RU2816914C1 - Method for forming image, device and computer-readable data storage medium - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: image forming means.

SUBSTANCE: method for forming an image, comprising steps of: receiving a first imaging task and performing a first imaging operation according to a first recording medium transportation rule and receiving a second imaging task, which is carried out according to the second rule of transporting the recording medium, wherein the recording medium transport directions for the at least one page of the first job and the at least one page of the second image forming job are different, wherein image forming device is equipped with at least two boxes for sheets of paper and input sheets of paper in boxes for sheets of paper are arranged in different directions, wherein the first imaging task and the second imaging task include image generation attribute information, wherein the image formation attribute information includes information on the selection of the box for sheets of paper.

EFFECT: wider range of tools for controlling paper transportation.

10 cl, 17 dwg

Description

Field of technology to which the invention relates

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of imaging, and more particularly to an imaging method, apparatus, and computer-readable information storage medium.

State of the art

[0002] An image forming apparatus is a device that forms an image on a recording medium according to the imaging principle, such as a printer, a copier, a facsimile machine, a multi-function image creation and copying apparatus, an electrostatic printing apparatus, and any other similar device.

[0003] The printer is used as an example in this document. In existing technologies, a printer can be shared by multiple users, that is, different users can sequentially send print jobs to the same printer. In addition, the same user can send multiple print jobs sequentially to the same printer. Various print jobs that are output sequentially are stored in the paper output tray in a mixed manner, so that each user needs to differentiate the print jobs by turning over the entire stack of sheets of paper in the paper output tray and looking for the printed content on the last pages of the print job each time, which is a burdensome operation for the user.

[0004] In order to solve the above problems, there are various solutions in existing technologies, which will be illustrated by examples below. The first solution is to print user identification on the first and/or last page of each print job to differentiate print jobs for each user. The second solution is to print a first large heading on the border of the first print job and a second large heading on the border of the second print job, so that even if the user views stacked print jobs with multiple print jobs, each print job can be distinguished by viewing the large heading on the border . A third solution is to use separators or special sheets of paper to differentiate each print job.

[0005] However, in the first solution, when the print jobs for each user are distinguished by printing the user identification on the first and/or last page of each print job, only the print jobs for different users are different, while each print job cannot be distinguished when multiple print jobs are printed sequentially for the same user. In the second solution, when each print job is differentiated by a large title on the border of each print job, on the one hand, the large title printed on the border affects the aesthetic appearance of the print job, resulting in lower print quality; on the other hand, printed content other than what the user needs to print on sheets of paper may not satisfy the user's printing needs, and the ability to create different patterns or texts than required in some printed documents is not provided. In the third solution, when each print job is differentiated by separators or other special sheets of paper, there is a problem of wasting materials such as sheets of paper.

The essence of the invention

[0006] The present invention provides an imaging method, apparatus, and computer-readable information storage medium to help solve a problem in existing technologies that is inconvenient in distinguishing stacked print jobs when there are multiple print jobs.

[0007] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a method for forming an image, which includes:

[0008] Receiving a first image forming job and performing a first image forming operation according to a first registration medium transport rule;

[0009] Receiving a second imaging job and performing a second imaging operation according to a second recording medium transport rule.

[0010] The first imaging job and the second imaging job are sequentially outputted imaging jobs, and media transport directions for recording for at least one page of the first imaging job and at least one page of the second imaging job are different.

[0011] In an exemplary implementation method, receiving a first image formation task and performing a first image formation operation according to a first recording medium transport rule includes receiving a first image formation task, performing a first part of the image formation task in the first image formation task according to a first media transport direction for registration and performing a second part of the image formation task in the first image formation task according to the second transport direction of the registration medium;

[0012] Receiving a second imaging job and performing a second imaging operation according to a second recording medium transport rule includes receiving a second imaging job, performing a first part of an imaging job in a second imaging job according to a first recording medium transport direction, and executing a second image forming task parts in the second image forming task according to the second transport direction of the recording medium;

[0013] The first transport direction of the recording medium is different from the second transport direction of the recording medium.

[0014] In an exemplary implementation method, receiving a first imaging task, executing a first part of an imaging task in a first imaging task according to a first transport direction of a recording medium, and executing a second part of an imaging task in a first imaging task according to a second transport direction of a recording medium includes the following:

[0015] If the first imaging job is not the first received imaging job, the first part of the imaging job in the first imaging job is executed according to the first transport direction of the recording medium, and the second part of the imaging job in the first imaging job is executed according to the second direction. transporting media for registration;

[0016] If the first imaging job is the first received imaging job, the first imaging job is executed according to the first recording medium transport direction or the second recording media transport direction.

[0017] In an exemplary implementation method, receiving a second imaging task, executing a first part of an imaging task in a second imaging task according to a first transport direction of a recording medium, and executing a second part of an imaging task in a second imaging task according to a second transport direction of a recording medium includes the following:

[0018] If the second imaging job is not the last received imaging job, the first part of the imaging job in the second imaging job is executed according to the first transport direction of the recording medium, and the second part of the imaging job in the second imaging job is executed according to the second direction. transporting media for registration;

[0019] If the second imaging job is the last received imaging job, the second imaging job is executed according to the first recording medium transport direction or the second recording media transport direction.

[0020] In an exemplary implementation method, the first part of the imaging job in the first imaging job is at least one page of the imaging job, and/or the first part of the imaging job in the second imaging job is at least one page image formation tasks;

[0021] The second imaging job part in the first imaging job is at least one imaging job page, and/or the second imaging job part in the second imaging job is at least one imaging job page.

[0022] In an exemplary implementation method, the first recording medium transport direction is the recording media transport direction when the first recording media storage device is selected to perform an image forming operation;

[0023] The second recording medium transport direction is a recording media transport direction when the second recording media storage device is selected to perform an image forming operation.

[0024] In an exemplary implementation method, performing a first image forming operation according to a first recording medium transport rule includes selecting an appropriate recording medium storage device to perform the first image forming operation according to information about selecting a recording medium storage device in the first imaging job;

[0025] Performing the second image forming operation according to the second recording medium transport rule includes selecting an appropriate recording medium storage device to perform the second image forming operation according to the selection information of the recording medium storage device in the second imaging task.

[0026] In an exemplary implementation method, the first imaging job and the second imaging job are different imaging jobs sent to the imaging apparatus by different control devices or users;

[0027] Or, the first imaging job and the second imaging job are different imaging jobs sent to the imaging apparatus by the same control device or user.

[0028] In a second aspect, the present invention provides an imaging apparatus that includes:

[0029] Processor;

[0030] Memory;

[0031] The computer product is stored in a memory, and when the computer product is executed, the imaging apparatus executes the method described in any one of the first aspect.

[0032] In a third aspect, the present invention provides a computer-readable storage medium that includes a stored program. When the program runs, the device where the computer-readable storage medium is located is controlled to perform the method described in any one of the first aspect.

[0033] In embodiments of the present opening, the transport directions of the paper sheets are controlled to make the output paper sheets corresponding to different imaging tasks cross-positioned in different directions so that the user can easily distinguish the output paper sheets corresponding to each imaging task.

Brief description of drawings

[0034] In order to explain the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention more clearly, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which are used in the description of the embodiments. Obviously, the drawings in the following description are only some embodiments of the present invention, and other drawings can be derived from these drawings without any inventive effort by those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0035] FIG. 1A is a schematic structural drawing of an imaging system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] FIG. 1B is a schematic structural drawing of an imaging system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] FIG. 1C is a schematic drawing of a stack of sheets of paper in existing technologies.

[0038] FIG. 2 is a schematic flowchart of a method for forming an image according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] FIG. 3 is a schematic flowchart of another method for forming an image according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] FIG. 4 is a schematic drawing showing transport directions of paper sheets according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] FIG. 5A is a schematic drawing showing a first transport direction of paper sheets according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] FIG. 5B is a schematic drawing showing a second transport direction of paper sheets according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] FIG. 6 is a schematic drawing showing a method for stacking output sheets of paper according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] FIG. 7 is a schematic flowchart of another method for forming an image according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] FIG. 8 is a schematic drawing showing job identifications for an image forming job according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] FIG. 9 is a schematic flowchart of another method for forming an image according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] FIG. 10 is a schematic drawing showing a method for stacking output sheets of paper according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[004 8] FIG. 11 is a schematic drawing showing another method for stacking output sheets of paper according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[004 9] FIG. 12 is a schematic flowchart of another method for forming an image according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] FIG. 13 is a schematic flowchart of another method for forming an image according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] FIG. 14 is a schematic flowchart of another method for forming an image according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed Description of Embodiments

[0052] In order to better understand the technical solutions of the present discovery, embodiments of the present discovery are described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0053] Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, and not all, embodiments of the present discovery. Based on the described embodiments, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without inventive effort will fall within the scope of the present discovery.

[0054] When described herein, terms used in embodiments of the present discovery are intended to describe exemplary embodiments rather than limiting the present discovery. The singular forms "a", "an", and "the" used in the embodiments of the present discovery and the accompanying claims are intended to also include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0055] It should be understood that the term "and/or" used in this specification is only an associative relationship to describe related objects, indicating that there may be three kinds of relationships. For example, A and/or B, which could mean that A exists separately, A and B exist at the same time, and B exists separately. Additionally, the "/" character in this specification generally indicates that the related objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0056] FIG. 1A and 1B are schematic structural drawings of imaging systems provided by embodiments of the present invention. The control device 100 and the image forming device 200 are shown in FIG. 1A and 1B, which may be wired or wirelessly connected. The control device 100 may send imaging jobs to the imaging device 200, and the imaging device 200 performs corresponding imaging operations according to the received imaging jobs.

[0057] The control device 100 includes, but is not limited to, a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a network computer, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a personal digital assistant (PDA), an Internet-enabled mobile phone, a smartphone, a pager, a digital device capture device (such as a digital camera or camcorder), Internet device, e-reader, data card, and digital or network card. Functions of the imaging apparatus 200 include, but are not limited to, a printing function, a scanning function, a copy function, and a fax function. For example, the imaging device 200 may be one of the following products. Single function printer with print function only. Multifunction printer with print, copy, scan and/or fax functions and optionally adjustable number of paper drawers. The digital composite machine has standard or optional print, scan and fax functions based on the copy function, which use digital principles to output files in the form of laser printing, and can edit images and texts as needed, with a large capacity paper tray, large memory capacity, large hard drive, powerful network support and multitasking parallel processing capabilities.

[0058] The communication network connecting the control device 100 and the imaging device 200 may be a local area network or a wide area network switched through a relay device. When the communication network is a local area network, the communication network may be, for example, a short-range communication network such as a wifi hotspot network, a wifi P2P network, a Bluetooth network, a zigbee network, or a short-range communication (NFC) network. When the communication network is a wide area network, the communication network may be, for example, a third generation (3G) wireless telephony network, a fourth generation (4G) mobile network, a fifth generation (5G) mobile network, a future deployed public land mobile network (PLMN), Internet, etc.

[0059] The recording medium implied in the present disclosure refers to a medium configured to carry image forming content, such as a sheet of paper. In some embodiments, in addition to a sheet of paper, the recording medium may also be a medium made of other materials, which are not particularly limited herein. For ease of understanding, a piece of paper is taken as an example for description in this specification.

[0060] The imaging apparatus 200 is generally provided with a paper sheet box and a paper sheet output tray, and the paper sheet box is configured to store blank paper sheets (unprinted paper sheets, hereinafter collectively referred to as "input paper sheets"). After the image forming apparatus 200 performs image forming operations on blank sheets of paper, the sheets of paper on which the image forming operations are completed (printed sheets of paper, hereinafter collectively referred to as "output sheets of paper") are transported to the output paper sheet tray and stacked on top of each other in the paper output tray.

[0061] It may be understood that if there are a plurality of sequential imaging jobs, output paper sheets corresponding to the plurality of sequential imaging jobs will be stacked on top of each other together in the output paper sheet tray. For example, in the application scenarios shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the user can separately send the first imaging job "JOB#l" and the second imaging job "JOB#2" to the imaging apparatus 200. After the imaging apparatus 200 completes the first imaging job "JOB#l" and the second imaging job "JOB#2", output paper sheets corresponding to the first imaging job "JOB#l" and the second imaging job "JOB#2" image forming trays are stacked on top of each other in the paper output tray.

[0062] In existing technologies, the image forming apparatus performs image forming operations according to a fixed transport direction of paper sheets, and output paper sheets corresponding to the first image forming job "JOB#l" and the second image forming job "JOB#2" are stacked on each other in the paper output tray in the same direction, as shown in FIG. 1C. In order to distinguish between the output sheets of paper corresponding to the first imaging job "JOB#1" and the second imaging job "JOB#2", the user needs to turn over the entire stack of output sheets of paper in the output paper tray and look for the contents of the last page of the output sheets of paper in the first image forming job "JOB#1", which is burdensome for the user.

[0063] In an exemplary implementation method, the first imaging job "JOB#1" and the second imaging job "JOB#2" may be imaging jobs sent to the same imaging apparatus 200 by different users via different control apparatuses 100. For example, in the application scenario shown in FIG. 1A, the user sends the first image forming job "JOB#l" to the image forming apparatus 200 via the first control device 110; and the other user sends a second sequential imaging job "JOB#2" to the imaging apparatus 200 via the second control apparatus 120.

[0064] In an exemplary implementation method, the first imaging job "JOB#1" and the second imaging job "JOB#2" may be imaging jobs sent to the same imaging apparatus 200 by the same user via the same the same control device 100. For example, in the application scenario shown in FIG. 11B, the user sequentially sends the first imaging job "JOB#1" and the second imaging job "JOB#2" to the imaging apparatus 200 via the first control apparatus 110.

[0065] In an exemplary implementation, the same user may also operate multiple control devices 100 to sequentially send multiple imaging jobs to the same imaging device 200. For example, in the application scenario shown in FIG. 1A, the first control device 110 and the second control device 120 are operated by the same user to sequentially send the first imaging job "JOB#1" and the second imaging job "JOB#2" to the imaging device 200, respectively.

[0066] In an exemplary implementation method, multiple users may also sequentially send multiple imaging jobs to the same imaging apparatus 200 via one control apparatus 100. For example, in the application scenario shown in FIG. 1B, the first control device 110 is operated by various users to sequentially send the first imaging job "JOB#l" and the second imaging job "JOB#2" to the imaging device 200, respectively.

[0067] The present invention is not particularly limited to the above application scenarios.

[0068] In order to facilitate discrimination of output paper sheets corresponding to a plurality of imaging jobs, a method for imaging is provided by the present invention, which will be described in detail below.

[0069] FIG. 2 is a schematic flowchart of a method for image formation provided by embodiments of the present invention, which can be applied to the imaging systems shown in FIG. 1A or FIG. 1B. As shown in FIG. 2, the method mainly includes the following processes.

[0070] Process S201, receiving a first image forming job and performing a first image forming operation according to a first registration medium transport rule.

[0071] The first recording media transport rule implied in some embodiments of the present invention includes information about the direction of transport of the recording media, which may limit the transport directions of some or all of the recording media in the first imaging job. The recording medium implied in some embodiments of the present invention may be a sheet of paper, and the direction of transport of the recording medium may be understood as the transport direction of the sheet of paper.

[0072] Process S202, receiving a second image forming job and performing a second image forming operation according to the second recording medium transport rule.

[0073] The second recording media transport rule implied in some embodiments of the present invention includes information about the direction of transport of the recording media, which may limit the transport directions of some or all of the recording media in the second imaging task. The first imaging job and the second imaging job are sequentially output imaging jobs, and the conveying directions of the recording medium for at least one page of the first imaging job and at least one page of the second imaging job are different. For example, the conveying directions of the recording medium for registering the last page of the first imaging job and the first page of the second imaging job are different; the registration medium conveying directions for the last partial pages of the first imaging job and the first partial pages of the second imaging job are different; or the conveying directions of the recording medium for registering a predetermined page of the first imaging job and a predetermined page of the second imaging job are different. For example, the specified page of the first imaging job may be the penultimate page, and the specified page of the second imaging job may be the first page; or the specified page of the first imaging job may be the last page, and the specified page of the second imaging job may be the second page. In some other embodiments, those skilled in the art may set a different page number of the first imaging job and/or the second imaging job as a predetermined page according to actual needs, which is not particularly limited herein.

[0074] That is, in some embodiments of the present invention, the direction of transport of the recording medium may be limited by the transport rule of the recording medium such that the directions of transport of the recording medium of at least one page from the first imaging job and at least one page from the second imaging job are different. When there are recording media with different transport directions in the first imaging task and the second imaging task, cross-positioned recording media are formed in the first imaging task and the second imaging task sequentially output, and the user can easily distinguish the recording medium corresponding to each image formation task using cross-positioned recording media.

[0075] It may be understood that when cross-stacked recording media are arranged at adjacent positions of the first imaging task and the second imaging task, it is more convenient for the user to distinguish between the first imaging task and the second imaging task. Therefore, in some embodiments, the transport directions of the recording medium are different at adjacent positions of the first imaging job and the second imaging job.

[0076] In order to achieve the above purpose, embodiments of the present invention provide many different methods for setting up a registration media transport rule, which will be described below.

[0077] FIG. 3 is a schematic flowchart of a method for image formation provided by embodiments of the present invention, which can be applied to the imaging systems shown in FIG. 1A or FIG. 1B. As shown in FIG. 3, the method mainly includes the following processes.

[0078] Process S301, receiving a first image forming job and performing a first image forming operation according to the first transport direction of the recording medium.

[0079] In some embodiments of the present invention, performing the first imaging operation according to the first recording medium transport direction is the first recording media transport rule. The recording medium implied in some embodiments of the present invention may be a sheet of paper, and the direction of transport of the recording medium may be understood as the transport direction of the sheet of paper. Typically, the shape of a sheet of paper is rectangular with different lengths of adjacent sides, that is, the sheet of paper includes long sides and short sides, such as A4/A5/B4/B5 or other types of paper sheets.

[0080] FIG. 4 is a schematic drawing showing transport directions of sheets of paper provided by embodiments of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 4, the paper sheet A is transported in a direction perpendicular to the long side, that is, the paper sheet A is transported in the short side direction; the sheet of paper B is transported in a direction perpendicular to the short side, that is, the sheet of paper B is transported in the direction of the long side.

[0081] In order to facilitate distinguishing between output paper sheets corresponding to multiple imaging jobs, different directions of transport of paper sheets are used in different imaging jobs in some embodiments of the present invention. After the first imaging job "JOB#1" is received, the first imaging operation for "JOB#1" may be performed according to the first recording medium transport direction (the first paper sheet transport direction). That is, the direction of transport of the paper sheet is controlled according to the image formation specification.

[0082] In an exemplary embodiment, the image forming apparatus is provided with at least two paper sheet boxes, and the paper sheet boxes are placed in different directions, that is, input paper sheets in the paper sheet boxes are placed in different directions. The image forming apparatus may choose to use input sheets of paper in a paper sheet box to perform image forming operations. The direction of the input sheets of paper in the sheet paper drawer affects the direction of paper transport, which further affects the direction in which the output sheets of paper are stacked in the output sheet tray. Based on this principle, performing a first imaging operation for "JOB#1" according to a first recording media transport direction includes, in some embodiments, selecting a first recording media storage device and performing a first imaging operation for "JOB#1" according to the first direction of transportation of the recording medium. In some embodiments of the present invention, the recording medium is a sheet of paper, then the first recording media storage device is a first paper sheet box, and the first recording medium transport direction is a first paper sheet transport direction. That is, the first paper sheet box is selected, and the first imaging operation for "JOB#1" is performed according to the first paper sheet transport direction. The storage direction of the paper sheets in the first paper sheet box corresponds to the first transport direction of the paper sheet.

[0083] FIG. 5A is a schematic drawing showing a first transport direction of paper sheets provided by embodiments of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 5A, the first paper sheet box is placed vertically, and the input paper sheets are also placed vertically in the first paper sheet box. When the image forming apparatus selects the first paper sheet box to perform image forming operations, the paper sheets are transported in the short side direction (vertical direction). After the imaging operations are completed, the output sheets of paper are also stacked vertically on the output paper tray. It should be noted that "horizontal" or "vertical" are only relative terms and are described according to the orientations shown in the drawings in embodiments of the present invention.

[0084] In an exemplary implementation method, after receiving the first image forming job "JOB#1", the image forming apparatus can independently determine which sheet paper box to select to supply a sheet of paper, and only needs to ensure that the sheet box direction setting paper selected for the first imaging job "JOB#1" is different from the subsequent second imaging job "JOB#2".

[0085] In an exemplary implementation method, the first imaging job "JOB#1" also includes information about selecting a recording media storage device, that is, information about selecting a paper sheet box. The paper sheet box selection information may be user-specified information, that is, the user specifies which paper box to select for feeding paper. After receiving the first image forming job "JOB#l" the image forming apparatus selects the first paper sheet box according to the paper sheet box selection information and performs a first image forming operation for "JOB#1" according to the first paper sheet transport direction.

[0086] Process S302, receiving a second image forming job and performing a second image forming operation according to a second recording medium transport direction.

[0087] In some embodiments of the present invention, performing a second imaging operation according to a second recording medium transport direction is a second recording media transport rule.

[0088] After the first imaging job "JOB#1" is completed, in order to avoid that the output sheets of paper corresponding to the first imaging job "JOB#1" and the second imaging job "JOB#2" are mixed together, the second imaging operation for "JOB#2" is performed according to the second transport direction of the registration medium. That is, the second image forming operation for "JOB#2" is performed according to the second paper sheet transport direction, which is different from the above-mentioned first paper sheet transport direction.

[0089] FIG. 5B is a schematic drawing showing a second transport direction of paper sheets provided by embodiments of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 5B, the second paper sheet box is placed horizontally, and the input paper sheets are also placed horizontally in the second paper sheet box. When the image forming apparatus selects the second paper sheet box to perform image forming operations, the paper sheets are transported in the long side direction (horizontal direction). After the imaging operations are completed, the output sheets of paper are also stacked horizontally on the output paper tray. It should be noted that "horizontal" or "vertical" are only relative concepts and are described according to the orientations shown in the drawings in embodiments of the present invention.

[0090] It should be noted that FIG. 5A and 5B are exemplary descriptions only and should not be taken as limiting the scope of the present discovery. For example, in some implementation methods, when the first paper drawer is placed vertically, sheets of paper can be transported in the long side direction; When the second paper drawer is placed horizontally, sheets of paper can be transported in the short side direction. As another example, in some implementation methods, when the first paper drawer is arranged vertically, output sheets of paper are stacked horizontally on the output paper tray; When the second paper drawer is placed horizontally, the output paper sheets are stacked vertically on the paper output tray, depending on how the internal transport system of the image forming apparatus is configured. However, it is clear that there is a certain correspondence between the direction of the input paper sheets in the paper box and the stacking direction of the output paper sheets on the output paper tray, so that the transport direction of the paper sheets can be determined by selecting the paper box.

[0091] In an exemplary implementation method, after receiving the second image forming job "JOB#2", the image forming apparatus can independently determine which sheet paper box to select to supply a sheet of paper, and only needs to ensure that the sheet box direction setting paper selected for the second imaging job "JOB#2" is different from the first imaging job "JOB#1".

[0092] In an exemplary implementation method, the second imaging job "JOB#2" also includes information about selecting a recording media storage device, that is, information about selecting a paper sheet box. The paper sheet box selection information may be user-specified information, that is, the user specifies which paper box to select for feeding paper. After receiving the second image forming job "JOB#2", the image forming apparatus selects the second paper sheet box according to the paper sheet box selection information and performs the second image forming operation for "JOB#2" according to the second paper sheet transport direction.

[0093] FIG. 6 is a schematic drawing showing a method for laying output sheets of paper provided by embodiments of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 6, after the second imaging job "JOB#2" is completed, output sheets of paper corresponding to the first imaging job "JOB#1" and the second imaging job "JOB#2" are cross-stacked horizontally and vertically, and the user can easily distinguish between output sheets of paper corresponding to each imaging job.

[0094] In some embodiments of the present invention, output sheets of paper corresponding to the first imaging job "JOB#1" and the second imaging job "JOB#2" are stacked horizontally and vertically, respectively, i.e., the first transport direction sheets of paper is perpendicular to the second direction of transport of sheets of paper. In some possible implementations, other angles may also be specified between the first paper sheet transport direction and the second paper sheet transport direction, such as 30°, 60°, etc., which are not particularly limited herein.

[0095] Moreover, in addition to the first paper sheet box and the second paper sheet box, there may be a greater number of paper sheet boxes in the image forming apparatus. The present invention does not limit the number of paper sheet boxes and the types of paper sheets stored in the paper sheet boxes. For example, there are five paper sheet boxes specified in the imaging apparatus, where paper sheets such as A4/A5/B4/B5/letter are placed vertically in boxes "#01", "#02" and "#04" for sheets of paper, and sheets of paper such as A4/A5 are placed horizontally in the paper sheet drawers "#03" and "#05".

[0096] In embodiments of the present opening, the paper conveying directions are controlled to make the output paper sheets corresponding to different imaging tasks cross-positioned in different directions so that the user can easily distinguish the output paper sheets corresponding to each imaging task.

[0097] In an exemplary implementation method, the above-mentioned first imaging job and second imaging job may be different imaging jobs sent by different control devices to the imaging apparatus (as in the application scenario shown in FIG. 1A), i.e., jobs The images sent by different control devices can be distinguished. Or, the above-mentioned first imaging job and second imaging job are different imaging jobs sent by the same control device to the imaging apparatus (as in the application scenario shown in FIG. 1B), that is, imaging jobs sent the same control device can be distinguished.

[0098] In an exemplary implementation method, the above-mentioned first imaging job and the second imaging job may be different imaging jobs sent by different users to the imaging apparatus, that is, imaging jobs sent by different users can be distinguished. Or, the above-mentioned first imaging job and second imaging job are different imaging jobs sent by the same user to the imaging apparatus, that is, imaging jobs sent by the same user can be distinguished.

[0099] For ease of understanding, technical solutions provided by embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below along with certain implementation methods.

[0100] FIG. 7 is a schematic flowchart of a method for image formation provided by embodiments of the present invention, which can be applied to the imaging systems shown in FIG. 1A or FIG. 1B. As shown in FIG. 7, the method mainly includes the following processes.

[0101] Process S701, receiving successive imaging jobs.

[0102] In some embodiments, the imaging jobs include a plurality of imaging jobs submitted by different users (or different control devices), such as those shown in FIG. 1A, or include a plurality of imaging jobs submitted by the same user (or the same control device), such as that shown in FIG. 1B. A plurality of imaging jobs are initially indicated by various job identifications such as "JOB#l", "JOB#2", or "JOB#N". Various job identifications such as "JOB#l", "JOB#2", or "JOB#N" may also be created when the print driver receives imaging job data to distinguish between each imaging job, imaging jobs for each user, or imaging jobs sent by each control device. In addition, different job identifications such as "JOB#1", "JOB#2", or "JOB#N" can also be created for imaging jobs sent by each user, imaging jobs sent by each control device, or each imaging job when the device Imaging accepts imaging jobs from control devices to differentiate imaging jobs.

[0103] Process S702, paper feed device detection.

[0104] In some embodiments, the paper feeder definition must select which paper drawer is used to feed paper. In an exemplary implementation method, the image forming job includes image forming attribute information, which may include paper sheet box selection information, and the image forming apparatus may determine a paper supply device according to the paper sheet box selection information.

[0105] For example, user 1 sets the image forming job parameters before issuing the image forming job "JOB#1", and selects the paper sheet drawer "#01" and the type "A4" (corresponding to the long edge feed of the A4 type). User 1 sets the image forming job parameters before issuing the image forming job "JOB#2", and selects the paper sheet drawer "#03" and the type "A4" (corresponding to the short edge feed of the A4 type). Accordingly, the paper sheet box "#01" is selected as the paper supply device according to the imaging attributes "#01" and "A4" for the imaging job identified as "JOB#1". The paper sheet box "#03" is selected as the paper feeder according to the imaging attributes "#03" and "A4" for the imaging job identified as "JOB#2".

[0106] As another example, when the same user issues multiple imaging jobs, or different users issue multiple imaging jobs, the imaging apparatus automatically selects paper sheet boxes with different direction settings as the paper supply device for adjacent jobs generating images according to the attribute settings of different users or different imaging jobs.

[0107] Process S703, the image forming apparatus performs image forming operations.

[0108] In some embodiments, imaging operations may be performed sequentially according to a sequence of imaging jobs received sequentially. For example, the imaging operations for "JOB#l", "JOB#2", and JOB"#N" are sequential

are being carried out. Imaging operations can also be performed according to the needs of the user.

[0109] Process S704, the image forming apparatus determines whether the current image forming operation is completed.

[0110] If the current image forming operation is completed, process S705 is executed; if the current image forming operation is not completed, process S703 is executed.

[0111] For an issued imaging job, each page of the imaging job can be distinguished by job separators or job identifications. Job identifications are taken as an example herein, as shown in FIG. 8, and for each page of print data, there is a corresponding job start identification (start) and a job end identification (end). The imaging apparatus may identify each page of an imaging job based on end job identification information (job end identification). That is, the identification of the end of the job for the corresponding page is identified with the completion of the imaging operation of each page of the imaging job, so that it is determined that the imaging of the current page is completed. Likewise, for each print job, there is a corresponding job end flag, and the imaging apparatus determines the completion of the imaging operations corresponding to each job by identifying the job end flag.

[0112] Process S705, determining whether there is a pending imaging job.

[0113] If there is a pending image generation job, process S702 is executed again; if there is no pending imaging job, imaging operations end. If there is a pending imaging job, data and information about imaging attributes of the pending job is obtained, and process S702 is executed to determine the paper feeder. Here, the imaging device determines that the paper supply device is different from the paper supply device for the previous imaging job according to the imaging attribute information, and in particular determines that the paper supply device has a transport direction of paper sheets different from the previous imaging job .

[0114] For example, the paper feeder specified for performing image forming operations is the paper sheet box "#01" (horizontal feed) according to the image forming attribute information of the previous image forming job "JOB#1". After the imaging apparatus completes the previous imaging job "JOB#1" and it is determined that there is a pending imaging job "JOB#2", then it is determined that the paper feeding apparatus has a paper sheet transport direction different from the previous job" JOB#1" image forming box such as paper drawer "#03" (vertical feed). That is, after the imaging apparatus completes the imaging operations and outputs the imaging job "JOB#2", two adjacent imaging jobs received from the sheet output tray of the imaging apparatus are imaging jobs that are transversely output horizontally and vertically, respectively, as shown in Fig. 6.

[0115] In addition to the above-described implementation method, in order to facilitate recognition of different imaging jobs, the transport direction of paper sheets can be adjusted for only some paper sheets in each imaging job, so that intervals of paper sheets in different directions are formed between two adjacent imaging jobs, and the user can easily distinguish between the output paper sheets corresponding to each imaging job.

[0116] FIG. 9 is a schematic flowchart of a method for image formation provided by embodiments of the present invention, which can be applied to the imaging systems shown in FIGS. 1A or FIG. 1B. As shown in FIG. 9, the method mainly includes the following processes.

[0117] Process S901, receiving the first image formation task, executing the first part of the image formation task in the first image formation task according to the first transport direction of the recording medium, and executing the second part of the image formation task in the first image formation task according to the second transport direction of the recording medium.

[0118] In some embodiments of the present invention, performing the first part of the imaging task in the first imaging task according to the first transport direction of the recording medium and performing the second part of the imaging task in the first imaging task according to the second transport direction of the recording medium is the first transport rule registration medium. That is, in some embodiments of the present invention, the first imaging task is performed in two parts, and different directions of transport of paper sheets are used in two parts.

[0119] In a possible implementation method, there are N pages of print data in the first imaging job, where the print data for page 1 to page N-1 is used as the first part of the imaging job, and sheets of paper are transported horizontally; The print data for page N (last page) is used as the second part of the imaging job, and the sheet of paper is transported vertically.

[0120] In another possible implementation method, there are N pages of print data in the first imaging job, where the print data for page 1 to page K (the first K pages, where K<N) are used as the first part of the imaging job, and sheets of paper transported horizontally; print data for page K+1 through page N (last N-K pages) is used as the second part of the imaging job, and sheets of paper

transported vertically. For example, there are 10 pages of print data in the first imaging job, where the print data for page 1 to page 7 (the first 7 pages) are used as the first part of the imaging job, and sheets of paper are transported horizontally; The print data for page 8 to page 10 (last 3 pages) is used as the second part of the imaging job, and sheets of paper are transported vertically.

[0121] Process S902, receiving a second imaging job, executing a first part of an imaging job in a second imaging job according to a first transport direction of a recording medium, and executing a second part of an imaging job in a second imaging job according to a second transport direction of a recording medium.

[0122] In some embodiments of the present invention, performing the first part of the imaging task in the second imaging task according to the first transport direction of the recording medium and performing the second part of the imaging task in the second imaging task according to the second transport direction of the recording medium is the second transport rule registration medium. That is, in some embodiments of the present invention, the second imaging task is performed in two parts, and different transport directions of the paper sheets are used in the two parts.

[0123] In a possible implementation method, there are M pages of print data in the second imaging job, where the print data for page 1 to page M-1 are used as the first part of the imaging job, and sheets of paper are transported horizontally; the print data for page M (last page) is used as the second part of the imaging job, and the sheet of paper is transported vertically.

[0124] In another possible implementation method, there are M pages of print data in a second imaging job, where the print data for page 1 to page H (the first N pages where H<M) are used as the first part of the imaging job, and sheets of paper transported horizontally; The print data for page H+1 through page M (last M-H pages) is used as the second part of the imaging job, and sheets of paper are transported vertically. For example, there are 10 pages of print data in the second imaging job, where the print data for page 1 to page 2 (the first 2 pages) are used as the first part of the imaging job, and sheets of paper are transported horizontally; The print data for page 3 to page 10 (last 8 pages) is used as the second part of the imaging job, and sheets of paper are transported vertically.

[0125] FIG. 10 is a schematic drawing showing a method of laying output paper sheets provided by embodiments of the present invention. In fig. 10, it is assumed that there are N pages of print data in the first imaging job "JOB#l", and there are M pages of print data in the second imaging job "JOB#2". After the first imaging job "JOB#l" is completed, the output paper sheets for page 1 to page N-1 in the first imaging job "JOB#l" are placed horizontally, and the output paper sheet for page N (the last page of the output sheets paper) is placed vertically. After the second imaging job "JOB#2" is completed, the output paper sheets for page 1 to page M-1 in the second imaging job "JOB#2" are placed horizontally, and the output paper sheet for page M (the last page of the output sheets paper) is placed vertically. It may be understood that the first imaging job and the second imaging job may be separated by an output paper sheet of page N in the first imaging job "JOB#l". Likewise, if there is a third imaging job "JOB#3" subsequently, the second imaging job and the third imaging job may be separated by the output paper sheet of page M in the second imaging job "JOB#2".

[0126] FIG. 11 is a schematic drawing showing another method of stacking output paper sheets provided by embodiments of the present invention. In fig. 11, it is assumed that there are N pages of print data in the first imaging job "JOB#1", and there are M pages of print data in the second imaging job "JOB#2". After the first imaging job "JOB#l" is completed, the first page of output paper sheets in the first imaging job "JOB#1" is placed vertically, and the output sheets for page 2 to page N are placed horizontally. After the second imaging job "JOB#2" is completed, the first page of output sheets of paper in the second imaging job "JOB#2" is placed vertically, and the output sheets for page 2 to page N are placed horizontally. It may be understood that the first imaging job and the second imaging job may be separated by a first page of output sheets of paper in the second imaging job "JOB#2".

[0127] To summarize, in the application scenario shown in FIG. 10, the last page of output paper sheets in an imaging job is a separating page for two adjacent imaging jobs; in the application scenario shown in FIG. 11, the first page of the output paper sheets is a separating page for two adjacent imaging jobs. In the above embodiments, the number of separating pages is one page for illustration, and those skilled in the art can also set separating pages on more than two pages, such as two pages, three pages, four pages, etc., according to actual needs, which is not particularly limited herein. In other words, those skilled in the art can flexibly configure the numbers of output paper sheets corresponding to the first part of the imaging job and the second part of the imaging job, which is not particularly limited herein.

[0128] With regard to other contents of the embodiments, reference may be made to the description of the embodiments shown in FIGS. 3, which will not be repeated in this document.

[0129] In a possible implementation method, the above-described process S901 can be divided into two situations: if the first imaging job is not the first received imaging job, the first part of the imaging job in the first imaging job is executed according to the first transport direction of the recording medium, and the second part of the imaging task in the first imaging task is executed according to the second transport direction of the recording medium; if the first imaging job is the first received imaging job, the first imaging job is executed according to the first recording medium transport direction or the second registration media transport direction, when the registration media transport direction for executing the first imaging job is determined according to the recording media transport direction registration for the previous imaging job. For example, in FIG. 11, the first imaging job "JOB#1" is the first imaging job received (there is no other imaging job to be separated before the first page of the first imaging job "JOB#1"), the first page of output paper sheets in the first job The imaging JOB#1 may also be placed horizontally, that is, all output sheets of paper in the first imaging JOB#1 are placed horizontally. With this method, the user's sorting work for the first imaging job "JOB#1" (sorting the output sheets of paper in the first imaging job "JOB#1" in different directions into the same direction) can also be reduced. For example, if the first imaging job is the first received imaging job, the first imaging job is executed according to the first recording medium transport direction, the first part of the imaging job in the second imaging job is executed according to the second recording media transport direction, and the second part of the job image formation in the second image formation task is performed according to the first transport direction of the recording medium; if the first imaging job is not the first received imaging job, the first part of the imaging job in the first imaging job is executed according to the first transport direction of the recording medium, and the second part of the imaging job in the first imaging job is executed according to the second transport direction of the recording medium. registration.

[0130] Similarly, the above-described process S902 can be divided into two situations: if the second imaging job is not the last received imaging job, the first part of the imaging job in the second imaging job is executed according to the first transport direction of the recording medium, and the second part the imaging task in the second imaging task is performed according to the second transport direction of the recording medium; if the second imaging job is the last received imaging job, the second imaging job is executed according to the first recording medium transport direction or the second registration media transport direction, when the registration media transport direction for executing the second imaging job is determined according to the recording media transport direction registration for the previous imaging job. For example, in FIG. 10, the second imaging job "JOB#2" is the last received imaging job (there is no other imaging job to be separated after the last page of the second imaging job "JOB#2"), the last page of the output paper sheets in the second job The imaging JOB#2 may also be placed horizontally, that is, all output sheets of paper in the second imaging JOB#2 are placed horizontally. With this method, the user's sorting work for the second imaging job "JOB#2" (sorting the output sheets of paper in the second imaging job "JOB#2" in different directions into the same direction) can also be reduced.

[0131] For ease of understanding, technical solutions provided by embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below along with certain implementation methods.

[0132] FIG. 12 is a schematic flowchart of a method for image formation provided by embodiments of the present invention, which can be applied to the imaging systems shown in FIG. 1A or FIG. 1B. As shown in FIG. 12, the method mainly includes the following processes.

[0133] Process S1201, receiving successive imaging jobs.

[0134] Process S1202, paper feed device detection.

[0135] Process S1203, the image forming apparatus performs image forming operations.

[0136] With regard to the specific contents of processes S1201-S1203, reference may be made to a description of processes S701-S703 in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 7, which will not be repeated in this document.

[0137] Process S1204, the imaging device determines whether the current page is complete.

[0138] For example, there are N pages of data in the currently executing imaging job, and the imaging apparatus sequentially performs the imaging operation for each data page. During imaging operations, the imaging apparatus determines whether the current page is completed, that is, determines whether printing of the current page is completed. If the current page is completed, process S1205 is executed; if the current page is not completed, process S1203 is executed again to continue the imaging operation of the current page. As shown in FIG. 8, for each page of print data, there is a corresponding job start identification (start) and a job end identification (end). The imaging apparatus may identify each page of an imaging job based on end job identification information (job end identification). That is, the identification of the end of the job for the corresponding page is identified with the completion of the imaging operation of each page of the imaging job, so that it is determined that the imaging of the current page is completed.

[0139] Process S1205, counting pages for which the imaging operation is completed.

[0140] In some embodiments, a counter may be set. In the initial state, the counting value of the counter is 0, and the counter is incremented by 1 each time the imaging operation of one page is completed, so as to count the number of pages for which the imaging operations are completed.

[0141] Process S1206, determining whether the number of pages for which imaging operations are completed is N-1.

[0142] In some embodiments of the present discovery, there are N pages of data in the current imaging job, and determining whether N-1 is the number of pages for which the imaging operations have completed is to determine whether the page on which the imaging operation is executed by the penultimate page of the current imaging job. If it is the penultimate page of the current imaging job, process S1207 is executed; if it is not the penultimate page of the current imaging job, process S1203 is executed again.

[0143] Process S1207, paper feed device detection.

[014 4] In the case where imaging operations are completed for N-1 pages of the current imaging job, the paper feeder is re-determined for the last page (Nth page). The redefined paper feeder is different from the paper feeder for previously completed imaging operations for N-1 pages, and the direction of placing a sheet of paper in the paper feeder defined for the Nth page is different from the direction of placing a sheet of paper in the paper feeder for previously completed imaging operations for N-1 pages.

[0145] For example, a 10-page imaging job and imaging attribute information therefor are received, and the imaging attribute information includes paper box selection information. In the initial state, the image forming apparatus may determine that the paper feeding device is the paper sheet box "#01" (A4 horizontal type) according to the paper sheet box selection information. After the image forming apparatus completes the imaging operations of 9 data pages, the paper sheet box "#03" (A4 vertical type) other than the previous 9 pages is re-defined as the paper feeder for the 10th data page before the imaging operation images according to the paper box selection information.

[0146] Process S1208, the image forming apparatus performs an image forming operation.

[0147] After the paper feeder for the Nth page is re-determined, the imaging apparatus continues to perform the imaging operation of the Nth data page.

[0148] Process S1209, the imaging device determines whether the imaging operation of the current page is completed.

[0149] In some embodiments, the imaging apparatus determines whether the Nth page imaging operation has completed. If the N-th page imaging operation is completed, it means that all imaging operations of the current imaging job are completed, and process S1210 is executed. If it is not completed, process S1208 is executed again. In some other embodiments, the imaging apparatus determines whether the imaging operations of the current job are completed according to a job end flag. If the imaging job is completed, process S1210 is executed. If it is not completed, process S1208 is executed again.

[0150] Process S1210, determining whether there is a pending imaging job.

[0151] If there is a pending imaging job, process S1202 is executed again; if there is no pending imaging job, all operations end.

[0152] For example, when the 10-page first imaging job "JOB#1" is received, the imaging apparatus increments the page counter of completed imaging operations by 1, identifying job identifications for each page in the first imaging job "JOB#l". When the imaging apparatus completes the imaging operations of 9 pages, the page counter number is N-1=9. Then, for the 10th page imaging operation, the paper feeder is re-determined, and the paper feeder is different from the determined paper feeder for the previous 9 pages, in particular, the placement direction of paper sheets in the paper feeder for the 10th page is different from directions for placing paper sheets for the previous 9 pages, so that an image forming operation is performed on the data of page 10 according to the paper supply device for the 10th page. After the imaging operation of the page 10 data is completed, it is further determined whether there is a next pending imaging job. If there is a pending second imaging job "JOB#2", then the paper feeder is re-determined again according to the second imaging job "JOB#2" and imaging attribute information for it. With regard to the re-defined paper feeder, the placing direction of paper sheets is different from the placing direction of paper sheets in the paper feeder determined for the 10th page of the first image forming job "JOB#1", and thereby the paper sheets are transported from the feeder paper for performing imaging operations.

[0153] For example, the first imaging job "JOB#l" with 10 data pages determines that the paper feeder for data page 1 to page 9 is the paper sheet box "#01" (A4 horizontal type) according to the generation attribute information image, and the redefined paper feeder for the last page (page 10) is the paper drawer "#03" (A4 vertical type). Regarding the pending second imaging job "JOB#2", the paper feeder redefined again is the paper sheet drawer "#02" (horizontal type A4), which is different from the paper feeder for the last page of the first job "JOB#" 1" imaging. Thus, for each imaging job, the paper feeder determined for the last page is different from other pages, so that the placement direction of the last page of output paper sheets is different from the placement direction of other output paper sheets, and each imaging job can be easily distinguished . Likewise, to perform discrimination for each user, the direction of the last page of the output paper sheets in the last imaging job of each user is set to be different from the direction of the other output paper sheets, so that the imaging jobs for each user can be easily distinguished.

[0154] In an exemplary implementation method, when it is determined that the number of pages for which imaging operations have been completed is N-1 in process S1206, process S1210 is executed to determine whether there is a pending imaging job. If there is a pending image forming job, process S1207 is executed to determine the paper feeder, and processes S1208 and S1209 are executed sequentially to complete the image forming job; if there is no pending imaging job, imaging operations continue until the imaging job is completed. The output direction of the last page of an imaging job is different from the output direction of other pages of an imaging job when there is a pending print job, so that processing operations on the last page can be reduced for the last imaging job and there is no need to reselect the paper feeder for operations. A specific example is that the output direction of the last few pages of an imaging job is different from the output direction of previously output pages, such as that the output direction of the last 3 pages of a 10-page imaging job is different from the output direction of the previous 7 pages. When it is determined that the number of pages for which imaging operations have been completed is 7 in process S1206, process S1210 is executed to determine whether there is a pending imaging job. If there is a pending imaging job, the paper feeder corresponding to the last 3 pages is re-detected and imaging operations are performed until it is determined that the imaging job is completed; if there is no pending imaging job, the previously defined paper feeder is used and imaging operations are performed normally until the imaging job is completed. The output direction of the last few pages of an imaging job is different from the output direction of other pages of an imaging job when there is a pending print job, so that processing operations on the last few pages can be shortened for the last imaging job and there is no need to reselect the paper feeder for repetitive operations.

[0155] In an exemplary implementation method, the paper feeder determined for the first page is different from other pages, so that the placement direction of the first page of output paper sheets is different from the placement direction of other paper sheets, and each imaging job can be easily distinguished. A detailed description is provided below along with accompanying drawings.

[0156] FIG. 13 is a schematic flowchart of a method for image formation provided by embodiments of the present invention, which can be applied to the imaging systems shown in FIG. 1A or FIG. 1B. As shown in FIG. 13, the method mainly includes the following processes.

[0157] Process S1301, receiving successive imaging jobs.

[0158] Process S1302, paper feed device detection.

[0159] Process S1303, the image forming apparatus performs image forming operations.

[0160] With regard to the specific contents of processes S1301-S1303, reference may be made to a description of processes S1201-S1203 in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 12, which will not be repeated in this document.

[0161] Process S1304, the image forming apparatus determines whether the current image forming operation is completed.

[0162] If it is determined that the current image forming operation is completed, process S1305 is executed; otherwise, process S1303 is executed again to continue the imaging operations of the current imaging job.

[0163] Process S1305, the imaging device determines whether there is a pending imaging job.

[0164] If there is a pending imaging job, process S1306 is executed; otherwise, the imaging operations end.

[0165] Process S1306, paper feed device detection.

[0166] In the case where the previous imaging job (such as the first imaging job "JOB#1") is completed and there is a pending imaging job (such as the second imaging job "JOB#2"), the paper feeder restarts determined. The paper feeder redefined for the second imaging job "JOB#2" is different from the paper feeder of the first imaging job "JOB#1" and is a paper feeder with a different paper sheet placement direction in some embodiments.

[0167] Process S1307, the image forming apparatus performs image forming operations.

[0168] The imaging apparatus begins to perform an imaging operation of the first page of the second imaging job "JOB#2".

[0169] Process S1308, the imaging apparatus determines whether the first page of the current imaging job is complete.

[0170] In some embodiments, there is a job end identification for each page of the imaging job, and it can be determined whether the imaging operation of the first page of the current imaging job is completed according to the job end identification for the first page. For example, the current imaging job is the second imaging job "JOB#2", and it is determined whether the imaging operation of the first page of the second imaging job "JOB#2" is completed. If the imaging operation of the first page of the second imaging job "JOB#2" is completed, process S1309 is executed; otherwise, process S1307 is executed again.

[0171] Process S1309, paper feed device detection.

[0172] In the case where it is determined that the imaging operation of the first page is completed, the paper feeder is re-determined from the second page. The redefined paper supply device is a paper supply device different from the first page, and is a paper supply device with a different direction for placing paper sheets in some embodiments.

[0173] Process S1310, the image forming apparatus performs image forming operations.

[017 4] For example, the current job generation job is the second imaging job "JOB#2", and imaging operations are performed from the second page of the second imaging job "JOB#2".

[0175] Process S1311, the image forming apparatus determines whether the current image forming operation is completed.

[0176] For example, the current imaging job is the second imaging job "JOB#2", and it is determined whether the second imaging job "JOB#2" is completed. If the second imaging job "JOB#2" is completed, process S1312 is executed; otherwise, process S1310 must be executed again to continue the imaging operations of the second imaging job "JOB#2".

[0177] Process S1312, the imaging device determines whether there is a pending imaging job.

[0178] If there is a pending image generation job, process S1306 is executed again; if there is no pending imaging job, all operations end.

[0179] In some embodiments of the present invention, the paper supply device determined for the first page of the next imaging job besides the first imaging job, such as a second imaging job, a third imaging job, or an N-oe imaging job, is different from others pages, so that the placement direction of the first page of the output paper sheets is different from the placement direction of other output paper sheets, and each imaging job can be easily distinguished by the first page of the next imaging job other than the first imaging job.

[0180] In an exemplary implementation method, the paper feeder determined for the first page is different from other pages, so that the placement direction of the first page of output paper sheets is different from the placement direction of other paper sheets, and each imaging job can be easily distinguished. A detailed description is provided below along with accompanying drawings.

[0181] FIG. 14 is a schematic flowchart of a method for image formation provided by embodiments of the present invention, which can be applied to the imaging systems shown in FIG. 1A or FIG. 1B. As shown in FIG. 14, the method mainly includes the following processes.

[0182] With regard to the specific contents of processes S1401-S1403, reference may be made to a description of processes S1201-S1203 in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 12, which will not be repeated in this document.

[0183] Process S1404, the imaging apparatus determines whether the first page of the current imaging job is completed.

[0184] The imaging apparatus determines whether the imaging operation of the first page of the current imaging job is completed, and if it determines that the imaging operation of the first page of the current imaging job is completed, process S1405 is executed; otherwise, process S1403 is executed again to continue the imaging operations of the current imaging job.

[0185] In some embodiments, there is a job end identification for each page of the imaging job, and it can be determined whether the imaging operation of the first page of the current imaging job is completed according to the job end identification for the first page. For example, the current imaging job is the first imaging job "JOB#1", and it can be determined whether the imaging operation of the first page of the first imaging job "JOB#1" is completed by identifying a job ending identification for the first page of the first imaging job "JOB" #1" imaging.

[0186] Process S1405, paper feed device detection.

[0187] In the case where the imaging operation of the first page of the current imaging job (such as the first imaging job "JOB#1") is completed, the paper feeder is re-determined for pages other than the first page of the current first job "JOB#1" "image formation. In some embodiments, the redefined paper feeder for pages other than the first page of the first imaging job "JOB#1" is a paper feeder different from the paper feeder for the first page of the first imaging job "JOB#1", and is a paper feed device with a different direction for placing paper sheets.

[0188] Process S1406, the image forming apparatus performs image forming operations.

[0189] The image forming apparatus uses a redefined paper feeder with a different paper sheet placement direction compared to the paper feeder for the first page of the first imaging job "JOB#1" to perform imaging operations of the current first job "JOB#1" image formation.

[0190] Process S1407, the image forming apparatus determines whether the current image forming operation is completed.

[0191] In some embodiments, there is a job end flag for each imaging job, and it can be determined whether the imaging operations of the current imaging job are completed according to the job end flag for each imaging job. For example, the current imaging job is the first imaging job "JOB#1", and it is determined whether imaging operations for the first imaging job "JOB#1" are completed by identifying a job end flag for the first imaging job "JOB#1". Images. If the imaging operations for the first imaging job "JOB#l" are completed, process S1408 is executed; otherwise, process S1406 is executed again.

[0192] Process S1408, the imaging device determines whether there is a pending imaging job.

[0193] If there is a pending imaging job, process S1402 is executed again; if there is no pending imaging job, all operations end. In some embodiments of the present invention, the paper feeder determined for the first page is different from other pages for each imaging job, so that the placement direction of the first page of output paper sheets is different from the placement direction of other output paper sheets, and each imaging job can be easily distinguished.

[0194] In some implementations, the present invention also provides an imaging apparatus that includes one or more processors, a memory, and one or more computer programs stored in the memory. The one or more computer programs include instructions that, when executed by the imaging device, instruct the imaging device to perform some or all of the processes in a manner consistent with the present invention.

[0195] In some implementations, the present invention also provides a computer storage medium, where the computer storage medium may store a program, and the program may include some or all of the processes in a manner consistent with the present invention when executed. The storage medium may be a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a read only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), etc.

[0196] In some implementations, the present invention also provides a computer program product, and the computer program product includes executable instructions that, when executed on a computer, instruct the computer to perform some or all of the processes in a manner consistent with the present invention.

[0197] In embodiments of the present discovery, "at least one" refers to one or more, and "multiple" refers to two or more. The term "and/or" is an associative relation to describe related objects, indicating that there can be three kinds of relations. For example, A and/or B, which can mean that A exists separately, A and B exist at the same time, and B exists separately, when A and B can be singular or plural. The "/" character typically indicates that the related objects are in an "or" relationship. Expressions such as "at least one of the following" refer to any combination of objects, including any combination of single or multiple objects. For example, at least one of a, b, and c may represent a, b, c, a-b, a-c, b-c, or a-b-c, where a, b, and c may be singular or plural number.

[0198] Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the various blocks and algorithmic processes described in the embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented by electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination of electronic hardware and computer software. Whether these functions are performed through hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solutions. Various methods may be used by those skilled in the art for each particular application to implement the described functions, and such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of the present discovery.

[0199] Those skilled in the art may clearly understand that, with respect to the specific operating process of the system, device and unit described above, reference may be made to the corresponding process of the above method,

consistent with the present invention, which will not be repeated herein for convenience and brevity of description.

[0200] In embodiments of the present discovery, if any function is implemented in the form of a software function block and is sold or used as an independent product, it may be stored on a computer-readable storage medium. Based on such understanding, the integral technical solutions of the present invention, or a part thereof that contributes to existing technologies or parts of technical solutions, can be implemented in the form of a software product. The computer program product is stored on a storage medium including a plurality of instructions to instruct a computer device (such as a personal computer, server, network device, etc.) or processor to execute all or part of a method consistent with the present invention. The storage medium described above may include a USB disk, portable hard disk, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disk, optical disks, or other media that can store program codes.

[02 01] The above are just some specific embodiments of the present discovery, and any person skilled in the art can readily understand modifications or substitutions within the technical framework disclosed in the present discovery that must be within the protection of the present discovery. The scope of protection of this application must be subject to the scope of protection of the claims.

Claims (30)

1. A method for forming an image, comprising the steps of: receiving a first image forming task and performing a first image forming operation according to a first recording medium transport rule; And receiving a second imaging task and performing a second imaging operation according to a second recording medium transport rule; wherein the first imaging job and the second imaging job are sequentially output imaging jobs, and the conveying directions of the recording medium for at least one page of the first imaging job and at least one page of the second imaging job are different; wherein the imaging apparatus is provided with at least two paper sheet boxes, and the input paper sheets in the paper sheet boxes are arranged in different directions, wherein the first imaging task and the second imaging task include information about imaging attributes, wherein herein, the image forming attribute information includes paper sheet box selection information, and the image forming apparatus determines one of at least two paper sheet boxes in the imaging apparatus as a paper supply device, in accordance with the sheet box selection information paper 2. The method according to claim 1, in which: receiving a first image formation task and performing a first image formation operation according to a first registration medium transport rule include the steps of receiving a first image formation task, executing a first part of an image formation task in the first image formation task according to a first registration medium transport direction, and performing a second part of an image formation task in the first image formation task according to a second transport direction of the recording medium; receiving a second imaging task and performing a second imaging task according to a second recording medium transport rule includes the steps of receiving a second imaging task, executing a first part of the imaging task in the second imaging task according to a first recording medium transport direction, and executing a second imaging task portion in the second imaging task according to a second transport direction of the recording medium; And the first transport direction of the recording medium is different from the second transport direction of the recording medium. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein: receiving a first imaging task, executing a first part of an imaging task in a first imaging task according to a first transport direction of a recording medium, and executing a second part of an imaging job in a first imaging task according to a second transport direction. registration media includes the steps of: if the first imaging job is not the first received imaging job, the first part of the imaging job in the first imaging job is executed according to the first transport direction of the recording medium, and the second part of the imaging job in the first imaging job is executed according to the second transport direction of the recording medium. registration; and if the first imaging job is the first received imaging job, the first imaging job is executed according to the first recording medium transport direction or the second recording media transport direction. 4. The method of claim 2, wherein: receiving a second imaging task, executing a first part of an imaging task in a second imaging task according to a first transport direction of a recording medium, and executing a second part of an imaging job in a second imaging task according to a second transport direction. registration media includes the steps of: if the second imaging job is not the last received imaging job, the first part of the imaging job in the second imaging job is executed according to the first transport direction of the recording medium, and the second part of the imaging job in the second imaging job is executed according to the second transport direction of the recording media. registration; And if the second imaging job is the last received imaging job, the second imaging job is executed according to the first recording medium transport direction or the second recording media transport direction. 5. The method according to claim 2, in which: the first imaging job part in the first imaging job is at least one imaging job page and/or the first imaging job part in the second imaging job is at least one imaging job page; And the second imaging job part in the first imaging job is at least one imaging job page, and/or the second imaging job part in the second imaging job is at least one imaging job page. 6. Method according to any one of paragraphs. 2-5, in which: the first recording medium transport direction is a recording media transport direction when the first recording media storage device is selected to perform an image forming operation; And the second recording medium transport direction is a recording media transport direction when the second recording media storage device is selected to perform an image forming operation. 7. The method according to claim 6, in which: performing the first image forming operation according to the first recording medium transport rule includes selecting a corresponding recording medium storage device to perform the first image forming operation according to the selection information of the recording medium storage device in the first imaging task; And performing the second image forming operation according to the second recording medium transport rule includes selecting a corresponding recording medium storage device to perform the second image forming operation according to the selection information of the recording medium storage device in the second imaging task. 8. Method according to claim 1, in this case: the first imaging job and the second imaging job are different imaging jobs sent to the imaging apparatus by different control devices or users; or the first imaging job and the second imaging job are different imaging jobs sent to the imaging apparatus by the same control device or user. 9. An image forming device comprising: processor and memory; wherein the computer program is stored in the memory, and when the computer program is executed, the image forming apparatus executes the method of any one of claims. 1-8. 10. A computer-readable storage medium, wherein the computer-readable storage medium comprises a stored program that, when executed, controls the computer-readable storage medium device to perform the method of any one of claims. 1-8.

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