JPH11189368A - Ejected sheet handling device and control method for ejected sheet handling device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To allow the user to locate ejected sheets of output results at a glance and get the output results with ease in a short period. SOLUTION: The CPU of a sorter 220 directs that the recording media delivered from a composite image processor be ejected or sorted out on a plurality of bins of the sorter 220 according to instruction information on ejected sheets that is fed thereto by the composite image processor. The memory of the sorter 220 stores ejected sheet information indicating the state of ejected sheets, which the CPU of the sorter 220 places on a display part for each bin of the sorter 220.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a paper discharge processing apparatus using a digital copying machine and connected to a composite image processing apparatus including a plurality of functions such as a facsimile function, a printer formatter function, and an electronic file function. And a control method of the sheet discharge processing device.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in a composite image processing apparatus, an apparatus has been put to practical use that controls a discharge processing of a connected discharge processing apparatus in accordance with an instruction to specify a discharge position for each function.

[0003]

However, in the above-described conventional composite image processing apparatus, since the paper discharge processing of the paper discharge processing apparatus is controlled in accordance with an instruction to specify a paper discharge position set in advance for each function, a user is required to perform the processing. In the current settings, it is difficult to know which function performs the paper discharge process to which paper discharge position (paper discharge bin). When obtaining the output result, check all the bins and check your output result. However, there is a problem that a complicated operation of acquiring the information must be performed.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the first to seventh inventions according to the present invention is to provide an image processing apparatus which is capable of transmitting an image transferred from a connected composite image processing apparatus. Based on the paper instruction information, sorts the recording medium conveyed from the composite image processing apparatus into a plurality of paper discharge positions, controls paper discharge, stores discharge information indicating the paper discharge state, and stores the stored paper discharge information. By controlling the display of the information on the display unit for each paper discharge position, the user can confirm the discharge destination of the output result at a glance when obtaining the output paper, and can easily obtain the output result in a short time. An object of the present invention is to provide a method for controlling a paper processing apparatus and a paper discharge processing apparatus.

[0005]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a sheet discharging processing apparatus for performing a predetermined sheet discharging process on a recording medium conveyed from a composite image processing apparatus having a plurality of different functions. The recording medium conveyed from the composite image processing apparatus is transferred to a plurality of discharge positions (non-sort bin 70 shown in FIG. 7) based on the discharge instruction information transferred from the composite image processing apparatus.
(3, sort bin 704), a first control unit (the CPU 2201 of the sorter unit 220 shown in FIG. 8 performs the sort and discharge control based on a program stored in the memory 2202), and the first control. Storage means (memory 2202 of the sorter unit 220 shown in FIG. 8) for storing paper discharge information indicating a paper discharge state by means, and a display unit for each paper discharge position for the paper discharge information stored in the storage means (FIG. 8). And control means for performing display control on the display unit 801) of the operation panel 701 of the sorter 220 shown in FIG.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, the composite image processing apparatus has a facsimile receiving function (facsimile unit 4 shown in FIG. 1), and the discharge instruction information transferred from the composite image processing apparatus is The discharge information including the facsimile reception telephone number and the display control of the display unit by the second control means (the CPU 2201 of the sorter unit 220 shown in FIG. 8) is the facsimile reception telephone number (the display unit 8 shown in FIG. 9).
01 (7th bin: FAX: 3758-2111)
(3 sheets, 8th bin: FAX: 3756-0464: 5 sheets)
).

According to a third aspect of the present invention, the composite image processing apparatus includes a printer function (computer interface unit 7 and computer interface unit 7) for executing printer output based on a request from a predetermined device connected via a predetermined communication medium. The discharge instruction information transferred from the composite image processing apparatus includes a formatter unit 8), and includes the name of the apparatus that has requested the composite image processing apparatus to output a printer, and the second control unit (FIG. 8). The paper discharge information displayed and controlled on the display unit by the CPU 2201 of the sorter unit 220 shown in FIG. 9 is shown on the display unit 801 shown in FIG. 9 (the fourth bin: printer: P).
C01: 3 sheets).

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the composite image processing apparatus has a copy function (reader unit 1), and the discharge instruction information transferred from the composite image processing apparatus has a copy password set therein. The second control means (the CPU 220 of the sorter unit 220 shown in FIG. 8)
The discharge information controlled to be displayed on the display unit by 1) is a box number (first bin: copy: N) in which a password is set.
O. 3:10).

A fifth invention according to the present invention comprises a detecting means (sensor 222 shown in FIG. 1) for detecting a recording medium discharged to a discharging position, and the second control means (shown in FIG. 8). If the CPU 2201) of the sorter unit 220 determines that the recording medium based on the plurality of jobs has been discharged to the discharge position based on the detection result of the detection unit, the discharge state based on each job is determined. The information is alternately displayed on the display unit.

A sixth invention according to the present invention comprises detecting means (sensor 222 shown in FIG. 1) for detecting a recording medium discharged to a paper discharging position, and the control means detects a detection result of the detecting means. Is used to determine the stacking state of the recording medium discharged to the discharge position, and the discharge state information displayed on the display unit is updated based on the determination result.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a control method of a paper discharge processing apparatus for performing a predetermined paper discharge processing on a recording medium conveyed from a composite image processing apparatus having a plurality of different functions. A paper discharge process (steps (12) to (18) in FIG. 10) for sorting and discharging the recording medium conveyed from the multifunction image processing apparatus to a plurality of paper discharge positions based on the paper discharge instruction information transferred from the apparatus. A storage step of storing the discharge information indicating the discharge state in the memory (step (19) in FIG. 10), and a display for displaying the discharge information stored in the memory on a display unit for each discharge position. (Step (20) in FIG. 10).

[0012]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram for explaining the arrangement of a composite image processing apparatus to which a paper ejection apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention can be applied.

In FIG. 1, the composite image processing apparatus comprises a reader unit 1, a printer unit 2, an image input / output unit 3, and the like. The reader unit 1 reads a document image and outputs image data corresponding to the document image. The printer unit 2 records an image corresponding to image data output from the reader unit 1 and the image input / output control unit 3 on recording paper.

A sorter 220 is connected to the printer unit 2 and sorts and discharges recording paper conveyed from the printer unit 2.

The image input / output control unit 3 is connected to the reader unit 1 and includes a facsimile unit 4, a file unit 5, a computer interface unit 7, a formatter unit 8, an image memory unit 9, a core unit 10, and the like. You.

In the image input / output control unit 3, the facsimile unit 4 decompresses the compressed image data received via the telephone line, transfers the decompressed image data to the core unit 10, and transfers the decompressed image data from the core unit 10. The compressed image data is compressed, and the compressed image data is transmitted via a telephone line. The hard disk 12 is connected to the facsimile unit 4 and can temporarily store the received compressed image data.

An external storage device 6, for example, a magneto-optical disk drive unit, is connected to the file unit 5, and the file unit 5 compresses the image data transferred from the core unit 10 together with a keyword for searching the image data. The data is stored in the magneto-optical disk set in the magneto-optical disk drive unit 6. Further, the file unit 5 searches compressed image data stored in the magneto-optical disk based on the keyword transferred via the core unit 10, reads out the searched compressed image data, decompresses it, and decompresses the decompressed image data. The data is transferred to the core unit 10.

The computer interface unit 7 is provided with a personal computer or a workstation (hereinafter, referred to as a personal computer or a workstation).
An interface between the PC / WS 11 and the core unit 10. The formatter unit 8 expands code data representing an image transferred from the PC / WS 11 into image data that can be recorded by the printer unit 2, and the image memory unit 9 temporarily stores the data transferred from the PC / WS 11. Is to be stored. Although the core unit 10 will be described later, the core unit 10 controls the flow of data among the reader unit 1, facsimile unit 4, file unit 5, computer interface unit 7, formatter unit 8, and image memory unit 9. Things.

FIG. 2 is a sectional view for explaining the configuration of the reader unit 1 and the printer unit 2 of the composite image processing apparatus shown in FIG. 1, and the same components as those in FIG. .

In the reader unit 1, reference numeral 101 denotes a document feeder (hereinafter, ADF) which feeds a document one by one from a last page onto a platen glass 102 one by one. The original on 102 is discharged. Reference numeral 104 denotes a scanner unit, which moves with the lighting of the lamp 103 and scans the document conveyed onto the platen glass 102 for exposure. Reference numeral 109 denotes a CCD image sensor (hereinafter, referred to as a CCD) which inputs (reads) reflected light from a document by scanning of a scanner unit via mirrors 105, 106, 107 and a lens 108, and performs predetermined processing on image data. The data is transferred to the core unit 10 of the printer unit 2 and the image input / output control unit 3.

An operation unit 115 includes various keys and an LC.
A D touch panel, an LED, and the like are provided, and input of various settings and display of various messages, processing status, and the like are possible.

In the printer unit 2, a laser scanning unit 201 outputs laser light corresponding to image data output from the reader unit 1 by a laser emitting unit driven by a laser driver (not shown), and a photosensitive drum by a scanning mirror. 2
02 is scanned.

The photosensitive drum 202 includes a laser scanning unit 201
Forms an electrostatic latent image corresponding to the laser beam. Reference numeral 203 denotes a developing unit which develops the electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum 202 by attaching a developer to the electrostatic latent image.

Reference numeral 206 denotes a transfer unit which transfers the developer adhered to the photosensitive drum 202 onto recording paper fed from the cassette 204 or the cassette 205 to the photosensitive drum 202 at a predetermined timing synchronized with the start of laser beam irradiation. . 207
Is a fixing unit for fixing the developer on the recording paper to the recording paper by heat and pressure. Reference numeral 208 denotes a discharge roller, and the fixing unit 20
The recording paper that has passed through 7 is discharged.

The sorter 220 has a plurality of bins. The recording paper discharged by the paper discharge rollers 208 is moved up and down by an elevator 223 to be stored in each bin to sort the recording paper. To the operation unit 115. When no sorting is set, the sorter 220 stores recording paper in the uppermost bin (non-sort bin). The bin numbers are the first from the top except for the top row.
Count in the order of bin, second bin, .... A stapler 221 performs a stapling process on the recording paper discharged by the discharge roller 208. A sensor 222 is provided in each of the bins, and detects the presence or absence of paper in each bin.

The paper discharge roller 208 reverses the rotation direction of the roller when double-sided recording is set, so that the recording paper is backed. Reference numeral 209 denotes a flap.
08 to re-feed the recording paper back
Lead to zero.

The operation of each section will be described below.

First, the ADF 101 of the reader unit 1 feeds originals one by one from the last page onto the platen glass 102 one by one.
2 discharge the original. When the document is conveyed onto the platen glass 102, the lamp 103 is turned on, the movement of the scanner unit 104 is started, and the document is exposed and scanned. The reflected light from the original at this time is reflected by mirror 105,
CCD 10 by 106, 107 and lens 108
It is led to 9.

The image of the document scanned by the scanner unit 104 is read by the CCD 109. CC
The image data output from D109 is transferred to the printer unit 2 and the core unit 10 of the image input / output control unit 3 after being subjected to predetermined processing.

Next, the laser driver of the laser scanning unit of the printer unit 2 drives the laser emitting unit to output a laser beam corresponding to the image data output from the reader unit 1. Next, the scanning mirror moves the photosensitive drum 20 by the laser beam.
2, a latent image corresponding to the laser beam is formed on the photosensitive drum 202. A developer is attached to a portion of the latent image on the photosensitive drum 202 by a developing device 203. Then, at a timing synchronized with the start of the laser beam irradiation, the recording paper is fed from the cassette 204 or the cassette 205, is conveyed to the transfer unit 206, and transfers the developer attached to the photosensitive drum 202 to the recording paper.

Then, the recording paper on which the developer is loaded is fixed to the fixing unit 2.
07, and the developer is fixed on the recording paper by the heat and pressure of the fixing unit 207. The recording paper that has passed through the fixing unit 207 is discharged by a discharge roller 208, and the sorter 220 stores the discharged recording paper in each pin and sorts the recording paper. Note that the sorter 220 stores the recording paper in the uppermost bin when the sorting is not set.

When double-sided recording is set,
After the recording paper is conveyed to the discharge roller 208, the rotation direction of the discharge roller 208 is reversed, and the flap 209 is rotated.
To the re-feeding conveyance path. When the multiple recording is set, the recording paper is guided to the re-feed conveyance path by the flap 209 so as not to be conveyed to the discharge roller 208. The recording paper guided to the re-feeding conveyance path is fed to the transfer unit 206 at the above-described timing.

In the figure, reference numeral 110 denotes an analog / digital conversion / shading correction unit (hereinafter, A / D / SH unit)
Then, the image data output from the CCD 109 is converted from analog to digital, and shading correction is performed. An image data processing unit 111 includes an A / D / SH unit 11.
0 performs a predetermined process on the image data processed by
Printer unit 2 and interface unit (hereinafter, I / F)
Transfer to 113. The I / F unit 113 includes the image processing unit 11
The image data output from one copy is transferred to the core unit 10.

Reference numeral 114 denotes a CPU which controls the image processing unit 111 and the I / F 1 in accordance with the contents set by the operation unit 115.
13 to control the entire reader unit. For example,
When the trimming process is set by the operation unit 115, the image data processing unit 111 performs the trimming process and transfers the image data to the printer unit 2. When the facsimile transmission mode is set on the operation unit 115, the I / F
From 113, the image data and the control command corresponding to the set mode are transferred to the core unit 10 (further, the facsimile unit 4 via the core unit 10). Further, the operation unit 115
If the file mode is set in, the I / F 11
From 3, a recording command, which will be described later, and control commands corresponding to the image data and the set mode are transferred to the core unit 10 (and the file unit 5 via the core unit 10).

Reference numeral 116 denotes a memory which is the CPU 1 as described above.
The CPU 114 performs various controls while referring to the memory 116. The memory 116 is also used as a work area of the CPU 114. Further, the memory 116 includes a nonvolatile memory therein and stores setting information and the like by the operation unit 115.

The operation unit 115 has a CPU, R
The CPU includes an AM, a ROM, and the like, and the CPU controls the operation unit 115 overall based on a control program stored in the ROM.

The operation of each section will be described below.

The image data output from the CCD 109 is subjected to analog / digital conversion by the A / D / SH unit 110 and is subjected to shading correction. A / D
The image data processed by the SH unit 110 is transferred to the printer unit 2 via the image processing unit 111 and to the core unit 10 of the image input / output control unit 3 via the interface unit 113.

The CPU 114 controls the image processing unit 111 and the interface 113 in accordance with the contents set by the operation unit 115. For example, when the copy mode in which the trimming process is performed and the copy is performed by the operation unit 115 is set, the image processing unit 111 performs the trimming process and transfers the image data to the printer unit 2.

When the facsimile transmission mode is set on the operation unit 115, the interface 113 transmits image data and a control command corresponding to the set mode to the core unit 10. Such a control program of the CPU 114 is stored in the memory 116,
The control unit 114 performs control with reference to the memory 116. The memory 116 is also used as a work area of the CPU 114.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram for explaining in detail the configuration of the core unit 10 of the composite image processing apparatus shown in FIG.
The same components as those in FIG. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

In the figure, a data processing unit 121 performs image processing such as image rotation processing and scaling processing on image data transferred from the reader unit 1. 123 is a CPU
The general control of the core unit 10 is performed based on the control program stored in the memory 124 and the control command transferred from the reader unit 1, and the data is transmitted from the reader unit 1 according to the control command transferred from the reader unit 1. Processing unit 121
The image data transferred to the facsimile unit 4, file unit 5, and computer interface unit 7 are controlled via the I / F 120. In addition, the memory 124
While storing various control programs of U123,
It is also used as a work area of the PU 123.

The operation of each section will be described below.

The image data from the reader unit 1 is transferred to the data processing unit 121, and the control command from the reader unit 1 is transferred to the CPU 123. Data processing unit 1
Reference numeral 21 performs image processing such as image rotation processing and scaling processing. Image data transferred from the reader unit 1 to the data processing unit 121 is transmitted via the interface 120 according to a control command transferred from the reader unit 1. The data is transferred to the facsimile unit 4, file unit 5, and computer interface unit 7.

Further, the code data representing the image input via the computer interface unit 7 is transferred to the data processing unit 121 and then transferred to the formatter unit 8 to be developed into image data. After being transferred to the unit 121, it is transferred to the facsimile unit 4 and the printer unit 2.

For example, image data from the facsimile unit 4 is transferred to the data processing unit 121 and then to the printer unit 2, the file unit 5, and the computer interface unit 7. The image data from the file unit is transferred to the data processing unit 121 and then to the printer unit 2, the facsimile unit 4, and the computer interface unit 7. The CPU 123 performs the above-described control according to the control program stored in the memory 124 and the control command transferred from the reader unit 1. The memory 124 is also used as a work area of the CPU 123.

As described above, processing combining functions such as reading of an original image, printing of an image, transmission and reception of an image, storage of an image, and input / output of data from / to a computer can be performed with the core unit 10 at the center. It is possible.

FIG. 5 is a plan view showing an operation panel of the operation unit 115 shown in FIG.

In the figure, an operation unit power switch 501 switches the operation unit ON / OFF. Reference numeral 502 denotes a display with a touch panel, which is configured by a dot matrix including a liquid crystal display device with a touch panel, and can be selected by pressing a displayed key. A status display lamp 503 indicates the status of the operation of the composite image processing apparatus, an alarm, and the like. A start key 504 executes copy and facsimile transmission. 505 is a stop key,
Cancel continuous copying or facsimile transmission.

Reference numeral 506 denotes a reset key for returning the setting to the standard mode. Reference numeral 507 denotes a numeric keypad, the number of copies,
Enter a numerical value such as a facsimile telephone number. 508
Is a clear key, which clears the numerical value input on the numeric keypad 507. Reference numeral 509 denotes an ON / OFF key for a preheating mode, which switches the preheating mode ON / OFF. An interrupt key 510 interrupts continuous copying to make another copy available. A password key 511 is used when managing a password.

Reference numeral 512 denotes a one-touch dial key which can be used to call a facsimile transmission destination telephone number in which a telephone number is registered in advance by facsimile transmission.

FIG. 6 is a plan view for explaining in detail the operation screen displayed on the display with a touch panel 502 shown in FIG.

In the figure, reference numeral 601 denotes an application operation unit for selecting various application functions usable for copying, facsimile, and the like. A sorter key 605 is used to set a discharge position (bin of the sorter 220) of output results of various application functions, a sort setting, and the like. Reference numeral 602 denotes a basic operation unit for setting basic operations, displaying setting buttons of functions for selecting various messages, the state of the composite image processing apparatus, and the like. 60
Reference numeral 3 denotes a system key for switching to an operation display unit for each function of the composite image processing apparatus. A guide key 604 displays an operation guide.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view for explaining the configuration of the sorter 220 shown in FIG. 2 in detail.

In the drawing, a sorter 220 is a staple sorter. An operation panel 701 includes various keys and a display unit, and performs various sorts, staple settings, various message settings, and the like. Reference numeral 702 denotes a front cover which is opened when processing a paper jam in the sorter 220, replenishing a stapler with a staple, and processing a staple jam. Reference numeral 703 denotes a non-sort bin. When the number of copies is one, a copy without page alignment (collation) is discharged to the non-sort bin 703. Reference numeral 704 denotes a sort bin, and the copied pages are discharged to the sort bin 704.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram for explaining in detail the configuration of the sorter 220 of the composite image processing apparatus shown in FIG. 7, and the same components as those in FIG. 7 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

In the figure, reference numeral 2201 denotes a CPU, which controls the sorter 220 overall based on a control program stored in the memory 2202 and a control command transferred from the core unit 10 via the printer unit. An interface (I / F) 2203 controls communication with the printer unit 2. The memory 2202 stores various control programs for the CPU 2201 and the CPU 2201.
It is also used as a work area.

FIG. 9 is a plan view showing the structure of the operation panel of sorter 220 shown in FIG. Note that the same components as those in FIG. 7 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

Reference numeral 801 denotes a display unit for displaying output information of the discharged paper. Here, “1st bin: copy (NO.3):
10th bin, 2nd and 3rd bins are empty, 4th bin: printer (PC01): 3 sheets, 5th bin: printer (P
C01): 3 sheets "," Sixth bin: printer (PC0)
1): 3 sheets "," 7th bin: facsimile (3758-
2111): 2 sheets ”,“ 8th bin: facsimile (37
56-0406): 5 sheets ",.... With this display, the user can set the output destination of his / her output paper to one without having to perform a complicated operation of checking all the bins of the paper output processing device (sorter) when the user obtains the output paper.
Recognizable by eyes.

The above-mentioned "first bin: copy (NO.
"3): 10 sheets" is a box number in which a copy password is set, and "4th bin: printer (P
C01): 3 sheets ”,“ Fifth bin: Printer (PC0)
1): 3 sheets], “Sixth bin: Printer (PC01): 3
“PC01” of the “sheet” is the name of the device that has requested the composite image processing device shown in FIG.
Bin: Facsimile (3758-2111): 2 sheets ",
"Eighth Bin: Facsimile (3756-406): 5
"3758-2111" and "3756-040"
"6" indicates a facsimile reception telephone number.

Reference numeral 802 denotes a staple position key for designating a staple position when stapling by manual staple or manual staple. Reference numeral 803 denotes a staple start / stop key, which is used to start manual or manual staple, or to instruct staple interruption.

A staple replenishment display 804 is lit when the stapler runs out of staples. Reference numeral 805 denotes a bin shift key, and the bin moves up and down one step each time the arrow す る / ↓ keys are pressed.
Reference numeral 806 denotes a front take-out key, which sends out the copy paper in the bin to the front.

The control operation and operation display of the sheet discharge control device according to the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the sheet discharge control operation of the sheet discharge control device according to the present invention.
0 performs general control, but especially steps (12) to (20)
Is performed by the CPU of the sorter 220 shown in FIG.
2201 executes based on the program stored in the memory 2202. Note that (1) to (21) indicate each step.

First, when it is determined that the facsimile paper discharge control operation has been started by the data reception in the facsimile unit 4 via the telephone line (1), the data is received via the telephone line (2). The received data is transferred to the core unit 10 as received image data from the facsimile unit 4 (3). The facsimile discharge position designation is set by the basic operation unit 602 on the operation panel 115, and the core unit 10 sends a predetermined facsimile discharge position to the printer unit together with the image data in accordance with the facsimile discharge position set in advance by the operation panel 115. The output to the bin is instructed (4). Here, as shown in FIG.
It is assumed that “8 bins” is set, and the core unit 10 instructs the printer unit 2 to output to “7 bins”.

Next, the printer unit 2 prints the image data on a recording sheet in accordance with the output instruction and discharges the image data to the sorter 220. At this time, facsimile output as recording paper information,
Information such as a telephone number, for example, “3785-2111” is transmitted to the sorter 220 (11).

In the sorter 220, the sheet discharge control (in the case of the first bin designation (12), the first bin
Paper output to bin (13), when the second bin is specified (14)
Is a paper output to the second bin (15),..., When the tenth bin is designated (16), a paper output to the tenth bin (17),
If a value other than 1 to 10 bins is specified, the non-sort bin 70
3 and the output information is stored in the memory 2202 of the sorter 220 (19). next,
The display unit 80 according to the information stored in the memory 2202
1 together with the number of output sheets according to the output bin ("7th bin: facsimile (3758
-2111): 2 sheets "," Eighth bin: facsimile (3
756-0406): 5 images).
0). The number of output sheets is sequentially increased (updated) every time output is performed.

When the next data is received via the telephone line, that is, when the operation is not completed (21), the processing of the steps (1) to (21) is repeated. However, the core unit 10 moves the designated output bin according to the facsimile discharge position for each reception. Here, since the facsimile discharge position is set to "7-8 bins", the sorter 220 is instructed to repeatedly output the seventh bin output and the eighth bin output for each reception. When the next facsimile output (for example, three sheets are transmitted from the telephone number “123-4567”) is output to the seventh bin without the output of the seventh bin, the display is displayed on the display unit 801 of the sorter. In the column of the seventh bin to be output, “facsimile (3758-2111): 2” which is the output information in order.
"Sheet" and "facsimile (123-4567): three sheets" are displayed alternately and alternately.

On the other hand, if it is determined by the data reception at the computer interface unit 7 that the printer discharge control operation has been started (5), code data is input from the PC / WS 11 via the computer interface unit 7, An output instruction to a predetermined bin based on the printer discharge position set on the PC / WS 11 is transferred to the printer unit 2 to the sorter 220 (6), and the code data representing the input image is transferred to the data of the core unit 10 After being transferred to the processing unit 121, the data is transferred to the formatter unit 8, expanded into image data, and simultaneously transferred to the data processing unit 121 of the core unit 10 (7).

Here, as shown in FIG. 12, which will be described later, the printer discharge position set on the PC / WS 11 for the printer unit 2 is "3 sorts from 4 bins". The specification of the paper discharge position to be transferred is an output instruction to “4-6 bins”.

Next, the image data is printed on the recording paper by the printer unit 2 and discharged to the sorter 220. At this time, information on the printer output as the information on the recording paper and the name of the device that requested the output is transmitted to the sorter 220 (11).
The sorter 220 controls the paper discharge ((12) to (18)) according to the output bin instruction, and stores the output information in the memory 2202 of the sorter 220 (19). According to the information stored in the memory 2202, the sorter 220 displays the number of output bins on the display unit 801 in accordance with the output bins ("4th bin: printer (PC01): 3 sheets" shown in the display unit 801 of FIG. 9). , "5th bin: Printer (PC0
1): 3 sheets "," Sixth bin: Printer (PC01): 3
("Sheets") (20). The number of output sheets is increased each time an output is made.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the printer discharge control operation is started by operating the operation unit 115 (8), the original is read by the reader unit 1 and the read original (here, 10 sheets) is read. To the printer unit 2 as image data. In the copy operation, the discharge position is specified by a non-sort bin at the time of non-sorting, and by a non-sort bin at the time of sorting (10). The image data is printed on the recording paper by the printer unit 2 and discharged to the sorter. At this time, printer output and output device name information are transmitted as sorter information to the sorter 220 (11). In the sorter 220, the discharge control is performed according to the output bin instruction ((12) to (18)).
At the same time, the output information is stored in the memory 2202 of the sorter 220 (19). In accordance with the information stored in the memory 2202, the sorter 220 displays the number of output bins on the display unit 801 in accordance with the output bins ("1st bin: copy (NO.3): 10 sheets shown in the display unit 801 of FIG. 9). "like)
Display (20). The number of output sheets is increased each time an output is made.

According to the above-described processing, when the user obtains output paper, the user does not have to perform a complicated operation of checking all bins of the sorter and determining and obtaining his / her own output paper. The discharge destination can be recognized at a glance and can be easily acquired in a short time.

FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of a facsimile discharge position setting screen displayed on the display with touch panel 502 shown in FIG.

In the figure, reference numeral 101 denotes an arrow key for selecting an item to be set from predetermined items displayed on the function setting menu 1004. Here, in a state where “facsimile discharge position” is selected, the facsimile discharge position setting menu 1005 is displayed by the selection. 1002
Is an arrow key, the facsimile discharge position setting menu 10
04, “top row” and “bin [07-0]
8], and a predetermined discharge position such as “empty bin”. Here, a state in which “bin [07-08]” is selected is shown. An OK key 1003 is pressed to determine the facsimile discharge position setting.

FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of a printer discharge position setting screen displayed on the display unit of the PC / WS 11 shown in FIG.

Referring to FIG. 11, reference numeral 1101 denotes a sort setting area in which it is possible to set whether to execute sorting, whether to perform staple sorting or group sorting, whether to specify a bin to be discharged, a bin to discharge, and the like. Reference numeral 1102 denotes an OK key. By depressing this key, the sort setting on the printer discharge position setting screen is determined. Reference numeral 1103 denotes a cancel key. Pressing this key cancels the sort setting on the printer discharge position setting screen. In this case, it is set so as to sort and output from the fourth bin.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation display reset control operation of the sheet discharge control device according to the present invention, which is executed based on a program stored in the memory 2202 by the CPU 2201 of the sorter 220 shown in FIG. I do. In addition, (1) to (5) indicate each step.

First, the presence / absence of paper is determined for each bin by a paper detection sensor provided for each bin of the sorter 220, and if there is no paper (paper has been removed), the display unit shown in FIG. 8
The output information of the discharge of each bin displayed at 01 is sequentially reset (updated) and displayed, for example, blank, as in the second and third bins shown on the display unit 801 shown in FIG.

More specifically, when it is determined that there is no paper in the first bin (1), the first bin information is reset and displayed (2), and when it is determined that there is no paper in the second bin (3) resets and displays the second bin information (4), ...
... If it is determined that there is no paper in the tenth bin (5),
The 10th bin information is reset and displayed (6), and the process returns to step (1).

With the above processing, after the user removes the output sheet from the sheet discharge processing device (sorter), the output information of the discharged sheet displayed on the display section of the sheet discharge processing device (sorter) is updated. The user can always recognize the output destination of his or her output paper with the latest display.

As described above, the paper discharge control device determines the supply destination of each output information from the multifunction image processing apparatus, and the bins of the sorter are processed according to each function instruction of the recording paper on which an image is formed in response to a request. By storing the sorting operation and displaying the output information on the operation panel of the sorter, the user can be notified of the discharged position.

In the present embodiment, a configuration has been described in which each bin of the sorter 220 is provided with a detection sensor to detect the presence or absence of paper in each bin.
The bins may be moved up and down by the elevator 223 to detect the presence or absence of paper in each bin.

As described above, the storage medium storing the program codes of the software for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to the system or the apparatus, and the computer (or CPU or MP) of the system or the apparatus is supplied.
It goes without saying that the object of the present invention is also achieved when U) reads out and executes the program code stored in the storage medium.

In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the novel function of the present invention, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.

Examples of a storage medium for supplying the program code include a floppy disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, CD-ROM, and C
DR, magnetic tape, nonvolatile memory card, RO
M, EEPROM and the like can be used.

When the computer executes the readout program code, not only the functions of the above-described embodiment are realized, but also the OS (Operating System) running on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. ) And the like perform part or all of the actual processing, and the processing realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments.

Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written into a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, based on the instruction of the program code, The CPU provided in the function expansion board or function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing,
It goes without saying that a case where the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by the processing is also included.

Further, the present invention may be applied to a system composed of a plurality of devices or an apparatus composed of one device. Needless to say, the present invention can be applied to a case where the present invention is achieved by supplying a program to a system or an apparatus. In this case, by reading a storage medium storing a program represented by software for achieving the present invention into the system or the apparatus, the system or the apparatus can enjoy the effects of the present invention. .

Further, by downloading and reading out a program represented by software for achieving the present invention from a database on a network by a communication program, the system or apparatus can be
It is possible to enjoy the effects of the present invention.

[0091]

As described above, the first embodiment according to the present invention is described.
According to the invention, the first control means sorts the recording medium conveyed from the composite image processing apparatus into a plurality of paper discharge positions based on the discharge instruction information transferred from the composite image processing apparatus, and controls the paper discharge. Discharge information indicating a discharge state by the first control means is stored in a storage means, and the discharge information stored in the storage means is displayed on a display unit by the second control means for each discharge position. Therefore, it is possible for the user to easily grasp the output state at each sheet discharge position.

According to the second aspect, the composite image processing apparatus has a facsimile receiving function, and the discharge instruction information transferred from the composite image processing apparatus includes a facsimile reception telephone number; Since the paper discharge information displayed and controlled on the display unit by the control means includes the facsimile reception telephone number, the user can easily grasp the desired paper discharge position of the facsimile output.

According to the third aspect, the composite image processing apparatus has a printer function of executing a printer output based on a request from a predetermined apparatus connected via a predetermined communication medium, and The discharge instruction information transferred from the printer includes the name of the device that has requested the composite image processing apparatus to perform printer output, and the discharge information controlled to be displayed on the display unit by the second control means is a printer output device. Since the name is included, it is possible for the user to easily grasp the discharge position of the desired printer output.

According to the fourth aspect, the composite image processing apparatus has a copy function, and the discharge instruction information transferred from the composite image processing apparatus includes a box number in which a copy password is set, The discharge information displayed and controlled on the display unit by the second control means includes the box number in which the password is set, so that the user can easily grasp the discharge position of the desired copy output. I do.

According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided detecting means for detecting a recording medium discharged to a discharge position, and the second control means controls the discharge of the recording medium based on a detection result of the detecting means. If it is determined that the recording medium based on a plurality of jobs has been discharged to the position, the discharge state information based on each job is alternately displayed on the display unit. It is possible to easily grasp the plurality of output results.

According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided detecting means for detecting the recording medium discharged to the discharge position, wherein the control means discharges the recording medium to the discharge position based on the detection result of the detecting means. The stacking state of the printed recording medium is determined, and the discharge state information displayed on the display unit is updated based on the determination result, so that the user can accurately grasp the output state for each discharge position. Make it possible.

According to the seventh aspect, the recording medium conveyed from the composite image processing apparatus is sorted into a plurality of discharge positions and discharged based on the discharge instruction information transferred from the composite image processing apparatus. The discharge information indicating the paper state is stored in the memory, and the discharge information stored in the memory is displayed on the display unit for each discharge position, so that the user can easily grasp the output state of each discharge position. It is possible to do.

Therefore, when the user obtains the output paper, it is possible to confirm the output destination of the output result at a glance, and to obtain the output result easily in a short time.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a composite image processing apparatus to which a paper ejection device according to an embodiment of the invention can be applied.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a configuration of a reader unit and a printer unit of the composite image processing apparatus shown in FIG. 1, and the same components as those in FIG. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a reader unit of the composite image processing apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1 in detail.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a core unit of the composite image processing apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1 in detail.

FIG. 5 is a plan view showing an operation panel of the operation unit shown in FIG. 3;

FIG. 6 is a plan view for explaining in detail an operation screen displayed on the display with a touch panel shown in FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating the configuration of the sorter shown in FIG. 2 in detail.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating in detail a configuration of a sorter of the composite image processing apparatus illustrated in FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a plan view showing a configuration of an operation panel of the sorter shown in FIG.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a sheet discharge control operation of the sheet discharge control device according to the present invention.

11 is a schematic diagram of a facsimile discharge position setting screen displayed on the display with a touch panel shown in FIG. 6;

12 is a schematic diagram of a printer discharge position setting screen displayed on the display unit of the PC / WS shown in FIG.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation display reset control operation of the sheet discharge control device according to the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Reader part 2 Printer part 3 Image input / output control part 4 Facsimile part 5 File part 6 External storage device 7 Computer interface part 8 Formatter part 9 Image memory part 220 Sorter

──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁶ Identification symbol FI H04N 1/00 108 H04N 1/00 108Q (72) Inventor Yuka Nagai 3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo Canon Inc. (72) Inventor Satoshi Okuma 3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo Inside Canon Inc.

Claims (7)

[Claims] 1. A discharge processing apparatus for performing predetermined discharge processing on a recording medium conveyed from a composite image processing apparatus having a plurality of different functions, based on discharge instruction information transferred from the composite image processing apparatus. Control means for sorting the recording medium conveyed from the composite image processing apparatus into a plurality of discharge positions and controlling the discharge, and storage means for storing discharge information indicating a discharge state by the first control means And a second control unit for controlling the display of the discharge information stored in the storage unit on a display unit for each discharge position. 2. The composite image processing apparatus has a facsimile receiving function, the discharge instruction information transferred from the composite image processing apparatus includes a facsimile reception telephone number, and the second control means displays the information on a display unit. 2. The paper ejection processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the paper ejection information to be displayed includes a facsimile reception telephone number. 3. The composite image processing apparatus has a printer function of executing a printer output based on a request from a predetermined apparatus connected via a predetermined communication medium, and a paper output transferred from the composite image processing apparatus. The instruction information includes a name of a device that has requested the composite image processing device to perform a printer output, and the discharge information controlled to be displayed on a display unit by the second control unit includes a printer output device name. 2. The sheet discharging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: 4. The composite image processing apparatus has a copy function, the discharge instruction information transferred from the composite image processing apparatus includes a box number in which a copy password is set, and the second control unit. 2. The paper ejection processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the paper ejection information controlled to be displayed on the display unit includes a box number in which a password is set. 5. A printing apparatus comprising: a detecting unit configured to detect a recording medium discharged to a discharge position, wherein the second control unit outputs a plurality of jobs to the discharge position based on a detection result of the detection unit. 2. The sheet discharge processing device according to claim 1, wherein when it is determined that the recording medium based on the job is discharged, the discharge state information based on each job is alternately displayed on the display unit. 6. A detecting means for detecting a recording medium discharged to a discharging position, wherein the control means detects a recording medium based on a detection result of the detecting means.
2. The sheet discharging process according to claim 1, wherein a stacking state of the recording medium discharged to the sheet discharging position is determined, and the sheet discharging state information displayed on a display unit is updated based on the determination result. apparatus. 7. A method of controlling a paper ejection processing apparatus for performing a predetermined paper ejection process on a recording medium conveyed from a composite image processing apparatus having a plurality of different functions, comprising: a paper ejection instruction transferred from the composite image processing apparatus; A paper discharge step of sorting and discharging a recording medium conveyed from the composite image processing apparatus to a plurality of paper discharge positions based on information; a storage step of storing paper discharge information indicating the paper discharge state in a memory; A display step of displaying, on a display unit, the discharge information stored in the display unit for each discharge position.