JP2000135839A - Image processing apparatus, data processing method of reading control apparatus, and storage medium storing computer-readable program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To relax duplicated processing in specific control while centralizing common control efficiently by connecting means for controlling relay of data communication and read out of image communicatively between a print data generation control section and the drive control section of print section. SOLUTION: A printer controller 2103 connected to a host computer 2104 controls a printer section 2001 generally and an engine controller 2002 performs sheet feed control and imaging control of a printer. An imaging section 2003 arranged with imaging members including a photosensitive body is also provided. Furthermore, a reader controller 106 is disposed in the printer section 2001 in order to process digital images outputted from an analog/digital converting means 104 and to control communication with a motor control means, the engine controller 2002 and a printer controller 2103. According to the arrangement, duplicated processing can be relaxed in specific control while centralizing common control efficiently.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a first control system for receiving print information via a predetermined communication medium and generating print data which can be printed by a printing unit, and a control system for generating print data by the first control system. Image processing capable of executing composite image processing by mounting an image reading unit capable of reading a document image on an image processing apparatus having a second control system for controlling driving of the printing unit based on the print data to be performed The present invention relates to a device and a data processing method of a reading control device, and a storage medium storing a computer-readable program.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art FIGS. 28 and 29 are block diagrams for explaining a connection form of an image reading apparatus in a conventional image processing apparatus.

In these figures, reference numeral 2501 denotes an image reading device (reader unit) which forms reflected light obtained by illuminating a document placed on a document table on an image reading sensor (CCD) to form an analog image signal. Is generated, and the generated analog image signal is converted into a digital image signal (image data).

[0004] A host computer 2104 has a case where the image reading device 2501 is connected via a predetermined interface and a case where the image reading device 2501 is connected via a network 2105. Reference numeral 2103 denotes a printer controller which outputs an image signal to a printer engine unit 2102 via a video interface (video I / F) 2101, acquires the status of the printer engine unit 2102 as a status, and outputs the status to an operation unit (not shown). indicate.

[0005] The printer controller 2103 includes:
The print data transmitted from the host computer 2104 is transmitted to the printer engine unit 2102, and at the same time, the entire printer is controlled and data communication is performed with the reader unit 2501 via the interface 2601.

Reference numeral 2603 denotes a selector unit which selectively selects output of an image signal from the controller unit 2602 or the reader unit 2501 to the printer engine unit 2102 and controls switching.

FIG. 30 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a printer engine unit in a conventional image processing apparatus.

In FIG. 1, reference numeral 2001 denotes a printer unit;
Reference numeral 02 denotes an engine control unit (DC controller) which controls paper transport and image formation of the printer. An image forming unit 2003 includes an image forming member including a photoconductor.

Reference numeral 2103 denotes a printer controller (PLD)
The controller is built in the printer unit 2001 as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 described later, and controls the printer unit 2001 as a whole.

Reference numeral 2104 denotes a host computer.
It is connected to the printer controller 2103 on a one-to-one basis or via a network 2105 shown in FIG.
Reference numeral 2004 denotes a paper feed cassette deck, which can be added as an option. Reference numeral 2005 denotes a sorter which can be added as an option and includes a plurality of discharge bins for sorting and discharging the recording paper on which images have been formed. An optional controller 2006 includes an optional paper cassette deck 2004 and an optional sorter 2.
005 is controlled.

In the image processing apparatus configured as described above, in order to perform a billing process, it is common to use a hard counter having a mechanical structure as a mechanism for counting the total number of outputs.

[0012] Here, the hard counter is difficult to reduce the count value once it counts up, and it is difficult to change the count value. Therefore, using the hard counter for a copy service or the like is suitable for billing processing. .

[0013]

However, after that, the function of the image forming apparatus becomes complicated, and various modes such as small size / large size, color / black and white,
There is a growing demand for a separate service billing system for copy / print / fax, and simply increasing the number of hard counters to meet the demand will increase costs and increase space. There was a problem that it was impossible.

In order to solve this problem, by adopting a soft counter which stores the count value in a semiconductor memory, the type of the counter can be provided at low cost without causing a space problem. Due to the structure of the soft counter, it is easy to lose the information in the memory, and it has been difficult to adopt it because there is a problem in that it requires reliability in order to use it for billing.

An object of the present invention is to control an image reading unit connected as an extended function between a first control system and a second control system. The third control system is interposed and connected, and the specific control based on the specific data in the first control system is transferred to the third control system, and the data communication between the first and second control systems is substituted. By transferring the overlapped specific control at the time of the conventional system expansion to the expanded control system, the control load on one control system is reduced, and the control system of the image reading unit to be expanded and connected is reduced. An image processing apparatus and a reading device capable of properly managing specific data associated with control in one control system while ensuring normal communication of each intervening control system and displaying the data on an operation unit of a reading unit as necessary. Control device data Data processing method and a computer is to provide a storage medium storing a readable program.

[0016]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, a predetermined communication medium (network, interface) is provided.
Control means (printer controller 2103) for receiving print information via a printer and generating print data printable by a printing unit (engine), based on the print data generated by the first control means Control means for controlling the driving of the printing unit by means of the engine control unit (engine control unit 2002)
And a communication connection between the first and second control means so as to relay data communication between the first and second control means, and an image reading unit (reader). And a third control unit (reader controller 106) for controlling the image reading of the unit 101).

According to a second aspect of the present invention, the third control means (reader controller 106) includes a first communication means (an interface P-type shown in FIG. 10) for communicating with the first control means. RI / F) and second communication means (interface R-EI / F shown in FIG. 10) for communicating with the second control means.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, the first control means transfers a specific printer control to the third control means when the third control means is connected. It is.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the first control means, when the third control means is interposed and connected, transmits specific data accompanying a specific printer control to the third control means. To communicate.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the specific printer control is an output sheet count control.

In a sixth aspect according to the present invention, the specific data is an output sheet count value.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the third control means includes a memory unit (a memory 3001 shown in FIG. 20) for storing specific data transmitted from the first control means.
3002), and a counting unit that executes count control for counting the number of output sheets transferred from the first control unit (the CPU 2209 performs an execution process based on the transferred control).

In an eighth aspect according to the present invention, the third control means includes an operation unit (an operation unit 905 shown in FIG. 10) provided in the image reading unit with the output sheet count value counted by the counting unit. Is displayed.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, a first control means (printer controller) for receiving print information via a predetermined communication medium (network, interface) and generating print data printable by a printing unit. 2103) and a second control unit (engine control unit 2002) for controlling the driving of the printing unit based on the print data generated by the first control unit. A data processing method of a reading control device (reader controller 901) for controlling image reading of an image reading unit, wherein a relaying step of relaying data communication between the first and second control means (see FIG. 15) Step (a) (1)
To (6), steps (1) to (a) and (b) in FIG.
(7), steps (1) to (10) in FIG. 16), a transfer step (not shown) for transferring image data transferred from the image reading unit to the second control means,
(Steps (1) to (3) in FIG. 26) for alternately executing a specific printer control transferred by the control means of FIG.
A registration step (steps (1) to (3) in FIG. 25) of acquiring specific data associated with the substitution step from the first control means and registering the acquired data in a memory; A display step (not shown) of displaying data on the operation unit of the image reading unit.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, a first control means (printer controller) for receiving print information via a predetermined communication medium (network, interface) and generating print data printable by a printing unit. 2103),
The image reading unit is connected to a second control unit (engine control unit 2002) for controlling the driving of the printing unit based on the print data generated by the first control unit. A storage medium storing a program readable by a computer (reader controller 901) for controlling image reading, wherein the storage medium stores the first and second programs.
(Steps (1) to (6) in FIG. 15A, Steps (1) to (7) in FIGS. 15A and 15B) for relaying data communication with the control means of FIG. , Steps (1) to (10) in FIG. 16), a transfer step (not shown) for transferring image data transferred from the image reading unit to the second control means, An alternative process (steps (1) to (3) in FIG. 26) for executing the specific printer control to be transferred, and specific data associated with the alternative process are acquired from the first control unit and registered in the memory. Registration process (step (1) in FIG. 25)
(3)) a computer-readable program stored in a storage medium, the program including: a display step (not shown) of displaying specific data registered in the registration step on an operation unit of the image reading unit. is there.

[0026]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS [First Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a view for explaining the arrangement of an image processing apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention, wherein a reader unit 101 is connected based on a printer unit 2001. In addition, a multifunction function including a scanner function, a copy function, and a print function can be executed.

In the reader unit 101, a document table 102 is provided on which a document (not shown) is placed. A light source 103 scans and exposes a document surface placed on the document table 102 by reciprocating in a predetermined direction. 104, a photoelectric conversion unit;
The light reflected by the scanning exposure is converted into an electric signal. An analog-to-digital converter 105 converts an analog signal photoelectrically converted by the photoelectric converter 104 into a digital signal having a predetermined number of bits. A reader controller 106 is provided on the printer main body 2001 side.

In the printer unit 2001, an engine control unit (engine controller) 2002 controls paper transport and image formation of the printer. An image forming unit 2003 includes an image forming member including a photoconductor.

Reference numeral 2103 denotes a printer controller, which is built in the printer unit 2001 as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 described later, and controls the printer unit 2001 as a whole.

Reference numeral 2104 denotes a host computer.
One-to-one or network 210 shown in FIG.
5 is connected to the printer controller 2103. Reference numeral 2004 denotes a paper feed cassette deck, which can be added as an option. Reference numeral 2005 denotes a sorter which can be added as an option and includes a plurality of discharge bins for sorting and discharging the recording paper on which images have been formed. An optional controller 2006 controls an optional paper cassette deck 2004 and an optional sorter 2005.

The reader controller 106 includes a means for processing the digital image output from the analog-to-digital conversion means 104, a motor control means (not shown) for reading a document, the engine controller 2002 and the printer controller. It has a function of controlling communication with the 2103. In this embodiment, the reader controller 106 is arranged in the printer unit 2001, and no external cable for controlling communication with the engine controller 2002 or the printer controller 2103 is provided.

[Configuration of Printer Controller and Printer] In this embodiment, the reader controller 106 is connected between the printer controller 2103 and the printer unit 2001, and processing is performed between the printer controller 2103 and the printer unit 2001. Here, first, the printer controller 2103 and the printer unit 200, which are the premise thereof, are used.
1 will be described.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a use form of the printer unit shown in FIG.

In the figure, reference numeral 2101 denotes a video I / F, which communicates between an engine controller 2002 and a printer controller 2103 described later. The details of each signal of the video I / F 2101 will be described later.

Reference numeral 2102 denotes a printer engine unit, which forms an electric image signal received via the video I / F 2101 in a visible form, transfers it to recording paper, fixes it, and outputs it. To realize these image forming sequences,
Control various loads. In addition, a function of detecting the state of the printer engine and notifying the printer controller 2103 is also performed.

The printer controller 2103 is connected to the host computer 2104 or the network 2105
Receives data sent via. This includes bitmap data and PDL (Page Descriptor).
The data is transmitted in various formats, such as data described in T.Language. Expand this data into memory,
As raster format data, the printer engine 210
2 and transfer the data. In this manner, the data created by the host computer 2104 can be printed out.

Next, a video I / F connecting the printer controller 2103 and the printer engine 2102 is connected.
Details about 2101 will be described.

FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining the interface between the printer controller 2013 and the engine control unit 2002 shown in FIG. 2, and corresponds to the details of the interface signal of the video I / F 2101.

FIG. 4 shows the video I / F 210 shown in FIG.
FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a configuration and a function of one signal sequence. Although a list of signals of the video I / F 2101 is shown, only the representative signals shown in FIG. 2 will be described here.

In the figure, reference numeral 203 denotes a printer power ready signal (/ PPRDY signal), after power is supplied to the printer engine, and after completion of processing such as initialization.
This signal indicates that communication with the printer controller 2103 has been enabled.

Reference numeral 204 denotes a controller power ready signal (/ CPRDY signal).
After power is supplied to 3 and processing such as initial setting is completed,
This signal indicates that communication with the engine control unit 2002 has been enabled.

Reference numeral 205 denotes a ready signal (/ RDY signal).
The engine control unit 2002 is connected to the printer controller 210
3 is a signal indicating that a print operation is enabled by a print start instruction (/ PRNT signal described later).
The conditions under which this signal becomes “true” include whether the temperature in the fixing device has reached a predetermined temperature, whether recording paper has remained in the printer (engine control unit 2002), or whether the polygon mirror has been rotated at a predetermined speed. It is only when each part of the printer, such as whether the printer is operating normally, is operating normally.

206 is a print signal (/ PRNT signal)
The printer controller 2103 is the engine control unit 2
002 is a signal for instructing the start or continuation of the printing operation.

207 is a top-of-page signal (/ TOP)
Signal), which is a synchronization signal that is passed from the engine control unit 2002 to the printer controller 2103 and serves as a reference for vertical scanning of an image. This signal is output a predetermined time after the / PRNT signal 206 is output from the printer controller 2103.

Reference numeral 208 denotes a line synchronization signal (/ LSYNC signal) which is a reference signal for horizontal scanning by the printer controller 2103. Like the / TOP signal 207,
/ PRNT signal 206 is the printer controller 2103
After a certain period of time after output from the
02 to the printer controller 2103.

209 is a video clock signal (/ VCLK)
Signal) and a video enable signal (/ VDOE) described later.
N) and a synchronous clock for the image signal (/ VDO signal), and the printer controller 2103 generates a clock having a frequency corresponding to the image signal.

Reference numeral 210 denotes a video enable signal (/ VDO)
EN) is a signal for controlling capture of an image signal output from the printer controller 2103 into the engine control unit 2002. The engine control unit 2002 uses / VCLK
This signal is TRUE / FALSE in synchronization with the signal 209.
Is detected, if "TRUE", an image signal is captured, and if "FALSE", no image signal is captured.

Reference numeral 211 denotes an image signal (/ VDO signal). Note that the printer controller 2103 outputs the / TOP signal 207 in the vertical direction and the / TOP signal 207 in the horizontal direction.
Based on the LSYNC signal 208, the / VCLK signal 2
09 in synchronization with the output.

Reference numeral 212 denotes a controller clock signal (/ C
CLK signal), when the printer controller 2103 transmits a serial command to the engine control unit 2002,
And a synchronous clock when the engine control unit 2002 returns a serial status to the printer controller 2103, and is output from the printer controller 2103.

213 is a command busy signal (/ CBSY)
The signal indicates to the engine control unit 2002 that the printer controller 2103 is transmitting a serial command using a command signal (/ CMD signal) described later.

Reference numeral 214 denotes a command signal (/ CMD signal)
The printer controller 2103 is the engine control unit 2
002 is a signal used when transmitting serial information, and the serial information is referred to as a command.

215 is a status busy signal (/ SBS)
This signal indicates to the printer controller 2103 that the engine control unit 2002 has returned a serial status using a status signal (/ STS signal).

216 is a status signal (/ STS signal)
Thus, the engine control unit 2002
This signal is used when serial information is returned to 103, and the serial information is referred to as status.

A status change notification signal (/ CCRT signal) 217 is a signal for reporting to the printer controller 2103 when the status inside the printer has changed. The printer controller 2103 uses this / CCR
When the T signal 217 is received, a command is issued using the / CMD signal 214 to inquire what has changed in the state of the engine, and the engine control unit 2002
Signals its state with the / STS signal 216.

Next, the image forming unit 2003 controlled by the engine control unit 2002 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 5 shows the image forming unit 2003 shown in FIG.
FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of the image forming unit 20.
03 is controlled by the engine control unit 2002.

In the figure, reference numeral 401 denotes a scanner, which is sent from the printer controller 2103 as / VDO.
After receiving the signal 211 and converting it into a laser beam, it irradiates the photoconductor 402 to form an image on the photoconductor 402. The photoconductor 402 reaches the color developing device 403 and the black developing device 404 while rotating counterclockwise in the drawing. Each of the developing devices 403 and 404 has a function of applying (developing) toner on the photoconductor 402 in accordance with the electric charge charged on the photoconductor 402. When the image is black and white, only the developing device 404 operates. When the image is color, the color developing device 403 and the black developing device 4 are operated.
04 are both used.

Next, the image developed on the photosensitive member 402 is transferred to the intermediate transfer member 405 rotating clockwise. The intermediate transfer body 405 rotates once in the case of black and white,
In the case of color, the image is generated by rotating the intermediate transfer member 405 four times.
Complete on.

On the other hand, recording paper fed from the upper cassette 408 or the lower cassette 409 by the pickup roller 411 or the pickup roller 412 is conveyed along the paper feed roller 413 or the paper feed roller 414, and is further registered by the conveyance roller 415. It is transported to the front sensor position.

Then, at the timing when image formation is completed on the intermediate transfer member 405, the intermediate transfer member 405 and the transfer belt 40
The timing is controlled so that the recording paper comes during 6. When the recording paper arrives here, the transfer belt 40
6 comes in contact with the intermediate transfer member 405, and the toner is transferred to the recording paper. The image transferred to the recording paper is fixed to a fixing roller 407.
At a and 407b, the recording paper is fixed on the recording paper by heat and pressure.

The recording paper on which the image has been fixed is transferred to the face-up discharge port 417 or the face-down discharge port 41 specified in advance by the printer controller 2103.
8 and is discharged. Thus, the image information sent from the printer controller 2103 can be output.

Next, the timing of signals exchanged between the video I / Fs 2101 will be described with reference to FIG. This shows the signal description of the video I / F described above as time elapses.

FIG. 6 shows the video I / F 210 shown in FIG.
5 is a timing chart for explaining the transmission timing of each signal exchanged between one.

First, when the preparation of the image information by the printer controller 2103 is completed, the / PRNT signal 206 is set to L level.
ow (true) and notify the engine control unit 2002. At the same time, an image synchronization signal / VCLK signal 209 used for transferring the image signal (/ VDO signal 211) is also generated.

In response, engine control unit 2002
When various settings and the like inside the printer are performed and an image can be received, the / TOP signal 207 and / L
An SYNC signal 208 is output to the printer controller 2103. The / TOP signal 207 as a vertical synchronization signal and the / LSYNC signal 2 as a horizontal synchronization signal
08, the printer controller 2103 outputs the image signal / VDO211 and the image valid signal / VDOE.
The N signal 210 is transferred to the engine control unit 2002.

Next, the exchange of commands and statuses during serial communication during the printing operation will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 7 is a timing chart for explaining communication timing between the printer controller 2103 and the engine control unit 2002 shown in FIG. First, a case where the / CCRT signal 217 in the figure is not used will be described.

When the printer controller 2103 wants to issue a command to the engine control unit 2002, the / CBSY signal 213 is set to Low (true) and the / CMD signal 2 is synchronized with the clock signal / CCLK 212.
When the command data is sent to the engine control unit 2002, the engine control unit 2002 sets the / CBSY signal 213 to High.
(False), the / SBSY signal 215 is set to Low (True), and the status data on the engine side corresponding to the command is synchronized with the / CCLK signal 212 generated from the printer controller 2103 to / ST.
Send to S signal 216. This status data is received by the printer controller 2103, and print control is continued or interrupted depending on the state.

Next, the / CCRT signal 217 will be described. This signal is sent to the printer controller 2 in advance.
A signal 103 is Low (true) when a change occurs in the specified engine state.

For example, when the absence of paper occurs, / CC
It is assumed that the printer controller 2103 has previously set the / CMD signal 214 so as to enable the RT signal 217. Therefore, it is assumed that there is only one remaining recording sheet, and the printer controller 2103 issues a printout request for two sheets. For the first sheet, the print sequence operation is normally processed without any problem.

However, since the second recording sheet does not exist, the printer engine detects a change in state at the stage when the second image formation is started, and the / CCRT signal 217 is output.
Is changed from “High” to “Low”. This signal is transmitted to the printer controller 2103. Upon detecting this, the printer controller 2103 issues a command to the engine control unit 2002 requesting a paper feed unit paper presence status in order to know which paper feed cassette is out of paper.

In accordance with this, the engine control unit 2002 returns the status of the paperless cassette to the controller.
The / CCRT signal 217 returns the status / SB
At the timing when the SY signal 215 becomes Low, “Hig
h ".

Hereinafter, the exchange of commands / status between the printer controller 2103 and the engine control unit 2002 will be described in more detail with reference to FIG.

FIG. 8 is a view for explaining a serial communication state between the printer controller 2103 and the engine control unit 2002 shown in FIG. Here, color output is assumed.

First, when a print start request occurs, the printer controller 2103 checks the ready state of the printer with the engine control unit 2002 while performing conversion processing of image data and the like. Next, a command for designating the paper feed stage of the recording paper is issued. Further, a command for requesting the recording paper size in the designated cassette is issued. The engine control unit 200 responds to these series of commands.
2 returns the corresponding status.

Next, the discharge port is determined by the command for specifying the discharge port, and a page mode designation command for designating how many page images are formed is issued. Finally, by issuing a command for specifying monochrome / color, all settings on the printer side are completed.

Thereafter, the printer controller 2103 sends a print request / PR to the engine control unit 2002.
An NT signal 206 is generated. In response to this, a / TOP signal 207 is returned from the engine control unit 2002 for a predetermined time. The vertical scanning direction is synchronized with the / TOP signal 207, and the / VDO signal 211 is synchronized with the / LSYNC signal 208 in the horizontal direction.
The image is transferred to the engine control unit 2002 in accordance with. Here, since the color mode is set, / TOP
The signal 207 is generated four times, and an image for four colors of CMYK is formed.

After the last / TOP signal 207 is generated, the / PRNT signal 206 is returned to High (false). Accordingly, the engine control unit 2002 detects that the print request has been completed, and shifts to post-processing such as a cleaning operation of the intermediate transfer body 405. Further, the transferred recording paper passes through the fixing rollers 407a and 407b, and is discharged to a designated discharge outlet. Finally, the printer controller 21
In step 03, after confirming to the engine control unit 2002 that the recording sheet is not in the recording paper transport state (discharge end), the printing ends, and the apparatus stands by in a ready state until the next print request occurs.

During the operation as described above, the jam of the recording paper,
When an illegal state such as the absence of the recording paper or the door open by the user occurs, the printer controller 2103 immediately notifies the printer controller 2103 of the abnormality of the printer from the engine control unit 2002 using the / CCRT signal 217 described above. The printer controller 2103 performs corresponding processing.

The above is the processing performed between the printer controller 2103 and the printer (engine control unit 2002).

FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the image processing apparatus shown in FIG. 1 and is output from the printer controller 2103 based on data transferred from an external computer. This corresponds to the appearance when a reader controller that optically reads an original image on a sheet, converts it into a digital signal, and outputs the digital signal as well as the image data to be printed is mounted on the printer side.

In the figure, reference numeral 801 denotes a document feeder which conveys a document to a portion where the document is optically read. Reference numeral 802 denotes an optical reading device, in which a light source, a scanning mirror, and the like are provided as in FIG.

Reference numeral 805 denotes a document table glass, which is a document feeder 8;
01, the document automatically fed is placed at a predetermined position.
The original feeding device 801 is driven in synchronization with the optical reading device 802, and when the original image is transferred onto the original platen glass 805 by the original feeding device 801, the optical reading device 802 is moved in the horizontal direction in FIG. The image is scanned while moving, and the reflected light having been subjected to appropriate optical processing is reflected by the photoelectric conversion unit 80.
Send to 4. Reference numeral 803 denotes a printer main body.

FIG. 10 is a configuration diagram showing a communication state between the printer controller 2103, the engine control unit 2002, and the reader controller 901 shown in FIG. 3, and shows a reader controller 901 (FIG. 1) for reading a document image.
(Corresponding to the reader controller 106 shown in FIG. 3) is mounted so as to be interposed between the printer controller 2103 and the engine control unit 2002.

In the figure, reference numeral 901 denotes a reader controller, which is disposed at an electrical intermediate point between the printer controller 2103 and the engine control unit 2002 in FIG.

The printer controller 2103 and the reader controller 901 and the engine controller 2002
The type of signal line between the controller and the reader controller 901 has the same function as the type of signal line shown in FIG.

However, since signals between the printer controller 2103 and the signal between the engine control units 2002 are physically different, C is assigned to the former and P is assigned to the latter as signal names.

Reference numeral 902 denotes an image signal processing unit which performs predetermined image processing (enlargement / reduction processing,
(Including trimming processing, mask processing, black-and-white determination processing, gamma conversion processing, etc.).

Reference numeral 903 denotes a document scanning optical system control unit which controls the document scanning process of the optical reading device 802. 90
Reference numeral 4 denotes a document feeding control unit which controls a document feeding process from the document feeding device 801.

Reference numeral 905 denotes an operation unit.
Key for instructing the start of image reading, etc., for 01, LE
D and the like are provided. An image input unit 906 receives an image signal converted by the photoelectric conversion unit 804 and inputs the image signal to the image signal processing unit 9 in the reader controller 901.
02. An operation unit 907 is provided with keys, LEDs, and the like for inputting a print mode and the like to the printer controller 2103.

Next, the configuration of the reader controller 901 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 11 is a detailed block diagram for explaining a first configuration of the reader controller 901 shown in FIG. 10, and the same components as those in FIG. 10 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

In the figure, 2201 is a selector,
Either the output of the image signal processing unit 902 or the signal sent from the printer controller 2103 is selected and output to the engine control unit 2002. Selector 220
The signal system switched at 1 is the image clock signal / VCLK,
The three signals are an image enable signal / VDOEN and an image signal / VDO.

Reference numeral 2202 denotes a serial communication controller.
The communication with the engine control unit 2002 is performed. Reference numeral 2203 denotes an input / output port for exchanging signals for supplementing communication in the serial communication controller 2202. Reference numeral 2204 denotes an interrupt controller. The interrupt controller 2004 includes an image leading end request signal / PTOP and a printer status change signal /
PCCRT is input.

Reference numeral 2205 denotes a serial communication controller.
The communication with the printer controller 2103 is performed. 220
Reference numeral 6 denotes an input / output port.
5 to exchange signals to supplement the communication. A gate 2207 controls whether a signal sent from the printer is sent to the printer controller 2103.
The gate control is performed by the image leading end request signal / CT.
OP and the line synchronization signal / CLSYNC.

Reference numeral 2208 denotes a control circuit having a gate function and a flag setting function, and a printer state change signal / CCR.
Control T. When the gate opens and closes, the engine control unit 2
002 issued by the printer status change signal (/ PCCRT
The printer controller 2103 can issue a printer status change signal (/ CCRT signal) to the printer controller 2103 by controlling whether or not the signal is transmitted to the printer controller 2103 and setting a flag. Reference numeral 2209 denotes a CPU, which controls the whole.

[Operation at Copying] A method for reading a full-color original image using these and outputting the image from the image forming apparatus will be described.

When a copy start key (not shown) on the operation unit 905 is input, the reader controller 901 sets the gate 2207 and the control circuit 22 for the copy mode.
08 is closed, and the selector 2201 is connected to the image processing unit 90.
Set so that output 2 is selected.

Next, the ready status signal (/ PRDY signal) of the printer is checked with respect to the engine control unit 2002 using the input / output port 2203. Next, various settings are performed using the serial communication controller 2202.

First, a command for designating a paper feed stage for recording paper is issued. Further, a command for requesting the recording paper size in the designated cassette is issued. In response to these series of commands, the engine control unit 2002 returns a corresponding status.

Next, the discharge port is determined by the command for specifying the discharge port, and a page mode designation command for designating how many page images are formed is issued. Finally, by issuing a command for specifying monochrome / color, all settings on the printer side are completed.

Next, after the document is fed from the document feeder 801 onto the document table, the reader controller 901 sends a print request signal (/ P
PRNT signal). In response to this, the engine control unit 2002 returns a / PTOP signal after a predetermined time. This is called the interrupt controller 2204
And the optical reading device 802 is operated so as to synchronize with the / PTOP signal.

The vertical scanning direction is synchronized with the / PTOP signal, the horizontal direction is synchronized with the / PLSYNC signal, the / PVDO signal is synchronized with the / PVCLK signal, and the signal is input from the photoelectric conversion device 804 to the image processing unit 902. The transmitted signal is transferred to the engine control unit 2002. here,
Since the color mode is set, the optical reading device 802
Is operated four times, and an image for four colors of CMYK is formed in response to the / PTOP signal generated four times.

Then, after generation of the final / PTOP signal,
Return the / PPRNT signal to High (false).

As a result, the engine control unit 2002 detects that the print request has been completed, and
The processing shifts to post-processing such as the cleaning operation of. Further, the transferred recording paper passes through the fixing rollers 407a and 407b, and is discharged to a designated discharge outlet. Finally, the reader controller 901 sends an instruction to the engine control unit 2002.
After confirming that the recording paper is not being conveyed (discharge end),
The printing is completed, and the printer stands by in a ready state until the next print request is issued.

[Operation at the Time of Printing] A method for outputting an image from the printer controller 2103 from the image forming apparatus by using these will be described.

At the stage when the copying operation has been completed, the reader controller 901 enters a ready state. At this time, the reader controller 901 operates the gate 2 for the operation during printing.
207 and the control circuit 2208 are opened. The reader controller 901 uses the input / output port 2203 to send a printer ready state signal (/
PRDY signal), and if it is OK, the printer controller 210 using the input / output port 2206.
Ready status signal (/ CRDY signal) for 3
Is set.

Next, the printer controller 2103 performs communication for making various settings, and the reader controller 9103 performs communication.
01 is received by the serial communication controller 2205 and interpreted by the CPU 2209. According to the interpretation, the reader controller 901 performs various settings using the serial communication controller 2202.

[0109] In response to a series of commands, the engine control unit 2002 sends the corresponding status to the reader controller 9.
01, the reader controller 901 receives it using the serial communication controller 2202, and the received content is interpreted by the CPU 2209, and this time, the serial communication controller 2205 is used to communicate with the printer controller 2103.

Next, the printer controller 2103 generates a print request signal (/ CPRNT signal) to the reader controller 901,
01 generates a print request signal (/ PPRNT signal) to the engine control unit 2002 in response to the request. In response to this, after a predetermined time, the engine control unit 2
002 returns a / PTOP signal. This is passed by the gate control unit 2208 and returned to the printer controller 2103 as a / CTOP signal.

In the printer controller 2103, the / C
The vertical scanning direction is synchronized with the TOP signal, and
YNC signal passed through gate 2207 / CLSYNC
The / CDO signal is synchronized with the / C signal in the horizontal direction with the C signal.
The data is transferred to the reader controller 901 in synchronization with the VCLK signal.

In the reader controller 901, the selector 2201 is set to select the signal sent from the printer controller 2103, and the signal sent from the printer controller 2103 is set to / P
The signals are sent to the engine control unit 2002 as the VCLK signal, the / PVDOEN signal, and the / PVDO signal.

[Difference between Print Operation and Copy Operation] Here, the difference between the print operation and the copy operation will be described with respect to the image transmission timing.

Although a detailed description of the configuration of the printer controller 2103 is omitted, an image memory is provided therein, and image data for printing is prepared in advance there.

Therefore, the time required for outputting the image signal / VDO signal 211 with respect to the image leading end request signal (/ TOP signal) 207 sent from the engine control unit 2002 is only an electrical delay time. is there.

On the other hand, in the copy mode,
The original is read while the optical reading device 802 is moved, and image data is output. Hereinafter, a scanning operation at the time of reading a document will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 12 is a timing chart for explaining the scanning operation of the scanning section 802 shown in FIG. 9. The vertical axis indicates the scanning speed (v), and the horizontal axis indicates the time (msec).

As shown in FIG. 12, the optical reading device 8
From the state in which the document 02 is stopped to the state in which the document is moving at a high speed for reading the document, a time for accelerating is required, for example, about several hundred msec. Therefore, if the engine control unit 2002 sends the image leading end request signal (/ TOP signal) 207 in the copy mode at the same timing as the signal in the print mode, the engine control unit 2002 outputs image data (/ VDO signal) to be printed on the engine. 211) reaches several hundred meters in copy mode
It will be delayed for sec. For this purpose, there is a first or second countermeasure.

First, the / TOP signal 207 is transmitted earlier during printing than during printing. Second, another signal (RSTART) is provided for the copy mode.
In the countermeasure of the above, the configuration in the reader controller 901 is
FIG. 11 may be left as it is. In the copy mode, the / TOP signal 2
At 07, the reader controller 901 starts moving the optical reading device 802.

On the other hand, in order to execute the second countermeasure,
The configuration of the reader controller 901 needs to be the configuration shown in FIG. 13 instead of the configuration shown in FIG.

FIG. 13 is a detailed block diagram for explaining the second configuration of the reader controller 901 shown in FIG. 10, and the same components as those in FIG. 10 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

In the reader controller 901 shown in FIG. 13, the image leading end request signal (/ PTOP signal) sent from the engine control unit 2002 is a signal necessary only when the printer controller 2103 performs printing. Need not be input to the interrupt controller 2204. Also, the movement start request signal (/ RSTART signal) of the optical reading device 802 sent from the engine control unit 2002 is a signal necessary only in the copy mode, and the printer controller 2103
Need not be sent to

[Control for Setting Command] Between the printer controller 2103 and the engine control unit 2002,
The communication processing between the printer controller 2103 and the engine control unit 2002 due to the connection of the reader controller 901 will be described separately for the case where the reader controller 901 intervenes and the case where the reader controller 901 does not intervene.

When the reader controller 901 uses the engine control unit 2002 to read and output a document image (copier mode), the printer controller 210
A case where a setting command, for example, a paper cassette change command, is issued to the printer from No. 3 will be described.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an example of a first communication processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention, and corresponds to a case where the reader controller 901 does not intervene. (A) is a printer controller 2103
(B) shows the engine control unit 2
002 corresponds to the processing procedure. Also, (1)-
(3) shows each step. Furthermore, in this example,
The printer controller 2103 operates as the engine control unit 200
A case where a paper feed change command is transmitted to the second sheet is taken as an example.

In FIG. 14A, first, the printer controller 2103 issues a paper feed cassette change command (1), determines whether or not a response has been received from the engine control unit 2002 (2), and receives a response. If it is determined that there is no response, it waits until a response is received. If it is determined that a response is received, it is determined whether the execution of the command is successful (3). If it is determined that the execution of the command is not successful, The error processing is performed, and when it is determined that the execution of the command is successful, the processing ends.

In FIG. 14B, first, it is determined whether or not a command has been issued from the printer controller 2103 (1). If it is determined that the command has not been issued, the process waits until a command is issued, and changes the paper cassette. If it is determined that the command is a command other than the command, the process branches to a processing routine corresponding to the command.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (1) that the issued command is a paper feed cassette change command, the paper feed cassette is changed (2). The change of the cassette is notified (3), and the process returns to the step (1).

As described above, the printer controller 210
3 issues a paper cassette change command and then receives a response from the engine control unit 2002. When the response is received, it determines whether or not processing corresponding to the command is successful, and ends a series of command issuing sequences. The engine control unit 2002
When the command is received from the printer controller 2103, the content of the command is determined. In the case of the paper feed cassette change command, the printer controller 2103 is notified of the successful command execution when the change is successful.

Next, a reader controller 90 is provided between the printer controller 2103 and the engine controller 2002.
1 in the image processing apparatus of the present embodiment to which
Will be described.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of a second communication processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention, and corresponds to a case where a reader controller 901 is interposed. Note that (a) corresponds to the processing procedure in the printer controller 2103, and (b) corresponds to the engine control unit 20.
02 corresponds to the processing procedure. In addition, (1)-
(6) and (11) to (17) show each step.

FIG. 15A shows a process performed when the reader controller 901 is ready to issue a command received from the printer controller 2103 to the engine control unit 2002 without affecting its own state. FIG. 15B corresponds to reception of a command transmitted from the printer controller 2103 and control for returning a status to the printer controller 2103.

Referring to FIG. 15A, a case where reader controller 901 is ready to issue a command received from printer controller 2103 to engine control unit 2002 without affecting its own state is described. explain.

First, it is determined whether the command received from the printer controller 2103 can be issued to the engine control unit 2002 (1). If it is determined that the command cannot be issued, the command is issued. If it is determined that the command can be issued, the reader controller 901 sends a command to the engine control unit 2002 to the serial communication controller 220.
2, the command stored in the engine command queue is issued by the / PCMD signal (2), and it is determined whether a response to the command issued in step (2) is received from the engine control unit 2002 (3).

Note that a command issued by the reader controller 901 itself is also transmitted to the engine control unit 2002 by this / PCMD signal. The engine control unit 20
When the execution of the command is completed from 02, a response is returned to the reader controller 901 by a / PSTS signal.

In step (3), if it is determined that no response has been received, the process waits until a response is received. If it is determined that a response is received, it is determined whether or not the command has been successfully executed (4). If the execution of the command execution unit is determined to be successful, the command is deleted from the engine command queue (5), and the process returns to step (1). If the command execution processing unit determines that the execution is not successful, an error occurs. Process as a state (6) and return to step (1).

Next, in FIG. 15B, first, the reader controller 901
03, the serial communication controller 2205 receives a command through the / CCMD signal shown in FIG.
1), the command is currently used as is in the engine control unit 20
02 (12). If it is determined that a controller command to the engine control unit 2002 cannot be issued, the reader controller 901 specifies a sheet cassette and performs a copy operation. For example, if the paper feed cassette change command sent from the printer controller 2103 is issued to the engine control unit 2002 as it is, the copying operation will not operate normally. Without issuing a command to 2002, the commands issued from the printer controller 2103 to the engine control unit 2002 are stored in an engine command queue that stores the commands in the order of issue (13), and the process proceeds to step (17).

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (12) that a controller command can be issued, for example, what instruction is currently being executed by the reader controller 901 to the engine control unit 2002 to perform the copy mode operation? If there is no such command, the same command as that previously sent from the printer controller 2103 to the engine control unit 2002 is sent to the engine control unit 2002 using the serial communication controller 2202 / PCMD.
Issued by a signal (14).

Then, it is determined whether or not a response has been received from the engine control unit 2002 (15). If it is determined that a response has been received, it is determined whether or not execution of the command has been successful (16). If it is determined that the command has been executed successfully, it is determined that the command has been successfully executed.
3 is notified by a / CSTS signal (17), and the process returns to step (11).

On the other hand, even if a command is stored in the engine command queue in step (13), a response to the command must be returned to the printer controller 2103.
01 from the printer controller 2 using the serial communication controller 2205 that the command has been successfully executed.
103 is returned by the / CSTS signal (17).

As described above, the printer controller 21
Even if the reader controller 901 is interposed between the printer controller 2103 and the engine control unit 2002,
2 can issue a command processing sequence without causing inconsistency in operation.

[Control for State Change Signal] Next, in the configuration in which the reader controller 901 is inserted between the printer controller 2103 and the engine control unit 2002, a state change on the engine side, for example, an error occurrence state Is transmitted from the engine control unit 2002 to the reader controller 901 using the / PCCRT signal.

In the case where the reader controller 901 is provided between the printer controller 2103 and the engine control unit 2002, there is a possibility that the reader controller 901 side and the printer controller 2103 side have different changes in the state that they want to know. For example, this is a case where a state change occurs such that the paper being transported is jammed.

For example, if the engine is the reader controller 90
If a jam occurs during the copying operation under the control of No. 1, this state is a state that only the reader controller 901 wants to know. Printer controller 2103
However, since the jam is not being output by itself, appropriate post-processing cannot be performed even if the user is notified of this state.

If a control system equivalent to that of the reader controller 901 is to be mounted, software for jam processing control which the other controller should have on both controllers is duplicated. Therefore, a lot of waste occurs in the capacity of software.

Therefore, it is basically necessary to notify the printer controller 2103 in the print mode and notify the reader controller 901 in the copy mode.

However, even in the copy mode, the printer controller 2103 may want an engine state change signal in some cases. For example, it is necessary to notify the printer controller 2103 of information such as a change in the cassette size and the absence of paper. These do not strictly question the time from when the state change signal is issued by the engine control unit 2002 to when the processing is performed by each controller.

Therefore, the following processing is performed. That is, in the copy mode in which the reader controller 901 controls the engine control unit 2002, the state change signal (/ PC) notified from the engine control unit 2002 using the gate function of the control circuit 2208.
The CRT signal is masked for the printer controller 2103, and only the reader controller 901 receives the signal through the interrupt controller 2204.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of the third communication processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention, and corresponds to the processing of the reader controller 901 when the reader controller 901 is interposed. In addition,
(1) to (10) show each step.

First, it is determined whether the / PCCRT signal is true (1). If it is not true, wait until it becomes true. If it is determined that it is true, the reader controller 901 issues a command for acquiring a state change to the engine control unit 2002 (2).

Next, it is determined whether or not there is a response from the engine control unit 2002 (3). If it is determined that there is no response, the process waits until there is a response. Looking at the status, the engine status change is grasped (4).

Then, it is determined whether or not the content is a content to be notified also to the printer controller 2103 (5).
If it is determined that the content is to be notified to the printer controller 2103, for example, if there is a change in the state such as a change in the recording paper size of the paper feed cassette, the control circuit 22
08 to set a flag,
A CCCRT signal is generated (6), and it is determined whether or not there is a status change inquiry from the printer controller 2103 (7).
Wait until there is an inquiry, and when it is determined that there is an inquiry, the status change received from the engine control unit 2002 is returned as a status, and the printer controller 21
03 (8), set the / CCCRT signal to "false" (9), and terminate the process.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (5) that the change in the engine state is not notified to the printer controller 2103, the reader controller 90
A process for a state change is performed inside 1 (10), and the process ends.

In a print mode in which the printer controller 2103 controls the engine control unit 2002, the gate function of the control circuit 2208 is released, and
A / PCCRT signal, which is a state change signal notified from the engine control unit 2002, is notified to the printer controller 2103 as a / CCCRT signal.

[Control for Execution Command] Next, control of the execution command will be described. For example, how the reader controller 901 controls when the printer controller 2103 and the reader controller 901 simultaneously issue a use request to the engine control unit 2002 will be described.

FIG. 17 is a diagram for explaining a communication process between controllers in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.
This corresponds to the location and exchange of data when a print request is issued during a copy operation. At this time, the engine control unit 2002 receives the image signal (/ PVDO signal) sent from the reader controller 901 and performs image formation. As described in FIG. 8, the setting of the paper feed cassette, the paper discharge port, and the image forming mode is performed by the reader controller 901 and the engine control unit 2002.
Has already been set by serial communication. The same components as those in FIG. 10 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

In the figure, reference numeral 1301 denotes a buffer in which various set values such as values set by the reader controller 901 in the engine control unit 2002 and values set by the printer controller 2103 in the engine control unit 2002 are stored. Of the various set values stored in the buffer 1301, the set value for the reader stores the specified value described above.

Here, when a print request is issued from the printer controller 2103 during the copy operation, the interruption of the copy operation and the printout are performed.
It's hard to think about usability. Therefore, the print request in this situation is postponed until the copying operation is completed.

However, in response to the / CCMD signal from the printer controller 2103, the / CSTS signal must be returned. Therefore, of the setting values stored in the buffer 1301, only the setting value from the printer controller 2103 is set in the PDL setting area in response to a request.

If the set value for the reader is different from the set value for the PDL, the setting is performed from the reader controller 901 to the engine control unit 2002 before the copy operation is completed and the printer operation is started. Good. The following is a description of a specific example.

At present, the copying operation is being performed, the paper is fed from the upper cassette, and the paper is discharged to the face-up discharge port 417. The image forming mode is changed to the color mode based on the determination that the original is color. Assume that it has been set.

Here, when a print request is issued from the printer controller 2103, the print execution itself is postponed, but various settings can be made.

Here, it is assumed that the print request is a request for feeding paper from the upper cassette 408, discharging the paper to the face-down discharge port 418, and further outputting a monochrome image. Regarding the sheet cassette designation, both the reader controller 901 and the printer controller 2103 designate the upper cassette 408.

Therefore, even when the copy operation is completed and the operation is switched to the print operation, it is not necessary to issue the paper feed cassette designation command to the engine control unit 2002. Regarding the discharge port and the image forming mode, since the designation is different between the copy operation and the print operation, when the copy operation is completed, the discharge port designation and the image formation mode designation are again performed from the reader controller 901 to the engine control unit 2002. Command must be issued.

As described above, the reader controller 901
Does not judge that a command from the printer controller 2103 is only to postpone execution of the command to the engine control unit 2002, but that the reader controller 901 has already set the command to the engine control unit 2002. Is determined so as not to be set redundantly.

Next, with reference to FIGS. 18 and 19, a description will be given of the processing operation of the controller 901 when a copy request occurs during the printing operation.

In this case, contrary to the case where a print request is made during the above-described copy operation, from the viewpoint of usability, even if the user presses the copy button in front of the copy machine, the user cannot copy during the print operation. Should be able to execute the copy operation in the interrupt form.

FIG. 18 is a diagram for explaining communication processing between the controllers in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.
This corresponds to the location and exchange of data when a copy request occurs during a printing operation. The same components as those in FIG. 17 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

In FIG. 18, during the printing operation, the / CV sent from the printer controller 2103 is used.
The DO signal is selected by the selector 2201, and / PVDO
The signal is sent to the engine control unit 2002 as a signal. Assuming that the settings are exactly the same as those described with reference to FIG.
8, the face-down discharge port 418, and the monochrome image mode are designated.

The engine control unit 2002 determines that the / PPRNT signal from the printer controller 2103 is High.
Since the end can be detected for the first time when it becomes (false), it is not known how many sheets are printed out. It is assumed here that the printer is about to print out four images.

If a copy operation request is not made by interruption from the reader controller 901, the / PTO signal is sent from the engine control unit 2002 as shown in the image timing shown in FIG.
Four P signals are generated, and an image is sent from the printer controller 2103 to the engine control unit 2002 via the reader controller 901 in response to the four P signals.

Therefore, it is assumed that an interrupt copy request for copying one color document is issued to the reader controller 901 during the second printout. The operation at this time will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 19 is a timing chart for explaining an interrupt processing operation in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention, and corresponds to communication processing with the printer controller 2103, reader controller 901 and engine control unit 2002.

In the figure, reference numerals 1501 to 1504 denote image data which is transmitted from the printer controller 2103 to the reader controller 901.
This corresponds to transmitting two images. Reference numeral 1505A denotes a / PTOP signal which is transmitted from the engine control unit 2002 to the reader controller 901 after the copy request is interrupted. Reference numeral 1505B denotes a / CTOP signal, which corresponds to the signal that would have been transmitted to the printer controller 2103 when the copying operation was not interrupted, and is indicated by a broken line in the figure.

/ C from printer controller 2103
In response to the request based on the PRNT signal, the reader controller 901 issues a request for the / PPRNT signal to the engine control unit 20.
02 from the engine control unit 2002 to / P
The TOP signal is output from the reader controller 901 as / CT
The OP signal is supplied to the printer controller 2103. Thus, the printing operation of the first image shown in the image data 1501 and the printing operation of the second image shown in the image data 1502 are executed.

Here, a case will be described in which the reader controller 901 generates an interrupt copy request during the printout operation of the second sheet.

The reader controller 901 generates a / CCCRT signal for the printer controller 2103. This is not that the state of the engine has actually changed, but the reader requests the printer controller 2103 to open the engine in order to acquire the printer engine. The generation method is as described above.
08 is used. In response to the / CCCRT signal, the printer controller 2103 issues a command for checking the status status of the engine, and the reader controller 901 returns to the printer controller 2103 a status indicating that "copying is in progress".

Then, the printer controller 2103
Detects that the engine is performing a copy operation while keeping the / CPRNT signal Low (true), and
Continue to wait for the TOP signal. If not in a copy state, / CPRNT remains Low (true) / CTOP
Does not come, a time-out error occurs after a certain period of time.
On the 103 side, the time-out is canceled and the setting is made to wait forever for the / CTOP signal.

The / PTOP signal sent this time from the engine control unit 2002 is for performing a copy operation, and the reader controller 901 uses the / PTOP signal. Also, as shown in FIG. 19, the / PTOP signal 1505A sent from the engine side is masked to the printer controller 2103.

The image signal actually generated by the reader controller 901 is only the image signal of the image data 1506. After one interrupt copy is completed,
By unmasking the PTOP signal and sending it to the printer controller 2103 as a / CTOP signal, the image data 1503 from the printer controller 2103 is output.
And the image data 1504 can be printed out to the engine control unit 2002. According to the above description, the interruption copy operation during the printing operation can be realized. As described above, the reader controller 901 determines and controls which of the printer engine 2103 and the reader controller 901 is to be acquired according to the status of the printer controller 2101 and the timing at which a command is issued, depending on the case. Thus, requests from two controllers can be realized for one engine.

[Control for Setting Content Confirmation Command] Next, control when the printer controller 2103 issues a setting content confirmation command will be described.

When the printer controller 2103 wants to confirm the state set in the engine control unit 2002, the printer controller 2103 issues a setting content confirmation command through the / CCMD signal.
The reader controller 901 having received it checks the setting value storage buffer (buffer) 1301 shown in FIG. 17, and if the content to be confirmed by the printer controller 2103 is in the buffer 1301, the content is read and the / CSTS signal is read. To the printer controller 2103 through

If the content is not stored in the buffer 1301, the reader controller 901 issues a setting content confirmation command through the / PCMD signal. The engine control unit 2002 reads out the content and outputs the setting content to /
The reader controller 901 is notified through the PSTS signal, and the reader controller 901 transmits the contents to the / CSTS.
A signal is sent to the printer controller 2103 through a signal.

[Basic Configuration of Soft Counter] Next, FIG.
The configuration of the soft counter provided in the printer controller 2103 and the reader controller 901 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 20 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the soft counter in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.

As shown in the figure, for example, a removable nonvolatile storage means (memory) 2701 and a nonvolatile storage means (memory) 2702 fixed to the apparatus are connected to a CPU 2209 which controls the reader controller 901. These memories constitute a soft counter which stores information twice. The memory 2703 stores a program to be executed by the CPU 2209.

Here, the non-volatile storage means has a property of retaining internal information even when the power supply of the apparatus is turned off, and in general, an SRAM circuit with a battery, an EEPROM or the like is often used.

Originally, having three or more types of storage means has higher accuracy in guaranteeing the stored value. This is because if there are only two, if one of them fails, it may not be possible to determine which storage means stores the correct value.

However, unnecessarily increasing the number of storage means complicates the circuit configuration and raises the cost. Therefore, in an actual case, it is desirable that the number of storage units can be reduced as much as possible. Therefore, in the present embodiment, a simplified configuration is taken as an example.

Here, two areas for storing a counter value are set in the memory 2702, and the same counter value is stored in both areas at different timings, thereby providing three pseudo storage means. ing.

Then, when the reader controller 901 operates the engine control unit 2002 to output a formed image, the reader controller 901 records the number of operations in the soft counter as follows. Hereinafter, the counting process of the soft counter shown in FIG. 20 will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS.

FIGS. 21 and 22 are flowcharts showing an example of the fourth communication processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention, and correspond to the counting processing procedure by the soft counter shown in FIG. In addition, (1) to (15) indicate each step.

First, the counter values stored in two areas in the memory 2702 are compared with the count values stored in the memory 2701 as removable storage means (1).

At this time, the stored content may not be the count value itself because it is due to the structure of the memory.

For example, the removable storage means is an EEPROM
In such a case, the storage area is limited in the number of times of rewriting, so that the storage data may be generated while managing the number.

The data stored in the memory 2701 is also
Considering the ease of count value comparison, the above EEPROM
It may be the same as the internal storage data (rewrite frequency limit management configuration). In the present invention, the storage data in each counter area is assumed to be an EEPROM 270.
Assume that it is exactly equal to the mapping inside one.

Next, it is determined whether or not all the comparison values are equal (2).
The count value of the first area in the area 02 is incremented (3), and subsequently, the checksum value in the first area is calculated (4). Then, the memory 2701, the memory 2702
The count value of the second area of (5),
(7) The checksum value is calculated and stored in each memory (6), (8).

In the case of the normal operation, the values of all the counters have been increased up to here under the structure for compensating the stored contents.

[Method of Correcting Storage Contents of Soft Counter] The power of the apparatus may be turned off during operation, or the stored counter value may be unintentionally rewritten due to the influence of noise or the like.

In such a case, in step (2) shown in FIG. 21, it is determined whether or not the comparison values are all equal, and it is determined that the counter values do not match, and the erroneous counter value is corrected. Then, the processing shown in FIG. 22 is started.

First, in order to confirm which of the counter values is wrong, in step (9), the checksum values of all counter areas are verified, and in step (10), the checksum values are checked. It is determined whether or not there is a correct count area with the correct value of the check sum.
In 5), since it is considered to be a failure, processing is performed according to an error processing flow described later.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (10) that there is a count area having a correct checksum value,
The flow shifts to a flow for compensating the counter value based on the result. At step (11), it is determined whether or not there is a combination of counters having the same checksum value and all values in the area being equal. If it is determined that there is an appropriate combination, the values of the two counter areas are determined as correct values, the value is selected as a correction source in step (12), and the values are used in step (13). Then, the values of other counters are corrected to correct values, and the process returns to step (3).

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (11) that there is no combination in which the values in the area are all equal, then in step (14), the value of the counter area having the correct checksum value and the higher priority is set. Is determined to be a correct value, and the process proceeds to step (13).

There are several ways to determine the priority in step (14). Thus, for example, there are cases where the memory 3001 is raised in consideration of the number of times of rewriting, and where the first area inside the memory 2702 is raised in consideration of the count-up order.

[Method of Compensating for Stored Contents of Soft Counter at Time of Failure] FIG. 23 shows a fifth embodiment of the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.
23 is a flowchart showing an example of the communication processing procedure of FIG. 22. The detailed procedure of step (15) shown in FIG. 22 (the verification of the checksum value of all counter areas in step (10) of FIG. When it is determined that there is no area, or when other errors are detected and it is determined that some kind of failure has occurred, a repair procedure is performed. Note that (1) to (7) indicate each step.

First, in step (1), since the checksum values of all the counter areas have become abnormal values, the details thereof are determined. If there is no correct count area for the checksum value, the process proceeds to step (7) and the memory 2
Since there is a high possibility that both the 701 and the memory 2702 have failed, the board-by-board replacement process is performed.

On the other hand, in step (1), if no failure is found in the removable memory 3001 itself and a failure is detected in the board itself on which the memory 2701 or the memory 2702 is mounted, the counter value is stored. Repairs can be made while doing so.

First, in step (2), the memory 2701 storing the counter value is removed from the board.

In step (3), the failed board is replaced with a normal board, and the removed memory 2701 is newly mounted. Next, in step (4), the restarted board verifies whether or not the checksum is correct to check whether the installed memory 2701 has a failure. If an error is detected here, step (5) ) In the memory 2701
Is determined to have failed, and is replaced with a new one. Step (6)
Proceed to. In this case, the count value cannot be stored.

On the other hand, in step (4), the memory 2701
If no error is found in the verification in the above, that is, in the case of YES, it is determined that the contents are correct, and in step (6), the data in the memory 2701 is stored in the first area on the memory 2702 on the new board. Is copied to the second area, and the error processing ends. By taking such a flow, the count value can be guaranteed even when the substrate is replaced due to a failure.

[Count value display on operation unit] The counter value stored in the above-described soft counter is
Printer controller 2103, reader controller 9
01 is displayed on the operation units 905 and 907 under their own control.

FIG. 24 is a plan view for explaining an example of the operation unit 905 controlled by the reader controller 901 shown in FIG.

In the figure, reference numeral 3001 denotes a liquid crystal panel, which also functions as a touch panel. When a user directly touches a key displayed on the liquid crystal panel, a desired copy function or extended function is designated, and the status is displayed. It is configured to be able to. Numeral 3002 is a numeric keypad.
The button is pressed when a desired numerical value is set, for example, during a copy operation. A copy start key 3003 is depressed when starting a copy operation.

Reference numeral 3004 denotes a stop key, which is depressed to stop a currently processed copy operation or the like. 300
A power key 5 is depressed when power is supplied to both the reader unit and the printer unit. Reference numeral 3006 denotes a lamp, and a power key 3
Lights during power supply by 005. Reference numeral 3007 denotes an auto color selection key. By pressing this key, an auto color selection mode can be set.

Reference numeral 3008 denotes a full color mode key. By pressing this key, a full color mode can be set. Reference numeral 3009 denotes a black and white mode key. By pressing this key, a black and white mode can be set.

Reference numeral 3010 denotes a clear key,
Pressed when clearing the number of values input by 2 or the like. A reset key 3011 is depressed when resetting the mode. A guide key 3012 is pressed when the function setting method is unknown.

Reference numeral 3013 denotes a user mode key which is depressed when calling and setting a stored copy mode or the like. An interrupt key 3014 is depressed when specifying an interrupt mode. An ID key 3015 is pressed to manage the number of copies. An extension key 3016 is pressed to execute an optional function, for example, a print function. A copy mode key 3017 is pressed to execute a copy function.

When the user mode key 3013 is pressed, the counter value for copying is displayed in the user mode displayed on the liquid crystal panel 3001. The liquid crystal panel 3001 is disposed on the reader unit 101 shown in FIG.

On the other hand, the printer controller 210
The operation unit 3 is arranged in the printer main body shown in FIG. This operation unit has good visibility and ease of use when the printer function is a single unit. However, when the reader unit 101 is disposed on the upper part as shown in FIG. 1, the visibility deteriorates immediately. In such a case, the reader controller 90
Liquid crystal panel 300 shown in FIG.
Displaying all the counter values collectively on 1 improves usability.

[Transfer of Printer Counter to Reader Controller 901] In the configuration of the present invention, the reader controller 901 is connected to the printer controller 210 as described above.
3 and the engine control unit 2002, and relays all signals. Therefore, the printer controller 2
When the image output unit 103 outputs an image using the engine control unit 2002, the output mode, output timing, and the like can all be grasped by the reader controller 901.

Hereinafter, the count value reception processing, the count value transmission determination processing, and the like in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS.

FIGS. 25 and 26 are flow charts showing an example of the sixth communication processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention. The reader controller 901 is inserted between the printer controller 2103 and the engine control unit 2002. At this time, it corresponds to the processing procedure of transmitting the count value counted by the printer controller 2103 to the reader controller 901. Note that (1) to (3), (1)
1) to (13) show respective steps.

First, when the reader controller 901 is inserted, the process stands by until a count value is notified from the printer controller 2103 (1). On the other hand, the printer controller 2103
Is detected between the engine controller 2002 and the engine controller 2002 (11), the count value stored therein is notified to the reader controller 901 (12). afterwards,
All counts inside the printer controller 2103 are prohibited (13), and the error processing ends. This is to prevent the counting timing from being completely the same when both controllers count, and to prevent the two counting values from shifting, and that a multivalued counter value occurs between the two controllers each time counting is performed. This is to prevent communication traffic.

On the other hand, the reader controller 106, which has been notified of the count value from the printer controller 2103,
The count value is written to the first and second areas of the memory 2701 and the memory 2702 (2), and the count control is started under the same mechanism as other counters in the reader controller 901 (3), and error processing is performed. To end.

Thus, the reader controller 90
Since the counter values of the printer controller 2103 have also been transferred to the inside of the printer 1, all the counter values can be displayed on the operation unit 905 under the control of the reader controller 901.

[Count Control of Printer Output in Reader Controller] In the reader controller 106 to which the count control has been transferred from the printer controller 2103, it is necessary to control the counter also in outputting the printer. As explained in the above section on print operation,
From the printer controller 2103 to the engine controller 20
Since all the commands sent to the printer controller 02 have been received once by the reader controller 901, it is possible to determine the mode in which the printer controller 2103 is about to output from the contents thereof.

It is assumed that the type of counter to be counted up is selected according to this mode, and the count-up is performed according to the count-up flow shown in FIGS. 21 and 22 according to the discharge of the engine.

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

FIG. 27 is a diagram for explaining a memory map of a storage medium for storing various data processing programs readable by the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.

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

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

The functions shown in FIGS. 9 to 11 in this embodiment are executed by a program installed from the outside.
It may be performed by a host computer. 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.

As a storage medium for supplying the program code, for example, a floppy (registered trademark) disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, C
D-ROM, CD-R, magnetic tape, nonvolatile memory card, ROM, EEPROM, etc. 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 instruction of the program code, The CPU provided in the function expansion board or function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing,
It goes without saying that a case where the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by the processing is also included.

[0238]

As described above, the first embodiment according to the present invention is described.
According to the invention, the first control means for receiving print information via a predetermined communication medium to generate print data printable by a printing unit, and the print data generated by the first control means Controlling the driving of the printing unit based on
And the first and second control means are communicatively connected between the first and second control means to relay-control data communication between the first and second control means, and to read an image. And the third control means for controlling the image reading of the image reading section, so that when the image reading section is expanded and the configuration of the image processing resources is changed to enable the composite image processing, the related system information is newly added. The control system to be expanded can be transferred without any trouble, the overlapping process in the specific control can be reduced, and the common control associated with the composite image processing can be consolidated to increase the efficiency.

According to the second invention, the third control means includes a first communication means for communicating with the first control means, and a second communication means for communicating with the second control means. Communication means, so that even if the third control means is interposed between the first and second control means, the data communication between the first and second control means is not significantly changed. This can be performed normally, and the reliability of data communication with respect to the system change of the image processing resources can be maintained.

According to the third aspect, the first control means transfers a specific printer control to the third control means when the third control means is interposed and connected.
The specific printer control burden borne by the first control means can be reduced, and the specific printer control originally borne by the first control means can be replaced without any trouble.

According to the fourth aspect, the first control means transmits specific data associated with a specific printer control to the third control means when the third control means is interposed and connected. Therefore, the data management burden of the specific data to be handled by the first control means can be reduced, and the first control means can take over and manage the same specific data as the specific data which is originally managed.

According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the specific printer control is output sheet count control, so the output sheet count control performed by the first control means is reduced, and the output control originally performed by the first control means is reduced. Substitution processing can be performed without any problem for the sheet count control.

According to the sixth invention, the specific data is:
Since the output sheet count value is used, the data management load of the output sheet count value that should be handled by the first control means is reduced, and the output sheet count value that is originally the same as the output sheet count value that is managed by the first control means is used. Can be taken over and managed.

According to the seventh invention, the third control means includes a memory unit for storing specific data transmitted from the first control means, and an output number transferred from the first control means. And a counting unit for performing count control, so that the specific data managed by the first control means is transferred to the second control means with a simple configuration, and the inherited specific data is continuously counted as an initial value. Can be processed.

According to the eighth aspect, the third control means displays the output sheet count value counted by the counting section on the operation section provided in the image reading section. The user can clearly indicate the output sheet count value passed to the operation unit of the image reading unit without impairing the operability.

According to the ninth and tenth aspects, the first control means for receiving print information via a predetermined communication medium and generating print data printable by the printing unit, Data processing of a reading control device for controlling image reading of an image reading unit by communicatively connecting to a second control unit for controlling driving of the printing unit based on the printing data generated by the unit; A first control unit for receiving print information via a predetermined communication medium to generate print data printable by a printing unit, and the print data generated by the first control unit. A storage medium storing a computer-readable program for controlling the image reading of the image reading section by communicatively connecting the second control means for controlling the driving of the printing section based on the program. A relay step of relaying data communication between the first and second control means, a transfer step of transferring image data transferred from the image reading unit to the second control means, An alternative step of executing a specific printer control transferred from the first control means, a registration step of acquiring specific data associated with the alternative step from the first control means and registering the data in a memory; A display step of displaying the registered specific data on the operation section of the image reading section, so that when the configuration of the image processing resources is changed and the configuration of the image processing resources is changed, the composite image processing is possible. The system information to be exchanged can be transferred to the newly expanded control system without hindrance, and the duplication process in the specific control can be mitigated. Kill with, can be specified in user without impairing the operability of the output number count value taken over the operation unit of the image reading portion to be expanded connected as the image processing resources.

Therefore, the overlapped specific control at the time of the conventional system expansion is transferred to the expanded control system to reduce the control load on one control system, and the control system of the image reading unit to be expanded and connected. While ensuring the normal communication of each intervening control system, the specific data associated with the control in one control system can be normally managed and displayed on the operation unit of the reading unit as necessary. Play.

[Brief description of the drawings]

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

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a use mode of the printer unit illustrated in FIG.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an interface between a printer controller and an engine control unit illustrated in FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a configuration and a function of a signal sequence of a video I / F illustrated in FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a configuration of an image forming unit illustrated in FIG.

FIG. 6 is a timing chart for explaining transmission timing of each signal exchanged between the video interface I / F shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 7 is a timing chart illustrating communication timing between the printer controller and the engine control unit illustrated in FIG. 2;

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a serial communication state between the printer controller and the engine control unit illustrated in FIG. 2;

FIG. 9 is a schematic sectional view of the image processing apparatus shown in FIG.

FIG. 10 is a configuration diagram illustrating a communication state among a printer controller, an engine control unit, and a reader controller illustrated in FIG. 2;

FIG. 11 is a detailed block diagram illustrating a first configuration of the reader controller shown in FIG.

12 is a timing chart illustrating a scanning operation of the scanning unit illustrated in FIG.

FIG. 13 is a detailed block diagram illustrating a second configuration of the reader controller shown in FIG.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a first communication processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a second communication processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a third communication processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating communication processing between controllers in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating communication processing between controllers in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a timing chart illustrating an interrupt processing operation in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 20 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a soft counter in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a fourth communication processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a fourth communication processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a fifth communication processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 24 is a plan view illustrating an example of an operation unit controlled by the reader controller shown in FIG.

FIG. 25 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a sixth communication processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 26 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a sixth communication processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs that can be read by the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 28 is a block diagram illustrating a connection configuration of an image reading device in a conventional image processing device.

FIG. 29 is a block diagram illustrating a connection configuration of an image reading device in a conventional image processing device.

FIG. 30 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a printer engine unit in a conventional image processing apparatus.

[Explanation of symbols]

 2001 Printer main body 2103 Printer controller 2002 Engine control unit 2104 Host computer 2201 Selector 2207 Gate 2208 Control circuit 1301 Buffer

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page F term (reference) 2C061 AP03 AP07 AQ06 AR01 HJ06 HJ08 HK15 HQ20 2C087 AA03 AB05 AC08 BA03 BA07 BB10 5B021 AA19 CC05 KK01 PP04 QQ04 5C062 AA05 AA13 AB16 AB17 AB20 AB22 AB42 AC48 AB40 AE15 AF07

Claims (10)

[Claims] A first control unit that receives print information via a predetermined communication medium to generate print data that can be printed by a printing unit; and that the print data generated by the first control unit is A second control unit for controlling the driving of the printing unit based on the first and second control units; And a third control unit for controlling relaying of data communication between the image reading units and controlling image reading of the image reading unit. 2. The third control means includes a first communication means for communicating with the first control means, and a second communication means for communicating with the second control means. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: 3. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said first control means transfers a specific printer control to said third control means when said third control means is interposed and connected. Image processing device. 4. The method according to claim 1, wherein the first control unit transmits specific data associated with a specific printer control to the third control unit when the third control unit is connected. Item 2. The image processing apparatus according to Item 1. 5. The image processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the specific printer control is output sheet count control. 6. The image processing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the specific data is an output sheet count value. 7. A memory unit for storing specific data transmitted from the first control means, wherein the third control means includes:
The image processing apparatus according to claim 4, further comprising a counting unit configured to perform output sheet count control transferred from the first control unit. 8. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the third control unit displays the output sheet count value counted by the counting unit on an operation unit provided in the image reading unit. 9. A first control means for receiving print information via a predetermined communication medium to generate print data which can be printed by a printing unit, and the print data generated by the first control means A data processing method of a reading control device for controlling image reading of an image reading unit by communicatively connecting to a second control unit for controlling driving of the printing unit based on the first and the second control means; A relay step of relaying data communication with the second control means; and transferring the image data transferred from the image reading unit to the second control means.
A transfer step of transferring the specified printer control transferred from the first control means, and a specific data accompanying the replacement step is obtained from the first control means. A data processing method for a reading control device, comprising: a registration step of registering in a memory; and a display step of displaying specific data registered in the registration step on an operation unit of the image reading unit. 10. A first control means for receiving print information via a predetermined communication medium to generate print data which can be printed by a printing unit, and the print data generated by the first control means A computer-readable storage medium storing a computer-readable program for controlling image reading of an image reading unit by communicatively interposing the second control means for controlling driving of the printing unit based on the program, A relay step of relaying data communication between the first and second control means;
A transfer step of transferring the specified printer control transferred from the first control means, and a specific data accompanying the replacement step is obtained from the first control means. A registration step of registering in a memory; and a display step of displaying specific data registered in the registration step on an operation unit of the image reading unit. Medium.