JPH0224781A - Method for editing input chart for simulating image output device - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To accurately, easily and rapidly form an input chart by calling the data of input signals of plural modules, time-sequentially rearranging the data of the input signals, synthesizing the data, and storing the data of the synthesized input signals as a new file. CONSTITUTION:The data of input signals generated from respective paper sensing parts of plural modules are stored in a file means D as respectively independent files. At the time of edition, the data of the input signals of plural modules are called from the file means D and the data of the input signals are time-sequentially rearranged over the plural modules and then synthesized. Thereby, the mutual relation of the input signals of the plural modules can be observed at a glance by displaying the input chart on the basis of the synthesized data. In addition, program debugging can be attained without practically connecting an electric circuit substrate of another module by executing simulation based on the synthesized data.

Description

[Detailed description of the invention] [Industrial application field] The present invention is an analog or digital copying machine.

Laser or LED (light emitting diode) printer.

The present invention relates to a simulation device that performs simulation of an image output device such as a facsimile, and particularly relates to a method of editing various charts such as input charts showing changes in various signals generated in various parts arranged in the image output device.

[Conventional technology]

FIG. 47 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a general copying machine equipped with an automatic document feeder and a sorter as an example of an image output device.

In the figure, 100 indicates a copying machine main body, and an automatic document feeder 200 is placed on the top surface of this copying machine main body 100 to automatically carry a document onto the platen glass of the copying machine main body 100. Further, a sorter 300 is installed on the side of the copying machine main body 100 for sorting the sheets after copying and discharging them into bins 301.

A photosensitive drum 101 that rotates in the direction of the arrow is arranged inside the copying machine main body 100, and a charger 102. Developing device 103. Transfer device 104. A stripper 105, a cleaner 106, etc. are arranged in this order.

Further, on the top of the copying machine main body 100, a document (not shown) is placed.
Light #l111. A mirror 112R and a lens 113 are provided to focus reflected light from the original onto the photosensitive drum 101, and these constitute a scanning optical system. This scanning optical system forms an electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum 101, which has been charged in advance by the charger 102.

This electrostatic latent image is visualized as a toner image by a developing device 103.

At the same time, there are rods 1 and 2 each containing paper of different sizes. 2nd and 3rd tray 121° 122, 1
A sheet of paper is conveyed from one of the photoreceptor drums 23 in the concave direction of the photoreceptor drum 1 by a paper feeder 124, and the toner image on the photoreceptor drum 101 is transferred onto the sheet by a transfer device 104. At this time, a register storage gate (not shown) is provided in the paper transport path so that the paper is fed at a predetermined timing in synchronization with the rotation of the photosensitive drum 1010. After the transfer, the paper is peeled off from the photosensitive drum 101 by a peeler IO2, and sent to a fixing device 126 by a conveyor belt 125, where the toner image is fixed on the paper.

In the case of normal copying, the sheet after fixing passes through the inverter 127 as is and is discharged into a predetermined bin 301 by the sorter 300, as shown by the solid line. In the case of double-sided copying, as shown by the -dotted chain line, after the - side has been copied, the front and back sides of the paper are reversed by the inverter 127 and stored in the -H duplex tray 128, and then the circulation device 129 and paper feeder are used. The sheet is again conveyed toward the photosensitive drum 101 via the device 124, and this time the other side is copied.

In the copying machine as described above, the automatic document feeder 200
When copying is performed using the sorter 300 and the sorter 300, the original is placed on the original tray 201 and the copying machine main body 1
When the copy start button (not shown) provided on the console panel of
04 to a specified position.

That is, the original on the original tray 201 is sent onto the platen glass 204 by paddles 202 and 203, and the original is transported to a predetermined position on the platen glass 204 by the transport bell 205.

Next, the photoreceptor drum 101 is rotated, and in synchronization with this rotation, the light sources 111. Mirror 112. A scanning optical system including a lens 113 and the like moves in the horizontal direction in the figure below the platen glass 204 to scan the original.

As a result, as described above, an electrostatic latent image is formed on the photoreceptor drum 101, and then developed, transferred, and
Each process such as peeling, fixing, discharging, and sorting is performed.

Further, the copied original is removed from the platen glass 204 by the conveyance belt 205, scooped up by the gate claw 207, and discharged to the document receiver 206 at the upper part of the automatic document conveyance device 200 by the document conveyance roll 208.

When copying work is performed in this manner, each step is performed while detecting the operating state of each device and the paper passing state.

Such an automatic document feeder! l! 200. Sorter 300
In a copying machine equipped with peripheral devices such as There is.

Further, each device is controlled by a microcomputer. Each microcomputer sends and receives data via the interface and the communication path.

Furthermore, a plurality of microcomputers may be provided for different functions even within the same device.

Equipment controlled by this microcomputer is basically divided into three parts. For example, in the case of the copying machine main body 100, as shown in FIG. 49, the copying machine mechanism section 131. It is composed of a CPU (central processing unit) 132 and an electric circuit board 133 that interfaces between the two.

The copying machine mechanism section 131 is provided with sensors, switches, etc. for detecting the state of copying operation, and inputs from these sensors, switches, etc. are transferred to the electric circuit board 13.
3, where the signal is subjected to predetermined signal processing and then supplied to the CPU 132 as input data. The input is sent to the CPU 13 as an interrupt signal.
2. The output data that has been subjected to predetermined processing by the CPU 1.32 is supplied to the electric circuit board 133, and from this electric circuit board 133, driving parts such as motors and solenoids provided in the copying machine mechanism section 131 are controlled. Outputs the final signal.

Further, a console panel 134 for operation is connected to the electric circuit board 133, and signals from keys such as starting the copying machine are supplied to the electric circuit board 133, and data such as the number of copies and messages are transmitted to the console panel 133.
and displayed by a lamp, light emitting diode matrix, etc.

Further, peripheral devices for the copying machine main body 100, ie, the automatic document feeder 200 and the sorter 300 described above, have a similar configuration. For example, in the case of the automatic document feeder 200, the automatic document feeder mechanism section 231
and the electric circuit board 23 provided between the CPU 232 and the CPU 232.
3, signals and data are exchanged.

The operations between each device are controlled using, for example, serial communication data.

For example, when copying is performed using the automatic document feeder 200, when a sensor detects that the document has been conveyed to a specified position on the platen glass 204 by the conveyor belt 205, information from the sensor is transmitted. Electric circuit board 233 of automatic document feeder 200 as communication data
Communication path C from to the electric circuit board 133 of the copying machine main body lOO
Supplied via L. Then, the copying machine main body 100 starts copying work based on this communication data.

In a copying machine using a microcombination unit as described above, for example, c p U1 of the copying machine main body 100
When developing a program to be executed on the 32, a device called a simulator kit as shown in FIG. 50 is used as a debugging development tool.

This simulator kit 40 is based on the actual copying machine mechanism section 1.
31 and the console panel 1340 input system and output system are replaced with the switch panel section 411 display panel section 42 and pseudo console panel section 43, and the target CPU U13 is installed in the CPU socket on the electric circuit board 133.
2 is replaced with an in-circuit emulator 44 (indicated by ICE in the figure).

The switch panel section 41 is provided with a plurality of switches 41a for setting the status of each component from the outside.

Then, by operating the switch 41a of the switch panel section 41, the output from the switch 41a is supplied as an input signal to the electric circuit board 133. At this time, a blue lamp 42a provided on the display panel section 42 lights up to display the status of the corresponding input component.

Further, the output signal from the electric circuit board 133 is supplied to a red lamp 42b corresponding to each output component, and its status is displayed.

Although a plurality of switches 41a, blue lamps 42a, and red lamps 42b are provided, only one of each is shown in the figure for simplicity.

Further, the electric circuit board 133 includes a level converter 45.
, a personal computer 47 is connected via an input/output interface 46.

FIG. 51 shows the general arrangement of the simulator kit 40 and peripheral equipment.

Inside the rack 400a on the left side, there is a schematic layout of the copying machine! The display panel section 42 shown here. *Photograph body 1
A pseudo console panel section 431 which performs the same function as the console panel 134 of 00, a switch panel section 41 for manually inputting signals, and a stabilizer 7!1R48 for supplying operating voltage to each section are arranged. Further, in the rack 400b on the right side, a personal computer 3-4T, a turnout/fll interface 41, and a level converter 45 are arranged.The personal computer 47 and related devices will be described later.

As shown in FIG. 52, the display panel section 42 schematically depicts the layout of the copying machine to be developed so that the flow of paper during copying can be visually grasped.

For example, in the figure, 401 indicates a photosensitive drum, 402 a fixing device, 403 a conveyance roller, and 404 a paper feed tray. In addition, a display 405 and the like corresponding to the transport belt 205 are located at a location corresponding to the document transport device 200, and a display 406 and the like corresponding to the bin 301 are located at a location corresponding to the sorter 300.

Furthermore, this display panel 842 includes a plurality of blue lamps 42a that display outputs from input components such as various sensors.

42al (indicated by a hatched circle in the figure) are arranged, and a plurality of red lamps 42b1 to 42b that display the status of output components such as motors and solenoids.

(indicated by a -heavy white circle in the figure) are arranged at positions corresponding to each of these parts, and each is given a name.

For example, the display 404 Is part of the top paper feed tray:: A red lamp 42b1 indicating the operation of the feeding solenoid named 1tfeed-sol, and a feedout 5nr (1) indicating whether paper is being fed. A named blue lamp 42a l is provided. In addition, on the input side of the display 4010 of the photoconductor drum, there is a red lamp 42b indicating the operation of a solenoid named reg-sol that controls the registration storage 2 engagement that determines the timing of the start of sheet conveyance, and a red lamp 42b that indicates the operation of a solenoid named reg-sol. reg- indicating whether paper is being fed
A blue lamp 42a2 labeled snr is provided, and a fusin-s indicator is provided on the input side near the fuser display 402 to indicate whether paper is being fed to the fuser.
A blue lamp 42a, labeled nr, is provided. Also, fsrout-ro is displayed on the output side of the fuser display 402.
Red lamp 42b indicating the operation of the role named l+
, is provided. In addition, a blue lamp indicating the arrival status of the paper and a red lamp indicating the operating status of the motor, solenoid, etc. are displayed along each route, but these will only be explained by showing their positions in the diagram. Omitted.

Also, automatic document transport bag! 200. Similarly, lamps are provided at locations corresponding to the sorter 300.

As mentioned earlier, the personal combination coater 47 is connected to the electric circuit board 133 via the input/output interface 46 and the level converter 45 (fifth
(See figure 0). And this personal computer 47
Timing data and communication data from the circuit board 1 are branched into a predetermined number of signal paths by an input/output interface 46, and their levels are matched by a level converter 45.
33. Note that the timing data and communication data described above simulate signals from each sensor and other peripheral devices. Also, the state of the signal output from the electric circuit board 133 is
7 (7): It is displayed in the 1st rule.

Stain correction using a simulator system comprising such a stain rate kit 40, a personal computer 47, etc. will be described.

This simulator system has a manual control mode and a personal computer control mode.

In the manual control mode, transmission/reception staining, sensor signal staining rate, etc. are performed. The transmitting/receiving stain and rate are based on the data entered from the keyboard of the personal combination coater 47 or the initially loaded data on the electric circuit board 133.
The data received from the electric circuit board 133 is displayed on the console of the personal computer 47.

As described above, the sensor signal simulator sets the signal to the electric circuit board 133 by turning on and off the switch 41a of the switch panel section 41, and displays the status with the blue lamp 4'2a.

Further, the state of the output signal from the electric circuit board 133 is displayed by a red lamp 42b.

In personal computer control mode, electric circuit board 1
This is used when debugging the control software of No. 33 and performing paper running tests, etc. according to timing charts. Here, communication data, sensor signals, etc. are created based on a timing chart described later.

Here, the paper running test will be explained.

When developing a copying machine control program, it is necessary to check how the program is executed depending on the conveyance position of the paper as the paper is sequentially conveyed inside the copying machine.

At this time, since the actual mechanical part is generally not yet completed, timing data simulating the output of the sensor, for example, is prepared, and the program is executed based on this timing data.

In other words, it is put into the in-circuit emulator 44,
Switch panel section 41 or personal computer 4
C of the target while supplying various sensor signals from 7.
By running the same program as P U132 and observing the operating status of the copying machine expressed by the blinking of the lamps 42a and 42b on the display panel section 42, it is checked whether the program is operating normally. . If the operation is abnormal, the faulty part of the program is estimated from the blinking state of the lamps 42a and 42111, and the error in the program is detected using the in-circuit emulator 44 and corrected.

Additionally, a logic analyzer is used to inspect timing data, and an oscilloscope is used to inspect the actual waveforms of each part. Additionally, these tests may be performed in combination.

An example of the above-mentioned Shimi>Regizin will be explained using a simple program example.

The program below will run fsrout-ro when the sensor named fusin-snr is turned on.
This is a routine written in the PL/M language that turns on the operational switch named ll and turns off the operational switch named reg-sol.

Note that all programs are written in uppercase letters, for example, FUSIN-SNR in the program is written as fusin-
It means snr. The same applies to other notations. Also,
fusin-snr is a sensor that detects the arrival of paper at the entrance of the fuser, fsrout-roll is a switch for operating the roller at the exit of the fuser, and re
g-sol is an operation switch that opens and closes the registration gate.

IP INP$8255$CHK (FUSIN-SN
R)=ON TH[:NDO; FSROllT-ROLL-ON; REG-SQL-OFF; εN mouth; A flowchart of this process is shown in FIG.

That is, this routine generates INP$82 per period.
55 Starts a subroutine named CH to check the output of sensor fusin-snr, and when the paper reaches the entrance of the fuser, it operates the roller at the exit of the fuser and also turns the registration gate. This is to perform processing to stop the passage of paper by turning it off.

When checking the operation of this routine, a sensor signal corresponding to the sensor fusin-snr is supplied to the electric circuit board 133 of the personal computer 47 of the simulator system while the above program is running.

If the routine is programmed correctly, fu
Immediately after sin-snr is turned on, fsrout-r
The red lamp 42b3 of ol l lights up and the reg-
The so I red lamp 42b goes out. Further, at this time, the fusin-snr blue lamp 42a is lit.

However, if there is a bug in the above routine, for example, if you accidentally program RAG-SQL-ON; instead of REG-3, then 0FF;, even if fusin-snr is turned on, Since the reg-sol red lamp 42b2, which should normally be turned off, remains on, it is clear that an abnormal operation is occurring.

When debugging software in this way, it is necessary to prepare data indicating the operating state of the copying machine, that is, a sensor signal corresponding to the sensor fusin-snr in the above example.

For this reason, in the past, changes in sensor output were determined on graph paper based on the positions of various sensors in the actual copying machine, paper conveyance speed, etc., and an input chart was created.
Timing data was created from this input chart. An input chart is one in which time is plotted on the horizontal axis and sensor output level is plotted on the vertical axis. This is what I did. Timing data corresponds to the input chart, but in order to be able to use it in actual simulations, the timing data and change states of changing points are recorded using raw data such as AS.
It is expressed in CI I code.

First, when creating an input chart, prepare graph paper with time on the horizontal axis and distance traveled by the paper on the vertical axis, and as shown in Figure 54, the leading edge of the paper moves over time. and the position of the trailing edge according to the paper size, and hand-draw a straight line representing the state of paper movement. In the figure, L81 is a line segment indicating the moving state of the leading edge of the first sheet, and TEI is a line segment indicating the moving state of the trailing edge of the same sheet.

Similarly, line segment Lε2 indicating the front end and rear end of the next sheet
．． Draw Ta2.

Next, a horizontal line SLI is drawn from the vertical axis position corresponding to the installation position of the sensor named fusin-snr. Then, the line segments LEI, TEI, LE2. Ta2
Find the point where SLI crosses the horizontal line SLI, and find the change points of sensor output 12, 13°1, . 1. seek. Next, from these change points, the change in the output of the sensor fusin-snr is written by hand using binary values of high level and low level to create an input chart MCI. Also,
Similarly, when determining the output of the sensor reg-snr located upstream from the sensor fusin-snr in the paper transport direction, a horizontal line SL2 is drawn from the vertical axis position corresponding to the sensor installation position, and the line segment Lε1. TEI, LE2
．． Change point tl+ "2+ t4+ from the intersection with Ta2
Find tS and create input chart lc2.

Next, when creating timing data from the input charts ICI and IC2, visually check the direction of change in the input charts ICI and lc2, the duration from the previous change point, etc., and use them in the program of the personal computer 47. Create possible data statements. That is, at each change point, a data sentence as shown below is created in chronological order, and this data sentence is entered from the keyboard of the personal computer 47 and stored as a file in the personal combicoater 47.

DATA Duration time, “Signal type”, Signal number, “Signal!”, “Message (for example, input chart in Figure 54) For IC2, the data at time 1+ is DATA t ++ ” I ”, n 2
．． "H',"RBG-3NR"The data at time t2 are: 口ATAt2-tll"I
” + 12 r “L”, “REG-3NR”
0＾TA ta tl, “I ”, n +,”
H', 'FtlSIN-3NR' The data at time t are: 口＾TA ts t 2."I',
It is expressed as n+, "L", and "FUSIN-3NR". Note that the signal type ■ is an input signal, and the signal number "++" 2 is a sensor fusin-snr in advance.

Number assigned to reg-snr, signal shape, H on the back
indicates a high level, and L indicates a low level.

In this way, at each change point, the required number of data sentences are created and input into the personal computer 47.

When performing signal transmission, a signal of a predetermined level is generated at a predetermined time based on this data sentence stored in the personal combinator 47, and after the level is adjusted by the level converter 45, the signal is sent to a predetermined communication channel. Electric circuit board 1 as a high level or low level signal
33 and the simulation is performed.

[Problem to be solved by the invention]

However, since all of the work to create this input chart is done manually, there is a problem in that it takes a lot of time and effort to create. In addition, since the work is done visually, reading and filling errors are likely to occur.
It was difficult to create accurate input charts. Therefore, there is a problem in that timing data for simulation cannot be prepared in a short period of time, and as a result, the entire debugging work is delayed.

Copying machines have various combinations of operations depending on the copy magnification, paper size, number of copies, paper path, original input method, paper output method, etc., so there are various types of test modes to check the operation in these combinations. There are, for example, several hundred ways. Therefore, it is practically impossible to create an input chart compatible with all modes, and in reality, only a limited number of modes can be used.

Furthermore, when a very large number of copies, such as about 1000 sheets, is set, it is impossible to create an input chart that corresponds to all the sheets.

Further, when a copying machine is composed of a plurality of modules, it is necessary to perform a simulation for each module, but conventionally it has not been possible to know the state of signals from external modules. For this reason, there is a limit to the degree of staining, and sufficient debugging cannot be performed. Also, until the external module board is actually completed, the simulator of the module to be debugged must be
John couldn't do it.

The present invention was devised to solve the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present invention is to accurately and easily create input charts for simulation in a short time.

[Means to solve the problem]

In order to achieve the above object, the input chart editing method for image output device simulation of the present invention stores input signal data generated in the paper sensing component of each module of a plurality of modules constituting the image output device as independent files. The data of the input signals of the plurality of modules is stored in a file means, the data of the input signals of the plurality of modules are retrieved from the file means, the data of the input signals are rearranged in time series over the plurality of modules, and the data of the input signals are synthesized. It is characterized in that data is stored in the file means as a new file.

[Effect]

Regarding the operation of the present invention, the principle block diagram shown in Fig. 1 and the Fig. 2
A specific example will be described with reference to the flowchart in the figure and the explanatory diagram in FIG.

In the present invention, for example, from data input means A such as a keyboard or a mouse shown in FIG.
2. P3. P4 (see Figure 3) (7) XY coordinate data is manually input to the calculation means as paper condition data (
FIG. 2(a) Step 5IOI). The calculation means calculates a line segment LH connecting each change point from these XY coordinate data. And the line segment LE representing the front edge of this paper! is displayed on the image output means C such as a graphic display (step 5102>.Here, if the paper size is input to the data manual means (
Step 5103), the change point P of the line segment representing the front end is calculated by the calculation means, P2. P...
The value of the Y coordinate of P is reduced according to the paper size,
Change point Q at the rear end, Q2゜Q3. The coordinates of Q are found. From these coordinates, a line molecule E representing the movement state of the trailing edge of the paper is displayed (step 5104). Further, when part position data indicating the position of paper sensing parts such as sensors is manually entered into the data input means (step 51
05) Based on this part position data, set the Y coordinate Y1
is determined, and the input signal line SL is placed horizontally on the image output means C.
is displayed (step 5106). Then, the X coordinates X, .

The period from this coordinate x1 to X represents the sensor output, and here the initial state of the sensor output is set to low level, so it changes from low level to high level at the time when input signal line SL intersects line segment LB. Then, the level changes from high level to low level again at the time when line segment L(! The status data is stored in a file means such as a disk device (step 5109).

Based on these data, the calculation means B calculates an input chart (IC) that indicates the change in level of the signal output from the paper sensing component when the paper passes through the paper sensing component, and generates an image. It is displayed on the output means C (step 5LIO).

The above-mentioned work is performed for each module of the plurality of modules that constitute the image output device. Then, the data of each module is stored in the file means as different files.

Then, data of a plurality of different modules is read from the file means (step 515 in FIG. 2).
1) Step 5: To rearrange these data in chronological order using the rearrangement means E provided in the calculation means B.
152) They are then combined into one new file (step 5153). If the data of this combined file is displayed on the image output means C, the image output means C
Input charts of a plurality of modules are displayed in a composite form (step S'154). Furthermore, if the synthesized file is stored in the file means (step 5155), the data of the synthesized file can be read out and edited later, and data creation can be made more efficient.

[Example] Hereinafter, the features of the present invention will be specifically explained based on an example with reference to the drawings. In this embodiment, a copying machine will be described as an example of an image output device.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a simulation device for implementing the chart editing method of the present invention.

In the figure, l is a 32-bit CPU that controls the entire simulation apparatus and processes data. This CP
A 4 Mbyte main memory 2 is connected to the UI. Further, the CPU includes a keyboard 4 and a mouse 4a for inputting various data and instructions via a bus 3 and a serial data line 3a.

Graphic display as an image output means for displaying processing results, etc. 5. A 456 Mbyte disk device 6 and the like as a file device for storing programs and data are connected. In addition, graphic display 5
is, for example, a four-color 14-inch cathode ray tube display that performs drawing using graphic commands called ACM codes. Also, serial data line 3
An emulation system 7 is connected to a.

In addition, the part surrounded by a broken line in FIG. 4 constitutes the mini combiator system 8, and in this embodiment, it is a digital equipment system (DEC) (7) using UNIX (registered trademark) as the operating system.
I am using VAX-11/750.

The disk device 6 includes a mini combinatorial system 8.
Software resources such as the program body and data required during the execution of all the processes being executed are stored as files, and when the program is executed,
The programs and data in the disk device 6 are loaded into the main memory 2, and the CPU 1 uses these software resources to proceed with necessary processing.

'JP, Figure 5 shows the software configuration of the input chart creation device of this embodiment.

There is a data creation block DGB under the UNIX operating system SYS of the V A
Input chart file ICF, serial chart file SCF, timing chart file TC
P, composite timing chart file 5TCF, timing data file TOP, timing data format file TDFF, and other files are referenced.

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing the relationship between each of the above-mentioned files that store data and each table that is referred to during this storage operation.

When specifying a model (step 5201) and specifying a module (step 5202), both the work directory path table WDPT and the model selection table PST are referenced in each step.

Further, when setting hardware information (step 5203), the hardware information file old F and node 1 hardware information table old T are referred to.

In addition, diagram creation (step 5204), input chart creation (step 5205), serial chart creation (step 5206), and timing chart creation (step 5206) are also performed.
0? ).

When synthesizing timing charts (5208) and creating timing data (5209), basically the diagram table OT and diagram file OF, input chart table ICT and input chart file tcp, serial chart table SCT and serial Chart file SCF.

Timing chart table TCT and timing chart file TCP, timing chart composition table TCST and composition timing chart file 5TC
F. Timing data table TDT and timing data file TDF are each referred to.

However, each file is also referenced from processes other than the corresponding creation process, as indicated by arrows. Further, the hardware information table old T is commonly referred to.

Furthermore, timing data format conversion (step 5)
210), the hardware information table old T
, timing data file TDF, and timing data format file TDFF are referenced.

The processing flow of the main program in the stain correction apparatus of this embodiment will be explained with reference to the flowchart in FIG.

A data creation program stored in the disk device 6 (see FIG. 4) is loaded into the main memory 2 via the CPU t, and this program is activated.

This data creation program is designed to run on a directory with a tree structure, and in this embodiment, a plurality of model-level builfs (+3) are located under the directory named sim, and each Multiple IJs at the module level are located below the directory at the model level. Furthermore, each file described later is located under each module level directory. To manipulate these files, each file is marked with a working directory path.

This working directory path salt is a parameter that determines which file in the UNIX file system is to be operated. For example, if the current working directory path salt is /a/b/c and you specify a file named X, the actual file will be named /a/b/c/x and /a/b/ It is judged to be below c.

When the data creation program is started, the directory below the sim is read (step 14P1).
, the target model name is displayed in menu s-format on the screen of the graphic display 5 (step MP
2>. In other words, the already registered model name is model number rlJ.
, r2j, r3J, . . . In the case of a new model, if "0" is entered, the process proceeds to module configuration registration (steps MP3, MP4, and MP5).

This module configuration registration (step MP5) is for registering the model name and its module configuration in the case of a new model.If you enter the development model name, the module number will be automatically displayed, so it is compatible with this. Then manually enter the module names one by one and register the module configuration. In this way, a new model level directory is created, as well as a module level directory below it.

In this embodiment, the copying machine is divided into several modules, and a module salt is registered in each of these modules. Note that the module here means one functional part of the copying machine controlled by one CPU.
For example, a copying machine main body, an automatic document feeder, a sorter, etc. are each made into one module.

The reason for dividing into a plurality of modules in this way is to reduce the load on the CPU per module, eliminate waste, and further improve efficiency during program development.

For example, if a single CPU is to control peripheral devices, control programs must be created for all the peripheral devices that may be used. However, since the automatic document feeder, sorter, etc. may not be installed, there will be unnecessary parts in the control program and the operation speed will be slow.

Furthermore, since a control program must be created to commonly control all peripheral devices, the program becomes complex and enormous, making debugging extremely difficult. Furthermore,
When the specifications of a peripheral device change, it is necessary to modify the control program, but it is difficult to maintain consistency with other parts when making this modification. There is also a possibility that new bugs may occur in this section.

Therefore, in this embodiment, the system is divided into a plurality of modules according to function, and each module is controlled by an independent CPU so as to be compatible with a copying machine. By doing so, it is possible to create and debug programs independently, thereby increasing development efficiency. That is, when a module is operating abnormally, it is basically sufficient to perform an inspection using the module name, so it is easy to investigate the cause of the abnormal operation.

In addition, even if the specifications of peripheral devices have changed,
Since it is only necessary to modify the program of the device, modification is easy and does not affect other modules. Furthermore, since the load on each CPU is reduced, operation becomes faster.

Here, for example, the copying machine main body is named MAIN, the automatic document feeder is named 80F, the sorter is named 5ORT, and the paper feeder is named C)Ill. In addition,
When entering Mogicol salt, you will be required to enter it twice.
The module name is registered only if the same module name is entered twice. This is because if an incorrect module name is registered, the incorrect module name will be added to all data in subsequent processing.

After the above-mentioned module configuration registration (step MP5) is completed, the work directory path table W shown in FIG.
Add the working directory path salt to DPT (Step 1JP6).

If the target model is a registered model, proceed directly to adding the working directory path (step MP3. MP4゜M
P6). Here, the model name is added, and the working directory path is structured as sim/model name.

Next, the module salts are displayed in a menu format (step MP7), so the desired module is selected from the module menu by number.

Next, a working directory path salt, that is, a module salt in this case, is added (step MP8), and the working directory path salt has the following structure: sim/model name/module name. By adding this module name, the user specifies which module's test data is to be created.

Next, a session block menu is displayed (step MP9), and a desired session block is specified (step MPIO). Here, if you enter "1" from the keyboard 4, hardware information setting (step! JP12) is selected, and if you enter "2" manually, timing data creation (step MP13) is selected.
When "3" is entered manually, timing data format conversion (step MP14) is selected and the selected session is activated. In addition, if you input "4" manually, the above UNI
Return to the X system.

As shown in FIG. 8, the processing in the input chart creation device of this embodiment includes hardware information setting (step MP12) for setting various conditions corresponding to the hardware of the developed model, and movement of paper within the copying machine. Timing data creation (step MP13) that virtually creates timing data that is sequentially generated according to the timing data, etc., and timing data format conversion (step MP13) that converts this timing data into a format that can be used in other devices, such as a simulator kit. It is divided into three sessions: 1JP14).

The reason for dividing this into three sessions is to improve operability by grouping related operations together.
This is because it becomes easier to create the software for the simulator itself.

Each session will be explained in detail below, but in order to make the overall relationship clear, it will be divided into three sessions as shown below, and each session will be further divided into multiple sub-sessions (see Figure 8). ).

(■) Hardware information setting session, input signal name setting, output signal name setting, reference clock setting, reception data definition, transmission data definition (I[) timing data creation session, diagram creation, input chart creation, serial chart creation, Timing Chart Creation/Timing Chart Synthesis/Timing Data Creation (III) Timing Data Format Conversion Session Note that each process in the timing data creation session is shown as being serially processed in FIG. After completing a process, if you give an instruction to remove it from that process, you will be returned to the main menu of the timing data creation session, where you can select any process.

Each section will be explained in detail below.

(1) Hardware information setting Here, the hardware information table HI shown in FIG.
With reference to T, various hardware information necessary to create timing data, such as input and input of switches, sensors, motors, etc. used in the copying machine shown in FIG.
Define the output signal name, reference clock, and communication data.

This processing flow is shown in FIG.

As shown in the figure, this hardware information setting session is further divided into the following five subsessions.

In other words, input signal name settings to register input signal names of sensors, switches, etc., output signal name settings to register output signal names of solenoids, motors, etc., and to convert real time to clock values during timing data format conversion described later. Reference clock setting.

It consists of five subsections: reception data definition, which defines the data received from the external module, and transmission data definition, which defines the data sent to the external module.

When you enter the hardware information setting session, each of the above sub-sections is displayed in many formats (step 1).
), specify the subsession to be activated using a number from ``1'' to ``5'' (old step 2). As a result, the designated subsession is activated (steps old 4 to HI8).

First, the input and output signal name setting subsection (former step 4.) 115) will be explained.Here, input signal names and output signal names are entered manually from the keyboard 4 in correspondence with the input signal number and output signal number. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 52, the sensor that detects the arrival of paper at the entrance of the fuser is named fusin-snr, and the roller operation switch at the exit of the fuser is named fsrout-ro.
The operating switch for opening and closing the registration gate is named reg-sol.

Next, go to the reference clock setting subsection (step old 6).
) will be explained.

This is used to set the cycle of the clock used in the copying machine, and is used to convert time into a clock value when converting the format of timing data as described later. Here, the clock cycle is manually input from the keyboard or board 4 in units of μs, for example.

Next, receive data definition subsection (step old 7)
will be explained in detail.

This reception data definition subsection includes the serial base data definition (step 530), as shown in FIG.
1), Serial data related formula room I! (Step 5302
), serial data table definition sl (step 530
3) and serial data repetition definition (step 530
4).

Each function will be explained below.

The serial base data definition function defines the correspondence between data and its raw data value (in hexadecimal representation).

The procedure is to input the serial communication data name and data from the keyboard 4. For example, r8301100000 for the serial communication data name 5TART.
The data ``82'' is defined for the serial communication data name 5TOP. As a result, these data are supplied to the minicomputer system 8 and stored in the hardware information file 1 (rF) shown in FIGS. 5 and 6.

By defining the serial communication data used in the timing data in this way, it is also possible to create communication data from other modules. Note that in order to make the communication data more versatile, a variable n that depends on the number of feeds can be introduced into the communication data as a variable. For example, for the serial data name INTRIIPT, [030010n100J is a strange W!
, n can be defined.

The serial data relational expression definition function uses the signal INTR described above.
Like IIPT, when there is a variable n in the serial data, the variable is defined by the number of feeds F, for example, n=3+F. Note that the number of variables is not limited to n, and a plurality of variables can be set.

The serial data table definition function defines variables that are difficult to define in the form of an equation such as n=3+F, which depends on the number of feeds F, in the form of a table. That is, data at a predetermined position can be set by specifying the variable P to be set and the number of feeds F and inputting the data.

For example, when defining a serial data table, a display as shown in FIG. 10(a) is displayed on the graphic display 5, and the first serial data is r02.
It can be seen that it is defined as 0c 0301 d2 d3j. Note that "02" in the display indicates that the number of feeds is 1, and the same < rOcJ, r03J indicates that the number of feeds is 2.3. Here, from the keyboard 4, r P=1. F=7.3cJJP=l,
F=8.2cJJP=1. If F = 9.5aJ and manually, the first serial data will be r020c 0301 d2 d, as shown in Figure 10(b).
Newly defined in 33c 2c 5aJ. The variable P defined here is in the serial base data definition.
It is used like r030010P, 3100J. However, P is PI, P2. It is...

The last serial data repetition definition function defines the data repetition law according to the serial data table definition, and is additionally used to define variables that change periodically for each number of feeds.

When defining this serial data repetition, the same display as when defining the serial data table is performed, but here, input of the variable P containing the data to be repeated and the feed value F is required, so it is necessary to input the variable P that contains the data to be repeated, so Specify the start and end positions of the data section.

The above is an explanation of the reception data definition function.
The transmission data definition 1 function also has a similar function.

The data set or defined in each subsection of input signal name setting, output signal name setting, reference clock setting, reception data definition, and transmission data definition described above is stored in the hardware information table format shown in Figure 11. Be expanded.

This hardware information table old T, as shown in FIG.
It consists of the reference clock, reception data, and transmission data areas, and the input signal name is composed of multiple input signal names as shown in (C) of the same figure, and the output signal name is (C) of the same figure.
It consists of multiple output signal names as shown in . Also,
Each area of received data and transmitted data is serial base data and serial relational expression, respectively, as shown in FIG.

It consists of a serial data table and a serial data repetition area. These data are then stored in the disk device 6 as a hardware information file old F in the format shown in FIG.

The hardware information file old F roughly corresponds to the hardware information table old T, and as shown in FIG. It is composed of each area of received data and transmitted data, and the management information is the number of input signal names, as shown in FIG.

It consists of the number of output signal names, the number of received data, and the number of transmitted data.

The reason why the hardware information setting session is divided into five subsections as mentioned above is that each subsection has no dependence on each other and can be configured independently.
This is because it is convenient for operation and because the upper part of the program is convenient.

(n) Creation of timing data This is to actually create timing data using the information set in the hardware information setting session described above (step MP13).

As shown in Figures 6, 8, and 13, this session includes (1) diagram creation, (ii) input chart creation, (iii) serial chart creation, (iv) timing chart creation, (V ) timing chart synthesis and (vi) timing data creation.

Each subsection will be explained below.

(1) Diagram Creation This involves creating a timing diagram, which will be the basis for creating input data, using the mouse 4a or keyboard 4. FIG. 14 shows an outline of the main flow of the process.

When entering the diagram creation session, a list of registered diagrams is displayed in a menu format on the graphic display 5, and the user selects whether to edit the registered diagram or create a new diagram based on the number (step DG1.
DG2). If creating a new diagram, enter "0" instead of the diagram number.

When creating a new item is selected, the screen of the graphic display 5 shown in Fig. 4 shows the horizontal axis showing time (in ms) and the vertical axis showing the paper movement position (in am) as shown in Fig. 15. ) After step 0G7), the diagram table DT is initialized (step DGg).

The diagram table DT has the configuration shown in FIG.
File creation date, X magnification indicating the magnification in the X-axis direction, that is, for time reduction/enlargement, 7 magnification, indicating the magnification in the Y-axis direction, that is, the magnification for position reduction/enlargement, and the number of front ends registered in this table. .

It has an area for storing a front end table address, a number indicating the number of human input data, an input signal name table address having a line system information table address of input data, and the like. Further, a front end table LET and an input signal name table 15NT (see FIGS. 17 and 18) that are referred to by this diagram table DT are provided. The front end table LET is composed of a front end information table LHIT corresponding to the starting point of the front end and a change position table CPT, and the front end information table LIEIT includes forward direction address, reverse direction, address, number of rear ends, and rear end table address. , the number of front ends, the next address of the front end table, etc.

Further, the change position table CPT is a forward direction address.

It has an area for storing reverse direction addresses, XY coordinates, etc. Note that the X coordinate indicates time information, and the Y coordinate indicates position information.

FIG. 19 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing how each of these tables is referred to.

The diagram table DT refers to the first front end information table LEIT, and this first front end information table LBI
T refers to the change position table CPT in which the coordinates of the front edge or rear edge of the first sheet are stored. Furthermore, when dealing with a plurality of sheets, the next leading edge information table IJIT in which information on the leading edge and trailing edge of the next sheet is recorded is referred to.

In addition, in FIG. 19, LεI indicates the front end information section, and T
EI indicates the rear end information section. Details of this reference operation will be described later.

Diagram table O shown in FIG. 14 mentioned above
By initializing T, an area for this diagram table is secured in the main memory 2, and a predetermined initial value is set in the numerical area of each area, and a blank is set in the character area.

If you want to edit an existing diagram, do the same as above.
As shown in FIG. 14, the standard template is displayed and the diagram table is initialized (step DG
3. DG4). Next, data is read from the diagram file opening F, which will be described later, and the data is displayed (
Step mouth G5. DG6).

In either case of creating a new diagram or editing an existing diagram, proceed to diagram editing (step DGIO) described below. Note that when the editing is finished, the process directly proceeds to update the file (step oG9. DGII).

These diagram edits and file updates will be described in detail below.

In diagram editing (step DGIO>), a diagram is created by combining line segments on the above-mentioned standard template.This template and the program for forming each line segment are based on the mini version shown in Figure 4. Graphic commands called ACM codes, which are executed in the computer system 8 and are sent from the mini-combi coater system 8, are supplied to the graphic display 5 via the serial data line 3a. Graphic commands are interpreted and a predetermined figure is drawn.

The general procedure for editing a new diagram will be described below with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In this embodiment, in order to improve operability during editing work, commands to be executed are displayed on the screen of the graphic display 5, and each command is executed by selecting it with the mouse 4a. There is.

That is, the CPU t always knows the current position of the mouse 4a (step DGIOI), and obtains the position of the mouse 4a when the operator presses a button on the mouse 4a, that is, the manual mouse position. (Step D
G102). Then, commands are determined from this mouse input position (step DG103), and each command is executed (step DG104) to create a line segment.

While each of these commands is executed, information on each changing point of the front end is stored in the diagram table D described above, as described later.
T format is recorded in the main memory 2 and displayed on the screen of the graphic display 5.

Details of each command will be described later.

In step DG105, it is determined whether there is an instruction to finish creating the front end, and the steps DGIO1 to G105 described above are repeated until the creation of the necessary front end line segment is completed.

When inputting the front end or instructing the end of creation, step D
Proceeding to G106, input of the paper size is requested, so input the paper size in mm from the keyboard 4. For example, if the paper size is A4, manually print r210J.

As a result, the paper size is subtracted from the Y coordinate of each change point at the front end in the mini combinator system 8, and the coordinates of each change point at the rear end are obtained (step DG107).

The coordinates of each point at the rear end thus determined are recorded in the main memory 2 in the form of the diagram table DT described above. Then, the line segment of the rear end is automatically added and displayed based on the information on the rear end (step DG108).

Next, the input signal name of the input signal line required to obtain the timing data is entered manually, and the position of the input signal on the paper bus, that is, the Y-axis coordinate, is entered manually (step DG109). As a result, the input signal line is displayed at the specified position along with its name (step DGIIO>).

Repeat this operation as many times as necessary (step DG111.
0G109.0GIIO) All input signal lines are manually connected.

When inputting the input signal lines is completed, the diagram editing work is completed.

After editing the diagram, the diagram table D
Update the diagram file OF with the contents of T.

This updated file is stored in the disk device 6' (see step DGII in FIG. 14).

An example of the structure of this diagram file OF is shown in FIG.

The diagram file OF roughly corresponds to each table in FIGS. 16 to 18, and as shown in FIG. It consists of input signal name information.

As shown in FIG. 3(b), the management information is composed of the file creation date, the number of leading edge/trailing edge information, the number of input signal name information, and a plurality of pieces of leading edge/trailing edge management information, and further includes: Each front end/rear end management information is as shown in FIG.
It consists of the number of front end information and the number of rear end information. Also,
Each front end/rear end information shown in (a) of the same figure is shown in (C) of the same figure.
As shown in the figure, each is composed of front end information and rear end information, and furthermore, these front end information and rear end information are
f), the X-coordinate in ms, respectively;
It is composed of Y coordinates in mm units. Further, each input signal name information is composed of an input signal name and a length in units of I which indicates the position of the input signal line, as shown in FIG. 6(6).

These file data are transferred from the diadem table DT stored in the main memory 2 to the disk device 6.

Therefore, as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 14, the diagram file OF can be called from the disk device 6 (step DG5) and a diagram can be created based on these data. It is also possible to edit it (step 0GIO) and store it in the disk device 6 again (step DGII).

This editing work can be similarly performed for each file described below.

Next, each command for forming the front end line segment will be explained with reference to FIG. 15 and FIGS. 22(a) to (0). In this embodiment, various commands are provided to improve the efficiency of diagram creation and editing.

As shown in FIG. 15, various command sections for editing are displayed around the screen of the graphic display 5, and by selecting these command sections with the mouse 4a, a predetermined command can be executed. let

Mouse command section CI at the top of the screen (Mouse
) is selected, the mouse 4a is used manually and the keyboard command IC2 (in the figure, Key-bo
ard) is selected, the keyboard 4 is used manually. In the initial state, the mouse 4a acts as a human power, and in the following explanation of the editing work, unless otherwise specified, selection refers to selecting a command section displayed on the screen using the mouse 4a. shall mean. Further, when the cancel command section CO is selected, the manually inputted command is canceled.

Line segments representing the diagram are basically created using the two-point designation method or the angle designation method, which will be explained below.

In the two-point designation method, after selecting the two-point designation command section C3 (displayed as Drawpoint in the figure) displayed on the screen, use the keyboard 4 to select the starting point P1 and ending point P2 shown in FIG. 22(a). The coordinates are entered manually or the starting point P1 and ending point P2 are defined on the screen using the mouse 4a. The data of the starting point P1 and ending point P2 that were manually input are 2
Together with the data that the point designation method has been designated, this is supplied to the CP'UI via the bus 3 and stored in the main memory 2 as front end information.

These data are shown in diagram table D in Figure 16.
T, is stored at a predetermined location in the front end information table IJIT and change position table CPT in FIG. That is, each time coordinates are specified, the number of front end changes in the front end information table LEIT is increased, an area in the change position table CPT is secured, and the coordinate data is stored in the change position table CPT.
are stored sequentially. Further, the head address of this newly secured table is stored in the front end information table LHIT as the front end table next address. Furthermore, the changed position table CPT stores a forward address for specifying the next changed position table CPT and a backward address for specifying the previous changed position table CPT or front end information table LBIT.

Therefore, these tables are shown in FIGS.

As shown in Figure 19, if you refer sequentially in the direction of the arrows,
The coordinates of the points of change can be sequentially identified.

Based on these data, the CPUI generates a graphic command that connects the starting point PI and the ending point P2 with a line segment, that is, a straight line command, and this straight line command is supplied to the graphic display 5 via the serial data line 3a. and as shown in FIG. 22(a),
A line segment is drawn between the starting point P1 and the ending point P2.

In addition, for the angle specification method, use the mouse 4a to select the keyboard command section C2, angle specification command section C4 (in the figure, Draw ra
d), and then input the coordinates and angle θ of the starting point P1 from the keyboard 4. As shown in FIG. is performed, and a diagonal line starting from point P1 is drawn. Note that here, the paper conveyance speed is manually calculated in mm/ms as the angle θ. In addition, when manually inputting from the mouse 4a, after selecting the mouse command part CI and the angle specification command part C4, manually enter the coordinates of two points Pi and P2. A straight line passing through P2 is drawn.

Note that when this angle specification method is selected, an end point is not determined, so unnecessary portions must be deleted using the deletion command described below.

This deletion command deletes any part of the specified line segment.
(displayed as select), target line segment 2 deletion command part C
6 (indicated as Delete in the figure), and then enter the coordinates of the two points PI and P2 from the mouse 4a or the keyboard 4 to create a line segment between the two points as shown in Fig. 22(d). will be deleted. In this case, the coordinates of the newly formed starting point P2 and ending point PI are calculated by the mini combination coater system 8 and stored as front end information. In each edit described below, the coordinate information is updated by the edit and stored in the minicomputer system 8.

Also, instead of inputting the coordinates of two points manually, the points can be specified by selecting the positive direction deletion command part C7 (indicated as +Delete in the figure) or the negative direction deletion command part C8 (indicated as -Delete in the figure). In this case, all line segments starting from one point in the positive or negative direction are deleted. Note that if negative direction deletion is specified for the starting point side and positive direction deletion is specified for the end point side, the entire line segment will be deleted.

X-direction copy command section C9 (displayed as CoρYX in the figure)
is for copying a line segment in the X direction, selecting the selection command section C5 on the screen, the target line segment, and the X direction copy command section C9.
, select any point Pi on the target line segment and the copy destination point P2 using the mouse 4a as shown in FIG. 22(e).
By specifying , the line segment is copied as shown in FIG. 8(f). That is, the coordinates of a new front end corresponding to the specified point are calculated by the mini-convenience store system 8, and are added and stored as new front end information.

The Y-direction copy command section Cl0 (indicated as (:opy y) in the figure) copies a line segment in the Y direction similarly to the X-direction copy command section C9 (Fig. 22 (li, (h)).
reference).

X-direction movement command section C11 (in the figure, 5hift x
), Y direction movement command section Cl2 (displayed as 5hift
y') is used to move a line segment in the X direction and Y direction, and the same specifications as for X direction copying and Y direction copying are performed (see Figures 22 (i) and (j) and ( (see g), (I)).

Offset copy command section C13 (in the figure, Copy o
ff) copies a line segment in the X or Y direction, but in this case, the copy destination position is specified by an offset amount. As for the operation procedure, select command section C5 on the screen,
After sequentially selecting the target line segment and the offset copy command section C13, the offset amount is input from the keyboard 4.

As a result, the line segment is copied at a position offset by a certain amount, as shown in FIG. 22(e).

Offset movement command section C14 (5hift in the figure)
(displayed as "off") moves a line segment in the X or Y direction, and the operating procedure is the same as offset copying.

The shaping command section C15 (indicated as 5hape up in the figure) is for combining a group of discontinuous line segment fragments and shaping them into a negative line segment.

For example, if there is a discontinuous line segment as shown in FIG. It becomes one continuous line segment as shown in 0).

Banning command IC16 (displayed as pan in the diagram)
moves a specified point to the center position on the XY coordinate space, and is executed by selecting the panning command IC16 on the screen and then specifying the point. For example, the overall xY coordinates are Qms ~2. “l1ls.

It has a size corresponding to -5000am to +5000mm, and under standard conditions, Oms to 400hs,
Although the range from 0mm to 2000mm is displayed, display centered on any point is possible by coordinate transformation.

Input setting command section C17 (in the figure, Input set
) is for manually inputting an input signal line indicating the position on the paper path of the input signal. Select the input setting command section C17 and input the input signal name and Y coordinate value from the keyboard 4. The input signal name entered manually in this way is stored in the input signal name table along with the forward address, reverse address, and length, as shown in FIG. Based on these data, input signal lines are drawn at predetermined positions on the screen.

Input deletion command section Cl8 (Input del
) is for deleting the input signal line indicating the position of the input signal on the paper bus, and by sequentially selecting the input signal line in the input deletion command section C18, the input signal line is deleted.

Also, r XI/2. Xl15.
X2.

X5J indicates scale factor portions C19 and C20, and when either magnification is selected with the mouse 4a, the display is enlarged or reduced by 2 times, 5 times, 172 times, or 175 times in the X or Y direction. The magnification set here is stored in the diagram table OT shown in FIG.

Next, for a simple example of creating the front end of a diagram using each of the above commands, see the flowcharts in Figures 23(a) and (c) and the display examples in Figures 24(a) to (e). and explain. Note that the numbers in the lower right corner of the screen are mouse 4a.
It shows the coordinate position of.

First, use the mouse 4a to select, for example, a two-point designation command section C.
Select step DG to start the 2-point setting command by selecting 3.
301), manually input the coordinates of both ends of the line segment element at the front end (step exit G3G2). As a result, the above coordinates are stored in a table in the memory (step DG303), and then a line segment connecting the above two points is displayed (step DG304).

By repeating this operation, line segments 1 indicating the position of the front edge of the paper are sequentially drawn on the screen as shown in FIG. 24(a) (Step DG305. DG301゜0
G302. RoG303. 0G304).

When the drawing of the front end is completed, next, a shaping command is activated (step 0G306), and the points on the front end are rearranged in order of magnitude of the X coordinate (step DG307). Then, display them in the rearranged order and connect each point with a line segment (step DG308
). As a result, the discontinuous portion of line segment LBI is shown in Figure 24 (
The line segment representing the front end is shaped as shown in b) and becomes continuous. In this way, by using the shaping command in this embodiment, it is not necessary to form a complete continuous line segment from the beginning when forming a line segment.

That is, since it is sufficient to form line segments every other line, the line segment creation work is simplified.

Next, a front end line segment corresponding to the second sheet of paper is formed.

Therefore, here, the offset copy command is started (step DG309) and the offset amount is manually calculated (step DG3 to>. As a result, the offset amount is subtracted from the coordinates of each point on the front edge of the copy destination, and the offset amount is manually calculated for each point on the front edge of the copy destination. Coordinates are obtained (step DG311).

In other words, there is no need to manually enter the coordinates of each point on the front edge for each paper, and by copying the data of the first paper, the second
A diagram corresponding to the second sheet of paper can be easily created. Note that the offset amount can be added instead of subtracted according to the user's designation. The coordinate data corresponding to this second sheet of paper is sequentially stored vertically in the leading edge information table LEIT and the changing position table CPT arranged in the second column of the diagram table opening T shown in FIG. The coordinate data corresponding to the third and subsequent sheets are also interpolated.

Then, the coordinates of these points are connected to generate and display a line segment 2, which is a copy of the line segment IJI indicating the position of the front edge of the paper, as shown in FIG. 24(C) (step DG312).
). Repeat this process as many times as necessary (Step DG3
13. DG309. DG310. DG311.0
G312), a predetermined number of line segments representing the position of the leading edge of the paper are generated.

This concludes the explanation of the example usage of the command for forming a line segment indicating the position of the leading edge of the paper.

With the work up to this point, the front edge creation process (see step G104 in Figure 20) is completed, so as mentioned earlier, enter the paper size (step DG104) and draw the line that indicates the position of the rear edge. (Step DG108)
.

Next, input the input signal name of the input signal line necessary to obtain the timing data, and input the position of the input signal on the paper bus, that is, the Y-axis coordinate (step [1G109). The input signal name table rSNT shown in FIG. 18 stores data of the input signal name and length on the paper bus along with the forward and reverse addresses, and based on these data, the input signal name table rSNT shown in FIG. 24 (e
), the input signal line SL is displayed at the specified position along with its name. This operation is repeated a necessary number of times to input all input signal lines SL. In the example shown, fdo
-snr, reg-snr, fusin-snr,
Input signals ISL named fusext-snr, exit-snr are depicted.

Each piece of data obtained by the above operations is stored in a virtual array shown in FIG. That is, the front end information section L
H+ has front end coordinate data, rear end information fl'1sT
The rear end coordinate data is stored in El, and the input signal name and position data on the paper path are stored in the input signal name table 15NT.

In addition, in the figure, the vertical arrangement shows data for representing the front edge and rear end corresponding to one sheet of paper, and the horizontal arrangement shows data for the front end and rear end corresponding to each sheet. .

The data created in this way is finally stored in the disk device 6 as described above.

(ii) Input chart creation This is to create a chart that shows the on/off status of input signals from various sensors, switches, etc. installed in the copying machine in chronological order, and the diagram creation step (step 5204 in FIG. 6) It is automatically generated from the diagram created in . FIG. 25 shows a flowchart for creating an input chart.

When the creation of the diagram is completed and the user instructs the creation of an input chart, the data of the previously generated diagram is read out (step IcGI-[CG3
). The change in sensor force is then calculated and converted into an input chart (step 1cG4), which is displayed on the screen. For example, if the diagram is as shown in Figure 26, in the input chart,
As shown in FIG. 27, after the line segment LEI at the front edge of the paper reaches the position of the sensor fdo-snr, the line molecule ε! at the rear edge of the paper! The output of the sensor fdo-snr becomes high level during the period until the sensor fdo-snr reaches the same sensor fdo-snr. The same applies to the next sheet of paper and other sensors.

The above conversion procedure will be generalized and explained.

That is, among the coordinate data of each change point stored in the change point table CPT in FIG. 17, the coordinate data between two adjacent points (XI, y+), (X2. Y2)
Based on this, the formula % formula that represents the straight line between each change point is calculated, and this straight line represents the sensor position using the formula y = c. However, C: The X coordinate when crossing the Y coordinate of the sensor position is the input chart This will be a turning point. That is, ax+b=c-bX=, and this X becomes the X coordinate of the point of change.

These calculations are performed by the CPUI.

In this way, through this input chart creation process,
Signals generated from each sensor when paper passes can be created virtually without using an actual machine.

You can also edit the input chart created in this way, and you can also edit the input chart directly without creating a diagram in advance.

You can also edit it.

Chapter 25: When creating a direct input chart
This will be explained with reference to the figures. After entering the input chart creation process, if you manually confirm that no diagram has been created, a list of registered input charts will be displayed (step IcGI).

ICG7) Therefore, input the number of the desired input chart (Step 1cG8). If the registered input chart number is not specified, extract it from this subsection after confirming the completion of the input chart creation process (step ICG9. ICG13. ICG
14).

If the process does not end, the process returns to the list display of the input chart (steps ICG14 and ICG7). If a registered input chart number is specified, input chart data is read (steps ICGIO, ICG12), and input chart editing (
Proceed to step ICG5). In addition, when creating a new input chart, after inputting the input chart salt (step ICGII), input chart I
Proceed to step [CG5].

Here, input chart editing will be explained.

When entering the input chart editing process, editing commands are displayed on the input chart creation screen, as shown in Figure 27, similar to the diagram creation screen. By making a selection, a predetermined editing work is performed.

In the figure, an up command section C31 (indicated as Up in the figure).

The down command section C32 (displayed as Down) rewrites the display of the signal line by one line. For example, if the input chart is as shown in Fig. 27, when the up command 1Ic31 is selected, the signal line corresponding to the topmost sensor fdo-snr disappears, and the other three signal lines are sequentially repeated. Go up.

This command is effective, for example, when there are many types of signal lines and all the signal lines cannot be displayed on one screen.

In addition, the name change command section C33 (in the figure, Rename
) is used to change the signal name, and the signal name is changed by selecting the name change command section C33, the target signal line, and inputting a new signal name manually.

The high-level command section C34 (displayed as High in the figure) is for setting a specified range to a high level, including the selection command section C36, the target signal line, and the high-level command section C34.
If you select two points in sequence and then specify two points, the specified range will be set to a high level.

The low-level command section C35 (indicated as LOw in the figure) is
Contrary to the high level command section C34, the specified range is set to a low level.

The copy command IC37 (indicated as Copy in the figure) is
For example, the upper signal line input shown in FIG. 28(a) is copied, and the lower signal line B is made to have the same pattern as shown in FIG. 28(a). However, at this time, the signal name is not copied.

Further, a movement command unit C38 (displayed as 5hift in the figure) moves an arbitrary point on a certain signal line. For example, two points PI, P2 of the signal line shown in FIG. 28(C)
If you specify the two points PI and P2 of the signal line shown in FIG. 12(e), the result will be as shown in FIG.

Furthermore, the insert command section C39 (indicated by [ns in the figure) is for adding one signal line to the specified position, so select the insert command section C39 and select the insert command section C39 (indicated by *1 in the figure). If the location to be inserted is selected with the mouse 4a, a new signal line C is inserted between the signal lines A and B as shown in FIG. 5(5).

After editing the input chart using the above-mentioned editing function, if you select the end command part C40, the input chart created in the input chart editing process is converted into a file and registered in the disk device 6, and then the process described below is executed. Proceed to create a serial chart.

In addition, the data created in the input chart process is -
H input chart table IcT (see FIG. 6) and finally stored in input chart file IcF shown in FIG. 29.

This input chart file ICF is shown in the same figure (a
), broadly speaking, it consists of management information and a plurality of pieces of input chart information. and,
As shown in Figure (b), the management information consists of the file creation date, the number of input charts, and a plurality of pieces of input chart management information, and each input chart management information is shown in Figure (a). As shown, it consists of an input signal name, a signal number corresponding to the hardware, and the number of change points. Each piece of input chart information is composed of elevation information and time information, as shown in FIG.

(iii) Creating a serial chart This is to create or edit a chart that defines the transmission and reception timing of serial communication data given at the time of starting or stopping copying, etc. This serial chart creation will be explained with reference to the flowchart in FIG. 30.

When entering the serial chart creation process, a list of registered serial charts is displayed in menu format (Step 5CGI), and the user manually enters the number of the desired serial chart (Step 5CG2). If a registered serial chart number is not specified, remove it from this subsection after confirming that the serial chart creation process is complete (
Step 5CG3.5CG4゜5CG5). If the process does not end, the process returns to the serial chart list display (step 5CG5.S[G1).

If a registered serial chart number is specified,
After the serial chart data is read (Step 5CG2.5CG3.5CG6.Sll:G7)
, proceed to serial chart editing (step 5CG9).

When creating a new serial chart, enter the serial chart salt and then proceed to serial chart editing (step 5CG6.5CG8.5CG9).

The first series of Serial Charts will be explained below.

When entering the serial chart editing process, as shown in FIG. 31, a template in which the horizontal axis represents time and a plurality of serial lines SRL drawn at regular intervals along the vertical axis is displayed on the screen. displayed above. Note that FIG. 31 shows a case where an already registered serial chart is called up and edited, and in the case of a new creation, the serial line SRL does not exist.

Here, too, various commands are provided for editing.

Specific to serial chart creation are a serial insertion command IC51 (displayed as 5erialins in the figure) that adds a serial line SRL to a specified position, and a serial communication command that sets serial communication data on the serial line SRL and a communication data name. Serial name command section to be input C52 (displayed as 5erial name in the figure)
etc.

For example, 12.00 on the upper serial line SRL
To display the serial communication data symbol named 1np-strt at the 0 μs position, use the mouse 4a to select the selection command lI'3c55. When you select the target serial line SRL, serial name command section C52, and target position on the serial line SRL in sequence,
You will be asked to enter the communication data name, so enter "inρ-5trtJ" from the keyboard 4. Repeat this process to set the required number of serial communication data generation times and communication data names. Example shown in the figure. Then, the upper serial line SRL has 1np-str as the communication data name.
t, exchange, reg, expel are input, and 5ta is input to the lower serial line SRL.
rt and 5top are input.

In addition, the serial parameter command section C53 (in the figure, 5
erial para ) defines the repetition of serial communication data on the chart. The procedure is to use keyboard command C56, serial parameter command part C53, and mouse 4 to select the desired Y-axis position.
If you select a, the timing position and name of the target communication data will be requested, so enter the time and name manually.

Repeat this process as many times as necessary.

FIG. 32 schematically shows the state of this setting, and in this example, four communication data a, b, c, and d are set. Next, the repetition start position ul+the repetition stop position U and the repetition end position us are manually determined. As a result, when actual data is generated, the four pieces of communication data a, b, c, and d existing between the repetition start position and the repetition stop position 1fu2 are repeatedly generated up to the repetition end position u. become.

After finishing editing the serial chart using the above-mentioned editing function, if you select the end command I%C54, the edited contents will be converted into a file and the serial chart file S will be created.
It is stored in the disk device 6 as a CF, that is, a serial chart is registered (step 5CGIO), and then the process proceeds to timing chart creation, which will be described later.

An example of the structure of this serial chart file SCF is shown in FIG. 33.

The serial chart file SCF, as shown in FIG. 2(a), is broadly composed of management information and a plurality of pieces of serial chart information. The management information is composed of the file creation date and the number of serial chart information, as shown in FIG. In addition, each serial chart information, as shown in the same figure (C),
It consists of a serial data name and coordinate data (time information and position information).

(1v) Timing chart creation This is to create a chart that defines the on/off and manual timing of all input signals input to the Mogicor by automatically combining the input chart and the serial chart described above. This timing chart creation will be explained with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 34(a) and 34(b).

When entering the timing chart creation process, a list of registered timing charts is displayed in a menu format (step TCGI), and the number of the desired timing chart is input (step TCG2). If the registered timing chart number is not specified, extract it from this subsection after confirming the completion of the timing chart creation process (step TCG3. TeO4, TeO5).
. If the process does not end, the process returns to the timing chart list display (step TCG5. TCGI).

If a registered timing chart number is specified (
Step TCG2. TeO2, TeO2) after the timing chart data is read (step T
CG7), proceed to timing chart editing (step TCG21). Also, when creating a new timing chart, a list of registered serial charts is displayed in menu format (step TCG6°TeO8).
Therefore, input the desired serial chart number (step TCG9). If a registered serial chart number is specified, the process advances to displaying the input chart list (step TCG13). Also, if there is no specification,
It is confirmed that the serial chart is not required (step TCG
II), if a serial chart is not required, proceed to display the input chart list (step TCG12.T
CGI3), if a serial chart is required, return to serial chart list display (step TCG12.7C
G8).

Display of input chart list (step TCG13
), manually input the desired input chart number (Step TCG 14). If you specify the number of a registered input chart here, manual input of the timing chart is required, so input the desired timing chart from the keyboard 4 (step TCG15).
．． TCGI8).

In this way, it is possible to create a timing chart as shown in FIG. 35 in which the input chart and the serial chart are combined.

Also in the timing chart editing step, editing can be performed using the same editing function as the above-described serial chart or input chart editing.

When creating this timing chart, as mentioned above, when editing an existing timing chart, when creating a new timing chart using at least one of an input chart and a serial chart, and when depending on an input chart or a serial chart, There are three methods available for creating a completely new timing chart without

It is also possible to define the on/off timing of the output signal in this chart. For example, it is possible to use the above-mentioned editing function to form an output timing waveform that is at a high level within a specified fixed interval, and to give it an output name.

Here, in this embodiment, a repeat section can be defined in the timing chart creation process. This means that when a basic repetition pattern is specified by specifying an interval on the time axis, that pattern will be repeated for the number of repetitions given later. This is effective when creating data for multiple driving modes. In other words, a stain on the actual operation of the copier! When testing, a large number of sheets of paper, for example, several tens or more, may be run in succession to perform the test, but it is extremely troublesome to create data for each sheet of paper. Here, in this embodiment, by making it possible to repeatedly generate data of the same pattern, necessary data can be easily created even when running tests are performed on a large number of sheets.

This repetition definition procedure will be explained with reference to FIG. 34(b) and FIG. 36.

When the editing of the timing chart is completed (step TC
G21), since manual effort is required to repeatedly define or not, if rNJ is manually performed, the process proceeds directly to timing chart registration (steps TCG22 and TCG24).

If you press "Y" manually, it will proceed to constant tangent repeatedly (TCG23)
, the start and end points of the iterative process are determined for each person's output signal. Note that here, normally one basic input signal or output signal line is selected, and other input/output signals, etc. are aligned to that timing. Then, only signals that do not match this timing are separately designated as exception signals.

In this repetitive definition process, human power for the signal name, start position, and end position is sequentially required, so in the example shown in Figure 36,
After inputting the basic signal name INPUTI, input the repetition start position v1 and the repetition end position V. This repetition start position v1 and the repetition end position V,
The setting is performed by manually inputting the X coordinate, that is, the time value from the keyboard 4. With this setting, when actual data is generated, after the preprocessing ends, repetition starts from position v, repeats every (va v+) time, and when this repetition ends 0 times, it moves to postprocessing. . Therefore, (V2-Vl)Xn of the basic signal becomes the time for repeated processing. Note that the value of n is specified in a timing data format conversion session described later.

Next, if another signal, for example 0IITPUTI, has a repetition pattern different from the basic signal [NPIITl, after inputting the signal name 0UTP[I71, the repetition start position V and the repetition end position V, All you have to do is set . In this way, these repetition settings can be set independently for each person's output.

Note that for other signals for which no designation has been made, the same repetition as for the basic signal is performed.

Information for these repetitions is stored as management information in a timing chart file TCP, which will be described later.

When the repetition definition work is completed in this way, the process proceeds to timing chart registration (step TCG24), and the created timing chart is stored in the disk device 6 in a file structure as shown in FIG. 37.

As shown in FIG. 3A, the timing chart file TCP includes, broadly speaking, management information, a plurality of pieces of serial information, and input chart management information.

It consists of input chart information, output chart management information, and output chart information.

The management information includes the file creation date and input chart name, as shown in FIG.

It consists of serial chart name, presence or absence of repetition definition, basic signal name, repetition start position, repetition stop position, number of serial information, number of input chart information, and number of output chart information.

Among these, the data created in the above-described repetition definition process is stored in the areas of presence/absence of repetition definition, basic signal name, repetition start position, and repetition stop position.

Moreover, each piece of serial information is composed of a serial data name and coordinate data (distance information and time information), as shown in FIG. In addition, each input chart management information is composed of a human data signal name, a repetition start position, a repetition stop position, and the number of line system information in the input chart information, that is, the number of changing points, as shown in (6) of the same figure. has been done. In addition, each input chart information is composed of a plurality of line system information as shown in (e) of the same figure, and each line system information further includes height information and time information as shown in (f) of the same figure. It consists of The output chart management information, output chart information, and line system information shown in (1) of the same figure are shown in (a), (e), and (f) of the same figure. Since it is the same as the input chart management information, input chart information, and its line system information, the explanation will be omitted.

(v) Timing chart synthesis This combines timing charts of a plurality of modules to form one timing chart. The resulting synthesis timing chart is used when debugging multiple modules simultaneously.

When the work in the timing chart creation process is completed, an input request is made as to whether the timing chart is to be combined with another timing chart (see step 5210 in FIG. 13). Here, when synthesis is instructed, a list of registered module calls is displayed in a menu format (step Tl: Sl), as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 38, and the number of the desired module is input (step TCS
2). If no registered module number is specified,
After confirming the end, this subsection is extracted (steps TCS3, TCS4, and TC35). If not, return to the module list display again (step TC35, TCSI).Also, if all the modules to be synthesized have been specified, enter "0" and the synthesis timing chart expert power described later will be displayed. Proceed (Step TC
S2. TCS3. TCS6゜TCS7).

If the number of a registered module is specified, a list of timing charts created for that module is displayed in menu format (step TCS8).
Therefore, the desired timing chart number is entered manually (step TC39). If a registered timing chart number is specified, the display returns to the module list (steps TC3IO, TCSI). Furthermore, if there is no designation, it is confirmed that a timing chart is not required, and if a timing chart is not required, the module list display returns (step TC3IO).

TC3II, TCSI2. TCSI). If a timing chart is required, specifying the module number returns to displaying the timing chart list for that module (steps TCS12 and TC38).

When all modules and timing charts to be synthesized have been specified, input of the name of the synthesized timing chart is requested (steps TC36, TC37), so input is performed manually from the keyboard 4. If the name cannot be entered manually, it is confirmed that there is no need to combine it, and if it is not necessary to combine it, it is extracted from this subsection.Step T [S13. T.C.
SI4. TCSI5), if synthesis is required, use the synthesis timing chart skill (step TC315,
TCS7).

Once the name is entered manually, the process proceeds to the timing chart synthesis step (step TCS16), where the data of the multiple modules specified earlier are synthesized with their time axes aligned, and the result is similar to the timing chart in FIG. 35. Serial communication data and signal lines for multiple modules are displayed in a standard format.

This synthesized timing chart can also be edited in the same way as individual timing charts (step TC317). Further, the repetition information described earlier can be defined in the same way (steps TC318, TC
SI9). The composite timing chart created in this manner is registered in the disk device 6 as a composite timing chart file (step TC920).

Examples of the structure of this composite timing chart file 5TCF are shown in FIGS. 39(a) to 39(e). Note that this composite timing chart file 5TCF is basically the 37th
It has the same configuration as the timing chart file TCP shown in the figure, and is composed of management information, multiple pieces of serial information, input chart management information, input chart information 9, output chart management information, and output chart information. .

As shown in the same figure, the management information includes the file creation date, 1gI, presence or absence of repetition definition, basic signal name, repetition start position, and repetition stop position.

It consists of the number of serial information, the number of input chart information, and the number of output chart information.

Furthermore, each piece of serial information is composed of a serial data name, a modicol salt, and coordinate data, as shown in FIG. 4(C). In addition, each input chart management information is composed of an input data signal name, a module list repeat start position, a repeat stop position, and the number of change points in the input chart information, as shown in (6) of the same figure. . In addition, each output chart management information includes the output data signal name and mogicor salt, as shown in FIG.

It consists of a repeat start position, a repeat stop position, and the number of change points in the output chart information. Note that the input chart information and the output chart information have the same structure as the timing chart file TCP, so a description thereof will be omitted.

(vi) Creation of timing data This is to convert the timing chart into a text file, extracting all the changing points on the previously created timing chart and displaying them as a table on the screen of the graphic display 5 as shown in Figure 40. This will be displayed on top and also saved as a file. This timing data creation will be explained with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 41.

When entering the timing data creation process, a list of registered timing data is displayed in a menu format (step TDGI), and the number of desired timing data is input (step TDG2). If you are unsure of the number of registered timing data, remove it from this sub-section after confirming the completion (Step TDG3.7)
4. TDG5). If it does not end, the display returns to the timing data list again (step TDG5.
TDGI).

When creating new timing data, a list of registered timing charts is displayed in a menu format, so manually enter the number of the desired timing chart to obtain the original timing chart salt (step TDG6.
TDG? , TDG8). If a registered timing chart number is specified, the process proceeds to timing data creation (step T[]G9. TDGI2).

To create this timing data, read the specified timing chart data, serial communication data,
The information arranged for each input/output signal is rearranged in absolute time order and stored in the disk device 6 in the form of a timing data file TDF to be described later.

Further, when the registered timing data number is designated in step TDG2, the timing data is read out and stored in the memory in the form of a timing data table to be described later. Next, on the screen of the graphic display 5, as shown in FIG.
A standard template for timing data is displayed, and change data of each signal is displayed in absolute time order within this standard template (ST111G2.TDG6
．． TDGI3).

Also, if there is no designation when inputting the timing chart number, it is confirmed that timing data will not be created (step TDG9.7DGIO), and if timing data is not created, it will be extracted from this subsection and timing data will be created. If necessary, return to the timing chart list display (Ste 111 G11.T
DG? ).

The timing data thus created can be edited, and is edited using the li collection commands described later (step TllG14. TDGI5).

Also, when editing is completed, the timing data table T
The DT is converted into a file in the format of a timing data file TDF, which will be described later. That is, it is stored in the disk device 6.

An example of the configuration of the timing data table TDT is shown in the 42nd page.
It is shown in FIGS.

As shown in FIG. 42, the timing data table TDT is composed of one timing data head table HT.
It is composed of a plurality of timing data information tables TOIT and a plurality of repetition tables RT, which are sequentially referenced in the direction of the arrow from the timing data head table TDHT.

The timing data head table TDHT contains the 43rd
As shown in Figure (a), the timing data name.

Areas are provided for creation date, timing chart salt, number of repetition information registered in this table, address of &I repetition information table, number of timing data information registered in this table, and address of timing data information table. It is being In addition, each timing data information table TOOT includes a forward address as shown in FIG.

Areas are provided for reverse direction address, timing data number, module name, type and data that indicate the type of transmitted/received serial communication data or input/output signals, and absolute time and relative time that indicate the time of the change point extracted from the timing chart. It is being

The data area shown in FIG. 43(b) can be either the transmission/reception serial communication data table shown in FIG. 43(c) or (d), or the data area shown in FIG.
The human output signal table has the configuration shown in (f).

Based on the forward address and reverse address, the timing data information table TOIT to be referred to next is specified as indicated by the arrow in FIG.

Note that when the data is a human output signal, internal links of timing data of the same signal are established to sequentially identify subsequent data.

The same applies to the repetition table RT shown in FIG. 44.

In this way, a timing data table as shown in FIG. 40 can be created.

In FIG. 40, NOl indicates a serial line number and is used as a symbol for line nibbit in the editor. Moreover, MODIILE indicates the module name in which each person's output signal exists or the module name of the subsystem to which serial communication data is input/output. Here, an example of a module of a paper transport device named CHM is shown. Also, R[ICEIV[! and T
RANSMIT It, Shi IJ 7 JLtO) Uke 4f
j and transmission data, INPIIT and 0UTPI
JT shows human output signal names and their changes. Further, TIME indicates the relative time in IIS units from the change state of the previous line until the change in that line occurs.

In the example of FIG. 40, in the initial state, fdo-sn
r.

reg-snr, fusin-snr, fusex
Both sensor outputs named t-snr and exit-snr are off, and after 1187 gm5
^J data is sent, and after 614 button S, sensor f
This shows that the output of da-snr is turned on.

Editing can also be performed in the timing data creation process.

This editing work will be explained below.

For example, if the line return key on the keyboard 4 is pressed while a timing data table as shown in FIG. 40 is displayed, editing will be awaited. If you enter the line number of the line to be edited manually, the parameter will wait for your input, and you can edit that line. When editing timing data, use MODULE, RECEIVE,
After inputting TRANSMIT, INPUT, or 0UTPUT from the keyboard 4, edit the setting value. Additionally, manually inputting "+1 (where β is the line number)" allows additional editing after the second line, and inputting "-2" enables additional editing before the second line. .

The edited timing data is converted into a file in the format shown in FIG. 45 and stored in the disk device 6.

FIG. 45 shows an example of the structure of the timing data file TDF.

As shown in FIG. 2A, the timing data file TDF is broadly composed of management information, a plurality of pieces of repetition information, and a plurality of pieces of timing data information.

The management information is composed of the file creation date, timing chart name, number of repetition information, and number of timing data information, as shown in (C) of the same figure. Like, signal names,! It consists of a repeat start position and a repeat stop position. In addition, each timing data information includes the module number,
It consists of the module name, data type, data itself, and the absolute time and relative time.

In this way, the timing data created by the five subsections of diagram creation, input chart creation, serial chart creation, timing chart creation, and timing chart synthesis described above are stored in the data file as test timing data.

(vi) Timing data format conversion This converts timing data into a data format for the emulation system 7 (see FIG. 4). Regarding this timing data format conversion, the 46th
This will be explained with reference to the flowchart shown in the figure.

When entering the timing data format conversion step, a list of registered timing data is displayed together with numbers, and the number of the desired timing data is entered manually (steps TDFI, TOF2). Note that when specifying multiple files, input the timing data numbers sequentially. If the registered timing chart number is not specified, remove it from this sub-section after confirming the completion (step TDF3. TDF4. TDF5).
. If it does not end, the process returns to the timing data list display again (step TDF5.7 DPI).

If a registered timing data number is specified,
It is determined whether format conversion of all files has been completed (step TDF6), and the steps described below are repeated until format conversion of all files has been completed.

If the selected file does not have repeat information set, you will be asked to enter the output file name.
Enter a new output file name (step TDF7.
7DF9). As a result, format conversion is executed, and the timing data becomes a data statement in the ASCII file format shown below.

DATA Di, "D2', 03.04."D
5", "06" Here, 01 indicates the time expressed by a maximum of 4 digits, and is the clock conversion value of the relative time from the previous signal change. 2 is the 1-character signal type code , ■ indicates the input signal, O indicates the output signal, C indicates the transmitted/received data, and the book indicates the end code.D3 indicates the module number, a 2-digit number, and D4 indicates the input signal number, up to 3.
It is a digit number. 05 is a one-character status type code, H is a high level signal, L is a low level signal, S is transmitted data, and R is received data. The last 06 indicates serial communication data and has a maximum of 42 characters.

Note that if the selected file has repeat information set, the number of repeats will be requested first, so
After manually inputting the required number (step TDF8), proceed to format conversion. Details of this format conversion will be described later.

When the format conversion of the specified timing data is completed, return to the step of checking the completion of all file conversion,
It is checked whether there are any other files that the user has requested for conversion (step TDF6), and the format conversion operation is repeated for each piece of timing data specified by the developer. And all timing data file TDF
When the conversion is completed, the display returns to the initial timing data list (step TDF6. TDFI).

Here, the correspondence with actual data will be specifically explained using the timing chart shown in FIG. 35 as an example. Here, it is assumed that the clock is set to 1000 μs, the module salt of the paper transport mechanism is set to CHM, and the module number is set to "4". Also, in the serial communication data settings, 1np-strt and exchg, respectively.

For sending data named expel, reg, r45JJ44^B6090012BJ, r2
008^4BB655C221211J, r44^2
Assume that data 2BCDOOOOOOIJ is defined. Also, when setting the input signal name, for example,
fdo-snr for input signal numbers 1.2 and 4.5
.

reg-snr, fusext-snr, exit
Assume that the input signal name -snr is set.

These data are stored in the timing data file TDF shown in FIG. 45, and format conversion is performed based on these data. The procedure for this format conversion will be explained.

First, the timing data read from the timing data file T[]F (see Figure 45) is developed into the timing data table TDT (see Figures 42 to 44), and the timing data information and repetition information of this table TDT are Sort chronologically. Then, relative time, signal type code, module number 1 input signal number, status type code, serial communication data, etc. are detected in the order of event occurrence and converted into corresponding ASCII codes.

An example of a data sentence obtained by converting the format of data corresponding to the timing chart of FIG. 35 is shown below.

DATA 〇, 'I'', 04.1. "L", "DA
TA O, “I”, 04, 2. "1.1 DATA
O, “B, 04.3.”L”, DATA O, “B, 04.4. “shi”, “”DATA O, “bi, 0
4.5. "Ji" DATA 1195. “C”, 0
4.0. "R',"45"DATA 600."I"
, 04.1. “H”, “”DATA 24. “C”
, 04. O, "R", "44886090012B
"DATA 48." Bi, 04.1. "Pi,"D
ATA 48. “B, 04.1.”H”, “mouth AT^
12. "1", 04, 2. “H”,’DATA
I2. “C”, 04. Sail “R”, “44^22BCDO
OOOO1”DATA 48.“■”, 04.1.
“L”, “DATA 12.”l”, 04.2.”
L', "DATA 36." B, 04.3. "H
',.

DATA 24. "B, 04.2."Hm, m"DA
TA O,"I',04,2."H","DATA
O,”J, 04. O,”R”,”2DO8A4B
B655C221211"DATA 72."
04.1. 'B,.

For example, the data statement on the first line indicates that in the initial state, the level of the input signal fdo-snr indicated by number 1 is low level, and these signals are related to module number l, that is, the paper transport module. It shows. Similarly, the data sentences in the second to fifth lines have their respective signals reg-snr.

fusin-snr, fusext-snr, e+
The initial state of cit-snr is set.

Next, the data statement on the 6th line shows that a transmission/reception signal, ie, reception data 1np-strt, is manually input after 1195 clocks from the initial state, and its content is "45".

Next, the data statement on the 7th line is the previous change point, that is,
600 clocks after 1np-strt is input, f
This indicates that do-snr is at a high level.

Thereafter, the state of the timing chart shown in FIG. 35, ie, the data of the timing chart file TCP shown in FIG. 45, is similarly converted into a data sentence.

In this way, by converting and creating the format of timing data in accordance with various data transmission systems, the timing data can be made versatile and can be processed by other personal computers for software debugging.

〔Effect of the invention〕

As described above, in the present invention, the data of the input signal generated in the paper sensing component of each of the plurality of modules constituting the image output device is stored in the file means as independent files. and,
At the time of editing, the data of the input signals of the plurality of modules are called from this file means, and the data of the input signals are rearranged in chronological order across the plurality of modules and then synthesized. Therefore, by displaying, for example, an input chart based on this synthesized data, it is possible to see at a glance the interrelationships of input signals of a plurality of modules. Additionally, by performing simulations based on the synthesized data, programs can be debugged without actually connecting the electric circuit boards of other modules, improving software development efficiency.

[Brief explanation of the drawing]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram conceptually showing a configuration for implementing the input chart editing method of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the outline steps of the input chart editing method of the present invention, and FIG. The figure is a diagram for explaining the conversion from a diagram to an input chart, FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of a simulation device for implementing the chart editing method of the present invention, and FIG. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the file structure of the device; FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing the relationship between files and tables used in each session; FIG.
The figure is a process diagram showing the operation flow of each block of the stain correction apparatus, and FIG. 8 is a flowchart of the main program that controls the overall flow of the simulation apparatus. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the processing in the hardware information setting session, FIG. 1O is an explanatory diagram showing the screen when defining the serial data table, FIG. An explanatory diagram showing the configuration of the hardware information file, Fig. 13 is a flowchart showing the outline of processing in the timing data creation session, Fig. 14 is a flowchart showing the processing in the diagram creation session, and Fig. 15 is the screen at the start of diadam creation. 16 to 19 are explanatory diagrams showing the configuration of the diagram table, Figure 20 is a flowchart to explain the editing work when creating a diagram, and Figure 21 is an example of the configuration of a diagram file. Explanatory diagram, Figure 22 is an explanatory diagram showing editing work when creating a diagram, Figure 23 is a flowchart showing the execution status of each command when creating a diagram, and Figures 24 (a) to (e) are diagrams showing the editing work when creating a diagram. An explanatory diagram showing the screen, FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing the processing involved in the input chart creation session, FIG. 26 is an explanatory diagram showing another example of the diagram, and FIG. 27 is an illustration of the input chart corresponding to the diagram in FIG. 26. An explanatory diagram showing the screen, Fig. 28 is an explanatory diagram showing the editing work when creating an input chart, Fig. 29 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the structure of an input chart file, and Fig. 30 is an explanatory diagram showing the processing in the serial chart creation session. Flowchart showing,
Fig. 31 is an explanatory diagram showing a display example of a serial chart, Fig. 32 is an explanatory diagram to explain repeat specification of communication data, Fig. 33 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the configuration of a serial chart file, and Fig. 34 is a timing diagram. A flowchart showing the processing involved in a chart creation session, FIG. 35 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a display when creating a timing chart, FIG. 36 is a diagram for explaining signal repetition designation, and FIG. 37 is a structure of a timing chart file. Explanatory diagram showing an example, 3rd
Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing processing in a timing chart synthesis session, Fig. 39 is an explanatory drawing showing an example of the composition of a synthetic timing chart file, Fig. 40 is an explanatory drawing showing an example of the display when timing data is created, and Fig. 41 is an explanatory drawing showing an example of the composition of a timing chart file. Flowchart showing processing in a data creation session, FIG. 42 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the configuration of a timing data table, FIG. 43 is an explanatory diagram showing details of the timing data table, and FIG. 44 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the configuration of a repetition table. 45 is an explanatory diagram showing the structure of a timing data file, and FIG. 46 is a flowchart showing processing in a timing data format conversion session. Also, FIG. 47 is a sectional view showing the mechanical structure of the copying machine;
FIG. 8 is a sectional view showing a schematic configuration of an automatic document feeder used in the copying machine, FIG. 49 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a control circuit of the copying machine, and FIG. 50 is a simulation of the copying machine. Fig. 51 is a diagram showing the general appearance of the simulation kit, Fig. 52 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the display panel of the simulation kit, and Fig. 53 is the object of simulation. FIG. 54 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a program for creating an input chart using a conventional method. A: Data manual means B: Calculation means C: Image output means D: File means E: Sorting means HIF Hardware information file HIT Hardware information table DT: Diagram table ICT: Input chart table SCT Real chart table TCT : Timing chart table TCST : Timing chart synthesis table TDT : Timing data table Kano : Diagram file IcF : Input chart file SCF Nijiri chart file TCP : Timing chart file 5TCF : Synthetic timing chart file TDF : Timing data file

Claims (1)

[Claims] 1. Data of input signals generated in paper sensing parts of each module of a plurality of modules constituting an image output device are stored as independent files in a file means, and data of input signals of the plurality of modules are stored from the file means. , the input signal data is rearranged chronologically across the plurality of modules, and then synthesized, and the synthesized input signal data is stored in the file means as a new file. How to edit input charts for equipment simulation.