U.S. patent application number 09/098325 was filed with the patent office on 2001-11-22 for image processing apparatus.
Invention is credited to ARIMOTO, SHINOBU, MAESHIMA, KATSUYOSHI, NAGASHIMA, NAO, SHIMIZU, KATSUICHI, WATANABE, ASAO, YOSHIDA, TADASHI.
Application Number | 20010043761 09/098325 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 15968496 |
Filed Date | 2001-11-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20010043761 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
SHIMIZU, KATSUICHI ; et
al. |
November 22, 2001 |
IMAGE PROCESSING APPARATUS
Abstract
There is disclosed an image recording apparatus having reader
for photoelectrically reading an original and generating image
information, a first transmitter for transmitting the image
information from said reader, after compressing treatment, to an
outside apparatus, a second transmitter for transmitting the image
information from said reader without compressing treatment to an
outside apparatus, and selecter for selecting either said first or
second transmitters according to the destination of said image
information.
Inventors: |
SHIMIZU, KATSUICHI; (TOKYO,
JP) ; YOSHIDA, TADASHI; (TOKYO, JP) ; ARIMOTO,
SHINOBU; (TOKYO, JP) ; MAESHIMA, KATSUYOSHI;
(TOKYO, JP) ; NAGASHIMA, NAO; (YOKOHAMA-SHI,
JP) ; WATANABE, ASAO; (TOKYO, JP) |
Correspondence
Address: |
FITZPATRICK CELLA HARPER & SCINTO
30 ROCKEFELLER PLAZA
NEW YORK
NY
10112
US
|
Family ID: |
15968496 |
Appl. No.: |
09/098325 |
Filed: |
June 17, 1998 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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09098325 |
Jun 17, 1998 |
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09000817 |
Dec 30, 1997 |
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6101263 |
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09000817 |
Dec 30, 1997 |
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08425350 |
Apr 19, 1995 |
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5872869 |
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08425350 |
Apr 19, 1995 |
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08126005 |
Sep 24, 1993 |
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08126005 |
Sep 24, 1993 |
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07745405 |
Aug 15, 1991 |
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07745405 |
Aug 15, 1991 |
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07320792 |
Mar 7, 1989 |
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5109434 |
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07320792 |
Mar 7, 1989 |
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07041634 |
Apr 23, 1987 |
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07041634 |
Apr 23, 1987 |
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06537020 |
Sep 29, 1983 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
382/325 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04N 1/417 20130101;
H04N 1/32619 20130101; H04N 1/33323 20130101; H04N 2201/33364
20130101; H04N 1/33307 20130101; H04N 1/00111 20130101; H04N 1/3873
20130101; H04N 1/32797 20130101; H04N 2201/33357 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
382/325 |
International
Class: |
G06K 009/00 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An image recording apparatus comprising: reading means for
photoelectrically reading an original and generating image
information; first transmitting means for transmitting the image
information from said reading means, after compressing treatment,
to an outside apparatus; second transmitting means for transmitting
the image information from said reading means without compressing
treatment to an outside apparatus; and selecting means for
selecting either said first or second transmitting means according
to the destination of said image information.
2. An image recording apparatus according to claim 1, further
comprising memory means for storing the image information from said
reading means and supplying said image information line by line to
said first or second transmitting means.
3. An image recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said
first transmitting means is adapted to transmit the image
information through a public line, while said second transmitting
means is adapted to transmit the image information through a
private line.
4. An image processing apparatus comprising: means for compressing
image information line by line and transmitting the same to an
external apparatus; means for detecting an abnormality in the
transmission of said image information; and abnormality treating
means for causing, in case of detection of an abnormality by said
detecting means, said transmitting means to re-start the
transmission of the image information from a line in which said
abnormality exists.
5. An image processing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein said
detecting means is adapted to detect the abnormality by means of a
status signal from the destination of said image information.
6. An image processing apparatus according to claim 4, further
comprising memory means for storing the image information of a page
to be transmitted.
7. An image processing apparatus according to claim 4, further
comprising original reading device for generating the image
information to be transmitted.
8. An image processing apparatus comprising: reading means for
photoelectrically reading an original and forming image
information; compressing means for compressing the image
information from said reading means; and means for transmitting the
image information compressed by said compressing means to an
external apparatus; wherein said transmitting means is adapted to
transmit, following one-dimensional signals, image signals of a
page subjected to two-dimensional compression by said compressing
means.
9. An image processing apparatus according to claim 8, further
comprising memory means for storing the image information of a page
from said reading means and releasing said image information line
by line.
10. An image processing apparatus according to claim 8, wherein
said transmitting means is adapted, in case of an abnormality in
the transmission of the image information, to re-send the image
information of a line, in which said abnormality exited, by
one-dimensional compression, and the image information of
subsequent lines by two-dimensional compression.
11. An image processing apparatus comprising: means for
photoelectrically reading an original; memory means for storing the
image information of a page of original read by said reading means;
and transmitting means for reading the image information line by
line from said memory means and transmitting said image information
to an external apparatus after compression treatment.
12. An image processing apparatus according to claim 11, further
comprising means for editing the image information stored in said
memory means, wherein said transmitting means is adapted to
transmit the edited image information after compression
treatment.
13. An image processing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein
said transmitting means comprises plural storage means for each
storing the image information of a line, wherein the image
information read in succession from said storage means is subjected
to the compression treatment.
14. An image processing apparatus comprising: reading means for
photoelectrically reading an original and generating image
information; first transmitting means for transmitting the image
information to an external apparatus at a short distance; second
transmitting means for transmitting the image information to an
external apparatus at a long distance. recording means for image
recording according to the image information; and selecting means
for selecting the destination of the image information from said
reading means.
15. An image processing apparatus according to claim 14, further
comprising memory means for storing the image information from said
reading means.
16. An image processing apparatus according to claim 14, wherein
said second transmitting means comprises means for compressing the
image information to be transmitted and is adapted to transmit thus
compressed image information.
17. An image processing apparatus comprising: processing means for
processing entered image information; output means for transmitting
the image information processed by said processing means to an
external recording unit capable of image recording on a recording
material according to the image information; and means for
selecting the size of said recording material in said external
recording unit.
18. An image processing apparatus according to claim 17, wherein
said recording unit is adapted to record an image on either of the
recording materials of different sizes.
19. An image processing apparatus according to claim 17, further
comprising reading means for photoelectrically reading an original
and generating the image information for supply to said processing
means.
20. An image processing apparatus comprising: input means for
entering image information from an external apparatus; recording
means for image recording on a recording material according to the
image information entered by said input means; and selecting means
for selecting the size of the recording material to be used for
image recording in said recording means; wherein the size selecting
operation of said recording material by said selecting means is
prohibited during the entry of the image information from said
input means.
21. An image processing apparatus according to claim 20, wherein
said recording means is adapted to store recording materials of
plural sizes.
22. An image processing apparatus according to claim 20, wherein
said selecting means comprises manual instructing means for
selecting the size of the recording material.
23. An image processing apparatus comprising: means for
transmitting image information to an external apparatus; means for
receiving image information from an external apparatus; first
discriminating means for discriminating the operation status of
said transmitting means and receiving means; second discriminating
means for discriminating the operation status of the transmission
and reception of image information of said external apparatus; and
means for determining the direction of transmission of image
information according to the result of discrimination of said first
and second discriminating means.
24. An image processing apparatus according to claim 23, wherein
said determining means is further adapted to discriminate a
disabled transmission state from the result of discrimination of
said first and second discriminating means.
25. An image processing apparatus according to claim 23, wherein
said first and second discriminating means are adapted to
discriminate whether the transmission or reception of image
information of a determined quantity becomes possible within a
determined time.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates to an image processing
apparatus capable of various image processings through electric
handling of image information.
[0003] 2. Description of the Prior Art
[0004] There are already widely employed copiers as means for
reproducing original images, and facsimile apparatus as means for
transmitting original images to distant locations. Currently
available copiers are capable, in reproducing the original images,
of producing copies in the same size as or in larger or smaller
size than that of the original images. Also they are capable of
changing the image density over the entire reproduced image if such
image density change is required. Such image processing functions
are however often unable to meet the requirement of the users.
[0005] On the other hand there has been proposed a copier provided
with additional image processing functions such as reproducing only
a part of the original image, synthesizing plural images and
changing the image density only in a part of the original image by
means of converting the original image into electrical signals and
applying suitable processes to the image information thus
transformed into electrical signals. Such diversified functions of
the copier however leads inevitably to a complicated structure and
a complicated copying operation, giving rise to a longer image
processing time.
[0006] Facsimile apparatus is only designed to transmit the
original image to a distant location through a telephone line, and
a suitable copier is additionally required in case copying is
necessary in addition to image transmission. Also since such
facsimile apparatus lack any image editing function, manual editing
work, requiring considerable labor and time, is indispensable if
the transmission is to be made after image editing. Furthermore the
facsimile apparatus often requires a high operating cost as
telephone lines have to be utilized even in so-called
short-distance communications within a factory or a building.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] In consideration of the foregoing, an object of the present
invention is to provide an image processing apparatus capable of
effective functions in the transmission and reception of image
information.
[0008] Another object of the present invention is to provide an
image processing apparatus capable of transmitting image
information in a form adapted to the destination.
[0009] Still another object of the present invention is to provide
an image processing apparatus capable of suitable processing in
response to an abnormality in the image transmission.
[0010] Still another object of the present invention is to provide
an image processing apparatus capable of achieving efficient
transmission of image transmission.
[0011] Still another object of the present invention is to provide
an image processing apparatus capable of suitable recording
operation at the recording of transmitted image information.
[0012] Still another object of the present invention is to provide
an image processing apparatus capable of correctly identifying the
direction of image transmission.
[0013] The foregoing and still other objects and the advantages of
the present invention will become fully apparent from the following
description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] FIGS. 1 and 2 are respectively a perspective view and a
block diagram showing an embodiment of the image processing
apparatus of the present invention;
[0015] FIG. 3-1 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of an
editing station;
[0016] FIG. 3-2 is a plan view showing an example of key
arrangement in the command menu section of an operating
console;
[0017] FIG. 3-3 is a block diagram showing an example of a control
unit of the editing station;
[0018] FIG. 4 is a detailed block diagram showing an embodiment of
the apparatus including an image processing control unit 100;
[0019] FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an example of an image
processing unit (CPU block);
[0020] FIG. 6-1 is a block diagram showing an example of a buffer
memory circuit block;
[0021] FIG. 6-2 is a block diagram showing an example of a memory
controller for controlling the buffer memory circuit block;
[0022] FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing an example of a DMA
controller;
[0023] FIG. 8 is a chart showing an example of the multi-bus memory
map;
[0024] FIG. 9-1 is a chart showing an example of the address map of
the buffer memory;
[0025] FIG. 9-2 is a chart showing an example of the address map
when the buffer memory is seen from the multi-bus;
[0026] FIG. 10-1A is a chart showing an example of the physical
address structure of a disk memory;
[0027] FIG. 10-1B is a chart showing the sequence of making
continuous access to data by changing addresses of the disk
memory;
[0028] FIG. 10-2 is a chart showing an example of an index
table;
[0029] FIGS. 10-3 and 10-4 are charts respectively showing examples
of a sector bit map table and a file index table;
[0030] FIG. 10-5 is a schematic view showing area designation on an
image to be edited;
[0031] FIGS. 11A, 11B and 11C are block diagram, divided into three
parts, showing an example of a circuit including an exchanger and
an optical fiber interface;
[0032] FIG. 12-1 is a block diagram showing an example of a DDX
interface;
[0033] FIG. 12-2 is a chart explaining the direction of signal
transmission between the image processing unit and the DDX
interface;
[0034] FIG. 12-3 is a chart explaining the direction of signal
transmission in the DDX communication between the apparatus of the
present invention with another system;
[0035] FIG. 12-4 is a chart showing an example of signal
transmission procedure in the DDX communication;
[0036] FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing an example of the optical
fiber interface;
[0037] FIGS. 14 and 15 are plan views showing examples of key
arrangement in a reader operating unit and in a printer status
display unit;
[0038] FIGS. 16A, 16B and 16C are schematic views showing an
example of a simple image processing;
[0039] FIG. 17 is a chart showing an example of the command input
format;
[0040] FIG. 18 is a chart showing an example of error display
format;
[0041] FIGS. 19, 20 and 21 are flow charts showing an example of
image processing procedure; and
[0042] FIGS. 22-1 to 22-6 are schematic views showing examples of
area divided displays on a cathode ray tube.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0043] Now the present invention will be clarified in detail by
embodiments thereof shown in the attached drawings.
[0044] FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of the structure of the image
processing apparatus of the present invention, which is principally
composed of an image information generating unit 1, a reader unit
500 and a printer unit 600. The image information generating unit 1
performs editing, storage, transmission and reception of image
information, and controls the functions of the reader unit 500 and
the printer unit 600. The image information generating unit 1 is
composed of an image processing control unit 100 for controlling
the image processing procedure and for storing the processed image,
and an editing station 400 to be utilized by the operator for image
editing.
[0045] The reader unit 500 reads an original image with a linear
sensor such as a charge-coupled device (CCD), photoelectrically
converts said image and transmits the image information obtained as
electric signals to the image information generating unit 1 through
a signal line. A reader operating unit 550 is used when the
operator wishes to directly control the reader unit 500 for reading
an original image.
[0046] The printer unit 600, composed for example of a laser beam
printer, prints an image on a recording material such as paper in
response to the image information transmitted from the image
information generating unit 1 through a signal line. A printer
status display unit 650 indicates copying conditions such as the
number of prints.
[0047] The image processing apparatus (hereinafter referred to as
the system) consisting of the image information generating unit 1,
reader unit 500 and printer unit 600 is connected through optical
fiber cables 700 with other similar systems at short distances to
constitute an optical fiber network for mutual communication of
image information.
[0048] A digital data exchange (DDX) line 800 is used for
communication of image information or the like with other
unrepresented systems at long distances.
[0049] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the outline of the system
principally including the image information generating unit 1. In
an image processing control unit 100, there are provided an image
processing unit 10 composed of a CPU circuit block for controlling
other units listed below; a buffer memory 20 for temporarily
storing image information in the unit of an original of a
determined size; a bus line 30; a DMA controller 80 for controlling
direct memory access (DMA) between the buffer memory 20 and a disk
memory 90; a DDX interface 60 provided between the system and the
DDX line; an optical fiber interface provided between the system
and the optical fiber network; and an exchange 40 for switching the
channel of the image information to effect the transmission of
image information between the optical fiber interface 70 or reader
unit 500 or printer unit 600 and the buffer memory 20.
[0050] In an editing station 40 there are provided an editing
station control unit 450 connected with the image processing unit
10 and adapted for controlling the following units; an editing
station console 200 preferably constructed in the form of a
console, wherein the operator enters editing commands and other
instructions with a stilus pen 280 through light, pressure or
electrostatic capacity; and a cathode ray tube 300 for displaying
the commands entered by the operator, messages from the image
processing unit 10 etc.
[0051] In the following there will be given an additional
explanation on the editing station. FIG. 3-1 shows an example of
the structure of the editing station 400, including the editing
station control unit 450, the console 200, the stilus pen 280 and
the cathode ray tube 300. The console 200 is provided with a
digitizer 240 on which the operator can designate and enter areas
on the original image with the stilus pen 280, and a command menu
section 220 including command keys 221-228 for image editing as
shown in FIG. 3-2, whereby the operator can effect image editing
and preparation of editing programs. The digitizer 240 can read the
position of a point designated thereon with a precision of one
millimeter with respect to an original point O at the upper right
corner. The command menu section 220 for example comprises, as
shown in FIG. 3-2, a command key group 221 consisting of a REQUEST
key for requesting the start of the editing station 400 and an END
key for requesting the end of function; image editing command keys
222 to be explained later; alphabet keys 223 for entering
characters; numeral keys 224 for entering numerals; a carriage
return key 225; parameter input keys 226 for entering parameters
subsequent to commands; command keys 227 for requesting the entry
of coordinates and designating the mode of said entry prior to said
entry on the digitizer 240; command keys 228 for preparation,
correction and execution of editing programs (application files);
and command keys 229 for screen editing on the cathode ray tube
300.
[0052] The display area on the cathode ray tube 300 is divided
according to the instruction by the editing station control unit
450, and each divided area displays the coordinates, commands etc.
instructed by the console 200.
[0053] The method of image editing through the console 200 and the
cathode ray tube 300 will be explained later.
[0054] The editing station control unit 450 is composed of a
CRT/console controller 470 and of an RS232C interface 420 and may
consist for example of Apple II supplied by Apple Inc.
[0055] FIG. 3-3 is a block diagram of the editing station control
unit 450, comprising a clock generator 451; a central processing
unit 452 of the editing station control unit 450; a data buffer
453; an address buffer 454; a read-only memory (ROM) 455 for
storing a dialog program language, for example BASIC; a random
access memory (RAM) 456 for storing the image editing program etc.;
a bus line 457; a peripheral equipment control circuit 458; a basic
input/output control circuit 459; and a video signal generator
460.
[0056] The editing commands and the coordinates on the original
image entered by the operator through the use of the stilus pen 280
and the console 200 are supplied to the editing station control
unit 450 through the RS232C interface 420, then identified in the
CRT/console controller 470 and are converted into ASCII codes for
supply to the image processing unit 10 through said RS232C
interface.
[0057] Now there will be given an additional explanation on the
image processing control unit.
[0058] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a detailed example of the
image processing control unit 100 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, wherein
the image processing unit (CPU circuit block) 10, buffer memory
circuit block 20, input/output interface 56, reader operation
interface 58 and DMA controller 80 are connected to the multi-bus
line 30 respectively through bus lines 111, 112, 115, 114 and
113.
[0059] Among these five circuit blocks connected to the multi-bus
line 30, the CPU circuit block 10 and the DMA controller 80 have
the master function for occupying the multi-bus line 30 and
controlling other circuit blocks. On the other hand the buffer
memory circuit block 20, input/output interface 56 and reader
operation interface 58 have the slave function of being controlled
by the master function blocks and are of unilateral access from the
multi-bus line 30. The master function blocks connected to the
multi-bus line 30 have a predetermined order or priority for using
the multi-bus line 30. In the present embodiment the CPU circuit
block 10 has a higher priority than that of the DMA controller
80.
[0060] In the following explained are the functions of the CPU
circuit block 10, including signal lines extending from or reaching
said block 10.
[0061] In FIG. 4, a signal line 132 is used for releasing, from the
CPU circuit block 10, a signal for selecting a memory bank in the
buffer memory circuit block 20 to be explained later. A signal line
133 is used for entering, to the CPU circuit block 10, a signal
indicating the period of signal write-in into or signal read-out
from the buffer memory circuit block 20. A signal line 128 is used
for supplying a control signal for switching the address of the
image information from the CPU circuit block 10 to the exchange 40.
Signal lines 136 and 139 respectively connect the CPU circuit block
10 with the optical fiber interface 70 and the DDX interface 60 for
enabling the communication of control information between the CPU
circuit block 10 with other systems. A signal line 145 is used for
supplying a control signal on the dither process in the image
processing from the CPU circuit block 10 to a dither controller 54.
A signal line 146 connects the CPU circuit block 10 with the
editing station control unit 450 for supplying the image processing
information designated in the console 200 to the CPU circuit block
10 and for displaying the application file etc. stored in the disk
memory 90 on the cathode ray tube 300. Also the CPU circuit block
10 controls the DMA controller through the bus line 111, multi-bus
line 30 and bus line 113 to execute the DMA transmission of the
image information between the buffer memory 20 and the disk memory
90.
[0062] The input/output interface 56 is provided between the CPU
circuit block 10 and the reader unit 500 and printer unit 600, and
is connected, respectively through signal lines 150, 151 and 152,
to an optical scanning driver 510 for driging a motor 560 for
controlling an optical system in the reader unit 500, a position
sensor 520 for detecting the position of said optical system, and a
printer sequence controller block 610 for controlling the copying
sequence of the printer unit 600.
[0063] The reader operation interface 58 is used, among others, for
supplying the information on the operation status to be entered
from the operation unit 550 of the reader unit 500 as will be
explained later to the CPU circuit block 10 through the multi-bus
line 30.
[0064] A CCD driver 50 effects analog-to-digital conversion on the
analog image signals supplied through signal lines 121, 122 and 123
in parallel manner from lines sensors 570, 580 and 590, for example
CCD's, provided in the reader unit 500 for reading the image
information of a line in divided manner, and supplies thus obtained
digital signals in parallel manner to a shift memory 52 through
signal lines 124, 125 and 126. Said shift memory 52 converts said
parallel image signals into serial image signals representing a
line and supplies said image signals to the exchange 40 through a
signal line 127. A tone control unit 54, composed for example of a
dither controller, supplies information on the image tone
processing, for example information on dither processing, or
information on the designation of an area for locally changing the
copy density, to the CCD driver 50 through a signal line 144.
[0065] The exchange 40 can be composed of gate circuits for
supplying image signals and control signals selectively to various
units, and switches the addresses of said image signals and control
signals by controlling said gates in response to the control
signals to be supplied from the CPU circuit block 10 through a
signal line 128. A signal line 129 is used for communication of the
image signals and control signals between the exchange 40 and the
buffer memory 20. Signal lines 130 and 131 are used respectively
for transmitting control signals and image signals from the
exchange 40 to the printer unit 600 and are connected to the
printer sequence controller block 610 and a laser driver 620
therein. There are also provided a printer driver and sensor unit
615, a laser unit 625 for generating a laser beam modulated in
response to the image signals, a polygonal motor unit 630 for
rotating a polygonal mirror for deflecting said laser beam, a
scanner driver 635 for rotating the polygonal mirror at a stable
speed, and a beam detector 640 for determining the timing of
modulation of the laser beam.
[0066] A signal line 134 is used for supplying control signals and
image signals from the exchange 40 to the optical fiber interface
70. A signal line 135 is used for supplying the control signals and
image signals from the optical fiber interface 70 to the exchange
40.
[0067] Optical fibers 701, 702 are respectively used for receiving
the control signals and image signals and the corresponding clock
signals to be supplied from other systems to the optical fiber
interface 70, and optical fibers 703, 704 are used respectively for
transmitting the control signals and image signals, and the
corresponding clock signals from the optical fiber interface 70 to
other systems.
[0068] Signal lines 137, 138 are used for communication of image
signals between the buffer memory 20 and the DDX interface 60.
[0069] The flows of image information in the image processing
apparatus of the present invention, constructed as shown in FIG. 4,
can be summarized as follows:
[0070] (1) In case of reading image information with the reader
unit 500 and printing said information with the printer unit
600:
[0071] The analog image signals read by the line sensors 570, 580
and 590 in the reader unit 500 are supplied, in parallel manner, to
the CCD driver 50 for analog-to-digital conversion, and the
obtained digital signals are supplied in parallel manner to the
shift memory 52, in which the parallel image signals are converted
into serial image signals representing a line and supplied to the
exchange 40. The CPU circuit block 10 connects the gate of the
exchange 40 to the printer unit 600, whereby the serial image
signals are supplied to the laser driver of the printer unit 600 in
sequential manner in synchronization with beam detection signals
from the beam detector 640 for effecting the copying operation in
the printer unit 600.
[0072] (2) In case of transmission through the DDX line 800:
[0073] The image signals temporarily stored in the buffer memory 20
are transferred through a signal line 137 to the DDX interface 60,
and supplied, after data compression therein, to the DDX line
800.
[0074] (3) In case of reception through the DDX line 800:
[0075] The received image signals are subjected to data expansion
in the DDX interface 60, then temporarily stored in the buffer
memory 20 through the signal line 138, and transmitted through the
exchange 40 to the printer unit 600 for copying.
[0076] (4) In case of image signal transmission through the optical
fiber network 700:
[0077] The image signals read in the reader unit 500 are supplied
to the exchange 40 in the same manner as in the case (1), and are
transmitted to the optical fiber interface 70 through the signal
line 134 according to the instruction of the CPU circuit block 10.
Said signals are subjected to electro-optical conversion in said
interface and supplied to other systems connected in the optical
fiber network 700.
[0078] (5) In case of receiving image signals from the optical
fiber network 700:
[0079] The optical image signals supplied from other systems in the
optical fiber network 700 are supplied, after opto-electric
conversion in the optical fiber interface 70, to the exchange 40
through the signal line 135. The CPU circuit block 10 analyzes the
address data of said image signals, and, if said image signals are
addressed to another system, the received image signals are again
subjected to electro-optical conversion in the optical fiber
interface 70 and transmitted to the optical fiber network 700. If
said image signals are addressed to the present system, they are
transmitted through the exchange 40 to the printer unit 600 for
effecting the copying operation therein.
[0080] (6) In case of image editing:
[0081] The image signals corresponding to an original image read in
the reader unit 500 are temporarily stored in the buffer memory 20
through the exchange 40, and are subjected to image editing by DMA
transmission between the buffer memory 20 and the disk memory 90
according to the editing information prepared in the console 200,
as will be detailedly explained later. After such editing, the
edited image signals stored in the buffer memory 20 are transferred
to a destination indicated by the CPU circuit block 10.
[0082] Now there will be given detailed explanations on the
structure of principal circuit blocks in the image processing
control unit 100 shown in FIG. 4.
[0083] At first explained is the CPU circuit block 10, which can
for example be composed of a single board computer SBC86/12
manufactured by Intel Corp. of a structure shown in FIG. 5, wherein
provided are a CPU unit 10-1; a ROM 10-2; a RAM 10-3 which is used
not only for storing the system program of the present system but
also for reading the applications files to be stored in the disk
memory 90 as will be explained later; a dual port controller 10-4,
an interruption controller 10-5; a timer 10-6; a baud rate
generator 10-7; a communication interface 10-8 connected with the
editing station 400 through the RS232C interface 420; a peripheral
equipment interface 10-10 connected to the buffer memory block 20
and exchange 40 through a driver terminator 10-11; and a multi-bus
interface 10-12 provided between the bus line 112 and an internal
bus 10-13 in the CPU circuit block 10.
[0084] Now there will be explained the buffer memory circuit block
20 of which structure is shown in FIG. 6-1. Said block is provided
with a memory controller 21, a buffer memory 22 and a terminator 23
which are mutually connected with an internal bus line 24. The
memory controller 21 is connected through the bus line 112 to the
multi-bus line 30 to make access to the buffer memory 22 under the
control of the CPU circuit block 10. The memory controller 21 is
further connected through a signal line 129 to the exchange 40 and
through signal lines 132, 133 to the CPU circuit block 10.
[0085] The buffer memory 22 is composed of a group of dynamic
random access memories. In the present embodiment the image reading
is conducted for an original of A4 size (297.times.210 mm) with a
resolving power of 16 bits/mm, so that the buffer memory should
have a capacity at least equal to
(297.times.16).times.(210.times.16) =15966720 bits. If the image
information per millimeter, namely information of 16 bits, is taken
as one word, the capacity of the buffer memory 22 is equal to
997920 words or approximately 1 megawords.
[0086] The terminator 23 stabilizes the signal level immediately
after the start or end of a signal.
[0087] The internal bus line 24 transmits address signals, data
signals, read-out signals, write-in signals, memory refresh
signals, memory status signals and acknowledge signals.
[0088] FIG. 6-2 is a circuit diagram of the memory controller 21
provided in the buffer memory block 20 for controlling the access
to the buffer memory 22. In said controller, 16-bit data write-in
shift registers 21-1, 21-2 convert the serial image signals of a
scanning line supplied to the buffer memory block 20 through a
signal line 129-1 into parallel 16-bit signals and release said
signals to a data bus line 24-1 through a write-in data signal line
21-101 and a data bus driver 21-3. A write-in timing generator 21-4
laternately selects the write-in shift registers 21-1 and 21-2 in
response to write-in synchronization signals supplied through a
signal line 129-2 and write-in clock signals supplied through a
signal line 129-3, thus supplying write-in instruction signals and
output enabling signals respectively through signal lines 21-102
and 21-103. As an example, when the shift register 21-1 is selected
at first, the first 16 bits are supplied to the shift register
21-1. Then the shift register 21-2 is selected, and, when the next
16 bits of the image signals are supplied to said shift register
21-2, the write-in timing generator 21-4 supplies the output
enabling signal to the shift register 21-1 to release the first 16
bits of the image signals already stored therein to a signal line
21-101.
[0089] The image signals supplied from the exchange 40 are stored
in the buffer memory 20 without interruption by repeating the
above-described procedure over the image information corresponding
to an original image. In synchronization with the parallel output
of 16-bit image signals from the data write-in shift register 21-1
or 21-2 to the signal line 21-101, the write-in timing generator
21-4 supplies a clock pulse to an address counter 21-6 through a
signal line 21-104 and an OR gate 21-5, whereby the address counter
21-6 is stepped up and releases, through an address bus driver 21-7
to an address bus line 24-2, an address of the memory 22 where said
image signals of 16 bits (1 word) are to be stored. The write-in
timing generator 21-4 releases clock pulses in such a manner that
the address counter 21-6 is stepped up by 16 bits during the
release of the image signals from the shift register 21-1 or 21-2
to the signal line 21-101, whereby the address counter 21-6 always
indicate addresses with an interval of 16 bits such as 00000H,
00010H, 00020H, . . . in which "H" indicates a hexadecimal number.
Also in synchronization with the release of image signals from the
shift register 21-1 or 21-2 to the signal line 21-101, the write-in
timing generator 21-4 releases a write-in signal to a control bus
line 24-3 through a signal line 21-105, an OR gate 21-8 and a
control bus driver 21-9.
[0090] 16-bit data read-out shift registers 21-21 and 21-22 convert
parallel image signals of 16 bits (1 word) read from the memory 22
through a data bus line 24-1, a terminator interface 21-23 and a
signal line 21-121 into serial image signals of 16 bits and release
said signals to a signal line 129-21. A read-out timing generator
21-24 alternately selects the data read-out shift register 21-21 or
21-22 in response to read-out synchronization signals supplied
through a signal line 129-22 and read-out clock signals supplied
through a signal line 129-23, and supply read-out instruction
signals or output enabling signals respectively through signal line
21-122 or 21-123, thereby transmitting the image signals to the
exchange 40 without interruption through a signal line 129-21.
Immediately before the release of image signals from the data
read-out shift register 21-21 or 21-22 to the signal line 129-21,
the read-out timing generator 21-24 supplies clock pulses to the
address counter 21-6 through a signal line 21-124 and an OR gate
21-5, whereby said address counter 21-6 is stepped up and releases,
through the address bus driver 21-7 to the address bus 24-2, an
address of the memory 22 where the image signals to be read are
stored. The read-out timing generator 21-24 releases clock pulses
in such a manner that the address counter 21-6 is stepped by 16
bits during the release of the image signals from the shift
register 21-21 or 21-22 to the signal line 21-121. Also in
synchronization with the release of image signals from the data
read-out shift register 21-21 or 21-22 to the signal line 21-121,
the read-out timing generator 21-24 releases a read-out signal to
the control bus line 24-3 through a signal line 21-125, an OR gate
21-8 and the control bus driver 21-9.
[0091] An address converter 21-26 converts, at the storage of the
image signals into the buffer memory 22 from the disk memory 90 and
through a dual directional data bus driver 21-41 under the control
of the DMA controller 80, the addresses of the image signals
transmitted through the address bus 32, address bus buffer 21-42
and signal line 21-126 into the addresses distributed over said
memory 22, and releases said addresses to the address bus 24-2
through a signal line 21-131 and the address bus driver 21-7 as
will be explained later. At the same time a memory
write-in/read-out signal is supplied through a signal line 21-126
to the address converter 21-26, which thus releases a
write-in/read-out enabling signal to a signal line 21-133. Also the
CPU circuit block 10 supplies a binary memory bank selection signal
to the address converter 21-26 through signal lines 132-1 and
132-2. In response thereto the address converter 21-26 supplies a
binary signal corresponding to a memory bank 0, 1 or 2, to the
control bus line 24-3 through a signal line 21-132 and a control
bus driver 21-27.
[0092] In case of entering the image signals from the CCD's 570,
580 and 590, the initial address of each line to be read by said
CCD's is preset in the address counter 21-6 by the CPU circuit
block 10 through the multi-bus line 30, a bus line 112 and a dual
directional data bus driver 21-41. Said address is also supplied
through an address bus buffer 21-42 and a signal line 21-126 to a
decoder 21-45 for decoding, and a resulting chip selection signal
is supplied to the address counter 21-6 through a signal line
21-145. On the other hand, an input/output write-in command signal
supplied through a control bus line of the bus line 112 is guided
through a signal line 21-146 to a command control circuit 21-46,
which selects said command signal according to the chip selection
signal, and, in case a chip selection is requested, the preset data
on a signal line 21-101 are supplied in parallel manner to the
address counter 21-6 in response to said command signal. Upon
storage of the initial address in this manner, the address counter
21-6 counts the clock pulses supplied through a signal line 21-104
or 21-124 up to said address, and releases the selection signal of
the memory 22 to a signal line 21-132' and the address in the
memory 22 to a signal line 21-131' in a similar manner as explained
before in relation to the address converter 21-26.
[0093] A signal line 21-150 is used for transmitting a memory
write-in signal and a memory read-out signal which are released
when the CPU circuit block 10 or the DMA controller makes an access
to the memory 22. Said signals are controlled in a command control
circuit 21-50 by the write-in/read-out enabling signal supplied
through a signal line 21-133, and, in case an access to the memory
22 is required, the memory write-in signal or memory read-out
signal is supplied through a signal line 21-151, an OR gate 21-8
and a control bus driver 21-9 to the internal bus line 24.
[0094] A signal line 21-154 is used for supplying a refresh control
circuit 21-55 with a memory busy (MB) signal indicating that the
memory 22 is in the course of read-out or write-in operation, and a
memory cycle enabling (MCE) signal indicating that the memory 22 is
in the course of read-out/write-in operation or of refreshing
operation, to be supplied from the bank 0, 1 or 2 of the memory 22
to the control bus line 21-3. In the absence of said MB or MCE
signal, the refresh control circuit 21-55 supplies a refreshing
pulse through a signal line 21-156 to the buffer memory 22, thus
refreshing the dynamic RAM therein. In case a MB or MCE signal is
detected during the period of said refreshing pulse, it is
interrupted until the completion of access to the memory 22.
[0095] In the following explained is the DMA controller. FIG. 7
shows the structure of the DMA controller 80 and the disk memory 90
in a block diagram. An input/output processor 80-1 with DMA
function controls the following units, and is composed, in the
present embodiment, of Intel 8089 supplied by Intel Corp. Said I/O
processor 80-1 is connected with the multi-bus line 30 through a
signal line 80-101, which transmits a channel attention (CA) signal
requesting the DMA transmission from the CPU circuit block 10 and a
system interruption (SINTR) signal from the DMA controller 80
indicating the completion of the DMA transmission. At the access to
a ROM 80-8 in the DMA controller 80, the I/O processor 80-1
releases a signal for selecting said ROM 80-8 and a signal
indicating the address of instruction code of the program stored in
said ROM 80-8 to an internal bus line 80-5 through a signal line
80-105. A signal line 80-103 leading from the I/O processor 80-1 to
a bus arbiter 80-2 and to a bus controller 80-3 transmits thereto a
status signal of the I/O processor 80-1. A signal line 80-104
connecting the I/O processor 80-1 with an address/data buffer block
80-4 transmits address information signals and data information
signals released by the I/O processor 80-1 in multiplex mode. The
I/O processor 80-1 divides the time of the address information
signals and of the data information signals, and supplies an
address/data buffer block 80-4 at first with the address
information signals and then with the data information signals.
[0096] The bus arbiter 80-2 becomes connected with the multi-bus
line 30 to acquire the right of use thereof through a signal line
80-106 according to a status signal to be supplied from the I/O
processor 80-1, and simultaneously releases an address information
transmission enabling (AEN) signal through a signal line 80-107 to
the bus controller 80-3 and to an address/data buffer 80-4. In the
present embodiment said bus arbiter is composed of Intel 8289
supplied by Intel Corp.
[0097] In response to said AEN signal from the bus arbiter 80-2,
the bus controller 80-3 releases, through a signal line 80-110 to
the multi-bus line 30, a memory read (MRDC) signal in case of a
read-out mode with DMA transmission from the buffer memory 20 to
the disk memory 90, or a memory write-in (MWTC) signal in case of a
write-in mode with DMA transmission from the disk memory 90 to the
buffer memory 20. According to the status signal to be supplied
from the I/O processor 80-1, the bus controller 80-3 also supplies
the address/data buffer block 80-4 through a signal line 80-111,
with an address latch enable (ALE) signal for causing the
address/data buffer block to latch the address information to be
released by the I/O processor 80-1, a data enable (DEN) signal for
causing the release of the address information and data information
to the multi-bus line 30, a peripheral data enable (PDEN) signal
for causing the release of said information to an internal bus line
80-5, and a data transmit/read (DT/R) signal for causing the
address/data buffer block 80-4 to select whether the transmission
of data information to the multi-bus line 30 or to the internal bus
(transmit mode), or the data reading from said bus lines (read
mode). A signal line 80-112 leading from the bus controller 80-3 to
a synchronization signal generator 80-7 transmits an I/O read
command (IORC) signal to be released from the bus controller 80-3
when the I/O processor 80-1 makes an access to the internal bus
line 80-5 in the read-out mode, an interruption acknowledge signal
(INTA) signal to be released from the bus controller 80-3 when the
I/O processor 80-1 fetches a microprogram stored in the ROM 80-8,
and the above-described ALE signal. Said bus controller 80-3 may be
composed for example Intel 8288 supplied by Intel Corp.
[0098] The address/data buffer block 80-4 is provided with two
address/data buffers, which are respectively connected, through
signal lines 80-115 and 80-116, with the multi-bus line 30 and the
internal bus line 80-5 for passing the address information and data
information with said bus lines.
[0099] The internal bus line 80-5 of the DMA controller 80 is
equipped with a 16-bit address bus with a 64 kilobyte address space
and an 8-bit data bus.
[0100] A clock generator 80-6 supplies, in response to reference
oscillation output signals for example from an external crystal
oscillator, clock signals of a determined frequency through a
signal line 80-120 to the I/O processor 80-1, bus arbiter 80-2, bus
controller 80-3 and synchronization signal generator 80-7, and also
supplies a reset signal at the start of power supply and a manual
reset signal through a signal line 80-121 to the I/O processor
80-1, bus arbiter 80-2 and bus controller 80-3. A clock generator
80-4 receives a transfer acknowledge (XACK) signal responding to
the MWTC and MRDC signals from the multi-bus 30 through a signal
line 80-122, thus discriminating whether the multi-bus line 30
enters or terminates the waiting state, and supplies a bus ready
signal to the I/O processor 80-1 through a signal line 80-123
according to the result of said discrimination.
[0101] A synchronization signal generating circuit 80-7 generates a
signal confirming the response of the ROM 80-8 in response to the
aforementioned IORC and INTA signals and also to the chip selection
signal supplied from the address decoder 80-10 through a signal
line 80-125, and supplies thus generated signal to the clock
generator 80-6 through a signal line 80-126, thereby enabling the
I/O processor 80-1 to proceed to a succeeding operation.
[0102] The ROM 80-8 stores a microprogram of the I/O processor
80-1. A signal line 80-130 leading from an internal bus 80-5 to the
ROM 80-8 is used as an address signal line for transmitting, when
the I/O processor 80-1 fetches the microprogram stored in the ROM
80-8, a signal indicating the address of thus fetched instruction,
and a signal line 80-131 leading to the ROM 80-8 is used as a data
signal line therefor.
[0103] The address decoder 80-10 supplies a signal for selecting
the ROM 80-8 through a signal line 80-125 to the ROM 80-8 and to
the synchronization signal generating circuit 80-7 in response to
the chip selection signal of the I/O processor 80-1 to be supplied
through the internal bus 80-5 and a signal line 80-135. A signal
line 80-113 leading from the bus controller 80-3 to the address
decoder 80-10 transmits a status information signal S2 indicating
whether the address information latched in the address/data buffer
block 80-4 is for the internal bus 80-5 or for the multi-bus line
30, and said signal is discriminated by the address decoder
80-10.
[0104] In the following explained is the operation of transfer of
address information and data information between the DMA controller
80 and the multi-bus line 30 or the internal bus 80-5. At first, in
relation to the function of the multi-bus line 30, the address/data
buffer 80-4 latches the address information, supplied from the I/O
processor 80-1, in the address buffer in response to the ALE signal
supplied from the bus controller 80-3 to the address/data buffer
80-4. When the bus arbiter 80-2 acquires the right of using the
multi-bus line 30 after said latching, the bus arbiter 80-2
supplies the AEN signal to the address/data buffer 80-4, whereby it
releases the latched address information to the multi-bus line 30.
If the DMA controller 80 is in the write-in mode and the multi-bus
line 30 is already secured in this state, the I/O processor 80-1
supplies the data information to the address/data buffer 80-4,
which, in response to the DEN signal supplied from the bus
controller 80-3, transmits said data information to the multi-bus
line 30. On the other hand, if the DMA controller 80 is in the
read-out mode, the address/data buffer 80-4 transmits the data
information on the multi-bus line 30 to the I/O processor 80-1. The
write-in operation of the data information by the I/O processor
80-1 is conducted upon confirmation of the XACK signal to be
supplied from the disk memory 90 to the I/O processor 80-1.
[0105] The function of the address bus buffer 80-4 to be connected
with the internal bus 80-5 is similar to the foregoing case, but
the AEN signal from the bus arbiter 80-2 is not required for
supplying the address information to the internal bus 80-5. Also
the supply of the data information to the internal bus 80-5 is
controlled by the PDEN signal to be supplied from the bus
controller 80-3.
[0106] The disk memory 90 is for example composed of a model WDS-10
supplied by Sord Computer Co., and is equipped therein with an
unrepresented disk controller circuit, which is connected with the
internal bus 80-5 of the DMA controller 80 through a data bus
80-140, and also with the synchronization signal generating circuit
80-7 and the I/O processor 80-1 respectively through signal lines
80-142 and 80-143.
[0107] The data bus 80-140 transmits the command information,
result information, data information and status information, of
which the first three are combined as a set under a single address
and are sequentially handled by the disk controller circuit. On the
other hand, each status information is given an independent
address. The command information indicates the address and the
number of bytes on the disk memory 90, and the result information
indicates the result of error check in the transmission of
information between the DMA controller 80 and the disk memory
90.
[0108] A signal line 80-142 a command busy (CBUSY) signal, and the
synchronization signal generating circuit 80-7 discriminates the
above-mentioned three information from the status information. The
above-mentioned set consisting of the command information, result
information and data information and the status information have
different ready timings both in the read-out mode and in the
write-in mode. Consequently the synchronization signal generating
circuit 80-7 generates four different waiting times by means of the
IORC signal transmitted through a signal line 80-112 and the CBUSY
signal transmitted through a signal line 80-142, and provides said
waiting times to the clock generator 80-6 through a signal line
80-126, whereby the above-mentioned various information are read by
the I/O processor 80-1 under the discrimination by the timing of
clock signals supplied from the clock generator 80-6.
[0109] A signal line 80-143 transmits a data request (DREQ) signal
indicating that the disk memory 90 is ready, and an external
terminate (EXT) signal indicating the completion of DMA
transmission.
[0110] The flow of image signals in the DMA transmission is
conducted in the following order:
[0111] (1) The CPU circuit block 10 supplies the I/O processor 80-1
with the CA signal through the signal line 80-101, thus requesting
the DMA transmission:
[0112] (2) I/O processor 80-1 makes an access to the RAM (FIG. 5)
in the CPU circuit block 10 through the signal line 80-104,
address/data buffer block 80-4 and signal line 80-115 to obtain
information on the read-out/write-in mode and on the address of the
DMA transmission. In the following it is assumed that the read-out
mode is identified:
[0113] (3) The I/O processor 80-1 makes an access to the buffer
memory 20 through the signal line 80-104, address/buffer block
80-4, signal line 80-115, bus line 113 and muiti-bus line 20;
[0114] (4) Data of 16 bits read from the buffer memory 20 are
supplied to the I/O processor 80-1 along the signal lines inverse
to those in (3):
[0115] (5) The I/O processor 80-1 transfers the upper 8 bits, and
then the lower 8 bits of said 16-bit data to the disk memory 90
through the signal line 80-104, address/data buffer block 80-4,
signal line 80-116, internal bus 80-5 and data bus 80-140:
[0116] (6) The above-described steps (3) to (5) are repeated until
the EXT signal appears on the signal line 80-143:
[0117] (7) The I/O processor 80-1 interrupts the function of the
CPU circuit block 10 through the signal line 80-101, bus line 113
and multi-bus line 30, thus indicating the completion of the DMA
transmission.
[0118] Now there will be given an explanation on the memory space
of the multi-bus line. FIG. 8 shows the memory map of the CPU
circuit block 10, buffer memory circuit block 20 and DMA controller
80 relating to the multi-bus line 30. The multi-bus 30 has an
address space of 1 megabytes from 00000H to FFFFFH as a mapped
memory space, which is divided, as shown in FIG. 8, into an area of
FC000H to FFFFFH as a program memory space of the CPU 10-1 of the
CPU circuit block 10, an area of 10000H to EFFFFH as a bank space
of the buffer memory to be explained later, an area of 06000H to
07FFFH as a program space between the CPU circuit block 10 and the
DMA controller 80, and an area of 00000H to 05FFFH as a work RAM
space for the CPU circuit block 10. Each address space will be
explained in the following.
[0119] The program memory space is used as the memory space for the
RAM 10-3 provided in the CPU circuit block 10 and used for storing
the control program of the present apparatus.
[0120] The bank space of the buffer memory has a capacity of 896
kilobytes from 10000H to EFFFFH, which is smaller than the memory
capacity of 1995840 bytes required for the buffer memory circuit
block 20 as explained in the foregoing. For this reason the buffer
memory is divided into three banks 0, 1 and 2, which are selected
by a bank switching signal supplied from the CPU circuit block 10
through the signal line 132 (FIGS. 4 and 6-2), and thus selected
banks are allotted to the memory map as shown in FIG. 8. The
procedure of said division and allotment will be explained later in
relation to FIGS. 9-1 and 9-2.
[0121] The communication program space utilizes a capacity of 8
kilobytes in the RAM 10-3 of 32 kilobytes in the CPU circuit block
10. The work RAM space utilizes the remaining capacity of 24
kilobytes in said RAM 10-3.
[0122] FIG. 9-1 shows the address map of the buffer memory 22
provided in the buffer memory circuit block 20 and having a memory
capacity of storing the information of an original of A4 size
(297.times.210 mm) with a resolving power of 16 pixels/mm. The
reader unit 500 performs the main in the direction of longer side
of said A4-sized original, whereby the CCD's 570, 580, 590 read
said original with a resolving power of 16 pixels/mm and provide
the image processing control unit 100 with pixel signals of 4752
bits per scanning. The subsidiary scanning of the reader unit 500
is effected in the direction of shorter side of the original,
wherein the CCD's 570, 580, 590 have a resolving power of 16
lines/mm, so that the original is scanned by 3360 lines in said
direction. Consequently the original of A4 size is divided into
159966720 pixels, and the image processing control unit 100
receives the serial signals of 4752 bits 3360 times.
[0123] The image signals supplied in this manner are stored in the
buffer memory 22 in the following procedure. The original of A4
size is divided into 62370 square unit blocks of 1 mm.times.1 mm
each. Each unit block contains image signals of 16 bits by 16
lines, or 256 bits. Pixels of 16 bits in the longitudinal direction
constitute a word having an address. Consequently a unit block is
composed of pixel groups of 16 addresses. The serial image signals
of 4752 bits in the first line, to be scanned at first, in the
original are supplied to the image processing control unit 100 in
the unit of a group of 16 pixels corresponding to a length of 1 mm
on the longitudinal direction on the original. A first group of
pixel signals of 16 bits is stored in an address 00000H of the
buffer memory 22, and a second group of 16 bits is stored in an
address 00010H. The following groups are stored in a similar manner
in addresses 00020H, 00030H, . . . , 01280H.
[0124] This addressing for each line in the buffer memory 22 is
achieved, as explained before, by setting an initial value in the
address counter 21-6 through the CPU circuit block 10. The supply
of image signals from the buffer memory 22 to the printer unit 600
is also achieved in the unit of 16 bits from a designated initial
address in the same manner as in the storage of image signals.
[0125] The image signals of 4752 bits in the second line are stored
in the same manner in addresses from 00001H to 01281H. In this
manner the image signals of 1536 lines from the 1st to 1536th line,
corresponding to a width of 96 mm, are stored in addresses from
00000H to 6F5FFH, and this bank space is called the bank 0 in the
buffer memory 22.
[0126] Subsequently the subsequent 1536 lines, from 1537th to
3072nd line, are stored in a similar manner in addresses from
70000H to DF5FFH, which constitute the bank 1 in the buffer memory
22. Then the subsequent 288 lines, from 3073rd to 3360th line, are
stored in addresses from E0000H to F4E1FH, which constitute the
bank 2 in the buffer memory 22.
[0127] The above-described procedure of storing image signals of a
word with an address allows to store the entire area of the
original of A4 size in consecutive addresses in the buffer memory
22, with unit square blocks of 1 mm.times.1 mm. Thus, in case the
operator registers an image processing area in the disk memory 90
in the unit of millimeter through the console 200, a high-speed DMA
transmission of image signals without passing through the CPU
circuit block 10 is rendered possible simply by designating the
first and final addresses of said area.
[0128] More specifically, a designation of a set of the first and
final addresses enables the DMA transmission of image signals of a
width of 1 millimeter. Consequently the DMA transmission can be
achieved with fewer address settings and can therefore be conducted
faster.
[0129] Also such procedure of image signal storage is particularly
effective for image editing with extracted image signals, since the
image signals to be extracted have consecutive addresses from right
to left in a width of 1 mm. As an example, the extraction of image
signals covering a length of 20 mm in the longitudinal direction
can be achieved with twenty address settings by the CPU circuit
block 10.
[0130] Besides, at the image editing, the operator can conveniently
designate the positions on the original in the unit of millimeter,
since the addresses correspond to the positions on the original
image in the unit of millimeter. In the present embodiment an
address is allotted to 16 bits in the longitudinal direction since
the CCD's 570, 580, 590 employed therein have a resolving power of
16 bits/mm, but the number of bits per address may naturally be
selected otherwise according to the ability of the CCD's, and a
similar effect can naturally be obtained if each address is defined
in terms of another unit, for example in terms of inches.
[0131] FIG. 9-2 shows an address map of the buffer memory 22 seen
from the multi-bus line 30. The address space from 00000H to 6F5FFH
constituting the bank 0 in the buffer memory 22 in FIG. 9-1, the
address space from 70000H to DF5FFH constituting the bank 1 and the
address space from E0000H to F4E1FH constituting the bank 2
respectively correspond to address spaces of 10000H to EEBFEH,
10000H to EFBFEH and 10000H to 39C3EH on the multi-bus as shown in
FIG. 8. The multi-bus 30 is equipped with a 16-bit data bus and a
20-bit address bus, and has an ability of making access to an area
of 1 megabytes, or to 10.sup.6 8-bit data. In case of access to
16-bit data occupying 2 addresses, the 16-bit data are allotted
consecutive even addresses, and the input or output of 16-bit
signals is enabled only when an access is made to an even
address.
[0132] The actual addresses of the buffer memory circuit block 20
shown in FIG. 9-1 are converted by the address converter 21-26
provided therein as explained before to the addresses shown in FIG.
9-2. In this manner it is rendered possible to select the address
area of the buffer memory 22 in an arbitrary address space.
[0133] FIG. 10-1A shows the address structure of the disk memory
90, in which disk drives 91 are numbered as 0, 1, . . . In the
present embodiment there is employed only one drive 0. The disk
drive 91 is equipped with three heads 92, each covering 354 tracks
93, each of which is composed of 18 sectors 94, each of a memory
capacity of 512 bytes. Consequently the disk memory 90 has a memory
capacity of approximately 10 megabytes.
[0134] In such disk memory 90, continuous access to the data is
made by changing the addresses in the disk memory 90 according to a
determined sequence as shown in FIG. 10-1B, wherein sequence number
SN, head number HN and track number TN are correlated by the
following equation (1):
SN=3.times.TN+HN (1)
[0135] wherein HN=0-2 and TN=0-353. Thus the track number TN and
the head number HN are determined for a given sequence number SN,
and the head 92 and the track 93 to be used in a succeeding access
are determined corresponding to a sequence number SN+1 stepwise
increased from the preceding sequence number SN. Access to the
sectors 94 in a track 93 is conducted in the increasing order of
the sector number SCTN.
[0136] FIG. 10-2 shows an index table provided in a determined area
in the disk memory 90 and used for controlling the status of use
thereof. In the present embodiment, sectors SCTN=0-13 in a track
TN=0 for a head HN=0 are assigned as the area of said index table,
in which sectors SCTN=0-8 are designated as a sector bit map table
94A indicating the status of use of each sector in the disk memory
90 while sectors SCTN=9-13 are designated as a file index table for
file administration. Signals of the sectors SCTN=0-13 are
transferred to a fixed area 6000H-7BFFH of the RAM 10-3 according
to an open program for writing the index table into the RAM 10-3 of
the CPU circuit block 10, and, after a determined processing, are
written into the disk memory 90 again according to a closed program
for storing a determined area of the RAM 10-3 into the disk memory
90.
[0137] The sector bit map table 94A is divided, as shown in FIG.
10-3, into 1062 blocks of 4 bytes each, which are successively
allotted to the sequence numbers SN=0-1061 and each of which stored
data indicating the status of use of a track or 18 sectors, by
means of a 1-bit signal for each sector. More specifically a sector
bit stores "1" or "0" respectively when the corresponding sector is
already used or not.
[0138] When a new data file is to be registered in the disk memory
90, a continuous empty area including a number of sectors required
for said registration, then the sequence numbers SN and the sector
numbers SCTN corresponding to said area are found, and signals "1"
are stored in the sector bits corresponding to said sectors. On the
other hand, in case of erasing a data file, signals "0" are stored
in the corresponding sector bits. However, signals "0" are
previously stored in the bits corresponding to the index table or
the block 0, thereby prohibition erroneous entry of a data file
into the index table.
[0139] The file index table controls three different files, i.e.
image data file, application file and control program of the
present system, to be stored in the disk memory 90. FIG. 10-4 shows
the status of control of such files by the file index table, in
which the file type 0 or 2 respectively indicates an image file or
an application file.
[0140] A file index block FIT1 consists of 4 blocks of 2 bytes
each, which are named as STATUS A, MAX BLOCK, ONE BLOCK SIZE and
CURRENT B NUMBER, and is formed at the initializing of the disk
memory 90 for storing data indicating the status of use of the
entire file index table. The block STATUS A is used when the system
is expanded but is not used in the present embodiment. The block
MAX BLOCK stores data indicating the total number of the files
which can be registered in the disk memory 90, said number being
selected as 50 (or 32H) in the present embodiment. The block ONE
BLOCK SIZE indicates the length per file of index of various data
relating to said file, said length being selected as 38 (or 26H)
bytes in the present embodiment. The block CURRENT B NUMBER stores
the number of files already stored in the disk memory 90. At the
registration of a new file, said number is compared with the number
stored in the block MAX BLOCK, and, if the former number is smaller
than the latter, the new file registration is permitted with an
increment of the former number, while such new registration is
prohibited if the former number is equal to or larger than the
latter. On the other hand, at the erasure of a file already
registered, the number stored in the block CURRENT B NUMBER is
reduced by one simultaneously with said erasure.
[0141] File index blocks FIT2 and FIT3 respectively for the file
type 0 and 2 store data of 38 bytes each. In these blocks, there
are provided a 2-byte area RSV for use in the system expansion but
not in use in the present embodiment; a 2-byte area FILE NO. for
identifying the file number arbitrarily determined by the operator
in a range from 1 to 99; and a 2-byte area FILE TYPE for storing
data indicating the above-mentioned file type "0" or "2". A 2-byte
area BANK and a 4-byte area ADDRESS in the block FIT 3 store data
indicating the bank and the address of the RAM 10-3 in the CPU
circuit block 10 for use in allocating the application file in the
RAM 10-3. A 6-byte area BYTE COUNT stores data indicating the data
length of the registered files.
[0142] There are further provided a 2-byte area SECTOR COUNT for
storing data indicating the number of sectors to be used by the
registered file; 2-byte areas SEQUENCE NO., DRIVE NO., HEAD NO.,
TRACK NO. and SECTOR NO. respectively store the sequence number,
drive number, head number, track number and sector number at the
leading end of the storage area of the registered file. 2-byte
areas X0, Y0, X1 and Y1 in the block FIT2 store coordinate data
indicating the position, on the copy sheet, of the editing area of
the image information, in case of the file type "0". As shown in
FIG. 10-5, an original is placed on an original support area 240,
and a closest point A and a farthest point point B in the hatched
editing area with respect to an original point O are indicated by
the stilus pen 280, whereby the coordinates X0 and Y0 of the point
A as well as the longitudinal length X1 and the transversal length
Y1 of the editing area are determined and stored in hexadecimal
numbers in the aforementioned areas X0, Y0, X1 and Y1. In the block
FIT3 for the file type 2, the areas corresponding to the areas X0,
Y0, X1 and Y1 in the block FIT1 are not used.
[0143] In case of transferring an image data file from the disk
memory 90 to the buffer memory 20, the corresponding file number is
at first designated whereby the index table is transferred by the
open program to the RAM 10-3 to obtain the index block
corresponding to the designated file number. Then the address in
the buffer memory 22 is calculated from the data stored in the
areas X0, Y0, X1 and Y1 of said index block, whereby the image
signals stored in the disk memory 90 is supplied by DMA
transmission to a corresponding area of the buffer memory 22.
[0144] A change in the position of the editing area on the copy
sheet can be achieved by modifying the data X0 and Y0 through the
console 200 by means of a modifying instruction to be explained
later, as the data X1 and Y1 remain unchanged in this case.
[0145] The disk memory 90 also stored the control program of the
present system as a file type 1, of which corresponding file index
block is constructed same as the block FIT3.
[0146] Now there will be given an explanation on the exchange.
FIGS. 11A, 11B and 11C are block diagrams, divided into three
portions, of a circuit including the exchange 40, optical fiber
interface 70 etc., wherein the symbols L1-L12 indicate signal lines
or groups of signal lines, and the ensuing parenthesized character
(A), (B) or (C) indicate that the corresponding signal line or
group of signal lines is connected to a signal line or a group of
signal lines appearing in FIG. 11A, 11B or 11C corresponding to
said character.
[0147] In said circuit, a signal selector M40-2 is composed of an
exchange for selecting various signals supplied from the optical
fiber interface 70 and reader unit 500, and supplying image signals
to a memory controller 21 of the buffer memory 22 for storage
therein. A signal selector P40-6 is composed of an exchange for
selecting various signals supplied from the buffer memory 20,
optical fiber interface 70 and reader unit 500 and supplying image
signals to the printer unit 600 for the copying of said image
signals. A signal selector F40-7 is composed of an exchange for
selecting various signals supplied from the buffer memory 20 and
reader unit 500 and supplying said signals to the optical fiber
interface 70 for supply to the optical fiber network 700.
[0148] There are provided connectors 41, 42, 43, 45, 46 and 48
respectively for the CPU circuit block 10, buffer memory 22, I/O
interface 56, reader unit 500, printer unit 600 and DDX interface
60, wherein a slash symbol "/", if attached to the symbol of a
signal, indicates a negative logic signal.
[0149] There are employed following signals: a signal SCAN START
for instructing the start of a scanning operation in the reader
unit 500; a signal FULL designating the size (for example A3 or A4)
of the copy image; a signal SCAN STANDBY to be released by the
reader unit 500 indicating the stand-by state for scanning therein;
a vertical synchronization signal VSYNC indicating the start of
image signals; a signal VIDEO ENABLE indicating the effective
output period of the image signals of a line; a signal SCAN ENABLE
indicating the effective output period of the image signals of an
original; a signal SCAN READY indicating the completion of
preparation for scanning in the reader unit 500; an image signal
VIDEO; and a clock signal CLOCK.
[0150] There are further employed a signal PRINT REQUEST for
demanding a copying operation to the printer unit 600; a signal
PRINT START for instructing the start of printing operation; a
signal STATUS REQUEST requesting the output of the status of the
printer unit 600; signals PRINT READY, PRINT ENABLE and PRINT END
respectively indicating the completion of preparation, the period
of printing operation and the completion of printing operation of
the printer unit 600; an acknowledgement signal REQUEST ACK to be
supplied by the printer unit 600 in response to the PRINT REQUEST
signal; and 8-bit signals STATUSO-7 indicating the status of the
printer unit 600, wherein a suffix R, P or M respectively indicates
that the corresponding signal is released by or supplied to the
reader unit 500, printer unit 600 or buffer memory 20.
[0151] A signal SELECT PF, SELECT PR or SELECT PM is supplied by
the CPU circuit block 10 through the I/O interface 56 to the signal
selector P40-6, which, in response, selects respectively the
optical fiber interface 70, reader unit 500 or buffer memory 22.
Similarly a signal SELECT FR or SELECT FM causes the signal
selector F40-7 to respectively select the reader unit 500 or buffer
memory 20. Also a signal SELECT MR or SELECT MF causes the signal
selector M40-2 to respectively select the reader unit 500 or buffer
memory 22.
[0152] Simultaneous output of the image signals from the reader
unit 500 to the printer unit 600 of the present system and to a
printer unit of another system on the optical fiber network 700 can
be achieved by simultaneous activation of the signals SELECT PR and
SELECT FR by the CPU circuit block 10. Also simultaneous output of
the image signals from the buffer memory 22 to the printer unit 600
and to a printer unit of another system on the optical fiber
network 700 can be achieved by simultaneous activation of the
signals SELECT PM and SELECT FM. Similarly the CPU circuit block 10
can set up plural paths for the image signals by arbitrarily
designating the source and destinations of the image signals.
[0153] The connector 48 for the DDX interface 60 and the signal
lines relating to the optical fiber interface 70 will be explained
later.
[0154] Now there will be given an explanation on the DDX interface.
FIG. 12-1 is a block diagram showing an example of the DDX
interface 60, wherein said DDX interface 60 is connected, through a
data/clock interface 60-1 and a control signal interface 60-2, to a
data/clock signal line 137 and a control signal line 139. There are
also provided selectors 60-3, 60-7 and line buffers 60-4, 60-5,
60-6. As an example, in case of transmission of the image signals
from the present system, the selector 60-3 functions as a write-in
selector to achieve the storage of image signals by sequentially
selecting the line buffers 60-4, 60-5 and 60-6. At the same time
the selector 60-7 functions as a read-out selector for reading,
during the storage of image signals into a line buffer, image
signals from another line buffer and supplying said image signals
to an RL counter 60-8 and an RL up/down counter 60-9.
[0155] An RL-MH/MR converter 60-10 converts the run length of the
image signals of a line supplied from the RL counter 60-8 into
one-dimensional modified Huffman (MH) codes, also converts the run
length of the image signals of a line into two-dimensional modified
Read (MR) codes by counting the relative position from a reference
pixel to be supplied from the RL up/down counter 60-9, and supplies
the obtained image data to a V.35 interface 60-11 after
compression, which is a connecting circuit provided between the DDX
line and the DDX interface 60.
[0156] A control circuit 60-20 controls the DDX transmission by
suitably transmitting various control signals, to be supplied by
the image processing unit 10 through the signal line 139 and a
control signal interface 60-2, to the V.35 interface 60-11, and
controls various units of the DDX interface 60.
[0157] A dial pulse generator 60-21 transmits a destination code
for the image signals supplied from the control circuit 60-20 or
from a dial setting test switch 60-22 to a V.28 interface thereby
designating the destination.
[0158] Indicator lamps 60-24, 60-25, 60-26 and 60-26 respectively
indicate the completion of preparation of the DDX interface 60,
completion of connection with another system, transmission to
another system and reception from another system.
[0159] An error count check line 60-30 transmits a signal for
disconnecting the communication line from the control circuit 60-20
to the CPU circuit block 10 in case the number of errors counted by
said control circuit 60-20 during a communication between the
present system and another system reaches a determined value.
[0160] There are also provided a power supply circuit 60-35 for the
DDX interface 60, a power switch 60-36 and an indicator lamp 60-37
for indicating the power supply.
[0161] A line terminal equipment (DCE) 801 instailled by the
Telegram and Telephone Corporation of Japan is connected to the DDX
interface 60 for converting the signals therefrom into signals
suitable for transmission in the network, and transmitting the
signals from the network to the DDX interface 60. In the present
embodiment, said DEC 801 is composed of a model D-232 home-use
terminal equipment. A network control unit (NCU) 802 connected to
the DCE has the functions of controlling the connection and
disconnection of the network, and is composed of a model NCU-21
capable of automatic transmission and automatic reception. The DCE
801 is connected through a connecting cable 803 to the V.35
interface 60-11 and to the V.28 interface 60-23, while the NCU 802
is connected through a connecting cable 804 to the V.28 interface
60-23.
[0162] The procedure of image signal transmission to another system
with MH and MR encoding follows the T4 recommendation of CCITT,
with the following considerations:
[0163] (1) In the present system, the maximum run length obtained
when an entire line is composed of white or black pixels alone is
equal to 4752 and exceeds the maximum expression range 2623
(=2560+63) of the expanded MH code since the scanning line runs
along the longitudinal direction of the A4-sized original with a
resolving power of 16 bits/mm: and
[0164] (2) In the present system, the transmission is effected by a
two-dimensional encoding with an infinite parameter K, namely by MH
encoding the first line of an A4-sized original and by MR encoding
the remaining 3359 lines.
[0165] With respect to the point (1), the scanning line is taken
along the longitudinal direction in order (i) to reduce the time
required for transmission by decreasing the number of lines to be
transmitted, and (ii) to reduce the moving distance of the sensor
in the subsidiary scanning direction thereby compactizing the
reader unit 500.
[0166] With respect to the point (2), the parameter K is selected
as infinite in order to avoid repetition of the MH encoding at
every K cycles required when a small finite parameter K is
employed. The use of such infinite parameter K is permitted since
the image signals to be transmitted are already digitized in the
CCD driver 50 and stored in the buffer memory 22, so that the use
of a small finite parameter K for reducing the reading error is
meaningless.
[0167] The transmission of image signals from the present system to
another system through the DDX line 800 is conducted in the
following manner.
[0168] At first, the image signals of a line (4752 bits) supplied
from the buffer memory 22 and through the signal line 137 are
transferred, through the data/clock interface 60-1 and the write-in
selector 60-3, to a line buffer 60-4, 60-5 or 60-6 at a transfer
rate of 1 bit per 0.1 microseconds, in synchronization with clock
signals of 10 MHz. The time required for transmitting the image
signals of a line is therefore 475.2 .mu.sec. The image signals of
the first line transmitted first are stored by the selector 60-3 in
the line buffer 60-4, and, upon completion of said storage, the
selector 60-7 opens the gate of said line buffer 60-4 while closes
the gates of the line buffers 60-5 and 60-6. Thus the stored image
signals are supplied to the RL counter 60-8 for counting the run
lengths of white and black images, and said image signals of the
first line are converted into the MH codes by the RL-MH/MR
converter 60-10 according to the result of said counting. During
the output of the image signals from the line buffer 60-4, the
selector 60-3 closes the gates to the line buffers 60-4 and 60-6
while opens the gate to the line buffer 60-5 to supply the image
signals of the second line thereto. If the image signals of the
first line are all converted into the MH codes, the image signals
of the second line are supplied by the selector 60-7 to the RL
up/down counter 60-7 for counting the relative positional change
from the first line and are converted into the MR codes in the
RL-MH/MR converter 60-10. The image signals of the third line to be
supplied to the line buffer 60-6 are processed in the same manner
as those of the second line, and thereafter the image signals down
to the 3360th line on the A4-sized original are converted, as they
are released from the line buffers 60-4, 60-5 and 60-6, into the MR
codes through the RL up/down counter 60-7 and the RL-MH/MR
converter 60-10.
[0169] The image signals supplied in the form of run length codes
to the RL-MH/MR converter 60-10 are compressed by MH or MR
encoding.
[0170] In the present system the expanded MH codes are further
expanded in the following manner since the maximum run length 4752
of the present system exceeds the maximum expression range 2623 of
the expanded MH codes are already explained in the foregoing:
[0171] (1) Run length RL<2560:
[0172] In this range normal MH codes are used. Thus a run length in
a range RL<64 is represented by a terminating code, and a run
length in a range 64.ltoreq.RL<2560 is represented by a make-up
code and a terminating code:
[0173] (2) Run length RL.gtoreq.2560:
[0174] In this range the encoding is achieved in the following
cases (a) and (b), using a make-up code "00000001111" for a run
length 2560 as a special code:
[0175] (a) Case of 2560.ltoreq.RL.ltoreq.2623=2560+63:
[0176] A run length in this range is represented by a make-up code
(for a run length 2560) and a terminating code as in the
above-mentioned case (1);
[0177] (b) Case of 2623<RL.ltoreq.4752:
[0178] A run length is represented by the make-up code for a run
length 2560, followed by an additional make-up a code and a
terminating code. In this case (2), therefore, the make-up code for
a run length 2560 is either followed by a terminating code of a
same color [case (a)] or by a make-up code of a same color and a
terminating code [case (b)]. In the following there are given some
examples of encoding in this case (2), in which the underlined
figures indicate the additional make-up codes:
EXAMPLES
[0179] 2560=2560+0
[0180] 2561=2560+1
[0181] 2623=2560+63
[0182] 2624=2560+64+0
[0183] 4289=2560+1728+1
[0184] 2752=2560+2176+16
[0185] In the following there will be given an explanations on the
functions of various signals flowing in the signal lines connecting
the image processing unit 10 and the DDX interface 60 as shown in
FIGS. 11A, 11B, 11C, and 12-1.
[0186] FIG. 12-2 summarizes the signals, names thereof and
direction thereof between the image processing unit 10 and the DDX
interface 60. Lines FG and SG are grounding lines respectively for
security and signal. A call request signal CRQP is used for
requesting, from the image processing unit 10 to the DDX interface
60, a connection or call with another system, is deactivated
simultaneously with the activation of a connection signal CND, and
is disregarded when a connection disabled signal NRYD is activated.
A call signal CIP is used to indicate, from the DDX interface 60 to
the image processing unit 10, the arrival of communication from
another system, and is handled same as the signal CRQP in relation
to the signals CND and NRYD.
[0187] A dial number signal DLN is activated simultaneously with
the signal CRQP to transmit 7-digit telephone number of another
system.
[0188] A connection request signal CNQ is used to request the
connection of a DDX line from the image processing unit 10 to the
DDX interface 60, is activated simultaneously with the activation
of the signal CRQP or CIP, and is disregarded when the signal NRYD
is activated. Said signal CNQ is activated as long as a line is to
be secured, and said line is disconnected when said signal CNQ is
deactivated.
[0189] A reception disabled signal NRYP is activated when the image
processing unit 10 is unable to become ready for transmission or
reception within 6 seconds. The signal NRYD indicates that the line
cannot be connected when the DDX line 800 is busy or when a
not-ready switch of the NCU 802 is actuated. Said signal NRYD is
constantly activated or deactivated according to whether the line
connection is disabled or enabled. Also the image processing unit
10 identifies a disabled connection if the signal CND is not
activated within a determined time after the activation of the
signal CRQP.
[0190] The signal CND is activated when the communicating
conditions between the present system and another system are
satisfied in response to the activations of the signal CRQP or CIP
and of the signal CNQ, thus indicating that the line connection is
completed to enable the communication of the present system. The
signal CND is deactivated when the signal CNQ is deactivated or
when said another system disconnects the line. A transmission
enabled signal RDS and a reception enabled signal RDR respectively
indicate that the image processing unit 10 can reach, within 6
seconds, a state of sending or receiving image information of an
A4-sized original, and said signal RDS or RDR is activated
simultaneously with the activation of the signal CNQ.
[0191] A transmission mode signal MDS or a reception mode signal
MDR indicates that the present system is set to a transmitting or
receiving mode, which is determined according to the signals RDS
and RDR of the calling system and of the called system. A
transmission or a reception may be conducted immediately after the
completion of a reception or a transmission.
[0192] A transmission enabled signal RDT is activated within 6
seconds after the activation of the signal MDS or MDR, and
indicates that the transmission of the image signals in the sending
or receiving mode is enabled.
[0193] A transmission data request signal RQS is activated and
deactivated at regular intervals, whereby the DDX interface 60
requests, to the image processing unit 10, the transmission of
image signals of a line. In response to the activation of said
signal RQS, the image processing unit 10 activates a transmission
data effective signal SVA to transfer the image signals of a line
from the buffer memory 20 to the DDX interface 60. The signal RQS
is deactivated simultaneously with the completion of transfer of
said signals SDT. The interval of the signal RQS is selected longer
than the minimum time required for transmission. The signal SVA is
activated in response to the signal RQS to permit the sampling of
the signals SDT in synchronization with the transmission clock
signals SCK, and is deactivated at the completion of the
transmission of the signals SDT. The signal RVA is activated at
regular intervals to request the reception of image signals (RDT)
of a line received from another system and extended in the DDX
interface 60, and to permit the sampling in synchronization with
reception clock signals RCK. The interval of the signal RVA is
selected in a similar manner as in the signal RQS.
[0194] The signals SDT and RDT are respective transmitted and
received binary (black/white) image signals, and the signals SCK
and RCK are sampling clock signals for said signals SDT and
RDT.
[0195] In the communication between the present system and another
system on the DDX line 800, the direction of transmission is
determined as shown in FIG. 12-3 according to the states of the
signals RDS and RDR both in the calling system or station and in
the called system or station, in order to prevent errors in the
direction of transmission. In FIG. 12-3, a symbol "O" indicates the
activated state of the signal, while an arrow represents the
direction of transmission, and a symbol "X" indicates the
deactivated state and the transmission disabled state. The
transmission is directed from the called station to the calling
station in case the signal RDR alone of the called station and at
least the signal RDS of the called station are activated, and in
case the signals RDS and RDR of the calling station and the signal
RDS alone of the called station are activated. Also the
transmission is directed from the calling station to the called
station in case the signal RDS alone of the calling station and at
least the signal RDR of the called station are activated, and in
case the signals RDS and RDR of the calling station and at least
the signal RDR of the called station are activated. Besides the
transmission is disabled in other combinations of the signals RDS
and RDR of the calling and called stations.
[0196] FIG. 12-4 shows an example of the procedure for making
transmission between the calling station and the called station,
wherein a transmission function identifying signal IDS is used for
mutually exchanging the transmitting functions, namely the states
of the signals RDS and RDR, of the calling and called stations. For
example said signal has an 8-bit format "0000 RDS RDR 10" to be
transmitted from the uppermost bit to the lowermost bit, and both
stations determine the direction of transmission as shown in FIG.
12-3 based on the signals RDS and RDR of the present system and the
other system.
[0197] A transmission ready signal RDY, for example of a format
"00010010" to be transmitted in the same manner as the signal IDS,
indicates the completion of preparation for transmission or
reception of the image signals of an original in a direction of
transmission determined by the exchange of the signals IDS.
[0198] There are also provided MH encoded image signals MH1 of the
first line; MR encoded image signals MR2-MRn+1
(1.ltoreq.n.ltoreq.3360) of the 2nd to (n+1)-th lines; MH encoded
image signals of the n-th line; and MR encoded image signals
MRn+1-MR3360 of the (n+1)-th to 3360th lines, wherein the image
signals MH1-MR3360 represent information of an A4-sized
original.
[0199] A repeated transmission requesting signal RTQ is used for
requesting, from the called station to the calling station, a
repeated transmission, in case the received image signals of a line
contains an error, namely in case said image signals demodulated in
the called station are not equal to 0 or 4752 bits and are not
accepted in the buffer memory 22.
[0200] A transmission end signal RTC, composed of the line end code
EOL according to the recommendation T4 of CCITT followed by "1", is
emitted from the calling station to indicate the completion of the
transmission of image signals of an original.
[0201] A line disconnect signal DCN, for example of a format
"01000010" is transmitted in the same manner as the signal IDS to
mutually inform the disconnection of the line.
[0202] Immediately after a line is connected, the calling station
and called station initiate repeated mutual transmission of the
signal IDS at least 3 times until each station becomes ready for
the transmitting mode. If the direction of transmission cannot be
determined at a timing A (cf. FIG. 12-3), a state of disabled
transmission is identified and both stations mutually send the
signal DCN to disconnect the line. When each station becomes ready,
it releases the signal RDY at least 3 times until both stations
become ready. When both stations become ready and release the
signal RDY (timing B), the called station enters the receiving
state by terminating the transmission of the control signals while
the calling station enters the transmitting state.
[0203] In case there is generated, in the course of transmission of
image signals of an A4-sized original, a transmission error in the
image signals of the n-th line for example at a timing E, the
called station provides the calling station with the signal RTQ, in
response to which the calling station transmits the image signals
of the n-th line in the MH codes and those of the (n+1)-th to
3360th lines in the MR codes.
[0204] Upon completion of the transmission of the image signals in
this manner, the calling station sends the signal RTC to the called
station, and both stations then exchange the signal IDS. If the
transmitting conditions are satisfied in this state as shown in
FIG. 12-3, transmission of other image signals is started from the
timing C. On the other hand, if said conditions are not satisfied,
both stations exchange to disconnect the line.
[0205] FIG. 14 shows an example of the structure of the optical
fiber interface 70. Optical video signals carrying the commands or
image information and optical clock signals CLK synchronized with
said video signals, transmitted from the optical fiber network 700
through optical fiber cables 701, 702, are respectively converted
by optoelectric converters 70-1, 70-2 into electric signals, which
are supplied through signal lines 70-101, 70-102 respectively to a
command/image discriminating circuit 70-3 and AND gates 70-4,
70-20, 70-30 and to AND gates 70-5, 70-21, 70-31. Said
command/image discriminating circuit 70-3 identifies whether the
transmitted signal is a command indicating for example the original
size, or the image information. More specifically the command/image
discriminating circuit 70-3 identifies a command by a command code
attached to the leading end of video signals representing a
command, or identifies image information by clock signals of a
determined frequency, for example 12.5 MHz, included therein.
[0206] Upon discrimination of a command in the transmitted video
signals, the command/image discriminating circuit 70-3 supplies a
command acknowledge signal CACK, during the reception of said
command, through a signal line 70-103 to AND gates 70-4, 70-5 and
to the CPU circuit block 10. Since the video signals and clock
signals CLK are already supplied to the AND gates 70-4, 70-5
through signal lines 70-101, 70-102, in response to the signal
CACK, said AND gates 70-4, 70-5 transmit the command signals and
clock signals to a reception command register 70-10. Upon
deactivation of the signal CACK at the termination of the command
reception, the CPU circuit block 10 starts an interruption
procedure to supply an address designating signal ADR through a
signal line 136-1 and an address decoder 70-11 to the reception
command register 70-10 thereby designating an address therein, and
to supply an I/O read-out command signal I/O RC through a signal
line 136-2 to a data buffer 70-12 thereby setting the same to the
output mode. Through such operation the command stored in the
reception command register 70-10 is read by the CPU circuit block
10 through the data buffer 70-12 and a signal line 136-5.
[0207] On the other hand, upon discrimination of image information
in the video signals transmitted from the optical fiber network
700, the command/image discriminating circuit 70-3 supplies an
image acknowledge signal IACK, during the reception of said image
information, through a signal line 70-104 to AND gates 70-20, 70-21
and the CPU circuit block 10. Since the video signals and the clock
signals CLK are already supplied to the AND gates 70-20, 70-21
through signal lines 70-101, 70-102, said AND gates 70-20, 70-21
supply the image signals and clock signals to a regenerating
circuit 70-25 in response to said signal IACK. In response to an
original size designating signal FULL FO supplied from the CPU
circuit block 10, said regenerating circuit 70-25 regenerates, from
the transmitted image signals, a signal PRINT START FO requesting
the start of the printer unit 600, a vertical synchronization
signal VSYNC FO, a signal VIDEO ENABLE FO indicating the effective
output period of the image signals of a line, a signal SCAN ENABLE
indicating the effective output period of the image signals of an
original, image signals VIDEO FO transmitted to the present system,
and clock signals CLK FO and supplies said signals to the exchange
40. In case the received image signals are to be transmitted to
another system in the optical fiber network 700 or are not
addressed to the present system, the CPU circuit block 10
discriminates such fact by decoding the command signal and supplies
a transmission request signal TRSMTR through a signal line 70-110
to AND gates 70-30, 70-31, which thus transmit respectively the
video signals and clock signals CLK to another system through OR
gates 70-35, 70-36, electrooptical converters 70-40, 70-41 and
optical fiber cables 703, 704.
[0208] In case of a transmission from the present system to another
system on the optical fiber network 700, the CPU circuit block 10
at first deactivates the signal TRSMTR to terminate the signal
output from the AND gates 70-30, 70-31. Subsequently the signal ADR
is supplied through a signal line 136-1 and the address decoder
70-11 to a transmission command register 70-50, a command
discrimination signal generator 70-51 and a transmission clock
generator 70-52 to designate the address, and an I/O write-in
command signal I/O WC is supplied through a signal line 136-3 to
the data buffer 70-12 to set the same to the input mode. Through
these procedures the transmission command register 70-50 at first
stores the command discriminating signal generated by the command
discriminating signal generator 70-51, and then the command data
supplied from the data buffer 70-12. Upon completion of the storage
of the command data, the transmission clock generator 70-52
generates clock pulses of a number required for the serial
transmission of the command data from the transmission command
register 70-50 to the electrooptical converter, whereby the command
data and the clock pulses are supplied, respectively as the video
signals and clock signals, to the optical cables 703, 704 through
the electrooptical converter 70-40, 70-41.
[0209] Then, for the transmission of the image information, the
signals PRINT START FI, VSYNC FI, VIDEO FI and CLK FI released from
a signal selector F in the exchange 40 are converted by a
converting circuit 70-55 into serial video signals and clock
signals, which are respectively supplied to the optical fiber
cables 703, 704 through signal lines 70-111, 70-112, OR gates
70-35, 70-36 and electrooptical converters 70-40, 70-41.
[0210] Now there will be explained the reader operation unit 550
shown in FIG. 14, in which provided are an application file number
indicator 551 for displaying the registration numbers of
application files for editing work registered in the disk memory; a
print number indicator 552 for indicating the number of prints
which are to be made by the printer unit 600 (in case of local
copying) or by another system on the optical fiber network 700 to
which the image signals are to be transmitted; a paper size
selecting key 553 which selects the A3 or A4 size whereupon
indicator lamps indicate the selected size; numeral keys 554 for
setting the number of copies or prints; a clear key 555 for erasing
the set number and the file number; a stop key 556 for interrupting
the printing operation; and indicator lamps 557, 558 respectively
indicating that the image information is under transmission or
under reception.
[0211] There are further provided selector keys 561 for selecting
external systems to be connected through the DDX line; and selector
keys 562 for selecting systems within the optical fiber network
700, including a selector key 563 for selecting the printer unit
600 of the present system. Each key is provided thereunder with two
indicator lamps, the one at left being lighted when a destination
of transmission or reception is selected by the actuation of a
corresponding key, and the one at right being lighted in case of an
error in the communication.
[0212] A COPY key 565 is actuated in case of local copying or in
case of transmission, both being hereinafter called copy mode. An
EDIT key 566 is actuated in case of image editing with the reader
unit 500, which is hereinafter called the edit R mode. The
above-mentioned keys are provided thereon with indicator lamps to
be lighted to indicate the actuated key. An ENTER key 567 is
actuated at the setting of the print number in the local copy mode
or in the communication within the network. An EXECUTE key 568 is
actuated at the start of execution of the copy mode or the edit R
mode.
[0213] In the following explained is the printer status display
unit 650 shown in FIG. 15, in which provided are a power supply
indicator lamp 651 to be lighted when the power is supplied to the
printer unit 600; and a ready lamp 652 to be lighted when the
printer unit 600 is ready to receive the image signals from the
image processing control unit 100.
[0214] An on-line selector key 653 is actuated when an on-line
connection is to be made between the printer unit 600 and the image
processing unit 100, whereby an indicator lamp provided thereon is
lighted. A test print key 654 is actuated for checking the function
of the printer unit 600, whereby said printer unit 600 prints a
test pattern independently from the image processing control unit
100.
[0215] A unit 655 is used for displaying and selecting the original
size but the original size selecting function is disabled in the
above-described on-line state. Error indicators 656-1, 656-2, 656-3
respectively for indicating sheet jamming, absence of toner and
absence of copying sheet indicate errors in the printer unit 600
that can be removed by the operator. An error indicator indicates
for example eight different errors of the printer unit 600 that
cannot be eliminated by the operator.
[0216] Now there will be given an explanation on the procedure of
image editing. The image editing is conducted by suitable DMA
transmissions between the buffer memory 22 and the disk memory 90.
More specifically the image signals read in the reader unit 500
from an A4-sized original are stored at a determined address of the
buffer memory 20, and a part of said image signals is stored
through the DMA controller 80 in the disk memory 90. Then the
signals in the buffer memory 22 are erased, and the image signals
previously stored in the disk memory 90 are returned to a desired
address space of the buffer memory 90 and are printed by the
printer unit 600. In this manner there is obtained a print in which
the unnecessary portion of the original is trimmed off and the
image is moved to a desired position.
[0217] Such image editings as the positional change or trimming of
image are conducted according to an image processing program
prepared from commands to be explained later and to be entered from
the command menu section shown in FIG. 3-2. Such image processing
program can be stored in the disk memory 90, and such stored image
processing program shall be defined as an application file. Also
the image information stored in the disk memory 90 shall be defined
as an image file. At the registration of these files in the disk
memory 90, a 2-digit file number is given as the title of the file,
and indicated also is whether said file should be erasable or
not.
[0218] FIGS. 16A, 16B and 16C show a simple example of image
editing. At first a first original L1 shown in FIG. 16A is read by
the reader unit 500 and stored in the buffer memory 22. On the
original supporting area 240, the points A and B are designated
with the stilus pen 280 to extract the image information within a
frame M1 from the stored image information, and such extracted
image information M1 is stored in the disk memory 90 with a file
number, for example "01". A second original L2 is similarly
processed, and the image information M2 extracted by designating
points C and D as shown in FIG. 16B is stored in the disk memory 90
with a file number "02". Then the signals in the buffer memory 22
are entirely erased, and points E and F are designated as shown in
FIG. 16C to move the image information of the areas M1 and M2
stored as image files "01" and "02" to address spaces corresponding
to areas N1 and N2 in the buffer memory 22. Thus the buffer memory
22 stores the image information N1 and N2 positioned as shown in
FIG. 16C, as image information of an A4-sized original.
[0219] The data in the buffer memory 22 are transferred to the
printer unit 600 to obtain a desired edited image L3.
[0220] In the following there will be given an explanation on the
editing commands utilized in the image editing. The editing
commands are entered by selecting the command menu section 220 of
the console 200 with the stilus pen 280 as shown in FIG. 17, and
the CPU circuit block 10 executes the image editing according to
thus entered commands. In FIG. 17, C is a command in the command
keys 222 shown in FIG. 3-2 and can be entered by the actuation of a
corresponding command key 222 or alphabet keys 223, in order to
execute a corresponding image editing. P indicates a parameter for
example designating coordinates. The entry of a parameter P is
preceded by a command and an opening parenthesis and followed by a
closing parenthesis. Several parameters, separated mutually by ","
may be entered if necessary in relation to the corresponding
parameter. In FIG. 17, (CR) indicates a carriage return to be
achieved by the actuation of the key 225 shown in FIG. 3-2 after
the entry of an editing command. In the following listed are
editing commands to be executed by the image processing unit 10 and
the corresponding meanings. Symbol (CR) immediately following each
command indicates that the carriage return key 225 should be
actuated at the entry of the command:
[0221] (1) DZ (dither code A, dither code B, X0, Y0, X1, Y1)
(CR):
[0222] This command indicates, to the dither controller 54 at the
binary digitizing of the original image read in the reader unit
500, which dither pattern should be used in processing the entire
original image and in processing the area designated by X0, Y0, X1
and Y1. The dither code A or B is selected for example from six
dither patterns 00, 01, 02, 03, 04 and 05, including dither
matrixes with a same threshold value. The codes 00 to 04 are used
for adjusting the image density by selecting dither patterns of
five different threshold values. The code 05 selects so-called
dither processing capable of representing an intermediate tone for
example in reading a photograph. There may be designated plural
areas:
[0223] (2) RE (CR):
[0224] This command starts the reader unit 500 and stores the image
information of an A4-sized original read by CCD's 570, 580 and 590.
No parameters are attached to this command:
[0225] (3) CR (file number, file type, X0, Y0, X1, Y1)(CR):
[0226] This command secures a space for storing the image file on
the disk memory 90, and registers the file data in the file index
table (cf. FIG. 10-4). As parameters there are entered a 2-digit
file number arbitrarily selected by the operator, a file type "00",
address positions X0 (mm) and Y0 (mm) on the buffer memory 20, and
image dimensions X1 (mm) and Y1 (mm):
[0227] (4) ST (file number, file type) (CR):
[0228] This command stores the image information of the buffer
memory 22 in the disk memory 90, and is executed according to the
file data registered in the index table of the disk memory 90 by
the command CR:
[0229] (5) LO (file number, file type) (CR):
[0230] This command changes the image position, stored in the index
table FIT2, of the image file of the entered file number. In
response to this command, the CPU circuit block 10 searches the
corresponding file data from the index table of the disk memory 90
through an open processing, and displays the coordinate data of
said file on the cathode ray tube 300. The file type is "00" since
this is an image file operating command:
[0231] (6) ADR (X0, Y0) (CR):
[0232] This command enters the changed position X0, Y0 of the image
file designated by the foregoing command LO, and should be entered
immediately following said command LO:
[0233] (7) CL (CR)
[0234] This command erases the image information stored in the
buffer memory 20:
[0235] (8) LD (file number, file type "00") (CR)
[0236] This command stores an image file in the disk memory into
the buffer memory 22 according to the position data X0, Y0 shown in
the file index table in the disk memory 90 corresponding to said
file:
[0237] (9) DE (file number, file type) (CR):
[0238] This command erases a file of the number and type, entered
by this command, from the disk memory 90:
[0239] (10) PR (print number) (CR):
[0240] This command transfers the image information stored in the
buffer memory 22 to the printer unit 600 and causes to print it by
the entered number:
[0241] (11) XR (file number, file type "02") (CR):
[0242] This command is used when the editing station control unit
450 reads an application file from the disk memory 90. In response
to this command, the image processing unit 10 searches a
corresponding application file from the disk memory 90 and
transfers it to the editing station control unit 450:
[0243] (12) ED (file number, file type "02" ) (CR):
[0244] This command is used when the operator registers an image
editing program, prepared through the console 200 and composed of a
group of commands stored in the RAM 456 of the editing station
control unit 450, as an application file into the disk memory 90.
In response to this command, the image processing unit 10 searches
the index table of the disk memory 90, and, after confirming that
an application file of a same file number has not been registered
in the disk memory 90, releases an instruction signal to the
editing station control unit 450 for transferring said group of
commands:
[0245] (13) DIR (CR):
[0246] This command transfers the file number, file type and
coordinate data of the application file or image file registered in
the index table of the disk memory 90 to a CRT/console controller
470, and displays said data on the cathode ray tube 300:
[0247] (14) KL (CR):
[0248] In response to this command, the image processing unit 10
releases the editing station control unit 450 from the control.
[0249] In the foregoing commands, the file number, area (X0, Y0,
X1, Y1), position (X0, Y0) and print number may either be entered
directly by numerals, or be entered as variables. In the
preparation of the application file to be explained later, the file
number, area, position and print number may be entered for example
as N, F, P and S respectively.
[0250] In the following there are explained error messages. In case
the image processing unit 100 identifies an error in the course of
the execution of the foregoing commands, said unit 10 sends an
error code and an error comment to the editing station control unit
450 to cause a display, including, as shown in FIG. 18, an error
code EN in hexadecimal number and an error comment EC, on the
cathode ray tube 300.
[0251] In the following listed are error codes, error comments and
meanings thereof:
[0252] (1) Error code 01: FILE NOT FOUND:
[0253] This code indicates that a file designated by the operator
is not found in the disk memory 90:
[0254] (2) Error code 02: COORDINATE ERROR:
[0255] This code indicates an error in the coordinate data X0, Y0,
X1 and Y1 entered by the operator. This error code is related with
the command CR or ADR, and may occur, for example, if the entered
coordinate data include a negative number or other characters than
the numerals 0-9 and the variables F and P, or if the image size
exceeds the A4 size editable in the present embodiment, as
represented by the following relations (2):
X0+X1>297 mm or Y0+Y1>210 mm (2):
[0256] (3) Error code 06: INDEX BLOCK OVER:
[0257] This code indicates that the total number of the files
registered in the disk memory 90 exceeds a predetermined value,
i.e. 50 in the present embodiment. At the registration of a new
file by the command CR or ED, this error code indicates that a new
registration cannot be accepted since the number of files already
stored in the disk memory 90 is equal to 50:
[0258] (4) Error code 07: NO VACANT SECTOR:
[0259] This code indicates the absence of vacant sectors necessary
for registering a new file, in reference to the sector bit map
table indicating, as shown in FIG. 10-3, the status of use of the
disk memory 90. Thus this error code indicates that the disk memory
90 is fully occupied and is not available for the new file
registration by the command CR or ED.
[0260] (5) Error code 08: FILE ALREADY REGISTERED:
[0261] This code indicates, at the registration of a new file with
a file number, that another file with a same file number is already
registered in the disk memory 90:
[0262] (6) Error code 0A: FILE TYPE ERROR:
[0263] This code indicates the use of an erroneous file type for a
file to be registered. For example, this code is generated if a
file type "02" indicating an application file is used in relation
to the entry of a command CR for the image file:
[0264] (7) Error code 0B: VACANT FILE INDEX:
[0265] This code indicates the absence of any file in the disk
memory 90 after the search of the index table by the command
DIR:
[0266] (8) Error code 0C: PRINTER ERROR:
[0267] This code indicates a mechanical error, such as sheet
jamming, in the printer unit 600, when it is started by the command
PR:
[0268] (9) Error code 0D: ILLEGAL COPY VOLUME:
[0269] This code indicates that the print number instructed by the
command PR exceeds the continuously printable number, for example
99 prints, of the printer unit 600:
[0270] (10) Error code 0E: READER ERROR:
[0271] This code indicates that the reader unit 500 is not under
the control of the image processing unit 10, for example by the
absence of power supply in the reader unit 500 or by the absence of
connection of the signal line 501:
[0272] (11) Error code 0F: PRINTER NOT READY:
[0273] This code indicates that an unrepresented fixing device in
the printer unit 600 does not reach a determined value:
[0274] (12) Error code 10: PRINTER NOT ON LINE:
[0275] This code indicates that the printer unit 600 is not under
the control of the image processing unit 10, in the same manner as
indicated by the error code 0E.
[0276] Now reference is made to FIGS. 19, 20, 21 and 22-1 to 22-6
for explaining the image editing procedure through the editing
station 400.
[0277] At the activation of the editing station 400, a step S1
executes the initialization of the divided display on the cathode
ray tube 300 and of the system constants. The cathode ray tube 300
has a display frame with a capacity of 24 horizontal rows
containing 40 characters each. FIG. 22-1 shows an example of
divided display on the display frame 301, including a working area
310 from 1st to 19th row for displaying characters etc. transmitted
from the image processing unit 10 to the editing station 400; a
blank area 320 in a 20th row without any display for making a clear
boundary between said working area 310 and other lower areas to be
explained in the following; a mode indicating area 330 in a 21st
row for displaying the working mode, to be explained later, of the
editing station 400 employed by the operator; a message area 340 in
a 22nd row for indicating a command or a parameter to be entered by
the operator or indicating an error code; a user input area 350 in
a 23rd row for indicating, for monitoring by the operator, the
characters such as file number entered by the operator; and a
status indicating area 360 in a 24th row for indicating the status
of the image processing unit 10.
[0278] Also the display mode is initialized in such a manner that
an entered command is displayed in the working area 310 when it is
sent back from the image processing unit 10, that a new command
sent back from the image processing unit 10 following a carriage
return code is displayed from the left-hand end of a new row, and
that the display in the working area 310 is scrolled up, if the 1st
to 19th rows are filled with commands, to accommodate a newly
entered command always in the working area 310.
[0279] If the editing station 400 is not on-line connected with the
image processing control unit 100, the frame 301 shown in FIG. 22-1
is entirely displayed for example in blue, and the message area 340
displays a message "NOT READY ENTER REQUEST KEY" for awaiting the
request for on-line connection from the operator, and a step S2
awaits the actuation of the REQUEST key for this purpose.
[0280] The editing station 400 functions, in general, in one of two
modes, i.e. the echo mode and the edit mode. In the echo mode, the
characters entered by the operator through the console 200 are
transferred to the image processing unit 10, and the characters
transferred therefrom to the editing station 400 are displayed on
the cathode ray tube 300. The edit mode is used for the preparation
and modification of the application files and for providing the
image processing unit 10 with commands, and, in this mode, the
characters entered by the operator are at first temporarily stored
in the RAM 456 of the editing station control unit 450, and are
transferred to the image processing unit 10 after arbitrary
corrections on the cathode ray tube 300. In the edit mode, a period
of reception of an application file to be transmitted from the disk
memory 90 to the editing station control unit 450 through the image
processing unit 10 is particularly defined as a command mode.
[0281] FIG. 21 shows the function of the editing station control
unit 450 in response to a key entry in each mode. At first a step
SA discriminates the working mode, and, if the echo mode is
identified, the program proceeds to a step SB for displaying the
characters sent back from the image processing unit 10 in the
working area 310. Thereafter the program proceeds to a step SG and
returns to the normal routine shown in FIG. 19. On the other hand,
if the edit mode is identified, the program proceeds to a step SC
for displaying the characters in the user input area 350 since the
working area 310 is occupied in this mode by the screen editor.
Thereafter the program proceeds to the step SG. If the command mode
is identified, the program proceeds to a step SD for identifying
whether the reception of the application file has been completed,
and, if affirmative, the program proceeds to a step SF for setting
a flag indicating the completion of reception of application file,
and the program proceeds thereafter to the step SG. In case of a
negative identification, the program proceeds to a step SE for
storing the transmitted characters in the RAM 456 in succession,
and the program proceeds to the step SG.
[0282] In response to the actuation of the REQUEST key, the program
proceeds to a step S3 for setting the editing station 400 to the
echo mode, and a step S4 provides the image processing unit 10 with
a signal requesting the start of the image editing program. A
subsequent step S5 confirms the start of the image editing program,
and the program either returns to the step S4 in case of negative
confirmation or proceeds to a step S6 in case of positive
confirmation. The step S6 turns the display on the cathode ray tube
300 for example to black over the entire frame, displays a message
"ON-LINE" in green characters in the message area 340 to advise the
operator of a face that the request for starting the editing
program has become effective, and displays a message "ECHO MODE" in
the mode indicating area 330, thus indicating the function of the
editing station 400 in the echo mode. A subsequent step S7 awaits
the entry of a command.
[0283] A subsequent step S8 discriminates the input of the command
key of the console 200, and program proceeds to a step S10, S15,
S20, S25 or S30 according to the result of said discrimination.
[0284] In the echo mode which lacks the screen editing function
with the cathode ray tube 300, any entry with keys 229 relating to
such editing function is disregarded in a step S10, and the program
proceeds to a step S7 for awaiting the next entry. Also the
actuation of keys for ending the edit mode, namely the editing
reset key and the editing end key, is treated in the same
manner.
[0285] In case of an entry of command characters through the keys
222, the program proceeds through a step S15 to a step S16, whereby
the entered command is transferred to the image processing unit 10
and the present system is controlled by said command. As an
example, in response to the entry of characters "RE" as shown in
FIG. 22-2, the frame displays said characters "RE", and, in
response to a subsequent actuation of the carriage return key 225,
a reader driving signal is supplied to the reader unit 500 to
effect the reading of an original image.
[0286] In response to the actuation of the coordinate input request
keys 227, namely the "POSITION DESIGNATION" key and the "AREA
DESIGNATION" key, the program proceeds to a step S20 to enable
designation of an arbitrary point on the original supporting unit
240 with the stilus pen 280. In case of image editing with a
designated editing area, in response to the actuation of the "AREA
DESIGNATION" key, the message area 340 displays a sentence "ENTER
TOP RIGHT POSITION" and the left-hand half of the working area 310
is changed to white, thus requesting the operator to designate the
point A (FIG. 10-5) and displaying the editing area 315.
[0287] In response to the designation of the point A by the
operator, there are displayed, as shown in FIG. 22-3, vertical and
horizontal coordinate lines 312, for example in green color,
passing through a point A' corresponding to said point A, and the
user input area 350 displays the X- and Y-coordinates of the point
A, namely the values of X0 and Y0 in millimeters. Subsequently the
message area 330 displays "ENTER BOTTOM LEFT POSITION" to request
the designation of the point B. In response to the entry of the
point B, a step S21 is executed to calculate the vertical and
horizontal lengths X1, Y1 of the image to be edited from the
coordinates of the points B and A, and a subsequent step S21
displays, as shown in FIG. 22-4, the editing area 313 designated by
the points B and A, for example in red color, in the area 311.
Simultaneously the message area 330 displays a sentence "OK! AREA
IS RECOGNIZED" to indicate the completion of the designation of the
editing area, and the user input area 350 displays the values of
X0, Y0, X1 and Y1 in millimeters. Then the program proceeds to a
step S16 to transfer these figures to the image processing unit
10.
[0288] The POSITION DESIGNATE key is selected in case of image
editing with a designated position. In this case only one point,
namely the point A in the area designation, is designated. In
response to the entry of said point, the coordinate lines 312 are
displayed for example in red color, and the user input area
displays the values of X0 and Y0 in millimeters. When the
designated position is recognized in this manner by the editing
station 400, the message area 330 displays a message "OK! POSITION
IN RECOGNIZED" to indicate effective entry of the coordinates, and
the figures of X0 and Y0 are transferred to the image processing
unit 10.
[0289] Upon completion of the designation of the area or position,
the program returns to the step S7 whereby the editing station 400
again awaits the signal entry from the console 200, and, in
response to the entry of a new command, the command displayed
before the execution of the area of position designation and the
designated coordinates are displayed in the working area 310 as
shown in FIG. 22-2. In case another command key is actuated by the
operator after the actuation of the AREA DESIGNATE or POSITION
DESIGNATE key and before the entry of the coordinates, the waiting
state for the entry of coordinates is cancelled and a command
displayed before the actuation of the AREA DESIGNATE or POSITION
DESIGNATE key is displayed again in the working area 310.
[0290] In order to release the editing station 400 from the control
of the image processing unit 10, thus cancelling the on-line
connection, a command KL is entered by the alphabet keys 223. In
this case the program proceeds through a step S25 to a step S26 to
supply characters "KL" to the image processing unit 10 thus
requesting the termination of the image editing program, and the
program proceeds further to a step S27. In case of a negative
discrimination in said step S27, indicating that the editing
station control unit 450 has not completed the editing program of
the image processing unit 10, the entry of the terminating entry is
disregarded and the program proceeds to the step S7. On the other
hand, in case of an affirmative discrimination, the on-line
connection is terminated and the program proceeds to the step
S1.
[0291] In case of the actuation of keys 228 relating to the
application files, namely the FIXED FORM WORK key, APPLICATION FILE
CALL key, and APPLICATION FILE PREPARATION key, the editing station
400 is set to the edit mode in a step S30 as shown in FIG. 21.
[0292] The APPLICATION FILE PREPARATION key is selected in case of
making a new application file, while the APPLICATION FILE CALL key
is selected in case of calling an application file registered in
the disk memory 90 for modification, and the FIXED FORM WORK key is
selected in case of calling an application file and transferring
the commands thereof in succession to the image processing unit 10
for image editing.
[0293] In response to the actuation of any of these keys, a step
S31 identifies the entry of the fixed form work, application file
calling or application file preparation. In the edit mode,
indication of the file number is indispensable in order to handle
the application files. Therefore, in any of these cases, a step S32
is executed whereby the editing station control unit 450 changes
the frame of the cathode ray tube 300 for example to blue color,
and the message area 340 display a sentence "ENTER FILE NO. AND
CARRIAGE RETURN" to request the entry of the file number to the
operator. Then the mode indicating area 330 displays "EDIT MODE" to
indicate that the editing station 400 is in the edit mode, and the
display on the cathode ray tube 300 is returned to black color.
Subsequently executed are following procedures in respective
cases.
[0294] In case of the application file preparation, in response to
the entry of a file number in a step S32, a step S40 causes the
editing station control unit 450 to display "ENTER MENU!" on the
message area 340, thus requesting the preparation of an application
file to the operator. In this state a cursor 302 is flashed at the
left top corner of the working area 310 to await the entry of
commands, and the operator prepares an editing program by entering
desired commands. In response to the actuation of the carriage
return key, a preceding command is transferred to the RAM456 of the
editing station control unit 450 and is simultaneously displayed in
the working area 310. As the commands thus entered are stored in
the RAM 456, the operator may operate the screen edit keys 229 to
achieve screen editing functions, such as the erasure of a line or
a character or insertion of a new line or a new character where the
cursor 302 is flashing, or the displacement of the cursor 302. If
the displayed editing program exceeds the capacity of the working
area by the preparation of a new line, the display in the working
area 310 is scrolled upwards line by line in the same manner as in
the echo mode. Said display is also scrolled upwards or downwards
by an upward or downward movement of the cursor 302.
[0295] In the preparation of an application file, the entry for
designating area is executed in the same manner as in the echo
mode, but the entry for designating position is processed in the
following manner. As the position designation in this case is
related to the coordinates X0 and Y0 for the command ADR to be
entered following the command LO, the preceding entry of said
command LO is confirmed, and the command CR is searched from the
already entered commands to extract the coordinate data X0, Y0, X1,
Y1 of a same file number. If such coordinate data cannot be
extracted, a process shown in FIG. 22-2 is executed in the same
manner as in the echo mode. On the other hand, if said coordinate
data are extracted, the right-hand half of the working area 310 is
changed for example to white color as shown in FIG. 22-5 in which
an area 314A defined by X0, Y0, X1, Y1 is displayed for example in
green color, and the left-hand half of said working area 310 is
changed to white color in which an area 314B defined by new
coordinates X0', Y0' designated by the commands LO and ADR is
displayed in red color. At the right top corners of said areas 314A
and 314B displayed are the file numbers FN of the image file.
[0296] In case the new editing area defined by X0', Y0', X1 and Y1
exceeds the editable area, the entries of X0' and Y0' are
invalidated and new effective entries are awaited. The image area
displayed in response to the entry of coordinate data is turned off
by the entry of a new command, whereupon the commands in
preparation are displayed again.
[0297] Upon actuation of the TRACE key, the command LO and the
command CR having a same file number are searched from the commands
of a program under preparation, whereby the left-hand half of the
frame of the cathode ray tube 300 is turned for example to white
color in which areas 316A and 317A defined by the coordinate data
X0, Y0, X1, Y1 are displayed in red color with indications of the
file number of the image file at the right top corners. The
right-hand half of the frame is changed for example to blue color,
in which areas 316B and 317B defined by the modified coordinate
data X0', Y0', X1 and Y1 are displayed in green color. Also at the
center of the display an arrow 318 directing on right is displayed
to indicate the image movement.
[0298] Upon completion of the display for image file displacement,
the message area 340 display "END OF TRACE MODE" to indicate the
end of the tracing operation. In response to the designation-of an
arbitrary point on the console 200 by the operator, there are again
displayed the commands of an application file under
preparation.
[0299] In this manner the movement of the image information can be
visually confirmed by the application file in the tracing
operation.
[0300] In the preparation of an application file, in addition to
the numeral designation of the image file number, editing image
area (X0, Y0, X1, Y1), modified position of the image (X0', Y0')
and print number, the operator can add flexibility to the image
editing by employing these data as variables as explained before.
For example, following commands may be employed in an application
file for image trimming with variables:
[0301] (1) RE (CR):
[0302] For reading an original with the reader unit 500 and storing
the information in the buffer memory 22:
[0303] (2) CR(N, 0, F) (CR):
[0304] For securing a space in the disk memory 90 for storing an
image file with a file number N and an area F(X0, Y0, X1, Y1):
[0305] (3) ST(N, 0) (CR):
[0306] For registering the image file defined in (2) in the disk
memory 90 under a file number N:
[0307] (4) LO(N, 0) (CR):
[0308] For changing the position of an image file of a file number
N:
[0309] (5) ADR(P) (CR):
[0310] For changing the position to P(X0', Y0'):
[0311] (6) CL (CR):
[0312] For erasing the content of the buffer memory 22:
[0313] (7) LD(N, 0) (CR):
[0314] For storing an image file of a file number N into the buffer
memory 22:
[0315] (8) DE(N, 0) (CR):
[0316] For erasing an image file of a file number N:
[0317] (9) PR(S) (CR):
[0318] For making prints of a number S from the image information
stored in the buffer memory 22.
[0319] In this manner the application file can be prepared with the
file number N, editing image area F, image position P and print
number S.
[0320] Upon completion of the preparation of an application file,
the operator actuates the editing end key in a step S34, whereby
the program proceeds to a step S35 to cause the editing station
control unit 450 to display a message "STORE THIS COMMAND FILE" in
the message area 340, thus asking whether the application program
stored in the RAM 456 is to be registered as a file in the disk
memory 90. If the operator negate this question by actuation the
"N" key, a step S36 identifies this negation, whereby the editing
station control unit 450 terminates the edit mode and erases the
display in the frame 301. Thus the program returns to the echo mode
in a step S37.
[0321] On the other hand, if the operator requests the file
registration by actuating the "Y" key, said step S36 identifies
this affirmative response and the program proceeds to a step S38 in
which the editing station control unit 450 releases a command ED
according to a file number previously selected in the step S32 to
the image processing unit 10, thus requesting a permission for
transferring the application file. If a step S39 identifies that a
file of a same file number has not been registered in the disk
memory 90, a step #40 causes the image processing unit 10 to permit
the file registration to the editing station control unit 450,
whereupon the file transfer is executed.
[0322] Upon completion of the file registration, the program
returns to the echo mode in the step S37. On the other hand, if the
image processing unit 10 supplies the editing station control unit
450 with a signal indicating that a file of a same file number has
already been registered, the program proceeds from the step S39 to
a step S40 for causing a display "FILE ALREADY REGISTERED. DELETE
OLD?" in the message area 340, thus asking whether the file of the
same file number in the disk memory 90 should be deleted.
[0323] In case the operator gives an affirmative response, a step
S42 is executed to sent the command DE from the editing station
control unit 450 to the image processing unit 10, and the program
returns to the step S38. On the other hand, if the operator gives a
negative response, a step S43 is executed to cause the editing
station control unit 450 to display "ENTER FILE NO. AND CARRIAGE
RETURN" in the message area 340, thus requesting the entry of a new
file number. In response to the entry of a new file number, the
program proceeds to a step S38.
[0324] In case the image processing unit 10 provides a response
other than the error code "08" in response to the command ED, the
editing station control unit 450 identifies a disabled transfer of
the application file, erases the display, moves the echo mode and
display a corresponding error code on the message area 340.
[0325] The procedure in case of application file calling is as
follows. In response to the entry of a file number in the step S32,
the editing station 400 is set to the command mode, and the editing
station control unit 450 supplies the command XR to the image
processing unit 10 according to the entered file number. Then a
step S46 is executed whereby the image processing unit 10 calls a
corresponding application file from the disk memory 90 and
transfers the same to the RAM 456. Upon completion of the reception
of the application file, the editing station control unit 450 is
reset to the edit mode in a step S47, and the program proceeds to a
step S33 for the modification of the application file for example
by erasure or insertion of lines or characters in a similar
procedure as in the preparation of the application file. In case an
error code is sent from the image processing unit 10, the editing
station control unit 450 erases the display on the cathode ray tube
300, returns to the echo mode and displays an error code, a
corresponding error message and a status thereof in the message
area 340 and in the status indicating area 360.
[0326] The procedure in the fixed form work is as follows. In
response to the actuation of the FIXED FORM WORK key and the entry
of the file number of a desired application file, the editing
station control unit 450 stored the designated file in the RAM 456
(steps S32, S45-S47) in the same manner as in the application file
calling operation. Then, in a step S48, the editing station control
unit 450 searches the commands stored in the RAM 456 from the top
to look for the variables N, F, P and S. If such variables are not
found in a step S49, the program proceeds to a step S53 in which
the commands of the application file are transferred one by one to
the image processing unit 10. On the other hand, if any variable is
found, the program proceeds to a step S50. Upon discovery of the
variable N in said step S50, the editing station control unit 450
displays a comment in the message area 340 requesting the entry of
a file number, and replaces the variable N by a number entered by
the operator. Then, upon discovery of the variable F, a display is
given in the message area 340 for requesting the designation of
area, and the variable F is replaced by the values X0, Y0, X1, Y1
entered by the operator. Then, upon discovery of the variable P, a
display is given in the message area 340 for requesting the
designation of the image position, and the variable P is replaced
by the values X0', Y0' entered by the operator. Besides the process
shown in FIG. 23-5 is executed if said values are related to the
combination of the commands LO and CR, or the process shown in FIG.
23-2 is executed if said values are related solely to the command
LO. Finally, upon discovery of the variable S, a display is given
in the message area 340 requesting a desired print number, and the
variable S is replaced by the number entered by the operator.
[0327] When all the variables in the commands are replaced with
numbers by the operator, the program proceeds to a step S51 in
which the editing station control unit 450 executes a tracing
operation as shown in FIG. 23-6 to display the editing form in the
working area 310, and a subsequent step S52 displays "OK?" in the
message area 340, thus requesting the confirmation of the operator
whether the image editing form is adequate. If the operator negates
the question by actuating the "N" key, the editing station control
unit 450 erases the display on the cathode ray tube 300 and the
program proceeds to the step S37. On the other hand, if the
operator gives an affirmative reply by actuating the "Y" key, the
program proceeds to a step S53 in which the editing station control
unit 450 retains the display and transfers the commands in
succession to the image processing unit 10 for execution.
[0328] The image processing unit 10 returns the transferred command
characters to the editing station control unit 450, which displays
said command characters in the status indicating area 360 to inform
the status of the present system to the operator. When the image
processing unit 10 completes the execution of a series of commands,
the program returns to the step S37, thus completing the fixed form
work and returning to the echo mode. If an error occurs in the
course of execution of commands by the image processing unit 10,
the editing station control unit 450 interrupts the transmission of
commands, erases the display on the cathode ray tube 300, displays
an error code in the message area 340 and moves to the echo
mode.
[0329] In the above-described procedures in the edit mode, namely
in the procedures of command file preparation, command file calling
and fixed form work, if the operator selects the editing reset key
during the input process in the step S33 or S50, the display on the
cathode ray tube 300 is immediately turned off and the program
returns to the echo mode in the step S37. Also in response to the
entry of an end signal, the command KL is supplied to the image
processing unit 10, thus terminating the on-line connection between
the image processing unit 10 and the editing station 400, and the
program returns to the step S2.
[0330] Now there will be explained the editing and transmission
through the reader operation unit. In the present system, the
reader operation unit 550 shown in FIG. 14 may be employed not only
for reading an original image but also for copying, communication
within the network or with outside, and image editing with the
application files. As explained before, the reader unit 500
functions either in the copy mode or in the edit R mode. The
procedure of copying, communication and image editing in either
mode, to be selected by the operator, is explained in the
following:
[0331] (A) Copy mode:
[0332] (1) The COPY key 565 is actuated.
[0333] (2) The count indicator 552 displays "01" in flashing
manner.
[0334] (3) Any of the intra-network selecting keys, extra-network
selecting keys and LOCAL key is actuated.
[0335] (4) A copy number at the destination selected in the step
(3) is set by the copy number setting keys, and the set number is
displayed on the count indicator 550. However only one copy can be
obtained in the communication outside the network, and in this case
the indicator 552 displays "01".
[0336] (5) The ENTER key is actuated, whereby the destination and
the set copy number are entered into the image processing unit
100.
[0337] (6) The steps (3), (4) and (5) are repeated in case the
transmission is to be simultaneously made to another destination
than that selected in the step (3).
[0338] (7) The PAPER SELECT key 553 is actuated to select either A3
size or A4 size as the original size. However the original size is
limited to A4 in case a destination outside the network is
involved.
[0339] (8) The EXECUTE key is actuated to initiate the operation of
copying and transmission. In case of designating different copy
numbers to different destinations in the transmission within the
network, the reader unit 500 repeats the original scanning
operation by a number equal to the maximum copy number.
[0340] (B) Edit R mode:
[0341] (1) The EDT key 566 is actuated.
[0342] (2) The application file number indicator 551 flashes.
[0343] (3) The application file number is entered by the numeral
keys 554, whereby the indicator 551 displays the entered file
number.
[0344] (4) The EXECUTE key 568 is actuated.
[0345] (5) The image processing unit 10 transfers an application
file of a file number indicated by the reader operation unit 550,
from the disk memory 90 to the RAM 10-3 and executes the commands
according to said application file, thus achieving image
editing.
[0346] In case the application file designated by the reader
operation unit 550 is not registered in the disk memory 90, the
indicator 551 simply repeats flashing. In such case the CLEAR key
555 is actuated, and the registration in the disk memory 90 can be
checked by means of the DIR key on the console 200.
[0347] As explained in the foregoing, the image processing
apparatus of the present invention can provide the following
advantages:
[0348] (1) The image processing apparatus, being composed of a
reader unit for reading an original image, an image processing unit
for controlling the image processing and storing the processed
image, an editing station for editing image information, an optical
fiber interface for conducting mutual communication of image
information between said apparatus and another system on the
optical fiber network, a DDX interface for conducting mutual
communication of image information between said apparatus and
another system on the DDX network, and a printer unit for copying
the image information, is capable of image information reading,
image information processing such as image editing, short distance
communication of image information through optical fiber network,
long distance communication of image information through DDX lines
and copying of image information in easy, rapid and inexpensive
manner.
[0349] (2) The image processing control unit is equipped with the
buffer memory for temporary storage of the image information, and
equipped also with the exchange for switching the flow of image
information within the present apparatus and image information
transmitted from other system through optical fiber cable, thereby
enabling the transmission of image information to either one or
more of the buffer memory, optical fiber interface and printer
unit. It is therefore rendered possible to effect the image
information reading, short distance communication and copying in
parallel manner, thereby reducing the time required for image
processing.
[0350] (3) As the image information transmitted from another system
on the DDX network through said network and the DDX interface is
stored in the buffer memory, the same advantages as enumerated in
the foregoing item (2) in the processing of such image information
stored in the buffer memory.
[0351] (4) At the communication of image information between the
present apparatus and another system through the DDX network, a
signal RDS indicating the readiness for transmitting the image
information of an original of a determined size within a determined
time and a signal RDR indicating the readiness for receiving such
image information are mutually exchanged, and the direction of
transmission of image information is determined, in each apparatus,
from the combinations of said signals RDS and RDR. It is therefore
rendered possible to prevent errors in the direction of
transmission and to reduce the time of transmission of image
information through the DDX line.
[0352] (5) The DDX interface converts the image information of a
line in the longitudinal direction of the original image into run
length codes, and achieves data compression by two-dimensional
encoding of said image information in the form of run length codes.
Said data compression is achieved, in case the run length of image
information of a line exceeds 2623, by employing-a make-up code
corresponding to a run length 2560 followed by a make-up code
corresponding to a necessary run length and a terminating code. In
this manner the transmitting time in the communication through the
DDX line can be reduced since the total number of lines of the
original image to be transmitted can be decreased and since the
data compression can be efficiently achieved.
[0353] (6) At the communication of image information between the
present apparatus and another system through the DDX network, the
image processing control unit supplies the DDX interface with a
signal CRQP requesting the connection to another system, a signal
CNQ requesting to fetch the DDX line, a signal NRYP indicating that
the image processing control unit cannot become ready for
transmitting or receiving the image information within a determined
time, signals RDS and RDR indicating that it can become ready for
respectively transmitting or receiving the image information within
a determined time, a signal RQS indicating the duration of
effective time for supplying the image information of a line to the
DDX interface, and image information SDT. Also the DDX interface
supplies the image processing control unit with a signal CIP
indicating the signal reception from another system, a signal NRYD
indicating the disabled connection of the DDX line, a signal CND
indicating the completion of connection of the DDX line enabling
the communication, a signal MDS indicating that the DDX interface
has reached a mode for transmitting the image information to
another system, a signal MDR indicating that it has reached a mode
for receiving the image information from another system, a signal
RQS for requesting the transmission of image information of a line,
a signal RVA for requesting the reception of image information of a
line received from another system and demodulated by the DDX
interface, and the image information received from another system
and demodulated. These signals ensure the communication of the
image information between the present apparatus and another
system.
[0354] (7) In the communication of the image information through
the DDX line, when a calling station and a called station are
determined between the present apparatus and another system, both
stations mutually inform the transmitting conditions. When the
transmitting conditions of both systems are established, both
stations release signals indicating the completion of preparation
for transmission, and the calling station starts the transmission
of image information line by line, while the called station
inspects errors in the transmission for each transmitted line. Upon
discovery of an error in transmission, the called station requests
the repeated transmission of the image information after the line
of error to the calling station. In response to such request, the
calling station converts the line of said error into
one-dimentional codes, and converts the subsequent lines into
two-dimensional codes for achieving data compression, and re-starts
the transmission of image information. In this manner the
transmission of image information can be achieved in secure manner,
and eventual errors in the transmission can be rapidly
eliminated.
[0355] (8) The optical fiber interface converts the optical signals
serially transmitted from another system on the optical fiber
network into electric signals, and regenerates the commands
relating to the image recording and the image information from said
signals for supply to the image processing control unit. Besides it
converts the commands relating to the image recording in another
system and the image information supplied from the image processing
control unit into optical signals for supply to the optical fiber
network. Consequently the image processing can be achieved at a
high speed since the image information recording can be realized
without any operation in the station conducting the image
recording.
[0356] (9) The image processing unit (CPU circuit block) supplies
the printer unit with a status request, in response to which the
printer unit informs the image processing unit of the status of
said printer unit. According to said status the image processing
unit releases the commands for preparation for the recording, and
in response thereto the printer unit effects the recording of the
image information. Consequently the image recording can be
controlled from the unit generating the image processing
information while inspecting the status of the printer unit. In
this manner the image recording can be effectively conducted.
[0357] (10) The image processing control unit is equipped with the
disk memory for storing image files, application files and control
programs for the image processing control unit. In this manner the
storage and editing of many image information can be easily
achieved.
[0358] (11) The image processing control unit supplies the reader
unit with the command for starting the scanning operation, in
response to which the reader unit performs the scanning of an
original image and supplies the image information to the image
processing control unit. It is therefore rendered possible to
control the original image reading from the station generating the
image processing information, thereby achieving efficient image
reading.
[0359] (12) The reader unit is equipped with the reader operation
unit for activating therefrom the application files stored in the
disk memory, so that the fixed form image editing can be easily
realized in the reader unit.
[0360] (13) The reader operation unit can send the image
information to plural designated systems on the optical fiber
network and on the DDX lines, with additional possibility of
designating the number of prints for each destination on the
optical fiber network. Therefore the transmission of the image
information can be achieved easily and rapidly.
[0361] (14) The editing station is equipped with the command menu
section for entering commands for image editing by the operator and
the digitizer for entering the coordinates of the image to be
edited, thereby facilitating the entry of information required for
image editing.
[0362] (15) The editing station is provided with display means such
as a cathode ray tube for displaying information for image editing
and messages generated from the image processing control unit.
Consequently the operator can continue work through dialogues with
the editing station, can easily achieve image editing and other
works such as the preparation of the application files for image
editing, and can rapidly cope with eventual errors in the entered
information, thus achieving efficient image editing.
[0363] (16) The command menu section of the editing station is
equipped with the command for starting the reader unit, said reader
unit being activated to read the original image by the entry of
said command. It is thus rendered possible to cause the reader unit
to effect the reading operation, if required during an image
editing operation, by means of the manipulation of the command menu
section alone, thus simplifying the image editing operation.
[0364] (17) The command menu section is provided with the commands
for selecting dither patterns, whereby such selection can be
achieved by the operation of said command menu section alone, thus
achieving the same effects as explained in the item (16).
[0365] (18) The command menu section is provided with the commands
for designating, at the original image reading, the area for image
density processing and the area for dither processing, thus
significantly improving and facilitating the image processing
work.
[0366] (19) The command menu section is provided with the command
for starting the printer unit, whereby the image recording
operation of the printer unit can be started by the entry of said
command. It is therefore made possible to achieve the effects
explained in the item (16) in case a recording operation is
required in the printer unit in the course of an image editing
work.
[0367] (20) The command menu section is provided with the command
for entering the file number as the title of the image file, the
command for registering the image file with said title in the disk
memory, and the command for temporarily storing thus registered
image file in the buffer memory, thus achieving the image editing
in easy, secure and rapid manner.
[0368] (21) The area on the digitizer is made to correspond to the
addresses of the buffer memory, thus enabling to achieve the image
editing easily and without error.
[0369] (22) In the image editing, preparation of editing programs
etc., the cathode ray tube display indicates what should be done
next by the operator. Thus even an operator inexperienced in the
image editing can understand the operation procedure and can easily
and rapidly achieve the image editing.
[0370] (23) In case the image editing area designated by the
editing station exceeds the editable area of the apparatus, an
alarm is shown on the cathode ray tube, thus enabling secure image
editing.
[0371] (24) At the image editing etc., each designated editing area
is given an identification number, and the cathode ray tube
displays said area as a frame with said identification number. Thus
the operator can visually confirm the editing area and can
therefore achieve the image editing or other works easily and
secure manner.
[0372] (25) The execution of the editing program can be traced on
the cathode ray tube display for visual confirmation. Consequently,
not only an operator who has prepared said program but also other
operators can perform the image editing easily and securely.
[0373] (26) At the preparation of the editing program, print
number, editing areas etc. can be incorporated as variables.
Consequently the system is rendered flexible and the image editing
work is easily achieved.
* * * * *