JP4366909B2 - Image forming system and method - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an image forming system and a method for determining whether or not an image forming process can be performed using a non-contact memory attached to a medium on which an image is formed.
[0002]
[Prior art]
For example, “MYCOM PC WEB, NEWS HEADLINE, (July 5, 2002; http://pcweb.mycom.co.jp/news/2001/07/05/22.html)” (Reference 1) Disclosed is a small semiconductor chip (“mu chip”) that can read out the read data from the outside without contact.
Also, “JP 2001-229199”, “JP 2000-285203”, “JP 2001-134672”, “JP 2001-283011”, “JP 2001-148000”. And Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2001-260580 (references 2 to 8) disclose application examples of the above-described semiconductor chip.
In addition, a paper type (thick paper or the like) is preset for each paper tray, and there is a copying machine or the like that restricts printing processing (double-sided printing or the like) according to the paper tray selected by the user.
[0003]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
The present invention has been made from the above-described background, and an image forming system capable of determining the suitability of a medium on which an image is formed by applying a semiconductor chip that can read stored data in a non-contact manner. And an object thereof.
[0004]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
[Image forming system]
In order to achieve the above object, an image forming system according to the present invention includes an image forming medium on which an image is formed and an image forming apparatus, and the image forming medium includes the image forming medium. A data providing device that provides attribute data indicating the attribute of the image to the outside, and the image forming device forms data on the image forming medium and a data reading unit that reads the provided attribute data. Image forming means to perform; When one or more attribute data indicating attributes of one or more types of the image forming medium permitted to form an image is stored, and any of the stored attribute data matches the read attribute data A determination unit that determines to permit image formation on the image forming medium, and the image forming medium is provided in accordance with a determination result of the determination unit. The image formation To do Control means to control and An input unit that receives an instruction to permit image formation on the image forming medium when image determination is not permitted by the determination unit, and the control unit receives an instruction to permit image formation. When it is input, image formation that is not permitted by the determination unit is permitted, and the determination unit permits image formation of the read attribute data when an instruction to permit image formation is input. Stored as attribute data indicating the attribute of the image forming medium To do.
[0006]
Preferably, the image forming unit further includes a supply unit that supplies the image forming medium and a conveying unit that conveys the supplied image forming medium, and the control unit is permitted to form an image. In this case, the image forming medium is supplied and transported. In other cases, the image forming medium is supplied and transported or any one of them is stopped.
[0007]
Preferably, the image forming apparatus further includes display means for displaying a reason why the image formation is not permitted based on the read attribute data when the image formation is not permitted.
[0009]
Preferably, the determination unit is configured to form an image on each image forming medium having an attribute indicated by each of the one or more stored attribute data in association with each of the one or more stored attribute data. Are further stored, and image formation is permitted in a manner corresponding to the read attribute data.
[0010]
Preferably, the determination unit further stores data specifying a user in association with each of the one or more stored attribute data, and instructs image formation from the user corresponding to the read attribute data. If so, image formation is permitted.
[0011]
Preferably, the determination unit further stores an image attribute indicating an attribute of an image to be formed in association with each of the stored one or more attribute data, and an image corresponding to the read attribute data The image formation of the image having the attribute is permitted.
[0012]
Preferably, the determination unit further stores an image formation setting mode in association with each of the one or more stored attribute data, and performs image formation in the setting mode corresponding to the read attribute data. to approve.
[0015]
Preferably, the image forming apparatus includes: When image formation is not permitted by the determination means, Data for receiving designation data for designating whether image formation is permitted for an image forming medium having a predetermined attribute via a communication line for receiving image data formed on the image forming medium. In accordance with the received designation data, the determination means prohibits the attribute data of the image forming medium having the predetermined attribute, the attribute data of the image forming medium that permits image formation, or the image formation. If the read attribute data matches the attribute data stored as the attribute data of the image forming medium that permits image formation, the image formation is permitted and the reading is performed. When the attribute data thus obtained matches the attribute data stored as the attribute data of the image forming medium that prohibits image formation, image formation is prohibited.
[0016]
Preferably, the control means controls to form an image on the image forming medium when a predetermined signal indicating transmission of the attribute data is not read, and is read in other cases. Based on the received signal, image formation on the image forming medium is controlled.
[0017]
Preferably, the control unit prohibits image formation on the image forming medium when a part of the attribute data is not read normally.
[0018]
[Description of image forming system]
Hereinafter, an image forming system according to the present invention will be described with reference to examples.
In addition, the example shown below is intended to embody the present invention and assist the understanding thereof, and is not intended to limit the technical scope of the present invention.
In the image forming system according to the present invention, one or more types of printing paper (image forming medium) having different attributes such as the width, thickness, and paper quality of the printing surface are used for printing an image.
[0019]
Attribute data indicating the attributes of each of these print sheets is stored in a semiconductor chip (data providing apparatus) that can read data in a non-contact manner using radio waves.
The semiconductor chip in which these data are stored is attached to the printing paper by being inserted or the like.
[0020]
The image forming apparatus is, for example, a copy machine that prints an image (image formation) on the printing paper (image forming medium).
The data reading means reads the attribute data from the semiconductor chip using radio waves by an antenna disposed in the vicinity of the printing paper.
[0021]
The determination unit determines whether or not to permit the printing process for the printing paper based on the attribute data.
The printing process includes a conveyance process in which the printing paper is taken out from the paper tray and conveyed to a printing position, and a printing process in which an image is printed on the conveyed printing paper. The control means controls the conveyance process, the printing process, etc., and when the printing process is permitted, the conveyance process, the printing process, etc. are continued to complete the printing process, and otherwise, the conveyance process is performed. Then, the printing process is stopped and the printing process is stopped.
[0022]
For example, the determination unit may determine a printing processing mode such as single-sided printing or double-sided printing, a printing data mode such as a color image or a monochrome image, a printing instruction mode such as which user has instructed printing processing, and the like. It is determined whether printing is permitted.
[0023]
[Image forming apparatus / image forming medium]
An image forming apparatus and an image forming medium according to the present invention are the image forming apparatus and the image forming medium of any one of the above image forming systems.
[0024]
[Image forming method]
The image forming method according to the present invention is an image forming method using an image forming medium on which an image is formed. The image forming medium transmits attribute data indicating an attribute of the image forming medium to the outside. Providing, reading the provided attribute data, controlling the image formation based on the read attribute data, and forming an image on the image forming medium according to the image formation control.
[0025]
[program]
The program according to the present invention is an image forming system having an image forming medium on which an image is formed and an image forming apparatus including a computer. The image forming medium has attribute data indicating an attribute of the image forming medium. A step of reading the attribute data provided to the outside, a step of controlling the image formation based on the read attribute data, and a step of controlling the image formation according to the control of the image formation. And causing the computer of the image forming apparatus to execute an image forming step.
[0026]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[First Embodiment]
Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described.
[0027]
[Copy device 1]
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of a copy apparatus 1 to which an image forming method according to the present invention is applied, centering on a control apparatus 2 thereof.
As shown in FIG. 1, the copy apparatus 1 includes a control apparatus 2 and a copy apparatus main body 10.
The control device 2 includes a control device body 20 including a CPU 202 and a memory 204, a communication device 22, a recording device 24 such as an HDD / CD device, a user interface device (UI) including an LCD display device or a CRT display device, and a keyboard / touch panel. Device) 26 and an IC chip interface (IC chip IF) 28 having an antenna 280.
[0028]
[Copy device body 10]
FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of the copy apparatus main body 10 illustrated in FIG. 1.
As shown in FIG. 2, the copying machine main body 10 includes a paper tray unit 12, a paper transport unit 13 that transports the print paper 40 (FIG. 3), a print engine 14 that prints an image on the print paper 40 by using xerography, a document It comprises a scanner 16 for reading a paper image, a document feeder 18 for feeding document paper, and the like.
Each component of the copy apparatus 1 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 operates according to the control of the control apparatus 2 and realizes functions as a copy apparatus, a FAX apparatus, and a network printer.
Further, in the copying apparatus main body 10, the IC chip IF 28 and the antenna 280 are disposed in the vicinity of the sheet conveyance path of the sheet conveying unit 13 to which the printing sheet 40 is conveyed, and the UI apparatus 26 is disposed above the copying apparatus main body 10. Arranged.
That is, the copying apparatus 1 adopts a hardware configuration in which an IC chip IF 28 and an antenna 280 are added to a general copying apparatus that prints an image read from a document sheet on the conveyed printing sheet 40.
As shown in FIG. 2, the control device 2 (FIG. 1) is actually housed inside the copy apparatus main body 10.
[0029]
[Printing paper 40]
FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating the printing paper 40 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.
As illustrated in FIG. 3, the IC chip 3 is attached to the original paper 40 by a method such as punching.
[0030]
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating information stored in the IC chip 3 attached to the printing paper 40 shown in FIG.
As illustrated in FIG. 4, the IC chip 3 includes attribute data (# 001) indicating the attribute of the printing paper 40 and data inspection information (b37c) for inspecting whether or not the attribute data has been read normally. ) Is stored.
In this example, the attribute data (# 001) stored in the IC chip 3 is identification information indicating a combination of a plurality of attributes (size, thickness, material, etc.) of the printing paper 40.
The data inspection information (b37c) is information for inspecting whether or not the attribute data has been normally read. For example, the data inspection information (b37c) is a hash value of the attribute data or parity information of a bit string indicating the attribute data. .
[0031]
[IC chip 3 / IC chip IF28]
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a configuration of the IC chip 3 shown in FIG.
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a configuration of the IC chip IF 28 shown in FIGS.
As shown in FIG. 5, the IC chip 3 includes an antenna 300, a clock recovery circuit 320, a memory circuit 322, a data transmission circuit 324, and a power supply circuit 326.
If the IC chip 3 of the printing paper 40 is guaranteed to pass very close to the antenna 280, the IC chip 3 that does not have the antenna 300 may be used.
[0032]
As shown in FIG. 6, the IC chip IF 28 includes a transmission circuit 284, a reception circuit 286, a transmission / reception control circuit 282, and a demodulation circuit 288.
Information (data) stored in the IC chip 3 is read by the IC chip IF 28 in a non-contact manner by the operation of each component of the IC chip 3 and the IC chip IF 28 described below.
[0033]
In the IC chip 3 (FIG. 5), the power supply circuit 326 (FIG. 5) rectifies the radio wave signal supplied via the antenna 300, and is necessary for the operation of each component of the IC chip 3. Supply power.
[0034]
The clock recovery circuit 320 recovers the clock signal from the radio wave signal supplied from the IC chip IF 28 via the antenna 300 and outputs it to the memory circuit 322 and the data transmission circuit 324.
[0035]
The memory circuit 322 outputs data indicating stored information (FIG. 4) to the data transmission circuit 324 in synchronization with the clock signal input from the clock recovery circuit 320.
[0036]
The data transmission circuit 324 changes the reflection intensity of the radio wave signal supplied from the IC chip IF 28 according to the value of the data input from the memory circuit 322 in synchronization with the clock signal input from the clock recovery circuit 320.
Thus, the data indicating the information stored in the memory circuit 322 is changed from the IC chip 3 to the IC chip IF 28 by changing the intensity of the reflected signal of the radio wave signal transmitted from the IC chip IF 28 to the IC chip 3. Sent to.
[0037]
In the IC chip IF 28 (FIG. 6), the transmission / reception control circuit 282 controls the operation of each component of the IC chip IF 28.
Further, the transmission / reception control circuit 282 receives the data indicating the attribute data (FIG. 4) received by the reception circuit 286 and demodulated by the demodulation circuit 288, etc. from the control device main body 20 (first printing paper determination program 5; FIG. 7). Are output with respect to (described later).
[0038]
The transmission circuit 284 supplies a radio signal including a clock signal to the IC chip 3 via the antenna 280.
[0039]
The reception circuit 286 receives the reflected signal from the IC chip 3 side and outputs it to the demodulation circuit 288.
[0040]
The demodulation circuit 288 demodulates the data transmitted by the IC chip 3 from the change in the reflected signal input from the reception circuit 286 and outputs the data to the transmission / reception control circuit 282.
[0041]
[Printing paper judgment program 5]
FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a configuration of a first printing paper determination program 5 that is executed by the control device 2 (FIGS. 1 and 2) and realizes the image forming method according to the present invention.
As illustrated in FIG. 7, the print sheet determination program 5 includes an image reading unit 500, a UI unit 510, a data reading unit 520, an image attribute specifying unit 530, a control unit 540, a reason display unit 550, and an image forming unit 560. The
The control unit 540 includes a determination unit 542 and a setting management unit 544, and the image forming unit 560 includes a paper tray control unit 562, a paper transport control unit 564, and a print engine control unit 566.
The print sheet determination program 5 is activated when a function as a copy apparatus is selected by the user, and print processing (execution, stop, etc.) by the copy apparatus 1 is performed according to the attribute of the print sheet 40 by these components. ) To control.
The print sheet determination program 5 is supplied to the control device 2 via, for example, the recording medium 240 (FIG. 1), loaded into the memory 204, and executed.
[0042]
In the printing paper determination program 5, the image reading unit 500 controls the components of the copying apparatus main body 10 such as the scanner 16 (FIG. 2) to read the image on the original paper 42.
[0043]
The UI unit 510 receives user operations for instructing the number of prints, changing print settings, starting print processing, and the like via the UI device 26 (FIGS. 1 and 2). The data is output to the reading unit 520 and the control unit 540.
In addition, the UI unit 510 displays data indicating the reason for stopping printing input from the reason display unit 550.
Furthermore, the UI unit 510 accepts an operation for instructing whether or not to execute the stopped printing process by the user, and instructs the control unit 560 as instruction data for instructing whether or not to execute the printing process. Output.
[0044]
The data reading unit 520 controls the IC chip IF 28 to read data indicating attribute data, data inspection information, etc. (FIG. 4) from the IC chip 3 attached to the printing paper 40, and indicates the attribute data and data inspection information. The data is output to the determination unit 560.
The data reading unit 520 determines that the IC chip 3 is not present on the printing paper 40 when a signal indicating transmission of attribute data (for example, a transmission start signal indicating start of data transmission) cannot be read. To do.
[0045]
The image attribute specifying unit 530 specifies the attributes (color image, monochrome image, text image, image image, etc.) of the read image, and outputs data indicating the specified image attributes to the control unit 540.
For example, the image attribute specifying unit 530 detects a character image pattern from the read image, and if the portion where the character image pattern is detected occupies a predetermined ratio or more of the entire read image, A text image is specified, and in other cases, this image is specified as an image.
[0046]
The control unit 540 includes a determination unit 542 and a setting management unit 544, and controls the image forming unit 560 according to a determination result by the determination unit 542, an instruction from the user, and the like.
[0047]
FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a table stored in the determination unit 542.
As illustrated in FIG. 8, the determination unit 542 includes attribute data (# 001, # 002, etc.), setting mode (monochrome print mode, color print mode, duplex print mode, etc.), and image attributes (text data, image The determination data (◯, ×) for determining whether or not to permit printing is stored in association with the data.
The stored determination data is input by, for example, the manufacturer or user of the copying apparatus 1.
In FIG. 8, determination data “◯” indicates that printing on the corresponding printing paper 40 is permitted, and determination data “×” indicates that printing on the corresponding printing paper 40 is prohibited.
[0048]
First, for example, the determination unit 542 calculates a hash value from the attribute data using a predetermined function, and when the calculated hash value matches the data inspection information (b37c), the attribute data is normal. It is determined that the data has been read. In other cases, it is determined that reading of the attribute data has failed.
When it is determined that the attribute data is read normally, the determination unit 542 is based on the read attribute data, the image attribute, and the determination data (◯, X) corresponding to the set setting mode. Thus, it is determined whether or not printing of image data on the printing paper 40 is permitted.
[0049]
The setting management unit 544 (FIG. 7) sets the setting mode selected by the user to the copy apparatus 1, and notifies the user or the like of the set setting mode as necessary. The setting mode includes, for example, a duplex printing mode for printing on both sides of printing paper, a monochrome printing mode for printing with a single color, a color printing mode for printing with multiple colors, a high-quality printing mode for giving priority to image quality, and a high-speed printing mode. High-speed printing mode that prioritizes performance is included.
[0050]
Further, the control unit 540 controls the image forming unit 560 to execute the printing process when the data reading unit 520 determines that the IC chip 3 is not present on the printing paper 40, and otherwise, The image forming unit 560 is controlled based on the data read from the IC chip 3.
In addition, the control unit 540 determines that the data reading unit 520 determines that the IC chip 3 is present, but if the part of the attribute data cannot be read normally, the control unit 540 causes the image forming unit 560 to stop the printing process. Control.
[0051]
FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a table stored in the reason display unit 550 (FIG. 7).
As illustrated in FIG. 9, the reason display unit 550 manufactures the copy apparatus 1 in association with attribute data (# 001, etc.), setting mode (double-sided, color, etc.) and image attributes (text, any, etc.). An error message input by a person or a user is stored.
In FIG. 9, an image attribute “any” means any attribute (text image, image image, etc.).
When it is determined that printing is not permitted, the reason display unit 550 selects an error message corresponding to the attribute data, setting mode, and image attribute used for the determination, and displays the reason why printing is not permitted. Is output to the UI unit 510 as data.
For example, when the attribute data (# 001) indicates that the printing paper 40 is thick paper and the setting mode is “double-sided printing mode” (the image attribute is arbitrary), the reason display unit 570 displays “thick paper”. Therefore, data indicating an error message “cannot print on both sides” is output to the UI unit 510.
Similarly, when the attribute data (# 001) indicates that the printing paper 40 is a thick paper, the setting mode is “color printing mode”, and the attribute of the image to be printed is a text image, the reason display unit In step S <b> 570, data indicating an error message “printing is prohibited by user settings” is output to the UI unit 510.
[0052]
The paper tray control unit 562 (FIG. 7) controls the paper tray unit 12 (FIG. 2) to feed the accommodated printing paper 40, and the paper transport control unit 564 is used for the paper transport unit 13 (FIG. 2). ) And the fed printing paper 40 is conveyed to the printing position, and the print engine control unit 566 controls the print engine (FIG. 2) to print an image on the conveyed printing paper 40. .
In addition, the paper tray control unit 562, the paper conveyance control unit 564, and the print engine control unit 566, when instructed to stop the printing process from the control unit 540, respectively stop the paper feeding process, the conveyance process, and the printing process.
[0053]
[Overall operation]
Hereinafter, the overall operation of the copying apparatus 1 will be described.
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the first operation (S10) of the copying apparatus 1 (printing paper determination program 5).
As shown in FIG. 10, when the user performs an operation for starting printing on the UI device 26 (FIGS. 1 and 2) in step 100 (S100), the UI unit 510 (FIG. 7) is displayed. The operation is accepted, and data for instructing the start of the printing process is output to the image reading unit 500 and the data reading unit 520.
When the image reading unit 500 receives data instructing to start the printing process, the image reading unit 500 reads an image on the document sheet 42 and outputs the image to the image attribute specifying unit 530 and the control unit 540.
[0054]
In step 102 (S102), when receiving the image, the control unit 540 (FIG. 7) instructs the paper tray control unit 552 and the paper control unit 564 to start the conveyance process of the printing paper 40.
[0055]
In step 104 (S104), the data reading unit 520 (FIG. 7) controls the IC chip IF 28 to read data from the IC chip 3 attached to the printing paper 40 being conveyed in the paper conveying unit 13.
[0056]
In step 106 (S106), the data reading unit 520 determines whether or not a transmission start signal has been received from the IC chip 3.
The print sheet determination program 5 proceeds to the process of S108 when the transmission start signal can be received, and proceeds to the process of S116 otherwise.
That is, if the IC chip 3 is not attached to the printing paper 40, the printing paper determination program 5 proceeds to the printing process of S116 and does not restrict the special printing process.
[0057]
In step 108 (S108), the determination unit 542 (FIG. 7) uses the data inspection information (b37c) to determine whether or not the attribute data has been read normally.
The print sheet determination program 5 proceeds to the process of S110 when it is determined that the attribute data has been read normally, and proceeds to the process of S122 otherwise.
[0058]
In step 110 (S110), the image attribute specifying unit 530 (FIG. 7) specifies the attribute of the read image, and outputs data indicating the specified image attribute to the control unit 540.
[0059]
In step 112 (S112), the determination unit 542 inquires the setting management unit 544 to specify the setting mode set in the copying apparatus 1, and outputs data indicating the specified setting mode to the determination unit 560. To do.
[0060]
In step 114 (S114), the determination unit 542 searches the determination data corresponding to the attribute data, the image attribute, and the setting data with reference to the stored determination data table.
The print sheet determination program 5 proceeds to the process of S116 when the corresponding determination data permits printing (when the determination data is “◯”), and otherwise (when the determination data is “X”). , The process proceeds to S122.
[0061]
In step 116 (S116), the control unit 540 (FIG. 7) controls the image forming unit 560 to print the read image on the printing paper 40.
[0062]
In step 118 (S118), the control unit 540 determines whether printing of the number of copies designated by the user has been completed.
The print sheet determination program 5 ends the process when the designated number of copies have been completed, and proceeds to the process of S120 otherwise.
In step 120 (S120), the control unit 540 controls the paper tray control unit 562 and the paper transport control unit 564 to transport the printing paper 40 from the same paper tray unit 12.
In other words, the print sheet determination program 5 determines whether or not to permit printing by reading out the attribute data only in the printing process for the first print sheet 40 when two or more sheets are instructed by a single operation. To do.
[0063]
On the other hand, in step 122 (S122), the control unit 540 controls the paper conveyance control unit 564 and the print engine control unit 566 to stop the conveyance processing and printing processing of the printing paper 40.
That is, the control unit 540 stops the conveyance process and the printing process when printing is not permitted based on the attribute data and when reading of the attribute data fails.
[0064]
In step 124 (S124), the reason display unit 550 (FIG. 7) selects the error data (FIG. 9) corresponding to the attribute data, the image attribute, and the setting mode, and outputs the error message to the UI unit 510.
The UI unit 510 controls the UI device 26 (FIGS. 1 and 2) to display the received error message.
[0065]
In step 126 (S126), the control unit 540 controls the UI unit 510 to display a message that prompts the user to remove the printing paper 40 being conveyed, a message that prompts the user to change the setting mode, or the like.
[0066]
As described above, the printing paper determination program 5 can continue or stop the printing process according to the attribute of the printing paper 40.
In other words, the printing paper determination program 5 does not restrict the printing process operation according to the paper tray unit 12 in which the printing paper is accommodated, but restricts the printing process operation according to the printing paper itself.
For example, because of the thickness of thick paper, troubles in the paper reversing mechanism may occur during double-sided printing.
In such a case, the printing paper determination program 5 associates such thick paper attribute data with the fact that double-sided printing is not permitted, thereby detecting that the paper is thick paper during conveyance, and carrying processing. Can be prevented and troubles in turning over can be prevented.
[0067]
[Modification]
Note that the determination unit 542 (FIG. 7), in addition to the determination data “◯” that permits printing on the corresponding printing paper 40 and the determination data “×” that prohibits printing, as the determination data, Judgment data “Δ” for entrusting the prohibition judgment to the user may be stored.
[0068]
FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a table in which the determination unit 542 (FIG. 7) in the second print sheet determination program 5 stores determination data “Δ”.
As illustrated in FIG. 11, the determination unit 542 includes attribute data (# 001, # 002, etc.), setting mode (monochrome print mode, color print mode, duplex print mode, etc.), and image attributes (text data, image In addition to the determination data (◯, ×) illustrated in FIG. 8, determination data “Δ” for determining whether printing is permitted or prohibited for the corresponding printing paper 40 based on user input is stored. To do.
[0069]
These determination data are also input by the manufacturer or user of the copying apparatus 1 as in the case of FIG.
When the read attribute data, the image attribute, and the set setting mode correspond to the determination data “Δ”, the determination unit 542 prohibits the printing process on the corresponding print paper 40 and the user's Wait for input.
Then, the determination unit 542 cancels the prohibition of the print process when instruction data for instructing the execution of the print process is input within a predetermined period, and continues the print process. Otherwise, the print process Keep the prohibited state.
In addition, when the determination unit 542 corresponds to the determination data “Δ” and instruction data for instructing execution of the printing process is input within a predetermined period, the determination unit “542” changes the determination data “Δ” to “O”. Remember.
[0070]
If the read attribute data does not match the stored attribute data, the determination unit 542 prohibits the printing process on the corresponding print paper 40.
When the instruction data for instructing execution of the printing process is input within a predetermined period after the prohibition of the printing process, the determination unit 542 cancels the prohibition of the printing process and continues the printing process. The read attribute data is stored in association with the determination data “◯”.
[0071]
FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the second operation (S12) of the copying apparatus 1 (printing paper determination program 5).
Of the processes in the second operation illustrated in FIG. 12, processes that are substantially the same as the processes in the first operation illustrated in FIG. 10 are denoted by the same reference numerals.
In the second operation of the copying apparatus 1, in the process of S114, the determination unit 542 (FIG. 7) determines from the stored table (FIG. 11) the determination data “Δ” corresponding to the attribute data, the setting mode, and the image attribute. Alternatively, when “X” is detected or the corresponding determination data cannot be detected, the printing paper determination program 5 proceeds to the process of S122, and the printing process is stopped.
Subsequently, in the process of S124, the UI unit 510 controls the UI device 26 (FIGS. 1 and 2) to display an error message.
The UI unit 510 receives an input from the user for an error message when the determination data “Δ” is detected or when the corresponding determination data is not detected.
[0072]
In step 128 (S128), the user inputs whether or not to execute printing to the UI device 26 (when determination data “Δ” is detected or when corresponding determination data is not detected). Limited to).
The print sheet determination program 5 proceeds to the process of S130 when instruction data for executing printing on the print sheet 40 is input, and proceeds to the process of S126 in other cases.
[0073]
In step 130 (S130), when the determination data corresponding to the attribute data is not stored, the determination unit 542 (FIG. 7) stores the attribute data in association with the determination data “◯”.
In addition, when the determination data “Δ” is detected, the determination unit 542 changes the determination data “Δ” to “◯” and stores it.
[0074]
In this manner, allowing the setting of the determination data “Δ” is suitable for increasing the degree of freedom of setting of the copying apparatus 1 and flexibly responding to user requests.
[0075]
[Second Embodiment]
Next, a case where the copy apparatus 1 functions as a network printer will be described as a second embodiment of the present invention.
The copy apparatus 1 is connected to one or more user terminals via a wired or wireless communication line.
The copying apparatus 1 receives image data to be printed, data instructing change of the setting mode, and the like via this communication line.
[0076]
FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the configuration of the third print sheet determination program 54.
FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating data received by the data receiving unit 505 (FIG. 13) in the printing paper determination program 54.
As illustrated in FIG. 13, the print sheet determination program 54 includes a data transmission / reception unit 505, a data reading unit 520, a control unit 540, a reason data selection unit 555, and an image forming unit 560.
In addition, the control unit 540 includes an image attribute specifying unit 530, a determination unit 542, and a user specifying unit 546.
Of the constituent parts of the printing paper judgment program 54, the same reference numerals are given to the parts that are substantially the same as the constituent parts of the printing paper judgment program 5.
[0077]
As illustrated in FIG. 14, the data reception unit 505 (FIG. 13) in the printing paper determination program 54 controls the communication device 22 (FIG. 1) to identify the user of image data from the user terminal. Information, data attribute identification information indicating attributes of data to be transmitted and received, and image data are received.
[0078]
The image attribute specifying unit 530 (FIG. 13) in the print sheet determination program 54 specifies the attribute of the image data based on the data attribute identification information (extension etc.) received together with the image data.
[0079]
Further, the user specifying unit 546 (FIG. 13) specifies the user who has instructed printing of the image based on the user identification information received together with the image data.
Here, the user specifying unit 546 does not necessarily specify the user itself, and may specify the user terminal used when the user instructs printing, for example.
[0080]
Similarly to the reason display unit 550 (FIG. 7), the reason data selection unit 555 (FIG. 13) receives the error message data (FIG. 9) corresponding to the attribute data, etc., except when printing of image data is permitted. The data is selected and transmitted to the user terminal via the data receiving unit 505.
The transmitted error message data is displayed on the user terminal.
[0081]
FIG. 15A is a diagram illustrating a table in which the determination unit 542 (FIG. 13) in the print sheet determination program 54 stores determination data in association with the attribute data of the print sheet 40, the user group, and the image attribute. FIG. 15B is a diagram illustrating a table in which the determination unit 542 stores a group of users and user terminals in association with each other.
As illustrated in FIG. 15A, the determination unit 542 includes attribute data (# 001, # 002, etc.), user group (user type 1, user type 2, etc.), and image attributes (text data, In association with image data or the like, determination data (◯, Δ, ×) for determining whether or not to permit printing is stored.
[0082]
As illustrated in FIG. 15B, the determination unit 542 stores a user group and a user terminal (terminal 01 or the like) in association with each other.
For example, when the copying apparatus 1 is shared by a business department (user type 1) that requires high-quality printing and a business department (user type 2) that does not require high-quality printing, a user of type 1 On the other hand, use of print paper (# 002) capable of high-quality printing is permitted, and use of print paper (# 002) is prohibited for users of user type 2.
[0083]
FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the third operation (S14) of the copying apparatus 1 (printing paper determination program 54).
Of the processes in the third operation illustrated in FIG. 16, processes that are substantially the same as the processes in the second operation illustrated in FIG. 12 are denoted by the same reference numerals.
In the third operation of the copying apparatus 1, after the attribute of the image is specified in step 110 (S110), the user specifying unit 546 (FIG. 13) received the image data in the process of step 130 (S130). Based on the user identification information, the user terminal is specified, and in step 114 (S114), the determination unit 542 determines the attribute data, the attribute of the image, and the determination data corresponding to the user terminal (◯ from the stored table (FIG. 15)). , Δ, ×) are detected, and it is determined whether printing is permitted based on the detected determination data.
[0084]
In step 118 (S118), the control unit 540 (FIG. 13) determines whether printing of the number of copies designated by the user has been completed.
The print sheet determination program 54 ends the process when the designated number of copies are completed, and proceeds to the process of S102 otherwise.
In other words, when two or more sheets are instructed by a single operation, the print sheet determination program 54 reads attribute data from each print sheet 40 and determines whether to permit printing.
[0085]
As described above, the copying apparatus 1 of this example can limit the printing process for each user (in this example, for each user terminal).
In addition, when a plurality of printing processes are instructed by a single operation, the copying apparatus 1 of this example reads out attribute data from each of the printing papers 40 and determines whether to permit printing.
Therefore, the copying apparatus 1 of this example is suitable when the printing paper 40 having two or more attributes is stored in one paper tray unit 12.
[0086]
[Other variations]
In the above description, the IC chip IF 28 and the antenna 280 are installed in the vicinity of the conveyance path of the printing paper 40. However, the IC chip IF 28 and the antenna 280 may be set in the vicinity of the paper tray unit 12. .
In this case, the copying apparatus 1 can read the attribute data and determine whether to permit printing before the printing paper 40 is conveyed into the paper conveyance unit 13. For example, when there is a possibility that the printing paper 40 is jammed in the paper transport unit 13, the copying apparatus 1 associates the attribute data of the printing paper 40 with the determination data “x”, so that the copying apparatus 1 Before the printing paper 40 is sent to the paper conveyance unit 13, the conveyance processing of the printing paper 40 can be stopped.
[0087]
Further, when the IC chip 3 is a writable storage medium, the copying apparatus 1 may store the history information of the printing process for the printing paper 40 in the IC chip 3 attached to the printing paper 40.
FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating data stored in the writable IC chip 3.
As illustrated in FIG. 17, when performing a printing process on one side of the printing paper 40, the copying apparatus 1 stores information indicating that single-sided printing has been performed on the IC chip 3 of the printing paper 40.
When the printing paper 40 is used for printing again, the copying apparatus 1 reads out from the IC chip 3 of the printing paper 40 that one-side printing has been performed as part of the attribute data, and prints on the printed printing surface. Prohibit processing.
As described above, the copying apparatus 1 stores the printing process history information in the IC chip 3, thereby limiting the printing process according to the printing history of the printing paper.
[0088]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the image forming system and the method of the present invention, the suitability of the medium on which the image is formed is determined by applying the semiconductor chip that can read the stored data in a non-contact manner. be able to.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a diagram exemplifying a hardware configuration of a copying apparatus to which an image forming method according to the present invention is applied, focusing on its control apparatus.
FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of the copy apparatus main body illustrated in FIG. 1;
FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating the printing paper shown in FIGS. 1 and 2;
4 is a diagram illustrating information stored in an IC chip attached to the printing paper shown in FIG. 3; FIG.
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a configuration of a first IC chip shown in FIG. 3;
6 is a diagram showing a configuration of the IC chip IF shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG.
FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a first print sheet determination program that is executed by a control device (FIGS. 1 and 2) and implements the image forming method according to the present invention.
FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a table stored in a determination unit illustrated in FIG. 7;
9 is a diagram illustrating a table stored in a reason display unit illustrated in FIG. 7; FIG.
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a first operation (S10) of the copying apparatus (printing paper determination program).
FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a table in which the determination unit illustrated in FIG. 7 further stores determination data “Δ”.
FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a second operation (S12) of the copying apparatus (printing paper determination program).
FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a third print sheet determination program.
14 is a diagram illustrating data received by the data receiving unit illustrated in FIG. 11; FIG.
FIG. 15A is a table in which a determination unit (FIG. 13) in the third print sheet determination program stores determination data in association with print sheet attribute data, user groups, and image attributes. It is a figure which illustrates, (B) is a figure which illustrates the table which the judgment part matches and memorize | stores a user's group and a user terminal.
FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a third operation (S14) of the copying apparatus (printing paper determination program).
FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating data stored in a writable IC chip.
[Explanation of symbols]
1. Copy device
10. Copy machine main body
12: Paper tray
13: Paper transport section
14 ... print engine
16 ... Scanner
18 ... Document feeder
2 ... Control device
20 ... Control device body
202 ... CPU
204: Memory
22: Communication device
24 ... Recording device
240 ... Recording medium
26 ... UI device
28 ... IC chip IF
280 ... Antenna
5, 54 ... Printing paper judgment program
500... Image reading unit
505 ... Data receiver
510 ... UI unit
520: Data reading unit
530: Image attribute specifying unit
540 ... Control unit
542 ... Judgment part
544 ... Setting management unit
546 ... User identification part
550 ... Reason display section
555 ... Reason data selection section
560... Image forming unit
562... Paper tray control unit
564... Paper conveyance control unit
566... Print engine control unit
40 ... printing paper
3 ... IC chip
300 ... Antenna
320: Clock recovery circuit
322 ... Memory circuit
324 ... Data transmission circuit
326 ... Power supply circuit
42 ... Original paper

Claims (16)

An image forming system having an image forming medium on which an image is formed and an image forming apparatus,
The image forming medium is
A data providing device for providing attribute data indicating the attribute of the image forming medium to the outside;
The image forming apparatus includes:
Data reading means for reading the provided attribute data;
Image forming means for forming an image on the image forming medium;
When one or more attribute data indicating attributes of one or more types of the image forming medium permitted to form an image is stored, and any of the stored attribute data matches the read attribute data Control means for determining to allow image formation on the image forming medium, and controlling to form the image on the image forming medium according to a determination result of the determination means;
An input unit that receives an input of an instruction to permit image formation on the image forming medium when image determination is not permitted by the determination unit;
Have
The control means includes
When an instruction for permitting image formation is input, permit image formation not permitted by the determination unit;
The determination means includes
An image forming system for storing the read attribute data as attribute data indicating an attribute of an image forming medium permitted to form an image when an instruction for permitting image formation is input. An image forming apparatus for forming an image on an image forming medium, wherein the image forming medium provides attribute data indicating an attribute of the image forming medium to the outside.
Data reading means for reading the provided attribute data;
Image forming means for forming an image on the image forming medium;
When one or more attribute data indicating attributes of one or more types of the image forming medium permitted to form an image is stored, and any of the stored attribute data matches the read attribute data Control means for determining to allow image formation on the image forming medium, and controlling to form the image on the image forming medium according to a determination result of the determination means;
An input unit that receives an input of an instruction to permit image formation on the image forming medium when image determination is not permitted by the determination unit;
Have
The control means includes
When an instruction for permitting image formation is input, permit image formation not permitted by the determination unit;
The determination means includes
An image forming apparatus that stores the read attribute data as attribute data indicating an attribute of an image forming medium permitted to form an image when an instruction for permitting image formation is input. The image forming unit includes:
Supply means for supplying the image forming medium;
A conveying means for conveying the supplied image forming medium;
The control unit causes supply and conveyance of the image forming medium when image formation is permitted, and stops supply or conveyance of the image forming medium or any of these in other cases. The image forming apparatus according to 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising a display unit configured to display a reason why the image formation is not permitted based on the read attribute data when the image formation is not permitted. The determination means includes
In association with each of the one or more stored attribute data, further storing an image forming mode for each image forming medium having an attribute indicated by each of the one or more stored attribute data;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein image formation is permitted in a manner corresponding to the read attribute data. The determination means includes
In association with each of the one or more stored attribute data, further storing data specifying a user,
6. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein image formation is permitted when image formation is instructed by a user corresponding to the read attribute data. The determination means includes
An image attribute indicating an attribute of the image to be formed is further stored in association with each of the one or more stored attribute data;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein image formation of an image having an image attribute corresponding to the read attribute data is permitted. The determination means includes
In association with each of the one or more stored attribute data, further storing an image formation setting mode;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein image formation is permitted in a setting mode corresponding to the read attribute data. When image formation is not permitted by the determination means, image formation is performed on an image forming medium having a predetermined attribute via a communication line for receiving image data formed on the image forming medium. A data receiving means for receiving designated data for designating whether or not to permit;
The determination means includes
According to the received designation data, the attribute data of the image forming medium having the predetermined attribute is stored as the attribute data of the image forming medium permitting image formation or the attribute data of the image forming medium prohibiting image formation.
When the read attribute data matches the attribute data stored as the attribute data of the image forming medium that permits image formation, permit image formation;
9. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein image formation is prohibited when the read attribute data matches attribute data stored as attribute data of an image forming medium for which image formation is prohibited. The control means includes
When a predetermined signal indicating the start of transmission of the attribute data is not read, control is performed so that an image is formed on the image forming medium. In other cases, based on the read signal, The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, which controls image formation on an image forming medium. The control means includes
The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein image formation on the image forming medium is prohibited when a part of the attribute data is not read normally. The determination means includes
The determination as to the plurality of image forming media is performed by making a determination with respect to the image forming medium that is first supplied by the supplying unit when the supplying unit continuously supplies the plurality of image forming media. The image forming apparatus according to 3. The control means includes
One or more types of the attribute data and one or more types of the attribute data are stored in association with the data specifying the user, and the read attribute data and the data specifying the user are read. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the image formation on the image forming medium is controlled based on attribute data. The control means includes
One or more types of attribute data and one or more types of attribute data are stored in association with each of the attribute data, and image attributes indicating image attributes are stored. Either the stored attribute data or the image attributes, and the read attribute The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the image formation on the image forming medium is controlled based on data. Read attribute data indicating the attributes of the image forming medium on which the image is formed,
Based on the read attribute data, it is determined whether image formation is permitted on the image forming medium,
When image formation is not permitted on the image forming medium, an input of an instruction to permit image formation on the image forming medium is accepted,
An image forming method in which, when an instruction to permit image formation is input, image formation that is not permitted is permitted and executed, and the read attribute data is stored as attribute data that is permitted to form an image. Reading attribute data indicating attributes of an image forming medium on which an image is formed;
Determining whether to allow image formation on the image forming medium based on the read attribute data;
Receiving an instruction to permit image formation on the image forming medium when image formation is not permitted on the image forming medium;
A step of permitting and executing image formation that was not permitted when an instruction permitting image formation is input, and storing the read attribute data as attribute data permitted to form an image;
An image forming program for causing a computer to execute.

Images