JP4759039B2 - Image forming apparatus and preview display method - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus capable of previewing image data before output, and a preview display method thereof.

  It is desired to print a plurality of original bundles under different copying conditions and handle them as one job. Patent Document 1 discloses an image forming apparatus having a build job mode that enables such a request. With this build job mode (processing mode for each original bundle), for example, the first original bundle is copied in the black and white mode, the second original bundle is copied in the color mode, and both are merged into one Can be completed as printed matter. By such processing, it is possible to reduce the cost of copying compared to performing all original bundles in color. In addition, it is possible to save the user's trouble of performing printing under different image forming conditions and manually binding the resulting printed matter.

On the other hand, some image forming apparatuses such as multifunction peripherals have a function of displaying a preview of image data as a target on a display unit before executing copying or printing. The preview allows the user to check the print status in advance, so if the settings are incorrect, it can be reconfigured before printing is performed, saving resources and reworking. It is.
JP 2005-134798 A

  The document bundle separate processing mode described in Patent Document 1 has the above-mentioned convenience, but if all the settings related to a plurality of document bundles are not correct, a satisfactory printed matter cannot be obtained, and even one of them is wrong. In some cases, the entire process needs to be redone, and waste of resources and time for redoing are required. Therefore, there is a demand for a method that can easily change the setting in the document bundle separate processing mode.

  However, the above preview function can only be reset when the displayed preview image does not meet the user's needs, and printing conditions are set for each document bundle (that is, a plurality of printing conditions). If this preview function is applied and resetting is performed during the original bundle separate processing mode, the printing conditions for all original bundles are reset.

  In this way, what is necessary for the document bundle-specific processing mode is to change the settings for only the document bundle whose print conditions you want to change, whereas when the conventional preview display method is applied, the entire setting is displayed when the preview is displayed. Change (change of overall printing conditions) is possible.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and when displaying a scanned document as a preview during a document bundle separation processing mode in which a plurality of sub jobs are handled as one job, each sub job can be easily displayed. An object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus capable of changing settings and a preview display method thereof.

In order to solve the above-described problem, a first technical means of the present invention includes an operation unit, a display unit, a preview image generation unit that generates a preview image of image data to be printed, and the preview image generation unit. An image forming apparatus including a display control unit that displays a generated preview image on a display unit, wherein a document bundle-specific processing mode can be selected by the operation unit, and the document bundle-specific processing mode is: In this mode, a plurality of sub-jobs corresponding to each of a plurality of document bundles to be read as a print job and a plurality of sub-jobs each having printing conditions set are executed, and the preview image generation unit includes: The thumbnail image is generated by reducing the image data of the first page from each of the image data read in each sub job, and the display control unit assigns each sub job to each sub job. The thumbnail image to respond, side by side as a preview image and to be selected by the operation unit, and it is possible to be displayed on the display unit, the display control unit, the preview image in the document bundle specific processing mode when displaying the said set confirmation key for confirming the print conditions of the original bundle being displayed as a preview image, selectably it is displayed on the display unit by the operation unit, the display control unit, the setting When the confirmation key is selected, the print condition of the document bundle being displayed is displayed on the display section in a state that can be changed by the operation section, and printing is performed for a document bundle other than the document bundle being displayed. the tabs for displaying in a changeable state condition by the operation unit, in which is characterized in that is displayed on the display unit can be selected by the operation unit

  According to a second technical means, in the first technical means, the preview image generating unit is configured to generate image data from the changed printing condition only for the sub-job whose printing condition has been changed by the operation unit after the change key is selected. The display control unit displays the regenerated preview image on the display unit when the preview image is regenerated by the preview image generation unit. It is.

  According to a third technical means, in the first or second technical means, when the display control unit displays the preview image during the document bundle separation processing mode, the preview image being displayed is the print job. Information indicating the image corresponding to the original bundle being processed is displayed on the display unit.

  According to a fourth technical means, in any one of the first to third technical means, when the display control unit displays the preview image during the document bundle separation processing mode, the preview image being displayed is displayed. Information indicating the number of originals in the print job is displayed on the display unit.

  According to a fifth technical means, in any one of the first to fourth technical means, the display control unit re-executes a change of a sub-job whose printing condition has been changed by the operation unit after the change key is selected. In the case where it is necessary to read the original document, a notice for prompting the user to read the original bundle again corresponding to the sub-job whose print condition is to be changed is displayed on the display unit.

A sixth technical means includes an operation unit, a display unit, a preview image generation unit that generates a preview image of image data to be printed, and a display that displays the preview image generated by the preview image generation unit on the display unit A preview display method in an image forming apparatus including a control unit, wherein the image forming apparatus is configured to select a document bundle separate processing mode by the operation unit, and the document bundle separate processing mode is one. A print job is a mode in which a plurality of sub jobs corresponding to each of a plurality of document bundles to be read are executed with a plurality of sub jobs each having a print condition set, and the preview image generation unit is configured to execute each sub job. The thumbnail image is generated by reducing the image data of the first page from each of the image data read in step (b), and the display control unit A thumbnail image corresponding to the job, side by side as a preview image and to be selected by the operation unit, and it is possible to be displayed on the display unit, the preview display method, the operation unit, the original bundle A step of accepting selection of another processing mode, a step of accepting an operation in which the operation unit displays the preview image, and a case in which the display control unit displays the preview image during the document bundle separate processing mode; A step of causing the display unit to display a setting confirmation key for confirming the printing condition of the document bundle being displayed as the preview image on the display unit; and the display control unit selects the setting confirmation key. The printing condition of the document bundle being displayed is displayed on the display unit in a state that can be changed by the operation unit. Comprise the steps of a tab to be displayed on the display unit can be selected by the operation unit for displaying in a changeable state printing conditions for the document bundle other than the original bundle in said displayed by the operating unit It is characterized by.

  In a sixth technical means, in the sixth technical means, the preview image generating unit regenerates a preview image of image data from the changed printing conditions only for the sub-job for which the operation for changing the printing conditions is accepted. And a step of causing the display control unit to display the regenerated preview image on the display unit when the preview image is regenerated by the preview image generating unit. Is.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to easily change the setting of each sub-job when displaying a preview of the read original in the original bundle separate processing mode in which a plurality of sub-jobs are handled as one job.

  The best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Hereinafter, an embodiment in which the image forming apparatus according to the present invention is applied to a digital multi-function peripheral having a print function, a copy function, a facsimile transmission / reception function, and the like will be specifically described with reference to the drawings illustrating the embodiment.

<Device configuration>
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration example of an image processing system constructed using a digital multifunction peripheral as an example of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In FIG. 1, 1 is a digital multifunction peripheral, 2 and 3 are external computers, 4 is an Internet facsimile machine (Internet FAX machine), and 5 is a facsimile machine.

  In addition to a print function and a copy function, the digital multi-function peripheral 1 has a function of transmitting / receiving image data by fax (facsimile function) and / or a function of transmitting / receiving image data by Internet FAX (Internet FAX function). Various external devices are connected to the digital multi-function peripheral 1 via a communication network. For example, an external computer 2 such as a personal computer (PC) is connected to a communication network LN laid as a local communication network and connected to an Internet network IN connected via a gateway or the like not shown in the figure. Is connected to an external computer 3 and an Internet FAX apparatus 4. An external facsimile machine 5 is connected via a public telephone line network PN.

  Hereinafter, the configuration and operation of the digital multi-function peripheral 1 will be described. FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the digital multifunction peripheral of FIG. 1, and FIG. 3 is an external view illustrating an example of a touch panel and a key operation unit in the digital multifunction peripheral of FIG.

  2 includes a touch panel 10, a panel control unit 11, a recording unit 12, a reading unit 13, a format conversion unit 14, an image storage unit 15, an image processing unit 16, an encoding / decoding unit 17, a main unit. Control unit 18, control memory 19, key operation unit 20, LAN (Local Area Network) control unit 21, control buffer 22, network control unit (NCU) 23, modem 24, and USB (Universal Serial Bus) ) Interface (I / F) 25 is provided. In addition, the digital multi-function peripheral 1 may include a post-processing device that performs drilling (punching), stapling, and the like. Hereinafter, an embodiment including the post-processing device will be described.

  The main control unit 18 is constituted by a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a DSP (Digital Signal Processor). The control memory 19 includes a nonvolatile memory such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) or an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable and Programmable ROM). A program (firmware) and various setting data are stored in the control memory 19 so as to be readable from the main control unit 18. Among these, at least various setting data are stored in a rewritable memory. Further, these programs and various setting data may be stored in a hard disk as a configuration example of the image storage unit 15 described later. The control buffer 22 is composed of a volatile memory such as a RAM (Random Access Memory).

  The above-described program includes instructions related to generation and display of a preview image, which will be described later, according to the present invention, instructions related to generation / transmission / reception of facsimile images and e-mails, instructions related to document reading, and printing. This is for the main control unit 18 to issue commands, commands related to reading and printing (that is, copying), etc., to other parts. This program is developed on the control buffer 22 by the main control unit 18, and is executed while referring to various setting data described later as appropriate, with the control buffer 22 used as a data area for temporary storage (work).

  The reading unit 13 is a scanner using a CCD (Charge Coupled Device), reads a document as a bitmap image of RGB (R: red, G: green, B: blue) having a predetermined resolution, and reads the read RGB image data. (Dot image data) is output to the image processing unit 16. The image processing unit 16 is configured by an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or the like, and performs various image processing on target image data. An example of image processing will be described later. Other parts such as the encoding / decoding unit 17 may be incorporated in the ASIC described above.

  The image storage unit 15 is configured by a hard disk or the like, and stores image data read by the reading unit 13 and passed through the image processing unit 16, image data received from the outside via the LAN control unit 21, the NCU 23, and the like. When image data is stored in the image storage unit 15, the data encoded by the encoding / decoding unit 17 can be stored. The image storage unit 15 may also temporarily store intermediate data generated during image processing in the image processing unit 16.

  The encoding / decoding unit 17 compresses the image data by encoding and decodes (decompresses) the encoded image data into the original image data. For example, the encoding / decoding unit 17 performs encoding of image data read from a document, decoding of the encoded data, decoding of encoded image data received from the outside, and the like. In the encoding / decoding unit 17, JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group) generally used in filing, MH (Modified Huffman), MR (Modified READ), and MMR (Modified READ) generally used in facsimile communication are used. (Modified READ) or the like can be used according to the application. As an encoding method, MH can be adopted in IP facsimile communication, and JPEG and JBIG (Joint Bi-level Image Experts Group) can be adopted in Internet facsimile communication in addition to MH, MR, and MMR.

  The format conversion unit 14 converts the read image data or image data received from the outside into a predetermined file format such as PDF (Portable Document Format), GIF (Graphics Interchange Format), or TIFF (Tag Image File Format). .

  The recording unit 12 includes a printer apparatus that employs a printing method such as an electrophotographic method or an ink jet method, and records (that is, prints) image data stored in the image storage unit 15 on a recording sheet. The USB I / F 25 is an I / F for connecting to a USB device such as a USB memory, and outputs image data after reading a document stored in the image storage unit 15 to the USB device. Read a file from.

  The modem 24 is composed of a facsimile modem capable of facsimile communication, and is connected to a telephone line and directly connected to the NCU 23. The NCU 23 is connected to a telephone line and controls the line. That is, the NCU 23 is hardware that performs operations for closing and opening a line with an analog public telephone line network (PSTN), and connects the modem 24 to the public telephone line network as necessary. With this configuration, the image data stored in the image storage unit 15 is transmitted to the outside by facsimile, or the facsimile image data is received from the telephone line and stored in the image storage unit 15 or directly printed by the recording unit 12. It becomes possible to do.

  The LAN control unit 21 is connected to the LAN, and performs communication of electronic mail data and Internet FAX via the Internet. The Internet FAX transmits and receives electronic mails via a computer network such as a LAN using a LAN interface or the like.

  When the touch panel 10 or the key operation unit 20 executes an operation for selecting a desired process from processes such as a document reading process, image data transmission, and printing, an operation for starting the process, and each process An operation (selection operation or input operation) or the like for performing settings necessary for the operation is received. This setting includes, for example, the setting of the number of prints at the time of printing, the setting of color / monochrome, the setting of the reduction ratio and the enlargement ratio, the setting of punching and stapling, and the destination information at the time of sending a facsimile image or e-mail. There are various settings.

  The key operation unit 20 includes a group of keys necessary for operation. The touch panel 10 includes a display unit and an operation receiving unit such as a touch sensor. The touch panel 10 is subjected to display control and operation acceptance control by the panel control unit 11. That is, the panel control unit 11 performs display control of the display unit and operation reception control of the operation reception unit on the touch panel 10.

  The display unit of the touch panel 10 displays the current operation state, setting information (for example, transmission destination) and the like. This display is realized by the panel control unit 11 controlling so as to display a GUI (Graphical User Interface) image. With the GUI, the display and operation reception position can be changed according to a user operation. Each GUI and its image may be stored in the internal memory of the panel control unit 11 or the control memory 19 so as to be readable. As the display unit, various display formats such as a liquid crystal display and an organic EL (Electroluminescence) display can be adopted.

  The user operation received on the touch panel 10 is interpreted by the panel control unit 11 and transmitted to the main control unit 18 as an operation signal. The user operation received by the key operation unit 20 is interpreted by the key operation unit 20 itself and transmitted to the main control unit 18 as an operation signal. The main control unit 18 issues a command according to the operation signal obtained in this manner to another part, thereby causing the other part to execute a process according to the user operation. Note that although the touch panel 10 in which the display device and the operation unit are integrated has been described, only the display device may be provided instead of the touch panel 10, and in this case, the user operation is accepted only by the key operation unit 20.

  The touch panel 10 and the key operation unit 20 may be configured as an operation panel 30 illustrated in FIG. 3, and the operation panel 30 includes a key operation unit 31 including various hardware keys (corresponding to the key operation unit 20). And a touch panel 32 (corresponding to the touch panel 10) including a liquid crystal display and a touch sensor. Hereinafter, the touch panel 32 and the key operation unit 31 are applied instead of the touch panel 10 and the key operation unit 20 in the configuration of FIG.

  The key operation unit 31 includes, as hardware keys, a numeric keypad 31a for inputting a numerical value, a clear key 31b for clearing an input set value, an all cancel key 31c for canceling all input settings, a copy start, In addition to a start key 31d for receiving an instruction such as transmission start, function switching keys 31e, 31f, and 31g for switching a print function, a transmission function, and a copy function, and a system setting key 31h for receiving a setting by a user are provided.

An operation example in the digital multi-function peripheral 1 having the above-described configuration example will be described.
<Original scanning operation>
In the original reading operation, the image data of the read original is stored (filed) in the image storage unit 15, the image data of the read original is transmitted to the outside, or the image data of the read original is printed (that is, a copy). To be done).

  When a user operation for performing a process that requires reading of a document is received by the operation panel 30, the main control unit 18 reads the reading unit 13, the image storage unit 15, the image processing unit 16, and the encoding / decoding unit 17. Is instructed to execute processing as described below.

  The reading unit 13 optically reads an image of a document placed on a document table or an automatic document feeder, and passes RGB image data (RGB bitmap data) as a result of the reading to the image processing unit 16. The image processing unit 16 executes various types of image processing (hereinafter referred to as document image processing) such as A / D conversion, shading correction, and γ correction on the RGB image data. Here, the shading process is a process for removing various distortions generated in the illumination system, the imaging system, and the imaging system of the reading unit 13.

  As document image processing, document discrimination processing and region separation processing may be executed following A / D conversion, shading correction, and γ correction. The document determination processing includes processing for determining the type of document from input image data (here, image data after γ correction) and processing for determining whether the document is a color document or a monochrome document. Examples of the type of document include a character document, a printed photo document, and a character printed photo document in which they are mixed. The image processing unit 16 outputs a determination signal (hereinafter referred to as document determination data) as a result of these document determination processing and monochrome / color document determination processing. The area separation process is a process of determining what kind of area each pixel of input image data (here, image data after γ correction) belongs to. For example, each pixel is a black character area, This is a process of determining which region belongs to, such as a color character region or a halftone dot region. The image processing unit 16 outputs region separation data as the determination result. Note that this region separation processing may be executed based on the results of the document discrimination processing and the monochrome / color discrimination processing described above.

  The document determination data and the area separation data are stored in the image storage unit 15 in association with corresponding image data (image data after document image processing). At this time, after the original determination data and the region separation data are encoded by the encoding / decoding unit 17, each encoded data is stored in the image storage unit 15 in association with the corresponding image data. It should be noted that encoding at the time of storing in the image storage unit 15 is not essential, but in the following description, it is assumed that image data is stored in an encoded state. The same applies to operations other than the document reading operation.

<Printing action>
By the above-described original reading operation, filing of image data of the read original is completed. Next, a printing operation when printing image data of a read document (that is, when copying a document) will be described. When a user operation for performing processing that requires printing is received by the operation panel 30, the main control unit 18 includes the recording unit 12, the image storage unit 15, the image processing unit 16, the encoding / decoding unit 17, and the like. Is instructed to execute processing as described below. Note that the main control unit 18 also gives an instruction to the reading unit 13 (original reading instruction) when, for example, a copy operation is performed.

  Further, the digital multi-function peripheral 1 may be configured to be able to add additional information such as a stamp, date (or date / time), page number, etc. to image data at the time of printing. A description will be given of a simple configuration. When there is such an addition instruction, the main control unit 18 controls the image processing unit 16. It can be said that the additional information added to the image data is an additional image. The additional information is stored in the control memory 19 and is read out as necessary. Of course, additional information may be originally stored as additional image data. A plurality of additional information may be stored in the control memory 19 and the additional setting information may be stored in the control memory 19. This additional setting information includes at least information indicating a position to be added to image data (hereinafter referred to as an additional position), and also includes information on which one to select when a plurality of additional information is stored. Shall be. When there is an instruction to execute punching or stapling processing in the post-processing device, the main control unit 18 also controls this post-processing device.

  The encoding / decoding unit 17 reads out the image data to be printed and the corresponding document determination data and area separation data from the image storage unit 15, decodes them, and passes them to the image processing unit 16. The image processing unit 16 performs various image processing (hereinafter referred to as printing image processing) on the decoded image data (RGB image data). Image processing for printing, as outlined below, image quality adjustment processing, dichroic processing, color correction processing, black generation / under color removal processing, spatial filter processing, scaling processing, output tone correction Processing, halftone generation processing, and the like. The black generation / under color removal process, the spatial filter process, and the halftone generation process are processes corresponding to various areas indicated by the area separation data.

  As the image quality adjustment processing, the background is detected by detecting the background from the decoded image data. Further, as image quality adjustment processing, RGB adjustment (overall color adjustment such as color adjustment and reddish bluishness), brightness adjustment, and image data after background removal based on setting information set by the user through the operation panel 30. Also adjust the vividness. At this time, adjustment may be performed according to the document type indicated by the document determination data.

  As color correction processing, CMY data having CMY (C: cyan, M: magenta, Y: yellow), which are complementary colors of RGB, is generated from RGB data after image quality adjustment processing to improve color reproducibility. Process. Black generation / under color removal processing includes black generation processing for generating black (K) data from color-corrected CMY data, and new CMY data by subtracting K data obtained by black generation from the original CMY data. The undercolor removal process to be generated is performed. As the spatial filter processing, enhancement processing and smoothing processing are performed on the CMYK data that is the data of these four colors. When a two-color mode for outputting image data in two colors (for example, red and black) is selected, a dichroic process is executed. As the dichroic process, a process of converting RGB data into CMY data expressing two specified colors (in this case, red and black) is performed. In the two-color mode, the black generation / under color removal process is performed on the CMY data after the two-color process, and the spatial filter process is also performed, but the color correction process is not performed.

  As the scaling process, an image enlargement process or an image reduction process is performed on the CMYK data after the spatial filter process based on the print magnification set by the user operation on the operation panel 30. The printing magnification is the magnification of the image after printing with respect to the image indicated by the read and stored image data. Of course, the print magnification is not limited to the magnification obtained by the user operation, and is the default magnification when there is no operation for the print magnification. As output gradation correction processing, output γ correction processing for outputting to a recording medium such as recording paper is performed on the CMYK data. As halftone generation processing, tone reproduction processing for outputting an image is performed on the CMYK data after the output tone correction processing by error diffusion processing or dither processing. In the output tone correction process and the halftone generation process, for example, processing corresponding to the document type indicated by the document determination data may be performed, for example, processing contents are different between the character area and the other areas.

  The CMYK data after the halftone generation process is transferred to the recording unit 12. A case where additional information is added will be described. For additional information, there are a method of performing a scaling process according to the scaling ratio of the print data, and a method of not performing the scaling process for the additional information regardless of the scaling ratio of the print data. First, when the additional information is also scaled, the main control unit 18 reads the additional information and the information indicating the additional position, and the main control unit 18 or the image processing unit 16 converts it to image data as necessary. The image data of the additional information is transferred to the image processing unit 16 before the scaling process. This conversion is not necessary when the additional image data is originally stored. Subsequently, the image processing unit 16 may synthesize the image data of the additional information at the additional position with the image data of the addition destination that is the image data before the scaling process.

  When the additional information is not subjected to the scaling process, the main control unit 18 reads the additional information and information indicating the additional position, and the main control unit 18 or the image processing unit 16 converts the information into image data as necessary. In this example, CMYK data is obtained by conversion. This conversion is not necessary when the additional image data is originally stored. Subsequently, the image processing unit 16 adds the image data of the additional information to the addition destination image data that is the image data after the scaling process (the above-described CMYK data that is the target of the output gradation correction process or the halftone generation process). However, it may be synthesized at the additional position.

  In any case, the CMYK data after the halftone generation process with the additional information added by the image processing unit 16 can be output. In the digital multi-function peripheral 1, additional information and its additional position can be set by the user using the operation panel 30 while performing a preview display described below.

  The recording unit 12 receives the image data (in this example, CMYK image data) subjected to the image processing for printing by the image processing unit 16 in this way, and performs hard copy (printout) by an electrophotographic method or an inkjet method. To do. Then, the post-processing apparatus executes punching or stapling processing on the printed paper as necessary. Note that the target data of the printing operation described here is not limited to the image data read by the reading unit 13, and is, for example, transferred in advance from an external recording medium or a network-connected PC or the like, and the image storage unit 15. The same applies to the image data (image file) stored in. The printing operation of the image data received by facsimile and stored in the image storage unit 15 will be described later.

<Preview display operation of image data to be printed>
Next, an operation (preview display operation) of previewing image data stored in the image storage unit 15 as a result of document reading on the touch panel 32 before printing will be described. The digital multi-function peripheral 1 has a configuration that enables preview display for image data to be printed. This preview display operation is performed when a user operation for performing a process that requires a preview display is received by the operation panel 30. For example, the preview display operation is also performed when the image data after reading the document is set to be previewed first before printing.

  The main control unit 18 instructs the image storage unit 15, the image processing unit 16, the encoding / decoding unit 17, the panel control unit 11, and the like to execute processing as described below. Note that the main control unit 18 also gives an instruction to the reading unit 13 (original reading instruction) when, for example, an operation for copying an original is performed.

  The encoding / decoding unit 17 reads out the image data to be previewed and the corresponding document determination data and region separation data from the image storage unit 15, decodes them, and passes them to the image processing unit 16. The image processing unit 16 performs various image processing (hereinafter referred to as preview image processing) on the decoded image data (RGB image data). Image processing for preview includes image quality adjustment processing, dichroic processing, color correction processing, spatial filter processing, scaling processing, output tone correction processing, and the like, as will be described below in outline. Spatial filter processing and output tone correction processing are processing according to various regions indicated by the region separation data.

  The image quality adjustment process here is the same as the image quality adjustment process in the image processing for printing. As the color correction processing, processing for converting the image data (RGB data) after the image quality adjustment processing into R′G′B ′ data is performed based on the display characteristics of the touch panel 32. As the spatial filter processing, enhancement processing and smoothing processing are performed on the R′G′B ′ data.

  As the scaling processing, the R′G′B ′ data after the spatial filter processing is subjected to image enlargement processing / image reduction processing according to the print magnification, and the number of pixels of the R′G′B ′ data is set on the touch panel. In addition to performing conversion to the number of pixels (display resolution) of 32, image enlargement processing and image reduction processing are performed based on the preview display magnification set by the user operation on the operation panel 30. The preview display magnification is a fixed magnification such as 2 times or 4 times, for example, and is a magnification of an image at the time of preview display. Of course, the preview display magnification is not limited to the magnification obtained by the user operation, and becomes the default magnification when there is no operation for the preview display magnification.

  The preview image generation unit 16a provided in the image processing unit 16 generates an image for preview display (preview image) mainly by such scaling processing for preview display.

  Here, a preview image when additional information is added will be described. In the digital multi-function peripheral 1, when additional information is added to image data to be output and output, the panel control unit 11 performs control to display an additional information image indicating the additional information. Therefore, the preview image generation unit 16a generates a preview image with an additional information image by generating such an additional information image and combining it with the preview image generated from the image data to be output.

  The additional information can be output together with the image data to be printed by performing the scaling process according to the printing magnification, and added to the image data to be printed after the scaling process according to the printing magnification. It can also be output. First, when the additional information is also scaled and output, the main control unit 18 reads information indicating the additional information additional position and additional information (or the size of the additional information), and before the scaling process. The image is transferred to the image processing unit 16. Subsequently, the preview image generation unit 16a generates R′G′B ′ data of the additional information image indicating the additional information from the additional information (or the size of the additional information), and is the image data before the scaling process. The image data of the addition destination is synthesized at the addition position. Then, image enlargement processing / image reduction processing corresponding to the printing magnification may be performed on the R′G′B ′ data after the addition of the additional information image.

  When the additional information is not subjected to the scaling process, the main control unit 18 reads information indicating the additional information addition position and additional information (or the size of the additional information) and passes the information to the image processing unit 16. Subsequently, the preview image generating unit 16a generates R′G′B ′ data of the additional information image indicating the additional information from the additional information (or the size of the additional information), and performs image enlargement processing / image according to the print magnification. The R′G′B ′ data after the reduction processing is synthesized at the additional position, and the number of pixels of the added R′G′B ′ data is converted into the number of pixels (display resolution) of the touch panel 32. The image enlargement process and the image reduction process may be performed based on the preview display magnification set by the user operation on the operation panel 30.

  Further, when punching or stapling is performed in the post-processing apparatus, an image indicating post-processing such as punch holes or stapling is added to a preview image generated from image data to be printed (and additional information image data of additional information). The data (referred to as “additional information image” for convenience) may be output after being combined with the punch position or the staple position. By such processing, it is possible to display the finished state of the sheet on which the image is formed when the image data preview is displayed.

  As the output tone correction processing, output γ correction processing for displaying image data on the touch panel 32 is performed on the R′G′B ′ data of the preview image with the additional information image. In the output tone correction process, for example, a process corresponding to the document type indicated by the document determination data may be performed, for example, the processing content is different between the character area and the other areas.

  The dichroic processing is executed only when a two-color mode that outputs image data in two colors, for example, red and black, is selected. As the dichroic processing, processing for converting the RGB data after the image quality adjustment processing into CMY data expressing the specified two colors (in this case, red and black) is performed. The generated CMYK data is converted into R′G′B ′ data based on the display characteristics of the touch panel 32 in the subsequent color correction processing.

  The R′G′B ′ data generated by the preview image generation unit 16 a and subjected to the output gradation correction processing is passed to the touch panel 32. The panel control unit 11 controls the touch panel 32 to display an image corresponding to the R′G′B ′ data in a GUI image, and displays the GUI image on the touch panel 32. The user confirms the preview-displayed image including the additional information and the additional information image indicating the post-processing, and whether to execute printing or cancel the printing as it is, delete the additional information, or stop the post-processing, It is possible to determine whether or not to change the additional position (or change additional information), change the post-processing position, or the like, and perform an operation corresponding to the determination.

  Note that the target data for the preview display operation described here is not limited to the image data read by the reading unit 13, and is, for example, an image storage unit that is transferred in advance from an external recording medium or a network-connected PC. The same applies to the image data (image file) stored in 15. The preview display operation of the image data received by facsimile and stored in the image storage unit 15 will be described later.

<Supplementary information on document reading, preview display and printing>
Although the preview display operation has been described separately from the print operation, first, image data (CMYK data) that has been subjected to output gradation correction processing as the print operation is converted into R′G′B ′ data based on the display characteristics of the touch panel 32. May be displayed on the touch panel 32 by performing conversion processing according to the number of pixels (display resolution) of the touch panel 32 and scaling processing according to the reduction / enlargement ratio at the time of preview display. Since the printing operation is completed to some extent and the printing operation after the preview display can be completed quickly, it is useful when, for example, the preview display is set in advance when a copy operation is performed. Such a process can also be applied to a case where an additional information image indicating additional information or post-processing is added for preview display.

  Further, as an example of a document reading operation, an example in which encoded image data, document type data, and area separation data are associated with each other and stored in the image storage unit 15 will be described. Based on this example, a printing operation and a preview display operation will also be described. did. As an alternative method, only the image data read by the reading unit 13 may be encoded and stored in the image storage unit 15 once. In this case, at the time of printing operation or preview display operation, the image processing unit 16 performs document type determination processing or region separation processing on the image data read from the image storage unit 15 and decoded by the encoding / decoding unit 17. What is necessary is just to comprise. Such an alternative method can also be applied to image data transmission such as facsimile transmission and Internet FAX transmission described later.

<Printing operation of image data received by facsimile>
Next, a printing operation for image data received by facsimile communication will be described. When the main control unit 18 detects a facsimile communication request by the modem 24, the main control unit 18 instructs the recording unit 12, the image storage unit 15, the image processing unit 16, the NCU 23, the modem 24, and the like, and processes as described below. Is executed.

  First, the modem 24 and the NCU 23 sequentially receive image data (compressed image data) transmitted from the transmission source while performing a communication procedure, decompress the received compressed image data, and perform rotation processing (if necessary). Processing for rotating the transmission direction), resolution conversion processing, and the like are executed and passed to the image processing unit 16.

  Since the image data received by the facsimile communication is binary in black and white, the image processing unit 16 passes the image data (K data) that has been subjected to processing such as decompression to the recording unit 12 without performing any particular processing. It is. The recording unit 12 receives this image data, and executes printing by an electrophotographic method, an inkjet method, or the like. Also, image data received by facsimile communication can be printed after adding the above-described additional information.

  Although the facsimile reception with a monochrome image has been described, when a color facsimile image (RGB data) is received, the image processing unit 16 performs the facsimile reception image processing described here on the RGB data. do it.

<Preview display operation of image data received by facsimile>
A preview display operation of image data received by facsimile communication will be briefly described based on the printing operation of the image data. This preview display operation is performed when there is a prior setting or a user operation for executing printing after confirming received image data in advance. In this preview display operation, when the image processing unit 16 adds additional information or performs post-processing on the image data after being subjected to processing such as expansion, the additional information image indicating the additional information and post-processing is displayed. After the image data is synthesized, conversion processing according to the number of pixels (display resolution) of the touch panel 32 and scaling processing according to the reduction / enlargement ratio at the preview display are performed, and the image data after scaling processing is displayed on the touch panel. 32 is displayed. The user confirms the previewed image, determines whether to execute or discard the print, determines additional information and the content and necessity of post-processing, and performs a print or discard operation, additional information, and post-processing. The operation of changing the contents of can be performed.

<Facsimile transmission operation>
Next, a transmission operation when the image data of the read original is transmitted by facsimile will be described. The facsimile image data is transmitted to destination (transmission destination) information set by a user operation on the touch panel 32 or the key operation unit 31. The other party information (phone number in this example) is stored in the control memory 19 and is read out as necessary. Normally, the destination information is stored as address book data so that information on a plurality of destinations can be viewed and selected, or is directly input before transmission.

  When a user operation for executing facsimile transmission is accepted on the operation panel 30, the main control unit 18 instructs the image storage unit 15, the image processing unit 16, the encoding / decoding unit 17, the NCU 23, the modem 24, and the like. To execute processing as described below. Note that the main control unit 18 also gives an instruction (original reading instruction) to the reading unit 13 when an operation for facsimile transmission of the original is performed, for example. It is also possible to select image data to be transmitted while executing a preview display for the image data stored in the image storage unit 15 and start facsimile transmission for the image data.

  The encoding / decoding unit 17 reads out the image data to be printed and the corresponding document determination data and area separation data from the image storage unit 15, decodes them, and passes them to the image processing unit 16. The image processing unit 16 performs various image processing (hereinafter referred to as image processing for facsimile transmission) on the decoded image data (RGB image data). The image processing for facsimile transmission includes image quality adjustment processing, spatial filter processing, scaling processing, output tone correction processing, halftone generation processing, and the like as will be described below. The spatial filter process and the halftone generation process may be processes corresponding to various areas indicated by the area separation data, but the area separation data may not be used. Further, in the document reading operation accompanying facsimile transmission, it is not necessary to execute the region separation process on the read image data and the encoding and storage of the region separation data.

  As the image quality adjustment process, the decoded image data is converted into K data using a matrix coefficient. At this time, a matrix coefficient corresponding to the document type indicated by the document determination data may be used. As the spatial filter processing, enhancement processing and smoothing processing are performed on the K data. As the scaling process, an image enlargement process or an image reduction process is performed on the K data after the spatial filter process according to the transmission resolution set on the operation panel 30 or the default transmission resolution. As the output tone correction process, an output γ correction process is performed on the K data after the scaling process for the purpose of outputting the data to a recording medium such as a recording sheet at the transmission destination. Actually, output γ correction for a general device may be performed instead of output γ correction in consideration of the transmission destination device. As the halftone generation process, the K data after the output tone correction process is binarized by, for example, an error diffusion process. In the output tone correction process and the halftone generation process, a process according to the document type indicated by the document determination data may be performed.

Although the facsimile transmission with a monochrome image has been described, in the facsimile transmission with a color image, the image processing unit 16 uses the matrix coefficient as the decoded image data as an image quality adjustment process in the above-described facsimile transmission image processing. May be used to perform processing for conversion to L ^* a ^* b ^* data for color transmission, and subsequent processing may be performed on the L ^* a ^* b ^* data.

  The image data after the halftone generation process is subjected to a rotation process as necessary, and is compressed and encoded in the compression format at the time of facsimile transmission by the encoding / decoding unit 17 and temporarily stored in the image storage unit 15. The The modem 24 performs a transmission procedure with the transmission destination set via the NCU 23, and at the stage where communication with the transmission destination is established (when transmission is possible), this temporarily stored encoding is performed. The read K data is read, and after necessary processing such as changing the compression format, it is sequentially transmitted to the transmission destination via the public line network.

  The digital multi-function peripheral 1 can be configured so that additional information can be added to image data to be transmitted. When transmitting image data to the outside as in this example, in addition to the stamp, date (date and time), and page number, additional information can be added to the sender information (sender information) as additional information. It has become. Here, the transmission source information added at the time of image data transmission may include one or more of information on the name of the sender, information on the telephone number of the transmission source, and information on the email address of the transmission source. Further, as the additional information, information on the transmission destination (information on the other party) may be added at the time of image data transmission.

  When facsimile transmission is performed with additional information added, the following composition processing may be performed. The main control unit 18 reads the additional information and information indicating the additional position, the main control unit 18 or the image processing unit 16 converts it into image data, and the image processing unit 16 converts the converted image data (image data of the additional information). ) May be combined at the addition position with the addition destination image data which is the image data after the scaling process. In the digital multi-function peripheral 1, the position to which the image data of the additional information is added can be set by the user using the operation panel 30 while performing a preview display described below. The combined image data is transmitted to the transmission destination after being subjected to the above-described output tone correction processing, rotation processing, compression processing, and the like.

<Preview display operation for image data to be sent by facsimile>
The digital multi-function peripheral 1 has a configuration that enables preview display of image data that is to be transmitted by facsimile transmission or the like. This preview display operation is performed when there is a prior setting or a user operation for performing transmission after confirming in advance the image data before transmission. A preview display operation of image data to be transmitted by facsimile will be described based on a facsimile transmission operation of the image data. In the preview display operation, the main control unit 18 also instructs the panel control unit 11.

  In this preview display operation, the image processing unit 16 performs the same processing as that during facsimile transmission until image quality adjustment processing and spatial filter processing (and scaling processing), and executes preview image generation processing by the preview image generation unit 16a. Then, output γ correction processing for displaying image data may be performed as output gradation correction processing. As this preview image generation processing, the preview image generation unit 16a performs conversion processing according to the number of pixels (display resolution) of the touch panel 32 and image data subjected to image enlargement processing / image reduction processing according to the transmission resolution. Data of a preview image is generated by performing a scaling process according to the reduction / enlargement ratio at the time of preview display. In this preview display operation, the spatial filter process does not have to be executed, and the halftone generation process is not executed.

  The R′G′B ′ data generated by the preview image generation unit 16 a and subjected to the output gradation correction processing is passed to the touch panel 32. The panel control unit 11 controls the touch panel 32 to display an image corresponding to the R′G′B ′ data in a GUI image, and displays the GUI image on the touch panel 32.

  A preview image when additional information is added and transmitted will be described. The additional information is output after being added to the image data after the scaling process corresponding to the transmission resolution. More specifically, the main control unit 18 reads the additional position and additional information of the additional information and passes them to the image processing unit 16. Subsequently, the preview image generation unit 16a generates R'G'B 'data of the additional information image indicating the additional information from the additional information, and R'G' after the image enlargement process / image reduction process according to the transmission resolution. What is necessary is just to synthesize | combine with the said additional position with respect to B 'data. It should be noted that there is no need to consider post-processing when transmitting image data such as facsimile transmission.

  The image data obtained by synthesizing the additional information image in this way is subjected to the above-described output tone correction processing (output γ correction processing for displaying image data) at the time of preview display, and then is performed by the panel control unit 11. It is incorporated in the GUI image and displayed on the touch panel 32. The user confirms the preview-displayed image including the additional information image and executes or stops the facsimile transmission as it is, deletes the additional information, changes the additional position (or changes the additional information), etc. It is possible to determine whether or not to execute the operation and perform an operation corresponding to the determination.

<Image data transmission operation via the Internet>
Next, a transmission operation in a case where image data of a read original is transmitted by electronic mail or Internet FAX via the Internet will be described. For the image data to be transmitted through the Internet, transmission destination information (in this example, an e-mail address) set by a user operation on the touch panel 32 or the key operation unit 31 and stored in the control memory 19 ).

  When a user operation related to transmission via the Internet is accepted by the operation panel 30, the main control unit 18 includes a format conversion unit 14, an image storage unit 15, an image processing unit 16, an encoding / decoding unit 17, and a LAN control unit. 21 is instructed to execute transmission processing via the Internet as described below. Note that the main control unit 18 also gives an instruction to the reading unit 13 (original reading instruction) when an operation for transmitting the original via the Internet is performed, for example.

  The encoding / decoding unit 17 reads out the image data to be printed and the corresponding document determination data and area separation data from the image storage unit 15, decodes them, and passes them to the image processing unit 16. The image processing unit 16 executes various types of image processing (hereinafter referred to as Internet transmission image processing) on the decoded image data (RGB image data). Examples of the image processing for Internet transmission include image quality adjustment processing, spatial filter processing, scaling processing, output tone correction processing, and halftone generation processing described in the facsimile transmission image processing.

Also, the image processing at the time of transmission with a color image is the same as the image processing for facsimile transmission, and the image processing unit 16 uses the matrix coefficient as the image data after decoding as image quality adjustment processing in the image processing for Internet transmission. It is possible to perform processing for conversion into L ^* a ^* b ^* data for color transmission and perform subsequent processing on the L ^* a ^* b ^* data.

  The encoding / decoding unit 17 encodes (compresses) the image data after the image processing for Internet transmission to obtain a compressed file. This compression is performed for each page of the document. Next, the format conversion unit 14 converts these compressed files into one file, and attaches the file to the multipart mail according to, for example, MIME (Multipurpose Internet Mail Extension). Through the processing so far, the read image data is converted into an e-mail format. This e-mail is transmitted to the transmission destination via the Internet by the LAN control unit 21 via the LAN interface using a mail transfer protocol such as SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol).

  Here, in the case of Internet facsimile transmission, the encoding / decoding unit 17 compresses in a compression format dedicated to facsimile, such as MH, and the format conversion unit 14 obtains the compressed file in page units into, for example, one TIFF file. Convert it. Further, in the case of transmission that is simply attached as an attached file to an e-mail (in the case of transmission by so-called scan to e-mail), the encoding / decoding unit 17 compresses it in a compression format such as JPEG and the format conversion unit 14 For example, the page-by-page compressed file obtained may be converted into a single PDF file.

  Also, even if the image data to be transmitted is image data transmitted via the Internet, the digital multi-function peripheral 1 can transmit it with additional information as in the case of facsimile transmission image data. Yes. As the additional information adding process, it is only necessary to execute the synthesizing process described in the facsimile transmission. After the above-described output tone correction process, compression process, format conversion process, and the like are performed, the address of the transmission destination is sent as an e-mail. Will be sent to.

<Preview display operation for image data sent via the Internet>
Similarly to the description of the preview display at the time of facsimile transmission, the digital multi-function peripheral 1 can be configured so that preview data can be displayed on the touch panel 32 for image data to be transmitted via the Internet.

  In this preview display operation, the image processing unit 16 performs the same processing as the image processing for Internet transmission until the image quality adjustment processing and the spatial filter processing (and scaling processing), as described for the preview display at the time of facsimile transmission. The preview image generation processing by the preview image generation unit 16a is executed, and output γ correction processing for displaying image data is performed as output gradation correction processing. The R′G′B ′ data generated by the preview image generation unit 16a and subjected to the output tone correction processing is transferred to the touch panel 32, and is incorporated into the GUI image by the panel control unit 11 and displayed on the touch panel 32. . Further, the description of the preview display at the time of facsimile transmission can be used for the addition of the additional information image.

<Description of Preview Display Before Printing Image Data According to the Present Invention>
As described above, the preview display operation before printing at the time of copying is described. In the digital multi-functional peripheral 1 according to the present invention, the image storage unit stores image data read by the scanner device exemplified by the reading unit 13 and subjected to printing. 15 includes a preview image generation unit 16a that reads the data from 15 and generates the preview image. The preview image generated by the preview image generation unit 16 a is sent to the touch panel 32 under the control of the main control unit 18, and is controlled to be incorporated into the GUI image and displayed by the panel control unit 11 and displayed on the touch panel 32. As described above, the touch panel 32 is an example of a display unit that displays a preview of image data to be printed. The panel control unit 11 is an example of a display control unit that displays the preview image generated by the preview image generation unit 16a on a display unit by, for example, incorporating it into a screen provided in advance.

  In the digital multi-function peripheral 1 according to the present invention, the document bundle-specific processing mode can be selected by the operation unit. This operation unit can be exemplified by the touch panel 32 or the touch panel 32 and the key operation unit 31.

  Here, the bundle-by-document processing mode is a mode in which a plurality of sub-jobs each set with printing conditions are executed as one print job. The plurality of sub jobs are sub jobs corresponding to a plurality of document bundles to be read. Prior to printing, the image data corresponding to these sub-jobs are collectively stored as one file in the image storage unit 15 and read by the recording unit 12 when printing is performed. That is, one file is generated by one print job. As described above, in the original bundle separate processing mode, original reading processing is performed for each original bundle to obtain sub-job data for each original bundle, and one file is generated based on the printing conditions set for each original bundle. A printing process is executed.

  As a main feature of the present invention, the display control unit described above is configured to display a preview image during the document bundle separate processing mode (that is, the document bundle separate processing mode is selected and the preview image is displayed). ), A change key for changing only the printing conditions of the document bundle (displayed sub job) displayed as a preview image is displayed on the display unit so as to be selectable by the operation unit.

  With this configuration, the present invention makes it possible to easily change the settings for each sub-job when displaying a preview of the read document during the document bundle separation processing mode in which a plurality of sub-jobs are handled as one job. Become.

  Further, as described above, it may be possible to output by adding additional information to the image data to be printed, or to print the image data to be printed on a recording sheet and to post-process the recording sheet. . In that case, in the digital multi-function peripheral 1, the panel control unit 11 performs control for causing the touch panel 32 to display additional information images indicating additional information and post-processing based on the control of the main control unit 18. Therefore, the preview image generation unit 16a generates such an additional information image and combines it with the preview image generated from the image data to be printed, thereby generating a preview image with the additional information image. The composite position is the position of the preview image corresponding to the additional information addition position or the post-processing position. As described above, image formation can be performed even when additional information (stamp, date, page number, etc.) is added to the image data to be printed for output, or when post-processing such as punching or stapling is performed on the recording medium for output. It becomes possible to confirm the final state of.

  Although the preview display before printing has been described, as described in the preview display operation at the time of facsimile transmission or image data transmission via the Internet, not only the print target but also the image data to be transmitted (that is, other than print) It is also possible to perform the same processing on the image data to be output. In this case, the document bundle specific processing mode is a mode in which a plurality of sub jobs corresponding to each of a plurality of document bundles to be read are executed as a single transmission job, and a plurality of sub jobs each having a transmission condition set are executed. It becomes.

  Further, although it has been described on the assumption that the document is read, the image data to be printed or transmitted is not limited to the image data input from the scanner device exemplified by the reading unit 13, and is connected to the USB I / F 25. Image data input from a removable storage device exemplified by a USB memory, image data inputted from a communication line exemplified by a LAN or line, and image data read from the storage device exemplified by the image storage unit 15 May be. In this case, the document bundle-specific processing mode is a mode in which a plurality of sub-jobs corresponding to each of a plurality of bundles to be output are executed as one output job, and a plurality of sub-jobs each having output conditions set are executed. .

<Specific example of preview display>
Hereinafter, the flow of the preview display during the document bundle separate processing mode will be described with reference to FIGS. In the following example, printing at the time of copying is mainly given as an example, but as described above, the same applies to printing at the time of facsimile reception, printing of image data read from a USB memory, etc., facsimile transmission, transmission / reception of Internet FAX, etc. It is possible to do.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a standard screen of the digital multi-functional peripheral described with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3. FIG. 4 shows an example of a GUI image (referred to as GUI image 40) displayed on the touch panel 32 in the digital multi-function peripheral 1 as the standard screen. The GUI image 40 of the standard screen is displayed on the touch panel 32 when the power of the digital multi-function peripheral 1 is turned on or reset. In the GUI image 40, a copy mode selection key 41, an image transmission mode selection key 42, and a document filing mode selection key 43 are displayed to select an operation mode of the digital multi-function peripheral 1. In the GUI image 40, a copy mode is selected. Indicates that is selected.

  In the copy mode, various conditions for copying can be set. For example, a double-sided copy key for setting single-sided / double-sided copying, a finishing key for setting post-processing for punching and stapling, and a special function key 44 for setting detailed settings at the time of copying, are read by a scanner. A preview confirmation key 45 for confirming the finished state of the image, an image input from an external device, or an image stored in a storage device such as an HDD, and finishing processing (post processing) such as punching or stapling. For example, a finishing key is provided. The user can display a preview of the image data read at this time by operating the preview confirmation key 45 using the touch panel 32. By selecting the key 42 or the key 43, the mode is shifted to the image transmission mode or the document filing mode. At this time, the GUI image for setting in each mode is set so that various settings according to each mode are possible. Is displayed.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a GUI image displayed when a special function key for performing detailed setting at the time of copying is selected in the GUI image of FIG. 4, and FIG. 6 is an arrow in the GUI image of FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the GUI image displayed when a key is selected. Although not described individually, in the drawings to be described later including FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, an OK key is displayed. After the OK key is pressed, the setting is saved and the previous screen is returned. Good.

  In the GUI image 46 shown in FIG. 5, various setting items such as a margin and a saddle stitch are displayed so as to be selectable, and since there are many setting items, an arrow key 47 is displayed. By selecting the arrow key 47, other setting items are displayed so as to be selectable as in the GUI image 48 of FIG. In the GUI image 48, as other setting items, a build job key 50 and the like are displayed so as to be selectable, and an arrow key 49 for returning to the GUI image 46 is also displayed. By pressing the build job key 50, it is possible to shift to the build job mode (processing mode for each original bundle). Of course, the transition to the document bundle separate processing mode may be executed by an operation on another screen such as an initial screen.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a GUI image displayed when the build job key is selected in the GUI image of FIG. 6, and FIG. 8 shows that the start key is pressed while the GUI image of FIG. 7 is displayed. It is a figure which shows an example of the GUI image displayed in the case.

  The GUI image 51 shown in FIG. 7 is displayed when the build job key 50 shown in FIG. 6 is selected. As a result, the process shifts to the original bundle processing mode, and “Start after setting the original and making print settings” is started. "Please press the key." At this time, the GUI image 51 may be displayed as being in the build job mode.

  In the GUI image 51 shown in FIG. 7, as with the GUI image 40 in FIG. 4, a color mode setting key 52 for setting color / monochrome, a copy density setting key 53 for setting copy density, and a print magnification are set. A magnification setting key 54 for performing printing and a paper setting key 55 for setting printing paper are displayed in a selectable manner. In addition, in the GUI image 51, a reading method setting key for setting whether to read a document on the document table or the automatic document feeder (ADF), and whether to execute double-sided copying / single-sided copying are set. A double-sided setting key 56 for performing the setting, a finishing setting key 57 for setting the type and position of the stamp, and post-processing such as stapling and punching are displayed in a selectable manner. In the build job mode, the reading method setting key is often selected as automatic (that is, ADF). Hereinafter, the reading method setting key will be described on the premise of reading with the ADF. There may be.

  The user first sets the first original bundle on the ADF, performs print settings (setting of printing conditions) for the original bundle with such keys, and presses the start key after the setting. Thereby, reading of the original bundle is started. The read image data is subjected to reduction / enlargement, allocation, color conversion (for example, conversion from color to monochrome), and the like based on the set printing conditions, and is associated as image data for the sub-job and associated with the image storage unit 15. Is remembered.

  Further, the preview image generation unit 16a generates a preview image (which may be a so-called thumbnail image obtained by reducing the original image data) for the image data, and temporarily stores the preview image in the image storage unit 15 in association with the sub job. Memorized. This preview image includes additional information such as stamps and page numbers, and additional information images indicating the contents of post-processing. In the build job mode described here, confirmation is often required, so the description is based on the assumption that preview display is performed. However, whether or not to perform preview display is also made selectable by the user. Also good.

  When the reading of the first original bundle is completed, an image asking whether there is a next original bundle is displayed as in the GUI image 60 shown in FIG. The GUI image 60 includes a yes key 61 and a no key 62 in a selectable state. When the no key 62 is selected, only the original bundle up to that point (in this example, the first original document) is included. Execute only the preview display described below.

  On the other hand, if the YES key 61 is selected, the GUI image 51 of FIG. 7 is displayed again, the original bundle is set on the ADF for the next original bundle, print settings are made, and the start key is pressed. Press. As a result, a preview image is also generated and stored for this document bundle. Even when the generation of the preview image for the previous document bundle has not been completed, the processing can be normally completed while the document bundle is being read.

  In this way, when reading of all the document bundles desired by the user is completed and the No key 62 is selected (if at least the first page of all the preview images is not completed, it waits for it). The preview image generation unit 16a reads the preview image of the first page of all document bundles (that is, all sub-jobs) from the image storage unit 15, generates a preview screen, and the panel control unit 11 displays it on the touch panel 32. Let

  By such processing, a screen exemplified by the GUI image 70 of FIG. 9 is displayed. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a GUI image displayed when the No key 62 is selected in the GUI image of FIG. 8. In the digital multi-functional peripheral of FIGS. It is a figure which shows an example of the displayed screen. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a GUI image displayed when the page switching key is selected in the GUI image of FIG. 9, and FIG. 11 shows that the page switching key is selected in the GUI image of FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the GUI image displayed in the case.

  In the GUI image 70 shown in FIG. 9, preview images 71 of the first page of all document bundles generated by the preview image generation unit 16 a as described above (that is, the first page of the first document bundle) are displayed on the touch panel 32 by the panel control unit 11. A preview is displayed.

  This GUI image 70 includes information (in this example, “sub job 1”) indicating what number of sub-jobs (that is, what number of original bundles) is in the vicinity of the displayed preview image 71. . As described above, when the preview image is displayed in the document bundle distinction processing mode, the display control unit is an image corresponding to the document bundle (sub job) in which the displayed preview image is processed in the job. It is preferable that information indicating whether or not there is displayed on the display unit.

  The GUI image 70 also displays a page switching key 78 together with information 79 indicating the current page in order to change the page of the preview image 71 being displayed. Here, the information 79 includes information on the total number of all the original bundles (in this example, “10” in total) and the currently displayed preview image 71 of the total number (in this example). In this case, information indicating whether or not “1” is included) is included.

  As described above, when the preview image is displayed during the document bundle separation processing mode, the display control unit displays information indicating the number of originals in the print job corresponding to the displayed preview image. It is preferable to display on the display unit. Further, although not shown in the figure, it is also possible to display what number of originals in the original bundle (sub job) the displayed preview image is.

  The page switching key 78 has a top page (first page) movement key for displaying the first page of the print job (a job including sub-jobs), and a page preceding the current page of the print job. A previous page movement key, a next page movement key for displaying the next page of the current page of the print job, and a last page (last page) movement key for displaying the last page of the print job are included. The preview image 71 is thus displayed for each page, and the user can display a preview image of an arbitrary page of the image data of the print job by appropriately operating the page switching key 78.

  For example, it is assumed that the first original bundle is 2 pages, the second original bundle is 2 pages, and the third original bundle is 6 pages, and the print job is 10 pages in total. In this example, when the next page movement key of the page switching key 78 is selected twice in the GUI image 70 of FIG. 9, the GUI image 80 of FIG. 10 is displayed. In the GUI image 80, a preview image 72 of the second original bundle (sub job 2) is displayed. When the next page movement key of the page switching key 78 is selected twice in the GUI image 80, the GUI image 81 shown in FIG. 11 is displayed. In the GUI image 81, a preview image 73 of the third document bundle (sub job 3) is displayed.

  In addition, a copy start key 77 for actually starting copy processing (starting print processing) is also displayed on the GUI image 70 so as to be selectable. When the user confirms the preview image 71 or the preview image of the other page after operating the page switching key 78 or confirms the setting contents described later and determines that there is no problem, the user selects the copy start key 77. By doing so, it is possible to actually execute printing of all sub-jobs. The copy start key 77 is also displayed on the GUI images 81 and 82.

  The user may want to confirm not only the confirmation by the preview display but also the actual setting contents. Accordingly, it is preferable that the setting confirmation key 75 is displayed in a selectable manner on the GUI images 70, 80, 81 of FIGS. 9 to 11. A configuration in which the actual setting contents can be confirmed will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a GUI image displayed when the setting confirmation key is selected in the GUI image of FIG. When the setting confirmation key 75 is selected while the GUI image 80 (the preview image 72 or the preview image of the next page) is displayed in FIG. 10, the association in the image storage unit 15 is referred to from the displayed preview image. 12 is specified, and the GUI image 90 of FIG. 12 including the setting contents for the sub job 2 is displayed.

  The GUI image 90 displays settings such as color / monochrome (monochrome), single-sided / double-sided, and binding margin. As described above, the setting content displayed in the GUI image 90 is for the sub job 2. However, since it may be possible to check or change the setting contents of other sub-jobs 1 and 3, it is preferable that tabs 91a, 91b, and 91c for displaying the setting contents of each sub-job are displayed in a selectable manner. The GUI image 90 also displays a return key 95 for returning to the original screen.

  Similarly, when the setting confirmation key 75 is selected while the GUI image 70 (the preview image 71 or the preview image of the next page) is displayed in FIG. 9, a GUI image including the setting contents for the sub job 1 is displayed. . Similarly, when the setting confirmation key 75 is selected while the GUI image 81 (the preview image 73 or the 6th to 10th page preview images) of FIG. 11 is displayed, a GUI image including the setting contents for the sub job 3 is displayed. Is done.

  In the GUI image 90, a color selection radio button 92a, a monochrome selection radio button 92b, a single-side selection radio button 93a, a double-side selection radio button 93b, and a binding margin input area 94 are displayed so that settings can be changed on this screen. ing. This makes it possible to easily change the setting for each sub-job when displaying the read original in preview during the original bundle separation processing mode. The GUI image 90 also displays a re-setting key 96 for returning to the original screen using the setting changed by the button 92a or the like.

  In addition, in the GUI image 90, an example is given in which the setting can be changed on the setting content confirmation screen. However, in the example in which the setting content confirmation screen in which the setting cannot be changed is displayed, the user can also preview images 71 and 72. , 73 (FIGS. 9 to 11), it may be desired to change the actual setting contents.

  Therefore, it is preferable to display the reset key 76 on the GUI images 70, 80, 81 in FIGS. The user operates the reset key 76 on the GUI images 70, 80, 81 to thereby print the print conditions (post-processing and addition of additional information in the preview images 71, 72, 73 in this example). A GUI image for resetting (including processing settings) can be displayed. Then, using such a reset screen, the print conditions can be reset only for the sub job corresponding to the preview image being displayed.

  As illustrated here, the display control unit according to the present invention, when displaying a preview image during the document bundle separate processing mode, only prints the printing conditions for the document bundle (sub job being displayed) being displayed as a preview image. A change key for changing (the reset key 76, which corresponds to the setting confirmation key 75 in the above example) is displayed on the display unit so as to be selectable by the operation unit.

  As a result, only the currently displayed original bundle (sub job) is changed to the reset printing condition, and the printing conditions of the other original bundles are not changed, so that unnecessary redoing can be eliminated. Further, it is not necessary to change the setting for each page, and the change does not affect the setting of other document bundles. As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to easily change the setting for each sub-job when displaying the read original in the original bundle processing mode.

  After the resetting, it is preferable to regenerate the image data of the sub job based on the reset printing conditions and the preview image, and display the regenerated preview image. More specifically, after selecting the change key (resetting key 76 or setting confirmation key 75), the preview image generating unit 16a applies the image from the changed printing condition only for the sub job whose printing condition has been changed by the operation unit. Regenerate the data preview image. The image data generated from the changed printing conditions and the preview image may be overwritten with reference to the association in the image storage unit 15.

  Then, when the preview image is regenerated (and when a preview instruction is received), the display control unit regenerates the display without performing display from the top as in the GUI image 70 of FIG. It is preferable to display the preview image on the display unit.

  When the printing conditions for the sub job 3 are reset, the preview image 73 of the sub job 3 is displayed like the GUI image 82 in FIG. FIG. 13 is an example of a GUI image displayed after selecting the reset key 76 (or the setting confirmation key 75) in the GUI image 81 of FIG. 11 and resetting the GUI image 90 of FIG. In this way, by first displaying the preview image of the sub job (document bundle) whose setting has been changed, the state after the resetting can be immediately confirmed.

  Further, the description has been made on the assumption that the original reading is not required again by resetting the printing conditions. Accordingly, the display control unit, when selecting a change key (reset key 76 or setting confirmation key 75), for a sub-job for which the print condition has been changed, if it is necessary to read the original again due to the change, the display control unit A notification that prompts the user to read again the original bundle corresponding to the sub-job to be changed may be displayed on the display unit.

  For example, it is assumed that color printing / monochrome printing is set to be automatically selected as a result of automatic document recognition. Then, the sub job 3 includes a slight color area, and as a result of automatic recognition, monochrome printing is selected without the color area being recognized, and the preview image 73 and the color area 73a are generated and displayed in monochrome. To do. If the user notices this difference in recognition from the GUI image 81 in FIG. 11 because he / she was looking at the original document, the user selects the reset key 76 and resets “color printing” from the reset screen. As a result, the above-described notification is performed on the touch panel 32 using a pop-up image or the like to prompt the re-loading of the third document bundle to the ADF. The digital multi-function peripheral 1 performs original reading on the re-loaded third original bundle, regenerates color image data and its preview image, and overwrites the original monochrome image data and its preview image. Then, it is preferable to display a preview image 73 in which the color area 73b is colored like the GUI image 82 in FIG.

  Examples of printing conditions that may require reading the document again include conditions for enlargement ratio and reduction ratio in addition to conditions indicating whether color printing or monochrome printing is performed. The notification may be performed when the printing condition is changed from monochrome printing to color printing, or when the reduction ratio is reduced or the enlargement ratio is increased.

  It should be noted that such re-reading is not always necessary when the document reading setting of the digital multi-function peripheral 1 itself is set to read the highest resolution with respect to all printing conditions without taking the reading speed into consideration. Of course, if a page is missing due to a transport error by ADF, re-reading is necessary, but this is not determined by the digital multifunction peripheral 1 side, but is determined by the user, and the digital multifunction peripheral 1 is necessary. It may be configured so that it can be read again according to the situation.

  Further, the GUI images 70, 80, 81 in FIGS. 9 to 11 include an all sub job preview key (all thumbnail display key) 74 for displaying thumbnail images of the first page of all sub jobs (all document bundles). It is preferable to display it so that it can be selected. Such an example will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a GUI image displayed when all the sub job preview keys are selected in the GUI images of FIGS. 9 to 11.

  The user can confirm the thumbnail display like the GUI image 83 of FIG. 14 by selecting the all sub job preview key 74. In the GUI image 83, the preview image generation unit 16a generates thumbnail images 71 to 73 from the image data of each sub-job to be printed, and the panel control unit 11 displays the preview on the touch panel 32. Here, an example is described in which three document bundles (that is, three sub-jobs) are included as in the above example, but this number is not limited to this.

  For example, if the printing conditions of sub jobs 1 and 3 are color printing and the printing condition of sub job 2 is monochrome printing, thumbnail image 71 of the first page of sub job 1 and thumbnail image 73 of the first page of sub job 3 are color. The thumbnail image 72 of the first page of the sub job 2 is displayed in monochrome. In addition, if additional information such as a stamp and page number and the contents of post-processing are different for each sub-job, a thumbnail image corresponding to that can be displayed. In general, post-processing such as punching and stapling is often a common setting for all sub-jobs (that is, all document bundles).

  Further, the setting confirmation key 75, the resetting key 76, and the copy start key 77 may be displayed on the GUI image 83 so as to be selectable. During the thumbnail display of the first page of all document bundles as in the GUI image 83, the reset key 76 and the setting confirmation key 75 function as the change key when one of the thumbnail images is selected.

  Furthermore, the page-by-page preview key 84 for returning to the GUI images 70, 80, 81 of FIGS. 9 to 11 may be displayed on the GUI image 83 so as to be selectable. The page-by-page preview key 84 is a key for confirming a page other than the first page of each sub-job in the preview. The user selects one of the thumbnail images 71 to 73 displayed in a selectable manner and selects this. By selecting the key 84, it is possible to return to the GUI image 80 of FIG. 10 that includes the selected thumbnail image (for example, the thumbnail image 72) as a preview image. Further, by selecting one of the thumbnail images 71 to 73 (or selecting twice in succession) without displaying the page-specific preview key 84, the GUI image 70 of FIG. 9 relating to the selected thumbnail image is displayed. A process for shifting to the page-by-page preview display screen as described above may be employed.

  As described above, the thumbnail images 71 to 73 of the first pages of the sub jobs 1 to 3 are displayed side by side in the original bundle separate processing mode, so that the settings of the sub jobs 1 to 3 can be easily confirmed in a short time. Is possible.

  Next, an example of a flow when a document image to be printed (image formation) is read and displayed as a preview will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 15 is a flowchart for explaining an example of processing when a preview display is performed during the document bundle separate processing mode in the digital multi-functional peripheral of FIGS. 2 and 3. Here, the description will be made on the assumption that the document bundle separate processing mode is being performed and preview display is performed.

  First, the main control unit 18 confirms whether a document is set on the document table or the ADF in the reading unit 13 (step S1). When the document is set (YES in step S1), the printing condition is set. The user operation of the setting is accepted and the setting is reflected (step S2).

  Then, the main control unit 18 waits for an instruction to start a reading operation (for example, a start key pressing operation) (step S3), and instructs the reading unit 13 to read a document when receiving the instruction (step S4). As a result, the reading unit 13 starts reading the document. Subsequently, the main control unit 18 instructs the preview image generation unit 16a to execute a preview image generation process using the read image data (step S5).

  Next, the main control unit 18 displays the GUI image 60 of FIG. 8, waits for a user operation, and determines whether there is a next document bundle based on the user operation (step S6). If there is a next original bundle, steps S1 to S5 are repeated for the next original bundle. When it is determined that there is no next document bundle (NO in step S6), the main control unit 18 instructs the panel control unit 11 and the preview image generation unit 16a to execute the first document bundle. A preview screen is generated from the preview image of the first page and displayed on the touch panel 32 (step S7). By this process, for example, the GUI image 70 of FIG. 9 is displayed.

  With the GUI image 70 displayed, the main controller 18 determines whether or not the page switching key 78 has been selected (step S8). If the page switching key 78 is selected, the main control unit 18 instructs the panel control unit 11 and the preview image generation unit 16a to generate and display a preview screen for the page (step S9). ). By this processing, for example, the GUI image 80 of FIG. 10 is displayed.

  On the other hand, if NO in step S8 or after the processing in step S9, the main control unit 18 determines whether or not the reset key 76 (or setting confirmation key 75) has been selected (step S10). If NO in step S10, the main control unit 18 determines whether or not the copy start key 77 has been selected (step S11). If the copy start key 77 has been selected, print processing is executed. (Step S12).

  If NO in step S11, the process may return to step S8 or return to step S10. If YES in step S10, the main control unit 18 controls the panel control unit 11 to display a resetting screen (for example, the GUI image 90 in FIG. 12), waits for a resetting operation from the user, Based on the operation, resetting (resetting for the sub job displaying the preview image) is executed (step S13). Next, the main control unit 18 issues an instruction to the preview image generation unit 16a to regenerate the preview image of the reset sub job (step S14), issues an instruction to the panel control unit 11, and the regenerated image is generated. Display a preview image. By this processing, for example, the GUI image 82 of FIG. 13 is displayed.

  As described above, when the No key 62 is selected in the GUI image 60 of FIG. 8, first, preview images of the first page of all document bundles in FIG. 9 (that is, preview images of the first page of the first document bundle) are displayed. An example was explained. As an alternative, when the No key 62 is selected, thumbnail images 71 to 73 of the first page of each document bundle may be displayed as in the GUI image 83 of FIG. In this case, when the user wants to display the preview image of each bundle of documents alone, the user only has to select the page-specific preview key 84. 14 is also a diagram showing another example of the GUI image displayed when the No key is selected in the GUI image of FIG. 8 (an example different from the GUI image of FIG. 9). 4 is a diagram showing another example of a screen displayed as a preview during the document bundle separate processing mode in the digital multi-functional peripheral of FIG.

  Further, the preview display during the document bundle-specific processing mode according to the present invention has been described. However, in the above description, it is assumed that any document bundle does not exceed the number of sheets that can be read by the ADF. However, it may actually be exceeded. For example, if the number of sheets that can be read by the ADF is 100, the upper limit of one original bundle is 100, and the same print condition may be applied to 101 or more original bundles.

  In such a case, for example, when it is desired to print 200 sheets under the same printing conditions, the original reading process may be executed with the same printing conditions for the two original bundles. In this case, the GUI image 83 of FIG. 14 displays a list of thumbnail images of the first page of each of these two document bundles. On the other hand, if you want to avoid this type of display, after reading the original, you will be asked if you want to continue printing with the same printing conditions. The first 100 sheets and the next 100 sheets may be handled as one sub job. In this case, it is possible to process a large number of documents exceeding the ADF reading limit number of sheets with this one sub job.

  The digital multi-function peripheral 1 has been described above to explain the preview display during the document bundle-by-document processing mode of the present invention. However, the present invention can also take a form as a preview display method in such an image forming apparatus. That is, in this preview display method, the operation unit accepts the selection of the document bundle separate processing mode, the operation unit accepts the operation of displaying the preview image, and the display control unit is in the document bundle separate processing mode. When displaying a preview image on the display unit, a step for displaying a change key for changing only the printing condition of the bundle of documents being displayed as the preview image on the display unit so as to be selectable by the operation unit; And a step of accepting an operation for changing the printing conditions for the sub-job of the original bundle that was being displayed as the preview image after the selection is received.

  Further, in this preview display method, the preview image generation unit regenerates the preview image of the image data from the changed printing condition only for the sub job for which the operation for changing the printing condition is received, and the display control unit includes: And a step of displaying the regenerated preview image on the display unit when the preview image is regenerated by the preview image generating unit. Other application examples are as described above.

1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration example of an image processing system constructed using a digital multifunction peripheral as an example of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the digital multifunction peripheral of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is an external view illustrating an example of a touch panel and a key operation unit in the digital multifunction peripheral of FIG. 2. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a standard screen of the digital multi-functional peripheral described in FIGS. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a GUI image displayed when a special function key for performing detailed settings at the time of copying is selected in the GUI image of FIG. 4. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a GUI image displayed when an arrow key is selected in the GUI image of FIG. 5. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a GUI image displayed when a build job key is selected in the GUI image of FIG. 6. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a GUI image displayed when a start key is pressed while the GUI image of FIG. 7 is being displayed. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a GUI image displayed when the No key is selected in the GUI image of FIG. 8, and an example of a screen displayed as a preview during the document bundle separation processing mode in the digital multifunction peripheral of FIGS. 2 and 3. FIG. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a GUI image displayed when a page switching key is selected in the GUI image of FIG. 9. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a GUI image displayed when a page switching key is selected in the GUI image of FIG. 10. It is a figure which shows an example of the GUI image displayed when the setting confirmation key is selected in the GUI image of FIG. FIG. 13 is an example of a GUI image displayed after a reset key or a setting confirmation key is selected in the GUI image of FIG. 11 and resetting is performed on the GUI image of FIG. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a GUI image displayed when all sub job preview keys are selected in the GUI images of FIGS. 9 to 11. FIG. 4 is a flowchart for explaining an example of processing when a preview is displayed in a document bundle-by-batch processing mode in the digital multi-functional peripheral of FIGS. 2 and 3.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Digital multifunction device, 2, 3 ... External computer, 4 ... Internet FAX apparatus, 10, 32 ... Touch panel, 11 ... Panel control part, 12 ... Recording part, 13 ... Reading part, 14 ... Format conversion part, 15 ... Image Storage unit, 16a ... Preview image generation unit, 17 ... Encoding / decoding unit, 18 ... Main control unit, 19 ... Control memory, 20, 31 ... Key operation unit, 21 ... LAN control unit, 22 ... Control buffer, 23 ... NCU, 24 ... modem, 25 ... USB I / F, 30 ... control panel.

Claims (7)

An image including an operation unit, a display unit, a preview image generation unit that generates a preview image of image data to be printed, and a display control unit that displays the preview image generated by the preview image generation unit on the display unit A forming device,
The document bundle separate processing mode can be selected by the operation unit,
The document bundle specific processing mode is a mode in which a plurality of sub jobs corresponding to each of a plurality of document bundles to be read are executed as a single print job, and a plurality of sub jobs each having printing conditions set are executed. ,
The preview image generation unit generates thumbnail images by reducing the image data of the first page from each of the image data read in each sub job, and the display control unit displays the thumbnail image corresponding to each sub job as a preview image. Can be displayed on the display unit, and can be selected by the operation unit,
The display control unit selects, using the operation unit, a setting confirmation key for confirming the printing condition of the document bundle being displayed as the preview image when the preview image is displayed during the document bundle distinction processing mode. Display on the display unit as possible ,
When the setting confirmation key is selected, the display control unit causes the display unit to display the printing condition of the document bundle being displayed in a state that can be changed by the operation unit, and the document being displayed An image forming apparatus , wherein a tab for displaying a printing condition for a document bundle other than a bundle in a state that can be changed by the operation unit is displayed on the display unit so as to be selectable by the operation unit . The preview image generation unit regenerates a preview image of the image data from the changed printing condition only for the sub job whose printing condition has been changed by the operation unit after the selection of the change key,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the preview image is regenerated by the preview image generation unit, the display control unit displays the regenerated preview image on the display unit. .   When the preview image is displayed during the original bundle processing mode, the display control unit is an image corresponding to the original bundle being processed in the print job. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein information indicating the above is displayed on the display unit.   The display control unit, when displaying the preview image during the document bundle separation processing mode, indicates information indicating which number of originals in the print job the displayed preview image is. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the display unit displays the image on the display unit.   The sub-job whose print condition is to be changed if the display control unit needs to read the original again due to the change of the sub-job whose print condition has been changed by the operation unit after the change key is selected. 5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a notification that prompts the user to read the original corresponding to the original bundle again is displayed on the display unit. An image including an operation unit, a display unit, a preview image generation unit that generates a preview image of image data to be printed, and a display control unit that displays the preview image generated by the preview image generation unit on the display unit A preview display method in a forming apparatus,
In the image forming apparatus, the document bundle specific processing mode can be selected by the operation unit, and the document bundle specific processing mode corresponds to each of a plurality of document bundles to be read as one print job. This is a mode that executes multiple sub-jobs, each of which has printing conditions set.
The preview image generation unit reduces the image data of the first page from each of the image data read in each sub job to generate a thumbnail image, and the display control unit generates a thumbnail image corresponding to each sub job as a preview image. Can be displayed on the display unit, and can be selected by the operation unit,
The preview display method is
The operation unit accepting selection of the document bundle separate processing mode;
The operation unit accepting an operation for displaying the preview image;
When the display control unit displays the preview image during the original bundle separate processing mode, a setting confirmation key for confirming the printing condition of the original bundle displayed as the preview image is selected by the operation unit. Displaying on the display unit as possible,
When the setting control key is selected, the display control unit causes the display unit to display the printing condition of the document bundle being displayed in a state that can be changed by the operation unit, and the document being displayed Displaying on the display unit a tab for displaying a print condition for a document bundle other than the bundle in a state that can be changed by the operation unit ;
A preview display method comprising: The preview image generation unit regenerates a preview image of image data from the changed printing conditions only for the sub-job that has received an operation to change the printing conditions;
The display control unit displaying the regenerated preview image on the display unit when the preview image is regenerated by the preview image generating unit;
The preview display method according to claim 6, further comprising:

Images