JP4663151B2 - Image processing apparatus, image processing apparatus control method, program, and storage medium - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus that generates image data based on print data sent from a host computer and outputs the image data to a printing apparatus, and more particularly to a saddle stitch. Bookbinding The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus of a printing apparatus to which an optional paper discharge apparatus capable of processing is connected, a control method and program for the image processing apparatus, and a storage medium.
[0002]
[Prior art]
2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, an image processing apparatus that receives print data sent from a host computer, generates image data and outputs the image data to a printing apparatus, and a printing apparatus that can be connected to an optional paper discharge apparatus having a bookbinding function. there were.
[0003]
Such a printing apparatus includes at least one paper discharge unit, and can be provided with functions such as stapling, sorting, grouping, bookbinding, and punching by connecting an optional paper discharge device.
[0004]
In normal printing, the image forming area of the printing apparatus and the image forming area required by the optional paper discharge apparatus are the same. However, in the optional paper discharge apparatus having a bookbinding function, when the bookbinding process is performed, there are two centers. Some machines require a margin in the center due to the fact that they are folded and stapled. When bookbinding processing is performed using such an optional paper discharge device, the image forming area of the printing apparatus and the image forming area required in the optional paper discharge device may be different.
[0005]
Hereinafter, an image forming area of the printing apparatus and an image forming area necessary for the bookbinding processing unit of the optional paper discharge apparatus will be described.
[0006]
The image forming area of the printing apparatus is constant regardless of the paper size. For example, the top, bottom, left and right margins are each “2.5 mm”.
[0007]
However, the image forming area required by the bookbinding processing unit of the optional paper discharge device requires a blank at the center as described above when performing the bookbinding processing. For example, there is an optional paper discharge device that requires a margin of “10 mm” at the center.
[0008]
When bookbinding printing is performed by a printing device to which such an optional paper discharge device is connected, the conventional image processing device requires the image forming area of the printing device and the optional paper discharge device to generate image data from the print data. The processing is performed without being aware of the difference in the image forming area. That is, at the stage of generating image data, the image data is generated as instructed by the print data, and processing such as coordinate conversion is not performed. At the stage of transferring the image data to the printing apparatus, Is not output, by clearing the contents in the image memory corresponding to that portion (the central blank paper portion), the above-described limitations on the mechanical configuration of the optional paper discharge device have been avoided.
[0009]
By the way, in the bookbinding processing unit of the optional paper discharge device, there is a limitation on the number of sheets as a limitation on the device regarding stapling and folding.
[0010]
Conventionally, when a page exceeding the limit on the number of sheets is sent, the image processing apparatus automatically changes the paper discharge destination to the printing apparatus and controls the sheet not to be conveyed to the bookbinding processing unit. Some image processing devices are also available.
[0011]
In some cases, the image processing apparatus automatically cancels the data and does not print out.
[0012]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, in the case of an image processing apparatus that automatically changes the paper discharge destination and controls so that the paper is not conveyed to the bookbinding processing section when a page exceeding the limit on the number of sheets is sent, the stapling designation of print data is performed. If there is “bookbinding designation” as described above, the control is performed so that the sheet is not conveyed to the bookbinding processing unit because the number of sheets of the optional discharge device has been exceeded as described above (that is, the bookbinding function of the optional discharge device). Even if you do not use), the contents in the image memory corresponding to that part (the central white paper part) will not be output to the central part of the print data sent from the host computer. Since the clearing process was performed, the actual image data output was not completely guaranteed. That is, there is a problem in that a margin is generated in the central portion of the image forming area in order to realize the instructed bookbinding function, leading to an image loss.
[0013]
As described above, this is because the image processing apparatus is performing according to the instruction of the print data when generating the image data, and the image data in the image memory corresponding to the central portion is output when the image data is output. There was a cause in having cleared.
[0014]
On the other hand, when a page exceeding the limit on the number of sheets is sent, the image processing apparatus automatically cancels the data, and the image processing apparatus that does not print out has the following problems.
[0015]
Even when the total number of pages of print data sent from the host computer to the image processing device exceeds the limit on the number of sheets of the optional paper discharge device, as in the case of printing by pasting a plurality of pages on one output sheet In addition, even when the total number of printed sheets actually output does not exceed the sheet limit of the optional paper discharge device, the printing itself may be canceled and the printing itself may not be performed.
[0016]
This is because, in the image processing apparatus, the print data for which the bookbinding process is designated does not accurately grasp the total number of printed pages for the total number of pages to be output, and is not processing properly. It was.
[0017]
The present invention was made to solve the above problems, and the object of the present invention is to Saddle stitching For print data for which processing is specified, accurately grasp the total number of printed pages for all pages to be output. Saddle stitching It is to provide a mechanism capable of appropriately performing processing.
[0018]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
The present invention enables saddle stitching processing that generates image data based on print data received from a host computer via a predetermined communication medium and binds the central portion of the paper. Exhaustion An image processing apparatus that outputs image data to a printing apparatus to which a paper apparatus is connected, When the print data is designated as saddle stitching for performing the saddle stitching process in the paper discharge device, For changing the page order of the print data in the image processing apparatus and printing the changed images for a plurality of pages on each side of the print data. Perform bookbinding processing Judgment means for judging whether or not bookbinding is designated, and when the judgment means judges that the bookbinding is designated for the print data, and it is judged that the bookbinding is not designated for the print data. Output by the printing device using a different calculation method. The saddle stitching process should be performed by the paper discharge device Per copy of the print data Paper A calculation means for calculating the number of output sheets; Have , When the determination means determines that the bookbinding is not specified for the print data, the calculation means uses the first calculation method to calculate the number of output sheets from the print data that has been bound in the host computer. On the other hand, if it is determined by the determining means that the bookbinding is specified for the print data, the second calculation method is used from the print data to be bound in the image processing apparatus. Calculate the output number It is characterized by that.
[0027]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Embodiments according to the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0028]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an image processing system to which an image processing apparatus showing an embodiment of the present invention can be applied. The configuration and operation will be described below.
[0029]
In the figure, reference numeral 103 denotes an image processing apparatus, which is communicably connected to the host computer 102 via an interface 104 such as a network.
[0030]
The print data sent from the host computer 102 via the interface 104 and the external interface circuit 105 is temporarily stored in the spool area 108-1 in the hard disk 108 under the control of the CPU 106. Next, image data is generated from the print data read from the spool area 108-1 and written into the image memory 110-1 in the RAM 110. The generated image data is read from the image memory 110-1 and sent to the printing apparatus 101 via the printer communication unit 109 and the printer interface 111 to form a visible image.
[0031]
The program area 108-2 in the hard disk 108 is used for storing programs. The program in the program area 108-2 is transferred to the work memory 110-2 in the RAM 110 and executed by the CPU 106. A part of the work memory 110-2 in the RAM 110 and the work area 108-3 in the hard disk 108 are used as a temporary work area when the CPU 106 executes various controls. The CPU bus 107 connects the components in the image processing apparatus 103 described above.
[0032]
When image data is generated from the print data stored in the spool area 108-1 in the hard disk 108, this is performed for each page. Also, the print data for each page for which an image is generated is temporarily moved from the spool area 108-1 in the hard disk 108 to the work memory 110-2 in the RAM 110 and executed by the CPU 106. Then, it is written in the image memory 110-1 in the RAM 110.
[0033]
The optional paper discharge device 112 realizes functions such as stapling, sorting, grouping, bookbinding, and punching through the same printer interface 113 as that between the printing device 101 and the image processing device 103.
[0034]
FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration of the optional paper discharge device 112 shown in FIG. 1, and corresponds to an optional paper discharge device having a bookbinding function. The configuration and operation will be described below.
[0035]
In the figure, 1 is the first to third trays, 2 is the shutter, 3 is the paper discharge roller, 4 is the swing guide, 5 is the second roller, 6 is the height sensor, 7 is the interrupt tray, and 8 is the incoming call indicator lamp. , 9 is a winding flapper, 10 is a buffer roller, 11 is an interrupting flapper, 12 is a buffer inlet flapper, 13 is a saddle stitcher flapper, 14 is a first roller, 15 is a longitudinal path, 16 is a stapler, 17 is a knurled belt, 18 Is a tray lifting / lowering motor, and 19 is a saddle stitcher.
[0036]
The paper discharged from the printing apparatus 101 is discharged to the tray 1 (first tray / second tray / third tray) by the buffer inlet flapper 12 of the optional paper discharge apparatus 112 in accordance with the instruction of the image processing apparatus 103. Switching to the saddle stitcher 19.
[0037]
First, when the image processing apparatus 103 designates the paper discharge destination as the tray 1 (first tray / second tray / third tray), the first conveying roller 14, the knurled belt 17, the second conveying roller 5, the paper discharging roller. 3, the sheet is conveyed.
[0038]
On the other hand, when the image processing apparatus 103 designates the paper discharge destination as the saddle stitcher unit 19, the sheet is conveyed by the buffer entrance flapper 12 and the vertical path 15.
[0039]
FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a configuration of the saddle stitcher unit 19 (bookbinding processing unit) of the optional paper discharge device 112 illustrated in FIG. The configuration and operation will be described below.
[0040]
When the bookbinding function is designated from the host computer 102, that is, when saddle stitching and bi-folding are sent together with the print data to the image processing apparatus 103, the image processing apparatus 103 generates image data based on the print instruction and the print data. Is sent to the printing apparatus 101. The printing apparatus 101 outputs the image data to a sheet, and conveys the sheet to the bookbinding processing unit (saddle stitcher unit 19) of the optional paper discharge device.
[0041]
The paper sent from the printing apparatus 101 is sent from the paper carry-in unit 21 to the alignment unit 22. A plurality of sheets are held in the aligning unit 22, and all the image data is output from the printing apparatus 101 and conveyed to the aligning unit 22 of the optional paper discharge apparatus 112, and then the center of the sheet is stapled by the stitch unit 23. Then, the stapled sheet bundle is carried into the bundle conveyance unit 24. The paper is finally discharged to the folding / paper discharge unit 25 by the control of the thrust plate 30 and the roller 31.
[0042]
Hereinafter, with respect to the bookbinding printing processing operation performed by the image processing apparatus 103 of the present invention, the bookbinding function of the optional paper discharge apparatus 112 is performed on a sheet of a size such that the short side of the sheet such as A3 is opposed to the sheet feeding direction. Will be described.
[0043]
First, the bookbinding process in the image processing apparatus 103 will be described with reference to FIG.
[0044]
4A and 4B are schematic diagrams for explaining an example of bookbinding processing in the image processing apparatus of the present invention. FIG. 4A corresponds to the case where the left opening is designated as bookbinding printing, and FIG. 4B is the right as bookbinding printing. Corresponds to when opening is specified.
[0045]
The print data is normally sent from the host computer 102 to the output pages in ascending order. In the case of outputting 12 pages and 3 pages, print data is sent from the host computer 102 in the order of pages 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12.
[0046]
First, as shown in (a), when left-opening is designated as bookbinding printing, the image processing apparatus 103 performs 6, 7, 8, 5, 4, 9, 10, 3, 2, 11, 12 , 1 in order. Then, bookbinding printing is realized by sending the image data to the printing apparatus 101 so that two pages of image data are printed on one side of a sheet of paper.
[0047]
On the other hand, as shown in (b), when the right opening is designated as the bookbinding printing, the image processing apparatus 103 has 7, 6, 5, 8, 9, 4, 3, 10, 11, 2, 1 , 12 in this order. Similarly, bookbinding printing is realized by sending image data to the printing apparatus 101 so that two pages of image data are printed on one side of a sheet of paper.
[0048]
Although the case where the bookbinding process (the process of changing the page order for image generation and output) is performed in the image processing apparatus 103 has been described here, the bookbinding process may be performed on an application of the host computer 102. In this case, the contents of the print data received by the image processing apparatus 103 are left-open or right-open as shown in FIG.
[0049]
Hereinafter, an image forming area of image data generated by the image forming apparatus 103 will be described with reference to FIGS.
[0050]
FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing a normal image forming area in the printing apparatus 101 shown in FIG.
[0051]
In FIG. 5, (a) corresponds to the image forming area for the paper size in which the short side of the sheet such as A3 is opposed to the sheet feeding direction, and (b) is the long side of the sheet such as A4 is opposed to the sheet feeding direction. This corresponds to the image forming area for the paper size to be printed.
[0052]
As shown in FIG. 5, it is assumed that the printing apparatus 101 does not depend on the paper size, the image forming area of each paper is constant, and is “2.5 mm” vertically and horizontally from the edge of the paper.
[0053]
Further, in the present embodiment, it is assumed that a sheet size in which the short side of a sheet such as A3 is opposed to the sheet feeding direction can be used by the bookbinding function. Therefore, when image data is generated using the bookbinding function of the image processing apparatus 103 (that is, when the image processing apparatus 103 performs the bookbinding process shown in FIG. 4 to generate image data), the image data is actually output. Image data of an image obtained by pasting image data of 1/2 paper size (A4 size) for two pages on paper (for example, A3 paper) is generated (see FIG. 6).
[0054]
FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing an image forming area based on image data generated by the bookbinding function of the image processing apparatus 103 or the host computer 102 shown in FIG.
[0055]
As shown in FIG. 6, the image data generated by the bookbinding function of the image processing apparatus 103 pastes two pages of image data of 1/2 paper size onto the actually output paper as described above. Since the image is affixed, the image forming area of the generated image is in a state where a margin of “5 mm (= 2.5 mm + 2.5 mm)” is formed at the center.
[0056]
As described above, when the bookbinding process is performed on the application of the host computer 102, the image forming area based on the print data received by the image processing apparatus 103 is in the state shown in FIG.
[0057]
FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing an image forming area required when using the bookbinding function (saddle stitching function) of the optional paper discharge device 112 shown in FIG.
[0058]
As shown in FIG. 7, when the bookbinding function (saddle stitching function) of the optional paper discharge device 112 is used, a margin of “10 mm” is required at the center due to the limitations of the mechanical configuration described above.
[0059]
Therefore, when using the bookbinding function (saddle stitching function) of the optional paper discharge device 112 shown in FIG. 1, the required central margin (10 mm) is generated using the bookbinding function of the image processing apparatus 103. Therefore, the image processing apparatus 103 needs to perform center margin processing.
[0060]
Note that the above-described center margin processing is the white data (not printed out) with respect to the data at the center of the sheet of the image data generated from the print data received from the host computer 102 by the CPU 106 shown in FIG. The process of creating.
[0061]
The first control processing procedure in the image processing apparatus of the present invention will be described below with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
[0062]
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of a first control processing procedure in the image processing apparatus of the present invention. When the CPU 106 shown in FIG. 1 executes a program stored in the program area 108-2 of the hard disk 108. Realized. S201 to S215 indicate each step.
[0063]
In addition, the image processing apparatus 103 holds the value of the number of sheets that can be output in the saddle stitching and bookbinding process of the optional paper discharge apparatus 112 in the program area 108-2 of the image processing apparatus 103.
[0064]
First, when print data is sent from the host computer 102, the print data is received (S201). Then, the print data is analyzed (S202).
[0065]
In the print data received from the host computer 102, it is determined whether or not “saddle stitching designation” is specified as a stapling designation (S203). In the case of not using the bookbinding function (saddle stitching function) of the optional paper discharge device 112), the process directly proceeds to step S207, and on the other hand, when it is determined that “saddle stitching designation” is made (that is, the optional paper discharge device 112). In the case of using the bookbinding function (saddle stitching function), it is next determined whether or not “bookbinding designation” is specified as the staple designation in the print data (S204).
[0066]
When it is determined in step S204 that “bookbinding designation” has been made (that is, when the bookbinding process shown in FIG. 4 is performed in the image processing apparatus 103), in step S205, the sheet that is actually output by bookbinding printing. The number of sheets is calculated. When “bookbinding designation” is performed (that is, when the bookbinding process shown in FIG. 4 is performed in the image processing apparatus 103), as shown in FIG. 4, four pages of print data received from the host computer 102 are stored. This corresponds to one actual output sheet. Therefore, if the total number of pages of the received print data is Jp, the actual number of output sheets Op per copy of the print data is a value obtained by adding 3 to the total page number Jp of the print data and dividing by four, that is, “Op = (Jp + 3) / 4”. When the calculation process of the number of sheets per copy is completed, the process proceeds to step S206.
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S204 that “bookbinding designation” has not been made (that is, if the print data that has already undergone the bookbinding process shown in FIG. 4 has been received in the host computer 102), in step S211. The number of sheets to be actually output is calculated. When “bookbinding designation” is not performed (when print data that has already undergone the bookbinding process shown in FIG. 4 has been received in the host computer 102), two pages of print data received from the host computer 102 are actually output. It corresponds to one sheet of paper. Therefore, if the total number of pages of the received print data is Jp, the actual number of output sheets per copy of the print data Op is a value obtained by adding 1 to the total page number Jp of the print data and dividing by two, that is, “Op = (Jp + 1) / 2”. When the calculation process of the number of sheets per copy is completed, the process proceeds to step S206.
In step S206, the value of the number of sheets that can be output in the saddle stitching and bookbinding process of the optional paper discharge apparatus held in the program area 108-2 of the image processing apparatus 103 and one of the print data calculated in step S205 or step S211. The actual number of output sheets per copy Op is compared.
[0067]
If it is determined in step S206 that the calculated output number Op per copy exceeds the number limit of the optional paper discharge device, the process proceeds to step S207.
[0068]
In step S207, the printing apparatus 101 is designated so that the paper discharge destination is the tray 1 (first to third trays) in FIG. Here, since the number of output sheets per copy exceeds the number limit of the optional paper discharge device or the saddle stitcher 19 is not designated, the saddle stitcher 19 shown in FIG. ~ 3 trays) is the paper discharge destination.
[0069]
In step S208, image data is generated. If “bookbinding designation” is specified, image data is generated in accordance with the bookbinding process as shown in FIG. 4, while if “bookbinding designation” is not specified or saddle stitching is not specified. Generates image data in the page order of the print data sent from the host computer 102.
[0070]
Next, the center margin process is skipped (S209), the image data is transferred to the printing apparatus 101 (S210), and the process ends. That is, when there is no “saddle stitching designation” or when the output number exceeds the output number limit of the optional paper discharge device 112, the paper is not discharged to the saddle stitcher 19 and the tray 1 (first to third trays). ), Ie, the bookbinding function (saddle stitching function) of the optional device is not used, so there is no need to create an image forming area as shown in FIG. There is no need to create white data (no printout) for the central data. As described above, when only the bookbinding function of the image processing apparatus 103 (or including bookbinding processing in the host computer 102) is used without using the bookbinding function (saddle stitching function) of the optional paper discharge device 112, the image processing apparatus. Since the image forming area based on the image data generated in 103 has a “5 mm” margin formed in the center as shown in FIG. 6, the center margin processing is not performed on the printing apparatus 101. Transferred. For this reason, an image loss at the center due to unnecessary center blank processing due to the image forming area limitation on the machine of the optional paper discharge device 112 does not occur.
[0071]
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S206 that the calculated output number Op does not exceed the number limit of the optional paper discharge device, the paper discharge destination is set to the saddle stitcher 19 shown in FIG. Specify (S212).
[0072]
In step S213, image data is generated. If “bookbinding designation” is specified, image data is generated in accordance with the bookbinding process as shown in FIG. 4. On the other hand, if bookbinding designation is not specified, the image data is sent from the host computer 102. Image data is generated in page order.
[0073]
Next, the above-described central margin process is performed (S214), the image data is transferred to the printing apparatus 101 (S215), and the process is terminated. That is, in step S206, the output sheet number limit of the optional paper discharge device 112 is compared, and if the value is not exceeded, the paper is discharged to the saddle stitcher 19, that is, the bookbinding function (saddle stitching function) of the optional device is used. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 7, an image forming area having a margin of “10 mm” in the center must be created. That is, after the image data is generated from the print data, white data (not printed out) is created for the data at the center of the sheet. In the above description, the value of the number of sheets that can be output in the saddle stitching and bookbinding processing of the optional paper discharge device 112 is held in the program area 108-2 in the hard disk 108 of the image processing device 103. The value of the number of sheets that can be output in the saddle stitching and bookbinding process of the paper device 112 may be acquired by the image processing apparatus 103 communicating with the printing apparatus 101 and held in the program area 108-2 in the hard disk 108. Alternatively, the image processing apparatus 103 may be set by a command from the host computer 102 and stored in the program area 108-2 in the hard disk 108.
[0074]
As described above, the image data is generated based on the print data sent from the host computer, and the image data is output to the printing apparatus that can be connected to the optional paper discharge apparatus having the bookbinding processing function (saddle stitching function). In the processing apparatus, when the bookbinding printing process is performed using only the bookbinding processing function of the host computer or the image processing apparatus and not using the bookbinding function (saddle stitching function) of the optional paper discharge apparatus, the bookbinding function of the optional paper discharge apparatus There is an effect that the bookbinding printing function can be realized without causing unnecessary omission of an image due to an image forming area restriction which is a machine restriction of (saddle stitching function).
[0075]
Further, even when the output sheet number limitation, which is a machine limitation of the bookbinding function (saddle stitching function) of the optional paper discharge device, is faced, a desired output is provided so that the user can use the output paper with an offset device or the like. There is also an effect that can be guaranteed. In particular, this is effective in printing processing when an optional paper discharge device having a bookbinding printing function is used, and it is possible to avoid limitations on the mechanical configuration of the optional paper discharge device.
[0076]
Therefore, it is possible to provide an easy-to-use printing system together with the functions provided in the optional paper discharge device.
[0077]
The printing apparatus 101 shown in FIG. 1 is a laser beam method, an electrophotographic method other than the laser beam method (for example, an LED method), a liquid crystal shutter method, an ink jet method, a thermal transfer method, a sublimation method, or any other method. The present invention can also be applied to a printing method.
[0078]
The configuration of a data processing program that can be read by the image processing apparatus according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the memory map shown in FIG.
[0079]
FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs that can be read by the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.
[0080]
Although not particularly illustrated, information for managing a program group stored in the storage medium, for example, version information, creator, etc. is also stored, and information depending on the OS on the program reading side, for example, a program is identified and displayed. Icons may also be stored.
[0081]
Further, data depending on various programs is also managed in the directory. In addition, when a program or data to be installed is compressed, a program to be decompressed may be stored.
[0082]
The functions shown in FIG. 8 in the present embodiment may be performed by the host computer by a program installed from the outside. In this case, the present invention is applied even when an information group including a program is supplied to the output device from a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, a flash memory, or an FD, or from an external storage medium via a network. Is.
[0083]
As described above, 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 storage medium in the storage medium. It goes without saying that the object of the present invention can also be achieved by reading and executing the programmed program code.
[0084]
In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the novel function of the present invention, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.
[0085]
As a storage medium for supplying the program code, for example, a floppy disk, a hard disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, a CD-ROM, a CD-R, a DVD-ROM, a magnetic tape, a nonvolatile memory card, a ROM, an EEPROM, A silicon disk or the like can be used.
[0086]
Further, by executing the program code read by the computer, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also an OS (operating system) or the like running on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that a case where the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by performing part or all of the actual processing and the processing is included.
[0087]
Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written to a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, the function expansion is performed based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that the case where the CPU or the like provided in the board or the function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing.
[0088]
Further, the present invention may be applied to a system composed of a plurality of devices or an apparatus composed of a single device. It goes without saying that the present invention can also be applied to a case where the present invention is achieved by supplying a program to a system or apparatus. In this case, by reading the storage medium storing the program represented by the software for achieving the present invention into the system or apparatus, the system or apparatus can enjoy the effects of the present invention. .
[0089]
Furthermore, by downloading and reading a program represented by software for achieving the present invention from a database on a network by a communication program, the system or apparatus can enjoy the effects of the present invention. .
[0090]
【The invention's effect】
As explained above, according to the present invention, Saddle stitching For print data for which processing is specified, the total number of printed sheets for the total number of pages to be output can be accurately grasped.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image processing system to which an image processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention can be applied.
FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration of the optional paper discharge device shown in FIG.
3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a configuration of a saddle stitcher unit (bookbinding processing unit) of the optional paper discharge device illustrated in FIG. 2;
FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a bookbinding process in the image processing apparatus of the present invention.
FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating a normal image forming area in the printing apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1;
6 is a schematic diagram showing an image forming area based on image data generated by the bookbinding function of the image processing apparatus or host computer shown in FIG. 1; FIG.
7 is a schematic diagram showing an image forming area required when using the bookbinding function (saddle stitching function) of the optional paper discharge device shown in FIG. 1; FIG.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of a first control processing procedure in the image processing apparatus of the present invention.
FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs that can be read by the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.
[Explanation of symbols]
101 Printing device
102 Host computer
103 Image processing apparatus
104 interface
105 External interface circuit
106 CPU
107 CPU bus
108 hard disk
108-1 Spool area
108-2 Program area
108-3 Work area
109 Printer communication unit
110-1 Printer interface
111 Image memory
112 Optional paper discharge device
113 Printer interface

Claims (10)

Via a predetermined communication medium to generate image data based on print data received from the host computer, it outputs image data to the printing device binding process in which binding the central portion capable sheet discharging device is connected to the paper An image processing apparatus that
When the print data is designated for saddle stitching for performing the saddle stitching process in the paper discharge device, the print data is changed to the print data by changing the page order of the print data in the image processing device. A determination unit that determines whether or not a bookbinding designation for performing a bookbinding process for printing an image for a plurality of pages for each side of a sheet is performed ;
The printing apparatus uses a different calculation method when the determination unit determines that the bookbinding is specified for the print data and when it is determined that the bookbinding is not specified for the print data. and a calculating means for calculating the output number of sheets per one part of the print data said in to be stapled by the sheet discharging device is output,
When the determination means determines that the bookbinding is not specified for the print data, the calculation means uses the first calculation method to calculate the number of output sheets from the print data that has been bound in the host computer. On the other hand, if it is determined by the determining means that the bookbinding is specified for the print data, the second calculation method is used from the print data to be bound in the image processing apparatus. An image processing apparatus that calculates the number of output sheets . Holding means for holding the output number of sheets in the saddle stapling processing before Sharing, ABS feeding device,
Comparing means for comparing the output number of sheets in the binding processing in said sheet discharging apparatus which is held by the holding means, the number of output sheets per set of print data calculated by said calculation means,
As a result of the comparison by the comparison unit, when the number of output sheets calculated by the calculation unit exceeds the outputable number held by the holding unit, the sheet discharge destination that performs the saddle stitching process as the output sheet discharge destination First control means for controlling to select other than,
As a result of the comparison by the comparison unit, when the output number calculated by the calculation unit exceeds the output possible number stored in the holding unit, a paper center margin for the saddle stitching process is added to the output image. Second control means for controlling so as not to perform the center margin processing;
The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: Via a predetermined communication medium to generate image data based on print data received from the host computer, it outputs image data to the printing device binding process in which binding the central portion capable sheet discharging device is connected to the paper A method for controlling an image processing apparatus,
When the computer provided in the image processing apparatus has specified saddle stitching for performing the saddle stitching process in the paper discharge apparatus in the print data, the print data in the image processing apparatus A determination step of determining whether or not a bookbinding process for performing a bookbinding process for changing the page order of the print data and printing the images of the plurality of changed pages for each side of the paper is performed ;
When the computer provided in the image processing apparatus determines that the bookbinding is specified for the print data by the determination step and when it is determined that the bookbinding is not specified for the print data. A calculation step of calculating the number of output sheets per copy of the print data that is output by the printing apparatus and to be subjected to the saddle stitching process by the paper discharge apparatus using different calculation methods;
I have a,
In the calculating step, when it is determined in the determining step that the bookbinding is not designated in the print data, the output number of sheets is calculated using the first calculation method from the print data that has been bound in the host computer. On the other hand, if it is determined in the determination step that the bookbinding is specified for the print data, the second calculation method is used from the print data to be bound in the image processing apparatus. A control method for an image processing apparatus, wherein the number of output sheets is calculated . Print data computer provided in the image processing apparatus, an output number of sheets in the saddle stapling processing before Sharing, ABS feeding device is held in a memory provided in the image processing apparatus, which is calculated by said calculating step A comparison process for comparing the number of output sheets per part of
When the computer provided in the image processing apparatus compares the output in the comparison step and the output number calculated in the calculation step exceeds the outputable number held in the memory, the output paper is discharged. A selection step for controlling to select a destination other than the paper discharge destination for performing the saddle stitching process as a destination;
When the computer provided in the image processing apparatus results in the comparison in the comparison step, and the output number calculated in the calculation step exceeds the output possible number stored in the memory, the saddle stitching process A skip step for controlling so as not to perform the center margin processing for adding the center margin of the sheet to the output image;
The method of controlling an image processing apparatus according to claim 3 , further comprising: Via a predetermined communication medium to generate image data based on print data received from the host computer, it outputs image data to the printing device binding process in which binding the central portion capable sheet discharging device is connected to the paper A computer provided in the image processing apparatus
When the print data is designated for saddle stitching for performing the saddle stitching process in the paper discharge device, the print data is changed to the print data by changing the page order of the print data in the image processing device. A determination means for determining whether or not a bookbinding designation for performing a bookbinding process for printing an image for a plurality of pages for each side of a sheet is performed ;
The printing apparatus uses a different calculation method when the determination unit determines that the bookbinding is specified for the print data and when it is determined that the bookbinding is not specified for the print data. a program for functioning as a calculating means for calculating the output number of sheets per one part of the print data being outputted Ru is the saddle stapling processing by the sheet discharging device,
When the determination means determines that the bookbinding is not specified for the print data, the calculation means uses the first calculation method to calculate the number of output sheets from the print data that has been bound in the host computer. On the other hand, if it is determined by the determining means that the bookbinding is specified for the print data, the second calculation method is used from the print data to be bound in the image processing apparatus. A program for calculating the number of output sheets . A computer provided in the image processing apparatus;
Comparison to compare the output number of sheets in the saddle stapling processing before Sharing, ABS feeding device is held in a memory provided in the image processing apparatus, the number of output sheets per set of print data calculated by said calculation means means,
As a result of the comparison by the comparison unit, when the output number calculated by the calculation unit exceeds the outputable number held in the memory, a sheet other than the discharge destination that performs the saddle stitching process as the output sheet discharge destination First control means for controlling to select
If the output number calculated by the calculating means exceeds the output possible number stored in the memory as a result of the comparison by the comparing means, a center for adding a paper center margin for the saddle stitching process to the output image The program according to claim 5 , wherein the program functions as a second control unit that performs control so as not to perform the margin processing. Via a predetermined communication medium to generate image data based on print data received from the host computer, it outputs image data to the printing device binding process in which binding the central portion capable sheet discharging device is connected to the paper A computer provided in the image processing apparatus
When the print data is designated for saddle stitching for performing the saddle stitching process in the paper discharge device, the print data is changed to the print data by changing the page order of the print data in the image processing device. A determination means for determining whether or not a bookbinding designation for performing a bookbinding process for printing an image for a plurality of pages for each side of a sheet is performed ;
The printing apparatus uses a different calculation method when the determination unit determines that the bookbinding is specified for the print data and when it is determined that the bookbinding is not specified for the print data. a program for functioning as a calculating means for calculating the output number of sheets per one part of the print data being outputted Ru is the saddle stapling processing by the sheet discharging device,
When the determination means determines that the bookbinding is not specified for the print data, the calculation means uses the first calculation method to calculate the number of output sheets from the print data that has been bound in the host computer. On the other hand, if it is determined by the determining means that the bookbinding is specified for the print data, the second calculation method is used from the print data to be bound in the image processing apparatus. A computer-readable storage medium storing a program for calculating the number of output sheets . A computer provided in the image processing apparatus;
Comparison to compare the output number of sheets in the saddle stapling processing before Sharing, ABS feeding device is held in a memory provided in the image processing apparatus, the number of output sheets per set of print data calculated by said calculation means means,
As a result of the comparison by the comparison unit, when the output number calculated by the calculation unit exceeds the outputable number held in the memory, a sheet other than the discharge destination that performs the saddle stitching process as the output sheet discharge destination First control means for controlling to select
If the output number calculated by the calculating means exceeds the output possible number stored in the memory as a result of the comparison by the comparing means, a center for adding a paper center margin for the saddle stitching process to the output image 8. The computer-readable storage medium according to claim 7 , wherein the storage medium is made to function as a second control unit that performs control so as not to perform the blanking process. A printing system,
Receiving means for receiving print data from a host computer via a predetermined communication medium;
Printing means for executing a printing process on paper based on the print data received by the receiving means;
A saddle stitching means for performing a saddle stitching process for binding the central portion of the paper on which the printing process has been performed by the printing means;
Bookbinding for performing bookbinding processing for changing the page order of the print data and printing images for a plurality of pages on each side of the paper when the print data is designated for saddle stitching to perform the saddle stitching process. A judging means for judging whether or not the designation is made;
When the determination means determines that the bookbinding is specified for the print data, and when it is determined that the bookbinding is not specified for the print data, it is used for print processing using different calculation methods. Calculating means for calculating the number of sheets to be printed,
The calculating means first calculates the number of sheets used in the print processing of the print data that has been bound in the host computer when the determining means determines that the bookbinding is not specified for the print data. When the determination means determines that the bookbinding is specified for the print data, the number of sheets used in the print processing of the print data that has been bound in the printing system is determined by the first means. A printing system, wherein the calculation is performed by a second calculation method different from the calculation method. Holding means for holding the number of printable sheets in the saddle stitching process of the saddle stitching means;
A comparison unit that compares the number of printable sheets in the saddle stitching process held by the holding unit with the number of output sheets per copy of the print data calculated by the calculation unit;
As a result of the comparison by the comparison unit, when the number of output sheets calculated by the calculation unit exceeds the outputable number held by the holding unit, the sheet discharge destination that performs the saddle stitching process as the output sheet discharge destination First control means for controlling to select other than,
As a result of the comparison by the comparison means, if the output number calculated by the calculation means exceeds the output possible number held by the holding means, a paper center margin for the saddle stitching process is added to the output image. Second control means for controlling so as not to perform the center margin processing;
The printing system according to claim 9, further comprising:

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