JPH04185072A - Image forming device - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To easily synthesize additional image on the identical surface by generating the corresponding additional image data by analyzing read picture information and controlling the driving of digital scanning system and analog image scanning system based on this additional image data. CONSTITUTION:Reading parallel to an original picture scanning by the analog picture scanning system is performed by a CCD unit 401, and a picture processing part 402 of a first generation means analyzes the read image information to generate the additional image data corresponding to the original image. Based on the additional image data to be outputted against a controller 42 from this first generation means, the controller 42 synthesizes the additional image on the identical surface of a recording medium by controlling the driving of a laser part 45 of digital scanning system and an original scanning part 2 of an analog image scanning system, and an ornamental picture overlapping the additional image corresponding to the original image can be obtained.

Description

[Detailed Description of the Invention] [Industrial Application Field] The present invention relates to an analog image scanning system that exposes and scans an original image and projects an optical image of the original onto a photoreceptor, and The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus including a digital scanning system that scans and exposes the photoreceptor with a beam.

[Prior Art] Conventionally, in image forming processing using an analog image scanning system, image processing such as enlargement/reduction or image shift processing may be possible in addition to normal image forming processing; Functions are often quite limited due to the image forming process, and it is often difficult to perform the various image processing that is required. The same copy process was repeated many times to obtain the final copy output.

Recently, in addition to such an analog image scanning system, image forming apparatuses equipped with a digital scanning system capable of scanning a light beam based on digital information have been put into practical use.

The apparatus is configured so that other digital image information such as stamp information, date information, numbering, etc. can be combined and output with the normal original image.

It is also possible to output digital information and analog images in different developed colors.

[Problem to be solved by the invention]

However, there is a limit to the digital information that can be added to a document image, and especially when characters or images are to be emphasized, the output is limited to outputting nine images of characters to be emphasized in a color different from the other document colors.

However, if the object to be emphasized is a mixture of images and text, there will be no difference in the emphasis power.
There was a problem that the appeal of the output was weak.

The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus that can easily obtain a composite image in which shadow information corresponding to a document image is added.

[Means to solve problems]

The image forming apparatus according to the present invention includes an image reading unit that reads an original image in parallel with scanning the original image by an analog image scanning system, and an image reading unit that analyzes the image information read by the image reading unit and adds information corresponding to the original image. A first generation means that generates image data, and controls driving of a digital scanning system and an analog image scanning system based on the additional image data outputted from the first generation means to generate an additional image on the same side of the recording medium. and an image synthesis control means for synthesizing the images.

Further, the additional information is composed of shadow image information corresponding to the original image.

Furthermore, a recognition means that analyzes the image information read by the image reading means and recognizes a specific color in the document image, and an additional image to be added to the document image specified by the specific color recognized by the recognition means. A second generation means for generating data is provided.

Further, the first generating means is configured to shift the image information read by the image reading means by a predetermined amount in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction to generate additional image data corresponding to the original image. .

Further, the second generation means is configured to generate additional image data corresponding to the original image by shifting the specific image information read by the image reading means by a predetermined amount in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction. It is.

Further, the apparatus is provided with development color selection means for providing development units of two or more different colors and selecting development units of different colors when scanning an original image using an analog scanning system and when scanning an additional image using a digital scanning system. .

Furthermore, the first generation means converts the contour-added image data corresponding to the document image obtained by shifting the image information read by the image reading means by a predetermined amount in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction into specific pattern data. The image data is converted to generate additional image data on the same side of the recording medium.

The first generation means is configured to generate additional image data as a contour image corresponding to a document image obtained by shifting the image information read by the image reading means by a predetermined amount in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction. It is composed of

Furthermore, a timing adjusting means is provided for varying the transfer timing in the sub-scanning direction of the same recording medium surface fed for the same original image based on the number of image transfers.

[Operation 1] In this invention, when a document image is read by the image reading means in parallel with the document image scanning by the analog image scanning system, the first generation means analyzes the read image information and generates a document image. Generate additional image data corresponding to. Then, based on the additional image data outputted from the first generation means, the image synthesis control means controls the driving of the digital scanning system and the analog image scanning system to synthesize the additional image on the same side of the recording medium, thereby generating the original image. It is possible to obtain a decorative image in which additional information corresponding to the image is superimposed. Additionally, the additional information is composed of shadow image information corresponding to the original image,
Based on the additional image data outputted from the first generation means, the image synthesis control means controls the driving of the digital scanning system and the conveyance of the recording medium to which the image is added by the analog image scanning system, so that the image is on the same side of the recording medium. Combine shadow image information,
To obtain a decorative image in which a shadow corresponding to a document image is superimposed.

Further, when the image information read by the image reading means is analyzed and the recognition means recognizes a specific color in the document image, the second generation means generates a document image specified by the recognized specific color. generate additional image data to be added,
To obtain a decorative image in which additional information is superimposed only on a document image partitioned by a specific color.

Further, the first generating means is configured to generate additional image data corresponding to the original image by shifting the image information read by the image reading means by a predetermined amount in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction, and generates additional image data corresponding to the original image. It is possible to generate additional information corresponding to

Furthermore, the second generation means is configured to shift the specific image information read by the image reading means by a predetermined amount in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction to generate additional image data corresponding to the original image, It is possible to generate additional information corresponding only to document images partitioned by specific colors.

In addition, the development color selection means selects one of two or more different color development units differently depending on when the original image is scanned by the analog scanning system and when the additional image is scanned by the digital scanning system, and the additional information and the original image are This makes it possible to combine images of different colors.

Furthermore, the first generation means converts the contour-added image data corresponding to the document image obtained by shifting the image information read by the image reading means by a predetermined amount in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction into specific pattern data. It is possible to generate additional image data on the same side of the recording medium by converting the data, and to obtain a composite image in which a specific pattern is added to the outline of the original image.

Further, the first generating means generates additional image data as a contour image corresponding to the document image obtained by shifting the image information read by the image reading means by a predetermined amount in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction, It is possible to obtain a composite image in which a contour is added to a document image.

Furthermore, the timing adjustment means varies the transfer timing in the sub-scanning direction of the same recording medium surface fed for the same original image based on the number of image transfers, and overlaps the original images while shifting the images by an analog image scanning system. make it possible.

〔Example〕

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional configuration diagram illustrating the configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, in which 1 is a main body of the image forming apparatus, an original scanning section 2. Paper feeding section 3, image forming section 4. It consists of an intermediate tray part 5, etc.

First, the configuration of the document scanning section 2 will be explained.

Reference numeral 2a denotes a controller section, which is composed of a control board in which control elements for comprehensively controlling the image forming sequence are integrated. Note that the controller section 2a has the first. The second generation means 9 is equipped with hardware that functions as an image synthesis control means and a timing adjustment means.

2b is a power switch, and 2c is an original exposure lamp, which together with a scanning mirror constitutes an optical scanning system, which scans and moves at a predetermined speed.

Reference numeral 2d denotes an imaging lens that forms an image of reflected light from the original onto the photosensitive drum 11 of the image forming section 4.

Reference numeral 2e is a part of a buzzer, which notifies a warning of an image forming mode error or the like set by an operation unit, which will be described later. 2f is an optical system drive motor (optical motor) that drives the optical scanning system etc. with high precision.

A CCD unit 401 is disposed near the imaging lens 2d on the analog optical path that guides reflected light from the original onto the photosensitive drum 11, and the color information of the original can be read by scanning the original with a scanning mirror. .

In the image forming apparatus configured as described above, the image reading means (in this embodiment, the CCD unit 401 (second
The original image is read in parallel with the scanning of the original image by the analog image scanning system, and the first generation means (in this embodiment, the image processing unit 40
2 (see FIG. 2)) analyzes the read image information and generates additional image data corresponding to the original image. Then, based on the additional image data outputted from the first generation means to the controller 42 (see FIG. 2), the image synthesis control means (controller 42) generates a digital scanning system (laser section 45 (see FIG. 2). ), etc.), the driving of the analog image scanning system (original scanning unit 2) is controlled as described later to synthesize additional images on the same side of the recording medium, thereby obtaining a decorative image in which additional information corresponding to the original image is superimposed. make it possible.

Further, the additional information is composed of shadow image information corresponding to the original image, and the image synthesis control means drives the digital scanning system and generates the image by the analog image scanning system based on the additional image data output from the first generation means. It is possible to synthesize shadow image information on the same surface of the recording medium by controlling the conveyance of the attached recording medium, and to obtain a decorative image in which a shadow corresponding to the original image is superimposed.

Further, when the image information read by the image reading means is analyzed and a specific color in the document image is recognized by the recognition means, a second generation means (also served by the image processing section 402)
To generate additional image data to be added to a document image specified by a recognized specific color, and to obtain a decorative image in which additional information is superimposed only on the document image partitioned by the specific color.

Further, the first generating means is configured to generate additional image data corresponding to the original image by shifting the image information read by the image reading means by a predetermined amount in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction, and generates additional image data corresponding to the original image. It is possible to generate additional information corresponding to

Furthermore, the second generation means is configured to shift the specific image information read by the image reading means by a predetermined amount in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction to generate additional image data corresponding to the original image, It is possible to generate additional information corresponding only to document images partitioned by specific colors.

Further, the development color selection means (also served by the controller 42) selects one of the development units of two or more different colors differently depending on whether the original image is scanned by the analog image scanning system or the additional image is scanned by the digital scanning system, It is possible to combine additional information and a document image as images of different colors.

Furthermore, the first generation means converts the contour-added image data corresponding to the document image obtained by shifting the image information read by the image reading means by a predetermined amount in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction into specific pattern data. It is possible to generate additional image data on the same side of the recording medium by converting the data, and to obtain a composite image in which a specific pattern is added to the outline of the original image.

Further, the first generating means generates additional image data as a contour image corresponding to the document image obtained by shifting the image information read by the image reading means by a predetermined amount in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction, It is possible to obtain a composite image in which a contour is added to a document image.

Furthermore, timing adjustment means (motor control section 48 (second
(see figure) etc.) differs the transfer timing in the sub-scanning direction of the same recording medium surface fed for the same original image based on the number of image transfers, and overlaps the original images while shifting the image using an analog image scanning system. make it possible.

Next, the paper feed section 3 will be explained.

3a and 3b are paper feed rollers, and these paper feed rollers 3a and 3b
The cut sheet (Cut Sheet)-3H is fed into the image forming section 4 by driving.

Next, the image forming section 4 corresponding to the image forming means of the present invention
The configuration of is explained below.

12 is a registration roller and a paper feed roller 3a.

The cut sheet SH fed by the drive of the drive unit 3b is temporarily stopped, and after the image leading edge alignment is synchronized, the cut sheet SH is fed again.

Developing units 13a and 13b contain different color developers (red and black), and one of the developing units 13a and 13b is selectively brought closer to the photosensitive drum 11 by driving solenoids 14a and 14b. and the other is retracted from the photosensitive drum 11. In addition, when the above-mentioned recording mode is set from the operation section described later, the controller section 2 a is configured to perform red/black color-separated development only on the recording material (cut sheet SH) for a specific document. controls the driving of solenoids 14a and 14b.

15 is a transfer charger that transfers the toner image developed by the development units 13a and 13b onto the cut sheet SH;
The cut sheet SH is separated from the photosensitive drum 11 by the post-transfer separation charger 16.

17 is a pre-exposure lamp that neutralizes the surface potential of the photosensitive drum 11 and prepares for the next charging. A cleaner device 18 is composed of a cleaning blade and a cleaning roller, and collects toner remaining on the photosensitive drum 11.

A fixing device 19 fixes the toner image transferred to the cut sheet SH using heat and pressure. 20 is a conveyance roller;
Reference numeral 1 denotes a flapper which switches the intermediate tray portion in 5 directions via a paper discharge roller 23 or a conveyance path 22, which is the conveyance direction of the cut sheet SH after the fixing process has been completed.

24 is a paper discharge tray, and 25 is a scanner motor that rotates a rotary polygon mirror at a predetermined speed and deflects a laser beam emitted from a semiconductor laser 26. Note that the scanner motor 2
5. A digital scanning unit includes a semiconductor laser 26 and the like, emits a laser beam based on font information corresponding to the input add-on information, forms a superimposed image on the original image and the add-on information, and also scans the photosensitive drum 11.
The latent image is selectively erased by irradiating the latent image area with a laser beam. Alternatively, the CCD unit 401
The latent image is selectively erased by irradiating a laser beam that is modulated according to image-processed data based on color information read from the system.

Note that the irradiation position of the laser beam onto the photosensitive drum 11 is downstream of the position where the reflected light from the original is projected onto the photosensitive drum 11 with respect to the drum rotation direction.

Reference numeral 27 denotes an exposure shutter that blocks part or all of the image light reflected from the original to prevent latent image formation. 403
is a red filter for erasing red images.

28 is a primary charger. Note that 22a is the transport direction, M
M is the main drive motor.

Next, the configuration of the intermediate training part 5 will be explained.

Reference numeral 30 denotes an intermediate tray, which temporarily stores cut sheets SH conveyed via conveyance rollers 34, and feeds the cut sheets SH conveyed via conveyance rollers 33 and 35.
The image is retransmitted to the image forming section 4 via the conveyance path 31 by driving. Note that 32 is a flapper, and 36 is a conveyance path.

Note that S1 to S15 in the figure. Sensors S19 to S23 are sensors, and sensor S1 detects the home position of the optical system serving as an analog scanning unit, and the optical system stops at this position during standby. Sensor S2 detects that the optical system has moved to a position corresponding to the leading edge position of the original image, and controls the timing of the copy sequence based on this sensor output. Sensor S3 is at the limiter position (inversion position M) during maximum scanning. The optical system reciprocates with a scan length according to the cassette size and magnification inputted via an operation section, which will be described later.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the controller section 2a shown in FIG. 1, and the same components as in FIG. 1 are given the same reference numerals.

In the figure, reference numeral 41 denotes an operation unit for copy mode (copy single-sided,
42 is a control unit (controller), and the CPU 42a
, ROM42b, RAM42c, etc., R
The image forming sequence is generally controlled based on the control program stored in the OM 42b.

Reference numeral 43 denotes an editor for inputting area information for a desired area of the document. Reference numeral 44 denotes a shutter section, which is composed of an exposure shutter 27 and a solenoid.

A CCD unit 401 detects color information of a document, performs image processing in an image processing section 402 under instructions from a controller 42, and transmits a signal to a laser section 45.

The laser section 45 includes a semiconductor laser 26. scanner motor 2
Consists of 5th grade. 46 is an AC driver that supplies AC power to an AC load 47 such as the document exposure lamp 20. 4
A motor control section 8 controls the drive of the motor section. 49
is a DC load control section that controls the driving of the solenoids 14a, 14b, clutch, fan, and the like.

A feeder control section 50a controls driving of the document feeding section. Reference numeral 50b denotes a sorter, which discharges the cut sheets SH discharged by the drive of the paper discharge roller 23 to designated paper discharge pins.

HVT is a high-voltage unit that includes the charging system and developing unit 1.
A voltage of a predetermined potential is applied to the developing sleeves 3a and 13b.

DCP is a DC power supply and supplies a control potential of +5 to the controller, roller section 2a, and the like.

When the power switch 2b is turned on, first, the heater in the fixing device 19 is energized and waits (wait time) for the fixing roller to reach a predetermined temperature at which fixing can be performed. When the fixing roller reaches a predetermined temperature, the main drive motor MM is driven for a certain period of time, and the photosensitive drum 11. The fixing device 19 and the like are driven to set the rollers in the fixing device 19 at a uniform temperature (weight release rotation). Thereafter, the main drive motor MM is stopped and the copying device is placed on standby (standby state).

Here, the main drive motor MM includes the photosensitive drum 11, the fixing device 19 . The developing units 13a and 13b and various transfer paper conveyance rollers are driven. Then, when a copy command is input from the operation unit 41, an image forming sequence is started.

(1) Description of image formation The main drive motor MM rotates in response to a copy command, and the photosensitive drum 11 starts rotating in the direction of the arrow. At the same time, high voltage is supplied from the high voltage unit HVT to the charger 28 and uniformly spread on the photosensitive drum 11. gives an electric charge. Next, the document exposure lamp 2c is turned on, and the optical motor 2f is driven to expose and scan the document placed on the document table in the direction of the arrow, and project it onto the photosensitive drum 11. In this way, an electrostatic latent image is formed on the photosensitive drum 11. At this time, unnecessary charges outside the image area are erased by a laser unit composed of a semiconductor laser 26, a rotating polygon mirror, and the like.

Next, this latent image is developed by the developing unit 13a or 13b and transferred to the cut sheet SH at the transfer charger 15, and the cut sheet SH is separated from the photosensitive drum 11 at the separation charger 16. Ru.

Next, the toner remaining on the photosensitive drum 11 is collected by the cleaner device 18, and the static electricity is uniformly removed by the pre-exposure lamp 17, after which the copy cycle is repeated again.

In addition, the laser unit can irradiate a laser beam to any location on the photosensitive drum 11 to erase a part of the latent image, and stamp information (Important, Urgent), which is add-on information input from the operation unit 41.

Additional information to be superimposed on the document can be recorded on the cut sheet SH by irradiating a laser beam according to the status (circulation, copy prohibition, secret, etc.) or a laser beam according to the color information from the CCD unit 401. ing.

The developing units 13a and 13b are brought into contact with one of the photosensitive drums 11 in response to a selection command from the operating section 41.

In this embodiment, the developing unit 13a stores color toner (for example, red toner), and the developing unit 13b stores color toner (for example, red toner).
contains black toner, and the solenoids 14a and 14b
Approaching/retreating from the photosensitive drum 11 is performed by this. Note that a developing bias voltage is applied to the developing sleeves of the developing units 13a and 13b from the high voltage unit HVT.

In addition, the image forming apparatus of this embodiment can perform not only normal one-sided copying but also double-sided copying and multiplex copying.
The cut sheet SH that has passed through the fixing device 19 has different conditions such as the resistance value of the paper compared to when copying the first side. Also, the first side and both sides or the second side when making multiple copies.
Conditions are different depending on face. Each high voltage value of these developing biases or transfer 9 separations is determined by the high voltage unit H.
Controlled by VT.

The optical system controls the motor control unit 4 according to instructions from the control unit 42.
The reciprocating control is performed by rotating the optical motor 2f forward or reverse via 8.

(2) Control of cut sheet SH Sensor S9 in FIG. Sll detects the empty state of paper in the cassette and the lower cassette, respectively, and the sensors 10 and 12 detect the lifting state of the paper feed rollers 3a and 3b. Moreover, sensor S22. S23 detects the cassette size.

Hereinafter, since the upper and lower stages perform similar operations, the paper feeding operation for the upper stage will be described.

First, when the upper cassette is inserted, the sensor S22 reads the size and identifies the cassette size, turns off the paper out indicator of the operation section 41, and selectively turns on the cassette size.

When the copy operation starts with the next copy command,
Turn on the middle plate lifting clutch (not shown) to raise the middle plate in the cassette and raise the cut sheet SH. As a result, the cut sheet SH rises and comes into contact with the paper feed roller 3a, and when it reaches a predetermined height, the sensor S10 outputs an output, turns off the clutch, drives the paper feed roller 3a, and transfers the cut sheet SH into the machine. supply.

As described above, the cut sheet SH in the cassette is raised by the middle plate raising clutch, and thereafter the raised position is maintained, and the raising operation is not performed at the next copy start. Also, during continuous copying, the cut sheet SH in the cassette
When the upper surface of the cut sheet SH becomes lower than a predetermined position due to a decrease in the number of cut sheets, the clutch is similarly raised to ONL and a predetermined height.

The cut sheet SH supplied into the machine reaches the sensor S7, and since the registration rollers 12 are stopped, it forms an appropriate loop and stops.

Next, in order to align the leading edge of the image formed on the photosensitive drum 11 with the leading edge of the cut sheet SH, the registration roller 12 is driven by a timing signal from the optical system. After the image on 11 is transferred to cut sheet SH, cut sheet SH is separated from photosensitive drum 11 by separation charger 16 and sent to fixing device 19 by a conveyance mechanism.

In the fixing device, the surface of the fixing roller is controlled to a predetermined temperature by a temperature sensor and a heater (not shown) arranged on the surface of the fixing roller, the image is fixed on the cut sheet SH, and then the discharge is detected by a sensor S4, The paper is discharged to the outside of the machine by the paper discharge roller 23.

Next, in the case of multiple copies, the flapper 21 is operated by a solenoid (
The cut sheet SH, which has been fed, transferred one separation, and fixed, passes through the conveyance path 22 and is sequentially conveyed in the conveyance direction 22a. After this is detected, it is detected by sensors S6, 38, etc., and lateral registration is performed by a solenoid for lateral registration.

Next, the registration rollers 12 are driven by a command from the controller 42, and the cut sheet SH is transferred to the registration rollers 12.
Send to the position.

Thereafter, the paper is ejected to the paper ejection tray 24 in the same manner as described above.

In addition, during double-sided copying, the transfer sheet is ejected halfway by the paper ejection roller 23 as in the case of the normal copying operation, but the trailing edge of the cut sheet SH is ejected by the flapper 23.
After passing through the cut sheet SH, the paper discharge roller 23 is driven in the reverse direction, and the cut sheet SH is guided by the flapper 21 and introduced into the conveyance path 22.

This reverse drive is performed by a solenoid that controls forward and reverse rotation. The subsequent operations are the same as in the case of multiple copying described above. In this way, in the case of double-sided copying, the cut sheet SH is ejected from the machine from the -degree paper discharge roller 23, and the cut sheet SH is turned upside down and reversed by the reverse drive of the paper discharge roller 23, and
Sent to 2a.

Although multiple copying of one sheet and double-sided copying have been described above, in the case of multiple copying of a plurality of sheets or double-sided copying, the intermediate tray portion 5 is used. As shown in FIG. 1, the intermediate tray portion 5 is provided with an intermediate tray 30 that temporarily stores the cut sheet SH on the conveyance path 31. As shown in FIG. In the case of multiple copying of multiple sheets, the fixed cut sheet SH is partially ejected by the paper ejection roller 23 under the same control as in the case of double-sided copying of the single sheet copy described above, and then the paper ejection roller 23 is driven in the reverse direction. By doing so, the conveyance path 22 and the flapper 32. It is stored in the intermediate tray 30 via the conveyance path 36.

This operation is repeated, and after all of the first side is stored in the intermediate tray 30, the feeding roller 33 is driven for the second side in response to the next copy command, and copying of the second side is executed via the conveyance path 36.

On the other hand, in the case of multiple double-sided copies, the paper passes from the fixing device 19 through the conveyance path 22, 36 by the flapper 21 and is stored in the intermediate tray 30 under the same control as in the case of single-direction double-sided copying.

The subsequent operations are the same as in the case of multiple copying described above, and will therefore be omitted.

In addition, in an apparatus in which an intermediate tray is configured in the image forming section 4, there is a limit to the length of cut sheets SH that can be temporarily stored, as shown in FIG. SH is paper that is half size or smaller.

FIG. 4 is a sectional view illustrating an example of an automatic document feeder disposed on the top surface of the image forming apparatus main body 1 shown in FIG. 1, and the same parts as in FIG. It is.

The structure and operation will be explained below.

The automatic document feeder 51 is disposed facing the platen glass 52 of the document scanning section 2, and includes a conveyor belt 53 wound around a drive roller 54 and a subordinate roller 62. ``A document stacking table 55 is arranged above the conveyor belt 53 on which a document stack consisting of a plurality of documents S constituting the document stacking table 55 can be stacked. A lever 56 is provided, and the recycle lever 56 divides the document S stacked on the document stacking table 55 into an unprocessed document and a processed document. Further, a half-moon-shaped paper feed roller 57 is disposed at the base end 55a of this document stacking table 55, and further downstream of this paper feed roller 57, there is a separation section conveying roller 59 and a separation belt 60. The document S stacked on the document stacking table 55 is fed by the paper feed roller 57 toward the separation section transport roller 599 and the separation belt 60, and the separation belt 60 rotates in the document feeding direction. The documents are separated and fed one by one starting from the lowest document S. Further, a paper feed stopper 61 is disposed between the paper feed roller 57 and the separation section transport roller 599 and the separation belt 6o, and when the document S is set, it is located at the solid line position to position the leading edge of the document and feed the document. Sometimes, the stopper solenoid is moved to the dashed line position by energizing it. Further, from downstream of the separation section conveyance roller 591 separation belt 6o, the conveyance belt 5
3, a paper feed path 63 is provided, and the document S sent out from these separation section transport rollers 591 and separation belt 60 passes through this paper feed path 63 and is fed between the transport belt 53 and the platen glass 52. It is fed and placed at a predetermined position on the platen glass 52. A paper discharge path 66 is provided near the paper feed path 63 and extends along the outer periphery of the reversing roller 65 to the document stacking table 55, and the document S placed at a predetermined position on the platen glass 52 is The sheet is conveyed again, passes through the sheet discharge path 66, and is discharged onto the top of the document S stacked on the document stacking table 55 by a sheet discharge roller 67 provided at the downstream end of the sheet discharge path 66. Further, a reversing path 69 is arranged which branches from the sheet ejecting path 66 above the reversing roller 65 and joins the sheet feeding path 63. At the branching point between the reversing path 69 and the sheet ejecting path 66, the document S is A flapper 7° is provided to switch the conveyance path, and when the document is ejected, the document S is moved to the document stacking table 5 at the solid line position.
5 directions, and when the document is reversed, the flapper solenoid is energized to move the document S to the position indicated by the dashed line, and the document S is guided to the reverse path 69.
is guided toward the platen glass 52. Further, a conveying roller 7 is provided downstream of the confluence of the paper feeding path 63 and the reversing path 69.
1a is disposed, and is configured to convey a document guided to the paper feeding path 63 or the reversing path 69 toward the platen glass 52.

FIG. 5 is a plan view illustrating the scanning operation of the semiconductor laser 26 shown in FIG. 1.

In the figure, 71 is a polygon mirror, which is rotated by the scanner motor 25 at a constant speed in the direction of the arrow. The polygon mirror 71 deflects the laser beam emitted from the semiconductor laser 26, and the spherical lens 72. toric lens 7
3. A laser beam is imaged on the photosensitive drum 11 via a folding mirror 75 based on digital information. Reference numeral 74 denotes a beam sensor composed of, for example, a photodiode, which receives a laser beam immediately before image writing, and outputs a beam detect signal to a pulse width shaping circuit 9o, which will be described later.

FIG. 6 is a circuit diagram illustrating the configuration of the laser section 45 shown in FIG. 2, and the structure and operation will be described below.

From the controller 42, the position of a predetermined blank area, copy magnification 1 paper size, photo mode, add-on character code,
Laser unit control information such as add-on position and base color area is stored in a well-known 2-bottom RAM 8 to the laser unit controller 8o.
3. Here, the blank area is an area of a marker portion to be erased in a latent image formed by an analog image scanning system during the first scan in a sequence described below.

The laser section controller 8o alternately rewrites erase data for erasing using a laser in the blank RAMs 85 and 86 according to an external program. The blank area data read control circuit 96 outputs a control signal to the blank address counter 95.8 bit shift register 88, and the data control circuit 1
Output area data to 00.

The blanking RAMs 85 and 86 each have a capacity to write one line of data. The laser unit controller 8o sets the area data to R for blanking.
While writing data to one AM85.86, a control signal is output to the address switching circuit 84 and the blank data switching circuit 87 so that data can be read from the other.

Furthermore, address control will be explained.

The font ROMB2 contains stamp information 14, which will be described later.
0 (Confidential, Urgent 1st Circular 9 Important, Copy Prohibited and Fonts that correspond to the character code specified from the input information area,
(predetermined superimposition pattern data is stored) is stored in advance. The laser unit controller 80 reads font data from the font ROMB2 according to the add-on character code, and reads the add-on R.
Set it to AM103. Add-on character position designation data is written in the laser unit controller 80. The add-on controller 89 reads data from the add-on RAM 103 in response to a start signal from the laser unit controller 8o, and outputs the data to the data control circuit 100.

As shown in FIG. 5, the laser beam emitted from the semiconductor laser 26 is deflected by a rotating polygon mirror 71, and is deflected by a spherical lens 72. The light passes through a dot lens 73 and scans over the photosensitive drum 11.

At this time, in order to extract the horizontal synchronization signal, a beam sensor 74 composed of a photodiode or the like is arranged above the laser beam scanning. The beam detect signal output from the beam sensor 74 is input to the laser section 45. Then, the pulse width shaping circuit 90 inputs the pulse width shaping circuit 90, and after waveform shaping, the pulse synchronization circuit 91. A BD low signal is input to the interrupt terminal of the laser unit controller 80 and the pulse synchronization circuit 92 .

The laser section controller 80 generates an interrupt every time a BD low signal is generated, and writes control data to the blanking RAMs 84 and 85. Further, the laser unit controller 8o outputs a control signal in the sub-scanning direction by counting the number of interrupts such as the BD low signal. The pulse synchronization circuit 91 outputs a reset pulse to the horizontal synchronization clock generation circuit 93 in synchronization with the rise of the above-mentioned BD low signal. The horizontal synchronization clock generation circuit 93 outputs a clock HCLK synchronized with the BD low signal, and is composed of a reference clock generation circuit and a frequency dividing circuit.

The pulse synchronization circuit 92 generates a BD synchronization signal H3Y for synchronizing the BD low signal with reference to the horizontal synchronization clock HCLK.
Generates NC2. The horizontal synchronization clock HCLK is counted by this BD synchronization signal H3YNC2. The output of the horizontal line counter 94 is sent to the timing signal generation circuit 9.
8, and a horizontal timing signal is output from the horizontal line counter 94 at the set count number.

7 and 8 are timing charts illustrating the sending timing of each signal shown in FIG. 6, and the same parts as in FIG. 6 are given the same reference numerals.

As can be seen from FIG. 7, the horizontal synchronization clock generation circuit 9
The horizontal synchronization clock HCLK is generated by resetting the reference clock frequency division counter in 3 with the rising detection pulse H3YNCI. Next, a BD synchronization signal H3YNC2 is generated using the horizontal synchronization clock HCLK,
Reset the horizontal line counter 94.

In addition, as can be seen from FIG. 8, the horizontal line counter 9
A set signal VBSET and a reset signal VBR3T are created from the output of 4, and an image area signal blank signal is generated. Further, the horizontal synchronization clock HCLK is used as a clock for reading data from the add-on RAM 103.

As the data read clock from the blanking RAM 85.86, a clock CLKM obtained by dividing the horizontal synchronization clock HCLK is used to make the resolution of blank area specification variable.

Also, set signal VBSET, reset signal VBR3T
Accordingly, a BD enable signal BDENB is generated, and if a horizontal synchronization waveform (beam detect signal) is not input within a predetermined period, a horizontal synchronization signal error detection circuit 97 outputs a BD error signal to the laser unit controller 8o. When the laser unit controller 8o detects the above-mentioned BD error signal, it stores the abnormal status in two bits in the RAM 8.
3 to the controller section 2a.

A dot erase circuit 99 outputs erase data DEDATA to the data control circuit 100 so that the dot pattern set in the base color mode and screen mode is formed. 101 is a laser drive circuit, which receives a control start signal A from the controller section 2a.
Light amount control is started using the PCON and APC clocks. At that time, the ready signal A is sent from the laser drive circuit 101.
PCRDY is output to the controller section 2a.

Reference numeral 105 denotes a CDD data controller circuit, into which signals such as image data and marker area data from the CCD unit 401 are input, and are stored in the line memory 104.

Data is read out from the line memory 104 in accordance with the scaling factor based on the scaling signal from the controller 42, and includes the add-on information signal FDETA, the blank information signal BDATA, and the dot erase signal DEA.
Signals such as image data and marker area data are sent to the data control circuit 100 in synchronization with TA. The CCD data control circuit 105 also outputs the image address on the document of area data based on the marker, such as the start point, end point, and start point in the horizontal line direction in the horizontal synchronization direction.
An address signal of the end point address is written into the two-bottom RAM 83 via the laser unit controller 80.

A laser scanner motor controller 102 executes drive control of the scanner motor 25 in synchronization with a control start signal LSCON from the controller section 2a. At this time, the laser scanner motor controller 102 outputs a ready signal LSCRDY to the controller section 2a.

Next, add-on information mode setting and add-on information input processing will be explained with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10.

FIG. 9 is a plan view illustrating the configuration of the editor 43 shown in FIG. 2, in which reference numeral 110 denotes an editor section, which also serves as a document pressure plate for pressing down the copy document placed on the document table glass.

Reference numeral 111 denotes a document setting surface on which a document is placed when specifying an area. Reference numeral 112 is a reference mark against which the edge of the document is abutted.

Reference numeral 114 denotes an input information area, in which character information is illustrated.

can be entered.

Reference numeral 121 denotes an area designation key, which is pressed when setting the area designation mode. Note that when the area designation key 121 is pressed, the area designation mode indicator 12o lights up. 12
Reference numeral 2 denotes an area memory key, which is pressed to store area information at a position specified with the stylus pen 113 when the area designation key 121 is pressed. Reference numeral 123 denotes a mode selection key, which is pressed when the area designation key 121 is pressed to designate the development units 13a and 13b in the designated area and print by color.

Note that when the mode selection key 123 is pressed, a combination of two colors corresponding to the color of the toner contained in the developing unit 13b, which is replaceable with the developing unit 13a, is displayed on the display 132.
Seven types are displayed.

When the area memory key 122 is pressed, the display 13
1 lights up.

124 is a clear key, which is pressed to cancel the set area designation mode. When the clear key 124 is pressed, the area designation mode display 120 turns off. 125
is an add-on mode setting key corresponding to the first mode setting means described above, which is pressed when writing characters on a copy image. When the add-on mode setting key 125 is pressed, the display 134 lights up. 126 is a character size specification key, in this embodiment, the character size for superimposed writing is set to 4 mm;
8 mm can be specified, and indicators 135 and 136 of the specified size will light up.

Reference numeral 127 denotes a direction designation key, which is pressed to designate the writing direction of the add-on character to be vertical or horizontal, and the indicators 137 and 138 of the designated direction light up. Further, 305 is an auto key, which is pressed to recognize a marker written on a document and automatically determine the writing direction of an add-on character.

Reference numeral 128 denotes an input end key, which is pressed to end the input of add-on characters. 129 is a clear key, which is pressed to cancel the add-on mode.

Reference numeral 130 denotes a stamp mode setting key corresponding to the second mode setting means. When this stamp mode setting key 130 is pressed, the display 139 lights up and the document setting surface 111
Stamp information 140 (Secret 9 Important, Urgent 9 Circulation, Copying prohibited) etc. printed in advance on the stylus pen 113
The second recording mode setting is notified to the controller 42 by giving an instruction at . Furthermore, 144 is a key for instructing the front and back sides of a double-sided document. Reference numerals 142 and 143 are indicators showing the indicated state of the front and back sides.

141 is a clear key, and when this clear key 141 is pressed, the second recording mode is canceled.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating the control configuration of the editor 43 shown in FIG. 2, and the same components as in FIG. 9 are given the same reference numerals.

In this figure, reference numeral 151 denotes an editor control section that analyzes coordinate information output from a coordinate reading section 152 and a key input section (various keys shown in FIG. 9) 153, and specifies input information to the controller section 2a. Outputs mode, character code, etc. A display 154 corresponds to the various displays shown in FIG. 9 and displays the above-mentioned modes.

[Description of Operation Unit 1 Next, the configuration of the operation unit 200 shown in FIG. 11 will be described.

In the figure, 201 is a power switch that controls power supply to the image forming apparatus. A reset key 202 operates as a key for returning the copy mode to the standard mode during standby. 203 is a copy key. Reference numeral 204 is a color developer switching key, and this key switches the developer unit 13a.

13b is selected. Numeric keys 205 are mainly used to input the number of images to be formed.

Reference numeral 236 is a password input mode key, and after pressing this key, inputting a password using the numeric keypad enables copying, and prohibits copying unless the password is entered.

In other words, the copying apparatus can be made usable only by a specific operator.

206 is a key for selecting one of the cassettes 3, 207
208 is a copy density adjustment key, 208 is a key to select the same size copy, 209 is a zoom key that specifies the image formation magnification in increments of a predetermined magnification, for example, 1%, and 230 is a key that automatically adjusts the image to match the original size and transfer paper size. 210 is a standard magnification key that specifies standard reduction or standard enlargement magnification, 211 is a key that specifies frame erasure of the original, and 212 is a key that specifies binding offset at one end of the copy paper. 213 is a key for specifying a photo mode for copying halftone images such as photo originals, 225 is an area specification key for specifying an area, 226 is an area specification key 22
An area call key 231 is used to partially modify the contents of the area set by 5, a preheating mode key 231 is used to set the preheating mode, and a guide key 217 is used to know the contents of each function.

214 is a multiple key for selecting multiple copy mode, and 215 is a multiple key that divides the copy area of the document glass stand into two on the left and right, and automatically selects the multiple copy mode.
A quick copy key for specifying continuous copying, 216
is the key to select duplex copy mode.

300 is an auto color key that is pressed to recognize the red and blue colors of a document and reproduce them in red and blue, respectively. 301 is an auto cover key that is pressed to reproduce the color of a document in red and blue, respectively. 301 is an auto cover key that can be used to create a cover or partition paper by inserting colored paper into the document loaded on the feeder. Press this when inserting color paper into a desired position. 30
Reference numeral 2 denotes a base color key, which adds a base color (colors the background) to a portion of the document surrounded by red or blue markers. Reference numeral 303 is a shading key, which is pressed when it is desired to cast a shading on a document image (characters, etc.). Reference numeral 304 is a marker processing key, which is pressed to erase inside or outside the area surrounded by markers on the document, and also when selecting between erasing within the area and erasing outside the area while looking at the display 138. use.

219 and 220 are keys for specifying the operation of the sorter 50b. Numerals 222 to 224 are keys for specifying a mode for writing predetermined character data on a copy image, and specify the date write mode, memo write mode, numbering write mode, etc., respectively. Reference numerals 227 to 229 indicate mode memory keys for storing the set copy mode, and store three copy modes M1 to M3. In addition, 232 is an end key, 2
33 is map key, 234 is down key, 235 is OK
This is the key.

Further, 238 is a liquid crystal display element that displays the number of copies, transfer paper size, set magnification, message, etc.

239 to 250 are indicators using LEDs (light emitting diodes). First, 239 functions as a sorter use indicator when the sorter 50b is used.

The display 240 functions as an automatic exposure adjustment display that lights up when the automatic exposure adjustment (AE) key 237 is pressed and the AE mode is set. The display 241 functions as a density display corresponding to the operation of the copy density adjustment key 207. The display 242 displays a color corresponding to the color of the developer when the color developer switching key 204 is pressed and a color developer in the main unit or in the optional multiple developer storage device is selected. Functions as a lighting indicator. The display 243 functions as an auto-magnification display that indicates that the auto-magnification key 230 has been pressed. Display 244 functions as a photo mode indicator. The display 245 functions as a date writing mode display. Display 246 functions as an area designation display. The display 247 functions as a binding margin mode display. Indicator 248 functions as a memo writing mode indicator.

Indicator 249 functions as a frame erase mode indicator. Display 250 functions as a number writing display.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the image processing section 402 shown in FIG. 2, and the configuration and operation will be described below.

When the original to be copied is a multicolor original, the image processing unit 402 is configured to read the original with a CCD sensor 311 and extract color information, and in this embodiment, blue, red, and black can be detected. It is configured.

The original placed on the original loading table 55 is exposed and scanned in the direction of the arrow, and at the same time as an electrostatic latent image is formed on the photosensitive drum 11, image information of the original is read by the CCD sensor 311. A continuous analog output signal from the CCD sensor 311 is sampled by a sample and hold circuit 312 and converted into a digital image signal by an A/D converter 313, and then a shading circuit 314 performs shading correction on the digital image signal. .

315 is a color discrimination circuit that uses a lookup table (LUT) 31 that is preset from two digital signals.
6, the signal is converted into color image signals of three colors, blue, red, and black, as described above. The three color image signals are input to a marker processing circuit 318 and an expansion circuit 317. Marker processing circuit 3
When an area is designated with a marker pen on a document, a section signal 18 of the area is generated from a color image signal corresponding to the marker color (blue or red). The expansion circuit 317 performs arbitrary expansion on the color image signal selected by the controller 42. For example, if this expansion operation is performed on a color image signal such as a character, a color image signal with thickened lines can be obtained.

This dilation operation can be realized, for example, by ORing each pixel data in a 3×3 pixel window. Further, the expansion width can be arbitrarily set by changing the window size.

A data synthesis circuit 319 synthesizes the color image signal of the marker processing circuit 318 and the color image signal of the expansion circuit 317. The output signal from the data synthesis circuit 319 is input to the line memory 320, and is controlled by the line control circuit 321.
By controlling the timing of reading from the line memory 320, the analog latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 11 by exposure scanning and the digital electrostatic latent image formed by laser beam exposure can be aligned on the photosensitive drum 11. will be held.

The output signal CCDDATA from the line control section 321 is
The signal is input to the COD data control circuit 105 shown in FIG. 6, and becomes an ON10FF control signal for the laser beam.

Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 13 to 22, additional image synthesis processing of original images in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention will be described.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the first additional image synthesis processing section in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, and 501 is an eleventh
The optical means 502 is an image reading means, and the CCD unit 4
01 etc. Reference numeral 503 denotes an additional image data generating means (generating means), which analyzes document image information output from the image reading means 502 and generates a second exposure means (including a laser driver circuit) 50 constituted by a digital scanning system.
4, the shaded data is output. A recording medium transport system 505 transports the recording medium to a predetermined transport destination based on control information output from the image composition control means 506. At this time, the image on which analog image formation has been completed is conveyed to the intermediate tray 30 via multiple passes.

Reference numeral 507 denotes a shaded image forming means which combines an analog image and a digital image on the same surface of the same recording medium and outputs a shaded image.

FIG. 14 is a conceptual diagram showing the progress of the first additional image synthesis process in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention. In addition,
ST1 to ST7 indicate each stage.

FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram illustrating the first additional image composition process in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, where PPP indicates a document, 001 indicates an analog image formation output, 002 indicates a shadow image formation output, Analog image formation output 001
This corresponds to a state in which a digital image (based on additional information) is synthesized with the image.

DAI analyzes the image information read by the CCD unit 401 during analog scanning of the original PPP and sends it to the image processing unit 40.
2 is the extracted image area.

DA2 is a shifted image area, which is obtained by shifting the image area DAI by, for example, one pixel in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction. As a result, the shaded area in the figure is the image area DAI.
and shift image area DA2 overlap. Therefore, if the overlapping area is deleted, additional information DA3 for the final document PPP will be generated.

Next, the synthesis process will be explained using FIG. 14.

When the original image is set (STI), the original exposure lamp 2c is turned on to illuminate the original while scanning, and the reflected light is first incident on the photosensitive drum 11 to form a latent image using an analog image scanning system. The developing unit 13b executes development, transfer, and fixing processing to form an image identical to the original image on the fed recording medium (Sr4). This results in
An analog image forming output 001 shown in FIG. 15 is formed. The recording medium is transferred to the intermediate tray 3 by the recording medium transport system 505.
0. Subsequently, the original image is scanned again by the first exposure means 501, and the reflected light is made incident on the CCD unit 401, where it is converted into an electrical signal (Sr2). As a result, the image area DAI shown in FIG. 15 is extracted.

Next, the controller 42 creates shading data, that is, additional information DA3 for the document PPP, based on the read data (Sr1).

Next, a light beam is scanned on the photosensitive drum 11 by the digital image scanning system based on the additional information DA3 for the original PPP, the image is developed by the developing unit 13b, and the recording medium on which the original image has been copied is re-fed (Sr5). , transfer and fix the image over the copied image (5T6) to form a shadowed image (STI).

As a result, the shaded image formation output 002 shown in FIG.
is obtained.

In this way, for example, as shown in FIG.
It is possible to form a copy image 003 in which a red shadow image is added to the character image of P.

FIG. 17 is a conceptual diagram showing the progress of the second additional image synthesis process in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention. In addition,
5TI-3TIO indicate each stage.

FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram illustrating the second additional image composition process in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, in which PPP is an original and is composed of a red image and a black image.

001 indicates an analog image forming output in which an image is formed only in black, 002 indicates a shaded image forming output, and a digital image (based on additional information) is applied to the analog image forming output 001 in a specific pattern (mesh pattern (Fig. 18). The shaded area) corresponds to the combined state.

In FIG. 17, first, with the document PPP set (STI), reflected light obtained by scanning the analog image scanning system is imaged on the photosensitive drum 11, and the developing unit 1
3a (black) to transfer and fix the image onto a recording medium (paper).

In this case, the red part of the image is also formed as a black image (Sr1). The paper on which this image has been formed is re-fed and prepared for superposition of digital images (Sr8).

Then, the original image is scanned again using the analog image scanning system,
The reflected light is made incident on a CCD unit 401 and converted into an electrical signal. The image information converted into an electrical signal is separated into a red image part by the image processing unit 402 (Sr1
).

Based on the thus separated red image, image data for shading is created (Sr1).

At this time, as described above, the delay is delayed by one pixel in each of the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction, and the portions overlapping with the read image including the black image are erased to create basic data for a shadow image (Sr1).

Then, the image data is converted into a specific pattern, for example, pattern image data such as halftone dots (5T5), and additional image data that can be emitted from the laser unit 45 is created (5T5).
6), forming a halftone dot shadow image as a latent image on the photosensitive drum 11 by laser light 5T9), developing unit 1;
Developed using 3a, superimposed on the re-fed paper and transferred.

By fixing, the red image is converted into a shaded image of a halftone dot pattern to generate a copy image (ST10).

As a result, if the red part of a document image containing red is automatically converted into a black image with shadows and output, the 18th
A shaded image forming output 002 shown in the figure is obtained.

FIG. 19 is a conceptual diagram showing the progress of the third additional image synthesis process in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention. In addition,
STI to ST9 indicate each stage.

FIG. 20 is a schematic diagram illustrating the third additional image composition process in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, in which PPP is a document, which is composed of a black image, and a shaded area MK is partially designated with a red marker pen. corresponds to the situation.

002 indicates a shaded image formation output, in which an image within a shaded area MK specified with a marker pen is output as an analog image formation output, and in this embodiment, a digital image (based on additional information) corresponding to a character image "<" is displayed. This corresponds to a state in which the image is composited in red, which is different from the original image.

First, the original PPP is set (STI).

The reflected light obtained when the analog image scanning system scans and exposes the original PPP is divided into two optical paths, one of which is converted into an electrical signal and read by the CCD unit 401 (S
r2), and separate the color images (Sr1).

The other light is incident on the photosensitive drum 11 and a latent image is formed thereon.

At this time, the color-separated red image portion is irradiated with laser light from a registration image scanning system to erase the image. This erasing is performed by the circuit shown in FIG.

This latent image is developed by the developing unit 13a.

Transfer it to paper and fix it. As a result, a black copy image is formed (Sr1).

Next, the paper is re-fed in preparation for superimposing and adding a shadow image (Sr1).

Then, the original PPP is scanned again by the optical system of the analog image scanning system, but during the second scan, the shutter 2
7 blocks all direct incident light to the photosensitive drum 11. - Reading from the CCD unit 401 is the same as the first time, but after separating the red image of the original image (
ST3) Extract the black image part surrounded by the red closed curve 5T4) Shift the image data, for example, by one pixel in the main scanning and sub-scanning directions as described above, and remove the part that overlaps with the black image. , create shadow image data (
ST5).

Then, this shadow image data is irradiated onto the photosensitive drum 11 by a semiconductor laser 26 of a digital image scanning system.
It is developed by the red developing unit 13b, superimposed and transferred onto the re-fed paper (5T8), and a shadow image is added to the analog image (ST9).

In this way, by marking an arbitrary part of the document in red, for example, and forming a red shadow on that image part to form a copied image, a shaded image formation output as shown in FIG. 002 is obtained.

In each of the above embodiments, a case has been described in which additional image data is synthesized with an analog image using a digital image scanning system, but as shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, a reflection image obtained by an analog image scanning system is By varying and adjusting the transfer timing in the scanning direction, it is also possible to obtain a shadowed image in which the original image is shifted by a predetermined amount in the sub-scanning direction.

FIG. 21 is a conceptual diagram showing the progress of the fourth additional image synthesis process in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention. In addition,
ST1-5TII indicate each stage.

FIG. 22 shows the fourth image forming apparatus in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention.
2 is a schematic diagram illustrating additional image synthesis processing, where PPP is a document composed of a black image, and two desired black images are designated by the editor 43 (designated points PD1, PD2).

002 indicates a shaded image forming output, and the controller 42 outputs the registration roller 1 during the first analog image forming process.
2 is delayed by a predetermined time from the normal drive timing (at this time, the image outside the specified area is erased by the semiconductor laser 26), the formed image is developed in red by the developing unit 13b, and the next image is When scanning an original, the registration roller 12 is driven at normal drive timing, and the image is obtained by executing normal analog image processing.

First, the user specifies in advance an area to which a shadow image is to be added, and when the original PPP is set (ST1), the copying operation is started.

If no area is specified, the entire document image area is targeted. When starting, the paper is first fed and stopped in front of the registration rollers 12, and the leading edge of the image is aligned according to the drive timing. Then, the document is scanned and an image is formed on the photosensitive drum 11, and at the same time, the semiconductor laser 26 irradiates the area where no shadow image will be added to erase the image (
ST2).

On the other hand, the drive timing of the registration rollers 12 is delayed compared to normal, and the image transfer position is shifted in the sub-scanning direction.

This image is developed in the developing unit 13b and transferred to paper (5T8), first forming a red shadow image. After the paper is fixed, it is re-fed through the transport path 22 (ST
9).

It stops at the registration roller 12 and prepares for transfer again, but at the same time the original is scanned and the image is formed on the photosensitive drum 11 (ST5). For this image, the developing unit 13
5T6), the registration roller 12 is driven at the same timing as normal, and the image is transferred (STIO
). Fixation is performed again and a shadowed image is formed (STI
I).

In this way, by specifying a shaded area in any part of the document using the editor 43, for example, a latent image obtained by the analog image scanning system is developed in red for that image part, and
When a copy image is formed with a delay from a predetermined transfer timing and the image of the same document PPP is subjected to normal analog image formation processing again, a shadowed image formation output 002 as shown in FIG. 22 is obtained.

[Effects of the Invention 1] As explained above, the present invention includes an image reading means for reading an original image in parallel with the scanning of the original image by an analog image scanning system, and an image reading means for analyzing the image information read by the image reading means to read the original image. A first generating means for generating additional image data corresponding to the image; and controlling the drive of the digital scanning system and the analog image scanning system based on the additional image data outputted from the first generating means to generate the recording medium. Since an image synthesis control means for synthesizing additional images on the same surface is provided, additional image data corresponding to the original image can be automatically generated in parallel with analog image generation with a simple operation, and the generated additional image can be combined with the original image. can be synthesized and output.

In addition, since the additional information is composed of shadow image information corresponding to the original image, shadow image data corresponding to the original image can be automatically generated in parallel with analog image generation with a simple operation, and the generated shadow image can be transferred to the original image. It can be combined with an image and output. Therefore, it is possible to easily obtain a composite image to which shadow information corresponding to the original image is added.

Furthermore, a recognition means for analyzing the image information read by the original reading means and recognizing a specific color in the original image, and an additional image to be added to the original image specified by the specific color recognized by the recognition means. Since the second generation means for generating data is provided, it is possible to synthesize and output only the additional image for a specific image in the original image.

Further, the first generation means is configured to shift the image information read by the image reading means by a predetermined amount in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction to generate additional image data corresponding to the original image. Desired additional image data can be obtained at low cost without performing extensive image processing.

Further, the second generation means is configured to shift the specific image information read by the image reading means by a predetermined amount in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction to generate additional image data corresponding to the original image. , additional image data of a specific image in a document image can be obtained at low cost without performing complicated image processing.

In addition, development color selection means is provided which includes development units of two or more different colors and selects development units of different colors when scanning an original image using an analog image scanning system and when scanning an additional image using a digital scanning system. , the original image and the additional image can be clearly distinguished.

Furthermore, the first generation means converts the contour-added image data corresponding to the document image obtained by shifting the image information read by the image reading means by a predetermined amount in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction into specific pattern data. Since the configuration is configured such that additional image data is generated on the same side of the recording medium through conversion, specific additional information corresponding to the original image can be easily generated.

The first generation means is configured to generate additional image data as a contour image corresponding to a document image obtained by shifting the image information read by the image reading means by a predetermined amount in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction. With this configuration, additional information corresponding to the outline of the document image can be easily generated.

In addition, we have provided a timing adjustment means that changes the transfer timing in the sub-scanning direction of the same recording medium surface fed for the same original image based on the number of image transfers, so it is possible to change the original image with a very simple process. It is possible to efficiently obtain a copy output in which the corresponding desired additional image is combined with the original original.

Therefore, anyone can easily obtain an enhanced image in which additional information is combined with a desired original image, and the functional processing of analog and digital image scanning systems can be significantly improved. It has the advantage that it can be obtained at low cost.

[Brief explanation of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional configuration diagram illustrating the configuration of an image forming apparatus showing an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the controller section shown in FIG. 1, and FIG. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a main part explaining the structure of a part of the intermediate tray shown in FIG. 1, and FIG. cross-sectional view,
5 is a plan view illustrating the scanning operation of the semiconductor laser shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 6 is a circuit block diagram illustrating the configuration of the laser section shown in FIG. 2, and FIGS. The figure shows the 6th
9 is a plan view illustrating the configuration of the editor shown in FIG. 2, and FIG. 10 is a control configuration of the editor shown in FIG. 2. 11 is a block diagram explaining the third
Detailed plan view illustrating the configuration of the operating section shown in the figure, 12th
13 is a block diagram explaining the configuration of the image processing section shown in FIG. 2, FIG. 13 is a block diagram explaining the configuration of the first additional image synthesis processing section in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, 15 is a conceptual diagram showing the transition of the first additional image composition process in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention; FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram illustrating the first additional image composition process in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention; FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the first additional image synthesis output in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, and FIG. 17 is a conceptual diagram showing the transition of the second additional image synthesis processing process in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention. ,
FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram illustrating the second additional image composition process in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, and FIG. 19 is a conceptual diagram showing the progress of the third additional image composition process in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention. , FIG. 20 is a schematic diagram illustrating the third additional image composition process in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, and FIG. 21 is a conceptual diagram showing the progression of the fourth additional image composition process in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention. Figure, 22nd
The figure is a schematic diagram illustrating the fourth additional image composition process in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention. In the figure, 1 is the main body of the image forming apparatus, 2 is a document scanning section, 2a is a controller section, 3 is a paper feeding section, 4 is an image forming section, and 5 is a part of an intermediate tray. Figure 5 Figure 10 Figure 14 Figure 15 Figure 16 Figure 18 Figure 19 Figure 20 Figure 22

Claims (9)

[Claims] (1) comprising an analog image scanning system that exposes and scans an original image and projects a light image of the original onto a photoreceptor; and a digital scanning system that scans and exposes the photoreceptor with a light beam based on predetermined digital information; An image forming apparatus capable of forming a composite image of the original image and an image based on the digital information on a recording medium, comprising: an image reading means for reading the original image in parallel with scanning the original image by the analog image scanning system; a first generating means for generating additional image data corresponding to the document image by analyzing the image information read by the image reading means; An image forming apparatus comprising: an image composition control means for controlling driving of a scanning system and the analog image scanning system to compose an additional image on the same surface of a recording medium. (2) The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the additional information is shadow image information corresponding to the original image. (3) Recognition means that analyzes the image information read by the image reading means and recognizes a specific color in the original image, and addition that is added to the original image specified by the particular color recognized by this recognition means. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a second generating means for generating image data. (4) The first generating means generates additional image data corresponding to the original image by shifting the image information read by the image reading means by a predetermined amount in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction. The image forming apparatus according to item (1). (5) The second generation means generates additional image data corresponding to the original image by shifting specific image information read by the image reading means by a predetermined amount in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction. The image forming apparatus according to claim (3). (6) development color selection means for providing development units of two or more different colors and selecting development units of different colors when scanning an original image using an analog scanning system and when scanning an additional image using a digital scanning system; Claims characterized (
1) The image forming apparatus described above. (7) The first generating means converts the contour-added image data corresponding to the document image obtained by shifting the image information read by the image reading means by a predetermined amount in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction into specific pattern data. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus generates additional image data on the same side of the recording medium by converting the data into the image data. (8) The first generation means generates additional image data as a contour image corresponding to the document image obtained by shifting the image information read by the image reading means by a predetermined amount in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction. Claim (1) characterized in that
). (9) The apparatus according to claim (1), further comprising a timing adjustment means for varying the transfer timing in the sub-scanning direction of the same recording medium surface fed to the same document image based on the number of image transfers. image forming device.