JPS60114061A - Picture processing system - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To transmit multi-value picture information in a low-speed transmission form and to simplify the control constitution by constituting a transmission line connecting plural picture processing units of plural signal lines transmitting the picture information as the multi-value information and transmitting the information with a common synchronizing signal. CONSTITUTION:The signal line of a leader 1, which reads an original picture with an image sensor such as a CCD, is connected to a picture information memory device 2 (retention memory unit), and accumulates and outputs the picture information converted to an electric signal. The same signal line from the retention memory unit 2 is connected to a multi-input and multi-output device 3. From the multi-input and multi- output device 3, the signal line is connected to printers 4 and 5 which record the picture on the recorded material such as paper. Between respective units, a vertical synchronizing signal VSYNC for picture signal, a video-enable signal VE, picture signals VA and VB, a synchronizing signal VCLK for picture and a horizontal synchronizing signal BD which show 1 line of the picture are exchanged, and the serial control signal common to transmitting the picture signal is exchanged. Consequently, the input and output part for exchangeing these signals can be shared with respective units, and the connection and assembling of units can be freely executed.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to an image processing system, and more particularly to an image processing system that forms an image in accordance with an image signal output from an image output unit such as an image reading device.

Conventionally, an image processing device has been proposed that forms an image based on an image signal obtained by optically reading a document using an image sensor such as a CCD. There is a one-to-one correspondence, and for example, if multiple image formations are desired, one image formation is followed by reading and depositing the original document.

In addition, in such a system, when handling halftone images such as photographs, instead of binary white and black signals, six-value signals indicating the six densities of white, black, and gray, or higher multi-value signals are used. used. Such a multilevel signal has a larger amount of information than a binary signal, so information transmission must be made faster.

The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and includes an image processing system in which a plurality of image processing units are connected by an image transmission path, and the image transmission path has a plurality of It is composed of signal lines, and image information is transmitted over the plurality of signal lines using a common synchronization signal, so that multilevel image information can be handled in a relatively low-speed transmission format. This makes it possible to perform the following functions, and also simplifies the control configuration.

Hereinafter, the present invention will be explained in detail based on Examples.

Figure %1 is an external view of the system according to the present invention. C.C.
The signal line of the reader l that reads the original image with an image sensor such as D is an image information recorder tM device t (retention memory unit () tIetention Mem
ory Unit = I'L M U )) 2 and stores and outputs image information in which 1.4 is converted into a signal. A similar line 16 is connected from the retention memory unit 2 to the multiple input multiple output device 3. Multiple input multiple output device (Multi Input Multi 0
output unit = MIMOU) 3 to 16 to printers 4.5 to 16 that record images on recording materials such as paper.
lines are connected. In FIG. 1, one reader and two printers are connected to the multi-input and multi-output devices, but a combination of more or less devices is possible. Note that, as described later, in this implementation, the maximum number of connections is 4 readers and 8 printers.

In Figure 1, retention memory unit 2
is connected between the reader l and the multi-input multi-output device 30, but it is not limited to this position, and may be provided between the reader and the printer. For example, the multi-input multi-output device f3
It is also possible to connect between the printer 4 or 5 and the printer 4 or 5.

That is, as will be described later, between each unit, a vertical synchronizing signal VSYNC for image signals, a video enable signal E9 image signals VA and VB indicating one line of an image, a synchronizing signal VCLK for images, and a horizontal synchronizing signal BD are exchanged. Further, a common serial control signal is exchanged for transmitting the image signal. Therefore, the input/output section for exchanging these signals can be shared by each unit, thereby allowing units to be freely combined. In other words, by making the valleys of the image processing system 5dem into units and connecting them in the same form with the signal red, which has the same meaning, each unit can be easily installed and installed, and since they have the same form. It becomes possible to reduce costs.

In addition, by doing this, for example, it becomes possible to connect multiple multi-input and multi-output devices using IJT, making it possible to expand this system. , the retention memory unit 2, the multi-input multi-output device 3, and the printer 4.5 will be described in detail. 42 Figures +a) and (+1) are configuration diagrams showing examples of the internal configuration of the reader l. In this embodiment, in order to achieve high speed, high density, and d-scanning, the original image is read by two CCUs, and this is converted into one signal by J to generate an Il-image signal of 1 ray/Il-image signal. ing.

Let's start with the explanation of Fig. 2(a).

Gengaku Lens 10.11 is placed on a manuscript table (not shown) with +1 or n.
-xi original 441t with CCD12. The 0-source image used to form the Vζ image on 13 is moved by an optical system (not shown).
-Since it is a literary art of knowledge, the four views that are important to - are omitted0 CCD12. t3 #-1 The #flame' of the original image is touched by the air. This TtLA signal is j・a1 positive circuit 1
4.15, 4-width analog/digital skin display device (A/l)
)'& Shinbuki) On 16.17, the 11XI-J Rel was changed to the multivalued Nodental 1-I, which shows the sharpness of the drawing in both plans flJ.

Roughly, digital 1B@ke shading supplementary IE circuit 1
In 8.19, there are irregularities in the light source, irregularities in the luminous intensity of the optical system,
After the shading caused by +6 degree unevenness of the CCD has been removed, the 3 value conversion circuit 20.21
°1g nodigi l k l[ll! +aj! No. 46 VDt-AtQ, VI) t-BM & HiV D
2-A No. 14, Vl) are converted into z-B signals, respectively.

In the case of 3-level conversion, it is done by binarizing at a two-stage 2) point conversion level 71/;
2-J, 25 selects H [method using rounded/cuspified double annihilation levels within a fixed matrix size, the so-called dither method 2 @ t, 4 3114 conversion single layer The selection is switched at 22.23. The dither method is 2
This method is widely used for facsimile printing by using a 1st straight No. 14 scale to simulate the 1.11th key. Note that, as will be described later, there may be cases where it is not necessary to output a ternary I[IIl image, but rather to output a binary image signal. At this time, an appropriate dark value for binarization is stored in the latch circuit 26 or dither ROM.
Supplied from 24.25.

In this embodiment, it is possible to obtain an optimal copy image by selecting a method that gives a fixed binary level for text documents, etc., and a dithering method for documents that require gradation, such as photographs. It has become.

It is also possible to select such that the two stages of binarization levels given from the latch circuit 26 have the same value. The dither pattern 'ft stored at the address given by the counters 28 and 29 for counting the number of pixels is sequentially read out. still,
A latch circuit 30 is connected to the counter 29 to provide optimal count preset data to the counter 29 in order to prevent the dither pattern from being disturbed at the joint when combining the signals read by the CCD 12 and CCD 13 into one line. .

This latch circuit 30-? sOther latch circuits in FIG. 2 are connected to the CPU bus of the CPU 38.
Data is latched by U38. The CPU 38 is
It operates according to the control program programmed into ft0M39, and includes a RAM 40°I10 board 41, a timer circuit 42,
The entire reader is controlled using a serial circuit 43 and a key display drive circuit 44.

The CPU 38 performs adjustment and operation confirmation control based on the value set by the delag switch 46.

The key display drive circuit 44 is a key display drive circuit 44 that controls the key display drive circuit 44 of the operation unit 45.
This is a circuit for scanning the J-X and driving indicators such as LEDs. Further, the serial circuit 43 is a circuit used to give control commands to the printer, multiple input multiple output device, and retention memory unit, and conversely to receive information.

Timing is given to the oscillation circuit 32Fi, the CCD drive circuit 31 for driving the CCDs 12 and 13, and other parts that handle image signals. The oscillation signal is counted by a counter 33, and the count value is further input to a decoder 34 to generate various timings.

In the decoder 34, internal synchronization H for each l line in the sub-scanning direction
8 signals are generated and input to the selector 35. The selector 35 also receives a similar synchronizing signal BD double signal (described later) that is sent from the printer when the printer is connected, and the printer is directly connected to the league according to the procedure shown in the flowchart in Figure 12 of the CPU 38L. When a multi-input multi-output device or a HIJ tension memory unit is connected to the reader, the H8 signal is automatically selected. The selected signal is
It is used as a synchronization signal in the sub-scanning direction as HSBI No. 14. 11SBD signal Ir is also input to the power counter 38 and used as a count reset signal.

The counter 33 outputs an original clock that is a clock for inputting one image signal vDl signal and one VD2H2 signal to memories 60 to 63, which will be described later, and this original clock is passed through the rate multiplier 36 to the memory This becomes the input clock WCLK signal. rate·
The multiplier 36 divides the frequency of the input clock signal according to the value of an externally applied 1IiIj control signal (in this embodiment, the latch circuit 37) and outputs the result. In this embodiment, it is used to change the magnification of an image in the main scanning direction.

Next, a description will be given of (in Fig. 2).

Latch circuits 50, 51, 52rri, write and
Counter 53. Provide preset data for read counters 54 and 55. Light/force r) 7ta 53n, me%
'760~631CVJ) Signal to l-, V D l-
The memory address for writing the B%tl, Vl)2-A signal and VD2-B signal is generated by the WCLK signal from the rate multiplier 36 shown in FIG. 2(a). Read counters 54 and 55 conversely read the vDl signal, V'l', from memories 60-63.
)2(CT the memory address when reading the symbol,
It is generated by the K signal.

The memory address signals output from the write counter 53 and read counters 54 and 55 are sent to the selectors 56 to 55.
59 and selects the number 1d of either the write counter 53 or the read counter 54.55, and the memory 60
~63.

The memory consists of memory 60, 61 and memory 62.
The 0th set achieves signal speed conversion by performing a read operation.

- The memory of the set repeats the vow operation and the read operation from 1 to 1, and during the enlightenment operation, the write counter 53
In the read operation, signals from read counters 54 and 55 are selectively applied from selectors 56 to 59 to operate. The repetition control of the above-mentioned input operation and extension operation is performed by the above-mentioned H8BD signal.

VDt-A signal read from memories 60 to 63, V
The Dl, -B signals, Vl) 2-A signals, ■1) 2-B signals are input to the selector 70, where they are combined with the 1-line image signal, and further subjected to image processing such as image inversion and trimming processing. The signal is sent to a printer, a retention memory unit, or a multi-input multi-output device in a circuit 71 as ternary or 21-direct image signals Vl)A and VIJB, which are separated into two systems.

The oscillation circuit 66 generates an oscillation signal (no. 8 is emitted), which is the reference timing during the kneading operation. The oscillation signal is the Vl of the 2nd system pile.
A, common synchronization signal of VDl3, video clock (VC
LK) and is output to a printer or the like. Control circuit 67
is a /ζ-th circuit that performs fill-in control using the 11SHI) signal from the selector 35, and controls the left-margin counter 68,
Controls the operation of bit counter 69.

Rate multiplier 64, latch circuit 65n, lj
The rate multiplier 36 and latch circuit 37 described above generate a read clock (LCLKig) at the same time.

Further, a video enable (VB) signal, which will be explained in FIG. 7, is outputted from the control circuit 67 to a printer or the like.

In this way, by outputting the multi-valued information obtained by reading the original through multiple signal lines, it is possible to output using a video clock with a slower frequency than when outputting synthesized information, so the input/output circuit There is no need to use high-performance elements, and there is no need to use transmission lines that respond to high frequencies, so the cost of the circuit can be reduced and performance such as noise resistance can be reduced. can be raised.

The control circuit diagram of the retention memory unit 2 will be explained with reference to FIG. The retention memory unit 2 is roughly divided into a memory section and a control section.The microcomputer 75 of the force control section is connected to the ROM 76 by the CPU bus.
, RAM77, IO boat 78. Timer circuit 7!1.
It is connected to the serial communication circuit 80, and the operation of each part is the same as that of the league part, and the IO boat 78 is connected to each selector of the memory part. The serial circuit 80 can be connected in parallel to the reader section and the printer section.

The memory section consists of a memory A85 and a memory 1386, each of which is composed of a dynamic memory (AM, etc.) that can store image information for one A3 size page.The input line of the memory has a selector 97°98. , VD-
The image signals generated as three signal signals consisting of two systems of signals A and Vl)-B are stored in the respective memories. 1, +ihi generated as 21H+# issue
IW double signal memo U Write to one or both of A or B. The image signal selected by the selector 97 is sent to the shift register 1A (82) as a video clock VCLK.
It is stored in the memory A (85) in synchronization with the address signal from the address generation circuit 83. In addition, the image signal selected by the selector 98 similarly passes through the shift register IB (84) to the memory B (
86). In this way, writing of the two image signals is performed using the common video clock VcLK. Further, an address generation circuit 83 that specifies addresses of the memories is synchronized with a video clock VCKS and a video enable signal VB8, and controls the addresses of both the memories A and B.

When committing the memory, the video clock VCK8 input to the address generation circuit 83 is set by the selector 81.
VCLK communicated from the outside (for example, a reader) along with the image signal and ICLK generated by the internal generation circuit 91
(7) Ut, , V CL K is selected. Additionally, a video enable signal V input to the address generation circuit 83
J! 3Sri, external (e.g. reader) along with image signal
The selector 88 selects VE from among the VE that has been communicated and the vE that has been generated by the internal generation circuit 87. still,
This address generation circuit B51t is also used when reading images from memories A and H.

Incidentally, the start of filling in the memos IJA and B and starting the heave is outputted by the CPU 75 via the I10 port 78.

The 1Iili image information of memories A and H (85, 86) are both H according to the address signal from the address generation circuit 83.
fe is output, shift register 2A, 213 (89, 90
), and then output as serial data in synchronization with the common video clock ICLK generated by the internal generation circuit 91.

At this time, the selector 81 selects internal ICLKe as the video clock VCKS. The video enable generation circuit 87 is similar to the HSBD generation circuit in the reader section, and is generated at the timing shown in FIG.

In this way, memory A, okara shift register 2A, 2
Images generated serially via B (1 is the selector 9
2 and 93 select which of the two image signal lines A and B to output. In the OR circuits 94 and 95, the output of the selector 92 or 93 and the gate 9
9 and bypassed the memory, an OR is taken and output. Also, memory A.

The gate circuits 72 and 73 operate so as to take the three ORs of the output of both B and the clear image signal.In addition, the video clock is the one communicated from the outside by the selector 96 according to the operation mode. Internal generation circuit 91
The ICLK generated in is selected and output to the subsequent stage.

As explained above, the retention memory unit has memory for the number of signal lines for multilevel image information, which is composed of multiple signal lines, and stores it, and allows data to be stored in each memory separately. By doing this, when recording a clear black and white binary image 1H-4 that does not require 3 Mi expression such as formatting, only one of the memories can be used, so the memory for one page of ternary image is saved. of,
It can also be used as a memory for two pages of binary images, so the range of utilization of the memory unit can be expanded.

In addition, there are two systems of ll! that form ternary information. Recording image information 1: Recording multiple image information 1. By having a # part and making it possible to output the output of each storage part to any of multiple signal lines, for example, by outputting a signal only to one side of the 3 confidence signal line, it is possible to output the signal 1 from the original. Image 14 reproduction capabilities are expanded, such as being able to produce a reproduced image that is excitingly faint when stacked together.

In addition, in a system that communicates image information as multivalued information using signal lines with a number of w, image information In addition to simplifying the input/output circuits, it is also possible to reduce costs by reducing the number of signal lines.

In addition, h 4M in the retention memory unit
There are a number of memory units corresponding to the number of image information lines 1g, and by configuring them so that they can be written and output using a common address generation circuit, it is possible to control multiple memory units with a simple circuit. On the other hand, by making it possible for the retention memory unit to combine and output the image signal from the reader and the image information already stored in the retention memory unit when outputting, the image playback speed is increased. This not only improves the image control function, but also improves the image control function.

In addition, the retention memory unit operates in the same way as a printer when storing data, and operates in the same way as a reading device when outputting image signals. , printers and retention memory units can be operated without being aware of the difference between them, and printers and multi-input and multi-output devices can be operated without having to worry about the difference between a reading device and a retention memory unit during one-image playback operation. This makes it easy to develop these devices and to easily configure the system.

Figure 4 shows a multiple input multiple output device (hereinafter referred to as MIMOU)
FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram showing an example of the internal configuration.

MIMUU loO, three readers 101-103,
It shows how eight printers Ill-118 and the reader 104 are connected via the retention memory unit 148, and also shows the internal configuration.

MIIVOU l 00 is a multi-input multi-output controller (Multi Input Mu, lti 0utpu
t Controller (hereinafter referred to as MI~fOc) 1
20. Synchronous memory board (5 synchronous + Vfet
nory IJoard (FsB+)) 121
- 128, and three units of operation section 147.

The MIMOC 120 is a unit to which the readers 101-103 and the retention memory unit 148 are connected, and is connected to the serial circuits 131-134 connected to the serial circuit 43 of the valley reader and retention/memory unit, and the printers 112-12g. It has a serial circuit 135. These circuits are operated by the CPU 140.
IIIIO1!1 will be done. In addition, the CPU 140 is a ROM
141 was created using the control program written in C.
RAM l 42, I10 boat 143, imprinting controller 144, and timer circuit 14 connected to the PU bus
5 and the key/display drive circuit 146.
IO (+ Performs all overall control. Also, as mentioned above,
Since each unit has a 71u connection type, the retention memory unit can be connected to any terminal.

The MIMOCl 20 outputs the ili control bus CIJ and the image bus IH to the 5RDs 121-128 as shown in %Z.

7i 171ba x' I BJj s reader 101~
The image signal and the illumination signal of the image signal sent from the 1o3 and the retention memory unit 148 respectively are -
This is a signal bus that transmits signals in batches.

The control bus CB is a serial signal between the printers l1l-118 (the printers 111-118 are connected to the serial circuit 1
MIMOUI by the serial signal generated by 35
Do OO and IIK do '5) YaE10 Ho
) 143 no S B I) 1. II (aHtM(7) signal bus).

In this embodiment, the command to start copying is issued by the IJ + reader, and the MIMOU 100 is in a slave relationship with respect to the reader. For this reason, since it is not known when the serial signal will be received from the reader or retention memory unit, MIMOU allocates one serial circuit to each of the 1II and 11 image input sections, and the CPU 140 processes χ for all serial No. 5. The structure is as follows. On the other hand, for printers, since they are in a master relationship with MIMOU IO0rIi, one serial circuit 135 can exchange serial signals with the printer of IJ (a) by sequentially exchanging serial signals with the printer. i
I have it set to Tf.

The operation unit 147 is operated by a key/display drive circuit 146 to drive a key/matrix set meal and a display. Details of the operation unit 147 will be described later.

The 5BDs 121 to 128 are used to synchronize the output of image signals input from the reader or retention memory unit and the operation of the printer. This 8BD will be further explained with reference to FIG.

FIG. 5 is a circuit diagram showing a specific example of the circuit configuration of the 5BDs 121 to 128.

In FIG. 5, a selector 150 is a switching circuit for selecting the league control signal assigned to the CPU 140 from among the image control signals sent from a plurality of league or replication memory units. The selected control signal is the write counter 151 and vE
lf! is sent to the counter 152 and stored in the memories 171-178!
It generates an address signal for loading the Il image signal, a select signal for memory writing, and the like.

The selector 182 similarly selects the selected league or rep/
This is a cutout circuit for selecting the image signals VDA, V1)B of the John memory unit, and the selected image signals are input into the 1112th column of the memo 1J171-178 and are selected by the selectors 161 to 168. The write counter 151 generates an address signal for writing the image signal VL)A, VDBtl- into the memories 171 to 178, and this address signal is sent to the selector 1.
The OVE counter 52 input to the OVE counter 52 counts I'i (control signal + m < VE signal indicating one line of the image), and the count value is input to the decoder 153 and stored in the eight memories 71-178. A write select signal indicating which memory is to be written is generated and input to selectors 161 to 168.

These circuits are fed by connected leagues.
I! It is initialized by 1lill nil line 46 (VSYNC signal) indicating the start of image II. Convolution to memory is performed in memory 71. Memory 72. Memory 73...Memory 77, Memory 178. Memo ~ IJ l 71... These are performed in order.

On the other hand, when reading the image signal from Memo IJ 171-178, when the image signal is written to half of the entire memory,
That is, in this embodiment, the process starts when the memo IJ 174 is written. This read start control signal is generated by the decoder 153 and input to the BD control circuit 154.

BD control time %l54R1 After being initialized with the VSYNC signal mentioned above, the B that is sent from the connected printer until the read t, start control signal comes from the decoder 153.
Prohibits D-fold signal output (BD' signal). When the inhibition of the output of the BD' signal is released, the BD' signal is transferred to the control circuit 15.
8 and reads from the memory in the same way as when writing. Memory 172. Memory 173...
...Memory 177, memory 178. Memory 171・
Do it in order like...

Oscillation circuit 155. Control circuit 158. left margin
The counter 156 and the bit counter 157 are connected to the oscillation path 66° of the league shown in the second diagram.
0, which corresponds to the left margin counter 67, left margin counter 68 & U bit counter 69, and has almost the same functions.
The difference is that the control circuit 158 generates a vS signal similar to the vE multiplied signal.
This is the point at which the 'signal is generated and inputted to the ■E' counter 180 and is blanked.

The vE counter 80 counts the v'' signal, and the count value is input to the decoder 181, which generates a male C selection signal indicating which memory is to be read, and inputs it to the selectors 161-168, respectively.

In selectors 161-168, write counter 151
and decoder 153, or using signals from bit counter 57 and decoder 181, memo 1J171
-178 oath included, -t 1till i11
41 'i go 0 1[! read from memory 171-178 ]1 image signal is II! of the memory being read by the selector 185. ] Select only the I image and the VDA, V
l) Sent to the printer as a B signal.

Control bus CB is connected to latch circuit 183. It is input to an ink face circuit 184 and a control 1 circuit 185.

The latch circuit 183 latches the select control signal to the selector +5 (1,182).
The value set in 86 and the SB specified in side 1 bus CB
This is done when the D numbers match. MIMOCl 2
Control between 0 and 8BD is performed by the value set by the dig switch 186 in this way.

However, as mentioned above, the retention memory units and multi-input multi-output devices other than the reading device d and the printer are connected between the reading device d and the printer, and even if they are connected, they may not be connected. However, since the interface parts are the same, even if the connection order is different, the operation remains the same.

Therefore, the system configuration is highly flexible, and it is possible for the operator to configure a system that is easy to operate.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of the printer. The explanation will be given using FIG. This printer can be used directly with the reader or with a retention memory unit and MI+JOU I.
It is possible to connect indirectly via OO.

A serial signal line from the M I +d'OU 100, reader or retention memory unit is input to the serial circuit 201 and processed by the CPU 200. cPU2
oo operates according to the control program stored in LOM 203 VC, and includes RAM2Q4, timer circuit 202,
How do you use the I10 boat 205 to control the entire printer?

The human interface 207t performs input processing of sensor signals and the like in the printer. Drive circuit 20
8 is a circuit for driving an unillustrated motor, high voltage transformer, etc. 0 display circuit 206 is for printing)
It is used to display on the printer form 1b whether there is a blank page, a jam has occurred, etc.

MIMOU l 00 or sent from the reader V
I) A (g crying) V D B (& sign (lIflI image signal) t, synthesized into a ternary (VI) signal by the synthesis circuit 2171, inputted to the laser driver 209, and outputted by the semiconductor laser 210 to VD@ It is converted into a laser beam based on the code.

The laser beam is focused by a collimator lens 211, and the photosensitive drum 2 is rotated by a polygon mirror 212.
Scanning is performed in a direction substantially parallel to the co-rotating axis of No. 14. The scanned laser beam undergoes optical correction by an f-theta lens 213, and is irradiated onto a photosensitive drum 214 to form a latent image based on a VD signal.

Image formation in the printer uses a so-called silent recording method, in which the required portions of the four loads applied to the photosensitive drum 214 are removed using laser light, and this is developed using a developer to print on print paper. This is done by transferring and fixing the layer. Since the electrostatic recording method is a well-known technique, detailed explanation will be omitted.

Now, the laser beam scanned by the polygon mirror 212 is incident on the optical fiber 215 before being irradiated onto the photosensitive drum 214, and when the photodetector 216 detects the incident, it outputs a one-shot signal (BD double signal. As can be seen from Figure 6, if you output the VD signal after waiting the time from when the BD double signal is generated from the reader, retention memory unit, or MIMOUl 00 until the laser beam reaches the photosensitive drum 214FC, An image a is formed at an appropriate position.

The seventh point basically shows the output timing of this VD signal.
FIG.

In Fig. 7, an example when connected to a beamer 'kA
49. Although this is a direct connection, the same applies even if MIMOU or retention memory is connected.

In FIG. 2(b), H8t3D (
The left margin counter 68 starts counting from the occurrence of the signal g, and when the count up corresponds to the time described in -F, the bit counter 69 is operated, and the memory 60 is
．． 61 or from the memory 62°63 (V l) (Starts reading of number N. The bit counter 169 stops operation after outputting the VD signal over the image forming area of the photosensitive drum 214, and then starts reading the next number. 4 (H) in 80M of human power
Prepare for input of 8BD signal.

The Vt; signal is an interval signal indicating the period during which the bit counter 69 is operating. ■I signal d1゜l17
It is used to control the operation of the 1iMOU, the vg counter 152, and the write counter 151. MIMOU
In this case, the VEo signal generated by the control circuit 158 is also similar to the vE times signal.

FIG. 8 shows a timing chart of image signals in the image signal synthesis circuit 217 shown in FIG.

The image signal VDA is synchronized with the video clock (VCLK).
, VDB is sent. By alternately selecting VDA and VDB at twice the frequency of the video clock, the combining circuit 217 combines the two systems of image signals and outputs vDO.

FIG. 9 shows the operating section provided on the reader connected to the system in this embodiment. The operation section is standard operation section 2.
52, a preset operation section 2511, a liquid crystal display section 256, and a special operation section 250 including soft keys 257. The standard operation section 252 includes a numeric keypad 254 for setting the number of sheets;
It is equipped with a set number of copies display section 255, a copy start key 253, etc., and is used in the same way as a commonly used compensation copying machine.

The special operation section 250 is for the user to create any copy mode, and includes a liquid crystal display section 256 that can display labels corresponding to the soft keys, copy mode, data, and messages for each building, and six soft keys 257. Prepare,
When it is desired to select the content displayed on the liquid crystal display section 256, the copy mode etc. can be changed by pressing the soft key corresponding to the lower part of the display to be selected.

For example, among the paper sizes of the numbers displayed sequentially on the LCD,
You can select the required paper size using the soft key below the size display.
It is also possible to display information that cannot be displayed on the standard operation unit 252, such as information such as how many printers are being used during copying when multiple printers are being used simultaneously.

The preset operation section 251 is capable of recording copy modes (conditions) set by the standard operation section 252 and the special operation section 250. That is, by registering the frequently used copy mode in advance in the R, AM 40 and reading the copy mode from the memory card with a single key operation without using the special operation section 250, copying in the desired mode can be easily performed. 0 The connection methods for each device are: connecting a reader to a printer via a retention memory unit and a multi-input multi-output device; connecting a reader/tension memory unit to a printer; and connecting a reader to a multi-input/multi-output device. There are four ways to connect a multi-output device and a printer, and to connect only a reader and printer.
411 have the same configuration, and any connection can be made using OT. Further, this connection state is determined based on the aggregation status described below. As mentioned above, the tension memory unit and the multi-manpower multi-output member 14 from the leader or q.
Since the individual ILVs are connected through a serial circuit, the multi-output device can be stored as a unique number of the reader or the reader via a retention memory unit. I'm handling it. As mentioned above, the multi-input multi-output device and the printer or retention memory unit are connected via each synchronous memory board, so the multi-input multi-output device transfers the value of the dip switch 186 on the synchronous memory to the printer. The O reader, which is handled as a unique number, was connected directly or indirectly to a multi-input multi-output device via a retention memory unit, and further connected to an IJ printer. In this case, the reader allows you to select either single mode or multi-mode print mode.

Single mode is the same mode as when only the reader and printer are connected, and a multi-input multi-output device connects to a printer with the same number as the unique number assigned to the reader. SDE←TAS is a mode in which the reader receives a single-seated printer via the multi-input multi-output i1M.

On the other hand, the multi-mode is a mode in which one reader can connect to an unspecified printer of %47H via a multiple-input multiple-output device, and the printer is designated by the operation unit of the reader. In addition, there is also a mode in which you can specify the printer in multi-input/multi-output/device ν, but in this case, the multiple-input/multi-output device (device is specified as the required number of printers in operation mode flE depending on the set number of prints). For each status in the multi-mode, the multi-input multi-output device g assembles the information of each printer into a necessary format and sends it to the reader.

In the following, the control when the reader/printer is connected 1 to 1 in parallel is the same as the single mode control using the multiple input multiple output device d, so the multiple input multiple output device and the tension memory unit are Explain communication in the system. Note that the differences between single mode and multi mode will be explained each time.

By the way, there are four operating modes using the tension memory unit shown in the third figure. That is, for the first sheet, the image signal from the reader is stored in the retention memory unit and at the same time the printer performs all image reproduction, and for the second and subsequent sheets,
There is a retention operation mode in which images are reproduced using the output from the retention memory unit and a number of copies are made, and an overlay mode in which images are reproduced on the printer by combining pre-stored image information and the output of the retarder roll. , a store mode in which the reader's image signal is simply stored in the retention memory unit, and a monitor mode in which the image information already stored in the retention memory unit is output and the image is reproduced on the printer. In either mode, the retention memory unit (hereinafter also referred to as MU) operates according to instructions from the reader.

An example of setting the RMU (retention memory unit) mode in the special operation section 250 of the reader will be described below using FIG. 1θ. In FIG. 10, 256 is a liquid crystal display section, and 257 is six soft keys (hereinafter referred to as SK or ST (1 to SK6)). Liquid crystal display section 256
Displays corresponding to SKI to SK6 are displayed.

V, when the power is turned on, the liquid crystal display section 256 displays the part KETC (Etcetra no Kei) corresponding to the key SK6, as shown in Figure 10. Each time the key SK6 is pressed, the keys SKI to SK5 are displayed. The contents of the corresponding display section 256 are changed cyclically, and the input mode is changed according to the configuration contents of the system.

You can now make a choice.

In other words, the reader uses signals from the printer.

It determines what is connected to the system and allows the user to select an input mode according to the system configuration.

If an RMU is connected to the system.

By pressing the key SK6 corresponding to "ETC", the RMU input mode selectable state 75 (displayed) is shown in FIG. 10 [2]. In this state, 1 is displayed "RMU?". RMU mode is selected by pressing the key SK2 corresponding to ``.

If not, press the key SK6 corresponding to the 1 display "ETC" to change the display on the liquid crystal display section 256 and move to the next input mode. Further, if the RMU is not connected, the display shown in FIG. 10 (2) is not displayed.

When the display section 256 is in the state shown in FIG. 10 (2), the key SK is pressed.
If you press 2, RMU mode is selected and 5 display section 25
6 changes to a display as shown in FIG. 10 (3). Here, keys 5KI-8K4 are respectively retention mode (high-speed retention using memory) and automatic lay mode (
Memo 1Jlj (superposition of manuscripts), store mode (storage of manuscripts in memory), and monitor mode (sweeping from memory) are supported. Incidentally, when the key SK6 corresponding to the display "BACK" is pressed, the display section 256 changes to the state shown in FIG. 10 (2), and enters the input mode KM for selecting the RMU mode again.

In the display state of FIG. 10 (3), a desired one is selected from among the four modes of the RMU. For example, if the key SKI corresponding to the 2 display "Retention 7" is pressed, the retention mode is selected, key 5
The display part of the part corresponding to KIK is “
Changes from retention T′ to “retention 〃1.” Here “? A 1 mark indicates that the corresponding mode is not selected, and when the corresponding key SK is pressed, the "〃 mark" indicates that the mode has been selected. On the other hand, the "゛ mark mode indicates that it has already been selected.

After selecting the retention mode, press the start key 253 after setting the number of copies using the numeric keypad 254 in the same way as in the operation of a conventional copying machine. When a document is read, a predetermined number of images can be formed by reading the memory i times. At this time, the selectors in the retention memory are operated so that the two systems of ternary information VDA and VDB read by the league are written into the corresponding memories A and H, respectively.

Next, in the RMU input mode, if the overlay mode is not selected (for example, “
Overlay? (When displaying) If you press the key SK2 corresponding to 1 display "Overlay?".

Overlay mode can be selected. When the overlay mode is selected, the display section 256 will be displayed as shown in FIG. 10 (3).
Then, the display changes as shown in (5), and then the display state of 161 in FIG. 10 continues, waiting for key input.

Here, the selection is made as to which image stored in the two memories A and H of the retention memory unit is to be superimposed on the original image.
I to SK4 are memory A, memory B, and memory A, respectively.
, B. Memo! This corresponds to the selection of overlapping with JA+B (details will be described later). The operator presses the keys SKI~S.
After selecting the memory to be superimposed using the K4, setting the number of copies using the numeric keypad 254 and pressing the start key 253, the document image currently being read and the image stored in the retention memory unit can be combined. The overlay operation is executed a desired number of times.

As in the case of retention mode and overlay mode, the key SK corresponding to "Store 7'" displayed when store mode is not selected in RMU input mode
By pressing 3.

Store mode is selected. At this time, display section -256
After passing through the state shown in FIG. 10 (7), the system continues to wait for key human power in state (8). This is a selection of which memory in the retention memory unit the image information read by the reader is to be stored in. Keys SK1 to SK3 are memory A and memory B, respectively.

Corresponds to memo IJ A and BIC accumulation. That is, by pressing the SK corresponding to the memory to be stored, the desired memory is selected. Note that when either memory A or memory B is selected, the reader outputs the image as a binary signal. On the other hand, if memories A and B are selected, a 3-candy signal is output. By pressing the start key 253 after memory selection.

The original is stored in memory. This is K.

This is a preparatory operation for overlay mode and monitor mode.

In the case of monitor mode, in the same way, 1 is displayed when monitor mode is not selected in RMU input mode.
monitor? When the key SK4 corresponding to `` is pressed, the monitor mode is selected and the display section 256 changes to ``ll'R'' through the screen shown in FIG. 10 (9). The operator waits for input as to whether information should be output.Keys SKI to SK3 correspond to memory A, memory B, and output from memories A and B, respectively.In this way, the operator presses the key S corresponding to the memory to which the operator wants to output. After pressing K, the required number of copies is set using the numeric keypad 254 and the start key 253 is pressed to execute the monitor mode.

In this way, when a retention memory unit is provided, the memory is used to set the retention mode [4].
Four types of operations can be performed selectively from the controller section: mode, store mode, and monitor mode.

In addition, if a retention memory unit is connected, it can be displayed on the operation panel of the reading device. Small (
In addition to making it easier for operators to deal with
Operability is improved by specifying a retention memory unit and being able to instruct each operation request.

Incidentally, in the multi-mode instruction described above, the number of the printer connected to the special operation section 250 is displayed, and this printer number is selected using a soft key, similar to the setting of the tension memory unit described above. However, since this is explained in detail in Japanese Patent Application No. 58-63851, detailed explanation will be omitted here.

Table 14 describes the operations of the league, multiple input/multi-output device, and printer devices and the communication between the devices during an image forming operation (hereinafter referred to as a copy operation) by a single system.

■ in the table indicates the operations in the league and the actions of the league 1
-1■ is the communication between the league and the retention memory unit, 0 is the D-b operation of the retention memory unit, Q is the communication between the retention memory unit and the multiple input multiple output device, [F] is the operation of the multiple input multiple output device , [F] indicates communication between multiple input and multiple output devices, and Q indicates printer operation. In the implemented system, information exchange between each device (league and retention memory unit, retention memory unit and multi-input multi-output device, multi-input multi-output device and printer) is mainly carried out by serial signal communication except for image information. be exposed.

For serial communication, a reader is used between the league and the retention memory unit, a retention memory unit is used between the retention memory unit and the multi-input multi-output device, and a multi-input multi-output device is used between the multi-input multi-output device and the printer. Take initiative.

The person with the initiative detects whether the other party can receive serial signals (depending on the other party's power-on signal, receivable signal, etc.) 1. If communication is possible, output various commands in serial code, The receiving side receives the above command (i'
il, parity errors, etc. are checked, and if the instruction is valid, information corresponding to the instruction is sent back (however, the retention memory unit may use a different communication method, which will be described later). and.

If the command requests an action on the receiving side, the corresponding action is performed.

In communication, the person with the initiative outputs an instruction code (called a command), and the receiving side outputs information corresponding to that instruction code (
This is done in a one-to-one manner, in which the status (called status) is always sent back.

FIG. 11 shows the overall basic flow of RMU communication.

Communication between the leaguer (llil:L unit) and the printer side unit is performed by exchanging 8-bit commands and statuses.In other words, commands are sent from the leaguer side unit to the printer side unit (including multiple input/multiple output devices).
sent to.

In response, the status is sent back from the printer side unit to the reader side unit. At this time, one status is always returned in response to one command, and the status is never sent before the command.

First, the RMU inputs a command from the reader side (SIO
I). It is determined whether this command is RMU instruction data in Table 13, which will be described later (8102). If the input command is RMU instruction data, the RMU operation is started (8103), and the overall status shown in Table 3, which will be described later, is returned to the league side (S104)e (At this time, the printer (I(!l( If the input command is not RMU instruction data, the RMU determines whether it is necessary to send the command to the printer side (8105), and there is no need to send the command to the printer. If so, the overall status is returned to the reader side (81
04). On the other hand, if it is necessary to send the input command to the printer side, the same command is sent to the printer side (8106).

When the printer side unit receives a command from the RMU, it returns a status according to the command within a certain period of time. When the RMU receives the system data from the printer side (
S107. ), it is determined whether the returned status is the application status shown in Table 9 below (8108).

If the status is not an application status, the status returned from the printer side is sent as is to the reader side (S110). On the other hand, if the status from the printer side is an application status, the application status K (=J 7J
II I have to do it. Therefore, if the status received from the printer side is an application status, the status is processed into a form of RMU connection (8109), and then the status is returned to the printer side (SIIO).

In this way, in response to a command from the reader side, the RMU transfers the command to the printer side or returns the overall status to the reader side. When the status is returned from the printer side, the status is left as it is, or the status is processed and then returned to the reader side unit, which is repeated as one cycle.

In this way, the communication method in which the information in each unit is encoded and communicated, and the memory unit takes in only the necessary information and passes other information through, reduces the time it takes to exchange information by one unit. In addition, it becomes possible to simplify the communication protocol by having only the unit on the reading device side monitor the communication.

The operation and communication of each part shown in Table 14 will be explained in detail below.

Table 1 shows status request commands for requesting printer information. This is sent to the printer side unit via the retention memory unit. When the multiple-input multiple-output device or printer receives the status request command, it returns a status signal corresponding to each status request command shown in Tables 2 to 11 to the reader. The second table is
Command error status returned when the received command is invalid. If it is a parity error, bit 6 is returned.
is set.

Table 3 shows the status of each reader's corresponding printer in single mode, and the overall status of available printers and printers in use in multimode. A print request, which is a paper feed enable signal, is set when all printers in use become capable of paper supply. Bit 5, Paper conveyance, is set if any printer in use is conveying paper. Misprint, Waiting (fuser temperature rising), Pause (shutoff and power saving), Call error (Operator-II: I-#t 7'j?)
- Hisman call error h) each bit 4.3.2.
1 is set when an error occurs in all printers in use.

Tables 4 and 5 show details of operator call errors and serviceman call errors, respectively, and the bits corresponding to each error in each drive unit and process unit are set when the error occurs.

Table 6 shows the number of retransmission requests caused by jams and misprints.

Tables 7 and 8 show paper sizes of printers that support the single mode.

Table 9 shows the application status, which indicates to the reader whether or not the multiple unit side retention memory unit is connected, using bits 2 and 1. When the printer is directly connected to the reader, bits 2 with multiple units has been reset. Further, when the retention memory 22 bit is connected, bit 1 "retention memory unit present" is set.

Table 10 shows the status of the printer as indicated by the printer information request status. Bit 6 printer ready indicates that the compatible printer is capable of copying, and
Bit 5, My Printer, indicates that the printer has the same number as the reader that requested information. Bit 4.3.2.1
indicates the respective cassette size.

The 11th item indicates the number of sheets fed in one copy. The final paper feed indicates that printing of all the specified number of copies has been completed. Bit 5, Retransmission Request Yes, indicates that a jam or misprint has occurred in one of the printers in use, and a retransmission request for image information has occurred. The number of sheets is requested by the retransmission request number of sheets request.

Table 12 shows execution commands that prompt the printer to execute. When the execution command is output, the MIMOU or printer and retention memory unit return the overall status shown in Table 3.

1 is a copy start command that requests the printer to start copying, 2 is a printer stop command that requests the printer to stop copying, and 3 and 4 are paper feed instruction commands that instruct the direction of the paper feed cassette in single mode. 5 is a number-of-copies instruction command, which instructs the number of copies of one original: Mouse. 6
is a multi-instruction command, and sets the number of the printer to be used in the second byte corresponding to each bit of the first byte (printer 1 is set to the 1st bit, printer 2 is set to the 2nd bit). This is an instruction command indicating that the 7-barrier operates in single mode. 8 is a command for instructing the paper size, which is output from the reader in the multi-mode.

9 is a command indicating an instruction to the retention memory unit, which is output from the reader when the reader is set to use the retention memory unit.

Table 13 specifically shows the instruction contents of the 2nd byte of the retention memory unit instruction command 9 in Table 12. Bits 5 and 6 of the 2nd byte indicate memories A and H in the retention memory unit. Bit 4 instructs to pass the image signal through without going through the memory. Bit 3 and bit 2 instruct whether to output the image from memory A or B. . Therefore, in a normal copy operation, bit 4 is set to pass through, and in retention mode, bit 4 is set to indicate pass through, and bits 5 and 6 are set to indicate storage in the memory. Further, in the store mode, the storage instruction bits of bit 6 and bit 5 are respectively set according to instructions from the operation section. Furthermore, in the monitor mode, bits 2 and 3 are set through 0 according to instructions from the operating section, respectively.In the overlay mode, bit 4, the pass-through instruction bit, and bit 2 or bit 3, the image output bit, are set.

Serial communication using each of the above-mentioned commands will be further explained below using the flowchart of FIG. 12.

First, when the copy sequence is not being executed and there is no key personnel, the first communication as shown in FIG.
4. Perform before the communication shown in Table 4. Further, the selection of the 15BD signal is also performed according to the flowchart of FIG. 12 described above.

First, the reader outputs the application status request command and inputs the application status (816
-1) to obtain information on whether MIMOU is connected. Also, learn how to connect the retention memory unit. After copy start check (816-2),
When MIMOU is connected, the printer information request command is sent as 8, which corresponds to the number of printers that can be connected to MIMOU.
Output times to obtain information such as what printer number is ready to print, what number is the single mode printer, and what size paper the printer number has in the upper/lower row (816 -4.5). Also, MIMOU
If it is not connected, it is a stand-alone type, and the card and printer are directly connected without going through MIMOU, so the upper cassette status request command and lower cassette status request command in Table 1. Find out the upper/lower cassette size from the output (816
-6).

After obtaining the paper size information and the like when the MIMOU is connected or not connected, the overall status is obtained using the overall status request command shown in Table 1 (816-7). However, at this stage, the copy sequence is not yet being executed, and only whether there is a call error or not is determined based on the overall status (S16-s
).

If there is no call error, the process returns to 816-1 to request the application status, and these steps are repeated below.

If there is a call error, use the serviceman call error request command shown in Table 1 to request detailed information about the serviceman call error (S16-9).
The operator call error details are obtained using the operator call error request command in the table (S16-10).

Thereafter, return (816-1) K return (and so on).

In this way, when the communication before the normal sequence is performed and the copy start check (816-2) is performed and the copy start key is pressed, the operations shown in Table 14 are executed.

Next, the communication operation during the copy sequence will be explained with reference to Table 14.

The copy operation in RMU operation mode is 1. As shown in Table 14, first, the reader issues an RMU operation instruction, and the RMU starts one of the retention operation, overlay operation, store operation, and monitor operation according to the instruction. .

The copy operation in multi-mode when the RMU is connected to the MIMOU will be explained below.

First, when the operator inputs various image forming conditions such as paper size and number of copies (one copy in store mode) on the operation panel in the reader and presses the copy key, the reader Send the size, printer number, and number of sheets to the printer side (RMU)'-. Paper size is R
After being taken into the MU, it is transferred to the MIMOU. The printer number is directly transferred to MIMOU. After receiving the paper size, printer number, and number of sheets, MIMOU checks each printer connected to MIMOU (in printer specification mode, only the specified printer) is a printer that can copy and has the specified paper size. Calculate the number of printers. Furthermore, the number of copies per sheet is checked and the number of printers required is calculated. Once the required number of printers has been calculated, a cassette stage with the required paper size is specified for each corresponding printer through communication with the printer.

The reader sends a copy start command to the printer after specifying the paper size, printer number, and number of copies. When the nRMU receives the copy start command, it prepares to move to a copy operation if it is not a store operation, and also performs 1 Transfer the copy start command to MIMOU. MIMOU
When receiving the copy start command, the printer sends the copy start command to each printer for which the paper size cassette command has been completed. When each printer receives a copy start,
When each part of the printer starts operating and it becomes possible to receive an image signal according to the conditions of each printer, each sends a signal indicating that paper feeding is possible to the MIMOU.

MIMOU waits until all the printers required for printing have sent paper feed ready signals, and after all printers are ready to feed paper, it sends a signal indicating the paper feed ready signal to the reader through the RMU ○ This is a case other than a store operation, but in the case of a store operation, the RMU directly sends a message to the reader without transmitting the signal to the printer side (MIMOU) after receiving the SICOBY START signal from the reader. A signal indicating that paper can be fed is transmitted.

In cases other than store operations, the reader sends a paper feeding start signal to the printer side (RMU) after receiving the paper feeding ready signal.

The paper feed start signal is sent from the reader to the MIM via the RMU.
Sent to OU. MIMOU transfers the paper feed start signal sent from RMU to the necessary printer. In cases other than the second and subsequent sheets in the monitor operation and retention operation, the reader reads the image after receiving the paper feed start signal, and sends the image signal to the printer side (RMU).

The RMU controls image signals through each RMU operation. That is, in the case of the first copy in the retention operation, the image signal is stored in the memory of the retention memory unit and simultaneously transmitted to the printer side (MIMOU).

On the other hand, in the case of the second and subsequent images in the retention operation and in the case of the monitor operation, there is no image signal from the reader side.
The MU sends the data from the memory as an image signal 7 to the printer side (MIMOU). Further, in the case of an overlay operation, the image signal from the reader and the signal from the memory are combined in synchronization and then sent to the printer side (MIMOU) as an image signal. However, in the case of a store operation, the image signal is only stored in the memory and is not sent to the printer side (MIMOU).

In cases other than store operations, when the copy is completed, MIMOU sends the number of copies made in one operation to the reader via RMU k, and also sends the number of copies made by the reader at the beginning. It is checked whether the number of copies has been reached, and when the total number of copies has been completed, the end of copying is first notified to the reader side through communication. However, if all the copies have not been completed, the copy start signal is sent again to the required number of printers and waits until all the printers are ready to receive images.

The reader counts down the number of copies when the number of copies is sent from the M I IVI OU via the RMU. Then, the next paper feed ready signal is MI.
If the MOU is received, reading of the same original is started again. The reader continues this operation until it receives an instruction signal to end the final copy.

However, in the case of a store operation, the number of copies is set to 1 as described above, the image signal is not sent from the RMU to the MIMOU, and the final copy completion signal is sent directly from the RMU to the reader without going through the MIMOU. .

When the reader receives the final copy completion message, it sends a signal indicating printer stop to MIMOU via 9RMU.
Send to. When MIMOU receives the printer stop signal, it sends a printer stop signal to all printers in use. When the printer receives the printer stop message, it stops the operation of each operating part of the printer.

FIG. 14 shows the flow of multi-mode reader operation using MIMOU%RMU.

First, when the copy key is pressed by the operator, the reader instructs the RMU to operate R, MU (810-1),
Paper size instruction (810-2), printer number instruction (8
10-3), the number of copies to be made (810-4), and initial settings necessary for the copying operation are performed. Also, RMU
On the other hand, when writing to only one side of memory A or memory IJB, set the binarization circuit to output binary values (
S10-25.1O-26), On the other hand, output three values when writing to both memories A and B (S10-2
7).

Next, the reader instructs the printer side (RMU) to start copying (810-5). Furthermore, the leader
Determine whether it is in RMU monitor mode (81
0-6). If the printer is not in the RMU monitor mode and the printer is in a state where paper feeding is possible (810-7), the printer side (RMU) is instructed to start feeding paper.51o-B
), start the timer (SIO9)% and wait for a certain period of time until the timer alert of this timer (810-10)
, performs an optical system scan start (810-11),
The document reading is started (810-12). Furthermore, wait until the reading is completed (S1o-13), and then input the number of copies sent from the printer side (S1o-13).
10 14)n On the other hand, in the RMU monitor mode, after the paper feed enable signal is sent (810-20),
Send the paper feed start signal (5IO-21), start timer 2 (SIO-22), and after the timer expires after a certain period of time (SIO-23), the printer side will calculate the number of copies sent. Import (810-14).

Next, the reader determines whether it is in RMU store mode (810-15), and if it is in RMU store 7 mode, it sends a printer stop signal to the printer side,
The copy operation is ended (810-24). If the RMU store mode is not in effect, the set number of copies is counted down based on the number of copies sent from the printer side (SIO-16). The reader then checks the flag (81) to see if the final copy is finished.
0-17) When the end of copying is known and the final copying is completed, printer stop is sent to the printer side and the copying operation is ended (S10=24).

If the final copy is not completed, the copy operation is repeated until it is completed, but first, RMU retention mode (SIO-18) and RMU monitor mode (8
After the determination in step 10-19) is performed, the process returns to the same flow as the first monitor mode copy (810-20), and the RMU
Wait for the memory to be flushed. In addition, in other cases, R
Return to the flow of copying the first sheet in modes other than MU monitor mode (S
IO-7), perform optical system scan.

As mentioned above, when storing the output of the reading device in the retention memory unit, if only memory A or B is specified, the reading device automatically outputs binary data to avoid missing image information. It has become possible to configure a system that is easy to operate without requiring the operator to be aware of it. Also, in retention mode or when the operator selects both memories A and B, the reader
It automatically outputs the value.

Furthermore, by managing the output of the memory unit with a reading device, the operator can know the number of reproduced images, and the processing load on the memory unit, etc. can be reduced.

FIG. 15 shows M during the image forming operation shown in Table 14.
The operation of the IMOU microcomputer is shown. However, in the case of multi mode, it starts from 811-1, and in the case of single mode, it starts from 811-7. In the case of multi-mode, when the paper size and printer number instructions are received by the reader via communication, the paper size of each printer is checked (811-1, Sll 2). Checks only printers; in unspecified mode, checks all printers.

In this system, the MIMOU and the printer constantly exchange various information through communication, and the information is stored in the RAM (
Since the information is stored in a random access memory (random access memory), it is possible to determine whether the paper size is present or not by checking that information. The paper sizes of all available printers are checked, and if none of the printers has the specified paper, it is sent to the reader that is out of paper (811-3, 5ll-4).

If a printer with the required paper size is connected, the number of copies is received (811-5).

The number of received copies is compared with the number of printers having the required paper size, and the number of required printers is calculated (Sll-6).

When the copy start command is received from the reader, it instructs each printer corresponding to the calculated number of printers to start a copy operation (811-7, 311-8). However, in single mode, a specific printer is instructed to start copying.

When each printer starts copying and becomes capable of receiving image signals, and all printers that have received this notification from each printer and instructed the copying operation become capable of receiving image signals, they send a message indicating that they can receive image signals to the reader ( 811-9,811
-10).

The received image signals are simultaneously sent to each printer without going through the microcomputer. A copy operation is performed in each printer, and MIMOU detects whether a copy error occurs due to an error in each printer, calculates the number of copies (-sends to the reader (Sll-12, 5ll-13)
, 811-14).

However, in single mode, the copy operation is not changed until printer stop is received (sll-16). It also compares the number of copies received from the reader at the start of copying, and if the number of copies does not reach the specified number, calculates the required number again and restarts the copying process (5ll-17,811-
18).

When the specified number of copies have been completed, the final copy completion information is sent to the reader, and when the printer stop message is received,
Send printer stop to all printers and end the series of operations (Sl to -19, 811-20, 811-21
).

FIG. 16 shows the operation of the microcomputer of the printer during the image forming operation shown in Table 14. When a copy start signal is received from MIMOU, the printer starts operating each part according to a predetermined sequence (81).
2 2).

Since this system uses an electrostatic recording printer using a drum as described above, preprocessing such as drum charging is required. Therefore, it waits until the preprocessing is completed and paper feeding becomes possible, and if it becomes possible, it starts feeding paper from the cassette instructed by MIMOU before copying starts (S12-3.S12-4).

It waits until the fed paper reaches a position where image signals can be received (812-5), and when it reaches the position, it outputs a signal indicating that it is possible to receive image signals to MIMOU (S12-6).

When the image signal is input, a series of copying operations such as development, transfer to paper, and ejecting the paper to the outside of the printer are performed (S12-7).
．． 512-8').

Then, it detects whether an error has occurred in a series of copy operations and sends that information to MIMOU.
2-9, 512-10).

After that, when a printer stop message is received, each part of the printer is stopped and the series of copying operations is completed.
812-13), and when a copy start is received, the next copy is started (812-12).

FIGS. 14(a) to 14(f) are flowcharts showing the flow of RMU operation.

The RMU [controls the video signal while changing the on/off state of the video signal gate and the selector switch of the selector according to the mode.

That is, selectors 97 and 98 are provided between the two input signals VDA and VDB and the two memories A and B, and select the signal VDA from the memory A, the signal VDA't from the memory B, and the signal VDB from the memory A, Signal VDB? Perform all four route switching operations such as to Memo IJB. Two more notes IJ
Between A and B and the two output video signals VDA and VDB, there are selectors 92.93 and 72.7: (from memory A to VDA, from memory A to VDB, from memory B to VDA). , a selection of four output paths is made from memory B to VDB.
There is a signal line for a transparent gate that connects to the white area without passing through it, and there are four selectors 92 on the RMUu image 1 line.
．． 93° 97 and 98.1=, the input/output path of the video signal is controlled by controlling the states of the gates 72 and 73. FIG.

When the command received from the reader 41111 is RM tJ 4 near indication data, the RMU operation is started according to that data (8g11Figure 81 (+3).The RMU operation is performed on the reader side. From the RMU 4% indication data IC received from the unit (Sil
l), Richin/Con (S112), Overlay (S11
3), store (S114), and monitor (S115).

FIG. 17(b) shows the flow of mff in K retention mode. After receiving the operator/0 operation unit key operation specification from the RMU, specify the number of sheets (
8116) and when the start key is input manually (8117), the RM U starts the retention operation when the start key is input (8117).
It is determined whether U is included in the system (8118), and the horizontal synchronization signal H8BD is selected accordingly. In other words, if MIMOU is installed in the system,
The D signal is used as the horizontal synchronization signal51t9). On the other hand, if the MIM'OU is not incorporated in the system, the R
MU The H8 code generated by the U itself is used as the horizontal synchronization signal (
8120).

In the retention operation, the original 1ih is
The image (8) signal read from the i-tetsu is sent to the printer side (MIMOU
), the memory is bypassed and the data is stored in the retention memory, and when forming the second and subsequent images, the data stored in the memory when forming the first image is used. By sweeping out the document, a high-speed retention operation is performed without reading the document.

First, it is determined whether it is the first copy (S
121), in the case of the first copy, turn on the plain l gate 99 to make the Me 141y image 1m clear, operate the selectors 97 and 98, and input the input signals VDA, VI)B. After setting so that they are stored in memory A (MA) and memory B (MB) respectively (SI22)
, pixel r quadrant 8123), and memory cell storage (81
24) at the same time.

On the other hand, in the case of copying the second or subsequent sheets, selector 92.
Create 93kl+ and output the output of memo IJ A (M A ) VDAK, output the output of memory H (M' B ) V
5125), output the data swept out from memories A and B (8126), and perform retention. The image output from memory is repeated until the end number is reached (8127).

Based on the above, when creating retention mode HCh,
B. The f-removal device performs the redundant removal operation only once regardless of the set number of sheets, making it possible to configure a system that is easy for the operator to operate.

Figures M14 (c) and (d) show the flow of operations during overlay mode. The RMU starts the overlay operation when the user selects a memory (8128), specifies the number of sheets (8129), and manually inputs the start key (S130) in the pocket for which the overlay operation has been specified. . Memory selection (8128) specifies which memory to superimpose the image rt obtained by reading the draft and the music image read out from which memory, memory A or memory B.

Memory AB (2 pages of overlay of the document glass image and the image of 1 page stored in memory A and ~B as 3 pages 1"kh4), memory A10B (1 ton of original)
li @ and two pages of images stored as binary information in memories A and H, respectively, are a total of three pages of overlay) ゎRMU is a selection of the start key as in the case of retention operation. After human power, M I M □IT
It is determined whether or not the signal is incorporated into the system (S131), and the inter-horizontal +411 signal is selected accordingly. That is, if the system [MIMOU has been incorporated and is distorted, KVt and the BD sent from the league side (S132), and if the MIMOU has been incorporated into the system and is not distorted, f(S) (S133) horizontally. This is a synchronization signal.This operation is similar to that of retention mode.

Historically, the RMU sets each selector according to the memory select. First, in order to pass the original image information that will be read from now on to the printer side without going through the memory, turn on the I+U L gate 99 (8134), and according to the self-answer of the memory selection (8128), , the selectors 92 and 93 are set to output the desired video from the memory.

Is memory A selected (memory AB?

If memory A+B is selected (including memory A+B selection) (S135),
)'s image R as VI) A.
(S136). If it is not selected, TL sets the selector 92 so that the image of memory B (MB) is VT)A (S137). Similarly, check whether memory B is selected (memory A
B, Memo IJ A Judgment of whether (S
zas), if selected, memory B
Set the selector 9:1 so that the image m of (MB) is set to VDB (8139), and if it is not selected, set the selector 9:1 so that the image of memory A (MA) is set to VDB.
(8140).

Next, it is determined whether memory A+B is selected (8141), and if selected, the history is
Selector 92.9: (operation 1-, the artist in memory A (MA) is set to V I) I(, the image in memory B (MB) is set to V
The DA is made to appear (S142).

That is, if A1B is selected, 5136S13
All operations 9 and 5142 are performed, and the original image and 2
Together with the two memory images, it becomes a three-page overlay (8142).

After the setting of each gate is completed, the RMU performs an overlay operation by synchronizing and simultaneously outputting the data for passing five originals and the data for sweeping out the selected memory (8143).

The image output is repeated until the end number of images is reached (S1
44),,.

FIG. 17(e) shows the flow of operations in store mode. After receiving the store operation instruction from the user manually using the operation keys, the RMU selects the memory (8145),
The store operation is started by pressing the start key (8146). Memory selection (8145) i-1, specifying in which memory the original is to be stored, selects memory A, memory B, or memory AB.

After inputting the start key, the RMU selects the H8 signal generated within the RMU as the horizontal synchronization signal for the image (S14).
7. )I, then select which memory to store the instruction data in.

First, it is determined whether memory A is selected (including selection of memory AB) (8148), and if selected, the selector 97 is operated and the VDA is set to memory A.
(MA) Set to be stored (8149). Similarly, it is determined whether memory B is selected (including memory AB selection) (5150), and if it is selected, the selector 98 is operated, and VI) B is stored in memory B (MB). Set it so that (S151) After gate selection, the RMU stores image data in memory.

FIG. 17(f) shows the flow of monitor mode operation. R
After the MU receives a designation of a monitor operation by the user's operation keys, the MU starts the monitor operation by selecting a memory (8153), specifying the number of sheets (8154), and inputting a start key (S155). Memory selection (S153) is a selection of which memory the document is to be stored in, and includes selections of memory A, memory B, and memory AB.

After the start key is input, the RMU
It is determined whether the MIMOU is installed in the system (8156), and if the MIMOU is installed in the system, the HS signal generated from inside the RMU is selected as the horizontal synchronization signal. MIMOU to the system
If it is not incorporated, the BD double signal generated by the reader side unit is selected as the horizontal synchronization signal.

The RMU determines whether memory A is selected ('8159), and if selected, selector 9 is selected.
2 and outputs the image of memory A (MA) as an image eVDA (S160).

On the other hand, if it is not selected, the selector 92 is operated to output the image of memory B (MB) as -+VDh (S161).

Next, it is determined whether the memo IJB is selected (8162), and if it is selected, the selector?
3 to output one image of memory B (MB) as VDB (S163). If it is not selected, the selector 93 is operated and the memory A is selected.
Output the (MA) image as VDB (8164
).

After setting the state of each selector, the RMU outputs image data from the memory (8165), and repeats the output until the end number of sheets is reached (8166).

As explained above, in an image processing system that performs r-stage formation according to image signals output from a border output unit of an image reading device, etc., the efficiency of copying operation is improved by providing an image r-image information storage unit. (-5) Furthermore, it is possible to provide a single image processing system that can form a plurality of images at the same time and is easy for the operator to operate.

/ Table 1, Table 2, Table 3, Table 4, Table 5, Table 6, Table 7, Table 8, Table 9, Table 10, Table 11, Table 12, Court Code Name Name 1 Pie 111 2 Nohei Group 1 Copy Start 49H None 2 Printer Stop 4AH None 3 Lower paper feed instruction 51. None 4 Main paper feed instruction 52H None 5 Copy number instruction 911+ None 6 Multi instruction 61 Printer number (a), (bl is an internal diagram of the reader, Figure 3 is an internal diagram of the retention memory unit (RMU), Figure 4 is an internal diagram of the multiple input multiple output unit (MIMOU), and Figure 5 is an internal diagram of the internal configuration of the reader. is an internal configuration diagram of the synchronous memory board (SBD), 'f, 6 is an internal configuration diagram of the printer, FIG. 7 is a timing chart regarding image signals, and FIG. 8 is a timing chart regarding synthesis of two systems of image signals. , FIG. 9 is an external view of the operation section of the reader, - FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the display state of the operation section, FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the communication operation of the RMU, and FIG. 12 is related to timing signal selection of the reader. Flowchart 1 No, Fig. 13 is a flowchart showing all communication operations of the reader, Fig. 14 is image 1 of the reader.
Flowchart diagram regarding w reading operation, FIG. 15 is MI
Flowchart diagram showing operation element l1II of MOU, 1st
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the operating element +11e of the printer, and FIGS. 17(a) to (f) are flowcharts I showing the operating procedure for each 1llII operation mode of the RMU.
1 digit reader, 2 is RMU, 3 is MIMOU, 4.5 is printer, 35, '86 is memo 1, 92゜q3.97
)l'c+su selector.

Applicant Canon Co., Ltd. LO Figure 57 SKI SK2 SK3 SK4 SK5 SK6 No. 1
Figure 2

Claims (1)

[Claims] (1) An image processing system in which a plurality of image processing units are connected by an image transmission path, wherein the image transmission path is comprised of a plurality of signal lines that transmit image information as multivalued information. (2. The image processing system according to claim (1), wherein the image information is transmitted through the plurality of signal lines using a vocal tract synchronization signal.