CN1028187C - Image forming apparatus having image processing function - Google Patents

Abstract

An imaging device having a plurality of image processing functions which can be divided into at least a first group comprising a first type of linked function and a second group comprising a second type of linked function. The imaging device includes a display for displaying different information. When a special key for calling one of the first and second groups is activated, all associated functions included in the called group are displayed on the display screen. Then, another key is used in order to select a function from among the associated functions displayed on the display screen.

Description

The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, such as a copier, and more particularly, to an image forming apparatus capable of performing processing functions such as image part deletion or superimposition.

Conventional image forming devices that reflect the working requirements of multifunctional photocopiers, including photocopiers such as those with composite image processing functions, and those with bidirectional imaging functions, image superimposing functions, and cutting/masking functions, have been developed. In such image processing functions, such as when cropping/masking is required somewhere, the work of inputting data is essential.

If the keyboards and switches required for data input were provided separately for each processing function, the operation panel would become unduly large and the operation would be unduly complicated. Therefore, a display panel composed of an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) is installed on the operation panel of the conventional imaging device, and the selection of the image processing function to be carried out, and the input of the data related to the selection are carried out by means of said display. Therefore, the image processing functions that can be implemented in the photocopier are successively displayed on the display, and the data required for implementing the image processing functions selected by the operator are input directly after the function selection. Thus, it is possible to input with a single display selection for various image processing functions, thereby simplifying the operation.

However, in such a conventional imaging device, the image processing functions that can be implemented by the device are successively displayed in accordance with the operation of the selector switch by the operator, so the operator must operate the selector switch until the desired image processing function is displayed. However, as the number of image processing function items that can be implemented increases, this selection process becomes more complicated. Furthermore, it is difficult for the operator to find the desired image processing function without an instruction associated with the displayed image processing function, thus making adjustment input of the desired image processing function extremely difficult.

Moreover, in such conventional imaging devices, during the selection of the image processing parameters to be implemented, all image processing functions that can be performed by the device, whether or not a specific function has been pre-adjusted, are always sequentially displayed. As a result, those image processing parameters that cannot be implemented are also displayed together with pre-set image processing functions, so that the operator may select such functions by mistake. In such a process, after the data input required by the parameters of the current image processing function, that is to say, the function which cannot be implemented together with the pre-selected function, after its function has been determined, an indication error will be displayed information to the operator's attention, which may frustrate the operator and waste time on data entry.

Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to provide an imaging device which enables the operator to easily find the desired image processing function among those multiple image processing functions, that is, in the simultaneous display of those interrelated image processing functions which can be implemented. Image processing functions, thereby making it possible to simplify the procedure of image processing function data input.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an imaging device including an image processing function, since those image processing parameters that cannot be implemented together with those preset image processing parameters are not displayed during the setting and input of the image processing parameters, It prevents the operator from selecting these non-implementable functions, and does not display an impossibility signal after setting the parameters of the impossible function, Operator frustration and wasted data entry time are thus avoided.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention aims at solving the above-mentioned disadvantages at the same time, and its basic object is to provide an improved imaging device which enables the operator to simplify the input setting procedure of the image processing function by means of the image processing function. The device includes a display device, which simultaneously displays the parameters of a plurality of image processing functions interrelated on a display area.

In particular, the image processing function according to the present invention is characterized by an imaging device having an image processing function having a plurality of image processing functions whose input setting is implemented by means of a display screen on the display area of. The imaging device also has an image processing function including a display method for simultaneously displaying a plurality of interrelated image processing functions on the display area when the image processing functions are input and set parameters.

According to the present invention, a plurality of image processing functions which are related at the time of operation are simultaneously displayed on one display area at the time of image processing function input and setting. Therefore, the operator can find the desired image processing function in a group of related image processing functions, thereby simplifying the input process of setting the desired image processing function.

The above and other objects and features of the present invention will be more apparent by referring to the accompanying drawings and describing the present invention in conjunction with preferred embodiments. Like numbers refer to like parts throughout the drawings. in:

Fig. 1 is a block diagram of a photocopier according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 2 is a front sectional view of the photocopier of Figure 1;

Fig. 3a to Fig. 3g are the flowchart of the controller control program of photocopier;

Figure 4 shows a plan view of the display panel in the copy density adjustment mode;

Figure 5 shows a plan view of the display panel in the reproduction ratio setting mode;

Figure 6a to Figure 6f show the plan view of the display panel when the two-sided copying mode is adjusted;

Fig. 7 is a table showing the relationship between optional devices provided on the copying machine and functions that can be implemented;

Figures 8a to 8h show plan views of the display panel during the adjustment of the profile movement function and the cover page position function;

Figures 9a to 9e show the plan view of the display panel when adjusting the movement amount of the picture profile during the adjustment of the picture profile movement function;

Figures 10a to 10g show plan views of the display panel when the cropping/shading function is adjusted;

Figures 11a to 11f show plan views of the display panel when the movement function is adjusted;

Figures 12a to 12g show the plan views of the display panel when the cover page displacement function is adjusted;

Fig. 13 is a table showing the relationship between image processing functions and simultaneously implementable image processing functions;

Figure 14 shows a plan view of the display panel when the key operation is approved;

Fig. 15a and Fig. 15b represent the flow chart that the flow chart shown in Fig. 3 e has been improved;

Fig. 16a to Fig. 16c show the plan view of display panel when carrying out the program operation of Fig. 15a and Fig. 15b;

Figure 17 shows a table similar to that shown in Figure 13, but showing an extended scheme.

The preferred embodiment of the present invention described below is an example using a photocopier as an image forming apparatus having various image processing functions which can be selected according to the present invention.

Referring to Figure 2, there is shown a cross-sectional view of a photocopier according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

On the top of the copier 1 is an original workbench 2 made of transparent hard glass, and the original image placed on it is scanned by the optical device. At the inner center of copier 1, a photoconductor drum 4 is installed in a freely rotatable manner, and a copy processing area is formed around the photoconductor drum 4, which includes an electrostatic charger 5, an extinguishing pulse lamp light source 6, and a developing device 7 , Transfer charger 8, separation charger 13, separation claw-shaped tool 14, cleaning device 15 and cleaning lamp 16.

One side of the copier 1 is equipped with a manual paper feeding support 9, and paper cassettes 10 and 11 form a paper feeding area, and paper is sent to counting rollers 12 from the paper feeding area. The other side of the copier 1 is equipped with a paper output channel 20 , and a distributor 21 is installed outside the channel, and the distributor 21 stores the paper sent out by the paper output channel 20 in a paper storage box 22 . Between the copy processing area and the paper discharge path 20 is a transport area, which includes a transfer belt 17, a developing roller 18 and other components. A flap door 19 is provided in the delivery area. The flap door 19 will complete the guide of the copy-processed paper to the paper output path 20 or the auxiliary transport paths 28 and 29 .

Copier 1 is installed on a cabinet 23, and the inside of the cabinet is equipped with a zigzag auxiliary conveying passage 28, which extends from the conveying passage part to the middle bracket 26, and the inside of the cabinet is also equipped with a conveying passage extending from the conveying passage part to the counting roller 12 in front of it. Pay transmission channel 29. At the junction of the zigzag auxiliary transmission channel 28 and the auxiliary transmission channel 29 A stage door 24 is provided which selectively guides paper from the conveying path toward the cabinet 23 to either the zigzag secondary conveying path 28 or the secondary conveying path 29.

The paper guided to the intermediate tray 26 is guided to the count roller 12 through the zigzag sub-transport path 28 and the sub-transport path 29 . In this way, when the paper on which a copy image has been formed on one side is guided to the intermediate carriage 26 from the conveying passage by the auxiliary conveying passage 25, then passes through the zigzag auxiliary conveying passage 28 and the auxiliary conveying passage 29 to reach the counting roller 12, and is passed by the counting roller 12. When arriving at the copy processing area, the other side of the paper, that is, the side with no image formed faces the photoconductive drum 4, thereby realizing the double-sided copying method. But when the paper that has completed a copy process passes through the auxiliary transport channel 29 from the transport channel, and then is directly guided to the copy process area again by the counting roller 12, the side that has formed the image is again towards the photoconductor drum 4, thus realizing Operation of the image overlay copy method.

A reversible automatic document feeder 30 (hereinafter abbreviated as RADF) is mounted on the top of the copier 1. The RADF 30 has a conveyer belt 35 which rotates in contact with the top of the original table 2. The document feeder 30 will be supported by the original document. The document 31 introduced by the holder 32 by the rotation of the paper feed rollers 33 and 34 is sent to a predetermined position on the document table 2 . Moreover, the RADF also has a reverse and guided original looping area 36, through the conveying channel 37, the double-sided original that has completed single-sided copying is sent to the specified position on the original workbench again. Common one-sided manuscript is sent outside the machine by a paper-out roller 38 after finishing copy processing. A tongue door 40 is installed in the original looping area 36 to selectively guide the originals introduced by the conveyor belt to the conveying channel 37 or the paper output roller 38 .

Referring to Fig. 1, there is shown a block diagram of the controller of the aforementioned photocopier, including the operation panel section.

A display panel 52 is attached to the operation panel 51, and the display panel 52 is composed of an LCD. FIG. 1 shows the initial state of the display state of the display panel 52 . The display panel 52 includes a document size indicator 52a and a copy paper size indicator 52b. Copy ratio indicator 52c, hint display 52d, automatic copy density adjustment method indicator 52e and automatic paper/copy ratio selection method indicator 52f. On the left side of the display panel 52 are a reproduction ratio adjustment key 59 , a density selector key 60 , a bidirectional mode selector key 61 , and a special function mode key 62 . Further, at the bottom of the display panel 52, an automatic copy ratio selector key 54, a cassette selector key 55, and grade adjustment keys 56, 57, and 58 are provided. Also, on the right side of the display panel 52 is provided an approval key 53 for effectively displaying the selected function on the display.

The operation panel 51 as defined above is controlled by the CPU 71 through the panel controller 75. In addition to the panel controller 75, the CPU 71 is also connected with the solenoid driver 76, the clutch driver 77 and the motor driver 78 through the I/O interface. ROM72 is connected with CPU71 which is written with limited CPU71 work program, and the input/output data is stored in the special storage area of RAM73 at any time. When input from the panel controller 75, the CPU 71 outputs control data to the solenoid driver 76, the clutch driver 77 and the motor driver 78 according to the on/off status of each key. The solenoid driver 76 drives the solenoids SOL ₁ , SOL ₂ and SOL ₃ according to the above control data and likewise, the clutch driver 77 drives the paper feed clutch 79 and the counter clutch 80 . In addition, the motor driver 78 also drives the main motor M1 and the optical mechanism driving motor M2.

Hereinafter, the operation of the copier will be described in different situations in conjunction with FIGS. 3a-14.

(1) Initial operation:

The warm-up process, which includes increasing the temperature of the developing roller 18, is performed when the power supply lamp of the copier 1 is turned on. And, "please wait" is displayed on the hint display 52d of the display panel 52 at this time. When the warm-up process is completed, the color of the indicator of the print switch (not shown) changes, and the message "ready to copy" is displayed on the indication display 52d as shown in FIG. During this standby state, the CPU 71 waits for the operation of the key switch on the operation panel 51 (step n1 in Fig. 3a). If the approval key 53 is pressed during this standby, then various functions are placed in the special function mode as shown in Figure 14 (the special function mode will be explained in the following item 6) until the timer increases to the rated time (n6-n9 steps). If there is no function setting at this time, the words "No FUNCT10N SETTINGS" are displayed on the display 52d.

(2) Basic copy operation:

If the printing switch is depressed when the copier 1 is in the standby mode (step n10), the main motor M1 is driven (step n11), and the feed clutch 79 is activated (step n12). Accordingly, the paper is fed from the supply area toward the counting roller 12 . Within a predetermined time, the drive motor of the optical mechanism is driven to rotate the plane mirror, and the optical device 3 starts scanning the original image on the original table 2 . In addition, the counter clutch 80 is activated within a predetermined time, and the paper is guided to the copy processing area. In the copy processing area, the surface of the photoconductor drum 4 is irradiated by the reflected light emitted from the optical device 3 and reflected by the original, forming an electrostatic latent image, and the latent image is developed by developing Device 7 was developed. Thus, the developed image formed on the surface of the photoconductor drum 4 is transferred to the surface of the paper.

When the optical device 3 reaches the end of the paper, the optical mechanism drive motor M2 is driven to turn the plane mirror back (steps n15 and n16). In this way, the optical device 3 is rotated in the opposite direction and is brought back to the stop position. Again, the paper is guided by conveyor belt 17 from the copy processing zone, through development cylinder 18 , to dispenser 21 by exit path 20 . Then, when the paper is sent out (step n17), the number of deposits of the counter S placed on the special address of the RAM73 is reduced (step n18), and the process of steps n11 to steps n18 is repeated until the number of deposits of the counter S becomes 0 (by n19 step to n11 step). The counter S controls the number of copies to be made when the number of copies to be made is input from an operation keyboard (not shown), and when the number of copies is entered is recorded. Every time a copy is made, the counter S is recorded. Therefore, the steps from n11 to n18 are repeated until the stored value of the counter is 0. The copying process can be performed continuously according to the number of copies input by the operator.

(3) Copy density adjustment method:

When the density selector key 60 is manipulated in the standby state (n2 step), the display panel 52 assumes the state shown in FIG. 4 . As shown in FIG. 4 , a density scale 64 is displayed at the center of the display panel 52 , and a density level guide card 63 is displayed at positions corresponding to the level adjustment keys 56 , 57 and 58 . Therefore, the input of the level adjustment keys 56, 57 and 58 waits in this state. If the level adjustment key 57 is operated to select halftone formation, the density scale 64 changes color so as to indicate that a halftone original, such as a photograph, has been selected for color quality adjustment (steps n22 and n26). If the operation increases the level adjustment key 58, the indication value of the density scale 64 increases (n23 and n27 steps), and if the operation decreases the level adjustment key 56, then the indication value of the density scale 64 decreases (n24 and n28 steps). If the operation key is another key, then the program returns to step n2 (step n25). Therefore, when the density selector key 60 is operated, the display panel 52 is placed in the manual mode adjustment state, and the operator-controlled mode Conditioning can be accepted.

(4) How to set copy ratio:

If the operation key in the standby mode is the reproduction ratio setting key 59 (step n3), the display panel 52 assumes the state shown in FIG. 5 (step n31). When the reproduction ratio setting key 59 is manipulated, the reproduction ratio scale 66 is displayed at the center of the display panel 52, and the adjustment level 65 is displayed at the positions corresponding to the level adjustment keys 56, 57 and 58, if in this Under the situation, the grade adjustment key 57 of operation scale standard copying mode, then fixed enlarged reproduction ratio, such as A4 to B4, or reduction ratio, such as A4 to B5, is just shown successively (n32 step and n36 step). Furthermore, if the adjustment key 58 for increasing the level is operated, the copy ratio increases (steps n33 and n37), and if the adjustment key 56 for decreasing the level is operated, the copy size ratio decreases (step n34 and step n38) due to the manipulation of the level adjustment key. The changed reproduction ratios 56, 57 and 58 are displayed in the reproduction ratio scale 66 and the reproduction ratio indicator 52c. Therefore, when the reproduction ratio adjustment key 59 is operated, the display panel 52 is adjusted to the state shown in FIG. 5, and the reproduction ratio set by the operator can be obtained.

(5) Two-sided copying method

If the key operated during standby is the double-sided mode selector key 61, check to determine whether the box cover 23 shown in Figure 2 and including the two-way device has been loaded on (jumping from n4 steps to n41 step). If the two-way device is not mounted, check to see if the RADF 30 is mounted (n42 step). If the two-way device and RADF30 are not installed, then the display panel 52 shows the information shown in Figure 6a during this period counted by the timer T, and then returns to the standby state (n43, n44, n45 and n42 steps) .

Timer T is installed in RAM73 and occupies a special address area, and the counting time is approximately 3 to 5 seconds. If only the RADF 30 is installed, the display panel 52 displays information as shown in FIG. 6F (step n52) in such a way that the image of the double-sided original is only copied to one side of the paper (step n53). In this way, the images on the front and rear sides of the double-sided document 31 placed on the document holder 32 are respectively copied onto the single sides of the separated sheets.

If the duplex unit is mounted, the presence of RADF30 is checked (n46 step). If the RADF30 is not attached, check whether the automatic document feeder (hereinafter referred to as ADF, not shown in the figure) is attached (step n47). The ADF feeds originals in one direction from the original feed position, through the original table 2, directly to the original output position. It cannot turn the original over and send it to the original table 2 like the RADF30. If such an ADF is not mounted, the display panel 52 displays a message as shown in FIG. 6d, and the images on the original placed on the document table 2 by the operator are copied onto the front and rear sides of the copy paper. In this case, the copying process is completed when the operator operates the printing switch. In particular, if the operator operates the print switch after placing the document on the document table 2, the copy paper is sent out from the paper exit area. After the copying process is complete, the paper is directed to the intermediate carriage 26 . When the operator puts the original and presses the print switch again, the paper will be guided from the middle bracket 26 through the conveying passage 29 to the copy processing area, and the images of the two originals will be printed like this. Copies onto the front and back sides of a sheet of copy paper.

If the two-way device and the ADF are all mounted, the display panel 52 will display information as shown in Figure 6c, and wait for the operator to input whether the number of pages of the original is even or odd (steps n49 and n50). If both the duplex unit and the ADF are installed, the images of the one-sided original are automatically and continuously copied onto both sides of the copy paper. In this case, if the number of one-sided originals is an even number, the copy sheets are guided to the intermediate tray 26 starting from the first copy sheet. If the number of single-sided originals is odd, the copy paper on which the image of the first original is copied is sent out as a single-sided copy, and the second copy paper is guided to the intermediate tray 26 . Therefore, based on the data of the number of copies input by the operator, the images of the two one-sided originals are copied on both sides of the copy paper.

If, as shown in Fig. 2, the two-way device and the RADF are mounted, the display panel 52 displays the information shown in Fig. 6b (step n54). By the operator's choice of copying, it can be expected to obtain a method of copying a one-sided original to both sides of copy paper, a method of copying an image of a double-sided original to both sides of copy paper, or a method of copying an image of a double-sided original to separate copy paper one-sided approach. At this time, the copy mode is selected by operating the level adjustment key 56 , and this selection is input by operating the level adjustment key 57 . If the two-sided copying method of copying one-sided originals to copy paper is selected, the content shown in Figure 6c will be displayed (steps n55 and n49), and if the one-sided copying method of copying the images of the two-sided originals Surface mode, then shows the content shown in Figure 6f (n59 and n52 steps). Furthermore, if the mode that the double-sided manuscript is copied to both sides of the copy paper is selected, the display panel 52 displays the information (n57 step) shown in Fig. Way.

Therefore, if the duplex mode selector key 61 is operated, a check is made to connect other devices to the copier, and the display panel 52 displays information corresponding to the status of the copier. Thus, it is possible for the operator to perform double-sided copying in a manner corresponding to the situation of the copying machine.

(6) Special function mode

(i) Special functions of this copier

According to the embodiment, the following special functions are available for the copier 1 .

a) Profile movement

The contour shift is to automatically leave a larger margin on the left side of the copy paper and a smaller margin on the right side so that the left side of the copy paper can be easily stapled or bound with a thread Function. Details of the profile shifting method are disclosed, for example, in U.S. Patent Nos. 4,451,136 and 4,350,439, issued May 29, 1984.

b) Book copying (putting two pages of original copy at a time):

Book copying is a function of automatically copying one page of an open book with two pages placed on the platen glass 2, respectively. Details of book copying (two-page original copying at a time) are disclosed, for example, in U.S. Patent 4,017,173, April 12, 1977.

c) Sideline erase:

Edge Wipe is a function that cleans the periphery of the copy paper regardless of any original image, avoiding unwanted shadows around the copy paper. Details of edge erasing are disclosed, for example, in Japanese Patent Publication JP60-49360 (unexamined) on March 18, 1985.

d) Cropping/Masking:

Cropping is a function used to erase the original image on all areas of the copy paper except for a specific area. In other words, the image only appears in a specific area, and two rectangular areas can be determined. Masking is a function applied to eliminate a specific area of the preimage image. Two rectangular areas can be eliminated. Details of the cropping/masking function are disclosed in Japanese Patent Publication JP61-228472 (unexamined) on October 11, 1986.

e) Mobile:

Shift is a function used to move the whole or part of an original to the right or left side of the copy paper. The moving distance shall be determined according to requirements. Details of the mobile function are disclosed in, for example, Japanese Patent Publication JP56-83756 of June 8, 1981 .

f) Centering:

Centering is a function used to move the whole or part of an original to the center of the copy paper. Details of the centering function are disclosed in U.S. Patent 4,714,941, November 22, 1987.

g) superposition:

Overlay is a function for making a copy in which a part selected from the first original is superimposed with another part selected from the second original. Details of this function are disclosed, for example, in U.S. Patents 3,960,445, June 1, 1976 and U.S. 4,627,707, November 9, 1986.

h) Cover page placement:

Cover placement is a function used to add front and/or back covers to copied documents. The details of this function have been disclosed in such as Japanese Publication, September 30, 1985 JP60-191932; In JP62-185676 (unexamined) August 14, 1987.

(ii) Adjustments:

If the special function mode key 62 is operated in the standby mode, the program shown in FIG. 3e will be executed, realizing the selection of image processing functions including special functions. As shown in FIG. 7, the image processing functions that can be selected at this time will vary depending on the optional positions mounted on the copying machine 1. As shown in FIG. In addition, as shown in Fig. 13, in principle, due to the basic technical requirements of copiers, some functions can be used at the same time, and some functions cannot be used at the same time. When operating the special function mode key, the stored number of the counter K is first set to 1 (n61 step). The counter K is set in a special address in the RAM 73, and counts an operand corresponding to the grade adjustment key next to the pagination key to be described later. Next, the display panel 52 displays the information shown in Fig. 8a (step n62). Thereafter, an adjustment subroutine (step n62-1) is executed, the details of which will be described later with reference to Figs. 3f-1 to 3f-5. Then, it is checked whether the special mode key is on or off (step n62-2), then the program goes to step n63. If the grade adjustment key 58 that is equivalent to the page number key has been started (n63 step) at this moment, then the counter K increment value (n64 step), then checks the deposit number (n65 and n66 step) of counter Lou device K. If the stored number of the counter K is 3, the display panel 52 will display the information shown in Fig. 8c (step n67). If the stored number of the counter K is 2, the display panel 52 displays the information shown in Fig. 8b (step n68). If the stored number of the counter is 4, the program returns to n61 (steps n65 and n61). In the above process, steps n62, n67 and n68 each provide a display of the data supplied by the operator, so that the operator normally selects functions one by one (such functions are called correlation special functions) at the same time. Displayed so that the operator can easily select the relevant function.

If the approval key 53 is activated (step n69), then within the time limited by T, the display panel 52 displays the contents shown in Fig. 14 (steps n70 to n72). This makes it easier for the operator to identify possible and other information that is selected at the time, for example, instant density and reproduction ratio settings. Also, if the copy density is achieved by manual density adjustment at this time, the density scale 64 shown in FIG. 4 is displayed in the automatic copy density adjustment mode indicator 52e. Likewise, during manual copy paper selection and manual copy ratio selection, the copy ratio scale 66 shown in FIG. 5 is displayed in the automatic paper/copy ratio selection mode indicator 52f.

Therefore, if the special function mode key 62 is operated, the contents of FIG. 8a, 8b or 8c are displayed on the display panel 52. Every time, when the operator operates the adjustment key 58 for increasing the level, the contents of Figs. 8a, 8b and 8c are displayed on the display panel 52 in steps n62, n68 and n67, respectively. When Fig. 8a, 8b or 8c is displayed on the display panel 52, it is possible for the operator to use the level adjustment keys 56 and 57 to easily and quickly input the desired selection of the relevant special function. When copying a bound original, such as a book, related functions to be implemented are shown in FIG. 8a, and these related special copying functions are called book copying functions. The functions shown in Fig. 8b are related to functions requiring copy area input, so they are called area copy functions. Since, for each function, the functions associated with a common set of functions are displayed, the operator can more easily select the function to be performed.

If several special functions are to be scheduled simultaneously, the display will change according to which function has been selected. As shown in FIG. 13, it is not possible to arrange the cover sheet setting function mode or the superimposed copy function mode at the same time in the double-sided copying mode by processing them separately by category. If the cover sheet setting function is scheduled, the double-sided copy function, book copy (2-page copy at a time) function, and stack copy function cannot be scheduled. However, if the book copy (2 pages at a time) function is scheduled, the cover page placement function and cut/masking function cannot be scheduled either. This is determined by the function of the copier 1 and the installed device, and cannot be overcome. Therefore, the above-mentioned arrangement and function are stored on a special address of RAM73, and if a function that cannot be implemented simultaneously with another already arranged function is selected, or a function that cannot be implemented due to the relationship shown in FIG. function, the message shown in Figure 8a, 8b or 8c is displayed on the display panel 52, indicating that this arrangement is not possible.

Figures 8d, 8e, 8f, 8g and 8h are illustrations of a copier equipped with further other special functions related to the cover sheet placing function. These special functions are:

a) Binding:

Stapling is the function of attaching staples to one side of a document. It has been disclosed in detail in U.S. Patent 4,281,920.

b) Punching:

Punching is the function of punching holes along one side of a document for binding purposes, details of which are disclosed in Japanese Utility Model Documents (unexamined).

c) Z-fold/double-fold:

Z-folding is a function of folding copy paper into three parts according to the Z section, and double-folding is a function of folding copy paper into two parts. The details of Z-folding/double-folding have been disclosed in the British patent publication GB-A1-2, 187, 174 (1987, 9, 3).

d) To mark/mark:

Marking/indicating is intended to provide a written indicia function, such as printed by a printer associated with a copier providing character processing to print the title of a document, or a suitable device for printing indicia provided with a copier, such as as A "secret" token. Details of the marking/marking function are disclosed in Japanese Patent Document JP-61-53665 (1986, 3, 17).

(ⅲ) Graphic profile movement method

The graph profile movement mode is selected in this way, that is, when the display panel 52 just shows the information of Fig. 8a, wherein when pointing out the profile motion mode with a thick line, the start of the key 57 makes the "on/off" switch be in "on" state. If an edge clearing mode is required under the conditions shown in FIG. 8a, an arrow switch is actuated twice by the start key 56, at which point the edge clearing mode is indicated by thickness. Then, the "on/off" switch is turned "on" by the start key 57 . In this way, the operation of one of the related functions shown in the middle row of the display panel 52 can be selected.

After adjusting the subroutine (Fig. 3f-1), if the graph contour moving mode is selected in the above method (n81-1 step), the display panel 52 will display the information shown in Fig. 9a within a period of time limited by the timer (step n82). Then the information shown in Fig. 9b is displayed (step n84). Then, by operating the special function mode key 62, the information shown in Fig. 9c is displayed, and the adjustment of the profile is awaited (steps n85 and n87). At this time, the outline characters are displayed in the form of high-brightness contrast as shown in FIG. 9c, making it easy to confirm that the outline movement function has been selected. If starting from this state, the level adjustment key 58 (at this time, the adjustment key) is operated. When the message shown in Fig. 9d is displayed, the shift amount of the front and rear copying profiles can be adjusted to any desired value with the level adjustment keys 56 and 58 (steps n89 and n90). When this adjustment is completed, adjust the grade adjustment key 57 (at this time, the "END" key). When the level adjustment key 57 is adjusted, the display panel 52 will display the information shown in FIG. 9e within the time counted by the timer T. Next, the display panel 52 displays the information shown in FIG. 9b. Thus, the process of adjusting the subroutine ends. Thereafter, revert to standby mode. Therefore, when the profile movement function is selected, the adjustment and input of the profile movement amount can be performed by operating the special function mode key 62 .

(iv) Ways of other special functions

If the moving/centering function (Fig. 3f-2) is selected after adjusting the subroutine, the display panel 52 successively displays the information shown in Fig. 11a to 11f (steps n96, n107, n109, n103 and n105), and centering Selection of function (step n47) or input of movement amount (step n100) will be recognized.

Furthermore, if the cropping/masking function is selected after the adjustment subroutine (Fig. 3f-3), the display panel 52 successively displays the information shown in Figs. 10a to 10g (n111, n116, n119, n121, n127, n126 and n129), while the input of area data required for trimming/masking function adjustment (steps n117, n122) will be approved.

And, if the cover page placement function (Fig. 3f-4) is selected, the display panel 52 successively displays the information shown in Fig. 12a to 12d (steps n131, n138 and n137), so that the front cover page and/or the back cover page can be input and placed data (n132 step). Also, if requested, a copy can be made on the front cover (step n139).

In addition, if the function of copying any book (arranging two copies at a time), the edge clearing function or the overlapping function (Fig. 3f-5) is selected, the display panel 52 displays the information of Fig. , n148 or n152 steps). Then, the display panel 52 displays the information shown in Fig. 12d (step n145, n150 or n154), and the process of adjusting the subroutine ends. Thereafter, revert to standby mode.

(ⅴ) Selection key subroutine

If the approval key 53 is operated during the input of the special function program as shown in FIG. 3f, an interrupt program as shown in FIG. 3g is implemented. Specifically, the display panel 52 displays the content shown in FIG. 14 within the time selected by the timer T. This will allow the operator to easily identify the current density and reproduction ratio arrangements.

It should be noted that when devices not shown in the figure are attached to the copying machine 1, the present invention can operate in a similar manner by selecting functions other than those described above. Moreover, when the device of the present invention is delivered to the user, the installation conditions of the RADF or other devices are written into permanent memory, so that only those functions that can be implemented during function selection and scheduling are displayed, or in each It is possible to detect the installation of these devices when the function is implemented.

In an image forming apparatus according to the present invention, when the image processing function is input and set, the operator can confirm his selected function, and it is also possible to search for the image processing function related to his desired function. Therefore, the process of inputting and setting the image processing function can be simplified, thereby reducing the time required for said process.

(7) Improvement

Referring to Figures 15a and 15b, they are improved process diagrams of the procedure diagram shown in Figure 3e.

When operating the special function mode key 62, for the number of times of counting grade adjustment key 58 operations, the stored number of counter K is first placed on 1 (n201 step), then it is determined whether the cover page placement function has been set (n202 step). If not, it is further determined whether the cutting/masking function has been arranged (step n203). If not, the display panel 52 displays the information shown in Figure 16a. If the cover sheet placing function and the cutting/masking function have been arranged, the display panel 52 displays the information shown in Fig. 16a-1 (step n204). Then, the above subroutine adjustment (step n206) related to Fig. 3f is carried out, and the special mode key 62 is checked. If the special mode key 62 is not pressed, the program continues to step n208. If at this stage the grade adjustment key 58 (step n208) corresponding to the subsequent pagination key is operated, the counter K increments immediately (step n209), and checks the stored number of counter K immediately (step n210). If the stored number of the counter K is 3, check whether the two-sided copying function, the book copying (two-page copying at a time) function, or the overlapping copying function is arranged. If these functions are not scheduled, the display panel 52 displays the information shown in Fig. _16b2 (step n220). If the storage number of the counter K is 3, and the double-sided copying function, the overlapping copying function or the book copying (two-page copying at a time) function are arranged, then the display panel 52 displays the information shown in Figure 16c (step n217) . Afterwards, the program can re-enter the adjustment subroutine. If the stored number of counter K is 4 (step n210), the program returns to step n210.

If the number stored in the counter K is 2, check whether the cover page placement function is arranged (step n221), whether the double-sided copying function is arranged (n223 step), or the function of book copying (two-page copying at a time), or double-sided copying function, the display panel 52 displays the information shown in Figure 16b ₁ (step n222). If the function of book copying (two-page copying at a time) is arranged, the display panel 52 displays the information shown in Fig. 16b ₂ (step n225). In addition, if the cover page setting, double-sided copying, or book copying (two-page copying at a time) functions are not scheduled, the display panel 52 displays the message shown in Fig. 16b (step n226).

Then, if the special function mode key 62 is operated, the display panel 52 displays the information shown in Fig. 16a, 16a ₁ , 16b, 16b ₁ , 16b ₂ or 16c. For example, if no function is assigned, the display panel 52 displays the information shown in Fig. 16a, 16b or 16c each time the level adjustment key 58 is operated. When the contents of Figs. 16a, 16b and 16c are displayed, the operator can arrange the required special functions by operating the level keys 56, 57. The content of Fig. 16a corresponds to the function implemented for copying a bound original, such as a book. The contents of Fig. 16b correspond to the functions required for the input image partial range. Since related functions are displayed together, it is possible for the operator to more easily select the function to be performed.

According to this modification, the previous setting mode and function are stored at a specific address in RAM 73, and those functions that cannot be executed simultaneously with another function that has been set cannot be displayed on the display panel 52.

Due to the aforementioned process, functions that cannot be performed are not displayed by the display panel 52, so that the operator does not mistakenly input or schedule an impossible function.

As shown in Figure 17, considering other additional functions, such as binding with staples, punching, Z-folding/double-folding, marking/marking, etc., whether or not these functions can be used at the same time are indicated in principle. .

According to the present invention, in a stapling device, during image processing function input, only those image processing functions that can be performed simultaneously with those image processing functions that have been input and arranged in a related group can be displayed on the display. displayed on the area. However, those image processing functions that cannot be implemented are not displayed during image processing function input. Therefore, the operator cannot select functions that cannot be performed. Therefore, after the function input is completed, the display panel 52 indicates to the operator that those image processing functions that cannot be implemented are not displayed, and the operator will not feel disappointed. Also, the data input procedure related to the arrangement of the image processing functions is not wasted, so that the time required for the input arrangement is shortened.

Also, in an image forming apparatus according to the present invention, when a special input key is operated during input and arrangement of image processing functions on one display screen, the functions input and arrangement on the other display screen are displayed on the display area . Thus, the operator can easily recognize the image processing function prearranged on the other display screen, thereby preventing the input of an image processing function that cannot be performed.

Although the present invention has been fully described with reference to the accompanying drawings and the embodiments, it should be noted that various changes and improvements will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such improvements and changes are to be considered as included within the scope of the present invention as defined by the dependent claims, unless they depart from the content of the claims.

Claims (4)

1, a kind of imaging device with multiple image processing function, these functions can be divided at least and comprise that first kind has first grouping of the function that links and comprise second kind of second grouping that the function that links is arranged, and said imaging device is characterized in that comprising:

One for showing the display device of different information;

For calling one of said first and second groupings, and all have being included in of linking to call function in the grouping to be presented at grouping calling device in the said display device for making;

For said from be shown in said display device has the selecting arrangement of choosing a kind of function in the function that links; With

In order in said display device, selected function to be tabulated, so that the catalogue device of approval selected function.

2, a kind of as the imaging device that claim 1 limited, it is characterized in that wherein said selection function is to be presented on the said display device with distinguishing, and not chosen function is shown still, further to come selected by said selecting arrangement.

3, in a kind of imaging device as claimed in claim 1, be used for method that function is selected, it is characterized in that may further comprise the steps:

Call one of said first and second groupings;

Be included in the function that the having in the grouping of calling link and be presented in the display device all; And

Said from be shown in said display device has selects a plurality of functions in the function that links.

4,, it is characterized in that also being included as the step of assert selected function and on said display device, listing selected function as the said method for selecting of claim 3.

Images