JP6269086B2 - Image forming apparatus, image forming apparatus control method, and program executed by image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, an image forming apparatus control method, and a program executed by the image forming apparatus.

  Some image forming systems used in a department specializing in printing in a company or a university or in a print shop (such as a print shop) include a print controller and an image forming apparatus. In these image forming systems, a print controller executes rasterization processing (RIP processing: Raster Image Process) for a print job to generate bitmap format raster data, and the image forming apparatus performs image formation based on the raster data. Do. The print controller executes RIP processing of the print job based on setting information related to image quality settings including color tone settings, and generates raster data.

  In such an image forming system, the image forming apparatus includes a large-capacity storage unit and an operation unit, stores raster data received from the print controller in the storage unit, and stores the saved raster data via the operation unit. Some have received setting changes relating to image formation (see Patent Documents 1, 2, and 3). Settings related to image formation include, for example, simplex / duplex printing settings, output tray settings, punching / folding / binding settings, color settings (color balance, sharpness, brightness, contrast, gradation, hue), and paper type. (Paper materials such as plain paper, color paper, coated paper, and paper sizes such as A3, A4, and A5).

  Some of these settings related to image formation can be handled only by the image forming device, such as punching, folding, and binding, and cannot be handled by the image forming device, such as changing the color tone. In some cases, it is necessary to execute RIP processing (re-RIP processing) for a print job.

JP 2004-86809 A JP 2004-86810 A JP 2004-86811 A

  In an image forming system used in a print shop, etc., setting information corresponding to each department or customer (customer, etc.) is registered in advance, and a print job ordered from a customer is handled by that customer. In many cases, the RIP process is executed using the setting information registered with the attachment.

  On the other hand, in print shops, etc., the same customer often receives orders for the same printed matter (for example, textbooks, pamphlets and flyers) several times, and it is required to complete the printed matter in a short time from the order. The RIP-completed raster data is stored in the storage unit of the image forming apparatus, and when a customer request is received, image formation is performed based on the raster data, thereby completing a printed matter in a short time. In a print shop or the like, many types of printed materials are handled for each customer, and the volume (number of pages) of each printed material is often large. Therefore, the storage unit of the image forming apparatus supports printed materials having a large number of pages. A lot of raster data will be saved.

  When a setting change related to image formation is received from a customer, the raster data stored in the image forming apparatus can be used if the change can be handled only by the image forming apparatus, such as changing the setting for punching / folding / binding. Image formation can be performed using this. On the other hand, for a color tone change that cannot be handled by the image forming apparatus alone, it is necessary to change the setting information in the print controller and execute the re-RIP process using the changed setting information.

  The customer may request a setting change for only a specific printed material, or may request a setting change for all the printed materials related to the customer. As an example of the latter, for a certain customer, RIP processing was performed on all printed materials related to the customer by using setting information aimed at faithfully reproducing the color of the logo mark of the customer (company). In the situation, when the color of the logo mark is changed, it is requested to change the settings for all the printed materials related to the customer. In this case, it is necessary to execute the re-RIP process for all printed materials related to the customer based on setting information for faithfully reproducing the color of the new logo mark.

  Another example that requires changing the settings for all printed materials for a customer is that some customers print in a color that matches the season, such as a warm color in winter and a light color in spring. May require you to do. In this case, at the timing when the season changes, it is necessary to execute the re-RIP process for all printed materials related to the customer with the setting information corresponding to the new season.

  As described above, in an image forming system that saves raster data in the storage unit of the image forming apparatus, when setting information used for RIP processing is changed, re-RIP processing for a large number of raster data is required. There is. In such a situation, in the conventional image forming system, the re-RIP process for all the target raster data is collectively performed at the timing when the setting information is changed.

  Since the storage unit of the image forming apparatus stores a lot of raster data corresponding to the printed material having a large number of pages, when the print controller executes the re-RIP process for all the raster data collectively, the re-RIP process is performed. During execution, the RIP process relating to the newly accepted print job cannot be performed, or the processing speed of the RIP process is significantly slowed down, so that the throughput of the print job newly accepted by the print controller is reduced. there were.

  Further, while the re-RIP process for all the raster data is being executed collectively, it is necessary for the image forming apparatus to perform a process related to the re-RIP process such as reception and storage of the raster data after the re-RIP process. Therefore, for example, even when an instruction for processing that can be handled by the image forming apparatus alone, such as printing of raster data stored in the image forming apparatus, is received while the re-RIP processing is performed collectively, the throughput of those processes There was also a problem that it decreased.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problem. When re-RIP processing is necessary for raster data that has been RIPed, it is possible to re-run while minimizing a reduction in throughput of the image forming system. An object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus capable of executing RIP processing, a control method for the image forming apparatus, and a program executed by the image forming apparatus.

(1) An image forming apparatus that performs image formation based on raster data, an acquisition unit that acquires raster data generated by RIP processing from a print controller that executes RIP processing for a print job, and acquired raster data Re-RIP processing is required for the raster data designated by the user via the accepting means among the at least one raster data stored in the storage means, the storage means for storing the data, the accepting means for accepting the designation by the user The print controller is requested to determine whether or not it exists, and / or at least one raster data stored in the storage means needs to be re-RIP processed at a timing designated by the user via the receiving means. Request the print controller to determine whether A determination request means, by the print controller, based on whether it is necessary re-RIP process whether or not the determination result, the execution request means for requesting the execution of the re-RIP processing to the print controller, by the print controller, re-RIP processing Notification means for notifying a user of the result of the determination that the data is necessary, and the accepting means displays a list of at least one raster data stored in the storage means on the display unit, and displays at least one displayed The specification of the raster data requesting the determination as to whether or not the re-RIP processing is necessary is received from the list of the two raster data, and the notification unit displays the list of at least one raster data stored in the storage unit on the display unit The raster data determined to require re-RIP processing is displayed in an identifiable manner, Accepts from the user whether or not to execute the re-RIP process for the raster data notified by the notifying means that the determination result that the re-RIP process is necessary. An image forming apparatus that receives designation of whether or not to execute re-RIP processing by specifying raster data that is displayed in an identifiable manner and that is determined to require re-RIP processing .

(2) An image forming apparatus that performs image formation based on raster data, an acquisition unit that acquires raster data generated by RIP processing from a print controller that executes RIP processing for a print job, and acquired raster data Re-RIP processing is required for the raster data designated by the user via the accepting means among the at least one raster data stored in the storage means, the storage means for storing the data, the accepting means for accepting the designation by the user The print controller is requested to determine whether or not it exists, and / or at least one raster data stored in the storage means needs to be re-RIP processed at a timing designated by the user via the receiving means. Request the print controller to determine whether A determination requesting unit; and an execution requesting unit that requests the print controller to execute the re-RIP process based on a result of determination by the print controller whether or not the re-RIP process is necessary. An image forming apparatus that accepts designation of a free time during which the image forming apparatus is not performing image formation as a timing for requesting the print controller to determine whether re-RIP processing is necessary.

(3) The image forming apparatus according to (2), wherein the reception unit receives at least one designation of a shutdown processing time, a startup processing time, and a sleep mode time as an idle time.

(4) The accepting unit displays a list of at least one raster data stored in the storage unit on the display unit, and determines whether re-RIP processing is necessary from the displayed list of at least one raster data. The image forming apparatus according to (2) or (3), which receives designation of raster data for requesting.

(5) The information processing apparatus further includes notification means for notifying a user of a result of determination that the re-RIP processing is necessary by the print controller, and the reception means is a result of determination by the notification means that re-RIP processing is necessary. The image forming apparatus according to any one of (2) to (4), wherein the user receives designation from the user as to whether or not to execute the re-RIP process for the raster data to which is notified.

(6) The notifying unit notifies the user of the result of the determination that the re-RIP process is necessary using the pop-up screen, and the receiving unit determines whether to execute the re-RIP process via the pop-up screen. The image forming apparatus according to (5), wherein the designation is received from a user.

(7) The reception unit does not request execution of the re-RIP process for the raster data that is determined to require the re-RIP process in response to the designation that the re-RIP process is not performed from the user. In addition, the image forming apparatus according to (5) or (6), wherein image formation is performed based on raster data determined to require re-RIP processing stored in the storage unit.

(8) In response to the acquisition of the raster data generated by the print controller in response to the request for execution of the re-RIP process by the execution request unit, the acquired raster data is stored and the image based on the acquired raster data The image forming apparatus according to any one of (1) to (7), wherein formation is performed.

(9) Image formation based on the raster data stored in the storage unit and determined that the re-RIP processing is unnecessary by the print controller in response to the determination that the re-RIP processing is unnecessary by the print controller The image forming apparatus according to any one of (1) to (8).

(10) An image forming apparatus that performs image formation based on raster data, an acquisition unit that acquires raster data generated by RIP processing from a print controller that performs RIP processing on a print job, and acquired raster data Re-RIP processing is required for the raster data designated by the user via the accepting means among the at least one raster data stored in the storage means, the storage means for storing the data, the accepting means for accepting the designation by the user The print controller is requested to determine whether or not it exists, and / or at least one raster data stored in the storage means needs to be re-RIP processed at a timing designated by the user via the receiving means. Request to print controller And an execution requesting means for requesting the print controller to execute the re-RIP process based on the result of the determination by the print controller whether or not the re-RIP process is necessary. Is an image forming apparatus that automatically requests execution of re-RIP processing for raster data determined to be necessary for re-RIP processing by the print controller.

(11) The accepting unit causes the display unit to display a list of at least one raster data stored in the storage unit, and determines whether re-RIP processing is necessary from the displayed list of at least one raster data. The image forming apparatus according to (10), which receives designation of raster data for requesting.

(12) An image forming apparatus control method for forming an image based on raster data, an acquisition step for acquiring raster data generated by RIP processing from a print controller that executes RIP processing for a print job; A storage step for storing the raster data, a reception step for accepting designation by the user, and a re-RIP process for the raster data designated by the user via the acceptance means among at least one raster data stored in the storage means Is requested to the print controller or / and at least one raster data stored in the storage means is re-RIP processed at a timing designated by the user via the accepting means. To determine whether it is necessary A determination request step of requesting to the controller, by the print controller, based on the re-RIP processing of whether it is necessary for the determination result, the execution request step of requesting execution of the re-RIP processing to the print controller, by the print controller a notification step of notifying the result of determination that is necessary re-RIP processing to the user, only including, at the reception step, is displayed on the display unit a list of at least one raster data stored in the storage means, From the displayed list of at least one raster data, designation of raster data for requesting determination as to whether re-RIP processing is necessary is accepted, and in the notification step, a list of at least one raster data stored in the storage means is received. When re-displaying is displayed on the display, it is determined that re-RIP processing is necessary The received raster data is displayed in an identifiable manner, and in the accepting step, whether or not to execute the re-RIP process on the raster data notified of the determination result that the re-RIP process is necessary in the notification step Whether or not to execute the re-RIP process by specifying the raster data that is displayed in an identifiable manner and that is determined to require the re-RIP process in the list of at least one raster data. Control method of an image forming apparatus that accepts designation of the image.
(13) An image forming apparatus control method for forming an image based on raster data, an acquisition step for acquiring raster data generated by RIP processing from a print controller that executes RIP processing for a print job, and acquisition A storage step for storing the raster data, a reception step for accepting designation by the user, and a re-RIP process for the raster data designated by the user via the acceptance means among at least one raster data stored in the storage means Is requested to the print controller or / and at least one raster data stored in the storage means is re-RIP processed at a timing designated by the user via the accepting means. To determine whether it is necessary A determination requesting step for requesting the controller, and an execution requesting step for requesting the print controller to execute the re-RIP process based on the result of the determination by the print controller whether or not the re-RIP process is necessary. In the accepting step, a control method of the image forming apparatus that accepts designation of a free time during which the image forming apparatus is not performing image formation as a timing for requesting the print controller to determine whether or not re-RIP processing is necessary.
(14) An image forming apparatus control method for forming an image based on raster data, an acquisition step for acquiring raster data generated by RIP processing from a print controller that executes RIP processing for a print job, and acquisition A storage step for storing the raster data, a reception step for accepting designation by the user, and a re-RIP process for the raster data designated by the user via the acceptance means among at least one raster data stored in the storage means Is requested to the print controller or / and at least one raster data stored in the storage means is re-RIP processed at a timing designated by the user via the accepting means. To determine whether it is necessary A determination requesting step for requesting the controller, and an execution requesting step for requesting the print controller to execute the re-RIP process based on the result of the determination by the print controller whether or not the re-RIP process is necessary. In the execution request step, a control method for an image forming apparatus that automatically requests execution of re-RIP processing for raster data determined to be necessary for re-RIP processing by a print controller.

( 15 ) An acquisition step of acquiring raster data generated by RIP processing from a print controller that executes RIP processing for a print job, and the acquired raster data are stored in an image forming apparatus that forms an image based on raster data a storing step of, a reception step of receiving designation by the user, the at least one raster data stored in the storage means, the raster data designated by the user via the receiving means, whether it is necessary re-RIP process Whether or not a re-RIP process is required at the timing designated by the user via the accepting means for at least one raster data stored in the storing means is requested to the print controller. Determine the print controller A determination request step of requesting to, by the print controller, based on the re-RIP processing of whether it is necessary for the determination result, the execution request step of requesting execution of the re-RIP processing to the print controller, by the print controller, A notification step for notifying the user of the result of determination that re-RIP processing is necessary, and displaying a list of at least one raster data stored in the storage means in the reception step. In the notification step, at least one stored in the storage means is accepted. When displaying a list of two raster data on the display, re-RIP processing is required. The raster data determined to be important is displayed in an identifiable manner, and in the receiving step, the re-RIP process is executed on the raster data notified of the determination result that the re-RIP process is necessary in the notification step. Is specified from the user, and in the list of at least one raster data, the raster data that is displayed in an identifiable manner and determined that the re-RIP processing is necessary is specified, so that the re-RIP processing is performed. A program that accepts whether to execute or not.
(16) An acquisition step of acquiring raster data generated by RIP processing from a print controller that executes RIP processing for a print job, and the acquired raster data are stored in an image forming apparatus that forms an image based on raster data A re-RIP process is required for the raster data designated by the user via the accepting means among the at least one raster data stored in the storage means; Whether or not a re-RIP process is required at the timing designated by the user via the accepting means for at least one raster data stored in the storing means is requested to the print controller. The print controller A requesting determination request step, and an execution requesting step for requesting the print controller to execute the re-RIP process based on a result of determination by the print controller whether the re-RIP process is necessary or not. A program that accepts designation of free time during which the image forming apparatus is not performing image formation as a timing for requesting the print controller to determine whether or not re-RIP processing is necessary in the accepting step.
(17) An acquisition step of acquiring raster data generated by RIP processing from a print controller that executes RIP processing for a print job, and the acquired raster data are stored in an image forming apparatus that forms an image based on raster data A re-RIP process is required for the raster data designated by the user via the accepting means among the at least one raster data stored in the storage means; Whether or not a re-RIP process is required at the timing designated by the user via the accepting means for at least one raster data stored in the storing means is requested to the print controller. The print controller A requesting determination request step, and an execution requesting step for requesting the print controller to execute the re-RIP process based on a result of determination by the print controller whether the re-RIP process is necessary or not. A program that automatically requests execution of re-RIP processing for raster data determined to be necessary for re-RIP processing by the print controller in the execution request step.

  According to the present invention, in the image forming apparatus, the print controller determines whether or not re-RIP processing is necessary for the raster data specified by the user via the receiving unit among the raster data stored in the storage unit. Or / and requesting the print controller to determine whether or not re-RIP processing is necessary for the raster data stored in the storage means at a timing designated by the user via the receiving means, Since the print controller requests the print controller to execute the re-RIP process based on the determination result whether the re-RIP process is necessary or not, the re-RIP process is performed on all the raster data at a timing not intended by the user. It is possible to suppress the execution of the image forming system, While reduction of Tsu bets to a minimum, it is possible to execute the re-RIP processing.

1 is a system block diagram of an image forming system 1. FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram of a function of a storage unit 14 of the print controller 10. FIG. FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram in which a CPU 15 of the print controller 10 functions. 3 is a functional block diagram of a function of a storage unit 243 of the image forming apparatus 20. FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram of a function of a CPU 244 of the image forming apparatus 20. FIG. (A) is information stored in the setting information management table 14b. (B) is information stored in the setting information management table 14b after the setting information is changed. (A) is information stored in the raster data management table 243b. (B) is information stored in the raster data management table 243b after receiving the time information. 3 is a flowchart for the operation of the image forming system 1 in the first embodiment. It is a functional block diagram in which CPU244 in 2nd Embodiment functions. This is information stored in the raster data management table 243b in the second embodiment. 7 is a flowchart for the operation of the image forming system 1 according to the second embodiment. It is a display screen of the data list screen 120. FIG. This is a subroutine for determining whether re-RIP processing is necessary. This is a subroutine for executing re-RIP processing. 10 is a flowchart for the operation of the image forming system 1 according to the third embodiment.

(First embodiment)
The configuration and operation of the image forming system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described below.

  FIG. 1 is a hardware configuration diagram of an image forming system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 2 and 3 are functional configuration diagrams of functions realized by the storage unit 14 and the CPU 15 included in the print controller 10, respectively. 4 and 5 are functional configuration diagrams of functions realized by the storage unit 243 and the CPU 244 included in the image forming apparatus 20.

(Configuration of image forming system 1)
The image forming system 1 includes a print controller 10, an image forming apparatus 20, and an information processing apparatus 2 such as a personal computer (PC). The print controller 10 and the information processing apparatus 2 are connected via a network 3 such as a LAN (Local Area Network), a WAN, or the Internet. The print controller 10 and the image forming apparatus 20 are connected via the dedicated cable 4. The connection between the print controller 10 and the image forming apparatus 20 is not limited to the dedicated cable 4 and may be a general-purpose LAN cable or a wireless LAN.

(Basic operation of the image forming system 1)
The print controller 10 generates raster data by executing a process (RIP process) for rasterizing the print job, and transmits the generated raster data to the image forming apparatus 20. The image forming apparatus 20 stores the received raster data in its own device. When the image forming apparatus 20 receives a print instruction for the raster data stored in the image forming apparatus 20 from the user, the image forming apparatus 20 requests the print controller 10 to determine whether or not to re-rasterize the print job related to the raster data (re-RIP process). . When the print controller 10 determines that the re-RIP process is necessary, the image forming apparatus 20 notifies the user to that effect and instructs the user whether to execute the re-RIP process (re-RIP process execution instruction). Accept. When receiving the re-RIP process execution instruction from the user, the image forming apparatus 20 requests the print controller 10 to execute the re-RIP process. The print controller 10 regenerates the raster data by executing the re-RIP process of the print job in accordance with the request from the image forming apparatus 20, and transmits the regenerated raster data to the image forming apparatus 20. The image forming apparatus 20 stores the received raster data in its own apparatus, and executes printing based on the received raster data.

(Print controller 10)
When the print controller 10 receives a print job transmitted from the information processing apparatus 2, the print controller 10 executes RIP processing based on setting information stored in the own apparatus, and generates bitmap format raster data. The setting information is a setting used for color conversion processing, for example, and includes a setting related to a color tone. The print controller 10 has a function of registering new setting information and a function of updating registered setting information based on a user operation.

  The print controller 10 includes a LANIF (Local Area Network Interface) unit 11, an RTC (Real Time Clock) 12, an IF unit 13, a storage unit 14, and a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 15.

  The LANIF unit 11 is connected to the information processing apparatus 2 via the network 3. The print controller 10 can communicate with the information processing apparatus 2 via the LANIF unit 11 and receives a print job including print information and output information transmitted from the information processing apparatus 2. The print information is document data including characters, graphics, and images to be imaged, and is, for example, data in PDF format or TEXT format. Note that the print information may be described in a printer language such as PDL. The output information is information indicating output settings when the print information is formed as an image. For example, the number of copies, the size of the recording paper (A3, A4, A5), and the type of recording paper (plain paper, coated paper) Contains each piece of information. The connection method with the information processing apparatus 2 via the LANIF unit 11 may be wired (wired LAN) or wireless (wireless LAN).

  The RTC 12 is a circuit that generates time information. The print controller 10 can know the current time by acquiring the time information generated by the RTC 12.

  The IF unit 13 transmits and receives various data to and from the image forming apparatus 20.

  The storage unit 14 mainly includes a RAM (Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read Only Memory), and an HDD (Hard Disc Drive), and stores various programs and data. As shown in FIG. 2, the storage unit 14 functions as a print job storage area 14a and a setting information management table 14b.

  The print job storage area 14a stores a print job received from the information processing apparatus 2 via the LANIF unit 11 or the like and information (job identification information) for identifying the print job in association with each other.

  The setting information management table 14b stores setting information and information (setting identification information) for identifying the setting information in association with each other. The setting information is used when generating raster data from a print job received from the information processing apparatus 2 or when generating raster data from a print job stored in the print job storage area 14a.

  In addition, the setting information management table 14b associates the time information related to the time when the editing operation is performed with the setting information when the user performs an operation for creating or updating the setting information (hereinafter, referred to as an editing operation). Remember. At this time, time information is acquired from the RTC 12.

  For example, referring to FIG. 6A, when an editing operation is performed on the setting information A0 corresponding to the setting identification information A at the time corresponding to the time information Ta, the setting identification information A and the setting information A0 The time information Ta is associated and stored in the setting information management table 14b. The table shown in FIG. 6A is merely an example, and is not limited to this form as long as setting identification information, setting information, and time information are associated with each other.

  The CPU 15 executes various programs stored in the storage unit 14 to thereby execute the RIP execution unit 15a, the raster data transmission unit 15b, the print setting reception unit 15c, the print setting update unit 15d, and the necessity reception shown in FIG. It functions as the unit 15e, the necessity determination unit 15f, the necessity response unit 15g, and the execution reception unit 15h.

  The print setting receiving unit 15c receives an operation for registering new setting information or an operation for updating the setting information stored in the setting information management table 14b from the user as an editing operation.

  The print setting update unit 15d generates setting identification information for identifying new setting information when the print setting receiving unit 15c receives an editing operation for registering new setting information. Further, the time information when the setting information is registered is acquired from the RTC 12. The print setting update unit 15d associates the generated setting identification information, new setting information, and time information, and stores them in the setting information management table 14b.

  Further, the print setting update unit 15d updates the setting information stored in the setting information management table 14b based on the editing operation received by the print setting reception unit 15c. Also, the time information when the setting information is updated is acquired from the RTC 12, and the time information stored in the setting information management table 14b is updated. Even if the setting information is updated, the setting identification information corresponding to the updated setting information is not changed. That is, when the setting information is updated, the setting information and time information are updated, but the setting identification information is maintained as it is.

  For example, when the data shown in FIG. 6A is stored in the setting information management table 14b, if the print setting update unit 15d updates the setting information A0 to the setting information A1 at time Tz, the data shown in FIG. As shown, the time information Ta stored in the setting information management table 14b is updated to Tz, and the setting information A0 is updated to A1.

  The time information stored in the setting information management table 14b corresponds to the time when the setting information is updated (registered). However, the time information corresponding to the time when the editing operation is accepted may be stored. Good.

  When the RIP execution unit 15a receives a print job from the information processing apparatus 2 via the LANIF unit 11, the RIP execution unit 15a stores the received print job in the print job storage area 14a in association with the job identification information.

  When the RIP execution unit 15a receives a print job from the information processing apparatus 2, the RIP execution unit 15a uses the setting information stored in the setting information management table 14b for rasterizing the print job stored in the print job storage area 14a. To generate raster data in bitmap format. The setting information used for rasterization is selected in advance by the user, for example.

  When the RIP execution unit 15a receives a request for re-RIP processing from the image forming apparatus 20, the RIP execution unit 15a generates bitmap data by executing re-RIP processing on the print job in the print job storage area 14a. To do.

  When the RIP execution unit 15a generates raster data, the RIP execution unit 15a generates raster data identification information for identifying the generated raster data.

The raster data transmission unit 15 b transmits print data including the following information a) to e) related to the raster data generated by the RIP execution unit 15 a to the image forming apparatus 20.
a) generated raster data b) raster data identification information for identifying the generated raster data c) job identification information of the job that is the basis of the raster data d) setting identification information for identifying the setting information used for rasterization e) rasterization Time information corresponding to the setting information used for

  The necessity receiving unit 15e receives a request for determining whether or not the re-RIP processing of the print job is necessary from the image forming apparatus 20. The request for determining whether or not the re-RIP processing is necessary is transmitted from the image forming apparatus 20 to the print controller 10 when a print instruction regarding raster data stored in the image forming apparatus 20 is received from the user.

  The necessity determination unit 15f determines whether or not re-RIP processing of the print job is necessary when a request for determining whether or not re-RIP processing is necessary is received from the image forming apparatus 20. Specifically, after the RIP process of the raster data that has received the print instruction is executed, if the setting information used for the RIP process is updated by the editing operation, it is determined that the re-RIP process of the print job is necessary. If the setting information is not updated, it is determined that the re-RIP process for the print job is unnecessary.

  The necessity response unit 15g transmits to the image forming apparatus 20 the result of the necessity determination unit 15f determining whether or not the re-RIP processing of the print job related to the raster data is necessary.

  The execution accepting unit 15 h accepts an execution request for re-RIP processing from the image forming apparatus 20. In response to the execution accepting unit 15h accepting the execution request for the re-RIP process, the RIP executing unit 15a executes the re-RIP process for the print job using the updated setting information, and regenerates the raster data.

  The raster data transmission unit 15b transmits print data including the information a) to e).

(Image forming apparatus 20)
Returning to FIG. 1, the image forming apparatus 20 includes a display unit 21, a scanner unit 22, a printer unit 23, and a main control unit 24.

  The display unit 21 includes a display 211, a touch panel 212, and operation keys 213.

  The display 211 is, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD (Liquid Crystal Display)), and can display an operation screen. On the operation screen, a screen for receiving a print instruction for raster data stored in the image forming apparatus 20 and a result of determining whether the re-RIP process is necessary by the print controller 10 are notified to the user, and a re-RIP process execution instruction is received from the user. A screen is included. The screen for notifying the user of the re-RIP processing necessity determination result and accepting the re-RIP processing execution instruction from the user is already displayed when the image forming apparatus 20 receives the re-RIP processing necessity determination result. It may be a pop-up screen that is displayed on the operation screen.

  The touch panel 212 is provided on the screen of the liquid crystal display and detects a coordinate position pressed with a pen, a finger, or the like.

  The operation key 213 is, for example, a hard key, and includes a power key, a start key, and a numeric keypad. The power key receives from the user an instruction to turn on the image forming apparatus and an instruction to turn off the image forming apparatus. The start key receives an instruction to start a predetermined process from the user. The numeric keypad accepts input of numbers and symbols from the user.

  The scanner unit 22 includes an ADF (Auto Document Feeder) 221 and a reading unit 222. The ADF 221 feeds the documents one by one from the document bundle set on the document table, and conveys the documents to the paper discharge table via the reading position of the reading unit 222. The reading unit 222 optically reads an image of a document conveyed by the ADF 221 or a document set on a platen glass by a user, and generates image data.

  The printer unit 23 includes a print processing unit 231 and a paper feed unit 232. The print processing unit 231 forms an image on the recording paper supplied from the paper supply unit 232 based on the print data stored in the storage unit 243. The paper feed unit 232 includes a plurality of paper feed trays that store recording paper used by the printer unit 23 for image formation. Each paper feed tray can store recording papers having different types of recording paper (coated paper, plain paper, color paper, etc.), basis weights, and sizes (A5, A4, A3, etc.).

  The main control unit 24 controls the operation of the image forming apparatus 20. The main control unit 24 includes an IF unit 241, an RTC 242, a storage unit 243, and a CPU 244.

  The IF unit 241 transmits / receives various data to / from the print controller 10.

  The RTC 242 is a circuit that generates time information. The image forming apparatus 20 can know the current time by referring to the time information generated by the RTC 242.

  The storage unit 243 mainly includes RAM, ROM, and HDD, and stores various programs and data. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, the storage unit 243 functions as a raster data storage area 243a, a raster data management table 243b, and the like.

  The raster data storage area 243a (storage means) stores raster data received from the print controller 10 and raster data identification information in association with each other.

  The raster data management table 243b stores raster data identification information, job identification information, setting identification information, and time information corresponding to the raster data stored in the raster data storage area 243a in association with each other.

  FIG. 7A shows an example of the raster data management table 243b. The row 71a is obtained by rasterizing raster data identified by the raster data identification information a by rasterizing a print job identified by the job identification information x using setting information identified by the setting identification information A. The setting information is updated at the time corresponding to the time information T1.

  The row 72a is obtained by rasterizing the raster data identified by the raster data identification information b by rasterizing the print job identified by the job identification information y using the setting information identified by the setting identification information A. The setting information is updated at the time corresponding to the time information T1.

  The line 73a is generated by rasterizing the print data identified by the job identification information z using the setting information identified by the setting identification information B, with the raster data identified by the raster data identification information c. The setting information is updated at the time corresponding to the time information T2.

  Note that the table shown in FIG. 7A is merely an example, and raster data identification information, job identification information, setting identification information, and time information may be stored in association with each other, and is not limited to this form.

  The CPU 244 controls the display unit 21, the scanner unit 22, and the printer unit 23 by executing various programs stored in the storage unit 243. Further, the CPU 244 functions as the print instruction reception unit 244a, the determination request unit 244b, the execution necessity reception unit 244c, the notification unit 244d, the instruction reception unit 244e, the request unit 244f, and the raster data reception unit 244g illustrated in FIG. To do.

  The print instruction receiving unit 244a (which constitutes a receiving unit) receives a print instruction regarding raster data stored in the raster data storage area 243a from the user. Specifically, the print instruction receiving unit 244a displays a list of raster data stored in the raster data storage area 243a on the display unit 21, and receives a print instruction related to raster data from the user. Raster data that has received a print instruction is referred to as print instruction raster data.

  The determination request unit 244b (determination request unit) requests the print controller 10 to determine whether or not the re-RIP process of the print job (hereinafter, also referred to as a print instruction job) based on the print instruction raster data is necessary. To do.

  The execution necessity reception unit 244c (which constitutes a reception unit) receives the necessity determination result of the re-RIP process regarding the print instruction job from the necessity response unit 15g.

  If the determination result of the re-RIP process received by the execution necessity acceptance unit 244c indicates that the re-RIP process is necessary, the notifying unit 244d (notifying unit) performs the re-RIP process via the display unit 21. Notify the user that is needed.

  The instruction receiving unit 244e (which constitutes a receiving unit) receives a re-RIP process execution instruction from the user for the print instruction job notified by the notification unit 244d. Specifically, a pop-up screen including an OK button is displayed on the display 211 of the display unit 21, and an instruction to execute a re-RIP process for the print instruction job is received from the user by pressing the OK button. The pop-up screen also includes a cancel button. When the cancel button is pressed, an instruction to cancel the re-RIP process for the print instruction job is received from the user.

  When the user is notified of the re-RIP process, for example, when the data to be printed has a relatively small color portion or a large character area, the influence of the change in the tone due to the change in the setting information is affected. Since there are few, the execution of the re-RIP process can be canceled by pressing a cancel button displayed on the pop-up screen. At this time, the image forming system 1 does not execute the re-RIP process, and prints the raster data that has received the print instruction.

  The request unit 244f (execution request unit) requests the print controller 10 to execute the re-RIP process of the print instruction job when the instruction reception unit 244e receives an execution instruction of the re-RIP process from the user. When requesting the print controller 10 to execute the re-RIP process for the print instruction job, the request unit 244f refers to the raster data management table 243b to obtain job identification information and setting information corresponding to the print instruction raster data. Acquired and transmits job identification information and setting information to the print controller 10.

  The raster data receiving unit 244g (acquisition means) receives print data. The raster data receiving unit 244g associates the raster data with the raster data identification information and stores it in the raster data storage area 243a, and stores the raster data identification information, job identification information included in the print data, time information, The setting identification information is associated and stored in the raster data management table 243b.

(Judgment of necessity of re-RIP processing)
In the image forming system 1, the necessity of the re-RIP process is determined using information stored in the setting information management table 14b and the raster data management table 243b. The necessity determination of the re-RIP process will be specifically described with reference to FIG. 6A and FIG.

  7A, when the image forming apparatus 20 receives a print instruction for raster data corresponding to the raster data identification information a from the user, the image forming apparatus 20 stores the raster data management table 243b in association with the raster data identification information a. The stored setting identification information A and time information T1 are transmitted to the print controller 10. The print controller 10 receives the setting identification information A and the time information T1, and the necessity determination unit 15f stores the time information (Ta) related to the setting information A stored in the setting information management table 14b and the received time information (T1). ). As a result of the comparison, if the time information in the setting information management table 14b is different from the received time information (Ta ≠ T1), the setting information has been updated, so the necessity determination unit 15f needs re-RIP processing. The print controller 10 responds to the image forming apparatus 20 through the necessity response unit 15g that the raster data re-RIP process is necessary.

  On the other hand, if the time information in the setting information management table 14b and the received time information are the same, the setting information has not been updated, so it is determined that the re-RIP process is unnecessary, and the result is returned to the image forming apparatus 20. .

(Re-RIP process flow in the image forming system 1)
In the image forming apparatus 20, the print instruction receiving unit 244a receives a print instruction for raster data stored in the raster data storage area 243a from the user. The determination request unit 244b refers to the raster data storage area 243a and acquires raster data identification information corresponding to the print instruction raster data. Further, the determination request unit 244b refers to the raster data management table 243b, and transmits setting identification information and time information corresponding to the acquired raster data identification information to the print controller 10, thereby performing re-RIP processing of the print instruction job. The print controller 10 is requested to determine whether it is necessary.

  In the print controller 10, the necessity receiving unit 15e receives the setting identification information and the time information, and the necessity determining unit 15f stores the received time information in association with the received setting identification information in the setting information management table 14b. It is determined whether or not the re-RIP process is necessary depending on whether or not the setting information is updated after the print instruction raster data is rasterized. Specifically, after the print instruction raster data is rasterized, if the setting information used for rasterization is updated, it is determined that re-RIP processing is necessary, and the setting information is updated after the print instruction raster data is rasterized. If not, it is determined that the re-RIP process is not necessary.

  If the time information is different as a result of the time information comparison, the setting information has been updated, so the necessity determination unit 15f determines that re-RIP processing of the print job is necessary. If the time information is the same, the setting information has not been updated, so the necessity determination unit 15f determines that the re-RIP process for the print job is unnecessary.

  The necessity response unit 15g transmits to the image forming apparatus 20 the determination result of whether or not the re-RIP processing of the print instruction job by the necessity determination unit 15f is necessary.

  In the image forming apparatus 20, when the execution necessity reception unit 244 c receives from the necessity response unit 15 g the determination result that the re-RIP processing of the print instruction job is necessary, the notification unit 244 d re-resumes via the display unit 21. Notify the user that RIP processing is required. When the instruction receiving unit 244e receives an instruction for re-RIP processing of a print instruction job by pressing the OK button displayed on the display unit 21, the request unit 244f receives the job identification information and the setting identification information from the print controller 10. The print controller 10 is requested to execute the re-RIP process of the print instruction job.

  In the print controller 10, when the execution receiving unit 15h receives a request to execute the re-RIP process for the print instruction job from the request unit 244f, the RIP execution unit 15a receives the job identification information received by referring to the print job storage area 14a. Is acquired, and setting information corresponding to the setting identification information is acquired by referring to the setting information management table 14b. Furthermore, the RIP execution unit 15a executes re-RIP processing of the print instruction job based on the acquired print job and setting information, and regenerates raster data. The raster data transmission unit 15 b transmits print data including raster data generated by the re-RIP process to the image forming apparatus 20.

  In the image forming apparatus 20, the raster data receiving unit 244g receives the print data from the raster data transmitting unit 15b, stores the raster data in the raster data storage area 243a in association with the raster data identification information, and stores the raster data in the raster data identification information. Correspondingly, job identification information, setting identification information, and time information are stored in the raster data management table 243b.

  Hereinafter, as a specific example, the flow of the re-RIP process in the image forming system 1 will be described using specific data with reference to FIG. 6A and FIG. 7A.

  Assume that the data shown in FIG. 6A is stored in the setting information management table 14b, and the data shown in FIG. 7A is stored in the raster data management table 243b.

  In the image forming apparatus 20, when the print instruction reception unit 244a receives a print instruction regarding raster data corresponding to the raster data identification information a from the user, the determination request unit 244b refers to the raster data management table 243b, and print controller 10 transmits setting information A and time information T1.

  In the print controller 10, the necessity reception unit 15e receives the setting identification information A and the time information T1, and the necessity determination unit 15f stores the setting information management table 14b in FIG. By referencing, the latest time information Ta of the setting identification information A is acquired, and the time information T1 and the time information Ta are compared. If the time information is different (T1 ≠ Ta), the necessity determination unit 15f determines that re-RIP processing of the print instruction job is necessary because the setting information has been updated, and the necessity response unit. 15 g transmits the determination result to the image forming apparatus 20.

  In the image forming apparatus 20, when the execution necessity reception unit 244c receives the determination result that the re-RIP process of the print instruction job is necessary, the notification unit 244d requires the user to re-RIP the print instruction job. Notify that. When the instruction receiving unit 244e receives a re-RIP process instruction from the user, the request unit 244f requests the print controller 10 to execute the re-RIP process of the print instruction job, and prints the job identification information x and the setting identification information A with the print controller. 10 to send.

  In the print controller 10, when the execution receiving unit 15h receives a request to execute the re-RIP process, the RIP executing unit 15a refers to the print job storage area 14a and acquires a print job corresponding to the received job identification information x. Referring to the setting information management table 14b, the setting information A0 based on the received setting identification information A is acquired. The RIP execution unit 15a executes re-RIP processing of the print job based on the acquired print job and the setting information A0, generates new raster data, and generates raster data identification information a1 corresponding to the new raster data. Generate. The raster data transmission unit 15b transmits print data including newly generated raster data and raster data identification information a1 to the image forming apparatus 20.

  The image forming apparatus 20 that has received the print data stores the raster data in the raster data storage area 243a in association with the raster data identification information a1, and the raster data identification information a1 in the raster data management table 243b of FIG. 7B. The time information T1 stored in association with is updated to the time information Ta.

  In the above description, the print controller 10 acquires time information from the RTC 12 included in the self-machine. However, the print controller 10 acquires time information from the RTC 242 included in the image forming apparatus 20 via the dedicated cable 4. Also good.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating processing executed by the image forming apparatus 20 and the print controller 10 according to the present embodiment. The CPU 15 provided in the print controller 10 executes the processes shown in steps S4 and S10 based on the program recorded in the storage unit 14. The CPU 244 provided in the image forming apparatus 20 executes processes other than steps S4 and S10 based on the program recorded in the storage unit 243. FIG. 13 shows a subroutine for determining whether or not re-RIP processing is necessary shown in step S4 of FIG. 8, and FIG. 14 shows a subroutine for executing re-RIP processing shown in step S10 of FIG.

  Referring to FIG. 8, image forming apparatus 20 displays a list of raster data stored in raster data storage area 243a on display unit 21 (step S1).

  The image forming apparatus 20 receives the fact that the user selects the raster data desired to be printed from the list of raster data displayed on the display unit 21 and presses the start key on the display unit 21 (step S2). The print controller 10 is requested to determine whether the re-RIP process is necessary (step S3). At this time, the image forming apparatus 20 transmits setting identification information and time information related to the print instruction job to the print controller 10.

  When the print controller 10 receives a request for determining whether or not re-RIP processing is necessary for the print instruction job from the image forming apparatus 20, the print controller 10 determines whether or not re-RIP processing is necessary (step S4).

  Moving to the subroutine of FIG. 13, the print controller 10 receives the setting identification information and time information related to the print instruction job (step S21). The print controller 10 acquires time information corresponding to the setting identification information received from the image forming apparatus 20 from the setting information management table 14b (step S22). The print controller 10 compares the received time information with the time information acquired from the setting information management table 14b, and determines whether or not the setting information has been updated (step S23). When the setting information is updated (step S23: Yes), the print controller 10 determines that re-RIP processing is necessary (step S24), and when the setting information is not updated (step S23: No), the re-RIP is performed. It is determined that the process is unnecessary (step S25). Then, the print controller 10 transmits the determination result to the image forming apparatus 20 (step S26).

  Returning to the flowchart of FIG. 8, the image forming apparatus 20 receives the determination result from the print controller 10, and when the determination result indicates that the re-RIP process of the print instruction job is necessary (step S <b> 5: Yes). The image forming apparatus 20 displays a pop-up screen on the display unit 21, notifies the user that the re-RIP process of the print instruction job is necessary (step S6), and instructs whether to execute the re-RIP process. Is received from the user (step S7). That is, the image forming apparatus 20 receives an instruction to execute or cancel the re-RIP process for the print instruction job from the user.

  When the execution instruction for the re-RIP process is received from the user, that is, when the OK button is pressed from the user (step S8: Yes), the image forming apparatus 20 performs the re-RIP process for the print instruction job to the print controller 10. A request is made (step S9). At this time, the image forming apparatus 20 transmits job identification information and setting identification information corresponding to the print instruction job to the print controller 10.

  Upon receiving a request for re-RIP processing of the print instruction job from the image forming apparatus 20, the print controller 10 executes re-RIP processing of the print instruction job (step S10).

  Moving to the subroutine of FIG. 14, the print controller 10 receives job identification information and setting identification information corresponding to the print instruction job (step S31), and sets the setting information corresponding to the received setting identification information to the setting information management table 14b. (Step S32), and a print job corresponding to the received job identification information is acquired from the print job storage area 14a (step S33).

  Using the acquired setting information, the print controller 10 executes re-RIP processing of the acquired print job to generate raster data (step S34), and transmits the print data including the generated raster data to the image forming apparatus 20. (Step S35).

  Returning to the flowchart of FIG. 8, the image forming apparatus 20 receives the print data from the print controller 10, stores the received raster data in the raster data storage area 243a in association with the raster data identification information, and the raster data storage area 243a. The job identification information, the setting identification information, and the time information corresponding to the raster data stored in are stored in the raster data management table 243b in association with the raster data identification information (step S11).

  The image forming apparatus 20 prints the print data based on the raster data newly stored in the raster data storage area 243a (step S12).

  On the other hand, if the result of determining whether the re-RIP is necessary is that the re-RIP process is unnecessary (step S5: No), the image forming apparatus 20 does not request the execution of the re-RIP process, and the raster is executed. Printing is executed based on the RIP-completed raster data stored in the data storage area 243a (step S12).

  Further, when the image forming apparatus 20 receives an instruction to cancel the re-RIP process from the user, that is, when the user presses the cancel button (No in step S8), the image forming apparatus 20 does not request execution of the re-RIP process. In addition, printing is executed based on the RIP-completed print data stored in the raster data storage area 243a (step S12).

  According to the image forming system 1 according to the present embodiment, whether or not the raster data received the print instruction at the timing when the image forming apparatus 20 receives the print instruction from the user needs to be re-RIP processed with respect to the print controller 10. Since the determination is requested, even if a large number of raster data is stored in the image forming apparatus 20, the re-RIP process is not performed on all the raster data at once. The re-RIP process can be completed in a shorter time, and the image formation can be completed in a shorter time. Therefore, the re-RIP process can be executed while minimizing a decrease in the throughput of the image forming system.

  Further, according to the image forming system 1, the image forming apparatus 20 receives the re-RIP processing execution instruction or cancellation instruction from the user, and the image forming apparatus 20 sends the print instruction job re-RIP only when the re-RIP processing execution instruction is received. If the user thinks that the need for re-RIP processing is low because, for example, the data for which the print instruction has been issued has few color parts or a large number of character areas. Since printing can be executed based on RIP-completed raster data stored in the image forming apparatus 20 without executing re-RIP processing, image formation of print instruction data can be completed in a short time. .

  In the present embodiment, a change in color tone is described as an example of an editing operation for setting information that requires re-RIP processing. However, re-RIP processing is required unless departing from the gist of the present invention. The editing operation to be performed may be another setting change.

  In the present embodiment, a method of displaying a pop-up screen is adopted as an example of a method for notifying the user that the re-RIP process is necessary. For example, a voice guidance or an alarm sound is used to notify the user. It may be notified that re-RIP processing is necessary.

  In the present embodiment, an operation screen for accepting print instruction raster data, pop-up re-RIP process notification, and re-RIP process execution instruction is displayed on the display unit 21 of the image forming apparatus 20. However, it is not limited to this form. For example, those operation screens may be displayed on the screen of the information processing apparatus 2 to notify the user or accept a user operation.

  In the present embodiment, the print controller 10 and the image forming apparatus 20 have been described as different apparatuses. However, the print controller 10 may be incorporated in the image forming apparatus 20.

(Second Embodiment)
The configuration and operation of the image forming system 1 according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described below.

  In the image forming system 1 according to the present embodiment, the raster data stored in the image forming apparatus 20 is determined when the print controller 10 determines in advance whether re-RIP processing is necessary and displays a list of raster data. For each piece of data, the necessity of re-RIP processing is displayed in an identifiable manner.

  The hardware configuration (FIG. 1) of the image forming system 1 according to the second embodiment, the functional configuration of the print controller 10 (FIGS. 2 and 3), and the functions realized by the storage unit 243 of the image forming apparatus 20 (FIG. 4). ) Is the same as in the first embodiment.

  FIG. 9 is a functional configuration diagram of the image forming apparatus 20 corresponding to FIG. 5 of the first embodiment. With reference to FIG. 9 and FIG. 5, in the image forming apparatus 20 of the present embodiment, a tag adding unit 244h is added, and other parts are the same as those in the first embodiment.

  In the following description, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description of the same contents as those in the first embodiment is omitted.

(Basic Operation of Image Forming System 1 in Second Embodiment)
When the image forming system 1 receives a predetermined instruction from the user in a state where the raster data is stored in the image forming apparatus 20, the image forming system 1 determines whether re-RIP processing is necessary for each raster data stored in the image forming apparatus 20. To start the process. Specifically, the image forming apparatus 20 presses a key (re-RIP inquiry key 124 in FIG. 12) that is displayed on the display unit 21 and instructs to start processing for determining whether or not re-RIP processing is necessary. Then, for each raster data stored in the own machine, the print controller 10 is requested to determine whether or not re-RIP processing is necessary. The image forming apparatus 20 receives the determination result from the print controller 10, and determines the raster data (re-RIP required data) determined to require re-RIP processing and the raster determined to not require re-RIP processing. Data (re-RIP unnecessary data) is displayed (notified) to the user in an identifiable manner, and selection of raster data to be printed is accepted from the user.

(Image forming apparatus 20)
Referring to FIG. 9, the tag adding unit 244h manages the determination result of whether or not re-RIP processing is necessary for each raster data stored in the image forming apparatus 20. Further, the tag addition unit 244h causes the display unit 21 to display whether or not re-RIP processing is necessary for each raster data.

  When the tag addition unit 244h receives the result of determining whether or not re-RIP processing is necessary from the print controller 10, the tag adding unit 244h associates information indicating whether or not re-RIP processing is necessary (re-RIP processing tag) with the raster data identification information, and the raster data. Saved in the management table 243b. Specifically, referring to FIG. 10, whether or not re-RIP processing is necessary (present) or re-RIP processing is unnecessary (absent) is stored for each raster data identification information as a re-RIP processing tag.

  In addition, when the tag addition unit 244h displays a list of raster data on the display unit 21 in order to accept a print instruction from the user, an icon indicating that re-RIP processing is necessary is added to the re-RIP required data. And display.

(Raster data list display screen)
FIG. 12 is an example of a screen (raster data list screen) that displays a list of raster data in the present embodiment. In the list of raster data, the tag adding unit 244h adds a re-RIP processing icon 1212 to the re-RIP required data to display whether or not the re-RIP processing is necessary on the display unit 21.

  The data list screen 120 includes a raster data list screen 121. The raster data list screen 121 displays a list of raster data stored in the raster data storage area 243a along the vertical axis direction, and detailed information is displayed in the display area 1213 corresponding to each raster data in the horizontal axis direction. As a result, a small preview image 1211, a file name, a re-RIP processing icon 1212, and the number of pages are displayed.

  The small preview image 1211 is a so-called thumbnail image for allowing the user to visually recognize the contents of the raster data. The re-RIP processing icon 1212 indicates that re-RIP processing is necessary.

  The user can select the print instruction raster data by pressing a display area 1213 including the re-RIP process icon 1212.

  In the raster data list screen 121, when the user selects print instruction raster data, a display area corresponding to the selected raster data is displayed in an identifiable manner. FIG. 12 shows a state where file_b is selected as the print instruction raster data, and a display area 1213 corresponding to file_b is highlighted (hatched display).

(Re-RIP process flow in the image forming system 1)
When the image forming apparatus 20 receives a predetermined instruction from the user, the request unit 244f requests the print controller 10 to determine whether the re-RIP process is necessary from the raster data stored in the raster data storage area 243a. Select raster data (judgment request data). For example, the request unit 244f selects raster data identification information one by one in order from the oldest time information stored in the raster data management table 243b, refers to the raster data storage area 243a, and corresponds to the raster data identification information. Selected raster data.

  When the request unit 244f requests the print controller 10 to determine whether re-RIP processing is necessary for the determination request data, the request unit 244f refers the raster data management table 243b to the print controller 10 for setting identification information and time information corresponding to the raster data. Send.

  Since the method for determining whether or not the re-RIP process is necessary in the print controller 10 is the same as that in the first embodiment, description thereof is omitted. The necessity response unit 15 g of the print controller 10 transmits the determination result regarding whether or not the re-RIP process is necessary regarding the determination request data to the image forming apparatus 20.

  In the image forming apparatus 20, when receiving the determination result, the tag adding unit 244h stores the re-RIP tag in the raster data management table 243b in association with the raster data identification information corresponding to the determination request data.

  Subsequently, the request unit 244f selects another raster data as the determination request data from the raster data stored in the raster data storage area 243a, and executes a process related to the necessity determination of the re-RIP process. The request unit 244f repeatedly executes the process regarding the necessity determination of the re-RIP process until the necessity determination regarding all the raster data stored in the raster data storage area 243a is completed.

  When the image forming apparatus 20 receives a predetermined operation from the user and displays a list of raster data, the image forming apparatus 20 refers to the raster data management table 243b and determines whether each raster data is re-RIP required data or re-RIP unnecessary data. Whether or not it exists is displayed in an identifiable manner. At the time of the list display, the necessity of the re-RIP process is not displayed so as to be identifiable. When the raster data is selected by the user, the selected raster data is displayed so as to be able to identify the necessity of the re-RIP process. May be.

  When the user selects re-RIP unnecessary data from the list of raster data, the image forming apparatus 20 does not request the print controller 10 to execute the re-RIP process, but based on the raster data stored in the raster data storage area 243a. To form an image. On the other hand, when the user selects re-RIP required data from the list of raster data, the request unit 244f of the image forming apparatus 20 requests the print controller 10 to execute the re-RIP process. Since the processing after the execution request for the re-RIP processing is the same as that in the first embodiment, the description thereof is omitted.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining the processing of this embodiment. The CPU 15 included in the print controller 10 executes the processes shown in steps S204 and S214 based on the program recorded in the storage unit 14. The CPU 244 provided in the image forming apparatus 20 executes processes other than steps S204 and S214 based on the program recorded in the storage unit 243.

  Referring to FIG. 11, when a key (re-RIP inquiry key 124) for starting the determination as to whether re-RIP processing is necessary is pressed (step S201), image forming apparatus 20 stores the raster stored in its own apparatus. Raster data to be used as determination request data is selected from the data (step S202), and the print controller 10 is requested to determine whether re-RIP processing is necessary for the determination request data (step S203). At this time, the image forming apparatus 20 refers to the raster data management table 243b and transmits setting identification information and time information related to the determination request data to the print controller 10.

  When the print controller 10 receives a request for determining whether or not the re-RIP process is necessary for the print instruction job from the image forming apparatus 20, the print controller 10 determines whether or not the re-RIP process is necessary (S204). The details of the re-RIP processing necessity determination process executed by the print controller in S204 are the same as those in step S4 in the flowchart of FIG. 8 in the first embodiment, and a description thereof will be omitted.

  The image forming apparatus 20 stores in the raster data management table 243b the result of determining whether re-RIP processing is necessary for the determination request data received from the print controller 10 (step S205).

  The image forming apparatus 20 determines whether the re-RIP processing necessity determination has been completed for all raster data stored in the image forming apparatus (step S206), and until the determination for all raster data is completed (step S206). (S206: Yes), the processing of steps S202 to S206 is repeated.

  When it is determined whether or not the re-RIP process is necessary for all the raster data stored in the own machine (step S206: Yes), the process proceeds to step S207.

  In response to the user pressing the data list key 123 displayed on the display unit 21, the image forming apparatus 20 displays a list of raster data stored in the raster data storage area 243a as shown in FIG. A screen for this is displayed on the display unit 21 (step S207).

  In response to the fact that the user has selected the print instruction raster data from the list of raster data displayed on the display unit 21 and pressed the start key on the display unit 21 (step S208), the image forming apparatus 20 receives the raster data. Based on the information on the re-RIP processing tag stored in the management table 243b, it is determined whether or not the print instruction raster data is re-RIP required data (step S209).

  When the print instruction raster data is re-RIP required data (step S209: Yes), the image forming apparatus 20 displays a pop-up screen on the display unit 21, and indicates that the print instruction raster data is the re-RIP required data. (Step S210), and receives an instruction from the user as to whether or not to execute the re-RIP process (step S211). That is, the image forming apparatus 20 receives an instruction to execute or cancel the re-RIP process for the print instruction job from the user.

  When the image forming apparatus 20 receives an instruction to execute the re-RIP process from the user, that is, when the user presses the OK button (step S212: Yes), the image forming apparatus 20 performs the re-RIP process of the print instruction job to the print controller 10. Request. At this time, the image forming apparatus 20 transmits job identification information and setting identification information corresponding to the print instruction job to the print controller 10.

  Upon receiving a request for re-RIP processing of the print instruction job from the image forming apparatus 20, the print controller 10 executes re-RIP processing of the print instruction job (step S214). The contents of the re-RIP process executed in the print controller 10 when receiving the re-RIP process execution request are the same as those in step S10 in the flowchart of FIG. 8 in the first embodiment, and thus the description thereof is omitted.

  Upon receiving the print data after the re-RIP process from the print controller 10, the image forming apparatus 20 stores corresponding information in the raster data storage area 243a and the raster data management table 243b (step S215), and the raster data storage area 243a. The print data is printed based on the raster data after the re-RIP process stored in (Step S216). In addition, printing is not automatically started in response to receiving the print data after the re-RIP process, the user is notified that the re-RIP process is completed, and printing is started when a print instruction is received from the user. You may make it do. In addition, when the user is notified that the re-RIP process has been completed, the user may be allowed to accept cancellation of printing.

  If the print instruction raster data is not re-RIP required data (step S209: No), the image forming apparatus 20 does not request execution of the re-RIP process, and RIP-completed print data stored in the raster data storage area 243a. Based on the above, printing is executed (step S216).

  If the image forming apparatus 20 receives an instruction to cancel the re-RIP process from the user in step S212, that is, if the user presses the cancel button (step S212: No), the image forming apparatus 20 executes the re-RIP process. Without requesting, printing is executed based on the RIP-completed print data stored in the raster data storage area 243a (step S216). At this time, instead of automatically starting printing, a print execution instruction or cancellation instruction may be received from the user, and printing may be executed in accordance with the instruction.

  According to the image forming system 1 according to the present embodiment, the re-RIP process is performed on the raster data for which the print instruction is received at the timing when the print instruction is received from the user. Even if the raster data is stored, the re-RIP process for the data for which the user has instructed printing can be preferentially completed. In addition, since the re-RIP process for the raster data stored in the storage unit 243 is not collectively executed, a decrease in the throughput of the entire image forming system 1 due to the concentration of the re-RIP process can be suppressed.

  Further, according to the image forming system 1, the image forming apparatus 20 sends a print instruction job to the print controller 10 only when a re-RIP process execution instruction or cancellation instruction is received from the user and a re-RIP process execution instruction is received from the user. If the user thinks that the necessity of re-RIP processing is low because, for example, the data for which the print instruction has been issued has few color portions or many character areas. Since the image forming apparatus 20 executes printing based on the RIP-completed raster data in the raster data storage area 243a without executing the re-RIP process, the image forming of the print instruction data can be completed in a short time. Can do. Therefore, the re-RIP process can be executed while minimizing a decrease in the throughput of the image forming system.

  Further, after the user selects the print instruction raster data in order to complete the necessity determination of the re-RIP process for each raster data stored in the image forming apparatus before receiving the print instruction from the user. Since printing can be started without determining whether or not re-RIP processing is necessary, image formation of print instruction data can be completed in a short time.

  Further, since the user can select a print instruction job with reference to the necessity of re-RIP processing, the convenience of the user when selecting a print instruction job is improved.

  When the image forming apparatus 20 receives a predetermined instruction from the user, the image forming apparatus 20 requests the print controller 10 to determine whether re-RIP processing is necessary for all raster data stored in the raster data storage area 243a. However, a request for determining whether or not re-RIP processing is necessary may be made for a part of the raster data stored in the raster data storage area 243a. Specifically, when a plurality of folders for storing raster data are provided in the storage unit 243, raster data stored in some folders when a predetermined instruction is received from the user. A request may be made to determine whether or not re-RIP processing is necessary. At this time, the user may be able to select a part of folders for determining whether or not re-RIP processing is necessary.

  The image forming apparatus 20 starts a request for determining whether or not re-RIP processing is necessary in response to receiving a predetermined instruction from the user. However, a predetermined time is set in advance and the time is reached. Then, a request for determining whether re-RIP processing is necessary may be automatically started. At this time, it is preferable to set the start time so that the re-RIP processing necessity determination process is performed at a time when the utilization rate of the image forming system 1 is low (for example, at night).

(Third embodiment)
The configuration and operation of the image forming system 1 according to the third embodiment of the present invention will be described below.

  The image forming system 1 according to the present embodiment uses the time (empty time) when the image forming apparatus 20 does not execute the image forming process to determine whether or not the re-RIP process is necessary for the raster data stored in the image forming apparatus 20. And the re-RIP process is performed on the raster data determined to require the re-RIP process.

  Specifically, when the image forming system 1 receives an operation for turning off the power of the image forming apparatus 20 from the user, the image forming system 1 determines whether or not re-RIP processing is necessary for each raster data stored in the image forming apparatus 20. For the raster data determined to be necessary for the re-RIP process, the re-RIP process is started. In other words, when the image forming apparatus 20 accepts an operation to turn off the power from the user, as a part of the shutdown process, the print controller 10 requests the print controller 10 to determine whether the re-RIP process is necessary and to execute the re-RIP process. I do.

  The hardware configuration and functional configuration of the image forming system 1 according to the third embodiment are the same as those of the second embodiment. In the following description, the same reference numerals are given to the same configurations as those of the second embodiment. A description of the same contents as those in the second embodiment will be omitted.

(Basic Operation of Image Forming System 1 in Third Embodiment)
In the image forming system 1, when an operation to turn off the power of the image forming apparatus 20 is received from the user, the image forming apparatus 20 determines whether or not re-RIP processing is necessary for each raster data stored in the own apparatus. Start processing. Specifically, the image forming apparatus 20 requests the print controller 10 to determine whether re-RIP processing is necessary for each raster data stored in the image forming apparatus 20. In response to the determination result from the print controller 10, the image forming apparatus 20 issues a re-RIP process execution request to the print controller for raster data (re-RIP required data) determined to be required for the re-RIP process. . The image forming apparatus 20 completes the shutdown of the image forming apparatus 20 after completing the re-RIP process for the raster data that needs to be re-RIPed among the raster data stored in the image forming apparatus 20.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart for explaining the processing of the third embodiment. The CPU 15 included in the print controller 10 executes the processes shown in steps S304 and S310 based on the program recorded in the storage unit 14. The CPU 244 included in the image forming apparatus 20 executes processes other than steps S304 and S310 based on the program recorded in the storage unit 243.

  Referring to FIG. 15, when the image forming apparatus 20 receives an operation for turning off the power from the user (step S <b> 301: Yes), the image forming apparatus 20 starts a shutdown process.

  As part of the shutdown process, the image forming apparatus 20 requests the print controller 10 to determine whether or not the re-RIP process is necessary for the raster data stored in the apparatus, and stores the result in the raster data management table 243b. To do. In steps S302 to S306, the contents of the processing executed by the image forming apparatus 20 and the print controller 10 are the same as those in steps S202 to 206 in the flowchart of FIG. 11 in the second embodiment, and a description thereof will be omitted.

  When it is determined whether or not the re-RIP process is necessary for all the raster data stored in the own machine (step S306: Yes), the process proceeds to step S307.

  The image forming apparatus 20 selects raster data from the raster data stored in the image forming apparatus 20 (step S307). For example, the raster data can be selected in the same manner as in step S302.

  The image forming apparatus 20 determines whether or not the raster data selected in step S307 is re-RIP required data with reference to the raster data management table 243b (step S308).

  When the print instruction raster data is re-RIP required data (step S308: Yes), the print controller 10 is requested to perform a re-RIP process for the print instruction job (step S309). At this time, the image forming apparatus 20 transmits job identification information and setting identification information corresponding to the print instruction job to the print controller 10.

  Upon receiving a request for re-RIP processing of the print instruction job from the image forming apparatus 20, the print controller 10 executes re-RIP processing of the print instruction job (step S310). The contents of the re-RIP process executed in the print controller 10 when receiving the re-RIP process execution request are the same as those in step S214 in the flowchart of FIG. 11 in the second embodiment, and a description thereof will be omitted.

  Upon receiving the print data after the re-RIP process from the print controller 10, the image forming apparatus 20 stores corresponding information in the raster data storage area 243a and the raster data management table 243b (step S311).

  The image forming apparatus 20 determines whether or not the re-RIP process has been completed for the re-RIP required data stored by the image forming apparatus (step S312), and until the re-RIP process for all the re-RIP required data is completed (step S312). (S312: Yes), the processing of steps S307 to S312 is repeated.

  When the re-RIP process for all the re-RIP required data stored in the image forming apparatus is completed (step S312: Yes), the image forming apparatus 20 proceeds to another process for shutdown.

  If an operation to turn off the power of the image forming apparatus 20 is received from the user and an operation to turn on the power of the image forming apparatus 20 is received during the processing shown in the flowchart of FIG. The process shown in the flowchart of FIG. 15 is stopped, and the process proceeds to the activation process of the image forming apparatus 20. In this case, when the image forming apparatus 20 is turned off later, the process can be resumed from the continuation of the process executed in the previous shutdown process. For example, when the process up to the necessity determination of the re-RIP process has been completed in the previous shutdown process (step S306: up to Yes is completed), the execution of the re-RIP process (after step S307) is performed in the next shutdown process. You can resume. Further, when the re-RIP determination process and the re-RIP process up to a part of the raster data are completed in the previous shutdown process, the remaining raster data can be resumed in the next shutdown process.

  Note that when receiving an operation for turning off the power of the image forming apparatus 20, a setting as to whether or not to execute the processing shown in the flowchart of FIG. In this case, when an operation to turn OFF is received, it is determined whether or not the setting shown in the flowchart of FIG. 15 is set, and only when the setting is set, the flowchart of FIG. The processing shown is executed.

  According to the image forming system 1 according to the present embodiment, the image forming apparatus 20 has received an operation from the user to turn off the power, which cannot accept a new print job and cannot execute an image forming process. Since the re-RIP process is performed using a later time, the re-RIP process can be performed while minimizing a decrease in the throughput of the image forming system.

(Modification)
In the image forming system 1 according to the third embodiment, the time after the operation for turning off the power of the image forming apparatus 20 is received from the user as the time (empty time) when the image forming apparatus 20 does not execute the image forming process. As a part of the shutdown process of the image forming apparatus 20 when an operation to turn off the power of the image forming apparatus 20 is received from the user, the re-RIP process is performed on the raster data stored in the image forming apparatus 20 The re-RIP process is executed for the raster data determined to require the re-RIP process, but the necessity of the re-RIP process and the timing for executing the re-RIP process are changed as follows: You can also.

(Modification 1: When the image forming apparatus 20 is in the sleep mode)
When the image forming apparatus 20 enters the sleep mode from the normal mode, the necessity determination of the re-RIP process and the re-RIP process are executed. That is, the time when the image forming apparatus 20 is in the sleep mode is used as the time when the image forming apparatus 20 does not execute the image forming process (empty time), and the necessity determination of the re-RIP process and the re-RIP process are executed.

  In this modification, in the flowchart of FIG. 15 of the third embodiment, the content of step S301 is changed so as to determine whether or not the sleep mode has been entered.

(Modification 2: Pre-set time zone)
When the time period preset by the user is reached, the necessity of the re-RIP process is determined and the re-RIP process is executed. That is, the time when the image forming apparatus 20 does not execute the image forming process (empty time) is used to determine whether the re-RIP process is necessary and to execute the re-RIP process using a time zone preset by the user.

  This modification is obtained by changing the content of step S301 in the flowchart of FIG. 15 of the third embodiment so as to determine whether or not a predetermined time zone has been reached.

(Modification 3: When the image forming apparatus 20 is activated)
When an operation to turn on the power of the image forming apparatus 20 is received from the user, the necessity determination of the re-RIP process and the re-RIP process are executed as part of the activation process of the image forming apparatus 20. That is, the necessity of the re-RIP process and the re-RIP process are executed by using the activation time of the image forming apparatus 20 as the time when the image forming apparatus 20 does not execute the image forming process (free time).

  In this modification, in the flowchart of FIG. 15 of the third embodiment, the content of step S301 is changed to one that determines whether or not an operation to turn on the power has been received from the user, and the processing of step S312 is completed. Thereafter, the process proceeds to another process for starting the image forming apparatus 20.

  Note that the startup time of the image forming apparatus 20 includes a time for warming up the print processing unit 231 included in the image forming apparatus 20.

  According to the image forming system 1 according to Modifications 1 to 3 described above, the image forming apparatus 20 cannot execute the image forming process or has a low possibility of executing the image forming process. Since the re-RIP process is executed using the time zone and the startup time, the re-RIP process can be executed while minimizing a decrease in the throughput of the image forming system.

  In the third embodiment and Modifications 1 to 3, the necessity of re-RIP processing and the timing for executing re-RIP processing have been described. However, the timing may be set to other time without departing from the scope of the present invention. You may change suitably.

  Further, the necessity of the re-RIP process is determined by the user selecting either the re-RIP process necessity determination or the timing for executing the re-RIP process described in the third embodiment and the first to third modifications. And the timing for executing the re-RIP process can be combined. For example, when the user selects the sleep mode and the start-up time as the timing for determining whether the re-RIP process is necessary and executing the re-RIP process, when the image forming apparatus 20 enters the sleep mode, or when the image forming apparatus 20 When activated, it is possible to determine whether re-RIP processing is necessary and to perform re-RIP processing.

  In the image forming system 1 according to the first embodiment, the second embodiment, the third embodiment, and the modification corresponding to the third embodiment, the image forming apparatus 20 and the print controller 10 are provided. Although described as a different apparatus, the print controller 10 may be built in the image forming apparatus 20.

  In the first embodiment, the second embodiment, the third embodiment, and the modification corresponding to the third embodiment, the print job storage area 14a and the setting information management table 14b in the storage unit 14 are However, the present invention is not limited to this format, and may be used in a format suitable for the embodiment. For example, the print job storage area 14a and the setting information management table 14b may be combined into one, or the setting information management table 14b may be divided into a few tables. The same applies to the raster data storage area 243a and the raster data management table 243b in the storage unit 243.

  In addition, although the modification corresponding to the said 1st Embodiment, 2nd Embodiment, 3rd Embodiment, and 3rd Embodiment was demonstrated separately, it combines among each embodiment and modification. Possible embodiments and variations can be implemented in combination.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Image forming system 2 Information processing apparatus 3 Network 4 Dedicated cable 10 Print controller 11 LANIF part 12 RTC
13 IF section 14 storage section 14a print job storage area 14b setting information management table 15 CPU
15a RIP execution unit 15b raster data transmission unit 15c print setting reception unit 15d print setting update unit 15e necessity reception unit 15f necessity determination unit 15g necessity response unit 15h execution reception unit 20 image forming apparatus 21 display unit 22 scanner unit 23 printer Unit 24 main control unit 120 data list screen 121 raster data list screen 123 data list key 124 re-RIP inquiry key 211 display 212 touch panel 213 operation key 221 ADF
222 Reading unit 231 Print processing unit 232 Paper feeding unit 241 IF unit 242 RTC
243 Storage unit 243a Raster data storage area 243b Raster data management table 244 CPU
244a Print instruction reception unit 244b Determination request unit 244c Execution necessity reception unit 244d Notification unit 244e Instruction reception unit 244f Request unit 244g Raster data reception unit 244h Tag addition unit 1211 Small preview image 1212 Re-RIP processing icon 1213 Print data display area

Claims (17)

An image forming apparatus that forms an image based on raster data,
Obtaining means for obtaining raster data generated by the RIP process from a print controller that executes the RIP process for the print job;
Storage means for storing the acquired raster data;
An accepting means for accepting designation by the user;
Of the at least one raster data stored in the storage means, request the print controller to determine whether or not re-RIP processing is necessary for the raster data designated by the user via the receiving means, Alternatively, the print controller determines whether or not the re-RIP processing is necessary for the at least one raster data stored in the storage unit at a timing designated by the user via the receiving unit. A determination requesting means to request,
Execution request means for requesting the print controller to execute the re-RIP process based on a result of determination by the print controller whether the re-RIP process is necessary;
A notification means for notifying a user of a result of the determination that the re-RIP processing is necessary by the print controller;
Equipped with a,
The accepting unit displays a list of the at least one raster data stored in the storage unit on a display unit, and whether the re-RIP process is necessary from the displayed list of the at least one raster data. Accepts the specification of raster data requesting the judgment,
The notifying means displays the raster data determined to require the re-RIP processing in an identifiable manner when displaying the list of the at least one raster data stored in the storage means on the display unit,
The accepting unit accepts, from the user, designation of whether or not to execute the re-RIP process for the raster data notified by the notifying unit of the determination result that the re-RIP process is necessary,
Whether or not to execute the re-RIP processing by specifying the raster data that is displayed in the identifiable manner and that is determined to require the re-RIP processing in the list of the at least one raster data. An image forming apparatus that accepts designation . An image forming apparatus that forms an image based on raster data,
Obtaining means for obtaining raster data generated by the RIP process from a print controller that executes the RIP process for the print job;
Storage means for storing the acquired raster data;
An accepting means for accepting designation by the user;
Of the at least one raster data stored in the storage means, request the print controller to determine whether or not re-RIP processing is necessary for the raster data designated by the user via the receiving means, Alternatively, the print controller determines whether or not the re-RIP processing is necessary for the at least one raster data stored in the storage unit at a timing designated by the user via the receiving unit. A determination requesting means to request,
Execution request means for requesting the print controller to execute the re-RIP process based on a result of determination by the print controller whether the re-RIP process is necessary;
With
The accepting unit accepts designation of a free time during which the image forming apparatus is not performing image formation as the timing for requesting the print controller to determine whether or not the re-RIP process is necessary. The accepting unit accepts at least one designation of a shutdown processing time, a startup processing time, and a sleep mode time as the idle time,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 2. The accepting unit displays a list of the at least one raster data stored in the storage unit on a display unit, and whether the re-RIP process is necessary from the displayed list of the at least one raster data. Accept the specification of raster data to request
The image forming apparatus according to claim 2 . A notification means for notifying a user of a result of the determination that the re-RIP processing is necessary by the print controller;
The accepting unit accepts, from the user, designation of whether or not to execute the re-RIP process for the raster data notified by the notifying unit of the determination result that the re-RIP process is necessary.
The image forming apparatus according to claim 2 . The notification means notifies the user of the result of the determination that the re-RIP process is necessary using a pop-up screen,
The accepting means accepts designation of whether or not to execute the re-RIP process from the user via the pop-up screen;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 5 . In response to the designation from the user not to execute the re-RIP process, the receiving unit requests execution of the re-RIP process for raster data determined to require the re-RIP process. Without performing image formation based on raster data determined to require the re-RIP processing stored in the storage unit.
The image forming apparatus according to claim 5. In response to acquiring the raster data generated by the print controller in response to the request for execution of the re-RIP process by the execution request unit, the acquired raster data is stored, and the acquired raster data is stored in the acquired raster data. Image formation based on
The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1-7. Based on the raster data that is determined by the print controller that the re-RIP process is unnecessary, and that is stored in the storage unit and that the re-RIP process is determined to be unnecessary by the print controller. Image formation,
The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1-8. An image forming apparatus that forms an image based on raster data,
Obtaining means for obtaining raster data generated by the RIP process from a print controller that executes the RIP process for the print job;
Storage means for storing the acquired raster data;
An accepting means for accepting designation by the user;
Of the at least one raster data stored in the storage means, request the print controller to determine whether or not re-RIP processing is necessary for the raster data designated by the user via the receiving means, Alternatively, the print controller determines whether or not the re-RIP processing is necessary for the at least one raster data stored in the storage unit at a timing designated by the user via the receiving unit. A determination requesting means to request,
Execution request means for requesting the print controller to execute the re-RIP process based on a result of determination by the print controller whether the re-RIP process is necessary;
With
The execution request unit is an image forming apparatus that automatically requests execution of the re-RIP process for raster data determined by the print controller to require the re-RIP process . The accepting unit displays a list of the at least one raster data stored in the storage unit on a display unit, and whether the re-RIP process is necessary from the displayed list of the at least one raster data. Accept the specification of raster data to request
The image forming apparatus according to claim 10. A control method for an image forming apparatus that performs image formation based on raster data,
An acquisition step of acquiring raster data generated by the RIP process from a print controller that executes the RIP process for the print job;
A storage step of storing the acquired raster data;
A reception step for accepting designation by the user,
Requesting the print controller to determine whether or not re-RIP processing is required for raster data designated by the user via the accepting means among at least one raster data stored in the storage means; And requesting the print controller to determine whether or not the re-RIP processing is necessary for the at least one raster data stored in the storage unit at a timing designated by the user via the receiving unit. A decision requesting step,
An execution requesting step for requesting the print controller to execute the re-RIP process based on a result of determination by the print controller whether the re-RIP process is necessary;
A notification step of notifying a user of a result of determination by the print controller that the re-RIP process is necessary;
Only including,
In the receiving step, a list of the at least one raster data stored in the storage means is displayed on a display unit, and whether or not the re-RIP process is necessary from the displayed list of the at least one raster data. Accepts the specification of raster data requesting the judgment,
In the notifying step, when the list of the at least one raster data stored in the storage means is displayed on the display unit, the raster data determined to require the re-RIP process is displayed in an identifiable manner,
In the accepting step, for the raster data notified of the result of the determination that the re-RIP process is necessary in the notifying step, designation of whether or not to execute the re-RIP process is accepted from a user;
Whether or not to execute the re-RIP processing by specifying the raster data that is displayed in the identifiable manner and that is determined to require the re-RIP processing in the list of the at least one raster data. A method of controlling an image forming apparatus that accepts designation . A control method for an image forming apparatus that performs image formation based on raster data,
An acquisition step of acquiring raster data generated by the RIP process from a print controller that executes the RIP process for the print job;
A storage step of storing the acquired raster data;
A reception step for accepting designation by the user,
Requesting the print controller to determine whether or not re-RIP processing is required for raster data designated by the user via the accepting means among at least one raster data stored in the storage means; And requesting the print controller to determine whether or not the re-RIP processing is necessary for the at least one raster data stored in the storage unit at a timing designated by the user via the receiving unit. A decision requesting step,
An execution requesting step for requesting the print controller to execute the re-RIP process based on a result of determination by the print controller whether the re-RIP process is necessary;
Including
In the accepting step, an image forming apparatus accepting designation of a free time during which the image forming apparatus is not performing image formation as the timing for requesting the print controller to determine whether or not the re-RIP process is necessary. Control method. A control method for an image forming apparatus that performs image formation based on raster data,
An acquisition step of acquiring raster data generated by the RIP process from a print controller that executes the RIP process for the print job;
A storage step of storing the acquired raster data;
A reception step for accepting designation by the user,
Requesting the print controller to determine whether or not re-RIP processing is required for raster data designated by the user via the accepting means among at least one raster data stored in the storage means; And requesting the print controller to determine whether or not the re-RIP processing is necessary for the at least one raster data stored in the storage unit at a timing designated by the user via the receiving unit. A decision requesting step,
An execution requesting step for requesting the print controller to execute the re-RIP process based on a result of determination by the print controller whether the re-RIP process is necessary;
Including
In the execution request step, a control method for an image forming apparatus that automatically requests execution of the re-RIP process for raster data determined to be necessary by the print controller. In an image forming apparatus that forms an image based on raster data,
An acquisition step of acquiring raster data generated by the RIP process from a print controller that executes the RIP process for the print job;
A storage step of storing the acquired raster data;
A reception step for accepting designation by the user,
Requesting the print controller to determine whether or not re-RIP processing is required for raster data designated by the user via the accepting means among at least one raster data stored in the storage means; And requesting the print controller to determine whether or not the re-RIP processing is necessary for the at least one raster data stored in the storage unit at a timing designated by the user via the receiving unit. A decision requesting step,
An execution requesting step for requesting the print controller to execute the re-RIP process based on a result of determination by the print controller whether the re-RIP process is necessary;
A notification step of notifying a user of a result of determination by the print controller that the re-RIP process is necessary;
A program for executing,
In the receiving step, a list of the at least one raster data stored in the storage means is displayed on a display unit, and whether or not the re-RIP process is necessary from the displayed list of the at least one raster data. Accepts the specification of raster data requesting the judgment,
In the notifying step, when the list of the at least one raster data stored in the storage means is displayed on the display unit, the raster data determined to require the re-RIP process is displayed in an identifiable manner,
In the accepting step, for the raster data notified of the result of the determination that the re-RIP process is necessary in the notifying step, designation of whether or not to execute the re-RIP process is accepted from a user;
Whether or not to execute the re-RIP processing by specifying the raster data that is displayed in the identifiable manner and that is determined to require the re-RIP processing in the list of the at least one raster data. A program that accepts specifications. In an image forming apparatus that forms an image based on raster data,
An acquisition step of acquiring raster data generated by the RIP process from a print controller that executes the RIP process for the print job;
A storage step of storing the acquired raster data;
A reception step for accepting designation by the user,
Requesting the print controller to determine whether or not re-RIP processing is required for raster data designated by the user via the accepting means among at least one raster data stored in the storage means; And requesting the print controller to determine whether or not the re-RIP processing is necessary for the at least one raster data stored in the storage unit at a timing designated by the user via the receiving unit. A decision requesting step,
An execution requesting step for requesting the print controller to execute the re-RIP process based on a result of determination by the print controller whether the re-RIP process is necessary;
A program for executing
In the accepting step, a program for accepting designation of a free time during which the image forming apparatus is not performing image formation as the timing for requesting the print controller to determine whether or not the re-RIP process is necessary. In an image forming apparatus that forms an image based on raster data,
An acquisition step of acquiring raster data generated by the RIP process from a print controller that executes the RIP process for the print job;
A storage step of storing the acquired raster data;
A reception step for accepting designation by the user,
Requesting the print controller to determine whether or not re-RIP processing is required for raster data designated by the user via the accepting means among at least one raster data stored in the storage means; And requesting the print controller to determine whether or not the re-RIP processing is necessary for the at least one raster data stored in the storage unit at a timing designated by the user via the receiving unit. A decision requesting step,
An execution requesting step for requesting the print controller to execute the re-RIP process based on a result of determination by the print controller whether the re-RIP process is necessary;
A program for executing
In the execution requesting step, a program for automatically requesting execution of the re-RIP process for raster data determined to be necessary by the print controller.

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