]
Next, the input masking unit 404 is a part that converts a reading color space determined by the spectral characteristics of the R, G, and B filters of the CCD sensor 308 into a standard color space of NTSC (National Television System Committee). 3 × 3 matrix calculation using device-specific constants that take into account various characteristics such as the sensitivity characteristics / illumination lamp spectral characteristics, etc., and the input (R0, G0, B0) signals are converted into standard (R, G, B) are converted into signals. Further, the LOG conversion unit (luminance / density conversion unit) 405 includes a look-up table (LUT) RAM, and converts the R, G, and B luminance signals into C1, M1, and Y1 density signals.
[0036]
The output masking / UCR circuit unit 406 converts the M1, C1, and Y1 signals into Y, M, C, and K signals, which are toner colors of the image forming apparatus, using a matrix operation, and is read by the CCD sensor 308. The C1, M1, Y1, and K1 signals based on the R, G, and B signals are corrected to CMY and K signals based on the spectral distribution characteristics of the toner and output. Next, the gamma correction unit 407 converts the data into C, M, Y, and K data for image output using a look-up table (LUT) RAM that takes into account the color characteristics of the toner. The spatial filter 408 performs sharpness or smoothing. After the above processing is performed, the image signal is sent to the core unit 206.
[0037]
When monochrome image processing is performed by the MFP 105, a single color single-line CCD sensor is used, and after A / D conversion and shading are performed in a single color, processing is performed in the order of input / output masking, gamma conversion, and spatial filter. It doesn't matter.
[0038]
<Configuration of FAX unit 203>
FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the FAX unit 203 of the MFPs 104 and 105 that are image forming apparatuses according to the present exemplary embodiment. The configuration of the FAX unit 203 will be described with reference to FIG. The FAX unit 203 includes an NCU unit 501, a modem unit 502 having a modulation unit 503 and a demodulation unit 504, a compression unit 505, an expansion unit 506, and a memory unit 507.
[0039]
First, at the time of reception, data received from the telephone line is received by the NCU unit 501 and converted in voltage, A / D conversion and demodulation operations are performed by the demodulator 504 in the modem unit 502, and then rasterized by the decompression unit 506. Expand to data. In general, a run length method or the like is used for compression / expansion by FAX. The image converted into the raster data is temporarily stored in the memory unit 507, and is sent to the core unit 206 after confirming that there is no transfer error in the image data. Next, at the time of transmission, compression such as a run length method is performed on the image signal of the raster image sent from the core unit 206 by the compression unit 505, and D / A conversion is performed by the modulation unit 503 in the modem unit 502. Then, after performing the modulation operation, it is sent to the telephone line via the NCU unit 501.
[0040]
<Configuration of NIC unit 204>
FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the NCU unit 204 of the MFPs 104 and 105 which are image forming apparatuses according to the present embodiment. The configuration of the NCU unit 204 will be described with reference to FIG. The NCU unit 204 includes a transformer unit 601 and a LAN controller unit 602.
[0041]
The NIC unit 204 has an interface function with respect to the network 101. For example, an Ethernet (registered trademark) cable such as 10Base-T / 100Base-TX is used to obtain information from the outside. It plays the role of flowing information to the outside. When acquiring information from the outside, first, voltage conversion of information from the outside is performed by the transformer unit 601 and sent to the LAN controller unit 602. The LAN controller unit 602 includes a first buffer memory and a second buffer memory (not shown) inside the LAN controller unit 602. After determining whether the information is necessary information, the LAN controller unit 602 sends it to the second buffer memory. , A signal is sent to the PDL unit 205. Next, when providing information to the outside, the data sent from the PDL unit 205 is added with necessary information by the LAN controller unit 602 and connected to the network 101 via the transformer unit 601. .
[0042]
<Configuration of PDL unit 205>
FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the PDL unit 205 of the MFPs 104 and 105 which are image forming apparatuses according to the present embodiment. The configuration of the PDL unit 205 will be described with reference to FIG. The PDL unit 205 includes a CPU unit 603, a memory unit (HDD) 604, and a memory unit (DRAM) 605.
[0043]
Image data created by application software running on the computer 103 is composed of documents, graphics, photographs, etc., each of which is a combination of image description elements such as character codes, graphics codes, and raster image data. It is configured. This is so-called PDL (Page Description Language), which is typified by Adobe's PostScript (registered trademark) language.
[0044]
The PDL unit 205 performs conversion processing from the PDL data to raster image data. First, PDL data sent from the NIC unit 204 is once stored in a large-capacity memory unit 604 such as a hard disk (HDD) via the CPU unit 603, where it is managed and stored for each job. . Next, the CPU unit 603 performs rasterized image processing called RIP (Raster Image Processing) as needed to develop PDL data into a raster image. The developed raster image data is stored for each job in a memory unit 605 that can be accessed at high speed, such as a DRAM, for each of C, M, Y, and K color components, and again according to the status of the printer unit 208. The data is sent to the core unit 206 via the CPU unit 603.
[0045]
<Configuration of core unit 206>
FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the core unit 206 of the MFPs 104 and 105 which are image forming apparatuses according to the present embodiment. The configuration of the core unit 206 will be described with reference to FIG. The core unit 206 includes a bus selector unit 701, a compression unit 702, a memory unit (HDD) 703, and an expansion unit 704.
[0046]
The bus selector unit 701 of the core unit 206 plays a role of traffic control in using the MFPs 104 and 105. That is, the bus selector unit 701 switches the bus according to various functions in the MFPs 104 and 105 such as a copy function, a network scan function, a network print function, a facsimile transmission / reception function, or a display display function. The bus switching pattern for executing each function is shown below.
Copy function: scanner unit 201 → core unit 206 → printer unit 208
Network scan function: scanner unit 201 → core unit 206 → NIC unit 204
Network print function: NIC unit 204 → core unit 206 → printer unit 208
Facsimile transmission function: scanner unit 201 → core unit 206 → FAX unit 203
Facsimile reception function: FAX unit 203 → core unit 206 → printer unit 208
Display display function: scanner unit 201 or FAX unit 203 or NIC unit 204 → core unit 206 → display unit 210
Next, image data output from the bus selector unit 701 is sent to a printer unit 208 (PWM unit 207) or a display via a compression unit 702, a memory unit 703 including a large capacity memory such as a hard disk (HDD), and an expansion unit 704. To the unit 210. A compression method used in the compression unit 702 may be a general method such as JPEG (Joint Photographic) or ZIP. The compressed image data is managed for each job and stored together with additional data such as a file name, a creator, a creation date and time, and a file size.
[0047]
Furthermore, if a job number and password are provided and stored together with the compressed image data, the personal box function can be supported. This is a function for temporarily storing data and allowing only a specific person to print out (read from the HDD). When an instruction to print out a stored job is issued, after authentication by a password, the compressed image data is called from the memory unit 703, the compressed image data is decompressed and returned to a raster image, and the printer unit Send to 207.
[0048]
<Configuration of PWM unit 207>
FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the PWM unit 207 and the printer unit 208 of the MFPs 104 and 105 which are image forming apparatuses according to the present embodiment. The configuration of the PWM unit 207 will be described with reference to FIG. The PWM unit 207 includes a triangular wave generation unit 801, a D / A conversion unit 802, and a comparator 803. The printer unit 208 includes a laser driving unit 804, a laser 805, a polygon scanner 913, and photosensitive drums 917, 921, 925, and 929.
[0049]
Image data separated into four colors of yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K) from the core unit 206 (single color in the case of the MFP 105) is displayed in each PWM unit. Each image is formed through 207. The triangular wave generator 801 generates a triangular wave as shown. The D / A conversion unit 802 converts the input digital image signal into an analog image signal. The signal from the triangular wave generator 801 (a in FIG. 8 (2)) and the signal from the D / A converter 802 (b in FIG. 8 (2)) are compared in magnitude by the comparator 803, and the signal in FIG. A signal like c is sent to the laser drive unit 804 of the printer unit 208. The laser driving unit 804 converts each of CMYK into a laser beam by each of the CMYK lasers 805. The polygon scanner 913 scans the respective laser beams and irradiates the photosensitive drums 917, 921, 925, and 929.
[0050]
<Configuration of Printer Unit 208 (for Color MFP 104)>
FIG. 9 is a configuration diagram showing an internal structure of the printer unit 208 of the color MFP 104 which is the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment. The configuration of the printer unit 208 will be described with reference to FIG. In the figure, reference numeral 913 denotes a polygon mirror, which receives four laser beams emitted from four semiconductor lasers 805 (FIG. 8). One of them scans the photosensitive drum 917 through mirrors 914, 915 and 916. The next one scans the photosensitive drum 921 through mirrors 918, 919, and 920. The next one scans the photosensitive drum 925 through mirrors 922, 923, and 924. The next one scans the photosensitive drum 929 through mirrors 926, 927, and 928.
[0051]
On the other hand, a developing unit 930 supplies yellow (Y) toner, and forms a yellow toner image on the photosensitive drum 917 in accordance with the laser beam. A developing device 931 supplies magenta (M) toner, and forms a magenta toner image on the photosensitive drum 921 in accordance with the laser beam. A developing unit 932 supplies cyan (C) toner, and forms a cyan toner image on the photosensitive drum 925 in accordance with the laser beam. A developing device 933 supplies black (K) toner, and forms a magenta toner image on the photosensitive drum 929 in accordance with the laser beam. The four color (Y, M, C, K) toner images are transferred onto a sheet (paper), and a full-color output image can be obtained.
[0052]
A sheet fed from any one of the sheet cassettes 934 and 935 and the manual feed tray 936 is attracted onto the transfer belt 938 through a registration roller 937 and conveyed. In synchronism with the timing of paper feeding, toner of each color is developed in advance on the photosensitive drums 917, 921, 925, and 929, and the toner is transferred to the sheet as the sheet is conveyed. The sheet on which the toner of each color is transferred is separated and conveyed by the conveyance belt 939, and the toner is fixed to the sheet by the fixing device 940. The sheet that has passed through the fixing device 940 is discharged. As described above, since the sheet is discharged in a face-up state with the printing surface facing up, printing is performed in order from the last page.
[0053]
The four photosensitive drums 917, 921, 925, and 929 are arranged at equal intervals at a distance d, and the sheet is conveyed at a constant speed v by the conveying belt 939, and this timing is synchronized. The four semiconductor lasers 805 are driven.
[0054]
<Configuration of printer unit 208 (in the case of monochrome MFP 105)>
FIG. 10 is a configuration diagram showing the internal structure of the printer unit 208 of the monochrome MFP 105 that is the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment. The configuration of the printer unit 208 will be described with reference to FIG. In the figure, reference numeral 1013 denotes a polygon mirror, which receives laser light emitted from four semiconductor lasers 805. The laser beam scans the photosensitive drum 1017 through mirrors 1014, 1015, and 1016. On the other hand, reference numeral 1030 denotes a developing device that supplies black toner, and forms a toner image on the photosensitive drum 1017 in accordance with the laser beam. The toner image is transferred to a sheet, and an output image can be obtained.
[0055]
A sheet fed from any one of the sheet cassettes 1034 and 1035 and the manual feed tray 1036 is adsorbed onto the transfer belt 1038 via a registration roller 1037 and conveyed. The toner is developed on the photosensitive drum 1017 in advance in synchronization with the sheet feeding timing, and the toner is transferred to the sheet as the sheet is conveyed. The sheet to which the toner has been transferred is separated, and the toner is fixed to the sheet by the fixing device 1040. The sheet that has passed through the fixing device 1040 is discharged. In this case, since the sheet is discharged face up, printing is performed in order from the last page. In addition, the reversing unit 1041 can perform a face-down state of the sheet and a first page process for printing from the first page.
[0056]
<Configuration of Display Unit 210>
FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a configuration of display unit 210 of MFPs 104 and 105 which are image forming apparatuses according to the present embodiment. The configuration of the display unit 210 will be described with reference to FIG. The display unit 210 includes an inverse LOG conversion unit 1101, a gamma conversion unit 1102, a memory unit 1103, and a CRT (display device) 1104.
[0057]
Since the image data sent from the core unit 206 is C, M, Y, K data, it is necessary to convert it into R, G, B data by the inverse LOG conversion unit 1101. Next, in order to match the color characteristics of the display device 1104 such as CRT and MFP 105 to be output, the gamma conversion unit 1102 performs output conversion using a lookup table. The converted image data is once stored in the memory unit 1103 and displayed on a display device 1104 such as a CRT. Here, the display unit 210 is used when an image is confirmed by a preview function for confirming an output image in advance, a proof function for verifying whether an output image is definitely intended, or printing is necessary. This is in order to eliminate waste of the print sheet when confirming a non-existing image.
[0058]
<Network utility software>
Next, utility software that operates on the computers 103 and 102 will be described. A standardized database called MIB (Management Information Base) is built in the network interface part (NIC unit 204 and PDL unit 205) in the MFPs 104 and 105, and a network management protocol called SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) is used. It is possible to communicate with computers on the network via the network, and manage MFPs 104 and 105, scanners, printers, and fax machines connected to the network.
[0059]
On the other hand, a software program called a utility operates on the computers 103 and 102, and necessary information can be exchanged using the MIB function by using the SNMP via the network. For example, it is detected whether or not the stacker 107 or the stacker tray 1207 is set as the equipment information of the MFPs 104 and 105, and whether or not printing is currently possible is detected as the status information, or the names and installation of the MFPs 104 and 105 are detected. By using the MIB function such as entering, changing, or confirming a location, the user can confirm information on the MFPs 104 and 105 connected to the network 101 on the computers 103 and 102. Also, it is possible to restrict the writing / reading of these information by distinguishing between the computer (server) 102 and the computer (client) 103.
[0060]
Accordingly, by using this MIB function, the user can obtain all the information such as the equipment information of the MFPs 104 and 105, the state of the MFPs 104 and 105, the network settings, the job history, the management of the usage status, and the control in front of the computers 103 and 102. It becomes possible to obtain at.
[0061]
<GUI>
Next, a screen of utility software called GUI (Graphic User Interface) that operates on the computers 103 and 102 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a screen example of utility software according to the present embodiment. When the utility software is activated on the computers 103 and 102, a screen as shown in FIG. 13 is displayed. In the figure, reference numeral 1301 denotes a window, and 1320 denotes a cursor. When the mouse is clicked with a mouse, another window is opened or a transition is made to the next state. 1302 is called a title bar, and is used to display the hierarchy and title of the current window. Reference numerals 1303 to 1307 are called tabs, which are arranged for each category, so that necessary information can be viewed and necessary information can be selected.
[0062]
Here, 1303 is called a device tab, and the existence of the device and its outline can be known. In the device tab, there are bitmap images indicating the MFP 104 and the MFP 105 such as 1311 and 1313, and the state of the MFPs 104 and 105 is displayed by messages 1310 (Device Ready) and 1312 (Device Not Ready). Is done. The details of the device status can be understood by looking at the status tab 1304. Next, reference numeral 1305 denotes a queue tab, which can know the state of jobs queued in each apparatus and the degree of congestion of devices.
[0063]
Next, the configuration tab 1306 can know the equipment information such as what functions the finisher is attached to the MFPs 104 and 105. As the equipment information, for example, whether the inserter is installed in the MFP 105, the finisher is installed, a letter-size paper deck capable of storing up to 5000 sheets is installed, or the remaining amount of the sheet is Or whether a unit for performing double-sided processing is installed (FIG. 13 shows an example of installing a finisher). A setup tab 1307 can know network setting information of the device.
[0064]
<Configuration of stacker 107>
FIG. 12 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration when the stacker 107 according to the present embodiment is mainly used for stacking and storing output sheets of the color MFP 104. A stacker tray 1207 is housed in the stacker 107, and sheets are actually stacked in the stacker tray 1207. The sheet printed by the printer unit 208 of the color MFP 104 is sent to the stacker 107, and the stacking method is selected from the following “S placement” and “F placement” according to the type of job, and is loaded and stored. Here, taking as an example the case where the number of color pages of the color image output paper to be mixed with the black and white image output paper is 3, the method of stacking the same pages for the set number of copies is “S setting” mode loading. A case where three pages are sequentially stacked and stacked is referred to as “F placement” mode loading. In FIG. 12, the sheet is placed in the F position.
[0065]
The lifter device mounted on the stacker tray 1207 includes a lifter unit 1203, a paper surface detection sensor 1205, a lifter position detection sensor 1206, and a mechanism (not shown) that drives the lifter unit 1203. The lifter unit 1203 is controlled based on the output of the paper surface detection sensor 1205 that detects the position of the paper surface so that the height from the discharge port 1204 through which the paper image formed by the color MFP 104 is discharged to the paper surface is kept constant. This improves the stackability of sheets on which images are formed. An example of a method for driving the lifter unit 103 in the vertical direction is that a motor (not shown) provided in the stacker 107 winds up a wire connected to the lifter unit 1203 via a connection gear 1208. By transmitting the drive to the possible gear 1209, the lifter unit 1203 can be driven up and down.
[0066]
The lifter position detection sensor 1206 is for detecting the load amount of the stacker tray 1207 by detecting the position of the lifter unit 1203. By installing the lifter position detection sensors 1206 at a plurality of locations in the vertical direction of the lifter unit 1203, the detection accuracy can be increased. The paper surface detection sensor 1205 and the lifter position detection sensor 1206 may have any structure such as a flag sensor, an optical sensor, and an image sensor, and each sensor is provided on the stacker tray 1207 side. Further, as shown in FIG. 18, the lifter device is a lifter device for keeping the height of the paper surface constant with respect to the paper feed roller when the stacker tray 1207 is mounted on the inserter 108 and the paper is fed again. But there is.
[0067]
A storage device (memory) 1202 provided in the stacker tray 1207 inserts color image output paper on which an image is formed by the color MFP 104 into black and white image output paper on which an image is formed by the black and white MFP 105, and outputs the color image output paper. And a storage medium for writing information for mixing black and white image output paper. Further, a storage medium for writing information for inserting monochrome image output paper into color image output paper may be used. Data to be written in the storage device (memory) 1202 is, for example, paper size, job ID, print number, number of prints, number of copies, output paper stacking method (output paper stacking with the surface of the output paper facing upward) Indicating whether or not), material (type of paper such as plain paper or cardboard), and the like, matching between color data and black-and-white data and page alignment are performed, and a mixing operation can be executed.
[0068]
Note that when the sheets are stacked by the stacker 107, the lifter unit 1203 is not controlled by the lifter device, and the output sheets of the color MFP 104 may be stacked naturally.
[0069]
<Configuration of Inserter 108>
FIG. 18 is a configuration diagram showing configurations of the inserter 108 and the large-capacity stacker 109 that are mounted on the monochrome MFP 105 that is the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment. The inserter 108 feeds the color image output paper output from the color MFP 104 and stacked / stored on the stacker tray 1207 so as to be inserted between the black and white image output paper output from the black and white MFP 105 according to the information in the storage device 1202. -Carry and perform color black and white mixing. In addition, a stacker tray 1207 is used as a means for stacking and storing the color image output paper for insertion in order to mix.
[0070]
The color image output paper stored in the inserter 108 is lifted in the same manner as the stacker 107 using the lifter unit, and the height of the paper surface with respect to the paper feed roller 1903 is controlled to be constant. Further, a mechanism that prevents a plurality of sheets from being fed at a time is employed by causing the double feed prevention roller 1904 to rotate reversely to the paper feed roller 1903.
[0071]
<Large capacity stacker 109>
A bundle of jobs stacked on the stacker tray 1207 in the inserter 108 (a bundle of color image output papers formed with a print job of the color MFP 104) and a bundle of jobs output from the monochrome MFP 104 (image formation with a print job of the monochrome MFP 105) The bundle of black and white image output sheets) is appropriately mixed by the above-described control, and the mixed output sheets are sequentially stored in the large-capacity stacker 109 installed on the downstream side of the inserter 108. . The job bundle group loaded on the large-capacity stacker 109 is subjected to bookbinding processing and finishing processing offline thereafter.
[0072]
In this case, the finishing process includes two processes (or 3) for processing a stapler for binding the output paper, processing by a Z-folder for folding the output paper into a Z shape, and a file for filing the output paper. And the like by punchers that make holes, and each process is performed according to the type of job. In addition, it is possible to perform binding by binding by glue (gluing) for bookbinding or cutting for aligning the end surface opposite to the binding side after binding. Further, it is more effective if the sheet storage means of the large-capacity stacker 109 is configured so that the above-described stacker tray 1207 can be used together.
[0073]
<Division of job>
Next, job division of a color image and a monochrome image will be described. When printing a job in which color pages and monochrome pages are mixed in one job using the MFPs 104 and 105 from the computers 103 and 102, first, software that operates on the computers 102 and 103 as shown in FIG. The job is transferred to the color MFP 104 by using a driver that is hardware.
[0074]
In the figure, reference numeral 1501 denotes a driver window displayed on the screens of the computers 102 and 103. As setting items in the driver window 1501, 1502 is a color printer selection column for selecting a color printer (color MFP 104), 1503 is a monochrome printer selection column for selecting a monochrome printer (monochrome MFP 105), and 1504 is a job. A page setting column for selecting an output page, 1505 for a number setting column for specifying the number of copies, 1506 for a job color mode column for instructing color / monochrome image division for a color / monochrome mixed job, and 1507 for starting printing. 1508 is a cancel key for canceling printing, and 1509 is a property key for further setting.
[0075]
Here, the job color mode column 1506 includes automatic division for automatically dividing a job, manual division for manually dividing a job, all page colors for printing all pages in color, and all pages for printing all pages in black and white. , One mode can be selected. In the case of manual division, the user selects and sets which MFP to output from each page. That is, it is manually set beforehand for each page in the detailed setting window whether it is color or monochrome.
[0076]
<Automatic job division and color / monochrome judgment>
Next, automatic job division will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing color / monochrome page division processing according to the present embodiment. When the OK key 1507 is pressed in the driver window 1501 shown in FIG. 14, the driver on the computer (client) 103 is a job in which color pages and monochrome pages are mixed via the computer (server) 102. Information to be displayed and a print job are sent to the color MFP 104 and the monochrome MFP 105. In the case of automatic division, since it is not possible to determine which page is a monochrome page at this time, the job contents of all pages are sent to the color MFP 104 and the monochrome MFP 105, respectively. The color page and the monochrome page may be sent in the order of the color MFP 104 and the monochrome MFP 105 with the time shifted, or may be sent to the two MFPs 104 and 105 at the same time.
[0077]
The monochrome MFP 105 that has received information indicating that the job includes a mixture of color pages and monochrome pages does not immediately start printing, but waits for a monochrome page number notification from the color MFP 104.
[0078]
In FIG. 15, if the job is set to automatic separation (YES in step S1601), the driver on the computer (client) 103 changes the setting contents of the sampling cycle via the computer (server) 102. It is sent to the MFP 104 (step S1602).
[0079]
However, the sampling period is set in advance in the detailed setting window displayed by the property key 1509 in FIG. With respect to the sampling period, if sampling is performed at a rate of 1 point per 100 pixels × 100 lines, the sampling time can be reduced to 1/10000, and if the image is 400 dpi, sampling is performed in a grid unit of 0.25 inch (= 6.35 mm) period. If the letter size (11 "x 8.5") sheet is close to 1500 points, it can be determined to some extent whether it is color or black and white. If the image is still difficult to determine, set the sampling cycle more finely, or set the job color mode column 1306 in FIG. 13 to manual separation and set each page in color in the detailed setting window. It is manually set beforehand whether it is black or white.
[0080]
Next, the PDL unit 205 of the color MFP 104 that has received the job and the sampling period sequentially rasterizes and develops the pages in the job in order from the last page (RIP), and the image after RIP is processed in units of pages and color components (CMY, K ) Are stored in the memory unit (semiconductor memory) 605. The stored image is subjected to color / monochrome determination by the CPU 603 (step S1603). Color / monochrome determination is performed based on whether or not each sample point in the memory unit 605 has a component (CMY component) other than black (K) (steps S1604 and S1605).
[0081]
At this time, in order to increase the speed of color / monochrome determination, if even one point of color (CMY) component is present in the sampling points in the page, the page is a color image. / Black / white determination is stopped, and the page is processed as a color page in the color MFP 104. In this case, since it is possible to reprint the job, the page number information of the page is notified to the computer (server) 102 via the network 101 together with information indicating that the page is a color page (step) S1609). The page is color-printed by the color MFP 104 (step S1610). In addition, the page number of the color page in the job is stored in the memory of the color MFP 104 for writing to a memory to be described later.
[0082]
If there is no color (CMY) component at the sampling point in the page in step S1605, the page is processed as a monochrome page, so that the page number information of the page is a monochrome page. Along with the information shown, the server 102 is notified via the network 101 (step S1611). At the same time, the page information is written in the memory of the color MFP 104. The computer (server) 102 may automatically notify the monochrome page number information to the monochrome MFP 105 or may be notified by a request signal from the monochrome MFP 105.
[0083]
The monochrome MFP 105 that has received the notification in step S1611 outputs the color image stacked on the stacker tray 1207 when the stacker tray 1207 loaded with color image output paper formed in color is normally set on the inserter 108. The mixing operation of the paper and the monochrome image output paper on which the monochrome image is formed in the monochrome MFP 105 is started. Then, based on the information read from the storage device 1202 mounted on the stacker tray 1207, only the corresponding monochrome page is RIP expanded and printed.
[0084]
The processes in steps S1603 to S1606 and steps S1609 to S1611 are repeated until the last page unless a job cancel interrupt is input (step S1613), and the job in the color MFP 104 is ended.
[0085]
If automatic division is not set in step S1601, that is, if manual division is set, the computer (server) 102 obtains information on whether each page is color or black and white from the driver. In response to this, a color page is instructed to be printed to the color MFP 104, and a monochrome page is instructed to be printed to the monochrome MFP 105 (step S1607). The color MFP 104 prints a color page, and the monochrome MFP 105 prints a monochrome page at a predetermined timing. In this way, a job in which color pages and monochrome pages are mixed can be printed by the color MFP 104 for color pages and by the monochrome MFP 105 for monochrome pages.
[0086]
In the above description, the rasterization is sequentially performed for each page. However, the entire job is once RIP-developed in the large-capacity memory unit (HDD) 604 and sequentially stored in the memory unit (semiconductor memory) 605 for each page or a plurality of pages. It is also possible to read the page and perform the determination process. The automatic job division described above is divided into color pages and black and white pages, but may be divided in units of a predetermined number of copies, or may be divided into photo pages and character pages. In the above description, the print information is sent from the driver to the color MFP 104, and the color MFP 104 performs color / monochrome determination for each page and outputs the color page first. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Alternatively, the monochrome MFP 105 may perform color / monochrome determination of each page and output the monochrome page first.
[0087]
<Write / read operations to / from memory>
When the color MFP 104 prints out a color job for mixing the color image output paper and the monochrome image output paper to the stacker tray 1207, the CPU 1805 of the color MFP 104 is provided in the stacker tray 1207 as shown in FIG. A write operation is performed on the storage device (memory) 1202 that is stored. That is, the CPU 1805 determines the paper size, the number of prints, the number of copies, the printer number, the job number, the page number of each sheet based on the color / monochrome determination result, and the page order information indicating the order of the page numbers (S placement, F placement). Etc.), materials (types of sheets such as plain paper and cardboard), finishing processing information, etc., all the information necessary for the color / monochrome intermixing operation is transferred to the I / F unit 1803 of the color MFP 104 and the I / F of the stacker tray 1207. A write operation is performed on the storage device 1202 via the unit 1804.
[0088]
As shown in FIG. 16, when the CPU 1705 of the monochrome MFP 105 detects that the stacker tray 1207 is installed in the inserter 108 of the monochrome MFP 105 by a stacker tray presence / absence sensor (not shown) thereafter, the I / F unit 1703 of the monochrome MFP 105. The information reading operation in the storage device 1202 is performed via the I / F unit 1704 of the stacker tray 1207. Then, based on the read information, the monochrome MFP 105 and the inserter 108 are controlled to start a color / monochrome mixed operation.
[0089]
Here, each of the I / F units of the color MFP 104, the monochrome MFP 105, and the stacker tray 1207 may be a parallel control having a multi-bit bus width, or include an infrared communication by including a serial control unit in the I / F unit. It may be realized by serial communication. Also, when the monochrome MFP 105 prints out the stacker tray 1207, the CPU 1705 of the monochrome MFP 105 performs the same information writing operation to the storage device 1202. Further, the reading operation in the color MFP 104 is the same. Further, the storage device 1202 can have a map of data for a plurality of jobs, and a single stacker tray 1207 can cope with a mixed operation of a plurality of jobs.
[0090]
Further, information (memory data) written in the storage device 1202 is separated from the color MFP 104 and the monochrome MFP 105 by the stacker tray 1207 when a nonvolatile memory such as an EEP-ROM or an SRAM is used as the storage device 1202. Even when power is not supplied to the stacker tray 1207 from the color MFP 104 or the monochrome MFP 105, it is assumed that the power is not lost by the power supply by the battery 1201 provided in the stacker tray 1207.
[0091]
FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a memory map of the storage device 1202 according to this embodiment. In the memory map, for example, job numbers, printer numbers, and the like are assigned to addresses as illustrated. The memory map is distributed to area 0 to area n when a plurality of jobs are written. In the illustrated example, there are a plurality of jobs corresponding to the output sheets stacked on the stacker tray 1207, and the job No. to be processed first is “job 3”.
[0092]
Further, in the illustrated example, the monochrome MFP to which the inserter 108 to be installed is connected is “MFP 105”, and it is verified whether the combination is desired in addition to the above-described job No. and is to be printed. Only when it is determined that the mixed operation is performed. If the collation results do not match, the computer (server) 102 notifies the computer (client) 103 to that effect, or warns the user via a display unit of the monochrome MFP 105 or the like. The warning notification may be any one of display only, a combination of display and sound, and sound only. In the illustrated example, when the printer No is not designated, it indicates that any monochrome MFP in which the inserter 108 is installed can be used.
[0093]
Furthermore, in the illustrated example, the paper size is A4, the material of the stacked paper is “thick paper”, and processing unique to thick paper, for example, control such as variably controlling the paper feed speed may be performed. Also, in the illustrated example, the stacking state in the stacker tray 1207 is a job bundle (a bundle of output sheets) that has undergone the first page processing by the color MFP 104 and output face down, and the color MFP 105 requires face-up output. “Status A” is indicated, and print control is performed accordingly. Further, in the illustrated example, the page number to be printed in black and white is “3, 4, 5, 10, 12,...”, And only the printing operation for that page is performed.
[0094]
<Automatic mixing of jobs>
An outline of mixing of jobs (mixing of color image output paper and monochrome image output paper) will be described with reference to FIG. A sheet bundle printed by the color MFP 104 and discharged to the stacker 107 is set by the user in the inserter 108 connected to the monochrome MFP 105 together with the stacker tray 1207. When the monochrome MFP 105 detects that the stacker tray 1207 is set, the monochrome MFP 105 reads information in the storage device 1202 provided in the stacker tray 1207, and the job to be mixed with the job based on the read information such as the job number. Determine whether or not.
[0095]
If it is determined that the job is to be mixed, the controller of the monochrome MFP 105 activates the computer (server) 102 or the computer (client) 103 and receives job information from the computer (server) 102. In accordance with the information, the color image output paper is mixed with the black and white image output paper, the page position is arranged, and the finishing process is recognized. Or, without activating the computer (server) 102 and the computer (client) 103, they are mixed in accordance with print information downloaded in advance in the main body of the monochrome MFP 105.
[0096]
In some cases, the paper feed speed and the conveyance speed are variably controlled by recognizing the material of the color image output paper mixed with the monochrome image output paper. In addition, when defective paper is stored in the stacker tray 1207 due to a defect called paper jam or double feeding of the color MFP 104, information on a job number that is determined not to be mixed or information on an unusable paper number is displayed. By reading, the paper may be forcibly discharged to an escape tray (not shown). It is also effective to convey the information to the user by a transmission means such as a display unit.
[0097]
<Load control>
The output method of the monochrome MFP 105 is controlled by the method of stacking the color image output sheets stored in the stacker tray 1207. This will be described with reference to FIG. In the present embodiment, a plurality of loading states (for example, loading state A, loading state B, loading state C, and loading state D) are assumed. The stacking state A is a face-up output and an output in which processing from the subsequent original is performed in double-sided printing (an output in a state where the printing surface is facing upward and an output in which printing is performed in order from the last page). The stacking state B is a face-down output and an output in which processing from the first document is performed in double-sided printing (an output in a state where the printing surface is faced down and an output in which printing is sequentially performed from the first page). The stacking state C is an output in which face-up output and processing from a subsequent document are performed in single-sided printing. The stacking state D is a face-down output in single-sided printing and an output in which processing from the first document is performed.
[0098]
When the output from the color MFP 104 is a face-up output and an output in which processing from a subsequent document is performed, a bundle of output sheets stacked in the stacker tray 1207 is in a stacked state A-1. In this case, after the black-and-white image output paper and the color image output paper are mixed, the face-down output is required as in the stacking state A-2. The output to be processed is selected.
[0099]
Similarly, when the output from the color MFP 104 is the face-down output and the processing from the first document is performed, the bundle of output sheets stacked in the stacker tray 1207 is in a stacked state B-1. In this case, after the black-and-white image output paper and the color image output paper are mixed, the face-up output is required as in the stacked state B-2. Is selected.
[0100]
Therefore, it is necessary to control the image forming process of the monochrome MFP 105 according to the output paper stacking method of the color MFP 104, and the information is stored in the storage device 1202 in the stacker tray 1207. The color MFP 104 performs a mixing operation based on the information. The output control related to the above-described loading state A and loading state B will be described later with reference to FIG.
[0101]
<Processing of Color MFP 104>
Next, processing of the color MFP 104 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The flowchart in FIG. 21 is a program executed by the CPU 1805 in the color MFP 104, and the program is stored in a storage medium attached to the CPU 1805. The color MFP 104 determines whether to use the inserter 108 for color / monochrome mixing based on the setting screen of the computer 103 or the job setting on the operation unit of the color MFP 104 main body (step S2101). When it is determined that the inserter 108 is not used, the normal print is processed according to the control procedure as described above (step S2102). On the other hand, if it is determined that the inserter 108 is to be used, the input image data is data input by reading a document with the scanner unit 201 of the color MFP 104 or input from the computer 103 and transmitted to the color MFP 104. It is determined whether the file data is electronic file data (step S2103).
[0102]
When it is determined that the input image data is input data by reading the original with the scanner unit 201 of the color MFP 104, the original image on the lower surface of the original pressure plate provided in the color MFP 104 or the automatic original feeder is used. The conveyed original is read (step S2104), and the data read from the original is converted into digital image information and stored in an image storage device such as a hard disk of the color MFP 104 (step S2105). On the other hand, if it is determined that the input image data is electronic file data input from the computer 103 and transmitted to the color MFP 104, the image information and various job setting information are sent from the computer (server) 102 to the color MFP 104. After being downloaded, the color MFP 104 registers the image information and various setting information of the job as they are in an image storage device such as a hard disk (step S2106).
[0103]
Next, the color MFP 104 determines whether the stored page of the image to be formed is a color page or a monochrome page (step S2107). When it is determined that the page of the image to be imaged is a monochrome page, the order information (page information) and the like are written on the memory map in the storage device 1202 of the stacker tray 1207. Of the data stored in the image storage device in the color MFP 104, monochrome data is transferred to the image storage device on the computer (server) 102 or the image storage device of the monochrome MFP 105 via the computer (server) 102. (Step S2108). The data to be transferred need not be image data because it is only necessary to send data indicating which page of the job data is monochrome image data.
[0104]
On the other hand, if it is determined that the page of the image to be imaged is a color page, the color data is transferred to the image storage device of the MFP 105 (step S2109). Next, depending on the set stacking method or the automatically determined stacking method, the first page processing for normal printing from the first page or the post-processing page processing for reverse printing from the next page is selected. Then, a printing process corresponding to the selection is performed (step S2110), and output paper is stacked on the stacker tray 1207 in the inserter 108 (step S2111). At that time, information for color mixing as shown in the memory map shown in FIG. 19 is written in the storage device 1202 in the stacker tray 1207 (step S2112). If the last page has not been processed (NO in step S2113), the process returns to step S2107 to continue the process. If the last page has been processed (YES in step S2113), the process is completed. Exit.
[0105]
In the above control, the timing for writing information to the storage device 1202 of the stacker tray 1207 is for each sheet of paper. However, the timing is not limited to this, and timing such as before a job, for each job, for each page, after a job, etc. It doesn't matter at any time.
[0106]
<Processing of Monochrome MFP 105>
Next, the processing of the monochrome MFP 105 will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. The flowcharts of FIGS. 22 and 23 are programs executed by the CPU 1705 in the monochrome MFP 105, and the programs are stored in a storage medium attached to the CPU 1705. When it is detected that the stacker tray 1207 is attached to the inserter 108 of the monochrome MFP 105 (YES in step S2200), the color image output paper stored in the stacker tray 1207 is discharged from the monochrome MFP 105 to the storage device 1202 in the stacker tray 1207. It is confirmed whether or not information for color mixing mixed with the monochrome image output paper is stored (step S2201). If the information can be confirmed, the CPU 1705 reads and analyzes the storage device 1202 (step S2202).
[0107]
Here, an analysis is performed based on the internal information of the memory map as shown in FIG. 19, and the printing operation is started. First, “printer No” indicating the MFP in which the job bundle in the stacker tray 1207 is to be mixed is read from the storage device 1202 (second storage means) built in the stacker tray 1207, and the memory (first number) of the monochrome MFP 105 main body is read. 1 and the apparatus information of the MFP 105 (including at least information that the stacker tray 1207 should be mounted on the inserter 108 and information indicating the serial number of the image forming job) stored in the storage unit 1 (step S2203). If the collation results match, the job ID to be processed first in the stacker tray 1207 is read from the storage device 1202, and it is determined whether a job corresponding to the job ID has been transmitted to the monochrome MFP 105 (step S2204). When the job corresponding to the job ID is transmitted, that is, when there is a matching job ID, printing is performed by the monochrome MFP 105.
[0108]
At this time, if the monochrome data is in the computer (server) 102 (YES in step S2205), the image data of the job corresponding to the job ID / printer No. written in the memory map is transferred from the computer (server) 102 to the monochrome. It is downloaded to the MFP 105 and stored in the storage device 1202 such as an HDD (step S2206). When the job ID and the printer number do not match, the operation of the inserter 108 is prohibited, and the user is notified of the mismatch by a display unit such as an operation unit of the monochrome MFP 105 and a warning is notified. The warning notification may be any one of display only, a combination of display and sound, and sound only. By determining whether or not the job ID and print number do not match, it is possible to prevent mixed loading with print data other than the job designated by the user, and to perform a mixed operation using the MFP based on the user's request. To do.
[0109]
If image data is stored in the HDD of the monochrome MFP 105 in advance, it is determined whether the printer number and job ID match the image data in the HDD. If it is determined that they do not match, a warning is given to the user by display means such as the operation unit of the monochrome MFP 105. The warning notification may be any one of display only, a combination of display and sound, and sound only. On the other hand, if it is determined that they match, the printing operation is started based on the above-described mixing control.
[0110]
Next, it is determined which pattern corresponds to the “loading control” described above based on the loading method information (step S2207). If it is determined that the stacking state is B, face-down output control based on the first page process is executed (step S2209). On the other hand, if it is determined that the loading state A, face-up output control is executed by the subsequent page processing (step S2208). Next, it is determined from the memory map or the page number information of the computer (server) 102 whether the current page processed as a mixed operation is a monochrome page or a color page (step S2210).
[0111]
If it is determined that the current page to be processed as a mixed operation is a monochrome page, a monochrome page print for forming an image of the corresponding page is performed (step S2211), and output to the large-capacity stacker 109 attached to the monochrome MFP 105. Output paper. On the other hand, if it is determined that the current page to be processed as a mixed operation is a color page, the corresponding page is fed from the stacker tray 1207 installed in the inserter 108 attached to the monochrome MFP 105 (step S2212). To the large capacity stacker 109. The above operation is repeated for the set number of copies (YES in step S2213), and the mixed operation ends. When a plurality of jobs are stored in the stacker tray 1207, the above steps S2200 to S2213 are repeated for the number of stored jobs.
[0112]
In addition to the above, when there is information that is effective or necessary for color / monochrome mixing, the mixing operation is controlled based on the information. Further, the example in which the color image output paper of the color MFP 104 is stacked on the stacker tray 1207 and the color image output paper is mixed with the black and white image output paper from the inserter 108 installed in the black and white MFP 105 has been described. The monochrome image output paper of the monochrome MFP 105 may be stacked on the stacker tray 1207, and the monochrome image output paper may be mixed with the color image output paper from the inserter 108 installed in the color MFP 104.
[0113]
As described above, according to the embodiments of the present invention, in an image forming system in which at least one color image forming apparatus, black and white image forming apparatus, and computer are connected to a network, based on a job output from the computer. The color image output paper or monochrome image output paper on which image formation has been completed by the color image forming apparatus or monochrome image forming apparatus is stored in the stacker tray 1207, and the stored color image output paper or monochrome image output paper is stored in the stacker tray 1207. 1 group is inserted between black and white image output paper or color image output paper on which image formation is completed, which is output from the black and white image forming apparatus or color image forming apparatus, based on the information stored in the storage device 1202 installed in Input control when setting the conventional mixed operation to control It is possible to omit the complicated input operation, an effect that makes it possible to reduce the burden on the user.
[0114]
[Other embodiments]
In the above embodiment, the image forming system is configured as shown in FIG. 1, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the number of image forming apparatuses and computers installed, and the network installation form are arbitrary. Is possible.
[0115]
In the above embodiment, the case where the image forming apparatus is a multifunction peripheral (MFP) having a plurality of functions such as an image reading function, an image forming function, and a facsimile function has been described as an example. However, the present invention is limited to this. The present invention can be applied to a copying machine having an image reading function and an image forming function and a printer having only an image forming function.
[0116]
In the above embodiment, the case where the image forming method of the image forming apparatus is an electrophotographic method has been described as an example. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and an inkjet method, a thermal transfer method, a thermal method, an electrostatic method. It can be applied to various image forming methods.
[0117]
The present invention may be applied to a system composed of a plurality of devices or an apparatus composed of a single device. A medium such as a storage medium storing software program codes for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to the system or apparatus, and the computer (or CPU or MPU) of the system or apparatus stores the medium in the storage medium or the like. It goes without saying that the present invention can also be achieved by reading and executing the program code.
[0118]
In this case, the program code itself read from the medium such as a storage medium realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments, and the medium such as the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention. . Examples of a medium such as a storage medium for supplying the program code include a floppy (registered trademark) disk, a hard disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, a CD-ROM, a CD-R, a magnetic tape, a nonvolatile memory card, and a ROM. Alternatively, download via a network can be used.
[0119]
Further, by executing the program code read out by the computer, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also the OS running on the computer based on the instruction of the program code performs the actual processing. Needless to say, the present invention includes a case where the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by performing part or all of the processing.
[0120]
Furthermore, after the program code read from a medium such as a storage medium is written in a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted in the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, based on the instruction of the program code, Needless to say, the present invention includes a case where the CPU or the like provided in the function expansion board or function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing.
[0121]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the present invention, in at least one color image forming apparatus, monochrome image forming apparatus, and image forming system in which computers are connected to a network, color image formation is performed based on jobs output from the computers. The color image output paper or monochrome image output paper on which image formation has been completed in the apparatus or the monochrome image forming apparatus is stored in the storage means, and the stored color image output paper or monochrome image output paper is stored in the storage means Is inserted between black-and-white image output paper or color image output paper on which image formation has been completed, which is output from the black-and-white image forming apparatus or color image forming apparatus. In addition, it is possible to eliminate input errors and complicated input operations when setting a conventional mixed operation, and There is an effect that it is possible to reduce the burden.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram showing an overall configuration of an image forming system in which a plurality of image forming apparatuses and a plurality of computers are connected via a network according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an overall configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the present exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 3 is a configuration diagram illustrating a configuration of a scanner unit of the image forming apparatus according to the present exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an IP unit of the image forming apparatus according to the present exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a FAX unit of the image forming apparatus according to the present exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a NIC unit and a PDL unit of the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a core unit of the image forming apparatus according to the present exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating configurations of a PWM unit and a printer unit of the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 9 is a configuration diagram illustrating an internal structure of a printer unit of the color image forming apparatus according to the present exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 10 is a configuration diagram showing an internal structure of a printer unit of the monochrome image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a display unit of the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 12 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a stacker of the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a screen example of utility software of the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment;
FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a screen example of a printer driver of the image forming apparatus according to the present exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing color / monochrome page division processing in the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment;
FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment, an inserter I / F, and a storage medium peripheral circuit.
FIG. 17 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the image forming apparatus, stacker I / F, and storage medium peripheral circuit according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 18 is a configuration diagram showing configurations of an inserter and a large-capacity stacker mounted on the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 19 is an explanatory diagram showing a memory map of a storage device of a stacker tray mounted on the stacker or inserter of the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 20 is an explanatory diagram showing a stacking state of output sheets on a stacker tray and a large-capacity stacker in an inserter mounted on the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing print processing when an inserter is used in the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating print processing when the stacker tray is set with respect to the inserter in the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 23 is a flowchart illustrating print processing when the stacker tray is set with respect to the inserter in the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment.
[Explanation of symbols]
101 network
102 Server computer (information processing device)
103 Client computer
104 color MFP (image forming device)
105 Black and white MFP (image forming device)
107 Stacker (Inserting handStep)
108 Inserter (Inserting HandStep)
109 Large capacity stackMosquito
201 Scanner unit (original reading means)
208 Printer unit (image forming means)
1202 Storage device (storage means, second storage means)
1207 Stacker trayStep)
1705 Black and white MFP side CPU (control means)
1805 Color MFP side CPU (control means)

Claims (14)

Image forming means for forming an image on a sheet based on image data and output setting information, storage means for storing a plurality of image-formed sheets discharged from the image forming means, and the storage means are detachably mounted An image forming apparatus comprising an image-formed sheet stored in the storage means and an insertion means for intermingling the image-formed sheet discharged from the image forming means,
Storage means for storing storage information relating to an image-formed sheet stored in the storage means and stored in the storage means, and the storage means stored in the storage means according to the attachment of the storage means to the insertion means An image forming apparatus comprising: a control unit that controls the image forming unit and the insertion unit in accordance with stored information. A document reading means for generating a read the image data of the original document, the image forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that it has an operation means for setting the output setting information. The output setting information and the image data, the image forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that it is transmitted from an information processing apparatus which can communicate with the image forming apparatus. The storage information, the image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the includes information indicating stored image formed sheets each page numbers and their order in said storage means. The storage information, the image forming apparatus according to claim 1 or 4, wherein the including information indicating whether the surface of the storage means the image already formed stored in the sheet is upwardly discharge . Image forming means for forming an image on a sheet based on image data and output setting information, storage means for storing a plurality of image-formed sheets discharged from the image forming means, and the storage means are detachably mounted An image forming apparatus comprising an image-formed sheet stored in the storage means and an insertion means for intermingling the image-formed sheet discharged from the image forming means,
A first storage unit that stores apparatus information of the image forming unit; and a second storage that stores storage information including output setting information relating to an image-formed sheet that is provided in the storage unit and stored in the storage unit. The storage information is read from the second storage means according to the means and the storage means being attached to the insertion means, and the operation of the insertion means is prohibited when the storage information does not match the device information And an image forming apparatus having control means for controlling the image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus according to claim 6 , wherein the control unit controls to issue a warning when the stored information does not match the apparatus information. 7. The image forming apparatus according to claim 6 , wherein the storage information includes at least apparatus information for mounting the storage unit on the insertion unit. The storage information, the image forming apparatus according to claim 6 or 8, wherein it contains the serial number of the image forming job. An image forming system for forming an image by distributing an image forming job output from an information processing apparatus via a network by a plurality of image forming apparatuses,
A storage means for storing a plurality of image-formed sheets discharged from the first image forming apparatus, and a storage means capable of reading and writing information relating to the stored image-formed sheets;
The storage means can be detachably mounted, and has an image forming sheet stored in the storage means and an insertion means for intermingling the image formed sheet discharged from the second image forming apparatus,
In accordance with the storage information stored in the storage unit of the storage unit according to the mounting of the storage unit with respect to the insertion unit, the second image forming apparatus has already formed the image stored in the storage unit. An image forming system for executing an image forming job by controlling to mix a sheet and an image-formed sheet discharged from the second image forming apparatus. The image forming system according to claim 10, wherein the second image forming apparatus downloads image data from the information processing apparatus in accordance with the stored information stored in the storage unit of the storage unit. The first image forming apparatus is an image forming apparatus for color image formation, the second is the image forming apparatus according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the an image forming apparatus for forming an image of black and white Image forming system. The first image forming apparatus is an image forming apparatus for forming an image of black and white, the second image forming apparatus according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the an image forming apparatus for forming an image of a color Image forming system. The first image forming apparatus and the second image forming apparatus are a printer having only an image forming function, a copying machine having an image reading function and an image forming function, an image reading function, an image forming function, and a facsimile function. the image forming system according to any one of claims 10 to 13, characterized in that it comprises a complex machine having a plurality of functions and the like.

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