JPH0235471A - Copying machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To increase the degree of freedom in combination in a simul (simultaneous) copying mode to respond to the various needs of the user by specifying the desired developing color or erasing for each divided area. CONSTITUTION:In a copying machine with the simul (simultaneous) color copying mode, when the simul color copying mode is specified by a simul editing key 725, the screen is divided into a multiple number of areas, 1-3, in the direction of scanning by an image editing mechanism 100. If the developing color or erasing is specified for each of the divided areas 1-3, CPU, as a control means, is controlled to develop each area during one copying action, or to erase them. Thus, color can be specified and erasing can be carried out for each area.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION (Industrial Application Field) The present invention relates to a multicolor image forming apparatus that reproduces an original in multiple colors, and particularly relates to a multicolor image forming apparatus that reproduces an original in multiple colors. The present invention relates to a copying machine having a mode of simultaneous multicolor copying (hereinafter referred to as simulcolor copying) in which an original is reproduced in different colors for each section.

(Prior Art and its Problems) A multicolor image forming apparatus having a simulcolor copy mode is described in Japanese Patent Publication No. 63-787 and the like. In this device, the document is divided into regions in the scanning direction of the document, and each of the two divided regions is developed with a different color, or the same color but with different shading is developed. The area is made to stand out.

However, in the conventional simulcolor copy mode, since the order of colors and the order of densities are determined in advance, the order cannot be changed and there is a problem in that the degree of freedom in combination is extremely low.

On the other hand, with copying machines that have a composite copy mode that can composite multiple originals, the copying operation is repeated multiple times, and by switching the developer used in between, it is possible to obtain a composite copy with multiple colors. The degree of freedom can be increased significantly, but in that case, the copying operation needs to be repeated, and multicolor copies cannot be obtained in one copying operation, as in the above-mentioned simulcolor copy mode. .

Basically, the purpose of the present invention is to increase the degree of freedom of combinations in the simultaneous color copy mode and to enable users to respond to various needs.More specifically, to specify colors for each area. To provide a copying machine equipped with a simultaneous color copy mode in which copying and erasing can be performed.

(Means for Solving the Problems) In order to solve the above problems, a copying machine of the present invention includes a plurality of developing devices for different developing colors, and position settings for dividing the area into a plurality of areas in the scanning direction of the original. means for specifying a desired development color or erase for each area divided by the position setting means; and a control means for controlling the plurality of developing units so as to perform development with the specified development color and, if erasing is specified, erase the area.

(Function) In a copying machine that has a simultaneous color copy mode,
When the simultaneous color copy mode is specified, a plurality of areas are divided in the scanning direction by the position specifying means, a development color or an erase is specified for each divided area by the specifying means, and the control means is executed during one copying operation. Based on the designation by the designation means, each area is controlled to be developed or erased.

(Embodiment) (a) Structure of copying machine FIG. 2 is a schematic sectional view of a two-color copying machine, which is one of the image forming devices. The general configuration will be explained together with the standard copying operation that reproduces the original image in its original form.

First, while the photoreceptor drum l is rotating in the direction of the arrow a, a certain electric charge is applied to the surface of the photoreceptor drum l due to the discharge of the charger 2.

Next, a scanner 40 having an exposure lamp 41 of the optical system 3
While scanning in the direction indicated by the arrow, light is irradiated onto the original placed on the original platen glass 9, and the reflected light exposes the surface of the photoreceptor drum 1 from the exposure point W via the mirror and the lens. A latent image is formed corresponding to the original image.

Eraser 8 consisting of a group of LEDs in one row at the end and between the images
Static electricity is removed by a.

This electrostatic latent image is then transferred to the first (upper) developing device 4 or the second (upper) developing device 4, which follows.
Bottom) Toner is supplied and visualized in the developing region X or X', which is a portion facing the developing device 5, and a toner image reproducing the original image is formed.

On the other hand, the copy paper is selectively fed from the paper feed section 50 or 51, and the copy paper is fed by a timing roller pair 52 to the transfer area, which is the part facing the transfer charger 6, at the timing with the toner image on the photoreceptor drum l. The toner image is transferred to the surface of the copy paper. Next, the copy paper is conveyed between a pair of fixing rollers 53 by a conveyor belt 56, and the toner image is fused and fixed on the copy paper, and then the copy paper is discharged to a paper discharge section 54.

If duplex copy mode or composite copy mode is selected,
The copy paper discharged from the paper discharge section is transferred to the duplex device 5.
5, and here, in the case of double-sided copying, the front and back sides are reversed,
The sheet is conveyed to the transfer area Y again, and a second copying operation is performed in the same manner as described above, and this time an image is formed on the back side (both sides) or the same side (composite).

The cleaning device 7 scrapes off the residual toner on the surface of the photoreceptor drum 1, and the remaining charge is erased by light irradiation from the eraser lamp 8 to prepare for the next development.

In addition to standard copying, double-sided copying, and composite copying as described above, the copying machine that performs the above operations operates the scanner 40 in I@scan operation, and in this embodiment, performs simultaneous multicolor operation (hereinafter referred to as "simultaneous multicolor operation") to obtain two-color copies. , [simultaneous color copy])
To this end, the developing units 4 and 5 are each provided with a special mechanism.

First, the configuration of the developing devices 4 and 5 will be explained.

The eleventh and second developing units 4 and 5 have almost the same configuration as shown in FIGS. (The part reference number is indicated with a dash).

Inside the developer tank 11, a developer sleeve 12, a supply roller 14, and a screw 15 are sequentially installed from the photoreceptor drum I side.
is installed. The first developer 4 contains a developer consisting of a magnetic carrier and an insulating color toner, and the second developer
The developing device 5 contains a developer consisting of a magnetic carrier and a commonly used insulating black toner.

The developing sleeve I2 is made of a non-magnetic conductive material formed into a cylindrical shape, and minute irregularities are formed on the outer periphery by sandblasting, and the developing sleeve I2 is made of a non-magnetic conductive material.
s and development areas x and x' are opposed to each other. Further, on the back side of the development area X of the development sleeve 12, a developer tank 11 is provided.
A brush height regulating member 19 provided on the upper part of the inner surface faces each other with a brush height regulating gap Db.

The supply roller 14 and the screw 15 are respectively arranged in transport paths 16 and 17 separated by a partition wall I8.

Note that the transport paths 16 and 17 communicate with each other on both sides of the developer tank 11, as shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 4, when the motor 24 is operated, the gear 25.23 and the belt 21.22 are driven, and the support shaft 1
2a, 14a, and 15a rotate, and the developing sleeve 12, supply roller 14, and screw 15 rotate as indicated by the arrows in FIG.
Rotate in directions c and d, respectively. As the toner rotates, the toner is sent toward the developing sleeve 12 via the screw 15 and the supply roller 14. And the developing sleeve 12
and the developing area X through the gap between the height regulating member 19
sent to.

On the other hand, inside the developing sleeve 12, there are a plurality of magnets N,...
NI N3. A magnet roller 13 with Sl and 32 extending in the axial direction is provided (N and S indicate the polarity of the magnet).
.

As shown in FIG. 4, the magnet roller 13 has one end 13a of its spindle supported in a bearing recess 12c provided inside the developing sleeve 12, and the other end 13b of the spindle supported by a side wall of the developer tank 11. is supported by

Outside the side wall, the support shaft 13b supports the central portion of the lever 3I. One end of the lever 31 is biased by a spring 32. Further, a plunger 34 of a solenoid 33 is locked to the other end of the lever 31, and when the solenoid 33 is driven, the lever 3I is rotated against the biasing force of the spring 32, and the magnet roller 13 is moved to a predetermined position. Rotate to an angle.

As shown in FIG. 3, in the first developing device 4, the solenoid 33 is activated and the motor 24 is not activated. In this state, the screw 15, the supply roller 14, and the developing sleeve 12 are stationary, and the toner is not activated. Not replenished. Further, the magnet N3 faces the height regulating member 19,
The development area X faces an intermediate portion between the magnet N1 and the magnet S1. The toner is deposited thickly on the surface of the developing sleeve ■2 on the magnets N, -N, , S, , S2 due to the distribution of magnetic lines of force.
A thin layer exists in the middle between each magnet. Therefore, the gear between the developing sleeve 12 and the brush height regulating member 19 is closed with toner, and on the surface facing the developing area X, the toner exists thinly and does not adhere to the photoreceptor l.

Further, as shown in FIG. 3, in the second developing device 5, if the solenoid 33' is not operated and the motor 24' is operated, in this state, the screw 15'',
The supply roller 14' and the developing roller 12' rotate and are replenished with toner. The height regulating member 19' includes a magnet N3.
It faces the middle part of Sl, and the gap is open.
The toner is transported to the developing area It is in an easy condition.

(b) Position setting mechanism for simultaneous color copying The position setting mechanism +00 will be explained.

In FIG. 5, the louver lot of the position setting mechanism 100 is
, the second lever 102 moves the document placement surface, which is the surface of the document platen glass, in the moving direction of the scanner 40 (the direction indicated by the arrow, the second
It is attached to a guide groove 103 formed on the side of the document table glass 9 along the scanning direction of the scanner 40, and is attached to a lever lo1.
．． At the lower part of 102, located inside the main body of the copying machine, there are provided mag inlets 101a and 102a, respectively (see FIG. 2).

As shown in FIG. 5, each lever 101°102
is set, the area from the tip 90a of the original platen glass 9 to the broken line Z by the second lever lot is area J, the area from the broken line Z1 to the broken line Z2 by the second lever 102 is area 2, and the area from the broken line Z2 to the original platen glass Rear end portion 90b
The area up to this point is designated as area 3.

(c) Operation panel FIG. 6 shows the operation panel provided on the top surface of the copying machine. The following keys and displays are arranged on the operation panel.

71...Print button, 72...Numeric display LED for displaying the number of copies, 74...Magnification up key, 75
...Magnification down key, 76...Magnification display, 80-8
9... Numeric keypad, 90... Interrupt key, 91... Clear/stop key, 92... Paper select key, 92a, 92b, 92c, 92d --- Each A3
゜B4. A4. B5 selection display, 93... Exposure up key, 94... Exposure down key, 95... Color select key, 95a-95c... Color display, 96
...Equal magnification selection key, 96a...Magnification selection display, 700...Touch panel section (see Fig. 1 and 7 for details)
711...Total value readout keys 721-726...Menu keys, 727...Program input keys, 731-734...Selection keys (see FIG. 7), 872 ~886... Display for simultaneous editing and area editing (see Figure 8), 900... Area for memorizing the zoom magnification and program contents memorized for each user, and displaying the plate (see Figures 1 and 8). (See Figure 7).

As shown in FIG. 1, a menu pictogram board 70 is placed under the transparent touch panel 706 of the touch panel unit 700.
4 (see FIG. 9), names or pictograms representing functions are arranged in a grid pattern. As shown in FIG. 7, it is divided into columns of base items corresponding to functions classified according to a common concept.

In other words, the touch panel unit 700 sequentially selects memory selection (MEMO) in the longitudinal direction (width direction) from the right side of the figure.
RY 5ELECT), zoom input (ZOOM I
NPUT), FEATURES2
), FEATURES 1 and EDIT, a total of five display sections 700A, 700
It is divided into B, 700C, 700D, and 700E, and the menu keys 721 to 721 are located at the bottom of each display section except for section 700E.
724 are provided, one each, and two menu keys 725 and 726 are provided in the section 700E. key 725
726 are keys for setting the simultaneous color copy mode and the area editing mode, respectively. A display section is selected by pressing any of the menu keys 721-726. It is called a menu key because it selects a function within the display area.

For example, the MEMORY 5 ELECT key 721 has a ZOO key that specifies the zoom magnification and program.
A group of function names consisting of m l , Zoom2 , P l and P2 correspond. Also, ZOOM IN
The PUT key 722 includes a numeric key input (I O-key input) for inputting the magnification using the numeric keypad, a calculator for calculating the copying magnification, a setting for the magnification using only -degrees (1-Time Zoom), and the set magnification. The name and pictogram of each function of the zoom memory (Zoom Memory) for inputting into either Zooml or Zoom2 correspond.

Menu keys 723 and 724 are associated with a plurality of columns. For example, of the two columns corresponding to the FEATURES2 key 723, the right column is a group of pictograms representing the functions of binding margin 11 binding margin 2, frame erase, and punch hole erase in order from the top, and the left column is Binding margin 1, binding margin 2, and frame erase function settings for the right column: 5mm, 10mm, l 5m
This is a group of function names of m. Since the functions in the left column are subordinate functions to the functions in the right column, both columns are arranged adjacent to each other and correspond to the same menu key 723. This is because functions cannot be set for the copying machine unless the upper and lower functions are specified in sequence. As an exception, for the punch hole erase function at the bottom of the right column, the setting amount is fixed at 20 nn, so there is no need to specify lower-level functions.

Further, the simultaneous EDIT key 725 has a function (BLA
CK, C0LOR, ERASE), and the area EDIT key 726 has a function for specifying the development color (BLAC
K, C0LOR, ERASE) and a function for specifying area coordinates (INPUT, AREA 5KIP)
corresponds to. In addition, BLACK, C0LOR, ER
ASE processes designated areas for black development, color development, and
This function is for setting to erase without developing.

FIG. 7 shows the arrangement of selection keys 731-734 on touch panel section 700 in addition to menu keys 721-726. For example, the selection key 731 is MEMORY 5EL.
They are arranged in the top six functions from ECT to FEATURES 1. Other selection keys 732-734 are also arranged as shown. Transparent touch panel 7
06 consists of selection keys 731 to 734, and each selection key 731 to 734 is a transparent membrane panel switch, and can be pressed directly with a finger to make it conductive.

As shown in Figure 8, in the upper left corner of the names and pictograms indicating each function, there is an LED8 backlight as shown by a circle.
The lights from 51 to 886 can be seen directly. If the function is the target of a selection instruction, the corresponding LED
flashes and if it is the selected function, the corresponding L
The ED lights up (in the figure, the state where it is not lit is represented by a black circle).

Further, FIG. 8 shows the arrangement of the LED backlight arranged under the touch panel section 700. LED851~8
86 are lit independently. Also, the characters etc. of the corresponding menu pictogram board 704 are also shown.

FIG. 9 shows the structure of the touch panel section 700.

On the bottom printed circuit board 702, surface-emitting LEDs 851 to 886 for pictorial backlighting are mounted, and these are partitioned into blocks. Above the LED is a film (menu pictogram board) 704 on which a menu (including pictograms) is written, and a transparent touch panel 706 is placed above it. Note that the menu keys 721 to 726 have key switches with key tops arranged separately from the above structure.

In addition, in the configurations shown in Figures 8 and 9, the name of each function and the circle mark on the Tonosho side of the pictograph indicate the L
The illumination light from ED851 to 886 is made directly visible, but the names and pictograms indicating each function are transparent, the background (texture) is colored (opaque), and the backlight LED
851 to 886, the name or pictogram itself indicating each function may blink, turn on, or go out, or the background may be made transparent and the name and pictogram may be colored and opaque.

(d) Touch panel operation (designation of functions) The copy function is performed using menu keys 721 to 726 and selection keys 731 to 73.
This can be specified in combination with 4 (Fig. 7). Each menu key 721 to 726 has a name and a pictographic function shown above it.

For example, the MEMORY 5ELECT key 721 has two zoom magnifications (Zoom 1, Zoom 2).
and two programs (PI, P2) belong to it. ZOQ
Similarly, the M INPUT key 722 has four functions. FEATURES2 key 723 and FEATURES
Each I key 724 has two sets of column functions. For example, the FEATURES2 key 723 contains ml for binding margin 11 binding margin 2, frame erase, punch hole erase in the right column! :5nwn in left column, 10RI
I, 151111 functions belong to it.

The functions on the left side are settings of values necessary to execute the upper three functions on the right side. That is, the functions in the left column are combined with the functions in the right column to form one overall function. FEA
The same applies to the TURES l key 724.

As mentioned above, SIMUL for simultaneous editing copy
The EDIT key 725 has various color specification functions (BLAC
The AREA EDIT key 725 for area editing copying has various color specification functions (BLACK, C0LOR, ERASE) and image editing area specification functions (INPUT, AREA 5K).
IP) belongs.

The former functions and the latter functions cannot be set at the same time. The latter INPUT function also has a coordinate display LED.
883-886 and numeric keys 80-8 for inputting coordinate values
9 is subordinate.

Function selection can be performed by sequentially pressing the menu key to which the function to be selected belongs and the selection key.

Referring to FIGS. 10(a) to 10(d), an example of a procedure for selecting a simultaneous color copy mode and simultaneously editing according to the present invention will be described.

It is assumed that the document is divided into three areas, area 11, area 2, and area 3 in the scanning direction for simultaneous color copying, by the position setting mechanism 100 described above.

In the initial state of the copying machine, only the print key 71 and the magnification display 76 are lit in green in the touch panel section 700 and its vicinity. Now, if you press the SIMUL key 725 among the menu keys, three functions (BLACK, BLACK,
The LEDs 872 to 864 (C0LOR, ERASE) flash in green, requesting input as to which one to use. At the same time, the print key 71 lights up in red.

Press the selection key 732 to select BLACK.
As shown in FIG. 10(b), among the blinking LEDs, only the BLACK LED 872 lights up in green, and the others are turned off. At the same time, the L of the column functions (BLACK, C0LOR, ERASE) related to area 2 is
EDs 875 to 877 flash in green, requesting input as to which one to select. Note that when pressing the selection key 732, it is clear that it is not necessarily necessary to press above the character BLACK.

Next, when the selection key 734 is pressed to select ERASE, the blinking LED
Among them, only the ERASE LED 877 lights up in green, and the others are turned off. At the same time, the LEDs 878 to 880 of the column functions (BLACK, C0LOR, ERASE) relating to area 3 blink in green, requesting input as to which function to select.

Then, select key 73 to select C0LOR.
When 3 is pressed, only the C0LOR LED 879 among the blinking LEDs lights up in green, and the others are turned off, as shown in FIG. 1O(d). In the end, area 11 area 2
, area 3 are BLACK, ERASE,
C0LORi: Since it is set, LED872.87
7.879 lights up in green, allowing you to check the setting status. In this case as well, the selection key 733 may be pressed at any position.

Since the settings are completed above, the print key 71 lights up in green again.

In addition, FEATURES 1 key 724, FEATUR
ES2 key 723 and ZOOM INPUT key 7
A description of the settings of the functions belonging to 22 will be omitted since they are not directly related to the present invention.

(e) Structure of control unit of copying machine Figure 11 shows the CPU (CUI) that controls the main body of the copying machine.
201) is shown. IC202~205.2
07 to 209 are input/output expansion ICs such as Intel's 8243, for example.

The ICs 202 to 205 are used as input ICs and are connected to the CPU via a data line. MaI;
, ICs 202 to 205 are connected to the decoder 20 by the CPUI.
6, respectively. IC20
Various keys, displays, etc. shown in the figure are connected to input terminals 2 to 205. IC207-209 are output I
The control port is connected to the CPUI via the decoder 211. In addition to the various parts shown in the figure, the output terminal includes LED matrix 1.
00 (Display LED 71.72, 76, 851-886)
, LED92 a-d, 95 a-c, 9
6a are connected to each other and controlled by the CPU 1 via the decoder 212. The RAM 213 is connected to the CPUI and is backed up by a battery. Bus 214 is connected to other CPUs (CPU
This is a communication line for connecting to 2). The CPUI is
When manual exposure is used, a value selected from among the nine steps of exposure values is transmitted to the light control circuit 215, and when automatic exposure is used, a value that is the center of the automatic exposure is transmitted as data.

An input/output port of the CPU 2 that controls the optical system is connected to a scan motor control circuit 216 that controls a scan motor, and a variable power lens control circuit 217 that controls a motor that moves the projection lens 16. Further, signals are inputted from a fixed position switch 150 of the optical system and a switch 151 that generates a timing signal for rotating the timing roller 26 at the same magnification.

(f) Operation of the copying machine during simultaneous color copying FIGS. 12(a), (b), (c), and (d) show timing charts during simultaneous color copying according to the present invention. Erase-color, black-color-
This is a case of simultaneous color copying of erase, black-erase→black, and black-color-black.

The control operation will be explained with reference to this timing chart. In the following description, components of the second developing device 5 will be distinguished by adding a dash to the reference numbers of the components of the first developing device 4.

Here, we will explain the black → erase → color simul-color copy (the first
The case shown in FIG. 2(a) will be explained as an example.

When the main switch (not shown) of the copying machine is turned on and the power is turned on, the first developing unit 4 has magnetic poles N and S.
The middle portion of the second developing device 5 faces the photosensitive drum 1, and the magnetic pole N1 of the second developing device 5 faces the photosensitive drum.

In this state, the simultaneous editing mode switch 725 is turned on.
When the simultaneous editing settings are completed, the copy mode is changed from normal copy to simultaneous color copy mode.

Then, the first and second positions of the position setting mechanism +00 shown in FIG.
The levers 101 and 102 are slid along the slide grooves 103 to designate area 1 for black development, area 2 for erasing, and area 3 for color development.

Note that the lever lot 102 is effective only in the simultaneous color copy mode, and does not function in any other way.

With the above settings, as shown in FIG. 5, when the original S is placed on the original platen glass 9 and the print converter 1 is turned on, the developing motor of the second developing unit 5 24
'' starts, the developing sleeve 12' and the supply roller 14
' and screw 15' are rotated in the directions of arrows S, c, and d, respectively.

As a result, the developer containing black toner contained in the developer tank 11' is transferred to the supply roller 14° and the screw 15'.
Based on the rotation of the conveyor path 16° while being mixed and stirred.
, 17', some of the developer is supplied σ-
The magnetic brush is supplied to the surface of the developer sleeve 12' by the roller 14'', forming a magnetic brush on the developer sleeve 12'.

This magnetic brush passes through the brush height regulating gap Db while being cut into ears by the brush height regulating member 19" based on the rotation of the developing sleeve 12", and is sequentially delivered to the developing area X', where the electrostatic charge on the photoreceptor drum l The latent image is set to a developable state.

Also, based on the print switch 71 (7) ON operation,
The scanner 40 starts operating in the direction indicated by the arrow, and the document S placed on the document platen glass 9 is irradiated with light, and the reflected light is irradiated from the exposure point W onto the surface of the photoreceptor drum L, causing electrostatic A latent image is formed, and development of this electrostatic latent image is first started by the second developing device 5.

Next, when the magnet 101a of the first lever 101 is detected by the reed switch 39 of the scanner 40, the reed switch 39 outputs the signal to the control device.

Note that at this point, the electrostatic latent image corresponding to the boundary ZI between area 1 and area 2 where black is switched to erase is at the exposure point W on the photoreceptor drum 1, and this boundary Z1 is the position of the exposure point W. The time t1 from the position of the developing area X to the position of the developing area X of the first developing device 4 and the time t1 from the position of the developing area
Only the second developing device 5 continues to operate for the total time including the time t2 for moving to the position .

Then, the magnet 102a of the second lever 102
is detected by the reed switch 39 of the scanner 40, and the transition from erasure to color at that moment occurs at the boundary Z between area 2 and area 3! Similarly, the electrostatic latent image is located at the exposure point W, and until the time t1 when this boundary Z2 moves from the exposure point W to the position of the development area X of the first developer 4, the electrostatic latent image is continuously The operation of the second developing device 5 is stopped. Therefore, the portion of area 2 from ZI to Z will be erased.

After the time (after the second ON operation of the reed switch 39), when the boundary 2 of the electrostatic latent image reaches the development area X,
The first developing motor 24 is turned on, and the first developing unit solenoid 33 is turned off.

As a result, the first developing device 4 is set in the same state as the second developing device 5, and the developing sleeve 12, supply roller 14
, screws 15 rotate in the directions of arrows S, C, and D, respectively, a magnetic brush is formed on the surface of the developing sleeve 12, and the electrostatic latent image on the photoreceptor drum I is set in a state where it can be developed. Then, the first developing device 4 starts supplying color toner to the electrostatic latent image corresponding to the area 3. This operation is maintained until the end of scanning, and the color development of area 3 is completed.

With the above operations, from the start to the end of the scan,
Simultaneous color copies can be obtained by switching the development color from black to erase and then color.

Regarding the simultaneous color copying of black → color → erase, black → erase → black, and black → color → black, the 12th
At the timing shown in the timing charts of FIGS. (b), (c), and (d), the eleventh and second developer motors 24 and 24
' and the 11th and 2nd developer solenoid 33, 33' are turned on.
This can be achieved by switching 10 FF.

(g) Operation of the copying machine Below, the outline of the contents of the CPUI program that controls the copying machine will be explained. In the following explanation, off-edge is defined as on-edge when the state of a switch, sensor, signal, etc. changes from an off state to an on state. Off-edge is defined as an off-edge when the state of a switch, sensor, signal, etc. changes from an on state to an off state.

<g-1> Main routine 113 shows a schematic flowchart of the CPUI. C
When the PUI is reset and the program starts, the first step is to clear the RAM, set various registers, etc.
Initialization of the PUI and initial settings for setting the device to the initial mode are performed (step S1, hereinafter steps will be omitted).

Next, an internal timer that is built into the CPU and whose value has been set in the initial settings is started (S2). Next, various processing, namely color selection (
S3), equal size select (S4), memory select (S5
), zoom input (S6), program input (S7), area editing (S8), coordinate setting (S9), simultaneous editing (
S I O), number of copies setting (S l 1), copy density setting (S12), paper size selection (S
l 3), feature l select (S l 4)
, feature 2 selection (S15), other processing (516), and copy operation (517) are sequentially performed. Next, data communication with the CPU 2 is performed (518).

When all subroutine processing is completed, the first set internal timer is waited for to end (St9), the l routine is ended, and the process returns to S2. The time length of this l routine is used to count the various timers that appear in the subroutine (the various timer values determine the end of the timer depending on how many times this l routine is repeated).

<g-2> Color selection Figure 14 shows copy color selection and display (S3
) shows the routine. When the color selection key 95 is turned ON (S21), if the first developer 4 is selected (YES in S22), the second developer 5 is selected and the color of the second developer 5 is displayed (S21). 23). If the second developing device 5 has been selected (No in S22), the first developing device 4 is selected and the color of the first developing device 4 is displayed (S24).

<g-3> Equal magnification selection FIG. 15 shows the equal magnification selection routine (S4). When the equal magnification select key 96 is pressed (S41), the equal magnification select display 96a lights up, the lens 16 is moved to the equal magnification position, etc., and the machine is placed in the equal magnification mode (S42).
Zooml, Zoom2. P1. LED indicating P2
851 to 854 are turned off (S43).

<g-4> Memory selection FIG. 16 shows the memory select routine.

When the MEMORY 5 ELECT key 721 is pressed (S61), if the state is 0 (YES in S62), that is, in the standby state, the state is set to 1 (S61).
63) Start blinking of LEDs 851 to 854 (S
64). When the state is 1 (YES in S65), that is, when the LEDs 851 to 854 are blinking, the state is set to 0.
566), the LEDs 851 to 854 are turned off and the blinking ends (S67). Also, when the state is 1 (S
71), press the selection key 731 (YES in S72),
After setting the state to 0 (S73), only the LED 751 is lit, the LEDs 852 to 854 are turned off, and the original size display 96
a also turns off, and Zooml becomes selected (
In S74), the lens is moved so that copying can be performed at the magnification stored in the zoom memory. Similarly, when the selection keys 732, 733 and 734 are pressed (S75,
378. After setting the state to 0 (S 76 , S 79 , S 82 ), the magnifications Zoom2 and P l *P2 are selected (S 77 , S 80 , 583 ).

Pi and P2 are used to call up all mode information related to copying operations stored in memory by the program input routine shown in FIG. 18, and cause copying to be performed in that mode.

<g-5> Zoom input FIGS. 17(a) and (b) show the zoom input routine (S6
) is shown.

First, when the ZOQM INPUT key 722 is pressed (YES in S91), if the state is -O, that is, in the standby state (YES in S92), the LEDs 855, 85
6 starts blinking, and enters a mode (state=2) for selecting whether to input a magnification using the numeric keys 80 to 89 or to perform calculations (S96). When the state is 2.3.4 (S93 to 595), each display is turned off according to the state (S97 to 599), and the state is returned to standby (51
00).

Next, when the state is 2, that is, waiting for input mode (numeric keypad or calculation) (SIO1), select key 731
When you press (5102), LED855 lights up and the LED
856 goes out and enters the magnification input mode using the numeric keypad (SIO3). Also, if you press the selection key 732 (
S104), LED 855 goes out, 856 lights up,
The input mode is entered by calculation (S I O5). Although the explanation of the calculation procedure will be omitted, a key for calculation may be provided, or other keys may be used by switching with a function.

Next, the state is set to 21 (S l 06).

If the state is 21 (YES in 5107), the magnification input mode is set, so it is necessary to determine whether the magnification has been determined by the numeric keypad or calculation input.5IO8
), when the magnification is determined, the LEDs 855 and 856 are turned off, the LEDs 857 and 858 are made to blink, and the state is set to 3 (SIO9).

Next, when the state is 3 (YES in Sll), when the selection key 733 is pressed (S112), lT ime Z
The function of oom is specified. This function is for inputting a magnification and copying only that copy with that magnification without storing that magnification in memory. LED857
Turn on the LED and turn off the LED858.S l l 3)
, the magnification entered at the same time is within the capabilities of the machine (e.g. ×
(S1
14). When the selection key 734 is pressed (S115),
Since it is a mode to store in the memory of Zooml and Zoom2, turn off LED857 and turn on LED858. Set the state to 4 and turn on LED8.
51,852 flashes (S l l 7).

Next, when the state is 4 (zoom memory store mode)
(S12+), when the selection key 731 is pressed (S12
2), after setting the state to 0 (S126), L E D
(Zooml) Turn on 851 and turn off LED 852. The LEDs 855-858 are also turned off, the input magnification is corrected to within the machine's capabilities (5127), and the machine mode is set to that magnification mode. Furthermore, Zoo
Store the magnification in the memory for ml (S l 28
). When the selection key 732 is pressed (S123), similar processing is performed (S129).

<g-6> Program input FIG. 18 shows the flow of the program input routine.

When the program person key 727 is pressed (Y at S300)
ES), determine whether it is in standby state, that is, determine whether the state is 0 (5301), if it is 0, LED8
53 and 854 start blinking, set the state indicating the program input mode to 31 (5302), and proceed to the next step.

When the state is not 0 and the state is 31, which indicates that the state is already in the program input mode, (S3
03 (No), turns off the LEDs 853 and 854, sets the state to O (S304), and proceeds to the next step. key 727 is O
Even if it is not Ned (S300) or the state is 0, it is 31
If not (S301.5303), proceed directly to the next step 5310.

5310 checks whether the state is 31, and if it is 31 (YES), it is the program input mode, so
If the selection key 733 is pressed (YES in S311), L
Turn on ED863 and turn off 854 (5312), store the currently set mode in program 1 (PI) memory (S313), and set the state to 0 (S312).
317), returns. When the selection key 734 is pressed (YES in S314), the LED 854 is turned on, 85
3 is turned off (5315), and the currently set mode is stored in the program 2 (P2) memory (S316).

Thereafter, the state is set to 0 (5317) and the process returns.

<g-7> Area editing FIGS. 19(a) and 19(b) show a flow related to area editing. This area editing is for specifying the development color or erase for each area in one-color editing or two-color editing performed in composite copy mode.

When the AREA key 726 is pressed (S l 41),
Determine whether mode flag F is 0 (S14
2). Here, the mode flag F1 means that when the value is 1, it is in the color manual mode for each area in area editing.
Alternatively, it is a flag indicating that the area is under the editing settings. If Fl is not O (NO in S142)
, To get out of the colored person mode in each area, F.
to O (S147), turns off the LEDs 95a to 95c, and turns off the LEDs 872 to 880 (5148
). If Fl is O (YES in S l 42), set the mode F to l and set the state to 12 to indicate that area l is being set.5144
), the color display of both the first (upper) developing device and the second (lower) developing device 4.5 is turned ON (S l 45). Then, the LED 883 is turned on to prompt the user to input the coordinates of area I (S l 46).

Next, if the coordinate input for area l has been completed, and the development color for area l has not yet been specified, and the AREA 5KIP key has not been turned on, the color for area ■ has been manually input (YES at 5150). , in order to designate the development color of area l, processes 5151-5158 are performed. first,
The state indicating that area 2 is being set is set to 17 (5151).

If the upper developing device 4 is set (YES in Si20), in this embodiment, the developing color of the color-dedicated upper developing device 4 and the black-dedicated bottom developing device 5, which cannot be detached, is blinked (S l 53). Next, in order to set whether to develop area 1 in black or color, or to erase it, blink LED 872°873.874 (S
l 54). If the upper device 4 is not set (
(NO in S152), the development color of only the underdevelopment device 5 is blinked (S155), and since color development is not possible, LEDs 872 and 874 are blinked in order to set whether to develop in black or erase. (S156). Select one of the blinking LEDs by pressing the selection keys 732 to 734, turn on the selected LED, and turn off the others (Sl 57). Then, the LED 883 is turned on to prompt the user to input the coordinates of the next area 2. By the way, 515
In step 0, if the coloring of area 1 has already been completed or the AREA 5KIP key is turned on and settings for area 1 are not to be made, the process jumps to step 5160.

Next, in order to specify the development color for area 2, use 5160.
-5167 processing is performed. The processing details are 3150-5
Although it is almost the same as 158, in 5161, the stenide is set to 0 and the standby state is set. Furthermore, since there is no need to input the coordinates of the next area 3, the LED 883 is not turned on.

Finally, in order to specify the development color for area 3, use the 5170
The processes from 5176 to 5176 are performed in the same manner as above.

With this area editing, it becomes possible to switch the developing device for each area during composite copying and to perform erasing by repeating the copying operation.

g-8> Coordinate Setting FIG. 20 is a flowchart of the coordinate setting routine. This is for editing the area in the composite copy mode, that is, for setting coordinates.

When the selection key 734 is turned on in 5iso, that is, coordinate input is selected, it is determined whether the LED 883 is on or not.
181), if it is ON, turns off the LED883 and turns the LE
Turn on D884 (Si20). LED884 is ON
If so (YES in S183), the LED 884 is set to 0FFL and the LED 885 is turned on (5184). L.E.
If D885 is ON (S185: YES), LE
Turn D885 to 0FFL and turn on LED886 (S18
6).

Further, if LE0886 is ON (3187), the light is turned off (S l 88).

This routine displays LEDs 883 to 883 when setting coordinates.
By simply controlling the lighting/extinguishing state of 886, actual settings are performed using the numeric keypad car routine shown in FIGS. 22(a) and 22(b). This numeric keypad person Karoutine is the first
The main 70- in FIG. 3 is performed asynchronously. This numeric keypad person's car routine will be explained below.

First, in 5502, it is determined whether the state is 12 or not. If the state is 12 (YES in S 502), this coordinate setting is for area l, and 5502
~ 5510, store the coordinates.

Then, in step 5503, it is checked whether the LED 883 indicating the coordinate Xl is ON or oFF, and if it is ON (YES), the coordinate XI is input, and the numerical value entered manually using the numeric keypad is memorized as the coordinate (S504).

Below, LED 884 (7) is ON indicating coordinate x2, LED 885 is ON indicating coordinate yi, and LED indicating coordinate Y2 is ON.
Check each ON of 886 (5505°5507.5
509), if ON, the numeric keypad manual values are memorized at the B coordinate, C coordinate, and D coordinate, respectively (S506.5
508.3510).

Note that here, the coordinates Xi, X2 . Y1, Y
2 is A, B, C, D, and the following coordinates XI of area 2,
X2. Let Yl, Y2t-E, F, G, H.

5502, if the state is not 12, 552
1, and here it is determined whether the state is 17 or not.

If the state is 17 (YES), this coordinate setting is for area 2, and the following 5522 to 5529
Then, the numeric keypad manual force values are memorized at the coordinates E, F, G, and H, respectively, in the same way as in the case of area l.

Also, if the state is neither 12 nor 17, the number of numeric keys is set as the number of copies (S530).
.

<g-9> Simultaneous Editing FIGS. 21(a) and 21(b) show 70 of the simultaneous editing routine in the simultaneous color copy mode according to the present invention.
- Show chart. Simultaneous editing is the position setting mechanism 1.
00 to designate the development color or erase of each area set in advance.

First, when the simultaneous edit key 725 is pressed (S20
0), it is determined whether mode F2 is 0 (S201).

If mode F2 is not 0 (NO), it is already in simultaneous editing mode, so in order to cancel this mode, mode
2 to 0 (S208L) All LEDs 872 to 882 are turned off, only the already selected development color is displayed (S209), and the process returns.

If mode F2 is 0 (YES at 5201), set this to 1
5202) indicates that the simultaneous editing mode has been entered, and then it is determined whether the main developing device 4 is set (5203), and if it is not set (No),
Only the developing color display of the underlying developing device 5 is made to blink (S206),
Blink the LEDs 872 and 874 (S207), 52
Proceed to 1O.

If main developer 4 is set (YES in S203)
), and blinks the developed color display of both the upper and lower developing units 4 and 5 (S2
04), blink LEDs 872, 873, and 874 (S
205), the process proceeds to S210. At 521O, the flashing LED is selected by pressing any of the selection keys 732, 733, and 734, the selected LED is turned on, the others are turned off, and the developing color display is turned on.

Next, when the color manpower of area 1 is completed (YES in S220), the color manpower of area 2 is subsequently performed. Determine whether the main developer 4 is set (5221), and if it is set (YES), blink the developing color display of both the upper and lower developing units 4.5, and blink the LEDs 875, 876, 877. ), if not set (
NO), the developing color display of the developing device 5 blinks, and the LED 87
5°877 blinks (S224, 5225), and selects keys 732, 733, 73 from among the blinking LEDs.
4 to select it, turn on only the selected LED, turn off the others, and turn on the developing color display (S22
6).

The color manpower in area 3 is also the same in area 2 (3
220-5226), perform (5230-523
6).

<g-10> Other processing When the simultaneous editing routine is finished, as shown in the main flow in Figure 13, before starting the copying operation, the settings for the number of copies, copy density setting, paper size selection, feature 1 selection, feature 2 selection and other processing (S l l -316) are performed, but since they are not directly related to the present invention, their explanation will be omitted.

According to the above embodiment, since the position setting mechanism 100 has two levers, it is possible to perform two-color simultaneous color copying divided into three areas, Area 1 to Area 3. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and by increasing the number of levers and developing devices, it is possible to realize simultaneous color copying using more colors in more areas.

In the above embodiment, when not developing, the developer motor 24 (24°) is stopped, and the magnetic roller 13 (13") is rotated to retreat the magnetic pole from the development area X, thereby regulating the height of the brush. Although the magnetic pole is moved to the opposing part of the member 19 (19'), it is not necessarily necessary to move the magnetic pole as described above between developing and non-developing.However, if this is done, the photoreceptor The probability that the magnetic brush will come into contact with the drum l is low, and color mixing can be prevented.

Further, in the simultaneous color copy mode, the developing device is stopped as a means for performing erasing, but this is not limited to the above embodiment.

(Effects) According to the present invention, it is possible to switch over and/or stop the operation of a plurality of developing devices during one copying operation, and develop or erase each area using a desired developing device. The flexibility of combinations in color copy modes is increased to meet the various needs of users.

[Brief explanation of the drawing]

FIG. 1 is a partially enlarged view of the operation panel. FIG. 2 is a sectional view schematically showing the configuration of the copying machine. FIG. 3 is a sectional view showing the photoreceptor and its peripheral equipment. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the developing device. FIG. 5 is a plan view of the position setting mechanism. FIG. 6 is a diagram of the operation panel. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the arrangement of menu keys and selection keys. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the arrangement of backlighting LEDs. FIG. 9 is a sectional view of the touch panel section. FIGS. 10(a), (b), (c), and (d) are diagrams for explaining selection of the simultaneous color copy function. FIG. 11 is a circuit diagram of the control system of the copying machine. Figures 12(a), (b), (c), and (d) are respectively
3 is a timing chart showing control of a copying machine. FIG. 13 is a main flowchart of control of the copying machine. 3 is a flowchart of copying. Fig. 14, Fig. 15, Fig. 16, Fig. 17 (a). (b), FIG. 18, FIGS. 19(a) and (b), FIG. 20, and FIGS. 21(a) and (b) are flowcharts of the subroutine of main 70- in FIG. 13, respectively. FIGS. 22(a) and 22(b) are flowcharts of ten key scalping. 4...First developer, 5...Second developer, 725...
・Simultaneous editing key lOO...image editing mechanism, 101...second lever, 102...second key/(-2
01... CPUI. Patent applicant Minolta Camera Co., Ltd. Agent
Patent attorney Aohaku 1 person 13 Brush 14 Figure 15 Figure 16 Figure 19 (b) Figure 20 Figure 21 (b)

Claims (1)

[Claims] (1) A plurality of developing devices with different developing colors, a position setting means for dividing the area into a plurality of areas in the scanning direction of the document, and specifying a desired developing color or erase for each area divided by the position setting means. a specifying means, and if a development color is specified for each area during one copying operation, the area is developed with the specified development color, and if erasing is specified, the area is erased. A copying machine comprising: control means for controlling the plurality of developing devices.