JP6624037B2 - Image forming device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus that can read a document.

  An image forming apparatus such as a printer, a multifunction peripheral, a copying machine, or a facsimile machine may be provided with a display panel. The preview image may be displayed on the display panel. The preview image is an image indicating an output result (finish). The preview image is displayed based on the setting of the user. The preview image allows the user to confirm whether a desired result can be obtained before starting output such as printing. Patent Literature 1 describes an example of a technique relating to a preview image.

  Specifically, Patent Literature 1 includes a display device and an input device that receives an operation of a user, performs image processing on first image data according to user settings to generate second image data, and outputs the second image data before output. A preview display is performed on the display device, first preview image data is generated from the first image data, the first preview image is displayed on the display device based on the generated first preview image data, and the first preview image is displayed. Then, second preview image data corresponding to the second image data is generated, and the display of the display device is changed to a second preview image based on the generated second preview image data. An image processing including an image synthesizing process of synthesizing three image data to generate second image data is described. With this configuration, an attempt is made to quickly display a preview of an output image (Patent Document 1: Claims 1 and 2, paragraph [0006]).

JP 2009-282853 A

  In some cases, it is desired to obtain an image in which a portion extracted from one original is pasted on another original. In this case, image synthesis is conventionally performed. When performing image composition, image data of each document is prepared. For example, image data of each document is obtained by reading with an image reading device. Then, an image synthesizing operation is performed using image editing software or a PC. For example, an operation of selecting a portion to be extracted and pasting the extracted portion to other image data is performed. One image data is generated by the editing operation of the image synthesis. Printing is performed on blank paper based on the image data generated by the editing.

  When such image synthesis is performed, a document read by the image reading device to obtain image data is not required. Unnecessary manuscripts are discarded. There is a problem that the original is not reused and is wasted.

  Here, in Patent Document 1, the first image data is image data (input image data) read by an image reading unit (Patent Document 1: paragraph [0024]). This first image data is combined with image data (third image data) of a character such as a stamp or a fixed pattern (Patent Document 1: paragraph [0044]). Then, second image data (output image data) is generated (Patent Document 1: paragraphs [0046] and [0048]). The second image data (output image data) is printed out (Patent Document 1: paragraph [0060]). The technique described in Patent Document 1 also eliminates the need for a document for obtaining input image data. Therefore, the above problem cannot be solved.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In view of the above problems, the present invention makes it possible to easily print desired contents at a desired position on a document and reuse the document.

To achieve the above object, an image forming apparatus according to a first aspect includes an image reading unit, a printing unit, an acquisition unit, a display unit, an operation unit, an image processing unit, and a control unit. The image reading unit generates first data that is image data of a read document. The printing unit includes a paper feeding unit for feeding paper, and performs printing on the fed paper. The obtaining unit obtains second data. The display unit displays an image. The operation unit receives a user operation. The image processing unit generates overwrite printing image data for printing on the document. Wherein the control unit includes a first image showing the contents of the first data, and displays the second image showing the contents of the second data on the display unit. The operation unit receives a selection operation for selecting an entire region or a partial region of the second image. The control unit displays a selection area of the second image selected by the selection operation in the first image. The operation unit receives a moving operation of moving the position of the selection area in the first image. The image processing unit generates the image data for overwrite printing such that a portion of the second data corresponding to the selected region is printed at a position corresponding to a position of the selected region in the first image. I do. When the image data for overwrite printing is generated and the document is set in the sheet feeding unit, the control unit causes the sheet feeding unit to feed the document. Then, the control unit causes the printing unit to perform overwriting printing on the document based on the image data for overwriting printing. The image processing unit recognizes a first font that is a font of a character included in the first data. The image processing unit recognizes a second font that is a font of a character included in the second data. The control unit causes the display unit to display the second image obtained by converting characters included in the second data into the first font. The control unit generates the overwrite printing image data such that characters included in a portion of the second data corresponding to the selected area are printed in the first font .

  According to the present invention, desired content can be printed at a desired position in a document set in a paper feeding unit of an image forming apparatus. Moreover, complicated operations and troublesome position adjustment work are not required. An image forming apparatus that is easy for a user to use can be provided.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a multifunction peripheral according to an embodiment. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a multifunction peripheral according to an embodiment. It is a figure showing an example of the mode setting screen concerning an embodiment. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a flow of a process in an overwrite print mode according to the embodiment. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a flow of a process in an overwrite print mode according to the embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining data processing in the multifunction peripheral according to the embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a selection operation according to the embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a selection operation according to the embodiment. It is a figure showing an example of the move operation concerning an embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a magnification changing operation according to the embodiment. It is a figure showing an example of the guidance screen concerning an embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of image data for overwrite printing according to the embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a multifunction peripheral according to a modification. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a multifunction peripheral according to a modification.

  Hereinafter, an image forming apparatus according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. The multifunction peripheral 100 will be described as an example of the image forming apparatus. However, each element of the configuration, arrangement, and the like described in the present embodiment does not limit the scope of the invention and is merely an example of description.

  In the following description, the first data D1 is image data generated based on reading of the image reading unit 2 (or the second image reading unit 8). The second data D2 is data acquired by the acquisition unit (communication unit 61, I / F unit 62, wireless communication unit 63). The first image i1 is a reference image indicating the contents of the first data D1. The second image i2 is a reference image indicating the content of the second data D2.

(Overview of MFP 100)
First, an outline of the multifunction peripheral 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2 are diagrams illustrating an example of the multifunction peripheral 100 according to the embodiment.

  The multifunction peripheral 100 includes a control unit 1 and a storage unit 3. The control unit 1 controls each unit of the multifunction peripheral 100. The control unit 1 includes a CPU 11 and an image processing unit 12. The CPU 11 performs calculations and processes related to control. The image processing unit 12 performs processing relating to image data. The storage unit 3 includes a storage device such as a ROM, a RAM, and an HDD, and stores a control program and various data.

  The multifunction peripheral 100 includes an image reading unit 2. A contact glass 21 and a document cover 2222 are provided on the upper surface of the image reading unit 2. The original cover 22 in the lowered state covers the contact glass 21. The document cover 22 can be lifted. The user lifts the document cover 22 and sets the document on the contact glass 21. Then, the user lowers the document cover 22. The control section 1 causes the image reading section 2 to read the document set on the contact glass 21. The image reading unit 2 generates image data of a document.

  The control unit 1 is communicably connected to the operation panel 4. The operation panel 4 includes a display panel 41 (corresponding to a display unit), a touch panel 42 (corresponding to an operation unit), and hard keys 43 (corresponding to an operation unit). The control unit 1 controls display on the display panel 41. The control unit 1 causes the display panel 41 to display a screen and an image. For example, the control unit 1 displays an operation image. The operation image is a soft key or a button. Based on the output of the touch panel 42, the control unit 1 recognizes the operated operation image. The control unit 1 also recognizes the operated hard key 43. Thus, the operation panel 4 receives the operation of the user. The control unit 1 causes the display panel 41 to perform screen switching according to the operated operation image or the hard key 43. The control unit 1 recognizes the contents of the setting operation performed on the operation panel 4. The control unit 1 controls the multifunction peripheral 100 to operate as set.

  The multifunction peripheral 100 includes a printing unit 5. The printing unit 5 includes a paper feed cassette 5a (corresponding to a paper feed unit), a paper transport unit 5b, an image forming unit 5c, and a fixing unit 5d. At the time of a print job, the control unit 1 causes sheets to be supplied one by one to the sheet cassette 5a. The control unit 1 causes the paper transport unit 5b to transport the paper. The control unit 1 causes the image forming unit 5c to form a toner image based on the image data. Further, the control unit 1 causes the image forming unit 5c to transfer the toner image to the conveyed paper. The control unit 1 causes the fixing unit 5d to fix the toner image on the paper. The paper transport unit 5b discharges the printed paper to a discharge tray.

  The multifunction peripheral 100 includes a communication unit 61 (corresponding to an acquisition unit), an I / F unit 62 (corresponding to an acquisition unit), and a wireless communication unit 63 (corresponding to an acquisition unit). The communication unit 61 communicates with a computer 200 such as a PC or a server. The communication unit 61 includes a communication connector and a communication circuit. The communication unit 61 can transmit and receive data to and from the computer 200. The I / F unit 62 communicates with the connected portable memory 300. The portable memory 300 is, for example, a USB memory or a memory card. The I / F unit 62 includes a connector for the portable memory 300 and a communication circuit. The I / F unit 62 reads data from the portable memory 300. The wireless communication unit 63 wirelessly communicates with a portable communication device 400 such as a smartphone or a tablet computer. The wireless communication section 63 includes an antenna and a communication circuit for wireless communication. The wireless communication unit 63 can transmit and receive data to and from the mobile communication device 400.

(Setting of overwrite print mode)
Next, an example of a setting for the overwrite print mode according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the mode setting screen 4a according to the embodiment.

  In the MFP 100, the overwrite print mode can be used. The overwrite print mode is a mode in which desired content can be overwritten on a desired position of a document. Note that the multifunction peripheral 100 has a normal mode in addition to the overwrite print mode. In the normal mode, the content of image data obtained by reading a document can be printed on a blank sheet. In the normal mode, image data obtained by reading a document can be transmitted.

  Whether or not to use the overwrite print mode can be set on the operation panel 4. When using the overwrite print mode, the user causes the display panel 41 to display a mode setting screen 4a shown in FIG. When a predetermined operation is performed on the operation panel 4, the control unit 1 displays a mode setting screen 4 a on the display panel 41.

  The mode setting screen 4a is provided with a use key K1, a non-use key K2, and a completion key K3. The use key K1 is operated when using the overwrite print mode. The non-use key K2 is operated when the overwrite print mode is not used. When the completion key K3 is operated while the use key K1 is operated, the control unit 1 recognizes that the setting to use the overwrite printing mode has been made. At this time, the control unit 1 sets the multifunction peripheral 100 to the overwrite print mode. When the completion key K3 is operated while the non-use key K2 is operated, the control unit 1 recognizes that the setting for not using the overwrite printing mode has been made. The control unit 1 sets the multifunction peripheral 100 to the normal mode (mode other than the overwrite printing mode).

  Note that the setting of whether to use the overwrite print mode may be performed by the computer 200 or the mobile communication device 400. In this case, a screen similar to the mode setting screen 4a can be displayed on the computer 200 or the mobile communication device 400. When the setting to use the overwrite print mode is made, the computer 200 or the portable communication device 400 transmits a signal to the effect that the overwrite print mode is to be used to the MFP 100. The communication unit 61 and the wireless communication unit 63 receive a signal from the computer 200 or the portable communication device 400 to use the overwrite print mode. At this time, the control unit 1 sets the multifunction peripheral 100 to the overwrite print mode.

(Overwrite print mode)
Next, an example of a process flow in the overwrite print mode according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 and 4 to 12. 4 and 5 are flowcharts illustrating an example of the flow of a process in the overwrite print mode according to the embodiment. For convenience, FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 show a series of processes in the overwrite print mode. FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining data processing in the multifunction peripheral 100 according to the embodiment. 7 and 8 are diagrams illustrating an example of a selection operation according to the embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a moving operation according to the embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a magnification changing operation according to the embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of the guidance screen 4c according to the embodiment. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of the overwrite printing image data D0 according to the embodiment.

  The start in FIG. 4 is when the setting to use the overwrite print mode is made. First, the control unit 1 puts the multifunction peripheral 100 in a document reading standby state (step # 1). At this time, the control unit 1 causes the display panel 41 to display a message or an image. For example, the control unit 1 causes the display panel 41 to display a message such as “Please set a document on the contact glass.” Further, the control unit 1 may cause the display panel 41 to display a procedure (direction, front / back) of setting a document on the contact glass 21.

  Then, the control section 1 causes the image reading section 2 to read the set document (step # 2). For example, when a specific hard key 43 (for example, a start key) on the operation panel 4 is operated, the control unit 1 causes the image reading unit 2 to start reading a document. The control unit 1 may cause the display panel 41 to display a soft key for starting document reading. When a soft key is operated, the control unit 1 causes the image reading unit 2 to start reading a document.

  As a result, the image reading unit 2 generates the first data D1 (first image data), and the control unit 1 stores the first data D1 in the storage unit 3 (Step # 3). The first data D1 is image data of a document obtained by reading. For example, RGB image data is generated as the first data D1.

  Here, generation of the first data D1 will be described with reference to FIGS. As shown in FIG. 2, the image reading section 2 includes a reading unit 23, a wire 24, and a winding drum 25. One end of the wire 24 is connected to the reading unit 23. The other end of the wire 24 is connected to a winding drum. Further, as shown in FIG. 6, the image reading section 2 includes a reading motor 26. The reading motor 26 rotates the winding drum 25.

  The reading unit 23 includes a light source, a lens, and an image sensor. The light source illuminates the original on the contact glass 21. The lens guides the reflected light of the document to the image sensor. The image sensor includes a line sensor. Each light receiving element of the image sensor outputs an analog signal corresponding to the amount of received reflected light. As shown in FIG. 3, the image reading unit 2 is provided with a first generation unit 27. The first generator 27 processes an analog signal output from each light receiving element. Then, the first generation unit 27 generates the first data D1. The generated first data D1 is stored in the storage unit 3.

  Next, control unit 1 causes an obtaining unit (communication unit 61, I / F unit 62, or wireless communication unit 63) to obtain second data D2 (step # 4). Then, control unit 1 causes storage unit 3 to store the acquired second data D2 (step # 5). The second data D2 includes the content to be overwritten on the document. Before step # 4, control unit 1 may cause display panel 41 to display a message or an image related to second data D2. For example, the control unit 1 causes the display panel 41 to display a message such as "Please input data to be used for overwriting." Further, the control unit 1 may cause the display panel 41 to display an input procedure of the second data D2 to the acquisition unit.

  The control unit 1 may cause the communication unit 61 to acquire the second data D2. The control unit 1 treats the data from the computer 200 received by the communication unit 61 as second data D2. The second data D2 may be transmitted from the computer 200 to the communication unit 61 together with a signal indicating that the overwrite print mode is to be used. In this case, step # 5 is realized before step # 1.

  Further, the control section 1 may cause the wireless communication section 63 to acquire the second data D2. The control unit 1 treats the data from the portable communication device 400 received by the wireless communication unit 63 as the second data D2. The second data D2 may be transmitted from the portable communication device 400 to the communication unit 61 together with a signal indicating that the overwrite print mode is to be used. Also in this case, step # 5 is realized before step # 1.

  Further, the control unit 1 may cause the I / F unit 62 to acquire the second data D2. In this case, the portable memory 300 is connected to the I / F unit 62. The control unit 1 causes the I / F unit 62 to read the second data D2 stored in the portable memory 300. Of the data stored in the portable memory 300, data to be read as the second data D2 may be selectable on the operation panel 4. The control unit 1 causes the I / F unit 62 to read the selected data as the second data D2.

  Then, the image processing unit 12 (control unit 1) generates image data corresponding to the second data D2 and stores the image data in the storage unit 3 (Step # 6). Hereinafter, the image data corresponding to the second data D2 is referred to as second image data D2a. For example, RGB image data is generated as the second image data D2a. The image processing unit 12 includes a raster data generation circuit 13 that generates raster data (image data) from data that is not raster data.

  The second data D2 may be data including text. For example, the second data D2 may be a text file, a document file created by word processing software, or a document created by spreadsheet software. The raster data generation circuit 13 replaces each character and number included in the second data D2 with an image. The raster data generating circuit 13 replaces the second data D2 with one image data (second image data D2a).

  The second data D2 may be data described in a page description language. For example, driver software is installed in the computer 200 or the mobile communication device 400. This driver software rewrites data to be transmitted to the multifunction peripheral 100 to data described in a page description language. The raster data generation circuit 13 converts data described in a page description language into image data. The raster data generating circuit 13 replaces the second data D2 with one image data (second image data D2a).

  Note that the second data D2 may be the image data itself. In this case, the control unit 1 causes the storage unit 3 to store the second image data D2a based on the acquired image data.

  Here, in the overwrite print mode, part or all of the content of the second data D2 (second image data D2a) is overwritten on the document. Thus, the font of the second data D2 (second image data D2a) may be automatically converted. The image processing unit 12 performs an automatic conversion process. The automatic conversion process is a process of matching the font of the second data D2 (second image data D2a) with the font used in the first data D1. The second image i2 in FIGS. 7 and 10 is an image on which automatic conversion processing has been performed. The characters and numbers of the second image i2 have already been converted to the same font as the font of the first image i1.

  Operation panel 4 receives whether or not to perform automatic conversion processing. An execution key K4 and a non-execution key K5 are arranged on the mode setting screen 4a shown in FIG. The execution key K4 is operated when performing the automatic conversion process. The non-execution key K5 is operated when the automatic conversion process is not performed. When the completion key K3 is operated while the execution key K4 and the use key K1 are operated, the control unit 1 recognizes that the setting for executing the automatic conversion process in the overwrite print mode has been made. When the complete key K3 is operated while the non-executable key K5 and the use key K1 are operated, the control unit 1 recognizes that the automatic conversion process is not executed in the overwrite print mode.

  When performing the automatic conversion process, the image processing unit 12 recognizes a first font which is a font of a character included in the first data D1. For example, the image processing unit 12 performs an OCR process on the first data D1. For OCR processing, the image processing unit 12 includes an OCR processing circuit 14. Then, the image processing unit 12 recognizes characters and numerals included in the first data D1. The storage unit 3 stores a plurality of types of font data fn1 (see FIG. 1). The image processing unit 12 recognizes the first font based on the font data fn1 and the characters and numerals included in the first data D1. For example, the image processing unit 12 extracts, from the first data D1, an image corresponding to a predetermined specific symbol among characters and numerals recognized in the OCR process. For example, an image of a number or a frequently used character (for example, an alphabet e) is extracted. Further, the image processing unit 12 compares the image of the specific symbol in each font data fn1 with the extracted image. The image processing unit 12 recognizes the closest font (the difference is small) as the first font. Note that the image processing unit 12 may recognize the first font based on another algorithm.

  Further, the image processing unit 12 recognizes a second font which is a font of a character included in the second data D2. When the second data D2 is data including text, the image processing unit 12 checks the font defined in the file. When the second data D2 is described in a page description language, the image processing unit 12 recognizes a font specified in the page description language. When the second data D2 is image data, the image processing unit 12 recognizes the second font by performing the OCR process as in the case of the first data D1. When the second data D2 is image data, the image processing unit 12 recognizes the second font in the same procedure as the first data D1.

  When the second data D2 is data including text, the image processing unit 12 generates the second image data D2a by replacing each character and numeral of the second data D2 with characters and numerals of the first font. When the second data D2 is data described in a page description language, the image processing unit 12 generates the second image data D2a by replacing each character and numeral of the second data D2 with characters and numerals of the first font. I do. When the second data D2 is image data, the image processing unit 12 generates the second image data D2a by replacing the recognized character and numeral images with the characters and numerals of the first font.

  The image processing unit 12 (control unit 1) generates the first reference data P1 for displaying the first image i1, and stores it in the storage unit 3 (step # 7). Then, control unit 1 causes display panel 41 to display first image i1 based on first reference data P1 (step # 8). Further, the image processing unit 12 (control unit 1) generates second reference data P2 for displaying the second image i2, and stores the same in the storage unit 3 (step # 9). Then, control unit 1 causes display panel 41 to display second image i2 based on second reference data P2 (step # 10). When the automatic conversion process is performed, the control unit 1 causes the display panel 41 to display the second image i2 obtained by converting the characters included in the second data D2 into the first font. A reference data generation circuit 15 is provided in the image processing unit 12 to generate each reference data.

  The first image i1 is an image indicating the contents of the first data D1. When the number of pixels of the first data D1 is larger than the number of pixels of the area (first area F1) for displaying the first image i1 on the display panel 41, the image processing unit 12 thins out the pixels of the first data D1 ( The reduced image data is generated as first reference data P1. When the number of pixels of the first data D1 is equal to or less than the number of pixels of the first area F1, the image processing unit 12 sets the first image data as the first reference data P1.

  The second image i2 is an image indicating the content of the second data D2. When the number of pixels of the second image data D2a is larger than the number of pixels of the area (the second area F2) displaying the second image i2, the image processing unit 12 thins out (reduces) the pixels of the second image data D2a. ) Image data is generated as second reference data P2. When the number of pixels of the second image data D2a is equal to or less than the number of pixels of the second area F2, the image processing unit 12 sets the second image data D2a as the second reference data P2.

  As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the control unit 1 causes the display panel 41 to display the first image i1 and the second image i2. In the following description, a screen displaying the first image i1 and the second image i2 is referred to as an overwrite print setting screen 4b. On the overwrite print setting screen 4b, a confirmation key K6, a cancel key K7, an all-selection key K8, and an OK key K9 are arranged.

  Then, operation panel 4 (touch panel 42) receives the selection operation (step # 11). The selection operation is an operation of selecting all or a part of the second image i2. By operating the all selection key K8, all of the second image i2 can be selected. The upper part of FIG. 7 shows that the user has operated the all-selection key K8. The control unit 1 recognizes an area (selection area F0) selected by the selection operation. When selecting a part, the user touches the second image i2. Then, the user surrounds the area to be selected while keeping the touch. The upper part of FIG. 8 shows an operation of selecting the part of “□□□□□□”. In the upper part of FIG. 8, an example of the locus of the touch position is indicated by a broken arrow.

  Control unit 1 causes selection region F0 (the image thereof) to be displayed in first image i1 (step # 12). At this time, control unit 1 causes display panel 41 to display a frame line surrounding selection area F0 (step # 13). The lower part of FIG. 7 illustrates an example in which the entirety of the selected second image i2 is displayed in the first image i1. The lower part of FIG. 8 illustrates an example in which the selected “□□□□□□” portion of the second image i2 is displayed in the first image i1. The lower diagram in FIG. 7 and the lower diagram in FIG. 8 show examples in which a broken line is used as a frame line. The frame line may be, for example, a one-dot chain line, a two-dot chain line, or a solid red line. That is, the line type of the frame line may be other than the broken line. When the automatic conversion process is performed and the selection operation is performed, the control unit 1 displays the selection area F0 in which the characters and the numbers are converted into the first font in the first image i1.

  Further, the operation unit receives a moving operation and a magnification changing operation (step # 14). Control unit 1 recognizes the moving operation and the magnification changing operation (step # 15). Then, in accordance with the moving operation, control unit 1 changes the display position of selection area F0 (step # 16). Further, control unit 1 changes the size (display size) of selected area F0 in accordance with the magnification change operation (step # 16).

  The moving operation is an operation of moving the selection area F0 within the first image i1. The magnification change operation is an operation for changing the size of the selection area F0 in the first area F1. When the moving operation is not performed, the control unit 1 does not change the display position of the selection area F0. When the magnification change operation is not performed, the control unit 1 does not change the size of the selection area F0.

  An example of the moving operation will be described with reference to FIG. In the multifunction peripheral 100, the moving operation is an operation of moving the touch position while touching one point in the frame line and then releasing the finger from the touch panel 42. The control unit 1 moves the selection area F0 within the first image i1 in accordance with the movement of the touch position. When the finger is released from the touch panel 42, the control unit 1 causes the display panel 41 to stop moving the selection area F0. Note that another operation may be a moving operation. FIG. 9 shows an example in which the selection area F0 is moved in the upper left direction.

  Next, an example of a magnification changing operation will be described with reference to FIG. In the multifunction peripheral 100, the magnification change operation is an operation of widening or narrowing the space between fingers while touching two points in the frame. The operation of widening the interval between fingers while touching two points in the frame is an operation of expanding the selection area F0. The operation of reducing the interval between fingers while touching two points in the frame is an operation of reducing the selection area F0. FIG. 10 shows an example of an operation for reducing the selection area F0.

  When two points are touched, the control unit 1 recognizes the coordinates of each touch position based on the output of the touch panel 42. When the distance between the touch positions increases, the control unit 1 recognizes that the enlargement operation has been performed. The enlargement ratio is increased as the distance between the two points at the first touch position is increased. When the distance between the touch positions decreases, the control unit 1 recognizes that a reduction operation has been performed. As the distance between the two points at the first touch position becomes shorter, the reduction ratio is made larger. The control unit 1 recognizes the magnification when the magnification change operation is completed.

  Note that an enlargement key (not shown) and a reduction key (not shown) may be arranged on the overwrite print setting screen 4b. The enlargement key is an enlargement key for instructing enlargement of the selection area F0. The reduction key is a key for instructing reduction of the selection area F0. For example, each time the enlargement key is pressed, the control unit 1 enlarges the selection area F0 by a predetermined ratio. Each time the reduction key is pressed, the control unit 1 reduces the selection area F0 by a predetermined ratio.

  Then, operation panel 4 accepts the confirmation operation (step # 17). The determination operation is an operation for determining the position and size of the selection area F0. The touch panel 42 receives the operation of the confirmation key K6 as the confirmation operation. Based on the output of the touch panel 42, the control unit 1 recognizes that the fixing operation has been performed. The control unit 1 deletes the selection frame. Further, the control unit 1 fixes the position and size of the selection area F0.

  Control unit 1 again confirms whether or not a selection operation has been performed (step # 18). That is, a plurality of regions can be selected from the second image i2. When the selection operation is performed again (step # 18), the flow returns to step # 14. When the selection operation is not performed again (No in step # 18), control unit 1 checks whether or not OK key K9 has been operated (step # 19). That is, it is determined whether or not the user has performed an input for starting overwrite printing.

  When the OK key K9 has not been operated (No in step # 19), the flow returns to step # 18. When the OK key K9 is operated (Yes in step # 19), the control section 1 causes the display panel 41 to display a guide screen 4c for guiding a method of setting a document in the sheet feeding cassette 5a (sheet feeding section) ( Step # 20).

  FIG. 11 shows an example of the guidance screen 4c. FIG. 11 shows a procedure for setting a document on a sheet feeding unit (sheet feeding cassette 5a). The upper screen in FIG. 11 is the guide screen 4c displayed first. A next key K10 is arranged on the first guidance screen 4c. When the next key K10 is operated, the control unit 1 causes the display panel 41 to display the lower screen of FIG. As shown in the guide screen 4c on the lower side of FIG. 11, the control unit 1 guides the front and back, and the direction of the document set in the sheet cassette 5a. An end key K11 is arranged on this guidance screen 4c. When the setting of the original in the paper feed cassette 5a is completed, the user operates the end key K11.

  Control unit 1 recognizes the operation of end key K11 (step # 21). Based on the operation of the end key K11, the control unit 1 recognizes that the document corresponding to the first data D1 is set in the paper feed cassette 5a (paper feed unit). When end key K11 is operated, control unit 1 causes image processing unit 12 to generate image data D0 for overwrite printing (step # 22). Then, control unit 1 causes the set document to be fed to sheet feeding cassette 5a (step # 23). Further, based on image data D0 for overwriting printing, control unit 1 causes printing unit 5 to perform overwriting printing on the document (step # 24). The overwritten document is discharged to a discharge tray (step # 25 → end).

  Here, the image processing unit 12 includes an overwrite print image data generation circuit 16 that generates the overwrite print image data D0. The image processing unit 12 generates overwrite printing image data D0 based on the second image data D2a. For example, the image processing unit 12 generates blank image data of the same size as the document (first data D1). In other words, the image processing unit 12 generates blank image data of the number of dots corresponding to the vertical width and the horizontal width of the first data D1.

  Subsequently, the control unit 1 extracts a portion corresponding to the selected area F0 from the second data D2 (second image data D2a). In the case of the setting for performing the automatic change processing, the image processing unit 12 extracts a portion corresponding to the selected area F0 from the second image data D2a after the automatic change processing. When the enlargement or reduction is performed, the image processing unit 12 enlarges or reduces the extracted portion (image data). The image processing unit 12 changes the size of the image data extracted at the same magnification as the magnification set by the magnification changing operation.

  The image processing unit 12 overwrites a portion of the second data D2 (second image data D2a) corresponding to the selected area F0 so as to be printed at a position corresponding to the position of the selected area F0 in the first image i1. Generate print image data D0. The image processing unit 12 pastes the image data corresponding to the selection area F0 onto the blank image data. When the image is enlarged or reduced, the image processing unit 12 pastes the image data whose size has been changed to blank image data.

  FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of the image data D0 for overwrite printing. Image data D0 for overwrite printing shown in FIG. 12 shows an example of image data generated as a result of the setting on the overwrite print setting screen 4b in FIG. As shown in FIG. 12, the image data D0 for overwrite printing includes a selected portion of the second data D2 (second image data D2a). The portion other than the second data D2 is blank. No toner image is formed on the blank portion.

  As described above, the multifunction peripheral 100 (image forming apparatus) according to the embodiment includes the image reading unit 2, the printing unit 5, the acquisition unit (the communication unit 61, the I / F unit 62, the wireless communication unit 63), and the display unit ( Display panel 41), an operation unit (touch panel 42, hard keys 43), an image processing unit 12, and a control unit 1. The image reading unit 2 generates first data D1 which is image data of a read document. The printing unit 5 includes a paper feeding unit (paper feeding cassette 5a) for feeding paper, and performs printing on the fed paper. The acquisition unit acquires the second data D2. The display unit displays an image. The operation unit receives a user operation. The image processing unit 12 generates overwrite printing image data D0 for printing on a document. The control unit 1 causes the display unit to display a first image i1 indicating the contents of the first data D1 and a second image i2 indicating the contents of the second data D2. The operation unit receives a selection operation for selecting the entire region or a part of the second image i2. The control unit 1 displays a selection area F0 of the second image i2 selected by the selection operation in the first image i1. The operation unit receives a moving operation of moving the position of the selection area F0 in the first image i1. The image processing unit 12 generates the overwrite printing image data D0 such that a portion corresponding to the selected area F0 of the second data D2 is printed at a position corresponding to the position of the selected area F0 in the first image i1. I do. When image data D0 for overwrite printing is generated and a document is set in the sheet feeding unit, the control unit 1 causes the sheet feeding unit to feed the document. Then, the control unit 1 causes the printing unit 5 to perform overwriting printing on the document based on the image data D0 for overwriting printing.

  As a result, the content selected from the second data D2 (second image i2) can be printed on the document set in the sheet feeding unit. The selected content can be printed on the document without shifting from the desired position. Only a selection operation and a movement operation are required. It is very easy to print desired contents at desired positions on a document. Therefore, the original can be reused.

  Further, a document (original document) in which a part is not intentionally entered may be set in the sheet feeding unit. It is possible to easily overwrite the original with desired contents. For example, a diploma or certificate in which no name is entered is set in the sheet feeding unit. Then, data including the name is prepared as the second data D2. By simply selecting the name in the second image i2, the name can be overwritten on the set certificate or certificate.

  The operation unit is a touch panel 42 provided for the display unit. When a selection operation is performed, the control unit 1 causes the display unit to display a frame surrounding the selection area F0. The moving operation is an operation of moving the touch position while touching the inside of the frame line and then releasing the finger from the touch panel 42. The control unit 1 moves the selection area F0 in the first image i1 in accordance with the movement of the touch position, and causes the display unit to stop moving the selection area F0 when the finger is released from the touch panel 42. Thereby, the selection area F0 can be easily moved in the first image i1. Therefore, the position of the second data D2 to be overwritten on the document can be easily set.

  When the selection operation is performed, the operation unit accepts a magnification change operation for enlarging or reducing the selection area F0. The control unit 1 causes the display unit to change the size of the selection area F0 according to the magnification change operation. The image processing unit 12 enlarges or reduces a portion of the second data D2 (second image data D2a) corresponding to the selected area F0 based on the magnification set by the magnification change operation. The image processing unit 12 generates the overwrite printing image data D0 so that the content of the enlarged or reduced selection area F0 is printed at a position corresponding to the position of the selection area F0 in the first image i1. Thereby, the selection area F0 can be freely enlarged or reduced. Then, the enlarged or reduced content can be printed over the original. Enlarged or reduced content can be printed on a document without shifting from a desired position. It is very easy to overwrite and print desired contents on a manuscript with a desired size.

  When the image reading unit 2 reads a document, the control unit 1 causes the display unit to display a guide screen 4c on how to set the document on the sheet feeding unit. As a result, the document is correctly set on the sheet feeding unit. The document can be prevented from being set in the sheet feeding unit in the reverse setting direction. Further, it is possible to prevent the document from being set in the sheet feeding unit by turning the document over. It is possible to prevent the contents selected at the wrong position from being overwritten.

  Further, the image processing unit 12 recognizes a first font which is a font of a character included in the first data D1. The image processing unit 12 recognizes a second font which is a font of a character included in the second data D2. The control unit 1 causes the display unit to display a second image i2 obtained by converting characters included in the second data D2 into a first font. The control unit 1 generates the overwrite printing image data D0 so that the characters included in the portion corresponding to the selection area F0 in the second data D2 are printed in the first font. Thus, the portion of the second data D2 corresponding to the selection area F0 can be overwritten on the document without feeling unnatural. The overwritten part is strangely inconspicuous. Overwriting that is satisfactory to the user can be performed on the document.

  Further, when the operation unit receives the selection operation, the control unit 1 causes the selection area F0 in which the included characters are converted into the first font to be displayed in the first image i1. As a result, an image close to the result of the actual overwrite printing can be shown to the user.

(Modification)
Next, a modified example will be described with reference to FIGS. FIGS. 13 and 14 are diagrams illustrating an example of a multifunction peripheral 100 according to a modification.

  In the description of the above-described embodiment, an example in which the user sets a document on the sheet feeding unit has been described. The modified example is different in that the transfer device 7 is attached to the multifunction peripheral 100. The multifunction peripheral 100 itself may be similar to that of the above-described embodiment. The transport device 7 transports the document read by the image reading unit 2 to the printing unit 5. The transport device 7 functions as a paper feeding unit. By attaching the transport device 7, the user does not need to set the original on the paper feeding unit during overwrite printing.

  As shown in FIG. 13, the transport device 7 is attached to the right side of the multifunction peripheral 100. The upper surface of the transfer device 7 is open. A transport path 71 that connects the opening 70 and the upstream (front side) of the printing unit 5 (image forming unit 5c) is provided. The end of the transport path 71 on the opening side serves as a document insertion port. The transport path 71 is provided with a plurality of transport roller pairs 72. In FIG. 13, the document inserted into the insertion port is conveyed toward the image forming unit 5c, as indicated by the dashed arrow. As shown in FIG. 14, the transport device 7 includes a transport motor 73 for rotating each transport roller pair 72. The controller 1 rotates the transport motor 73 when transporting the inserted document.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 13, a second image reading unit 8 is provided at the insertion slot. The second image reading unit 8 reads a surface to be overwritten of the conveyed document. The second image reading section 8 includes a reading unit 81. The reading unit 81 includes a light source, a lens, and an image sensor. The light source illuminates the original conveyed by each conveying roller pair 72. The lens guides the reflected light of the document to the image sensor. The image sensor includes a line sensor. Each light receiving element of the image sensor outputs an analog signal corresponding to the amount of received reflected light. As shown in FIG. 14, the second image reading unit 8 includes a second generation unit 82. The second generator 82 processes an analog signal output from each light receiving element. Then, the second generation unit 82 generates the first data D1 (image data of the document). The generated first data D1 is stored in the storage unit 3.

  In the MFP 100 of the modified example, the transport device 7 is also provided with the second image reading unit 8. Therefore, in the overwrite print mode, the document may be read using the image reading unit 2 above the multifunction peripheral 100. Further, the original may be read using the second image reading unit 8 provided in the transport device 7. Therefore, an insertion detection sensor 74 may be provided at the insertion opening of the document. The output level of the insertion detection sensor 74 changes depending on whether or not the presence of a document is detected. The output of the insertion detection sensor 74 is input to the control unit 1.

  When the insertion detection sensor 74 detects a document, the control unit 1 rotates the transport motor 73. Further, the control section 1 causes the second image reading section 8 (reading unit 81) to read the conveyed document. In the overwrite print mode, the control unit 1 conveys the document to a pair of registration rollers 51 provided on the upstream side of the image forming unit 5c. As shown in FIG. 13, a registration sensor 52 is provided near the upstream side of the registration roller pair 51. Based on the output of the registration sensor 52, the control unit 1 recognizes that the leading end of the document has reached the registration roller pair 51. That is, the control unit 1 recognizes that a document is set on the transport device 7 as a paper feeding unit. When the document reaches the leading end, the control unit 1 stops the registration roller pair 51. The document strikes the registration roller pair 51. After recognizing that the document has reached the registration roller pair 51, the control unit 1 rotates the transport motor 73 for a certain period of time. The skew of the document is corrected using the elasticity of the document. Thereafter, the transport motor 73 is stopped.

  In the overwrite printing mode, the control unit 1 causes the image processing unit 12 to generate the first reference data P1 based on the first data D1 obtained by reading by the second image reading unit 8. The control unit 1 causes the display panel 41 to display the first image i1 based on the first reference data P1. When the OK key K9 is operated after various operations (selection operation, movement operation, magnification change operation), the control unit 1 generates image data D0 for overwrite printing. When the original is read by the transport device 7, the display of the guide screen 4c is unnecessary.

  Here, in order to display the first image i1 on the display panel 41, it is necessary to read the entire document. Therefore, the length (conveyance distance) from the reading position of the second image reading unit 8 to the registration roller pair 51 is longer than the length of the maximum sheet in the conveyance direction. The maximum paper is the maximum size paper that can be printed by the multifunction peripheral 100.

  When the overwrite printing image data D0 is generated, the control unit 1 rotates the transport motor 73 (the transport roller pair 72) and the registration roller pair 51. Thus, the document is fed to the printing unit 5 (image forming unit 5c). In other words, the document is transported downstream from the image forming unit 5c. The control unit 1 causes the image forming unit 5c to form a toner image based on the overwrite printing image data D0. The control unit 1 transfers a toner image to a document. The document that has passed through the fixing unit 5d is discharged outside the apparatus.

  The multifunction peripheral 100 according to the modified example includes a second image reading unit 8 as a sheet feeding unit, and includes a transport device 7 that transports a document read by the second image reading unit 8 to the printing unit 5. As a result, the original to be automatically overwritten is sent to the printing unit 5. The user does not have to set the original on the paper feeding unit.

  Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto, and can be implemented with various changes without departing from the spirit of the invention.

  The present invention is applicable to an image forming apparatus including an image reading unit.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 100 MFP (image forming apparatus) 1 control unit 12 image processing unit 2 image reading unit 41 display panel (display unit) 42 touch panel (operation unit)
43 Hard key (operation unit) 4c Guide screen 5 Printing unit 5a Paper cassette (paper supply unit)
61 Communication unit (acquisition unit) 62 I / F unit (acquisition unit)
63 Wireless communication unit (acquisition unit) 7 Transport device (paper feed unit)
8 Second image reading unit D0 Image data D1 for overwrite printing First data D2 Second data F0 Selected area i1 First image i2 Second image

Claims (6)

An image reading unit that generates first data that is image data of the read document;
A printing unit that includes a paper feeding unit that feeds paper and prints on the fed paper;
An acquisition unit for acquiring second data;
A display unit for displaying an image,
An operation unit for receiving a user operation,
An image processing unit that generates image data for overwrite printing for printing on the original,
A control unit;
The control unit may display a first image showing the contents of the first data, the second image showing the contents of the second data on the display unit,
The operation unit receives a selection operation of selecting an entire region or a partial region of the second image,
The control unit displays a selection area of the second image selected by the selection operation in the first image,
The operation unit receives a moving operation of moving the position of the selection area in the first image,
The image processing unit generates the image data for overwrite printing such that a portion of the second data corresponding to the selected region is printed at a position corresponding to a position of the selected region in the first image. And
When the overwrite printing image data is generated, and the original is set in the paper feeding unit,
The control unit causes the paper feed unit to feed the document, and causes the printing unit to perform overwrite printing on the document based on the image data for overwrite printing ,
The image processing unit,
Recognizing a first font which is a font of a character included in the first data;
Recognizing a second font which is a font of a character included in the second data,
The control unit includes:
Causing the display unit to display the second image obtained by converting characters included in the second data into the first font;
An image forming apparatus , wherein the image data for overwrite printing is generated such that characters included in a portion corresponding to the selected area in the second data are printed in the first font . The operation unit is a touch panel provided for the display unit,
When the selection operation is performed,
The control unit causes the display unit to display a frame line surrounding the selection area,
The moving operation is an operation of moving a touch position while touching the inside of the frame line, and then releasing a finger from the touch panel,
The control unit moves the selection area in the first image in accordance with the movement of a touch position, and causes the display unit to stop moving the selection area when a finger is released from the touch panel. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1. When the selection operation is performed,
The operation unit receives a magnification change operation for enlarging or reducing the selection area,
The control unit causes the display unit to change the size of the selected area according to the magnification change operation,
The image processing unit,
Based on the magnification set by the magnification change operation, a portion corresponding to the selected area in the second data is enlarged or reduced,
The image data for overwrite printing is generated such that the enlarged or reduced content of the selected area is printed at a position corresponding to the position of the selected area in the first image. 3. The image forming apparatus according to 2. After the image reading unit has read the original, when an input for starting the overwrite printing is performed on the operation unit without performing the selection operation again,
4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit causes the display unit to display a guide screen on a method of setting the document on the paper feeding unit. 5.   4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a second image reading unit, wherein the sheet feeding unit includes a conveyance device that conveys the document read by the second image reading unit to the printing unit. 5. Item 10. The image forming apparatus according to item 1. When the operation unit receives the selection operation,
Wherein the control unit, the image processing according to the selection area in which characters are converted into the first font to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that to be displayed on the first image included apparatus.