JPH11313068A - Image processing system and control method - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To solve the situation in which data can not be transferred due to the shortage of a channel number by deciding a channel number that is allocated to a 1st communicating means among transfer channels secured by a 2nd communicating means and reallocating it when transfer channels secured by the 1st communicating means are in short supply. SOLUTION: A computer 101 is connected to an image reader 102 through a fast serial communication I/F 105. The reader 102 is connected to an image forming device 103 through a fast serial communication I/F 106. For instance, when transfer channels secured by the reader 102 are in short supply, the computer 101 decides a channel number to be allocated for the reader 102 among transfer channels secured by the device 103 and notifies the device 103 of the channel number together with a reallocation request. The device 103 secures channel numbers once again based on the notified channel number in response to the reallocation request.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image processing system for transmitting and receiving image data via communication and a control method therefor, and more particularly to a method for transmitting image data to an electrophotographic printer for printing. In addition, the present invention relates to an image processing system which needs to send a large amount of data over a communication path and guarantee a lower limit of a data transfer rate, and a control method therefor.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, in order to perform high-speed data transfer,
High-speed serial communication such as the IEEE1394 system has begun to be used.

[0003] Further, in a system such as USB or IEEE1394, there is provided a mechanism for realizing data transfer with a secured data transfer rate, such as an isochronous transfer mode. In the isochronous transfer mode, by securing the required number of channels that can always perform data transfer every specified cycle time,
For example, image data can be transferred from the image reading device to the computer or from the computer to the image forming device while securing a data transfer rate corresponding to the processing capability of the device.

[0004]

In a high-speed serial communication such as the IEEE 1394 system, the number of channels that can always transfer data at a specified cycle time is limited. However, if there is a device that has previously secured channels, another device may not be able to secure the required number of channels later.

The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned conventional example. If there is a device that cannot secure the required number of channels, the channels are redistributed including the device that has already secured the channel, and the number of channels is reduced. It is an object of the present invention to provide an image processing system capable of resolving a situation where data cannot be transferred and a control method thereof.

[0006]

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention has the following arrangement. That is, an image processing system including a plurality of devices connected by a communication path having a plurality of transfer channels, wherein a transfer channel is secured, a first communication unit that performs communication on the channel, and a transfer channel is secured. Second communication means for performing communication on the channel, and channel redistribution means for redistributing the transfer channel, wherein the second communication means transmits the information of the transfer channel secured for communication to the channel. Notifying the distributing means, the channel redistributing means, if the transfer channel secured by the first communication means is insufficient, the first communication means of the transfer channels secured by the second communication means. The number of channels to be allocated for the means is determined, and the number of channels is notified to the second communication means together with a redistribution request. Means, in response to said redistribution request, again to ensure the channel based on the number of channels notified.

[0007] Alternatively, a first communication means comprising a plurality of devices connected by a communication path having a plurality of transfer channels, securing a transfer channel and performing communication on the channel, and securing a transfer channel, And a second communication unit for performing communication by using the second communication unit when the transfer channel secured by the first communication unit is insufficient. Among the transfer channels, the number of channels to be allocated for the first communication means is determined, the number of channels is notified to the second communication means together with the redistribution request, and the number is notified according to the redistribution request. The securing of the channel is performed again by the second communication means based on the number of channels.

[0008] Alternatively, a plurality of devices are connected by a communication path having a plurality of communication channels, and a data transfer source device secures a number of channels corresponding to a data transfer rate from the plurality of transfer channels. In the system, register the number of channels secured by each device, and if there is a device that cannot secure the required number of channels, issue a redistribution request along with the number of channels to be redistributed to the device that has already secured channels. And a communication management method characterized by redistributing channels for the device and a device for which the required number of channels cannot be secured when the device responds to the redistribution request.

Alternatively, a plurality of devices are connected by a communication path having a plurality of communication channels, and a data transfer source device secures a number of channels corresponding to a data transfer rate from the plurality of transfer channels. In the system, register the number of channels secured by each device, and if there is a device that cannot secure the required number of channels, make a redistribution request along with the number of channels to be redistributed to the device that has already secured channels. When the device is issued and the device responds to the redistribution request, the channel is redistributed for the device and the device for which the required number of channels cannot be secured.

[0010] Alternatively, a first communication means comprising a plurality of devices connected by a communication path having a plurality of transfer channels, securing a transfer channel and performing communication on the channel, and securing a transfer channel, In the image processing system provided with the second communication means for performing communication by the computer, if the transfer channel secured by the first communication means is insufficient, the second communication means
A program for determining the number of channels to be allocated for the first communication means among the transfer channels secured by the communication means and notifying the second communication means of the number of channels together with a redistribution request is stored. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized by:

[0011]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of an image processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. In the figure, a computer 101 is a computer that is usually used by a user.
It is connected via a high-speed serial communication I / F 105 to an image reading device 102 such as an image scanner which digitizes and outputs an image signal read by a CD or the like. Further, the image reading apparatus 102 is connected to an image forming apparatus 103 such as an electrophotographic printer by a high-speed serial communication I / F 10.
6 are connected. Also, the computer 101
Is connected via a high-speed serial communication I / F 104, and the image forming apparatus 103 is connected to another device (not shown) as needed via a high-speed serial communication I / F 107.

With this configuration, the computer 101 is also connected to the image forming apparatus 103. Image forming apparatus 103
Has a function of printing an image or the like created by a computer. When printing a document or image created by the computer 101, the image forming apparatus 103 receives image forming data from the computer 101 via the high-speed serial communication 1 / F 105 and 106, performs necessary image processing, and performs printing. I do.

The high-speed serial communication I / Fs 104, 105,
Reference numerals 106 and 107 denote communication I / Fs provided with a mechanism for securing a data transfer rate, such as an isochronous transfer mode such as USB or IEEE1394, and generally have a high-speed serial bus configuration. High-speed serial communication I /
In the present embodiment, it is assumed that an IEEE 1394 serial bus is used as F.

<Configuration of Computer> Next, the computer 101 will be described with reference to FIG.

The CPU 201 is control means for controlling the entire computer. The CPU bus 202 has a CP
U201, cache memory 203, bus bridge 20
4 are connected to each other to transfer data processed by the CPU 201 at high speed.

Cache memory (first storage means) 20
Reference numeral 3 denotes a memory that can be accessed from the CPU 201 at high speed, and temporarily stores data used by the CPU 201 for calculation. Generally, a high-speed SRAM or the like is used.

The bus bridge 204 is connected to the CPU bus 202.
And a high-speed bus 206 described later, which absorbs a difference in processing speed between the buses. Through the bus bridge 204, the CPU 201 operating at a higher speed can send and receive data to and from each unit connected to the high-speed bus 206. Also,
The bus bridge 204 also has a memory controller function. The CPU 201 reads out data temporarily written at high speed in the cache memory 203 at a predetermined time and writes the data into the main memory 205 at a predetermined time. Performs a series of memory management operations of writing the data read from the main memory 205 to the cache memory 203 in response to the command.

The main memory (second storage means) 205 stores C
A memory in which data and programs are stored in order for the PU 201 to execute various applications and the like. Generally, a DRAM or the like is used.

The high-speed bus 206 includes a bus bridge 204,
Network I / F 207, high-speed serial communication unit 20
8, a high-speed bus connecting the display unit 210 and the bus bridge 211, for transferring data processed by the CPU 201 to each unit and for transferring data between units at high speed (DMA transfer). Generally PC
I-bus and the like.

The network I / F 207 is an interface for connecting the computer 101 to a network, and transmits and receives data to and from the network. Generally, the network to be connected includes Ethernet, token ring, and the like.

The high-speed serial communication unit 208 is an IEEE1
A mechanism for performing data transfer with a secured data transfer rate, such as the 394 isochronous transfer mode, is provided so that a large amount of image data can be transmitted and received at high speed within a predetermined time. The isochronous transfer mode is a transfer mode in which a channel whose data transfer cycle is guaranteed is secured, and data packets are broadcast-transmitted over a network using this channel. The data transfer rate can be increased by securing the required number of channels.

Further, the high-speed serial communication unit 208
As in the asynchronous transfer mode of EE1394,
A mechanism for performing one-to-one asynchronous transfer is also provided, and predetermined communication with the image reading apparatus 102 and the image forming apparatus 103 can be performed at any time. Data transfer is performed using packets.

As the high-speed serial communication unit 208, an IEEE 1394 serial bus or the like is generally used.
In this embodiment, it is assumed that an IEEE 1394 serial bus is used. High-speed serial communication connectors 209 and 21
0 is for connecting the high-speed serial communication interface 105 and the computer 101.

The display unit 211 includes a liquid crystal display device, a speaker, and the like, and displays necessary characters, images, sounds, and the like in accordance with the execution of the program by the CPU 201.

The bus bridge 212 is a bus bridge for connecting the high-speed bus 206 and a low-speed bus 213 to be described later, and absorbs a difference in processing speed between the buses.
Through this bus bridge 212, each unit operating at a high speed can transmit and receive data to and from a unit operating at a low speed connected to the low-speed bus 213.

The low-speed bus 213 includes a bus bridge 212,
A low-speed bus connecting the hard disk 214, the operation unit 215, and the computer interface 216,
This bus has a lower transfer speed than 06 and is connected to a unit having a relatively low processing capacity. Generally, an ISA bus or the like is used.

Hard disk (third storage means) 214
Stores a plurality of application programs, data, and the like for the CPU 201 to operate. Generally, it is composed of a large-capacity hard disk and is under the control of the CPU 201.

The operation unit 215 includes a keyboard, a microphone, and the like, and performs input of various settings necessary for the operation of the computer 101 and input of various operation instructions to the CPU 201.

The low-speed computer interface 216
Connects the computer 101 and peripheral devices. In general, there are RS-232C for performing serial communication, a Centronics interface for performing parallel communication, and the like.

<Configuration of Image Reading Apparatus> Next, the above-described image reading apparatus 102 will be described with reference to FIG.

The CPU 301 controls the entire image forming apparatus and operates on a real-time OS.

The main memory 302 is a work memory on which the CPU 301 operates, and can be accessed from the CPU 301 at high speed.

The hard disk 303 stores a plurality of application programs and the like, read image data, and the like for the operation of the CPU 301. Generally, it is composed of a large-capacity hard disk and is under the control of the CPU 301.

The display unit 304 is a liquid crystal display unit or the like, and the operation unit 305 has a touch panel input device attached on the liquid crystal display unit 304 and a plurality of hard keys. A signal input from the touch panel or the hard keys of the operation unit 305 is transmitted to the CPU 301 via the CPU bus 306. The liquid crystal display unit 304 displays image data read and transmitted from the main memory 302 or the hard disk 303 by the CPU 301. The liquid crystal display 304 displays a function display, image data, and the like in the operation of the image forming apparatus.

The operation unit 305 includes a digitizer and pen recognition (handwritten character recognition) means for pen input, a microphone and voice recognition means for voice input, an imaging means and image recognition means for image input, and the like. Input means may be provided.

The CPU bus 306 connects the CPU 301, the main memory 302, the hard disk 303, and each functional unit. The CPU bus 306 is for transferring data processed by the CPU 301 to each functional unit and for transferring data between each functional unit at high speed (DMA transfer).

The high-speed serial communication unit 308 has a mechanism for performing data transfer with a secured data transfer rate, such as the isochronous transfer mode, and can transmit and receive a large amount of image data at high speed within a predetermined time. The isochronous transfer mode is a transfer mode in which a channel whose data transfer cycle is guaranteed is secured, and a data packet is broadly transmitted using this channel. The data transfer rate can be increased by securing the required number of channels.

The high-speed serial communication unit 308 also includes a mechanism for performing one-to-one asynchronous transfer such as an isochronous transfer mode, and can perform predetermined communication with the computer 101 and the image forming apparatus 103 at any time. Data transfer is performed using packets.

As the high-speed serial communication section 308, IEEE1394 or the like is generally used. In this embodiment, it is assumed that IEEE1394 is used. The high-speed serial communication connectors 309 and 310 connect the image reading apparatus 102 to the computer 101 by the high-speed serial communication interface 105 and connect the image reading apparatus 102 to the image forming apparatus 1 by the high-speed serial communication interface 106.
03.

The image processing units 331, 332 and 333
The image data of each color received from the image reading units 341, 342, and 343 is subjected to various image processing such as shading correction processing, smoothing processing, edge processing, and color correction in accordance with a processing instruction instructed by the CPU 301, and then the high-speed Output from the serial communication unit 308. The image reading units 341, 342, and 343
The image processing unit 33 is configured by an image sensor such as a CD, and converts a read image signal into image data for each color.
1, 332 and 333, respectively.

Next, the mechanism of the image reading apparatus will be described with reference to FIG.

Document feeder 11 of image reading apparatus 102
Indicates the original platen glass 1
2, the original is discharged from the original platen glass 12 after the original reading operation is completed.

When the original is conveyed onto the original platen glass 12, a lamp provided in the scanner section 13 is turned on, and the scanner section 13 is started to move to scan the original.

The light reflected from the original at this time is guided to the image sensor 16 by a plurality of mirrors 14 and lenses 15. In this manner, the scanned image of the document is
Read by.

The image data output from the image pickup device 16 is subjected to a predetermined process, and then processed by a scanner I / F (not shown).
(Configured by a video I / F or a high-speed serial communication I / F).

<Configuration of Image Forming Apparatus> Next, the above-described image forming apparatus 103 will be described with reference to FIG.

The CPU 401 controls the entire image forming apparatus and operates on a real-time OS.

The main memory (first storage means) 402 is a CP
A work memory for the operation of the U401 and a CPU
It can be accessed at high speed from 401.

Hard disk (second storage means) 403
Stores a plurality of applications for the operation of the CPU 401. Generally, it is composed of a large-capacity hard disk and is under the control of the CPU 401.

The display unit 404 has a liquid crystal display unit, and the operation unit 405 has a touch panel input device attached on the liquid crystal display unit and a plurality of hard keys. The signal input by the touch panel or the hard key is transmitted to the CPU bus 4
06 to the CPU 401, and the liquid crystal display
The PU 401 displays image data read from the main memory 402 and / or the hard disk 403 and sent. The liquid crystal display unit 404 displays a function display, image data, and the like in the operation of the image forming apparatus.

The operation unit 405 includes a digitizer and pen recognition (handwritten character recognition) means for pen input, a microphone and voice recognition means for voice input, an imaging means and image recognition means for image input, and the like. Input means may be provided.

The CPU bus 406 is a CPU bus for connecting the CPU 401, the main memory 402, the hard disk 403, and each functional unit. The CPU bus 406 transfers data processed by the CPU 401 to each functional unit and exchanges data between the functional units. This is for transferring data at high speed (DMA transfer).

The high-speed serial communication unit 408 has a mechanism for performing data transfer with a secured data transfer rate, such as an isochronous transfer mode, and can transmit and receive a large amount of image data at high speed within a predetermined time. The isochronous transfer mode is performed by securing a channel whose data transfer cycle is guaranteed and broadcasting a data packet using this channel. The data transfer rate can be increased by securing the required number of channels.

The high-speed serial communication unit 408 also has a mechanism for performing one-to-one asynchronous transfer such as an asynchronous transfer mode, and can perform predetermined communication with the computer 101 at any time. Data transfer is performed using packets. As the high-speed serial communication unit 408, IEEE1394 or the like is generally used. In the present embodiment, the IEEE 139 is used as the high-speed serial communication unit 408.
4 is used.

High-speed serial communication connectors 409 and 41
Numeral 0 indicates that the image forming apparatus 103 is connected to the image reading apparatus 102 by the high-speed serial communication interface 106.

Image processing units 431, 432, 433, 43
4 performs various types of image processing such as smoothing processing, edge processing, and color correction on the image data of each color input from the high-speed serial communication unit 408 in accordance with processing instructions instructed by the CPU 401.

Image formation 441, 442, 443, 444
Forms an image of the received image data as visible image data on recording paper for each color. As an image forming system, there is an electrophotographic technology system in which a latent image is formed on a photosensitive drum using laser light or LED light and an image is formed on recording paper.

Next, the mechanism of the image forming apparatus will be described with reference to FIG.

In the image forming apparatus 103, a laser beam or a laser beam is supplied in accordance with image data of each color inputted from a printer I / F (not shown) (configured by a video I / F or a high-speed serial communication I / F). The LED light is emitted by the light emitting units 21, 22, 23, and 24, respectively.

The laser light or LED light is applied to photosensitive drums 29, 30, 31, 32, respectively, and latent images corresponding to the laser light or LED light are formed on photosensitive drums 29, 30, 31, 32, respectively. You.

The latent image portions of the photosensitive drums 29, 30, 31, and 32 are respectively provided with developing units 25, 26, 27, and 28.
Causes the developer to adhere.

Then, at a timing synchronized with the start of the irradiation of the laser light or the LED light, the recording paper is fed from either the paper feed cassette 41 or the paper feed cassette 42, and is transferred by the transfer belt 33, 34 by the transport belt 43. , 35, and 36, and transfers the developer adhered to the photosensitive drums 29, 30, 31, and 32 onto recording paper.

The recording paper on which the developer is loaded is conveyed to the fixing unit 37, and the developer is fixed on the recording paper by the heat and pressure of the fixing unit 37.

The recording paper that has passed through the fixing section 37 is discharged by discharge rollers 38, and the sorter 53 stores the discharged recording paper in each bin and sorts the recording paper.

When double-sided recording is set,
After the recording paper that has passed through the fixing unit 37 is once conveyed toward the conveyance switching unit 39, the rotation direction of the paper feed roller is reversed, and the recording paper is guided from the conveyance switching unit 39 to the re-feeding conveyance path 40.

When multiple recording is set, the recording paper is guided to the re-feeding conveyance path 40 without being conveyed to the discharge roller 38.

The recording paper guided to the re-feeding conveyance path 40 is fed at the timing described above, and is sequentially conveyed to the transfer units 33, 34, 35, and 36 by the conveyance belt 43.

In the description of FIGS. 17 and 18, the image reading apparatus and the image forming apparatus are described as being separated from each other. However, the image reading apparatus and the image forming apparatus are combined and integrally formed. It does not matter if the configuration is changed. In this case, the image data read by the image reading device can be directly sent to the image forming device to be copied, or the image reading device and the image forming device can be used as independent devices.

The operation of the system according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

<Operation of Computer> (Command Processing) FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a main routine of the computer 101. The operation of the computer 101 will be described with reference to FIG.

When the power of the computer 101 is turned on, C
The PU 201 initializes flags, registers, control variables, and the like, loads a control program such as an operating system stored in a part of the area of the hard disk 214 into the main memory 205, and loads it into a bus bridge having a memory controller function. The data is once read into the cache memory 203 by a predetermined amount via the system 204 and then executed. And the CPU 201
Are initialized (S101).

The CPU 201 has a high-speed serial communication I / F
Computers 104, 105, 106, and 107
01 is connected to a new device including itself (S
102), a device search process S103 is performed. Details of the device search processing S103 will be described later with reference to FIG.

The CPU 201 uses a key, a touch panel, a digitizer, and the like provided in the operation unit 215 to input a command for executing other processing, not a command input for designating and opening an image file to be printed. If (S104), various processes corresponding to the input command are executed (S105).
Return to

If the input from the keys, touch panel, digitizer, etc. of the operation unit 215 is an input for designating and opening an image file to be printed (S10
4) The CPU 201 transfers the designated image file from the hard disk 214, via the network 207, or the high-speed serial communication I / Fs 104 and 10.
5, and is read into the main memory 205 (S106).

The CPU 201 determines that the input from the operation unit 215 is not a command input for printing an opened image file or a close command for closing an opened image file, but a command for executing other processing. If it is an input or the like (S107, S10
8) Perform various processes according to the input (S110), and return to S107 after performing the various processes.

If the input from the operation unit 215 is a close command for closing the opened image file (S107), the CPU 201 closes the image file read into the main memory 205, and the unnecessary main memo becomes unnecessary. Ri 2
The area 05 is released (S109). At this time, if you need to change and save the contents of the image file,
On the hard disk 214 or on the network 207
Or via the high-speed serial communication I / Fs 104 and 105 as a new image file (S109).

If the input from the operation unit 215 is to store an image obtained by scanning a document by the image reading apparatus 102 in the opened image file (S1).
07, S108), the CPU 201
Scan processing S111 for receiving image data using one or more channels from 2 is performed, and the process returns to S107 after the execution of the scan processing. This scan processing S11
Details of 1 will be described later with reference to FIG.

If the input from the operation unit 215 is an input for printing the opened image file by the image forming apparatus 103 (S 107, S 108), C
The PU 201 uses the high-speed serial communication unit 208 to perform a channel acquisition process S112 on the high-speed serial communication I / Fs 104 and 105 to acquire a required number of channels used for data transfer in the isochronous transfer mode. The details of the channel acquisition processing S112 will be described later with reference to FIG.

If there is a problem in channel acquisition (S
113), the CPU 201 gives a predetermined warning using images, sounds, and texts on the display unit 211 (S114),
It returns to S107.

If there is no problem in acquiring the channel (S113), the CPU 201 enters the number for identifying the acquired single or plural channels into the high-speed serial communication section 208, the high-speed serial communication connector 210, and the high-speed serial communication I / F 105. Is notified to the image forming apparatus 103 using a one-to-one asynchronous transfer such as an asynchronous transfer mode (S115).

The CPU 201 sets the operation mode in the printing operation based on the acquired one or more channels (S116).

Subsequently, the CPU 201 sets the image forming apparatus 10
The image data is transferred to the image forming apparatus 103 using the single or plural channels notified to 3, and the image forming apparatus 103 performs print processing S117 for printing the image data. After the print processing is completed, the process returns to S107. Details of the print processing S119 will be described later with reference to FIG.

(Device Searching Process) FIG.
3 shows a detailed flowchart of a device search process at 03.

The CPU 201 is connected to the high-speed serial
8, the high-speed serial communication I / Fs 104, 105, 1
A scanner newly connected to the devices 06 and 107 is a scanner which is an image reading device capable of reading and transmitting image data, and a printer which is an image forming device capable of receiving and printing image data. An inquiry is made as to whether the device is a device such as (S201).

A scanner such as a target image reading device or a printer such as an image forming device, for example, the image reading device 10
2 and the image forming apparatus 103 are connected to the high-speed serial communication I / F 1
If it exists on the devices 04, 105, 106 and 107 (S202), the CPU 201 subsequently inquires for device information (S203). Image reading device 102
When the device information is returned from the image forming apparatus 103 (S204), the returned device information is stored in a part of the area of the main memory 205 (S205).

In the case of a scanner such as an image reading apparatus, the device device information includes the resolution and the number of lines of the reading elements, the type of color filter, the distance between the reading elements, the reading speed, and the amount of deviation correction between the reading elements. , White balance correction value, shading correction value, operation mode information, and the like. On the other hand, in the case of a printer such as an image forming apparatus, the number of photosensitive drums, the type of image forming color, the distance between each photosensitive drum, the speed of image formation, the amount of misregistration correction between each photosensitive drum, the operation mode information, etc. It is included in the device information.

The CPU 201 is a logical device for the image reading device 102 and the image forming device 103 used in the operating system to read and receive the image data or to transfer and print the image data. Is created (S206).

Further, the CPU 201 stores the used channel information returned from the created one or more logical devices in a part of the area of the main memory 205 (S20).
7) A channel assignment table is created according to the fetched used channel information (S208), and the device search processing routine S103 ends.

This used channel information includes the number of channels used by each device for data transfer in the isochronous transfer mode. Then, by referring to the channel assignment table, it is possible to know the number of used channels and the used channel number of each device. FIG. 16 shows an example of the channel assignment table. Note that FIG.
Is a list of the number of acquired channels for each device, but of course, it may be a list of acquired channel numbers for each device or a list including both the acquired channel number and the acquired channel number. . FIG.
6 shows an example in which a host C, a scanner B and two printers A and B are connected. The scanner has 3 channels,
One channel is allocated to the printer B.

A device such as an image forming apparatus is a high-speed serial communication I / F 104, 105, 106, or 10
7 (S202), or if there is no reply of the device information (S204), the CP
U201 issues a predetermined warning using images, sounds, and texts on the display unit 211 (S209), and then ends the device search processing routine S103.

(Channel Acquisition Processing) FIG.
11 shows a detailed flowchart of a channel acquisition process in 112.

The CPU 201 reads the channel assignment table stored in a part of the area of the main memory 205 (S301), and determines the number of channels required for data transfer to the printer device in the isochronous transfer mode by using the contents of the channel assignment table. (S30)
2).

If the required number of available channels is determined (S303), the CPU 201 acquires an available channel according to the required number of channels (S304). If there is no necessary number of available channels (S303), S
Proceed to 306.

When the required number of channels has been secured (S305), the state after the channel allocation is updated and written into the channel allocation table stored in a part of the area of the main memory 205 (S310). The acquisition processing routine S112 ends.

If the required number of channels cannot be secured (S305), the CPU 201 determines from the contents of the channel assignment table whether there is any channel that can be redistributed among the channels acquired by other devices. (S306).

For example, if a certain scanner device has reserved a channel, and if it is possible to temporarily stop the operation of the scanner device, it is possible to have the user access the channel while the scanner device is stopped. Become. For example, data can be transferred to a printing device and printed using the channel provided by the user. In this way, it is determined whether or not there is a channel that can be redistributed, such as a channel that has been acquired by another device and that is completely or temporarily unused.

If it is determined that channel redistribution is possible (S306), the CPU 201 allocates channels among devices including itself (S307).
According to the result, a request for channel redistribution is made to another device (S308). If there is a notification from another device that the redistribution is permitted (S309), the updated status of the redistributed state is written in the channel allocation table (S310), and the channel acquisition processing routine S112 ends.

When it is determined from the contents of the channel assignment table that channel redistribution is not possible (S30)
6) Or, when there is no notification from another device to permit redistribution (S309), the CPU 201 sets a channel acquisition error flag (S311), and ends the channel acquisition processing routine S112.

According to the above procedure, when data is transferred in the isochronous mode to the image forming apparatus, channels necessary for securing a required data transfer rate are allocated.

(Scan Process) FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the operation of S111 in FIG.
2 shows a detailed flowchart of the scanning process in FIG.

The CPU 201 is connected to the high-speed serial communication section 20.
8, the high-speed serial communication I / Fs 104, 105, 1
Through 06 and 107, the intended image reading device,
For example, the image reading apparatus 102 is requested to send the scanner status using the asynchronous transfer mode (S501).

If the status of the READY state indicating the completion of preparation is returned from the image reading apparatus 102 (S5)
02), the CPU 201 sends a scan start command to the image reading apparatus 102 using the asynchronous transfer mode (S503).

If the status of the READY state is not returned from the image reading device 102 (S502), the process proceeds to S5.
Proceed to 15.

Within a predetermined time (S505), the number for identifying one or more channels used in the isochronous transfer mode acquired by the image reading apparatus 102 is:
High-speed serial communication I / F 10 from image reading device 102
If the notification has been made using the asynchronous transfer mode via 4, 105, 106 and 107 (S504), C
The PU 201 stores the number for identifying the notified channel in a part of the area of the main memory 205, and performs a predetermined setting required for receiving the image data using the isochronous transfer mode (S506).

If the CPU 201 is in a busy state in which data cannot be received from the image reading apparatus 102 (S
507), the busy status is notified to the image reading apparatus 102 using the asynchronous transfer mode (S50).
8) Return to S507.

When data can be received,
The CPU 201 cancels the busy status (S50
7). As a result, image data starts to be transmitted from the image reading apparatus 102 in the isochronous transfer mode, and the high-speed serial communication unit 208 starts receiving image data (S509). The CPU 201 sequentially stores data received in the isochronous transfer mode in the main memory 20.
5 (S510).

If there is no problem in receiving image data from the image reading device 102 (S511), the image reading device 10
From step 2, the process returns to step S 507 to continue the series of processing until the end of scanning is notified using the asynchronous transfer mode (S 513).

When the end of scanning is notified from the image reading apparatus 102 (S513), the CPU 201 sends a scan stop command to the image reading apparatus 102 using the asynchronous transfer mode (S514).

In a case where there is no notification of a number for identifying a channel used in the isochronous transfer mode acquired by the image reading apparatus 102 within a predetermined time (S505) (S5).
04) Or, if there is a problem in receiving the image data from the image reading device 102 (S511), the CPU 2
01 notifies the image reading apparatus 102 of the error status using the asynchronous transfer mode (S51).
2) Then, a scan stop command is sent to the image reading apparatus 102 using the asynchronous transfer mode (S).
514).

Subsequently, if the next scan is to be performed (S515), the process returns to S501 to repeat a series of processes.

(Print Processing) FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the processing in S117 of FIG.
2 shows a detailed flowchart of the print processing in FIG.

The CPU 201 is connected to the high-speed serial communication section 20.
8, the high-speed serial communication I / Fs 104, 105, 1
A request is sent to the target image forming apparatus, for example, the image forming apparatus 103, for transmitting the printer status using the asynchronous transfer mode via steps 06 and 107 (S601).

If a ready status indicating completion of preparation is returned from the image forming apparatus 103 (S60)
2), the CPU 201 sends a print start command to the image forming apparatus 103 using the asynchronous transfer mode (S603). On the other hand, if the ready status is not returned from the image forming apparatus 103 (S602),
It proceeds to S613.

If a sheet-supply completion notification is received from the image forming apparatus 103 using the asynchronous transfer mode within a predetermined time (S605) (S604), the CPU 201
Starts transfer of image data to the image forming apparatus 103 in the isochronous transfer mode using one or more secured channels (S606).

During the transfer of the image data in the isochronous transfer mode, a notice of the printer busy is sent to the image forming apparatus 1.
03, using the asynchronous transfer mode (S607), and within a predetermined time (S608),
The transfer of image data in the isochronous transfer mode is temporarily stopped.

When the printer busy state continues even after the lapse of a predetermined time (S608), or when an input to stop printing is made by the operation means 215 (S6).
09), the CPU 201 gives a predetermined warning using images, sounds, and texts on the display unit 211 (S611).
A print stop command is sent to the image forming apparatus 103 to stop the printing operation (S612).

If there is no input of print stop by the operation unit 215 (S609), the process returns to S606 and repeats a series of processes until the transfer of image data is completed (S610).

When the transfer of the image data is completed (S6
10), the CPU 201 sends a print stop command to the image forming apparatus 103 to stop the printing operation (S612).

If the next print is to be executed (S613), the flow returns to S601 to repeat a series of operations.
If the next print is not to be performed (S613), the print processing routine S117 ends.

<Operation of Image Reading Apparatus> (Scan Processing) FIG. 10 shows a flowchart of a main routine of the image reading apparatus 102. This procedure is for reading an image and transmitting the read image data to the computer 101.

By turning on the power of the image reading apparatus 102,
The CPU 301 initializes flags, registers, control variables, and the like, executes a control program such as an operating system stored in a part of the area of the main memory 302, and initializes each unit of the image reading apparatus 102 (S7).
01).

The CPU 301 has a high-speed serial communication I / F
If new devices including the image reading device 102 are connected to the devices 104, 105, 106, and 107 (S70)
2) Perform device search response processing S703. The details of the device search response process S703 will be described later with reference to FIG. If there is no new device connection (S702), S7
Go to 04.

If there is a command requesting the printer status from the computer 101 via the high-speed serial communication I / Fs 105 and 106 (S704), the CP
U301 sends the status to the computer 101 using the asynchronous transfer mode (S705), and
Return to 2.

If a scan start is not commanded by an input operation to the operation unit 305 or a command from the computer 101 (S706), the process returns to S702.

If a scan start is instructed by an input operation to the operation unit 305 or a command from the computer 101 (S706), the CPU 301
Performs channel acquisition processing for acquiring the required number of channels used in the isochronous transfer mode on the high-speed serial communication I / Fs 105 and 106 by the high-speed serial communication unit 308 (S707).

If there is a problem in channel acquisition (S
708), the CPU 301 gives a predetermined warning using images, sounds, and texts on the display unit 304 (S709).
It returns to S702. If the scan start is commanded by a command from the computer 101, the error status is sent to the computer 101 using the asynchronous transfer mode (S709), and S70 is executed.
Return to 2.

If there is no problem in acquiring the channel (S708), the CPU 301 enters the number for identifying the acquired single or plural channels into the high-speed serial communication unit 308, the high-speed serial communication connector 310, and the high-speed serial communication I / F 105. The notification is sent to the computer 101 in the asynchronous transfer mode via (S710).

If a channel redistribution request command is received from another device connected by the high-speed serial communication I / F, for example, the computer 101, through the high-speed serial communication I / F 105 using the asynchronous transfer mode (S711). ), The CPU 301 performs a channel redistribution process S712 on one or more channels acquired in the channel acquisition process S707.
The details of the channel redistribution processing S712 will be described later with reference to FIG.

If there is no channel redistribution request (S711), the flow advances to S713.

The CPU 301 sets an operation mode in the scan operation based on the acquired one or more channels or, if channel redistribution is performed, based on the redistributed channels (S).
713).

Subsequently, the CPU 301
If the acquired channel notified to 01 or the channel redistribution is performed, the read image data is transferred to the computer 101 using the redistributed channel (S714).

The details of this scan execution processing will be described later with reference to FIG.

If the scanning operation is stopped by an input operation to the operation unit 305 or a command from the computer 101 (S715), the image reading apparatus 102 performs necessary predetermined end processing (S7).
19), and return to S702.

If there is a problem in the scan execution process S714 (S716), the CPU 301 notifies the computer 101 of an error status using the asynchronous transfer mode (S717), and performs a predetermined end process required in the image reading apparatus 102. After performing (S719), S7
Return to 02.

If there is no problem in the scan execution process S714 (S716) and it is necessary to continue the next scan (S718), the process returns to S714 to repeat a series of operations.

If it is not necessary to execute the next scan (S718), the image reading apparatus 102 performs necessary predetermined end processing (S719), and returns to S702.

(Device Search Response Processing) FIG.
15 is a detailed flowchart of a device search response process in S703 of FIG. 0 and S1103 of FIG.

When a command is received from the computer 101 using the asynchronous transfer mode via the high-speed serial communication I / Fs 105 and 106, the CPU 301
Alternatively, the CPU 401 interprets the received command (S801).

If the received command is a device inquiry command (S801), a reply to acknowledge is sent to the computer 101 using the asynchronous transfer mode.
(S802), and ends the device search response processing routines S703 and S1103. The device inquiry command refers to whether a scanner such as an image reading device capable of transferring read image data to the computer 101 or an image forming device capable of transferring image data from the computer 101 and printing the same. This command is used to inquire whether the printer is a printer.

If the received command is a command for inquiring about device device information (S801), the device device information is sent to the computer 101 using the asynchronous transfer mode (S803). In the case of a scanner such as an image reading device, the device device information includes the resolution and the number of lines of the reading element, the type of color filter, the distance between each reading element, the reading speed, the amount of deviation correction between each reading element, the white balance. A correction value, a shading correction value, operation mode information, and the like are included. On the other hand, in the case of a printer such as an image forming apparatus, the number of photosensitive drums, the type of image forming color, the distance between each photosensitive drum, the speed of image formation, the amount of misregistration correction between each photosensitive drum, operation mode information, etc. Is included in the device information.

When the reply of the device information is completed (S803), a device search response processing routine S703 is performed.
And S1103 are terminated.

If the received command is a command for inquiring the use channel information (S801),
The used channel information is sent to the computer 101 using the asynchronous transfer mode (S804). The used channel information reports the number of channels used by each device for data transfer on the high-speed serial I / F in which the data transfer cycle is guaranteed, such as in the isochronous transfer mode.

When the reply of the used channel information is completed (S804), a device search response processing routine S70 is performed.
3 and S1103 are terminated.

(Channel Redistribution Processing) FIG.
7 shows a detailed flowchart of channel redistribution processing in S712 of 0.

The CPU 301 has a high-speed serial communication I / F
Other devices, such as computer 101, connected by
From the information accompanying the channel redistribution request command notified using the asynchronous transfer mode via the high-speed serial communication I / F 105, the requested channel number is read (S401), and the acquired channel number acquired in S707 is referred to. (S402).

As a result of considering the combination of the number of acquired channels and the operation mode, if redistribution for the requested number of channels is not possible (S403), the CPU 301 notifies a channel redistribution error (S406), and the channel redistribution processing routine S712 To end.

As a result of considering the combination of the number of acquired channels and the operation mode, if redistribution to the number of requested channels is possible (S403), the CPU 301 resets the use channel allocation (S404). As a result, the number of channels required to execute the newly set operation mode can be secured, and as a result, one or more channels that can be accommodated can be provided to the request destination. .

Then, the CPU 301 notifies the request destination device, for example, the computer 101, of the channel number to be distributed (S405), and terminates the channel redistribution processing routine S712.

(Judgment of possibility of redistribution) Whether or not redistribution is possible depends on the number of channels requested to be redistributed,
It is determined by the balance with the number of channels that the image reading device can currently accommodate. If the number of requested channels is less than the number of channels that can be accommodated, redistribution is possible. The channels that can be accommodated are channels that are reserved but not currently used, or channels that are clearly redundant. For example, from the image reading device 102 to the computer 1
01, the image reading unit 341
In order to transmit image data in real time from the image processing units 331 to 343 through the image processing units 331 to 333, it is necessary to secure a transfer rate according to the resolution of the image reading unit and the scanning speed. Therefore, it is necessary to secure a sufficient number of channels to realize the transfer rate. However, if the hard disk 303 is used as a buffer and the image data once read is stored in the hard disk and transferred, the image data can be transmitted even if the transfer rate is reduced. Thus, for example, even if three channels are required in the real-time mode, one channel can be used in the buffering mode.

[0151] Such a situation is as follows. It can also be caused by image processing. For example, the image processing unit 331 to 333 converts the read image into two in the vertical and horizontal directions.
It is assumed that a reduction mode for reducing the image by a factor of 1 has been set. In this case, the transfer rate is only one-fourth that of normal image data. In addition, if the image processing unit or the communication unit 308 has a function of encoding image data, the required transfer rate varies depending on the encoding level. As an encoding function, a non-encoding mode in which no encoding is performed at all, a lossless compression mode in which image data amount is compressed to about half by reversible compression, and an image data amount is compressed to about 10% by irreversible compression. If irreversible compression mode etc. were prepared,
The required transfer rate differs depending on the compression mode used. For example, even if three channels are required in the non-compression mode, only two channels are required in the lossless compression mode and one channel is required in the irreversible compression mode.

As described above, the required number of channels differs depending on the operation mode of the image reading apparatus.

For this reason, for example, the image reading device 102
However, it is assumed that the maximum number of channels (three channels in the above example) required unconditionally for transferring image data is secured. When a redistribution request is received, an actually required transfer rate is calculated in consideration of the operation mode as described above. If the difference between the number of channels required to guarantee the transfer rate and the number of reserved channels is equal to or greater than the requested number of channels, the channels are redistributed in response to the channel redistribution request. And notifies the surplus channel number to the reallocation request source.

(Scan Execution Process) FIG. 13 is a detailed flowchart of the scan execution process in S714 of FIG.

The CPU 301 includes image reading units 341 and 3
An original image is read in accordance with 42 and 343 (S10).
01), and sends the read image data of each color to the image processing units 331, 332, and 333, respectively.

After performing predetermined image processing such as shading correction, white balance correction, and masking correction by the image processing means 331, 332, and 333, the CPU 3
01 transfers the image data to the computer 101 in the isochronous transfer mode via the high-speed serial communication unit 308, the high-speed serial communication connector 309, and the high-speed serial communication I / F 105 (S1002).

If a host busy state release command or the like is notified from the computer 101 using the asynchronous transfer mode within a predetermined time (S1006) and the host busy is not released (S1003), the CPU 301 sets an error flag (S1003). S1007), the scan execution processing routine S714 ends.

A host busy state release command is notified from the computer 101 using the asynchronous transfer mode (S1003). If image data transfer is normally performed (S1004), the CPU 301 continues until the image data transfer is completed. Returning to S1001, a series of operations is repeated.

If an error occurs during the transfer of the image data to the computer 101 (S1004), the CPU 30
1 sets an error flag (S1007), and ends the scan execution processing routine S714.

When the image data transfer is completed (S10
05), the scan execution processing routine S714 ends.

<Operation of Image Forming Apparatus> (Printing Operation) FIG. 14 shows the image forming apparatus 10 of this embodiment.
3 shows a flowchart of a main routine. The operation of the image forming apparatus 103 will be described with reference to FIG.

When the power of the image forming apparatus 103 is turned on, C
The PU 401 initializes flags, registers, control variables, and the like, executes a control program such as an operating system stored in a part of the area of the main memory 402, and initializes each unit of the image forming apparatus 103 (S110).
1).

The CPU 401 has a high-speed serial communication I / F
104, 105, 106 and 107, the image forming apparatus 1
03 (S11).
02), a device search response process S1103 is performed. The details of the device search response process S1103 are as described with reference to FIG. If no new device is connected (S1102), the process proceeds to S1104.

If the number identifying one or more channels used in the isochronous transfer mode acquired by the computer 101 is notified from the computer 101 via the high-speed serial communication I / Fs 105 and 106 using the asynchronous transfer mode. (S110
4) The number for identifying the notified channel is stored in a part of the area of the main memory 402, and a predetermined setting required for receiving the image data using the isochronous transfer mode is performed (S1105). If there is no notification of the number for identifying the channel (S1104), the process proceeds to S1106.

If a command is received from the computer 101 using the asynchronous transfer mode via the high-speed serial communication I / Fs 105 and 106 (S110)
6), the CPU 401 interprets the received command (S1).
107), if the received command is a command requesting the printer status (S1107), the status is transmitted to the computer 101 using the asynchronous transfer mode (S1107).
1108), and return to S1102.

If the command is a print start notification (S1107), print processing S1109 is performed. Details of the print processing S1109 will be described later with reference to FIG.

If there is a problem in the printing process S1109 (S1110), the CPU 401 notifies the computer 101 of an error status using the asynchronous transfer mode (S1111), and a predetermined end process required in the image forming apparatus 103. (S1113), and then S11
Return to 02.

There is no problem in the printing process S1109 (S11
10) If it is necessary to continue the next printing (S1112), the process returns to S1109 and repeats a series of operations.

If it is not necessary to execute the next printing (S1112), the image forming apparatus 103 performs necessary predetermined end processing (S1113), and returns to S1102.

(Print Processing) FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the operation of S110 in FIG.
9 shows a detailed flowchart of the printing process in FIG.

The CPU 401 performs a paper feeding process of taking out the recording paper from the paper feed cassette 41 or 42 and feeding the recording paper in order to sequentially transport the recording paper to the transfer units 33, 34, 35, and 36 of the image forming apparatus 103. (S1201).

The fed recording paper is transferred to the first transfer section 33.
Alignment of the leading end of the recording paper is performed by a registration roller in front of the printer. At this time, the completion of paper feeding is detected by the paper detector, and the CPU 401 is notified.

If the completion of paper feeding is detected within a predetermined time (S1203) (S1202), the CPU 401
Using the asynchronous transfer mode, the CPU 101 notifies the computer 101 via the high-speed serial communication I / Fs 105 and 106 of the completion of sheet feeding (S1204). Within a predetermined time (S
1203) If the completion of sheet feeding is not detected (S1)
202), the CPU 401 sets an error flag (S1).
212), and ends the print processing routine S1109.

If the CPU 401 is in a busy state in which data cannot be received (S1205), it notifies the computer 101 of the busy status using the asynchronous transfer mode (S1206), and returns to S1205.

If image data starts to be transmitted from the computer 101 in the isochronous transfer mode within a predetermined time (S1208), the high-speed serial communication unit 408 starts receiving image data. The image data is received by using the high-speed serial communication I / Fs 105 and 106, the high-speed serial communication connector 409 and the high-speed serial communication connector 409 using one or a plurality of channels acquired by the computer 101 in order to perform data transfer with a guaranteed data transfer cycle. This is performed via the serial communication unit 408.

When the image data is received in the isochronous transfer mode (S1207), the CPU 401
The received image data is sent from the high-speed serial communication unit 408 to the image processing units 431, 432, 433, and 434, and after performing predetermined image processing on the sent image data (S
1209), image forming units 441, 442, 443, 44
4 to form an image (S1210).

If a problem such as a jam occurs during image formation (S1211), the CPU 401 sets an error flag (S1212), and executes the print processing routine S11.
09 is ended.

To continue receiving image data (S12)
13) Return to S1205, and repeat a series of processing.

When the reception of the image data is completed (S1
213), and ends the print processing routine S1109.

As described above, in a system in which a plurality of devices are connected by a communication method such as an isochronous mode of an IEEE 1394 serial bus in which the bandwidth can be changed depending on the number of channels to be used, for example, image reading. From a device such as an apparatus that changes the necessary bandwidth according to the operation mode, another device can exchange the channels as necessary, thereby preventing the occurrence of a state in which data cannot be transferred due to a shortage of the number of channels. . In this way, any device can secure a necessary and sufficient number of channels, and can guarantee reliable data transfer.

<Variations of Embodiment> In the description of the above embodiment, the high-speed serial communication I / F
Computers 104, 105, 106, and 107
01, the image reading apparatus 102, and the image forming apparatus 103 are described as being connected to one each.
Of course, there is no problem even if the image reading apparatus and the image forming apparatus are each configured as a single or a plurality of combinations.

The high-speed serial communication I / Fs 104 and 1
There is no problem even if one or more devices other than the computer 101, the image reading device 102, and the image forming device 103 are connected to the devices 05, 106, and 107.

In these cases, similarly to the embodiment, the channels on the high-speed serial communication are dynamically redistributed among the connected devices.

In the description of the embodiment, the image data is transferred from the image reading device 102 to the computer 101. However, after the image data is once transferred from the image reading device to the server, the image data is transferred from the server. There is no problem even when the image data is transferred to the computer.

Further, there is no problem if the image data is transferred from the image reading device to the server after the command for commanding the image reading is transferred from the computer to the server.

In these cases, a configuration may be adopted in which a series of processing described in the embodiment of the present invention as being performed between the image reading device and the computer is realized between the image reading device and the server.

In the description of the embodiment, the image data is transferred from the computer 101 to the image forming apparatus 103. However, after the image data is once transferred from the computer to the server, the image formation is performed from the server. There is no problem even if the image data is transferred to the device.

Further, there is no problem in a configuration in which after the command for instructing image formation is transferred from the computer to the server, the image data is transferred from the server to the image forming apparatus.

In these cases, a configuration may be adopted in which a series of processing described in the embodiment of the present invention as being performed between the computer and the image forming apparatus is realized between the server and the image forming apparatus. Then, there is no problem even if a configuration for directly transferring image data from the image reading apparatus to the image forming apparatus is included. For example, when a plurality of combinations of the image reading device and the image forming device are connected to the high-speed serial communication I / F, the channels on the high-speed serial communication are dynamically redistributed for each combination.

Further, even if a computer or another device is connected to the combination of the image reading device and the image forming device, the channels in the high-speed serial communication are similarly dynamically redistributed. Become.

[0191]

[Other Embodiments] Even if the present invention is applied to a system including a plurality of devices (for example, a host computer, an interface device, a reader, a printer, etc.), an apparatus (for example, a copying machine) Machine, facsimile machine, etc.).

Further, an object of the present invention is to provide a storage medium storing a program code of software for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or an apparatus, and to provide a computer (or CPU) of the system or apparatus.
Or MPU) reads and executes the program code stored in the storage medium.

In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the functions of the above-described embodiment, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.

As a storage medium for supplying the program code, for example, a floppy disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, CD-ROM, CD
-R, a magnetic tape, a nonvolatile memory card, a ROM, or 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. ) Performs 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 case where the CPU of the function expansion board or the function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing, and the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by the processing.

[0197]

As described above, in a system in which a plurality of devices are connected by a communication system in which the bandwidth can be changed depending on the number of channels used, the required bandwidth depends on the operation mode. From the changing device, another device can exchange channels as needed, thereby preventing a state in which data cannot be transferred due to a shortage of the number of channels.

[0198]

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is an overall system configuration diagram of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a configuration block diagram of a computer according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a configuration block diagram of an image reading apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a main routine of the computer of the embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a device search routine of the computer of the embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a channel acquisition routine of the computer of the embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a scan routine of the computer of the embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart of a print routine of the computer of the embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart of a main routine of the image reading apparatus according to the embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart of a device search response routine of the image reading apparatus and the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart of a channel redistribution routine of the image reading apparatus according to the embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart of a scan execution routine of the image reading apparatus according to the embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart of a main routine of the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart of a printing routine of the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of a channel assignment table according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram showing a structure of a mechanical portion of the image reading apparatus.

FIG. 18 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a structure of a mechanism portion of the image forming apparatus.

[Explanation of symbols]

 Reference Signs List 101 computer 102 image reading device 103 image forming device 104 to 107 high-speed serial communication I / F 201 CPU 202 CPU bus 203 cache memory 204 bus bridge 205 main memory 206 high-speed bus 207 network I / F 208 high-speed serial communication unit 209, 210 High-speed serial communication connector 211 Display unit 212 Bus bridge 213 Low-speed bus 214 Hard disk 215 Operation unit 216 Computer I / F 301 CPU 302 Main memory 303 Hard disk 304 Display unit 305 Operation unit 306 CPU bus 308 High-speed serial communication unit 309, 310 High-speed serial Communication connectors 331 to 333 Image processing units 341 to 343 Image reading unit 401 CPU 402 Main memory 403 Hard disk 404 Display unit 405 Operation unit 406 CPU bus 408 High-speed serial communication unit 409, 410 High-speed serial communication connector 431 to 434 Image processing unit 441 to 444 Image forming unit

Claims (9)

[Claims] 1. An image processing system comprising a plurality of devices connected by a communication path having a plurality of transfer channels, wherein the first communication means secures a transfer channel and performs communication using the channel. And a channel redistribution unit for redistributing a transfer channel, wherein the second communication unit transmits information on the transfer channel reserved for communication. Notifying the channel redistribution unit, the channel redistribution unit, if the transfer channel secured by the first communication unit is insufficient, among the transfer channels secured by the second communication unit, The number of channels to be allocated for one communication means is determined, and the number of channels is notified to the second communication means together with a redistribution request. 2. The image processing system according to claim 2, wherein the communication unit re-secures channels based on the notified number of channels in response to the redistribution request. 2. The image processing system according to claim 1, wherein the communication path transfers data by isochronous transfer according to the IEEE 1394 standard. 3. The image processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the plurality of devices include a computer and an image reading device, and the second communication unit transfers image data read by the image reading device to the computer. The image processing system according to claim 1. 4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of devices include a computer and an image forming apparatus, and the first communication unit transfers image data to be formed by the image reading and forming apparatus from the computer. Items 1 to 3
The image processing system according to any one of the above. 5. A first communication means comprising a plurality of devices connected by a communication path having a plurality of transfer channels, securing a transfer channel and performing communication on the channel, and securing a transfer channel and securing the channel. And a second communication unit for performing communication by using the second communication unit when the transfer channel secured by the first communication unit is insufficient. Among the transfer channels, the number of channels to be allocated for the first communication means is determined, the number of channels is notified to the second communication means together with the redistribution request, and the number is notified according to the redistribution request. A method of controlling an image processing system, wherein securing of a channel is performed again by the second communication means based on the number of channels. 6. The control method for an image processing system according to claim 5, wherein said communication path transfers data by isochronous transfer of IEEE 1394 standard. 7. A data communication in which a plurality of devices are connected by a communication path having a plurality of communication channels, and a device as a data transfer source secures a number of channels corresponding to a data transfer rate from the plurality of transfer channels. In the system, register the number of channels secured by each device, and if there is a device that cannot secure the required number of channels, issue a redistribution request along with the number of channels to be redistributed to the device that has already secured channels. And a communication management method characterized by redistributing channels for the device and a device for which the required number of channels cannot be secured when the device responds to the redistribution request. 8. A data communication in which a plurality of devices are connected by a communication path having a plurality of communication channels, and a device as a data transfer source secures a number of channels corresponding to a data transfer rate from the plurality of transfer channels. In the system, register the number of channels secured by each device, and if there is a device that cannot secure the required number of channels, make a redistribution request along with the number of channels to be redistributed to the device that already has secured channels. A data communication system which issues a request and, when the device responds to the request for redistribution, redistributes channels for the device and a device for which the required number of channels cannot be secured. 9. A first communication means comprising a plurality of devices connected by a communication path having a plurality of transfer channels, securing a transfer channel and performing communication on the channel, and securing a transfer channel and securing the transfer channel. In the image processing system provided with the second communication means for performing communication by the computer, when the transfer channel secured by the first communication means is insufficient, the transfer channel secured by the second communication means Computer readable storage for storing a program for determining the number of channels to be allocated for the first communication means and notifying the second communication means of the number of channels together with a redistribution request. Medium.