JP2001148755A - Image forming apparatus, control method of image forming apparatus, and storage medium - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) [Summary] [PROBLEMS] To output an image to an OHP sheet without rereading the original using the original image read at the time of a copy process on plain paper or resetting the original. SOLUTION: During copy processing on plain paper, an instruction for executing a presentation mode for executing image formation processing on an OHP sheet based on image data stored in a RAM 51b after completion of the copy processing on plain paper is provided. The CPU 51a displays the presentation mode key on the touch panel, and if the instruction to the presentation mode key is detected by the CPU 51a during the copying process to the plain paper, the image stored in the RAM 51b after the copying process to the plain paper is completed. A feature is that the CPU 51a controls the image forming process on the OHP sheet to be automatically executed based on the data.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a method of storing image data read from a document by a document reading unit in a memory resource, and storing a plurality of types of sheets designated by a plurality of paper sources for each paper source. The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus capable of feeding a recording medium and forming an image on each recording medium based on image data stored in the memory resource, a control method of the image forming apparatus, and a storage medium.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in an image forming apparatus such as a digital copying machine, when a plurality of different types of copy paper are obtained from a plurality of paper feed trays and copied, copy setting input and recording are separately performed for each recording paper. The execution of the copy process was repeatedly performed to obtain the desired copy of the recording paper.

Further, there are various types of recording paper (copy paper), but a general image forming apparatus has only several paper feed trays, and it is impossible to store all types of recording paper. Therefore, the operator must perform the work of replacing the target recording paper with the paper feed tray before performing the copy processing, and the working efficiency is extremely poor.

[0004] Therefore, a "manual feed tray" is provided on the side of the image forming apparatus main body, which allows the operator to relatively easily feed paper. It also has means for determining whether or not there is copy paper on the manual feed tray.

[0005] In the image forming apparatus as described above, in addition to being able to copy on a normal copy sheet (hereinafter, referred to as plain paper) as a recording medium for the original image, the content of the presentation is visually expressed when giving a presentation or the like. Copying is also possible on an OHP (Overhead Projector) transparent sheet (hereinafter, referred to as an OHP sheet) used to perform the copying.

Further, in the conventional image forming apparatus, the reading operation of the image on the document surface must be repeated as many times as the number of copy outputs required by the operator during the copy processing, so that the efficiency of the copy processing is reduced. There was a problem that it was low.

Therefore, there is an image forming apparatus having a data memory device in a main body as means for storing image data. This image forming apparatus accumulates image data read from a document in a data memory device, reads out the image data stored in the data storage device on a copy sheet fed, and copies each of the image data. Only one operation is required, and copy processing can be performed efficiently.

[0008]

Incidentally, there are cases where slides, OHP sheets, etc. used when giving a presentation, and explanatory materials distributed to participants of a presentation are created using an image forming apparatus. Generally, creation of an OHP sheet or the like is often cited from materials for explanation of distribution. Therefore, there is a case where it is desired to output the distribution explanation materials and the OHP sheets for the number of participants at the same time.

However, in the conventional image forming apparatus,
If you want to copy and output the distribution explanation material and the OHP sheet or slide from the original image at the same time, the operator should copy and output the distribution explanation material on plain paper, change the recording medium to the OHP sheet, and copy again. Each time, the user had to input settings such as selection of copy paper.

Therefore, there is an image processing apparatus having as a setting means a "presentation mode", which is a means for simultaneously copying an OHP sheet and a plurality of copies of materials for distribution from a document image.

In such an image forming apparatus, the operator sets the presentation mode in advance,
Copy output from an original image to an OHP sheet and a distribution explanation material can be performed by a one-touch operation.

However, OHP sheets and the like are used relatively less frequently than plain paper, and are usually rarely stored in a paper feed tray. Therefore, in most cases, the operator generally feeds and uses the necessary number of OHP sheets on the manual feed tray each time.

In such an image forming apparatus, if the OHP sheet is not stored in the paper feed tray as described above and the OHP sheet cannot be fed immediately,
Even if the operator wants to use the presentation mode, he / she cannot execute the presentation mode, input the settings, scan the original image, and copy the distribution explanation material to plain paper first. If the OHP sheet can be fed from the manual feed tray or the like after the copy process is completed, the setting must be input and the document image must be read again to output the OHP sheet. As a result, there is a problem that the efficiency of the copy processing is reduced.

Before outputting an original image on an expensive recording medium such as an OHP sheet, glossy paper, or thick paper, copy the original image onto inexpensive plain paper and check the output result of the original image. There have been requests from users who want to continue outputting images to the expensive recording medium.

The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and the first to ninth inventions according to the present invention are directed to a first type of recording medium (plain paper). Instruction key (presentation) for instructing execution of a copy mode for executing image forming processing on a second type of recording medium (OHP sheet) based on image data stored in the memory resources during the copying process of The display means displays a (mode key) on the setting screen, and when an instruction to the instruction key (presentation mode key) is detected during the process of copying to the first type of recording medium (plain paper), The first
After the completion of the copying process on the recording medium (plain paper) of the second type, the second
Automatically executes the image forming process on the recording medium (OHP sheet) of the first type, thereby using the original image read at the time of the copying process on the first type of recording medium (plain paper) as it is, Can be output to the second type of recording medium (OHP sheet) without reading or resetting, so that the output time can be reduced and the trouble of setting can be saved, and the two types of recording medium can be output. An image forming apparatus, a control method of the image forming apparatus, and a storage medium capable of efficiently performing the above-described copy processing (copy processing in a presentation mode).

[0016]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, image data read from a document by a document reading unit is stored in a memory resource, and a plurality of paper sources are provided for each paper source. In an image forming apparatus capable of feeding a specified number of types of recording media and forming an image based on the image data stored in the memory resources on each of the recording media, the first type of recording medium is During the copying process, an instruction key for instructing execution of a copy mode for executing an image forming process on a second type of recording medium based on the image data stored in the memory resource is displayed on a setting screen. Display means (the CPU 51a shown in FIG. 2 operates the operation unit 50 shown in FIG. 3)
On the touch panel 65) and first detecting means (the “presentation mode key displayed on the touch panel 65 of the operation unit 50 shown in FIG. 3”) for detecting an instruction to the instruction key displayed by the display means. Is detected by the CPU 51a shown in FIG. 2), and when an instruction to the instruction key is detected by the first detection means during the copying process to the first type of recording medium, The first
Control means for automatically executing the image forming process on the second type of recording medium based on the image data stored in the memory resources after the completion of the copying process on the type of recording medium (FIG. 2) CPU 51a) shown in FIG.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a second detecting means for detecting whether or not the second type of recording medium can be fed (the CPU 51a shown in FIG. A sensor (not shown) on the tray 32), wherein the control means detects an instruction to the instruction key by the first detection means during a copying process to the first type of recording medium, and 5 detects that the second type of recording medium cannot be fed, a message prompting the user to set the second type of recording medium to the paper source (FIG. 5B "Please feed the OHP sheet to the manual feed tray" displayed in the detail display field 433 shown in ()))
Is displayed.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided the first setting means (setting screen (not shown) on the touch panel 65 shown in FIG. 3) for setting whether or not the instruction key is displayed, and
And a first holding unit (non-volatile memory 51d shown in FIG. 2) for holding the setting of the setting unit.
The presence / absence of the display of the instruction key is controlled based on the setting of the first setting unit held by the first holding unit.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for automatically executing an image forming process on the second type of recording medium after completion of the copying process on the first type of recording medium by the control means. Setting means (setting screen (not shown) on the touch panel 65 shown in FIG. 3) for setting the second setting means, and second holding means (non-volatile memory 51d shown in FIG. 2) for holding the setting of the second setting means. And the control unit, based on the setting of the second setting unit held in the second holding unit, sets the second type after the completion of the copying process to the first type of recording medium. This is to control whether or not the image forming process for the type of recording medium is automatically executed.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the control means is arranged such that the setting of the second setting means held in the second holding means is performed when the copy processing to the first type of recording medium is completed. If it is set not to perform the automatic execution of the image forming process on the second type of recording medium later, after the completion of the copying process on the first type of recording medium, the second type of recording is completed. A message (second message screen shown in FIG. 6B) for selecting whether or not to execute the image forming process on the medium is displayed, and the image on the second type of recording medium is displayed based on the selection result. It controls the execution of the forming process.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a plurality of paper discharge trays (a paper discharge tray 35 shown in FIG. 1), and the control means controls the image forming apparatus after completion of the image forming process on the plural kinds of recording media. The recording medium is separated for each type and discharged to the plurality of discharge trays.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the plurality of types of recording media include plain paper, OHP sheets, glossy paper, and thick paper.

An eighth invention according to the present invention is characterized in that image data read from a document by a document reading unit is stored in a memory resource, and a plurality of paper sources designated by a plurality of paper sources are provided. A method of controlling an image forming apparatus capable of feeding recording media of various types and forming an image based on the image data stored in the memory resources on each of the recording media.
Key for instructing execution of a copy mode for executing an image forming process on a second type of recording medium based on the image data stored in the memory resource during the copying process on the type of recording medium Is displayed on the setting screen (step S1 in FIG. 7), and an instruction to the instruction key displayed on the setting screen is detected during the process of copying to the first type of recording medium. An automatic image forming step of automatically executing an image forming process on the second type of recording medium based on the image data stored in the memory resource after completion of the copying process on the first type of recording medium. (Step S17 in FIG. 7 to Step S24 in FIG. 8).

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, image data read from a document by a document reading unit is stored in a memory resource, and a plurality of sheets of a number designated by a plurality of sheet sources are designated for each sheet source. An image forming apparatus capable of feeding a recording medium of the first type and forming an image based on the image data stored in the memory resources on each of the recording mediums, during the copying process to the recording medium of the first type, An instruction for instructing execution of a copy mode for executing an image forming process on a second type of recording medium based on image data stored in the memory resource during a process of copying on one type of recording medium A display step of displaying keys on the setting screen (step S1 in FIG. 7), and an instruction to the instruction keys displayed on the setting screen is detected during the process of copying to the first type of recording medium. If the first type of record After the copying process on the body is completed, an automatic image forming process for automatically executing the image forming process on the second type of recording medium based on the image data stored in the memory resources (steps S17 to S8 in FIG. 7) Step S2
And 4) storing a computer-readable program for executing the above in a storage medium.

[0025]

Embodiments of the present invention will be specifically described below with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of a digital copying machine to which an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention can be applied.

In FIG. 1, reference numeral 100 denotes a digital copying machine. Reference numeral 10 denotes a digital copying machine main body. An automatic document feeder 33 is mounted on the upper part of the main body 10 of the digital copying machine. Reference numeral 34 denotes a sorter which sorts copy paper discharged from the digital copier main body 10 into a plurality of bins (discharge trays 35) and discharges them. As described above, the digital copying machine 100 includes the digital copying machine main body 10, the automatic document feeder 33, the sorter 34, and the like.

Reference numeral 11 denotes a light source, which scans while irradiating a document conveyed by the automatic document feeder 33 and loaded on a document table on the upper part of the digital copier main body 10. Reference numeral 16 denotes an image sensor unit which receives reflected light from a document via mirrors 12 to 14 and a lens 15, converts the received optical image into a digital signal, and sends it to an image processing unit 53 shown in FIG. I do.

Reference numeral 17 denotes an exposure control unit which controls generation of an optical signal from the laser light emitting unit 18 based on image data stored in an image memory 54 shown in FIG.

The optical signal generated from the laser light emitting section 18 is applied to a photosensitive drum 23 whose surface is uniformly charged by a charger 24 via lenses 19, 20 and a mirror 21.
An electrostatic latent image is formed on the photosensitive drum 23.

A developing unit 22 develops an electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum 23 as a toner image with a developer, for example, a toner. A transfer charger 25 transfers the toner image on the photosensitive drum 23 to recording paper conveyed from the manual feed tray 32 or recording paper conveyed by controlling the rotation of the paper feed clutches 28 and 29 from the paper feed trays 30 and 31. Transcribe.

Reference numerals 26 and 27 denote fixing rollers for fixing a toner image on recording paper.

The digital copying machine 10 shown in FIG.
0 indicates a plurality of types of recording paper (for example, plain paper and OH
(P sheet) to form a read document image.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a control configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment. The same components as those in FIG. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

In the figure, reference numeral 50 denotes an operation unit, and a control unit 51
The digital copier 100 has an information input unit for the operator such as keys and buttons, and an information output unit for the operator on an LCD or the like. Has a function. Reference numeral 52 denotes an image reader for reading a document image.
The components 11 to 16 shown in FIG. 1 are provided.

Reference numeral 53 denotes an image processing unit,
The image data is converted into a digital signal by the image processing unit 6, and various correction processes are performed to generate image data that is faithful to the document, thereby achieving high image quality reproduction. Further, the image processing unit 53 has an editing and processing function necessary for converting the output into an output desired by the operator. An image memory 54 stores the image data processed by the image processing unit 53. 55
Is an image output unit that reads out image data stored in the image memory 54 and forms an image corresponding to the image data on a recording sheet, and includes the units 17 to 32 shown in FIG.

The control unit 51 is a microcomputer comprising an information processing unit such as a CPU 51a and an information storage unit such as a rewritable nonvolatile memory 51d such as a RAM 51b, a ROM 51c, an HDD (hard disk drive) or a flash memory, and the like. Is realized by
It controls the entire digital copying machine 100.

The control unit 51 controls the input operation to the operation unit 50 and the message output, controls the image reader 52 to read the original image, and controls the image processing unit 5.
(3) control processing of image processing flow, control processing of accumulation and readout of image data in the image memory unit 54, control processing of image data copy processing operation by the image output unit 55, A control process and a control process of a sorting / discharging operation of the copy paper in the sorter unit 34 are performed.

Further, by storing an arbitrary copy process setting (user mode setting) from the operation unit 50 in the information storage unit (the nonvolatile memory 51d or the like) in the control unit 51 in advance, the operator can make the setting. One-touch selection makes it possible to increase the operator's work efficiency.

In the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment, whether or not to display a presentation mode key 422 shown in FIG. A setting (presentation key display setting) and a setting as to whether or not to automatically start image output to the OHP sheet (OHP automatic transition setting) are stored.

As described above, the digital copying machine 100 according to the present embodiment has the control configuration shown in FIG. 2 in the digital copying machine main body 10, and the image sensor section 16 in the image reader section 52 has The original image is read as the converted image data, sent to the image processing unit 53, and stored in the image memory 54. The image data stored in the image memory 54 is reproduced by the image output unit 55 and copied onto recording paper (plain paper, OHP sheet, etc.).

Hereinafter, the configuration and operation of the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

First, when a document is conveyed to the document table by the automatic document feeder 33, the light source 11 obtains a driving force from an optical motor (not shown) and reciprocates in the left-right direction in FIG. Light generated from the light source 11 is reflected by the stacked originals, and an optical image is obtained. The optical image is mirror 1
2 to 14 and the image sensor unit 16 via the lens 15
Is transmitted to

The mirrors 12 to 14 are driven integrally with the light source 11. The image sensor unit 16 is configured by an element that converts light into an electric signal, and converts an optical image transmitted by the operation of this element into an electric signal.
Further, it is converted into a digital signal (image data) and sent to the image processing unit 53.

The image processing section 53 optimizes the digitalized image data and performs various correction processes to generate image data that is faithful to the original to achieve high image quality reproduction. Is performed, and the processed image data is stored in the image memory 54.

The image output unit 55 reads out the image data stored in the image memory 54, reconverts the digital data into an analog signal, and further converts the image data into an optical signal by the exposure control unit 17. The optical signal propagates through the lenses 19 and 20 and the mirror 21 to form the photosensitive drum 23
The electrostatic latent image is formed on the photosensitive drum 23.

This latent image is developed with toner, and is transferred onto a copy sheet (recording sheet) conveyed in the digital copying machine body 10. Further, the toner image transferred onto the recording paper is fixed on the recording paper by the fixing rollers 26 and 27, and the image is recorded on the recording paper. The recording paper on which the image has been recorded is transported to the sorter 34.

The sorter 34 is a digital copier main body 10.
The recording paper output from the printer is sorted into the paper output tray 35, and the paper is discharged. The paper output tray is controlled by the control unit 51, and the output copy paper is arbitrarily discharged by the control unit 51. It is discharged to a tray.

The paper feed trays 30, 31 are provided at the lower part of the digital copier main body 10, and can store recording paper to some extent. The control unit 51 controls the paper feed clutches 28 and 29 to control the paper feed tray 3
The conveyance of the recording paper stored in 0, 31 is controlled.

On the right side of FIG. 1, there is provided a manual feed tray 32 which enables the operator to relatively easily feed a small number of arbitrary types of recording paper. Further, a sensor (not shown) for detecting whether an OHP sheet is placed on the manual feed tray 32 is attached to the manual feed tray 32. The control unit 51 controls the paper feed clutches 28 and 29 and the like,
1. A tray for feeding recording paper from the manual feed tray 32 is selected, and the designated number of copies of recording paper can be fed for each of the selected paper feeding trays.

FIG. 3 is a plan view for explaining an example of the configuration of the operation unit 50 shown in FIG.

In the figure, reference numeral 61 denotes a start key which is depressed when starting copy processing or the like, and is arranged on the right side of the operation unit 50. Reference numeral 62 denotes a stop key, which is depressed when stopping operations such as copy processing, and is arranged above the start key 61. Numeral 63 denotes a numeric keypad for transmitting numerical information such as the number of copies to the digital copier 1.
00 is provided at the center of the operation unit 50. Reference numeral 64 denotes a reset key for resetting copy processing settings and the number of copies to an initial state.
It is arranged on the left side of the numeric keypad 63.

Numeral 65 denotes a touch panel, which has an information display section composed of a liquid crystal element or the like for displaying information on the digital copier 100 to the operator, and a detecting section for detecting an operation input by the operator. Control unit 5 shown in FIG.
1 is controlled. The touch panel 65 is arranged on the left side of the operation unit 50.

Any key information can be displayed on the touch panel 65. When the operator presses the key information, the controller detects that pressure and selects the key information displayed by the operator. It is conveyed to 51. Further, a plurality of key information can be displayed on the touch panel 65.

Note that the settings input through the operation unit 50 are the same as those shown in FIG.
Are stored in the RAM 51b, the nonvolatile memory 51d, and the like shown in FIG.

The arrangement of the components constituting the operation section 50 is not limited to the above-described arrangement, but may be any arrangement.

A setting screen (not shown) is displayed on the touch panel 65 to set whether or not to display a presentation mode key 422 shown in FIG. 4B described later (presentation key display setting). (Automatic OHP automatic transition setting) can be set.

Hereinafter, various operation screens displayed on the touch panel 65 will be described with reference to FIGS.

FIG. 4 is a view showing an example of a copy operation screen displayed on the touch panel 65 shown in FIG.
(A) corresponds to a screen (first standard screen) displayed when the copy processing is not performed, and (b) corresponds to a screen (second standard screen) displayed when the normal copy processing is performed. Standard screen).

In FIG. 4A, reference numeral 410 denotes a first standard screen, which is displayed when a copy process is not performed.

Reference numeral 411 denotes a status display column, which is the first standard screen 4
At 10, the status display field 411 displays a message indicating that copying can be started in the digital copying machine 100.

In FIG. 4B, reference numeral 420 denotes a second standard screen, which is displayed when a normal copy process is being performed. In the second standard screen 410, the status display column 411 displays that the digital copying machine 100 is performing copying.

Reference numeral 422 denotes a presentation mode key (to be referred to as a "presentation" key). Even when a copy is being executed, the user can switch to the presentation mode by pressing this key. That is, after the copy of the plain paper is completed, it is possible to proceed to the copy on the OHP sheet. The “Presentation” key 422 corresponds to the RAM 5 shown in FIG.
1b, according to the presentation key setting stored in the non-volatile memory 51d, etc., it is displayed in a pressable state even during copying.

Keys other than the "Presentation" key 422 that cannot be pressed during copy processing are displayed with a low density and cannot be pressed (in the drawing, they are indicated by dotted frames). Further, in the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment, the key information of the “presentation” key 422 is displayed on the touch panel 65 on the operation unit 50 during the operation of the normal copy processing, and the operator presses the “presentation” key 422. By simply doing so, automatic output to an OHP sheet is realized after the end of the copy processing.

FIG. 5 is a view showing an example of a copy operation screen displayed on the touch panel 65 shown in FIG.
FIG. 4A shows the “Presentation” key 422 shown in FIG.
Corresponds to the screen (third standard screen) displayed when is pressed, and (b) a screen displayed when OHP paper is not set in the manual feed tray 32 after the display of (a) ( 4th standard screen).

In FIG. 5A, reference numeral 430 denotes a third standard screen, which is displayed on the touch panel 65 after the "Presentation" key 422 of the second standard screen 420 shown in FIG. Screen. "Presentation" key 422
Is highlighted and in a selected state. A detail display field 433 displays a message indicating that the presentation mode has been selected, and indicates that image formation on the OHP sheet is to be started after the current copy processing is completed.

In FIG. 5B, reference numeral 440 denotes a fourth standard screen. When a normal copy process is performed, the presentation mode is set and the third standard screen is displayed. This is a screen displayed when OHP paper is set when OHP paper is not set. The detail display field 433 displays a message prompting the operator to feed OHP sheets to the manual feed tray 32.

FIG. 6 is a view showing an example of a copy operation screen displayed on the touch panel 65 shown in FIG.
(A) corresponds to a screen (first message screen) displayed after the copy processing for plain paper or the like in the presentation mode is completed, and (b) is a screen displayed before the copy processing for the OHP sheet is started. (Second message screen).

In FIG. 6A, reference numeral 450 denotes a first message screen on which a presentation mode is set.
This is a screen displayed when the OHP sheet is fed from the manual feed tray 32 after the copy processing for plain paper or the like is completed, and a message prompting the user to feed the OHP sheet to the manual feed tray 32 is displayed.

In FIG. 6B, reference numeral 460 denotes a second message screen which is displayed before the copy process for the OHP sheet is started.
1b, displayed when the copy process for the OHP sheet is not automatically executed when the presentation mode stored in the nonvolatile memory 51d or the like is set. When the start key 61 is pressed while the second message screen 460 is displayed on the touch panel 65, the copy process on the OHP sheet is started, and when the stop key 62 is pressed, the copy process on the OHP sheet is stopped.

Hereinafter, the control procedure of the copy processing in the digital copying machine 100 will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

FIGS. 7 and 8 are flowcharts for explaining an example of a first control processing procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment, which is stored in the ROM 51c shown in FIG. 2 or another storage medium (not shown). Corresponding to the control processing procedure executed by the CPU 51a based on the program. In addition, S1 to S24 indicate each step.

The portion shown in FIG. 7 is generated during normal copying, and is mainly performed during normal copying.
8 shows a control processing procedure in a case where is pressed, and the part shown in FIG. 8 mainly shows a control processing procedure after the end of the normal copy when the presentation mode is set.

First, in step S1, for example, when normal copy processing (copy processing on plain paper) is started,
Whether or not to display the “Presentation” key 422 on the touch panel 65 during normal copying is determined by the RAM 51 of the control unit 51.
b, the determination is made based on the user mode setting stored in the non-volatile memory 51d and the like, and if it is determined that the user mode setting is not displayed, the process is terminated as it is.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S 1 that the user mode setting is the display of the “present” key 422, the touch panel 65 is displayed on the touch panel 65 as shown in the second standard screen 420 shown in FIG. The "presentation" key 422 is displayed, and the process proceeds to step S2.

Next, in step S2, flags used in this control processing are initialized. Note that the flag SW
0 is a “present” key 42 on the operation unit 50 by the operator.
2 is pressed or not, OH after normal copying is completed
The flag SW1 is used to record the state of whether or not to automatically start the P mode.
Is used to determine whether or not to output a display message.

Next, in step S3, it is determined whether or not the reset key 64 has been pressed. If it is determined that the reset key 64 has been pressed, the process proceeds to step S4, while if the reset key 64 has not been pressed. If it is determined, the process proceeds to step S6.

In step S6, it is determined whether the "presentation" key 422 has been turned on (pressed). If it is determined that the key is turned on, the process proceeds to step S7. On the other hand, if it is determined that the “present” key 422 is not pressed, that is, if there is no command from the operator, the process proceeds to step S17 to perform the copy process. It is determined whether or not the copying has been completed, that is, whether or not the copying process on plain paper has been completed. If it has been determined that the copying has been completed, the process proceeds to step S18 shown in FIG. If it is determined that the copy process has been performed, the process returns to step S3, and waits for the end of the copy process or the pressing of the “presentation” key 422.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S 6 that the “Presentation” key 422 has been pressed by the operator, the third standard screen 430 shown in FIG. A message indicating that the presentation mode has been selected is displayed on the touch panel 65, and the process proceeds to step S7.

Next, in step S7, the flag SW
0 (whether SW0 = “0”) is determined and the flag S
If it is determined that W0 is in the initial state (SW0 = “0”), the process proceeds to step S8, where it is determined that the flag SW0 is not in the initial state (“0”) (the flag SW0 contains some value). If so, the process proceeds to step S11.

In step S8, after completion of the copy process on the plain paper being executed, it is determined based on the user mode setting whether or not to automatically start outputting the image data to the OHP sheet. When it is determined that the setting is for automatically starting the copy process, "1" is input to the flag SW0 (S9), and the process proceeds to step S11.
Proceed to.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S8 that the copy processing for the OHP sheet is not to be automatically started, "2" is input to the flag SW0 (S1).
0), and proceed to step S11.

Next, in step S11, it is determined whether or not the paper source of the plain paper is the manual feed tray 32 by referring to the paper source of the copy processing for the plain paper that is currently being executed. Here, the paper feed source for the copy processing on plain paper is the manual feed tray 32.
Is determined in step S12,
A flag is set on the flag SW1 (SW1 = “1”), and the process proceeds to step S17.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S11 that the paper feed source for the copy processing for plain paper that is currently being executed is not the manual feed tray 32, the flow advances to step S13.

In step S13, the manual feed tray 3
It is determined whether there is an OHP sheet in the manual feed tray 2 and if it is determined that an OHP sheet exists in the manual feed tray 32, the flag SW1 is initialized in step S14 (S1).
4), proceed to step S17.

On the other hand, in step S13, the manual feed tray 3
2, it is determined that there is no OHP sheet, that is, the feeding destination of the copy process to the plain paper being executed is not the manual feed tray 32, and the OHP sheet cannot be fed from the manual feed tray 32. In this case, in step S15, "1" is input to the flag SW1 (SW1 =
"1"), in step S16, the touch panel 65
The fourth standard screen 440 shown in FIG. 5B is displayed above, and a message prompting the operator to feed the OHP sheet to the manual feed tray 32 is displayed in the detail display field 433, and step S17 is performed. Proceed to.

Next, in step S17, it is determined whether or not the copy processing for plain paper that is currently being executed has been completed. If it is determined that the copy processing has been completed, the process proceeds to step S18 shown in FIG.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S17 that the copy process on plain paper has not been completed, the process returns to step S3. That is, a loop is formed between step S3 and step S17 while the copy process on plain paper is being performed, and ending the copy process on plain paper is a condition for exiting this loop.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S3 in the loop that the reset key 64 has been pressed by the operator, the flow advances to step S4 to change the state of the flag SW0 (whether SW0 = "0" or not). Judge, flag SW0
Is determined in the initial state ("0"), that is, when the presentation mode is not set, the process proceeds to step S5.
, The currently executed copy process on plain paper is stopped, and the process ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S4 that the flag SW0 is not in the initial state ("0"), that is, if it is determined that the presentation mode is set, step S2 is performed.
Then, the process returns to the step (3), and the flags are initialized. That is, with the presentation mode set, the reset key 6
When 4 is pressed once, only the presentation mode is cancelled, and the process of copying to plain paper is continued without being stopped.

At step S18 in FIG.
The state of W0 (SW0 = “0”) is determined, that is, whether the presentation mode is set, and the flag SW0 is in the initial state (“0”), that is, the presentation mode is not set. If so, the process ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S18 that the flag SW0 is not in the initial state ("0"), that is, if it is determined that the presentation mode is set, step S18 is executed.
At 19, the state of the flag SW1 is read, and
It is determined whether or not 1 = 1. A value for determining whether or not to output a message prompting the operator to feed the OHP sheet to the manual feed tray 32 to the touch panel 65 of the operation unit 50 is input to the flag SW1.

In step S19, flag SW1 is set to "1".
Otherwise, that is, if it is determined that the value indicating that the message is not displayed is input, the process proceeds to step S
If it is determined that the flag SW1 is "1", that is, a value indicating that a message is to be displayed has been input, the process proceeds to step S20, and the operation unit 50
The first message screen 450 shown in FIG. 6A is displayed on the touch panel 65 of FIG. 6 to prompt the operator to replenish the manual feed tray 32 with the OHP sheet, and step S2 is performed.
Proceed to 1.

Next, when the control unit 51 confirms that the OHP sheet can be fed from the manual feed tray 32, in step S21, the state of the flag SW0 is read out.
It is determined whether or not SW0 is "2", that is, whether or not the OHP mode is automatically started after the copy processing on the plain paper is completed.

In step S21, the flag SW0 is set to "2".
Otherwise, that is, if it is determined that the OHP mode starts automatically after the end of the copy process on plain paper, the process directly proceeds to step S24, while the flag SW0 is set to “2”.
(A value indicating a setting for not performing an automatic start) ”, that is, if it is determined that the OHP mode does not start automatically after the copy processing on plain paper is completed, the process proceeds to step S22.
To display the second message screen or the like shown in FIG. 6B on the touch panel 65 on the operation unit 50, and start the presentation mode to determine whether to output or cancel the original image on the OHP sheet. In step S23, the process waits until the operator inputs a determination as to whether or not to start copying in the OHP mode.

If it is determined in step S23 that the operator has input that the copy is not started in the OHP mode (the output of the original image on the OHP sheet is stopped), the process is terminated as it is. If it is determined that the operator has input to start copying in the OHP mode (output an original image on an OHP sheet), the process proceeds to step S24.

In step S24, the OHP mode is started. Thereafter, the image data stored in the image memory 54 is read out, the OHP sheet is fed, the image data is output to the OHP sheet, and the paper is discharged. The processing is repeated by the number of times, and the processing is terminated.

Further, when the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment is combined with a sorter unit (sorter 34) having a plurality of discharge trays as in the digital copying machine 100 shown in FIG. (Plain paper on which an image is formed)
It is possible to discharge an OHP sheet on which an image has been formed on a discharge tray different from the discharge tray from which the image has been discharged.

As described above, in the digital copying machine 100 having the image memory 54 for storing image data, which is shown as an example of the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment, the "presentation" is performed during the copying process on plain paper. Key 422 is displayed, and the operator presses the "Presentation" key 4 on the operation unit.
When the user presses No. 22, it is detected whether or not the OHP sheet can be fed, and if it is detected that the OHP sheet can be fed, the OHP mode is automatically started after the copy process to the plain paper is completed, and OHP without reading the original again using the original image read at the time of the copy process
Since it is possible to output to a sheet, the output time is shortened and the copy processing efficiency is improved.

When the "Presentation" key 422 is pressed, the paper feed destination for copy processing at that time is checked, and the presence or absence of paper or an OHP sheet on the manual feed tray 32 is checked.
If it is not possible to feed the OHP sheet during the copy process on plain paper, a message is displayed to prompt the operator to feed the OHP sheet (set the OHP sheet on the manual feed tray 32). OH during copy process to plain paper
Since the P sheet can be fed, work efficiency can be improved. Here, since only one copy (number of copies) is generally copied on the OHP sheet, the input of the number of values can be omitted.

Further, in the image forming apparatus in which user settings can be registered, the "Presentation" key 422 is set during normal copy processing.
Can be set in the rewritable nonvolatile memory 51d as to whether or not to display on the operation unit 50, and an erroneous operation can be prevented for an operator who does not use the present invention. When the “present” key 422 is pressed and the presentation mode is set, it is also possible to set and register whether or not to automatically start the OHP mode after the end of the copy processing on plain paper.

When the automatic start is not set, a display for confirming whether to start the copy process in the OHP mode can be displayed.
These settings can be set in the user mode in advance by the operator.

When a sorter unit having a plurality of paper discharge trays is provided, it is possible to discharge the output of the OHP sheet and the plain paper previously performed to a different paper discharge tray.
Operator sorting is not required.

Further, even if an OHP sheet is being output in the presentation mode, the plain paper on which the copy processing has been performed earlier can be easily taken out of the sorter section, which is effective for the operator. It is.

Therefore, since the original image data read during the copy to the plain paper is used as it is, it is possible to record on the OHP sheet without rereading the original, so that the copying operation can be performed efficiently.

If it is not possible to feed the OHP sheet during the copying process on plain paper, the operator
By displaying a message prompting the user to feed a sheet, the copying operation can be made more efficient.

Further, if the reset key 64 is pressed after the "presentation" key 422 is pressed and the copy process to plain paper is being executed, the copy process to plain paper is executed as it is. Only the copy process in the presentation mode set by pressing the “Present” key 422 is invalidated (executed).

In the above-described embodiment, while an original image is read and an image based on the image data stored in the image memory 54 is formed on plain paper, an image on an OHP sheet as a different type of recording medium is read. A “Presentation” key 422 for instructing formation is displayed on the touch panel 65,
When the “Presentation” key 422 is pressed, an image based on the image data stored in the image
The case where the image is formed on the P sheet has been described. However, while the image based on the image data read from the document image and stored in the image memory 54 is formed on any type of recording medium, the image is transferred to the same type of recording medium. May be displayed on the touch panel 65, and when the key is pressed, an image based on the image data stored in the image memory 54 may be formed on plain paper.

In addition, various design changes can be made within the scope of the present invention.

In the above embodiment, the same image as the image copied on the plain paper is copied to the OH
Although the presentation mode formed on the P sheet has been described, the present invention is not limited to the combination of the plain paper and the OHP sheet.
(HP sheet, thick paper, glossy paper), and then the same image may be formed on different types of recording media.

In each of the above embodiments, the digital copying machine 100 is described as an example. However, various image forming apparatuses such as an electrophotographic apparatus, a monochrome digital copying machine, a color digital copying machine, a laser printer, Color laser printers, thermal transfer printers, ink jet printers, sublimation printers, facsimile machines, multifunction copiers having a copy function and / or print function and / or facsimile function, etc., and control devices and information for controlling various image forming apparatuses The technology described in the present invention or each embodiment may be applied to a processing device, a data processing device, and the like.

Further, the technology described in the present invention or the present embodiment may be applied to an image processing device such as an image reading device, a device having a facsimile transmission / reception function, or various image processing functions (image forming device). Function, an image reading function, an image information transmission / reception function, an image processing function such as a facsimile transmission / reception function, etc.).

Further, the technology described in the present invention or each of the above embodiments is a system composed of a plurality of devices, for example, an information processing system, a printing system, an image processing system,
Image forming system, control system, print control system,
Even when applied to an image processing control system, an image formation control system, etc., a device consisting of one device, for example, an information processing device, a printing device, an image processing device, an image forming device, a control device, a print control device, an image processing control device , An image forming control device or the like.

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

FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining a memory map of a storage medium for storing various data processing programs readable by the image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

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

Further, data subordinate to various programs is also managed in the directory. Also, if the programs and data to be installed are compressed,
A program for decompressing may also be stored.

The functions shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 in this embodiment may be executed by a host computer by a program installed from the outside. And in that case, CD-ROM, flash memory, FD
The present invention is applicable even when a group of information including a program is supplied to an output device from a storage medium such as the above or from an external storage medium via a network.

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.

Examples of the storage medium for supplying the program code include a floppy disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, CD-ROM, and C
DR, magnetic tape, nonvolatile memory card, RO
M, EEPROM, silicon disk, 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 instruction 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 instructions 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.

Further, the present invention may be applied to a system composed of a plurality of devices or an apparatus composed of one device. Needless to say, the present invention can be applied to a case where the present invention is achieved by supplying a program to a system or an apparatus. In this case, by reading a storage medium storing a program represented by software for achieving the present invention into the system or the apparatus, the system or the apparatus can enjoy the effects of the present invention. .

Further, by downloading and reading out a program represented by software for achieving the present invention from a database on a network by a communication program, the system or apparatus can be
It is possible to enjoy the effects of the present invention.

[0126]

As described above, according to the first and seventh aspects of the present invention, during the process of copying to the first type of recording medium, based on the image data stored in the memory resources, The display means displays, on a setting screen, an instruction key for instructing execution of a copy mode for executing an image forming process on a second type of recording medium, and performs a copy process on the first type of recording medium. If the instruction to the instruction key is detected by the first detection means during the copying, after the copy processing to the first type of recording medium is completed, the first key is detected based on the image data stored in the memory resource. Since the control means controls to automatically execute the image forming process on the two types of recording media, the original is read again at the time of the copying process on the first type of recording medium, and the original is again used. Do not load or reconfigure Since it is possible to image output to the second type of recording medium, it is possible to save the trouble of shortening and setting of the output time, it is possible to perform the copy processing to the two types of recording media efficiently.

According to the second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a second detecting means for detecting whether or not the second type of recording medium can be fed, and the control means comprises: The instruction to the instruction key is detected by the first detecting means during the copying process to the recording medium, and the second type of recording medium cannot be fed by the second detecting means. If detected, a message prompting the user to set the second type of recording medium to the paper source is displayed, so that the second type of recording medium is copied during the process of copying to the first type of recording medium. Since the recording medium can be fed (set to the paper source), the efficiency of the copying process to two types of recording media can be further improved.

According to the third invention, the first setting means for setting whether or not the instruction key is displayed, and the first holding means for holding the setting of the first setting means are provided. The means controls whether or not the instruction key is displayed based on the setting of the first setting means held in the first holding means, so that the means for copying to two types of recording media is completely used. An erroneous operation can be prevented for an operator who does not.

According to the fourth aspect, whether or not the image forming process on the second type of recording medium is automatically executed after the completion of the copying process on the first type of recording medium by the control means is set. And a second holding unit that holds the setting of the second setting unit, wherein the control unit is configured to control the second setting unit that is held by the second holding unit. Based on the setting, whether or not to automatically execute the image forming process on the second type of recording medium after the completion of the copying process on the first type of recording medium is controlled. Can be prevented from starting a copy process to a recording medium of the above type.

According to the fifth aspect, the control means determines that the setting of the second setting means held in the second holding means is after the completion of the copying process to the first type of recording medium. If the setting is such that the automatic execution of the image forming process on the second type of recording medium is not performed, after the copying process on the first type of recording medium is completed, the process proceeds to the second type of recording medium. A message for allowing the user to select whether or not to execute the image forming process is displayed, and the execution of the image forming process on the second type of recording medium is controlled based on the selection result. It is possible to confirm whether or not to start the copy process to the medium and execute the process.

According to the sixth aspect, a plurality of paper discharge trays are provided, and after the image forming process on the plurality of types of recording media is completed, the control means separates the plurality of types of recording media by type to form the plurality of types of recording media. Since the paper is discharged to the paper discharge tray, the sorting operation of the operator is not required, and the copy processing to a plurality of types of recording media can be efficiently performed.

According to the ninth and ninth aspects, during the copying process to the first type of recording medium, the image formation on the second type of recording medium is performed based on the image data stored in the memory resources. An instruction key for instructing execution of a copy mode for executing a process is displayed on the setting screen, and during the copying process to the first type of recording medium, the instruction key displayed on the setting screen is displayed. When the instruction is detected, after the copying process to the first type recording medium is completed, the image forming process to the second type recording medium is automatically executed based on the image data stored in the memory resource. Therefore, the original image read at the time of the copy processing to the first type recording medium is used as it is, and the original is read again and the image is output to the second type recording medium without resetting. Output time is possible because Can save time and trouble shortening and setting can be performed copying to two types of recording media efficiently.

Therefore, the original image read at the time of the copy process on the plain paper can be used as it is, and the image can be output to the OHP sheet without rereading the original or resetting the original. In addition, it is possible to save the trouble of setting and to efficiently perform the copy process in the presentation mode.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a configuration of a digital copying machine to which an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention can be applied.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a control configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a plan view illustrating an example of a configuration of an operation unit illustrated in FIG.

FIG. 4 is a view showing an example of a copy operation screen displayed on the touch panel shown in FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a copy operation screen displayed on the touch panel shown in FIG.

6 is a diagram showing an example of a copy operation screen displayed on the touch panel shown in FIG.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a first control processing procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a first control processing procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the present exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs that can be read by the image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 Reference Signs List 50 operation unit 51 control unit 51a CPU 51b RAM 51c ROM 51d nonvolatile memory 52 image reader unit 53 image processing unit 54 image memory 55 image output unit

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page F term (reference) 2H027 DB02 DC18 EK10 FA23 FA27 FA30 FB06 FB13 FD08 GB09 GB19 5C062 AA05 AB01 AB08 AB17 AB20 AB22 AB23 AB42 AB53 AC04 AC22 AC58 AF15 BA04

Claims (9)

[Claims] An image data read from a document by a document reading unit is stored in a memory resource, and a plurality of types of recording media designated by a plurality of paper sources are supplied from a plurality of paper sources. An image forming apparatus capable of forming an image based on the image data stored in the memory resource on each of the recording media, wherein the image data stored in the memory resource during a copying process to a first type of recording medium; Display means for displaying, on a setting screen, an instruction key for instructing execution of a copy mode for executing an image forming process on a second type of recording medium based on the display key; A first detecting means for detecting an instruction of the first type;
When the detection means detects an instruction to the instruction key, after the copying process to the first type recording medium is completed, the second type recording is performed based on the image data stored in the memory resource. Control means for controlling to automatically execute image forming processing on a medium. 2. A system according to claim 1, further comprising: a second detecting unit for detecting whether the second type of recording medium is capable of being fed, wherein the control unit performs a copying process on the first type of recording medium. If the first detection means detects an instruction to the instruction key while the second detection means detects that the second type of recording medium cannot be fed, 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein control is performed so as to display a message prompting a user to set a second type of recording medium to a paper source. A first setting unit for setting whether or not the instruction key is to be displayed; and a first holding unit for holding the setting of the first setting unit, wherein the display unit is configured to display the first key. 3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit controls whether or not the instruction key is displayed based on the setting of the first setting unit held by the holding unit. 4. A second setting unit for setting whether to automatically execute an image forming process on the second type of recording medium after the copying process on the first type of recording medium by the control unit is completed. And a second holding means for holding the setting of the second setting means, wherein the control means, based on the setting of the second setting means held by the second holding means, 3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit controls whether or not to automatically execute the image forming process on the second type of recording medium after the completion of the copying process on the first type of recording medium. . 5. The control unit according to claim 2, wherein the setting of said second setting unit held in said second holding unit is performed after said second type of copy medium has been copied to said first type of recording medium. If the setting is such that the automatic execution of the image forming process on the recording medium is not performed, the execution of the image forming process on the second type of recording medium is performed after the completion of the copying process on the first type of recording medium. 5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, wherein a message for selecting the presence or absence of the image is displayed, and the execution of the image forming process on the second type of recording medium is controlled based on the selection result. 6. A plurality of discharge trays are provided, and after the image forming process on the plurality of types of recording media is completed, the control unit sorts the recording media by type and discharges the sheets to the plurality of discharge trays. 6. The method according to claim 1, wherein
The image forming apparatus according to any one of the above. 7. The plurality of types of recording media include plain paper, O
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus includes an HP sheet, glossy paper, and thick paper. 8. An image data read from a document by a document reading unit is stored in a memory resource, and a plurality of types of recording media designated by a plurality of paper sources are fed from a plurality of paper sources. A method of controlling an image forming apparatus capable of forming an image based on image data stored in the memory resource on each of the recording media, wherein the image data is stored in the memory resource during a copying process to a first type of recording medium. A display step of displaying, on a setting screen, an instruction key for instructing execution of a copy mode for executing image forming processing on a second type of recording medium based on the received image data; If an instruction to an instruction key displayed on the setting screen is detected during the copying process to the medium, the image stored in the memory resource is completed after the copying process to the first type recording medium is completed. Based on data Method of controlling an image forming apparatus characterized by having an automatic image forming step of automatically executing the image forming process for the second type of recording medium. 9. An image data read from a document by a document reading unit is stored in a memory resource, and a plurality of types of recording media designated by a plurality of paper sources are fed from a plurality of paper sources. An image forming apparatus capable of forming an image on each of the recording media based on the image data stored in the memory resource, the image data stored in the memory resource during a copying process to a first type of recording medium; Displaying on a setting screen an instruction key for instructing execution of a copy mode for executing an image forming process on a second type of recording medium based on the first type of recording medium; If an instruction to the instruction key displayed on the setting screen is detected during the copy processing, the copy processing to the first type of recording medium is terminated, and then, based on the image data stored in the memory resources. The second type Computer-readable storage medium storing a program for image forming processing is performed and the automatic imaging process which automatically performs the on the recording medium.