JPH0678097A - Composite image forming device - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To enable to design and change operation part control information relating to an external device by controlling the function setting operation status of an operation part for the external device based upon stored operation part control information. CONSTITUTION:When operation part control information corresponding to the external device (external apparatus 34) is transferred from the device 34 to the image forming device body of a composite image forming device by a transfer means through a communication means, the operation part control information is stored in a storage means (memory part 30a). A control means (CPU 30b) controls the function setting operation status of the operation part 35 to the device 34 based upon the operation part control information stored in the storage means 30a, so that the operation part control information related to the external device can be designed and changed independently of the control procedure of the image forming device body.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a composite image forming apparatus capable of connecting a plurality of external devices accompanied by image forming output, and more particularly to displaying on a screen of an operation section of the image forming device for displaying various information relating to the operation of each external device. The present invention relates to a composite image forming apparatus for controlling the.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, a printer function for printing an output from a computer on an image forming apparatus such as a copying machine, a scanner function for reading an original on a platen and inputting it to a computer, and an image connected to a public line are provided. 2. Description of the Related Art Multi-function type composite image forming apparatuses to which a facsimile function for transmitting and receiving is added as an external device are sold.

Also in a color copying machine, an intelligent processing unit (IP) which realizes an interface with various analog / digital images.
There is also a system in which U) is connected as an auxiliary device, for example, is connected to a computer so that a system usable as a printer function and a scanner function can be easily constructed.

In these composite image forming apparatuses, when the scanner function is used, for example, the operation manual is to instruct the external device to set the image reading from the operation unit of the apparatus main body and start the desired reading. It is described in.

Further, in a composite image forming apparatus equipped with a facsimile function, when performing facsimile transmission, it is necessary to perform a transmission destination telephone number, transmission mode, etc. from the operation unit of the main body of the composite image forming apparatus. It is described in.

In the composite image forming apparatus to which the conventional external device is added as described above, the operation screen of each extended function depending on the external device such as the scanner function, the printer function and the facsimile function is displayed on the display device. The following methods (1) and (2) are adopted.

(1) The operation screen data of all extended functions are stored in advance in the operation unit in the main body of the image forming apparatus, and each time the function is extended, it is displayed on the corresponding operation screen.

(2) Each time the function is expanded, the operation screen data for operating the function is appropriately stored in the memory of the operation unit in the main body of the image forming apparatus and displayed.

[0009]

However, according to the display method of the above (1), since the operation screen data is extended even to the user who uses only the copy function, it is expensive depending on the number of functions. There is a problem that a memory is required, a user's burden is heavy, and cost performance is bad.

On the other hand, according to the display method of the above (2), in order to expand the memory for the operation section in the image forming apparatus main body,
Each time, there was a problem in operation such as time-consuming replacement of memory.

Further, the operation procedure and the operation instruction screen are changed in accordance with the change of the control program of the external device, not only the change of the ROM storing the control program of the external device but also the operation part control program storage of the main body of the composite image forming apparatus. Part R
It is necessary to change even the OM, which is very troublesome.

The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and in a composite image forming apparatus capable of expanding and connecting an external device, information necessary for controlling the external device or setting functions is provided to each external device. A composite image that can significantly reduce the burden on the image forming apparatus main body side for storing information unique to each externally connected expansion apparatus by storing the information in the main body and transferring it to the image forming apparatus main body side at an appropriate timing. An object is to provide a forming device.

[0013]

A first composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention comprises a communication means for communicating an external device and an image forming apparatus main body, and an image forming apparatus main body from the external device via the communication means. A transfer unit for transferring the operation unit control information corresponding to the external device, a storage unit for storing the operation unit control information transferred by the transfer unit, and an external unit based on the operation unit control information stored in the storage unit. And a control means for controlling the function setting operation state of the operation unit for the apparatus.

A second composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention is
Selection means for selecting the function of the connected external device, screen state storage means for storing the state of the screen displayed on the screen of the display, operation state of the image forming apparatus main body and keys on the operation section First communication means for transferring input information by communication with a predetermined external device, operation state of the image forming apparatus main body transferred by the first communication means, key input information on the operation unit, and the Screen data generating means for generating operation screen data for an external device to be displayed on the display unit from the state of the screen stored in the screen state storage means, and operating the operation screen data generated by the screen data generating means by communication Second communication means to be transferred to the section and a screen editor for displaying display screen data edited on the basis of the operation screen data transferred from the second communication means on the display unit. It is provided with a door.

Further, each external device of the third composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention is provided with screen data generating means for generating operation screen data to be displayed on the display.

[0016]

According to the first aspect of the invention, when the operation unit control information corresponding to the external device is transferred from the external device to the image forming apparatus main body by the transfer unit through the communication unit, the operation unit control information is stored in the storage unit. Remembered. Since the control unit controls the function setting operation state of the operation unit for the external device based on the operation unit control information stored in the storage unit, the operation unit control information about the external device is sent regardless of the control procedure of the image forming apparatus main body. It is possible to design and change.

In the second invention, when the desired external device function connected by the selecting means is selected, the state of the screen displayed on the screen of the display is stored in the screen state storing means, The screen data generation means displays on the display unit from the operation state of the image forming apparatus main body transferred by the first communication means, the key input information on the operation unit and the screen state stored in the screen state storage means. The operation screen data for the external device is generated, the second communication unit transfers the generated operation screen data to the operation unit by communication, and the display screen data edited based on the transferred operation screen data is edited. Since the means displays on the display, the screen data required for each function setting of each external device is displayed when the function setting of the externally connected external device is performed using the operation unit of the image forming apparatus main body. Forming apparatus main body transferred from the outside makes it possible to be displayed on a display device of the operation unit.

Further, in the third aspect of the invention, the screen data generating means of each external device respectively generates the operation screen data to be displayed on the display unit, so that the setting screen easily corresponding to the function expansion of the connected external device. Can be displayed.

[0019]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS [First Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a sectional view for explaining the structure of a composite image forming apparatus showing a first embodiment of the present invention.
In the figure, reference numeral 1 is a document feeder, and the number of loaded documents is 1.
The sheets are sequentially conveyed one by one onto the glass surface 2 of the document table. When the document is conveyed, the lamp for illuminating the document of the scanner unit 3 is turned on, and the scanner unit unit 4 moves at a predetermined speed to illuminate the document placed on the platen glass surface 2. The reflected light of the document passes through the lens 8 via the mirrors 5, 6, 7 and is then input to the image sensor unit (image sensor) 9. An exposure control unit 10 irradiates the photoconductor 11 according to a print signal which is signal-processed based on the image information read by the image sensor unit 9. The latent image formed on the photoconductor 11 by the irradiation light is developed by the developing device 13. The transfer paper is conveyed from the transfer paper stacking unit 14 or the transfer paper stacking unit 15 at the same timing as the latent image, and the developed image is transferred to the transfer unit 16. The transferred image is fixed on the transfer paper by the fixing unit 17, and then discharged from the paper output unit 18 to the outside of the apparatus.

Next, a method for outputting sequentially read images on both sides of one transfer sheet will be described.

The transfer paper fixed by the fixing unit 17 is once
After the sheet is conveyed to the sheet discharge section 18, the direction of the transfer sheet is reversed, and the sheet is conveyed to the re-fed transfer sheet stacking section 20 via the conveyance direction switching member (flapper) 19. When the next original is prepared, the original image is read in the same manner as the above process, but since the transfer paper is fed from the re-feed transfer paper stacking unit 20, after all, the surface of the same transfer paper, Two document images can be output on the back side. An external display unit 22 is used as a reference for searching for a desired image from image data recorded in a detachable storage means such as a magneto-optical disk. Reference numeral 23 denotes a casing corresponding to an external device 34, which will be described later, and a facsimile function processing unit that uses a communication circuit as a control circuit of a driving device, which will be described later, and other external devices.
A printer interface function processing unit for receiving data from a computer and receiving data from a printer is included. Reference numeral 24 denotes a drive device of a detachable storage means such as a magneto-optical disk, which converts an image signal input to the image sensor 9 into a structure conforming to the format of the disk and records it. Reference numeral 21 is a registration roller.

Next, the case where the original image is reduced and output on the transfer sheet will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the control configuration of the main body of the composite image forming apparatus shown in FIG.

In the figure, 31 is an image reader, which has an image sensor section 9 and outputs an analog image signal read by the image sensor section 9 to an image signal control circuit 32. Reference numeral 30 denotes a CPU unit, which is a ROM, RA (not shown).
M, which controls the image formation of the main body based on the control program stored in the ROM, receives the control information regarding the external device 34, which is an externally connected external device, by communication processing, and transfers it to the backup RAM 302 described later. Control information (including operation screen information) relating to the external device is stored. In addition, the image signal control circuit 32 controlled by the CPU unit 30 performs processing, and the printer 3
Up to 3. The signal input to the printer 33 is converted into an optical signal by the exposure control unit 10 and the photoconductor 1 is converted according to the image signal.
Irradiate 1. An operation unit 35 is provided with a display unit for displaying the operation procedure of the main body, the operating state of the main body, the operation procedure of the external device 34, and various operation instruction keys. A memory unit 30a stores operation unit control information relating to the external device, which is transferred from the external device 34, which is an accessory device, via the communication unit.

In the thus configured composite image forming apparatus, when the transfer means transfers the operation section control information corresponding to the external apparatus from the external apparatus (external device 34) to the image forming apparatus main body through the communication means. The operation unit control information is stored in the storage means (memory unit 30a). The control unit (CPU 30b) controls the function setting operation state of the operation unit 35 with respect to the external device based on the operation unit control information stored in the storage unit, thereby relating to the external device regardless of the control procedure of the image forming apparatus main body. It enables to design and change the control information of the operation part.

First, the speed at which the image signal is read from the image reader 31 is constant. Therefore, by increasing the moving speed of the scanner 4 that irradiates the original, the image information input to the image reader 31 can be increased per unit time, so that the image signal can be reduced in the paper transport direction (sub-scanning direction). it can.

The direction perpendicular to this (main scanning direction) is controlled by inputting and outputting image signals through the image signal control circuit 32 shown in FIG. A case of reducing to x / (y + x)% will be described with reference to FIG.

In the case of the same size, there is no problem because the actual output position P1 shown in FIG. 3 corresponds to the actual read position P3, but when reducing the size, the image signal was input at the virtual read position P2. Think of things. Since the image is reduced by outputting the image data at this position to the actual output position, the image density at the virtual reading position P1 (O2) is calculated from the density value of the image signal input at the actual reading position P3 as follows. First (1)
Interpolate and predict based on the formula.

O2 = {R3 · y + R2 · (x−y)} / x (1) Hereinafter, an operation example of the external device 34 shown in FIG. 2 will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 to 9.

FIG. 4 is a plan view showing an example of the operation section 35 shown in FIG. The configuration and operation will be described below.

First, the operation of the removable storage means will be described.

In the figure, a file key 40 for designating this operation
When is input, a selection screen as shown in the figure is displayed on the display unit 41. The user selects a desired process from image search, image input, and image deletion according to the instruction on the screen. For example, when the image search is selected, the display screen of the display unit 41 is switched to the content shown in FIG.

At the time of retrieval, the keywords attached in advance to each image data are also displayed at the same time, so that the user's selection can be supported. When the user selects a desired image from the image data list on the screen, the corresponding image data is displayed on the display unit 22. After the user confirms that the displayed image is acceptable, the user inputs the copy start key 42, and the image data is output from the printer 33.

Next, the operation of the facsimile communication function in the external device 34 will be described.

When using the facsimile communication function, the fax key 50 shown in FIG. 4 is pressed and printed. As a result, the display screen of the display unit 41 is switched to the screen shown in FIG. 6, that is, the screen for inputting the facsimile number of the transmission destination. Here, the user inputs the facsimile number by using the ten keys of the operation unit 35 according to the instructions on the screen, and when the facsimile number input is completed, the confirmation key (# key) 43 is pressed. By pressing this key, the display screen of the display unit 41 is switched to the screen shown in FIG. Then, the document to be transmitted is placed on the document table glass table 2 of the main body of the composite image forming apparatus, and the copy start key 42 is pressed.
The facsimile control circuit stored therein initiates communication.

Further, the data transmitted from the computer
The operation for outputting the data will be described.

Normally, the remote key 60 shifts to a mode in which it waits for receiving data input from the outside.
At this time, the screen display on the operation unit 35 is switched to the content shown in FIG.

When output data is transmitted from the computer as described later, the external interface 1011 and the CPU 10 shown in FIG. 9 showing the details of the external device 34.
It is sent to the LBP unit 1007 via 10 and processed.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing details of the external equipment of the casing 23 shown in FIG.

In the figure, reference numeral 1000 is a main body (main body) of the composite image forming apparatus, and 1001 is an external device which is the casing 23. In the external device 1001, a selector 1002 selects whether to fetch the image data from the composite image forming apparatus main body 1000 into the external device 1001 or send the image data from the external device 1001 to the main body 1000. Reference numeral 1003 is a rotation processing circuit for rotating the image data sent to the composite image forming apparatus or image data from the composite image forming apparatus, and 1004 is a selector for the rotation processing circuit 1.
Either the image data from 003 or the image data which does not pass through the rotation processing circuit 1003 or the image data is not output is selected. Reference numeral 1008 denotes an input selector which transfers image data from the selector 1004 to the file circuit unit 1005.
Alternatively, the FAX circuit unit 1006 or the LBP circuit unit 100
7 or to output to a plurality of circuit units. Reference numeral 1005 denotes a file circuit unit, which is an input selector 100.
The image data from 8 is filed, and the filed image data is output to the output selector 1009. It should be noted that the file circuit unit 1005 has the drive unit 24 of the storage means and the external display unit shown in FIG.

A fax circuit unit 1006 faxes the image data from the input selector 1008 and outputs the faxed image data to the output selector 1009. Reference numeral 1007 denotes a fax circuit unit, which receives image data from the input selector 1008 in the fax circuit unit 1007.
The image data expanded in the internal print memory or in the page description language LIPS, for example, is output to the output selector 1009. The output selector 1009 selects either the image data from the file circuit unit 1005, the image data from the fax circuit unit 1006, or the image data from the LBP circuit unit 1007.
4 or rotation processing unit 1003 or selector 100
Output to either of 2. 1010 is a CPU, and the main body 1
000, file circuit section 1005, and fax circuit section 1
006 and the LBP circuit unit 1007, control the flow of image data of the selector 1002, the selector 1004, the input selector 1008, and the output selector 1009, and the entire external device 1001 (not shown) through the external interface circuit 1011. To control. 1012 is RO
The M / RAM unit stores the above control program and work memory. Reference numeral 1013 indicates a CPU bus and 1014 indicates an image data line.

First, the operation of filing a document will be described.

At this time, the above-mentioned file key 40 is pressed to make various settings, and then a desired document is placed on the document table. Next, by pressing the copy start key 42, the various settings are set on the communication line 1013 by the main body 100.
0 to the CPU 1010 through the selector 1002. This setting data is sent from the CPU 1010 to the file circuit unit 1005 via the communication line 1013. The file circuit section 100 is set by the sent setting data.
In 5, the setting is made accordingly and the preparation is completed by the CPU1.
Send to 010. CPU 1010 receiving preparation completion
Controls the selector 1002 so that the direction of the image data flows from the main body 1000 to the rotation processing circuit 1003. Further, the rotation processing circuit 1003 to the selector 100
4, through the input selector 1005, the file circuit unit 1
The selector 1004 and the input selector 1008 are controlled so as to flow to 005. With this, the route of the series of image data is determined. Next, the CPU 1010 transmits the image capture preparation completion to the main body 1000. When the main body 1000 receives the image capture preparation completion, the lamp of the scanner unit 3 is turned on, and the scanner unit 4 moves to illuminate the original document, which is the above-described operation. The input signal from the reader 31 is processed by the CPU 30, passes through the image data line 1014, and the selector 100.
Entered in 2. Then, the image data is input to the file circuit unit 1005 according to the flow of the image data described above. At this time,
When it is necessary to rotate the entire image data, the rotation processing circuit 1
The rotation is controlled in 003, and when it is not necessary, the rotation processing circuit 1003 outputs without performing any processing. The file circuit unit 1005 converts the image data into a structure conforming to the format of the disc and records it. When the reading is completed, the file circuit unit 1005 transmits the reading completion to the CPU 1010. Upon receiving the reading completion, the CPU 1010 sets the image data line 1014 to the main body 1000 to the selector 1002 in a disconnected state. Next, CPU
The main body 1000 returns to its original state by sending a read end message to the main body 1000. In addition,
The case of faxing a manuscript is almost the same as the above, only the image data is input to the fax circuit unit 1006 instead of the file circuit unit 1005, and other than that, the description is omitted because it is the same as the filing operation.

Next, a case of printing a filed document will be described.

At this time, the file key 40 of the operation unit 35 described above is pressed to make various print settings. Next, by pressing the copy start key 42, the various settings are set on the communication line 1013 by the main body 100.
0 to the CPU 1010 through the selector 1002. This setting data is sent from the CPU 1010 to the file circuit unit 1005 via the communication line 1013. The file circuit unit 1005 makes settings in accordance with the sent data, and sequentially completes the CPU 101.
Send to 0. Upon receiving the completion of preparation, the CPU 1010 controls the output selector 1009 so that the image data direction flows from the file circuit unit 1005 to the rotation processing circuit 1003. Furthermore, from the rotation processing circuit 1003 to the selector 1
The selector 1004 is cut off and the selector 1002 is controlled so as to flow to the main body 1000 through 002. With this, the route of the series of image data is determined. Next, the CPU 1010 transmits the image output preparation completion to the main body 1000. Upon receiving the image output preparation completion, the main body 1000 starts the printing operation. The image data is input to the image control circuit 32 shown in FIG. Printer 3
The signal input to 3 is printed by the above-described operation. At this time, when it is necessary to rotate the entire image data, the rotation processing circuit 1003 controls the rotation, and when it is not necessary, the rotation processing circuit unit 1003 outputs the image data without doing anything. When printing is completed, the main unit 100
The print completion is transmitted from 0 to the CPU 1010. Upon receipt of the print end, the CPU 1010 selects the selector 1002.
The image data line with the main body 1000 is disconnected. Next, the CPU 1010 sends a print end message to the file circuit unit 1005, and the file circuit unit 1005 returns to the original state.

Next, when printing the faxed image data or when printing the data sent from the computer, the image data is replaced by the fax circuit 1006 instead of the file circuit 1005. LBP
Only the output from the circuit unit 1007 is performed, and other than that, it is the same as the case of the output from the file circuit unit 1005.

Next, a case of faxing a filed document will be described.

At this time, the file key 40 and the fax key 50 described above are pressed to make settings for various files and faxes. Next, by pressing the copy start key 42, the various settings are set in the communication line 101.
CP from main body 1000 through selector 1002 at 3
Sent to U1010. This setting data is stored in the CPU 10
10 is also sent to the file circuit unit 1005 and the fax circuit unit 1006 via the communication line 1013. The file circuit unit 1005 and the fax circuit unit 1006 make settings in accordance with the sent setting data.
The preparation completion is transmitted to the CPU 1010. Upon receiving the completion of preparation, the CPU 1010 controls the output selector 1009 so that the image data direction flows from the file circuit unit 1005 to the rotation processing circuit 1003. Further, the selector 1004 and the input selector 1006 are controlled so as to flow from the rotation processing circuit 1003 through the selector 1004 to the fax circuit unit 1006. With this, a series of image data
This means that the route of Ta has been decided. Next, the CPU 10
10 transmits the image output preparation completion to the file circuit unit 1005. CPU 1010 which has received the image output preparation completion
Starts the image data transmission operation. At this time, the image data
When the rotation of the whole data is required, the rotation processing circuit 1003 controls the rotation, and when it is not necessary, the rotation processing circuit 1003 outputs without performing any processing. When the transmission is completed, the file circuit unit 1005 transmits the completion of the transmission to the CPU 1010. C which received the end of transmission
The PU 1010 sends an image data to the output selector 1009.
Disconnect the tar line. Next, CPU1
When 010 notifies the fax circuit unit 1006 of the end of transmission, the fax circuit unit 1005 returns to the original state.

Next, when filing the image data faxed or filing the data sent from the computer, the data sent from the computer
In the case of faxing data as well, the operation is substantially the same except that the flow of image data is changed, and the details are omitted.

The external device operating unit control program transfer processing operation between the external device 34 and the main body via the communication line 1013 will be described below with reference to FIGS. 10 to 12.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of an external device operating section control program transfer processing procedure between the external device 34 shown in FIG. 2 and the main body. Note that (1)
~ (6) shows each step.

First, the operation unit control program transfer command is sent from the CPU 1010 to the main body 1000 (1), and a command status (AKC) signal is sent to the main body 100.
Transfer from 0 to CPU 1010 (2). Upon receiving the command status (AKC) signal, the CPU 1010 transmits the operation unit control program of the external device 34 via the communication line 1013. Receiving this, the main body 1000 temporarily stores the data sent to the internal buffer 301 of the CPU section 30 shown in FIG. 11 (3). The CPU 1010, which has transferred all the data, sends an operation unit control program transfer confirmation command to the main body 1000 (4). On the other hand, the command recognition status (ACK) signal is transferred from the main body 1000 to the CPU 1010 (5). The main body 10 which received this
The CPU 30 of 00 transfers the data (operation unit control program) temporarily stored in the internal buffer 301 to the backup RAM 302 of the CPU unit 30 shown in FIG.
(6). As a result, the external device operation unit control program transfer process between the external device 34 and the main body via the communication line 1013 is completed. When a communication error occurs for all commands and the command cannot be recognized, a command not possible status (NACK) signal is transferred from the main body 1000 to the CPU 1010. CPU 101 that received this
0 controls to retransmit the command.

Next, the transfer of screen data of the external device operating unit between the external device 34 and the main body via the communication line 1013 will be described.

FIG. 12 is a flow chart showing an example of the external device operating unit screen data transfer processing procedure between the external device 34 and the main body shown in FIG. In addition, (1) ~
(6) shows each step.

First, an operation unit screen data transfer command is sent from the CPU 1010 to the main body 1000 (1), and a command status (AKC) signal is transferred from the main body 1000 to the CPU 1010 (2). The CPU 1010 receiving the command status (AKC) signal causes the external device 3
The operation unit screen data of No. 4 is transmitted via the communication line 1013. The main body 1000 receiving this has the CP shown in FIG.
The data sent to the internal buffer 301 of the U unit 30 is temporarily stored (3). CP that has transferred all data
The U1010 sends an operation unit screen data transfer confirmation command to the main body 1000 (4). On the other hand, a command recognition status (ACK) signal is sent from the main body 1000 to the CPU 101.
Transfer to 0 (5). CPU of the main body 1000 which received this
The data 30 (operation unit screen data) temporarily stored in the internal buffer 301 is transferred to the backup RAM 302 of the CPU unit 30 shown in FIG. 11 (6). This allows
The external device operation unit screen data transfer process between the external device 34 and the main body via the communication line 1013 is completed. In addition, when a communication error occurs for all commands and the command cannot be recognized, the command disable status (N
ACK) signal is transferred from the main body 1000 to the CPU 1010. Upon receiving this, the CPU 1010 controls to retransmit the command. In addition, command not possible status (NAC
K) signal data structure, transfer condition, command example
Shown in.

FIG. 13 shows the communication line 101 shown in FIG.
FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an external device operation unit screen data transfer method between the external device 34 and the main body via the third embodiment.

In the figure, (a) shows the data format of transfer data, (b) shows the transfer method, and (c).
Is a command example, for example, an operation unit control program transfer command (03H), an operation unit control program transfer confirmation command (13H), an operation unit screen data transfer command (04
H), the operation unit screen data transfer confirmation command (14H).

Next, the operation of controlling the operating procedure of the external device in the main body 1000 by the transmitted operating unit control program and operating unit instruction screen data will be described.

As described above, the operation of the facsimile communication function in the external device 34 will be further described.

When using the facsimile communication function, the fax key 50 of the operation unit 35 shown in FIG. 4 is pressed. At this time, the CPU 30 of the main body 1000 recognizes that the fax key 50 has been pressed and switches the operation unit control sequence to the operation unit control sequence of the external device 34 read from the backup RAM 302. The read-out screen data shown in FIG. 6 (screen data for inputting the destination facsimile number) is backed up in the RAM 302.
Read out and displayed on the display unit 41.

Here, the user presses the ten keys according to the instructions on the screen to input the facsimile number. This input control is also controlled by the operation unit control sequence transferred from the external device 34 to the main body 1000.

When the input of the facsimile number is completed and the input key 43 is pressed to confirm the input content, the screen of the display unit 41 is switched to the screen shown in FIG. This screen display switching control is also controlled by the operation unit control sequence transferred from the external device 34 to the main body 1000. Then, the document to be transmitted is placed on the platen glass surface 2 of the main body, and the facsimile control circuit stored in the housing 23 starts communication. At this time, the screen of the display unit 41 of the operation unit 35 is switched to the content shown in FIG. 14, and at the same time as the communication ends, the operation unit control sequence of the external device 34 switches the control of the operation unit 35 to the normal control sequence on the main body side. , The screen of the display unit 41 of the operation unit 35 is returned to the content shown in FIG.

In the above embodiment, the operation unit control program of the external device or the operation instruction screen data is transmitted from the external device to the main body via the communication means, and the transmitted operation unit control program or operation instruction screen data is transmitted. -The case of controlling the operation procedure of the external device in the main body with the
The operation procedure may be controlled by the operation unit control program of the external device or the operation instruction screen data by the operation unit control program of the external device via the communication means. Therefore, the content to be controlled is the same as in the above embodiment. Further, the method of transferring the operation instruction screen data from the external device to the main body is the same as that in the above-mentioned embodiment, and the details thereof will be omitted. Hereinafter, a case where the display of the operation instruction screen data transferred to the main body side is controlled based on the operation unit control program on the external device side to instruct the operation of the external device will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 16 is a flow chart showing an example of the external device control procedure based on the operation procedure information transferred from the external device 34 shown in FIG. In addition, (1) to (17) indicate each step. Further, a case where the external device 34 corresponds to a facsimile machine will be described.

To use the facsimile communication function, the fax key 50 of the operation unit 35 shown in FIG. 4 is pressed (1). At this time, the CPU unit 30 of the main body 1000 is
When it is recognized that the fax key 50 has been pressed, a command for shifting the operation unit control sequence to the external device 34 is issued (2). As a result, the management control of the operation unit 35 is switched to the operation unit control sequence built in the external device 34, and the CPU 1010 can directly control the operation unit 35 (3). Next, the CPU 1010 backs up the screen data shown in FIG. 6 according to the operation unit control sequence.
A command to be read from the AM 302 and displayed on the display unit 41 is issued to the main body 1000 (4). As a result, the screen data shown in FIG. 6 is displayed according to the control sequence of the operation unit of the external device 34 (5). Then, in the normal state where the screen for inputting the facsimile number of the destination as shown in FIG. 6 is displayed, the user inputs the facsimile number by using the ten keys according to the instruction on the screen (6). This input control is controlled by the operation unit control program of the main body. In this way, the confirmation key 4
When 3 is pressed, the facsimile number is transferred to the external device 34 (7), and the operation unit image of the main body is displayed so that the screen data shown in FIG. 7 is displayed by the instruction of the operation unit control sequence of the external device 34. The display program is instructed (8), and the operation unit image display program of the main body similarly displays the screen data shown in FIG. 7 on the display unit 41 (9).

Next, when the original to be transmitted is placed on the original glass table 2 of the main body of the composite image forming apparatus and the start key which is also used as the copy start key 42 is depressed (10), a status signal indicating that the start key is depressed, That is, the start key input is transferred to the external device 34 (11). Then, the operation unit image display program of the main body is instructed to display the screen data shown in FIG. 14 by the instruction of the operation unit control sequence of the external device 34 (12), and the operation unit image display program of the main body is Similarly, the screen data shown in FIG. 14 is displayed (1
3). At this time, the facsimile control circuit stored in the housing 23 starts communication (14). When the facsimile communication is completed in this way (15), the operation unit control sequence of the external device immediately issues a command for switching the control of the operation unit 35 to the normal main body side (16). As a result, the display unit 41
The screen display of is switched to the normal main body operation instruction screen shown in FIG. 15 (17). At this time, in the operation unit 35, the key input normal state and the screen display normal state are managed and controlled by the operation unit control sequence of the main body as usual. [Second Embodiment] FIG. 17 is a block diagram for explaining the arrangement of a composite image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

In the figure, 1-1 is an image input device for converting a document into image data (hereinafter referred to as a reader unit), 2
-1 is an image output device (hereinafter referred to as a printer unit) that has a plurality of types of recording paper cassettes and outputs image data as a visible image on the recording paper in response to a print command. Externally connected device and has various functions. The external device 3-1 includes a facsimile section 4-1, a file section 5-1, a man-machine interface section 6-1 connected to the file section 5-1 and a computer interface section 7- for connecting to a computer. 1, an image memory for storing information from a formatter unit 8-1, a reader unit 1-1 for making information from a computer into a visible image, and temporarily storing information sent from a computer Part 9-1, above 1
A core unit 10-1 for controlling each function of -1 to 8-1 is provided.

In the image forming apparatus thus configured, the selecting means (in the present embodiment, the operation section 1 of the reader section 1-1) is selected.
When the desired external device function connected by 24) is selected, the state of the screen displayed on the screen of the display is stored in the screen state storage means (internal memory of each external device), and Communication means (CPU 122 of the reader unit 1-1
Screen data stored in the operation state of the image forming apparatus main body, the key input information on the operation unit and the screen state storage means (the memory 805 of the formatter unit 8-1 in this embodiment). The generation means (CPU of each external device) is a display (LCD display DIS which will be described later).
P) to generate operation screen data for the external device, the second communication means (CPU of each external device) transfers the generated operation screen data by communication, and transfers the operation screen data to the transferred operation screen data. The screen editing means (the CPU 122 or the like of the reader unit 1-1) edits and displays the display screen data edited on the basis of the display screen data. Therefore, the function setting of the external device expanded and connected by using the operation unit of the image forming apparatus main body is set. It is possible to transfer the screen data required for each function setting of each external device to the main body of the image forming apparatus and display it on the display unit of the operation unit. In addition, the contents of the screen state in this embodiment means any of the screens shown in FIGS.
In addition, the screen number of the screen currently displayed on the operation unit, the cursor position, the position of the highlighted item indicating what is set on the screen, and the contents of the message indicating the card name are applicable.

Further, since the screen data generating means of each external device respectively generates the operation screen data to be displayed on the display unit, it is possible to easily display the setting screen corresponding to the function expansion of the connected external device.

Hereinafter, the above 1 will be described in detail with reference to FIG.
The functions of the respective units -1 to 8-1 will be described.

FIG. 18 shows the reader section 1-1 shown in FIG.
3 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration of a printer section 2-1. FIG. The configuration and operation will be described below.

The originals stacked on the original feeding device 101 are successively conveyed one by one onto the original table glass surface 102. When the document is conveyed, the lamp 103 of the scanner unit is turned on and the scanner unit 104 moves to irradiate the document. The reflected light of the document is reflected by the mirrors 105, 106, 1
After passing through the lens 108, the light is input to the CCD image sensor unit 109 (hereinafter referred to as CCD).

FIG. 19 shows the reader section 1-1 shown in FIG.
3 is a circuit block diagram showing the signal processing configuration of FIG. The configuration and operation will be described below.

The image information input to the CCD 109 is photoelectrically converted here and converted into an electric signal. CCD109
The color information from the following amplifiers 110R, 110G,
At 110B, the signal is amplified according to the input signal level of the A / D converter 111. The output signal from the A / D converter 111 is
Input to the shading circuit 112, where the lamp 1
The light distribution unevenness of No. 03 and the sensitivity unevenness of the CCD are corrected. The signal from the shading circuit 112 is input to the Y signal generation / color detection circuit 113 and the external I / F switching circuit 119. The Y signal generation / color detection circuit 113 calculates the signal from the shading circuit 112 based on the following equation (1) to obtain the Y signal.

Y = 0.3R + 0.6G + 0.1B (1) Further, it has a color detection circuit for separating the R, G, B signals into seven colors and outputting the signals for the respective colors. The output signal from the Y signal generation / color detection circuit 113 is input to the scaling / repeat circuit 114. The scaling in the sub-scanning direction is performed according to the scanning speed of the scanner unit 104, and the scaling / repeat circuit 114 performs scaling in the main scanning direction. Further, the scaling / repeat circuit 114 can output a plurality of identical images. The contour / edge enhancement circuit 115 obtains edge enhancement and contour information by enhancing high frequency components of the signal from the scaling / repeat circuit. The signal from the contour / edge emphasis circuit 115 is used for patterning / thickening / masking / marker area determination / contour generation circuit 116.
It is input to the trimming circuit 117.

Marker area determination / contour generation circuit 116
Reads the portion of the manuscript written with a marker pen of a specified color and generates the contour information of the marker, and the next patterning / thickening / masking / trimming circuit 117 thickens, masks or trims the contour information. I do. Further, patterning is performed by the color detection signal from the Y signal generation / color detection circuit 113. An output signal from the patterning / thickening / masking / trimming circuit 117 is input to the laser driver circuit and variously processed signals are converted into signals for driving a laser. The signal from the laser driver circuit is input to the printer 2-1 and an image is formed as a visible image.

Next, the external I / F switching circuit 119 for interfacing with an external device will be described.

When the external I / F switching circuit 119 outputs image information from the reader section 1-1 to the external device 3-1,
Patterning / Thickening / Masking / Trimming circuit 11
The image information from 7 is output to the connector 120. Also,
When the reader unit 1 inputs image information from the external device 3, the external I / F switching circuit 119 inputs the image information from the connector 120 to the Y signal generation / color detection circuit 113.

The above-mentioned respective image information is performed according to the instruction of the CPU 122, and the area generation circuit 121 generates various timing signals necessary for the above-mentioned image processing from the values set by the CPU 122. In addition, communication with the external device 3 is performed using the communication function built in the CPU 122. The sub-CPU 123 controls the operation unit 124 and communicates with the external device 3-1 by using the communication function built in the sub-CPU 123.

Hereinafter, referring to FIG. 18, the printer unit 2
The configuration and operation of -1 will be described.

The signal input to the printer section 2-1 is converted into an optical signal by the exposure control section 201 and the image signal is applied to the photoconductor 202. The latent image formed on the photoconductor 202 by the irradiation light is developed by the developing device 203. The transfer paper is conveyed from the transfer paper 204 or the transfer paper stacking unit 205 at the same timing as the latent image, and the developed image is transferred to the transfer unit 206. The transferred image is fixed on the transfer paper by the fixing unit 207, and then the paper discharge unit 2
It is discharged to outside the device from 08. The transfer paper output from the paper output unit 208 is discharged to each bin when the sort function is working in the sorter 220 or to the highest bin of the sorter when the sort function is not working. .

Next, a method for outputting sequentially read images on both sides of one output sheet will be described.

After the output paper sheet fixed by the fixing section 207 is once conveyed to the paper discharge section 208, the conveyance direction of the paper sheet is reversed, and the re-feeding transfer sheet stacking section 210 is conveyed through the conveyance direction switching member 209. Transport to. When the next manuscript is prepared,
The original image is read in the same manner as in the above process, but since the transfer paper is fed from the re-feed transfer paper stacking unit 210, it is possible to output two original images on the front surface and the back surface of the same sheet. .

The system configuration operation of the external device 3-1 shown in FIG. 17 will be described below.

The external device 3-1 is connected to the reader section 1-1 by a cable, and the core section in the external apparatus 3-1 controls signals and functions. In the external device 3-1, a facsimile unit 4-1 for performing facsimile transmission / reception, a file unit 5-1 for converting various document information into electric signals and storing the electric signals.
The information from the formatter unit 8-1 that develops the code information from the computer into image information and the computer interface unit 7-1 that interfaces with the computer and the reader unit 1-1 are accumulated or sent from the computer. An image memory unit 9-1 for temporarily storing information and a core unit 10 for controlling each function described above.
It consists of -1.

The configuration and operation of the core section 10-1 of the external device 3-1 will be described below with reference to the block diagram shown in FIG.

FIG. 20 shows the core portion 10-1 shown in FIG.
3 is a block diagram showing a detailed configuration of FIG.

Connector 1001-1 of core portion 10-1
Is connected to the connector 120 of the reader section 1-1 by a cable. The 1001-1 includes four types of signals, and the signal 1057 is an 8-bit multivalued video signal. The signal 1055 is a control signal for controlling the video signal. The signal 1051 is sent to the CPU 12 in the reader unit 1-1.
Communicate with 2. The signal 1052 communicates with the sub CPU 123 in the reader unit 1-1. Signal 1051 and signal 1
A communication protocol processing 052 is performed by the communication IC 1002-1, and the CPU 1003- is connected via the CPU bus 1053.
Communication information is transmitted to 1.

The signal 1057 is a bidirectional video signal line, and the information from the reader section 1-1 is transferred to the core section 10-1.
It is possible to receive the information in step 1 and output the information from the core part 10-1 to the reader part 1-1. Signal 1057
Are connected to a buffer 1010-1 where the bidirectional signals are separated into unidirectional signals 1058 and signals 1070. The signal 1058 is an 8-bit multivalued video signal from the reader unit 1-1 and is input to the LUT 1011-1 at the next stage. In the LUT 1011-1, the reader unit 1-1
The image information from is converted into a desired value by a look-up table. Output signal 10 from LUT 1011-1
59 is a binarization circuit 1012-1 or selector 1013.
-1 is input. The binarization circuit 1012-1 has a simple binarization function for binarizing a multi-valued signal 1059 at a fixed slice level, and a binarization by a variable slice level in which the slice level varies from pixels around a target pixel. It has a function and a binarization function by the error diffusion method.

Binarized information is "00" when it is "0".
"H" is converted to a multi-level signal of "FFH" when "1",
It is input to the selector 1013-1 at the next stage. Selector 1
013-1 selects either the signal from the LUT 1011-1 or the output signal of the binarization circuit 1012-1. The output signal 1060 from the selector 1013-1 is input to the selector 1014. The selector 1014 outputs the output video signals from the facsimile section 4-1, the file section 5-1, the computer interface section 7-1, the formatter section 8-1, and the image memory section 9-1 to the connectors 1005-1 and 1006-1, respectively. , 1007-1, 100
Signal 1064 input to the core unit 10-1 via 8-1, 1009-1 and output signal 1 of the selector 1013-1.
060 is selected by the instruction of the CPU 1003-1.

The output signal 1061 of the selector 1014 is
It is input to the rotation circuit 1015 or the selector 1016. The rotation circuit 1015 inputs the input image signal by +90 degrees,
It has the function of rotating -90 degrees and +180 degrees.

The rotation circuit 1015 converts the information output from the reader section 1-1 into a binary signal by the binarization circuit 1012-1 and then stores it in the rotation circuit 1015 as information from the reader section 1-1. To do. Next, according to an instruction from the CPU 1003-1, the rotation circuit 1015 rotates and reads the stored information. The selector 1016 is the rotation circuit 101.
No. 5 output signal 1062 or the input signal 1061 of the rotary circuit 1015 is selected, and as the signal 1063, the connector 1005-1 to the facsimile unit 4-1, the connector 1006-1 to the file unit 5-1 and the computer. Connector 1007-1 with interface section 7-1, connector 1008-1 with formatter section 8-1, connector 1009-1 with image memory section 9-1 and selector 1
Output to 017.

The signal 1063 transfers image information from the core unit 10-1 to the facsimile unit 4-1, the file unit 5-1, the computer interface unit 7-1, the formatter unit 8-1, and the image memory unit 9-1. It is a synchronous 8-bit unidirectional video bus. The signal 1064 is a synchronous 8-bit unidirectional video for transferring image information from the facsimile unit 4-1, the file unit 5-1, the computer interface unit 7-1, the formatter unit 8-1, and the image memory unit 9-1. It's a bus. Signal 1063 and signal 1 above
The video control circuit 1004-1 controls the 064 synchronous bus.
Control is performed by the output signal 1056 from.

Further, the connectors 1005-1 to 1009-
Signals 1054 are also connected to 1 respectively. The signal 1054 is a bidirectional 16-bit CPU bus, and exchanges data commands asynchronously. To transfer information between the facsimile unit 4-1, the file unit 5-1, the computer interface unit 7-1, the formatter unit 8-1, the image memory unit 9-1 and the core unit 10-1,
The above two signals 1063 and 1064 and the CPU bus 105
4 is possible.

Facsimile section 4-1 and file section 5-
1, signal 106 from computer interface section 7-1, formatter section 8-1, and image memory section 9-1
4 is input to the selectors 1014 and 1017. The selector 1016 inputs the signal 1064 to the rotation circuit 1015 of the next stage according to the instruction of the CPU 1003-1.

The selector 1017 selects the signal 1063 and the signal 1064 according to an instruction from the CPU 1003-1.
The output signal 1065 of the selector 1017 is input to the pattern matching 1 unit 1018 and the selector 1019.
The pattern matching 1018 pattern-matches the input signal 1065 with a predetermined pattern, and when the patterns match, outputs a predetermined multi-valued signal to the signal line 1066. If they do not match in the pattern matching processing of the pattern matching unit 1018, the input signal 1065 is output as the signal 1066.

The selector 1019 outputs the signals 1065 and 1
066 is selected by the instruction of the CPU 1003-1. The output signal 1067 of the selector 1019 is the LUT1 of the next stage.
It is input to 020. The LUT 1020 is the printer unit 2
When the image information is output to, the input signal 1067 is converted according to the characteristics of the printer.

The selector 1021 outputs the output signal 1068 and the signal 1065 of the LUT 1020 to the CPU 1003-1.
Select according to the instructions. The output signal of the selector 1021 is input to the expansion circuit 1022 at the next stage. Enlargement circuit 102
2 is in the X direction and Y according to an instruction from the CPU 1003-1.
It is possible to set the enlargement ratio independently of the direction. The expansion method is a first-order linear interpolation method. Enlargement circuit 1022
Output signal 1070 is input to the buffer 1010-1.

Signal 1 input to buffer 1010-1
070 becomes a bidirectional signal 1057 according to an instruction from the CPU 1003-1, is sent to the printer unit 2 via the buffer 1001-1, and is printed out.

The signal flow of the core section 10-1 and each section will be described below. [Core unit 10-based on information from facsimile unit 4-1]
Processing of 1] A case where information is output to the facsimile unit 4-1 will be described. The CPU 1003-1 is the communication IC 1
It communicates with the CPU 122 of the reader section 1-1 through 002-1 and issues a document scan command. Reader section 1-1
Outputs the image information to the connector 120 when the scanner unit 104 scans the document according to this document scan command. Reader unit 1-1 and external device 3-1
Are connected by a cable, and the information from the reader section 1-1 is input to 1001-1 of the core section 10-1. Further, the image information input to 1001-1 passes through the multi-level 8-bit signal line 1057 and the buffer circuit 1010.
-1 is input. The buffer circuit 1010-1 is a CPU
The unidirectional signal 1058 based on the bidirectional signal 1057 is input to the LUT 1011-1 according to the instruction of 1003-1.
The LUT 1011-1 converts the image information from the reader unit 1-1 into a desired value using a look-up table.

For example, the background of the original can be skipped. The output signal 1059 of the LUT 1011-1 is 2 in the next stage.
It is input to the digitization circuit 1012-1. Binarization circuit 101
2-1 converts the 8-bit multilevel signal 1059 into a binarized signal. The binarization circuit 1012-1 outputs “00H” when the binarized signal is “0” and “FF” when the binarized signal is “1”.
H ”and two multilevel signals. Binarization circuit 101
The output signal of 2-1 is the selectors 1013-1 and 1014.
Is input to the rotation circuit 1015 or the selector 1016 via the.

The output signal 1062 of the rotating circuit 1015 is also input to the selector 1016, and the selector 1016 selects either the signal 1061 or the signal 1062. The signal selection is determined by the CPU 1003-1 communicating with the facsimile section via the CPU bus 1054.
The output signal 1063 from the selector 1016 is sent to the facsimile section 4-1 via the connector 1005.

Next, the case of receiving information from the facsimile section 4-1 will be described.

The image information from the facsimile section 4-1 is
It is transmitted to the signal line 1064 via the connector 1005-1. The signal 1064 is input to the selector 1014 and the selector 1017. When the image upon facsimile reception is rotated and output to the printer unit 2 according to an instruction from the CPU 1003-1, the rotation circuit 1015 rotates the signal 1064 input to the selector 1014. The output signal 1062 from the rotation circuit 1015 is the selector 1016.
Pattern matching 1018 via the selector 1017
Entered in.

When the image at the time of facsimile reception is directly output to the printer 2 according to the instruction of the CPU 1003-1, the signal 1064 input to the selector 1017 is input to the pattern matching unit 1018.

The pattern matching unit 1018 has a function (smoothing function) for smoothing the jaggedness of an image when received by facsimile. The pattern-matched signal is sent to the LUT 1020 via the selector 1019.
Entered in. The LUT 1020 can change the table of the LUT 1020 by the CPU 1003-1 in order to output the image received by facsimile to the printer unit 2 at a desired density. Output signal 10 of LUT 1020
68 is input to the expansion circuit 1022 via the selector 1021. The enlargement circuit 1022 uses two values (“00
The 8-bit multi-value data having "H", "FFH") is enlarged by the linear interpolation method of the first order. The 8-bit multi-valued signal with many values from the expansion circuit 1022 is stored in the buffer 10
It is sent to the reader section 1-1 via 10-1 and 1001-1. The reader section 1-1 inputs this signal to the external I / F switching circuit 119 via the connector 120.

The external I / F switching circuit 119 converts the signal from the facsimile section 4-1 into the Y signal generating / color detecting circuit 11
Enter in 3. The output signal from the Y signal generation / color detection circuit 113 is subjected to the above-described processing and then output to the printer unit 2 to form an image on an output sheet. [Processing of Core Unit 10-1 Based on Information from File Unit 5-1] A case where information is output to the file unit 5-1 will be described.

The CPU 1003-1 has a communication IC 1002.
-1 to communicate with the CPU 122 of the reader unit 1-1 and send a document scan command. Reader section 1-1
Outputs the image information to the connector 120 when the scanner unit 104 scans the document according to this command. The reader unit 1-1 and the external device 3-1 are connected by a cable, and information from the reader unit 1-1 is input to 1001-1 of the core unit 10-1. The image information input to 1001-1 becomes a unidirectional signal 1058 by the buffer 1010-1. The signal 1058 which is a multi-valued 8-bit signal is converted into a desired signal by the LUT 1011-1. Output signal 10 of LUT 1011-1
59 is input to the connector 1006-1 via the selectors 1013-1, 1014, 1016.

That is, without using the functions of the binarization circuit 1012-1 and the rotation circuit 1015, the 8-bit multi-value data is transferred to the file unit 5-1. C of CPU 1003-1
When filing the binarized signal by communicating with the file unit 5-1 via the PU bus 1054, the functions of the binarization circuit 1012-1 and the rotation circuit 1015 are used. The binarization process and the rotation process are the same as those in the above-mentioned facsimile unit 4-1, and thus the description thereof is omitted.

Next, the case of receiving information from the file section 5-1 will be described.

The image information from the file section 5-1 is sent as a signal 1064 to the selector 1 via the connector 1006-1.
014 or the selector 1017. It is possible to input to the selector 1017 in the case of 8-bit multi-valued filing and to the selector 1014 or the selector 1017 in the case of binary filing. In the case of binary filing, the description is omitted because it is the same processing as the facsimile unit 4-1.

In the case of multi-value filing, the selector 10
The output signal 1065 from 17 is input to the LUT 1020 via the selector 1019. The LUT 1020 creates a look-up table according to the instruction of the CPU 1003-1 according to the desired print density. LUT102
The output signal 1068 from 0 is input to the expansion circuit 1022 via the selector 1021. 8-bit multilevel signal 10 expanded to a desired expansion ratio by the expansion circuit 1022
70 is sent to the reader section 1-1 via the buffers 1010-1 and 1001-1. The information of the file section sent to the reader section 1-1 is output to the printer section 2 and the image formation is performed on the output sheet, similarly to the operation of the facsimile section 4-1 described above. [Processing of Core Unit 10-1 Based on Information from Computer Interface Unit 7-1] The computer interface unit 7-1 interfaces with a computer connected to the external device 3-1. The computer interface unit 7-1 includes a plurality of interfaces for communicating with SCSI, RS232C, and Centronics. The computer interface section 7-1 has three types of interfaces as described above, and information from each interface is stored in the connector 1011-1 and the data bus 10.
It is sent to the CPU 1003-1 via 53. CPU10
03-1 performs various controls based on the sent contents. [Core part 10-based on information from the formatter part 8-1
Processing of 1] The formatter unit 8-1 has a function of expanding command data such as a document file sent from the computer interface unit 7-1 described above into image data. When the CPU 1003-1 determines that the data sent from the computer interface unit 7-1 via the data bus 1053 is the data related to the formatter unit 8-1, the CPU 1003-1 sends the data via the connector 1012-1 to the formatter unit 8-1. Transfer to. The formatter unit 8-1 develops the transferred data in the memory as a meaningful image such as characters and figures.

Next, a procedure for receiving information from the formatter unit 8-1 and forming an image on an output sheet will be described.

The image information from the formatter section 8-1 is
The multi-valued signal having two values (“00H” and “FFH”) is transmitted to the signal line 1064 through the connector 1008-1. The signal 1064 is the selector 101.
4, input to the selector 1017. CPU 1003-
The instruction 101 controls the selectors 1014-1 and 1017. After that, the operation is the same as that of the facsimile section 4-1, and therefore the description thereof is omitted. [Core unit 10 based on information from image memory unit 9-1
Processing of -1] A case of outputting information to the image memory unit 9-1 will be described.

The CPU 1003-1 has a communication IC 1002.
1 to communicate with the CPU 122 of the reader unit 1-1 to issue a document scan command. The reader unit 1-1 is
The scanner unit 104 scans the document according to this command, and the image information is output to the connector 120. The reader unit 1-1 and the external device 3-1 are connected by a cable, and information from the reader unit 1-1 is transferred to the core unit 1
It is input to 1001-1 of 0-1. The image information input to 1001-1 is the multilevel 8-bit signal line 105.
7. LUT 1011-1 via buffer 1010-1
Sent to. Output signal 1059 of LUT 1011-1
Transfers multi-valued image information to the image memory unit 9-1 via the selectors 1013-1, 1014, 1016 and the connector 1009. The image information stored in the image memory unit 9-1 is stored in the CPU bus 105 of the connector 1009-1.
4 to the CPU 1003-1. CPU10
03-1 is the computer interface unit 7 described above.
The data sent from the image memory unit 9-1 is transferred to -1. The computer interface section 7-1
The above three types of interfaces (SCSI, RS23
2C, Centronics), the data is transferred to a computer (workstation 790 in this embodiment) using a desired interface.

Next, the case of receiving information from the image memory unit 9-1 will be described. First, image information is sent from the computer to the core unit 10-1 via the computer interface unit 7-1. C of the core part 10-1
The PU 1003-1 has a computer interface unit 7.
When it is determined that the data sent from -1 via the data bus 1053 is data relating to the image memory unit 9-1, the data is transferred to the image memory unit 9-1 via the connector 1009-1. Next, the image memory unit 9-
1 transmits the 8-bit multilevel signal 1064 to the selector 1014 and the selector 1017 via the connector 1009-1. An output signal from the selector 1014 or the selector 1017 is output to the printer unit 2-1 in the same manner as the above-described facsimile unit 4-1 according to an instruction from the CPU 1003-1 and an image is formed on an output sheet.

The configuration of the facsimile section 4-1 shown in FIG. 1 will be described below with reference to the block diagram shown in FIG.

FIG. 21 is a block diagram for explaining the detailed structure of the facsimile section 4-1 shown in FIG.

The facsimile section 4-1 has a connector 400.
Is connected to the core unit 10-1 to exchange various signals. Binary information from the core unit 10-1 is stored in the memory A405-
When stored in any of the memories D 408, the signal 453 from the connector 400 is transferred to the memory controller 404.
And is stored in any one of the memory A 405, the memory B 406, the memory C 407, and the memory D 408 under the control of the memory controller 404, or one in which two sets of memories are cascade-connected.

The memory controller 404 is the CPU 41
According to the instruction 2, the mode for exchanging data with the memory A 405, the memory B 406, the memory C 407, the memory D 408 and the CPU bus 462, and the mode for exchanging data with the CODEC bus 463 of the CODEC 411 having an encoding / decoding function. , Memory A405, memory B406, memory C407, memory D408 contents D
The scaling circuit 403 is controlled by the MA controller 402.
Mode for exchanging data with the bus 454 from
A mode in which binary video input data 454 is stored in any one of the memories A405 to D408 under the control of the timing generation circuit 409, and the memories A405 to D40.
Read the memory contents from any one of 8
It has the function of 5 modes in total in the mode output to 52.

Each of the memories A405 to D408 has a capacity of 2 Mbytes and stores an image of A4 size with a resolution of 400 DPI. The timing generation circuit 409 is connected to the connector 400 via a signal line 459, and is connected to the control signal (HSYN) from the core unit 10-1.
C, HEN, VSYNC, VEN) to generate signals to achieve the following two functions. One is to store the image signal from the core unit 10-1 in the memory A405-
The function of storing in any one of the memories D408 or the two memories, and the second is a function of reading an image signal from any one of the memories A405 to D408 and transmitting the image signal to the signal line 452.

The dual port memory 410 is connected to the CPU 1003-1 of the core unit 10-1 via the signal line 461.
And again, via the signal line 462, the facsimile unit 4
-1 CPU 412 is connected. Each CPU is
Commands are exchanged via the dual port memory 410. The SCSI controller 413 is shown in FIG.
The interface with the hard disk connected to the facsimile section 4-1 shown in FIG. It stores the data when sending and receiving a facsimile. CO
The DEC 411 reads out the image information stored in any of the memories A405 to D408 and outputs MH,
After encoding with the desired MR or MMR method,
The encoded information is stored in any of the memories A405 to D408.

Further, the coded information stored in the memories A405 to D408 is read out, and MH, MR and M are read.
After decoding by the desired MR method, the memory A
405 to memory D 408, and stored as decryption information, that is, image information. MODEM 414 is
NCU 415 and the function of modulating the coded information from the hard disk connected to the CODEC 411 or SCSI controller 413 for transmission on the telephone line.
Demodulates the information sent from, converts it into coded information, and
The encoded information is transferred to the hard disk connected to the ODEC 411 or the SCSI controller 413.
The NCU 415 is directly connected to a telephone line and exchanges information with an exchange installed in a telephone office or the like according to a predetermined procedure. The facsimile transmission processing operation will be described.

The binarized image signal from the reader section 1-1 is
It is input from the connector 400, passes through the signal line 453,
Reach memory controller 404. The signal 453 is stored in the memory A 405 by the memory controller 404. The timing to be stored in the memory A 405 is generated by the timing generation circuit 409 according to the timing 459 from the reader 1. The CPU 412 replaces the memory A 405 and the memory B 406 of the memory controller 404 with C
It is connected to the bus line 463 of the ODEC 411. COD
The EC 411 reads the image information from the memory A 405, performs the encoding by the MR method, and writes the encoded information in the memory B 406.

The A4 size image information is converted to ODEC41.
When 1 is encoded, the CPU 412 connects the memory C 406 of the memory controller 404 to the CPU bus 462. The CPU 412 stores the encoded information in the memory B40.
The data is sequentially read from the data No. 6 and transferred to the MODEM 414. M
The ODEM 414 modulates the encoded information, and the NCU
The facsimile information is transmitted to the telephone line via 415.

Next, the facsimile transmission processing operation will be described.

The information sent from the telephone line is NCU.
It is input to the facsimile unit 4-1 by the NCU 415 according to a predetermined procedure. The information from NCU 415 enters MODEM 414 and is demodulated. CPU412
Stores information from the MODEM 414 in the memory C407 via the CPU bus 462. When the information of one screen is stored in the memory C407, the CPU 412 controls the memory controller 404 to cause the memory C40 to operate.
7 data line 457 to CODEC 411 line 4
Connect to 63. The CODEC 411 is a memory C407.
The coded information is read out sequentially and decoded, that is, stored in the memory D408 as image information. CPU412
Via the dual port memory 410, the core unit 10-
The CPU 1003 communicates with the CPU 1003 of No. 1 and makes settings for printing out an image from the memory D 408 through the core unit 10-1 to the printer unit 2-1. When setting is completed, CP
U412 activates the timing generation circuit 409,
A predetermined timing signal is output from the signal line 460 to the memory controller 404. Memory controller 40
4 reads the image information from the memory D 408 in synchronization with the signal from the timing generation circuit 409, transmits it to the signal line 452, and outputs it to the connector 400. The operation up to the output from the connector 400 to the printer unit 2-1 has been described in the operation of the core unit 10-1, and thus the details will be omitted.

The detailed structure and operation of the file unit 5-1 will be described below with reference to the block diagram shown in FIG.

FIG. 22 shows the file section 5-shown in FIG.
It is a block diagram explaining the detailed structure of 1.

The file section 5-1 is connected to the core section 10-1 by the connector 500 and exchanges various signals. The multi-valued input signal 551 is input to the compression circuit 503, where it is converted from multi-valued image information into compressed information and output to the memory controller 510. The output signal 552 of the compression circuit 503 is stored under the control of the memory controller 510 in any one of the memory A 506, the memory B 507, the memory C 508, and the memory D 509, or one in which two sets of memories are cascade-connected. Memory controller 510
Is instructed by the CPU 516, the memory A506, the memory B507, the memory C508, the memory D509 and the CPU.
A mode for exchanging data with the bus 560 and a CODEC bus 57 of the CODEC 517 for encoding / decoding
0 and a data exchange mode, and the contents of the memory A 506, the memory B 507, the memory C 508, and the memory D 509 under the control of the DMA controller 518.
1, a mode for exchanging data with the bus 562 from the memory 1, a mode for storing the signal 563 in any one of the memory A 506, the memory B 507, the memory C 508, and the memory D 509 under the control of the timing generation circuit 514, and the memory A 5
06, memory B507, memory C508, memory D50
Read the memory contents from any one of 9
It has five functions of a mode for outputting to 8.

Each of the memory A 506, the memory B 507, the memory C 508, and the memory D 509 has a capacity of 2 Mbytes, and stores an image corresponding to A4 at a resolution of 400 DPI. The timing generation circuit 514 uses the connector 500.
And the signal line 553, and the core unit 10-1
Control signals from (HSYNC, HEN, VSYNC, V
EN) to generate signals for performing the following two functions. First, information from the core unit 10-1 is stored in the memory A 506, the memory B 507, and the memory C 50.
8, any one of the memories D509, or 2
The function to store in one memory, the second is the memory A50
6, memory B507, memory C508, memory D509
The image information is read out from any one of the
It is a function to transmit to 56.

The dual port memory 515 is connected to the CPU 1003-of the core unit 10-1 via the signal line 554.
1, CP of the file section 5-1 via the signal line 560
It is connected to U516. Each CPU exchanges commands via the dual port memory 515. The SCSI controller 519 interfaces with the external storage device 520 connected to the file unit 5-1 of FIG. External storage device 5 in this embodiment
The storage medium 20 uses a magneto-optical disk (MO) as a storage medium and stores data such as large-capacity image information.

The CODEC 517 reads the image information stored in any of the memory A 506, the memory B 507, the memory C 508, and the memory D 509, and outputs MH,
After encoding with the desired MR or MMR method,
The encoded information is stored in any of the memory A506, the memory B507, the memory C508, and the memory D509. In addition, the memory A506, the memory B507, the memory C50
8. Read the coded information stored in the memory D509, perform decoding by a desired method of the MH, MR, and MMR methods, and then decode into any of the memory A506, the memory B507, the memory C508, and the memory D509. It is stored as information, that is, image information.

The file information storage processing operation for the external storage device 520 will be described below.

The 8-bit multi-valued image signal from the reader section 1-1 is input from the connector 500, passes through the signal line 551, and is input to the compression circuit 503. Signal line 551
The upper signal 551a is input to the compression circuit 503, where it is converted into compression information 552. The compressed information 552 is
It is input to the memory controller 510. The memory controller 510 causes the timing generation circuit 559 to output the timing signal 559 based on the signal 553 from the core unit 10-1.
And generates a compressed signal 552 in the memory A according to this signal.
506. The CPU 516 replaces the memory A 506 and the memory B 507 of the memory controller 510 with each other.
Connect to the bus line 570 of the DEC 517. CODE
The C517 reads the compressed information from the memory A506, encodes it by the MR method, and writes the encoded information in the memory B507. When the CODEC 517 finishes encoding, the CPU 516 connects the memory B 507 of the memory controller 510 to the CPU bus 560. CPU
516 sequentially reads the encoded information from the memory B 507 and transfers it to the SCSI controller 519. S
The CSI controller 519 uses the encoded information 572.
Is stored in the external storage device 6-1.

Next, the processing operation for extracting information from the external storage device 520 and outputting it to the printer section 2-1 will be described.

Upon receiving the information retrieval / printing command, the CPU 516 receives the encoded information from the external storage device 6 via the SCSI controller 519 and transfers the encoded information to the memory C508. At this time, the memory controller 510 changes the CPU bus 560 to the bus 56 of the memory C508 according to an instruction from the CPU 516.
Connect to 6. When the transfer of the encoded information to the memory C508 is completed, the CPU 516 causes the memory controller 51
By controlling 0, memory C508 and memory D5
09 to bus 570 of CODEC 517. CO
The DEC 517 reads the encoded information from the memory C508, sequentially decodes the encoded information, and then transfers the encoded information to the memory D09.

When outputting to the printer section 2-1, enlargement /
When scaling such as reduction is required, the memory D509 is connected to the bus 562 of the scaling circuit 511, and the DMA controller 5
The contents of the memory D509 are scaled under the control of 18. CP
The U 516 communicates with the CPU 1003 of the core unit 10-1 via the dual port memory 515, and the memory D 5
09 through the core unit 10-1, printer unit 2-1
Make settings to print out the image. When the setting is completed, the CPU 516 causes the timing generation circuit 514
The signal line 559 outputs a predetermined timing signal to the memory controller 510. The memory controller 510 reads the decoded information from the memory D509 in synchronization with the signal from the timing generation circuit 514 and transmits it to the signal line 556. Signal line 556
Input to the decompression circuit 504, where the information is decompressed.
The output signal 555 of the expansion circuit 504 is output to the core unit 10-1 via the connector 500. The operation up to outputting from the connector 500 to the printer unit 2-1 has been described in the processing of the core unit 10-1, and thus will be omitted.

Hereinafter, referring to the block diagram shown in FIG. 23, the computer interface unit 7 shown in FIG.
The configuration and display processing operation of -1 will be described.

FIG. 23 is a block diagram for explaining the detailed structure of the computer interface section 7-1 shown in FIG. Hereinafter, an example of a process of receiving the image information from the file unit 5-1 and displaying it on the display will be described.

Connector A700 and connector B701
Is a connector for SCSI interface. The connector C702 is a Centronics interface connector. The connector D703 is an RS232C interface connector. The connector E707 is a connector for connecting to the core unit 10-1.

The SCSI interface has two connectors (connector A700 and connector B701). When connecting a device having a plurality of SCSI interfaces, the connector A700 and connector B701 are used for caskating connection. When the external device 3 and the computer are connected one-to-one, the connector A700 and the computer are connected with a cable, and the connector B701 is connected with a terminator, or the connector B701 and the computer are connected with a cable and the connector A700 is connected. Connect the terminator. Connector A700 or Connector B70
The information input from the S1 is S via the signal line 751.
It is input to the CSI interface A 704 or the SCSI interface B 708. SCSI interface A 704 or SCSI interface B 708 is S
After performing the procedure according to the CSI protocol, the data is output to the connector 707E via the signal line 754. The connector E707 is connected to the CPU bus 1054 of the core unit 10-1 and is connected to the CPU1 of the core unit 10-1.
003-1 is a SCSI interface connector (connector A700, connector B) from the CPU bus 1054.
The information input in 701) is received. Core part 10-1
Data from the CPU 1003-1 of the SCSI interface connector (connector A700, connector B70
When outputting to 1), the procedure is reversed.

The Centronics interface is connected to the connector C702 and input to the Centronics interface 705 via the signal line 752. The Centronics interface 705 receives the data according to the procedure of the determined protocol, and outputs the data to the connector E707 via the signal line 754. Connector E707
Is connected to the CPU bus 1054 of the CPU of the core unit 10-1, and the CPU 1003-1 of the core unit 10-1.
Receives the information input to the Centronics interface connector (connector C702) from the CPU bus 1054.

The RS232C interface is connected to the connector D703 and is connected to the RS2 via the signal line 753.
It is input to the 32C interface 706. RS232
The C interface 706 receives the data according to the procedure of the determined protocol, and outputs the data to the connector E707 via the signal line 754. The connector E707 is connected to the CPU bus 1054 of the core unit 10-1,
The CPU 1003-1 of the core unit 10-1 is the CPU bus 1
The information input to the RS232C interface connector (connector D703) from 054 is received. The data from the CPU 1003-1 of the core unit 10-1 is RS23.
When outputting to the 2C interface connector (connector D703), the procedure is reversed.

The structure and operation of the formatter unit 8-1 shown in FIG. 17 will be described below with reference to the block diagram shown in FIG.

FIG. 24 is a block diagram for explaining the detailed structure of the formatter unit 8-1 shown in FIG.

Computer interface section 7 described above
The data from -1 is discriminated by the core unit 10-1, and if the data is related to the formatter unit 8-1, the CPU 1003-1 of the core unit 10-1 determines that the connector 1012 and the formatter of the core unit 10-1. Data from the computer is transferred to the dual port memory 803 via the connector 800 of the section 8-1. Formatter section 8-1
The CPU 809 receives the code data sent from the computer via the dual port memory 803. The CPU 809 sequentially develops the code data into image data, and transfers the image data to the memory A 806 or the memory B 807 via the memory controller 808. The memory A 806 and the memory B 807 each have a memory capacity of 1 Mbyte, and one memory (memory A 806 and memory B 807) can handle a paper size of A4 at a resolution of 300 DPI. 300DP
If the resolution of I corresponds to A3 paper, the memory A
806 and the memory B807 are connected in cascade to develop image data.

The above memory control is performed by the memory controller 808 according to an instruction from the CPU 809. Further, when it is necessary to rotate a character, a graphic, or the like when developing the image data, the image data is rotated by the rotation circuit 804 and then transferred to the memory A 806 or the memory B 807.
When the expansion of the image data in the memory A806 or the memory B807 is completed, the CPU 809 controls the memory controller 808 to control the data bus line 858 of the memory A806 or the data bus line 859 of the memory B807.
To the output line 855 of the memory controller 808. Next, the CPU 809 uses the dual port memory 8
03 to communicate with the CPU 1003-1 of the core unit 10-1 to set the mode in which image information is output from the memory A 806 or the memory B 807. C of the core part 10-1
The PU 1003-1 is the communication circuit 10 in the core unit 10-1.
The print output mode is set in the CPU 122 via the communication function built in the CPU 122 of the reader unit 1 through 02.

When the print output mode is set, the CPU 1003-1 of the core unit 10-1 causes the connector 1013
Also, the timing generation circuit 802 is activated via the connector 800 of the formatter unit 8-1. The timing generation circuit 802 generates a timing signal for reading image information from the memory A 806 or the memory B 807 to the memory controller 808 according to the signal from the core unit 10-1. Image information from memory A 806 or memory B 807 is input to memory controller 808 via signal line 858. Memory controller 80
The output image information from 8 is transferred to the core unit 10-1 via the signal line 851 and the connector 800. The output from the core unit 10-1 to the printer unit 2-1 has been described in the core unit 10-1 and will be omitted.

The structure and operation of the image memory unit 9-1 shown in FIG. 17 will be described below with reference to the block diagram shown in FIG.

FIG. 25 is a block diagram for explaining the detailed structure of the image memory unit 9-1 shown in FIG.

The image memory section 9-1 has a connector 90.
At 0, the core unit 10-1 is connected to exchange various signals. The multi-valued input signal 954 is output to the memory controller 905.
Are stored in the memory 904 under the control of. The memory controller 905 is instructed by the memory 90 by the instruction of the CPU 906.
4, a mode for exchanging data with the CPU bus 957, a mode for storing a signal 954 in the memory 904 under the control of the timing generation circuit 902, and a mode for outputting the memory contents from the memory 904 to the signal line 955. Have a function. The memory 904 has a capacity of 32 Mbytes and stores an image corresponding to A3 with a resolution of 400 DPI and 256 gradations. Timing generation circuit 90
2 is connected to the connector 900 by a signal line 952, and the control signals (HSYNC, H) from the core unit 10-1.
EN, VSYNC, VEN)
Generate signals to accomplish one function. One is a function of storing information from the core unit 10-1 in the memory 904, and the second is a function of transmitting image information from the memory 904 to the signal line 955. Dual port memory 9
03 is C of the core unit 10-1 via the signal line 953.
The CPU 906 of the image memory unit 9-1 is connected via the PU 1003-1 and the signal line 957. Each CPU exchanges commands via the dual port memory 903.

The operation of storing image information in the image memory unit 9-1 and transferring the stored information to the computer will be described below.

The 8-bit multi-valued image signal from the reader section 1-1 is input from the connector 900 and input to the memory controller 905 via the signal line 954. The memory controller 905 receives the signal 952 from the core unit 10-1.
Timing signal 9 in timing generation circuit 902
56, and outputs the signal 954 to the memory 9 according to this signal.
Store in 04. The CPU 906 connects the memory 904 of the memory controller 905 to the CPU bus 957.
The CPU 906 sequentially reads the image information from the memory 904 and transfers it to the dual port memory 903. The CPU 1003-1 of the core unit 10-1 reads the image information of the dual port memory 903 of the image memory unit 9-1 via the signal line 953 and the connector 900, and transfers this information to the computer interface 7. The process of transferring information from the computer interface 7 to the computer has already been described in detail and will be omitted.

Next, the operation of outputting the image information sent from the computer to the printer section 2-1 will be described.

The image information sent from the computer is sent to the core section 10-1 via the computer interface section 7-1. CPU 10 of core unit 10-1
03-1 is a CPU bus 1054 and a connector 1009
The image information is transferred to the dual port memory 903 of the image memory unit 9-1 via -1. At this time, CP
U906 controls the memory controller 905, CPU
The bus 957 is connected to the bus of the memory 904. CPU9
06 transfers image information from the dual port memory 903 to the memory 904 via the memory controller 905. After transferring the image information to the memory 904, the CPU 906 controls the memory controller 905 to connect the data line of the memory 904 to the signal 955. The CPU 906 communicates with the CPU 1003-1 of the core unit 10-1 via the dual port memory 903, and makes settings for printing an image from the memory 904 to the printer unit 2-1 via the core unit 10-1. When the setting is completed, the CPU 906 causes the timing generation circuit 90
2 is activated, and a predetermined timing signal is output from the signal line 956 to the memory controller 905. The memory controller 905 reads the image information from the memory 904 in synchronization with the signal from the timing generation circuit 902, transmits it to the signal line 955, and outputs it to the connector 900. The output from the core unit 10-1 to the printer unit 2-1 up to the output from the connector 900 to the printer unit 2-1 has been described in the core unit 10-1 and thus will be omitted.

Below, referring to FIG. 19, the reader unit 1-
1 and the communication processing operation between each device in the external device 3-1 will be described.

Communication between the reader section 1-1, the facsimile section 4-1, the file section 5-1, the formatter section 8-1, and the image memory section 9-1 in the external apparatus 3-1 by the CPU is performed by the core section 10-. 1 through 1. For example, the reader unit 1
-1 sub CPU 123 to facsimile unit 4-1 C
When a command such as an operation command is transmitted to the PU 412, first, the sub CPU 123 causes the C of the core unit 10-1 to be transmitted.
A transmission instruction to the CPU 412 is attached to the command and transmitted to the PU 1003-1. The CPU 1003 sees the transmission instruction accompanying this command and transmits it to the CPU 412. The same applies when a command is transmitted from the CPU 412 to the sub CPU 123.

The reader section 1-1 and the file section 5-
The communication with the formatter unit 8-1 and the image memory unit 9-1 is similarly performed.

In this embodiment, the case where the operation screen is transmitted from the formatter unit 8-1 to the operation unit 124 of the reader unit 1-1 will be described below in detail with reference to FIGS. 26 and 26. Further, the operation thereafter is the same as the operation unit 1 shown in FIG.
24 relates to communication of operation screen information.

FIG. 26 shows the reader section 1-1 shown in FIG.
5 is a flowchart showing an example of a data communication processing procedure of the sub CPU 123 of FIG. In addition, (1) to (10) indicate each step.

First, it is determined whether the power of the external device 3-1 is turned on (1). For this determination, a command is sent to the CPU 809 of the formatter unit 8-1. When the command notifying that the power is turned on is not transmitted from the CPU 809 of the formatter unit 8-1,
It is determined that the power is not turned on, and the process ends.

On the other hand, if the result of the determination in step (1) is YES (a command notifying that the power is turned on is transmitted), it is determined that the power of the external device 3-1 is turned on, and the operation unit At 124, it is determined whether or not the key for setting the printer mode in which the function of the formatter unit 8-1 is used is pressed to enter the printer mode.
(2) If NO, the CPU 809 is informed by a command to end the processing, and if YES, the CPU 809 is informed by a command that the normal / unusual status of the reader unit 1-1 and the printer unit 2-1 The operating status such as abnormality is indicated by CPU80
Send to 9 as a command (3). Then CPU 809
When this is received, the reception completion command is returned, so it is judged whether this reception completion command has been received.
(4) If NO, end the process, and if YES, determine whether or not there is a key input on the operation unit 124.
(5), if there is no key input, proceed to step (8),
The CPU 809 determines whether or not the screen data has been received when there is no key input. If the screen data has not been received, the process returns to step (1). If the screen data has been received, the process starts from step (9). Proceed to. The reader unit 1-1 and the printer unit 2-1 are collectively referred to as a copying unit.

On the other hand, if the determination in step (5) is YES, the CPU 80 sends a command indicating the type of key pressed.
Send to 9 (6). Next, it is judged whether or not the screen data at the time of key input is received (7). If NO, the process returns to step (1), and if YES, the received screen data is stored in the operation unit 124. It is determined whether or not to point to the screen, and when pointing to the screen stored in the operation unit 124, the step (9) is skipped and the screen data read in step (10) is displayed on the display unit.

On the other hand, when the screen stored in the operation unit 124 is not pointed to, it is created in a predetermined form based on the character strings, symbols, etc. stored in the received screen data (9),
Display the conversion screen data (10) and return to step (1).

FIG. 27 is a flow chart for explaining the operation of the CPU 809 of the formatter section 8-1 shown in FIG. It should be noted that (1) to (11) indicate each step.

First, the sub CPU 123 of the reader section 1-1.
It is judged whether or not the command for confirming the power-on of the external device 3-1 is received from (1), and when this command is not received, the power of the reader unit 1-1 and the printer unit 2-1 is turned on. If not, the process ends.

On the other hand, if the result of the determination in step (1) is YES, it is determined that the reader section 1-1 and the printer section 2-1 are powered on, and a command to that effect is sent to the sub CPU 123. To do. Then, for example, in the operation unit as shown in FIG. 28, it is judged by the command transmitted from the sub CPU 123 whether or not the key KEY (see FIG. 29) for setting the printer mode is pressed to enter the printer mode (2). If it is determined in this determination that the printer mode is not set, the processing is ended, and if the printer mode is set, whether or not a command for the operation state of the reader unit 1-1 and the printer unit 2-2 is received. (3), if NO, that is, if the command in the operating state is not received, the process is ended, and if YES, the command indicating that the reception is completed is transmitted to the sub CPU 123.
(Four) .

Next, it is judged whether or not the information of the inputted key type when a key input is made in the operation unit 124 is received by the command (5), and when it is received, the reader unit 1-1 and the printer unit It is judged from the operating states of 2-1 and the external device 3-1 whether the operation screen needs to be switched (6). If it is not necessary, return to step (1). If it is necessary, switch to the step. Proceed to (7), create screen data from the currently displayed screen state and key type, and proceed to step (10) and thereafter.

On the other hand, when the command does not receive the information of the key type input in the determination of step (5), the reader unit 1-1, the printer unit 2-1 and the external device 3-1 are operated according to the operating state. Judge whether it is necessary to switch the operation screen (8), and if NO, return to step (1) and check YES.
If so, screen data is created from the operating states of the reader 1-1, the printer unit 2-1 and the external device 3-1 (9), and the created screen data is stored in the memory 805 of the formatter unit 8 (10). The screen data stored in the memory 805 is transmitted to the sub CPU 123 (11), and the process returns to step (1).

The operation of switching the operation screen data in the printer mode when the printer key KEY shown in FIG. 29 is pressed will be described below with reference to FIGS. 30 to 43.

30 to 43 are views for explaining the switching processing state of operation screen data in the printer mode in the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention. In the following description, in this embodiment, when the printer key KEY is pressed, a command indicating the printer mode is transmitted to the formatter unit 8-1 of the external device 3-1 shown in FIG. 17, and after receiving this command, the formatter unit 8-1. 8-1. From the screen data for printer mode setting, the reader unit 1-
1 is transferred to the operation unit 124.

With the standard screen as shown in FIG. 30A displayed on the LCD display unit DISP shown in FIG. 28,
When the printer key KEY shown in FIG. 29 is pressed, the screen data shown in FIG.
It is transferred to the operation unit 124 of the reader unit 1-1 and displayed on the LCD display unit DISP. It should be noted that the online mode is currently available (highlighted).

In this state, the cursor K indicating the selection item can be moved by the cursor key (not shown) of the operation unit 124, and when "Card Meisho" is selected as the selection item, it is shown in FIG. 30 (c). The screen data is sent from the formatter unit 8-1 to the operation unit 12 of the reader unit 1-1.
4 and display it on the LCD display unit DISP. In this embodiment, the names of the font card and the emulation card are displayed, and when the OK key is pressed, (b) in FIG.
The display switches to.

On the other hand, when "offline" is selected as the selection item on the display screen of FIG. 30B, the screen data shown in FIG. 30D is read by the formatter unit 8-1 from the reader unit 1-1. LCD display unit D
Display on ISP. Here, when "printer source" is further selected as the selection item, the screen data shown in (e) of FIG.
It is transferred to the first operation unit 124 and displayed on the LCD display unit DISP. Here, when "eject" is selected as the selection item, the screen data shown in FIG. 31D is transferred from the formatter unit 8-1 to the operation unit 124 of the reader unit 1-1 and L is transferred.
It is displayed on the CD display part DISP. Here, the message "Discharging." Is displayed.

On the other hand, when "Reset Printer" is selected as the selection item in (e) of FIG. 30, the screen data shown in (e) of FIG.
-1 is transferred to the operation unit 124 and displayed on the LCD display unit DISP. Here, the message "Resetting." Is displayed.

On the other hand, when the down key DOWN is further pressed while displaying (e) of FIG. 30, the screen data shown in (a) of FIG. 31 is transferred from the formatter section 8-1 to the reader section 1-1. Transferred to the operation unit 124, LCD display unit D
Display on ISP. Here, as a printer operation, it corresponds to the state in which the selection items "environment setting", "test print", and "overlay output" are displayed. When the selection item "environment setting" is selected in this state, (b) in FIG. The screen data shown in is transferred from the formatter unit 8-1 to the operation unit 124 of the reader unit 1-1 and displayed on the LCD display unit DISP,
When "Overlay output" is selected, the screen data shown in FIG. 43 (a) is transferred from the formatter unit 8-1 to the reader unit 1-.
It is transferred to the first operation unit 124 and displayed on the LCD display unit DISP.

On the other hand, when the down key DOWN is further pressed from the display state of FIG. 31A, the screen data shown in FIG. 31B is displayed by the formatter unit 8-1 by the reader unit 1-1.
And is displayed on the LCD display unit DISP. Here, when the operation mode 1 is selected, the screen data shown in FIG. 43B is transferred from the formatter unit 8-1 to the operation unit 124 of the reader unit 1-1, and the LCD display unit D is displayed.
When displayed on the ISP and the operation mode 2 is selected, FIG.
(C) of the screen data is transferred from the formatter unit 8-1 to the operation unit 124 of the reader unit 1-1 and displayed on the LCD display unit DISP. When the operation mode 3 is selected, the screen data (not shown) is displayed. The formatter unit 8-1 transfers the data to the operation unit 124 of the reader unit 1-1 and the LCD display unit DISP.
To display.

On the other hand, when the down key DOWN is further pressed from the display state of FIG. 31B, the screen data shown in FIG. 31C is displayed by the formatter unit 8-1 by the reader unit 1-1.
And is displayed on the LCD display unit DISP. Here, a case is shown in which a card name (for example, control card name, font card name, etc.), scanner composition, etc. can be selected.

On the other hand, when "paper feed setting" is selected on the screen of FIG. 31E, the paper size setting screen data shown in FIG.
-1 is transferred to the operation unit 124 and displayed on the LCD display unit DISP.

On the other hand, when "Cancel setting" is selected on the screen shown in FIG. 32 (b), the screen data shown in FIG. 32 (c) is transferred from the formatter unit 8-1 to the reader unit 1-1. LCD display unit D
Display on ISP. In this embodiment, as the environment setting items, "font", "interface", "claw shavings", "copy / result", "layout", and "dump" are displayed. When "font" is selected in this state, the font selection screen data shown in FIG.
-1 is transferred to the operation unit 124 and displayed on the LCD display unit DISP, and when "interface" is selected, the interface setting screen data shown in FIG. 35 (a) is sent from the formatter unit 8-1 to the reader unit 1-. 1 is transferred to the operation unit 124 and displayed on the LCD display unit DISP, and when "Swankin Kino" is selected, the Swankin Knob setting screen data shown in FIG. 37B is read by the formatter unit 8-1. The LCD display unit DI is transferred to the operation unit 124 of the unit 1-1.
When it is displayed on the SP and "COPY / STRY REC" is selected, the copy / STRY REC setting screen data shown in (f) of FIG. 39 is transferred from the formatter section 8-1 to the operation section 124 of the reader section 1-1. When the data is displayed on the LCD display unit DISP and "Layout" is selected, the layout setting screen data shown in FIG.
When it is transferred to the operation unit 124 of the reader unit 1-1 and displayed on the LCD display unit DISP and "Dump" is selected, the dump setting screen data shown in (c) of FIG. 42 is output from the formatter unit 8-1. The data is transferred to the operation unit 124 of the reader unit 1-1 and displayed on the LCD display unit DISP.

Further, when the down key DOWN is further pressed in the display screen state of FIG. 32 (b), screen data indicating the selection item "memory size" in the setting of cancellation is displayed from the formatter unit 8-1 to the reader unit 1-1. Operation unit 124
42 and displayed on the LCD display unit DISP, and the memory size setting screen data shown in (d) to (f) of FIG. 42 is transferred from the formatter unit 8-1 to the operation unit 124 of the reader unit 1-1.
And display it on the LCD display unit DISP.

On the other hand, when "Font" is selected in (c) of FIG. 32 and the screen state is switched to the screen shown in (a) of FIG. 33, the detailed selection items "Kanji code" and "Size" for the font are selected. , "Kanji Shotai", "ANK Shotai", "Kanji Graphic Set", "ANK Graphic Set" are displayed, and when the down key DOWN is further pressed, the detailed selection items for the font "Yusen Kanji" and "Mukousu Scalable" are displayed. , In this state, when "Kanji code", "Size", "Kanji Shotai", "ANK Shotai", "Kanji Graphic Set", "ANK Graphic Set", "Yusen Kanji", "Mukous Scalable" are selected respectively. The corresponding screen data is sent from the formatter unit 8-1 to the operation unit 1 of the reader unit 1-1. LCD display unit D is transferred to 4
It is displayed on the ISP (see (b) to (e) of FIG. 33 and (a) to (e) of FIG. 34).

On the other hand, when the selection item "Centronics" is selected with the interface setting screen shown in FIG. 35A displayed, the screen data shown in FIG. When it is transferred to the operation unit 124 of the reader unit 1-1 and displayed on the LCD display unit DISP and the selection item "RS-232C" is selected, the screen data shown in (c) of FIG. 1 to the operation unit 124 of the reader unit 1-1, and the LCD display unit D
Display it on the ISP and select the detail selection item "Tensou Sokudoku",
"Bit butterfly", "DTR", "Xon / Xof
“F”, “ETX / ACK”, and “DSR mode” are displayed. Here, when TENSO SEED is selected, FIG.
When the screen data shown in (c) is transferred from the formatter section 8-1 to the operation section 124 of the reader section 1-1 and displayed on the LCD display section DISP, and the down key DOWN is further pressed, (d) in FIG. The screen data indicated by L is transferred from the formatter unit 8-1 to the operation unit 124 of the reader unit 1-1, and L
It is displayed on the CD display part DISP.

On the other hand, "bit butterfly", "DTR", "Xon / Xoff", "ETX" shown in FIG.
When “/ ACK” and “DSR mode” are selected, the corresponding screen data is transferred from the formatter unit 8-1 to the operation unit 124 of the reader unit 1-1, and the LCD display unit D is displayed.
It is displayed on the ISP (see (a) to (f) in FIG. 36).

On the other hand, on the screen shown in FIG.
When I is selected, the screen data shown in (a) of FIG. 37 is displayed on the operation unit 12 of the reader unit 1-1 by the formatter unit 8-1.
4 and display it on the LCD display unit DISP.

On the other hand, when the swan butterfly is selected in (c) of FIG. 32, the screen data shown in (b) and (c) of FIG. 37 is transferred and displayed. In the present embodiment, the selection items of the swan butterfly are “host”, “vertical”, “horizontal”, “hidashihishi”, “hakushitsuyaku”, “debug”, “face”, “sorter”, “ryomen”, “ryomen”, There are two pages, "Kakudai / Shuksho". Where "host",
"Vertical", "Horizontal", "Jidohashi",
"Hakushitsuyaku", "debugging", "face",
When “Sorter”, “Ryomen”, “2 page insert”, and “Kakudai / Shushou” are selected, the corresponding screen data is transferred from the formatter unit 8-1 to the operation unit 124 of the reader unit 1-1. It is displayed on the LCD display unit DISP (see FIGS. 37 (d) and (e), (a) to (f) in FIG. 38, and (a) to (e) in FIG. 39).

On the other hand, when "COPY / STREAM REC" is selected in (c) of FIG. 32, the copy / scheduled setting screen data is transferred from the formatter section 8-1 to the operation section 124 of the reader section 1-1 and the LCD is displayed. It is displayed on the display unit DISP (see (f) of FIG. 39 and (a) to (c) of FIG. 40).

On the other hand, when "Layout" is selected in (c) of FIG. 32, the layout setting screen data is transferred from the formatter unit 8-1 to the operation unit 124 of the reader unit 1-1 and is displayed on the LCD display unit DISP. Display ((d) of FIG. 40,
(E), (a) to (f) of FIG. 41, (a) of FIG. 42,
(See (b)).

On the other hand, when "Dump" is selected in (c) of FIG. 32, the dump setting screen data is sent to the formatter section 8-
1 to the operation unit 124 of the reader unit 1-1 and the LCD
It is displayed on the display unit DISP (see FIG. 42 (c)).

In this embodiment, the menu screen data for setting the printer mode as shown in FIG. 43 (d) is transferred from the formatter unit 8-1 to the operation unit 12 of the reader unit 1-1.
It is also possible to transfer to 4 and display on the LCD display unit DISP. In this case, a desired item is selected by the ten keys of the operation unit 124.

Further, in the above embodiment, the formatter unit 8
-1 has been described as an example in which the operation screen is transmitted from the reader unit 1-1 to the operation unit 124, the facsimile unit 4-
Similarly, the screen data of the operation screen can be transmitted to the 1, file unit 5-1 and the image memory unit 9-1.

[0193]

As described above, according to the first aspect of the invention, when the transfer unit transfers the operation unit control information corresponding to the external device from the external device to the image forming apparatus main body through the communication unit, This operation unit control information is stored in the storage means. Since the control unit controls the function setting operation state of the operation unit for the external device based on the operation unit control information stored in the storage unit, the operation unit control information about the external device is sent regardless of the control procedure of the image forming apparatus main body. It can be designed and changed.

Therefore, it becomes very easy to change the control information of the operation unit related to the external device, the burden of change of use on the external device by the developer is significantly reduced, and the product cost can be significantly reduced.

According to the second invention, when the desired external device function connected by the selecting means is selected, the state of the screen displayed on the screen of the display is stored in the screen state storing means. A screen data generation unit displays on the display unit from the operation state of the image forming apparatus main body transferred by the first communication unit, the key input information on the operation unit, and the screen state stored in the screen state storage unit. To generate operation screen data for an external device, and the second communication unit transfers the generated operation screen data to the operation unit by communication,
Since the screen editing means displays the display screen data edited on the basis of the transferred operation screen data on the display unit, when performing the function setting of the externally connected external device using the operation unit of the image forming apparatus main body, It is possible to transfer the screen data required for each function setting of each external device to the main body of the image forming apparatus from the outside and display it on the display unit of the operation unit.

Further, since the screen data generating means of each external device respectively generates the operation screen data to be displayed on the display device, it is possible to easily display the setting screen corresponding to the function expansion of the connected external device. .

Therefore, the image forming apparatus main body is provided with the external apparatus function setting screen data required when the function setting of each external apparatus is performed using the display of the operation unit provided in the image forming apparatus main body. It is not necessary, the burden of memory resources for connecting an external device on the main body side can be greatly saved, and an inexpensive main body can be provided.

Further, since the function setting screen data is also expanded along with the function expansion of each external device, there is no operation burden of exchanging the memory medium for storing the function setting screen data in advance, and the function setting for the expanded function can be smoothly performed. It has an excellent effect such as that

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a sectional view illustrating a configuration of a composite image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a control configuration of a main body of the composite image forming apparatus shown in FIG.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating a scaling process of image data.

FIG. 4 is a plan view showing an example of an operation unit shown in FIG.

5 is a plan view showing a screen display example of a display unit arranged in the operation unit shown in FIG.

6 is a plan view showing a screen display example of a display unit arranged in the operation unit shown in FIG.

7 is a plan view showing a screen display example of a display unit arranged in the operation unit shown in FIG.

FIG. 8 is a plan view showing a screen display example of a display unit arranged in the operation unit shown in FIG.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing details of an external device of the housing shown in FIG.

10 is a flowchart showing an example of an external device operation unit control program transfer processing procedure between the external device and the main body shown in FIG.

11 is a block diagram showing a detailed configuration of a CPU unit shown in FIG.

12 is a flowchart showing an example of an external device operation unit screen data transfer processing procedure between the external device and the main body shown in FIG.

13 is a diagram illustrating an external device operation unit screen data transfer method between the external device and the main body via the communication line illustrated in FIG.

14 is a plan view showing a screen display example of a display unit arranged in the operation unit shown in FIG.

15 is a plan view showing a screen display example of a display unit arranged in the operation unit shown in FIG.

16 is a flowchart showing an example of an external device control procedure based on operation procedure information transferred from the external device shown in FIG.

FIG. 17 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a composite image forming apparatus showing a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration of a reader unit and a printer unit shown in FIG.

19 is a circuit block diagram illustrating a signal processing configuration of the reader unit shown in FIG.

20 is a block diagram showing a detailed configuration of a core unit shown in FIG.

21 is a block diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of the facsimile unit illustrated in FIG.

22 is a block diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of a file unit shown in FIG.

23 is a block diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of a computer interface unit illustrated in FIG.

24 is a block diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of a formatter unit illustrated in FIG.

25 is a block diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of the image memory unit illustrated in FIG.

FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing an example of a data communication processing procedure of the sub CPU of the reader unit shown in FIG.

27 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the CPU of the formatter unit shown in FIG.

28 is a plan view showing an example of an operation panel of the reader section shown in FIG.

29 is a detailed plan view of a main part of the operation panel shown in FIG. 28. FIG.

FIG. 30 is a diagram showing an example of screen data transferred for setting the external device function of the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 31 is a diagram showing an example of screen data transferred for setting the external device function of the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 32 is a diagram showing an example of screen data transferred for setting the external device function of the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 33 is a diagram showing an example of screen data transferred for setting the external device function of the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 34 is a diagram showing an example of screen data transferred for setting an external device function of the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 35 is a diagram showing an example of screen data transferred for setting the external device function of the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 36 is a diagram showing an example of screen data transferred for setting the external device function of the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 37 is a diagram showing an example of screen data transferred for setting the external device function of the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 38 is a diagram showing an example of screen data transferred for setting the external device function of the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 39 is a diagram showing an example of screen data transferred for setting the external device function of the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 40 is a diagram showing an example of screen data transferred for setting the external device function of the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 41 is a diagram showing an example of screen data transferred for setting the external device function of the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 42 is a diagram showing an example of screen data transferred for setting the external device function of the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 43 is a diagram showing an example of screen data transferred for setting the external device function of the composite image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 30 CPU part 30a Memory part 30b CPU 34 External device 35 Operation part

 ─────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continued Front Page (72) Inventor Michiko Hirayu 3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo Canon Inc. (72) Inventor Koichi Unno 3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo Canon Incorporated (72) Inventor Keiji Inaba 3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo Canon Inc. (72) Inventor Masaki Sakai 3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo Canon Inc. ( 72) Inventor Ken Kuroda 3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo Canon Inc.

Claims (3)

[Claims] 1. A composite image forming apparatus capable of connecting a plurality of external apparatuses to an image forming apparatus main body having an operation unit, and a communication unit for communicating each external apparatus with the image forming apparatus main body.
A transfer unit that transfers the operation unit control information corresponding to the external device from each of the external devices to the image forming apparatus main body via the communication unit, and a storage unit that stores the operation unit control information transferred by the transfer unit. And a control unit that controls a function setting operation state of the operation unit with respect to the external device based on the operation unit control information stored in the storage unit. 2. A composite image forming apparatus in which a plurality of external devices can be connected to an image forming apparatus main body having an operation unit having a display, and a selecting unit for selecting a function of the connected external device, and the display unit. A screen state storage unit that stores the state of the screen displayed on the screen, and a first state that transfers the operating state of the image forming apparatus main body and key input information on the operation unit by communication with a predetermined external device. From the communication means and the operation state of the image forming apparatus main body transferred by the first communication means, the key input information on the operation section, and the screen state stored in the screen state storage means to the display unit. Screen data generation means for generating operation screen data for an external device to be displayed, and second communication means for transferring the operation screen data generated by this screen data generation means to the operation section by communication. And a screen editing means for displaying on the display device display screen data edited based on the operation screen data transferred from the second communication means. 3. The composite image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein each external device includes a screen data generating unit that generates operation screen data to be displayed on the display.