JPH0227481A - Communication data generating method for picture output device simulation - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To efficiently simulate a picture output device operation by repeatedly generating the same serial communication data based on the serial communication data and repetition defining data. CONSTITUTION:When the picture output device operation is simulated, the serial communication data and the repetition defining data are accessed from a file means D, when the repetition is defined at the serial communication data, serial communication data (a) to (d) at the section from a repetition starting position U1 to a repetition stopping position U2 are repeatedly generated by a repeated data generating means E, and when a process arrives at a repetition completing position U3, the generation is stopped. Based on the generated serial communication data (a), (b), (c), (d), (a), (b),..., the picture output device operation is simulated by a simulator constructed on a software basis by an arithmetic means B. Thus, the serial communication data can be easily prepared in a short time.

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 similiation device for simulating an image output device such as a facsimile, and particularly relates to a method for simulating the generation of serial communication data used within 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, reference numeral 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 provided.
A light source 111. A mirror 112 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, the first 2. 2nd and 3rd tray 121° 122, 1
A sheet of paper is conveyed from one of the photoreceptor drums 23 toward the photoreceptor drum 101 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 registration 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 transferred to the photosensitive drum 10 by a peeler 105.
1 and transferred to the fixing device 12 by a conveyor bell) 125.
6, and the toner image is fixed on the paper.

In the case of normal copying, as shown by the solid line, the paper after fixing passes through the inverter 127 and goes to the sorter 300.
Accordingly, it is discharged into a predetermined bin 301. In the case of double-sided copying, as shown by the - dotted line, after the - side has been copied, the front and back sides of the paper are reversed by the inverter 127, and once stored in the double-sided tray 12g, the paper is transferred to the circulation device 129 and the paper feeder. The photoreceptor drum 101 is again conveyed via the photoreceptor drum 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 the paddles 202 and 203, and the original is transported to a specified position on the platen glass 204 by the transport belt 205.

Next, the photoreceptor drum 101 is rotated, and in synchronization with this rotation, the light sources 111. Mirror 112. lens 1
A scanning optical system consisting of 13, etc. 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 a conveyance belt 205, scooped up by a gate claw 207, and discharged to a document receiver 206 at the upper part of the automatic document conveyance device 200 by a 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 200. In a copying machine equipped with peripheral devices such as the sorter 300, the operation of each device must be controlled in relation to the status of other devices.
A communication path connects the copying machine main body and each peripheral device.

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

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

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, it is composed of a copying machine mechanism section 131, a CPU (central processing unit) 132, and an electric circuit board 133 that provides an interface 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. Also, some of the inputs are provided to CPU 132 as interrupt signals. The output data that has been subjected to predetermined processing by the CPU 132 is supplied to an electric circuit board 133, and from this electric circuit board 133 is used to control driving parts such as motors and solenoids provided in the copying machine mechanism section 131. Outputs the 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 100
Supplied via L. Then, the copying machine main body 100 starts copying work based on this communication data.

In a copying machine using a micro combinator as described above, for example, the CPU 1 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 stain remover kit 40 is used for the actual copying machine mechanism 1.
31 and the console panel 1340 input system and output system are replaced with the switch panel section 419 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 ll'1s41 is provided with a plurality of switches 41a for setting the state of each component from the outside. Then, the switch 41 of the switch panel section 41
By operating switch 41a, the output from switch 41a is supplied as an input signal to electric circuit board 133. At this time, the blue lamp 42 & 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 421) 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 stain remover kit 40 and peripheral equipment.

Inside the rack 400a on the left side, there is a display panel section 42.on which the layout of the copying machine is schematically drawn. ? A pseudo console panel section 439 that performs the same function as the I manuscript main body 100 and the console panel 134, a switch panel section 41 for manually inputting signals, and a stabilized power supply 48 for supplying operating voltage to each section are arranged. . In addition, in the rack 40011 on the right side, there is a personal convenience store 24, an 8-person output interface 46, and a level converter 4.
5 is placed. In addition, personal computer 4
7 and its 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.

Further, the display panel section 42 includes a plurality of blue lamps 42a1 to 42a that display the outputs of input components such as various sensors.
s<indicated by a hatched circle in the figure), and a plurality of red lamps 42b to 42b3 (indicated by a - double white circle in the figure) to display the status of output parts such as motors and solenoids. ) are arranged at positions corresponding to these parts, and each is given a name.

For example, f
A red lamp 42b1 named eed-sol indicates the operation of the feeding solenoid, and a blue lamp 42a named feedout 5nr(1) indicates whether the paper is being fed. In addition, at the input end of the display 4010 of the photosensitive drum, there is an r
A red lamp 42b2 indicating the operation of a solenoid named eg-sol and a blue lamp 42a2 named reg-snr indicating whether paper is being fed to the registration gate are provided.
A blue lamp 42a named fusin-snr is provided on the input side near the fuser display 402 to indicate whether or not paper is being fed to the fuser. Further, a red lamp 42b3 indicating the operation of the roll named fsrout-rol+ is provided on the output side of the display 402 of the fixing device. 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 feeder 200. Similarly, lamps are provided at locations corresponding to the sorter 300.

As mentioned earlier, the personal computer 4T is connected to the electric circuit board 133 via the human output interface 7 ace 46 and the level converter 45 (fifth
(See figure 0). And this personal computer 47
Timing data and communication data from the human output interface 46' are branched into a predetermined number of signal paths, adjusted in level by the level converter 45, and supplied to the electric circuit board 133. Note that the timing data and communication data described above simulate signals from each sensor and other peripheral devices. In addition, the electric circuit board 133
The status of the signal output from the personal computer 47 is displayed on the console of the personal computer 47.

A simulation using a simulator system including such a simulation kit 40, personal combinator 4, etc. will be explained.

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

In manual control mode, transmission/reception simulation, sensor signal simulation, etc. are performed. During the transmission/reception simulation, the data entered from the keyboard of the personal computer 47 or the initially loaded data is transferred to the electric circuit board 133.
The data transmitted to the electronic circuit board 133 and received from the electric circuit board 133 are displayed on the console of the personal computer 47.

In the sensor signal simulation, as described above, a signal to the electric circuit board 133 is set by turning on and off the switch 41a of the switch panel section 41, and the state of the chin is displayed with a blue lamp 42a.

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

In personal combination coater 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 program for controlling a copying machine, it is sometimes necessary to check how the program is executed depending on the paper conveyance position as the sheets are sequentially conveyed inside the copying machine.

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

That is, by wiping 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 flashing states of the lamps 42a and 42b, and the in-circuit emulator 44 is used to detect the error in the program and correct it.

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 simulation 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 register lane gate.

IP INF$8255$C) I (FIISIN-S
NR)=ON TH[! NDO; FSROUT-ROLL-ON; REG-Sot, -0FF; END; A flowchart of this process is shown in FIG.

That is, this routine generates INF$82 per period.
55SCH starts a lower routine named ``fusin-snr'' to check the output of the sensor fusin-snr, and when the paper reaches the fuser density, it operates the roller at the exit of the fuser and turns off the registration gate. It performs processing to stop the passage of paper.

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 Simi-Q rate system while the above program is running.

If the routine is programmed correctly, fu
Immediately after sin-snr is turned on, fsrout-r
oll's red lamp 42bs lights up and reg-s
The red lamp 42b2 of ol goes out. Further, at this time, the fusin-snr blue lamp 42a is lit.

However, there is a bug in the above routine, for example, RBG-SQL-OFF; I was wrong when I should have done this. REG-SQL-ON.

In such a case, even if fusin-snr is turned on, the red lamp 42b2 of reg-sol, which should be turned off, remains on, indicating 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 used for actual simulation, the timing data and change state of change points are recorded using raw data such as AS.
It is expressed in CII 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, 1 day 1 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, mark the line mark 2 indicating the front and rear edges of the next sheet.
．． Draw T-snake 2.

Next, a horizontal line SLI is drawn from the vertical axis position corresponding to the installation position of the sensor named fusin-snr. Then, find the point where the line segments LEI, Tel, LH2, Ta2 intersect the horizontal line SLI, and find the change point of the sensor output j2+t3+ti+j? 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 (ICI). Also,
Similarly, when determining the output of the sensor reg-snr located upstream from the sensor fusin-snr in the paper conveyance direction, draw the WL line SL2 from the vertical axis position corresponding to the sensor installation position, and calculate the line segment LEI, TEI, L
Change point tI+ t2+ t4 from the intersection with H2, 7th day 2
+ ts and create input chart) IC2.

Next, when creating timing data from the input charts ICI and IC2, visually check the direction of change in the input charts HCI and IC2, the duration from the previous change point, etc.
A data statement that can be used in the program of the data processor 47 is created. 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 computer 47.

DATA Duration time, "Signal type", Signal number, "Signal!!", "Message" For example, in the case of IC2 (input chart in Figure 54), the data at time t is DATA t +, "I", n 2+
"H',"REG-SNR'The data at time t2 is DATA t2-t,,"I",n,,"
L”, “REG-SNR”DATA t2t In
“I”, nl, “H”, “FtlSIN-SN
R” data at time t3 is DATA t* t2.”I”, n ++ ”
L”, “FLISIN-3NR”.

In addition, ■ in the signal type is an input signal, nl + in the signal number
” 2 is the sensor fusin-snr in advance.

The number assigned to reg-snr and the signal state of H indicate a high level and L indicate a low level.

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

In the simulation, a signal of a predetermined level is generated at a predetermined time based on this data statement stored in the personal computer 47, and after the level is adjusted by the level converter 45, a high level or low level signal is sent to a predetermined communication channel. Electric circuit board 1 as a signal of
33 and stain 5 ration is performed.

In addition, in a copying machine, the operation of each device provided within the machine is controlled using, for example, serial communication data. Therefore, when copying machine stains, it is necessary to generate serial communication data in addition to binary signals.

[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 few limited modes can be simulated.

Furthermore, when a very large number of copies (approximately 1,000 copies) is set, it is impossible to create an input chart that corresponds to all the sheets.

In addition, when a copying machine is composed of multiple modules, communication between each module is performed using serial communication data, but it takes a lot of time to create the serial communication data required for simini-region. It was time consuming.

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

[Means to solve the problem]

In order to achieve the above object, the communication data generation method for an image output device of the present invention inputs serial communication data used in an electric circuit in the image output device by a data input means, and Inputting repetition definition data specifying a portion or period of data to be repeated and the number of times or period for which the repetition is to be continued, storing the serial communication data and the repetition definition data in a file means, and outputting an image. The serial communication data and the repetition definition data are called from the file means at the time of simulation of the device operation, and the serial communication data of the portion or period specified by the repetition definition data of the serial communication data is read. The method is characterized in that the same serial communication data is repeatedly generated for the same number of times or period.

[Effect]

Regarding the operation of the present invention, the principle block diagram shown in Fig. 1 and the Fig. 2
In the present invention, which will be explained with specific examples with reference to the flowcharts in FIGS. (a) and (c) and the explanatory diagram in FIG. From the input hand RA, serial communication data (a, in Figure 3) used in the electric circuit in the image output device
b, c, and d) are input (step 5IOI in FIG. 2(a)). This serial communication data a, b, c, d
If it is necessary to repeatedly generate the repetition definition data, input the repetition definition data from the data input means A (step 10).
2-105). This repetition definition data specifies the portion or period of serial communication data to be repeated and the number of times or period for which the repetition is to be continued. In the example of FIG. 3, the repetition start position u1. Repeated stop position u2 and repeated Hayashi position! Specify iu3.

When inputting these data, for example, a data input window is displayed on the image output hand PtC, and necessary items are input according to the screen.

The serial communication data and repetition definition data thus input are stored in the file means via the calculation means B.

Next, when simulating the operation of the image output device,
Serial communication data and repetition definition data are called from the file means, and if repetition is defined in the serial communication data to be simulated (step 5151), the serial communication data specified by the repetition definition data in the serial communication data is period, i.e.
Serial communication data a, b, c, d in the repeat section from the repeat start position iul to the repeat stop position u2 shown in FIG. 3(a) are generated as repeat data as shown in FIG. 3(b). It is repeatedly generated by the means E (step 152), and when the repetition end position 1 u y is reached (step 5153), the generation is stopped.

These generated serial communication data a, b, c.

Based on d, a, b, . . . , the operation of the image output device is simulated using, for example, spots and rakes constructed by the calculation means B using software.

〔Example〕

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Hereinafter, features of the present invention will be specifically described based on examples 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 realizing the communication data generation method of the present invention.

In the figure, 1 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. Furthermore, a keyboard 4 and a mouse 4a input various data and indications to the CPU 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
In a, the emulation system 7 is installed.

In addition, the part surrounded by a broken line in FIG. 4 constitutes the minicomputer system 8, and in this embodiment, the VA of Digital Equipment (DEC) uses UNIX (registered trademark) as the operating system.
I am using X-11/750.

The disk device 6 includes a mini computer stem 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.

FIG. 5 shows the software configuration of the simulation apparatus of this embodiment.

There is a data creation block DGB under the V A , input chart file ICF
, serial chart file SCF, timing chart file TIl'F, composite timing chart file 5TCF, timing data file TOP, timing data format file TDPF, 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 wopt 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 hardware information table I (IT) are referred to.

In addition, diagram creation (step 5204), input chart creation (step 5205), serial chart creation (step 5206), timing chart creation (step 52)
07).

When synthesizing timing charts (3208) and creating timing data (5209), basically diagram table OT and diagram file DF, input chart table CT and input chart file [CF, serial chart table SCT and Serial chart file SCF.

Timing chart table TCT and timing chart file TCP, timing chart composition table TC3T 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 HI
T, timing data file TDF and timing data format file TDFF are referenced.

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

A data creation program stored in the disk device 6 (see FIG. 4) is loaded into the main memory 2 via the CPU 1, and this program is activated.

This data creation program runs on a directory with a tree structure, and in this embodiment, multiple directories at the model level are located under the directory named sim, and further directories at each model level are located below the directory named sim. Multiple modules-level directories are located under the directory. 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 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 UPI), and the target model name is displayed in a menu format on the screen of the graphic display 5 (step MP2).
. In other words, the already registered model name is model number "1" 2
Displayed together with JJ3J',... 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 module configuration in the case of a new model.When you enter the development model name, the module number is automatically displayed, so it is compatible with this. and enter the module names in order to register the module configuration. In this way, a new model-level B-IJ is created, and a module-level directory is created under it.

In this embodiment, the copying machine is divided into several modules, and a modinir salt is registered in each module. Note that the module here means one functional part of the copying machine controlled by one CPU.
For example, the main body of the copying machine, the automatic document feeder, the 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 within the module, 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 IJAIN, the automatic document feeder is named ADF, the sorter is named S-port RT, and the paper feeder is named C)IM. Note that when inputting the module name, input is required twice, and only when the same modinir salt is input both times, the modinir salt is registered. This is because if an incorrect module name is registered, an incorrect module name will be added to all data in subsequent processing.

After completing the module configuration registration (step MP5) described above, the working directory path table II shown in FIG.
Add the working directory path salt to the DPT (step MP6).

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 bus is configured as S I m 7 model name.

Next, the module names are displayed in a menu format (step!, l P 7 ), so the desired module is selected from this module menu by number.

Next, the working directory path name, that is, the module name in this case is added (step MP8), and the working directory path name has the following structure: s+m/model name/module name. The addition of modinir salt allows the user to specify which module's test data is to be created.

Next, the 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 MP12) is selected, if you enter "2", timing data creation (step MP13) is selected, and "
3” to convert the timing data format (
Step MP14) is selected and the selected session is activated. In addition, if you enter "4", the above UNIX
Return to system.

The processing in the Simini Lascicon device of this embodiment is as follows:
As shown in the figure, hardware information settings (Step!
JP12), step 13) of creating timing data that virtually creates timing data that occurs sequentially in response to the movement of paper in the copying machine, etc., and even if this timing data is transmitted to another device, for example, a stain remover kit. It is divided into three sessions: timing data format conversion (step MP14) for converting into a usable format.

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). ).

(1) Hardware information setting session, input signal name setting, output signal name setting, reference clock setting, reception data definition, transmission data definition (n) Timing data creation session, diagram creation, input chart creation, serial chart creation, timing Chart Creation/Timing Chart Synthesis/Timing Data Creation (I[[) Timing Data Format Conversion Session Although each process in the timing data creation session is shown as being processed serially in FIG. 8, After completing each process, if you give an indication to remove the process, you will be returned to the main menu of the timing data creation session and can select any process.

Each session will be explained in detail below.

(I) Hardware information setting Here, the hardware information table old T shown in FIG.
With reference to , various hardware information necessary for creating timing data, such as input/output signal names of switches, sensors, motors, etc. used in the copying machine shown in Fig. 47, reference clock, communication data. Define. 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 subsections is displayed in menu format (step old 1).
), the subsession to be activated is designated with a number from "1" to "5" (step HI2). As a result, the specified subset is activated (steps Hr4 to H18).
).

First, to explain the input and output signal name setting subsection (former step 4.I (15)), input signal names and output signal names are input 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 input from the keyboard 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 relational expression definition II (step 5302
), serial data table definition (step 5303)
and serial data repetition setting a (step 5304)
It has various functions.

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 HIF shown in FIGS. 5 and 'M6.

By defining the serial communication data used in the timing data in this way, it is also possible to create communication data from other modicalls. Note that in order to make the communication data more versatile, a variable n that depends on the number of feed degrees can be introduced into the communication data as a variable. For example, for the serial data name INTRUPT, the variable n is 030010n100J.
It is possible to define data containing .

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, keyboard 4
From r P = 1. F=7.3cJ, rP=1.
F=8.2cJ, rP=1. If you input F=9.5aJ, the first serial data will be r020c 0301 d2 d33c as shown in Figure 10 etc.
Newly defined in 2c 5aJ. The variable P defined here is r030 in the serial base data definition.
It is used like 010P,,3100J. However, P.
is PI, P2. It is...

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

When defining this serial data repetition, the same display as when defining the serial data table is displayed, but here you are required to input the variable IMP that contains the data to be repeated and the feed value F. 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 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 on the hardware information table HIT in the format shown in FIG. Be expanded.

This hardware information table old T, as shown in Figure (a), includes input signal names, output signal names,
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 the received data and the transmitted data is serial base data and serial relational expression, respectively, as shown in (6) of the same figure.

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.

(Create old 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 (i) diagram creation, (ii) input chart creation, (iii) serial chart creation, (iv) timing chart creation, (■ It consists of six subsections: ) timing chart synthesis and (V) 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 you enter the diagram creation session, a list of registered diagrams is displayed in menu format on the graphic display 5, so select whether to edit the registered diagram or create a new diagram by number (step DGI,
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 as time (unit: ms) and the vertical axis as shown in Fig. 15 (unit: milliseconds). ) is displayed (step DG7), the diagram table DT is initialized (step 0G8).

The diagram table OT has the configuration shown in FIG. 16, and the specified or selected diagram name,
The file creation date, Number of pieces.

It has an area for storing a front end table address, a number indicating the number of 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 LIET is composed of a front end information table LEFT corresponding to the starting point of the front end and a change position table CPT, and the front end information table LHIT includes a forward address, a reverse address, the number of rear ends, a rear end table address,
It has an area for storing 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* mark 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 the diagram table DT refers to the first front end information table LEIT.
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 of paper, reference is made to the next leading edge information table LBIT in which information on the leading edge and trailing edge of the next sheet is recorded.

On the right, in Figure 19, LSI shows the front end information section, and T
ε! indicates the rear end information section. Details of this reference operation will be described later.

Diagram table D 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
3.0G4). Next, data is read from the diagram file Or, which will be described later, and is displayed (step OG5.0G6).

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 proceeds directly to updating 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. Note that this template and the program for forming each line segment are executed in the minicomputer system 8 shown in FIG. The image data is supplied to the graphic display 5 via the image display. And on the graphic display 5,
The graphics command is interpreted and a predetermined figure is drawn.

The general procedure for editing a new diaphragm will be described below with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 20.

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 CPUI always knows the current position of the mouse 4a (step DGIOI), and the operator
The position of the mouse 4a when button a is pressed, that is, the mouse input position is obtained (step DG
102). Then, commands are determined from this mouse input position (step I]GI03), 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 DGIOI to DG105 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, input r210J.

From this point, the paper size is subtracted from the Y coordinate of each change point on the front edge in the mini combinatorial system 81, and the coordinates of each change point on the rear edge 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 timing data is input, and the position of the input signal on the paper bus, that is, the Y-axis coordinate is input (step DG109). As a result, the input signal line is displayed at the specified position along with its name (step DGIIO).

Repeat this process as many times as necessary (step DGIII,
DG109. DGIIO) Input all input signal lines.

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 front end/rear end information, the number of input signal name information, and a plurality of front end/rear end 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 s indicating the position of the input signal line, as shown in FIG.

These file data are transferred from the diagram 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 DGIO) 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 for input, and the keyboard command section C2 (in the figure, Key-b
oard) is selected, press Keyboard 4.
The input is as follows. Note that in the initial state, input is performed using the mouse 4a, and in the following explanation of editing work, unless otherwise specified, selection means selecting a command section displayed on the screen using the mouse 4a. shall be taken as a thing. Further, when the cancel command section CO is selected, the input 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). Either input the coordinates or specify the starting point P1 and ending point P2 on the screen using the mouse 4a. The input data of the starting point P1 and the ending point P2, together with the data indicating that the two-point designation method has been designated, is supplied to the CPU 1 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, front end information table L [! It is stored at a predetermined location in the IT and change position table CPT. That is,
Every time the coordinates are specified, the front end information table LEITO
Increasing the number of front end changes and changing position table CP↑
Secure the area and change the coordinate data Position table CPT
are stored sequentially. Further, the head address of this newly secured table is stored in the front end information table as the front end table next address in the BIT. Furthermore, the following change position table CPT is included in the change position table CPT.
A forward address for specifying the previous change position table CPT or a backward address for specifying the front end information table LEIT are stored.

Therefore, by sequentially referring to these tables in the direction of the arrows as shown in FIGS. 17 and 19, the coordinates of the changing points can be sequentially identified.

Based on these data, the CPUI generates a graphic command that connects the starting point P1 and the ending point P2 with a line segment, that is, a straight line command, and this straight line command is sent to the graphic display 5 via the real data line 3a. 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
(displayed as d), select starting point P1 from keyboard 4.
When the coordinates and angle .theta. are input, data is exchanged with the minicombiner system 8 as in the two-point designation method as shown in FIG. 22, etc., and a diagonal line is drawn starting from point P1. In this case, input the paper conveyance speed as the angle θ in the middle of mm/n+s. Also, when inputting from the mouse 4a, after selecting the mouse command part CI and the angle specification command part C4, select the two points. Coordinates Pi, P2
When inputting , a straight line starting from Pl and passing through point P2 is drawn as shown in FIG. 22(C).

Note that when this angle specification method is selected, the end point is not specified, so it is necessary to delete unnecessary parts using the deletion command described below.

This deletion command deletes any part of the specified line segment.
ele member), target line segment, deletion command part C6 (
(indicated as Delete in the figure), and then input the coordinates of the two points Pi and P2 using the mouse 4a or the keyboard 4 to delete the line segment between the two points as shown in Figure 22(d). Ru. In this case, the newly formed starting point P
2 and the coordinates of the end point P1 are calculated by the minicomputer system 8 and recorded as front end information 1α. In each of the edits described below, the coordinate information is updated by the edit and recorded (, a) on the mini computer system 8.

Also, instead of inputting the coordinates of two points, select the positive direction deletion command section C7 (displayed as +Delete in the figure) or the negative direction deletion command section C8 (displayed as -Delete in the figure) for one of them to specify the point. 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 Il'1SC9 (in the figure, Copy
This is to copy a line segment in the X direction (displayed as x). After selecting the selection command section C5, the target line segment, and the
By specifying an arbitrary point P1 on the target line segment and a copy destination point P2 as shown in FIG. 8(e), the line segment is copied as shown in FIG. 8(f). In other words, a new n according to the designated point
The coordinates of one end are calculated by the mini combinator system 8,
It is added and stored as new front end information.

The Y-direction copy command section Cl0 (indicated as copy y in the figure) copies a line segment in the Y direction similarly to the X-direction copy command section C9 (see Fig. 22 ((A) 1 color). ).

X-direction movement command section C11 (in the figure, 5hift x
), Y direction movement command section Cl2 (displayed as 5hift
(displayed as V) moves a line segment in the X direction and Y direction, and specifies the same as the X direction copy and Y direction copy (
Figure 22 (i), (j) and the same figure (g)), (1
)reference).

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 using the offseller 11.

The operating procedure is to select the selected frame 7)' on the screen.
5. After sequentially selecting the target line segment and the offset copy command section CI3, input offset (l) 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 "offsela" (displayed as "off").

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).

The panning command section C16 (displayed as Pan in the figure) moves a specified point to the center position on the XY coordinate space. After selecting the panning command section CI6 on the screen, by specifying the point executed. For example, the overall XY coordinate is Oms~2''ms.

It has a size corresponding to -5000mm ~ +5000mm, and for a standard jaw, Oms ~ 4000m5
, Q m+n to 2000+++m is displayed, but by coordinate transformation, display centered on an arbitrary point becomes possible.

Input setting command section C17 (in the figure, Input set
) is used to input an input signal line indicating the position of the input signal on the paper path. 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 thus input is stored in the input signal name table together 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 used to delete the input signal line indicating the position of the input signal on the paper path, and the input signal line is deleted by sequentially selecting the input deletion command section cig and the desired input (bus line).

Also, r Xi/2. X115.
X2.

X5J indicates the scale factor portions C19 and C20, and if you select either magnification with the mouse 4a, the display will be enlarged or reduced by 2 times, 5 times, 172 times, or 1 to 5 times in the X or Y direction. Ru. The magnification set here is stored in the diagram table DT in FIG. 16.

Next, a simple example of creating the front end of a diagram using each of the above-mentioned commands will be explained with reference to the flowchart of Fig. 23(a) and υ, and the display examples of Fig. 24(a) to (e). explain. Note that the numerical value at the lower right corner of the screen indicates the coordinate position of the mouse 4a.

First, use the mouse 4a to select, for example, a two-point designation command section C.
Select 3 to start the 2-point designation command, step DG
301), the coordinates of both ends of the line segment element at the front end are input (step DG302). 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, as shown in FIG. 24(a), line segments LEI indicating the position of the front end of the paper are successively grooved on the screen (steps DG305. DG301° DG302.0G303. DG304).

When the drawing of the front end is completed, a shaping command is activated (step DG306), 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 LEI is shown in Figure 24 (
The line segments representing the front end are shaped as shown in b) and become continuous. In this manner, by using the shaping command in this embodiment, there is no need 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 activated (step 0G309) and the offset amount is input (step DG310). As a result, the offset amount is subtracted from the coordinates of each point at the front end, and the coordinates of each point at the front end of the copy destination are obtained (step 0G311).

In other words, there is no need to input the coordinates of each point on the front edge for each sheet, and by copying the data of the first sheet,
A diagram corresponding to the second sheet of paper can be easily created. However, depending on the user's definition, the offset amount can be added instead of subtracted. This 2
The coordinate data corresponding to the sheet of paper is sequentially stored vertically in the leading edge information table LHFT and the changing position table CPT arranged in the second column of the diagram table DT shown in FIG. The same applies to the coordinate data corresponding to the third and subsequent sheets.

Then, the coordinates of these points are connected to generate and display a line segment E2, which is a copy of the line segment E1 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 DG31).
3.0G309.0G310.0G311.0G312
), 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 end creation process (see step DG104 in Figure 20) is completed, so as mentioned earlier,
The paper size is input (step DG104) and a line segment indicating the position of the trailing edge is displayed (step DG108).

Next, the input signal name of the input signal line required to obtain timing data is input, and the position of the input signal on the paper path, that is, the Y-axis coordinate is input (step DG109). As a result, data on the input signal name and length (position on the paper path) are stored in the input signal name table l5NT in FIG. Figure (e)
As shown in , 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 signal lines SL named fusext-snr and exit-snr are drawn.

Each piece of data obtained by the above operations is stored in a virtual array shown in FIG. That is, the leading edge information section I contains the coordinate data of the leading edge, the trailing edge information section TE contains the coordinate data of the trailing edge, and the input signal name table I5 contains the coordinate data of the trailing edge.
The input signal name and position data on the paper bus are stored in the NT.

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.

(11) 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. It is automatically generated from the diagram created in . FIG. 25 shows a flowchart for creating an input chart.

When the diagram creation is completed and the user instructs to create an input chart, the data of the previously generated diagram is read out (steps IcGI to 1cG3).
). Changes in sensor input are then calculated and converted into an input chart (step [CG4)], which is displayed on the screen. For example, if the diagram is as shown in FIG. 26, in the input chart, the line segment LEl at the front edge of the paper reaches the position of the sensor fdo-snr, and then the rear edge of the paper reaches the position of the sensor fdo-snr as shown in FIG. The output of the sensor fdo-snr becomes high level during the period until the line molecule EL 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, a straight line between each change point is expressed based on the coordinate data (x+, y+L (X2. y2)) between two adjacent points among the coordinate data of each change point stored in the change point table CPT in FIG. Formula %Formula %: is calculated, and this straight line represents the sensor position Formula y=C However, C: The X coordinate when crossing the Y coordinate of the sensor position becomes the changing point of the input chart. That is, ax+b= c −b X = , and this X becomes the X coordinate of the point of change.

These calculations are performed by the CPU 1.

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.

Input charts created in this way can be edited, and input charts can be created 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 enter that you have not created a diagram, a list of registered input charts will be displayed (step Ir: G1゜ICG7), so enter the number of the desired input chart. (Step ICG
8). If a 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. ICG14).

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 name (step ICGII), the process proceeds to input chart editing (step ICG5).

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, in the same way as on the diadarum creation screen, and these commands can be entered using the mouse 4a. 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 section C31 is selected, the signal line corresponding to the topmost sensor fdo-snr disappears, and the other three signal lines are Carry up.

This command is effective, for example, when there are many types of signal lines (all 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 sequentially selecting the name change command section C33, the target signal line, and inputting a new signal name.

The high-level command section C34 (indicated as old gh in the figure) is
This sets the specified range to a high level. After selecting the selection command section C36, the target signal line, and the high level command section C34 in sequence, specifying two points will set the specified range to a high level. be.

The low level command section C35 (indicated as s Low in the figure) sets the specified range to a low level, contrary to the high level command section C34.

The copy command unit C37 (indicated as Copy in the figure) copies, for example, the signal line A in the upper row of FIG. . However, at this time, the signal name is not copied.

Further, a movement command unit 038 (indicated as 5hift in the figure) moves an arbitrary point on a certain signal line. For example, two points PL and 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 (e), the result will be as shown in (6) of the same figure, and if you specify the two points Pi and P2 of the signal line shown in (e), the result will be as shown in (f) of the same figure.

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

After completing the editing of the input chart using the above-mentioned editing function, if the end command part C40 is selected, the input chart created in the input chart editing process is converted into a file and registered in the disk device 6, and then Proceed to create a serial chart, which will be described later.

In addition, the data created in the input chart process is −
H is developed on the input chart table ICT (see FIG. 6) and finally stored in the 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,
The management information is composed of the file creation date, the number of input charts, and a plurality of pieces of input chart management information, as shown in (c) of the same figure.Furthermore, each input chart management information is shown in (6) of the same figure. 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>, so input the number of the desired serial chart (Step 5CG2). Specify the number of the registered serial chart. If not, remove it from this subsection after confirming the completion of the serial chart creation process (
Step 5CG3. 5CG4゜5CG5). If it does not finish, return to the serial chart list display again (
Step 5CG5.5CGI).

If a registered serial chart number is specified,
After the serial chart data is read (step 5CG2.5CG3.5CG6.5CG7), the process proceeds to serial chart editing (step 5CG9). Mata,
When creating a new serial chart, enter the serial chart salt and then proceed to edit the serial chart (
Step 5CG6.5CG8.5CG9).

The serial chart editing 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.

A serial insertion command section C51 (displayed as 5erialins in the diagram) that adds a serial line SRL to a specified position is unique to serial chart creation.
, a serial name command section C52 (displayed as 5erial name in the figure) for setting serial communication data on the serial line SRL and inputting a communication data name.

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 section C55, the target serial line SRL, the serial name command section C52, and the target on the serial line SRL. When you select the positions of
Enter np-strtJ. By repeating such operations, the required number of serial communication data generation times and communication data names are set. In the example in the figure, the communication data name is 1np-str for the upper serial line SRL,
eXChang, reg, eXpel are input, and 5tart is input to the lower serial line SRL.
, 5top is input.

In addition, the serial parameter command 1gc53 (displayed as 5etial para in the figure) defines the repetition of serial communication data on the chart.The procedure is as follows: keyboard command C56, serial parameter command I [C53, target Y When the axis positions are sequentially selected with the mouse 4a, the timing position and name of the target communication data are requested, so the time and name are input.This operation is repeated 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. Then, the repetition start position uI +
A repetition stop position u2 and a repetition end position u are input. 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 U and the repetition stop position it u 2 are repeated until the repetition end position U. will occur.

After completing the editing of the serial chart using the above-mentioned editing function, if you select the end command section C54, the edited contents will be converted into a file and the serial chart file SC will be created.
F is stored in the disk device 6, 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. 3(b). Furthermore, each piece of serial chart information is composed of a serial data name and coordinate data (time information and position information), as shown in FIG.

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

When entering the timing chart creation process, a list of registered timing charts is displayed in many formats (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, TeO6) 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 many formats (step TCG6゜7CG8).
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,
FIi recognition is performed without the need for a serial chart (step T
CGII), if a serial chart is not required, proceed to display the input chart list (step TCG12.
TCGI3), and if a serial chart is required, return to the serial chart list display (step TCG12.
TeO2).

Display of input chart list (step TCG13
), then input the number of the desired input chart (step TCG14). If you specify the number of a registered input chart here, you will be asked to input the timing chart salt, so enter the desired timing chart salt 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 certain period, and add output salt to this waveform.

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, when simulating the operation of an actual copying machine, tests may be performed by running a large number of sheets of paper, for example, dozens or more, in succession, but it is extremely difficult to create data for each sheet of paper. It's complicated. 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 FIGS. 34 and 36).

When the editing of the timing chart is completed, step TC
G21), it is requested to input whether or not to make a repeat definition, so if rNJ is input, the process directly proceeds to timing chart registration (step TCG22.TeO24).

Enter rYJ to proceed to repetition definition (TeO23)
, specify the start and end points of the iterative process for each input/output code. 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, the input of the signal name, start position, and end position is sequentially requested, so in the example of Fig. 36,
After inputting the basic signal name INPUTI, input the repetition start position V and the repetition end position [V2.

This repetition start position V and repetition end position v2
The setting is performed by 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, the repetition starts from position V, and is repeated every (v2-v,) time,
When this repetition is completed once, the process moves to post-processing. Therefore, (v2-v,)Xn of the basic signal becomes the repeat processing time. Note that the value of n is specified in a timing data format conversion session described later.

Next, if another signal, for example 0UTPUT1, has a different repetition pattern from the basic signal INPIITI, input the signal name 0LITPIITI and then set the repetition start position Wvs and repetition end position v4 in the same way. . In this way, these repeat settings can be set independently for each input/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 the same figure (al), 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.

Serial chart name! It consists of presence/absence of repeat definition, basic signal name, repeat start position, repeat 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 real data name and coordinate data (distance information and time information), as shown in FIG. In addition, each input chart management information is composed of the input data signal name, repetition start position, 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 Note that the output chart management information, output chart information, and line system information shown in (h) and (1) in the same figure are similar to the input chart shown in (e) and (f). Since it is the same as the 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). If you instruct synthesis, a list of registered modules will be displayed in a menu format (step TC5I), as shown in the flowchart of FIG.
). If the registered modinir number is not specified, the sub-section is removed after confirmation of completion (steps TC33, TC34, TC35). If it does not end, return to the module list display again (step TC3)
5, TCSI). If all the modules to be synthesized have been specified, enter "0" to proceed to input the synthesis timing chart name (step TCS2.
TCS3, TC36°TC37).

If a registered module number is specified, a list of timing charts created in that module is displayed in menu format (step TCS8).
Therefore, input the desired timing chart number (step TCS9). 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 display returns to the module list (step TCSIO).

TCSI1, TCSI2. TCSI). If a timing chart is required, specifying the module number returns to displaying the timing chart list for that module (steps TCS12.TC38).

When all the modules and timing charts to be synthesized have been specified, the name of the synthesized timing chart is requested to be input (steps TC56, TC57), which is entered from the keyboard 4. If a name is not input here, it is confirmed that synthesis is not required, and if synthesis is not necessary, the subsection is extracted from this subsection.Step TCS13. T.C.
SI4. TCSI5), if synthesis is required, return to inputting the synthesis timing chart name (step TCS15.
TCS7).

When the name is input, the process proceeds to the timing chart synthesis step (step TCS16), where the data of the plurality of modules specified earlier are synthesized with the time axes aligned, and the timing chart is similar to the timing chart in FIG. 35. Serial communication data and signal lines related to 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 TCS17). Further, the repetition information described earlier can be defined in the same way (steps TC318, TC
SI9). The composite timing chart created in this way is registered in the disk device 6 as a composite timing chart file (step TC320).

Examples of the structure of this composite timing chart file 5TCP are shown in FIGS. 39(a) to 39(e). Note that this composite timing chart file 5TCP 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, output chart management information, and output chart information. .

The management information includes the file creation date, presence or absence of repetition definition, basic signal name, repetition start position, and repetition stop position, as shown in FIG.

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

Moreover, each piece of serial information is composed of a serial data name, a module name, and coordinate data, as shown in FIG. In addition, as shown in the same figure, each input chart management information is composed of an input data signal name, a module name, a repetition start position, a repetition stop position, and the number of change points in the input chart information. . In addition, each output chart management information includes an output data signal name and a module name, 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 a format conversion of a timing chart into a text file.All changes on the previously created timing chart are extracted and created as a table on the screen of the graphic display 5 as shown in Fig. 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 the number of registered timing data is not specified, extract from this sub-section after FIN M12 (step TDG).
3. TDG4. TDG5). If the process does not end, the process returns to the timing data list display (step TDG5. TDGI).

When creating new timing data, a list of registered timing charts is displayed in menu format, so enter the number of the desired timing chart to obtain the original timing chart salt (step TDG6.
TDG7. TDG8). If a registered timing chart number is specified, the process proceeds to timing data creation (steps TDG9 and TDGI2).

To create this timing data, read the specified timing chart data, serial communication data,
The information arranged for each human 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 this standard template in absolute time order (steps TDG2 and TDG6).
．． TDGI3).

Also, if there is no designation when entering the timing chart number, it is confirmed that timing data will not be created (step TDG9. TDGIO), and if timing data is not created, it will be extracted from this subsection and the timing data will be created. If necessary, return to the timing chart list display (step TlllG11).
．． T(lG7).

The timing data thus created can be edited, and is edited using an editing command to be described later (steps TDG14 and 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 TOF, 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 fourth example.
Shown in FIGS. 2 to 44.

As shown in FIG. 42, the timing data table TDT is a timing data head table TDHT.
The timing data head table TD) 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 TD)IT.

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 information, number of repetition information registered in this table, address of repetition information table, number of timing data information registered in this table, and address of timing data information table. There is. Further, each timing data information table TDIT includes a forward direction address, as shown in FIG.

Areas are provided for reverse direction address, timing data number, module name, type and data indicating the type of transmitted/received serial communication data or human output signal, and absolute time and relative time indicating the time of the change point extracted from the timing chart. There is.

The data area shown in FIGS. 43 and 43) is the transmitting/receiving serial communication data table shown in FIGS. 43(C) and 43(d), or FIG.
The human output signal table has the configuration shown in (f).

Then, based on the forward address and the reverse address, the timing data information table TDIT to be referred to next is specified as indicated by the arrow in FIG. 42.

Note that when the data is an input/output signal, internal links of timing data of the same signal are established to sequentially specify 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, No. indicates the serial line number,
Used as a symbol for line nibbits in the editor. Moreover, MODtlLE indicates the module name of the modinir salt in which each person's output signal exists or the subsystem to which serial communication data is input/output. Here, an example of a modular paper conveying device named CHM is shown. Also, RECEIVB and T
RANSMIT It indicates serial reception and transmission data, and INP[JT and I]UTPtIT indicates input/output signal names and their changes. Also, TIME is 1
The relative time from the change state in the previous row until the change in that row occurs is shown in units of ll5.

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

reg-snr, fusin-snr, fusex
The sensor outputs named t-snr and exit-snr are both off, data of "08" is transmitted after 1187 affls, and the output of sensor fda-snr is turned on after 6143 m5. .

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, the screen waits for editing input. If you enter the line number of the line to be edited here, the system will wait for parameter input and you can edit that line. When editing timing data, use MODIILE and RECEIVE as editing parameters.
, TRANSMIT, INPIIT, 0IIT
After inputting any PIIT from the keyboard 4, the set value is edited. Also, [10l (where l is the line number)
", you can add and edit after the first line, and enter "-
If you enter "1", you can make additional edits before the first 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, m-loss repetition information, and a plurality of pieces of timing data information.

As shown in Figure (C), the management information consists of the file creation date, timing chart name, number of repetition information, and number of timing data information. As shown in , it consists of a signal name, a repetition start position, and a repetition stop position.In addition, each timing data information consists of a 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 is stored in the data file as test timing data.

(vi) Timing data format conversion This converts the timing data for Emission System 7 (4th r.
i! J) data format. Regarding this timing data format conversion,
This will be explained with reference to the flowchart in FIG.

When entering the timing data format conversion step, a list of registered timing data is displayed together with numbers, and the number of desired timing data is input (steps TDF1 and TDF2). Note that when specifying multiple files, input the timing data numbers consecutively. If the registered timing chart number is not specified, remove it from this sub-section after confirming the completion (step TOF3. TOF4. T[1F5
). If the process does not end, the process returns to the timing data list display (step TDF5. TDFI).

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.
TDF9). As a result, format conversion is executed, and the timing data becomes a data statement in the ASCII file format shown below.

DATA Dl, “02”, 03.04. “D5
", "06" Here, Dl 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. D2 is the one-character signal type code. , ■ indicates the input signal, 0 indicates the output signal, C indicates the transmitted/received data, and * indicates the end code. 03 is a two-digit number indicating the module number, and D4 is a maximum of three digits indicating the input signal number. .05 is a one-character status type code,
H is a high level signal, L is a low level signal, S is transmission data, and R is reception 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 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 TDF6.7DPI).

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 name of the paper transport mechanism is set to C)IM, and the module number is set to "4". Also, in the serial communication data settings, 1np-strt and exchg, respectively.

For the sending data named expel, reg, r45J, r44AB6090012BJ,
r2DO8A48B655C221211J, r44
Assume that data ^22BCDOOOOOOIJ is defined. Also, in input signal name setting, for example, for input signal numbers 1, 2, and 4.5, fdo-s
nr.

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 TDF (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 stored in chronological order. Then, the relative time, signal type code, module number,
The input signal number, status type code, serial communication data, etc. are detected and converted into the corresponding Ascrr code.

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,"BI,04,1."BI,.

DATA O, “, 04.2. “L”, “DATA
0. “B, 04.3.”L”.

DATA O,"I',04,4."L","DAT
AO,”B, 04.5.”B,”OAT^ 1
195. “C”, 04.0. "R", "45" DAT
Eight 600. “I”, 04,1. “R”, “DATA
24. C', 04. O, “R”, “44A86
090012B″DATA 48.″B, 04.1
．． “B-.

DATA 48. “I”, 04.1. "R",'"
DATA I2. "B, 04, 2."H", ""D
ATA 12. "C', 04.O,"R", "44A
22BCDOOOOOO1″DATA 48.”I”,
04.1. L',.

DATA 12. “B, 04.2.”L”,’D
ATA 36. "B, 04.3."H","'D
ATA 24. “T”, 04.2. "H", "DAT"
A sail "1", 04.2. "H".

DATA O, “C”, 04,0. "R", "2DO"
8A4BB655C221211″DATA 72.
“l”, 04,1. "L", ""For example, in the data statement on the first line, in the initial state, the level of the input signal fdo-snr indicated by number 1 is low level, and these signals are set to module number 1, that is, paper transport. This indicates that it is related to Moginir. Similarly, 2
The data sentences in lines 5 to 5 are each signal reg-s.
nr.

fusin-snr, fusext-snr, ex
The initial state of it-snr is set.

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

Next, the data statement on the 7th line is the previous change point, that is,
600 clocks after +np-5trt 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 to suit various data transmission systems, the timing data can be made versatile and can be processed by other personal computers for software debugging. becomes.

〔Effect of the invention〕

As described above, in the present invention, when generating serial communication data necessary for simulating an image output device, basic serial communication data is input, and the repetition corresponding to this serial communication data is input. Definition data is being entered. Then, when simulating the image output device, the same serial communication data is repeatedly generated based on the serial communication data and the repetition definition data. This eliminates the need to input the same data over and over again when inputting serial communication data, which simplifies input work and reduces input errors. Therefore, the operation of the image output device can be efficiently simulated, and the efficiency of software development is improved.

[Brief explanation of the drawing]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram conceptually showing a configuration for implementing the communication data generation method of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the outline steps of the communication data generation method of the present invention, and FIG. The figure is a diagram for explaining the repetition definition, Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of a simulation device for implementing the communication data generation method of the present invention, and Figure 5 is the file configuration of the simulation device. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing the relationship between files and tables used in each session, FIG. 7 is a process diagram showing the operation flow of each block of the stain 3 raying device, and FIG. 3 is a flowchart of a main program that controls the overall flow of the simulation device. Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing the processing in the hardware information setting session), Fig. 110 is an explanatory drawing showing the screen when defining the norial data table, Fig. 11 is an explanatory drawing showing the configuration of the hardware information table, Fig. 12 8-Explanatory diagram showing the structure of the software information file, Part 1
3 is a flowchart showing an outline of the processing in the timing data creation session; FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the processing in the diagram creation session;
FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing the screen at the time of starting diagram creation, FIGS. 16 to 19 are explanatory diagrams showing the configuration of the diagram table, FIG. Figure 22 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the configuration of a diagram file, 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 Figure 24 (a ) to (e) are explanatory diagrams showing screens during diagram creation, and FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing processing in the chart creation session.
6 is an explanatory diagram showing another example of a diagram, FIG. 27 is an explanatory diagram showing an input chart screen corresponding to the diagram in FIG. 26, and FIG. 28 is an explanatory diagram showing editing work when creating an input chart. Fig. 29 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of an input chart file, Fig. 30 is a flowchart showing processing in a serial chart creation session, Fig. 31 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of displaying a serial chart, and Fig. 32 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a serial chart creation session. 33 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a serial chart file; FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing processing in a timing chart creation session; FIG.
The figure is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the display when creating a timing chart,
Fig. 36 is a diagram for explaining signal repetition specification, Fig. 37 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the structure of a timing chart file, Fig. 38 is a flowchart showing processing in a timing chart synthesis session, and Fig. 39 is a synthesis timing Explanatory diagram showing an example of the structure of a chart file, No. 40
Figure 41 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a display when creating timing data, Figure 41 is a flowchart showing processing in a timing data creation session, Figure 42 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the configuration of a timing data table, and Figure 43 is a timing data table. 44 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the structure of a repetition table, FIG. 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. be. Further, FIG. 47 is a sectional view showing a schematic configuration of a copying machine, FIG. 48 is a sectional view showing a schematic configuration of an automatic document feeder used in the copying machine, and FIG. 49 is a sectional view of a control circuit of the copying machine. FIG. 50 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a configuration for simulating a copying machine, and FIG. 51 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration.
Figure 52 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the display panel of the simulation kit, Figure 53 is a flowchart showing an example of a program to be simulated, and Figure 54 is a conventional method. FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining creation of an input chart. A: Data input means B: Calculation means C: Image output means D: File means E: Repeated data generation means Figure 16 Old figure

Claims (1)

[Claims] 1. Input serial communication data used in the electric circuit in the image output device by the data input means, and also specify the portion or period of the serial communication data to be repeated and the number of times or period for which the repetition is to be continued. and storing the serial communication data and the repetition definition data in a file means, and transmitting the serial communication data and the repetition definition data from the file means when simulating the operation of the image output device. The image output device simulation is characterized in that the same serial communication data is repeatedly generated for a specified number of times or a specified period for a portion or a period of serial communication data specified by the repetition definition data among the serial communication data. communication data generation method.