JP2002062766A - Image forming device - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) [Summary] [Problem] Avoid interruption of copy of reserved copy. Information for that is presented to the user. Improve copy execution efficiency of the reserved copy group as a whole. SOLUTION: Image data input means (200/136); printer (400); paper feeding device (500/600); paper remaining amount information management means (20); image memory (66, 75, 76); When storing data, determine the amount of paper required for the print, determine the remaining amount of paper when starting the print, and check whether the remaining amount of paper is insufficient for the required amount of paper (Figs. 8 and 9). Storage management means
(68); and shortage notification means (59: (b) and (c) in FIG. 7). Also, if it is about to check whether the required paper amount is within the remaining paper amount from the job with the highest rank in the image memory, printing is started, and if there is insufficient paper, the job is skipped and the check target is set to the next rank job. Shake (34 in Fig. 11)
-36-33) storage print management means (68);

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a digital image processing apparatus capable of storing image information for another print job and reading out and printing out the stored information after the end of the current job even during an image forming operation. The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus such as a copying machine, a printer, and a facsimile. Such a storage function is also called a reservation function in the case of a copying machine, for example.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art For example, when a copying machine is occupied, there is a case where a new document is set after a copying operation is completed. In this case, the next user wastes time until the operation ends. In order to solve this problem, a reserved copy mode currently exists. In this mode, the next original can be set even during the operation of the copying machine, and the reserved copies are sequentially started as soon as the copy operation in operation is completed. You. This allows the user to make copy settings without having to wait for the copying operation already in operation to stop, thereby allowing the user to leave the copying machine.

[0003]

However, after the user has left the copying machine, the user has started the reserved copy work set by the user, but the necessary paper (transfer paper) has reached the paper end, and the copy work has been interrupted. There was a case. In such a case, the user who has set the reserved copy will notice that the copy operation has been interrupted for the first time after the copy operation is completed and the original copy has been retrieved, and this interrupted time will be wasted as a result. Had become.

For example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 10-307510 discloses that a copier that accepts reservations for a plurality of jobs and sequentially executes the jobs displays the processing time and output conditions of each reserved job on a liquid crystal panel. Is disclosed. According to this, the processing times of a plurality of reserved jobs can be easily grasped individually.

However, it is not possible to determine how many sheets of transfer paper to use in which reserved job, and the remaining amount of paper is unknown. The operation may be stopped. In this case, if there is no operator near the copying machine, it is possible that the interruption is continued for a long time.

The first object of the present invention is to avoid interruption of reserved copying, and second to present information for that purpose to a user, thereby increasing the job execution efficiency of the entire reserved copy group. This is the third object.

[0007]

Means for Solving the Problems (1) Image data input means (200/136); Printer (40) for printing out image data on paper
0); device for feeding paper to the printer (500/600); paper remaining amount information management means (20) for holding paper remaining amount information indicating the remaining paper amount of the paper feeding device; and storing image data Memory means for storing (66, 75, 76); when accumulating image data in the memory means, determine the required amount of paper required for the printout; determine the remaining amount of paper when starting the printout; Storage management means (68) for checking whether the remaining amount of paper is insufficient for the required amount of paper (FIGS. 8 and 9); and means for notifying the shortage (59: (b) and (c) of FIG. 7); Image forming apparatus.

To facilitate understanding, symbols of corresponding elements or corresponding items in the embodiments shown in the drawings and described later are added for reference in parentheses. The same applies to the following.

According to this, when storing the image data in the memory means, it is checked whether there is a remaining amount of paper necessary for the printout, and when it is insufficient, the fact is notified. If the replenishment of paper is possible, the replenishment is performed.If the replenishment is not possible, replenishment of paper is performed at the end of the current printout, or the reservation accumulation is canceled. You can take care to avoid interruptions. As a result, interruption of the reserved copy can be avoided, and the job execution efficiency of the entire reserved job group can be increased.

[0010]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS (2) Image data input means (200/1
36); Printer that prints out image data on paper (40
0); a device for feeding paper to the printer (500/600); paper remaining information management means (20) for holding paper remaining information indicating the remaining paper of the paper feeding device; Memory means (66,
75, 76); when storing image data in the memory means, obtain the required amount of paper required for the printout and store it in a memory for the job (FIG. 8); storage management means (68); When it becomes possible to print out the stored image data in the memory means, it is checked whether the required paper amount of the job having a higher printout order is within the remaining paper amount in the memory means, and if so, the image of the job is determined. When the data printout is started and the required paper amount exceeds the remaining paper amount, the job is skipped and the check target is changed to the next-ranked job (34-33 in FIG. 11). ) ;.

According to this, when the printer becomes usable for printing out the stored image data, the papers satisfying the amount of paper necessary for the printing out of the image data from the higher-order reserved job in the memory means. The remaining amount is checked, and only when there is, printout of the job is started. When the remaining amount of paper is insufficient, the printout of the job at that time is suspended, and it is checked whether the printout of the next-ranked job can be completed. Therefore, if there is a job in the memory means that can be completed with the remaining amount of paper at that time, the printout is performed.
In spite of the fact that there is a job that can be completed with the remaining amount of paper at that time, there is no longer any paper for the job for which printout was started earlier, so that printout is not interrupted and remains in standby. The printout of the reserved job is not interrupted, and the job execution efficiency of the entire reserved job group is improved.

(3) Input means (58) for designating a change in the printout order (order change mode) is further provided.
When the change is designated, the accumulated print management means (68) lowers the printout order of the skipped job (36 in FIG. 11).

According to this, every time the printer becomes usable for printing out the stored image data, the possibility of repeating the waste of checking whether the previously skipped high-order job is executable or not is reduced, The efficiency of printout job selection by the stored print management means (68) is improved.

(4) The paper remaining amount information management means (20)
When there is paper replenishment in the paper feeding device, the paper remaining amount information is updated to indicate the paper remaining amount after the replenishment, and the accumulated print management means (68) determines that the required paper amount of the skipped job is When the remaining amount is exceeded, the printout order is raised (28 in FIG. 10).

According to this, the jobs that can be printed out by replenishing the sheets have a high priority, and therefore, there is a high possibility that they will be printed out quickly. In other words, the job of the higher order is printed out as soon as the printout can be completed, and the waiting time is shortened.

(5) The image data input means (200/136)
Is a scanner that reads an original image and generates image data
(200).

According to this, during the printout operation of the printer, the original image is read by the scanner (200) and stored in the memory means, and is read out from the memory means as soon as the printer becomes available and printed out by the printer. You can make a reservation copy. This reserved copy provides the advantages described in (1) to (4) above.

(6) The image data input means (200/136)
Includes a printer controller (136) that analyzes an external print instruction command and converts external image information into image data.

According to this, image information provided by a host such as a personal computer, a word processor, a facsimile or an image forming apparatus (for example, a digital copying machine) is printed out immediately when the printer is idle. Can be stored in the memory means.
In the case of storage and storage, the transfer of image information can be completed at a time when the host wants to transfer, so that the host does not have to wait until the printer becomes empty. Then, in the case of accumulation storage, the advantages described in the above (1) to (4) are provided.

(7) An automatic document feeder (1) which automatically feeds a document to the scanner (200), detects the size of the fed document and the number of documents, and gives it to the storage managing means (20). Prepare. According to this, the user does not need to input the document size and the number of documents for calculating the required sheet amount of the stored job.

(8) The paper feeding device (500/600) has means (484A to 484D) for detecting the remaining amount of paper. When the operation is stopped, the transfer of the paper remaining amount information is received from the paper feeding device, and the paper remaining amount information is updated in accordance with the paper feeding amount to the printer until the transfer is received next time.

When the printer has stopped the image forming operation, the information on the remaining amount of paper in the paper feeder does not change, and the paper feeder has no task of feeding paper. Remaining paper amount information management means by detecting remaining amount
Can be transferred to (20). During the printing operation in which the paper feeding device needs to feed paper, the paper remaining amount information management means (20)
Based on the number of printouts, the user updates the remaining paper amount information collectively at the end of printout of one job or for each printout, so that a highly reliable Information can always be retained.

(9) The paper remaining amount information management means (20)
Immediately after the power is turned on, and immediately after the cover or door that is opened and closed when replenishing paper is opened and closed, a request is made to the paper feeding device to transfer the remaining paper information.

When the paper remaining amount information management means (20) holds the paper remaining amount information in the volatile memory, the power remaining is lost due to the power cutoff. When the paper is refilled, the remaining paper information does not indicate the actual remaining paper, but the paper remaining information management means (20) requests the paper feeding device to transfer the remaining paper information immediately after turning on the power. Therefore, the paper remaining amount information management means (20) holds the information indicating the actual remaining paper amount immediately after the power is turned on. Also, when the cover or door opened and closed when refilling the paper is opened and closed, there is a possibility that the paper has been replenished, and the paper remaining amount information management means (20) sends the paper to the paper feeding device immediately after the cover is opened and closed. Since the transfer of the paper remaining amount information is requested, the paper remaining amount information managing means (20) holds the information indicating the actual paper remaining amount immediately after the cover is opened and closed. By these,
The reliability of the remaining paper information held by the remaining paper information management means (20) is high.

(10) A digital copying machine having a multi-mode function capable of setting copy modes such as a transfer paper size, the number of copies, and both sides from an operation unit, and a document number measuring means (1) for measuring the number of documents; A required number of transfer papers calculating means (68) for calculating the required number of transfer papers from the number of copies, the number of copies and the copy mode; a remaining amount of transfer paper detecting means (484A to 484D) for measuring the remaining amount of transfer paper in each tray Transfer paper remaining amount measuring means (20) for measuring how many sheets of transfer paper are left in each paper feed tray after the end of the copying operation based on the result obtained from the required number of sheet calculating means; Reservation means for accepting work (60g, 20 of 58); notification means (59); and the required number of transfer paper sheets required for the copy mode set by the reservation means were calculated and obtained by the transfer paper remaining amount measurement means. The remaining number of transfer sheets is less than the required number of transfer sheets. A digital copying machine having a; if storage management means (68) for notifying a broadcast means to that effect.

According to this, when setting a reserved copy, the number of transfer sheets required for the copy mode is calculated and the user is notified when the remaining number of transfer sheets is not enough. Do it if possible,
If it is not possible, it is possible to take measures to avoid interruption of the subsequent copy operation, such as replenishing the transfer paper at the end of the current copy or canceling the reserved copy. As a result, interruption of the reserved copy can be avoided, and the job execution efficiency of the entire reserved job group can be increased.

(11) The storage management means (68) of the above (10)
When the number of transfer sheets required for the copying operation exceeds the remaining number of transfer sheets, a notification to instruct replenishment of sheets ((b) and (c) in FIG. 7) is made. According to this, when setting a reserved copy, the user can easily recognize that paper supply is necessary. As a result, it is highly possible to prevent interruption of the reserved copy operation due to the paper end.

(12) The storage management means (68) of the above (10)
If the remaining number of transfer papers is less than the required number of transfer papers, it is checked whether the paper size required for the reserved copy can be set during the copier operation. In this case, a notification to the effect that necessary transfer paper is set in another paper feed tray ((c) in FIG. 7) is issued.

According to this configuration, when a paper supply replenishment instruction is issued, a paper supply tray to which replenishment of transfer paper is to be performed is in use, and if supply to that tray is not possible, the transfer to another paper supply tray is performed. As a result, it is possible to prepare for a reserved copy without downtime without waiting for the end of the copying operation during operation, without having to interrupt the copying operation for replenishment. .

(13) A digital copying machine having a multi-mode function capable of setting copy modes such as a transfer paper size, the number of copies, and both sides from an operation unit, and a document number measuring means (1) for measuring the number of documents; A required number of transfer papers calculating means (68) for calculating the required number of transfer papers from the number of copies, the number of copies and the copy mode; a remaining amount of transfer paper detecting means (484A to 484D) for measuring the remaining amount of transfer paper in each tray Transfer paper remaining amount measuring means (20) for measuring how many sheets of transfer paper are left in each paper feed tray after the end of the copying operation based on the result obtained from the required number of sheet calculating means; Reservation means (60g, 20 of 58) for accepting work; notification means (59); and necessary transfer paper required for the copy mode for high-order reserved jobs set by the reservation means. Calculate the number of sheets and measure the remaining amount of transfer paper If the remaining number of transfer papers determined by the column is equal to or greater than the required number of transfer papers, copying of the job is started, and if the remaining number of transfer papers is less than the required number of transfer papers, the job is skipped and the reserved job of the next order (31-36-33 in FIG. 11) reserved output management means (68);

According to this, when a plurality of reserved copies are set, a paper end occurs in an intermediate job, the copying operation is interrupted, and subsequent jobs (jobs not affected by the paper end) are executed. It can be prevented from being executed at all. That is, a job that cannot be executed at the paper end is determined in advance, and the execution of the job is not started, thereby preventing interruption of the copying operation and improving the productivity of the copying machine.

(14) The reserved output management means (68) changes the skipped reserved job to the lowest priority (3 in FIG. 11).
6). According to this, the skipped job is positioned at the bottom of the reserved and accumulated job, so that an appropriate operation wait can be performed without hindering the execution of another job.

(15) If a skipped job exists and transfer papers necessary for its execution are supplied, the priority of the job is increased (28 in FIG. 10). According to this, the priority of a job that has been skipped (priority has been lowered) due to a shortage of transfer paper can be returned to the original priority by replenishing the necessary transfer paper. The work order can be returned to the state at the time of setting.

(16) A digital copier capable of setting whether or not to change the priority of a reserved copy job (order change mode). According to this, it is possible for the user to set whether to automatically change the priority of a reserved job for which the copying operation cannot be completed, and to select a reserved copy execution procedure according to the intended use.

Other objects and features of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of embodiments with reference to the drawings.

[0036]

FIG. 1 shows an outline of a mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention. This embodiment is a digital full-color copying machine.
When a start key 60c on the operation unit 58 is pressed, a document bundle placed on a document table 2 in an automatic document feeder (hereinafter abbreviated as ADF) 1 is pushed to a lowermost position. The original is fed to a predetermined position on the contact glass 180 by the feed roller 3 and the feed belt 4. Color image reading device (hereinafter, referred to as scanner) 200
After reading the image data of the document on the contact glass 180, the document that has been read is discharged by the feed belt 4 and the discharge roller 5. Further, when the document set detection 7 detects that the next document is present on the document table 2, the document is fed onto the contact glass 6 in the same manner as the previous document. The feed roller 3, the feed belt 4, and the discharge roller 5 are driven by a motor.

The ADF 1 scans a single document with a scanner 200.
When the document is fed out, the time required for the document to pass through each of the pair of paper sensors 8 separated by a length of approximately A4 in the direction perpendicular to the sheet of paper is measured, and the length of the document is determined by the length / width of A5 and A4.
The document size is determined, and the number of sheets fed out is counted to determine the number of documents. The document size and the number of sheets are notified to the main controller 20 (FIG. 2).

The scanner 200 includes a contact glass 20
The image of the original document 180 on the illumination lamp 205, mirror groups 204A, 204B, 204C, etc.
6, the image is formed on the color sensor 207, and the color image information of the original is converted into, for example, blue (hereinafter, referred to as B), green (hereinafter, referred to as G) and red (hereinafter, referred to as R) color separation lights. And converts it into an electrical image signal. In this example, the color sensor 207 has three lines C
It is composed of a CD sensor and reads B, G, and R images for each color. Based on the B, G, and R color separation image signal intensity levels obtained by the scanner 200, color conversion processing is performed by an image processing unit (not shown), and black (hereinafter, referred to as black) is obtained.
Bk), cyan (hereinafter, referred to as C), magenta (hereinafter, referred to as M), and yellow (hereinafter, referred to as Y)
To obtain color image data including the recording color information.

Using the color image data, Bk, C, M, and Y images are formed on an intermediate transfer belt by a color image recording device (hereinafter, simply referred to as a color printer) 400 described below. Transfer to transfer paper. The scanner 200 receives the scanner start signal which is timed with the operation of the color printer 400, and receives the illumination lamp 205 and the mirror groups 204A, 204B,
The illumination / mirror optical system 204C or the like scans the document in the direction of the left arrow, and obtains one color image data for each scan.
Then, each time, while sequentially visualizing with the color printer 400, these are superimposed on the intermediate transfer belt,
A full-color image of four colors is formed.

A writing optical unit 401 as an exposure unit of the color printer 400 converts color image data from the scanner 200 into an optical signal, performs optical writing corresponding to a document image, and applies an electrostatic charge to the photosensitive drum 414. Form a latent image. The optical writing optical unit 401 includes a laser light emitter 441, a light emission drive control unit (not shown) for driving the light emission, a polygon mirror 443, a rotation motor 444 for rotating the same, a fθ lens 442, a reflection mirror 446, and the like. Have been. Photoconductor drum 414
Rotates in the counterclockwise direction as indicated by the arrow, around which is a photoconductor cleaning unit 421, a neutralization lamp 414M, a charger 419, a potential sensor 414D for detecting a latent image potential on the photoconductor drum, A selected developing device of the revolver developing device 420, a development density pattern detector 414P, an intermediate transfer belt 415, and the like are arranged.

The revolver developing device 420 includes a BK developing device 420K, a C developing device 420C, an M developing device 420M, and a Y developing device 420Y, and a revolver rotary drive for rotating each developing device in a counterclockwise direction as indicated by an arrow. (Not shown). In order to visualize the electrostatic latent image, each of these developing devices rotates developing sleeves 420 KS and 420 which rotate by contacting the ears of the developer with the surface of the photosensitive drum 414.
Assemble the developer with CS, 420MS, 420YS
It is composed of a developing paddle that rotates for stirring. In a standby state, the revolver developing device 420 is set at a position where development is performed by the BK developing device 420, and when a copying operation is started, reading of BK image data is started by the scanner 200 at a predetermined timing, and this image is read. On the basis of the data, optical writing / latent image formation by laser light starts. Hereinafter, the electrostatic latent image based on the Bk image data is referred to as a Bk latent image. The same applies to each of the C, M, and Y image data. In order to enable development from the tip of this Bk latent image,
Before the leading end of the latent image reaches the developing position of the Bk developing device 420K, the rotation of the developing sleeve 420KS is started to develop the Bk latent image with Bk toner. Thereafter, the developing operation of the Bk latent image area is continued. When the rear end of the latent image passes the Bk latent image position, the developing operation of the next color developing unit is immediately performed from the developing position of the Bk developing unit 420K. The revolver developing device 420 is driven and rotated to the position. This rotation operation is completed at least before the leading end of the latent image based on the next image data arrives.

When the image forming cycle is started, the photosensitive drum 414 rotates counterclockwise as indicated by an arrow, and the intermediate transfer belt 415 is rotated clockwise by a drive motor (not shown). Move. Intermediate transfer belt 41
5, the BK toner image formation, the C toner image formation, the M toner image formation, and the Y toner image formation are sequentially performed, and finally, on the intermediate transfer belt 415 in the order of BK, C, M, and Y. , A toner image is formed. The formation of the BK image is performed as follows. That is, the charger 41
9 uniformly charges the photosensitive drum 414 with a negative charge to about -700 V by corona discharge. Subsequently, the laser diode 441 performs raster exposure based on the Bk signal. When the raster image is exposed in this manner, in the initially exposed portion of the photosensitive drum 414 that is uniformly charged, the charge proportional to the amount of exposure light disappears, and an electrostatic latent image is formed. The toner in the revolver developing device 420 is negatively charged by stirring with the ferrite carrier, and the BK developing sleeve 420KS of the present developing device is charged.
Is biased by a power supply circuit (not shown) with respect to the metal base layer of the photosensitive drum 414 to a potential at which a negative DC potential and an AC are superimposed. As a result, no toner adheres to the portion of the photosensitive drum 414 where the charge remains, and Bk is applied to the portion having no charge, that is, the exposed portion.
The toner is attracted, and a Bk visible image similar to the latent image is formed. The intermediate transfer belt 415 includes a driving roller 415D, a transfer facing roller 415T, and a cleaning facing roller 415.
C and a group of driven rollers, and is driven to rotate by a drive motor (not shown). Now, the photosensitive drum 4
The Bk toner image formed on the belt 14 is transferred onto a surface of an intermediate transfer belt 415, which is driven at a constant speed in a state of contact with the photoconductor, by a belt transfer corona discharger (hereinafter, referred to as a belt transfer unit) 4.
16 transferred. Hereinafter, the transfer of the toner image from the photosensitive drum 414 to the intermediate transfer belt 415 is referred to as belt transfer. Some untransferred residual toner on the photoconductor drum 414 is cleaned by the photoconductor cleaning unit 421 in preparation for reuse of the photoconductor drum 414. The collected toner is stored in a waste toner tank (not shown) via a collection pipe.

On the intermediate transfer belt 415, the Bk, C, M, and Y toner images sequentially formed on the photosensitive drum 414 are sequentially aligned on the same surface, and a four-color superimposed belt transfer image is formed. After that, batch transfer is performed on transfer paper by a corona discharge transfer device. By the way, the photosensitive drum 41
On the fourth side, the process proceeds to the C image forming process after the BK image forming process.
Starts reading of C image data, and a C latent image is formed by laser light writing using the image data.
The C developing device 420C moves the Bk
After the rear end portion of the latent image has passed and before the leading end of the C latent image has arrived, the rotating operation of the revolver developing device is performed to develop the C latent image with C toner. Thereafter, the development of the C latent image area is continued. When the rear end of the latent image has passed, the revolver developing device 420 is driven in the same manner as in the case of the Bk developing device described above,
C developing device 420C is sent out, and the next M developing device 420M
Is located at the developing position. This operation is also the next M
This is performed before the leading end of the latent image reaches the developing section. In the process of forming the M and Y images, the operations of reading the image data, forming the latent image, and developing are in accordance with the processes of the Bk image and the C image described above, and a description thereof will be omitted.

The belt cleaning device 415U includes an inlet seal, a rubber blade, a discharge coil, and a mechanism for contacting and separating the inlet seal and the rubber blade. 1
After the Bk image of the color is transferred to the belt, while the images of the second, third, and fourth colors are transferred to the belt, the entrance seal, the rubber blade, and the like are separated from the intermediate transfer belt surface by the blade contact / separation mechanism. .

A paper transfer corona discharger (hereinafter, referred to as a paper transfer device) 417 is an AC corona discharge method for transferring the superimposed toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 415 to transfer paper.
+ DC or a DC component is applied to the transfer paper and the intermediate transfer belt.

The transfer paper cassette 482 in the paper supply bank stores transfer papers of various sizes.
The sheet is fed and conveyed in the direction of the pair of registration rollers 418R by 83. Reference numeral 412B2 indicates a paper feed tray for manually feeding OHP paper, thick paper, and the like. At the time when the image formation is started, the transfer paper is fed from any of the paper feed trays, and is waiting at the nip of the pair of registration rollers 418R. Then, when the leading end of the toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 415 approaches the paper transfer unit 417, the registration roller pair 418R is driven so that the leading end of the transfer paper coincides with the leading end of the image, and the paper and the image are transferred. Matching is performed. In this way, the transfer paper is superimposed on the color superimposed image on the intermediate transfer belt, and passes over the paper transfer unit 417 connected to the positive potential. At this time, the transfer paper is charged with a positive charge by the corona discharge current, and most of the toner image is transferred onto the transfer paper. Subsequently, when the transfer paper passes through a separation neutralizer with a neutralization brush (not shown) disposed on the left side of the paper transfer unit 417, the transfer paper is neutralized, and the intermediate transfer belt 415 is removed.
From the paper transport belt 422. The transfer paper on which the four-color superimposed toner image has been collectively transferred from the intermediate transfer belt surface is conveyed to a fixing device 423 by a paper conveyance belt 422, and the toner is conveyed to a nip portion between a fixing roller 423A and a pressure roller 423B controlled to a predetermined temperature. The image is fused and fixed
The paper is sent out of the main body by the discharge roll pair 424, and is stacked face up on a copy tray (not shown).

The photosensitive drum 414 after belt transfer
Has its surface cleaned by a photoconductor cleaning unit 421 including a brush roller, a rubber blade, and the like.
Further, the charge is uniformly removed by the charge removing lamp 414M. Further, the intermediate transfer belt 415 after transferring the toner image to the transfer paper
Again, the blade is pressed by the blade contact / separation mechanism of the cleaning unit 415U to clean the surface.
In the case of the repeat copy, the operation of the scanner and the image formation on the photoconductor are continued from the first-color image process on the first sheet, and then proceed to the first-color image process on the second sheet at a predetermined timing. In the case of the intermediate transfer belt 415, the second Bk toner image is belt-transferred to an area whose surface has been cleaned by the belt cleaning device, following the batch transfer process of the first four-color superimposed image onto transfer paper. So that Thereafter, the operation is the same as that of the first sheet.

In the color copying machine shown in FIG. 1, when print data is supplied from a host such as a personal computer, a facsimile, a word processor, or a digital copying machine through a serial I / F or a parallel I / F, the print data is sent to a color printer 400. It can print out (image output), and the scanner 20
This is a color copier with a multifunction capable of transmitting image data read at 0 to a remote facsimile and printing out received image data. This copying machine is connected to a public telephone network via a private branch exchange PBX, and receives a facsimile communication and a management service of a service center via the public telephone network.
Can communicate with Ba.

FIG. 2 shows an outline of the electric system of the color copying machine shown in FIG. 1, and FIG. 3 shows a part of the electric system in some detail. FIG. 2 illustrates a control device of a color copying machine with a focus on the main controller 20. First, referring to FIG. 2, the main controller 20 includes an operation unit 58 for performing display to a user and inputting function settings from the user, control of a scanner, control of writing a document image in an image memory, and control of the image memory. An image processing unit (IPU) 49 for controlling image formation and a distributed control device such as an automatic document feeder (ADF) 1 are connected. Each distributed control device and main controller 20
Exchanges machine status and operation commands as needed. The cassette paper supply bank 500 and the large-volume paper supply bank 600 are also connected to an input / output port (not shown) in the main controller 20.

The printer controller 136 includes a system controller for setting the functions of the color copier and controlling the system. The printer controller 136 analyzes a command when an external command is received, and prints image data when the command is a document printout instruction. The bitmap is developed so that it can be performed, and the print mode is analyzed from the command to determine the operation. In order to receive and operate the image and the command through the serial I / F and the parallel I / F, the serial control 137 and the parallel I / F control 138
There is.

Referring to FIG. The analog image signal generated by the CCD 54 is converted into a digital signal, that is, image data by the A / D converter 61. After shading correction 62 is performed on the image data, the image data is subjected to MTF correction, γ correction, and the like in an image processing unit 63, and is then enlarged / reduced in a scaling process 72 according to the scaling factor. The selector 64 sets the destination of the image data to the writing γ correction 71 or the image memory controller 65. The image data having passed through the writing γ correction 71 is sent to the writing unit 57. Between the image memory controller 65 and the selector 64, image data can be bidirectionally input / output. Although not explicitly shown in FIG. 3, the image processing device (I
The PU 49 is output from an image data (for example, a data processing device (host) such as a facsimile, a personal computer, or a word processor) supplied from outside via the external image input / output 77 in addition to the image data input from the image scanner 50. And a function of selecting input / output of a plurality of data so that the data can be processed.

The IPU 49 is provided with the image memory controller 6
5 and a CPU 68 for controlling the image scanner unit and the writing unit 401, and a ROM 69 and a RAM 70 for storing the programs and data. Further CP
U68 writes and reads data in the image memory 66 via the memory controller 65.

The memory controller 65 shown in FIG.
It has an input data selector, image synthesis, primary compression / expansion, output data selector, and secondary compression / expansion blocks. The setting of control data to each block is performed by CP
U68 does.

The image memory 66 shown in FIG. 3 comprises primary and secondary storage devices. The primary storage device is a memory that can be accessed at high speed, such as a DRAM, so that data can be written to the memory substantially in synchronization with the transfer speed of input image data or data can be read from the memory at the time of image output at a high speed. You are using Further, the primary storage device is configured to be able to divide into a plurality of areas according to the size of the image data to be processed and to simultaneously execute input / output of image data (interface unit with a memory controller)
Has taken. Input image data into each divided area,
In order to enable the outputs to be executed in parallel, the interface with the memory controller 65 is connected by two sets of address and data lines for reading and writing.
Thus, an operation of outputting (reading) an image from the area 2 while inputting (writing) the image to the area 1 is possible.

The secondary storage device inside the image memory 66 is
This is a large-capacity memory that stores data for synthesizing and sorting input images. If both primary and secondary storage devices use elements that can be accessed at high speed,
Data processing can be performed without distinction between primary and secondary, and control is relatively easy. However, since elements such as a DRAM are expensive, the access speed to the secondary storage device 107 is not so high. A large-capacity recording medium is used, and processing of input / output data is performed via a primary storage device.

Next, an outline of the operation of the memory controller 65 will be described: <1> Image input (writing to the image memory 66) The input data selector inside the memory controller 65 selects the image memory 66 ( The image data to be written to the primary storage device is selected. The selected image data is stored in the memory controller 6
5, the image is synthesized with the data already stored in the image memory. The image data processed by the image synthesis is data-compressed by primary compression / decompression inside the memory controller 65 and written to the primary storage device.

The data written in the primary storage device in the image memory 66 is further compressed by secondary compression / expansion in the memory controller 65 as necessary, and then the data in the image memory 66 is stored in the secondary storage device. It is stored in the next storage device. <2> Image output (read from image memory 66)
At the time of image output, image data stored in the primary storage device inside the image memory 66 is read. If the image to be output is stored in the primary storage device,
The image data in the primary storage device is decompressed by primary compression / decompression, and the decompressed data or the data obtained by performing the image synthesis of the decompressed data and the input data is output to the output data in the memory controller 65. Select with the selector and output. Image synthesis inside the memory controller 65
Combining the data in the primary storage device with the input data (having a function of adjusting the phase of the image data), selecting the output destination of the combined data (image output, write back to the primary storage device,
(Simultaneous output to both output destinations is also possible).

If the image to be output is not stored in the primary storage device inside the image memory 66, the output target image data stored in the secondary storage device is stored in the secondary storage device inside the memory controller 65. After performing decompression by compression / decompression and writing the decompressed data to the primary storage device,
Hereinafter, the above-described image output operation is performed.

The reason for compressing the image is that it is possible to write the data of 256 gradations of the maximum image size into the image memory 66 as it is, but the image memory is used very much for one document image. By performing image compression, an image memory with limited images can be used effectively. Also, since a large number of document image data can be stored at one time, the stored document image data can be output in page order as a sorting function. In this case, when the image is output, the data is output while sequentially expanding the data in the image memory 66 by the expansion device in the memory controller 65. Such a function is generally called “electronic sorting”.

The controller 65 and the image memory 6
Using the function of No. 6, it is also possible to sequentially read a plurality of document images into an area obtained by dividing an area for one transfer sheet in the image memory. For example, four document images are sequentially written into four equally divided areas of one transfer sheet in the image memory, thereby obtaining a copy output in which the four documents are combined into one transfer sheet image and aggregated. It becomes possible. Such a function is generally called “aggregated copy”.

The image in the image memory 66 can be accessed from the CPU 68. For this reason, the contents of the image memory can be processed, and for example, image thinning processing, image cutout processing, and the like can be performed. For the processing, the image memory can be processed by writing data to the register of the memory controller 65. The processed image is stored again in the image memory.

The image memory 66 is divided into a plurality of areas according to the size of the image data to be processed, and is configured to be able to simultaneously execute input and output of image data. In order to enable the input and output of image data to be executed in parallel in each divided area, two sets of address / data lines for reading and writing are connected to the interface with the memory controller. Thus, an image is output (read) from area 2 while an image is input (write) to area 1
Operation is possible. Further, the configuration is such that the content of the image memory 66 can be read by the CPU 68 and transferred to the operation unit 30 as image data 73 via the I / O port 67. Generally, since the screen display resolution of the operation unit 30 is low, the original image in the image memory 66 is thinned out and sent to the operation unit 30.

As the image memory 66, a hard disk may be used to store a large amount of image data. By using a hard disk, there is also a feature that an external power supply is unnecessary and an image can be held permanently. In order to read and hold a plurality of fixed originals (format originals) with a scanner, this hard disk is generally used.

Further, a CD-R,
The configuration is such that a CD-RW and a DVD having a larger capacity can be connected. The external storage device 76 is controlled by a SCSI controller to execute writing and reading of an image. Writing and reading are temporarily stored and processed in an image memory in order to absorb a difference in processing speed with respect to image formation of the main body and image writing from a scanner. In other words, when writing a scanner image to the external storage device 75, the image is always written via the image memory 66. When sending data from the image storage device to the writing unit 57, the data is temporarily stored in the image memory 66 and sent to the writing unit 57. The image path of the image memory 66, the HD 75, the image of the external storage device 76, the scanner image, and the input and output of the image to be sent to the writing unit are all determined by the memory controller 65. Thus, the CPU 68 inputs image data,
By determining the output, the memory controller 65 connected to the CPU 68 can switch the flow of the image.

As shown in FIG. 4, the operation unit 58 includes a liquid crystal touch panel 59, a numeric keypad 60a, a clear / stop key 60b, a start key 60c, and a mode clear key 60.
e, test print key 60f and "copy" function,
There is a function selection key 60g for selecting a “scanner” function, a “print” function, a “facsimile” function, a “storage” function, an “edit” function, a “register” function, and other functions and indicating that the function is being executed. On the liquid crystal touch panel 59, an input / output screen determined by the function specified by the function selection key 60g is displayed. For example, when the "copy" function is specified, the function key 59g, the number of copies, and the state of the image forming apparatus are displayed. A message is displayed. The test print key 60f is a key for printing only one copy regardless of the set number of prints and confirming a print result. Further, when the initial setting key 60d is operated, an "initial value setting" function for setting various initial values, a setting of whether or not the copy priority order of the stored copy can be changed, and an "ID setting" function, "ID setting" function, A menu for selecting the "copyright registration / setting" function and the "use record output" function is displayed.

On this menu, there is displayed a storage copy mode "order change / no change", and when the operator designates "order change", the order change mode is set. When "No change" is specified, the order change mode is canceled. When the order change mode is set, when a reserved copy in which the image data is stored in the memory by the “accumulate” function described below is read and copied, if there is no transfer paper left to complete the copy, The reserved copy is not started, that is, skipped, and the execution order is lowered to the lowest order.

FIG. 5 shows a function executed in response to an input (command) from the operation unit 58 of the main controller 20 or from a host such as a personal computer via the printer controller 136. Main controller 20
When a function designation command is input (SB1, S1,
S2), a subroutine SB for executing the designated function
Proceeding to 3, SB4, SB5,..., At a stage in the subroutine where setting or checking of an ID is required, the user is prompted to input an ID, and if an ID is input, the ID is saved (SB
1, S1, SB2), and proceed to the registration or check and subsequent processes.

The "ID setting" function (SB3) includes an ID of the main controller 20 (color copying machine shown in FIG. 3),
The user (and host) ID and the user's use / non-use of the copying machine, the use restriction, and the ID of the usable copyright are registered in the NVRAM 53, or the registration is changed or deleted.

The “copyright registration / setting” function (SB4)
It includes two types of processing: copyright registration and copyright setting. When the copyright registration is selected, the ID of the classification of the copyright that can be used by this apparatus, the ID of the copyright that requires individual management, and the information that is necessary for the use management are stored in the NVR in the controller 20.
Register with AM, or change or delete registration. If the copyright setting is selected, you will be prompted to enter copyright information,
When the copyright information is input, it is saved in the register. This copyright information will be transferred to the print data,
An output device (printer 400, facsimile control board) which is added to original read data, output image data obtained by processing them for output, or compressed data obtained by compressing them, and whose transfer destination is determined to require copyright use processing. , FDD or CDD), a copyright use process is performed based on the copyright information.

The “output of usage record” function (SB5) is used to record the function use record and copyright use record for the entire image forming apparatus (apparatus ID) and for each user ID.
Devices (FDD, CD) specified by input from the operation unit 58
D or HDD) and print out by the printer 400. The execution of this function is performed on condition that the ID of the image forming apparatus registered in the NVRAM is input from the operation unit 58.

The "copy" function (SB6) is a function of copying an image read by the original scanner 200 on the transfer paper by the printer 400 by an operation specified. The execution of this function is performed by any user I registered in the NVRAM.
D is input from the operation unit 58.
Further, when the copyright information is attached to the original, the copyright ID assigned to the document must be registered in the NVRAM 53 in such a manner that the copyright ID is linked to the user ID as an authorized one.

The “scanner” function (SB 7)
8 or a document scanner 200 according to an instruction from the host.
To read the image of the original and display it on the display of the host, or transfer the read image data to the host via the printer controller 136, to the image memory 66,
It is a function to transfer and write to FDD, CDD or HDD. Execution of this function is conditioned on a user ID or host ID registered in the NVRAM being input from the operation unit 58 or the host. Also,
If the destination of the image data is FDD, CDD or host,
If the transfer is likely to result in image distribution to the outside and the copyright information is attached to the manuscript, the copyright ID assigned to it is linked to the user ID or host ID as the one for which use is permitted. And registered in the NVRAM.

The "print" function (SB8) is a host or operating device for transferring data provided by the host connected via a serial I / F and a parallel I / F or print data in the image memory 66, FDD, CDD or HDD to the host. Image output (print output) by the printer 400 in response to the instruction of the unit 58
Function. Execution of this function is also conditioned on the host or user ID being registered in NVRAM. Also, if the print data contains copyright information, or if the attribute information or header information of the print data, that is, the attribute data, has copyright information, the copyright ID assigned to the attribute is regarded as the use permission. The condition is that the information is linked to the host or user ID and registered in the NVRAM.

The "facsimile" function (SB9) is a function of reading an image of a document with the scanner 200 and transferring the image data to the facsimile control board. Also, serial I /
F and a function of transferring data provided by the host connected by a parallel I / F or the like to the facsimile control board in accordance with the instruction of the host, and an image memory 66, FDD,
A function of transferring print data recorded on the CDD or HDD to the facsimile control board in response to an instruction from the operation unit 58 or the host is also included. Execution of this function is also conditioned on the user or host ID being registered in NVRAM. When copyright information is attached to the transfer data, the copyright ID assigned to the
Is the user or host's I
It is a condition that the link to D is registered in the NVRAM.

The “accumulation” function (SB 10) is a reservation function, in other words, while the current job is being executed (for example, while the apparatus is performing an image forming operation using the “copy” or “print” function), the scanner This is a function of storing the image read by 200 and image data from the host in the image memory 66 or the HDD 75, and printing out the image after completing the execution of the preceding job. Execution of this function is also conditioned on the user or host ID being registered in NVRAM.

The "edit" function (SB11) displays the printer controller 136, the image memory 66, the print data of the FDD, the CDD or the HDD, the document read data, or the output image data obtained by processing these for output on the host display. This is a function for performing text editing and / or image editing and performing output processing “print”, “facsimile” or “registration” as necessary (input command). Execution of this function is also conditioned on the user or host ID being registered in NVRAM.

The “registration” function (SB 12)
Alternatively, the host or the scanner 20 may be operated in response to an instruction from the host.
This function records print data from 0, document reading data, output image data obtained by processing these data for output, or compressed data obtained by compressing them into the image memory 66, FDD, CDD, or HDD. The execution of this function also
The condition is that the user or host ID is registered in the NVRAM. When the transfer destination of the image data is a transfer that may cause image distribution to the outside, such as FDD or CDD, and when the transfer data has copyright information, the copyright ID assigned to the copyright information is assigned.
Is the user ID or host ID as the one for which use is permitted.
And registered in the NVRAM 53.

FIGS. 6 and 7 show several examples of the display on the liquid crystal touch panel 59 of the operation unit 58. FIG. When the operator touches a key displayed on the liquid crystal touch panel 59, the display of the key block changes to a shaded display. If the details of the function need to be specified (for example, if the magnification is a variable magnification), touching a key displays a detailed function setting screen (submenu).

FIG. 6A shows a screen for selecting and setting the "copy function". The upper left position on the screen is a message area for displaying a message such as "You can copy" or "Please wait". On the right is a copy number display area for displaying the number of sheets set, below it is an automatic density key for specifying automatic adjustment of image density, and for specifying automatic selection of transfer paper. Automatic paper selection key, a sort key to specify the process of arranging copies one by one in the page order, a stack key to specify a process of sorting copies by page, and a process of binding the sorted items one by one Staple key to specify, same-size key to specify the same magnification, scaling key to specify enlargement / reduction magnification, double-sided key to specify double-sided mode, binding margin Erase / move key for specifying the over de, etc., and is a print key for specifying the printing such as stamp, date and page. Above the zoom instruction key,
There are a key for specifying black, blue, red, and yellow single-color recording, a full-color recording instruction key, and an automatic color selection instruction key. A color balance adjustment instruction key is located to the left of these keys. The selected mode is indicated by the shaded display of the key block. When the color balance adjustment instruction key is touched, the screen on panel 59 is switched to a screen for color balance adjustment input / output.

FIG. 6B shows an operation screen for the “printer function”. An online / offline key for setting permission of a print request, a forced ejection key for designating forced ejection of an image that has not been ejected in a data-in state, a data-in display indicating a data input state of image data, and There is a display for notifying the setting status of the transfer paper. When online to execute the print command of the personal computer, the color selection and adjustment keys such as the print color selection key
These are ghost displays that cannot be selected because they follow the command of the personal computer, but when offline (printout of a registered image), real images that can be selected are displayed.

FIG. 7A shows an operator input screen for inputting a stored copy (reserved copy). The operator sets each mode, and the reading operation is started by the start key 60c. The user name and file name of this file are automatically set as shown in the figure. If there are multiple files, they are named so that the file names can be distinguished. The reading operation is terminated with the reading end key, and the file is closed. (B) and (c) of FIG.
Completes the accumulation copy input and the main controller 20
As a result of checking whether or not the printout of the stored copy can be completed, a warning message is displayed when paper is insufficient. (B) is currently executing another copy job or printout job. This is a message when paper can be replenished without interrupting the paper feeding, and (c) is a message prompting the user to replenish another cassette because the current paper feeding is interrupted.

During execution of the current job (for example, when the apparatus
When the image read by the scanner 200 or the image data from the host is stored in the image memory 66 or the HDD 75 during the image forming operation by the “print” function), the amount of paper required for printing out the image data is reduced. In order to check whether or not there is, the ADF 1 can detect the number of originals and the original size when reading image data.

The paper supply banks 500 and 600 are configured so that the size and the remaining amount of the stored paper can be grasped.
That is, the paper tray 482A enters the cassette 482A from the bottom hole of the cassette into the receiving tray that supports the paper cassette 482A below.
In the cassette 482A, there is a rotating lever SA that pushes up and rotates the middle plate SP with the force of a leaf spring on the lower surface of the middle plate SP on which the sheet is placed, and the uppermost portion of the sheet placed on the middle plate SP by this pushing up. Are in contact with an upper stopper claw (not shown). When feeding paper, feed roller 4
83A is lowered and hits the top sheet, and the top sheet is fed by rotation of the feed roller 483A. Since the position of the uppermost sheet placed on the middle plate SP is determined by an upper stopper claw (fixed) (not shown), the turning angle of the turning lever SA is proportional to the sheet amount. That is,
The angle at which the middle plate SP hits the upper stopper claw with no paper is 0 as the base point, at which time the paper amount is 0, and then the clockwise rotation angle is proportional to the paper amount on the middle plate SP. Rotating lever SA
In the vicinity of the rotation center axis, there is a paper remaining amount detector 484A that detects the rotation angle of the rotation lever SA and generates an analog signal indicating the paper remaining amount proportional to the rotation angle, that is, a paper remaining amount signal.

Similar paper remaining amount detectors 484B and 484B
4C detects the remaining amount of sheets in the cassettes 482B and 482C, respectively. Note that the cassettes 482A, 482
Each of B and 482C has a regulating plate for regulating the paper size, and the user attaches the regulating plate to a position determined for the paper size desired to be stored, and the mounting position, that is, the paper size and posture set for storage. A switch for generating a code signal representing (vertical, horizontal) (hereinafter, simply referred to as a paper size code or signal) is provided in the cassette receiver.

Upon receiving a paper feed instruction from the main controller 20, the paper feed controller in the paper feed bank 500 receives a status transfer request from the main controller 20, and adds to the status information such as the presence or absence of a mechanical trouble in the bank 500. Then, the remaining paper signals of the cassettes 482A to 482C are digitally converted and read, and the paper size codes are read and transferred to the main controller 20. The main controller 20 checks the state of each section of the copying machine immediately after the main power is turned on, and opens and closes each outer cover that closes the cassette slot of the paper feeding bank 500, A status transfer request to the paper feed controller of

The large-volume paper supply bank 600 is for driving a support plate on which a large amount of paper can be placed up and down by driving a motor, and a paper sensor 484D which is a reflection type photo sensor is provided near the paper supply roller 483D. . This paper sensor 484D
Generates a signal of paper detection "1" when there is a sheet within a predetermined distance immediately below, and generates a signal of no paper "0" when it is below the predetermined distance. The outer cover that opens when feeding paper has a button switch for locking the same. When the user presses the button switch, the outer cover is unlocked, and at the same time, the feed controller in the large-volume feeding bank 600 The support plate on which the paper is placed is driven downward, that is, retracted. For example, if the user opens the outer cover, refills the paper, and closes the outer cover, the button switch is mechanically locked, and at the same time, the paper feed controller drives the paper support plate up and the paper When the uppermost one is detected by the paper sensor 484D, the upper drive is stopped.
The paper feed controller counts the upper drive amount during this time,
The amount of paper (remaining amount) on the paper supporting plate is calculated based on the count value, and the calculated remaining paper amount data is stored in a register (memory).
, And then the paper sensor 484D
Whenever paper is not detected, drive the paper support plate up until it switches to paper detection, subtract the amount of paper by the amount of the drive from the remaining paper data, and store the remaining data in the register. Update memory.

Note that a regulating plate for regulating the size of the paper to be placed on the paper supporting plate is also provided in the large-volume paper feeding bank 600, and the user attaches the regulating plate to a position specified for the desired paper size. There is a switch that generates a code signal (hereinafter, simply referred to as a paper size code or signal) representing the mounting position, that is, the paper size and orientation (vertical, horizontal) set for storage.

The paper feed controller in the large-volume paper feed bank 600, which receives a paper feed instruction from the main controller 20,
When there is a status transfer request from the main controller 20, in addition to the status information such as the presence or absence of a mechanical trouble in the bank 600, the remaining paper data and the paper size code held in the register are also transferred to the main controller 20. The main controller 20 checks the state of each part of the copying machine immediately after the main power is turned on, and when the outer cover of the paper feeding bank 600 is opened or closed,
A status transfer request is given to the paper feed controller in 00.

As described above, the main controller 20
By giving a state transfer request to the paper supply banks 500 and 600, the paper size and the remaining amount of paper that are installed at that time can be known. Whenever the transfer of the remaining amount of paper is received, the main controller 20 operates the corresponding cassette 4
82A-482C or the data of the remaining paper amount register addressed to the large-volume paper supply bank 600 is updated to the data that has been transferred.

The main controller 20 monitors an operator input to the operation unit 58 and outputs a function designation switch group 60g.
When "accumulate" in the menu is pressed, the liquid crystal touch panel 59
Next, a screen shown in FIG. 7A is displayed. However, when the operation screen of another function is displayed and a reservation copy cannot be input (accepted), for example, during the operation, this display switching is not performed.

In FIG. 8, when the "accumulate" in the function designation switch group 60g is pressed and the "accumulate" function can be executed, the "accumulate" processing realized by the cooperation of the main controller 20 and the CPU 68 is performed. Here is an overview.

When "accumulation" in the switch group 60g is pressed, the main controller 20 causes the liquid crystal touch panel 59 to operate.
Then, the screen shown in FIG. 7A is displayed (step 1). In the following, the word “step” is omitted in parentheses, and step No. Write only numbers.

When the input screen is displayed, the main controller 20 reads the user's input to the liquid crystal touch panel 59 and waits for the start key 60c to be pressed (2-3-7). When the start key 60c is pressed, the main controller 20 instructs the ADF 1 to supply a document and converts a video signal generated by the CCD 54 of the scanner 200 into digital data.
72 is performed and written into the memory 66, 75 or 76 (4). The CPU 68 controls writing to the memory. When this is completed for all the documents stacked on the ADF 1, the ADF 1
Based on the original size and the number of originals given to “0” and the copy mode set on the liquid crystal panel when the start key 60c is pressed, “Confirm the number of papers”
(5) and “Confirm copy mode” (6)
68.

FIG. 9 shows the contents of "confirmation of the number of sheets" (5). Here, the CPU 68 first calculates the sheet size and the number of sheets required for executing the reserved job in which the current image data is stored in the memory. From the set copy mode, the method of obtaining the required number of transfer paper sheets is as follows. To obtain the required number.
It is obtained by the following formula as a simple method. For example, when creating 20 copies of 20 single-sided originals in the duplex mode, 2 in 1 (integrated copy of 2 originals → 2 originals and 2 originals → back side), the required number of originals is: (Number of sheets) / 2 (both sides) / 2
(2 in 1) × 10 parts = 50 sheets. Next, the total amount of required transfer paper of the same size as the transfer paper size required for the currently accumulated job of all the jobs waiting to be started (printed output) in the first order (accumulation first) in the memory is calculated this time. The obtained sum is set as the required number of sheets in addition to the required amount of transfer paper (11).

Next, the CPU 68
0, the remaining amount of transfer paper that can be used in the currently accumulated job immediately before the start of the current printout, and the amount of paper used when the current printout uses transfer paper of the same size. Number of sheets x number of sheets)
Then, the transfer paper remaining amount-the used amount is set as the usable number of sheets (12).

Next, the CPU 68 compares the required number with the available number (13). If the required number is not more than the available number, the CPU 68 proceeds to the next "storing copy mode" (6 in FIG. 8). The copy mode, the required transfer paper size and the number of sheets are stored in the storage file of the image data stored in the memory this time. However, if the required number of sheets exceeds the available number of sheets, the sheet feeding tray (482A-4
82D) checks whether it is in use by the current printout job (14), and if it is in use, (c) of FIG.
Is displayed on the liquid crystal touch panel 59 (16). If it is not in use, a message 59b shown in FIG. 7B is displayed (15). In any case, when the message is displayed, it waits for an input key “continue” and “cancel” (touch by the user) included in the message column (17), and when there is an input of “continue”, Proceeding to "Store copy mode" (6 in FIG. 8), if "Cancel" is input, the current reserved copy is canceled (erased) and the screen returns to the initial input screen shown in FIG. 7A.

When the printer 400 can be used to print out stored image data, the main controller 2
0 informs the CPU 68 that the accumulation output is possible, and the CPU 68 responds to this by executing “accumulation copy” (A
Proceed to CP). First, the main controller 20
Then, the remaining transfer paper value for each transfer paper size held at that time is obtained (31).

The main controller 20 does not update the remaining amount of transfer paper held by the printer 400 while the printer 400 is executing printout of one job, but transfers the remaining amount of transfer paper when it is completed. Since the transfer paper remaining value is updated, when the printer 400 becomes usable for printing out the stored image data (the job being executed is completed), the transfer paper remaining value immediately after the job is completed is updated. The update has been completed.

Next, when the "order change mode" is set, the CPU 68 checks the storage file (storage job) having a higher priority (jobs whose storage work is early and has not been changed to the lowest order). As a target (33), the copy mode, the required transfer paper size and the number of sheets are read from the storage file (33), and it is checked whether there is a transfer paper remaining to satisfy the copy mode (34). If there is, printout of the check target job is started as it is (35). Otherwise, the job is changed to the last column (the lowest priority position) of the currently reserved reserved copy group (step 36). Then, the next higher-rank job is transferred to a check target, and the necessary transfer paper size and number of sheets are similarly read out from the storage file (33), and it is checked whether there is a transfer paper remaining amount that satisfies it (34). .

When the “order change mode” is not set, the job stored first in the storage file (storage job) is checked and its copy mode is set.
The necessary transfer paper size and the number of sheets are read from the accumulation file (37), and it is checked whether there is remaining transfer paper that satisfies them (38). Start (3
5). If not, a message prompting replenishment of the transfer paper is displayed as shown in FIG. 7B, and an input of continuation or cancellation is waited for one minute (41).

If there is an input to continue, or if one minute has passed without any input or paper replenishment, the next higher-order job is transferred to a check target, and the required transfer paper size and The number of sheets is read from the storage file (37), and it is checked whether there is a transfer paper remaining amount satisfying the number (38).

When an input of cancellation is made, the current check target job (accumulated file) is deleted (deleted). When the transfer paper is replenished in accordance with the message prompting the replenishment of the transfer paper, the message is erased and the process proceeds to "Confirm remaining paper" (PRD) shown in FIG. 11, and then "executes the accumulated copy" (ACP). Proceed to.

"Confirming remaining paper" (PRD) shown in FIG.
Is executed by the main controller 20 and the CPU 68 when the respective outer covers for closing the cassette insertion / removal openings of the sheet feeding bank 500 are opened and closed, and when the cover of the large-volume sheet feeding bank 600 is opened and closed. is there. At first, the main controller 20 gives a status transfer request to the paper feed controller of the paper feed bank 500 or 600 whose cover is opened and closed, and information indicating the status of the mechanism, and the transfer paper remaining amount (size code). ) (21). When there is a change compared with the remaining amount of transfer paper held in the main controller 20, the held information is updated to the remaining amount of transfer paper just received, and the CPU 68
A notification that transfer paper has been replenished is provided (21). In response to this, the CPU 68 proceeds to “execution of stored copy” (ACP) shown in FIG. 10 when the order change mode is not designated, but skips the reserved copy (final (23, 24), and if so, whether there is enough transfer paper remaining to execute the job (25, 26, 2).
7). If there is no such request, the process directly proceeds to “execution of stored copy” (ACP). If this is the case, the priority order of the corresponding reserved copy is returned to the original order (28). When this check and processing have been completed for all of the skipped reserved copies, the process proceeds to "execution of stored copy" (ACP).

FIG. 12 shows an example of storing the reserved copy mode on the memory. Here, as shown in FIG. 12A, the reserved copy is sequentially performed in the order of priority 1 and 2,
The required number of transfer sheets 240 for the third reserved copy represented here
If there are only 100 remaining sheets in the tray, the third reserved copy is skipped and the fourth reserved copy is started. As shown in FIG. 12B, the skipped third reserved copy is set to the lowest priority of 6, leaving its contents unchanged, and waits for execution.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a full sectional view showing an outline of a mechanism of a digital color copying machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an outline of a part of an electric system of the copying machine shown in FIG.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an image processing device 49 shown in FIG.

FIG. 4 is an enlarged plan view of an operation unit 58 of the copying machine shown in FIG.

5 is a flowchart showing function items of the main controller 20 shown in FIG. 2, which are executed in response to a function designation from an operation unit 58. FIG.

6A is a plan view showing a display screen of a liquid crystal touch panel 59 shown in FIG. 4, wherein FIG. 6A shows an operator operation screen when a copy function is selected, and FIG. 6B shows remote communication from a host. Is a display screen when the information given by is printed out.

7 is a plan view showing a display screen of the liquid crystal touch panel 59 shown in FIG. 4, wherein (a) shows an operator operation screen when a storage function is selected, and (b) and (c).
Is an alarm screen that indicates that the transfer paper for the copy output is insufficient when the accumulation of the copy image is completed,
(B) is a case where the transfer paper can be constantly replenished, (c)
Is a case where transfer paper cannot be regularly replenished but can be replenished by changing the storage location. That

FIG. 8 is a block diagram of the main controller 20 shown in FIG. 2;
12 is a flowchart showing an outline of an accumulation process SB11 executed in cooperation with the CPU 68 shown in FIG.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the content of “confirmation of the number of sheets” (5) shown in FIG.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an outline of a stored copy execution ACP executed by the main controller 20 shown in FIG. 2 in cooperation with the CPU 68 shown in FIG. 3;

11 is a flowchart showing the contents of a “confirm the remaining amount of paper” PRD executed by the main controller 20 shown in FIG. 2 in cooperation with the CPU 68 shown in FIG. 3;

FIG. 12A is a table showing a reserved copy group and a printout order stored in a memory, and FIG. 12B shows a printout order when three jobs are consumed.

[Explanation of symbols]

 1: ADF 59: LCD touch panel 200: Scanner 400: Printer 500: Paper feed bank 600: Large volume paper feed bank

──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification symbol FI Theme coat ゛ (Reference) B65H 7/04 B65H 7/04 5C073 H04N 1/00 H04N 1/00 E 1/21 1/21 F term ( Reference) 2C058 AB04 AB08 AF04 GB26 GB52 GC01 2C061 AP03 AP04 AQ06 AR01 AS02 HH01 HK16 HK23 HN15 2H027 DA42 FA02 GB03 ZA07 3F048 AA02 AA04 AA05 AB01 BA01 BB04 BC03 EA03 EA15 EB02 5C06AC10 AB22

Claims (6)

[Claims] An image data input unit; a printer for printing out image data on paper; a device for feeding paper to the printer; a paper for holding paper remaining amount information indicating a paper remaining amount of the paper feeding device; Remaining amount information managing means; memory means for storing and storing image data; when storing image data in the memory means, a required paper amount required for the printout is obtained, and the remaining paper amount at the time of starting the printout is determined. An image forming apparatus comprising: a storage management unit for determining whether the remaining amount of paper is insufficient for a required amount of paper; and a unit for notifying the shortage. An image data input means; a printer for printing out image data on paper; a device for feeding paper to the printer; a paper holding paper remaining amount information indicating the remaining paper amount of the paper feeding device. Memory means for accumulating and storing image data in job categories; storage management means for storing the image data in the memory means to obtain the required amount of paper required for the printout and storing the required amount of paper for the job; And when the printer becomes available for printing out the stored image data in the memory means, it is checked whether or not the required paper amount of the job having a higher printout order is within the remaining paper amount in the memory means. If there is, the printout of the image data of the job is started, and when the required paper amount exceeds the remaining amount of paper, the job is skipped and the check target is checked. An image forming apparatus comprising: a storage print management unit that switches to a job of the next order. 3. An apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising: input means for designating a change in a printout order, wherein said stored print management means comprises:
3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein when the change is designated, the printout order of the skipped job is lowered. 4. The paper remaining amount information managing means updates the paper remaining amount information to indicate the remaining paper amount after the paper is replenished in the paper feeding device, and stores the stored print managing means. 4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein when the required amount of paper of the skipped job exceeds the remaining amount of paper, the printout order is increased. 5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said image data input means includes a scanner for reading a document image and generating image data. 6. The image data input means includes a printer controller which analyzes an external print instruction command and converts external image information into image data. The image forming apparatus according to claim 4.