JP6379797B2

JP6379797B2 - Image forming apparatus, image forming control method, and image forming control program

Info

Publication number: JP6379797B2
Application number: JP2014151912A
Authority: JP
Inventors: 剛芳野
Original assignee: Konica Minolta Inc
Current assignee: Konica Minolta Inc
Priority date: 2014-07-25
Filing date: 2014-07-25
Publication date: 2018-08-29
Anticipated expiration: 2034-07-25
Also published as: JP2016028870A

Description

本発明は、画像形成装置及び画像形成制御方法並びに画像形成制御プログラムに関し、特に、カット紙用の画像形成装置を用いて長尺用紙に効率良く画像形成する技術に関する。 The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, an image forming control method, and an image forming control program, and more particularly to a technique for efficiently forming an image on a long sheet by using an image forming apparatus for cut sheets.

画像形成装置では、Ａ４やＢ４といった所定サイズにカットされたカット紙と呼ばれる用紙に画像を形成することが一般的である。しかし、画像形成装置において、ロール紙と呼ばれる長尺用紙に画像を形成することも可能である。なお、長尺用紙は、ラベルを繰り返し印刷するといった用途で使用される。 In an image forming apparatus, it is common to form an image on a sheet called a cut sheet cut into a predetermined size such as A4 or B4. However, the image forming apparatus can also form an image on a long sheet called roll paper. Long paper is used for applications such as printing labels repeatedly.

なお、長尺用紙を用いた画像形成装置における制御については、以下の特許文献などに提案がなされている。 In addition, the following patent document etc. are proposed about the control in the image forming apparatus using a long paper.

特開平６−２７８９３８号公報JP-A-6-278938

以上の特許文献１では、長尺用紙専用のプリンタが記載されている。
ここで、一般的な画像形成装置におけるカット紙の最大サイズＡ３用紙の場合、長手方向は４２ｃｍである。一方、長尺用紙としては各種のサイズが存在するが、２．４ｋｍ程度のものなど、ｋｍ単位の紙が一般的である。 In the above Patent Document 1, a printer dedicated to long paper is described.
Here, in the case of a maximum size A3 sheet of cut sheets in a general image forming apparatus, the longitudinal direction is 42 cm. On the other hand, there are various sizes of long paper, but paper in units of km, such as about 2.4 km, is common.

すなわち、Ａ４サイズのカット紙と２．４ｋｍの長尺用紙を比較すると、長尺用紙はＡ３用紙の５７００倍の用紙長になっている。
なお、一般的な画像形成装置では、用紙長を管理するために、用紙長である副走査方向のライン数を、カウンタによりカウントしている。 That is, when comparing A4 size cut paper and 2.4 km long paper, the long paper is 5700 times longer than A3 paper.
In a general image forming apparatus, in order to manage the sheet length, the number of lines in the sub-scanning direction, which is the sheet length, is counted by a counter.

このため、副走査方向のライン数をカウントするカウンタについて、長尺用紙の用紙長に対応できるように処理ビット数の大きい専用カウンタを用意する必要がある。
また、長尺用紙に画像形成する画像データを記憶する画像メモリについても、通常の画像形成装置に対して増設メモリを設ける必要が生じる場合がある。 For this reason, as a counter for counting the number of lines in the sub-scanning direction, it is necessary to prepare a dedicated counter having a large number of processing bits so as to correspond to the length of the long sheet.
Further, with respect to an image memory that stores image data for image formation on a long sheet, it may be necessary to provide an additional memory with respect to a normal image forming apparatus.

すなわち、カット紙を使用する一般的な画像形成装置で長尺用紙を使用できるようにするには、ハードウエアやソフトウエア等の大幅な改修が必要となる。
一方、カット紙を使用する一般的な画像形成装置において、ハードウエアやソフトウエア等に大幅な改修を加えることなく長尺用紙を使用することが、コスト等の観点から望まれている。以下、カット紙を使用する画像形成装置を利用して、長尺用紙を使用する場合について説明する。 That is, in order to make it possible to use a long sheet in a general image forming apparatus that uses a cut sheet, it is necessary to significantly modify hardware and software.
On the other hand, in a general image forming apparatus that uses cut paper, it is desired from the viewpoint of cost and the like to use long paper without significantly modifying hardware or software. Hereinafter, a case where long paper is used by using an image forming apparatus using cut paper will be described.

図５は従来のカット紙を使用する場合の画像形成装置の制御を活用して、長尺用紙に対して画像を繰り返し形成する場合の制御の様子を示すタイムチャートである。
ここでは、画像形成部内のエンジン制御部と、画像記憶部内のメモリコントローラとの間で、各種制御信号を授受しつつ、画像データを繰り返して読み出す場合を、図中の上から下に向けて時刻ｔが経過する状態を示している。 FIG. 5 is a time chart showing the state of control when an image is repeatedly formed on a long sheet by utilizing the control of the image forming apparatus when a conventional cut sheet is used.
Here, when the image data is read repeatedly while exchanging various control signals between the engine control unit in the image forming unit and the memory controller in the image storage unit, the time is indicated from the top to the bottom in the figure. The state where t has elapsed is shown.

図５において、（ａ）は画像形成部内のプリントエンジンを制御するエンジン制御部、（ｂ）は画像の先端位置を示す先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰ、（ｃ）は用紙の搬送方向（副走査方向）において画像を形成可能な領域であることを示す有効領域信号（ＶＡＬＩＤ信号）、（ｄ）は画像記憶部内で画像メモリから画像データを読み出すよう制御するメモリコントローラ、（ｅ）は画像記憶部内で画像メモリから読み出された画像データ、を示している。 5A is an engine control unit that controls the print engine in the image forming unit, FIG. 5B is a front end position signal VTOP that indicates the front end position of the image, and FIG. 5C is a sheet conveyance direction (sub-scanning direction). An effective area signal (VALID signal) indicating that the image can be formed, (d) is a memory controller that controls to read image data from the image memory in the image storage unit, and (e) is an image memory in the image storage unit. The image data read out from is shown.

なお、有効領域信号には、水平有効領域信号（Ｈ−ＶＡＬＩＤ）と垂直有効領域信号（Ｖ−ＶＡＬＩＤ）とが存在しているが、ここでは垂直有効領域信号について説明する。すなわち、単に有効領域信号（ＶＡＬＩＤ）と言った場合に、この実施形態では、垂直有効領域信号（Ｖ−ＶＡＬＩＤ）を意味するものとする。ここで垂直方向とは用紙搬送方向、水平方向とは用紙搬送方向とは直交する方向を意味する。 The effective area signal includes a horizontal effective area signal (H-VALID) and a vertical effective area signal (V-VALID). Here, the vertical effective area signal will be described. That is, when the effective area signal (VALID) is simply referred to in this embodiment, it means the vertical effective area signal (V-VALID). Here, the vertical direction means a paper conveyance direction, and the horizontal direction means a direction orthogonal to the paper conveyance direction.

以下、図５のタイムチャートに従って、従来のカット紙用の画像形成装置の制御を活用して、長尺用紙を使用して画像形成する際の制御を説明する。
長尺用紙を用いた画像形成の開始にあたり、エンジン制御部はメモリコントローラに対して、長尺での画像形成に関する設定データを送信する（図５中の（０１））。 Hereinafter, according to the time chart of FIG. 5, the control when forming an image using a long sheet using the control of the conventional image forming apparatus for cut paper will be described.
At the start of image formation using long paper, the engine control unit transmits setting data relating to long-length image formation to the memory controller ((01) in FIG. 5).

これに対し、メモリコントローラは、画像メモリからの画像データの読み出し等に関して準備が完了したら、エンジン制御部に対して準備完了通知を送信する（図５中の（０２））。 On the other hand, when the preparation for reading out the image data from the image memory is completed, the memory controller transmits a preparation completion notice to the engine control unit ((02) in FIG. 5).

エンジン制御部は、長尺用紙が給紙部から給紙されるのに合わせて画像の先端位置を意味する先端位置信号を生成する（図５中の（ｂ）（１））。ここで、先端位置信号のパルス（図５中の（ｂ）（１））のハッチング部分が、先端位置信号がアクティブであることを示している。そして、エンジン制御部は、この先端位置信号のパルス（図５中の（ｂ）（１））をメモリコントローラに送信する（図５中の（ｂ）（２））。 The engine control unit generates a leading end position signal that indicates the leading end position of the image as the long sheet is fed from the sheet feeding unit ((b) (1) in FIG. 5). Here, the hatched portion of the pulse of the tip position signal ((b) (1) in FIG. 5) indicates that the tip position signal is active. Then, the engine control unit transmits the tip position signal pulse ((b) (1) in FIG. 5) to the memory controller ((b) (2) in FIG. 5).

メモリコントローラは、先端位置信号のパルスを受信する（図５中の（ｂ）（２））と、アクティブ状態になった先端位置信号を基準にして、副走査方向の有効領域信号を立ち上げる（図５中の（ｃ）（３））。ここで、有効領域信号（図５中の（ｃ））のハッチング部分が、有効領域信号がアクティブであることを示している。 When the memory controller receives the tip position signal pulse ((b) (2) in FIG. 5), the memory controller raises an effective area signal in the sub-scanning direction based on the tip position signal in the active state ( (C) (3) in FIG. Here, the hatched portion of the effective area signal ((c) in FIG. 5) indicates that the effective area signal is active.

そして、メモリコントローラは、この有効領域信号（図５中の（ｃ））がアクティブ状態である期間において、画像データを画像メモリから繰り返し読み出す（図５中の（ｅ））。ここで、メモリコントローラは、有効領域信号がアクティブである期間において、途中の間隔ｔ１で画像データを２回読み出している。 Then, the memory controller repeatedly reads out the image data from the image memory during the period in which the effective area signal ((c) in FIG. 5) is in the active state ((e) in FIG. 5). Here, the memory controller reads the image data twice at an intermediate interval t1 during a period in which the effective area signal is active.

この際に、メモリコントローラは、定型サイズの用紙に相当する副走査方向のカウントを行っている。そして、カウント結果により定型サイズの用紙末端に相当するタイミングで、メモリコントローラは有効領域信号を非アクティブ状態にして、有効領域信号終了通知をエンジン制御部に送信する（図５中の（ｃ）（４））。 At this time, the memory controller counts in the sub-scanning direction corresponding to the standard size paper. Then, at the timing corresponding to the end of the standard size paper according to the count result, the memory controller deactivates the effective area signal and transmits an effective area signal end notification to the engine control unit ((c) in FIG. 5 ( 4)).

有効領域信号終了通知を受けたエンジン制御部は、次頁設定データを含む設定通知をメモリコントローラに送信する（図５中の（５））。
次頁設定データを含む設定通知を受信したメモリコントローラは、画像メモリなどの読み出しの準備が完了したら、準備完了通知をエンジン制御部に送信する（図５中の（６））。 The engine control unit that has received the valid region signal end notification transmits a setting notification including the next page setting data to the memory controller ((5) in FIG. 5).
The memory controller that has received the setting notification including the next page setting data transmits a preparation completion notification to the engine control unit when preparation for reading out the image memory or the like is completed ((6) in FIG. 5).

準備完了通知を受けたエンジン制御部は、画像の先端位置を意味する先端位置信号を生成し（図５中の（ｂ）の２段目以降の（１））、上述した説明と同じ動作（図５中の２段目以降の（１），（２），（３），（４），（５），（６））を繰り返して実行する。 Upon receiving the preparation completion notification, the engine control unit generates a tip position signal indicating the tip position of the image ((1) after the second stage of (b) in FIG. 5), and the same operation as described above ( (1), (2), (3), (4), (5), (6)) after the second stage in FIG. 5 are repeatedly executed.

なお、エンジン制御部が先端位置信号を所定回数発生させた後は、先端位置信号を発生させないようにする（図５中の（ｂ）（１’））。また、メモリコントローラは、画像データの読み出しを停止する（図５中の（ｅ）（３”））。 Note that the tip position signal is not generated after the engine control unit has generated the tip position signal a predetermined number of times ((b) (1 ') in FIG. 5). Further, the memory controller stops reading the image data ((e) (3 ″ in FIG. 5)).

以上の制御において、メモリコントローラからの有効領域信号終了通知のエンジン制御部への送信（図５中の（４））、エンジン制御部による次頁設定データを含む設定通知のメモリコントローラへの送信（図５中の（５））、メモリコントローラによる読み出しの準備動作と準備完了通知のエンジン制御部への送信（図５中の（６））については、各部の制御動作が関連するハンドシェーク制御である。ここで各部の制御動作は、ソフトウエア等により処理されることが多い。このため、ある程度の時間が必要であると共に、その時間にばらつきが生じることがある。 In the above control, the effective controller signal transmission notification from the memory controller to the engine control unit ((4) in FIG. 5), and the setting notification including the next page setting data by the engine control unit to the memory controller ( (5) in FIG. 5) The read operation by the memory controller and the transmission of the preparation completion notification to the engine control unit ((6) in FIG. 5) are handshake controls related to the control operation of each unit. . Here, the control operation of each part is often processed by software or the like. For this reason, a certain amount of time is required and the time may vary.

すなわち、有効領域信号が非アクティブ状態となっているタイミングにおける画像データの読み出し間隔の時間ｔ２については、固定の時間とすることができず、ばらつきが生じる。 In other words, the time t2 of the image data read interval at the timing when the effective area signal is in the inactive state cannot be fixed and varies.

更に、有効領域信号がアクティブ状態となっているタイミングにおける画像データの読み出し間隔の時間ｔ１は一定とすることができるものの、ｔ２にばらつきがあるため、ｔ１とｔ２とを揃えることができない。 Furthermore, although the time t1 of the image data read interval at the timing when the effective area signal is in the active state can be constant, t2 cannot be aligned because t2 varies.

すなわち、従来のカット紙用の画像形成装置で、長尺用紙を用いてラベル等を繰り返しプリントする際には、制御信号を授受するハンドシェーク制御が必要であり、ラベル等の印刷物の間隔を均一に揃えることができず、更に、その間隔分だけ生産性が低下して効率が悪化する、という問題が生じることが明らかになった。 That is, when a conventional image forming apparatus for cut paper repeatedly prints a label or the like using long paper, handshake control for sending and receiving a control signal is necessary, and the interval between printed materials such as a label is made uniform. It has become clear that there is a problem that the efficiency is deteriorated due to a decrease in productivity by the interval.

本発明は、カット紙に画像を形成する画像形成装置により長尺用紙を用いてプリントする際に、効率良く画像形成することが可能な画像形成装置及び画像形成制御方法並びに画像形成制御プログラムを提供することを目的とする。 The present invention provides an image forming apparatus, an image forming control method, and an image forming control program capable of efficiently forming an image when printing is performed using a long sheet by an image forming apparatus that forms an image on cut paper. The purpose is to do.

上述の課題を解決する一態様としての画像形成装置及び画像形成制御方法並びに画像形成制御プログラムは、以下のように構成される。
（１）定型サイズの各用紙への画像形成を要求する画像要求信号を生成し、前記画像要求信号に対応して前記用紙の搬送方向の用紙長に対応した有効領域信号を前記用紙毎に生成し、該有効領域信号に基づいて画像データを読み出して画像形成するよう制御する制御部を備えた画像形成装置の制御を以下のように実行する。 An image forming apparatus, an image forming control method, and an image forming control program as one aspect for solving the above-described problems are configured as follows.
(1) Generate an image request signal for requesting image formation on each standard-sized sheet, and generate an effective area signal corresponding to the sheet length in the sheet conveyance direction for each sheet corresponding to the image request signal. Then, control of the image forming apparatus including a control unit that controls to read out image data and form an image based on the effective area signal is executed as follows.

ここで、前記定型サイズの用紙よりも搬送方向の用紙長が長い長尺用紙を用いて画像形成する際に、定型サイズの用紙に対する画像要求信号の生成と、前記画像要求信号に基づく前記定型サイズの用紙に対応した基本有効領域信号の生成と、前記基本有効領域信号の終了に応じた終了通知の生成とを繰り返すように制御すると共に、前記長尺用紙に対する画像形成開始時点の前記画像要求信号をトリガとして前記長尺用紙に対応して連続した状態の連続有効領域信号を生成し、前記連続有効領域信号に基づいて画像データを読み出して前記長尺用紙に画像形成するよう制御する。
（１ａ）更に上記（１）において、定型サイズの用紙に対する画像要求信号の生成と、前記画像要求信号に基づく前記定型サイズの用紙に対応した基本有効領域信号の生成と、前記基本有効領域信号の終了に応じた終了通知の生成とについて、前記長尺用紙の搬送方向用紙長に相当する前記定型サイズの用紙枚数に対応する期間がセットされたタイマによって前記連続有効領域信号を終了させるまで、繰り返して実行するように制御するように制御する。
（１ｂ）更に上記（１）において、定型サイズの用紙に対する画像要求信号の生成と、前記画像要求信号に基づく前記定型サイズの用紙に対応した基本有効領域信号の生成と、前記基本有効領域信号の終了に応じた終了通知の生成とについて、前記長尺用紙の画像形成を実行する期間中において、定型サイズの用紙における画像形成の制御と同じ手順で実行する。
（１ｃ）更に上記（１）において、前記連続有効領域信号に基づいて前記長尺用紙の画像形成を実行する期間中において、前記画像要求信号をカウントし、該カウント結果を参照して、前記長尺用紙への画像形成を中断することなく、形成する画像を変更するよう制御する。
（１ｄ）更に上記（１）において、前記連続有効領域信号に基づいて前記長尺用紙の画像形成を実行する期間中における延長指示を受けた場合、前記画像要求信号をカウントした結果と前記延長指示とに応じて、前記長尺用紙への画像形成を中断することなく、前記連続有効領域信号の発生期間を延長するよう制御する。
（１ｅ）更に上記（１）において、前記連続有効領域信号に基づいて前記長尺用紙の画像形成を実行する期間中において、複数の異なる画像用に前記画像要求信号をそれぞれカウンタでカウントし、それぞれのカウント結果を参照して、複数の異なる画像を形成するよう制御する。 Here, when an image is formed using a long sheet having a paper length in the transport direction longer than that of the standard size paper, generation of an image request signal for the standard size paper and the standard size based on the image request signal Control to repeat generation of the basic effective area signal corresponding to the sheet of the paper and generation of the end notification according to the end of the basic effective area signal, and the image request signal at the time of starting image formation on the long paper Is used as a trigger to generate a continuous effective area signal in a continuous state corresponding to the long sheet, and control to read out image data based on the continuous effective area signal and form an image on the long sheet.
(1a) Further, in the above (1), generation of an image request signal for a standard size paper, generation of a basic effective area signal corresponding to the standard size paper based on the image request signal, and the basic effective area signal The generation of the end notification according to the end is repeated until the continuous effective area signal is ended by a timer in which a period corresponding to the number of sheets of the standard size corresponding to the sheet length in the conveyance direction of the long sheet is set. Control to execute.
(1b) Further, in (1) above, generation of an image request signal for a standard size paper, generation of a basic effective area signal corresponding to the standard size paper based on the image request signal, and The generation of the end notification corresponding to the end is executed in the same procedure as the image formation control on the standard size paper during the period for executing the image formation on the long paper.
(1c) Further, in the above (1), the image request signal is counted during a period in which the image formation of the long paper is executed based on the continuous effective area signal, and the long request image is referred to by referring to the count result. Control is performed to change the image to be formed without interrupting the image formation on the scale paper.
( 1d) Furthermore, in (1) above, when an extension instruction is received during the period during which image formation of the long sheet is executed based on the continuous effective area signal, the result of counting the image request signal and the extension instruction Accordingly, control is performed to extend the generation period of the continuous effective area signal without interrupting the image formation on the long sheet.
(1e) Further, in the above (1), the image request signal for each of a plurality of different images is counted by a counter during a period in which image formation of the long paper is executed based on the continuous effective area signal, With reference to the count result, control is performed to form a plurality of different images.

（２）上記（１ｂ）〜（１ｅ）において、前記画像要求信号をカウントするカウンタを備え、前記制御部は、前記長尺用紙の搬送方向用紙長に相当する前記定型サイズの用紙枚数に対応する前記画像要求信号が前記カウンタによりカウントされた時点で、前記連続有効領域信号を終了させるよう制御する。 (2) In the above (1b) to (1e) , a counter for counting the image request signal is provided, and the control unit corresponds to the number of sheets of the standard size corresponding to the sheet length in the conveyance direction of the long sheet. When the image request signal is counted by the counter, the continuous effective area signal is controlled to end.

（３）上記（１ｂ）〜（１ｅ）において、定型サイズの用紙に対する画像要求信号の生成と、前記画像要求信号に基づく前記定型サイズの用紙に対応した基本有効領域信号の生成と、前記基本有効領域信号の終了に応じた終了通知の生成とについて、前記長尺用紙の搬送方向用紙長に相当する前記定型サイズの用紙枚数に対応する期間がセットされたタイマによって前記連続有効領域信号を終了させるまで、繰り返して実行するように制御するように制御する。 (3) In the above (1b) to (1e) , generation of an image request signal for a standard size paper, generation of a basic effective area signal corresponding to the standard size paper based on the image request signal, and the basic effective For generation of an end notification in response to the end of the area signal, the continuous effective area signal is ended by a timer in which a period corresponding to the number of sheets of the standard size corresponding to the sheet length in the conveyance direction of the long sheet is set. Until it is controlled, it is controlled to execute repeatedly.

（４）上記（１ｃ）〜（１ｅ）において、定型サイズの用紙に対する画像要求信号の生成と、前記画像要求信号に基づく前記定型サイズの用紙に対応した基本有効領域信号の生成と、前記基本有効領域信号の終了に応じた終了通知の生成とについて、前記長尺用紙の画像形成を実行する期間中において、定型サイズの用紙における画像形成の制御と同じ手順で実行する。 (4) In the above (1c) to (1e) , generation of an image request signal for a standard size paper, generation of a basic effective area signal corresponding to the standard size paper based on the image request signal, and the basic effective The generation of the end notification in response to the end of the area signal is executed in the same procedure as the image formation control on the standard size paper during the period of executing the image formation on the long paper.

（５）上記（１ｄ）〜（１ｅ）において、前記連続有効領域信号に基づいて前記長尺用紙の画像形成を実行する期間中において、前記画像要求信号をカウントし、該カウント結果を参照して、前記長尺用紙への画像形成を中断することなく、形成する画像を変更するよう制御する。 (5) In the above (1d) to (1e) , the image request signal is counted during a period in which image formation of the long sheet is executed based on the continuous effective area signal, and the count result is referred to Then, control is performed to change the image to be formed without interrupting image formation on the long sheet.

（６）上記（１ｅ）において、前記連続有効領域信号に基づいて前記長尺用紙の画像形成を実行する期間中における延長指示を受けた場合、前記画像要求信号をカウントした結果と前記延長指示とに応じて、前記長尺用紙への画像形成を中断することなく、前記連続有効領域信号の発生期間を延長するよう制御する。 (6) In the above (1e) , when an extension instruction is received during the period during which image formation of the long sheet is executed based on the continuous effective area signal, the result of counting the image request signal and the extension instruction Accordingly, control is performed to extend the generation period of the continuous effective area signal without interrupting image formation on the long sheet.

上述の課題を解決する一態様としての画像形成装置及び画像形成制御方法並びに画像形成制御プログラムでは、以下のような効果が得られる。
（１）定型サイズの用紙に画像形成可能な画像形成装置の制御において、定型サイズの用紙よりも搬送方向の用紙長が長い長尺用紙を用いて画像形成する際に、定型サイズの用紙に対する画像要求信号の生成と、画像要求信号に基づく定型サイズの用紙に対応した基本有効領域信号の生成と、基本有効領域信号の終了に応じた終了通知の生成とを繰り返すように制御すると共に、長尺用紙に対する画像形成開始時点の画像要求信号をトリガとして長尺用紙に対応して連続した状態の連続有効領域信号を生成し、連続有効領域信号に基づいて画像データを読み出して長尺用紙に画像形成するよう制御している。 In the image forming apparatus, the image forming control method, and the image forming control program as one aspect for solving the above-described problems, the following effects can be obtained.
(1) In the control of an image forming apparatus capable of forming an image on a standard size paper, when an image is formed using a long paper having a paper length in the transport direction longer than that of the standard size paper, an image on the standard size paper It is controlled to repeat generation of a request signal, generation of a basic effective area signal corresponding to a standard size paper based on an image request signal, and generation of an end notification in response to the end of the basic effective area signal. The image request signal at the start of image formation on the paper is used as a trigger to generate a continuous effective area signal in a continuous state corresponding to the long paper, and image data is read based on the continuous effective area signal to form an image on the long paper It is controlled to do.

すなわち、カット紙に画像を形成する画像形成装置において長尺用紙を用いてプリントする際に、定型サイズの用紙の制御を実行しつつ、連続有効領域信号に基づいて画像データを読み出して画像を形成することで、長尺用紙用の専用の制御をせずに従来と同じ制御手順を用いて、効率良く画像形成することが可能になる。
（１ａ）上記（１）において、定型サイズの用紙に対する画像要求信号の生成と、画像要求信号に基づく定型サイズの用紙に対応した基本有効領域信号の生成と、基本有効領域信号の終了に応じた終了通知の生成とについて、長尺用紙の搬送方向用紙長に相当する定型サイズの用紙枚数に対応する期間がセットされたタイマによって連続有効領域信号を終了させるまで、繰り返して実行するように制御している。すなわち、カット紙に画像を形成する画像形成装置において長尺用紙を用いてプリントする際に、長尺用紙の画像形成と並行して定型サイズの用紙の制御を実行しているため、長尺用紙用の専用の制御をせずに従来と同じ制御手順を用いて、効率良く画像形成することが可能になる。
（１ｂ）上記（１）において、定型サイズの用紙に対する画像要求信号の生成と、画像要求信号に基づく定型サイズの用紙に対応した基本有効領域信号の生成と、基本有効領域信号の終了に応じた終了通知の生成とについて、長尺用紙の画像形成を実行する期間中において、定型サイズの用紙における画像形成の制御と同じ手順で実行している。すなわち、カット紙に画像を形成する画像形成装置において長尺用紙を用いてプリントする際に、長尺用紙の画像形成と並行して定型サイズの用紙の制御を実行しているため、長尺用紙用の専用の制御をせずに従来と同じ制御手順を用いて、効率良く画像形成することが可能になる。
（１ｃ）上記（１）において、連続有効領域信号に基づいて長尺用紙の画像形成を実行する期間中において、画像要求信号をカウントし、該カウント結果を参照して、長尺用紙への画像形成を中断することなく、形成する画像を変更するよう制御している。すなわち、カット紙に画像を形成する画像形成装置において長尺用紙を用いてプリントする際に、長尺用紙用の専用の制御をせずに長尺用紙を適切に使用し、画像形成を中断せずに別の画像の画像形成に切り換えることが可能になり、効率良く画像形成することが可能になる。
（１ｄ）上記（１）において、連続有効領域信号に基づいて長尺用紙の画像形成を実行する期間中における延長指示を受けた場合、前記画像要求信号をカウントした結果と前記延長指示とに応じて、長尺用紙への画像形成を中断することなく、連続有効領域信号の発生期間を延長するよう制御している。すなわち、カット紙に画像を形成する画像形成装置において長尺用紙を用いてプリントする際に、長尺用紙用の専用の制御をせずに長尺用紙を適切に使用し、画像形成を中断せずに画像形成を延長することが可能になり、効率良く画像形成することが可能になる。
（１ｅ）上記（１）において、連続有効領域信号に基づいて前記長尺用紙の画像形成を実行する期間中において、複数の異なる画像用に前記画像要求信号をそれぞれカウンタでカウントし、それぞれのカウント結果を参照して、複数の異なる画像を形成するよう制御する。すなわち、カット紙に画像を形成する画像形成装置において長尺用紙を用いてプリントする際に、長尺用紙用の専用の制御をせずに長尺用紙を適切に使用し、画像形成を中断せずに、複数の異なる画像の画像形成を必要な個数や領域に実行することができ、効率良く画像形成することが可能になる。 That is, when printing is performed using long paper in an image forming apparatus that forms an image on a cut sheet, image data is read out based on the continuous effective area signal and an image is formed while executing control of a standard size paper. Thus, it is possible to efficiently form an image using the same control procedure as before without performing dedicated control for long paper.
( 1a) According to ( 1) above, the generation of the image request signal for the standard size paper, the generation of the basic effective area signal corresponding to the standard size paper based on the image request signal, and the end of the basic effective area signal The generation of the end notification is controlled to be repeatedly executed until the continuous valid area signal is ended by a timer in which a period corresponding to the number of sheets of a standard size corresponding to the sheet length in the conveyance direction of the long sheet is set. ing. That is, when printing using a long sheet in an image forming apparatus that forms an image on a cut sheet, control of a standard size sheet is executed in parallel with the image formation of the long sheet. Therefore, it is possible to efficiently form an image by using the same control procedure as before without performing dedicated control.
(1b) In the above (1), according to the generation of the image request signal for the standard size paper, the generation of the basic effective area signal corresponding to the standard size paper based on the image request signal, and the end of the basic effective area signal The generation of the end notification is performed in the same procedure as the image formation control on the standard size paper during the period in which the image formation on the long paper is executed. That is, when printing using a long sheet in an image forming apparatus that forms an image on a cut sheet, control of a standard size sheet is executed in parallel with the image formation of the long sheet. Therefore, it is possible to efficiently form an image by using the same control procedure as before without performing dedicated control.
(1c) In the above (1), the image request signal is counted during the period in which the image formation of the long sheet is executed based on the continuous effective area signal, and the image on the long sheet is referred to by referring to the count result. Control is performed to change the image to be formed without interrupting the formation. That is, when printing using long paper in an image forming apparatus that forms an image on cut paper, the long paper is appropriately used without special control for the long paper, and image formation is interrupted. Therefore, it is possible to switch to the image formation of another image without forming the image efficiently.
(1d) In the above (1), when an extension instruction is received during the period during which image formation of a long sheet is executed based on the continuous effective area signal, the image request signal is counted according to the result of counting and the extension instruction. Thus, control is performed to extend the generation period of the continuous effective area signal without interrupting image formation on the long sheet. That is, when printing using long paper in an image forming apparatus that forms an image on cut paper, the long paper is appropriately used without special control for the long paper, and image formation is interrupted. Therefore, it is possible to extend the image formation without efficiently forming the image.
(1e) In the above (1), the image request signal is counted by a counter for a plurality of different images during a period in which image formation of the long sheet is executed based on a continuous effective area signal, With reference to the result, control is performed to form a plurality of different images. That is, when printing using long paper in an image forming apparatus that forms an image on cut paper, the long paper is appropriately used without special control for the long paper, and image formation is interrupted. In addition, image formation of a plurality of different images can be performed in a necessary number and area, and image formation can be performed efficiently.

（２）上記（１ｂ）〜（１ｅ）において、長尺用紙の搬送方向用紙長に相当する定型サイズの用紙枚数に対応する画像要求信号が前記カウンタによりカウントされた時点で、連続有効領域信号を終了させるよう制御している。 (2) In the above (1b) to (1e) , when the image request signal corresponding to the number of sheets of a standard size corresponding to the sheet length in the conveyance direction of the long sheet is counted by the counter, the continuous effective area signal is Control to end.

すなわち、カット紙に画像を形成する画像形成装置において長尺用紙を用いてプリントする際に、長尺用紙用の専用の制御をせずに長尺用紙を適切に使用することが可能になり、効率良く画像形成することが可能になる。 That is, when printing using long paper in an image forming apparatus that forms an image on cut paper, it becomes possible to appropriately use long paper without performing dedicated control for long paper, An image can be formed efficiently.

（３）上記（１ｂ）〜（１ｅ）において、定型サイズの用紙に対する画像要求信号の生成と、画像要求信号に基づく定型サイズの用紙に対応した基本有効領域信号の生成と、基本有効領域信号の終了に応じた終了通知の生成とについて、長尺用紙の搬送方向用紙長に相当する定型サイズの用紙枚数に対応する期間がセットされたタイマによって連続有効領域信号を終了させるまで、繰り返して実行するように制御している。 (3) In the above (1b) to (1e) , the generation of the image request signal for the standard size paper, the generation of the basic effective area signal corresponding to the standard size paper based on the image request signal, and the basic effective area signal The generation of the end notification corresponding to the end is repeatedly performed until the continuous effective area signal is ended by the timer in which the period corresponding to the number of sheets of the standard size corresponding to the sheet length in the conveyance direction of the long sheet is set. So that it is controlled.

すなわち、カット紙に画像を形成する画像形成装置において長尺用紙を用いてプリントする際に、長尺用紙の画像形成と並行して定型サイズの用紙の制御を実行しているため、長尺用紙用の専用の制御をせずに従来と同じ制御手順を用いて、効率良く画像形成することが可能になる。 That is, when printing using a long sheet in an image forming apparatus that forms an image on a cut sheet, control of a standard size sheet is executed in parallel with the image formation of the long sheet. Therefore, it is possible to efficiently form an image by using the same control procedure as before without performing dedicated control.

（４）上記（１ｃ）〜（１ｅ）において、定型サイズの用紙に対する画像要求信号の生成と、画像要求信号に基づく定型サイズの用紙に対応した基本有効領域信号の生成と、基本有効領域信号の終了に応じた終了通知の生成とについて、長尺用紙の画像形成を実行する期間中において、定型サイズの用紙における画像形成の制御と同じ手順で実行している。 (4) In the above (1c) to (1e) , the generation of the image request signal for the standard size paper, the generation of the basic effective area signal corresponding to the standard size paper based on the image request signal, and the basic effective area signal The generation of the end notification corresponding to the end is performed in the same procedure as the image formation control on the standard size paper during the period in which the image formation on the long paper is executed.

（５）上記（１ｄ）〜（１ｅ）において、連続有効領域信号に基づいて長尺用紙の画像形成を実行する期間中において、画像要求信号をカウントし、該カウント結果を参照して、長尺用紙への画像形成を中断することなく、形成する画像を変更するよう制御している。 (5) In the above (1d) to (1e) , the image request signal is counted during the period in which the image formation of the long sheet is executed based on the continuous effective area signal, and the long result is referred to by referring to the count result. Control is performed to change the image to be formed without interrupting image formation on the paper.

すなわち、カット紙に画像を形成する画像形成装置において長尺用紙を用いてプリントする際に、長尺用紙用の専用の制御をせずに長尺用紙を適切に使用し、画像形成を中断せずに別の画像の画像形成に切り換えることが可能になり、効率良く画像形成することが可能になる。 That is, when printing using long paper in an image forming apparatus that forms an image on cut paper, the long paper is appropriately used without special control for the long paper, and image formation is interrupted. Therefore, it is possible to switch to the image formation of another image without forming the image efficiently.

（６）上記（１ｅ）において、連続有効領域信号に基づいて長尺用紙の画像形成を実行する期間中における延長指示を受けた場合、前記画像要求信号をカウントした結果と前記延長指示とに応じて、長尺用紙への画像形成を中断することなく、連続有効領域信号の発生期間を延長するよう制御している。 (6) In the above (1e) , when an extension instruction is received during the period during which image formation of a long sheet is performed based on the continuous effective area signal, the image request signal is counted according to the result of counting and the extension instruction. Thus, control is performed to extend the generation period of the continuous effective area signal without interrupting image formation on the long sheet.

すなわち、カット紙に画像を形成する画像形成装置において長尺用紙を用いてプリントする際に、長尺用紙用の専用の制御をせずに長尺用紙を適切に使用し、画像形成を中断せずに画像形成を延長することが可能になり、効率良く画像形成することが可能になる。 That is, when printing using long paper in an image forming apparatus that forms an image on cut paper, the long paper is appropriately used without special control for the long paper, and image formation is interrupted. Therefore, it is possible to extend the image formation without efficiently forming the image.

本発明の実施形態のハードウエア構成を示す構成図である。It is a block diagram which shows the hardware constitutions of embodiment of this invention. 本発明の実施形態のソフトウエア構成を示す構成図である。It is a block diagram which shows the software structure of embodiment of this invention. 本発明の実施形態の動作を示すフローチャートである。It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of embodiment of this invention. 本発明の実施形態の制御の様子を示すタイムチャートである。It is a time chart which shows the mode of control of embodiment of this invention. 従来の実施形態の制御の様子を示すタイムチャートである。It is a time chart which shows the mode of control of conventional embodiment.

以下、図面を参照して、本発明に係る画像形成装置及び画像形成制御方法並びに画像形成制御プログラムを実施するための形態（実施形態）を詳細に説明する。
ここでは、画像形成装置の動作説明により、画像形成制御プログラムの制御手順と画像形成制御方法の処理手順についても説明する。 DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, an embodiment (embodiment) for carrying out an image forming apparatus, an image forming control method, and an image forming control program according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.
Here, the control procedure of the image formation control program and the processing procedure of the image formation control method will also be described by explaining the operation of the image forming apparatus.

〔画像形成装置の構成〕
ここで、第一実施形態の電子写真方式の画像形成装置１００のハードウエア構成を、図１に基づいて詳細に説明する。 [Configuration of image forming apparatus]
Here, the hardware configuration of the electrophotographic image forming apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

なお、画像形成装置１００として既知であって、本実施形態の特徴的な動作や制御に直接に関係しない一般的な部分についての説明は省略してある。
図１に示す画像形成装置１００は、全体制御部１０１、操作表示部１０５、プリンタコントローラ１１０、スキャナ１２０、入力画像処理部１３０、画像記憶部１４０、出力画像処理部１５０、給紙部１６０、画像形成部１７０、を備えて構成されている。 Note that descriptions of general parts that are known as the image forming apparatus 100 and are not directly related to the characteristic operations and controls of the present embodiment are omitted.
An image forming apparatus 100 illustrated in FIG. 1 includes an overall control unit 101, an operation display unit 105, a printer controller 110, a scanner 120, an input image processing unit 130, an image storage unit 140, an output image processing unit 150, a paper feeding unit 160, an image A forming unit 170 is provided.

ここで、全体制御部１０１は、画像形成装置１００の各部を制御する。操作表示部１０５は、操作者が各種操作入力を行うと共に各種表示を行う。プリンタコントローラ１１０は、外部からの画像データの供給を受ける。スキャナ１２０は、原稿を読み取って画像データを生成する。入力画像処理部１３０は、入力画像データに対して入力画像処理を施す。画像記憶部１４０は、画像データや各種データを記憶すると共に、画像形成のタイミングに合わせて画像データを読み出す。出力画像処理部１５０は、画像記憶部１４０で読み出された画像データに対して出力画像処理を施す。給紙部１６０は、画像形成のタイミングに合わせて用紙を画像形成部１７０に供給する。画像形成部１７０は、画像データに基づいて用紙上に画像を形成する。 Here, the overall control unit 101 controls each unit of the image forming apparatus 100. The operation display unit 105 performs various operations and displays various operations. The printer controller 110 receives supply of image data from the outside. The scanner 120 reads an original and generates image data. The input image processing unit 130 performs input image processing on the input image data. The image storage unit 140 stores image data and various data, and reads out the image data in accordance with the timing of image formation. The output image processing unit 150 performs output image processing on the image data read by the image storage unit 140. The paper feeding unit 160 supplies paper to the image forming unit 170 in accordance with the timing of image formation. The image forming unit 170 forms an image on a sheet based on the image data.

ここで、全体制御部１０１は、図示しないＣＰＵ（Central Processing Unit）、ＲＯＭ（Read Only Memory）、ＲＡＭ（Random Access Memory）等を備える。ここで、ＣＰＵは、ＲＡＭの所定領域をワークエリアとし、ＲＯＭに記憶されている各種プログラムを実行して、画像形成装置１００の各部を統括的に制御する。 Here, the overall control unit 101 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), and the like (not shown). Here, the CPU uses a predetermined area of the RAM as a work area, executes various programs stored in the ROM, and comprehensively controls each unit of the image forming apparatus 100.

操作表示部１０５は、キーボード、マウス、タッチパネル等の入力デバイスを備え、入力される各種指示信号を全体制御部１０１に送信する。また、操作表示部１０５は、ＬＣＤ（Liquid Crystal Display）やＣＲＴ（Cathode Ray Tube）等の表示手段を備え、全体制御部１０１から入力される各種画像データを表示する。なお、この操作表示部は操作部と表示部が別であってもよいが、表示されたアイコンあるいはキー（以下、「キー」と呼ぶ）を押下するタッチパネルであってもよい。 The operation display unit 105 includes input devices such as a keyboard, a mouse, and a touch panel, and transmits various input instruction signals to the overall control unit 101. The operation display unit 105 includes display means such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) and a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube), and displays various image data input from the overall control unit 101. The operation display unit may be a separate operation unit and display unit, but may be a touch panel that presses a displayed icon or key (hereinafter referred to as “key”).

入力画像処理部１３０は、スキャナ１２０で得られた入力画像データに対して、シェーディング補正、変倍処理、傾き補正処理、色変換（ＲＧＢ→ＹＭＣＫ）などの入力画像処理を施す。なお、入力画像処理部１３０は、プリンタコントローラ１１０経由で得られた入力画像データに対しても、必要に応じて入力画像処理を施す。 The input image processing unit 130 performs input image processing such as shading correction, scaling processing, tilt correction processing, and color conversion (RGB → YMCK) on the input image data obtained by the scanner 120. The input image processing unit 130 also performs input image processing on the input image data obtained via the printer controller 110 as necessary.

画像記憶部１４０は、記憶に関する各種制御を実行するメモリコントローラ１４１、プリンタコントローラ１１０やスキャナ１２０からの画像データを蓄積して不揮発性記憶するＨＤＤ(Hard Disc Drive)１４２、画像形成出力する画像データを展開された状態で一時的に記憶するDRAM(Dynamic Random Access Memory)などで構成された画像メモリ１４３、を備えて構成される。 The image storage unit 140 includes a memory controller 141 that executes various storage-related controls, an HDD (Hard Disc Drive) 142 that stores image data from the printer controller 110 and the scanner 120 and stores them in a nonvolatile manner, and image data to be output for image formation. An image memory 143 composed of a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) or the like that temporarily stores the expanded state is provided.

出力画像処理部１５０は、画像記憶部１４０で記憶された画像データに対して、画像形成に必要なプリンタガンマ変換、誤差拡散処理、微小変倍処理などの出力画像処理を施す。 The output image processing unit 150 performs output image processing such as printer gamma conversion, error diffusion processing, and minute scaling processing necessary for image formation on the image data stored in the image storage unit 140.

給紙部１６０は、画像形成部１７０で画像形成される用紙を収容している。ここで、用紙は、定型サイズの用紙（カット紙）、または、ロール紙等の長尺用紙である。そして、給紙部１６０において、定型サイズの用紙（カット紙）は給紙トレイに収容されており、ロール紙等の長尺用紙は長尺用紙収容部に収容されている。そして、給紙部１６０は、画像形成すべき用紙を画像形成のタイミングに合わせて、カット紙やロール紙を画像形成部１７０に供給する。 The paper feed unit 160 accommodates paper on which an image is formed by the image forming unit 170. Here, the paper is a standard size paper (cut paper) or a long paper such as roll paper. In the paper supply unit 160, standard size paper (cut paper) is stored in a paper supply tray, and long paper such as roll paper is stored in the long paper storage unit. Then, the paper feeding unit 160 supplies cut paper or roll paper to the image forming unit 170 in accordance with the timing of image formation for the paper on which an image is to be formed.

画像形成部１７０は、電子写真方式や各種方式の画像形成部や印刷装置であり、複写機やプリンタやファクシミリ装置などにおいて所定の用紙上に画像を形成して出力する。
また、画像形成部１７０は、エンジン制御部１７１、プリントエンジン１７２、を有して構成される。ここで、エンジン制御部１７１は、図示しないＣＰＵ、ＲＯＭ、ＲＡＭ等を備え、画像形成に関する各種制御を実行する。プリントエンジン１７２は、出力画像処理部１５０から送られてきた画像データに基づいて画像形成を実行する。 The image forming unit 170 is an image forming unit or a printing apparatus of an electrophotographic system or various systems, and forms and outputs an image on a predetermined sheet in a copying machine, a printer, a facsimile machine, or the like.
The image forming unit 170 includes an engine control unit 171 and a print engine 172. Here, the engine control unit 171 includes a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, and the like (not shown), and executes various controls relating to image formation. The print engine 172 executes image formation based on the image data sent from the output image processing unit 150.

また、画像形成制御プログラムが実行される環境としての画像形成装置１００をソフトウエアに着目して表現すると、図２のようになる。この図２に示す構成では、全体制御部Ａ、コントローラ部Ｂ、エンジン部Ｃが含まれる。ここで、全体制御部Ａは、画像形成装置１００の各部を統括的に制御する。コントローラ部Ｂは、記憶に関して各種の制御を実行する。エンジン部Ｃは、所定の用紙上に画像を形成して出力する。 Also, FIG. 2 shows the image forming apparatus 100 as an environment in which the image forming control program is executed with attention focused on software. The configuration shown in FIG. 2 includes an overall control unit A, a controller unit B, and an engine unit C. Here, the overall control unit A comprehensively controls each unit of the image forming apparatus 100. The controller unit B executes various controls regarding storage. The engine unit C forms and outputs an image on a predetermined sheet.

〔画像形成装置の動作〕
以下、画像形成装置１００の動作を説明する。また、画像形成装置１００の動作は、画像形成制御プログラムの制御手順や、画像形成制御方法の処理手順によって実行されるものである。また、全体制御部１０１、メモリコントローラ１４１、エンジン制御部１７１が本実施形態を制御する制御部として作用する。ここでは、図３のフローチャート、図４のタイムチャートも参照して説明する。 [Operation of image forming apparatus]
Hereinafter, the operation of the image forming apparatus 100 will be described. The operation of the image forming apparatus 100 is executed according to the control procedure of the image formation control program and the processing procedure of the image formation control method. The overall control unit 101, the memory controller 141, and the engine control unit 171 function as a control unit that controls the present embodiment. Here, description will be made with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 3 and the time chart of FIG.

図４のタイムチャートにおいて、（ａ）は画像形成部内のプリントエンジンを制御するエンジン制御部１７１、（ｂ）は画像の先端位置を示す先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰ、（ｃ）は用紙の搬送方向（副走査方向）においてカット紙に対して画像を形成可能な領域であることを示す基本有効領域信号、（ｄ）は長尺用紙の搬送方向（副走査方向）において画像を形成可能な領域であることを示す連続有効領域信号、（ｅ）は画像記憶部１４０内で画像メモリ１４３から画像データを読み出すよう制御するメモリコントローラ１４１、（ｆ）は画像記憶部１４０内で画像メモリ１４３から読み出された画像データ、を示している。 4A is an engine control unit 171 that controls the print engine in the image forming unit, FIG. 4B is a front end position signal VTOP that indicates the front end position of the image, and FIG. The basic effective area signal indicating that an image can be formed on a cut sheet in the scanning direction), and (d) is an area in which an image can be formed in the conveyance direction of the long sheet (sub-scanning direction). (E) is a memory controller 141 that controls to read out image data from the image memory 143 in the image storage unit 140, and (f) is read from the image memory 143 in the image storage unit 140. Image data is shown.

なお、有効領域信号（ＶＡＬＩＤ）としては、水平有効領域信号（Ｈ−ＶＡＬＩＤ）と垂直有効領域信号（Ｖ−ＶＡＬＩＤ）とが存在している。しかし、ここでは垂直有効領域信号に着目して説明する。すなわち、単に有効領域信号（ＶＡＬＩＤ）と言った場合に、この実施形態では垂直有効領域信号（Ｖ−ＶＡＬＩＤ）を意味するものとする。ここで垂直方向とは用紙搬送方向、水平方向とは用紙搬送方向とは直交する方向を意味する。 As the effective area signal (VALID), there are a horizontal effective area signal (H-VALID) and a vertical effective area signal (V-VALID). However, the description will be given here focusing on the vertical effective area signal. That is, when the effective area signal (VALID) is simply referred to in this embodiment, it means the vertical effective area signal (V-VALID). Here, the vertical direction means a paper conveyance direction, and the horizontal direction means a direction orthogonal to the paper conveyance direction.

また、先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰは、画像形成を要求する信号でもあるため、画像要求信号と呼ぶこともある。
以下、図４のタイムチャートに従って、画像形成装置１００において従来のカット紙用の制御を活用して、長尺用紙を使用してラベル等を繰り返して画像形成する際の制御を説明する。 Further, the tip position signal VTOP is also a signal requesting image formation, and may be referred to as an image request signal.
Hereinafter, according to the time chart of FIG. 4, the control when the image forming apparatus 100 uses the conventional control for the cut sheet and forms the image repeatedly using the long sheet will be described.

〔初期設定処理〕
長尺用紙を用いた画像形成の開始にあたり、エンジン制御部１７１はメモリコントローラ１４１に対して、長尺での画像形成に関する設定データを送信する（図３中のステップＳ１００、図４中の（ａ）〜（ｅ）間の（０１））。 [Initial setting processing]
At the start of image formation using a long sheet, the engine control unit 171 transmits setting data relating to long-length image formation to the memory controller 141 (step S100 in FIG. 3 and (a in FIG. 4). ) To (e) (01)).

ここで、全体制御部１０１からの指示を受けたエンジン制御部１７１は、長尺用紙の長さを定型サイズの用紙（Ａ３用紙やＡ４用紙など）の何枚分であるかに換算して、定型サイズの用紙相当の制御を所定回数だけ繰り返すようにした設定データを、メモリコントローラ１４１に送信する。 Here, the engine control unit 171 that has received an instruction from the overall control unit 101 converts the length of the long sheet into the number of standard size sheets (A3 sheet, A4 sheet, etc.), Setting data in which control corresponding to a standard size sheet is repeated a predetermined number of times is transmitted to the memory controller 141.

〔基本有効領域信号と連続有効領域信号の発生処理〕
ここで、メモリコントローラ１４１は、画像形成すべき画像データをＨＤＤ１４２から読み出して、画像メモリ１４３にコピーする。この実施形態では、定型サイズの用紙よりも搬送方向の用紙長が長い長尺用紙に、ラベル等を繰り返して画像形成する場合を具体例とする。このため、ラベル用の画像データをＨＤＤ１４２から読み出して画像メモリ１４３にコピーする。従って、メモリコントローラ１４１は、ＨＤＤ１４２から画像メモリ１４３への画像データのコピーが完了した時点で、準備完了通知をエンジン制御部１７１に送信する（図３中のステップＳ２００、図４中の（ｅ）〜（ａ）間の（０２））。 [Generation processing of basic effective area signal and continuous effective area signal]
Here, the memory controller 141 reads out image data to be formed from the HDD 142 and copies it to the image memory 143. In this embodiment, a specific example is a case where an image is formed by repeating a label or the like on a long paper having a paper length in the transport direction longer than that of a standard size paper. Therefore, the label image data is read from the HDD 142 and copied to the image memory 143. Accordingly, the memory controller 141 transmits a preparation completion notice to the engine control unit 171 when the copying of the image data from the HDD 142 to the image memory 143 is completed (step S200 in FIG. 3, (e) in FIG. 4). (02) between to (a)).

エンジン制御部１７１は、長尺用紙が給紙部１６０から給紙されるのに合わせて画像の先端位置を意味する先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰを生成する（図３中のステップＳ１０１、図４中の（ｂ）（１））。ここで、先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰのパルス（図４中の（ｂ）（１））のハッチング部分が、先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰがアクティブであることを示している。 The engine control unit 171 generates a leading edge position signal VTOP indicating the leading edge position of the image as long paper is fed from the paper feeding unit 160 (step S101 in FIG. 3, ( b) (1)). Here, the hatched portion of the pulse of the tip position signal VTOP ((b) (1) in FIG. 4) indicates that the tip position signal VTOP is active.

この実施形態では、エンジン制御部１７１は、画像形成で使用する長尺用紙の長さを全体制御部１０１から取得し、使用する長尺用紙の長さを定型サイズの用紙の何枚分であるかに換算する。そして、エンジン制御部１７１は、定型サイズの用紙枚数に相当する個数分の先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰを発生する。 In this embodiment, the engine control unit 171 acquires the length of the long paper used for image formation from the overall control unit 101, and the length of the long paper used is the number of sheets of standard size. Convert to crab. Then, the engine control unit 171 generates leading edge position signals VTOP corresponding to the number of sheets of a standard size.

そして、エンジン制御部１７１は、この先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰのパルス（図４中の（ｂ）（１）のハッチング部分）をメモリコントローラ１４１に送信する（図３中のステップＳ１０２、図４中の（２））。 Then, the engine control unit 171 transmits the pulse of the tip position signal VTOP (the hatched portion of (b) (1) in FIG. 4) to the memory controller 141 (step S102 in FIG. 3, ( 2)).

メモリコントローラ１４１は、先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰのパルスを受信する（図３中のステップＳ２０１）と、この先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰのパルスを基準にして、基本有効領域信号を発生させる（図３中のステップＳ２０２、図４中の（３））。この基本有効領域信号は、従来のカット紙用の有効領域信号に相当する。 When the memory controller 141 receives the pulse of the tip position signal VTOP (step S201 in FIG. 3), the memory controller 141 generates a basic effective region signal based on the pulse of the tip position signal VTOP (step S202 in FIG. 3). (3) in FIG. This basic effective area signal corresponds to an effective area signal for a conventional cut sheet.

また、メモリコントローラ１４１は、先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰのパルスを受信する（図３中のステップＳ２０１）と、この先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰのパルスが最初の１パルス目であれば、この先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰのパルスをトリガとして、連続有効領域信号を発生させる（図３中のステップＳ２０３、図４中の（３’））。すなわち、メモリコントローラ１４１は、長尺用紙の副走査方向長に対応して連続した状態になる連続有効領域信号を発生させる。ここで、連続有効領域信号（図４（ｄ））の（３’）以降のクロスハッチング部分が、有効領域信号としてアクティブであることを示している。なお、メモリコントローラ１４１は、後述する終了処理が実行されるまでは、この連続有効領域信号として有効な状態を保つようにする。 Further, when the memory controller 141 receives the pulse of the tip position signal VTOP (step S201 in FIG. 3), if the pulse of the tip position signal VTOP is the first pulse, the pulse of the tip position signal VTOP Is used as a trigger to generate a continuous effective area signal (step S203 in FIG. 3, (3 ′) in FIG. 4). That is, the memory controller 141 generates a continuous effective area signal that becomes continuous in accordance with the length of the long sheet in the sub-scanning direction. Here, it is shown that the cross-hatched part after (3 ′) of the continuous effective area signal (FIG. 4D) is active as the effective area signal. Note that the memory controller 141 keeps a valid state as the continuous valid area signal until an end process described later is executed.

〔基本有効領域信号の終了処理〕
ここで、メモリコントローラ１４１は、従来同様に、定型サイズの用紙に相当する副走査方向のライン数のカウントを行っている。そこで、メモリコントローラ１４１は、カウント結果により、定型サイズの用紙末端に相当するタイミング、又は、これに近いタイミングで、従来のカット紙の画像形成装置の制御と同じ状態で、基本有効領域信号を非アクティブ状態にする（図３中のステップＳ２０４でＹＥＳ、図４中の（ｃ）（４））。 [End processing of basic effective area signal]
Here, the memory controller 141 counts the number of lines in the sub-scanning direction corresponding to a standard size sheet, as in the conventional case. Therefore, the memory controller 141 outputs the basic effective area signal in the same state as the control of the image forming apparatus of the conventional cut sheet at the timing corresponding to or close to the end of the standard-size sheet according to the count result. The active state is set (YES in step S204 in FIG. 3, (c) (4) in FIG. 4).

このように基本有効領域信号が非アクティブ状態になっている期間において、メモリコントローラ１４１とエンジン制御部１７１とは、従来からのカット紙用の制御と同じになるように、次の基本有効領域信号を発生させるためのハンドシェーク制御を行う。 Thus, during the period in which the basic effective area signal is in an inactive state, the memory controller 141 and the engine control unit 171 have the same basic effective area signal as the conventional control for cut sheets. Perform handshake control to generate

この基本有効領域信号が非アクティブ状態になっている期間において次の基本有効領域信号を発生させるための制御としては、従来のカット紙の画像形成装置の制御と同じ状態となるように、基本有効領域信号の終了通知、次の基本有効領域信号の設定通知、次の基本有効領域信号の期間における画像データ読み出し準備完了通知、等を含むようにする。 The control for generating the next basic effective area signal during the period in which the basic effective area signal is inactive is basically effective so that the control is the same as the control of the conventional image forming apparatus for cut paper. An end notification of the area signal, a setting notification of the next basic effective area signal, an image data read preparation completion notification in the period of the next basic effective area signal, and the like are included.

すなわち、メモリコントローラ１４１は、基本有効領域信号が非アクティブ状態になると、基本有効領域信号の終了通知をエンジン制御部１７１に送信する（図３中のステップＳ２０５）。 That is, when the basic effective area signal becomes inactive, the memory controller 141 transmits a basic effective area signal end notification to the engine control unit 171 (step S205 in FIG. 3).

この基本有効領域信号の終了通知を受信（図３中のステップＳ１０３）したエンジン制御部１７１は、基本有効領域信号のための次頁設定データを含む設定通知（図４中の（５））を、メモリコントローラ１４１に送信する。なお、本実施形態では長尺用紙に対する連続有効領域信号を別途生成しており（図４（ｄ）（３’）〜）、基本有効領域信号のための次頁設定データは従来のカット紙を用いた制御を擬似的に成立させるためのダミーデータであって構わない。 The engine control unit 171 that has received the notification of the end of the basic effective area signal (step S103 in FIG. 3) receives a setting notification ((5) in FIG. 4) including the next page setting data for the basic effective area signal. To the memory controller 141. In this embodiment, a continuous effective area signal for a long sheet is separately generated (FIG. 4 (d) (3 ′) ˜), and the next page setting data for the basic effective area signal is a conventional cut sheet. It may be dummy data for artificially establishing the control used.

次頁設定データを受信したメモリコントローラ１４１は、準備完了通知をエンジン制御部１７１に送信する（図４中の（６））。なお、本実施形態では長尺用紙に対する連続有効領域信号を別途生成して画像データを読み出しており、この準備完了通知は従来のカット紙を用いた制御を擬似的に成立させるためのダミーデータであって構わない。 The memory controller 141 that has received the next page setting data transmits a preparation completion notification to the engine control unit 171 ((6) in FIG. 4). In this embodiment, a continuous effective area signal for a long sheet is separately generated and image data is read out. This preparation completion notification is dummy data for artificially establishing control using a conventional cut sheet. It does n’t matter.

準備完了通知を受信したエンジン制御部１７１は、先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰの発生個数を確認する（図３中のステップＳ１０４）。前述したように、この実施形態では、エンジン制御部１７１は、使用する長尺用紙の長さを定型サイズの用紙の何枚分であるかに換算して、定型サイズの用紙に相当する枚数分の先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰを発生させるようにしている。 The engine control unit 171 that has received the preparation completion notification checks the number of generated tip position signals VTOP (step S104 in FIG. 3). As described above, in this embodiment, the engine control unit 171 converts the length of the long paper to be used into the number of standard-size paper, and corresponds to the number of standard-size paper. The tip position signal VTOP is generated.

なお、エンジン制御部１７１は、先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰの発生個数をカウンタでカウントしている。この場合、長尺用紙の長さとして、長尺用紙の副走査方向のライン数をカウントするカウンタと比較すると、極めて小規模なカウンタで済ませることが可能である。 The engine control unit 171 counts the number of generated tip position signals VTOP with a counter. In this case, it is possible to use a very small counter as compared with a counter that counts the number of lines in the sub-scanning direction of the long sheet as the length of the long sheet.

例えば、従来は、定型サイズの用紙の用紙長として、副走査方向のライン数（例えば、数千ライン）をカウントしていた。一方、本実施形態では、定型サイズの用紙１枚の大きさに対して、先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰを１カウントする方式である。このため、本実施形態では、大規模ではない通常のカウンタを用いても、定型サイズの用紙の数千倍の長さを有する長尺用紙についての用紙長（即ち、画像形成領域）を管理することが可能になる。 For example, conventionally, the number of lines in the sub-scanning direction (for example, several thousand lines) is counted as the sheet length of a standard size sheet. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, the leading end position signal VTOP is counted by 1 for one standard-size sheet. For this reason, in this embodiment, even when a normal counter that is not large-scale is used, the sheet length (that is, the image forming area) of a long sheet having a length several thousand times that of a standard-sized sheet is managed. It becomes possible.

ここで、先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰの上限値（長尺用紙の長さに対応した定型サイズの用紙に相当する枚数分の個数）を超えていなければ（図３中のステップＳ１０４でＮＯ）、エンジン制御部１７１は、先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰのパルスの立ち上げ（図３中のステップＳ１０１、図４中の（ｂ）（１））以降を繰り返して実行する。 Here, if the upper limit value of the leading edge position signal VTOP (the number of sheets corresponding to the standard size paper corresponding to the length of the long paper) is not exceeded (NO in step S104 in FIG. 3), engine control is performed. The unit 171 repeatedly executes the steps after the rising edge of the tip position signal VTOP (step S101 in FIG. 3, (b) (1) in FIG. 4).

同様に、メモリコントローラ１４１は、アクティブ状態になった先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰ（図４中の（ｂ）（１））を受信する毎に（図３中のステップＳ２０６でＮＯ）、先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰの受信に基づく基本有効領域信号の発生処理（図３中のステップＳ２０１，Ｓ２０２）と、基本有効領域信号の終了処理（図３中のステップＳ２０４でＹＥＳ、Ｓ２０５）とを、繰り返し実行する。 Similarly, every time the memory controller 141 receives the tip position signal VTOP in the active state ((b) (1) in FIG. 4) (NO in step S206 in FIG. 3), the memory controller 141 changes the tip position signal VTOP of the tip position signal VTOP. The basic effective area signal generation process based on reception (steps S201 and S202 in FIG. 3) and the basic effective area signal end process (YES in step S204 in FIG. 3, S205) are repeatedly executed.

〔連続有効領域信号を用いた画像データ読み出しと出力処理〕
メモリコントローラ１４１は、この連続有効領域信号を副走査方向の有効領域信号としてエンジン制御部１７１に送信する（図３中のステップＳ２０７、Ｓ１０５）。 [Reading and outputting image data using continuous effective area signals]
The memory controller 141 transmits this continuous effective area signal as an effective area signal in the sub-scanning direction to the engine control unit 171 (steps S207 and S105 in FIG. 3).

そして、メモリコントローラ１４１は、この連続有効領域信号（図４（ｄ））がアクティブ状態である期間（図４（ｄ）の（３’）以降）において、画像データを画像メモリ１４３から繰り返し読み出し始める（（図３中のステップＳ２０８）、図４中の（ｆ）の（ｆａ））。 Then, the memory controller 141 starts to repeatedly read out the image data from the image memory 143 in a period (after (3 ′) in FIG. 4D) in which the continuous effective area signal (FIG. 4D) is in the active state. ((Step S208 in FIG. 3), (fa) in (f) in FIG. 4).

この実施形態では、連続有効領域信号（図４（ｄ））が長尺用紙に対応して連続してアクティブ状態になっているため、メモリコントローラ１４１は画像データを画像メモリ１４３から読み出す際に、隙間無く連続した状態で読み出すことが可能である。この結果、各画像データの間隔を均一な状態に保つことも可能である。 In this embodiment, since the continuous effective area signal (FIG. 4D) is continuously active corresponding to the long sheet, the memory controller 141 reads the image data from the image memory 143. It is possible to read in a continuous state without a gap. As a result, the intervals between the image data can be kept uniform.

また、このようにして連続有効領域信号に基づいて画像データの読み出しを実行（図４（ｄ），（ｆ））しているのと並行して、基本有効領域信号（図４（ｃ））が非アクティブ状態な期間において従来のカット紙を用いた制御を擬似的に実行している（図４（５），（６））。このため、長尺用紙の副走査方向のライン数をカウントする多ビットの専用カウンタや、長尺用紙に形成する複数の画像を記憶する増設メモリ等を設ける必要がない。 Further, in parallel with the reading of the image data based on the continuous effective area signal (FIGS. 4D and 4F) in this way, the basic effective area signal (FIG. 4C). In the inactive period, the conventional control using the cut sheet is executed in a pseudo manner (FIGS. 4 (5) and (6)). For this reason, there is no need to provide a multi-bit dedicated counter for counting the number of lines in the sub-scanning direction of a long sheet, an additional memory for storing a plurality of images formed on the long sheet, or the like.

以上のようにしてメモリコントローラ１４１の指示により画像メモリ１４３から読み出された画像データは、出力画像処理部１５０で出力用に画像処理され（図３中のステップＳ２０９）、更にプリントエンジン１７２に供給される。そして、プリントエンジン１７２では、給紙部１６０から給紙される長尺用紙に対して、画像メモリ１４３から繰り返し読み出される画像データ（図４（ｆ））に基づいて画像形成を実行する（図３中のステップＳ１０６）。例えば、長尺用紙に対して、読み出される画像データに合わせてラベル等を繰り返して画像形成する。 The image data read from the image memory 143 in accordance with the instruction from the memory controller 141 as described above is subjected to image processing for output by the output image processing unit 150 (step S209 in FIG. 3), and further supplied to the print engine 172. Is done. The print engine 172 executes image formation on the long paper fed from the paper feeding unit 160 based on the image data (FIG. 4F) read repeatedly from the image memory 143 (FIG. 3). Middle step S106). For example, an image is formed on a long sheet by repeating labels and the like according to the read image data.

〔終了処理〕
エンジン制御部１７１は、先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰの発生個数をカウンタでカウントしており、先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰの上限値に達するか否かを認識している。この実施形態で、先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰの上限値とは、長尺用紙の長さに対応した定型サイズの用紙に相当する枚数分の個数を意味する。先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰが上限値に達すれば（図３中のステップＳ１０４でＹＥＳ）、エンジン制御部１７１は、先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰのパルス生成（図３中のステップＳ１０１）を終了する（図３中の（１’））。〔End processing〕
The engine control unit 171 counts the number of generated tip position signals VTOP with a counter, and recognizes whether or not the upper limit value of the tip position signal VTOP is reached. In this embodiment, the upper limit value of the leading edge position signal VTOP means the number of sheets corresponding to the standard size paper corresponding to the length of the long paper. If tip position signal VTOP reaches the upper limit value (YES in step S104 in FIG. 3), engine control unit 171 ends pulse generation of tip position signal VTOP (step S101 in FIG. 3) (in FIG. 3). (1 ')).

メモリコントローラ１４１も先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰの発生個数をカウンタでカウントしている。ここで、先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰの上限値に達すれば（図３中のステップＳ２０６でＹＥＳ）、メモリコントローラ１４１は、基本有効領域信号の発生（図３中のステップＳ２０２）等の処理を終了する（図４中のｃ（３ｂ））。 The memory controller 141 also counts the number of generated tip position signals VTOP with a counter. If the upper limit value of the tip position signal VTOP is reached (YES in step S206 in FIG. 3), the memory controller 141 ends the processing such as generation of a basic effective area signal (step S202 in FIG. 3) ( C (3b) in FIG.

また、先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰの上限値に達すれば（図３中のステップＳ２１０でＹＥＳ）、メモリコントローラ１４１は、連続有効領域信号の生成（図２中のステップＳ２０３）と連続有効領域信号の送信（図２中のステップＳ２０７）と画像データの読み出し（図２中のステップＳ２０８）と出力処理（図２中のステップＳ２０９）とを終了する。ここで、エンジン制御部１７１は、連続有効領域信号を非アクティブ状態にする（図４中のｄ（３”））。 If the upper limit value of the tip position signal VTOP is reached (YES in step S210 in FIG. 3), the memory controller 141 generates a continuous valid area signal (step S203 in FIG. 2) and transmits a continuous valid area signal (step S203 in FIG. 2). Step S207 in FIG. 2, reading of image data (step S208 in FIG. 2), and output processing (step S209 in FIG. 2) are terminated. Here, the engine control unit 171 sets the continuous effective area signal in an inactive state (d (3 ″ in FIG. 4)).

また、メモリコントローラ１４１からの連続有効領域信号が非アクティブ状態になるため（図２中のステップＳ１０７でＹＥＳ）、エンジン制御部１７１は、出力処理としての画像形成（Ｓ１０６）を終了する。 Further, since the continuous effective area signal from the memory controller 141 becomes inactive (YES in step S107 in FIG. 2), the engine control unit 171 ends the image formation (S106) as the output process.

以上のようにして、メモリコントローラ１４１とエンジン制御部１７１とは、長尺用紙を用いた画像形成を終了する（図４（ｆ）の（ｆｂ）、図３中のエンジン制御エンド、メモリコントローラエンド）。 As described above, the memory controller 141 and the engine control unit 171 end the image formation using the long sheet ((fb) in FIG. 4 (f), the engine control end and the memory controller end in FIG. 3). ).

〔他の実施形態（１）〕
この実施形態では、全体制御部１０１は、２．４ｋｍの長尺用紙の全てを用いて画像形成することをエンジン制御部１７１に通知する。また、全体制御部１０１は、同じ大きさで内容（画像形成する文字等）が異なる二種類のラベルＡとラベルＢとを同量プリントすると、メモリコントローラ１４１に通知する。 [Other Embodiment (1)]
In this embodiment, the overall control unit 101 notifies the engine control unit 171 that an image is formed using all the 2.4 km long paper. The overall control unit 101 notifies the memory controller 141 when the same amount of two types of labels A and B having the same size and different contents (characters for image formation, etc.) are printed.

ここで、エンジン制御部１７１は、２．４ｋｍの長尺用紙の全てを画像形成に使用するため、Ａ３サイズのカット紙に換算して５７００個の先端位置信号を発生することを、初期設定としてメモリコントローラ１４１に通知する。 Here, the engine control unit 171 generates 5700 leading edge position signals in terms of A3 size cut paper in order to use all of the 2.4 km long paper for image formation. Notify the memory controller 141.

以上のような通知を受けたメモリコントローラ１４１は、エンジン制御部１７１からの先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰをカウントしつつ、上述した処理を実行する。
ここで、カウント１〜カウント２８５０までは、ラベルＡの画像データを画像メモリ１４３から繰り返し読み出して、出力処理を実行する。 The memory controller 141 that has received the notification as described above executes the above-described processing while counting the tip position signal VTOP from the engine control unit 171.
Here, from count 1 to count 2850, the image data of label A is repeatedly read from the image memory 143, and output processing is executed.

そして、カウント２８５１〜カウント５７００までは、ラベルＢの画像データを画像メモリ１４３から繰り返し読み出して、出力処理を実行する。
この際に、連続有効領域信号はアクティブ状態であり続けるため、メモリコントローラ１４１の処理もエンジン制御部１７１の処理も途切れることはなく、ラベルＡのプリントとラベルＢのプリントが連続した状態で、長尺用紙に形成される。 In counts 2851 to 5700, the image data of label B is repeatedly read from the image memory 143, and output processing is executed.
At this time, since the continuous valid area signal continues to be in the active state, the processing of the memory controller 141 and the processing of the engine control unit 171 are not interrupted, and the label A print and the label B print are continuously performed. It is formed on a scale paper.

なお、以上の先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰの個数は一例であり、また、画像データの種類数も一例であり、ここに示した数値に限定されない。
すなわち、連続有効領域信号に基づいて長尺用紙の画像形成を実行する期間中において、先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰをカウントした結果を参照して、長尺用紙への画像形成を中断することなく、形成する画像を変更することが可能である。 The number of tip position signals VTOP described above is an example, and the number of types of image data is also an example, and is not limited to the numerical values shown here.
That is, the image formation on the long sheet is performed without interruption with reference to the result of counting the leading edge position signal VTOP during the period in which the image formation on the long sheet is executed based on the continuous effective area signal. It is possible to change the image.

〔他の実施形態（２）〕
この実施形態では、全体制御部１０１は、２．４ｋｍの長尺用紙のうちの、１．２ｋｍを用いて画像形成することをエンジン制御部１７１に通知する。 [Other embodiment (2)]
In this embodiment, the overall control unit 101 notifies the engine control unit 171 that an image is formed using 1.2 km of a 2.4 km long sheet.

ここで、エンジン制御部１７１は、１．２ｋｍの長尺用紙の全てを画像形成に使用するため、Ａ３サイズのカット紙に換算して２８５０個の先端位置信号を発生することを、初期設定としてメモリコントローラ１４１に通知する。そして、既に説明したように、図３のフローチャートと図４のタイムチャートに示した手順で、メモリコントローラ１４１とエンジン制御部１７１とがハンドシェーク制御を行いつつ、長尺用紙に画像を形成していく。 Here, the engine controller 171 generates 2850 leading edge position signals converted to A3 size cut sheets in order to use all 1.2 km long sheets for image formation. Notify the memory controller 141. As described above, the memory controller 141 and the engine control unit 171 form an image on a long sheet while performing handshake control according to the procedure shown in the flowchart of FIG. 3 and the time chart of FIG. .

この画像形成を実行中、すなわち、長尺用紙の１．２ｋｍ分の画像形成が完了する前に、全体制御部１０１が、同じ画像データを用いて長尺用紙１２０ｍ分の画像形成を追加すると、メモリコントローラ１４１とエンジン制御部１７１とに通知してきたとする。 When this image formation is being performed, that is, before the image formation for 1.2 km of the long paper is completed, the overall control unit 101 adds the image formation for the long paper 120 m using the same image data. It is assumed that the memory controller 141 and the engine control unit 171 are notified.

この場合、エンジン制御部１７１は、２８５個の先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰの発生を追加し、合計で３１３５個の先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰを生成する。また、メモリコントローラ１４１も３１３５個の先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰに従って、画像データを画像メモリ１４３から繰り返し読み出して、出力処理を実行する。 In this case, the engine control unit 171 adds the generation of 285 tip position signals VTOP, and generates 3135 tip position signals VTOP in total. The memory controller 141 also repeatedly reads out image data from the image memory 143 according to 3135 tip position signals VTOP and executes output processing.

この際に、途中で先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰの発生個数が変更されたとしても、連続有効領域信号はアクティブ状態であり続けるため、メモリコントローラ１４１の処理もエンジン制御部１７１の処理も途切れることはなく、連続した状態で延長された長さの長尺用紙に画像が形成される。 At this time, even if the generation number of the tip position signal VTOP is changed in the middle, the continuous effective area signal remains in the active state, so that the processing of the memory controller 141 and the processing of the engine control unit 171 are not interrupted. An image is formed on a long sheet of paper extended in a continuous state.

また、上述した複数種類の画像データを用いる「他の実施形態（１）」に関して、この延長処理の「他の実施形態（２）」を適用することも可能である。
〔他の実施形態（３）〕
この実施形態では、全体制御部１０１は、２．４ｋｍの長尺用紙の全てを用いて画像形成することをエンジン制御部１７１に通知する。 Further, the “other embodiment (2)” of the extension process can be applied to the “other embodiment (1)” using a plurality of types of image data.
[Other Embodiment (3)]
In this embodiment, the overall control unit 101 notifies the engine control unit 171 that an image is formed using all the 2.4 km long paper.

また、全体制御部１０１は、同じ大きさで内容（画像形成する文字等）が異なる複数種類のラベルＡ（画像データＡ），ラベルＢ（画像データＢ），ラベルＣ（画像データＣ），…を、それぞれ所定量だけプリントすると、メモリコントローラ１４１に通知する。 The overall control unit 101 also has a plurality of types of labels A (image data A), labels B (image data B), labels C (image data C),. Is printed to a predetermined amount, the memory controller 141 is notified.

以上のような通知を受けたメモリコントローラ１４１は、エンジン制御部１７１からの先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰをカウントする際に、画像データＡ用のレジスタＡ、画像データＢ用のレジスタＢ、画像データＣ用のレジスタＣ、…を、用意する。 The memory controller 141 having received the above notification counts the register A for the image data A, the register B for the image data B, and the image data C when counting the tip position signal VTOP from the engine control unit 171. Registers C,... Are prepared.

そして、それぞれの画像データに応じたレジスタを使用して、画像データを画像メモリ１４３から繰り返し読み出して、出力処理を実行する。
この際も、連続有効領域信号はアクティブ状態であり続けるため、メモリコントローラ１４１の処理もエンジン制御部１７１の処理も途切れることはなく、
異なる画像をそれぞれ所定量プリントする際に、プリントが連続した状態で、長尺用紙に形成される。 Then, the image data is repeatedly read from the image memory 143 using a register corresponding to each image data, and an output process is executed.
Also in this case, since the continuous effective area signal continues to be in an active state, neither the processing of the memory controller 141 nor the processing of the engine control unit 171 is interrupted.
When a predetermined amount of each different image is printed, the images are formed on a long sheet in a continuous state.

また、上述した複数種類の画像データを用いる「他の実施形態（１）」や、延長処理の「他の実施形態（２）」に関して、この複数レジスタ使用処理の「他の実施形態（３）」を適用することも可能である。 Further, regarding the “other embodiment (1)” using a plurality of types of image data and the “other embodiment (2)” of the extension process, the “other embodiment (3) of this multiple register use process” is described. It is also possible to apply “”.

〔他の実施形態（４）〕
以上の各実施形態では、エンジン制御部１７１からの最初の先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰに基づいてメモリコントローラ１４１によって連続有効領域信号がアクティブ状態にされ、エンジン制御部１７１が長尺用紙に対応する所定数の先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰを生成し終わることでメモリコントローラ１４１によって連続有効領域信号が非アクティブ状態にされていた。 [Other embodiment (4)]
In each of the above-described embodiments, the continuous valid area signal is activated by the memory controller 141 based on the first tip position signal VTOP from the engine control unit 171, and the engine control unit 171 has a predetermined number corresponding to the long sheet. When the front end position signal VTOP has been generated, the memory controller 141 has deactivated the continuous valid area signal.

但し、これに限定されず、先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰをカウントするカウンタを備え、先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰのカウント結果に基づいて、所定個数の先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰをカウントした時点で連続有効領域信号を非アクティブ状態にしても良い。 However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a counter for counting the tip position signal VTOP is provided. When the predetermined number of tip position signals VTOP are counted based on the count result of the tip position signal VTOP, the continuous effective area signal is in an inactive state. Anyway.

また、長尺用紙の搬送方向用紙長に相当する定型サイズの用紙枚数に対応する期間がセットされたタイマの結果を受けたメモリコントローラ１４１側で、連続有効領域信号を終了させるように制御しても良い。 Further, the memory controller 141 that receives the result of the timer in which the period corresponding to the number of sheets of the standard size corresponding to the sheet length in the conveyance direction of the long sheet is controlled to end the continuous effective area signal. Also good.

〔実施形態により得られる効果〕
（１）カット紙に画像を形成する画像形成装置において長尺用紙を用いてプリントする際に、定型サイズの用紙の制御を実行しつつ、連続有効領域信号に基づいて画像データを読み出して画像を形成することで、長尺用紙用の専用の制御をせずに従来と同じ制御手順を用いて、効率良く画像形成することが可能になる。 [Effect obtained by the embodiment]
(1) When printing using a long sheet in an image forming apparatus that forms an image on a cut sheet, image data is read out based on a continuous effective area signal while executing control of a standard size sheet. By forming the image, it is possible to efficiently form an image using the same control procedure as before without performing a dedicated control for long paper.

すなわち、従来のカット紙用の画像形成装置で、長尺用紙について副走査方向のライン数をカウントする多ビットのカウンタ等を設けることなく、長尺用紙を用いてラベル等を繰り返しプリントする際に、制御信号を授受するハンドシェーク制御を擬似的に実行するようにしている。 That is, when a conventional image forming apparatus for cut paper repeatedly prints labels or the like using long paper without providing a multi-bit counter or the like for counting the number of lines in the sub-scanning direction for long paper. The handshake control for exchanging control signals is executed in a pseudo manner.

このため、画像形成装置の制御手順も従来のままでよい。また、ラベル等の印刷物の間隔を、均一な状態に揃えることができるようになる。この場合、無駄な間隔が生じないため、その間隔分の生産性低下の問題も解消でき、効率が向上する。 For this reason, the control procedure of the image forming apparatus may be the same as before. In addition, it is possible to make the intervals between printed materials such as labels uniform. In this case, since a useless interval does not occur, the problem of a decrease in productivity for the interval can be solved, and the efficiency is improved.

また、長尺用紙に画像形成する画像データを記憶する画像メモリについても、ラベル印刷等の場合には、同じ画像データを繰り返し読み出すことができるため、通常の画像形成装置に対して増設メモリを設ける必要はない。 Further, an image memory for storing image data for image formation on long paper can be repeatedly read out in the case of label printing or the like, so an additional memory is provided for a normal image forming apparatus. There is no need.

（２）上記（１）において、長尺用紙の副走査方向のライン数を多ビットのカウンタでカウントするのではなく、画像要求信号（先端位置信号ＶＴＯＰ）の個数をカウンタでカウントし、長尺用紙の搬送方向用紙長に相当する定型サイズの用紙枚数に対応する画像要求信号が前記カウンタによりカウントされた時点で、連続有効領域信号を終了させるよう制御している。すなわち、カット紙に画像を形成する画像形成装置において長尺用紙を用いてプリントする際に、長尺用紙用の専用の制御をせずに長尺用紙を適切に使用することが可能になり、効率良く画像形成することが可能になる。 (2) In the above (1), the number of lines in the sub-scanning direction of the long sheet is not counted by the multi-bit counter, but the number of image request signals (tip position signal VTOP) is counted by the counter. When the image request signal corresponding to the number of sheets of a standard size corresponding to the sheet length in the sheet conveyance direction is counted by the counter, the continuous effective area signal is controlled to end. That is, when printing using long paper in an image forming apparatus that forms an image on cut paper, it becomes possible to appropriately use long paper without performing dedicated control for long paper, An image can be formed efficiently.

（３）上記（１）において、定型サイズの用紙に対する画像要求信号の生成と、画像要求信号に基づく定型サイズの用紙に対応した基本有効領域信号の生成と、基本有効領域信号の終了に応じた終了通知の生成とについて、長尺用紙の搬送方向用紙長に相当する定型サイズの用紙枚数に対応する期間がセットされたタイマによって連続有効領域信号を終了させるまで、繰り返して実行するように制御している。すなわち、カット紙に画像を形成する画像形成装置において長尺用紙を用いてプリントする際に、長尺用紙の画像形成と並行して定型サイズの用紙の制御を実行しているため、長尺用紙用の専用の制御をせずに従来と同じ制御手順を用いて、効率良く画像形成することが可能になる。 (3) In the above (1), the generation of the image request signal for the standard size paper, the generation of the basic effective area signal corresponding to the standard size paper based on the image request signal, and the end of the basic effective area signal The generation of the end notification is controlled to be repeatedly executed until the continuous valid area signal is ended by a timer in which a period corresponding to the number of sheets of a standard size corresponding to the sheet length in the conveyance direction of the long sheet is set. ing. That is, when printing using a long sheet in an image forming apparatus that forms an image on a cut sheet, control of a standard size sheet is executed in parallel with the image formation of the long sheet. Therefore, it is possible to efficiently form an image by using the same control procedure as before without performing dedicated control.

（４）上記（１）〜（３）において、定型サイズの用紙に対する画像要求信号の生成と、画像要求信号に基づく定型サイズの用紙に対応した基本有効領域信号の生成と、基本有効領域信号の終了に応じた終了通知の生成とについて、長尺用紙の画像形成を実行する期間中において、定型サイズの用紙における画像形成の制御と同じ手順で実行している。すなわち、カット紙に画像を形成する画像形成装置において長尺用紙を用いてプリントする際に、長尺用紙の画像形成と並行して定型サイズの用紙の制御を実行しているため、長尺用紙用の専用の制御をせずに従来と同じ制御手順を用いて、効率良く画像形成することが可能になる。 (4) In the above (1) to (3), the generation of the image request signal for the standard size paper, the generation of the basic effective area signal corresponding to the standard size paper based on the image request signal, and the basic effective area signal The generation of the end notification corresponding to the end is performed in the same procedure as the image formation control on the standard size paper during the period in which the image formation on the long paper is executed. That is, when printing using a long sheet in an image forming apparatus that forms an image on a cut sheet, control of a standard size sheet is executed in parallel with the image formation of the long sheet. Therefore, it is possible to efficiently form an image by using the same control procedure as before without performing dedicated control.

（５）上記（１）〜（４）において、連続有効領域信号に基づいて長尺用紙の画像形成を実行する期間中において、画像要求信号をカウントし、該カウント結果を参照して、長尺用紙への画像形成を中断することなく、形成する画像を変更するよう制御している。すなわち、カット紙に画像を形成する画像形成装置において長尺用紙を用いてプリントする際に、長尺用紙用の専用の制御をせずに長尺用紙を適切に使用し、画像形成を中断せずに別の画像の画像形成に切り換えることが可能になり、効率良く画像形成することが可能になる。 (5) In the above (1) to (4), the image request signal is counted during the period in which image formation of the long paper is executed based on the continuous effective area signal, and the long paper is referred to by the count result. Control is performed to change the image to be formed without interrupting image formation on the paper. That is, when printing using long paper in an image forming apparatus that forms an image on cut paper, the long paper is appropriately used without special control for the long paper, and image formation is interrupted. Therefore, it is possible to switch to the image formation of another image without forming the image efficiently.

（６）上記（１）〜（５）において、連続有効領域信号に基づいて長尺用紙の画像形成を実行する期間中における延長指示を受けた場合、前記画像要求信号をカウントした結果と前記延長指示とに応じて、長尺用紙への画像形成を中断することなく、連続有効領域信号の発生期間を延長するよう制御している。すなわち、カット紙に画像を形成する画像形成装置において長尺用紙を用いてプリントする際に、長尺用紙用の専用の制御をせずに長尺用紙を適切に使用し、画像形成を中断せずに画像形成を延長することが可能になり、効率良く画像形成することが可能になる。 (6) In the above (1) to (5), when an extension instruction is received during the period of image formation of a long sheet based on the continuous effective area signal, the result of counting the image request signal and the extension In response to the instruction, control is performed to extend the generation period of the continuous effective area signal without interrupting image formation on the long sheet. That is, when printing using long paper in an image forming apparatus that forms an image on cut paper, the long paper is appropriately used without special control for the long paper, and image formation is interrupted. Therefore, it is possible to extend the image formation without efficiently forming the image.

（７）上記（１）〜（６）において、連続有効領域信号に基づいて前記長尺用紙の画像形成を実行する期間中において、複数の異なる画像用に前記画像要求信号をそれぞれカウンタでカウントし、それぞれのカウント結果を参照して、複数の異なる画像を形成するよう制御する。すなわち、カット紙に画像を形成する画像形成装置において長尺用紙を用いてプリントする際に、長尺用紙用の専用の制御をせずに長尺用紙を適切に使用し、画像形成を中断せずに、複数の異なる画像の画像形成を必要な個数や領域に実行することができ、効率良く画像形成することが可能になる。 (7) In the above (1) to (6), the image request signal is counted for each of a plurality of different images by a counter during a period in which image formation of the long paper is executed based on a continuous effective area signal. Referring to each count result, control is performed to form a plurality of different images. That is, when printing using long paper in an image forming apparatus that forms an image on cut paper, the long paper is appropriately used without special control for the long paper, and image formation is interrupted. In addition, image formation of a plurality of different images can be performed in a necessary number and area, and image formation can be performed efficiently.

〔実施形態の変形例〕
以上の実施形態では、メモリコントローラ１４１とエンジン制御部１７１との間で各種の制御を行うようにしていたが、ここに示された部位や名称は一例であって、これに限定されるものではない。 [Modification of Embodiment]
In the above embodiment, various controls are performed between the memory controller 141 and the engine control unit 171. However, the parts and names shown here are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited thereto. Absent.

すなわち、有効領域信号を生成し、画像メモリからの画像データを読み出し、読み出された画像データにより画像形成をする各種の部位で、本実施形態を適用することが可能である。 That is, the present embodiment can be applied to various parts that generate an effective area signal, read image data from the image memory, and form an image using the read image data.

例えば、メモリコントローラ１４１とエンジン制御部１７１とが１つのプロセッサで実現されている場合であっても、また、メモリコントローラ１４１とエンジン制御部１７１とが異なる名称の制御部で実現されている場合であっても、本実施形態を適用することが可能である。 For example, even when the memory controller 141 and the engine control unit 171 are realized by a single processor, or when the memory controller 141 and the engine control unit 171 are realized by control units having different names. Even if it exists, it is possible to apply this embodiment.

また、以上のように動作手順に従って各部を制御する画像形成制御プログラムも本実施形態に含まれる。
また、本実施形態は、長尺用紙の副走査方向のライン数をカウントすることで用紙長を管理するための多ビットの専用カウンタや、長尺用紙に画像形成する画像データを記憶する増設メモリについて、設ける必要はない。このため、従来の画像形成装置に対して、本実施形態の画像形成制御プログラムをインストールすることで、上述した動作を行えるようになる。 In addition, an image forming control program for controlling each unit according to the operation procedure as described above is also included in the present embodiment.
In the present embodiment, a multi-bit dedicated counter for managing the sheet length by counting the number of lines in the sub-scanning direction of the long sheet, and an additional memory for storing image data for image formation on the long sheet Need not be provided. For this reason, the above-described operation can be performed by installing the image forming control program of the present embodiment in the conventional image forming apparatus.

１００画像形成装置
１０１全体制御部
１０５操作部
１１０プリントコントローラ
１２０スキャナ
１３０入力画像処理部
１４０画像記憶部
１４１メモリコントローラ
１４２ＨＤＤ
１４３画像メモリ
１５０出力画像処理部
１６０給紙部
１７０画像形成部 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Image forming apparatus 101 Overall control part 105 Operation part 110 Print controller 120 Scanner 130 Input image processing part 140 Image storage part 141 Memory controller 142 HDD
143 Image memory 150 Output image processing unit 160 Paper feeding unit 170 Image forming unit

Claims

An image request signal for requesting image formation on each fixed-size sheet is generated, and an effective area signal corresponding to the sheet length in the conveyance direction of the sheet is generated for each sheet in response to the image request signal, An image forming apparatus including a control unit that controls to read out image data based on an effective area signal and form an image,
The controller is
When forming an image using a long paper having a paper length in the transport direction longer than that of the standard size paper,
Generation of an image request signal for a standard size paper, generation of a basic effective area signal corresponding to the standard size paper based on the image request signal, and generation of an end notification in response to the end of the basic effective area signal Control to repeat,
A continuous effective area signal in a continuous state corresponding to the long paper is generated using the image request signal at the start of image formation on the long paper as a trigger,
Been made to control to read out the image data to the image formed on the long sheet based on the continuous effective area signal,
Generation of an image request signal for a standard size sheet, generation of a basic effective area signal corresponding to the standard size sheet based on the image request signal, and generation of an end notification in response to the end of the basic effective area signal The continuous effective area signal is controlled to be repeatedly executed by a timer in which a period corresponding to the number of sheets of the standard size corresponding to the sheet length in the conveyance direction of the long sheet is set.
An image forming apparatus.

An image request signal for requesting image formation on each fixed-size sheet is generated, and an effective area signal corresponding to the sheet length in the conveyance direction of the sheet is generated for each sheet in response to the image request signal, An image forming apparatus including a control unit that controls to read out image data based on an effective area signal and form an image,
The controller is
When forming an image using a long paper having a paper length in the transport direction longer than that of the standard size paper,
Generation of an image request signal for a standard size paper, generation of a basic effective area signal corresponding to the standard size paper based on the image request signal, and generation of an end notification in response to the end of the basic effective area signal Control to repeat,
A continuous effective area signal in a continuous state corresponding to the long paper is generated using the image request signal at the start of image formation on the long paper as a trigger,
Control to read out image data based on the continuous effective area signal and form an image on the long sheet,
Generation of an image request signal for a standard size sheet, generation of a basic effective area signal corresponding to the standard size sheet based on the image request signal, and generation of an end notification in response to the end of the basic effective area signal In the period for executing the image formation on the long paper, the same procedure as the image formation control on the standard size paper is executed.
An image forming apparatus.

An image request signal for requesting image formation on each fixed-size sheet is generated, and an effective area signal corresponding to the sheet length in the conveyance direction of the sheet is generated for each sheet in response to the image request signal, An image forming apparatus including a control unit that controls to read out image data based on an effective area signal and form an image,
The controller is
When forming an image using a long paper having a paper length in the transport direction longer than that of the standard size paper,
Generation of an image request signal for a standard size paper, generation of a basic effective area signal corresponding to the standard size paper based on the image request signal, and generation of an end notification in response to the end of the basic effective area signal Control to repeat,
A continuous effective area signal in a continuous state corresponding to the long paper is generated using the image request signal at the start of image formation on the long paper as a trigger,
Control to read out image data based on the continuous effective area signal and form an image on the long sheet,
The image request signal is counted by a counter during a period in which image formation of the long paper is executed based on the continuous effective area signal, and image formation on the long paper is interrupted with reference to the count result Control to change the image to be formed without
An image forming apparatus.

An image request signal for requesting image formation on each fixed-size sheet is generated, and an effective area signal corresponding to the sheet length in the conveyance direction of the sheet is generated for each sheet in response to the image request signal, An image forming apparatus including a control unit that controls to read out image data based on an effective area signal and form an image,
The controller is
When forming an image using a long paper having a paper length in the transport direction longer than that of the standard size paper,
Generation of an image request signal for a standard size paper, generation of a basic effective area signal corresponding to the standard size paper based on the image request signal, and generation of an end notification in response to the end of the basic effective area signal Control to repeat,
A continuous effective area signal in a continuous state corresponding to the long paper is generated using the image request signal at the start of image formation on the long paper as a trigger,
Control to read out image data based on the continuous effective area signal and form an image on the long sheet,
When receiving an extension instruction during image formation of the long sheet based on the continuous effective area signal, the image request signal is counted by a counter, and according to the count result and the extension instruction, Control to extend the generation period of the continuous effective area signal without interrupting image formation on the long paper;
An image forming apparatus.

An image request signal for requesting image formation on each fixed-size sheet is generated, and an effective area signal corresponding to the sheet length in the conveyance direction of the sheet is generated for each sheet in response to the image request signal, An image forming apparatus including a control unit that controls to read out image data based on an effective area signal and form an image,
The controller is
When forming an image using a long paper having a paper length in the transport direction longer than that of the standard size paper,
Generation of an image request signal for a standard size paper, generation of a basic effective area signal corresponding to the standard size paper based on the image request signal, and generation of an end notification in response to the end of the basic effective area signal Control to repeat,
A continuous effective area signal in a continuous state corresponding to the long paper is generated using the image request signal at the start of image formation on the long paper as a trigger,
Control to read out image data based on the continuous effective area signal and form an image on the long sheet,
The image request signal for each of a plurality of different images is counted by a counter during a period in which image formation of the long sheet is performed based on the continuous effective area signal, and a plurality of images are referred to by referring to each count result. Control to form different images,
An image forming apparatus.

A counter for counting the image request signal;
The control unit controls to end the continuous effective area signal when the image request signal corresponding to the number of sheets of the standard size corresponding to the sheet length in the conveyance direction of the long sheet is counted by the counter. To
The image forming apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the image forming apparatus is an image forming apparatus.

The controller is
Generation of an image request signal for a standard size sheet, generation of a basic effective area signal corresponding to the standard size sheet based on the image request signal, and generation of an end notification in response to the end of the basic effective area signal ,
Control is performed repeatedly until the continuous effective area signal is terminated by a timer in which a period corresponding to the number of sheets of the standard size corresponding to the sheet length in the conveyance direction of the long sheet is set.
The image forming apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the image forming apparatus is an image forming apparatus.

The controller is
Generation of an image request signal for a standard size sheet, generation of a basic effective area signal corresponding to the standard size sheet based on the image request signal, and generation of an end notification in response to the end of the basic effective area signal ,
During the period of executing the image formation of the long paper, the same procedure as the image formation control on the standard size paper is executed.
Image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that.

The controller is
During a period of executing image formation of the long sheet based on the continuous effective area signal,
The image request signal is counted by a counter, and the count result is referred to, and control is performed to change an image to be formed without interrupting image formation on the long sheet.
The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 4 to 5, characterized in that.

The controller is
When receiving an extension instruction during a period of executing image formation of the long paper based on the continuous effective area signal,
The image request signal is counted by a counter, and control is performed to extend the generation period of the continuous effective area signal without interrupting image formation on the long sheet according to the count result and the extension instruction. ,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 5 .

Generating an image request signal for requesting the image formation on each sheet of constant type size, the effective area signal corresponding to the sheet length in the conveying direction of the sheet in response to the image request signal generated for each of the paper, An image formation control method for controlling an image forming apparatus including a control unit that controls to read out image data based on the effective area signal and form an image,
When forming an image using a long paper having a paper length in the transport direction longer than that of the standard size paper,
Generation of an image request signal for a standard size paper, generation of a basic effective area signal corresponding to the standard size paper based on the image request signal, and generation of an end notification in response to the end of the basic effective area signal Control to repeat,
A continuous effective area signal in a continuous state corresponding to the long paper is generated using the image request signal at the start of image formation on the long paper as a trigger,
Been made to control to read out the image data to the image formed on the long sheet based on the continuous effective area signal,
Generation of an image request signal for a standard size sheet, generation of a basic effective area signal corresponding to the standard size sheet based on the image request signal, and generation of an end notification in response to the end of the basic effective area signal ,
Control is performed repeatedly until the continuous effective area signal is terminated by a timer in which a period corresponding to the number of sheets of the standard size corresponding to the sheet length in the conveyance direction of the long sheet is set.
An image formation control method characterized by the above.

An image request signal for requesting image formation on each fixed-size sheet is generated, and an effective area signal corresponding to the sheet length in the conveyance direction of the sheet is generated for each sheet in response to the image request signal, An image formation control method for controlling an image forming apparatus including a control unit that controls to read out image data based on an effective area signal and form an image,
When forming an image using a long paper having a paper length in the transport direction longer than that of the standard size paper,
Generation of an image request signal for a standard size paper, generation of a basic effective area signal corresponding to the standard size paper based on the image request signal, and generation of an end notification in response to the end of the basic effective area signal Control to repeat,
A continuous effective area signal in a continuous state corresponding to the long paper is generated using the image request signal at the start of image formation on the long paper as a trigger,
Control to read out image data based on the continuous effective area signal and form an image on the long sheet ,
Generation of an image request signal for a standard size sheet, generation of a basic effective area signal corresponding to the standard size sheet based on the image request signal, and generation of an end notification in response to the end of the basic effective area signal ,
During the period of executing the image formation of the long paper, the same procedure as the image formation control on the standard size paper is executed.
An image formation control method characterized by the above.

An image request signal for requesting image formation on each fixed-size sheet is generated, and an effective area signal corresponding to the sheet length in the conveyance direction of the sheet is generated for each sheet in response to the image request signal, An image formation control method for controlling an image forming apparatus including a control unit that controls to read out image data based on an effective area signal and form an image,
When forming an image using a long paper having a paper length in the transport direction longer than that of the standard size paper,
Generation of an image request signal for a standard size paper, generation of a basic effective area signal corresponding to the standard size paper based on the image request signal, and generation of an end notification in response to the end of the basic effective area signal Control to repeat,
A continuous effective area signal in a continuous state corresponding to the long paper is generated using the image request signal at the start of image formation on the long paper as a trigger,
Control to read out image data based on the continuous effective area signal and form an image on the long sheet ,
The image request signal is counted by a counter during a period in which image formation of the long paper is executed based on the continuous effective area signal, and image formation on the long paper is interrupted with reference to the count result Control to change the image to be formed without
An image formation control method characterized by the above.

An image request signal for requesting image formation on each fixed-size sheet is generated, and an effective area signal corresponding to the sheet length in the conveyance direction of the sheet is generated for each sheet in response to the image request signal, An image formation control method for controlling an image forming apparatus including a control unit that controls to read out image data based on an effective area signal and form an image,
When forming an image using a long paper having a paper length in the transport direction longer than that of the standard size paper,
Generation of an image request signal for a standard size paper, generation of a basic effective area signal corresponding to the standard size paper based on the image request signal, and generation of an end notification in response to the end of the basic effective area signal Control to repeat,
A continuous effective area signal in a continuous state corresponding to the long paper is generated using the image request signal at the start of image formation on the long paper as a trigger,
Control to read out image data based on the continuous effective area signal and form an image on the long sheet ,
When receiving an extension instruction during a period of executing image formation of the long paper based on the continuous effective area signal,
The image request signal is counted by a counter, and control is performed to extend the generation period of the continuous effective area signal without interrupting image formation on the long sheet according to the count result and the extension instruction. ,
An image formation control method characterized by the above.

An image request signal for requesting image formation on each fixed-size sheet is generated, and an effective area signal corresponding to the sheet length in the conveyance direction of the sheet is generated for each sheet in response to the image request signal, An image formation control method for controlling an image forming apparatus including a control unit that controls to read out image data based on an effective area signal and form an image,
When forming an image using a long paper having a paper length in the transport direction longer than that of the standard size paper,
Generation of an image request signal for a standard size paper, generation of a basic effective area signal corresponding to the standard size paper based on the image request signal, and generation of an end notification in response to the end of the basic effective area signal Control to repeat,
A continuous effective area signal in a continuous state corresponding to the long paper is generated using the image request signal at the start of image formation on the long paper as a trigger,
Control to read out image data based on the continuous effective area signal and form an image on the long sheet ,
The image request signal for each of a plurality of different images is counted by a counter during a period in which image formation of the long paper is performed based on the continuous effective area signal, and a plurality of images are referred to by referring to the respective count results. Control to form different images,
An image formation control method characterized by the above.

The image request signal is counted by a counter,
Control to end the continuous effective area signal when the image request signal corresponding to the number of sheets of the standard size corresponding to the sheet length in the conveyance direction of the long sheet is counted by the counter;
The image formation control method according to claim 12, wherein the image formation control method is any one of the following .

Generation of an image request signal for a standard size sheet, generation of a basic effective area signal corresponding to the standard size sheet based on the image request signal, and generation of an end notification in response to the end of the basic effective area signal ,
Control is performed repeatedly until the continuous effective area signal is terminated by a timer in which a period corresponding to the number of sheets of the standard size corresponding to the sheet length in the conveyance direction of the long sheet is set.
The image formation control method according to claim 12, wherein the image formation control method is any one of the following .

Generation of an image request signal for a standard size sheet, generation of a basic effective area signal corresponding to the standard size sheet based on the image request signal, and generation of an end notification in response to the end of the basic effective area signal ,
During the period of executing the image formation of the long paper, the same procedure as the image formation control on the standard size paper is executed.
16. The image formation control method according to claim 13, wherein the image formation control method is any one of claims 13 to 15 .

The image request signal is counted by a counter during a period in which image formation of the long paper is executed based on the continuous effective area signal, and image formation on the long paper is interrupted with reference to the count result Control to change the image to be formed without
16. The image formation control method according to claim 14, wherein the image formation control method is any one of the above.

When receiving an extension instruction during a period of executing image formation of the long paper based on the continuous effective area signal,
The image request signal is counted by a counter, and control is performed to extend the generation period of the continuous effective area signal without interrupting image formation on the long sheet according to the count result and the extension instruction. ,
The image formation control method according to claim 15 .

An image request signal for requesting image formation on each fixed-size sheet is generated, and an effective area signal corresponding to the sheet length in the conveyance direction of the sheet is generated for each sheet in response to the image request signal, An image formation control program for controlling an image forming apparatus including a control unit that controls to read out image data based on an effective area signal and form an image,
When forming an image using a long paper having a paper length in the transport direction longer than that of the standard size paper,
Generation of an image request signal for a standard size paper, generation of a basic effective area signal corresponding to the standard size paper based on the image request signal, and generation of an end notification in response to the end of the basic effective area signal Control to repeat,
A continuous effective area signal in a continuous state corresponding to the long paper is generated using the image request signal at the start of image formation on the long paper as a trigger,
Image data is read based on the continuous effective area signal to form an image on the long paper.
When making a computer function as,
The control unit generates an image request signal for a standard size paper, generates a basic effective area signal corresponding to the standard size paper based on the image request signal, and finishes in response to the end of the basic effective area signal About generating notifications
The computer is controlled to be repeatedly executed until the continuous effective area signal is terminated by a timer in which a period corresponding to the number of sheets of the standard size corresponding to the sheet length in the conveyance direction of the long sheet is set. Make it work,
An image formation control program.

An image request signal for requesting image formation on each fixed-size sheet is generated, and an effective area signal corresponding to the sheet length in the conveyance direction of the sheet is generated for each sheet in response to the image request signal, An image formation control program for controlling an image forming apparatus including a control unit that controls to read out image data based on an effective area signal and form an image,
When forming an image using a long paper having a paper length in the transport direction longer than that of the standard size paper,
Generation of an image request signal for a standard size paper, generation of a basic effective area signal corresponding to the standard size paper based on the image request signal, and generation of an end notification in response to the end of the basic effective area signal Control to repeat,
A continuous effective area signal in a continuous state corresponding to the long paper is generated using the image request signal at the start of image formation on the long paper as a trigger,
Image data is read based on the continuous effective area signal to form an image on the long paper.
To make the computer work
The control unit generates an image request signal for a standard size paper, generates a basic effective area signal corresponding to the standard size paper based on the image request signal, and finishes in response to the end of the basic effective area signal About generating notifications
Causing the computer to function in the same procedure as the image formation control on the standard-size paper during the image formation on the long paper.
An image formation control program.

An image request signal for requesting image formation on each fixed-size sheet is generated, and an effective area signal corresponding to the sheet length in the conveyance direction of the sheet is generated for each sheet in response to the image request signal, An image formation control program for controlling an image forming apparatus including a control unit that controls to read out image data based on an effective area signal and form an image,
When forming an image using a long paper having a paper length in the transport direction longer than that of the standard size paper,
Generation of an image request signal for a standard size paper, generation of a basic effective area signal corresponding to the standard size paper based on the image request signal, and generation of an end notification in response to the end of the basic effective area signal Control to repeat,
A continuous effective area signal in a continuous state corresponding to the long paper is generated using the image request signal at the start of image formation on the long paper as a trigger,
Image data is read based on the continuous effective area signal to form an image on the long paper.
To make the computer work
The control unit counts the image request signal during a period in which image formation of the long paper is executed based on the continuous effective area signal, and refers to the count result to output an image on the long paper. Make the computer function to change the image to be formed without interrupting the formation,
An image formation control program.

An image request signal for requesting image formation on each fixed-size sheet is generated, and an effective area signal corresponding to the sheet length in the conveyance direction of the sheet is generated for each sheet in response to the image request signal, An image formation control program for controlling an image forming apparatus including a control unit that controls to read out image data based on an effective area signal and form an image,
When forming an image using a long paper having a paper length in the transport direction longer than that of the standard size paper,
Generation of an image request signal for a standard size paper, generation of a basic effective area signal corresponding to the standard size paper based on the image request signal, and generation of an end notification in response to the end of the basic effective area signal Control to repeat,
A continuous effective area signal in a continuous state corresponding to the long paper is generated using the image request signal at the start of image formation on the long paper as a trigger,
Image data is read based on the continuous effective area signal to form an image on the long paper.
To make the computer work
The control unit, when receiving an extension instruction during the period of image formation of the long paper based on the continuous effective area signal, according to the result of counting the image request signal and the extension instruction, Causing the computer to function to extend the generation period of the continuous effective area signal without interrupting image formation on the long paper;
An image formation control program.

An image request signal for requesting image formation on each fixed-size sheet is generated, and an effective area signal corresponding to the sheet length in the conveyance direction of the sheet is generated for each sheet in response to the image request signal, An image formation control program for controlling an image forming apparatus including a control unit that controls to read out image data based on an effective area signal and form an image,
When forming an image using a long paper having a paper length in the transport direction longer than that of the standard size paper,
Generation of an image request signal for a standard size paper, generation of a basic effective area signal corresponding to the standard size paper based on the image request signal, and generation of an end notification in response to the end of the basic effective area signal Control to repeat,
A continuous effective area signal in a continuous state corresponding to the long paper is generated using the image request signal at the start of image formation on the long paper as a trigger,
Image data is read based on the continuous effective area signal to form an image on the long paper.
To make the computer work
The control unit counts the image request signal for each of a plurality of different images by a counter during a period of executing image formation of the long sheet based on the continuous effective area signal, and refers to each count result And let the computer function to form multiple different images,
An image formation control program.

When the image request signal is counted by the counter, and the image request signal corresponding to the number of sheets of the standard size corresponding to the sheet length in the conveyance direction of the long sheet is counted by the counter, the control unit Causing the computer to function to terminate the continuous valid area signal;
The image formation control program according to any one of claims 22 to 25, wherein:

The control unit generates an image request signal for a standard size paper, generates a basic effective area signal corresponding to the standard size paper based on the image request signal, and finishes in response to the end of the basic effective area signal About generating notifications
The computer is controlled to be repeatedly executed until the continuous effective area signal is terminated by a timer in which a period corresponding to the number of sheets of the standard size corresponding to the sheet length in the conveyance direction of the long sheet is set. Make it work,
The image formation control program according to any one of claims 22 to 25, wherein:

The control unit generates an image request signal for a standard size paper, generates a basic effective area signal corresponding to the standard size paper based on the image request signal, and finishes in response to the end of the basic effective area signal About generating notifications
Causing the computer to function in the same procedure as the image formation control on the standard-size paper during the image formation on the long paper.
The image formation control program according to any one of claims 23 to 25 , wherein:

The control unit counts the image request signal during a period in which image formation of the long paper is executed based on the continuous effective area signal, and refers to the count result to output an image on the long paper. Make the computer function to change the image to be formed without interrupting the formation,
The image formation control program according to any one of claims 24 to 25 , wherein

The control unit, when receiving an extension instruction during the period of image formation of the long paper based on the continuous effective area signal, according to the result of counting the image request signal and the extension instruction, Causing the computer to function to extend the generation period of the continuous effective area signal without interrupting image formation on the long paper;
26. The image formation control program according to claim 25 .