JP2001024892A - Picture processor - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a picture processor which can provide a suitable picture even when automatic adjustment is performed following the variation of the density characteristic of toner. SOLUTION: This picture processor is provided with a reading means 101 which reads pictures, a printing means 2003 which forms the picture regarding the picture data sent from the reading means 101 or a host computer 2104 with toner, a means 2103 which converts the density gradation value of the picture data in accordance with a prescribed converting condition and outputs the converted value to the printing means 2003. The picture processor is also provided with an engine control section 2002 which changes the setting of the printing means for adjusting the density of the toner when a predetermined condition is met, a discriminating means 2103 which discriminates whether or not the converting condition is to be corrected on the basis of the change of the setting and outputs the discriminated result, and a notifying means 2103 which sends a prescribed message to an operator when the discriminated result of the discriminating means 2103 indicates that the correction is necessary. The processor calibrates the converting condition based on a test pattern by instructing the operator to read a test pattern by means of the notifying section 2103.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

[0001] 1. Field of the Invention [0002] The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus and an image processing method having a function of forming an image with toner such as a page printer.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Various printer systems capable of controlling a printer by a computer have been proposed. FIG.
For example, the host computer 2104, the printer 2102 (printer engine), and the image data sent from the host computer 2104 are transmitted to the printer 2
Printer controller 210 for output from 102
3 is provided. As shown in FIG. 16, a network 2105 can be connected to the printer controller 2103.

The printer controller 2103 converts the density gradation value of the image data sent from the host computer 2104 according to the printer 2102, and sends the converted image data to the printer 2102.
Output.

FIG. 20 shows a system in which an image reading device 2501 such as a scanner is provided in the system shown in FIG. In the case of this system, image data read by the image reading device 2501 can be output from the printer 2102.

Further, there has been proposed a system in which a printer function and a copy function are realized by changing the configuration as shown in FIG.

This system includes a reader unit 2501 for reading a document, a controller unit 2602 corresponding to the printer controller 2103 shown in FIG. 16 and capable of communicating with the reader unit 2501, and a reader unit 2501.
And a controller unit 2602 for selecting one of the controller unit 2602 and a communication line 2601 between the reader unit 2501 and the controller unit 2602.

As described above, various types of printer systems have been proposed. However, with respect to a printer that forms an image using toner, that is, a so-called page printer, there is a problem that the toner density characteristics change due to a change in environment or the like. is there.

Therefore, a printer has been proposed which has a function of automatically adjusting high-voltage values such as charging, development and transfer by density detection control so as to follow a change in the density characteristics of the toner.

[0009]

However, if such a high voltage value is changed, there may be a problem that a suitable image cannot be obtained in the intermediate density region and the low density region. It is difficult to eliminate this adverse effect by adjusting the high pressure value.

If such adjustments are made automatically, the quality of the printed image may be reduced without the operator's knowledge.

Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide an image processing apparatus and an image processing method capable of obtaining a suitable image even when automatic adjustment is performed in accordance with a change in toner density characteristics. is there.

[0012]

According to the present invention, there is provided a reading means for reading an image, and a printing means for forming an image relating to image data sent from the reading means or an external terminal with toner. An image processing apparatus comprising: a unit configured to convert a density gradation value of the image data according to a predetermined conversion condition and output the converted value to the printing unit; Changing means for changing the setting of the printing means for adjusting, as a result of the change of the setting, judging whether or not the conversion condition needs to be corrected, and judging means for outputting the judgment result; An image processing apparatus comprising: a notifying unit that notifies a predetermined message to an operator when a result of determination that correction is necessary is output by the determining unit.

In the apparatus of the present invention, when the determination means outputs a determination result indicating that correction is necessary, means for outputting an image relating to predetermined test image data by the printing means is provided. When an image related to the test data is read by the reading unit, a correction unit that corrects the conversion condition based on the image data and the test image data may be provided.

[0014] In the apparatus of the present invention, the determination means may determine that once the conversion condition is corrected by the correction means, the correction of the conversion condition is not required until a predetermined cancellation condition is satisfied. The judgment result can be output uniformly.

In this case, the cancellation condition may include turning off the power of the image processing apparatus. Further, the release condition may be determined in relation to the number of times that it is determined that the conversion condition needs to be corrected. For example, when it is determined that correction is required three or more times.

In the apparatus of the present invention, the conversion conditions may be different between a case where image data from the reading means is converted and a case where image data from the external terminal is converted. Can also.

Further, in the apparatus according to the present invention, the predetermined condition is determined in relation to at least one of an ambient temperature, an ambient humidity, and the number of images formed by the printing unit. Is also good.

In the apparatus according to the present invention, the notifying means may include a display for displaying the message.

In the apparatus of the present invention, the notifying means may transfer the message to the external terminal.

Further, in the apparatus of the present invention, the content of the message may be a content requesting an operator to read the image related to the output test data by the reading means.

Further, according to the present invention, there is provided an image processing apparatus connected to a reading device for reading an image and a terminal device, wherein the image processing device reads an image related to image data sent from the reading device or the terminal device. A printing unit formed by toner; a changing unit configured to change the setting of the printing unit to adjust the density of the toner when a predetermined condition is satisfied; and a density factor of the image data according to a predetermined conversion condition. Means for converting a tone value and outputting the result to the printing means, determining whether or not the conversion condition needs to be corrected as a result of the setting change, and outputting the determination result; and Means for notifying the operator of a predetermined message when the result of the determination that the correction is necessary is output by the means; and determining that the correction is required by the determination means. Is output, means for outputting an image relating to predetermined test image data by the printing means, and when the image relating to the output test data is read by the reading device, the image data and the An image processing apparatus comprising: a correction unit configured to correct the conversion condition based on test image data.

According to the present invention, there is provided an image processing apparatus comprising: reading means for reading an image; and printing means for forming an image related to image data sent from the reading means or an external terminal with toner. An image processing method for controlling an apparatus, the method comprising: converting a density gradation value of the image data according to a predetermined conversion condition, and outputting the converted value to the printing unit; A change step of changing the setting of the printing unit in order to adjust the density of the toner, and judging whether or not the conversion condition needs to be corrected as a result of the change of the setting, and outputting the judgment result An image processing method is provided that includes a step and a notification step of notifying a predetermined message to an operator when a result of determination that correction is necessary is output in the determination step.

In the method of the present invention, when the determination result that the correction is necessary is output in the determining step, an image related to predetermined test image data is output by the printing means; A correction step of correcting the conversion condition based on the image data and the test image data when the image related to the test data is read by the reading unit.

In the method of the present invention, in the determination step, after the conversion condition is once corrected by the correction step, a determination result that the conversion condition does not need to be corrected until a predetermined cancellation condition is satisfied is obtained. It can be output uniformly.

In the method of the present invention, one of the cancellation conditions may be that the power of the image processing apparatus is turned off.

In the method of the present invention, one of the cancellation conditions may be related to the number of times that it is determined that the conversion condition needs to be corrected.

In the method of the present invention, the conversion condition may be different between a case where the image data from the reading means is converted and a case where the image data from the external terminal is converted. Can also.

In the method of the present invention, the predetermined condition is related to at least one of an ambient temperature, an ambient humidity, and the number of images formed by the printing unit. You can also.

[0029] In the method of the present invention, the notifying step may include a step of displaying the message on a display.

In the method of the present invention, in the notifying step, the message may be transferred to the external terminal.

Further, in the method of the present invention, the content of the message may be a content requesting an operator to read an image corresponding to the output test data by the reading means.

Further, according to the present invention, there is provided a printing unit which is connected to a reading device for reading an image and a terminal device and forms an image related to image data sent from the reading device or the terminal device with toner. An image processing method for controlling the image processing apparatus provided, wherein when a predetermined condition is satisfied, a changing step of changing the setting of the printing unit to adjust the density of the toner; Converting a density gradation value of the image data according to a conversion condition and outputting the converted value to the printing unit; and, as a result of the setting change, determining whether the conversion condition needs to be corrected. And a notifying step of notifying an operator of a predetermined message when a determination result indicating that correction is necessary is output in the determining step. A step of outputting an image related to predetermined test image data by the printing unit when a determination result indicating that correction is necessary is output, and the image related to the output test data is read by the reading device. A correction step of correcting the conversion condition based on the image data and the test image data,
An image processing method is provided, comprising:

According to the present invention, there is provided an image processing apparatus comprising: reading means for reading an image; and printing means for forming, with toner, an image relating to image data sent from the reading means or an external terminal. A storage medium storing a computer program for controlling the apparatus, wherein the program converts a density gradation value of the image data according to a predetermined conversion condition, and outputs the density gradation value to the printing unit. A code for a change step of changing the setting of the printing unit in order to adjust the density of the toner when a predetermined condition is satisfied; and whether the conversion condition needs to be corrected as a result of the change of the setting. And a predetermined message when a determination result indicating that correction is necessary is output in the determination step. And code notification step of notifying the operator, a storage medium characterized by comprising is provided.

[0034] In the storage medium of the present invention, the program causes the printing means to output an image related to predetermined test image data when the determination result that the correction is necessary is output in the determination step. A code of a step, and a code of a correction step of correcting the conversion condition based on the image data and the test image data when an image related to the output test data is read by the reading unit, Can also be included. Further, in the storage medium of the present invention, in the determination step, after the conversion condition is once corrected by the correction step, a determination result that the conversion condition does not need to be corrected until a predetermined release condition is satisfied is obtained. It can be output uniformly.

In the storage medium of the present invention, one of the cancellation conditions may be that the power of the image processing apparatus is turned off.

In the storage medium of the present invention, one of the cancellation conditions may be related to the number of times that it is determined that the conversion condition needs to be corrected.

In the storage medium according to the present invention, the conversion conditions are different between a case where the image data from the reading means is converted and a case where the image data from the external terminal is converted. You can also.

Further, in the storage medium of the present invention, the predetermined condition may be associated with at least one of an ambient temperature, an ambient humidity, and the number of images formed by the printing unit. it can.

Further, in the storage medium of the present invention, the notifying step may include a step of displaying the message on a display.

[0040] In the storage medium of the present invention, in the notification step, the message may be transferred to the external terminal.

Further, in the storage medium of the present invention, the content of the message is a content requesting an operator to cause the reading means to read an image corresponding to the output test data. Can be.

Further, according to the present invention, there is provided a printing device connected to a reading device for reading an image and a terminal device for forming an image related to image data sent from the reading device or the terminal device with toner. A storage medium storing a computer program for controlling an image processing apparatus provided with the program, wherein when the program satisfies a predetermined condition, the setting of the printing unit is performed to adjust the density of the toner. A code of a change step to be changed, a code of a step of converting the density gradation value of the image data according to a predetermined conversion condition, and outputting the result to the printing unit, It is determined whether or not there is, the code of the determination step to output the determination result, in the determination step, when the determination result that the correction is necessary is output, A step of outputting an image relating to predetermined test image data in the printing step, when a code of a notification step of notifying the operator of a predetermined message and a determination result indicating that correction is necessary in the determination step are output. And a code of a correction step of correcting the conversion condition based on the image data and the test image data when an image related to the output test data is read by the reading device. There is provided a storage medium characterized by including:

[0043]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described.

<Overall Configuration> FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an image processing apparatus A according to an embodiment of the present invention. 8 and 25 are diagrams illustrating the image processing apparatus A from different viewpoints.

In FIG. 1, 101 is a reader frame, 102 is a document table, 103 is a light source, 104 is photoelectric conversion means, 105 is analog-digital conversion means, and 901 is a reader controller.

Reference numeral 2001 denotes a printer main body;
Reference numeral denotes an engine control unit for controlling paper transport of the printer and control for image formation. Reference numeral 2003 denotes an image forming unit as a part of a printer engine. Reference numeral 2103 denotes a printer controller, which is built in the printer main body 2001.

Reference numeral 2104 denotes a host computer as an external terminal connected to the printer controller 2103 one-to-one or via a network.

Reference numeral 2004 denotes a paper cassette deck that can be added as an option, 2005 denotes a sorter that can be added as an option, and 2006 denotes a cassette deck 2004 and a sorter 200.
5 is an optional controller for controlling

The reader controller 901 processes the image data output from the analog-to-digital converter 105, controls a motor (not shown) for reading a document on the document table 102, and controls the engine controller 20.
02 and the printer controller 2103.

In the image processing apparatus A, the reader controller 103 is disposed in the printer main body 2001 and has no external cable for communicating with the engine control unit 2002 or the printer controller 2103. .

<Peripheral Configuration of Printer Controller 2103 and Engine Control Unit 2002> Next, the configuration of the printer controller 2103 and the engine control unit 20002 will be described.

In the image processing apparatus A, the reader controller 901 is interposed between the printer controller 2103 and the engine control unit 2002. However, in order to facilitate understanding, the reader controller 901 and the reader frame A description will be given based on FIG. 15, which is an embodiment in which 101 and the like are omitted.

In FIG. 15, reference numeral 2101 denotes a video I / F
The communication between the engine control unit 2002 and the printer controller 2103, which will be described later, is performed. Details of each signal in the video I / F 2101 will be described later.

The engine control unit 2002 includes the image forming unit 2
In step 003, an electric image signal received via the video I / F 2101 is formed in a visible form, transferred to a recording sheet, fixed, and output.

Further, in order to realize these image forming sequences, in addition to controlling various loads, the printer controller 2103 has a function of notifying the printer controller 2103 of the state of the image forming unit 2003 and the like.

The printer controller 2103 receives data transmitted via the host computer 2104 or a network (not shown).

This data includes bitmap data and P
DL (Page Description Langu)
age) It is sent in various formats such as description data.

The printer controller 2103 develops this data in a memory, converts it into raster format data, and transfers it to the engine control unit 2002.

Thus, the host computer 21
04 and the like are printed.

Next, the video I / F 2101 connecting the printer controller 2103 and the engine control unit 2002 in the case of FIG. 15 will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a printer controller 2103 and an engine control unit 2002 connected via a video I / F 2101. In FIG. 2, reference numerals 203 to 217 represent respective signals. FIG. 3 shows a list of video I / F signals for these signals.
Only the representative signals shown in FIG.

A “/ PPRDY” signal 203 is a signal indicating that communication with the printer controller 2103 becomes possible after processing such as initialization after power is supplied.

A “/ CPRDY” signal 204 is a signal indicating that communication with the engine control unit 2002 has become possible after power is supplied to the printer controller 2103 and processing such as initialization is completed.

The “/ RDY” signal 205 is a signal indicating that the engine control unit 2002 has been enabled to operate the printer in response to a printer start instruction (the “/ PRNT” signal described later) from the printer controller 2103.

Conditions under which this signal becomes true include whether the temperature in the fixing unit constituting the printer engine has reached a predetermined temperature, whether recording paper has remained in the printer, or whether the polygon mirror has been rotated at a predetermined speed. It is only when each part of the printer, such as whether the printer is operating normally, is operating normally.

The “/ PRNT” signal 206 is a signal that the printer controller 2103 instructs the engine control unit 2002 to start or continue the printing operation.

A “/ TOP” signal 207 is a synchronization signal which is passed from the engine control unit 2002 to the printer controller 2103 and serves as a reference for vertical scanning of an image. This signal is output a predetermined time after the signal of 206 is output from the printer controller 2103.

A "/ LSYNC" signal 208 is a synchronization signal used as a reference for horizontal scanning by the printer controller 2103. Like the "/ TOP" signal, a signal 206 is output from the printer controller 2103 for a predetermined time. It is output to the printer controller 2103 later.

The “/ VCLK” signal 209 is a synchronous clock for the “/ VDOEN” and “/ VDO” signals, which will be described later, and the printer controller 2103 generates a clock having a frequency corresponding to the image signal.

A “/ VDOEN” signal 210 is a signal for controlling capture of an image signal output from the printer controller 2103 into the engine control unit 2002.

The engine control unit 2002 sets “/ VCL
In synchronization with the "K" signal, it is detected whether this signal is TRUE / FALSE. If TRUE, an image signal is captured, and if FALSE, no capture is performed.

The "/ VDO" signal 211 is image data. The printer controller 2103 outputs a “/ TOP” signal for the vertical direction and “/ LS” for the horizontal direction.
The signal is output in synchronization with the “/ VCLK” signal based on the “YNC” signal.

The “/ CCLK” signal 212 is transmitted when the printer controller 2103 transmits a serial command to the engine control unit 2002 and when the engine control unit 200
2 transmits the serial status to the printer controller 210
3 is a synchronous clock used when replying to 3 and is output from the printer controller 2103.

A “/ CBSY” signal 213 is a signal indicating to the engine control unit 2002 that the printer controller 2103 is transmitting a serial command using a “/ CMD” signal described later.

The "/ CMD" signal 214 is a signal used when the printer controller 2103 transmits serial information to the engine control unit 2002, and the serial information will be referred to as a command.

The “/ SBSY” signal 215 indicates that the engine control unit 2002 has returned a serial status using the “/ STS” signal.
03.

The "/ STS" signal 216 is a signal used when the engine control unit 2002 returns serial information to the printer controller 2103. The serial information is referred to as status.

The "/ CCRT" signal 217 is a signal for reporting to the printer controller 2103 when the status inside the printer has changed. When the printer controller 2103 receives this report signal, “/
A command for inquiring about what has changed in the state of the engine using the "CMD" signal is issued, and in response to this, the engine control unit 2002 notifies the state with the "/ STS" signal.

Next, control of the engine control unit 2002 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of the printer engine.

Reference numeral 401 denotes a printer controller 2103
Is a scanner that receives the image signal “/ VDO” sent from the printer, converts it into a laser beam, and irradiates the photoconductor 402 to form an image on the photoconductor 402.

The photosensitive member 402 reaches the color developing device 403 and the black developing device 404 while rotating counterclockwise.
The color developing device 403 and the black developing device function to deposit (develop) the toner on the photoconductor 402 in accordance with the charge charged on the photoconductor 402.

When the image is black and white, only the black developing device 404 operates, and when the image is color, the color developing device 403 and the black developing device 40 are operated.
4 are both used.

Next, the image generated on the photoconductor 402 is
The image is transferred to the intermediate transfer body 405 rotating clockwise. The intermediate transfer member 405 rotates one rotation in the case of black and white and four rotations in the case of color, and completes image formation.

On the other hand, the recording paper fed from the upper cassette 408 or the lower cassette 409 by the pickup roller 411 or 412 is conveyed by the feed roller 413 or 414, and is further registered by the conveyance roller 415. It is transported to the front.

These timings are controlled so as to be between the intermediate transfer member 405 and the transfer belt 406 at the timing when the image formation on the intermediate transfer member 405 is completed. When the recording paper arrives here, the transfer belt 406 comes into contact with the intermediate transfer member 405, and the toner is transferred to the recording paper. The image transferred to the recording paper is 40
The fixing roller 7 fixes the recording paper by heat and pressure.

The recording paper on which the image has been fixed is a recording paper 41 designated in advance by the printer controller 2103.
The sheet is conveyed to one of a face-up discharge port indicated by 7 and a face-down discharge port indicated by 418 and discharged.

Thus, the image information sent from the printer controller 2103 can be output.

Next, FIG. 5 shows the timing of signals exchanged in the video I / F 2101. FIG.
/ F2101 shows the change over time of the signal.

First, when the preparation of the image information of the printer controller 2103 is completed, the “/ PRNT” signal is set to Lo.
The value is set to w (true) and transmitted to the engine control unit 2002. At the same time, an image synchronization signal “/ VCLK” signal used for transferring the image signal is also generated.

In response, engine control unit 2002
Performs various settings for the printer engine and the like, and when the image can be received, the “/ TOP” signal and the “/ LSYNC” signal are output to the printer controller 2103.
Output to

In accordance with the vertical synchronizing signal “/ TOP” and the horizontal synchronizing signal “/ LSYNC”, the printer controller 2103 converts the image signal “/ VDO” and the image valid signal “/ VDOEN” into the engine control unit 2002. Forward to

Next, what commands and status are exchanged by serial communication during the operation of the printer will be described. FIG. 6 shows the printer controller 2
3 shows the timing of communication performed between the engine control unit 103 and the engine control unit 2002.

First, the case where the lowermost "/ CCRT" signal is not used will be described. Printer controller 21
03 wants to issue a command to the engine control unit 2002, the “/ CBSY” signal is set to Low (true) and “/ CSY” is synchronized with the clock signal “/ CCLK”.
Send command data to the "MD" signal.

The engine control unit 2002 that has received it
After confirming that the “/ CBSY” signal is High (false), “/ SBSY” is set to Low (true), and the status data on the engine side corresponding to the command is generated from the printer controller 2103. / CCL
Sent to "/ STS" in synchronization with the "K" signal. This status data is received by the printer controller 2103, and printer control is continued or interrupted depending on the state.

Next, the "/ CCRT" signal will be described.

This signal is low (true) when the state of the printer engine designated by the printer controller 2103 changes in advance.

For example, if the absence of paper occurs, "/ CC
Printer controller 2 to enable the "RT" signal.
It is assumed that 103 has been set in advance by “/ CMD”.

Then, it is assumed that there is only one remaining recording sheet, and the printer controller 2103 issues a printer out request for two sheets. For the first sheet, the printer sequence operation is normally processed without any problem.

However, since the second recording sheet does not exist, the engine control unit 2002 detects a change in the state at the stage when the second image formation is started, and outputs “/ CCRT”.
The signal is changed from High to Low.

This signal is sent to the printer controller 210
It is conveyed to 3. Upon detecting this, the printer controller 2103 informs the engine control unit 2002 of which paper cassette is out of paper.
Issues a command requesting the paper presence status. Accordingly, the engine control unit 2002 returns the status of the paperless cassette to the controller. "/ CC
The “RT” signal is cleared to High at the timing when the “/ SBSY” signal for returning the status becomes Low.

FIG. 7 shows the exchange of commands / status between the printer controller 2103 and the engine control unit 2002 more specifically, and the printer operation will be described. Here, color output is assumed.

When a printer start request is issued, the printer controller 2103 checks the ready state of the printer engine with the engine control unit 2002 while performing image data conversion processing and the like.

Next, a command for designating the paper feed stage of the recording paper is issued. Further, a command for requesting the recording paper size in the designated cassette is issued. In response to these series of commands, the engine control unit 2002 returns a corresponding status.

Next, the discharge port is determined by the command for specifying the discharge port, and a page mode designation command for designating how many pages of the image is to be formed is issued. Finally, by issuing a command for specifying monochrome / color, all settings on the printer engine side are completed.

After that, the printer controller 2103 sends the engine control unit 2002 a printer request (which means printing by a printer operation) of “/ PRN”.
T "signal. In response to this, a “/ TOP” signal is returned from engine control unit 2002 after a predetermined time. The vertical scanning direction is synchronized with the “/ TOP” signal, and the horizontal direction is further synchronized with the “/ LSYNC” signal, so that the image is sent to the engine control unit 2002 by adjusting the “/ VDO” signal to “/ VCLK”. Forward. here,
Since the color mode is set, the TOP signal is generated four times, and an image for four colors of CMYK is formed.

Then, after the last "/ TOP" signal is generated, the "/ PRNT" signal is returned to High (false). Accordingly, the engine control unit 2002 detects that the printer request has been completed, and shifts to post-processing such as a cleaning operation of the intermediate transfer body 405.

Further, the transferred recording paper is fixed to the fixing roller 40.
After passing through No. 7, the paper is discharged to a specified paper discharge port. Finally, the printer controller 2103 includes the engine control unit 200
After confirming that the printer is not in the recording paper transport state (discharge end), the printer is terminated, and waits in a ready state until the next printer request occurs.

During the operation as described above, jamming of the recording paper,
When an illegal state such as the absence of the recording paper or the opening of the door by the operator occurs, the aforementioned "/ CCR"
The engine control unit 2002 immediately informs the printer controller 2103 of the abnormal state using the "T" signal. The printer controller 2103 performs corresponding processing.

The processing performed between the printer controller 2103 and the engine control unit 2002 has been described above.

<Structure when Reader Controller is Attached> FIG. 8 shows the printer controller 21 based on the data transferred from the computer shown in the schematic diagram of FIG.
FIG. 3 is an external view of the apparatus when a reader or the like for optically reading a document image on a sheet, converting the digital image into a digital signal, and outputting the digital signal as well as the image data output from the printer 03 is mounted.

Reference numeral 801 denotes a document feeder for conveying a document to a portion where the document can be optically read, reference numeral 802 denotes an optical reading device, and reference numeral 805 denotes a platen glass.

The document feeder 801 is an optical reader 8
When the original image is transferred onto the original platen glass 805 by the original feeder 801, the optical reading device 802 scans the image while moving in the horizontal direction of FIG. The processed reflected light is sent to the photoelectric conversion unit 804. Reference numeral 803 denotes a printer main body.

FIG. 9 shows the printer controller 2103.
, The engine control unit 2002 and the reader controller 9
FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram illustrating an electrical connection with a power supply device 01.

The reader controller 901 is connected so as to be interposed between the printer controller 2103 and the engine control unit 2002.

Between the printer controller 2103 and the reader controller 901 and between the engine controller 200
The type of the signal line between the device 2 and the reader controller 901 has the same lateral capability as the type of the signal line shown in FIG.

However, the signals between the printer controller 2103 and the reader controller 901 or between the engine control unit 2002 and the reader controller 901 are physically different from each other. The letter "C" is attached and the letter "P" is attached to the latter to distinguish them.

Reference numeral 902 denotes an image signal processing unit; 903, a document scanning optical system control unit that controls the optical reading device 802; 904, a document feeding control unit that controls the document feeding device 801; Reference numeral 905 denotes an operation unit, and 906 denotes an image input unit. An image signal converted by the photoelectric conversion unit 804 in FIG. 8 is input from the image input unit 906 and transferred to an image signal processing unit 902 inside the reader controller 901. You.

Next, FIG. 17 shows a block diagram of the reader controller 901.

In FIG. 17, reference numeral 902 denotes the image processing unit shown in FIG. 9, and reference numeral 906 denotes the image input unit shown in FIG.

Reference numeral 2201 denotes a selector.
02 or a signal sent from the printer controller 2103 is selected and output to the engine control unit 2002. The signal system switched by the selector 2201 is an image clock “/ VCLK”, an image enable “/ VDOEN”, and image data “/ VDO”.

A serial communication controller 2202 performs communication with the engine control unit 2002. Reference numeral 2203 denotes an input / output port for exchanging signals for supplementing communication in the serial communication controller 2202.

Reference numeral 2204 denotes an interrupt controller.
The interrupt controller 2204 has an image leading end request signal /
The PTOP and the printer status change signal / PCCRT are input.

Reference numeral 2205 denotes a printer controller 2103
Is a serial communication controller that communicates with the

Reference numeral 2206 denotes an input / output port for exchanging signals for supplementing communication in the communication controller 2205.

A gate 2207 controls whether a signal sent from the engine control unit 2002 is sent to the printer controller 2103 or not. The gate control is performed on the image leading end request signal “/ TOP” and the line synchronization signal “/ LSYNC”.

Reference numeral 2208 denotes a control circuit having a gate function and a flag setting function.
CCRT ". The printer status change signal / PC issued by the engine control unit 2002 by opening and closing the gate
By controlling whether the CRT is transmitted to the printer controller 2103 and setting a flag, the reader controller 901 can issue a printer state change signal “/ CCRT” to the printer controller 2103.

A CPU 2209 controls the reader controller 901 as a whole.

<Operations at the Time of Copying> Using these, a process of reading a full-color original image and outputting it from the image forming apparatus A will be described. That is, this operation is an operation of outputting image data of a document read by the optical reading device 802.

When a copy start key (not shown) on the operation unit 905 is input, the reader controller 901 operates the gate unit 2207 and the signal control 2 for the copy mode.
208 is closed, and the selector 2201 is connected to the image processing unit 9.
02 is set so that the output is selected.

Next, the ready state signal / PRDY is sent to the engine control unit 2002 using the input / output port 2203.
Go to check. Next, the serial communication controller 22
Various settings are made by using 02. First, a command for designating a paper feed stage for recording paper is issued. Further, a command for requesting the recording paper size in the designated cassette is issued.

In response to these series of commands, engine control unit 2002 returns a corresponding status.

Next, the discharge port is determined by the command for specifying the discharge port, and a page mode designation command for designating how many pages of the image is to be formed is issued. Finally, by issuing a command for specifying monochrome / color, all settings on the printer engine side are completed.

After the original is fed onto the original platen by the original feeder 801, the reader controller 901 sends the printer request “/ PPRNT” to the engine controller 2002.
Generate a signal. In response to this, a “/ PTOP” signal is returned from the engine control unit 2002 after a predetermined time. This is processed by the interrupt controller 2204,
The optical reader 802 is operated so as to synchronize with the “/ PTOP” signal. The vertical scanning direction is synchronized with the “/ PTOP” signal, and the horizontal direction is further synchronized with the “/ PLSYNC” signal, so that the “/ PVDO” signal is synchronized with the “/ PVDO” signal.
CLK ”and transfers the signal input from the photoelectric conversion device 804 to the image processing unit 902 to the engine control unit 2002. Here, we set the color mode,
The optical reading device 2002 is operated four times, and an image corresponding to four colors of CMYK is formed for the “/ PTOP” signal generated four times.

After the last "/ PTOP" signal is generated, the "/ PPRNT" signal is returned to High (false). Accordingly, the engine control unit 2002 detects that the printer request has been completed, and shifts to post-processing such as a cleaning operation of the intermediate transfer body 405. Further, the transferred recording paper passes through the fixing roller 407 and is discharged to a designated discharge port. Finally, the reader controller 901 confirms to the engine control unit 2002 that the recording paper is not being conveyed (paper ejection is completed), and then the printer is terminated, and waits in a ready state until the next printer request is issued.

<Operation at the Time of Printer> Next, processing for outputting an image from the printer controller 2103 will be described. That is, this operation is performed by the host computer 21.
This is an operation for outputting the image data from the image data 04.

When the copying operation is completed, the reader controller 901 enters a ready state. At this time, the reader controller 901 opens the gate unit 2207 and the signal control 2208 for the operation at the time of printing. The reader controller 901 checks the ready status signal “/ PRDY” of the printer with respect to the engine control unit 2002 using the input / output port 2203, and if OK, the printer controller 2103 using the input / output port 2206. The ready state signal "/ CRDY" is set.

Next, the printer controller 2103 performs communication for performing various settings, and the reader controller 901 receives it using the serial communication controller 2205, and the CPU 2209 interprets it.

According to the contents, the reader controller 901 makes various settings using the serial communication controller 2202. In response to a series of commands, the engine control unit 2002 returns a corresponding status to the reader controller 901, and the reader controller 901 receives the status using the serial communication controller 2202. The received contents are interpreted by the CPU 2209, and this time, the serial communication controller 2205 is used to communicate with the printer controller 2103.

Next, the printer controller 2103 sends a “/” of the printer request to the reader controller 901.
CPRNT ”signal, and the reader controller 901
Receives the request, and generates a "/ PPRNT" signal for the printer request to the engine control unit 2002.

In response to this, a "/ PTOP" signal is returned from engine control unit 2002 after a predetermined time.
This is passed by the gate control unit 2208 and returned to the reader controller 901 as a “/ CTOP” signal. In the reader controller 901, the vertical scanning direction is synchronized with the “/ CTOP” signal, and the “/ PLSYNC” signal is further transmitted through the gate control unit 2207 to “/ CLSYNC”.
The signal "/ CVDO" is synchronized with "/ CVCLK" in the horizontal direction with the signal, and the reader controller 90
Transfer to 1. In the reader controller 901, the selector 2201 is connected to the printer controller 210.
3 It is set to select the sent signal,
A signal sent from the printer controller 2103 is sent to the engine control unit 2002 as / PVCLK, / PVDOEN, / PVDO.

<Difference between Printer Operation and Copy Operation> Here, the difference between the printer operation and the copy operation will be described with respect to the image transmission timing.

Although a detailed description of the configuration of the printer controller 2103 is omitted, an image memory is provided therein, and image data for printing is prepared in advance there. Therefore, at the time of printing, the image leading end request signal “/
The time required for outputting the print data "/ VDO" in response to the "TOP" signal is only the electrical delay time.

On the other hand, at the time of copying, the original is read while moving the optical reading device 802 to output image data.

As shown in FIG. 19, the optical reading device 8
From the state in which the document 02 is stopped to the state in which the document is moving at a high speed for reading the document, a time for acceleration is required, and for example, a time of about several hundred mS is required.

Therefore, if the engine control unit 2002 sends the image top request signal “/ TOP” signal in the copy mode at the same timing as the signal in the printer mode, the engine control unit 2002 sends the print image data “ / VD
The arrival of "O" is delayed by several hundred milliseconds during copying. There are the following two plans to address this.

1. When copying "/ TOP", it is sent earlier than when printing.

[0147] 2. Separate signal for copying (RSTART)
Is provided.

In order to carry out the above-mentioned one plan, the reader controller 9 is used.
01 may be the same as in FIG. 17, and "/ T
The reader controller 901 starts the movement of the document reading device 802 in response to the “OP” signal.

In order to perform the above two proposals, the reader controller 901 may be configured as shown in FIG. That is, the image leading end request signal “/ PTOP” sent from the engine control unit 2002 is
Are signals required only when printing is performed, and need not be input to the interrupt controller of the reader controller 901. Also, the reading device movement start request signal “/ RSTART” transmitted from the engine control unit 2002
Is a signal required only at the time of copying, and need not be sent to the printer controller 2103.

<Control for Setting Command> Since the reader controller 901 is connected between the printer controller 2103 and the engine control unit 2002, communication between the printer controller 2103 and the engine control unit 2002 is as follows. .

When the reader controller 901 reads and outputs a document image using the engine control unit 2002 (during copying), the printer controller 2103 sends a setting command to the engine control unit 2002, for example, a paper cassette change command. Will be described.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the arrangement of the reader controller 90 between the reader controller 901 and the engine control unit 2002.
1 is not entered, that is, a command issuing sequence in the configuration of FIG. This case will be described first for comparison.

FIG. 10A shows the printer controller 2.
FIG. 10B shows a processing sequence in the block 103.
9 is a processing sequence in the engine control unit 2002.

In FIG. 10A, after issuing a paper cassette change command (step S1), the printer controller 2103 waits for a response from the engine control unit 2002 (step S2). A determination is made (step S3), and the series of command issuing sequences ends. If unsuccessful, error processing is performed (step S4).

In FIG. 10B, the engine control unit 2
002 waits for a command from the printer controller 2103 (step S11), and upon receiving the command, determines the content of the command and executes another process if it is another command. If the command is a paper cassette change command, the paper cassette is changed (step S1).
2) When the change is successful, the printer controller 2
103 is notified of the command execution success (step S1).
3).

On the other hand, FIG. 11 is a control flow when the reader controller 901 is interposed between the printer controller 2103 and the engine control unit 901, that is, the control flow in the reader controller 901 in the configuration of FIG. The printer controller 2103
And the engine control unit 2002 performs control completely equivalent to that described above with reference to FIG.

FIG. 11B shows the printer controller 2.
10 is a flowchart illustrating a process for receiving a command from the MFP 103 and returning a status to the printer controller 2103.

The reader controller 901 waits for a command from the printer controller 2103 via the "/ CCMD" signal line shown in FIG. 9 in the serial communication controller 2205 (step S31). It is determined whether or not it is in a state to be issued to the unit 2002 (step S3).
2).

As a result of the determination, for example, if there is no command currently being executed by the reader controller 901 for the engine control unit 2002 to perform the copy operation, the engine control unit 2002 is notified first. The same command as the command sent from the printer controller 2103 is issued to the engine control unit 2002 through the signal line “/ PCMD” using the serial communication controller 2202 (step S33). Then, the engine control unit 2
Confirmation of response from 002 (step S34), confirmation of success of command execution (step S35), and if successful, notification to the printer controller (step S3)
7) If unsuccessful, error processing is performed (step S3)
8).

On the other hand, as a result of the determination, the engine controller 2002 sends a paper cassette change command sent from the printer controller 2103, for example, when the reader controller 901 designates a paper cassette and performs a copy operation. If the printer controller 2103 issues a command to the engine controller 2002 without issuing a command to the engine controller 2002, the command is not issued normally. Are stored in the engine command queue which stores in the order of issue (step S36).

Since a response to the command must be returned to the printer controller 2103, it is assumed that the command execution has been successfully performed from the reader controller 901 by using the serial communication controller 2205 to the printer controller 2103 via the "/ CSTS" signal line. A reply is sent (step S37).

Next, referring to FIG. 11A, when the reader controller 901 is ready to issue a command received from the printer controller 2103 to the engine control unit 2002 without affecting its own state. Will be described.

When such a state is reached (step S21), the reader controller 901 sends a serial communication controller 2202 to the engine control unit 2002.
Is issued through the signal line "/ PCMD" to wait for a response (step S22). Note that the reader controller 90
The command itself is also transmitted to the engine control unit 2002 through the "/ PCMD" signal line.

When the command execution is completed from the engine control unit 2002, a response is returned to the reader controller 901 via the "/ PSTS" signal line (step S23). It is determined whether or not the command execution has succeeded (step S24). If the command execution has succeeded, this command is deleted from the engine command queue (step S24).
25). If it is determined that the processing has failed, the processing is performed as an error occurrence state (step S26).

As described above, the printer controller 21
Even when the reader controller 901 is interposed between the printer controller 2103 and the engine control unit 2002, the command processing sequence is executed without causing inconsistency in operation when issuing a normal command from the printer controller 2103 to the engine control unit 2002. I can do it.

<Control for State Change Signal> Next, FIG.
In the configuration of the above, the state change on the printer engine side, for example, a state where an error has occurred
The processing when the information is transmitted from the engine control unit 2002 to the reader controller 901 using “T” will be described.

In the case of the configuration shown in FIG.
There is a possibility that the change of the state to be known is different between the 01 side and the printer controller 2103 side. For example, this is a case where a state change occurs such that the paper being transported is jammed.

When the printer engine is the reader controller 9
If a jam occurs during the copy operation based on the instruction No. 01, this state is a state that only the reader controller 901 wants to know. Since the printer controller 2103 is not the jam during the output of the printer controller 2103 itself, even if the printer controller 2103 is informed of this state, it cannot execute appropriate post-processing.

If a control system equivalent to the reader controller 901 is to be mounted, both controllers (210
3, 901) also has software for jam processing control which the other should have, so that it is redundantly mounted, and a lot of waste occurs in design man-hours, quality evaluation, and software capacity. .

Therefore, it is basically necessary to notify the printer controller 2103 at the time of printing, and to the reader controller 901 at the time of copying.

However, even at the time of copying, the printer controller 2103 may want a printer engine state change signal. For example, it is necessary to notify the printer controller 2103 of information such as a change in the cassette size and the absence of paper. These are the engine control unit 2002
However, the time from when the state change signal is issued to when the processing is performed in each controller is not strictly asked.

Therefore, the following processing is performed. That is, at the time of copying in which the reader controller 901 controls the engine control unit 2002, the engine control unit 2 is controlled using the gate function of the control circuit 2208.
002, the status change signal "/ PCCR
"T" is masked for the printer controller 2103, and only the reader controller 901 receives it through the interrupt controller 2204. Reader controller 9
01 performs processing according to the control flow of FIG.

That is, the process waits for the "/ PCCRT" signal to become true (step S41), and when it becomes true, the reader controller 901 issues a command for acquiring a state change to the engine control unit 2002 (step S41). S
42).

After that. By looking at the returned status, the content of the engine status change is grasped (step S43,
Step S44). Then, it is determined whether the content is a content to be notified also to the printer controller 2103 (step S45). For example, a state change such as a change in the size of a sheet cassette is notified.

If it is determined not to notify, a predetermined process is performed inside the reader controller 901 (step S5).
0).

If it is determined that the notification is to be made, the control circuit 2
The flag is set using the step S208 (step S4).
6) Generate a state change signal / CCCRT and notify the printer controller 2103 (steps S47 to S49).

<Control for Execution Command> Next, control of the execution command will be described. For example, the printer controller 2103 and the reader controller 901
The following describes how the reader controller 901 performs control when a use request is issued to the engine control unit 2002 at the same time.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the location of data and the exchange of data when a printer request occurs during a copy operation.

In this case, the engine control unit 2002 transmits the image signal “/” sent from the reader controller 901.
"PVDO" and perform image formation. As for the operation, as described with reference to FIG. 7, the settings such as the specification of the paper feed cassette, the specification of the paper discharge port, and the image forming mode have been set by serial communication between the reader controller 901 and the engine control unit 2002.

In FIG. 13, reference numeral 1301 denotes a buffer for various set values, in which values set in the engine control unit 2002 by the reader controller 901 and values set in the engine control unit 2002 by the printer controller 2103 are stored. Of the various setting values shown in the buffer 1301, the above-described designated value is stored in the setting value for the reader.

Here, when a printer request is issued from the printer controller 2103 during the copy operation, the interruption of the copy operation and the printout are performed.
It is hard to think from the viewpoint of operability. Therefore,
The printer request in this situation will be postponed until the copying operation is completed.

However, in response to "/ CCMD" from the printer controller 2103, "/ CSTS" must be returned. Therefore, among the setting values of the buffer 1301, only the setting value from the printer is set as the setting value for PDL (for the printer controller 2103) in response to a request.

If the set value for the reader is different from the set value for the PDL, the copy operation is completed, and before the printer operation is started, the reader controller sends the engine control unit 20.
02 may be set. The following is a description of a specific example.

At present, the copying operation is being performed, the paper is fed from the upper cassette, and the paper is discharged to the face-up discharge port. The image forming mode is set to the color mode based on the determination that the original is color. Suppose it had been.

Here, when a printer request is issued from the printer controller 2103, execution of the printer itself is postponed, but various settings can be made. Here, it is assumed that the printer request is a request to feed paper from the upper cassette, discharge the paper to the face-down discharge port, and further output a monochrome image. Regarding the sheet cassette designation, both the reader controller 901 and the printer controller 2103 designate the upper cassette. Therefore, when the copy operation is completed and the operation is switched to the printer operation, the engine
There is no need to issue a paper feed cassette designation command for the 02. Since the designation of the discharge port and the image forming mode is different between the copy operation and the printer operation, when the copy operation is completed, the reader controller 901 again specifies the discharge port and the image forming mode to the engine control unit 2002. Command must be issued.

As described above, the reader controller 901
Does not simply determine that a command from the printer controller 2103 is to postpone execution of the command to the engine control unit 2002, but does not determine whether the reader controller has already set the command to the engine control unit 2002. Makes a determination that duplicate settings will not occur.

Next, a case where a copy request occurs during the operation of the printer will be described with reference to FIG. In this case, contrary to the case of FIG. 13, from the viewpoint of operability, even if the user presses the copy button in front of the copy machine, it is better to be able to execute the copy operation in an interrupting manner than to be able to copy during the printer operation. Good. Therefore, the following processing is performed.

"/ CVDO" sent from the printer controller 2103 is selected by the selector 2201 and "/ P
"VDO" is sent to the engine control unit 2002.

Here, it is assumed that the settings are exactly the same as those described with reference to FIG. 13, and the settings from the printer controller 2103 are the upper cassette, the face-down discharge port, and the monochrome image mode.

The engine control unit 2002 outputs the “/ PPRNT” signal from the printer controller 2103 to Hig.
When h (false), the end can be detected for the first time,
I do not know how many copies will be printed out. It is assumed here that the printer is about to print out four images. If the reader controller 901 does not issue a copy operation request by interruption, four / PTOP signals are generated from the engine control unit 2002 as shown in the image timing shown in FIG. The data is sent to the engine control unit 2002 via the reader controller.

Therefore, it is assumed that an interrupt copy request for copying one color document is issued to the reader controller 901 during the second printout.

This will be further described with reference to FIG. FIG.
2 is a timing chart of each signal at the time of interrupt copying.

/ C from printer controller 2103
In response to the PRNT request, the reader controller 901 causes “/
A PPRNT request is issued to the engine control unit 2002, and a “/ PTOP” signal is supplied from the engine control unit 2002 to the printer controller as a “/ CTOP” signal via the reader controller 901. In this way, the printer operation of the first image 1501 and the second image 1502 is executed.

Here, a case will be described in which the reader controller 901 generates an interrupt copy request during the printout operation for the second sheet. The reader controller 901 sends “/ CCCRT” to the printer controller 2103.
Generate a signal.

This is because the reader controller 901 requests the printer controller 2103 to open the engine control unit 2002 in order to acquire the engine control unit 2002, instead of actually changing the state of the engine control unit 2002. is there. The generation method uses the control unit 2208 as described above.

In response to the "/ CCCRT" signal, the printer controller 2103 issues a command for checking the status of the engine, and the reader controller 901 responds to this with a status indicating "copying" in the printer controller. Return to 2103.

Then, the printer controller 2103
Detects that the printer engine is performing a copy operation while keeping the / CPRNT signal Low (true), and continues waiting for the "/ CTOP" signal to come. If not in the copy state, if "/ CTOP" does not come while "/ CPRNT" is kept low (true), a timeout error occurs after a certain period of time. In the case of the copy state, a timeout occurs on the printer controller 2103 side. Release,
Set to wait forever for the "/ CTOP" signal. At this time, the “/ PTOP” signal sent from the engine control unit 2002 is for performing a copy operation, and the reader controller uses the “/ PTOP” signal.

As indicated by reference numeral 1505, the "/ PTOP" signal sent from the engine control unit 2002 is masked to the printer controller 2103. The image signal actually generated by the reader controller 901 is only the image signal 1506. After the completion of one interrupt copy, the mask of the signal “/ PTOP” is removed again and the signal is transmitted to the printer controller 2103 as “/ CTOP”, whereby the images 1503 and 1504 from the printer controller 2103 are engine-controlled. A printout can be made to the unit 2002. According to the above description, the interruption copy operation during the operation of the printer can be realized.

As described above, the printer controller 210
3 and the state of the reader controller, the reader controller 901 determines and controls who acquires the engine control unit 2002 and at what timing the command is issued, depending on the case, to control one engine. On the other hand, requests from the two controllers can be realized.

<Control for Setting Content Confirmation Command> Next, control when the printer controller 2103 issues a setting content confirmation command will be described.

When the printer controller 2103 wishes to confirm the state set in the engine control unit 2002, the printer controller 2103 issues a setting content confirmation command through "/ CCMD".
The reader controller 901 having received it checks the buffer 1301 storing the set values in FIG.
If the contents to be checked by the printer controller 2103 are stored in the buffer 1301, the contents are read out, and the printer controller 2103 reads the contents through "/ CSTS".
Notify 103. If the content is not stored in the buffer 1301, the reader controller 901 issues a setting content confirmation command through “/ PCMD”.
The engine control unit 2002 reads out the contents, and reads the setting contents through the reader controller 901 through “/ PSTS”.
, And the reader controller 901 notifies the content to “/
The printer controller 2103 is notified through the “CSTS”.

<Density Control Sequence> Next, the density control sequence will be described.

In an image forming apparatus, particularly a color image forming apparatus, each color element (Y, M,
It is known that if the balance of the densities of (C, K) is lost, an appropriate image cannot be output.

[0204] The causes of the imbalance are that the amount of charge remaining on the photoreceptor increases due to repeated image formation and that the temperature and humidity of the environment in which the apparatus is operated have changed, so that image formation is not possible in the initial adaptation range. It is impossible to control properly. Therefore, control is performed to keep the concentration constant according to some environmental conditions related to these factors. The density control in the image processing apparatus A according to the present embodiment will be described below.

Items that can be detected by the CPU (not shown) mounted on the engine control unit 2002 in FIG. 1 as environmental conditions include the continuous stationary time in the standby state, the number of discharged sheets, and the items formed on the intermediate transfer member 405. There is the number of images.

Further, by installing an environment sensor (temperature sensor, humidity sensor, etc.) inside the printer main body 2001, the CPU monitors the input from the environment sensor, thereby detecting a change in the environment and detecting the change. It can also be a condition.

A control sequence when the necessity of density control is determined by detecting a change in each of these environmental conditions will be described below with reference to FIG.

The CPU (not shown) constituting the engine control unit 2002 constantly monitors whether or not the environmental conditions meet predetermined conditions.

That is, in step S101, the cumulative number / image number is determined in step S102, the continuous stationary time is determined in step S102, and in step S103, the environment sensor determines whether the density control needs to be performed to a predetermined value. If so, the process proceeds to step S104, where "/ CC
The "RT" signal and status are used to control the engine control unit 20.
This is transmitted to the reader controller 901 which has instructed the operation to be performed to the reader 02.

[0210] The reader controller 901 determines whether the transmitted timing is a timing at which the density control can be executed by judging from the operating state of the entire apparatus.
02, a command for density control execution instruction is transmitted.

In step S105, the engine control unit 2
The CPU 002 waits for a density control execution instruction issued from the reader controller 901 and starts density control when it is issued (step S106).

Next, the contents of the density control will be described.

When the environmental conditions change as described above, the overall density often decreases. The main object of the density control is to return the lowered density to an appropriate value. The sequence of the density control will be described with reference to FIG.

When the execution of the density control is permitted, the CPU of the engine control unit 2002 starts a predetermined process for the printer engine (step S111). When the steady state is reached, a density patch corresponding to a predetermined density value is formed on the intermediate transfer member 405 (step S112).

The pattern of the density patch is generally formed using an electronic circuit such as a gate array constituting the engine control unit 2002, and the laser is driven.

Inside the printer body 2001, a density sensor (not shown) connected to the engine control unit 2002 is arranged, and the density sensor of the density patch formed on the intermediate transfer body 405 is determined by using the density sensor. The CPU 2002 reads the data (step S113).

The CPU of the engine control unit 2002 determines whether or not the read density value has an appropriate density corresponding to the formed density patch (step S11).
4) If different, the intermediate transfer body 405 on which the patch is formed is cleaned (step S115), and high-voltage values such as charging, development, and transfer, which are parameters for controlling the density of an output image in electrophotography, are adjusted. After the change (step S116), the process returns to step S112 to execute the same density control again. By performing such control,
The density can be returned to an appropriate value.

<Automatic Gradation Correction Control Sequence> The automatic gradation correction control is a look-up table for an output of the printer engine alone set by executing the above-described density control (in this case, simply for a predetermined image data, The controller (the reader controller 901 and the printer controller 2103) determines the values of the intermediate density and the density area on the low density side, which cannot be completely corrected by the output high voltage value setting table. This is a control for obtaining an optimal output image by adjusting and correcting a lookup table for converting the density gradation value of image data for printing out, which is incorporated therein. That is, the look-up table built in the controller is
This is to convert the density gradation value of the image data according to a predetermined conversion condition.

FIG. 24 shows the color gradation as test image data in which patches are arranged in the order of color gradation (the gradation density is represented by a number so as to represent a gradation pattern because it is difficult to understand in the figure). It is a patch chart.

In the automatic gradation correction control, a predetermined color gradation patch chart shown in FIG. 24 is printed out, and as shown in FIG. Reader 80
It corresponds to 2 etc. ), The look-up table incorporated in the reader controller 901 or the printer controller 2103 is adjusted to an optimum value based on the read image data and the image data of the previous patch chart. In this case, if a plurality of the look-up tables can be provided, it is possible to always obtain an optimal image output even when the output look-up table on the printer engine side is largely changed based on, for example, a change in environment or the like. is there.

In order to execute the automatic gradation correction control, after outputting the color gradation patch chart, it is necessary to have the operator set the outputted output image in the reader 3001. For this reason, in the image processing apparatus A,
The processing described below will be executed.

<Automatic Gradation Correction Control Request Control> As described above, the charging and development that should be optimally adjusted by the density control by the engine control unit 2002 due to the aging of the intermediate transfer member 405, the photosensitive member 402, the toner, etc. The transfer and the like are not set optimally. For example, as shown in FIG. 26 showing an output look-up table on the printer engine side, the image data is compared with a developing bias value normally set to a normal value. If the low value is changed as the developing bias value, the tone reproduction of the halftone data which largely affects the output image becomes abnormal, and the density of the toner placed on the paper may be reduced.

That is, even if the gradation value of the image data density read from the reader is always constant, if the output look-up table on the printer side changes significantly, the development bias value finally output changes. Therefore, an optimal image cannot be obtained.

This will be specifically described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 27 shows a reader controller 90 for the density gradation value of the image data read by the reader (document reading unit).
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing conversion by the lookup table in FIG. 1 and further conversion of the converted value by the output lookup table on the printer engine side.

In FIG. 27, reference numeral 3200 denotes a lookup table of the reader controller 901 in a normal state;
Reference numeral 2 denotes a curve representing a look-up table for output of the printer unit in a normal state.

Normally, curves 3200 and 32
02, the density gradation values of the image data read by the reader represented by D1 to D4 are output with the developing biases of D'1 to D'4, respectively. It is assumed that D'1 to D'4 at this time are adjusted optimally.

If the curve 3202, which is an output look-up table on the printer engine side, is changed to a curve 3203 due to a change over time of the printer engine or the like, the density level of image data read by a normal reader in a normal state is obtained. It can be seen that the output developing bias value changes greatly with respect to the tonal value.

Therefore, in order to obtain the same conversion result of the density gradation value as in the normal state even after the output lookup table is changed, the reader lookup table is changed from the curve 3200 to the curve 3201. Readjust to

With such readjustment, even when the output look-up table on the printer engine side is changed, the look-up table of the reader section is readjusted, so that the normal tone gradation can be improved. It can be reproduced.

For this purpose, the processing shown in FIG. 30 is performed. That is, after the density control, it is determined whether correction of the look-up table of the reader controller 901 is necessary by referring to a plurality of patch density data obtained during the density control (step S121). Then, when an abnormality is found in the slope of the curve of the read values of the plurality of data (step S12).
2 to step S124), for example, when the gradient amount becomes equal to or less than the specific value, the reader controller 901 changes the look-up table to the optimum value at that time. Have the correction control executed. Specifically, the engine control unit 2002 transmits an automatic gradation correction control request signal to the reader controller 901 (step S12).
5).

The reader controller 901 which has received the automatic gradation correction control request signal displays a message for executing the automatic gradation correction control on the display of the operation unit 905 of the reader so as to be understood by the operator (FIG. 28).

Since the look-up table incorporated in the printer controller 2103 also needs to be changed to an optimum value, a message is displayed to the host computer 2104 to execute the automatic gradation correction control (FIG. 29).

According to these processes, when the operator does not know the automatic gradation correction function, or when the color gradation cannot be properly reproduced by the density control on the printer due to aging or the like, the operation unit of the reader is operated. By displaying the message of the automatic gradation correction request and having the operator execute the automatic gradation correction control, it is possible to always obtain the optimum output image of the printer. Further, the quality of the output image is reduced without the operator's knowledge.

On the other hand, although it is necessary to obtain an optimum image, it is not always good to have an operator execute automatic gradation correction for each density control from the viewpoint of operability. Therefore, once the automatic gradation correction is executed, if the necessity of the automatic gradation correction is detected again during the subsequent density control, the automatic gradation correction control is always executed.
It is also possible to control such that once executed, the setting is made such that the execution is not executed unless the main switch is turned off, or the execution is executed when several times of necessity are detected.

Here, even if the necessity of the automatic gradation correction is detected again at the next density control, the automatic gradation correction control must be terminated in order not to execute the automatic gradation correction unless the main switch is turned off. Thereafter, even if the necessity of the automatic gradation correction is detected again at the time of the next density control, the reader controller 901 and the printer controller 2103 automatically transmit the automatic gradation correction request signal so that the engine control unit 2002 control unit does not transmit the request signal. Sends a tone correction unnecessary command.

The engine control unit 2002 that has received the automatic gradation correction unnecessary command sets the automatic gradation correction execution unnecessary flag. If the necessity of the automatic gradation correction is detected again when the next density control is executed in a state where the automatic gradation correction execution unnecessary flag is set once, the engine control unit 2002 controls the automatic gradation correction. The control request signal is sent to the reader controller and the printer controller 2
Control is performed so as not to be transmitted to 103.

In order to always execute the automatic gradation correction control when the necessity of the automatic gradation correction is detected again at the next density control, the next density control is performed after the completion of the automatic gradation correction control. Even when the necessity of the automatic gradation correction is detected again at the time of the control, the reader controller 901 and the printer controller 21 can transmit the automatic gradation correction request signal by the engine control unit 2002 control unit.
From 03, an automatic gradation correction required command is transmitted. Engine control unit 2002 that has received an automatic gradation correction required command
The control unit sets an automatic gradation correction execution necessary flag.
If the necessity of the automatic tone correction is detected again when the next density control is executed while the automatic tone correction execution necessary flag is set once, the engine control unit 2002 control unit executes the automatic tone correction. Control is performed so that a control request signal is transmitted to the reader controller 901 and the printer controller 2103.

Further, in order to execute it after several times that the judgment that the automatic gradation correction is necessary at the time of the density control is detected, the number of times of the necessary judgment is set by the operation unit 905 of the reader or the host computer 2104. After performing the automatic gradation correction control, the engine control unit 2
002.

Upon receiving the number-of-times designation command, the engine control unit 2002 determines again the necessity of automatic gradation correction for the number of times designated by the number-of-times designation command again at the next and subsequent density control. Until the automatic gradation correction request signal is transmitted, the automatic gradation correction request signal is transmitted to the reader controller and the printer controller 2103 after it is determined that the automatic gradation correction is necessary for the specified number of times.

FIG. 31 shows the operation unit 90 in such a case.
5 is a display example of the display of FIG. 5. On this operation screen,
The number of times is set by the + and-keys. 0
Is a setting for performing control so that automatic gradation correction is not executed unless the main switch is turned off even if the necessity of automatic gradation correction is detected again in the next density control after the setting.

The setting 1 is such that when the necessity of the automatic gradation correction is detected again during the density control, the control is performed so that the automatic gradation correction control is always executed.

In the settings 2 to 5, the automatic tone correction is executed after the set number of times of the automatic tone correction necessity detection is detected again during the density control after that.

[0243]

As described above, according to the present invention, a suitable image can be obtained even when the automatic adjustment is performed in accordance with the change in the density characteristics of the toner.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an image processing apparatus A according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a printer controller 2103 and an engine control unit 2002 connected via a video I / F 2101.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a list of video I / F signals.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a printer engine.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating timings of signals exchanged by a video I / F 2101.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating timing of communication performed between a printer controller 2103 and an engine control unit 2002.

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating communication during printer operation.

FIG. 8 is an external view illustrating the image processing apparatus A from another viewpoint.

FIG. 9 is a connection diagram in a configuration in which a reader controller 901 is interposed.

FIG. 10 is a communication sequence when a reader is not mounted.

FIG. 11 is a communication sequence when a reader is mounted.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a state change process at “/ CCRT” when a reader is attached.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating the location of data and the exchange of data when a printer request occurs during a copy operation.

FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating the location of data and the exchange of data when a copy request occurs during the operation of the printer.

FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram of a configuration of a printer controller 2103 and an engine control unit 2002 in the image processing apparatus A.

FIG. 16 is a system connection diagram of the printer.

FIG. 17 is a detailed block diagram inside a reader controller.

FIG. 18 is a detailed block diagram inside a reader controller.

FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating a timing difference between copying and printing.

FIG. 20 is a diagram showing how to mount a conventional reader.

FIG. 21 is a diagram showing how to attach a conventional reader.

FIG. 22 is a flowchart of a process up to execution of density control.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart of a density control process.

FIG. 24 is a color gradation patch chart.

FIG. 25 is an external view showing the image processing apparatus A from another point of view, and is a diagram showing a printed patch chart being read.

FIG. 26 is a diagram illustrating an output lookup table on the printer engine side.

FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating conversion of a density gradation value of image data by a lookup table in the reader controller 901, and conversion of a further converted value by an output lookup table on the printer engine side. .

FIG. 28 is a diagram showing a mode in which a message for executing automatic gradation correction control is displayed on the display of the operation unit 905.

FIG. 29 is a diagram showing a mode in which a request message for automatic gradation correction control is displayed on the host computer 2104.

FIG. 30 is a flowchart of a process for determining whether to execute automatic gradation correction control.

FIG. 31 is a display example of a display of an operation unit 905 for setting an automatic gradation correction request.

FIG. 32 is a timing chart of each signal at the time of interrupt copying.

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page F term (reference) 2H027 DA09 DA13 DA14 EB01 EC04 EC06 EE08 EF17 GB09 HA07 5C077 LL13 MM27 MP08 NN02 NP08 PP15 PP74 PP77 PQ08 PQ17 PQ22 SS07 TT03 TT06 9A001 BB04 DD11 EE02 EE31 KK KK32 KK42

Claims (33)

[Claims] 1. An image processing apparatus comprising: reading means for reading an image; and printing means for forming an image related to image data sent from the reading means or an external terminal with toner. Means for converting the density gradation value of the image data in accordance with the conversion condition, and outputting the image data to the printing means; and setting the printing means for adjusting the density of the toner when a predetermined condition is satisfied. Changing means for changing; determining, as a result of the setting change, whether or not the conversion condition needs to be corrected; and determining means for outputting the determination result; and determining that the correction is necessary by the determining means. An image processing apparatus comprising: a notification unit configured to notify a predetermined message to an operator when a determination result is output. 2. A means for causing an image related to predetermined test image data to be output by the printing means when a result of the determination that correction is necessary is output by the determining means; 2. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a correction unit configured to correct the conversion condition based on the image data and the test image data when the image is read by the reading unit. Image processing device. 3. After the conversion condition is once corrected by the correction unit, the determination unit uniformly outputs a determination result that the conversion condition does not need to be corrected until a predetermined release condition is satisfied. The image processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein: 4. The image processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein one of the cancellation conditions is that the power of the image processing apparatus is turned off. 5. The image processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein one of the cancellation conditions relates to the number of times that it is determined that the conversion condition needs to be corrected. 6. The method according to claim 1, wherein the conversion conditions are different between a case where image data from the reading unit is converted and a case where image data from the external terminal is converted. The image processing device according to claim 1. 7. The method according to claim 6, wherein the predetermined condition is an ambient temperature,
The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image processing apparatus is related to at least one of ambient humidity and the number of images formed by the printing unit. 8. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the notifying unit includes a display for displaying the message. 9. The method according to claim 1, wherein the notifying unit transfers the message to the external terminal.
The image processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 4. 10. The method according to claim 1, wherein the content of the message is a content requesting an operator to cause the reading unit to read an image corresponding to the output test data. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1. 11. An image processing device connected to a reading device for reading an image and a terminal device, the printing device forming an image related to image data sent from the reading device or the terminal device with toner. And changing means for changing the setting of the printing means in order to adjust the density of the toner when a predetermined condition is satisfied; and converting a density gradation value of the image data according to a predetermined conversion condition; Means for outputting to the printing means; determining as to whether or not the conversion condition needs to be corrected as a result of the setting change; determining means for outputting the determination result; and determining whether or not correction is required by the determining means. Notification means for notifying the operator of a predetermined message when a determination result indicating that there is an error is output to the operator. In the case, means for outputting an image related to predetermined test image data by the printing unit, and, when the output image related to the test data is read by the reading device, the image data and the test image data An image processing apparatus, comprising: a correction unit configured to correct the conversion condition based on the condition. 12. An image processing apparatus comprising: a reading unit configured to read an image; and a printing unit configured to form an image corresponding to image data transmitted from the reading unit or the external terminal using toner. An image processing method, comprising: converting a density gradation value of the image data according to a predetermined conversion condition and outputting the image data to the printing unit; and adjusting a density of the toner when a predetermined condition is satisfied. A change step of changing the setting of the printing unit, a judgment step of judging whether the conversion condition needs to be corrected as a result of the change of the setting, and outputting the judgment result; and a judgment step of And a notifying step of notifying an operator of a predetermined message when a determination result indicating that correction is necessary is output. 13. A step of outputting an image relating to predetermined test image data by the printing means when a result of determination that correction is necessary is output in the determining step; 13. The image according to claim 12, further comprising: when the image is read by the reading unit, correcting the conversion condition based on the image data and the test image data. Processing method. 14. In the determination step, after the conversion condition is once corrected by the correction step, a determination result that the conversion condition does not need to be corrected is uniformly output until a predetermined release condition is satisfied. 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein
3. The image processing method according to 3. 15. The image processing apparatus according to claim 14, wherein one of the release conditions is that the power of the image processing apparatus is turned off. 16. The image processing apparatus according to claim 14, wherein one of the cancellation conditions relates to the number of times that it is determined that the conversion condition needs to be corrected. 17. The apparatus according to claim 12, wherein said conversion conditions are different between a case where image data from said reading means is converted and a case where image data from said external terminal is converted. The image processing method according to claim 1. 18. The apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the predetermined condition is related to at least one of an ambient temperature, an ambient humidity, and the number of images formed by the printing unit. The image processing method according to any one of the above. 19. The image processing method according to claim 12, wherein the notifying step includes a step of displaying the message on a display. 20. The method according to claim 12, wherein in the notifying step, the message is transferred to the external terminal.
20. The image processing method according to any one of claims 19 to 19. 21. The method according to claim 12, wherein the content of the message is a content requesting an operator to cause the reading unit to read an image related to the output test data. 2. The image processing method according to claim 1. 22. An image processing apparatus connected to a reading device for reading an image and a terminal device, the printing device comprising printing means for forming an image related to image data sent from the reading device or the terminal device with toner. An image processing method for controlling, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, changing a setting of the printing unit in order to adjust the density of the toner; and changing the image data according to a predetermined conversion condition. A step of converting the density gradation value and outputting the result to the printing unit; anda step of determining whether or not the conversion condition needs to be corrected as a result of the setting change, and outputting the determination result. A notification step of notifying a predetermined message to an operator when a determination result indicating that correction is necessary is output in the determination step; Outputting the image related to the predetermined test image data by the printing unit when the determination result that the test data is output is output by the reading device. A correction step of correcting the conversion condition based on image data and the test image data. 23. An image processing apparatus comprising: a reading unit configured to read an image; and a printing unit configured to form an image corresponding to image data transmitted from the reading unit or the external terminal using toner. A storage medium storing a computer program, wherein the program converts a density gradation value of the image data according to a predetermined conversion condition, and outputs the code to a printing unit, and satisfies a predetermined condition. In the case, a code of a change step of changing the setting of the printing unit to adjust the density of the toner, and, as a result of the change of the setting, determine whether or not the conversion condition needs to be corrected. A code of a determination step of outputting a determination result, and in the determination step, when a determination result indicating that correction is necessary is output, a predetermined message is sent to the operator. Storage medium characterized by comprising a code of knowledge notifying step. 24. The program according to claim 24, wherein, in the determining step, when a determination result indicating that correction is necessary is output, an image related to predetermined test image data is output by the printing unit; And a correction process code for correcting the conversion condition based on the image data and the test image data when the image related to the performed test data is read by the reading unit. Claim 23
A storage medium according to claim 1. 25. In the determination step, after the conversion condition is once corrected by the correction step, a determination result that the conversion condition does not need to be corrected is uniformly output until a predetermined release condition is satisfied. 3. The method according to claim 2, wherein
5. The storage medium according to 4. 26. The storage medium according to claim 25, wherein one of the cancellation conditions is that the power of the image processing apparatus is turned off. 27. The storage medium according to claim 25, wherein one of the cancellation conditions relates to the number of times that it is determined that the conversion condition needs to be corrected. 28. The method according to claim 23, wherein the conversion condition is different between a case where image data from the reading unit is converted and a case where image data from the external terminal is converted. The storage medium according to claim 1. 29. The method according to claim 23, wherein the predetermined condition is related to at least one of an ambient temperature, an ambient humidity, and the number of images formed by the printing unit. The storage medium according to claim 1. 30. The storage medium according to claim 23, wherein said notifying step includes a step of displaying said message on a display. 31. The method according to claim 23, wherein, in the notifying step, the message is transferred to the external terminal.
31. The storage medium according to any one of claims 30 to 30. 32. The content according to claim 23, wherein the content of the message is a content requesting an operator to cause the reading unit to read an image related to the output test data. The storage medium according to claim 1. 33. An image processing apparatus connected to a reading device for reading an image and a terminal device, the printing device comprising printing means for forming an image related to image data sent from the reading device or the terminal device with toner. A storage medium storing a computer program for controlling, wherein a code of a change step for changing a setting of the printing unit to adjust the density of the toner when the program satisfies a predetermined condition. And a code of a step of converting the density gradation value of the image data according to a predetermined conversion condition and outputting the converted value to the printing means. As a result of the change of the setting, whether or not the conversion condition needs to be corrected is determined. A code for a determination step of determining and outputting the determination result; and a predetermined message when a determination result indicating that correction is necessary is output in the determination step. A code of a notification step for notifying an operator, and a code of a step of outputting an image related to predetermined test image data in the printing step, when a determination result indicating that correction is necessary is output in the determination step, When an image related to the output test data is read by the reading device, the code includes a correction process code for correcting the conversion condition based on the image data and the test image data. Storage medium.