JP2004032256A - Image processor, control method therefor, program and storage medium - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To perform reduced layout printing by mixing data in a box with data read by a scanner. <P>SOLUTION: A main controller 111 performs the reduced layout printing on a recording medium while mixing a scanning print job for expanding a plurality of image data read from a paper original by the scanner onto a DRAM 116, further expanding the image data based on a plurality of document data stored in a personal box (HD 162) onto the DRAM 116, and outputting the image on a recording medium based on a plurality of image data read from the paper original and expanded on the recording medium and a box print job for outputting the image on the recording medium based on a plurality of image data expanded from the personal box to a storage area. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

【０１０２】
なお、上式において、Ｒ，Ｇ，Ｂが入力、Ｘ，Ｙ，Ｚが出力、ａ１１，ａ１２，ａ１３，ａ２１，ａ２２，ａ２３，ａ３１，ａ３２，ａ３３，ｂ１，ｂ２，ｂ３，ｃ１，ｃ２，ｃ３がそれぞれ係数である。
【０１０３】
上式の演算によって、例えばＲＧＢ色空間からＹｕｖ色空間への変換など、各種の色空間変換を行うことができる。
【０１０４】
次に、マトリックス演算後のデータに対して、ＬＵＴ８０４による変換を行う。これによって、非線形の変換をも行うことができる。当然、スルーのテーブルを設定することにより、実質的にＬＵＴ変換を行わないこともできる。
【０１０５】
その後、色空間変換部８０３は色空間変換処理された画像データをバスコントローラ１１３に転送する。色空間変換処理された画像データを受け取ったバスコントローラ１１３は、ＤＲＡＭ１１６もしくはＩ／Ｆ上の各デバイスにデータを転送する。
【０１０６】
＜画像二値化部の説明＞
以下、図８に示した画像二値化部８０５における処理手順を示す。
【０１０７】
ＣＰＵ１１２が、Ｉ／Ｆ１３７を介して、バスコントローラ１１３に二値化制御のための設定を行う。この設定によりバスコントローラ１１３は画像二値化部８０５に対して二値化処理に必要な設定（変換方法に応じた各種パラメータ等）を行う。必要な設定を行った後に、再度ＣＰＵ１１２からバスコントローラ１１３に対して画像データ転送の許可を行う。この許可に従い、バスコントローラ１１３はＤＲＡＭ１１６もしくは各Ｉ／Ｆを介して接続されているデバイスから画像データの転送を開始する。
【０１０８】
画像二値化部８０５は、受け取った画像データに対して二値化処理を施す。本実施形態では、二値化の手法としては、画像データを所定の閾値と比較して単純に二値化するものとする。もちろん、ディザ法、誤差拡散法、誤差拡散法を改良したものなど、いずれの手法によってもかまわない。
【０１０９】
その後、画像二値化部８０５は二値化処理された画像データをバスコントローラ１１３に転送する。二値化処理された画像データを受け取ったバスコントローラ１１３は、ＤＲＡＭ１１６もしくはＩ／Ｆ上の各デバイスにデータを転送する。
【０１１０】
＜ＰＤＬ画像出力時のシーケンス＞
図１１は、本発明の画像形成装置の第１の制御処理手順の一例を示すフローチャートであり、本実施形態におけるＰＤＬ画像出力の手順に対応する。なお、図中のＳ３００１〜Ｓ３００８は各ステップを示す。また、このフローチャートは、図１に示したＰＣ４０１，４０２内の図示しないＣＰＵ，図４に示したＣＰＵ１１２により記憶媒体に格納されたプログラムに基づいて実行されるものとする。
【０１１１】
まず、ＰＤＬ画像を出力する場合、ステップＳ３００１では、ＰＣ４０１，４０２上でユーザが当該ＰＤＬ画像出力ジョブのプリント設定を行う。プリント設定内容は、部数、用紙サイズ、片面／縮小レイアウト、ページ出力順序、ソート出力、ステイプル止めの有無等である。
【０１１２】
次に、ステップＳ３００２では、ＰＣ４０１，４０２上で印刷指示を与え、それと共にＰＣ４０１，４０２上にインストールされているドライバソフトウェアが、印刷対象となるＰＣ４０１，４０２上のコードデータをいわゆるＰＤＬデータに変換して、ステップＳ３００１で設定したプリント設定パラメータとともに、本画像入出力装置の制御装置１１０に、ネットワーク４００を介してＰＤＬデータを転送する。
【０１１３】
次にステップＳ３００３では、制御装置１１０のメインコントローラ１１１のＣＰＵ１１２が、コネクタ１２２およびＮｅｔｗｏｒｋＣｏｎｔｒｏｌｌｅｒ１２１を介して転送されたＰＤＬデータを前記プリント設定パラメータに基づいて、画像データに展開（ラスタライズ）する。画像データの展開は、ＤＲＡＭ１１６上に行われる。画像データの展開が完了するとステップＳ３００４へ進む。
【０１１４】
ステップＳ３００４では、メインコントローラ１１１がＤＲＡＭ１１６上に展開された画像データを、Ｇｒａｐｈｉｃ　Ｐｒｏｃｅｓｓｏｒ１３５に転送する。
【０１１５】
ステップＳ３００５では、Ｇｒａｐｈｉｃ　Ｐｒｏｃｅｓｓｏｒ１３５が、前記プリント設定パラメータとは独立に、画像処理を行う。例えば、前記プリント設定パラメータで指定された用紙サイズがＡ４であるにもかかわらず、プリンタ部３００の給紙ユニット３６０にはＡ４Ｒ用紙しかない場合には、ＧｒａｐｈｉｃＰｒｏｃｅｓｓｏｒ１３５で画像を９０度回転することによって、出力用紙にあわせた画像出力を行うことができる。画像データの画像処理が完了するとステップＳ３００６へ進む。
【０１１６】
ステップＳ３００６では、Ｇｒａｐｈｉｃ　Ｐｒｏｃｅｓｓｏｒ１３５がメインコントローラ１１１へ画像処理後の画像データを転送する。メインコントローラ１１１は転送されてきた画像データをＤＲＡＭ１１６上に記憶する。
【０１１７】
ステップＳ３００７では、メインコントローラ１１１はプリンタＩ／Ｆ１４５およびコネクタ１４７を介して、プリンタ部３００を制御しつつ、適切なタイミングでＤＲＡＭ１１６上の画像データを、プリンタ部３００へと転送する。
【０１１８】
ステップＳ３００８では、制御装置１１０が、プリンタ部３００を制御して画像データをプリント出力する。画像データの転送が完了すると、すなわち当該ＰＤＬジョブが終了すると、プリント出力を終了する。
【０１１９】
＜コピー画像出力時のシーケンス＞
図１２は、本発明の画像形成装置の第２の制御処理手順の一例を示すフローチャートであり、本実施形態におけるコピー画像出力の手順に対応する。なお、図中のＳ４００１〜Ｓ４００７は各ステップを示す。また、このフローチャートは、図４に示したＣＰＵ１１２により記憶媒体に格納されたプログラムに基づいて実行されるものとする。
【０１２０】
コピー画像を出力する場合、ステップＳ４００１では、操作部１５０上でユーザが当該コピー画像出力ジョブのコピー設定を行う。コピー設定内容は、部数、用紙サイズ、片面／縮小レイアウト、拡大／縮小率、ソート出力、ステイプル止めの有無等である。
【０１２１】
次に、ステップＳ４００２では、操作部１５０上でコピー開始指示を与えると、制御装置１１０のメインコントローラ１１１はスキャナＩ／Ｆ１４０およびコネクタ１４２を介してリーダ部２００を制御し、原稿の画像データを読み込む。画像データはＤＲＡＭ１１６上に記憶される。
【０１２２】
従来のコピー機では、前記コピー設定の拡大／縮小率の設定に応じて、すなわち副走査方向の変倍率に応じて光学ユニット２１３の移動速度を変化させることにより副走査方向の変倍処理を実現していた。しかしながら、本実施形態では、前記コピー設定の拡大／縮小率の設定にかかわらず、必ず等倍（１００％）で画像データを読み取り、変倍処理については、主走査方向、副走査方向ともに、後述するＧｒａｐｈｉｃ　Ｐｒｏｃｅｓｓｏｒ１３５によって行うものとする。
【０１２３】
次に、ステップＳ４００３では、メインコントローラ１１１がＤＲＡＭ１１６上の画像データを、Ｇｒａｐｈｉｃ　Ｐｒｏｃｅｓｓｏｒ１３５に転送する。ステップＳ４００４では、Ｇｒａｐｈｉｃ　Ｐｒｏｃｅｓｓｏｒ１３５が、前記コピー設定パラメータに基づいて画像処理を行う。例えば、拡大４００％の設定がなされているときには、Ｇｒａｐｈｉｃ　Ｐｒｏｃｅｓｓｏｒ１３５内のモジュールである画像変倍部を用いて主走査方向、副走査方向、双方への変倍処理を行う。画像データの画像処理が完了するとステップＳ４００５へ進む。
【０１２４】
ステップＳ４００５では、Ｇｒａｐｈｉｃ　Ｐｒｏｃｅｓｓｏｒ１３５がメインコントローラ１１１へ画像処理後の画像データを転送する。メインコントローラ１１１は転送されてきた画像データをＤＲＡＭ１１６上に記憶する。
【０１２５】
次に、ステップＳ４００６では、メインコントローラ１１１はプリンタＩ／Ｆ１４５およびコネクタ１４７を介して、プリンタ部３００を制御しつつ、適切なタイミングでＤＲＡＭ１１６上の画像データを、プリンタ部３００へと転送する。
【０１２６】
さらに、ステップＳ４００７では、制御装置１１０が、プリンタ部３００を制御して画像データをプリント出力する。画像データの転送が完了すると、すなわち当該コピージョブが終了すると、プリント出力を終了する。
【０１２７】
＜パーソナルボックス機能の説明＞
以下、図１３〜図１９を参照して、本実施形態におけるパーソナルボックス機能について詳細に説明する。
【０１２８】
図１３は、図１に示した操作部１５０のキー配列を示す平面図である。
【０１２９】
図において、１５０１は電源スイッチで、本体への通電を制御する。１５０２は予熱キーで、予熱モードのＯＮ／ＯＦＦに使用する。１５０３はコピーＡモードキーで、複数の機能の中からコピーＡモードを選択するときに使用する。１５０４はコピーＢモードキーで、複数の機能の中からコピーＢモードを選択するときに使用する。コピーＡ及びコピーＢとは、各々同じコピー機能であるが、片方のコピーのスキャナ読み込みが終了している場合は次のコピーの入力ができるため、敢えてユーザに分かりやすくするために二つのコピーに分けている。
【０１３０】
１５０５はボックスキーで、複数の機能の中からボックスモードを選択するときに使用する。ボックス機能とは、ユーザ個人や部署毎に複写機内のメモリに記憶領域を持ち、そこにＰＤＬやスキャン画像を入れておき、好きなときに出力する機能である。
【０１３１】
１５０６は拡張キーで、ＰＤＬに対する操作を行うときに使用する。１５０３〜１５０６は後述するＬＣＤ１５１６の各々の機能画面を呼び出すときにも使用され、ＬＣＤ１５１６の表示により各々のジョブの状況を見ることができる。
【０１３２】
１５０７はコピースタートキーで、コピーの開始を指示するときに用いるキーである。１５０８はストップキーで、コピーを中断したり、中止したりするときに用いるキーである。１５０９はリセットキーで、スタンバイ中は標準モードに復帰させるキーとして動作する。
【０１３３】
１５１０はガイドキーで、各機能を知りたいときに使用するキーである。１５１１はユーザモードキーで、ユーザがシステムの基本設定を変更するときに使用する。１５１２は割り込みキーで、コピー中に割り込みしてコピーしたいときに用いる。１５１３はテンキーで、数値の入力を行うときに使用する。
【０１３４】
１５１４はクリアキーで、数値をクリアするときに用いる。１５１５はＩＤキーで、複写機を使用する場合にＩＤの入力モードに移行するときに使用する。１５１６は液晶画面とタッチセンサの組合せからなるＬＣＤタッチパネル（操作パネル）であり、各モード毎に個別の設定画面が表示され、さらに、描画されたキーに触れることで、各種の詳細な設定を行うことが可能である。また、各々のジョブの動作状況表示なども行う。
【０１３５】
１５１７はネットワークの通信状態を示すタリーランプで、通常緑色で、通信しているときは緑色で点滅し、ネットワークエラーの場合には赤色になる。
【０１３６】
１５１８はＡＣＳ（オートカラーセレクト）キーで、コピー原稿がカラーか白黒かを自動的に判別し、カラーならばカラーで、白黒ならば黒単色でスキャンするモードを設定する場合に使用する。１５１９はフルカラーモードキーで、コピー原稿に関わらずフルカラーでスキャンするモードを設定する場合に使用する。１５２０はブラックモードキーで、コピー原稿に関わらず黒単色でスキャンするモードを設定する場合に使用する。１５１８〜１５２０はトグル動作し、必ずどれか一つが選択されており、選択されているキーが点灯している。
【０１３７】
図１４は、図１３に示した操作パネル１５１６のコピー標準画面の一例を示した模式図である。本実施形態の画像処理装置は、電源投入時にデフォルトとして、このコピー標準画面で起動するようになっている。
【０１３８】
図において、１６０１はメッセージラインで、コピージョブの状態をメッセージで表示する。１６０２は倍率表示で、設定された倍率やコピーモードによって自動的に決められる倍率をパーセントで表示する。１６０３は用紙サイズ表示で、選択された出力用紙を表示し、自動用紙選択が設定されている場合にはオート用紙というメッセージを表示する。
【０１３９】
１６０４は置数表示で、何枚コピーするかを示す。１６０５は縮小キーで、縮小コピーを行いたい場合に使用する。１６０６は等倍キーで、縮小や拡大が設定されている場合に等倍に戻したいときに使用する。１６０７は拡大キーで、拡大コピーを行いたい場合に使用する。１６０８はズームキーで、細かい単位で倍率を設定して縮小コピーや拡大コピーを行いたい場合に使用する。
【０１４０】
１６０９は用紙選択キーで、出力用紙を指定する場合に使用する。１６１０はフィニッシャキーで、ソートやステイプルのモードを設定する場合に使用する。１６１１は両面キーで、両面モードを設定する場合に使用する。
【０１４１】
１６１２は濃度表示で、現在の濃度が分かるようになっており、左側が濃度が薄く、右側が濃度が濃いことを示す。また、濃度表示１６１２は、うすくキー１６１３、こくキー１６１５と連動して表示が変化するようになっている。うすくキー１６１３は、濃度を薄くしたい場合に使用する。こくキー１６１５は、濃度を濃くしたい場合に使用する。１６１４は自動キーで、自動的に濃度を決定するモードを使用する場合に使用する。
【０１４２】
１６１６は文字キーで、文字原稿をコピーするのに適した濃度に自動的に設定する文字モードを設定する場合に使用する。１６１７は文字／写真キーで、写真が混在した原稿をコピーするのに適した濃度に自動的に設定する文字／写真モードを設定する場合に使用する。１６１８は応用モードキーで、コピー標準画面で設定できない様々なコピーモードを設定する場合に使用する。
【０１４３】
１６１９はシステム状況キーで、現在この画像入出力システム１００で行われているプリントやスキャンの状況を見たい場合に使用する。このシステム状況キー１６１９は、コピー標準画面だけではなく、常にこの位置に現れており、いつでもこのキーを押すことによりシステムの状況を見ることができるようになっている。
【０１４４】
また、図１４では図示していないが、領域１６２０は、メッセージライン１６０１で表示する必要のない優先度の低いアラームや、他の機能の実行状態などをメッセージ表示するステータスラインである。
【０１４５】
図１５は、図４に示したハードディスク（ＨＤ）１６２の論理的な使用方法を示した図である。
【０１４６】
図に示すように、本実施形態においては使用用途に応じてハードディスクの記憶領域をテンポラリ領域１７０１とボックス領域１７０２に論理的に分ける。テンポラリ領域１７０１は、画像データの出力順序を変えたり、複数部出力においても一回のＰＤＬ展開や一回のスキャンで出力ができるようにするために、ＰＤＬの展開データやスキャナからの画像データを一時的に記憶する記憶領域である。
【０１４７】
ボックス領域１７０２はボックス機能を使用するための記憶領域であり、１７０３〜１７０７に示すように登録された数の小さな記憶領域（ボックス領域１，２，３，４，……（以下、ボックス））に分割されている。ボックス１７０３〜１７０７は、各ユーザや会社などの部署毎に割り当てられ、各ボックスにはボックス名とパスワードを付けることができる。ユーザはボックスを指定することでＰＤＬジョブやスキャンジョブを各ボックスに入力することができ、パスワードを入力することで実際にボックスの中を見たり、設定変更やプリント出力を行う。
【０１４８】
図１６は、本発明の画像形成装置の第３の制御処理手順の一例を示すフローチャートであり、本実施形態におけるボックス登録の手順に対応する。なお、本実施形態におけるボックスへの登録は、ホストコンピュータからのＰＤＬ画像と、スキャナからのスキャン画像の登録があり、図１６（ａ）はホストコンピュータ（図１に示したＰＣ４０１，４０２）からのＰＤＬ画像のボックス登録手順に対応し、図１６（ｂ）はスキャナ（図１に示したリーダ部２００）からのスキャン画像のボックス登録処理に対応する。なお、図中のＳ１８０１〜Ｓ１８０８は各ステップを示す。また、図１６（ａ）のフローチャートは、図１に示したＰＣ４０１，４０２内の図示しないＣＰＵ，図４に示したＣＰＵ１１２により記憶媒体に格納されたプログラムに基づいて実行され、図１６（ｂ）のフローチャートは、図４に示したＣＰＵ１１２により記憶媒体に格納されたプログラムに基づいて実行されるものとする。
【０１４９】
まず、図１６（ａ）を参照して図１に示したＰＣ４０１，４０２からのＰＤＬ画像をボックス登録する場合について説明する。
【０１５０】
まず、ステップＳ１８０１では、ＰＣ４０１，４０２上でユーザがプリント設定を行いステップＳ１８０２に進む。プリント設定内容は、部数、用紙サイズ、拡大縮小率、片面／縮小レイアウト、ページ出力順序、ソート出力、ステイプル止めの有無等である。
【０１５１】
次に、ステップＳ１８０２では、ＰＣ４０１，４０２上でボックス番号を設定することで、ハードディスク１６２のボックス領域１７０２内の領域が指定され、ステップＳ１８０３に進む。例えば、ボックス番号が１と指定されると、ボックス領域１７０２内のパーソナルボックス領域（ボックス）１７０３が指定されることなる。
【０１５２】
次に、ステップＳ１８０３では、ＰＣ４０１，４０２上で印刷指示を与え、それと共にＰＣ４０１，４０２上にインストールされているドライバソフトウェアが印刷対象となるコードデータをいわゆるＰＤＬデータに変換して、ステップＳ１８０１で設定したプリント設定パラメータとともに、本画像入出力装置の制御装置１１０にＰＤＬデータを転送し、ステップＳ１８０４に進む。
【０１５３】
ステップＳ１８０４では、転送されたＰＤＬデータを画像データに展開（ラスタライズ）する。画像データの展開が完了すると、ステップＳ１８０５に進む。
【０１５４】
そして、ステップＳ１８０５では、展開された画像データがハードディスク１６２のボックス１７０２に順次記録され、例えばステップＳ１８０２で指定されたボックス番号が「１」のときは、ボックス１７０３内に記憶される。このとき、ステップＳ１８０１で設定したプリント設定パラメータもボックス１７０３に記録される。なお、ステップＳ１８０２で指定されたボックス番号が「２」、「３」のときは、それぞれボックス１７０４、ボックス１７０５に記憶されるものとする。
【０１５５】
次に、図１６（ｂ）を参照して図１に示したリーダ部２００からのスキャン画像をボックス登録する場合について説明する。
【０１５６】
まず、ステップＳ１８０６において、操作部１５０により画像を入力するボックス番号を指定し、ステップＳ１８０７に進む。
【０１５７】
ステップＳ１８０７では、画像処理等のスキャン設定を操作部１５０により指定し、ステップＳ１８０８に進む。
【０１５８】
ステップＳ１８０８では、スキャンスタートの指示を出す（図１３に示したコピースタートキー１５０７を押下する）ことで、リーダ部２００で原稿を読み取り、ステップＳ１８０９に進む。
【０１５９】
ステップＳ１８０９では、ステップＳ１８０８で読み取った画像をステップＳ１８０６で指定したボックスに格納する。
【０１６０】
図１７は、図１３に示した操作部１５０のボックスキー１５０５を押下した場合のＬＣＤタッチパネル１５１６の表示の一例を示す模式図であり、ボックス選択画面に対応する。
【０１６１】
図において、９００はボックスを選択する画面（ボックス選択画面）である。ボックス選択画面９００において、９０１は各ボックスの情報を示しており、そのボックス番号９０１ａ、ボックス名９０１ｂ、ハードディスク１６２のボックス領域１７０２に対してそのボックスがどれだけ容量をとっているかの情報９０１ｃを表示する。ボックス番号９０１ａを押下すると、図１８に示すパスワード入力画面に遷移する。
【０１６２】
９０２，９０３はそれぞれ上下スクロールキーであり、９０１の表示を越える数のボックスが登録されているときに、画面をスクロールする場合に使用する。
【０１６３】
図１８は、図１７に示したボックス選択画面９００のボックス番号９０１ａを押圧した場合のＬＣＤタッチパネル１５１６の表示の一例を示す模式図であり、パスワード入力画面に対応する。
【０１６４】
図において、１０００はパスワード入力画面であり、この画面から各ボックスに設定されているパスワードを入力することで図１９に示すボックス内画面に遷移し、各ボックスにアクセスできるようになる。なお、パスワードが違う場合には、図示していない警告画面に遷移し、ボックスにはアクセスできない。
【０１６５】
パスワード入力画面１０００において、１００３はパスワード表示欄で、操作部１５０のテンキー１５１３やＬＣＤタッチパネル１５１６から入力されたパスワードを伏せ文字で表示する。
【０１６６】
１００１は取消キーで、キーを押下することで図１７に示したボックス選択画面９００に戻る。１００２はＯＫキーで、このキーを押下することで入力したパスワードの確定となり、パスワードの検証が行われる。
【０１６７】
図１９は、図１８に示したパスワード入力画面１０００のＯＫキー１００２を押下しパスワードが正しいと判断された場合のＬＣＤタッチパネル１５１６の表示の一例を示す模式図であり、ボックス内ファイル表示画面に対応する。
【０１６８】
図において、１１００はボックス内ファイル表示画面である。ボックス内ファイル表示画面１１００において、１１０１はボックス内のファイルリストで、各ファイルの登録日時１１０ａ、ファイル名１１０１ｂがリスト表示される。ファイルを選択するにはファイル名１１０１ｂを押下し、現在選択されているファイルは反転表示される。
【０１６９】
１１０２はスキャンキーで、現在開いているボックスにスキャナから画像を入力する場合に使用し、図示していないスキャンの設定画面に遷移する。１１０３はプリントキーで、ファイルリスト１１０１で選択しているファイルをプリントする場合に使用する。
【０１７０】
１１０４は色変換キーで、ファイルリスト１１０１で選択しているファイルの色変換を行う場合に使用し、図示していない色変換画面に遷移する。１１０５は消去キーで、ファイルリスト１１０１で選択しているファイルを消去する場合に使用する。
【０１７１】
１１０９はスキャンＢＯＸ混在プリントキーで、スキャナから入力する画像とファイルリスト１１０１で選択しているファイルとを混在させてプリントするスキャンＢＯＸ混在プリントを行う場合に使用する。このスキャンＢＯＸ混在プリントキー１１０９に触れることにより、図示しないスキャンＢＯＸ混在プリント設定画面が表示される。このスキャンＢＯＸ混在プリント設定画面において、スキャン画像の挿入設定（ＢＯＸプリントの何ページ目と何ページ目の間，表紙，裏表紙等に何枚のスキャン画像のプリントを挿入するかの設定）や、縮小レイアウト設定や、ソータ設定等の設定（スキャンプリントとＢＯＸプリントとのジョブ混在設定）と、プリント開始を指示することができる。
【０１７２】
１１０６，１１０７はそれぞれ上下スクロールキーであり、ファイルリスト１１０１の表示を超える数のファイルが登録されているときに、画面をスクロールする場合に使用する。１１０７は閉じるキーで、図１７に示したボックス選択画面９００に戻るときに使用する。
【０１７３】
＜スキャンプリントとＢＯＸプリントとのジョブ混在における縮小レイアウト処理の説明＞
以下、図２０のフローチャートを参照して、縮小レイアウト処理対象となる編集原稿にスキャナから読み取った画像とパーソナルボックスに格納されている文書とが混在している場合における処理手順について説明する。
【０１７４】
図２０は、本発明の画像形成装置の第４の制御処理手順の一例を示すフローチャートであり、スキャナ（リーダ部２００）から読み取った画像とパーソナルボックスに格納されている文書とが混在している場合の処理手順に対応する。なお、図中のＳ２００１〜Ｓ２００７は各ステップを示す。また、このフローチャートは、図４に示したＣＰＵ１１２により記憶媒体に格納されたプログラムに基づいて実行されるものとする。
【０１７５】
なお、このフローチャートの開始前に、ユーザは、上述したボックス番号，ボックス文書名、パスワード等を含むボックス文書特定情報をあらかじめ操作部１５００から入力し、その入力したボックス文書特定情報に基づき所望のボックス文書を取得し、さらにスキャナＢＯＸ混在プリントの設定（ここでは縮小レイアウト）を行い、処理の開始が指示されているものとする。
【０１７６】
ステップＳ２００１において、出力対象原稿がスキャナ（リーダ部２００）で読み取った紙原稿であるかボックス文書の所定ページであるかを識別し、出力対象原稿がスキャナで読み取る紙原稿であると判断された場合には、ステップＳ２００２において、スキャナから紙原稿を読み込み、ステップＳ２００３において、紙原稿を読み取る毎にその原稿画像メモリ（ＤＲＡＭ１１６）上に記憶し、ステップＳ２００６に進む。
【０１７７】
一方、ステップＳ２００１で、出力対象原稿がボックス文書であると判断された場合には、ステップＳ２００４において、取得したボックス文書の所望の特定ページを操作部から入力し、ステップＳ２００５において、その特定ページをメモリ（ＤＲＡＭ１１６）上に展開し、ステップＳ２００６に進む。
【０１７８】
このように、原稿がスキャナから読み取った画像とボックス文書とに混在していたとしても、１ジョブとして処理をしていく。
【０１７９】
その後、ステップＳ２００６において、対象ページが最終ページであるか否かを判定し、対象ページが最終ページでないと判断された場合には、ステップＳ２００１に戻り、一方、最終ページであると判断された場合には、ステップＳ２００７において、縮小レイアウト処理を施しプリントアウトし、処理を終了する。
【０１８０】
なお、リーダ部２００により紙原稿から読み取られＤＲＡＭ１１６上に展開された複数の画像データとパーソナルＢＯＸ（ＨＤ１６２）に格納されている複数のドキュメントデータに基づいてＤＲＡＭ１１６上に展開された複数の画像データのレイアウトをＬＣＤタッチパネル１５１６上に表示される図示しないレイアウト決定画面によりユーザに決定させておき、図２０のステップＳ２００７の縮小レイアウト印刷処理時等に、上記レイアウト決定画面上で決定されたレイアウトに従い、適切な印刷倍率を決定し、さらに、該決定された印刷倍率で変倍を行い、上記決定されたレイアウトで記録媒体に縮小レイアウト印刷するように構成してもよい。
【０１８１】
以上説明したように、紙原稿から読み取られた複数の画像データをメモリ上に展開し、さらにパーソナルＢＯＸに格納されている複数のドキュメントデータに基づく画像データをメモリ上に展開し、前記紙原稿から読み取られメモリ展開された複数の画像データに基づいて記録媒体上に画像出力するスキャンプリントジョブと、パーソナルＢＯＸから記憶領域に展開された複数の画像データに基づいて記録媒体上に画像出力するＢＯＸプリントジョブとを混在させて記録媒体に縮小レイアウト印刷処理することにより、従来においてはスキャンプリントとＢＯＸプリントが混在する場合においては縮小レイアウト印刷が設定できなかったが、スキャンプリントとＢＯＸプリントが混在する場合においても縮小レイアウト印刷ができ、ユーザの所望する出力を可能とする。
【０１８２】
なお、上述した縮小レイアウト処理対象となる編集原稿にスキャナから読み取った画像データとパーソナルボックスに格納されている文書とが混在している場合において、スキャナ画像から読み取った画像データとパーソナルボックスに格納されている文書（画像）のカラーモード（白黒／カラー）が異なる場合、いずれかのモードで出力するように構成してもよい。この場合、出力するモードを白黒固定としてもよいし、カラー固定としてもよいし、スキャナ画像のカラーモードに合わせもよいし、ボックス文書のカラーモードに合わせてもよいし、操作部１５０（例えば、ＬＣＤタッチパネル１５１６上の図示しないキー）で選択可能に構成してもよい。
【０１８３】
また、スキャナ画像から読み取った画像データとパーソナルボックスに格納されている文書のカラーモード（白黒／カラー）が等しい場合、そのカラーモードで出力してもよいし、いずれかのモードで出力するように構成してもよい。いずれかのモードで出力する場合、出力するモードを白黒固定としてもよいし、カラー固定としてもよいし、操作部１５０（例えば、ＬＣＤタッチパネル１５１６上の図示しないキー）で選択可能に構成してもよい。
【０１８４】
なお、上記各実施形態では、プリンタ部（プリンタエンジン）がレーザビーム方式である場合を例にして説明したが、レーザビーム方式以外の電子写真方式（例えばＬＥＤ方式）でも、液晶シャッタ方式、インクジェット方式、熱転写方式、昇華方式でもその他のプリント方式であっても本発明は適用可能である。
【０１８５】
また、上記実施形態では、操作部１５０からの操作により、画像入出力システム１００のＨＤ１６２（ボックス）から読み出してＤＲＡＭ１１６に展開された複数の画像データに基づいて記録媒体上に画像出力するジョブとリーダ部２００で読み取ってＤＲＡＭ１１６に展開された複数の画像データに基づいて記録媒体上に画像出力するジョブとを混在させて記録媒体に縮小レイアウト印刷処理する場合について説明したが、ＰＣ４０１，４０２からの操作により（図１７〜図１９に示した画面をＰＣ４０１，４０２のモニタ上に表示し、該画面から上記縮小レイアウト処理を指示することにより）、上記画像入出力システム１００上で縮小レイアウト処理を実行させるように構成してもよい。
【０１８６】
さらに、上記実施形態では、画像入出力システム１００のＨＤ１６２（ボックス）から読み出してＤＲＡＭ１１６に展開された複数の画像データに基づいて記録媒体上に画像出力するジョブとリーダ部２００で読み取ってＤＲＡＭ１１６に展開された複数の画像データに基づいて記録媒体上に画像出力するジョブとを混在させて記録媒体に縮小レイアウト印刷処理する場合について説明したが、ＰＣ４０１，４０２（ファイルサーバ等でもよい）から転送されＤＲＡＭ１１６に展開される複数の画像データに基づいて記録媒体上に画像出力するジョブとリーダ部２００で読み取ってＤＲＡＭ１１６に展開された複数の画像データに基づいて記録媒体上に画像出力するジョブとを混在させて記録媒体に縮小レイアウト印刷処理するように構成してもよい。なお、ＰＣ４０１，４０２（ファイルサーバ等でもよい）から画像入出力システム１００に転送される画像データは、外部機器（デジタルカメラ，スキャナ，ファイルサーバ，他のＰＣ／ＷＳ等）から入力されてＰＣ４０１，４０２内の図示しないメモリ等に保持した画像データであっても、ＰＣ４０１，４０２上のアプリケーションで作成された画像データであってもよい。
【０１８７】
また、ＰＣ４０１，４０２（ファイルサーバ等でもよい）から転送されＤＲＡＭ１１６に展開される複数の画像データに基づいて記録媒体上に画像出力するジョブと画像入出力システム１００のＨＤ１６２（ボックス）から読み出してＤＲＡＭ１１６に展開された複数の画像データに基づいて記録媒体上に画像出力するジョブとリーダ部２００で読み取ってＤＲＡＭ１１６に展開された複数の画像データに基づいて記録媒体上に画像出力するジョブとを混在させて記録媒体に縮小レイアウト印刷処理するように構成してもよい。
【０１８８】
さらに、ＰＣ４０１，４０２（ファイルサーバ等でもよい）から転送されＤＲＡＭ１１６に展開される複数の画像データに基づいて記録媒体上に画像出力するジョブと画像入出力システム１００のＨＤ１６２（ボックス）から読み出してＤＲＡＭ１１６に展開された複数の画像データに基づいて記録媒体上に画像出力するジョブとリーダ部２００で読み取ってＤＲＡＭ１１６に展開された複数の画像データに基づいて記録媒体上に画像出力するジョブとリーダ部２００で読み取ってＤＲＡＭ１１６に展開された複数の画像データに基づいて記録媒体上に画像出力するジョブとを混在させて、即ち上記３種類のジョブを混在させて記録媒体に縮小レイアウト印刷処理するように構成してもよい。なお、ＰＣ４０１，４０２（ファイルサーバ等でもよい）から画像入出力システム１００に転送される画像データは、外部機器（デジタルカメラ，スキャナ，ファイルサーバ，他のＰＣ／ＷＳ等）から入力されてＰＣ４０１，４０２内の図示しないメモリ等に保持した画像データであっても、ＰＣ４０１，４０２上のアプリケーションで作成された画像データであってもよい。
【０１８９】
また、上記各実施形態を合わせた構成も本発明に含まれることはいうまでもない。
【０１９０】
以上説明したように、紙原稿から読み取られた複数の画像データを記憶領域上に展開し、さらに記憶媒体に格納されている複数のドキュメントデータに基づいて画像データを記憶領域に展開し、前記紙原稿から読み取られ展開された複数の画像データに基づいて記録媒体上に画像出力するジョブと、パーソナルボックスから記憶領域に展開された複数の画像データに基づいて記録媒体上に画像出力するジョブとを混在させて記録媒体に縮小レイアウト印刷処理するので、原稿から読み取られた画像を記録媒体上に出力するジョブと記憶媒体に格納される画像を記録媒体上に出力するジョブとが混在する場合においても縮小レイアウト印刷を行うことができる。
【０１９１】
従って、従来においてはスキャンプリントとＢＯＸプリントが混在する場合においては縮小レイアウト印刷が設定できなかったが、本発明によれば、スキャンプリントとＢＯＸプリントが混在する場合においても縮小レイアウト印刷ができ、ユーザの所望する出力を可能とする等の効果を奏する。
【０１９２】
以下、図２１に示すメモリマップを参照して本発明に係る画像処理装置で読み出し可能なデータ処理プログラムの構成について説明する。
【０１９３】
図２１は、本発明に係る画像処理装置で読み出し可能な各種データ処理プログラムを格納する記憶媒体のメモリマップを説明する図である。
【０１９４】
なお、特に図示しないが、記憶媒体に記憶されるプログラム群を管理する情報、例えばバージョン情報，作成者等も記憶され、かつ、プログラム読み出し側のＯＳ等に依存する情報、例えばプログラムを識別表示するアイコン等も記憶される場合もある。
【０１９５】
さらに、各種プログラムに従属するデータも上記ディレクトリに管理されている。また、インストールするプログラムやデータが圧縮されている場合に、解凍するプログラム等も記憶される場合もある。
【０１９６】
本実施形態における図１１，図１２，図１６，図２０に示す機能が外部からインストールされるプログラムによって、ホストコンピュータにより遂行されていてもよい。そして、その場合、ＣＤ−ＲＯＭやフラッシュメモリやＦＤ等の記憶媒体により、あるいはネットワークを介して外部の記憶媒体から、プログラムを含む情報群を出力装置に供給される場合でも本発明は適用されるものである。
【０１９７】
以上のように、前述した実施形態の機能を実現するソフトウエアのプログラムコードを記録した記憶媒体を、システムあるいは装置に供給し、そのシステムあるいは装置のコンピュータ（またはＣＰＵやＭＰＵ）が記憶媒体に格納されたプログラムコードを読出し実行することによっても、本発明の目的が達成されることは言うまでもない。
【０１９８】
この場合、記憶媒体から読み出されたプログラムコード自体が本発明の新規な機能を実現することになり、そのプログラムコードを記憶した記憶媒体は本発明を構成することになる。
【０１９９】
プログラムコードを供給するための記憶媒体としては、例えば、フロッピー（登録商標）ディスク，ハードディスク，光ディスク，光磁気ディスク，ＣＤ−ＲＯＭ，ＣＤ−Ｒ，ＤＶＤ−ＲＯＭ，磁気テープ，不揮発性のメモリカード，ＲＯＭ，ＥＥＰＲＯＭ，シリコンディスク等を用いることができる。
【０２００】
また、コンピュータが読み出したプログラムコードを実行することにより、前述した実施形態の機能が実現されるだけでなく、そのプログラムコードの指示に基づき、コンピュータ上で稼働しているＯＳ（オペレーティングシステム）等が実際の処理の一部または全部を行い、その処理によって前述した実施形態の機能が実現される場合も含まれることは言うまでもない。
【０２０１】
さらに、記憶媒体から読み出されたプログラムコードが、コンピュータに挿入された機能拡張ボードやコンピュータに接続された機能拡張ユニットに備わるメモリに書き込まれた後、そのプログラムコードの指示に基づき、その機能拡張ボードや機能拡張ユニットに備わるＣＰＵ等が実際の処理の一部または全部を行い、その処理によって前述した実施形態の機能が実現される場合も含まれることは言うまでもない。
【０２０２】
また、本発明は、複数の機器から構成されるシステムに適用しても、１つの機器からなる装置に適用してもよい。また、本発明は、システムあるいは装置にプログラムを供給することによって達成される場合にも適応できることは言うまでもない。この場合、本発明を達成するためのソフトウエアによって表されるプログラムを格納した記憶媒体を該システムあるいは装置に読み出すことによって、そのシステムあるいは装置が、本発明の効果を享受することが可能となる。
【０２０３】
さらに、本発明を達成するためのソフトウエアによって表されるプログラムをネットワーク上のデータベースから通信プログラムによリーダウンロードして読み出すことによって、そのシステムあるいは装置が、本発明の効果を享受することが可能となる。
【０２０４】
【発明の効果】
以上説明したように、本発明に係る第１〜１１の発明によれば、紙原稿から読み取られた複数の画像データを記憶領域上に展開し、さらに記憶媒体に格納されている複数のドキュメントデータに基づいて画像データを記憶領域に展開し、前記紙原稿から読み取られ展開された複数の画像データに基づいて記録媒体上に画像出力するジョブと、パーソナルボックスから記憶領域に展開された複数の画像データに基づいて記録媒体上に画像出力するジョブとを混在させて記録媒体に縮小レイアウト印刷処理するので、原稿から読み取られた画像を記録媒体上に出力するジョブと記憶媒体に格納される画像を記録媒体上に出力するジョブとが混在する場合においても縮小レイアウト印刷を行うことができる。
【０２０５】
従って、従来においてはスキャンプリントとＢＯＸプリントが混在する場合においては縮小レイアウト印刷が設定できなかったが、本発明によれば、スキャンプリントとＢＯＸプリントが混在する場合においても縮小レイアウト印刷ができ、ユーザの所望する縮小レイアウト出力を可能とする等の効果を奏する。
【図面の簡単な説明】
【図１】本発明の一実施形態に係る画像処理装置の構成を示すブロック図である。
【図２】図１に示したリーダ部及びプリンタ部の構成を示す断面図である。
【図３】図２に示したリーダ画像処理部の詳細な構成を示すブロック図である。
【図４】図１に示した制御装置の構成を示すブロック図である。
【図５】図４に示したスキャナＩ／Ｆの画像処理を担う部分の詳細な構成を示すブロック図である。
【図６】図４に示したＡＣＳカウント部の構成を示すブロック図である。
【図７】図４に示したプリンタＩ／Ｆの画像処理を担う部分の詳細な構成を示すブロック図である。
【図８】図４に示したＧｒａｐｈｉｃ　Ｐｒｏｃｅｓｓｏｒの詳細な構成を示すブロック図である。
【図９】画像回転部の動作を説明する図である。
【図１０】画像回転部の動作を説明する図である。
【図１１】本発明の画像形成装置の第１の制御処理手順の一例を示すフローチャートである。
【図１２】本発明の画像形成装置の第２の制御処理手順の一例を示すフローチャートである。
【図１３】図１に示した操作部のキー配列を示す平面図である。
【図１４】図１３に示した操作パネルのコピー標準画面の一例を示す模式図である。
【図１５】図４に示したハードディスクの論理的な使用方法を示す図である。
【図１６】本発明の画像形成装置の第３の制御処理手順の一例を示すフローチャートである。
【図１７】図１３に示した操作部のボックスキーを押下した場合のＬＣＤタッチパネルの表示を示す模式図である。
【図１８】図１７に示したボックス選択画面のボックス番号を押圧した場合のＬＣＤタッチパネルの表示を示す模式図である。
【図１９】図１８に示したパスワード入力画面のＯＫキーを押下しパスワードが正しいと判断された場合のＬＣＤタッチパネルの表示を示す模式図である。
【図２０】本発明の画像形成装置の第４の制御処理手順の一例を示すフローチャートである。
【図２１】本発明に係る画像処理装置で読み出し可能な各種データ処理プログラムを格納する記憶媒体のメモリマップを説明する図である。
【符号の説明】
１００　画像入出力システム
１１０　制御装置
２００　リーダ部
３００　プリンタ部
１１１　メインコントローラ
１１６　ＤＲＡＭ
１６２　ハードディスク（ＨＤ）[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus that prints out a stored image, a control method for the image processing apparatus, a program, and a storage medium in a color digital copying machine or the like that can store an image.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Conventionally, image data read from a scanner or image data obtained by expanding PDL data sent from a host computer via a network into a bit map is temporarily stored in a memory such as a hard disk, and image data of an arbitrary document is stored in the memory. 2. Description of the Related Art An image processing apparatus such as a digital copying machine having a function of repeatedly reading and printing out is known.
[0003]
In addition to using the memory such as a hard disk as a temporary image memory for print output, logically partitioning each user, department, etc., to store confidential documents and frequently used documents A personal box function is provided, which enables a user to input and output a user password from the operation panel of the copier when necessary, or transfer a document in the box to another copier connected to the network. ing.
[0004]
Further, with the price reduction and the increase in capacity of the hard disk, the same function can be realized even in a color multifunction peripheral having a large amount of image data.
[0005]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, in the print processing in the conventional image processing apparatus as described above, a job for outputting an image read from a scanner on a sheet and a job for outputting an image in a personal box area assigned to each individual on a sheet are included. There is a problem in that mixed reduced layout print processing cannot be performed, and a reduced layout output desired by the user cannot be obtained.
[0006]
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to develop a plurality of image data read from a paper document on a memory and further store a plurality of image data stored in a personal box. A job for developing image data based on the document data on a memory, outputting an image on a recording medium based on a plurality of image data read from the paper original and developed on the memory, and developed from a personal box to a storage area. By performing a reduced layout print process on a recording medium by mixing a job for outputting an image on a recording medium based on a plurality of image data, a job for outputting an image read from a scanner on a sheet and a job assigned to each individual are output. Reduced layout printing by mixing the job of outputting the image of the personal box area on the sheet It is to provide a control method and a program, and storage medium of the image processing apparatus and an image processing apparatus having excellent usability that can.
[0007]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a reading unit (reader unit 200 shown in FIG. 1) for reading image data from a paper document, and a plurality of image data read by the reading unit in a storage area (DRAM 116 shown in FIG. 4). ), A storage means (HD162 shown in FIG. 4) for storing a plurality of document data in a storage medium, and a storage means for storing a plurality of document data in a storage medium. Second developing means (main controller 111 shown in FIG. 4) for developing image data in a storage area (DRAM 116 shown in FIG. 4) based on the plurality of document data, and developing the image data in the storage area by the first developing means. A job for outputting an image on a recording medium based on the plurality of pieces of image data, and a job developed in a storage area by the second developing unit. And a control unit (main controller 111 shown in FIG. 4) for controlling so that a job for outputting an image on a recording medium based on the number of image data is mixed and a reduced layout printing process is performed on the recording medium. I do.
[0008]
A second invention according to the present invention is characterized in that the control means (the main controller 111 shown in FIG. 4) sets the color mode of the reduced layout printing process to one of a monochrome mode and a color mode.
[0009]
A third invention according to the present invention is characterized in that the control means (the main controller 111 shown in FIG. 4) sets the color mode of the reduced layout printing process to color.
[0010]
A fourth invention according to the present invention is characterized in that the control means (the main controller 111 shown in FIG. 4) sets the color mode of the reduced layout printing process to black and white.
[0011]
According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a selecting means (an operation unit 150 shown in FIG. 1 (a key (not shown) on the LCD 1516 shown in FIG. 13)) for selecting black and white or color as the color mode of the reduced layout printing process. And
The control means (the main controller 111 shown in FIG. 4) sets the color mode of the reduced layout printing process to the color mode selected by the selection means.
[0012]
In a sixth aspect according to the present invention, the control means (the main controller 111 shown in FIG. 4) is arranged so that the image data read by the reading means and the color data of the document data stored in the storage medium by the storage means. When the modes are different, the color mode of the reduced layout printing process is one of a black and white mode and a color mode.
[0013]
According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the control means (the main controller 111 shown in FIG. 4) controls the color of the image data read by the reading means and the color of the document data stored in the storage medium by the storage means. When the modes are different, the color mode of the reduced layout print processing is set to the color mode of the image data read by the reading unit.
[0014]
In an eighth aspect according to the present invention, the control means (the main controller 111 shown in FIG. 4) is configured to control the color of the image data read by the reading means and the color of the document data stored in the storage medium by the storage means. When the modes are different, the color mode of the reduced layout printing process is set to the color mode of the document data stored in the storage medium by the storage unit.
[0015]
According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a reading step of reading image data from a paper document (step S2002 in FIG. 20) and a first developing step of developing the plurality of read image data in a storage area (FIG. 20). Step S2003), a storage step of storing a plurality of document data in a storage medium (steps S1801 to S1805 in FIG. 16A) and S1806 to S1809 in FIG. 16B, and a plurality of document data stored in the storage medium. A second expansion step (Steps S2004 and S2005 in FIG. 20) for expanding the image data in the storage area based on the plurality of document data, and a plurality of image data expanded in the storage area by the first expansion step. Based on a job for outputting an image on a recording medium and a plurality of image data expanded in a storage area by the second expansion step. And having a reduced layout printing process of reduction layout printing on a recording medium by mixing a job to the image output onto a medium (step S2001~S2007 in Figure 20).
[0016]
According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in the image processing apparatus, a reading step of reading image data from a paper document (step S2002 in FIG. 20) and a first step of developing the read plurality of image data in a storage area An expansion step (step S2003 in FIG. 20), a storage step of storing a plurality of document data in a storage medium (steps S1801 to S1805 in FIG. 16A, S1806 to S1809 in FIG. 16B), and the storage medium A second development step (Steps S2004 and S2005 in FIG. 20) for developing image data in the storage area based on a plurality of document data stored in the storage area, and a plurality of image data developed in the storage area by the first development step. A job for outputting an image on a recording medium based on the image data, and a plurality of images developed in a storage area by the second development step. A reduced layout printing process (steps S2001 to S2007 in FIG. 20) for performing reduced layout printing on a recording medium by mixing a job for outputting an image on a recording medium based on data. And
[0017]
According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, in the image processing apparatus, a reading step of reading image data from a paper document (step S2002 in FIG. 20) and a first step of expanding the plurality of read image data in a storage area An expansion step (Step S2003 in FIG. 20), a storage step of storing a plurality of document data in a storage medium (Steps S1801 to S1805 in FIG. 16A, S1806 to S1809 in FIG. 16B), and the storage medium A second development step (Steps S2004 and S2005 in FIG. 20) for developing image data in the storage area based on a plurality of document data stored in the storage area, and a plurality of image data developed in the storage area by the first development step. A job for outputting an image on a recording medium based on the image data, and a plurality of images developed in a storage area by the second development step. A computer program for executing a reduced layout printing process (steps S2001 to S2007 in FIG. 20) for performing reduced layout printing on a recording medium by mixing a job for outputting an image on a recording medium based on data Are stored in a readable manner.
[0018]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
An overall configuration of an image input / output system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.
[0019]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0020]
In the figure, reference numeral 200 denotes a reader unit (reader device) as an image input device, which optically reads a document image and converts it into image data. The reader unit 200 includes a scanner unit 210 having a function of reading a document, and a document feeding unit 250 having a function of conveying document sheets.
[0021]
Reference numeral 300 denotes a printer unit (printer device) as an image output device, which conveys a recording sheet, prints image data thereon as a visible image, and discharges it outside the apparatus. The printer unit 300 includes a paper feeding unit 320 having a plurality of types of recording paper cassettes, a marking unit 310 having a function of transferring and fixing image data on recording paper, and a printing unit that sorts and staples printed recording paper and performs external printing. And a paper discharge unit 370 having a function of outputting to
[0022]
Reference numeral 110 denotes a control unit (controller unit) which is electrically connected to the reader unit 200 and the printer unit 300 and further communicates with host computers (PC) 401 and 402 via a network (LAN) 400 such as Ethernet (registered trademark). It is connected.
[0023]
The control device 110 controls the reader unit 200 to read the image data of the document, and controls the printer unit 300 to output the image data to recording paper to provide a copy function. Further, the control device 110 converts the image data read from the reader unit 200 into code data and transmits the code data to the host computer via the network 400, and converts the code data received from the host computer via the network 400 into image data. A printer function for converting the data into data and outputting the data to the printer unit 300 is provided.
[0024]
Further, the control device 110 can read data stored in the CD-ROM from the CD-ROM drive 163.
[0025]
An operation unit 150 is connected to the control device 110 and includes a liquid crystal touch panel, and provides a user I / F for operating the image input / output system.
[0026]
FIG. 2 is a sectional view showing the configuration of the reader unit 200 and the printer unit 300 shown in FIG.
[0027]
In the reader unit 200, a document feeding unit 250 feeds a document one by one on the platen glass 211 in the order of the head, and discharges the document on the platen glass 211 after the reading operation of the document is completed. When the document is conveyed onto the platen glass 211, the lamp 212 is turned on, the movement of the optical unit 213 is started, and the document is exposed and scanned. The light reflected from the original at this time is guided to a CCD image sensor (hereinafter, referred to as a CCD) 218 by mirrors 214, 215, 216 and a lens 217. Thus, the scanned image of the document is read by the CCD 218.
[0028]
Reference numeral 222 denotes a reader image processing circuit which performs predetermined processing on image data output from the CCD 218 and outputs the processed image data to the control device 110 via a scanner I / F 140 shown in FIG. A printer image processing circuit 352 outputs an image signal sent from the control device 110 to a laser driver via a printer I / F 145 shown in FIG.
[0029]
In the printer unit 300, a laser driver 317 drives the laser light emitting units 313, 314, 315, and 316, and outputs laser light corresponding to the image data output from the printer image processing unit 352 to the laser light emitting units 313 and 313. 314, 315 and 316 emit light. This laser beam is irradiated on the photosensitive drums 325, 326, 327, 328 by mirrors 340 → 341 → 342, 343 → 344 → 345, 346 → 347 → 348, 349 → 350 → 351. At 328, a latent image corresponding to the laser beam is formed.
[0030]
Reference numerals 321, 322, 323, and 324 denote developing units for developing latent images using black (Bk), yellow (Y), cyan (C), and magenta (M) toners, respectively. The toner is transferred to a sheet to make a full-color printout.
[0031]
Paper fed from any of the paper cassettes 360 and 361 and the manual feed tray 362 at a timing synchronized with the start of laser beam irradiation is adsorbed onto the transfer belt 334 via the registration rollers 333 and is conveyed. Then, the developer attached to the photosensitive drums 325, 326, 327, and 328 is transferred to recording paper.
[0032]
The recording paper on which the developer is loaded is conveyed to the fixing unit 335, and the developer is fixed on the recording paper by the heat and pressure of the fixing unit 335. The recording paper that has passed through the fixing unit 335 is discharged by a discharge roller 336, and a discharge unit 370 bundles the discharged recording papers to sort the recording papers, staples the sorted recording papers, and discharges them. The sheet is discharged to the paper tray 371 or the like.
[0033]
When double-sided printing is set, the recording paper is conveyed to the discharge roller 336, the rotation direction of the discharge roller 336 is reversed, and the recording paper is guided to the re-feed conveyance path 338 by the flapper 337. The recording sheet guided to the re-feeding conveyance path 338 is fed to the transfer belt 334 at the timing described above.
[0034]
<Description of reader image processing unit>
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a detailed configuration of the reader image processing unit 222 shown in FIG.
[0035]
As shown in FIG. 2, the original on the platen glass 211 is read by the CCD 218 and converted into an electric signal. In the case of a color sensor, the CCD 218 may be a three-line CCD including a red (R) filter, a green (G) filter, and a blue ( B) The filters may be arranged for each CCD, or the filters may be on-chip or the filters may be configured differently from the CCDs.
[0036]
The electric signal (analog image signal) output from the CCD 218 is input to the reader image processing unit 222.
[0037]
In the reader image processing unit 222, reference numeral 401 denotes a clamp & Amp. In the & S / H & A / D section, the input analog signal is sampled and held (S / H), the dark level of the analog image signal is clamped to the reference potential, and amplified to a predetermined amount. A / D conversion is performed, for example, to convert the signal into a digital signal of 8 bits for each of RGB.
[0038]
Reference numeral 402 denotes a shading portion, which includes a clamp & Amp. The shading correction and the black correction are performed on the RGB signals output from the & S / H & A / D unit 401 and output to the control device 110.
[0039]
<Description of control device>
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a configuration of control device 110 shown in FIG.
[0040]
In the figure, reference numeral 111 denotes a main controller, which mainly comprises a CPU 112, a bus controller 113, various I / F controller circuits, and the like.
[0041]
The CPU 112 and the bus controller 113 control the operation of the entire control device 110. The CPU 112 operates based on a program read from the ROM 114 via the ROM I / F 115.
[0042]
The operation of the CPU 112 interpreting the PDL (page description language) code data received from the host computer and developing it into raster image data is also described in this program and processed by software. The bus controller 113 controls data transfer input / output from each I / F, and performs arbitration at the time of bus contention and controls DMA data transfer.
[0043]
A DRAM 116 is connected to the main controller 111 by a DRAM I / F 117, and is used as a work area for the operation of the CPU 112 and an area for storing image data.
[0044]
A codec 118 compresses raster image data stored in the DRAM 116 by a method such as MH / MR / MMR / JBIG / JPEG, and conversely expands compressed and stored code data into raster image data. An SRAM 119 is used as a temporary work area of the Codec 118. The Codec 118 is connected to the main controller 111 via the I / F 120, and data transfer to and from the DRAM 116 is controlled by the bus controller 113 and DMA-transferred.
[0045]
Reference numeral 135 denotes a graphic processor for performing image rotation, image scaling, color space conversion, and binarization processing on raster image data stored in the DRAM 116. An SRAM 136 is used as a temporary work area of the Graphic Processor 135. The Graphic Processor 135 is connected to the main controller 111 via the I / F 137, and data transfer to and from the DRAM 116 is controlled by the bus controller 113 and DMA-transferred.
[0046]
Reference numeral 121 denotes a network controller (Network Controller), which is connected to the main controller 111 by an I / F 123 and connected to an external network by a connector 122. As a network, Ethernet (registered trademark) is generally used.
[0047]
Reference numeral 125 denotes a general-purpose high-speed bus to which an extension connector 124 for connecting an extension board and an I / O control unit 126 are connected. A general-purpose high-speed bus generally includes a PCI bus.
[0048]
Reference numeral 126 denotes an I / O control unit, which is provided with two channels of an asynchronous serial communication controller 127 for transmitting and receiving control commands to and from each of the CPUs of the reader unit 200 and the printer unit 300. It is connected to the F circuit 140 and the printer I / F circuit 145.
[0049]
Reference numeral 132 denotes a panel I / F which is connected to the LCD controller 131 and which is used for displaying on the liquid crystal screen on the operation unit 150 shown in FIG. 1 and keys for inputting hard keys and touch panel keys. And an input I / F 130. The operation unit 150 has a liquid crystal display unit, a touch panel input device attached on the liquid crystal display unit, and a plurality of hard keys. A signal input from the touch panel or the hard keys is transmitted to the CPU 112 via the above-described panel I / F 132, and the liquid crystal display unit displays the image data sent from the panel I / F 132. The liquid crystal display unit displays a function display, image data, and the like in the operation of the image forming apparatus.
[0050]
A real-time clock module 133 updates and saves the date and time managed in the device, and is backed up by a backup battery 134.
[0051]
Reference numeral 161 denotes an E-IDE interface (connector) for connecting an external storage device. In the present embodiment, a hard disk drive (HD drive) 160 is connected via this I / F, and an operation of storing image data in the hard disk (HD) 162 and reading image data from the hard disk 162 is performed.
[0052]
Reference numerals 142 and 147 denote connectors, which are connected to the reader unit 200 and the printer unit 300, respectively, and include synchronous serial I / Fs 143 and 148 and video I / Fs 144 and 149.
[0053]
Reference numeral 140 denotes a scanner I / F, which is connected to the reader unit 200 via the connector 142 and connected to the main controller 111 via the scanner bus 141, and performs predetermined processing on an image received from the reader unit 200. It also has a function of outputting a control signal generated based on the video control signal sent from the reader unit 200 to the scanner bus 141. Data transfer from the scanner bus 141 to the DRAM 116 is controlled by the bus controller 113.
[0054]
Reference numeral 145 denotes a printer I / F, which is connected to the printer unit 300 via a connector 147 and connected to the main controller 111 via a printer bus 146, and performs predetermined processing on image data output from the main controller 111. In addition, it has a function of outputting the control signal generated based on the video control signal sent from the printer unit 300 to the printer bus 146. The transfer of the raster image data developed on the DRAM 116 to the printer unit is controlled by the bus controller 113, and is DMA-transferred to the printer unit 300 via the printer bus 146 and the video I / F 149.
[0055]
<Description of Image Processing Unit of Scanner I / F>
FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a detailed configuration of a portion that performs image processing of the scanner I / F 140 shown in FIG. 4, and the same components as those in FIG. 4 are denoted by the same reference numerals.
[0056]
As shown in the figure, an image signal input from the reader unit 200 is input to the scanner I / F 140 via the connector 142.
[0057]
In the scanner I / F 140, reference numeral 601 denotes a connection & MTF correction unit. When the CCD 218 is a three-line CCD for an image signal sent via the connector 142, the connection processing differs in the reading position between the lines, so that the reading speed is reduced. The delay amount for each line is adjusted accordingly, the signal timing is corrected so that the reading positions of the three lines are the same, and the MTF correction corrects the change because the reading MTF changes depending on the reading speed.
[0058]
Reference numeral 602 denotes an input masking unit that corrects the spectral characteristics of the CCD 218 and the spectral characteristics of the lamp 212 and the mirrors 214, 215, and 216 with respect to the input digital signal whose read position timing is corrected by the connection & MTF correction unit 601. The output of the input masking unit 602 is sent to an ACS counting unit (auto color select counting unit) 603 (details are shown in FIG. 6) and the main controller 111.
[0059]
<Description of ACS counting section>
Hereinafter, the configuration of the ACS counting unit 603 shown in FIG. 5 will be described in detail with reference to FIG.
[0060]
FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a configuration of ACS counting section 603 shown in FIG.
[0061]
Auto color select (hereinafter referred to as ACS) is to determine whether a document is color or black and white. That is, color saturation is determined based on how many pixels above a certain threshold exist for calculating the saturation of each pixel. Is to do.
[0062]
However, even for a black-and-white document, there are many color pixels around the edge when viewed microscopically due to the influence of MTF and the like, and it is difficult to simply perform the ACS determination in pixel units. Therefore, although various methods are conventionally provided as the ACS method, the present embodiment is not limited to a specific ACS method and will be described using a very general method.
[0063]
As described above, even in a black-and-white image, when viewed microscopically, there are a large number of color pixels. Therefore, whether or not the pixel is really a color pixel is determined based on information on color pixels around the target pixel. There is a need. Hereinafter, the configuration and operation of ACS counting section 603 will be described.
[0064]
In the figure, reference numeral 501 denotes a filter which receives a pixel signal (R, G, B) and a control signal 512 and has a FIFO structure so as to refer to a peripheral pixel with respect to a target pixel.
[0065]
Reference numeral 502 denotes an area detection circuit which generates an area signal 505 to be subjected to ACS based on the values of the registers 507 to 510 set (set) from the main controller 111 and the video control signal 512 sent from the reader unit 200. It is.
[0066]
A color determination unit 503 refers to a peripheral pixel in the memory in the filter 501 for the target pixel based on the area signal 505 to which the ACS is applied, determines whether the target pixel is a color pixel or a monochrome pixel, and determines a color determination signal. 506 is generated.
[0067]
A counter 504 counts the number of color determination signals 506 output by the color determination unit 503.
[0068]
Hereinafter, the ACS operation will be described.
[0069]
First, the main controller 111 determines an area to which ACS is applied to the reading range, and sets the area in the registers 507 to 510 (in the present embodiment, the range is determined independently for the document). Further, the main controller 111 compares the value of the counter 504 for counting the number of the color determination signals 506 in the area to be subjected to the ACS with a predetermined threshold value, and determines whether the original is color or monochrome.
[0070]
The registers 507 to 510 store, in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction, the position at which the color determination unit 503 starts the determination and the position at which the determination ends, based on the video control signal 512 sent from the reader unit 200. To set. In the present embodiment, the size is set to be about 10 mm smaller than the actual size of the original.
[0071]
<Description of Image Processing Unit of Printer I / F>
Hereinafter, a part of the printer I / F 145 illustrated in FIG. 4 that performs image processing will be described in detail with reference to FIG.
[0072]
FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a detailed configuration of a portion that performs image processing of the printer I / F 145 shown in FIG. 4, and the same components as those in FIG. 4 are denoted by the same reference numerals.
[0073]
As shown in the figure, an image signal sent from the main controller 111 via the printer bus 146 is first input to the LOG conversion unit 701 of the printer I / F 145. The LOG conversion unit 701 converts the RGB signals into CMY signals by LOG conversion.
[0074]
Reference numeral 702 denotes a moiré removing unit that removes moiré of the CMY signal output from the LOG converter 701. A UCR & masking unit 703 performs a UCR process on the CMY signal subjected to the moiré removal processing by the moiré removal unit 702 to generate a CMY signal, and performs a masking process to correct the signal into a signal suitable for the output of the printer.
[0075]
A gamma correction unit 704 adjusts the density of the signal processed by the UCR & masking unit 703. A filter unit 705 performs smoothing or edge processing on the CMY signal whose density has been adjusted by the γ correction unit 704.
[0076]
The CMY signal (image) that has undergone these processes is sent to the printer unit 300 via the connector 147.
[0077]
<Description of Graphic Processor>
Hereinafter, the Graphic Processor 135 shown in FIG. 4 will be described in detail with reference to FIG.
[0078]
FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a detailed configuration of the Graphic Processor 135 shown in FIG. 4, and the same components as those in FIG. 4 are denoted by the same reference numerals.
[0079]
In the Graphic Processor 135, an image rotation unit 801 is a module that performs an image rotation process. An image scaling unit 802 performs an image scaling process. A color space conversion unit 803 is a module that performs a color space conversion process. An image binarization unit 805 is a module that performs a binarization process. Further, the color space conversion unit 803 includes an LUT (lookup table) 804.
[0080]
The SRAM 136 is used as a temporary work area for each module of the Graphic Processor 135. It is assumed that work areas are statically allocated to each module in advance so that work areas of the SRAM 136 used by each module do not conflict.
[0081]
The Graphic Processor 135 is connected to the main controller 111 via the I / F 137, and data transfer to and from the DRAM 116 is controlled by the bus controller 113 and DMA-transferred.
[0082]
Further, the bus controller 113 performs control for setting a mode and the like for each module of the Graphic Processor 135 and timing control for transferring image data to each module.
[0083]
<Description of image rotation unit>
Hereinafter, an image rotation processing procedure in the image rotation unit 801 illustrated in FIG. 8 will be described.
[0084]
The CPU 112 makes settings for image rotation control in the bus controller 113 via the I / F 137. With this setting, the bus controller 113 makes settings necessary for image rotation (for example, image size, rotation direction, angle, etc.) for the image rotation unit 801.
[0085]
After performing the necessary settings, the CPU 112 again permits the bus controller 113 to transfer image data. According to this permission, the bus controller 113 starts transfer of image data from the DRAM 116 or a device connected via each I / F.
[0086]
Here, it is assumed that the image size to be rotated is 32 pixels × 32 lines, and that the image data is transferred on an image bus in units of 24 bytes (8 pixels each for RGB, one pixel). I do.
[0087]
As described above, in order to obtain an image of 32 pixels × 32 lines, the unit data transfer described above needs to be performed 32 × 32 times, and image data needs to be transferred from discontinuous addresses (FIG. 9). reference).
[0088]
FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of the image rotation unit 801.
[0089]
The image data transferred by the discontinuous addressing is written to the SRAM 136 such that the image data is rotated at a desired angle at the time of reading. For example, if the rotation is 90 degrees counterclockwise, the image data to be transferred is written in the Y direction as shown in FIG. By reading in the X direction at the time of reading, the image is rotated.
[0090]
FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the image rotation unit 801.
[0091]
After the image rotation of 32 pixels × 32 lines (writing to the SRAM 136) is completed, the image rotating unit 801 reads the image data from the SRAM 136 by the above-described reading method, and transfers the image to the bus controller 113. The bus controller 113 receiving the rotated image data transfers the data to the DRAM 116 or each device on the I / F by continuous addressing.
[0092]
Such a series of processing is repeated until there is no more processing request from the CPU 112 (when processing of the required number of pages is completed).
[0093]
<Explanation of image scaling unit>
Hereinafter, a processing procedure in the image scaling unit 802 illustrated in FIG. 8 will be described.
[0094]
The CPU 112 makes settings for image scaling control in the bus controller 113 via the I / F 137. With this setting, the bus controller 113 performs settings necessary for image scaling (the scaling ratio in the main scanning direction, the scaling ratio in the sub-scanning direction, the image size after scaling, etc.) for the image scaling unit 802. After performing the necessary settings, the CPU 112 again permits the bus controller 113 to transfer image data. According to this permission, the bus controller 113 starts transfer of image data from the DRAM 116 or a device connected via each I / F.
[0095]
The image scaling unit 802 stores the received image data in the temporary SRAM 136, and uses the image data as an input buffer. The stored data has the required number of pixels and the number of lines according to the scaling ratio of main scanning and sub scanning. The magnification process is performed by enlarging or reducing the image by performing an interpolation process corresponding to. The data after scaling is written back to the SRAM 136 again, and the image scaling unit 802 reads the image data from the SRAM 136 using this as an output buffer, and transfers it to the bus controller 113.
[0096]
The bus controller 113 receiving the image data subjected to the scaling process transfers the data to the DRAM 116 or each device on the I / F.
[0097]
<Description of color space conversion unit>
Hereinafter, a processing procedure in the color space conversion unit 803 illustrated in FIG. 8 will be described.
[0098]
The CPU 112 performs settings for the color space conversion control on the bus controller 113 via the I / F 137. With these settings, the bus controller 113 performs settings (coefficients of matrix operation, table values of the LUT 804, etc., described later) necessary for the color space conversion process on the color space conversion unit 803 and the LUT (look-up table) 804.
[0099]
After performing the necessary settings, the CPU 112 again permits the bus controller 113 to transfer image data. According to this permission, the bus controller 113 starts transfer of image data from the DRAM 116 or a device connected via each I / F.
[0100]
The color space conversion unit 803 first performs a 3 × 3 matrix operation represented by the following equation for each pixel of the received image data.
[0101]
(Equation 1)

[0102]
In the above equation, R, G, B are inputs, X, Y, Z are outputs, a11, a12, a13, a21, a22, a23, a31, a32, a33, b1, b2, b3, c1, c2, c3 is a coefficient.
[0103]
Various color space conversions such as conversion from the RGB color space to the Yuv color space can be performed by the calculation of the above expression.
[0104]
Next, conversion by the LUT 804 is performed on the data after the matrix operation. As a result, nonlinear conversion can be performed. Naturally, by setting a through table, LUT conversion can not be performed substantially.
[0105]
After that, the color space conversion unit 803 transfers the image data subjected to the color space conversion processing to the bus controller 113. The bus controller 113 that has received the color space converted image data transfers the data to the DRAM 116 or each device on the I / F.
[0106]
<Description of image binarization unit>
Hereinafter, a processing procedure in the image binarization unit 805 illustrated in FIG. 8 will be described.
[0107]
The CPU 112 makes settings for binarization control in the bus controller 113 via the I / F 137. With this setting, the bus controller 113 performs settings (various parameters and the like according to the conversion method) necessary for the binarization processing on the image binarization unit 805. After performing the necessary settings, the CPU 112 again permits the bus controller 113 to transfer image data. According to this permission, the bus controller 113 starts transfer of image data from the DRAM 116 or a device connected via each I / F.
[0108]
The image binarization unit 805 performs a binarization process on the received image data. In the present embodiment, the binarization method is to simply binarize image data by comparing it with a predetermined threshold. Of course, any method such as a dither method, an error diffusion method, or an improved error diffusion method may be used.
[0109]
After that, the image binarization unit 805 transfers the image data subjected to the binarization processing to the bus controller 113. The bus controller 113 receiving the binarized image data transfers the data to the DRAM 116 or each device on the I / F.
[0110]
<Sequence when outputting PDL image>
FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a first control processing procedure of the image forming apparatus of the present invention, and corresponds to a PDL image output procedure in the present embodiment. In addition, S3001 to S3008 in the figure indicate each step. This flowchart is executed by a CPU (not shown) in each of the PCs 401 and 402 shown in FIG. 1 and the CPU 112 shown in FIG. 4 based on a program stored in a storage medium.
[0111]
First, when outputting a PDL image, in step S3001, the user sets print settings for the PDL image output job on the PCs 401 and 402. The print setting contents include the number of copies, paper size, one-sided / reduced layout, page output order, sort output, and whether or not stapling is performed.
[0112]
Next, in step S3002, a print instruction is given on the PCs 401 and 402, and at the same time, the driver software installed on the PCs 401 and 402 converts code data on the PCs 401 and 402 to be printed into so-called PDL data. Then, the PDL data is transferred via the network 400 to the control device 110 of the image input / output device together with the print setting parameters set in step S3001.
[0113]
Next, in step S3003, the CPU 112 of the main controller 111 of the control device 110 develops (rasterizes) the PDL data transferred via the connector 122 and the Network Controller 121 into image data based on the print setting parameters. The development of the image data is performed on the DRAM 116. Upon completion of the image data development, the process advances to step S3004.
[0114]
In step S3004, the main controller 111 transfers the image data expanded on the DRAM 116 to the Graphic Processor 135.
[0115]
In step S3005, the Graphic Processor 135 performs image processing independently of the print setting parameters. For example, if the paper size specified by the print setting parameter is A4, but the paper supply unit 360 of the printer unit 300 has only A4R paper, the image is rotated by 90 degrees by the Graphic Processor 135. An image can be output according to the output paper. Upon completion of the image processing on the image data, the process advances to step S3006.
[0116]
In step S3006, the Graphic Processor 135 transfers the image data after the image processing to the main controller 111. The main controller 111 stores the transferred image data on the DRAM 116.
[0117]
In step S3007, the main controller 111 controls the printer unit 300 via the printer I / F 145 and the connector 147, and transfers image data on the DRAM 116 to the printer unit 300 at appropriate timing.
[0118]
In step S3008, the control device 110 controls the printer unit 300 to print out image data. When the transfer of the image data is completed, that is, when the PDL job ends, the print output ends.
[0119]
<Sequence when outputting a copy image>
FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a second control processing procedure of the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, and corresponds to a copy image output procedure according to the present embodiment. In addition, S4001 to S4007 in the figure indicate each step. This flowchart is executed by the CPU 112 shown in FIG. 4 based on a program stored in a storage medium.
[0120]
In the case of outputting a copy image, in step S4001, the user performs copy settings for the copy image output job on the operation unit 150. The copy setting contents include the number of copies, paper size, single-sided / reduced layout, enlargement / reduction ratio, sort output, and whether or not stapling is performed.
[0121]
Next, in step S4002, when a copy start instruction is given on the operation unit 150, the main controller 111 of the control device 110 controls the reader unit 200 via the scanner I / F 140 and the connector 142 to read the image data of the document. . The image data is stored on the DRAM 116.
[0122]
In the conventional copying machine, the magnification in the sub-scanning direction is realized by changing the moving speed of the optical unit 213 in accordance with the enlargement / reduction ratio of the copy setting, that is, in accordance with the magnification in the sub-scanning direction. Was. However, in the present embodiment, image data is always read at the same magnification (100%) regardless of the setting of the enlargement / reduction ratio in the copy setting, and the scaling process is described later in both the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction. The processing is performed by the Graphic Processor 135.
[0123]
Next, in step S4003, the main controller 111 transfers the image data on the DRAM 116 to the Graphic Processor 135. In step S4004, the Graphic Processor 135 performs image processing based on the copy setting parameters. For example, when the enlargement is set to 400%, the image scaling unit, which is a module in the Graphic Processor 135, performs scaling processing in both the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction. When the image processing of the image data is completed, the process proceeds to step S4005.
[0124]
In step S4005, the Graphic Processor 135 transfers the image data after the image processing to the main controller 111. The main controller 111 stores the transferred image data on the DRAM 116.
[0125]
Next, in step S4006, the main controller 111 controls the printer unit 300 via the printer I / F 145 and the connector 147, and transfers image data on the DRAM 116 to the printer unit 300 at appropriate timing.
[0126]
Further, in step S4007, control device 110 controls printer unit 300 to print out image data. When the transfer of the image data is completed, that is, when the copy job ends, the print output ends.
[0127]
<Explanation of personal box function>
Hereinafter, the personal box function according to the present embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIGS.
[0128]
FIG. 13 is a plan view showing a key arrangement of the operation unit 150 shown in FIG.
[0129]
In the figure, reference numeral 1501 denotes a power switch, which controls energization of the main body. A preheating key 1502 is used to turn on / off a preheating mode. A copy A mode key 1503 is used to select a copy A mode from a plurality of functions. A copy B mode key 1504 is used to select a copy B mode from a plurality of functions. The copy A and the copy B have the same copy function, respectively. However, if the reading of one copy has been completed by the scanner, the next copy can be input. Divided.
[0130]
A box key 1505 is used to select a box mode from a plurality of functions. The box function is a function that has a storage area in a memory in a copying machine for each user or department, stores PDL or a scanned image in the storage area, and outputs it at any time.
[0131]
An extension key 1506 is used when performing an operation on the PDL. Reference numerals 1503 to 1506 are also used when calling each function screen of the LCD 1516 to be described later, and the status of each job can be viewed on the LCD 1516.
[0132]
A copy start key 1507 is a key used to instruct the start of copying. A stop key 1508 is used to interrupt or stop copying. A reset key 1509 operates as a key for returning to the standard mode during standby.
[0133]
Reference numeral 1510 denotes a guide key which is used when the user wants to know each function. Reference numeral 1511 denotes a user mode key which is used when the user changes the basic settings of the system. Reference numeral 1512 denotes an interrupt key which is used when copying is desired to be interrupted during copying. Reference numeral 1513 denotes a numeric keypad used to input a numerical value.
[0134]
Reference numeral 1514 denotes a clear key used to clear a numerical value. An ID key 1515 is used to shift to an ID input mode when using a copying machine. Reference numeral 1516 denotes an LCD touch panel (operation panel) composed of a combination of a liquid crystal screen and a touch sensor. An individual setting screen is displayed for each mode, and various detailed settings are made by touching drawn keys. It is possible. The operation status of each job is also displayed.
[0135]
Reference numeral 1517 denotes a tally lamp indicating the communication state of the network, which is normally green, blinks green when communicating, and turns red when a network error occurs.
[0136]
Reference numeral 1518 denotes an ACS (auto color select) key, which is used to automatically determine whether a copy original is color or black and white, and to set a mode for scanning in color if it is color and monochrome in black if it is black and white. A full-color mode key 1519 is used to set a full-color scanning mode regardless of a copy original. Reference numeral 1520 denotes a black mode key, which is used to set a mode in which scanning is performed in a single black color regardless of a copy original. 1518 to 1520 perform a toggle operation, one of them is always selected, and the selected key is lit.
[0137]
FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the copy standard screen of the operation panel 1516 shown in FIG. The image processing apparatus according to the present embodiment starts on the copy standard screen as a default when the power is turned on.
[0138]
In the figure, reference numeral 1601 denotes a message line which displays the status of a copy job by a message. A magnification display 1602 displays a set magnification or a magnification automatically determined by a copy mode in percentage. Reference numeral 1603 denotes a paper size display which displays a selected output paper, and displays a message of automatic paper when automatic paper selection is set.
[0139]
Reference numeral 1604 denotes a number display, which indicates how many copies are to be made. Reference numeral 1605 denotes a reduction key which is used when a reduction copy is desired. Reference numeral 1606 denotes an equal-magnification key, which is used when it is desired to return to an equal magnification when reduction or enlargement is set. Reference numeral 1607 denotes an enlargement key which is used when an enlargement copy is desired. Reference numeral 1608 denotes a zoom key which is used when a user wants to set a magnification in fine units to perform reduced copy or enlarged copy.
[0140]
Reference numeral 1609 denotes a sheet selection key used to designate an output sheet. A finisher key 1610 is used to set a sort or staple mode. A double-sided key 1611 is used to set a double-sided mode.
[0141]
Reference numeral 1612 denotes a density display, which indicates the current density. The left side indicates that the density is low, and the right side indicates that the density is high. The display of the density display 1612 is changed in conjunction with the thin key 1613 and the dark key 1615. The thin key 1613 is used when it is desired to reduce the density. The body key 1615 is used to increase the density. An automatic key 1614 is used when a mode for automatically determining the density is used.
[0142]
Reference numeral 1616 denotes a character key used to set a character mode for automatically setting a density suitable for copying a character document. Reference numeral 1617 denotes a character / photo key which is used to set a character / photo mode for automatically setting a density suitable for copying a document containing a mixture of photographs. An application mode key 1618 is used to set various copy modes that cannot be set on the copy standard screen.
[0143]
A system status key 1619 is used when the user wants to see the status of printing or scanning currently being performed in the image input / output system 100. The system status key 1619 always appears at this position, not only in the copy standard screen, and the status of the system can be viewed by pressing this key at any time.
[0144]
Although not shown in FIG. 14, an area 1620 is a status line for displaying a low-priority alarm that does not need to be displayed on the message line 1601, a message indicating an execution state of another function, and the like.
[0145]
FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a logical method of using the hard disk (HD) 162 shown in FIG.
[0146]
As shown in the figure, in the present embodiment, the storage area of the hard disk is logically divided into a temporary area 1701 and a box area 1702 according to the intended use. The temporary area 1701 stores PDL expanded data and image data from a scanner in order to change the output order of image data and to enable output in a single PDL expansion or single scan even when outputting a plurality of copies. This is a storage area for temporarily storing.
[0147]
The box area 1702 is a storage area for using the box function, and has a small number of registered storage areas (box areas 1, 2, 3, 4,... (Hereinafter, boxes)) as indicated by 1703 to 1707. Is divided into The boxes 1703 to 1707 are assigned to each department such as each user or company, and each box can be given a box name and a password. The user can input a PDL job or a scan job into each box by designating a box, and actually enter the box, change settings, or print out by entering a password.
[0148]
FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a third control processing procedure of the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, and corresponds to a box registration procedure according to the present embodiment. Note that the registration in the box in this embodiment includes registration of a PDL image from the host computer and a scan image from the scanner. FIG. 16A shows the registration from the host computer (PCs 401 and 402 shown in FIG. 1). FIG. 16B corresponds to box registration processing of a scan image from a scanner (the reader unit 200 shown in FIG. 1). In addition, S1801 to S1808 in the figure indicate each step. The flowchart in FIG. 16A is executed by the CPU (not shown) in the PCs 401 and 402 shown in FIG. 1 and the CPU 112 shown in FIG. 4 based on the program stored in the storage medium. It is assumed that the flowchart of is executed by the CPU 112 shown in FIG. 4 based on a program stored in a storage medium.
[0149]
First, a case in which PDL images from the PCs 401 and 402 shown in FIG. 1 are registered in a box will be described with reference to FIG.
[0150]
First, in step S1801, the user sets print settings on the PCs 401 and 402, and proceeds to step S1802. The print setting contents include the number of copies, paper size, enlargement / reduction ratio, one-sided / reduced layout, page output order, sort output, and whether or not stapling is performed.
[0151]
Next, in step S1802, an area in the box area 1702 of the hard disk 162 is designated by setting a box number on the PC 401 or 402, and the process proceeds to step S1803. For example, when the box number is designated as 1, the personal box area (box) 1703 in the box area 1702 is designated.
[0152]
Next, in step S1803, a print instruction is given on the PCs 401 and 402, and at the same time, the driver software installed on the PCs 401 and 402 converts code data to be printed into so-called PDL data, and sets in step S1801 The PDL data is transferred to the control device 110 of the image input / output device together with the print setting parameters, and the process advances to step S1804.
[0153]
In step S1804, the transferred PDL data is developed (rasterized) into image data. Upon completion of the image data development, the process advances to step S1805.
[0154]
In step S1805, the expanded image data is sequentially recorded in the box 1702 of the hard disk 162. For example, when the box number specified in step S1802 is "1", the image data is stored in the box 1703. At this time, the print setting parameters set in step S1801 are also recorded in the box 1703. When the box numbers specified in step S1802 are “2” and “3”, the numbers are stored in the boxes 1704 and 1705, respectively.
[0155]
Next, a case where the scanned image from the reader unit 200 shown in FIG. 1 is registered in a box will be described with reference to FIG.
[0156]
First, in step S1806, a box number for inputting an image is designated by the operation unit 150, and the flow advances to step S1807.
[0157]
In step S1807, scan settings such as image processing are specified by the operation unit 150, and the flow advances to step S1808.
[0158]
In step S1808, an instruction to start scanning is issued (the copy start key 1507 shown in FIG. 13 is pressed), so that the document is read by the reader unit 200, and the flow advances to step S1809.
[0159]
In step S1809, the image read in step S1808 is stored in the box designated in step S1806.
[0160]
FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a display on the LCD touch panel 1516 when the box key 1505 of the operation unit 150 illustrated in FIG. 13 is pressed, and corresponds to a box selection screen.
[0161]
In the figure, reference numeral 900 denotes a box selection screen (box selection screen). In the box selection screen 900, reference numeral 901 denotes information of each box, and information 901c indicating how much space the box has in the box number 901a, box name 901b, and box area 1702 of the hard disk 162 is displayed. I do. When the user presses the box number 901a, the screen changes to a password input screen shown in FIG.
[0162]
Reference numerals 902 and 903 denote up and down scroll keys, respectively, which are used to scroll the screen when the number of boxes exceeding the display 901 is registered.
[0163]
FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display on the LCD touch panel 1516 when the box number 901a on the box selection screen 900 shown in FIG. 17 is pressed, and corresponds to a password input screen.
[0164]
In the figure, reference numeral 1000 denotes a password input screen. By inputting the password set in each box from this screen, the screen is changed to a screen in a box shown in FIG. 19, and each box can be accessed. If the password is different, the screen shifts to a warning screen (not shown) and the box cannot be accessed.
[0165]
In the password input screen 1000, a password display field 1003 displays a password input from the numeric keypad 1513 of the operation unit 150 or the LCD touch panel 1516 as a hidden character.
[0166]
Reference numeral 1001 denotes a cancel key. Pressing the key returns the screen to the box selection screen 900 shown in FIG. Reference numeral 1002 denotes an OK key. When this key is pressed, the entered password is determined, and the password is verified.
[0167]
FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display on the LCD touch panel 1516 when the OK key 1002 on the password input screen 1000 shown in FIG. 18 is pressed and the password is determined to be correct, and corresponds to the file display screen in the box. I do.
[0168]
In the figure, reference numeral 1100 denotes a box file display screen. In the box file display screen 1100, reference numeral 1101 denotes a file list in the box, in which the registration date and time 110a and the file name 1101b of each file are displayed in a list. To select a file, the user presses the file name 1101b, and the currently selected file is highlighted.
[0169]
A scan key 1102 is used to input an image from the scanner to the currently open box, and transitions to a scan setting screen (not shown). A print key 1103 is used to print the file selected in the file list 1101.
[0170]
Reference numeral 1104 denotes a color conversion key which is used when performing color conversion of the file selected in the file list 1101, and transits to a color conversion screen (not shown). An erase key 1105 is used to erase a file selected in the file list 1101.
[0171]
A scan box mixed print key 1109 is used to perform scan box mixed print in which an image input from a scanner and a file selected in the file list 1101 are mixed and printed. By touching the scan box mixed print key 1109, a scan box mixed print setting screen (not shown) is displayed. On this scan box mixed print setting screen, the scan image insertion setting (the number of pages between pages of the BOX print, the setting of how many scan image prints are inserted on the front cover, the back cover, etc.), The user can instruct settings such as reduced layout settings and sorter settings (mixed settings of scan print and BOX print) and start printing.
[0172]
Reference numerals 1106 and 1107 denote up and down scroll keys, respectively, which are used to scroll the screen when more files than the number displayed in the file list 1101 are registered. A close key 1107 is used to return to the box selection screen 900 shown in FIG.
[0173]
<Explanation of Reduced Layout Processing in Mixed Job of Scan Print and Box Print>
Hereinafter, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 20, a description will be given of a processing procedure in a case where an image read by a scanner and a document stored in a personal box are mixed in an edited document to be subjected to reduction layout processing.
[0174]
FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a fourth control processing procedure of the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, in which an image read by a scanner (reader unit 200) and a document stored in a personal box are mixed. Corresponding to the processing procedure in the case. In addition, S2001 to S2007 in the figure indicate each step. It is assumed that this flowchart is executed by the CPU 112 shown in FIG. 4 based on a program stored in a storage medium.
[0175]
Prior to the start of this flowchart, the user inputs box document specifying information including the above-described box number, box document name, password, and the like from the operation unit 1500 in advance, and determines a desired box based on the input box document specifying information. It is assumed that a document is acquired, and the setting of the scanner box mixed print (reduced layout in this case) is performed, and the start of the process is instructed.
[0176]
In step S2001, it is determined whether the output target document is a paper document read by a scanner (reader unit 200) or a predetermined page of a box document, and it is determined that the output target document is a paper document to be read by the scanner. In step S2002, a paper document is read from the scanner. In step S2003, each time a paper document is read, the document is stored in the document image memory (DRAM 116), and the process proceeds to step S2006.
[0177]
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S2001 that the output target document is a box document, in step S2004, a desired specific page of the obtained box document is input from the operation unit, and in step S2005, the specific page is The data is developed on the memory (DRAM 116), and the process proceeds to step S2006.
[0178]
As described above, even if the document is mixed in the image read by the scanner and the box document, the processing is performed as one job.
[0179]
Thereafter, in step S2006, it is determined whether or not the target page is the last page. When it is determined that the target page is not the last page, the process returns to step S2001, while when it is determined that the target page is the last page In step S2007, a reduced layout process is performed to print out, and the process ends.
[0180]
A plurality of image data read from a paper document by the reader unit 200 and expanded on the DRAM 116 and a plurality of image data expanded on the DRAM 116 based on a plurality of document data stored in the personal BOX (HD 162). The user is allowed to determine the layout on a layout determination screen (not shown) displayed on the LCD touch panel 1516, and at the time of the reduced layout print processing in step S2007 in FIG. It is also possible to determine a suitable print magnification, further perform scaling at the determined print magnification, and print a reduced layout on a recording medium in the determined layout.
[0181]
As described above, a plurality of image data read from a paper document is developed on a memory, and image data based on a plurality of document data stored in a personal BOX is further developed on a memory. A scan print job for outputting an image on a recording medium based on a plurality of image data read and developed on a memory, and a BOX print for outputting an image on a recording medium based on a plurality of image data developed on a storage area from a personal BOX By performing reduced layout print processing on a recording medium by mixing jobs, reduced layout print could not be set in the past when scan print and BOX print were mixed, but in the case where scan print and BOX print were mixed. Can also perform reduced layout printing, To allow the output to Nozomu.
[0182]
Note that if the image data read from the scanner and the document stored in the personal box are mixed in the edited manuscript to be subjected to the reduced layout processing described above, the image data read from the scanner image and the document stored in the personal box are mixed. If the color mode (black and white / color) of the current document (image) is different, output may be performed in one of the modes. In this case, the output mode may be fixed to black and white, may be fixed to color, may be set to the color mode of the scanner image, may be set to the color mode of the box document, or may be the operation unit 150 (for example, It may be configured to be selectable by a key (not shown) on the LCD touch panel 1516.
[0183]
If the image data read from the scanner image and the color mode (black and white / color) of the document stored in the personal box are the same, the image data may be output in that color mode or in any one of the modes. You may comprise. When outputting in any of the modes, the output mode may be fixed to black and white, fixed to color, or configured to be selectable by the operation unit 150 (for example, a key (not shown) on the LCD touch panel 1516). Good.
[0184]
In each of the embodiments described above, the case where the printer unit (printer engine) is a laser beam system has been described as an example. However, in an electrophotographic system (for example, an LED system) other than the laser beam system, a liquid crystal shutter system, an inkjet system, The present invention is applicable to thermal transfer, sublimation, and other printing methods.
[0185]
In the above-described embodiment, a job and a reader that read out from the HD 162 (box) of the image input / output system 100 and output an image on a recording medium based on a plurality of image data expanded in the DRAM 116 by an operation from the operation unit 150 are described. A case has been described in which a job for outputting an image on a recording medium based on a plurality of image data read by the unit 200 and expanded on the DRAM 116 is mixed and the reduced layout print processing is performed on the recording medium. (By displaying the screens shown in FIGS. 17 to 19 on the monitors of the PCs 401 and 402 and instructing the reduced layout processing from the screens) to execute the reduced layout processing on the image input / output system 100. It may be configured as follows.
[0186]
Further, in the above-described embodiment, a job for reading an image on a recording medium based on a plurality of image data read from the HD 162 (box) of the image input / output system 100 and expanded in the DRAM 116 and reading the image by the reader unit 200 and expanding the image in the DRAM 116. A case has been described in which a job for outputting an image on a recording medium based on a plurality of pieces of image data mixed is subjected to reduced layout printing processing on the recording medium. However, the DRAM 116 is transferred from the PC 401 or 402 (or may be a file server or the like). A job for outputting an image on a recording medium based on a plurality of image data expanded on a printer and a job for outputting an image on a recording medium based on the plurality of image data read by the reader unit 200 and expanded on the DRAM 116 are mixed. To perform reduced layout print processing on a recording medium. It may be. Note that image data transferred from the PCs 401 and 402 (or a file server or the like) to the image input / output system 100 is input from an external device (a digital camera, a scanner, a file server, another PC / WS or the like), and The image data may be image data held in a memory or the like (not shown) in the computer 402 or image data created by an application on the PC 401 or 402.
[0187]
A job for outputting an image on a recording medium based on a plurality of image data transferred from the PCs 401 and 402 (which may be a file server or the like) and expanded on the DRAM 116, and a job read from the HD 162 (box) of the image input / output system 100 and read from the DRAM 116 A job for outputting an image on a recording medium based on a plurality of image data expanded on a printer and a job for outputting an image on a recording medium based on the plurality of image data read by the reader unit 200 and expanded on the DRAM 116 are mixed. May be configured to perform reduced layout printing processing on a recording medium.
[0188]
Further, a job for outputting an image on a recording medium based on a plurality of image data transferred from the PCs 401 and 402 (may be a file server or the like) and expanded on the DRAM 116, and a job read from the HD 162 (box) of the image input / output system 100 and read from the DRAM 116 A job for outputting an image on a recording medium based on a plurality of image data developed on the ROM and a job for reading an image on a recording medium based on the plurality of image data developed on the DRAM 116 by reading on the reader unit 200 and the reader unit 200 And a job for outputting an image on a recording medium based on a plurality of image data read and developed in the DRAM 116, that is, a reduced layout print process is performed on the recording medium by mixing the above three types of jobs. May be. The image data transferred from the PCs 401 and 402 (or a file server or the like) to the image input / output system 100 is input from an external device (digital camera, scanner, file server, another PC / WS, etc.) and The image data may be image data held in a memory or the like (not shown) in the computer 402 or image data created by an application on the PC 401 or 402.
[0189]
Needless to say, a configuration in which the above embodiments are combined is also included in the present invention.
[0190]
As described above, a plurality of image data read from a paper document is developed in a storage area, and further, based on a plurality of document data stored in a storage medium, the image data is developed in a storage area. A job for outputting an image on a recording medium based on a plurality of image data read and developed from a document and a job for outputting an image on a recording medium based on a plurality of image data developed from a personal box to a storage area. Since the reduced layout print processing is performed on the recording medium in a mixed manner, even when the job of outputting the image read from the document on the recording medium and the job of outputting the image stored in the storage medium on the recording medium are mixed. Reduced layout printing can be performed.
[0191]
Therefore, conventionally, reduced layout printing cannot be set when scan printing and BOX printing coexist. However, according to the present invention, reduced layout printing can be performed even when scanning printing and BOX printing coexist. And the like to achieve the desired output.
[0192]
Hereinafter, the configuration of a data processing program readable by the image processing apparatus according to the present invention will be described with reference to a memory map shown in FIG.
[0193]
FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs that can be read by the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.
[0194]
Although not shown, information for managing a group of programs stored in the storage medium, for example, version information, a creator, and the like are also stored, and information dependent on the OS or the like on the program reading side, for example, a program is identified and displayed. Icons and the like may also be stored.
[0195]
Further, data dependent on various programs is also managed in the directory. Further, when the program or data to be installed is compressed, a program or the like for decompressing may be stored.
[0196]
The functions shown in FIG. 11, FIG. 12, FIG. 16, and FIG. 20 in the present embodiment may be executed by a host computer by a program installed from the outside. In this case, the present invention is applied even when a group of information including a program is supplied to the output device from a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, a flash memory, or an FD, or from an external storage medium via a network. Things.
[0197]
As described above, the storage medium storing the program codes of the software for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to the system or the apparatus, and the computer (or CPU or MPU) of the system or the apparatus stores the storage medium in the storage medium. It goes without saying that the object of the present invention is also achieved by reading and executing the program code thus obtained.
[0198]
In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium implements the novel function of the present invention, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.
[0199]
Examples of the storage medium for supplying the program code include a floppy (registered trademark) disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, CD-ROM, CD-R, DVD-ROM, magnetic tape, nonvolatile memory card, ROM, EEPROM, silicon disk and the like can be used.
[0200]
When the computer executes the readout program code, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also an OS (Operating System) running on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that a part or all of the actual processing is performed and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing.
[0201]
Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written into a memory provided on a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, the function expansion is performed based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that a CPU or the like provided in the board or the function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing, and the processing realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments.
[0202]
Further, the present invention may be applied to a system including a plurality of devices or to an apparatus including a single device. Needless to say, the present invention can be applied to a case where the present invention is achieved by supplying a program to a system or an apparatus. In this case, by reading a storage medium storing a program represented by software for achieving the present invention into the system or the apparatus, the system or the apparatus can enjoy the effects of the present invention. .
[0203]
Further, by reading and reading a program represented by software for achieving the present invention from a database on a network using a communication program, the system or apparatus can enjoy the effects of the present invention. It becomes.
[0204]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the first to eleventh aspects of the present invention, a plurality of image data read from a paper document is developed on a storage area, and a plurality of document data stored on a storage medium is further stored. A job for developing image data in a storage area based on the image data and outputting an image on a recording medium based on a plurality of image data read and developed from the paper document, and a plurality of images developed in a storage area from a personal box Since the reduced layout print processing is performed on the recording medium by mixing the job for outputting the image on the recording medium based on the data, the job for outputting the image read from the document on the recording medium and the image stored on the storage medium are not performed. Even when jobs to be output on a recording medium are mixed, reduced layout printing can be performed.
[0205]
Therefore, conventionally, reduced layout printing cannot be set when scan printing and BOX printing coexist. However, according to the present invention, reduced layout printing can be performed even when scanning printing and BOX printing coexist. And the like, such as enabling a desired reduced layout output.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a sectional view showing a configuration of a reader unit and a printer unit shown in FIG.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of a reader image processing unit illustrated in FIG. 2;
FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a control device illustrated in FIG. 1;
FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of a portion that performs image processing of a scanner I / F illustrated in FIG. 4;
FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an ACS counting unit shown in FIG.
FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of a portion that performs image processing of the printer I / F illustrated in FIG. 4;
FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a detailed configuration of a Graphic Processor shown in FIG.
FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating the operation of an image rotation unit.
FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an operation of an image rotation unit.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a first control processing procedure of the image forming apparatus of the present invention.
FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a second control processing procedure of the image forming apparatus of the present invention.
FIG. 13 is a plan view showing a key arrangement of the operation unit shown in FIG. 1;
FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a copy standard screen of the operation panel illustrated in FIG. 13;
FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a logical method of using the hard disk shown in FIG. 4;
FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a third control processing procedure of the image forming apparatus of the present invention.
17 is a schematic diagram showing a display on the LCD touch panel when a box key of the operation unit shown in FIG. 13 is pressed.
18 is a schematic diagram showing a display on the LCD touch panel when a box number on the box selection screen shown in FIG. 17 is pressed.
19 is a schematic diagram showing a display on the LCD touch panel when the OK key on the password input screen shown in FIG. 18 is pressed and the password is determined to be correct.
FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a fourth control processing procedure of the image forming apparatus of the present invention.
FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs that can be read by the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.
[Explanation of symbols]
100 image input / output system
110 control device
200 Reader unit
300 Printer section
111 Main controller
116 DRAM
162 Hard Disk (HD)

Claims (11)

Reading means for reading image data from a paper document;
First developing means for developing a plurality of image data read by the reading means in a storage area;
Storage means for storing a plurality of document data in a storage medium;
Second developing means for developing image data in a storage area based on a plurality of document data stored in a storage medium by the storage means;
A job for outputting an image on a recording medium based on a plurality of image data expanded in a storage area by the first expansion unit, and recording based on a plurality of image data expanded in the storage area by the second expansion unit Control means for controlling to perform a reduced layout printing process on a recording medium by mixing a job for outputting an image on a medium,
An image processing apparatus comprising: 2. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit sets the color mode of the reduced layout printing process to one of a monochrome mode and a color mode. 3. The image processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the control unit sets the color mode of the reduced layout printing process to color. 3. The image processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the control unit sets a color mode of the reduced layout printing process to black and white. Having a selection means for selecting black and white or color as a color mode of the reduced layout print processing,
3. The image processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the control unit sets the color mode of the reduced layout printing process to a color mode selected by the selection unit. When the color mode of the image data read by the reading unit and the color mode of the document data stored in the storage medium by the storage unit are different, the control unit sets the color mode of the reduced layout printing process to either black and white or color. The image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the mode is set to one of the modes. When the color mode of the image data read by the reading unit and the color mode of the document data stored in the storage medium by the storage unit are different, the control unit reads the color mode of the reduced layout print processing by the reading unit. 7. The image processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein a color mode of the obtained image data is set. The control unit stores the color mode of the reduced layout printing process in the storage unit when the color mode of the image data read by the reading unit and the color mode of the image data stored in the storage medium by the storage unit are different. 7. The image processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein a color mode of the document data stored in the medium is set. A reading step of reading image data from a paper manuscript;
A first expanding step of expanding the read plurality of image data in a storage area;
A storage step of storing a plurality of image data in a storage medium,
A second development step of developing image data in a storage area based on a plurality of document data stored in the storage medium;
A job for outputting an image on a recording medium based on a plurality of image data developed in the storage area in the first development step and recording based on the plurality of image data developed in the storage area in the second development step A reduced layout print processing step of performing reduced layout print processing on a recording medium by mixing a job for outputting an image on a medium;
A method for controlling an image processing apparatus, comprising: For image processing devices,
A reading step of reading image data from a paper manuscript;
A first expanding step of expanding the read plurality of image data in a storage area;
A storage step of storing a plurality of image data in a storage medium,
A second development step of developing image data in a storage area based on a plurality of document data stored in the storage medium;
A job for outputting an image on a recording medium based on a plurality of image data developed in the storage area in the first development step and recording based on the plurality of image data developed in the storage area in the second development step A reduced layout print processing step of performing reduced layout print processing on a recording medium by mixing a job for outputting an image on a medium;
A program characterized by executing For image processing devices,
A reading step of reading image data from a paper manuscript;
A first expanding step of expanding the read plurality of image data in a storage area;
A storage step of storing a plurality of image data in a storage medium,
A second development step of developing image data in a storage area based on a plurality of document data stored in the storage medium;
A job for outputting an image on a recording medium based on a plurality of image data developed in the storage area in the first development step and recording based on the plurality of image data developed in the storage area in the second development step A reduced layout print processing step of performing reduced layout print processing on a recording medium by mixing a job for outputting an image on a medium;
Storage medium for storing a computer-readable program for executing the program.

Images