JP4193705B2 - Printing device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention is an image processing apparatus capable of directly reading and outputting image data stored in a storage medium such as a memory card and transferring the image data to another storage medium for backup. And an image processing apparatus control method.

In recent years, with the widespread use of digital cameras, so-called direct printing has been realized in which printing is performed without using a host computer (personal computer). In this direct printing, for example, a memory card for recording image data taken by a digital camera is mounted on a printer, and the image data recorded on the memory card can be read and printed (Patent Document 1). . In the prior art described in Patent Document 1, an external storage device can be connected to the printer. Then, the data in the memory card attached to the printer can be transferred to an external storage device via the printer to be backed up.
International Publication No. 03/076199

  The above conventional technology has two types of interfaces, an internal interface connected to the memory card and an external interface connected to the external storage device. However, both the internal interface and the external interface can be read-accessed simultaneously. Instead, exclusive control is performed so that data can be read from only one of the interfaces. In a normal case, the storage medium is connected to only one of the internal interface and the external interface, the image data is read, and the read image data is printed. Therefore, even if the access to the interface is controlled exclusively. There is no inconvenience.

  However, during backup processing that backs up data from the memory card installed in the printer to the external storage device, only read access to the memory card that is the backup source is valid, so the external storage device that is the backup destination Data cannot be read. Therefore, the user cannot immediately read out the data backed up in the external storage device immediately after the backup and display or print it on the monitor, and there is room for improvement in terms of usability.

  SUMMARY An advantage of some aspects of the invention is that it provides an image processing apparatus that can easily output backup data after backup processing and a control method for the image processing apparatus. There is to do. One of the objects of the present invention is to provide an image processing apparatus and a control method for the image processing apparatus that can confirm the contents of backed up data in a list format immediately after backup.

In order to solve the above problems, a printing apparatus according to the present invention includes any one of a first interface unit connected to a backup source storage medium, a second interface unit connected to a backup destination storage medium, and each interface unit. The interface control means for setting only one interface means as an effective reading target, and the backup data including the main image data and the sample image data are read from the backup source storage medium via the first interface means, transferred to the backup destination storage medium via the interface unit, and the backup control means for controlling the backup process of the file to be transferred to the backup destination storage medium from the backup source storage medium by the backup process A backup list storage means for storing a backup list that is temporarily generated to a constant, if the backup process by is performed backup control unit, and an output control means for printing out by selective printing output means backup data And (1) the case where the user instructs printing of the sample image data after the completion of the backup process, and the backup source storage medium and the backup destination storage medium are connected to each other. reads the backup list from the backup list storage means via the first interface means which is enabled by the interface control unit, the sample image data specified by the backup list of backup data, the backup source storage medium or al out readings Te, and executes printing, (2) after completion of the backup process, even if the printing of the sample image data is instructed by the user, expires any one of connection of the backup source storage medium or backup destination storage medium If the interface control means, only the interface means connected to either the backup source storage medium or the backup destination storage medium of the first interface means or the second interface means is set to be valid, reads the backup list from the backup list storage means, the sample image data specified by the backup list of backup data and heading Ra読 or storage medium who is connected among the backup source storage medium or backup destination storage medium , Print, It is characterized by that.

  As the backup source storage medium, for example, a detachable and portable storage device such as a memory card, a PC card, or a small hard disk device can be used. As the backup destination storage medium, for example, a CD-R, MO, hard disk, flexible disk, magnetic tape, or the like can be used. For example, the first interface means and the backup source storage device can be connected by mounting the backup source storage medium in a slot or the like provided in the image processing apparatus. The backup destination storage medium may be provided in a storage device built in the image processing apparatus, or may be provided in an external storage device formed separately from the image processing apparatus. The connection between the backup source storage medium and the first interface unit and the connection between the backup destination storage medium and the second interface unit may be either contact type or non-contact type.

  The interface control means sets only one of the first interface means and the second interface means as a readable interface means. For example, in the initial state, the first interface means can be set as an effective interface to be read. The backup control means reads backup data from the backup source storage medium via the first interface means. The user can specify in advance which data is to be backed up. The backup control means transfers the read backup data to the backup destination storage medium via the second interface means. Thereby, the backup data is stored in the backup destination storage medium and backed up. The output control means selectively outputs only the backup data via the output means when backup processing is performed. Thereby, the user can obtain the output about the backed up data, and can easily confirm the backup contents and the like.

  Here, for example, print output means and / or display output means can be adopted as the output means. The output control means can cause the output means to output all or part of the backup data. For example, when the backup data is configured to include main image data and sample image data, the output control unit can cause the output unit to output only the sample image data out of the backup data. The sample image data is, for example, thinned-out image data having a lower number of pixels than the main image data, and can also be called thumbnail image data. Further, for example, by printing sample image data in a list format, the user can grasp at a glance what kind of image has been backed up. Then, by storing the print sheets (index print sheets) printed and output in a list format in association with the backup destination storage medium, it is possible to efficiently perform later search operations, storage classification operations, and the like.

  In one aspect of the present invention, the interface control means sets the second interface means to be effective after the backup processing by the backup control means is completed, and the output control means sends the backup destination storage medium via the second interface means. The backup data is read out from the data, and the read backup data is output by the output means. That is, the interface control unit switches the interface to be effectively read to the second interface unit, whereby the backup data can be read from the backup destination storage medium and printed.

  The interface control means can effectively set the first interface means when the backup data is output by the output means. That is, when the output of the backup data after the completion of the backup processing is completed, the interface control unit switches the interface to be a valid reading target from the second interface unit to the first interface unit. Accordingly, the user can instruct new backup processing from the backup source storage medium to another backup destination storage medium without manually switching the effective interface, or is stored in the backup source storage medium. Printing can be instructed based on the image data.

  In another aspect of the present invention, backup list storage means for storing a backup list for specifying a file transferred from the backup source storage medium to the backup destination storage medium by backup processing is provided, and the output control means is included in the backup list. Based on this, the backup data is read from the backup source storage medium, and the read backup data is output by the output means. That is, the backup list stores information on which data is read from the backup source storage medium and transferred to the backup destination storage medium. The output control means can grasp which data has been backed up by referring to the backup list. Therefore, the output control means reads backup data from the backup source storage medium based on the backup list and causes the output means to output it. Therefore, in this case, backup data can be read from the backup source storage medium without switching the interface to be effectively read to the second interface means. In this case, since the backup list is generated, even when only a part of the data stored in the backup source storage medium is backed up, the data related to the partial backup can be easily specified. .

  The output control means can also start outputting backup data by the output means before the backup processing by the backup control means is completed. That is, by starting the backup data output process without waiting for the completion of the backup process, the time until the backup data output process is completed can be shortened.

  An image processing system according to another aspect of the present invention is an image processing system including an image processing device and an external storage device connected to the image processing device, and the image processing device is detachably mounted with a storage medium. Any one of a slot unit to be connected, a first interface unit connected to a storage medium mounted in the slot unit, a second interface unit connected to an external storage device, and the first and second interface units An interface control unit that sets only one interface unit as an effective reading target, and backup data designated as a backup target is read from the storage medium via the first interface unit, and the read backup data is read from the second interface unit. Backup control unit to transfer to external storage device via An instruction unit for instructing the output of the data, and when the output of the backup data is instructed by the instruction unit, an image processing unit for generating data based on the backup data, and outputting based on the generated data And an output unit.

  An image processing apparatus control method according to still another aspect of the present invention is a control method for performing data backup and printing of backed-up data using an image processing apparatus including a plurality of interface units that can be read. The backup source storage medium is connected to one of the plurality of interface units, and the backup destination storage medium is connected to the other interface unit of the plurality of interface units. A backup step for transferring all or part of the data stored in the backup destination storage medium, and when the backup of the data by the backup step is completed, either the backup source storage medium or the backup destination storage medium From ba A data acquisition step of acquiring up data includes a step of outputting the acquired data.

  Hereinafter, a printing apparatus will be described as an example of the image processing apparatus. FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the printer 1 according to the present embodiment. As will be described later, the printer 1 includes an operation panel 10, a printer engine 20, a scanner engine 30, and a main control unit 40. In other words, the printer 1 includes at least a scanner function that reads an image from a document and converts it into digital data, and a printer function (copy function) that prints the read digital data on printing paper. Furthermore, the printer 1 also has a function of receiving and printing image data from a host device 80 (see FIG. 2) such as a digital camera or a personal computer via the communication cable CN. Further, as will be described later, the printer 1 has a direct printing function for reading image data from the memory cards 60 and 61 and printing it. Further, as will be described later, the printer 1 has a backup function for copying the image data stored in the memory cards 60 and 61 to the external storage device 70.

  The operation panel 10 is provided on the surface of the printer 1 in consideration of visibility and operability, and is a man-machine interface including an information input unit 11 and an information output unit 12. The information input unit 11 includes information input means such as various buttons and a print menu (none of which is shown) displayed on the display. The information output unit 12 includes information output means such as various lamps and a display (all not shown). Note that the input and output of information is not limited to visual output centering on characters and images, and for example, voice input and voice output can be employed.

  The printer engine 20 is provided in the lower part of the printer 1, for example. The printer engine 20 can be configured, for example, as a serial type print engine that can print one character at a time, a line type print engine that can print one line at a time, or a page printer that can print page by page. The printer engine 20 is preferably configured as a color engine so that the color of the image data can be reproduced, but may be a monochrome engine.

  The scanner engine 30 is provided on the upper part of the printer 1, for example. The scanner engine 30, a document table 32 and document table cover 31, which will be described later, and a scanner control unit 52 constitute a scanner device. The scanner engine 30 can be composed of, for example, a plurality of line-type light receiving elements (CCD and the like) provided with RGB color filters. Or it is good also as a structure which irradiates while switching the light ray of each RGB color from a light source, and light-receives with a single line type light receiving element. Further, a reduction optical system in which the length of the line type light receiving element is set shorter than that of the image reading surface may be employed, or the length of the line type light receiving element may be substantially matched with the image reading surface. Further, a spectral element such as a diffraction grating may be used instead of the color filter.

  As will be described later with reference to FIG. 2, the main control unit 40 is configured as a microcomputer system including, for example, a CPU 100, a ROM 101, a RAM 102, and the like. The main control unit 40 can also include a dedicated hardware circuit (ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit)) 103 for executing a specific process.

  As will be described later, the main control unit 40 includes a user interface (hereinafter referred to as “UI”) control unit 41, a backup control unit 42, an image processing unit 43, a file system 44, an access control unit 45, and an external control unit. A USB I / F 46 as an interface (hereinafter referred to as I / F), card I / Fs 47 and 48 as internal I / Fs, a print image data storage unit 49, a printer control unit 50, a scan data storage unit 51, And a scanner control unit 52. Each of these functions is realized by either hardware circuit or software, or by cooperation of the hardware circuit and software.

  Either the external storage device 70 or the host device 80 is exclusively connected to the USB I / F 46 via the communication cable CN. A plurality of USB I / Fs can be provided, and other I / Fs such as IEEE1394 can be adopted in addition to USB.

  The printer 1 includes at least one card I / F. In the present embodiment, a case where two or more card I / Fs 47 and 48 are provided is shown, but a plurality of card I / Fs are not necessarily provided. In the case where a plurality of card I / Fs 47 and 48 are provided, it is preferable that memory cards 60 and 61 having different standards can be attached to the respective card I / Fs 47 and 48. A memory card of the same standard may be attached to each card I / F 47, 48. Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, one card I / F 47 and one memory card 60 will be mainly described.

  The UI control unit 41 performs UI-related control, analyzes information input via the information input unit 11 of the operation panel 10, and notifies a predetermined unit. In addition, the UI control unit 41 outputs a processing result or the like via the information output unit 12. The UI control unit 41 is realized by the CPU 100 executing a predetermined UI control program or by using an integrated circuit for UI control.

  The backup control unit 42 controls backup processing. The backup control unit 42 reads the image data stored in the memory card 60 via the file system 44 and the access control unit 45, and transfers the read image data to the external storage device 70 via the USB I / F 46. . Thereby, the image data in the memory card 60 is stored in the storage medium 71 attached to the external storage device 70.

  The image processing unit 43 can generate print image data by reading the scan data stored in the scan data storage unit 51 and performing predetermined image processing. The image processing unit 43 can also read image data from the memory card 60 or the external storage device 70 via the file system 44 or the like, and convert the image data into print image data. The print image data generated by the image processing unit 43 is stored in the print image data storage unit 49. Examples of image processing performed by the image processing unit 43 include color conversion processing from the RGB color system to the CMYK color system, enlargement processing, reduction processing, rotation processing, various correction processing, and halftone processing. . The printer control unit 50 acquires print image data from the print image data storage unit 49 and drives the printer engine 20 based on the print image data.

  The file system 44 is connected to the UI control unit 41, the backup control unit 42, and the image processing unit 43, respectively. The file system 44 is also connected to the access control unit 45. The UI control unit 41, the backup control unit 42, and the image processing unit 43 acquire image data from the memory card 60 and the external storage medium 71 via the file system 44. The file system 44 manages file information of image data stored in the memory card 60 or the external storage medium 71. For example, the file system 44 grasps the attributes (file name, file path, data size, etc.) of the image data stored in the memory card 60 or the external storage medium 71, and as described later with reference to FIG. An image information list T2 for managing image data is generated based on the above. Based on this image information list T2, image display, printing, and the like are performed.

  The access control unit 45 is connected to the USB I / F 46, the card I / F 47, and the like. The access control unit 45 is also connected to the file system 44. The access control unit 45 knows whether the memory card 60 is attached (whether it is attached), whether the external storage device 70 is connected, and the like. When the access control unit 45 receives an access request to the memory card 60 or the external storage medium 71 via the file system 44, the access control unit 45 permits access based on a preset rule to be described later.

  The USB I / F 46 functions as a USB master when connected to the external storage device 70, and functions as a USB slave when connected to the host device 80. That is, when the external storage device 70 is connected to the printer 1, the printer 1 plays a leading role in data exchange. When the host device 80 is connected to the printer 1, the host device 80 plays a leading role in data exchange. Note that the USB master function and the USB slave function may not be combined, but may be separated from each other.

  The memory card 60 can store a plurality of image data, image data management information, and the like. Further, text data other than image data, graphics data, and the like can be stored. As the memory card 60, for example, a non-volatile rewritable and relatively detachable image storage medium such as a semiconductor memory or a hard disk can be used. The memory card 60 is not limited to a contact type storage medium, and may be configured as a non-contact type storage medium. Here, a data file for each image is stored in the memory card 60, and each image data file includes header information, thumbnail image data, and main image data. When a subject is imaged with a digital camera, high-resolution main image data is obtained. The thumbnail image data is generated as low resolution small image data by thinning out the main image data. The main image data and the thumbnail image data are recorded in the memory card 60 in association with each other.

  When an image reading is instructed from the information input unit 11, the scanner control unit 52 drives the scanner engine 30 to read the image of the document placed on the document table 32. The scanner control unit 52 stores the read image data (scan data) in the scan data storage unit 51. The image data stored in the scan data storage unit 51 can be converted into print image data by the image processing unit 43 as described above. Alternatively, the image data stored in the scan data storage unit 51 can be stored in the memory card 60 via the card I / F 47.

  Next, a schematic hardware configuration of the printer 1 will be described with reference to FIG. The main control unit 40 includes, for example, a CPU 100, a ROM 101, a RAM 102, an ASIC 103, card I / Fs 47 and 48, a USB I / F 46, a UII / F 105, and the like. The CPU 100 implements a backup control function, an index printing function, and the like by executing a control program stored in advance in the ROM 101. The CPU 100 does not need to be single, and a plurality of CPUs can be provided. In addition, the control program in the ROM 101 can be rewritten via a communication network, the built-in I / Fs 46 to 48, and the like.

  The RAM 102 is used as a work area by the CPU 100 or the like, or is used for temporary storage of data. The ASIC 103 is a dedicated integrated circuit that executes image processing and the like performed by the image processing unit 43. The ASIC 103 includes a local RAM 104 that can be used as a work area or the like. The UI / F 105 is connected to the operation panel 10 and implements the UI control unit 41 together with a UI control program executed by the CPU 100, for example.

  The USB I / F 46 is connected to either the external storage device 70 or the host device 80 via the USB port 106. When a plurality of USB ports 106 are provided, both the external storage device 70 and the host device 80 can be connected to the printer 1. Examples of the host device 80 include a digital camera, a portable information terminal or a mobile phone having a photographing function, an image editing device, a personal computer, and the like. Card I / Fs 47 and 48 are connected to memory cards 60 and 61 via card slots 107 and 108, respectively. Note that the above hardware configuration is an example, and the present invention is not limited to the above-described configuration.

  Next, the external configuration of the printer 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4. FIG. 3 shows a state in which the document table cover 31 is closed. A scanner engine 30 is provided above the printer 1, and a printer engine 20 is provided below the printer 1. An operation panel 10 is provided on the upper front side of the printer 1. Further, a paper feed tray 21 is provided on the back side of the printer 1, and a paper discharge tray 22 is provided on the lower front side of the printer 1. As described above, the printer 1 is configured as a multifunction machine in which the scanner engine 30 and the printer engine 20 are built in the same casing.

  FIG. 4 shows a state in which the document table cover 31 is opened. When the document table cover 31 is opened, a document table 32 appears above the printer 1. The document table 32 is formed, for example, in a flat plate shape from a transparent glass material, and a light source, a light receiving element (none of which are not shown) and the like are disposed below the document table 32. The user aligns the document on the document table 32, places the document 2 downward, closes the document table cover 31, and instructs to start scanning. When the reading of the image is completed, the user opens the document table cover 31, removes the document 2 from the document table 32, and places a new document 2 on the document table 32. The read image can be printed out via the printer engine 20, or can be stored in the memory card 60 via the file system 44.

  FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing a schematic configuration of the access priority management table T1 used by the access control unit 45. As shown in FIG. In the access priority management table (hereinafter referred to as “rank management table”) T1, for example, I / F types corresponding to each priority are registered. For example, a USB I / F 46 that is connected to the host device 80 as the first place and becomes a USB slave, a card I / F 47 that is connected to the memory card 60 at the second place, and a card I that is connected to the memory card 61 at the third place. / F48, the priority order is set so that the USB I / F 46 is connected to the external storage device 70 and becomes the USB master at the fourth place. That is, the access priority order can be set in the order of host device 80> memory card 60 (or 61)> external storage device 70. Note that the priority order is not limited to the above example, and may be set in another order as necessary. Moreover, it is good also as a structure which can change a priority by a user's manual operation. Further, the priority order may be switched according to various modes (memory card print mode, backup mode, etc.) executed by the printer 1.

  When only one of the plurality of I / Fs 46 to 48 is used, the I / F is set as an effective I / F by the access control unit 45. When a plurality of I / Fs compete, the higher one registered in the order management table T1 has priority. For example, when transferring the image data in the memory card 60 to the external storage device 70 by the backup mode of the printer 1, both the USB I / F 46 (USB master) and the card I / F 47 are used. As shown in T1, the card I / F 47 has a higher rank than the USB I / F (USB master) 46. Accordingly, the card I / F 47 is set as an effective reading target. Note that the priority is the priority of read access, and image data can be written to the external storage medium 71 of the external storage device 70 even when both the memory card 60 and the external storage device 70 are connected.

  Next, FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of the image information list T2 generated by the file system 44. The image information list T2 is image management information (or an image management table) for managing image data recorded in the memory card 60 or the like. The image information list T2 includes an identification code (ID) and image file information associated with each identification code. Each image data stored in the memory card 60 is associated with an identification code that is uniquely determined in the memory card 60. Each image file information corresponds to each image data. Each image file information includes an image information structure T21. The image information structure T21 is a small table in which various attribute information of image data is arranged. The image information structure T21 includes, for example, a file name of image data, a full path file name for accessing image data in the memory card 60, a recording date and time, a file attribute, and other attached information. Is done. Therefore, if the image information list T2 is searched using the identification code as a search key, the image information structure T21 corresponding to the identification code can be called. By referring to this image information structure T21, desired image data File name, storage location, and the like.

  FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing the structure of the print list information T3. By referring to the print list information T3, the image data described therein is read from the memory card 60 or the like, and print data is generated based on the read image data. The print list information T3 includes, for example, an identification code (JID), print file information associated with the identification code, and print setting information applied to the entire print job. Each print file information includes a print file information structure T31. The print file information structure T31 includes a print image identification code (hereinafter referred to as IDX) and setting information for each file. In the case of normal memory card printing, the identification code of the image list information T1 is set in IDX (IDX = ID). Accordingly, by searching the image information list T2 based on the IDX of the print file information structure T31, the image data to be printed can be specified and read from the memory card 60. Further, by preparing a sublist and extracting only image data that matches a predetermined condition, it is possible to give flexibility to the printing order.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an overview of the backup control process. First, when using the backup mode provided in the printer 1, the user connects the memory card 60 to the card I / F 47 and connects the external storage device 70 to the USB I / F 46. Here, as described above, since the card I / F 47 has a higher priority of read access, in the initial state, image data (not necessarily image data) can be read from only the memory card 60. It can be done.

  When the user instructs execution of backup via the operation panel 10 (S1: YES), the printer 1 performs initial setting of backup (S2). In this initial setting, for example, a backup source directory and a backup destination directory are set. Next, the printer 1 reads image data from a predetermined directory from the memory card 60 as a backup source storage medium via the file system 44 or the like (S3). The read image data is transferred to the external storage device 70 that is a backup destination storage medium via the file system 44 and the like, and is written in a predetermined directory of the external storage medium 71 (S4). Data reading and data transfer are repeated while moving the target directory until all the data in the range specified by the user is backed up to the external storage medium 71 (S5).

  When the backup is completed (S5: YES), this is notified to the user via the operation panel 10. A user who desires to execute index printing after backup instructs the execution of index printing via the operation panel 10 (S6: YES). If the user does not wish to execute index printing (S6: NO), the process ends.

  Usually, many users have one or a few memory cards 60. The user backs up image data in the memory card 60 to the external storage medium 71, and then attaches the memory card 60 to a digital camera or the like to store a new image. The external storage medium 71 can be associated with character information useful for specifying backup data by attaching a label or the like, for example. However, for example, it is difficult to grasp all image data stored in the external storage medium 71 only with bibliographic character information such as a shooting theme, a photographer, a shooting period, and a shooting location. Therefore, if a thumbnail image list of the backed-up image data is printed by index printing, and this index print sheet is stored in association with the external storage medium 71, it is convenient for later searching and classification.

  For this reason, the user may desire to execute index printing at the time of backup. When the user instructs execution of index printing via the operation panel 10 (S6: YES), the printer 1 checks in which directory of the external storage medium 71 backup data is stored (S7). Next, the printer 1 gives read access to the external storage medium 71 as the backup destination to the memory card 60 as the backup source regardless of the priority order of the initial state registered in the order management table T1. It is set higher than the read access (S8). That is, the access priority is temporarily changed only when index printing is executed after completion of the backup mode. This makes it possible to access the external storage medium 71 and read backed up image data.

  Then, the printer 1 moves the access pointer to the backup directory (storage area where backup data is stored) of the external storage medium 71 (S9), and starts executing index printing of the backup data (S10). The index printing process will be described in detail in another flowchart. When the index printing is completed (S11: YES), the printer 1 returns the priority order to the initial state (S12). Accordingly, the memory card 60 has a higher read access order than the external storage medium 71 again.

  Next, FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an overview of the index printing process. When execution of index printing is instructed (S20), printing initial setting is performed (S21). Examples of the print initial setting include a set of a print layout, a paper size, and the like. Next, the printer 1 accesses a predetermined directory (backup directory) of the external storage medium 71 that is a backup destination storage medium, reads information about the image data immediately after the backup (S22), and generates an image information list T2.

  Then, the printer 1 acquires thumbnail image data of the backed up image data based on the image information list T2 regarding the image data backed up in the external storage medium 71 (S23), and executes index printing (S24). In index printing, a plurality of thumbnail images are printed side by side on a single sheet. When the number of backed up images is large, an index of image data backed up over a plurality of sheets is printed. When index printing is completed (S25: YES), this is notified to the backup control unit 42 (S26). Upon receiving this notification, the access priority is returned to the initial state in S12 in FIG. 8 described above.

  In the above example, the processing by the backup control unit 42 (S1 to S12) and the processing by the image processing unit 43 and the like (S20 to S26) have been described separately, but the index after backup is stored in the backup control unit 42. Other control configurations can be employed, such as providing a printing function.

  As described above in detail, in this embodiment, after the image data stored in the memory card 60 is backed up to the external storage medium 71, index printing of the backed-up image data can be performed. Therefore, immediately after the backup of the memory card 60, an index print sheet of backup data can be output and stored in association with the external storage medium 71, improving usability.

  In particular, in this embodiment, after the backup is completed, the access priority is temporarily changed only during the period until the index printing is completed. Thus, the backup data can be read from the external storage medium 71 whose original priority is set low without being removed from the external storage medium. Once the memory card 60 is removed from the printer 1, the backup data can be read from the external storage medium 71. However, it is troublesome to remove the memory card 60 for index printing. Further, in order to print the backup data, it is necessary for the user to specify the backup directory of the external storage medium 71, and the operation becomes complicated. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, even when the memory card 60 with the original access order set high and the external storage medium 71 with the original access order set low are connected simultaneously, the original access The backup data can be read from a predetermined directory of the external storage medium 71 having a lower rank and index printing can be performed, which improves the convenience for the user.

  Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. The feature of this embodiment is that a backup list T4 indicating which image data has been transferred from the backup source memory card 60 to the backup destination external storage medium 71 is managed in the printer 1, and based on this backup list T4, The backup image data is acquired from the memory card 60 and index printing is performed.

  FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating the overall configuration of the printer 1 according to the present embodiment. A backup list storage unit 53 is connected to the backup control unit 42 and the image processing unit 43, respectively. The backup control unit 42 acquires information about image data copied from the memory card 60 to the external storage medium 71 by the backup process, and generates a backup list T4 based on this information. The generated backup list T4 is stored in the backup list storage unit 53 and is referred to by the image processing unit 43.

  FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram of an example of the backup list T4. The backup list T4 can be configured, for example, by associating a backup ID (BID), a file name of the backed up image data, and file path information for specifying the backed up image data at the backup source. . Instead of the file path information, an image ID used in the image information list T2 generated when the memory card 60 is mounted may be employed. In addition, file path information at the backup destination can be added to the backup list T4.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an overview of the backup control process. When backup processing is instructed by the user (S31: YES), the printer 1 performs initial setting for starting backup (S32), and the backup target memory card 60 is set via the file system 44 and the like. Image data is read out (S33). The printer 1 transfers the image data read from the memory card 60 to the external storage medium 71 as a backup destination, and copies it (S34).

  At this time, the printer 1 acquires information about the image data transferred to the external storage medium 71 and registers it in the backup list T4 (S35). When the backup is completed (S36: YES), the printer 1 determines whether index printing is instructed by the user (S37). Although the same applies to the above-described embodiment, an instruction to execute index printing can be issued not only after the backup is completed but also during the backup.

  If the user does not desire index printing (S37: NO), the printer 1 ends the process. As in the above embodiment, whether or not the user desires index printing after backup is determined by, for example, the operation panel 10 immediately after the backup processing instruction until a predetermined time elapses after the backup is completed. This can be done based on whether or not an instruction to execute index printing is input via the.

  On the other hand, when the user desires index printing after backup (S37: YES), the printer 1 (backup control unit 42) instructs execution of index printing based on the backup list T4 (S38).

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an overview of the index printing process. When an instruction to start execution of index printing is given (S41: YES), the printer 1 performs initial settings for index printing (S42).

  Then, the printer 1 grasps the backed up image data based on the backup list T4 (S43), and acquires the thumbnail image data of the backed up image data from the backup source memory card 60 (S44). Then, the printer 1 starts index printing based on the backup list T4 (S45), and ends the processing when index printing is completed (S46).

  In this embodiment configured as described above, during backup processing, by collecting and managing information about the backed up image data, the image data is read from the memory card 60 that is the backup source, and the backed up image Data index printing is now possible. Therefore, as in the above embodiment, index printing after backup can be easily performed, and the convenience for the user is improved.

  In a normal case, the memory card 60 is not immediately removed from the printer 1 immediately after the backup, but the memory card 60 remains attached to the printer 1. Therefore, there is no inconvenience even if image data (thumbnail image data) is acquired from the backup source memory card 60 and index printing is started. For example, when index printing after backup is instructed, a warning message can be displayed on the operation panel 10 so that the user does not remove the memory card 60 until the index printing is completed.

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart of control processing according to the third embodiment of the present invention. The feature of this embodiment is that index printing of the backed up image data is started during the backup process.

  When the user instructs execution of backup processing (S51: YES), the printer 1 performs initial settings for backup (S52). Then, the printer 1 determines whether or not there is an instruction to execute index printing from the user (S53). For example, the user's intention can be confirmed by displaying a message such as “Do you want to print the index of backup data?” On the display of the operation panel 10. When the user does not desire index printing (S53: NO), normal backup processing is performed (S60), and after the backup is completed, the processing ends. The normal backup process is a process of reading backup target data from the backup source storage medium and transferring it to the backup destination storage medium, and index printing is not performed.

  When the user desires to execute index printing (S53: YES), the printer 1 reads the backup target image data from the backup source memory card 60 (S54), and uses the read image data as the backup destination external storage medium. The data is transferred to 71 and copied (S55). At this time, information about the backed up image data is registered in the backup list T4 (S56). The printer 1 starts index printing based on the backup list T4 when image data necessary for starting index printing is backed up (S57). The case where only the image data necessary for starting the index printing is backed up means, for example, the case where only the image data necessary for forming a predetermined number of pixel lines is determined.

  Until the backup process is completed, the backup from the memory card 60 to the external storage medium 71 is continued (S58). Also, the index printing is executed substantially in parallel during the backup (S59). Thereby, the user can obtain an index printing sheet promptly.

  Various methods can be adopted as a method of performing index printing in parallel during the backup process. For example, in parallel with the backup process, the image data that has already been backed up can be read from the memory card 60 based on the backup list T4 to generate print image data. If a sufficient cache capacity is provided, print image data can be generated based on cached image data.

  The above-described embodiments of the present invention are examples for explaining the present invention, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention only to those embodiments. Those skilled in the art can implement the present invention in various other modes without departing from the gist of the present invention.

For example, when the connection between the backup source storage medium or the backup destination storage medium and the printer is disconnected after the backup is completed, the backup data can be read from the remaining storage medium and printed out.

  In the above embodiment, the backup from the memory card to the storage medium of the external storage device has been described as an example. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and when a plurality of memory cards can be mounted on the printer, Backup may be performed between different memory cards. Further, the external storage device does not have to be an independent storage device for backup. For example, an auxiliary storage device built in a personal computer may be used.

Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the description has focused on the print output of the index print sheet. However, instead of this, or along with the index print, screen display on an internal display or an external display can be performed.
Further, although the printer has been described as an example of the image processing apparatus, the present invention is not limited to this and can be applied to other image processing apparatuses.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the printer according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of a printer. FIG. 3 is an external view of the printer with the document table cover closed. FIG. 2 is an external view of the printer with a document table cover open. It is explanatory drawing which shows the outline | summary of an order sheet. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structure of an access priority management table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structure of an image information list. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structure of print list information. It is a flowchart of a backup control process. It is a flowchart of the index printing process performed after backup completion. It is a block diagram which shows the function structure of the printer concerning 2nd Example of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structure of a backup list. It is a flowchart of a backup control process. It is a flowchart which shows an index printing process. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing of the printer concerning 3rd Example of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Printer, 2 ... Original, 10 ... Operation panel, 11 ... Information input part, 12 ... Information output part, 20 ... Printer engine, 21 ... Paper feed tray, 22 ... Paper discharge tray, 30 ... Scanner engine, 31 ... Original Table cover 32. Document base 40. Main control unit 41 UI control unit 42 Backup control unit 43 Image processing unit 44 File system 45 Access control unit 46 to 48 Interface 49 ... Print image data storage unit, 50 ... Printer control unit, 51 ... Scan data storage unit, 52 ... Scanner control unit, 53 ... Backup list storage unit, 60, 61 ... Memory card, 70 ... External storage device, 71 ... External storage Medium, 80 ... Host device, 100 ... CPU, 101 ... ROM, 102 ... RAM, 103 ... ASIC, 106 ... USB port, 107, 108 ... Cards Tsu door, T1 ... access priority management table, T2 ... image information list, T3 ... Print list, T4 ... backup list

Claims (4)

First interface means connected to the backup source storage medium;
Second interface means connected to the backup destination storage medium;
Interface control means for setting only one of the interface means as an effective reading target;
Via the first interface means reads backup data including the image data and the sample image data from the backup source storage medium and transfers the backup data to the backup destination storage medium via said second interface means, that Backup control means for controlling backup processing ;
A backup list storage means for storing a backup list that is temporarily generated to identify the files to be transferred to the backup destination storage medium from the backup source storage medium by the backup process,
If the backup process by the backup control section is performed, and an output control means for printing out by selective printing output means the backup data,
The output control means includes
(1) If the user instructs printing of sample image data after completion of the backup processing, and the backup source storage medium and the backup destination storage medium are connected to each other, the backup list storage The backup list is read from the backup data , and the sample image data specified by the backup list among the backup data is transferred to the backup source storage medium via the first interface means that is effectively set by the interface control means. or Ra読 and out look, run the printing,
(2) When printing of the sample image data is instructed by the user after the completion of the backup processing, and the connection with any one of the backup source storage medium or the backup destination storage medium is disconnected The interface control means effectively sets only the interface means connected to either the backup source storage medium or the backup destination storage medium of the first interface means or the second interface means. reads the backup list from said backup list storage means, the sample image data specified by said backup list of the backup data, who are connected among the backup source storage medium or said backup destination storage medium And heading storage medium or Ra読, to perform the printing,
A printing apparatus characterized by that. The interface control means sets the second interface means to be effective after the backup processing by the backup control means is completed,
2. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the output control means reads the backup data from the backup destination storage medium via the second interface means, and causes the output means to output the read backup data.   The printing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the interface control unit sets the first interface unit to be valid when the backup data is output by the output unit.   The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the backup processing by the backup control unit is executed according to a user instruction, and the backup data is selectively output by the output unit.

Images