JPH11225243A - Image processing system, data processing method of image processing system and storage medium storing readable program by computer - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To improve processing efficiency as the entire system by continuing function processing proper to each system resource even if a failure occurs during image processing in which respective system resources are combined. SOLUTION: This image processor which performs image processing integrally with a scanner part 4 and a printer part 1 is provided with plural interfaces and corresponds to a compound image processor which independently executes facsimile function processing and the printer function processing of print data from a computer. When a failure occurs in the part while the parts 4 and 1 performs copy image processing, the input destination of image data to the part 1 is automatically switched to a memory 9 and print processing of accumulated print jobs is preceded. After the failure is solved, copy processing is resumed, based on the image data from the part 4, an individual images output processing function is fast returned and throughput can be greatly improved as the entire system.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image processing system in which a digital copying machine or an image processing apparatus capable of communicating with a scanner and a printer to perform copy image processing can communicate with a data processing apparatus via a predetermined communication medium. The present invention relates to a data processing method of an image processing system and a storage medium storing a computer-readable program.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in an image processing system in which a digital copying apparatus or an image processing apparatus capable of performing a copy image processing by communicating with a scanner and a printer can communicate with a data processing apparatus via a predetermined communication medium, a digital copying apparatus is used. If any trouble occurs in the printing function processing in the apparatus, the document is not read by the scanner function until the trouble is solved.

In an image processing apparatus capable of performing copy image processing by communicating between a scanner and a printer, if any trouble occurs in the printing function processing, the printer resolves the trouble in the scanner and waits until reading of a document is completed. It is controlled not to accept another print request.

[0004]

Since the conventional digital copying machine or image processing system is configured as described above, if a failure occurs in the reading device (scanner), a user who solves the problem is nearby. Whether or not the device remains stationary. This causes a decrease in the throughput of the system when there is a user who leaves only after giving a copy instruction.

[0005] In particular, in a system in which a single scanner and a printer are connected to realize a copy function, even if another user wants to use only the print function, the printer does not operate until the failure of the reading device is resolved. Since the print request is not accepted, the user cannot print, and there is a problem that the image processing efficiency of the entire system is significantly reduced.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to interrupt the printing process even if a failure occurs in the original reading function or the image reading device during the copying function processing. Continuously transfer the stored print job to the printing device to process the subsequent print job, and copy processing can be performed when the document reading function or the image reading device returns to the image readable state. By doing so, even if a failure occurs during image processing in which individual system resources are combined, it is possible to continue function processing unique to individual system resources, thereby significantly improving the processing efficiency of the entire system. An object of the present invention is to provide an image processing system, a data processing method of the image processing system, and a storage medium storing a computer-readable program.

[0007]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image reading means for reading an original image, and an image reading means for storing an image on a recording medium based on image data from the image reading means or image data inputted externally. An image processing system having a printing unit that prints image data, a storage unit that stores externally input image data as a print job, and an output destination of the image data to the image reading unit when the copy image processing request is sent to the printing unit. Setting means for setting the input destination of image data to the printing means to the image reading means; and during copying image processing by the image reading means and the printing means set by the setting means, Detecting means for detecting a failure to interrupt the copy image processing; and Determining means for determining whether the printing is to be performed by the image reading means; and, if the determining means determines that the cause of the failure to be interrupted is due to the image reading means, the setting means performs the printing. Changing means for changing the input destination of the image data set to the means to the storage means, and after changing the input destination of the image data by the changing means, the image data output from the storage means to the printing means. Control means for transferring the image data output from the image reading means to the printing means when the determination means determines that the failure of the image reading means has been cleared. The printing process is restarted.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image reading apparatus for reading an original image via a predetermined communication medium, and a recording medium based on image data from the image reading apparatus or image data input externally. In an image processing system capable of communicating with a printing device that prints an image, a storage unit that stores externally input image data as a print job, and an output destination of image data to the image reading device when a copy image processing request is issued. Setting means for setting to the printing device and setting the input destination of the image data to the printing device to the image reading device; and during copy image processing by the image reading device and the printing device set by the setting device. Detecting means for detecting a failure to interrupt the copy image processing; and occurrence of the failure to be interrupted detected by the detecting means. Factor and a determining means for determining by the image reading apparatus or not by the printing device,
When the determining unit determines that the cause of the failure to be interrupted is caused by the image reading device, the input unit of the image data set for the printing device by the setting unit is changed to the storage unit. Changing means, and control means for transferring the image data output from the storage means to the printing device after changing the input destination of the image data by the changing means, wherein the control means When it is determined that the failure of the image reading device has been cleared, the image data output from the image reading device is transferred to the printing device to restart the printing process.

[0009] A third invention according to the present invention has a detecting means for detecting whether or not a canceller who releases the obstacle of the image reading device is present in the vicinity, and the control means is configured to control the detecting means by the detecting means. When it is detected that a canceller who releases the obstacle of the image reading apparatus is present in the vicinity, the apparatus waits until the obstacle of the image reading apparatus is released.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a storage means for storing externally input image data as a print job,
A data processing method for an image processing system, comprising: an image reading unit that reads a document image; and a printing unit that prints an image on a recording medium based on image data from the image reading unit or image data input externally. A setting step of setting an output destination of image data to the image reading means to the printing means and setting an input destination of image data to the printing means to the image reading means at the time of a processing request; A detection step of detecting a failure to interrupt the copy image processing during the copy image processing performed by the image reading means and the printing means, and a cause of the failure to be interrupted detected by the detection step being A determining step of determining whether the printing is performed by the printing unit or the image reading unit; and A step of changing the input destination of the image data set for the printing means in the setting step to the storage means when it is determined that the cause of the failure to be caused by the image reading means; After the change of the input destination of the image data by the step, a transfer step of transferring the image data output from the storage means to the printing means, and when it is determined that the failure of the image reading means is cleared by the determination step, And a resuming step of transferring image data output from the image reading means to the printing means to restart printing processing.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image reading apparatus for reading a document image via a predetermined communication medium, and storing image data from the image reading apparatus or image data input externally as a print job. In a data processing method of an image processing system capable of communicating with a printing device that prints an image on a recording medium based on image data stored in a storage device, an output destination of image data to the image reading device when a copy image processing request is made Setting in the printing device, and setting an input destination of image data to the printing device in the image reading device; and a copy image by the image reading device and the printing device set in the setting process. A detecting step of detecting a failure to interrupt the copy image processing during the processing, and the interrupting step detected by the detecting step; A determining step of determining whether the cause of the harm is caused by the printing apparatus or the image reading apparatus, and when the determining step determines that the cause of the failure to be interrupted is caused by the image reading apparatus, Changing means for changing the input destination of the image data set for the printing device to the storage device by the setting step,
After the change of the input destination of the image data in the change step, a transfer step of transferring the image data output from the storage device to the printing apparatus, and when it is determined in the determination step that the failure of the image reading apparatus is cleared And a resuming step of transferring image data output from the image reading device to the printing device to resume printing processing.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a detecting step for detecting whether or not a canceller who cancels the obstacle of the image reading apparatus is present in the vicinity, and the obstacle of the image reading apparatus is canceled by the detecting step. And a waiting step of waiting for the failure of the image reading device to be released when it is detected that the user who is performing the release is present in the vicinity.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a storage unit for storing externally input image data as a print job,
A computer that controls an image processing system having an image reading unit that reads an original image and a printing unit that prints an image on a recording medium based on image data from the image reading unit or image data input externally is readable by a computer. In a storage medium storing a program, when a copy image processing request is made, an output destination of image data to the image reading means is set to the printing means, and an input destination of image data to the printing means is set to the image reading means. A setting step of performing, a detection step of detecting a failure to interrupt the copy image processing during the copy image processing by the image reading unit and the printing unit set in the setting step, and a detection of the failure by the detection step. The cause of the failure to be interrupted is caused by the printing unit or the image reading unit. A determining step of determining whether or not the cause of the failure to be interrupted is determined by the image reading unit in the determining step; and inputting the image data set to the printing unit in the setting step. A change step of changing the destination to the storage means, a transfer step of transferring the image data output from the storage means to the printing means after the change of the input destination of the image data in the change step, and the determination step A computer-readable program having a resuming step of transferring image data output from the image reading means to the printing means and resuming printing processing when it is determined that the failure of the image reading means has been cleared; It is stored on a medium.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image reading apparatus for reading a document image via a predetermined communication medium, and storing image data from the image reading apparatus or image data input externally as a print job. In a storage medium storing a computer-readable program that controls an image processing system capable of communicating with a printing apparatus that prints an image on a recording medium based on image data stored in a storage apparatus, when a copy image processing request is issued, A setting step of setting an output destination of image data to the image reading device to the printing device, and setting an input destination of image data to the printing device to the image reading device; and setting the image set by the setting step. During copying image processing by the reading device and the printing device, a failure to interrupt the copying image processing is detected. A detecting step, a determining step of determining whether the cause of the failure to be interrupted detected by the detecting step is due to the printing apparatus or the image reading apparatus, and the determining step determining the occurrence of the failure to be interrupted. Changing means for changing the input destination of the image data set for the printing device in the setting step to the storage device when it is determined that the factor is due to the image reading device;
After the change of the input destination of the image data in the change step, a transfer step of transferring the image data output from the storage device to the printing apparatus, and when it is determined in the determination step that the failure of the image reading apparatus is cleared A computer-readable program having a restart step of transferring image data output from the image reading device to the printing device and restarting the printing process.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a detecting step for detecting whether or not a canceller who releases the obstacle of the image reading apparatus is present in the vicinity, and releasing the obstacle of the image reading apparatus by the detecting step. A computer-readable program having a standby step of waiting for the failure of the image reading device to be released when it is detected that there is a canceller present in the vicinity.

[0016]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS [First Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of an image processing system according to a first embodiment of the present invention, in which a scanner unit and a printer unit are integrated. The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus that performs image processing, and more particularly, to a composite image processing apparatus that includes a plurality of interfaces and can independently execute a facsimile function process and a printer function process that receives print data from a computer.

Referring to FIG. 1, reference numeral 1 denotes a printer unit, which includes a predetermined printer engine, executes a printing process on a storage medium based on print data output from a control unit 2, performs a printing process, and records a permanent image. Print on media. Reference numeral 3 denotes a finisher, which is detachably attached to the printer unit 1 as, for example, an optional unit. The finisher 3 performs a folding process, a stapling process, and the like, and is capable of discharging print results on a plurality of bins.

The control unit 2 includes a ROM and a memory 9 (not shown), and a control program stored in the ROM or the memory 9 or an external data processing device (PC) via a computer interface (computer I / F) 7. The control program downloaded from (1) is executed to comprehensively control the copying function processing, the original image reading processing, the printing processing, the facsimile transmission / reception processing, and the like. The control unit 2 includes an expandable RAM, MPU, and CPU.
8, a control device including a chip set and the like and a memory 9 such as a hard disk. Note that C
The PU 8 and the memory 9 are connected via an internal bus (not shown).

Reference numeral 4 denotes a scanner unit, which has an external ADF, RDF
Or single sheet feed type (reading element is a contact image sensor (CI
S) is configured to be connectable, and reads a placed or conveyed document image at a set resolution. An operation unit 5 includes various keys for setting image processing modes and image processing conditions for various image processing, a display unit for displaying an image processing state, and the like. Note that the key and the display unit may be configured by a touch panel or the like in which the key and the display unit are integrated.

Reference numeral 6 denotes a facsimile interface (Fax
(I / F), which is connected to a public line to perform transmission / reception processing of facsimile data.

Hereinafter, a characteristic configuration of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

Image reading means (scanner section 4) for reading a document image configured as described above, and printing for printing an image on a recording medium based on image data from the image reading means or image data inputted externally. Means for storing image data input externally as a print job, and an output destination of the image data to the image reading means when a copy image processing request is issued. Setting means (CPU) for setting image data to the printing means and setting an input destination of image data to the printing means to the image reading means.
8 sets copy processing conditions in each of the printer unit 1 and the scanner unit 4 based on a control program stored in the memory 9 or a memory resource (not shown)), the image reading unit set by the setting unit, and the printing Detecting means (detecting a system failure from a sensor (not shown) of the printer unit 1 and the scanner unit 4) for interrupting the copy image processing during the copy image processing by the means;
Determining means for determining whether the cause of the failure to be interrupted detected by the detecting means is caused by the printing means or the image reading means (when the CPU 8 determines whether the control program stored in the memory 9 or a memory resource (not shown) Inputting the image data set to the printing unit by the setting unit when the determining unit determines that the cause of the failure to be interrupted is caused by the image reading unit. Changing means for changing the destination to the storage means (the CPU 8 performs an update process based on a control program stored in the memory 9 or a memory resource (not shown)); and storing the image data after changing the input destination of the image data by the changing means. Control means for transferring the image data output from the printing means to the printing means Has a control) and on the basis of a control program stored in the resource, if CPU8 was determined that failure of the scanner portion 4 is released, the scanner section 4
The printer unit 1 transfers the image data output from the printer unit 1 to restart the printing process. Therefore, if a failure occurs in the scanner unit 4 during the copy image processing between the specified scanner unit 4 and the printer unit 1, The input destination of the image data to the unit 1 is automatically changed to the memory 9 in the system, and the printing process of the stored print job is performed first. The copying process can be restarted based on the output image data, the individual image output processing function of the printing unit can be quickly restored, and the throughput of the entire system can be greatly improved.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing an example of a first data processing procedure in the image processing system according to the present invention. In addition, (1) to (18) indicate each step.

First, a processing request is received through the operation unit 5 (1), and the printer unit 1 and the scanner unit 4 are reserved (2). Subsequently, settings relating to reading of the copy request accepted in step (1) and settings relating to printing are performed (3). The output destination of the scanner unit 4 is set to the printer unit 1 (4), and the input source of the printer unit 1 is set to the scanner unit 4 (5).

Subsequently, the CPU 8 determines whether an error has occurred in the system (6). If the determination in step (6) is No, the original is read by the scanner unit 4 and the obtained image data is sent to the printer. The data is transferred to the unit 1 (7). Subsequently, the image data read in step (7) is stored in the storage device 9 in preparation for retransmission (8).

The image needs to be retransmitted when printing on both sides of the paper output in the copy mode, for example, when a failure has occurred after printing on one side has already been completed.

Subsequently, the image data transferred to the printer unit 1 in step (7) is printed by the printer unit 1 (9), and the unnecessary retransmission image data is discarded from the storage device 9 (10). ). Steps (7) to (10) correspond to a one-page copy operation.

Subsequently, the CPU 8 determines whether all originals have been copied (11). If the determination in step (11) is Yes, the output of the scanner unit 4 and the printer unit 1 are released (12). , The process ends.

On the other hand, if the determination in step (11) is No, the process returns to step (6).

On the other hand, in the judgment in step (6),
If so, the printer unit 1 and the scanner unit 4 are stopped to stop the copy operation (13), and it is determined from the various sensor input information or the like whether the error generated in the CPU 8 is the scanner unit 4 (14). For example, if the user is not nearby, another print job process (a print job routine accompanying a scanner unit error (to be described in detail later)) is executed (15), and the process proceeds to step (17) and subsequent steps.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (14) that the error occurred in the CPU 8 is not the scanner unit 4,
Wait for a predetermined time (16),
It is determined whether the error occurred in the CPU 8 has been eliminated (17). If No, the process returns to step (16). If Yes, the operations of the printer unit 1 and the scanner unit 4 are resumed, and the copy operation is resumed. (18), the process proceeds to step (11).

FIG. 3 is a flow chart showing an example of the second data processing procedure in the image processing system according to the present invention. The detailed procedure of step (15) shown in FIG. At this time, if the user is not near, the processing procedure for executing another print job is performed. Note that (1) to (9) indicate each step.

First, it is determined whether or not the failure of the scanner unit that has occurred in the central processing unit 8 has been resolved (1). If Yes, the process proceeds to step (9). If No, a failure occurs in the central processing unit 8. It is determined whether or not the specified time has elapsed since the time (2). If No, the process returns to step (1), and Y
If es, it is determined that there is no person near the device to solve the failure, and the printer unit 1 determines whether there is a job that is spooled in the storage device 9 during the copy operation and is waiting for printing. (3) If No, the process returns to step (1). If Yes, the central processing unit 8 detects the state of the printer, such as an empty bin (4), and determines whether or not the print waiting job can be executed. It is determined (6), and if Yes, the input source of the printer unit 1 is set in the storage device 9 (7), a print job waiting for processing is executed (8), and after execution, the input source of the printer is returned to the original scanner. After setting (9), the process ends.

On the other hand, if the determination in step (6) is No, the process waits for a specified time (5) and returns to step (4) again.
The same processing is repeated.

Hereinafter, the characteristic configuration of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

The storage means (memory 9) configured to store the image data input externally as a print job, the image reading means (scanner section 4) for reading the original image, and the image reading means In a data processing method of an image processing system having a printing unit (printer unit 1) for printing an image on a recording medium based on image data or externally input image data, or storing externally input image data as a print job An image processing system having an accumulating unit, an image reading unit that reads a document image, and a printing unit that prints an image on a recording medium based on image data from the image reading unit or image data input externally is controlled. In a storage medium storing a computer-readable program, copy image processing is required. Sometimes, the output destination of the image data for the image reading means to the printing means, and,
A setting step (step (4) in FIG. 2) of setting an input destination of image data to the printing means in the image reading means;
(5)) and a detecting step (step (6) in FIG. 2) for detecting a failure to interrupt the copy image processing during the copy image processing by the image reading unit and the printing unit set in the setting step. )), A determining step (step (14) in FIG. 2) for determining whether the cause of the failure to be interrupted detected by the detecting step is caused by the printing unit or the image reading unit. Changing the input destination of the image data set to the printing unit in the setting step to the storage unit when it is determined in step that the cause of the failure to be interrupted is caused by the image reading unit; (Step (3) in FIG. 3)
And after changing the input destination of the image data in the changing step,
A transfer step (step (8) in FIG. 3) for transferring the image data output from the storage means to the printing means; and a step of determining whether the failure in the image reading means has been cleared by the determination step. A resuming step (step (18) in FIG. 2) for transferring the image data output from the reading means to the printing means and resuming the printing process. If a failure occurs in the image reading unit during processing,
The input destination of the image data to the printing means is automatically changed to the storage means in the system, and the print processing of the stored print job is preceded. The copying process can be restarted based on the image data output from the printer, the individual image output processing function of the printing unit can be quickly restored, and the throughput of the entire system can be greatly improved.

[Second Embodiment] In the first embodiment,
Although the image processing system in which the scanner unit 4 and the printer unit 1 are integrated has been described as an example, the scanner device 400 and the printer device 420 communicate with each other via a predetermined interface (via a dedicated signal line). The present invention can also be applied to an image processing system that performs a copying process by using the present invention. Hereinafter, the embodiment will be described.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of an image processing system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. The scanner device and the printer device are connected via a predetermined interface (via a dedicated signal line). The present invention corresponds to an image processing system that performs a copying process by communicating with each other.

In the scanner section 400, reference numeral 401 denotes a scanner image reading device, and the scanner section 4 shown in FIG.
It has the same function as. Reference numeral 402 denotes a CPU which executes a control program stored in the memory 403 to comprehensively control scanner processing and communication processing with the printer unit. Note that the memory 403 also functions as a spooler that temporarily stores image data output from an image sensor unit (not shown) of the image reading device 401. 4
A dedicated interface 04 performs communication processing with the printer according to a predetermined protocol.

An interface 405 enables communication with an external host computer (not shown).

In the printer section 420, a dedicated interface 406 performs communication processing with the scanner according to a predetermined protocol. Reference numeral 407 denotes a CPU which executes a control program stored in the memory 410 to comprehensively control print processing and communication processing with the scanner unit. 4
A printer engine 08 executes a predetermined print process on a recording medium to print a permanent image. 409
Denotes a finisher which is detachably attached to the printer unit, for example, as an optional unit, and performs staple processing, folding processing, sorting processing and the like. Note that the memory 410 also functions as a spooler that stores image data input from the scanner unit. An interface 411 enables communication with an external host computer (not shown).

In the image processing system configured as described above, when the above-described error occurs in the printer unit, the read image information of the original that has not been copied is stored in the memory 403 of the scanner. One or both of the printer memories 410 may be used. Other processes are the same as in the first embodiment, and a description thereof will not be repeated.

[Third Embodiment] In the first embodiment,
Although the image processing system in which the scanner unit 4 and the printer unit 1 are integrated has been described as an example, the image processing system in which the scanner device and the printer device communicate with each other via a predetermined network to perform a copy process is also used. The invention can be applied. Hereinafter, the embodiment will be described.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of an image processing system according to a third embodiment of the present invention. The scanner device and the printer device communicate with each other via a predetermined network to perform a copy process. Corresponding to an image processing system that performs the following.

Referring to FIG. 5, reference numeral 501 denotes a server computer having a control board having a CPU, a RAM, and a ROM, and a network NET based on an OS stored in a memory 502 or an internal hard disk (not shown).
It can communicate with the above client computer 504 and function as a printer server or a scanner server, and spool print data, read document image data, and the like on the memory 502. A printer 503 receives a job spooled in the memory 502 of the server computer 501 and performs print processing. 505 is a scanner,
The read document image data is transferred to the server computer 501.

An optical sensor 506 is built in the scanner 505 and optically detects the presence or absence of a person. That is, when some trouble occurs in the scanner 505, the optical sensor 506 detects whether there is an operator close to the scanner 505 and capable of clearing the trouble. In this system, the copy function can be realized by operating a scanner and a printer in combination.
Needless to say, an optical sensor or the like may be used instead of the optical sensor 506.

Hereinafter, a characteristic configuration of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

An image reading apparatus (scanner 5) for reading an original image via a predetermined communication medium configured as described above.
05) and a printing device (printer 503) that prints an image on a recording medium based on the image data from the image reading device or the image data input externally, in an image processing system capable of communicating externally input image data. Storage means (memory 502) for storing data as a print job
And setting an output destination of image data to the image reading device to the printing device at the time of a copy image processing request, and
Setting means (server computer 50) for setting an input destination of image data to the printing apparatus to the image reading apparatus
1 executes the control program stored in the memory 502 or the like to perform the setting processing), and performs the copy image processing during the copy image processing by the image reading apparatus and the printing apparatus set by the setting means. For detecting a failure that should be interrupted (detects a system failure from sensors (not shown) of the printer 503 and the scanner 505)
Determining means for determining whether the cause of the failure to be interrupted detected by the detection means is due to the printing device or the image reading device (a system failure is detected by a sensor (not shown) of the printer 503 and the scanner 505). A notification (status), and when the determination unit determines that the cause of the failure to be interrupted is caused by the image reading device, the image set by the setting unit with respect to the printing device. Changing means (server computer 5) for changing the data input destination to the storage means;
01 executes the control program stored in the memory 502 or the like to perform the change processing), and after changing the input destination of the image data by the changing means, the image data output from the storage means is transferred to the printing apparatus. Transfer means (the CPU of the server computer 501 executes the control program stored in the memory 502 or the like to perform transfer control), and the CPU of the server computer 501 determines that the failure of the scanner 505 has been cleared. In this case, since the image data output from the scanner 505 is transferred to the printer 503 and the printing process is restarted, if a failure occurs in the scanner 505 during the copy image processing between the specified scanner 505 and the printer 503, The input destination of the image data to the printer 503 is automatically changed to the memory 502 in the system and stored. When the trouble caused by the scanner 505 is resolved before the print processing of the print job that has been performed, the copy processing can be resumed based on the image data output from the scanner 505, and the individual The image output processing function can be quickly restored, and the throughput of the entire system can be greatly improved.

Further, the CPU of the server computer 501 has a detecting means (sensor 506) for detecting whether or not a canceller who cancels the trouble of the image reading apparatus exists in the vicinity. When it is detected that a canceller who cancels the printer 503 is present in the vicinity, it waits for the failure of the scanner 505 to be cleared, so that the printer 503 and the scanner 505 are separated from each other on the network NET. , Scanner 505
In the case where a failure has occurred, or if it is detected that there is a canceller who has cleared the failure in the vicinity of the scanner 505, even if the print job has been accumulated, the print job is kept on standby and the copy is performed. It is possible to avoid the situation in which processing and output are mixedly output, and to perform copying processing with priority.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of a third data processing procedure in the image processing system according to the present invention. When an error occurs in the scanner 505, another print job is executed unless a user is nearby. It corresponds to the processing procedure to be executed. Note that (1) to (10) indicate each step.

First, it is determined whether or not the fault that has occurred in the server computer 501 has been resolved (1). If the answer is Yes, the process proceeds to step (9). If the answer is No, the optical sensor 506 built in the scanner detects the fault nearby. It is detected whether or not there is a person to be solved (2), and it is determined from the output of the optical sensor 506 whether or not there is a person to be able to solve the obstacle nearby (3).
If so, the process returns to step (1). If Yes, it is determined that there is no person near the device to solve the problem, and the printer 503 is spooled in the memory 502 of the server computer 501 during the copy operation and printed. It is determined whether or not there is a waiting job (4).
The process returns to step (1). If Yes, the server computer 501 detects the status of the printer such as an empty bin (5), and determines whether or not a print waiting job can be executed (7). If Yes, The input source of the printer 503 is set in the memory 502 of the server computer (8), a print job waiting for processing is executed (9), and after execution, the input source of the printer is set to the original scanner (10). finish.

On the other hand, if the determination in step (7) is No, wait for the specified time (6) and return to step (5) again.
The same processing is repeated.

Hereinafter, the characteristic configuration of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

An image reading apparatus (scanner 5) for reading an original image via a predetermined communication medium configured as described above.
05) and a printing device (for printing an image on a recording medium based on image data stored in a storage device (memory 502) for storing image data from the image reading device or image data input externally as a print job). A data processing method of an image processing system capable of communicating with a printer 503), or an image reading apparatus for reading a document image via a predetermined communication medium, and image data from the image reading apparatus or externally input image data. A storage medium storing a computer-readable program that controls an image processing system capable of communicating with a printing apparatus that prints an image on a recording medium based on image data stored in a storage apparatus that stores the print job,
A setting step of setting an output destination of image data to the image reading device to the printing device and setting an input destination of image data to the printing device to the image reading device when a copy image processing request is made (step of FIG. 2) (4),
(5)) and a detecting step (step (6) in FIG. 2) for detecting a failure to interrupt the copy image processing during the copy image processing by the image reading apparatus and the printing apparatus set in the setting step. )), A determining step (step (14) in FIG. 2) for determining whether the cause of the failure to be interrupted detected by the detecting step is caused by the printing apparatus or the image reading apparatus. Changing means for changing the input destination of the image data set for the printing device in the setting step to the storage device when it is determined that the cause of the failure to be interrupted is caused by the image reading device; (Step (8) in FIG. 6) and a transfer step of transferring the image data output from the storage device to the printing device after changing the input destination of the image data in the change process (FIG. 6). Step (9)) and, when it is determined in the determining step that the failure of the image reading device has been cleared, the image data output from the image reading device is transferred to the printing device and the printing process is restarted. Since there is a process (step (18) in FIG. 2), when a failure occurs in the image reading device during the copy image processing between the specified image reading device and the printing device, input of image data to the printing device is performed. The destination is automatically changed to the storage means in the system, and the print processing of the stored print job is preceded based on the image data output from the image reading device when the trouble by the image reading device is resolved. Copy processing can be resumed, and individual image output processing functions of the printing device can be quickly restored, greatly increasing the overall system throughput. It is possible to improve.

Further, a detecting step (step (3) in FIG. 6) for detecting whether or not a canceller who releases the failure of the image reading apparatus is present in the vicinity, and a failure of the image reading apparatus is determined by the detecting step. A standby step (a step of returning from step (3) to step (1) in FIG. 6) of waiting for the failure of the image reading device to be released when it is detected that a releaser to be released is present in the vicinity; In the case where a failure occurs in the image reading device in a state where the printing device and the image reading device are separated from each other on the network, there is a canceller who releases the failure near the image reading device. If it is detected that the copying process has been performed, even if the printing job is stored, the printing job is put on standby to avoid the situation where the copying process and the copying process are mixedly output. Can.

Hereinafter, the configuration of a data processing program readable by the image processing system according to the present invention will be described with reference to a memory map shown in FIG.

FIG. 7 is a view for explaining a memory map of a storage medium for storing various data processing programs which can be read by the image processing system according to the present invention.

Although not shown, information for managing a group of programs stored in a storage medium, such as version information and a creator, is also stored, and information dependent on an OS or the like on the program reading side, such as a program, is stored. An icon or the like for identification display may also be stored.

Further, data dependent on various programs is also managed in the directory. In addition, a program for installing various programs on a computer or a program for decompressing a program to be installed when the program to be installed is compressed may be stored.

The functions shown in FIGS. 2, 3 and 6 in this 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.

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 MP) of the system or the apparatus is supplied.
It goes without saying that the object of the present invention is also achieved when U) reads and executes the program code stored in the storage medium.

In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the novel function of the present invention, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.

As a storage medium for supplying the program code, for example, a floppy disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, CD-ROM, C
DR, magnetic tape, nonvolatile memory card, RO
M, EEPROM and the like can be used.

When the computer executes the readout program code, not only the functions of the above-described embodiment are realized, but also the OS (Operating System) running on the computer based on the instructions of the program code. ) And the like perform part or all of the actual processing, and the processing realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments.

Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written into a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, based on the instruction of the program code, The CPU provided in the function expansion board or function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing,
It goes without saying that a case where the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by the processing is also included.

[0066]

As described above, the first embodiment according to the present invention is described.
According to the invention, there is provided an image processing system comprising: image reading means for reading a document image; and printing means for printing an image on a recording medium based on image data from the image reading means or image data input externally. A storage unit for storing externally input image data as a print job, and, when a copy image processing request is made, setting an output destination of image data to the image reading unit to the printing unit;
A setting unit for setting an input destination of the image data to the printing unit to the image reading unit; and a copy image processing during the copy image processing by the image reading unit and the printing unit set by the setting unit. Detecting means for detecting a failure to be interrupted, determining means for determining whether the cause of the failure to be interrupted detected by the detecting means is caused by the printing means or the image reading means, and the determining means Changing means for changing the input destination of the image data set for the printing means by the setting means to the storage means when it is determined that the cause of the failure to be interrupted is caused by the image reading means; Control means for transferring the image data output from the storage means to the printing means after changing the input destination of the image data by the changing means. Wherein when it is determined that the failure of the image reading means is released by the determination means, so resuming the print processing by transferring the image data output from said image reading means to said printing means,
When a failure occurs in the image reading unit during the copy image processing by the specified image reading unit and the printing unit, the input destination of the image data to the printing unit is automatically changed to the storage unit in the system, and the stored image data is stored. Prior to the print processing of the print job being performed, when the trouble caused by the image reading means is resolved, the copying processing can be resumed based on the image data output from the image reading means, and Such an image output processing function can be quickly restored to greatly improve the throughput of the entire system.

According to the second invention, an image reading device for reading an original image via a predetermined communication medium, and an image on a recording medium based on image data from the image reading device or image data inputted from the outside. An image processing system capable of communicating with a printing apparatus that performs printing, a storage unit that stores externally input image data as a print job,
Setting means for setting an output destination of image data to the image reading device to the printing device and setting an input destination of image data to the printing device to the image reading device when a copy image processing request is made; Detecting means for detecting a failure to interrupt the copy image processing during the copy image processing by the image reading device and the printing device set by the following; and a cause of the failure to be interrupted detected by the detection means A determination unit that determines whether the failure is due to the printing device or the image reading device; and when the determination unit determines that the cause of the failure to be interrupted is due to the image reading device, the setting unit determines Changing means for changing the input destination of the image data set for the printing apparatus to the storage means; and inputting the image data by the changing means. Control means for transferring the image data output from the storage means to the printing device after the previous change, wherein the control means determines that the failure of the image reading device has been cleared by the determination means Then, since the image data output from the image reading device is transferred to the printing device and the printing process is restarted, a failure occurs in the image reading device during the copy image processing between the specified image reading device and the printing device. If the error occurs, the input destination of the image data to the printing apparatus is automatically changed to a storage unit in the system, and the print processing of the stored print job is preceded, and when the trouble by the image reading apparatus is resolved. The copying process can be restarted based on the image data output from the image reading device, and the individual image output processing function of the printing device can be quickly restored. Are allowed, it is possible to greatly improve the throughput as a whole system.

According to the third invention, there is provided detecting means for detecting whether or not a canceller who releases the obstacle of the image reading apparatus is present in the vicinity, and the control means controls the image reading by the detecting means. When it is detected that a canceller who releases the failure of the apparatus is present in the vicinity, the apparatus waits for the failure of the image reading apparatus to be released, so that the printing apparatus and the image reading apparatus are isolated on the network. If a failure occurs in the image reading device in the arranged state, and if it is detected that there is a canceller who has cleared the failure near the image reading device, the print job is stored. Also, it is possible to prevent the print job from being put on standby, to avoid a situation in which the print job and the copy process are mixedly output, and to perform the copy process with priority.

According to the fourth and seventh aspects, storage means for storing externally input image data as a print job,
In a data processing method of an image processing system having image reading means for reading a document image and printing means for printing an image on a recording medium based on image data from the image reading means or image data inputted from the outside, or Storage means for storing input image data as a print job; image reading means for reading a document image; printing for printing an image on a recording medium based on image data from the image reading means or image data input externally And a storage medium storing a computer-readable program for controlling the image processing system having the means, when a copy image processing request is made, an output destination of image data to the image reading means is set to the printing means, and The image reading means for inputting image data to the printing means; A setting step of setting, a detection step of detecting a failure to interrupt the copy image processing during the copy image processing by the image reading unit and the printing unit set in the setting step, and a detection by the detection step A determining step of determining whether the cause of the failure to be interrupted is caused by the printing unit or the image reading unit; and determining that a cause of the failure to be interrupted is determined by the image reading unit in the determining step. A change step of changing the input destination of the image data set for the printing means to the storage means in the setting step when the determination is made; and Transferring the image data output from the printer to the printing means, and determining that the failure of the image reading means has been cleared by the determining step In this case, the image data output from the image reading means is transferred to the printing means, and the printing process is restarted. If a failure occurs in the image reading means, the input destination of the image data to the printing means is automatically changed to the storage means in the system, and the print processing of the stored print job is preceded by the image reading means. When the trouble is eliminated, the copying process can be restarted based on the image data output from the image reading unit, and the individual image output processing function of the printing unit can be promptly restored to improve the throughput of the entire system. It can be greatly improved.

According to the fifth and eighth aspects of the present invention, an image reading apparatus for reading an original image via a predetermined communication medium, and image data from the image reading apparatus or image data input externally are stored as a print job. In a data processing method of an image processing system capable of communicating with a printing device that prints an image on a recording medium based on image data stored in a storage device, or an image reading device that reads a document image via a predetermined communication medium Image processing that can communicate with a printing device that prints an image on a recording medium based on image data stored in a storage device that stores image data from the image reading device or image data input externally as a print job In a storage medium storing a program readable by a computer controlling the system, a copy image processing Sometimes, the output destination of the image data for the image reading apparatus to the printing apparatus, and,
A setting step of setting an input destination of image data to the printing apparatus to the image reading apparatus; and interrupting the copy image processing during the copy image processing by the image reading apparatus and the printing apparatus set in the setting step. A detection step of detecting a failure to be performed, a determination step of determining whether the cause of the failure to be interrupted detected by the detection step is caused by the printing apparatus or the image reading apparatus, and the determination step includes: Changing means for changing the input destination of the image data set for the printing device in the setting step to the storage device when it is determined that the cause of the failure to be interrupted is caused by the image reading device; A transfer step of transferring the image data output from the storage device to the printing device after changing the input destination of the image data in the change process; When it is determined that the failure of the image reading device has been cleared, the image data output from the image reading device is transferred to the printing device, and the printing process is restarted. When a failure occurs in the image reading device during the copy image processing between the reading device and the printing device, the input destination of the image data to the printing device is automatically changed to a storage unit in the system, and the stored print job is changed. When the trouble caused by the image reading device is resolved prior to the printing process, the copying process can be restarted based on the image data output from the image reading device, and the individual image output processing by the printing device can be performed. The function can be quickly restored, and the throughput of the entire system can be greatly improved.

According to the sixth and ninth aspects of the present invention, a detecting step of detecting whether or not a canceller who releases a failure of the image reading apparatus is present in the vicinity, and the detecting step detects a failure of the image reading apparatus. A standby step of waiting for the failure of the image reading device to be released when it is detected that a releaser to be released is in the vicinity, so that the printing device and the image reading device are isolated on the network. When a failure occurs in the image reading device in a state where the image reading device is arranged in a state where the print job is stored, if it is detected that there is a canceller who has cleared the failure near the image reading device, the print job is stored. However, it is possible to cause the print job to wait, avoid a situation in which the copy process and the copy process are mixedly output, and perform the copy process with priority.

Therefore, even if a failure occurs in the document reading function or the image reading apparatus during the copying function processing, the print processing is continued without interruption, and the accumulated print job is transferred to the printing apparatus and subsequently executed. When the print job is processed and the document reading function or the image reading device returns to a state in which the image can be read, the copying process can be performed, and a failure occurs during image processing in which individual system resources are combined. However, by enabling the function processing unique to each system resource to be continued, there is an effect that the processing efficiency of the entire system can be remarkably improved.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image processing system according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a first data processing procedure in the image processing system according to the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a second data processing procedure in the image processing system according to the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image processing system according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image processing system according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a third data processing procedure in the image processing system according to the present invention.

FIG. 7 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 system according to the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Printer part 2 Control part 3 Finisher 4 Scanner part 5 Operation part 6 Facsimile interface 7 Computer interface 8 CPU 9 Memory

Claims (9)

[Claims] An image reading means for reading a document image;
An image processing system having a printing unit that prints an image on a recording medium based on image data from the image reading unit or image data input externally; a storage unit configured to store externally input image data as a print job; Setting means for setting an output destination of image data to the image reading means to the printing means, and setting an input destination of image data to the printing means to the image reading means when a copy image processing request is made; Detecting means for detecting a failure to interrupt the copy image processing during copy image processing by the image reading means and the printing means set by the means; and occurrence of the failure to be interrupted detected by the detection means Determining means for determining whether the factor is caused by the printing means or the image reading means; and Changing means for changing the input destination of the image data set for the printing means by the setting means to the storage means when it is determined that the cause of the failure to be interrupted is caused by the image reading means; Control means for transferring image data output from the storage means to the printing means after the change of the input destination of the image data by the change means, wherein the control means An image processing system, wherein when it is determined that the obstacle has been cleared, the image data output from the image reading unit is transferred to the printing unit to restart the printing process. 2. An image reading device for reading a document image via a predetermined communication medium, and a printing device for printing an image on a recording medium based on image data from the image reading device or image data input externally. An image processing system capable of communication, a storage unit for storing externally input image data as a print job, and setting an output destination of image data to the image reading device to the printing device when a copy image processing request is made; and Setting means for setting an input destination of image data to the printing apparatus to the image reading apparatus; and interrupting the copy image processing during the copy image processing by the image reading apparatus and the printing apparatus set by the setting means. Detecting means for detecting a failure to be performed, and the printing apparatus detects the cause of the failure to be interrupted detected by the detecting means. A determination unit for determining whether the image reading device determines the cause of the failure to be interrupted is determined by the image reading device. Means for changing the input destination of the image data set in the storage means to the storage means, and control for transferring the image data output from the storage means to the printing apparatus after the change of the input destination of the image data by the change means. The control means transfers image data output from the image reading device to the printing device when the determination unit determines that the failure of the image reading device has been cleared, and performs a printing process. The image processing system characterized by restarting. 3. The image reading apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a detecting unit configured to detect whether or not a canceller is present near the image reading apparatus, wherein the control unit cancels the image reading apparatus by the detecting unit. 3. The image processing system according to claim 2, wherein when detecting that the canceller is present in the vicinity, the image reading apparatus waits until the obstacle of the image reading device is canceled. 4. A storage unit for storing externally input image data as a print job, an image reading unit for reading a document image, and a recording medium based on image data from the image reading unit or externally input image data. A data processing method for an image processing system, comprising: a printing unit that prints an image on an image processing apparatus; A setting step of setting a data input destination to the image reading means; and detecting a failure to interrupt the copy image processing during copy image processing by the image reading means and the printing means set in the setting step. And whether the cause of the failure to be interrupted detected by the detecting step is caused by the printing unit. A determining step of determining whether the failure is caused by the image reading unit; and setting the printing unit by the setting step when the determining unit determines that the cause of the failure to be interrupted is caused by the image reading unit. A change step of changing the input destination of the input image data to the storage unit; and a transfer step of transferring the image data output from the storage unit to the printing unit after changing the input destination of the image data in the change step. And a resuming step of transferring image data output from the image reading means to the printing means and resuming a printing process when it is determined in the determining step that the failure of the image reading means has been cleared. A data processing method for an image processing system, comprising: 5. An image reading device for reading a document image via a predetermined communication medium, and image data stored in a storage device for storing image data from the image reading device or externally input image data as a print job. In a data processing method of an image processing system capable of communicating with a printing device that prints an image on a recording medium based on, when a copy image processing request is made, an output destination of image data to the image reading device is set to the printing device; A setting step of setting an input destination of image data to the printing apparatus to the image reading apparatus; and performing a copy image processing during the copy image processing by the image reading apparatus and the printing apparatus set in the setting step. Detecting a failure that should be interrupted, and determining the cause of the failure that should be interrupted detected by the detection step is the printing. A determining step of determining whether the failure is due to the apparatus or the image reading apparatus; and, if the determining step determines that the cause of the failure to be interrupted is due to the image reading apparatus, the setting step determines the printing apparatus. Changing means for changing the input destination of the image data set to the storage device to the storage device; and transferring the image data output from the storage device to the printing device after changing the input destination of the image data in the changing step. And a resuming step of transferring image data output from the image reading device to the printing device and restarting the printing process when it is determined that the failure of the image reading device has been cleared by the determining step. And a data processing method for an image processing system. 6. A detecting step for detecting whether or not a canceller who releases the obstacle of the image reading apparatus is present in the vicinity, and a canceller who cancels the obstacle of the image reading apparatus by the detecting step exists in the vicinity. 6. The data processing method according to claim 5, further comprising: a standby step of waiting for the failure of the image reading device to be cleared when the error is detected. 7. A storage unit for storing externally input image data as a print job, an image reading unit for reading a document image, and a recording medium based on image data from the image reading unit or externally input image data. A storage medium storing a computer readable program for controlling an image processing system having a printing means for printing an image on a printing medium, wherein when a copy image processing request is made, an output destination of image data to the image reading means is sent to the printing means. A setting step of setting the input destination of image data to the printing means to the image reading means, and during the copy image processing by the image reading means and the printing means set by the setting step, A detecting step of detecting a failure to interrupt the copy image processing; and A determining step of determining whether the cause of the failure to be interrupted is due to the printing unit or the image reading unit; and determining that the cause of the failure to be interrupted is due to the image reading unit in the determining step. A change step of changing the input destination of the image data set to the printing unit to the storage unit in the setting step; and outputting the image data from the storage unit after the change of the input destination of the image data in the change step. Transferring the image data to be printed to the printing means; and transferring the image data output from the image reading means to the printing means when it is determined in the determining step that the failure of the image reading means has been cleared. And a resuming step of resuming the printing process. . 8. An image reading device for reading a document image via a predetermined communication medium, and image data stored in a storage device for storing image data from the image reading device or image data input externally as a print job. In a storage medium storing a computer-readable program that controls an image processing system capable of communicating with a printing device that prints an image on a recording medium based on the image data, when a copy image processing request is made, A setting step of setting an output destination to the printing apparatus and setting an input destination of image data to the printing apparatus to the image reading apparatus; and setting the image reading apparatus and the printing apparatus set by the setting step. A detection step of detecting a failure to interrupt the copy image processing during the copy image processing; A determining step of determining whether the cause of the failure to be interrupted is caused by the printing apparatus or the image reading apparatus; and determining that the cause of the failure to be interrupted is determined by the image reading apparatus. When it is determined that the change of the input destination of the image data set to the printing device by the setting step to the storage device, after the change of the input destination of the image data by the change step, A transfer step of transferring the image data output from the storage device to the printing device; and, when it is determined that the failure of the image reading device has been cleared by the determination step, the image data output from the image reading device. And a resuming step of resuming print processing by transferring to the printing apparatus. The storage medium. 9. A detecting step for detecting whether or not a canceller who releases the obstacle of the image reading apparatus is present in the vicinity, and a canceller who cancels the obstacle of the image reading apparatus by the detecting step exists in the vicinity. 9. A storage medium storing a computer-readable program according to claim 8, further comprising: a standby step of waiting for the failure of said image reading apparatus to be cleared when said fact is detected.