U.S. patent application number 12/199453 was filed with the patent office on 2009-03-05 for printing system, controlling method, printing apparatus, and storage medium.
This patent application is currently assigned to CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA. Invention is credited to Naohiro Yamaguchi.
Application Number | 20090059286 12/199453 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40406975 |
Filed Date | 2009-03-05 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090059286 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Yamaguchi; Naohiro |
March 5, 2009 |
PRINTING SYSTEM, CONTROLLING METHOD, PRINTING APPARATUS, AND
STORAGE MEDIUM
Abstract
A printer is caused to perform a checking print for a job in a
case that a predetermined user's instruction is received via a user
interface. The printer is caused to perform the checking print for
the job without receiving the predetermined user's instruction in a
case that the job meets a predetermined condition.
Inventors: |
Yamaguchi; Naohiro;
(Kawasaki-shi, JP) |
Correspondence
Address: |
ROSSI, KIMMS & McDOWELL LLP.
20609 Gordon Park Square, Suite 150
Ashburn
VA
20147
US
|
Assignee: |
CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA
Tokyo
JP
|
Family ID: |
40406975 |
Appl. No.: |
12/199453 |
Filed: |
August 27, 2008 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
358/1.15 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04N 1/00472 20130101;
H04N 1/00474 20130101; H04N 1/00954 20130101; H04N 1/00917
20130101; H04N 1/00432 20130101; H04N 2201/3219 20130101; G06F
3/1264 20130101; H04N 1/32 20130101; H04N 1/00832 20130101; G06F
3/1204 20130101; H04N 2201/3205 20130101; G06F 3/1217 20130101;
H04N 1/00411 20130101; H04N 1/2338 20130101; H04N 2201/0098
20130101; H04N 1/00482 20130101; H04N 1/00639 20130101; H04N
1/00633 20130101; H04N 2201/3214 20130101; H04N 2201/3215 20130101;
H04N 2201/3221 20130101; G06F 3/1282 20130101; H04N 2201/0094
20130101; H04N 1/0032 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
358/1.15 |
International
Class: |
G06F 3/12 20060101
G06F003/12 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Sep 4, 2007 |
JP |
2007-229457 |
Claims
1. A printing system comprising: a receiver adapted to receive a
predetermined user's instruction via a user interface, the
predetermined user's instruction being adapted to request a
checking print, the checking print being adapted to perform at
least one of checking of a printing result and changing of a
printing condition; and a controller adapted to cause a printer to
perform the checking print for a job in a case that the
predetermined user's instruction is received via the user
interface, wherein the controller is adapted to cause the printer
to perform the checking print for the job without receiving the
predetermined user's instruction via the user interface in a case
that the job meets a predetermined condition, the predetermined
condition being adapted to cause the printer to perform the
checking print automatically.
2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the controller is
adapted to cause the printer to perform the checking print
automatically using print data of the job.
3. The system according to claim 1, wherein the controller is
adapted to cause the printer to perform the checking print
automatically during printing of the job.
4. The system according to claim 1, wherein the controller is
adapted to cause the printer to perform the checking print upon
receiving the predetermined user's instruction during printing of
the job without performing the checking print automatically in a
case that the job does not require not less than a predetermined
number of print media to complete printing, and wherein the
controller is adapted to cause the printer to perform the checking
print automatically during printing of the job without receiving
the predetermined user's instruction in a case that the job
requires not less than the predetermined number of print media to
complete printing.
5. The system according to claim 1, wherein the controller is
adapted to cause the printer to perform the checking print upon
receiving the predetermined user's instruction during printing of
the job without performing the checking print automatically in a
case that the job does not require not less than a predetermined
time to complete printing, and wherein the controller is adapted to
cause the printer to perform the checking print automatically
during printing of the job without receiving the predetermined
user's instruction in a case that the job requires not less than
the predetermined time to complete printing.
6. The system according to claim 1, wherein the controller is
adapted to cause the printer to perform the checking print upon
receiving the predetermined user's instruction during printing of
the job without performing the checking print automatically in a
case that the job does not require output of a print material to a
predetermined delivery portion, wherein the predetermined delivery
portion is arranged in a post processor, and wherein the controller
is adapted to cause the printer to perform the checking print
automatically during printing of the job without receiving the
predetermined user's instruction in a case that the job requires
output of a print material to the predetermined delivery
portion.
7. The system according to claim 1, wherein the controller is
adapted to cause the printer to perform the checking print upon
receiving the predetermined user's instruction during printing of
the job without performing the checking print automatically in a
case that the job does not require execution of predetermined type
of post processing, wherein the predetermined type of post
processing includes a plurality of post steps, and wherein the
controller is adapted to cause the printer to perform the checking
print automatically during printing of the job without receiving
the predetermined user's instruction in a case that the job
requires execution of the predetermined type of post
processing.
8. The system according to claim 1, wherein the controller is
adapted to cause the printer to perform the checking print upon
receiving the predetermined user's instruction during printing of
the job without performing the checking print automatically in a
case that the job does not require a predetermined type of
consumable, wherein the predetermined type of post processing
includes a plurality of post steps, and wherein the controller is
adapted to cause the printer to perform the checking print
automatically during printing of the job without receiving the
predetermined user's instruction in a case that the job requires
the predetermined type of consumable.
9. The system according to claim 1, wherein the controller is
adapted to cause the printer to perform the checking print upon
receiving the predetermined user's instruction during printing of
the job without performing the checking print automatically in a
case that the job is adapted to print image data read by a reader,
wherein the controller is adapted to cause the printer to perform
the checking print automatically during printing of the job without
receiving the predetermined user's instruction in a case that the
job is a predetermined type of job for printing image data
transmitted from another apparatus different from a printing
apparatus, and wherein the printing apparatus comprises the
printer.
10. The system according to claim 1, wherein the controller is
adapted to cause the printer to perform the checking print
automatically for the job repetitively at a predetermined interval
in a case that the checking print is performed automatically during
printing of the job.
11. The system according to claim 10, wherein the controller is
adapted to cause the printer to perform the checking print instead
of printing of the job every time the job for printing a specific
number of sheets smaller than a predetermined number of sheets is
performed, and wherein the predetermined number of sheets is
adapted as the predetermined condition.
12. The system according to claim 10, wherein the controller is
adapted to cause the printer to perform the checking print instead
of printing of the job every time the job for printing for a
specific time shorter than a predetermined time is performed, and
wherein the predetermined time is adapted as the predetermined
condition.
13. The system according to claim 1, wherein the controller is
adapted to cause the printer to perform the checking print
automatically in accordance with a first instruction in a case that
the first instruction has been input in advance via the user
interface, wherein the first instruction is an instruction adapted
to cause the printer to perform the checking print automatically
after printing of the job is performed by the number of sheets
designated by a user, wherein the controller is adapted to cause
the printer to perform the checking print automatically in
accordance with a second instruction in a case that the second
instruction has been input in advance via the user interface, and
wherein the second instruction is an instruction adapted to cause
the printer to perform the checking print automatically after
printing of the job is performed for a time designated by the
user.
14. The system according to claim 1, wherein the controller is
adapted to inhibit performing the checking print automatically
during printing of the job in a case that a user has input in
advance a request via the user interface to inhibit performing the
checking print automatically during printing of the job.
15. The system according to claim 1, wherein the controller is
adapted to cause the printer to perform the checking print during
printing of the job upon receiving the predetermined user's
instruction via the user interface while the printer performs
printing of the job in a case that the job does not meet the
predetermined condition.
16. The system according to claim 1, wherein the controller is
adapted to control the printer to output another predetermined
print material to another predetermined discharge portion different
from a predetermined discharge portion adapted to discharge a
predetermined print material in both a first case and a second
case, wherein the first case is adopted to perform the checking
print automatically during printing of the job if the job meets the
predetermined condition, wherein the second case is adopted to
perform the checking print during printing of the job upon
receiving the predetermined user's instruction, wherein the
predetermined discharge portion is adapted to discharge a print
material obtained by performing printing of the job, and wherein
the other predetermined discharge portion is adapted to discharge
the other print material obtained by performing the checking
print.
17. The system according to claim 16, wherein a discharge portion
arranged inside a specific type of post processor is adapted as the
predetermined discharge portion, and wherein a discharge portion
arranged outside the post processor is adapted as the other
predetermined discharge portion.
18. The system according to claim 16, wherein the controller is
adopted to control the printer to resume printing of the job
automatically after performing the checking print in at least one
of the first case and the second case.
19. The system according to claim 18, wherein the controller is
adopted to inhibit resuming printing of the job automatically after
performing the checking print in a case that an instruction is
input via the user interface prior to performing the checking print
in the second case, and wherein the instruction is adapted to
inhibit resuming printing of the job automatically.
20. The system according to claim 1, wherein the controller and the
user interface are provided by a printing apparatus having the
printer.
21. The system according to claim 1, wherein the controller and the
user interface are provided by another apparatus configured to be
able to communication data with a printing apparatus having the
printer.
22. A printing apparatus which can be adapted to the printing
system defined in claim 1, the apparatus comprising the printer,
the receiver, and the controller.
23. A controlling method adapted to a printing system configured to
cause a printer to perform a checking print, the checking print
being adapted to perform at least one of checking of a printing
result and changing of a printing condition, the method comprising:
causing the printer to perform the checking print for a job in a
case that a predetermined user's instruction is received via a user
interface, the predetermined user's instruction being adapted to
request the checking print; and causing the printer to perform the
checking print for the job without receiving the predetermined
user's instruction via the user interface in a case that the job
meets a predetermined condition, the predetermined condition being
adapted to cause the printer to perform the checking print
automatically.
24. A computer-readable storage medium storing a program which
causes a computer to perform the controlling method defined in
claim 23.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates to a printing system,
controlling method, printing apparatus, and storage medium.
[0003] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0004] In a conventional printing industry, an offset reproduction
printing press has been used in printing processing, so the block
copy preparation process is indispensable. However, once the block
copy is prepared, it is difficult to correct the block copy, and
correcting the block copy raises the cost. Hence, the block copy
preparation requires careful proofreading (i.e., careful layout
check and color confirmation), and it takes time to issue
publications.
[0005] In this situation, POD (Print On Demand) printing systems
using electrophotographic and inkjet printing apparatuses have been
proposed recently (see patent references 1 and 2).
[0006] The POD printing system can omit the block copy preparation
and other cumbersome work processes. [0007] [Patent Reference 1]
[0008] Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2004-310746 [0009] [Patent
Reference 2] [0010] Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2004-310747
[0011] However, there is room for further study in commercializing
the POD printing system.
[0012] Assume that the printing company or the like uses the POD
printing system. In this printing environment, it is important to
efficiently create customer-satisfactory print materials as many as
possible in a short period.
[0013] In this printing environment, it is expected that the
operator at the printing site needs to check whether the printing
system outputs print materials which satisfy the customer. It is
also expected that the printing system needs to continuously
operate without unnecessarily stopping the print operation of the
printing system.
[0014] Considering these requirements, there will be a need to
check print materials in the above-described way without
unnecessarily stopping the print operation of the printing system.
In the future, the following need will arise. That is, the operator
wants a print unit to perform printing automatically by a print
checking function on condition that a job to be printed satisfies a
condition to cause the print unit to perform printing automatically
using the checking print function available to check printing
results and/or change printing conditions. However, a mechanism
which meets this need has not been proposed at present.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0015] The present invention has been made to overcome the
conventional drawbacks. That is, it is an object of the present
invention to build a user-friendly printing environment capable of
effectively using a checking print without unnecessarily bothering
the operator.
[0016] According to the first aspect of the present invention,
there is provided a printing system comprising: a receiver adapted
to receive a predetermined user's instruction via a user interface,
the predetermined user's instruction being adapted to request a
checking print, the checking print being adapted to perform at
least one of checking of a printing result and changing of a
printing condition; and a controller adapted to cause a printer to
perform the checking print for a job in a case that the
predetermined user's instruction is received via the user
interface, wherein the controller is adapted to cause the printer
to perform the checking print for the job without receiving the
predetermined user's instruction via the user interface in a case
that the job meets a predetermined condition, the predetermined
condition being adapted to cause the printer to perform the
checking print automatically.
[0017] According to the second aspect of the present invention,
there is provided a printing apparatus which can be adapted to the
printing system of the first aspect, the apparatus comprising the
printer, the receiver, and the controller.
[0018] According to the third aspect of the present invention,
there is provided a controlling method adapted to a printing system
configured to cause a printer to perform a checking print, the
checking print being adapted to perform at least one of checking of
a printing result and changing of a printing condition, the method
comprising: causing the printer to perform the checking print for a
job in a case that a predetermined user's instruction is received
via a user interface, the predetermined user's instruction being
adapted to request the checking print; and causing the printer to
perform the checking print for the job without receiving the
predetermined user's instruction via the user interface in a case
that the job meets a predetermined condition, the predetermined
condition being adapted to cause the printer to perform the
checking print automatically.
[0019] Further features of the present invention will become
apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments
with reference to the attached drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0020] FIG. 1 is a view showing an example of the configuration of
a POD system 10000;
[0021] FIG. 2 is a block diagram for explaining an example of the
internal configuration of a printing system 1000;
[0022] FIG. 3 is a sectional view of a printing apparatus 100 and a
sheet processing apparatus 200 connected to the printing apparatus
100;
[0023] FIG. 4 is a sectional view showing an example of the
internal structure of a large-volume stacker;
[0024] FIG. 5 is a view showing an example of an operation unit
204;
[0025] FIG. 6 is a view showing a display example of a setup window
for prompting the user to select the type of sheet processing to be
performed for sheets printed by the printing apparatus 100;
[0026] FIG. 7 is a view showing a display example of a setup window
configured to allow the user to register information for
specifying, e.g., the number, types, and connection order of sheet
processing apparatuses in the case where the sheet processing
apparatuses 200 are connected to the printing apparatus 100;
[0027] FIG. 8 is a timing chart;
[0028] FIG. 9A is a view showing an example of a user interface
window;
[0029] FIG. 9B is a view showing an example of a user interface
window;
[0030] FIG. 9C is a view showing an example of a user interface
window;
[0031] FIG. 9D is a view showing an example of a user interface
window;
[0032] FIG. 9E is a view showing an example of a user interface
window;
[0033] FIG. 9F is a view showing an example of a user interface
window;
[0034] FIG. 10A is a view showing an example of a user interface
window;
[0035] FIG. 10B is a view showing an example of a user interface
window;
[0036] FIG. 10C is a view showing an example of a user interface
window;
[0037] FIG. 10D is a view showing an example of a user interface
window;
[0038] FIG. 10E is a view showing an example of a user interface
window;
[0039] FIG. 11A is a view showing an example of a user interface
window;
[0040] FIG. 11B is a view showing an example of a user interface
window;
[0041] FIG. 12 is a view showing an example of a user interface
window;
[0042] FIG. 13A is a view showing an example of a user interface
window;
[0043] FIG. 13B is a view showing an example of a user interface
window;
[0044] FIG. 14 is a view showing an example of a user interface
window;
[0045] FIG. 15 is a view showing an example of a user interface
window; and
[0046] FIGS. 16A, 16B, and 16C are flowcharts each showing the
process of a checking print operation performed by a control unit
205.
DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
[0047] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be
described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
These embodiments are merely examples of a preferred configuration
of the present invention set forth in the following claims, and the
present invention is not limited to these embodiments.
[0048] A POD system 10000 in FIG. 1 comprises a printing system
1000, scanner 102, server computer 103 (PC 103), and client
computer 104 (PC 104), which are connected via a network 101. The
POD system 10000 also comprises a paper folding apparatus 107,
sheet cutting device 109, saddle stitching apparatus 110, case
binding apparatus 108, and the like.
[0049] As shown in FIG. 2, the printing system 1000 comprises a
printing apparatus 100 and sheet processing apparatus 200. As the
printing apparatus 100, the embodiment will exemplify a MFP (Multi
Function Peripheral) having a plurality of functions such as the
copy function and printer function. However, the printing apparatus
100 may also be a single function type printing apparatus having
only the copy function or printer function.
[0050] The PC 103 manages data transmission/reception to/from a
variety of apparatuses connected to the network 101. The PC 104
transmits image data to the printing apparatus 100 and PC 103 via
the network 101. The paper folding apparatus 107 folds sheets
printed by the printing apparatus 100. The case binding apparatus
108 case-binds sheets printed by the printing apparatus 100. The
sheet cutting device 109 cuts each bundle of sheets printed by the
printing apparatus 100. The saddle stitching apparatus 110
saddle-stitches sheets printed by the printing apparatus 100.
[0051] In the use of the paper folding apparatus 107, case binding
apparatus 108, sheet cutting device 109, and saddle stitching
apparatus 110, the user takes sheets printed by the printing
apparatus 100 out of the printing system 1000, sets them in an
apparatus for use, and causes the apparatus to process the sheets.
A plurality of apparatuses in the POD system 10000 of FIG. 1 except
the saddle stitching apparatus 110 are connected to the network 101
and can communicate data with each other.
[0052] The configuration of the printing system 1000 will be
explained with reference to the system block diagram of FIG. 2.
[0053] The printing apparatus 100 incorporates units shown in FIG.
2 in the printing system 1000 except the sheet processing apparatus
200. The printing apparatus 100 allows connecting an arbitrary
number of sheet processing apparatuses 200.
[0054] The printing system 1000 is configured to allow the sheet
processing apparatus 200 connected to the printing apparatus 100 to
perform sheet processing for sheets printed by the printing
apparatus 100. The printing system 1000 can also be built from only
the printing apparatus 100 without connecting the sheet processing
apparatus 200.
[0055] The sheet processing apparatus 200 is configured to be
communicable with the printing apparatus 100, and can perform sheet
processing (to be described below) upon receiving an instruction
from the printing apparatus 100. A scanner unit 201 scans an image
on an original document, converts it into image data, and transfers
the image data to another unit. An external I/F 202
transmits/receives data between the printing apparatus 100 and
other apparatuses connected to the network 101. A printer unit 203
prints an image based on input image data on a sheet. An operation
unit 204 comprises a hard key input section (key input section) 402
and touch panel section 401 (to be described later), and accepts an
instruction from the user via them. The operation unit 204 presents
various displays on the touch panel of the operation unit 204.
[0056] A control unit 205 controls all the processes, operations,
and the like of various units of the printing system 1000. That is,
the control unit 205 also controls the operation of the printing
apparatus 100 and that of the sheet processing apparatus 200
connected to the printing apparatus 100. A ROM 207 stores various
computer programs to be performed by the control unit 205. For
example, the ROM 207 stores programs to cause the control unit 205
to perform various processes of a flowchart (to be described
later), and a display control program necessary to display various
setup windows (to be described later). The ROM 207 also stores a
program to cause the control unit 205 to analyze PDL (Page
Description Language) code data received from the PC 103, PC 104,
or the like, and rasterize it into raster image data. In addition,
the ROM 207 stores a boot sequence, font information, and the like.
A RAM 208 stores image data sent from the scanner unit 201 and
external I/F 202, various programs loaded from the ROM 207, and
setting information. The RAM 208 also stores information on the
sheet processing apparatus 200 (e.g., the number of (0 to n) sheet
processing apparatuses 200 connected to the printing apparatus 100,
information on the functions of each sheet processing apparatus
200, and the connection order of the sheet processing apparatuses
200).
[0057] An HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 209 includes a hard disk, and a
driving unit for reading/writing data from/in the hard disk. The
HDD 209 is a large-capacity storage device which stores image data
that is input from the scanner unit 201 or external I/F 202 and
compressed by a compression/decompression unit 210. The control
unit 205 can cause the printer unit 203 to print image data stored
in the HDD 209 on the basis of an instruction from the user. The
control unit 205 can also transmit image data stored in the HDD 209
to an external apparatus such as the PC 103 via the external I/F
202 on the basis of an instruction from the user.
[0058] The compression/decompression unit 210
compresses/decompresses image data and the like stored in the RAM
208 and HDD 209 according to various compression schemes such as
JBIG and JPEG.
[0059] The configuration of the printing system 1000 will be
explained with reference to FIG. 3. FIG. 3 is a sectional view of
the printing apparatus 100 and the sheet processing apparatuses 200
connected to the printing apparatus 100.
[0060] An auto document feeder (ADF) 301 separates a bundle of
original document sheets set on the support surface of the document
tray in the order of pages from the first page, and feeds each
original document sheet to the original table glass in order to
scan it by a scanner 302.
[0061] The scanner 302 scans the image of the original document
sheet fed onto the original table glass, and converts the image
into image data by a CCD. A light ray (e.g., a laser beam)
modulated in accordance with the image data strikes a rotary
polygon mirror 303, and irradiates a photosensitive drum 304 as a
reflected scan beam via a reflecting mirror. A latent image formed
by the laser beam on the photosensitive drum 304 is developed with
toner. The toner image is transferred onto a sheet material
supported on a transfer drum 305. A series of image forming
processes is executed sequentially with yellow (Y), magenta (M),
cyan (C), and black (K) toners, forming a full-color image. After
four image forming processes, the sheet material bearing the
full-color image is separated from the transfer drum 305 by a
separation gripper 306, and conveyed to a fixing unit 308 by a
pre-fixing conveyor 307. The fixing unit 308 has a combination of
rollers and belts, and incorporates a heat source such as a halogen
heater. The fixing unit 308 fuses and fixes, by heat and pressure,
toner on a sheet material bearing a toner image. A delivery flapper
309 is swingable about the swing shaft, and regulates the sheet
material conveyance direction. When the delivery flapper 309 swings
clockwise in FIG. 3, a sheet material is conveyed straight, and
discharged outside the apparatus by delivery rollers 310.
[0062] The control unit 205 controls the printing apparatus 100 to
perform single-sided printing according to this sequence.
[0063] To form images on the two surfaces of a sheet material, the
delivery flapper 309 swings counterclockwise in FIG. 3. The course
of the sheet material changes downward to supply the sheet material
to the double-sided conveyor. The double-sided conveyor comprises a
reverse flapper 311, reverse rollers 312, reverse guide 313, and
double-sided tray 314. The reverse flapper 311 swings about the
swing shaft, and regulates the sheet material conveyance direction.
To process a double-sided print job, the control unit 205 controls
to swing the reverse flapper 311 counterclockwise in FIG. 3 and
supply a sheet having the first surface printed by the printer unit
203 to the reverse guide 313 via the reverse rollers 312. While the
reverse rollers 312 clamp the trailing end of the sheet material,
the reverse rollers 312 temporarily stop, the reverse flapper 311
swings clockwise in FIG. 3, and the reverse rollers 312 rotate
backward. The sheet is switched back to replace its trailing and
leading ends, and then the sheet is guided to the double-sided tray
314. The double-sided tray 314 temporarily supports the sheet
material, and a refeed roller 315 supplies the sheet material again
to registration rollers 316. At this time, the sheet material is
sent with a surface opposite to the first surface in the transfer
step facing the photosensitive drum 304. The second image is formed
on the second surface of the sheet by the same processing as that
described above. After the images are formed on the two surfaces of
the sheet material, the sheet undergoes the fixing step and is
discharged from inside the main body of the printing apparatus 100
to outside it via the delivery rollers 310. The control unit 205
controls the printing apparatus 100 to perform double-sided
printing according to this sequence.
[0064] The printing apparatus 100 also comprises paper feed units
for storing sheets necessary for print processing. The paper feed
units are, for example, paper cassettes 317 and 318 (each capable
of storing, e.g., 500 sheets), a paper deck 319 (capable of
storing, e.g., 5,000 sheets), and a manual feed tray 320. The paper
cassettes 317 and 318 and the paper deck 319 allow setting sheets
of different sizes and materials in distinction from each other in
the paper feed units. The manual feed tray 320 allows setting a
variety of sheets including a special sheet such as an OHP sheet.
The paper cassettes 317 and 318, paper deck 319, and manual feed
tray 320 respectively have pickup rollers, and the pickup rollers
successively feed sheets one by one.
[0065] The sheet processing apparatuses 200 shown in FIG. 3 will be
explained.
[0066] In the printing system 1000 according to the embodiment, an
arbitrary number of sheet processing apparatuses 200 of arbitrary
types can be coupled as long as they can convey sheets from an
upstream apparatus to a downstream apparatus via a sheet feeding
path. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, a large-volume stacker
200-3a, glue binding apparatus 200-3b, and saddle stitching
apparatus 200-3c can be coupled in the order named from a side
close to the printing apparatus 100, and selectively used in the
printing system 1000. Each sheet processing apparatus 200 has a
sheet discharge portion, and the user can take processed sheets out
of the sheet discharge portion of the sheet processing
apparatus.
[0067] The control unit 205 accepts, via the operation unit 204
together with a print execution request, a request to perform sheet
processing of a type the user wants among a plurality of types of
sheet processing candidates executable by the sheet processing
apparatuses 200 connected to the printing apparatus 100. Upon
accepting the print execution request from the user via the
operation unit 204 for a target job, the control unit 205 causes
the printer unit 203 to perform print processing necessary for the
job. The control unit 205 controls to convey sheets of the job
having undergone print processing via the sheet feeding path to a
sheet processing apparatus capable of performing sheet processing
the user wants, and causes the sheet processing apparatus to
perform the sheet processing.
[0068] Assume that a target job, for which a print execution
request has been accepted from the user, instructs the large-volume
stacker 200-3a to perform large-volume stacking when the printing
system 1000 has the system configuration shown in FIG. 3. This job
is called a "stacker job".
[0069] When processing the stacker job in the system configuration
of FIG. 3, the control unit 205 makes sheets of the job printed by
the printing apparatus 100 pass through point A in FIG. 3, and
conveys them into the large-volume stacker 200-3a. Then, the
control unit 205 causes the large-volume stacker 200-3a to perform
stacking of the job. The control unit 205 causes the large-volume
stacker 200-3a to hold the print materials of the job stacked in
the large-volume stacker 200-3a at a delivery destination X inside
the large-volume stacker 200-3a without conveying the print
materials to another apparatus (e.g., a succeeding apparatus).
[0070] The user can directly take out, from the delivery
destination X, the print materials of the stacker job held at the
delivery destination X in FIG. 3. This can omit a series of
apparatus operations and user operations to convey sheets to a most
downstream delivery destination Z in the sheet conveyance direction
in FIG. 3 and take out the print materials of the stacker job from
the delivery destination Z.
[0071] Assume that a target job, for which a print execution
request has been accepted from the user, instructs the glue binding
apparatus 200-3b to perform sheet processing (e.g., glue binding of
either case binding or pad binding) in the system configuration of
FIG. 3. This job is called a "glue binding job".
[0072] When processing the glue binding job in the system
configuration of FIG. 3, the control unit 205 conveys sheets
printed by the printing apparatus 100 into the glue binding
apparatus 200-3b via points A and B in FIG. 3. Then, the control
unit 205 causes the glue binding apparatus 200-3b to perform glue
binding of the job. The control unit 205 causes the glue binding
apparatus 200-3b to hold, at a delivery destination Y inside the
glue binding apparatus 200-3b, the print materials of the job
having undergone glue binding by the glue binding apparatus 200-3b,
without conveying the print materials to another apparatus (e.g., a
succeeding apparatus).
[0073] Assume that a target job, for which a print execution
request has been accepted from the user, requires sheet processing
by the saddle stitching apparatus 200-3c in the system
configuration of FIG. 3. Sheet processing by the saddle stitching
apparatus 200-3c includes, e.g., saddle stitching, punching,
cutting, shift delivery, and folding. This job is called a "saddle
stitching job".
[0074] When processing the saddle stitching job in the system
configuration of FIG. 3, the control unit 205 makes sheets of the
job printed by the printing apparatus 100 pass through points A, B,
and C, and conveys them to the saddle stitching apparatus 200-3c.
Then, the control unit 205 causes the saddle stitching apparatus
200-3c to perform sheet processing of the job. The control unit 205
causes the saddle stitching apparatus 200-3c to hold, at the
delivery destination Z of the saddle stitching apparatus 200-3c,
the print materials of the saddle stitching job having undergone
the sheet processing by the saddle stitching apparatus 200-3c.
[0075] The delivery destination Z has a plurality of delivery
destination candidates. These delivery destination candidates are
used to change the delivery destination for each sheet process
because the saddle stitching apparatus 200-3c can perform a
plurality of types of sheet processes.
[0076] As described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3, the printing
system 1000 according to the embodiment allows connecting a
plurality of sheet processing apparatuses to the printing apparatus
100. An arbitrary combination of sheet processing apparatuses can
be connected to the printing apparatus 100. The connection order of
sheet processing apparatuses is also freely changeable as long as
their sheet feeding paths communicate with each other. Also, there
are a plurality of types of sheet processing apparatus candidates
connectable to the printing apparatus 100.
[0077] The internal structure of a large-volume stacker applicable
as the sheet processing apparatus 200 will be explained with
reference to the sectional view shown in FIG. 4. In the embodiment,
the large-volume stacker functions as a specific type of post
processing apparatus configured to stack print materials obtained
by printing by a checking print function (to be described later).
The large-volume stacker conveys sheets from an upstream apparatus
selectively to three feeding paths: a sample tray path, stack path,
and straight path.
[0078] The stack path in the large-volume stacker is a sheet
feeding path for conveying sheets to the stack tray. The stack tray
in FIG. 4 is a stacking unit mounted on an extensible stay or the
like. A detachable dolly supports the extensible stay from below
it. By using the dolly, the operator can carry sheets stacked on
the stack tray.
[0079] Assume that the control unit 205 accepts a request from the
user via the operation unit 204 to perform a job set to stack
sheets on the large-volume stacker. In this case, the control unit
205 conveys sheets printed by the printing apparatus 100 to the
stack path of the large-volume stacker, and delivers them to the
stack tray via the stack path.
[0080] The straight path in the large-volume stacker shown in FIG.
4 is a sheet feeding path for conveying, to a succeeding apparatus,
sheets of a job requiring no stacking of sheets using the stack
tray of the large-volume stacker.
[0081] The sample tray path is a sheet feeding path for discharging
sheets to the sample tray. The sample tray path is used to, for
example, make it easy to take out outputs from the stack tray when
checking them. In this case, for example, the control unit 205
conveys sheets printed by the printing apparatus 100 to the sample
tray path and discharges them to the sample tray. In the
embodiment, the control unit 205 controls to output print materials
obtained by printing based on the checking print function to the
sample tray.
[0082] Note that the sheet feeding path in the large-volume stacker
has a plurality of sheet sensors necessary to detect the sheet
feeding state and jam.
[0083] The large-volume stacker comprises a CPU (not shown), and
notifies the control unit 205 of sheet detection information from
each sensor via a signal line for communicating data. Based on the
information from the large-volume stacker, the control unit 205
grasps the sheet feeding state and jam in the large-volume stacker.
When another sheet processing apparatus is connected between the
large-volume stacker and the printing apparatus 100, the CPU (not
shown) of this sheet processing apparatus notifies the control unit
205 of sensor information of the large-volume stacker.
[0084] The arrangement of the operation unit 204 will be described
with reference to FIG. 5.
[0085] The operation unit 204 comprises the touch panel section 401
and key input section 402. The touch panel section 401 is formed
from an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) and a transparent electrode
adhered onto the LCD, and displays various setup windows for
accepting an instruction from the user. The touch panel section 401
has both a function of displaying various windows and an
instruction input function of accepting an instruction from the
user. The key input section 402 comprises a power key 501, start
key 503, stop key 502, user mode key 505, and ten-key pad 506. The
start key 503 is used to cause the printing apparatus 100 to
perform a copy job and send job. The ten-key pad 506 is used to set
a numerical value such as the number of copies.
[0086] The control unit 205 controls the printing system 1000 to
perform various processes based on user's instructions accepted via
various windows displayed in the touch panel section 401 and user's
instructions accepted via the key input section 402.
[0087] FIG. 6 is a view showing a display example of a setup window
for prompting the user to select the type of sheet processing to be
performed for sheets printed by the printing apparatus 100. When
the user presses a sheet process setting key 609 shown in FIG. 5 in
the window displayed in the touch panel section 401, the control
unit 205 causes the touch panel section 401 to display the window
in FIG. 6. The window in FIG. 6 is a setup window which allows the
user to select the type of sheet processing executable using the
sheet processing apparatus 200 in the printing system 1000. The
control unit 205 accepts, from the user via the window in FIG. 6,
settings of sheet processing to be performed for a target job, and
causes the sheet processing apparatus 200 to perform the sheet
processing according to the settings.
[0088] A window shown in FIG. 7 is a setup window which allows the
user to register information for specifying the number, types, and
connection order of sheet processing apparatuses in the case where
the sheet processing apparatuses 200 are connected to the printing
apparatus 100. When the user presses the user mode key 505, the
control unit 205 controls the touch panel section 401 to be able to
display the window shown in FIG. 7.
[0089] For example, when the printing system 1000 has the system
configuration as shown in FIG. 3, the user sets registration
information that three sheet processing apparatuses, i.e., a
large-volume stacker, glue binding apparatus, and saddle stitching
apparatus are connected to the printing apparatus 100 sequentially
from the large-volume stacker, as shown in FIG. 7. The control unit
205 causes the RAM 208 to hold, as system configuration
information, the information on the sheet processing apparatuses
200 that is set by the user via the window in FIG. 7. The control
unit 205 properly reads out and refers to the system configuration
information. From the system configuration information, the control
unit 205 confirms the number, types, and connection order of sheet
processing apparatuses connected to the printing apparatus 100.
[0090] The printing system 1000 comprises the printing apparatus
100 having the printer unit 203 capable of printing data in the HDD
209 capable of storing data of a plurality of jobs. The printing
system 1000 is configured to allow connecting the printing
apparatus 100 and a plurality of sheet processing apparatuses 200.
Each of the sheet processing apparatuses 200 connectable to the
printing apparatus 100 is configured to be able to perform sheet
processing (also called finishing or post processing) for sheets
(also called print materials or print media) of a job printed by
the printer unit 203. Each sheet processing apparatus 200 is
configured to allow the operator to take out print materials having
undergone sheet processing by the apparatus 200. The printing
system 1000 according to the embodiment is configured to be able to
selectively supply sheets of a job printed by the printer unit 203
from the printer unit 203 to the sheet processing apparatuses
200.
[0091] The printing apparatus 100 applied to the printing system
1000 in the embodiment has a checking print function available to
check printing results and/or change printing conditions.
[0092] In the embodiment, the control unit 205 functions as a
controller for causing the printer unit 203 (printer) to perform
printing automatically by the checking print function.
[0093] The control unit 205 also functions as a determination unit
for determining whether the job to be printed by the printer unit
203 satisfies a condition to cause the printer unit 203 to perform
printing automatically by the checking print function.
[0094] Assume that the control unit 205 obtains a result of this
determination that the job to be printed by the printer unit 203
satisfies the condition to cause the printer unit 203 to perform
printing automatically by the checking print function.
[0095] When the job to be printed satisfies the condition to cause
the printer unit 203 to perform printing automatically by the
checking print function, the control unit 205 causes the printer
unit 203 to perform printing automatically by the checking print
function.
[0096] In this manner, the printing system 1000 according to the
embodiment is configured to be able to perform printing
automatically by the checking print function when the job to be
printed satisfies the condition to perform printing automatically
by the checking print function. The printing system 1000 has a
mechanism capable of building, without unnecessarily bothering the
operator, a user-friendly printing environment capable of
effectively using the checking print without unnecessarily stopping
the print operation of the printing system.
[0097] When performing printing by the checking print function, the
control unit 205 causes the printer unit 203 to perform printing
automatically by the checking print function using print data of a
job to be printed by the printer unit 203. In addition, when
performing printing by the checking print function, the control
unit 205 causes the printer unit 203 to perform printing
automatically by the checking print function during printing of a
target job. The operator can check a printing result using print
data itself for actual use. Without unnecessarily stopping the
print operation, the operator can easily check a parameter (e.g.,
print density) which changes output results as the print operation
actually proceeds, as if he executed a sampling check.
[0098] As an embodiment of the above-mentioned determination, the
control unit 205 in the embodiment determines whether the job to be
printed by the printer unit 203 requires a predetermined number
(predetermined stipulated number) or more of print media in order
to complete printing.
[0099] Assume that the job to be printed by the printer unit 203
does not require a predetermined number or more of print media in
order to complete printing. If the control unit 205 makes a
determination corresponding to this case, it causes the printer
unit 203 to complete printing of the job without causing the
printer unit 203 to perform printing automatically by the checking
print function during printing of the job.
[0100] Assume that the job to be printed by the printer unit 203
requires a predetermined number or more of print media in order to
complete printing. If the control unit 205 makes a determination
corresponding to this case, it causes the printer unit 203 to
perform printing automatically by the checking print function
during printing of the job.
[0101] The printing system 1000 having the following configuration
instead of this configuration is also applicable as an embodiment
of the present invention.
[0102] For example, as another embodiment of the above-mentioned
determination, the control unit 205 determines whether the job to
be printed by the printer unit 203 requires a predetermined time
(stipulated time) or longer in order to complete printing.
[0103] Assume that the job to be printed by the printer unit 203
does not require a predetermined time or longer in order to
complete printing. If the control unit 205 makes a determination
corresponding to this case, it causes the printer unit 203 to
complete printing of the job without causing the printer unit 203
to perform printing automatically by the checking print function
during printing of the job.
[0104] Assume that the job to be printed by the printer unit 203
requires a predetermined time or longer in order to complete
printing. If the control unit 205 makes a determination
corresponding to this case, it causes the printer unit 203 to
perform printing automatically by the checking print function
during printing of the job.
[0105] The printing system 1000 having the following configuration
instead of this configuration is also applicable as an embodiment
of the present invention.
[0106] For example, as still another embodiment of the
above-mentioned determination, the control unit 205 determines
whether the job to be printed by the printer unit 203 needs to
output print materials to a predetermined discharge destination
inside a specific type of post processing apparatus. In the
embodiment, a concrete example of the predetermined discharge
destination inside the specific type of post processing apparatus
is the stack tray in the large-volume stacker described above.
[0107] Assume that the job to be printed by the printer unit 203
need not output print materials to the predetermined discharge
destination inside the specific type of post processing apparatus.
If the control unit 205 makes a determination corresponding to this
case, it causes the printer unit 203 to complete printing of the
job without causing the printer unit 203 to perform printing
automatically by the checking print function during printing of the
job.
[0108] Assume that the job to be printed by the printer unit 203
needs to output print materials to the predetermined discharge
destination. If the control unit 205 makes a determination
corresponding to this case, it causes the printer unit 203 to
perform printing automatically by the checking print function
during printing of the job.
[0109] With this configuration, for example, when the print
material delivery destination is a delivery destination exposed
outside the housing of a post processing apparatus, the control
unit 205 controls to inhibit performing the checking print
automatically. To the contrary, when the print material delivery
destination is a delivery destination incorporated in the housing
of a post processing apparatus, the control unit 205 controls to
perform the checking print automatically. The printing system 1000
according to the embodiment is applicable to this configuration.
This can prevent a trouble that the operator cannot check print
materials output to the large-volume stacker during printing using
a delivery destination inside the large-volume stacker. While
preventing this trouble, it is uniformly controlled not to perform
the checking print automatically regardless of the delivery
destination. It can be prevented to automatically perform the
checking print more than necessary, and an unnecessary operation
which influences productivity can be suppressed. As a result, the
user friendliness of the checking print function can improve.
[0110] The printing system 1000 having the following configuration
instead of this configuration is also applicable as an embodiment
of the present invention.
[0111] For example, as still another embodiment of the
above-mentioned determination, the control unit 205 determines
whether the job to be printed by the printer unit 203 requires
specific type of post processing including a plurality of steps. A
concrete example of the specific type of post processing is case
binding by the above-mentioned glue binding apparatus including a
step of gluing the body of print materials, a step of adhering a
cover, and a step of cutting an edge.
[0112] Assume that the job to be printed by the printer unit 203
does not require the specific type of post processing. If the
control unit 205 makes a determination corresponding to this case,
it causes the printer unit 203 to complete printing of the job
without causing the printer unit 203 to perform printing
automatically by the checking print function during printing of the
job.
[0113] Assume that the job to be printed by the printer unit 203
requires the specific type of post processing. If the control unit
205 makes a determination corresponding to this case, it causes the
printer unit 203 to perform printing automatically by the checking
print function during printing of the job.
[0114] With this configuration, for example, when the job to be
printed requires post processing including a simple work step, like
a stapling job, the control unit 205 controls to inhibit performing
the checking print automatically. To the contrary, when the job to
be printed requires post processing using a high value-added
advanced function, like the above-mentioned glue binding job, the
control unit 205 controls to perform the checking print
automatically. The printing system 1000 according to the embodiment
is applicable to this configuration. This can improve the user
friendliness of the checking print function, and prevent a trouble
that print materials completed through post processing using a high
value-added advanced function after considerable time and much
effort provide only defective printing results.
[0115] The printing system 1000 having the following configuration
instead of this configuration is also applicable as an embodiment
of the present invention.
[0116] For example, as still another embodiment of the
above-mentioned determination, the control unit 205 determines
whether the job to be printed by the printer unit 203 requires the
specific type of consumable. A concrete example of the specific
type of consumable is a high value-added toner such as a toner used
for color printing or a clear toner used to give glossiness.
Another concrete example of the specific type of consumable is a
high value-added post processing resource such as glue used for
glue binding. Still another concrete example of the specific type
of consumable is a high value-added print medium such as glossy
paper.
[0117] Assume that the job to be printed by the printer unit 203
does not require the specific type of consumable. If the control
unit 205 makes a determination corresponding to this case, it
causes the printer unit 203 to complete printing of the job without
causing the printer unit 203 to perform printing automatically by
the checking print function during printing of the job.
[0118] Assume that the job to be printed by the printer unit 203
requires the specific type of consumable. If the control unit 205
makes a determination corresponding to this case, it causes the
printer unit 203 to perform printing automatically by the checking
print function during printing of the job.
[0119] In this configuration, assume that the job to be printed is
a monochrome print job, stapling job, or a job using plain paper
for printing. That is, assume that the job to be printed is a job
using a consumable lower in value than that for a color print job,
a glue binding job, or a job using glossy paper for printing. In
this case, the control unit 205 controls to inhibit performing the
checking print automatically. To the contrary, assume that the job
to be printed is a color print job, a glue binding job, or a job
using glossy paper for printing. In this case, the control unit 205
controls to perform the checking print automatically. The printing
system 1000 according to the embodiment is applicable to this
configuration. This can improve the user friendliness of the
checking print function, and suppress a trouble that print
materials completed using a high value-added consumable provide
only defective printing results.
[0120] The printing system 1000 having the following configuration
instead of this configuration is also applicable as an embodiment
of the present invention.
[0121] For example, as still another embodiment of the
above-mentioned determination, the control unit 205 determines
whether the job to be printed by the printer unit 203 is of the
first or second job type. A concrete example of a job of the first
job type is a job requiring printing of print data of an original
document scanned by the scanner 302 functioning as a document
reader. A concrete example of a job of the second job type is a job
requiring printing of print data transmitted from an external
apparatus, such as an information processing apparatus (e.g., the
PC 104), which can communicate data with the printing apparatus
100.
[0122] Assume that the job to be printed by the printer unit 203 is
of the first job type. If the control unit 205 makes a
determination corresponding to this case, it causes the printer
unit 203 to complete printing of the job without causing the
printer unit 203 to perform printing automatically by the checking
print function during printing of the job.
[0123] Assume that the job to be printed by the printer unit 203 is
of the second type. If the control unit 205 makes a determination
corresponding to this case, it causes the printer unit 203 to
perform printing automatically by the checking print function
during printing of the job.
[0124] In this configuration, assume that the job to be printed
corresponds to a case where the operator in front of the printing
apparatus 100 grasps in advance the contents of an original
document to be printed, like a copy job. In this case, the control
unit 205 controls to inhibit performing the checking print
automatically. To the contrary, assume that the job to be printed
corresponds to a case where the operator in front of the printing
apparatus 100 does not grasp in advance the contents of an original
document to be printed, like an external PDL job. That is, assume
that a user other than the operator in front of the printing system
1000 inputs a print job from a remote terminal outside the printing
system 1000. In this case, the control unit 205 controls to perform
the checking print automatically. The printing system 1000
according to the embodiment is applicable to this configuration.
This can improve the user friendliness of the checking print
function, and allows the operator of the printing system 1000 to
easily check the printing result of data even if he does not grasp
in advance the contents of the data to be printed. Further, this
can suppress a trouble that the operator cannot know data during
printing when he comes to the printing system 1000 in order to copy
and printing is already in progress from the outside.
[0125] As described above, the printing system 1000 according to
the embodiment copes with a plurality of types of configurations to
perform printing automatically by the checking print function.
However, the printing system 1000 may also be configured to have
only one, two or more, or all of these types of configurations.
Although the embodiment includes the printing system 1000 having
configurations corresponding to various changes and applications,
the printing system 1000 preferably comprises even a configuration
corresponding to the following configuration of the printing system
1000 according to the embodiment.
[0126] Assume that printing by the checking print function is
performed automatically during printing of a job by the printer
unit 203, as described above. In this case, the control unit 205
controls the printer unit 203 to perform printing automatically by
the checking print function repetitively at predetermined
intervals.
[0127] Assume that the job to be printed requires printing of a
predetermined number or more of sheets. In this case, the control
unit 205 in the embodiment causes the printer unit 203 to perform
printing automatically by the checking print function instead of
printing of the job every time a specific number of sheets smaller
than the predetermined number of sheets are printed in printing of
the job. In the embodiment, assume that the control unit 205
determines that the job to be printed requires printing of 5,000 or
more sheets. On condition of this, the control unit 205 causes the
printer unit 203 to perform the checking print automatically
instead of printing of the job every time 100 print sheets are
successively printed in printing of the job. The series of control
operations is a concrete example of the configuration.
[0128] Assume that the job to be printed is a large-volume print
job in which the time necessary for printing from the start to
completion of printing is equal to or longer than a predetermined
time. In this case, the control unit 205 in the embodiment causes
the printer unit 203 to perform printing automatically by the
checking print function instead of printing of the job every time
printing of the job is done for a specific time shorter than the
time necessary to complete printing of the job. In the embodiment,
assume that the control unit 205 determines that the job to be
printed requires printing of 20 min or more till the completion of
printing. On condition of this, the control unit 205 causes the
printer unit 203 to perform the checking print automatically
instead of printing of the job every time printing of the job is
done continuously for 5 min. The series of control operations is
another concrete example of the configuration.
[0129] The printing system 1000 according to the embodiment is
configured to be able to selectively perform an operation of
performing the checking print for a job after a specific number of
sheets are printed, like the former configuration, and an operation
of performing the checking print for a job after printing is done
for a specific time, like the latter configuration.
[0130] For this purpose, in the embodiment, the control unit 205
functions as a unit for accepting the first or second instruction
in advance from the user via a user interface.
[0131] The first instruction is an instruction from the user to
designate the number of sheets in order to determine the number of
sheets printed for a job after which printing by the checking print
function is performed automatically when printing by the checking
print function is performed automatically during printing of the
job by the printer unit 203. In the embodiment, when the first
instruction has already been input from the user via a user
interface, the control unit 205 controls the printer unit 203 to
perform printing automatically by the checking print function in
accordance with the first instruction.
[0132] The second instruction is an instruction from the user to
designate the time in order to determine the time (min) of printing
of a job after which printing by the checking print function is
performed automatically when printing by the checking print
function is performed automatically during printing of the job by
the printer unit 203. In the embodiment, when the second
instruction has already been input from the user via a user
interface, the control unit 205 controls the printer unit 203 to
perform printing automatically by the checking print function in
accordance with the second instruction.
[0133] Various configurations described above can provide a further
effect capable of enhancing the above-mentioned effects of the
checking print function in the printing system 1000. In addition to
these configurations, the printing system 1000 in the embodiment
also comprises the following configuration.
[0134] For example, the control unit 205 in the embodiment also
functions as a unit for accepting a request in advance from the
user via a user interface to inhibit or permit performing printing
automatically by the checking print function during printing of a
job by the printer unit 203.
[0135] Assume that the user has already input a request via the
user interface to inhibit performing printing automatically by the
checking print function. Based on this request, the control unit
205 inhibits performing printing automatically by the checking
print function during printing of a job by the printer unit 203,
like each configuration described above. To the contrary, assume
that the user has not input this request via the user interface
yet, but has already input an instruction via the user interface to
permit performing printing automatically by the checking print
function. When the control unit 205 makes a determination
corresponding to this case, it permits performing printing
automatically by the checking print function during printing of a
job by the printer unit 203, like each configuration described
above.
[0136] Like various configurations described above, the control
unit 205 in the embodiment determines whether the condition to
cause the printer unit 203 to perform printing automatically by the
checking print function is satisfied. If the control unit 205
determines that no condition is satisfied, it controls not to
perform (to inhibit) printing by the checking print function
automatically during printing of a job by the printer unit 203.
[0137] In this fashion, the printing system 1000 in the embodiment
comprises even a configuration corresponding to the case where it
is inhibited to perform printing automatically by the checking
print function during printing of a job. Even in this case, if the
user explicitly inputs an instruction to perform the checking
print, the control unit 205 permits the printer unit 203 to perform
printing by the checking print function during printing of the
job.
[0138] Assume that it is inhibited to perform printing
automatically by the checking print function during printing of a
job. Even in this case, the control unit 205 in the embodiment
permits accepting a request from the user via the above-mentioned
user interface to print by the checking print function while the
printer unit 203 performs printing of a target job. On condition
that the user has input this request via the user interface while
printing of the job is in progress, the control unit 205 causes the
printer unit 203 to perform printing by the checking print function
during printing of the job. In this manner, the printing system
1000 according to the embodiment comprises even a configuration
corresponding to a manual input.
[0139] In other words, the printing system 1000 according to the
embodiment has two, first and second modes as a method of causing
the printer unit 203 to perform printing by the checking print
function.
[0140] As the first mode, the printing system 1000 according to the
embodiment has an automatic mode in which the control unit 205
causes the printer unit 203 to perform printing automatically by
the checking print function when a predetermined condition is
satisfied, as described above. In the embodiment, this condition is
a predetermined stipulated condition under which the control unit
205 permits performing printing automatically by the checking print
function. This condition is decision-making data which defines a
condition to permit performing the checking print automatically and
is used by the control unit 205.
[0141] As for the automatic mode, the embodiment has described the
following seven conditions as the predetermined stipulated
condition to cause the printer unit 203 to perform printing
automatically by the checking print function. [0142] (1) The job to
be printed requires a predetermined stipulated number (5,000 in a
concrete example to be described later) or more of print media as a
condition to complete printing. [0143] (2) The job to be printed
requires a predetermined stipulated time (e.g., 10 min) or more as
a condition to complete printing. [0144] (3) The job to be printed
needs to output print materials to a discharge destination (the
stack tray of the large-volume stacker in the embodiment) inside a
specific type of post processing apparatus as a discharge
destination determined in advance as a condition. [0145] (4) The
job to be printed requires specific type of post processing
including a plurality of steps (e.g., case binding including a
gluing step, cutting step, and the like) as type of post processing
determined in advance as a condition. [0146] (5) The job to be
printed requires a specific type of consumable (a high value-added
coloring material, print medium, or binding member in the
above-mentioned example) determined in advance as a condition.
[0147] (6) The job to be printed is a print job of a type
(attribute) determined in advance as a condition, and requires
printing of print data transmitted from an apparatus capable of
communicating data with the printing apparatus 100. [0148] (7) The
user has not input a request via a user interface in advance to
inhibit performing printing automatically by the checking print
function.
[0149] Stipulated conditions (1) to (7) are registered in advance
in the memory of the printing apparatus 100 as management
information for performing printing automatically by the checking
print function. The embodiment provides a configuration which
allows a specific operator such as the administrator to change
settings corresponding to these stipulated conditions via an
initial setting window (not shown).
[0150] For example, when "5,000" is registered as the initial value
of the stipulated number of sheets corresponding to the
above-described condition (1), the control unit 205 causes the
operation unit 204 to display a user interface shown in FIG. 11B in
response to an instruction from the operator. This user interface
displays 5,000 sheets as a default. This user interface presents
1,000 to 9,999 sheets as setting value candidates adaptable as the
stipulated number of sheets. When the operator sets a value within
this range via the user interface, the control unit 205 changes the
setting in response to this to use the value set by the operator as
the stipulated number of sheets. Other stipulated conditions can
also be similarly changed in accordance with instructions via user
interfaces.
[0151] The printing system 1000 according to the embodiment
comprises a configuration which deals with all the seven conditions
under the control of the control unit 205, as described above. As a
matter of course, the embodiment includes this configuration, but
is not limited to this. For example, the embodiment includes even
an apparatus or system having a configuration coping with only one
of the seven conditions, or even an apparatus or system having a
configuration coping with two to six conditions.
[0152] When making the above-mentioned determinations corresponding
to conditions (1) to (7), the control unit 205 acquires the print
processing conditions of a job to be printed, the total number of
pages of print data, system configuration information of the
printing system 1000, and information on initial settings. For
example, the control unit 205 specifies the print processing
conditions on the basis of setting information set by the user via
user interfaces in FIGS. 5 and 6. The control unit 205 acquires the
number of pages from job attribute information. Alternatively, the
control unit 205 specifies the total number of pages from
information from a counter which counts the number of pages of
print data stored in the HDD 209. System configuration information
of the printing system 1000 and information on initial settings are
registered in advance in the memory of the printing apparatus 100.
The control unit 205 specifies these pieces of information by
reading them out. Based on the pieces of acquired information, the
control unit 205 executes the above-mentioned determinations and
control operations corresponding to conditions (1) to (7). However,
these operations are merely examples, and the configuration is
arbitrary as long as it can be determined whether the condition to
perform printing automatically by the checking print function is
satisfied, as described above.
[0153] In addition to the automatic mode, the printing system 1000
according to the embodiment also has a manual mode as the second
mode. As described above, the printing system 1000 according to the
embodiment has a mode in which printing by the checking print
function is performed in response to a request input from the user
via a user interface to perform printing by the checking print
function while the printer unit 203 performs printing. This mode is
the manual mode.
[0154] In this manner, the printing system 1000 has both the first
mode (automatic mode) and the second mode (manual mode). The
printing system 1000 according to the embodiment further comprises
a constituent feature commonly applied to these two modes. This is
a mechanism for further enhancing the effects of the checking print
function obtained in the embodiment.
[0155] For example, the control unit 205 controls to set the same
delivery destination for print materials obtained by printing based
on the checking print function in both a case where printing by the
checking print function is done in the first mode and a case where
printing by the checking print function is done in the second mode.
In these two cases, the control unit 205 controls to output, to a
discharge destination different from that used in printing of a
job, print materials obtained by printing based on the checking
print function performed instead of printing of the job during
printing of the job. In this way, the control unit 205 in the
embodiment also functions as a discharge destination control unit
for print materials printed by the checking print function.
[0156] In these two modes, the control unit 205 controls to output
print materials obtained by the checking print function to the same
location (delivery destination). In the embodiment, the control
unit 205 controls to select the sample tray of the above-described
large-volume stacker as the discharge destination. In both the
automatic and manual modes, the control unit 205 outputs print
materials obtained by the checking print function to a discharge
destination exposed outside a post processing apparatus. Further in
the embodiment, in both the automatic and manual modes, the control
unit 205 controls not to output print materials obtained by the
checking print function to a discharge destination inside a post
processing apparatus, such as the stack tray of the large-volume
stacker.
[0157] In this fashion, the control unit 205 inhibits outputting
print materials obtained by printing based on the checking print
function to a discharge destination inside a specific type of post
processing apparatus regardless of the first or second mode in
which printing by the checking print function is performed. In the
two cases, the control unit 205 controls to output (permit
outputting) print materials obtained by printing based on the
checking print function to a discharge destination outside the
specific type of post processing apparatus without outputting print
material obtained by printing based on the checking print function
to the output destination inside the specific type of post
processing apparatus.
[0158] These configurations can suppress a trouble that the
delivery destination of print materials obtained by the checking
print function differs between the first and second modes and this
confuses the operator. These configurations can also suppress a
trouble that print materials obtained by the checking print
function are discharged to a discharge destination exposed outside
the apparatus in one mode whereas they are discharged to a
discharge destination inside the apparatus, and this increases the
burden on the operator and impairs the user friendliness of the
checking print function.
[0159] In addition to these configurations, the printing system
1000 according to the embodiment comprises a configuration coping
with control commonly applied to the first and second modes.
[0160] For example, the control unit 205 causes the printer unit
203 to perform printing by the checking print function instead of
printing of a job during printing of the job regardless of the
first or second mode in which printing by the checking print
function is performed. In the two cases, the control unit 205
controls the printer unit 203 to automatically resume (permit
resuming) printing of a job after the printer unit 203 performs
printing by the checking print function.
[0161] This configuration can provide a further effect capable of
enhancing the above-mentioned effects of the checking print
function in both the first and second modes without causing a
trouble that the productivity of a job to be printed decreases
unnecessarily owing to printing by the checking print function.
[0162] In the embodiment, the control unit 205 controls to be able
to accept, prior to at least printing by the checking print
function in the second mode, an instruction from the user via a
user interface in advance to inhibit resuming printing
automatically by the checking print function in the second mode. If
the control unit 205 has accepted this instruction in advance, it
inhibits the printer unit 203 from resuming printing automatically
by the checking print function in at least the second mode after
performing printing by the checking print function.
[0163] The embodiment can provide a mechanism capable of flexibly
meeting user needs in the first and second modes. The mechanism can
attain a further effect capable of enhancing the above-mentioned
effects of the checking print function.
[0164] Automatically performing printing by the checking print
function means performing printing by the checking print function
when the above-mentioned condition is satisfied, without explicitly
inputting an instruction from the user to perform printing by the
checking print function for a job to be printed.
[0165] In the embodiment, as described above, the control unit 205
of the printing apparatus 100 executes a plurality of types of
determinations and/or control operations associated with the
checking print function. However, the embodiment is not limited to
this configuration, and can also employ another one. For example,
in place of the control unit 205, the control unit of an apparatus
(apparatus capable of communicating data with the printing
apparatus 100 via a communication unit), such as an information
processing apparatus (e.g., the PC 103 or 104) or a post processing
apparatus (e.g., the sheet processing apparatus 108 or 109)
executes these determinations and/or control operations. The
embodiment is also applicable to this configuration. When an
apparatus other than the printing apparatus 100 executes these
determinations and/or control operations, this apparatus provides
the above-mentioned user interface.
[0166] The embodiment may also adopt a configuration in which one
unit executes a plurality of types of determinations and/or control
operations associated with the checking print function, or a
configuration in which a plurality of units execute these
determinations and/or control operations in cooperation with each
other. Hence, the embodiment is applicable to even a configuration
in which one CPU controls the apparatus and/or system, or a
configuration in which a plurality of CPUs control the apparatus
and/or system in cooperation with each other. In this manner,
various modifications and applications can be made.
[0167] Supplementary remarks and concrete examples of the
configuration associated with the checking print function of the
printing system 1000 according to the above-described embodiment
will be listed below.
[0168] Various configurations to be described below may also be
selected and properly applied if they are consistent with the
above-described configurations associated with the checking print
function. The following configurations are merely examples, and the
embodiment is not limited to them. The configuration of the
embodiment may also be completed by only configurations based on
the above-described configurations associated with the checking
print function. The following example employs the operation unit
204 and/or windows displayed on the operation unit 204 as concrete
examples of the above-mentioned user interfaces. However, the
embodiment is not limited to them. For example, when the PC 103 or
PC 104 executes determinations and/or control operations associated
with the checking print function, as described above, the operation
unit of the apparatus and/or windows displayed on the operation
unit are applied as user interfaces in the embodiment.
[0169] In the embodiment, the checking print function of the
printing system 1000 is a function available to check printing
results and/or change printing conditions, as described above. By
using this function, the embodiment allows the printing system 1000
to create checking print materials for a target job until the print
operation of the job ends after it starts.
[0170] Assume that a print execution request has been accepted for
a target job from the operator via the operation unit 204. In
response to the print execution request, the control unit 205
causes the printing system 1000 to start the print operation of the
job. After that, the control unit 205 controls the operation unit
204 to be able to accept a request from the operator to perform the
checking print operation for the job during printing while the
printing system 1000 actually performs the print operation. Assume
that the checking print request is accepted for the job from the
operator, or the print status of the job meets an automatic
execution condition while the printer unit 203 performs the print
operation of the job. In this case, the control unit 205 interrupts
the print operation of the job in execution by the printer unit 203
in response to the checking print request input from the operator
or the print status of the job that meets the automatic execution
condition. Immediately after the printing system 1000 interrupts
the print operation of the job subjected to the checking print
operation, the control unit 205 causes the printing system 1000 to
perform the checking print operation for the job. In the checking
print operation, the printing system 1000 creates a checking print
material for the checking print-requested job. When performing the
checking print operation, the control unit 205 reads out, from the
HDD 209, print data of the job whose print operation has been
interrupted, and causes the printing apparatus 100 to perform print
processing. Upon completion of the print processing by the checking
print, the control unit 205 notifies the operator of the completion
of the checking print. Immediately after the checking print is
complete, the control unit 205 controls the printing system 1000 to
automatically resume (continue) the print operation of the
print-interrupted job.
[0171] When the operator makes the print settings of a target job
via the operation unit 204 and the number of print sheets of the
job exceeds a stipulated number of print sheets, the control unit
205 displays an automatic checking print execution condition
setting window on the operation unit 204 to allow automatically
performing the checking print for the job.
[0172] Assume that a condition to permit inputting an automatic
checking print execution condition has been set in advance via the
operation unit 204. At this time, assume that the user inputs a
printing condition via the operation unit 204. Then, assume that
the control unit 205 accepts a print execution request from the
operator via the operation unit 204 for the target job. In response
to the print execution request, the control unit 205 causes the
printing system 1000 to start the print operation of the job.
Thereafter, the control unit 205 controls the operation unit 204 to
be able to accept a request from the operator to perform the
checking print operation for the job during printing while the
printing system 1000 actually performs the print operation. At the
same time, the control unit 205 determines whether the print status
of the job in execution meets the condition set via the operation
unit 204 before the start of the job. If the control unit 205
determines that the print status of the job in execution meets the
automatic checking print execution condition, it interrupts the
print operation of the job in execution by the printer unit 203
regardless of whether the operator has input a checking print
request via the operation unit 204. Immediately after the printing
system 1000 interrupts the print operation of the job in execution,
the control unit 205 causes the printing system 1000 to perform the
checking print operation of the job. In the checking print
operation, the printing system 1000 creates a checking print
material for the job in execution. When performing the checking
print operation, the control unit 205 reads out, from the HDD 209,
print data of the job whose print operation has been interrupted,
and causes the printing apparatus 100 to perform print processing.
Upon completion of the print processing by the checking print, the
control unit 205 controls to notify the operator that the checking
print is complete. Immediately after the checking print is
complete, the control unit 205 controls the printing system 1000 to
automatically resume (continue) the print operation of the
print-interrupted job.
[0173] A print operation which is interrupted in response to a
checking print operation execution request and automatically
resumes in the printing system 1000 in response to the end of the
checking print operation will be called the actual print operation
of a job having undergone the checking print operation, or the
print operation of a checking print-requested job. Print materials
created by the print operation of a job subjected to the checking
print will be called the actual print materials of the job
subjected to the checking print operation, or the print materials
of a checking print-requested job. To the contrary, print materials
created by the checking print operation will be called the checking
print materials of a checking print-requested job.
[0174] As a concrete example of this, a configuration will be
described, in which the control unit 205 controls to be able to
select which of the first and second type checking print operation
is performed automatically or manually on the basis of settings by
the operator and the settings of actual print materials.
[0175] As another concrete example of this, a configuration will be
described, in which the control unit 205 controls the printing
system 1000 to perform the checking print automatically for a job,
for which the operator has not requested the checking print, on the
basis of one of the above-described conditions designated via the
operation unit 204.
[0176] The first type checking print operation causes the printing
system 1000 to print once (i.e., by one set) print data of all
pages used in the actual print operation of a checking
print-requested job.
[0177] The second type checking print operation causes the printing
system 1000 to print only print data of one page among print data
of a checking print-requested job. In the second type checking
print operation, the control unit 205 controls the printing system
1000 to print a page during printing when the operator inputs a
checking print request via the operation unit 204.
[0178] Assume that the printing system 1000 has started the print
operation of a job formed from original document data of 100 pages.
Assume that the operator inputs a checking print request for the
job via the operation unit 204 at the timing when the printer unit
203 prints the 25-th page. Also assume that the operator requests
the checking print for only one page. In this case, the control
unit 205 controls the printing system 1000 to print, as the
checking print operation, only print data of the 25th page
corresponding to the page during printing upon receiving the
checking print request. In the embodiment, the printing system 1000
is configured to issue a paper feed command to the printer unit 203
for each page. In the second type checking print operation, the
control unit 205 controls the printing system 1000 to print the
same page as that for which the paper feed command has been issued
upon receiving the checking print request. In this fashion,
according to the embodiment, the control unit 205 controls the
printing system 1000 to be able to perform the second type checking
print operation to print only the same page as that during printing
upon receiving a checking print request.
[0179] In the second type checking print operation which is
performed automatically, the control unit 205 controls the printing
system 1000 to print a page during printing when the intermediate
execution result of a print job in execution meets the automatic
checking print execution condition.
[0180] Assume that the printing system 1000 has started the print
operation of a job formed from original document data of 10,000
pages. At this time, assume that the checking print is performed
for a page during printing every 500 sheets as the automatic
checking print execution condition. Also assume that the cumulative
number of print sheets of the job reaches 500 sheets after printing
of 10 min. In this case, the control unit 205 controls the printing
system 1000 to print, as the checking print operation, only print
data of the same page as the 500th page during printing. In the
embodiment, the printing system 1000 is configured to issue a paper
feed command to the printer unit 203 for each page. In the second
type checking print operation, the control unit 205 controls the
printing system 1000 to print the same page as that for which the
paper feed command has been issued upon receiving the checking
print request. In this manner, according to the embodiment, the
control unit 205 controls the printing system 1000 to be able to
perform the second type checking print operation to print only the
same page as that during printing upon receiving a checking print
request.
[0181] Assume that the printing system 1000 has started the print
operation of a job requiring printing of 100-page original document
data by 100 copies. At this time, assume that the checking print is
performed for one copy including a page during printing every 10
min as the automatic checking print execution condition. Also
assume that the cumulative print time of the job reaches 10 min
after 680 sheets are printed. In this case, the control unit 205
controls the printing system 1000 to print, as the checking print
operation, document data including the 680th page during printing
from the first page. In the embodiment, the printing system 1000 is
configured to issue a paper feed command to the printer unit 203
for each page. When executing the second type checking print
operation, the control unit 205 controls the printing system 1000
to print only print data of one page corresponding to a page for
which the paper feed command has been issued upon receiving the
checking print request. In this way, according to the embodiment,
the control unit 205 controls the printing system 1000 to be able
to perform the second type checking print operation to print the
print data including a page during printing upon receiving a
checking print request.
[0182] After performing print processing by the checking print, the
control unit 205 controls to notify the operator that the checking
print has been performed. In a concrete example of this, a
configuration in which all the following three types of
notifications are issued will be described. However, the embodiment
is not limited to this configuration. For example, one or two of
the following notifications may also be issued. The following
exemplary notification processing may also be commonly applied to
the first and second modes, as described above, but may also be
applied in a different way. For example, the control unit 205
controls to perform the following exemplary notification processing
only in the first mode (automatic mode) and not to perform it in
the second mode (manual mode). This configuration can omit
unnecessary processing, and further enhance the above-described
effects of the checking print function.
[0183] (1) Notification by Display on Printing Apparatus
[0184] After performing the checking print, the control unit 205
displays, on the operation unit 204 of the printing system 1000, a
notification that the checking print has been performed. By
combining a display based on lighting of the lamp of the printing
system 1000 and a notification based on ringing of a buzzer, the
control unit 205 controls to notify the operator that the checking
print has been performed. This control allows the operator to
detect that the checking print has been performed, and check the
result of checking print materials printed by performing the
checking print.
[0185] (2) Notification by E-Mail
[0186] The control unit 205 controls to notify the operator that
the checking print has been performed, by sending e-mail
representing that the checking print has been performed to an
arbitrary e-mail address registered in advance. The control unit
205 controls to describe, in the e-mail, information on a job
having undergone the checking print, the state of the job when the
checking print is performed, the condition under which the checking
print is performed, and the execution result. In an environment at
a distance from the printing system 1000 and an e-mail receivable
environment independent of the printing system 1000, the operator
can detect that the checking print has been performed.
[0187] (3) Notification to Remote Terminal
[0188] The control unit 205 controls to display, on a terminal such
as a Web browser or client software remote-connected to the
printing system 1000 via a network, that the checking print has
been performed. At this time, the control unit 205 controls to
display information on a job having undergone the checking print,
the state of the job when the checking print is performed, the
condition under which the checking print is performed, and the
execution result.
[0189] These notifications are selectively issued based on an
instruction from the operator. The control unit 205 may also
control to issue notifications (1) to (3) simultaneously when the
checking print is performed.
[0190] The control unit 205 resumes interrupted actual print
processing for print materials simultaneously when notifying the
operator that the checking print has been performed.
[0191] The operator of the printing system 1000 visually checks a
checking print material created by the checking print operation. In
a concrete example of this, the control unit 205 controls the
printing system 1000 to be able to selectively perform at least the
following three processes in response to a request from the
operator who has checked the output result of the checking print
material.
1. Example (1) of Processing Control Unit 205 Causes Printing
System 1000 to Perform in Response to Request From Operator Who had
Checked Result of Checking Print Material Output by Checking
Print
[0192] Assume that the operator visually checks the checking print
material of a job having undergone the checking print operation,
and determines that the checking print material does not have an
output style he wants. In this case, the control unit 205 controls
the printing system 1000 to stop (cancel), based on a request from
the operator, the actual print operation of the job that has
automatically resumed in the printing system 1000 immediately after
performing the checking print operation. By this control, the
control unit 205 forcibly ends the processing of the job. Note that
the control unit 205 accepts a request from the operator via a key
2401F of a window 2400F in FIG. 10E (to be described later).
2. Example (2) of Processing Control Unit 205 Causes Printing
System 1000 to Perform in Response to Request from Operator Who has
Checked Result of Checking Print Material Output By Checking
Print--Processing to Change Actual Print Processing Condition
Specific to Print Job Subjected to Checking Print
[0193] Assume that the operator visually checks a checking print
material, and determines that the checking print material does not
have an output style he wants. In this case, the control unit 205
controls the printing system 1000 to suspend, in response to a
request from the operator, the actual print operation of the job
that has automatically resumed in the printing system 1000
immediately after performing the checking print operation. During
the suspension, the control unit 205 accepts a setting from the
operator via the operation unit 204 to change the output style of
the job. For example, the control unit 205 accepts a setting change
for the type of print medium necessary for the actual print
operation of a job, and a setting change for the density in
printing. As other setting changes, the control unit 205 accepts a
setting change to increment/decrement the number of copies, and a
setting change for post processing such as stapling. The control
unit 205 controls the operation unit 204 to be able to accept, from
the operator, these setting changes of job-specific print
processing conditions. After that, the control unit 205 controls
the printing system 1000 to create and output actual print
materials again from the beginning under setting-changed print
processing conditions on the basis of a request from the operator.
In this manner, the control unit 205 allows the operator to change
settings specific to a job subjected to the checking print. The
control unit 205 accepts a suspension request from the operator via
a key 2401D of a window 2400D in FIG. 10D (to be described later).
Also, the control unit 205 accepts setting changes from the
operator via a window 2300A in FIG. 9F (to be described later) or a
window 2400C in FIG. 10C (to be described later).
3. Example (3) of Processing Control Unit 205 Causes Printing
System 1000 to Perform in Response to Request From Operator Who has
Checked Result of Checking Print Material Output by Checking
Print
[0194] This processing is applied to a case where the operator
visually checks checking print materials, and determines that an
adjustment value specific to the printing system 1000 that
influences not only the current job but also other jobs needs to be
changed. This corresponds to a case where the operator checks the
output result of the checking print and determines that the
adjustment value (parameter) specific to the printing system 1000
including the printing apparatus 100 needs to be corrected. Note
that the system-specific parameter includes system-specific
parameters (e.g., the temperature of the fixing unit of the printer
unit 203 and the print medium feeding speed) directly related to
print processing of the printing system 1000, and a print density
value serving as the reference value of the device. In the
embodiment, the system-specific parameters include at least one of
the following four parameters:
[0195] (1) adjustment of the creep (deviation) correction amount of
the print position on a print medium,
[0196] (2) automatic tone correction,
[0197] (3) density correction, and
[0198] (4) adjustment of the contrast between the text and the
background.
[0199] When such an adjustment value is changed, the control unit
205 controls the printing system 1000 to reflect the change result
of the adjustment value in even the printout result of a print job
output from the printing system 1000 including the printing
apparatus 100. That is, the system-specific adjustment values
(parameters) themselves are condition values which influence print
processing of a target job. The embodiment includes even
system-specific adjustment values (parameters) as an example of
print processing conditions concerning a target print job.
[0200] The embodiment assumes that there are factors which change a
printout result, in addition to the above-mentioned adjustment
values. For example, members such as the feeder of the scanner unit
201 of the printing apparatus 100, the wire of the printer unit
203, and various rollers for conveying a print medium may be
contaminated in accordance with the frequency of use and the period
of use. In this case, a contaminated member can be cleaned to
obtain a higher-quality output result. Thus, according to the
embodiment, the control unit 205 controls the printing system 1000
to be able to perform at least one of the following three processes
on the basis of a request from the operator after performing the
checking print:
[0201] (1) cleaning of the feeder,
[0202] (2) cleaning of the wire, and
[0203] (3) cleaning of the roller.
[0204] Assume that the control unit 205 causes various related
units of the printing system 1000 to clean a variety of members.
Also in this case, the printout result of a print job output from
the printing system 1000 including the printing apparatus 100
changes. The cleaning processing for the members of the printing
system 1000 also influences print processing of a target job. Thus,
the embodiment includes even execution of the cleaning processing
for the members of the printing system 1000, as an example of
changing print processing conditions concerning a target print
job.
[0205] The control unit 205 causes the printing system 1000 to
change the above-mentioned processing conditions (parameters)
specific to the printing system 1000 in accordance with an operator
operation after performing the above-described checking print
operation. Then, the control unit 205 controls the printing system
1000 to be able to process a job having undergone the checking
print in print processing complying with the changed
system-specific parameter. In addition, the control unit 205
controls the printing system 1000 to process not only a target job
but also another job such as a job in the print queue in print
processing complying with the changed system-specific
parameters.
[0206] In this way, the control unit 205 controls the printing
system 1000 to be able to change, based on an operator request
after performing the checking print, a system-specific processing
condition which influences the print processing conditions of a
plurality of jobs, and to successively process these jobs by the
printing system 1000.
[0207] Assume that the control unit 205 causes the printing system
1000 to perform the checking print operation. In this case, the
control unit 205 controls to be able to change, in accordance with
an instruction accepted from the operator via the operation unit
204, a "print processing condition concerning the print operation
of a job subjected to the checking print operation and also
concerning the print operation of another job different from this
job". The control unit 205 accepts, from the operator via the
window 2400C in FIG. 10C (to be described later) or the like, a
setting change after performing the checking print.
[0208] A configuration associated with the checking print will be
further explained.
[0209] Assume that the control unit 205 causes the operation unit
204 to present a display in FIG. 5. This display processing
corresponds to a process in step S101 of FIG. 16A (to be described
later).
[0210] When the operator presses the user mode key 505 in the
display of FIG. 5, the control unit 205 controls the operation unit
204 to display a window as shown in FIG. 11A. When the operator
designates a key 1401 for setting the checking print in the window
shown in FIG. 11A, the control unit 205 controls to display a
"window which allows the operator to input the initial settings of
the checking print" shown in FIG. 11B on the operation unit 204. In
FIG. 11B, the number of print sheets in an area 1501 is the set
number of print sheets of a job at which an automatic checking
print can be selected. This processing corresponds to steps S102
and S103 in FIG. 16A.
[0211] The set number of print sheets is defined as a threshold.
That is, when the number of print sheets of a print job is equal to
or larger than the threshold, the control unit 205 controls to be
able to set an automatic checking print execution condition in a
print job printing condition setting window. This processing
corresponds to step S105 of FIG. 16A.
[0212] Assume that the operator sets 5,000 or more sheets as the
set number of print sheets of a job at which the automatic checking
print can be selected. Thereafter, the control unit 205 controls to
display an automatic checking print execution selection window
shown in FIG. 12 for the job as long as the set number of print
sheets of a subsequent job set to be printed exceeds 5,000 or
more.
[0213] Assume that the control unit 205 accepts a series of
printing conditions for a target job from the operator via the
display in FIG. 5. The processing to accept the printing conditions
is a process in step S104 of FIG. 16A (to be described later). This
job will be referred to as job X. Assume that job X is a job for
scanning an original document including a total of 10 pages by the
scanner unit 201, and printing the print data of the scanned
original document by the printer unit 203 via the HDD 209.
[0214] Also assume that the operator sets the following exemplary
processing conditions as printing conditions for job X via the
display in FIG. 5:
[0215] (1) "paper size=A4, and the type of paper=plain paper" as
settings of a print medium necessary for printing,
[0216] (2) copy ratio=100%,
[0217] (3) stapling as a finishing setting, and
[0218] (4) total number of copies="100".
[0219] Assume that the operator sets these processing condition
parameters (1) to (4) via the operation unit 204 presenting the
display in FIG. 5. In this case, the control unit 205 controls the
operation unit 204 to reflect the contents set by the operator. For
example, the control unit 205 controls the touch panel section 401
to update the display contents in the touch panel section 401 of
the operation unit 204 from those shown in FIG. 5 to those shown in
FIG. 9A.
[0220] When the number of print sheets of job X meets the
"condition to enable setting the automatic checking print" set in
the window shown in FIG. 11B, the control unit 205 permits
accepting an instruction to set an automatic checking print
execution condition for job X. At this time, the control unit 205
enables a "checking print" key 2310 in a window shown in FIG. 9B as
a key used to input an automatic checking print execution condition
for job X. When the operator designates the "checking print" key
2310, the control unit 205 causes the touch panel section 401 to
present a display shown in FIG. 12. Then, the control unit 205
accepts the setting of the automatic checking print execution
condition for job X from the operator via the window shown in FIG.
12.
[0221] For example, when the operator designates an advanced
setting key 1603 in the window shown in FIG. 12, the control unit
205 causes the touch panel section 401 to display a window shown in
FIG. 13A. The operator designates a setting key 1701 in the touch
panel section 401, and selects the interval of a stipulated number
of sheets at which the checking print is performed automatically.
When the operator designates this key to select the number of
sheets, the control unit 205 controls to perform the checking print
automatically every time the cumulative number of print sheets
after the start of a job reaches the interval of the set number of
sheets.
[0222] Also, the operator designates a setting key 1702 in the
touch panel section 401, and selects the interval of a stipulated
time at which the checking print is performed automatically. When
the operator designates this key to select the time, the control
unit 205 controls to perform the checking print automatically every
time the cumulative print execution time after the start of a job
reaches the set time interval.
[0223] In the above description, the control unit 205 displays
stipulated automatic execution conditions in the touch panel
section 401, and prompts the operator to select one of them.
However, the control unit 205 may also adopt another configuration.
For example, when the operator designates the advanced setting key
1603 in FIG. 12, the control unit 205 displays, in the touch panel
section 401, a window for prompting him to select either the
interval of the number of print sheets or the print execution time
as the automatic execution condition. After the operator selects
either condition, the control unit 205 controls the touch panel
section 401 to display a window for prompting him to input an
arbitrary interval.
[0224] When the operator designates a key 1704 in the window shown
in FIG. 13A, the control unit 205 displays a window shown in FIG.
13B in the touch panel section 401. In this window, the control
unit 205 accepts a setting when performing the automatic checking
print. For example, if the operator designates a key 1705 shown in
FIG. 13B, the control unit 205 controls to perform the first type
checking print when performing the automatic checking print. If the
operator designates a key 1706 shown in FIG. 13B, the control unit
205 controls to perform the second type checking print when
performing the automatic checking print.
[0225] A case where the actual print operation of job X starts will
be explained. Assume that the operator presses the start key 503
while the touch panel section 401 displays the window shown in FIG.
9A. Then, the control unit 205 determines that it has accepted a
request (print execution request) from the operator via the
operation unit 204 to perform the print operation of job X. The
determination of whether the print execution request (print start
request) has been accepted corresponds to a process in step S108 of
FIG. 16A (to be described later). This print operation is the
actual print operation of job X subjected to the checking print
operation. The timing to start the actual print operation of job X
is time T0 shown in FIG. 8.
[0226] As described above, assume that the operator presses the
start key 503 while the touch panel section 401 displays the window
shown in FIG. 9A. Assume that another job, for which a print
execution request has been input, does not exist in the HDD 209
other than job X when the operator presses the start key 503. If
this condition is satisfied, the control unit 205 causes the
printing system 1000 to start a series of print operations of job X
in response to a print execution request for job X from the
operator. As the series of print operations of job X, the control
unit 205 controls the printing system 1000 to perform the following
operations.
[0227] As described above, upon accepting the print execution
request for job X from the operator via the start key 503, the
control unit 205 causes the scanner unit 201 to sequentially scan a
10-page original document of job X from the first page.
Simultaneously when the printing system 1000 starts the scanning
operation, or simultaneously when the control unit 205 rasterizes
the 10-page original document data in the HDD 209, the control unit
205 causes the touch panel section 401 to present a display for
prompting the operator to check the progress (process status) of
job X. The control unit 205 controls the touch panel section 401 to
popup-display the window 2300A at a timing when it accepts the
print execution request for job X from the operator. The processing
to popup-display the window 2300A corresponds to a process in step
S109 of FIG. 16A (to be described later). The window 2300A is a job
process status window configured to be able to notify the operator
in real time of the progress such as the process status of a job
whose print operation starts. The job process status window 2300A
is a "print status window" shown in FIG. 16B.
[0228] The control unit 205 acquires pieces of status information
of job X from units which perform operations (e.g., a scanning
operation, storage operation, reception operation, rasterization
operation from the storage device, print operation, and finishing
operation for job X) necessary to complete the print operation of
job X. The control unit 205 controls the touch panel section 401 to
update the display contents of the window 2300A to those reflecting
the status information.
[0229] A display field 2300 at the bottom of windows exemplified in
FIGS. 9A to 11A, 14, and 15 is a status display portion capable of
displaying status information when there is status information of
high priority which should be notified to the operator. For
example, in the stage of the window shown in FIG. 9A, no actual
processing of job X has started. In this case, as shown in FIG. 9A,
the control unit 205 controls the touch panel section 401 not to
display any status information in the display field 2300. In the
state of the window shown in FIG. 9D, the print operation of job X
is in progress. In this case, the control unit 205 controls the
touch panel section 401 to display, even in the display field 2300,
information representing the process status of job X.
[0230] Assume that the printer unit 203 does not perform printing
of job X at present. In this case, the control unit 205 inhibits
accepting a checking print request for job X from the operator.
[0231] For example, in the stage of the window shown in FIG. 9C,
the storage operation of job X in the HDD 209 has started, but
printing of print data of job X has not started yet. In this case,
the control unit 205 inhibits accepting a checking print request
for job X in the stage of the window shown in FIG. 9C. In this
case, the control unit 205 controls the touch panel section 401 to
disable a key 2301A so the operator cannot designate the key 2301A,
as shown in FIG. 9C. When the job processed in the printing system
1000 is not during printing, the control unit 205 controls to
inhibit accepting a checking print request for the job from the
operator. As a method of disabling the key 2301A, the key 2301A may
also be grayed out as shown in FIG. 9C, or may also be disabled in
another way, e.g., hatched or not displayed.
[0232] After the end of reading in FIG. 9C, the total number of
print sheets of job X is finalized. At this time, the control unit
205 determines in advance whether job X meets the automatic
checking print execution condition as shown in FIG. 11B. If job X
meets this condition, the control unit 205 controls the operation
unit 204 to display a checking print setup window as shown in FIGS.
12, 13A, and 13B.
[0233] When the operator designates a key 1601 shown in FIG. 12 and
sets to perform the checking print automatically, the control unit
205 sets an automatic checking print execution condition. When the
operator designates the advanced setting key 1603, the control unit
205 controls to successively display windows shown in FIGS. 13A and
13B.
[0234] When the operator designates an OK key 1605 shown in FIG. 12
or an OK key 1708 shown in FIG. 13B, the control unit 205 controls
to return the window to the display shown in FIG. 9C.
[0235] Assume that the progress of job X has further changed from
the stage of the display shown in FIG. 9C. For example, all 10
pages of the original document of job X have been transferred from
the scanner unit 201 to the HDD 209. Assume that all the 10 pages
of job X have been stored in the HDD 209. Further, assume that the
print data of job X are being read out from the HDD 209 and printed
now in order to complete printing of a total of 100 copies
necessary for job X. The control unit 205 acquires various kinds of
information for specifying this situation from the operation unit
204, scanner unit 201, HDD 209, and printer unit 203. In this
manner, even if the process status has changed, the control unit
205 controls the touch panel section 401 to update the display
contents of the window 2300A to those based on the acquired
information.
[0236] For example, the control unit 205 controls the touch panel
section 401 to update the display contents of the window 2300A
representing the process status of job X to those shown in FIG. 9D
so as to deal with a change of the progress of job X.
[0237] The display shown in FIG. 9D is configured to allow the
operator to confirm that the storage operation of print data of job
X in the HDD 209 is complete and the print operation of print data
of job X is in execution. For example, the window shown in FIG. 9D
displays a message "printing of job of acceptance number 0003 (job
X in this example) is in progress". The window shown in FIG. 9D
notifies the operator that job X requires printing of a total of
100 copies and printing of the 10th sheet in printing of the fourth
copy (printing of the fourth set) is in progress now. The display
shown in FIG. 9D corresponds to a stage in which printing of job X
is in execution. As shown in FIG. 9D, the control unit 205 controls
the touch panel section 401 to enable the "checking print" key
2301A in the window 2300A. When the target job, for which a print
execution request has been issued, is during printing, the control
unit 205 controls to permit (enable) accepting a checking print
request for the job from the operator. The control unit 205
controls the touch panel section 401 to display status information
of the job even in the display field 2300 so that the operator can
grasp the process status of the job even after the popup display of
the window 2300A disappears.
[0238] In this fashion, the control unit 205 controls the touch
panel section 401 to update the display contents of the window
2300A for a job, for which a print execution request has been
issued, in real time in synchronism with the process status of the
job in the printing system 1000. For example, the control unit 205
controls the touch panel section 401 to sequentially update the
display contents of the window 2300A in accordance with the
progress of job X in the printing system 1000, like an example of
control to change the display to those shown in FIGS. 9A to 9D. The
control unit 205 also controls the touch panel section 401 to
update the display contents of the display field 2300 at the bottom
of the touch panel section 401 to those synchronized with the
process status of the target job.
[0239] Based on whether printing of a target job, for which a print
execution request has been issued, is in execution in the printing
system 1000, the control unit 205 determines whether to accept a
checking print request for the job. For example, the control unit
205 controls the operation unit 204 to allow the operator to
designate the key 2301A, as shown in FIG. 9D, on condition that the
print operation of job X is in execution by the printer unit 203.
Accordingly, the control unit 205 permits accepting a checking
print request for job X from the operator via the key 2301A. When
the target job, for which a print execution request has been
issued, is during printing, the control unit 205 controls to permit
(enable) accepting a checking print request for the job from the
operator.
[0240] Based on whether printing of a target job, for which a print
execution request has been issued, is in progress in the printing
system 1000, the control unit 205 determines the automatic checking
print execution condition of the job. For example, when the
automatic checking print execution condition is set to an interval
of 5 min, as represented in the window shown in FIG. 13A, the
control unit 205 determines the execution condition on condition
that the print operation of job X is in execution by the printer
unit 203. That is, while print processing is suspended in response
to designation of a print suspension key 2401A shown in FIG. 10A,
the control unit 205 neither determines the execution condition nor
performs the checking print even if a suspension time of 5 min or
more has elapsed. In this way, when the target job, for which a
print execution request has been issued, is during printing, the
control unit 205 controls to determine whether to perform the
checking print automatically for the job.
[0241] In contrast, if no printing of job X is in progress, the
control unit 205 disables the key 2301A to prevent the operator
from designating it, and inhibits accepting a checking print
request for job X from the operator, as shown in FIG. 9C. When the
target job, for which a print execution request has been issued, is
not during printing, the control unit 205 controls to inhibit
(disable) accepting a checking print request for the job from the
operator.
[0242] Assume that the operator designates the active key 2301A in
the job process status window 2300A shown in FIG. 9D while the
touch panel section 401 presents the display shown in FIG. 9D. In
this case, the control unit 205 causes the touch panel section 401
to present a display shown in FIG. 9E in response to this key
operation. This processing corresponds to a case where YES is
determined in step S115 of FIG. 16B (to be described later) and the
process advances to step S116.
[0243] A window 2300B shown in FIG. 9E is a display window
configured to allow the operator to determine which of the first
and second type checking print operations described above is
performed for a job subjected to the checking print operation. The
window 2300B is a "checking print type selection window" shown in
FIG. 16B.
[0244] An "all pages" key 2301B in the window 2300B is a display
key configured to allow the operator to input an instruction which
causes the printing system 1000 to perform the first type checking
print operation for a job permitted to perform the checking print
operation.
[0245] An "one page (auto)" key 2302B in the window 2300B is a
display key configured to allow the operator to input an
instruction which causes the printing system 1000 to perform the
second type checking print operation for a job permitted to perform
the checking print operation.
[0246] The control unit 205 controls to alternatively select the
key 2301B or 2302B. Except for a case where the operator selects
the key 2301B, the control unit 205 controls to select the key
2302B in the window 2300B. After the operator determines either
checking print operation by selecting either key and designates a
"start print" key 2304B shown in FIG. 9E, the control unit 205
determines that it has accepted a checking print operation
execution request from the operator. If the operator does not
designate the key 2304B, the control unit 205 controls not to start
the print operation for a job permitted to perform the checking
print operation.
[0247] For example, it is determined as the current status that the
operation unit 204 presents the display shown in FIG. 9E, and the
operator has not designated the key 2304B. This determination
corresponds to a case where NO is determined in step S117 of FIG.
16B (to be described later). In this state, the control unit 205
inhibits the start of the checking print operation of job X. In
this state, the control unit 205 controls the printing system 1000
to continuously perform the actual print operation of job X by the
printing system 1000 in order to complete the actual print
operation of job X. In addition, the control unit 205 controls the
touch panel section 401 to update even the display contents of the
job process status window of job X in synchronism with the print
status so as to notify the operator of this status in real
time.
[0248] In this regard, for example, printing of the fourth copy
(fourth set) of "job X requiring printing of 100 copies of 10-page
print data by the actual print operation" is in execution in the
stage of the display shown in FIG. 9D. After that, the control unit
205 causes the operation unit 204 to present the display shown in
FIG. 9E. Further, the control unit 205 confirms that the operator
has not designated the key 2304B shown in FIG. 9E. In this state,
the control unit 205 causes the printing system 1000 to continue
the actual print operation of job X permitted to perform the
checking print operation. Assume that the control unit 205 causes
the printer unit 203 to print the fourth copy (fourth set) of job X
now. In this case, the control unit 205 controls the touch panel
section 401 to notify the operator that "job X of acceptance number
0001 is during printing, and printing of the fourth copy (fourth
set) out of a total of 100 copies (100 sets) is in progress now".
For example, the control unit 205 controls to display in the
display field 2300 a message "0001 copy printing in progress
(4/100)" as the process status of job X, as shown in FIG. 9E, while
keeping displaying the window 2300B.
[0249] Assume that the operator designates the "all pages" key
2301B in the window 2300B shown in FIG. 9E and then the "start
print" key 2304B. Then, assume that the control unit 205 determines
in response to this key operation that the operator has input a
request to perform the first type checking print operation. This
determination corresponds to a case where YES is determined in step
S117 of FIG. 16B (to be described later). Upon receiving this
request, the control unit 205 controls the printing system 1000 to
stop (interrupt) the actual print operation of job X serving as a
job in progress by the printing system 1000. The control unit 205
controls the printing system 1000 to start the first type print
operation as the checking print operation of job X without
performing the second type checking print operation immediately
after interrupting the actual print operation of job X.
[0250] To the contrary, assume that the operator designates the
"one page (auto)" key 2302B in the window 2300B shown in FIG. 9E
and then the "start print" key 2304B. In this case, assume that the
control unit 205 determines in response to this key operation that
the operator has input a request to perform the second type
checking print operation. In this case, the control unit 205
controls the printing system 1000 to stop (interrupt) the actual
print operation of job X serving as a job in execution by the
printing system 1000. The control unit 205 controls the printing
system 1000 to start the second type print operation as the
checking print operation of job X without performing the first type
checking print operation immediately after interrupting the actual
print operation of job X.
[0251] As described above, in the "first type checking print
operation" which starts in the printing system 1000 instead of the
actual print operation, print data of all pages to be printed in
printing of one set in the actual print operation are printed once.
In the above-described example, the control unit 205 controls the
printing system 1000 to print the print data of all 10 pages of job
X once, as first type checking print operation of job X.
[0252] As described above, in the "second type checking print
operation" which starts in the printing system 1000 instead of the
actual print operation, only a specific page out of all pages to be
printed in printing of one set in the actual print operation is
printed. In the embodiment, the control unit 205 controls to print
a page during printing when a checking print request is input, as
described above. Assume that the operator designates the "one page
(auto)" key 2302B in the window 2300B and then the "start print"
key 2304B. At the timing when the designation of the key 2304B is
input, the control unit 205 instructs the printer unit 203 to start
printing of the seventh page of job X in the print operation of the
fourth set of job X. In this manner, assume that the control unit
205 reads out print data of the seventh page of job X from the HDD
209, and issues a paper feed command to the printer unit 203 to
feed one print medium used to print the seventh page from the paper
feeder. In this case, the control unit 205 controls the printing
system 1000 to perform, on one print medium, printing based on only
print data of the seventh page of job X as the second type checking
print operation immediately after interrupting the actual print
operation of job X. As described above, when the operator
designates the keys 2302B and 2304B, the control unit 205 confirms
the page number subjected to the actual print operation of the job
at this time. The control unit 205 controls to print only the
confirmed page by the checking print operation. A page printed by
the second type checking print operation is automatically
determined based on the timing when the operator inputs a checking
print request, and the page is printed on one print medium.
[0253] Assume that the operator designates a "cancel" key 2303B
shown in FIG. 9E. In response to this key operation, the control
unit 205 cancels settings associated with the checking print for a
job permitted to perform the checking print operation. In this
case, the control unit 205 controls the operation unit 204 to end
the popup display of the window 2300B and display the window 2300A
representing the progress of the job again in the touch panel
section 401. For example, in this case, the window 2300A for job X
is displayed again.
[0254] The embodiment has described a configuration in which the
control unit 205 automatically specifies a print page subjected to
the checking print in the second type checking print operation on
the basis of determination made by the control unit 205 itself, and
controls to print only the specified page on one print medium.
However, the embodiment may also employ another configuration. For
example, after the operator designates the key 2302B, he specifies
one arbitrary page out of print data of a job permitted to perform
the checking print. In response to the selection of the arbitrary
page by the operator and designation of the key 2304B, the control
unit 205 controls to perform printing based on the print data of
the arbitrary page designated by the operator on one print medium,
and output the page. This configuration is also available. Even in
this configuration, the checking print request is issued on
condition that the target job is during printing.
[0255] As described above, assume that the operator designates
either the key 2301B or 2302B in the window 2300B shown in FIG. 9E
to select the type of checking print, and designates the key 2304B
to input a checking print request. Then, the control unit 205
determines that the operator has input the checking print request.
This processing corresponds to a case where YES is determined in
step S117 of FIG. 16B (to be described later). In response to this,
the control unit 205 controls the printing system 1000 to
automatically interrupt (stop) the actual print operation of job X.
This processing corresponds to a process in step S121 of FIG. 16C
(to be described later). After interrupting the actual print
operation of job X, the control unit 205 controls the printing
system 1000 to automatically start a checking print operation of a
type selected by the operator in the window 2300B. This processing
corresponds to a process in step S122 of FIG. 16C (to be described
later). Assume that the printing system 1000 completes (ends) the
checking print operation for job X. In response to the end of the
checking print operation for job X, the control unit 205 controls
the printing system 1000 to automatically resume (continue) the
actual print operation of job X. These processes correspond to
those in steps S123 to S125 of FIG. 16C (to be described
later).
[0256] Assume that the printing system 1000 resumes the actual
print operation of the job having undergone the checking print
operation. In this case, the control unit 205 controls the printing
system 1000 not to print, in the resumed operation, print data
which have already been processed immediately before the operator
inputs the checking print operation execution request. The control
unit 205 controls the printing system 1000 to print only print data
(remaining print data) of the job that have not been processed
before performing the checking print operation, in the actual print
operation automatically resumed in response to the end of the
checking print operation.
[0257] For example, job X subjected to the checking print operation
is a "job requiring printing of a series of 10-page print data by a
total of 100 copies (100 sets)" in the actual print operation. In
the above-described example, pages up to the seventh page of the
fourth copy (fourth set) have been printed by the actual print
operation of job X immediately before the operator inputs a request
via the key 2304B shown in FIG. 9E to perform the checking print
operation for job X. In this case, the control unit 205 controls
the printing system 1000 to sequentially perform the following
operations as the actual print operation of job X that
automatically resumes in response to the end of the checking print
operation. [0258] (1) Print data of the eighth to 10th pages of job
X are printed page by page using three print sheets in order to
complete printing of the fourth copy (fourth set). [0259] (2)
Printing of up to the 100th set corresponding to the final copy is
completed from printing of the fifth set.
[0260] More specifically, printing of 953 sheets as the sum of
[three remaining print sheets of the fourth set] and [(10
sheets.times.95 sets) in printing of the fifth to 100th sets] is
performed in the print operation of job X that automatically
resumes immediately after the checking print operation of job
X.
[0261] When the checking print operation is done in this way in the
embodiment, the control unit 205 controls the printing system 1000
to automatically perform the following operations in order.
[0262] [Operation 1] The control unit 205 causes the printing
system 1000 to start the print operation of a target job in
response to a print execution request input from the operator using
the start key 503, or if the automatic checking print execution
condition is met. This print operation is the actual print
operation of a job subjected to the checking print operation. The
timing to start this print operation is time T0 shown in FIG. 8.
[Operation 1] is the operation of [step 1] shown in FIG. 8 that is
performed by the printing system 1000 during a period immediately
before time TX after time T0 shown in FIG. 8.
[0263] [Operation 2] The control unit 205 interrupts the actual
print operation of the job in response to a checking print
operation execution request input from the operator using the key
2304B, or if the print status of a job meets the automatic checking
print execution condition. Immediately after interrupting the
actual print operation, the control unit 205 causes the printing
system 1000 to start the checking print operation of the job
automatically. In the checking print operation, print processing is
performed using print data of the job whose print operation has
been interrupted.
[0264] Assume that the operator designates the key 2301B in the
window 2300B prior to designating the key 2304B. In this case, the
control unit 205 causes the printing system 1000 to perform the
first type checking print operation as the checking print
operation. To the contrary, assume that the operator designates the
key 2302B in the window 2300B prior to designating the key 2304B.
In this case, the control unit 205 causes the printing system 1000
to perform the second type checking print operation as the checking
print operation.
[0265] Assume that the operator has designated the key 1705 shown
in FIG. 13B in advance when not the operator inputs an automatic
checking print execution request, but the automatic checking print
execution condition is met. In this case, the control unit 205
causes the printing system 1000 to perform the first type checking
print operation as the checking print operation. When the operator
has designated the key 1706 shown in FIG. 13B in advance, the
control unit 205 causes the printing system 1000 to perform the
second type checking print operation as the checking print
operation.
[0266] The timing to start the checking print is time TX shown in
FIG. 8. The checking print operation in [operation 2] is the
operation of [step 2] shown in FIG. 8 that is performed during a
period immediately before time TY after time TX shown in FIG.
8.
[0267] [Operation 3] The control unit 205 causes the printing
system 1000 to automatically resume (continue) the actual print
operation of the print-interrupted job immediately after the end of
the checking print operation. The timing to resume the print
operation is time TY shown in FIG. 8. [Operation 3] is the
operation of [step 3] shown in FIG. 8 that is performed during a
period immediately before the end of the sequence shown in FIG. 8
after time TY shown in FIG. 8.
[0268] As is apparent from the control sequence shown in FIG. 8, in
the use of the checking print function, the control unit 205
controls the printing system 1000 to continuously perform the print
operation of the printing system 1000 without unnecessarily
stopping it.
[0269] For example, the control unit 205 allows the printer unit
203 to perform the print operation, like [step 1] shown in FIG. 8,
during the period from time T0 to time TX shown in FIG. 8. The
control unit 205 controls the printing system 1000 to be able to
maintain (continue) the print operation of the printer unit 203
without stopping it, like [step 2] shown in FIG. 8, even during the
period from time TX to time TY shown in FIG. 8. In addition, the
control unit 205 controls the printing system 1000 to be able to
maintain (continue) the print operation of the printer unit 203
without stopping it, like [step 3] shown in FIG. 8, even during the
period from time TY shown in FIG. 8 to the end of the sequence
shown in FIG. 8.
[0270] In this manner, the printing system 1000 is configured to be
able to continuously perform the print operation in the printing
system 1000 without unnecessarily stopping it even when the
printing system 1000 performs an operation concerning the checking
print function.
[0271] The mechanism associated with the checking print function is
also different from the test copy function.
[0272] As described above, when the operator designates the key
2304B during the actual print operation of job X by the printer
unit 203 or the print status of the job meets the automatic
checking print execution condition, the control unit 205 interrupts
the actual print operation of job X. The control unit 205 causes
the printing system 1000 to start the checking print operation of
job X at the timing when the actual print operation of job X is
interrupted. At the timing when the checking print operation of job
X ends, the control unit 205 causes the printing system 1000 to
resume (continue) the actual print operation of print-interrupted
job X. After the actual print operation of job X is again in
execution in this fashion, the control unit 205 causes the touch
panel section 401 to automatically display the window 2300A for job
X.
[0273] As described above, when the operator designates the key
2304B, the control unit 205 controls the touch panel section 401 to
automatically end the popup display of the window 2300B and display
the window 2300A for job X again. For example, the control unit 205
causes the touch panel section 401 to present a display shown in
FIG. 9F at the timing when the actual print operation of job X
resumes.
[0274] In the stage in which the touch panel section 401 presents
the display shown in FIG. 9F, the checking print operation of job X
has ended, and the print operation of job X has resumed. This stage
is a stage in which the printing system 1000 performs the operation
of [step 3] shown in FIG. 8.
[0275] As described above, assume that the control unit 205 causes
the printing system 1000 to resume the print operation of job X
automatically in response to the end of the checking print
operation of job X. Further, assume that printing of the 10th sheet
of the 59th copy (59th set) of job X is in execution now as the
progress of the actual print operation of job X that has resumed in
the printing system 1000. In this case, the control unit 205
controls the touch panel section 401 to update the display contents
of the window for job X corresponding to a job of acceptance number
0001 to those reflecting the current print progress, as represented
by the window 2300A shown in FIG. 9F.
[0276] The control unit 205 controls the touch panel section 401 to
enable the above-mentioned "checking print" key 2301A even in the
window 2300A shown in FIG. 9F that appears again in the touch panel
section 401. Assume that the operator designates the active key
2301A in the window 2300A shown in FIG. 9F. In response to this key
operation, the control unit 205 causes the touch panel section 401
to display the checking print type selection window 2300B shown in
FIG. 9E again.
[0277] Assume that the operator designates the key 2304B again via
the window 2300B shown in FIG. 9E that appears again in the touch
panel section 401. In response to the second checking print request
input by designating the key 2304B, the control unit 205 controls
the printing system 1000 to sequentially perform the following
operations.
[0278] Alternatively, assume that printing of job X proceeds, and
the number of print sheets or the print execution time meets the
automatic checking print execution condition again. In this case,
the control unit 205 controls the printing system 1000 to
sequentially perform the following operations in accordance with
the automatic checking print execution condition.
[0279] [Operation A1] The control unit 205 causes the printing
system 1000 to interrupt again the actual print operation of job X
that has resumed in the printing system 1000 in response to the end
of the first checking print operation of job X.
[0280] [Operation A2] Immediately after the print operation of job
X is interrupted, the control unit 205 causes the printing system
1000 to perform the second checking print operation of job X. Also
in the second checking print operation, print processing is
performed using print data of job X whose print operation has been
interrupted.
[0281] Assume that the operator has designated the key 2301B in the
window 2300B prior to inputting the second checking print request
by designating the key 2304B. In this case, the control unit 205
causes the printing system 1000 to perform the first type checking
print operation as the second checking print operation. To the
contrary, assume that the operator has designated the key 2302B in
the window 2300B prior to inputting the second checking print
request by designating the key 2304B. In this case, the control
unit 205 causes the printing system 1000 to perform the second type
checking print operation as the second checking print
operation.
[0282] Similar to a checking print execution request via a key, if
the operator has designated the key 1705 shown in FIG. 13B in
advance when performing the checking print automatically, the
control unit 205 causes the printing system 1000 to perform the
first type checking print operation. If the operator has designated
the key 1706 shown in FIG. 13B in advance, the control unit 205
causes the printing system 1000 to perform the second type checking
print operation.
[0283] [Operation A3] The control unit 205 causes the printing
system 1000 to automatically resume (continue) the actual print
operation of job X immediately after the end of the second checking
print operation for job X. In this fashion, the second print resume
operation of job X having undergone the checking print operation
twice is done.
[0284] In the actual print operation of job X that resumes in
[operation A3], the control unit 205 controls to print not print
data which have been processed immediately before the start of
[operation A2], but print data which have not been processed
immediately before the start of [operation A2]. Assume that the
operator inputs the second checking print request for job X via the
key 2304B immediately after the display shown in FIG. 9F, or the
print progress of job X meets the automatic checking print
execution condition. In this case, pages up to the 10th page of the
59th copy of job X corresponding to a job requiring printing of a
series of 10-page print data by a total of 100 sets have already
been printed. Thus, in this case, the control unit 205 controls to
print the 60th to 100th sets of job X as [operation A3].
[0285] On condition that the actual print operation of a
print-resumed job has not been completed yet and is in execution
now, the control unit 205 controls the operation unit 204 to permit
accepting a checking print request again from the operator for the
job. The control unit 205 also controls to resume determining
whether to perform the checking print automatically. Assume that
the operator inputs a checking print request again, or the print
progress of the job meets the automatic checking print execution
condition. In this case, the control unit 205 causes the printing
system 1000 to perform again the above-described series of
processes (i.e., interruption of the actual print operation, the
checking print of a job, and resume of the actual print operation
of the job) for a job whose checking print has been performed
again.
[0286] As described above, as long as the actual print operation is
in progress, the control unit 205 permits repetitively accepting a
checking print request for the job from the operator. The control
unit 205 controls the printing system 1000 to be able to perform
the checking print operation of the job repetitively every time the
checking print request is input. Even in the second mode (manual
mode), the control unit 205 controls to be able to repetitively
perform the checking print available to change the printing result
and/or processing condition of a job in response to an explicit
instruction from the user during the period till the completion of
the job.
[0287] The control unit 205 controls the printing system 1000 to
determine an automatic checking print execution condition and if
the condition is satisfied, repetitively perform the checking
print. Even in the first mode (automatic mode), the control unit
205 controls to be able to repetitively perform the checking print
available to change the printing result and/or processing condition
of a job without any explicit instruction from the user as long as
the condition is satisfied during the period till the completion of
the job.
[0288] Assume that the target job requires as many as 5,000 sheets,
and the automatic checking print execution condition is every 20
min. In this case, for example, when the 1,000th sheet is printed,
the operator performs the first checking print for the job. Then,
when 1,500 sheets are printed, 20 min has elapsed after the start
of printing, so the second checking print is performed in
accordance with the automatic checking print execution condition
without any execution request from the operator. When the 2,500th
sheet is printed, the operator performs the third checking print
for the job. Subsequently, when 3,000 sheets are printed, 40 min
has elapsed after the start of printing, so the fourth checking
print is performed in accordance with the automatic checking print
execution condition without any execution request from the
operator. Further, when the 4,000th sheet is printed, the operator
performs the fifth checking print for the job. Finally, when 4,500
sheets are printed, 60 min has elapsed after the start of printing,
so the sixth checking print is performed in accordance with the
automatic checking print execution condition without any execution
request from the operator.
[0289] In this way, the control unit 205 can control the printing
system 1000 to periodically perform the checking print operation
over and over even for a single job. Accordingly, for example, the
operator can periodically check, without missing the checking print
execution timing, whether the result of print materials output by
the actual print operation of a job requiring large-volume printing
is proper, like a sampling check, while the print operation
continues. The operator can also periodically check, without
decreasing productivity, whether the density of output results, the
print position, or the like has changed while printing continues.
For example, if the output results of actual print materials of a
job requiring printing of a large number of sheets have changed,
the printing conditions can be quickly changed to continue the
print operation. This can provide an effect capable of preventing
generation of the following problems:
[0290] (1) a problem that the operator notices that the output
results of print materials have changed halfway only after
inspecting all the printing results of a job requiring large-volume
printing upon completion of all the actual print operation of the
job.
[0291] (2) a problem that the operator performs the actual print
operation of the job again from the beginning upon completion of
all the actual print operation because problem (1) occurs. In
addition, a problem as the waste of resources and a dead work time
more than necessary due to the first problem in (2) such that
resources are used more than necessary or an unnecessarily long
work time is needed.
[0292] (3) a problem that the operator must always stay at the
printing system in order to always inspect output results during
output of a large-volume job though he checks the printing result
of the job by the checking print. Another problem is that it is
cumbersome when the operator must be aware of the timing to perform
the checking print during output of a large-volume job.
[0293] Further in the embodiment, the control unit 205 controls the
printing system 1000 to be able to selectively accept a plurality
of types of requests including, e.g., at least one of the following
requests (1) to (4) as an operator request permitted to be accepted
from the operator immediately after performing the checking print
operation.
[0294] [Operator Request (1) Control Unit 205 Permits to Accept
Immediately After Performing Checking Print]
[0295] Request (1) is an operator request to suspend the actual
print operation of a job that has resumed after performing the
checking print operation.
[0296] The control unit 205 allows accepting request (1) from the
operator via the operation unit 204 while the printing system 1000
resumes the actual print operation of a job having undergone the
checking print. Upon accepting request (1), the control unit 205
controls the printing system 1000 to suspend the actual print
operation. In this case, while the job is suspended, the control
unit 205 controls the operation unit 204 to allow the operator to
change a system-specific processing condition which influences the
output results of the job and the printing results of another
queued subsequent job. After the operator changes the processing
condition, the control unit 205 controls the printing system 1000
to resume the actual print operation of the job under the changed
processing condition. Upon completion of the print operation of the
job, the control unit 205 controls the printing system 1000 to
start, under the changed processing condition, the actual print
operation of another queued subsequent job whose print data have
been stored in the HDD 209.
[0297] In this manner, after performing the checking print of one
job, the control unit 205 allows the operator to change (adjust) a
print processing condition which is associated with a processing
condition specific to the printing system 1000, and is a processing
parameter influencing the output results of jobs including the job
having undergone the checking print. "Influencing the output
results of jobs including a job having undergone the checking
print" means "common to a plurality of jobs". The control unit 205
allows the printing system 1000 to continuously perform the print
operations of these jobs under the changed processing
condition.
[0298] A concrete example of control based on request (1) will be
explained using the above-described job X.
[0299] Assume that the actual print operation of job X has resumed
now, and the print operation is in execution in the printing system
1000. When the print operation of job X has resumed, the operator
visually checks the result of a checking print material of job X
that has been output by the above-described checking print
operation. Assume that as a result of visually checking the output
result of the checking print material of job X, the operator
determines that the processing condition specific to the printing
system 1000 needs to be changed.
[0300] In this state, the control unit 205 controls the touch panel
section 401 to enable a "system monitor" key 2301 even while the
window 2300A is kept displayed, as shown in FIG. 9F.
[0301] In this state, assume that the operator designates the key
2301. In response to the operation of the key 2301, the control
unit 205 causes the touch panel section 401 to display a window
shown in FIG. 10A while the printing system 1000 continues the
actual print operation of job X.
[0302] The control unit 205 controls the touch panel section 401 to
display the display contents based on the following information in
a window 2400A shown in FIG. 10A.
[0303] (Information 1) Information 1 is system configuration
information of the printing system 1000. This information notifies
the operator of, for example, the number, types, and connection
order of sheet processing apparatuses connected to the printing
apparatus 100.
[0304] (Information 2) Information 2 is information of jobs which
include a job during printing and a queued job, have print data
stored in the HDD 209, and are to be printed by the printer unit
203. For example, information 2 includes information on the
acceptance number, acceptance time, job name (job type), user name,
and status.
[0305] Based on (information 1) and (information 2), the control
unit 205 controls the touch panel section 401 to display device
information graphically representing the appearance of the printing
system 1000 in the window 2400A, as shown in FIG. 10A.
[0306] Also based on (information 1) and (information 2), the
control unit 205 controls the touch panel section 401 to display a
job list at an upper portion in the display area of the window
2400A, as shown in FIG. 10A.
[0307] When displaying the job list, the control unit 205 displays
pieces of information of jobs in the job list in distinction from
each other. These jobs have print data stored in the HDD 209 and
require the print operation by the printer unit 203. These jobs
include a job during printing and a queued job.
[0308] The control unit 205 controls the order of jobs displayed in
the job list in the window 2400A so that it coincides with the
order of print execution requests accepted from the operator. That
is, the control unit 205 displays pieces of information of jobs in
the list in the same order as the order of processes by the
printing system 1000.
[0309] The job list in the window 2400A is configured to allow the
operator to select a desired one of jobs displayed in the job list
in response to an operation by the operator to the touch panel
section 401. When the operator touches the display line of any job
among a plurality of jobs in the job list shown in FIG. 10A, the
control unit 205 determines that the operator has selected the
job.
[0310] When the operator selects a desired job from the job list in
the window 2400A, the control unit 205 controls the touch panel
section 401 to highlight the display line of the selected job so
that the operator can specify the selected job. For example, in the
display state of FIG. 10A, the operator selects job X.
[0311] The window 2400A further comprises the following display
building elements.
[0312] The print suspension key 2401A is a display key which allows
the operator to input an instruction to suspend the print operation
of a job (job which requires the print operation by the printer
unit 203 and whose printing has not been completed yet) selected
from the job list in the window 2400A.
[0313] The control unit 205 controls the printing system 1000 to
cancel the suspension of the print operation-suspended job and
resume the print operation later in accordance with an instruction
from the operator.
[0314] In the embodiment, when the operator inputs a print
suspension instruction via the key 2401A, the control unit 205 can
lock the start of performing the print operations of all jobs
displayed in the job list of the window 2400A.
[0315] The control unit 205 may also control to lock (suspend) only
the print operation of a job selected by the operator from the job
list. Assume that the operator selects job X in the display state
of FIG. 10A and designates the key 2401A. In this case, the control
unit 205 may also control the printing system 1000 to suspend only
the print operation of job X and perform the print operations of
subsequent queued jobs such as jobs Y and Z.
[0316] When the operator does not designate the key 2401A, the
control unit 205 causes the printer unit 203 to continue the print
operation of a job (job X in this example) whose print operation is
in execution, while causing the touch panel section 401 to keep
displaying the window 2400A.
[0317] Even in this state, the control unit 205 updates the display
of the display field 2300 in correspondence with the progress of
the job, as needed, in order to notify the operator in real time of
information on the job during printing. For example, printing of
the fourth set in printing of 100 sets of job X is in execution in
the stage of the display shown in FIG. 9D. However, job X
progresses in the stage of the display shown in FIG. 9F.
[0318] Assume that the operator designates the key 2401A in the
window 2400A shown in FIG. 10A. In response to the designation of
the key 2401A, the control unit 205 causes the touch panel section
401 to popup-display a window 2400B exemplified in FIG. 10B.
[0319] The window 2400B is a print suspension confirmation window
configured to allow the operator to determine whether to suspend
the print operation of a job in progress.
[0320] Assume that the operator designates a key 2402B in the
window 2400B. In this case, the control unit 205 controls the touch
panel section 401 to end the display of the window 2400B and return
to the display shown in FIG. 10A without stopping the print
operation of job X in execution.
[0321] To the contrary, assume that the operator designates a key
2401B in the window 2400B. In this case, the control unit 205 stops
the print operation of job X in execution. Accordingly, the control
unit 205 suspends the print operation of job X.
[0322] Assume that the print operation by the printer unit 203 is
suspended by the above-described method. In this state, assume that
the operator designates the user mode key 505 of the operation unit
204. In response to this key operation, the control unit 205 causes
the touch panel section 401 to present the window 2400C exemplified
in FIG. 10C.
[0323] The window 2400C is a display window which allows the
operator to change, in accordance with an instruction from him,
processing conditions which commonly influence the printing result
of one job printed by the printer unit 203 and those of other jobs.
The window 2400C is used to cause the printing system 1000 to clean
a plurality of units of the printing system 1000 including the
printing apparatus 100.
[0324] Assume that the operator designates a "creep (deviation)
correction amount adjustment" key 2490 in the window 2400C while
the actual print operation of the above-described job X is
suspended. In response to this operation, the control unit 205
causes the touch panel section 401 to display a creep correction
amount adjustment window (not shown).
[0325] The creep correction amount adjustment window (not shown) is
a display window configured to allow the operator to input an
instruction to finely adjust the print position, on a print medium
(print sheet), of an image to be printed on a print medium. This
window (not shown) is also a display window configured to allow the
operator to explicitly input a print image shift amount (creep
correction amount) and the like.
[0326] The control unit 205 accepts the print position correction
amount of an image on a print medium from the operator via the
creep correction amount adjustment window (not shown). In the
embodiment, the correction amount is a print processing condition
specific to the printing system 1000. In the embodiment, this print
processing condition is a parameter common to not only one job to
be printed by the printer unit 203 but also other jobs.
[0327] Assume that the operator changes the "creep correction
amount" via the creep correction amount adjustment window (not
shown), and then inputs an instruction to resume the print
operation of job X. When suspension of the print operation of job X
is canceled to resume the print operation of job X, the control
unit 205 sequentially performs the following exemplary
processes.
[0328] First, the control unit 205 controls print processing of the
printing apparatus 100 to adjust the print position of the print
image of print data of job X on a print medium to a print position
complying with the changed creep correction value.
[0329] Then, the control unit 205 controls print processing of the
printing apparatus 100 to adjust the print position of the print
image of print data of job Y on a print medium to a print position
complying with the changed creep correction value also in the print
operation of job Y subsequent to job X.
[0330] Further, the control unit 205 controls print processing of
the printing apparatus 100 to adjust the print position of the
print image of print data of job Z on a print medium to a print
position complying with the changed creep correction value also in
the print operation of job Z subsequent to job Y.
[0331] The control unit 205 controls the printing apparatus 100 to
automatically start the print operation of job Y in accordance with
the setting-changed correction value upon completion of the print
operation of job X in accordance with the creep correction value
whose setting has been changed by the operator via the window
2400C. The control unit 205 controls the printing apparatus 100 to
automatically start the print operation of job Z in accordance with
the setting-changed correction value upon completion of the print
operation of job Y. In this way, the control unit 205 controls the
printing system 1000 to automatically, successively process all
target jobs while reflecting the correction value whose setting has
been changed by the operator.
[0332] The printing system 1000 according to the embodiment is
configured to deal with parameters in addition to the
above-described one as "print processing conditions concerning the
print operations of jobs", for which the operator is permitted to
change settings after performing the checking print.
[0333] Assume that the operator designates a "density correction"
key 2491 in the window 2400C while the actual print operation of
job X is suspended. In response to this operation, the control unit
205 causes the touch panel section 401 to display a density
correction window (not shown).
[0334] The density correction window (not shown) is a display
window configured to allow the operator to input an instruction to
finely adjust the print density of an image to be printed on a
print medium (print sheet). This window (not shown) is a display
window configured to allow the operator to explicitly input a print
image density and the like.
[0335] Assume that the operator changes the density setting in the
density correction window (not shown) to be higher than the print
density of the image of print data of job X on a print medium in
the checking print operation performed for job X. Then, assume that
the operator inputs an instruction to resume the print operation of
job X. When suspension of the print operation of job X is canceled
to resume the print operation of job X, the control unit 205
sequentially performs, for example, the following exemplary job
processes.
[0336] First, the control unit 205 controls print processing of the
printing apparatus 100 to adjust the print density of the print
image of print data of job X on a print medium to a print density
complying with the changed density value (density correction
value).
[0337] Then, the control unit 205 controls print processing of the
printing apparatus 100 to adjust the print density of the print
image of print data of job Y on a print medium to a print density
complying with the changed density value even in the print
operation of job Y subsequent to job X.
[0338] Further, the control unit 205 controls print processing of
the printing apparatus 100 to adjust the print density of the print
image of print data of job Z on a print medium to a print density
complying with the changed density value even in the print
operation of job Z subsequent to job Y.
[0339] As described above, also when the operator changes the
setting of the print density via the window 2400C shown in FIG.
10C, the control unit 205 processes a plurality of jobs, similar to
the above-described case. That is, the control unit 205 controls
the printing system 1000 to automatically, successively process all
jobs to be printed including jobs X, Y, and Z in accordance with
the print density whose setting has been changed by the
operator.
[0340] There are other print processing conditions concerning the
print operations of jobs, in addition to processing conditions such
as the "creep correction value" and "density correction value"
described above. Other print processing conditions include "print
processing conditions concerning automatic tone correction" and
"processing conditions concerning text/background contrast
adjustment". The control unit 205 also controls to allow the
operator to change these print processing conditions via windows
(not shown) displayed in the touch panel section 401 in response to
operator operations to an "automatic tone correction" key 2492,
"text/background contrast adjustment" key 2493, and the like.
[0341] In the embodiment, the control unit 205 can further accept
an instruction from the operator via the window 2400C to perform
the following exemplary cleaning by the printing system 1000.
[0342] (Feeder Cleaning) This processing cleans the document feed
unit of the auto document feeder (ADF) 301 in the scanner unit 201.
A concrete example of performing this processing will be
explained.
[0343] Assume that the operator designates a "feeder cleaning" key
2494 in the window 2400C while the actual print operation of job X
is suspended. In response to this key operation, the control unit
205 causes the touch panel section 401 to display a feeder cleaning
execution window (not shown) which allows the operator to input an
instruction to start feeder cleaning by the ADF 301.
[0344] The feeder cleaning execution window (not shown) is a
display window configured to present a guidance message such as
"set about 10 blank sheets on the feeder and press the `start` key"
to the operator. This window (not shown) has a "start" key to cause
the ADF 301 to clean the feeder.
[0345] Assume that the operator sets blank sheets for dirt removal
on the document tray of the ADF 301 and designates the start key
(not shown) in accordance with the guidance message. In response to
this key operation, the control unit 205 causes the ADF 301 to feed
the blank sheets. The ADF 301 successively feeds the blank sheets
by document feed rollers. As a result, dirt such as powder of a
pencil attached to the document feed rollers of the ADF 301 is
removed from the document feed rollers and attaches to the blank
sheets. By successively feeding a specific number of blank sheets
for dirt removal, dirt is removed from the document feed
rollers.
[0346] In the embodiment, the processing to cause the printing
system 1000 to clean the feeder also falls within processing to
change print processing conditions specific to the printing system
1000.
[0347] The control unit 205 controls the printing system 1000 to
resume the print operation of job X and successively process a
plurality of jobs including job X and subsequent jobs Y and Z after
cleaning the feeder.
[0348] In the embodiment, the control unit 205 can accept an
instruction from the operator via the window 2400C to perform the
following exemplary cleaning by the printing system 1000.
[0349] (Wire Cleaning) This processing cleans a wire unit (not
shown) in the printer unit 203. A concrete example of performing
this processing will be explained.
[0350] Assume that the operator designates a "wire cleaning" key
2495 in the window 2400C while the actual print operation of job X
is suspended. In this case, the control unit 205 causes the touch
panel section 401 to display a wire cleaning execution window (not
shown) which allows the operator to input an instruction to start
this cleaning by the printer unit 203.
[0351] The wire cleaning execution window (not shown) has a "start"
key (not shown) to cause the printer unit 203 to clean the wire
unit in the printer unit 203.
[0352] Assume that the operator presses the start key (not shown).
In response to this, the control unit 205 causes the printer unit
203 to clean the wire unit (not shown) in the printer unit 203.
[0353] In the embodiment, the "processing to clean the wire unit
(not shown) in the printer unit 203" also falls within processing
to change print processing conditions specific to the printing
system 1000.
[0354] The control unit 205 controls the printing system 1000 to
resume the print operation of job X and successively process a
plurality of jobs including job X and subsequent jobs Y and Z after
cleaning the wire unit in the printer unit 203.
[0355] In addition to the above-mentioned cleaning processes, there
is an item to clean the conveyance rollers of the printer unit 203
for conveying a print sheet. For example, when a "roller cleaning"
key (not shown) is arranged in the window 2400C and the operator
designates this key, the control unit 205 causes the printer unit
203 to clean the conveyance rollers in the printer unit 203. In the
embodiment, the processing to clean the conveyance rollers also
falls within processing to change print processing conditions
specific to the printing system 1000. The control unit 205 controls
the printing system 1000 to resume the print operation of job X and
successively process a plurality of jobs including job X and
subsequent jobs Y and Z after cleaning the conveyance rollers in
the printer unit 203.
[0356] In the embodiment, assume that change of the above-mentioned
print processing conditions is completed in accordance with an
instruction accepted from the operator via the window 2400C while
the print operation of job X is suspended. Then, assume that the
operator designates the "system monitor" key 2301. In this case,
the control unit 205 causes the touch panel section 401 to present
the window 2400D exemplified in FIG. 10D while keeping the actual
print operation of job X suspended.
[0357] As shown in FIG. 10D, the control unit 205 causes the touch
panel section 401 to popup-display the window 2400D while the
display field 2300 displays information that the print operation of
job X is suspended.
[0358] The window 2400D is a display window configured to allow the
operator to determine whether to cancel the suspension of the print
operation in the printing system 1000 and resume the print
operation by the printer unit 203.
[0359] Assume that the operator designates a key 2402D in the
window 2400D. In this case, the control unit 205 ends the display
of the window 2400D without resuming the print operation by the
printer unit 203 while keeping the print operation suspended. The
control unit 205 causes the touch panel section 401 to display,
e.g., the window 2400A again. The control unit 205 controls the
touch panel section 401 to represent, in the job list of the window
2400A, that the print operation of job X is suspended.
[0360] In contrast, assume that the operator designates the key
2401D in the window 2400D. In this case, the control unit 205
cancels the suspension of the print operation in the printing
system 1000, and causes the printer unit 203 to resume the print
operation. By this control, the control unit 205 causes the
printing system 1000 to resume the actual print operation of job
X.
[0361] Assume that the operator has changed, via the window 2400C,
print processing conditions commonly concerning the print
operations of jobs including job X before the operator inputs an
instruction via the key 2401D in the window 2400D. In response to
the instruction from the user via the key 2401D, the control unit
205 causes the printing system 1000 to resume the actual print
operation of job X. At this time, the control unit 205 causes the
printing system 1000 to perform a print operation complying with
the setting-changed print processing conditions accepted before the
instruction from the user via the key 2401D. Upon completion of all
the printing of job X, the control unit 205 causes the printing
system 1000 to perform the print operation of job Y. Also in the
print operation of job Y, the control unit 205 causes the printing
system 1000 to perform a print operation complying with the
setting-changed print processing conditions. Upon completion of all
the printing of job Y, the control unit 205 causes the printing
system 1000 to perform the print operation of job Z. Also in the
print operation of job Z, the control unit 205 causes the printing
system 1000 to perform a print operation complying with the
setting-changed print processing conditions.
[0362] Note that various print processing conditions subjected to
setting change in the window 2400C are all exemplary.
[0363] As described above, after the operator checks the output
result of a checking print material by the checking print
operation, the control unit 205 can accept a change of print
processing conditions concerning the print operations of not only a
job having undergone the checking print but also other jobs. Then,
the control unit 205 can cause the printing system 1000 to print a
plurality of jobs under the setting-changed print processing
conditions.
[0364] In the embodiment, the printing system 1000 is configured to
be able to change only print processing conditions specific to a
job having undergone the checking print operation.
[0365] For example, the control unit 205 controls the touch panel
section 401 to display the window 2300A again while the printing
system 1000 resumes and continues the actual print operation of job
X performing the checking print, as described with reference to
FIG. 9F. The window 2300A, which can repetitively appear as long as
the actual print operation is in execution, has a display key to
select the print density.
[0366] Assume that the operator designates a print density
adjustment key 2301D in the redisplayed window 2300A shown n FIG.
9F while the actual print operation of job X is resumed and
continues.
[0367] In this manner, assume that the operator requests a change
of the print density for job X during the resume operation for the
print operation of job X. In this case, the control unit 205
controls the printing system 1000 to change the print density
midway along a series of print steps of job X and continue the
actual print operation of job X without stopping the actual print
operation of job X. For example, the control unit 205 controls the
printing system 1000 to print the print image of job X on a print
medium at the changed print density at the timing when the image of
job X is printed on a print medium fed from the paper feed unit
immediately after the operator designates the print density
adjustment key 2301D.
[0368] In this manner, the control unit 205 controls to
automatically change the print density midway along a series of
print steps in the actual print operation of job X in accordance
with a print density change instruction accepted via the window
2300A.
[0369] The control unit 205 causes the printer unit 203 to start
the print operation of job Y automatically after the actual print
operation of job X ends. In this case, the control unit 205
controls the printing system 1000 to perform print processing based
on a print density set by the operator for job Y in the print
operation of job Y.
[0370] The control unit 205 causes the printer unit 203 to start
the print operation of job Z automatically after the actual print
operation of job Y ends. Also in this case, the control unit 205
controls the printing system 1000 to perform print processing based
on a print density set by the operator for job Z in the print
operation of job Z.
[0371] As described above, the operator can also change
job-specific print processing conditions concerning a job having
undergone the checking print operation but not concerning other
jobs. The control unit 205 controls the printing system 1000 to
perform the print operation upon changing only the settings of the
print processing conditions of only the target job, and
automatically process subsequent jobs in order in their print
operations under job-specific printing conditions independently of
the setting change.
[0372] The printing system 1000 according to the embodiment is also
configured to meet the following request in addition to request
(1).
[0373] [Operator Request (2) Control Unit 205 Permits to Accept
Immediately After Performing Checking Print]
[0374] Request (2) is an operator request to stop (cancel) the
actual print operation of a job whose actual print operation has
resumed after performing the checking print operation.
[0375] Upon receiving request (2), the control unit 205 quickly
stops the actual print operation of a job whose actual print
operation has started immediately after performing the checking
print operation.
[0376] A concrete example of request (2) will be described.
[0377] Assume that the actual print operation of job X that has
resumed after the end of the checking print operation is in
execution in the printing system 1000. In this state, assume that
the operator selects a job of acceptance number 0001 corresponding
to job X from the job list in the window 2400A. In this case, the
control unit 205 highlights the display line of the job
information. Then, assume that the operator selects job X from the
job list and designates a stop key 2403A in the window 2400A. In
response to this key operation, the control unit 205 causes the
touch panel section 401 to display the window 2400F shown in FIG.
10E.
[0378] When the operator designates the stop key 2403A, the control
unit 205 causes the touch panel section 401 to popup-display the
window 2400F while the display field 2300 keeps displaying a
message that job X is during printing, as shown in FIG. 10E.
[0379] The window 2400F is a display window configured to allow the
operator to determine whether to cancel the print operation of a
job (job X in this example) in execution.
[0380] Assume that the operator designates a key 2402F in the
window 2400F. In this case, the control unit 205 causes the touch
panel section 401 to end the display of the window 2400F while
maintaining the print operation of job X in execution. The control
unit 205 causes the touch panel section 401 to display the window
2400A again.
[0381] Assume that the operator designates the key 2401F in the
window 2400F. In this case, the control unit 205 controls the
printing system 1000 to stop the print operation of job X in
execution. As the job stop processing, for example, the control
unit 205 controls the printing system 1000 to perform all the
following exemplary processes as the job stop process.
[0382] (Stop Processing 1) The control unit 205 controls the
printing apparatus 100 to stop the print operation of job X.
[0383] (Stop Processing 2) The control unit 205 controls the
printing apparatus 100 to erase 10-page print data of job X from
the HDD 209.
[0384] (Stop Processing 3) The control unit 205 controls the touch
panel section 401 to delete job information of job X from the job
list in the window 2400A.
[0385] As described above, when the operator uses the key 2401F to
input an instruction to stop processing for job X, the control unit
205 controls the printing system 1000 to perform the stop
processing (cancel processing) including (stop processing 1) to
(stop processing 3). When the operator designates the key 2401F,
the control unit 205 further performs the following control
operations.
[0386] (Control 1) The control unit 205 controls the printing
apparatus 100 so that the printer unit 203 automatically starts the
print operation of job Y immediately after performing the
above-mentioned cancel processing for job X. The control unit 205
controls the touch panel section 401 to update the display contents
of system configuration information in the window 2400A, and
reflect and display the start of the print operation of job Y in
the job list.
[0387] (Control 2) The control unit 205 controls the printing
apparatus 100 so that the printer unit 203 automatically starts the
print operation of job Z upon completion of the print operation of
job Y. The control unit 205 controls the touch panel section 401 to
update the display contents of the window 2400A, and reflect and
display the completion of the print operation of job Y and the
start of the print operation of job Z in the job list.
[0388] Assume that the actual print operation of job X stops. In
this case, for example, it is also possible to return the display
to one shown in FIG. 5 or 9A, and set printing conditions for job X
from the beginning. It is also possible to input job X again as a
job requiring a print operation complying with the changed print
processing conditions, and perform the print operation.
[0389] In this case, the control unit 205 controls the printing
system 1000 to process job X input again after the processes of
jobs Y and Z.
[0390] The printing system 1000 according to the embodiment is
configured to meet even the following request in addition to
request (2).
[0391] [Operator Request (3) Control Unit 205 Permits to Accept
Immediately After Performing Checking Print]
[0392] Request (3) is an operator request to cause the touch panel
section 401 to display detailed information on the actual print
operation of a job whose actual print operation has resumed after
performing the checking print operation.
[0393] The printing system 1000 according to the embodiment is
configured to meet even the following request in addition to
request (3).
[0394] [Operator Request (4) Control Unit 205 Permits to Accept
Immediately After Performing Checking Print]
[0395] Request (4) is an operator request to perform the checking
print of a job again while performing the actual print operation of
the job that has resumed after performing the checking print
operation.
[0396] A concrete example of request (4) has already been described
in detail with reference to FIG. 9F, and a description thereof will
not be repeated.
[0397] As exemplified with reference to FIGS. 10A to 10E, the
control unit 205 can selectively accept the above-described four
types of requests from the operator via the operation unit 204
immediately after causing the printing system 1000 to perform the
checking print operation. The control unit 205 can selectively
accept these four types of requests from the operator via the
operation unit 204 while the actual print operation of a job having
undergone the checking print operation resumes. Upon accepting one
of these requests, the control unit 205 controls the printing
system 1000 of the embodiment including the printing apparatus 100
to perform processing and an operation complying with the accepted
request.
[0398] As described with reference to FIG. 9F, the control unit 205
accepts a checking print request repetitively from the operator for
a job during printing, and determines the automatic checking print
execution condition as long as the print operation of the job
continues. However, the control unit 205 inhibits accepting a
checking print request from the operator for a job not during
printing, and does not determine the automatic execution
condition.
[0399] Assume that the control unit 205 causes the touch panel
section 401 to display the window 2400A shown in FIG. 10A in
response to an instruction via the key 2301 while the printing
system 1000 continues the actual print operation of job X.
[0400] Then, assume that the operator selects a job of acceptance
number 0001 corresponding to job X from the job list in the window
2400A while the actual print operation of job X is in execution. In
this case, the control unit 205 highlights the display line of the
job information in the job list.
[0401] In this manner, assume that the operator selects the job of
acceptance number 0001, i.e., job X during printing in the window
2400A. In this case, the control unit 205 controls the touch panel
section 401 to enable a key 2404A in the window 2400A, as shown in
FIG. 10A. When the operator designates the key 2404A, the control
unit 205 controls the touch panel section 401 to display the window
2300B shown in FIG. 9E again. When the operator inputs a checking
print request for job X again via the key 2304B, the control unit
205 causes the printing system 1000 to interrupt the actual print
operation of job X again and perform the second checking print of
job X, as described above. The control unit 205 can accept a
checking print request from the operator via the window 2400A. As a
result, the checking print operation can be performed a plurality
of number of times for a single job without using the redisplayed
window 2300A, as described with reference to FIG. 9F.
[0402] Assume that the operator selects a job not during printing
from the job list in the window 2400A. For example, the operator
selects job Y of acceptance number 0002 from the job list in the
window 2400A. When the operator selects the queued job in the
window 2400A, the control unit 205 controls the touch panel section
401 to disable the key 2404A in the window 2400A. As described
above, when the operator selects a job not during printing via the
operation unit 204, the control unit 205 controls the operation
unit 204 to inhibit accepting a checking print request from the
operator for the selected job. The control unit 205 controls the
printing system 1000 to neither interrupt the print operation of
job X nor perform the checking print operation of outputting the
print materials of jobs Y and Z.
[0403] As described with reference to FIGS. 10A to 10E and the
like, the configuration relevant to the checking print function of
the printing system 1000 according to the embodiment has the
following effects. More specifically, the operator can quickly,
visually check a checking print material output by the checking
print function for a job during printing in the printing system
1000. Even when the sheet feeding path in the printing system 1000
becomes long upon connecting a plurality of sheet processing
apparatuses to the printing apparatus 100 as shown in FIG. 3, the
operator can quickly, easily determine a job in progress and an
image during printing. Even when the output destination of the
print materials of a job during printing is an output destination
inside a sheet processing apparatus such as the large-volume
stacker or glue binding apparatus, the operator can quickly, easily
determine a job in progress and an image during printing. In
addition, all the processes can be periodically executed without
bothering the operator to be aware of the timings to perform them.
Even while the operator checks a checking print material, the
printing system 1000 can continue the print operation without
stopping it. Hence, the print operation can continue without
unnecessarily decreasing high operating ratio of the printing
system 1000.
[0404] The control unit 205 controls the printing system 1000 to
complete a plurality of jobs after changing print processing
conditions concerning a plurality of print jobs including a job
subjected to the checking print operation and subsequent jobs, as
described with reference to FIG. 10C. The embodiment can,
therefore, provide an effect capable of building a printing
environment where the qualities of the printing results of all jobs
do not unnecessarily degrade even if no processing condition is
changed individually for each job. The printing system 1000 is
configured to be able to quickly cancel the actual print operation
of job X when the checking printing result is undesirable, as
described with reference to FIG. 10E and the like. As an effect
obtained by the checking print operation, effects specific to a job
subjected to the checking print operation can also be attained. A
wasteful output can be suppressed as much as possible even in a
printing environment where it is important to process a plurality
of jobs at productivity as high as possible.
[0405] The control unit 205 causes the touch panel section 401 to
present the window 2300A configured to be able to display the key
2301A while the actual print operation is in execution in [step 1]
shown in FIG. 8.
[0406] Assume that the operator designates the active key 2301A as
in the window 2300A shown in FIG. 9D in the touch panel section 401
while printing of a target job is in progress. In step S115 of FIG.
16B (to be described later), the control unit 205 determines, based
on whether the operator has designated the active key 2301A,
whether the control unit 205 has accepted a checking print request
from the operator.
[0407] When the control unit 205 determines that the operator has
designated the key 2301A, it causes the touch panel section 401 to
display the window 2300B for selecting the type of checking print,
as shown in FIG. 9E. This corresponds to a case where the control
unit 205 determines YES in step S115 of FIG. 16B and advances the
process to step S116.
[0408] The state in which the touch panel section 401 displays the
window 2300B is the stage of [step 1] in FIG. 8, i.e., a state in
which the actual print operation of a job subjected to the checking
print operation continues.
[0409] Assume that the operator designates either the key 2301B or
key 2302B, and then the key 2304B in the window 2300B. This
corresponds to a case where the control unit 205 determines YES in
step S117 of FIG. 16B.
[0410] As described above, in response to a checking print start
instruction input when the operator designates the key 2304B, the
control unit 205 interrupts the actual print operation in execution
in the printing system 1000 for a job subjected to the checking
print. Upon completion of interrupting the actual print operation,
the control unit 205 causes the printing system 1000 to
automatically start a checking print of a type corresponding to
either the key 2301B or 2302B designated by the operator.
[0411] In the embodiment, when interrupting the actual print
operation, the control unit 205 controls the printing system 1000
to perform, for example, the following control as the actual print
operation interruption processing.
[0412] Assume that feed of print materials from the paper feed unit
of the printing system 1000 for the actual print operation has
already started upon receiving a checking print start instruction.
In this case, the control unit 205 controls the printer unit 203 to
print all the fed actual print materials. Further, the control unit
205 controls to discharge all the actual print materials of the
printed job to the output destination (delivery destination) of a
sheet processing apparatus used to hold the final product of the
job. Then, the control unit 205 controls to hold the final product
at the output destination.
[0413] In this manner, the control unit 205 causes the printing
system 1000 to perform the above-described interruption processing
if the printing system 1000 has already started feeding actual
print materials when the operator inputs a checking print request
or the automatic checking print execution condition is met.
[0414] The control unit 205 permits feeding a checking print medium
for the job from the paper feed unit of the printing system 1000
even when all the actual print materials, feed of which has already
started in the former or latter case, have not been discharged yet
to the output destination of actual print materials.
[0415] This can prevent any delay of the checking print execution
timing even if the print medium feeding path is long to some extent
in the printing system 1000, as shown in FIG. 3.
[0416] The printing system 1000 according to the embodiment is
configured to be able to start the checking print before the
completion of discharging, to the output destination in the
printing system 1000, all actual print materials which have already
been fed upon receiving a checking print request. This can prevent
generation of a trouble such as a delay of the timing when output
of a checking print material is completed due to a trouble such as
a delay of the checking print start timing. This can also prevent
generation of a trouble such as the influence on the productivity
of all jobs including not only a target job but also subsequent
jobs due to a delay of the timing when the operator visually checks
a checking print material or a delay of the timing when the actual
print operation resumes, which delays are caused by the
above-mentioned trouble.
[0417] In this manner, the control unit 205 controls the printing
system 1000 to feed a checking print material from the paper feed
unit even if feed of actual print materials has already started
upon receiving a checking print start instruction and not all the
actual print materials have been discharged to the output
destination.
[0418] As a concrete example, the system configuration in FIG. 3
will be exemplified. Assume that the target job is a job whose
print materials by the actual print operation are to be discharged
to output destination Z of the saddle stitching apparatus 200-3c in
FIG. 3. Assume that feed of the actual print materials of the job
from the paper feed deck 319 has just started upon receiving a
checking print start instruction.
[0419] In this case, for example, after confirming that actual
print materials, feed of which has already started, have passed
through point A in FIG. 3, the control unit 205 controls the
printing apparatus 100 so that the operator takes out the checking
print material of the job from the paper feed deck 319 and the feed
processing starts. On condition that the actual print materials
have passed through point A in FIG. 3, the control unit 205 starts
feeding the checking print material regardless of whether the
actual print materials have been discharged to delivery destination
(output destination) Z.
[0420] In this fashion, the control unit 205 allows the printing
system 1000 to start the checking print operation as quickly as
possible after interrupting the actual print operation. Hence, the
control unit 205 allows the printing system 1000 to perform the
checking print operation without unnecessarily delaying the start
of the checking print operation (by quickly starting the checking
print operation).
[0421] In the embodiment, the printing system 1000 is configured to
be able to perform the same operation as that of the
above-mentioned configuration even when the actual print operation
resumes after performing the checking print.
[0422] For example, referring back to FIG. 3, after confirming that
a checking print material has passed through point A in FIG. 3, the
control unit 205 controls the printing apparatus 100 so that the
operator takes out the actual print materials of the job from the
paper feed deck 319 and the feed processing starts. On condition
that the checking print material of the job having undergone the
checking print has passed through point A in FIG. 3, the control
unit 205 starts feeding print materials necessary for the actual
print operation of the job regardless of whether the checking print
material has been discharged to the delivery destination (output
destination).
[0423] As described above, the control unit 205 causes the printing
system 1000 to start the checking print operation from time TX
shown in FIG. 8 on the basis of a checking print start request or
automatic checking print execution instruction input when the
operator designates the key 2304B. The control unit 205 causes the
printing system 1000 to automatically resume the actual print
operation of the job having undergone the checking print upon
completion of the checking print, i.e., from time TY shown in FIG.
8. This resume processing corresponds to [step 3] shown in FIG.
8.
[0424] In the resume processing for the actual print operation of
the job, the control unit 205 controls the printing system 1000 to
print only unprocessed print data during the period immediately
before [step 2] shown in FIG. 8.
[0425] In the resume processing, the control unit 205 utilizes, as
information necessary for even the resume processing, information
which represents the process status (progress) of a target job and
is used by the control unit 205 as information necessary for the
display processing of the window 2300A. The control unit 205
controls to hold this information in the HDD 209 at least until the
printing system 1000 completes all the actual print operation of
the target job.
[0426] When the actual print operation resumes, the control unit
205 causes the touch panel section 401 to automatically display the
window 2300A again for the job. For example, the control unit 205
allows the touch panel section 401 to display the window 2300A for
the job during the resume operation for the actual print operation
in [step 3] shown in FIG. 8. Assume that the current timing falls
within the period from time immediately after the actual print
operation of a given job starts to time immediately before the
actual print operation of the job ends. In this case, the control
unit 205 controls the printing system 1000 to repetitively perform
the checking print operation of one job every time the operator
inputs a checking print request via the key 2301A displayed again
in the touch panel section 401, or the checking print is performed
automatically.
[0427] During the execution period of the actual print operation
which has resumed from time TY shown in FIG. 8 in the printing
system 1000, the control unit 205 selectively accepts the
above-mentioned operator requests (1) to (4) from the operator via
the operation unit 204. The control unit 205 allows the printing
system 1000 to perform processing corresponding to the accepted
request.
[0428] In the embodiment, the control unit 205 controls the
printing system 1000 to allow the operator to change the
above-described settings specific to the printing system 1000 while
continuing the actual print operation of the job that has resumed
from time TY shown in FIG. 8. For example, the control unit 205
accepts a request via the window 2400C shown in FIG. 10C to change
the settings specific to the printing system 1000 while the actual
print operation resumes in [step 3] shown in FIG. 8. In this case,
the control unit 205 controls the printing system 1000 to
automatically change the print operation processing conditions of
the job upon accepting the request. Also when performing the print
operations of subsequent jobs to be processed after the current
job, the control unit 205 controls the printing system 1000 to keep
processing the subsequent jobs under the setting-changed print
processing conditions accepted from the operator via the window
2400C.
[0429] Assume that the density of printing results gradually
decreases as a result of performing the checking print for the same
job repetitively at regular intervals. Even in this case, if the
operator changes settings via the window 2400C to increase the
density, the printing results of the job during printing and those
of subsequent jobs can be output at proper print density.
[0430] Flowcharts shown in FIGS. 16A, 16B, and 16C represent the
process of the checking print operation performed by the control
unit 205.
[0431] In step S101, the control unit 205 causes the touch panel
section 401 of the operation unit 204 to display the default window
of the printing system 1000 as shown in FIG. 5 after the printing
apparatus 100 is turned on. Then, the control unit 205 advances to
step S102.
[0432] In step S102, the control unit 205 causes the touch panel
section 401 of the operation unit 204 to display the key 1401 as
shown in FIG. 11A. The operator can designate the key 1401 to make
the initial setting of the automatic checking print. If the
operator designates the key 1401 to make the initial setting of the
automatic checking print, the control unit 205 advances to step
S103. If the operator does not make any initial setting, the
control unit 205 advances to step S104.
[0433] In step S103, the control unit 205 causes the touch panel
section 401 of the operation unit 204 to display a window
(automatic checking print initial setting window) as shown in FIG.
11B. The operator can make the initial setting of the automatic
checking print in the initial setting window. The operator can
input the number of sheets of a print job, at which the automatic
checking print function can be selected, in the area 1501 in the
automatic checking print initial setting window. An initial setting
input (set) in this window is applied to all print jobs after this
setting. Then, the control unit 205 advances to step S104.
[0434] In step S104, the control unit 205 accepts the settings of
various printing conditions in response to a key operation by the
operator via the operation unit 204. Then, the control unit 205
advances to step
[0435] In step S105, the control unit 205 obtains the number of
print sheets of the print job from the number of print pages of the
print job, and the number of copies serving as one of the printing
conditions set in step S104. The control unit 205 determines
whether the obtained number of print sheets meets the condition of
the number of sheets of the print job set in step S103 at which the
automatic checking print can be selected. If the obtained number of
print sheets is equal to or larger than the number of sheets of the
print job at which the automatic checking print can be selected,
the control unit 205 determines that the automatic checking print
can be performed for the print job. Then, the control unit 205
advances to step S106. If the obtained number of print sheets is
smaller than the number of sheets of the print job at which the
automatic checking print can be selected, the control unit 205
determines that no automatic checking print can be performed for
the print job. Then, the control unit 205 advances to step
S108.
[0436] In step S106, the control unit 205 causes the touch panel
section 401 of the operation unit 204 to display the window
(automatic checking print execution condition setting window) shown
in FIG. 12. If the operator designates the key 1601 in the
automatic checking print execution condition setting window, the
control unit 205 sets execution of the automatic checking print. If
the operator designates the OK key 1605 in this state, the control
unit 205 sets execution of the checking print, and advances to step
S108.
[0437] If the operator designates the OK key 1605 while designating
an OFF key 1602 in the automatic checking print execution condition
setting window, the control unit 205 advances to step S108 without
setting execution of the checking print. If the operator designates
the advanced setting key 1603, the control unit 205 advances to
step S107.
[0438] In step S107, the control unit 205 causes the touch panel
section 401 of the operation unit 204 to display the window
(automatic checking print execution condition advanced setting
window) shown in FIG. 13A. The operator can set a print execution
sheet count and print execution time in the automatic checking
print execution condition advanced setting window.
[0439] In step S107, the control unit 205 causes the touch panel
section 401 of the operation unit 204 to display the window shown
in FIG. 13B. If the operator designates the key 1705, the control
unit 205 controls to perform the first type checking print
operation. If the operator designates the key 1706, the control
unit 205 controls to perform the second type checking print
operation.
[0440] The control unit 205 writes the execution condition input by
the operator over a predetermined execution condition setting held
in advance, and holds the input execution condition. More
specifically, in step S106, the operator designates the key 1601 to
set execution of the checking print. However, if the operator does
not designate the advanced setting key 1603 so as not to make any
advanced setting in step S107, only execution of the automatic
checking print is set. A detailed execution condition complies with
a predetermined setting held in advance in the control unit
205.
[0441] The print execution sheet count of a print job is a
condition to perform the checking print automatically every time
the number of printed sheets reaches the number of sheets set as
the print execution sheet count when the automatic checking print
execution condition is determined.
[0442] If the operator sets the automatic checking print execution
condition in step S107, the control unit 205 sets execution of the
checking print in step S119 every set print execution sheet count
of a print job. For example, the total number of print sheets of a
job requiring printing of 10 copies each of 10 sheets is 100. If
the operator sets "30 sheets" as the print execution sheet count
via the key 1701, the control unit performs the checking print
every time the cumulative number of print sheets reaches 30, 60,
and 90.
[0443] Similarly, the print execution time of a print job is a
condition to perform the checking print automatically every time
the cumulative print execution time of a print job reaches the time
set as the print execution time when the automatic checking print
execution condition is determined.
[0444] In step S107, the control unit 205 sets execution of the
checking print in step S120 every set print execution time of a
print job. For example, when the operator sets "every 10 min" as
the print execution time, the checking print is performed every 10
min till the completion of printing after the start of printing the
print job.
[0445] The operator may also set either or both of the print
execution sheet count and print execution time. When the operator
sets both of the print execution sheet count and print execution
time, the control unit 205 sets the checking print if the condition
is satisfied in either of the processes in steps S119 and S120.
[0446] If the operator designates the key 1704 shown in FIG. 13A in
step S107, the control unit 205 displays the window shown in FIG.
13B. In this window, the operator sets the type of checking print
material when performing the checking print automatically on the
basis of the automatic checking print execution condition set in
the window shown in FIG. 13A. If the operator designates the "all
pages" key 1705, the control unit 205 holds the setting to print
all the pages of one copy in the print job as the checking print
target. If the operator designates the "one page (auto)" key 1706,
the control unit 205 holds the setting to print one page satisfying
the above-described condition as the checking print target.
[0447] If the control unit 205 detects that the operator has
designated the OK key 1708 in the window shown in FIG. 13B, it
holds the type of checking print. Then, the control unit 205
advances to step S108.
[0448] In step S108, the control unit 205 determines, based on
whether the operator has pressed the start key 503, whether it has
accepted a print start request for the target job.
[0449] Assume that the operator inputs a series of print processing
conditions via the operation unit 204 for the target job and then
presses the start key 503. In this case, the control unit 205
detects the print start request (input from the start key 503), and
determines YES in step S108. Then, the control unit 205 advances
the process from step S108 to step S109.
[0450] In step S109, the control unit 205 controls the touch panel
section 401 to popup-display the window (job process status window
& print status window) 2300A shown in FIG. 9D and the like as a
display representing the processing conditions (progress) of the
print start-requested job.
[0451] The control unit 205 controls the printing apparatus 100 to
perform a process in step S110 at the same time as (in parallel
with) performing the process in step S109.
[0452] Assume that the job requires a document scan operation by
the scanner unit 201. In this case, in step S110, the control unit
205 causes the scanner unit 201 to start the scan operation of the
job. The control unit 205 stores the print data of the scanned job
sequentially from the first page in the HDD 209. This storage
operation continues until the print data of the final page of the
job is stored in the HDD 209. The control unit 205 controls the
printing system 1000 to execute, in step S110, the operation of
storing print data of the print start-requested job in the HDD
209.
[0453] In step Sill, the control unit 205 causes the printer unit
203 to read out, from the HDD 209, the print data of the job for
which the print start request has been accepted in step S108, and
print based on the readout print data. In step Sill, the control
unit 205 controls the printing system 1000 to perform a print
operation complying with the series of print processing conditions
of the job that has been accepted from the operator in step S104.
Then, the control unit 205 advances to step S112.
[0454] The "print operation" performed in step Sill is the "actual
print operation".
[0455] The control unit 205 controls to keep holding the print data
of all the pages of the job in the HDD 209 until the printing
system 1000 completes all the actual print operation. The control
unit 205 controls the HDD 209 to allow using the print data of the
job held in the HDD 209, as needed.
[0456] Further, the control unit 205 controls the touch panel
section 401 to maintain the popup display of the window 2300A for
the job in step S109 while performing the process in step S111.
[0457] As described with reference to FIG. 9D, the control unit 205
controls the touch panel section 401 so that the display contents
of the window 2300A reflect in real time the actual process status
(progress) of the target job in the printing system 1000.
[0458] The control unit 205 sets, in the printer unit 203, a print
density set in the window 2300A displayed in step S109, and
reflects the set print density in the print job in execution
without stopping the print processing. Similarly when the print
density is changed, the control unit 205 sets the changed print
density in the printer unit 203, and quickly reflects it in the
print job in execution.
[0459] This control continues until the actual print job is
completed in step S113 after the window 2300A is displayed in step
S109.
[0460] In step S112, the control unit 205 determines whether the
operator has designated a stop key 2301C in the popup display of
the window 2300A for the job shown in FIG. 9D in order to stop the
print job in execution. Immediately when the operator designates
the stop key 2301C, the control unit 205 controls to stop
processing for the job by the printer unit 203. After the printing
by the printer unit 203 stops, the control unit 205 advances to
step S104 to allow making print settings for the print job.
[0461] The operator checks the print quality of a checking print
material obtained by the checking print executed during printing
(actual printing) of the print job, instead of the actual printing.
Immediately after the end of printing by the checking print
function, the actual printing resumes automatically. Thus, even
while the operator checks the result of the checking print
material, the actual printing is being executed. If the operator
who has checked the printing result of the checking print material
determines that the density is not proper, he operates the key
2301D in the window 2300A shown in FIG. 9D. Then, the operator can
change the density of actual print materials during printing. If a
quality other than the density is not proper, or no density can be
adjusted by the above-mentioned density adjustment, the operator
can designate the stop key 2301C to stop the print job in
execution. After the print setting is changed, printing of the
stopped print job is performed again.
[0462] In step S113, based on information from units (e.g., the
printer unit 203 and sheet processing apparatus 200) necessary to
process the job, the control unit 205 determines whether the
printing system 1000 completes the actual print operation of the
job that has started in step S111.
[0463] If the control unit 205 determines in step S113 that all the
actual print operation of the job is complete, it advances the
process from step S113 to step S114.
[0464] In step S114, the control unit 205 controls the touch panel
section 401 to end the popup display of the window 2300A (cancel
the popup window) for the job which has already started from the
stage of step S109.
[0465] The control unit 205 controls the touch panel section 401 to
automatically end the display of the window 2300A upon completion
of the actual print operation. Also when the operator designates a
"close" key in the window 2300A, the control unit 205 controls the
touch panel section 401 to end the display of the window 2300A.
After the end of the process in step S114, the control unit 205
returns to the process in step S101.
[0466] If the control unit 205 determines that all the actual print
operation of the target job is not complete in the printing system
1000, it advances the process from step S113 to step S115.
[0467] In step S115, the control unit 205 determines whether the
operator has input a checking print request to output the checking
print material of the job while the printer unit 203 continues the
actual print operation of the job in execution.
[0468] The determination in step S115 is based on whether the
operator has designated the "checking print" key 2301A in the
window 2300A that has been displayed in the touch panel section 401
for the job from the stage of step S109.
[0469] If the operator has not designated the key 2301A and the
control unit 205 determines that he has not input any checking
print request, the control unit 205 advances from step S115 to step
S118.
[0470] If the operator has designated the key 2301A and the control
unit 205 determines that he has input a checking print request, the
control unit 205 shifts the process from step S115 to step
S116.
[0471] In step S116, the control unit 205 causes the touch panel
section 401 to display the window 2300B representing the type of
checking print, as shown in FIG. 9E.
[0472] The control unit 205 causes the touch panel section 401 to
display the window 2300B shown in FIG. 9E while the printer unit
203 continues the actual print operation of the job in execution.
Then, the control unit 205 advances to step S117.
[0473] In step S117, the control unit 205 determines whether the
operator has input a checking print start instruction for the job
while continuing the actual print operation of the job.
[0474] The determination in step S117 is made by determining
whether the operator has designated the key 2304B in the window
2300B shown in FIG. 9E.
[0475] Assume that the control unit 205 determines in step S117
that the operator has neither designated the key 2304B nor input a
checking print start instruction. In this case, the control unit
205 waits until the operator selects the type of checking print in
the window 2300B, without advancing the process from step S117. In
this state, the control unit 205 controls the printing system 1000
so that the printer unit 203 continues the actual print operation
of the job in execution.
[0476] Assume that the operator selects either the first or second
type checking print operation with either the key 2301B or 2302B in
the window 2300B, and designates the key 2304B. In response to the
checking print start instruction input from the operator via the
key 2304B, the control unit 205 advances the process from step S117
to step S121.
[0477] In step S118, the control unit 205 determines whether the
automatic checking print execution condition has been set for the
print job in execution. If the control unit 205 determines in step
S118 that the automatic checking print execution condition has been
set in step S106, it advances to step S119 in order to confirm
whether the state of the print job in execution meets the execution
condition. If the control unit 205 determines, in step S118 based
on the setting in step S106, that no automatic checking print
execution condition has been set, it returns the process from step
S118 to step S112.
[0478] In step S119, the control unit 205 determines whether the
cumulative number of print sheets of the print job in execution
meets the automatic checking print execution condition set in step
S106. The control unit 205 compares the cumulative number of sheets
after the start of printing of the print job in execution with the
automatic checking print execution condition set in step S106 or
S107.
[0479] Assume that the operator sets printing of 10 copies of a
10-page original document as a print setting condition in step
S104. In this case, assume that the operator sets in step S107 to
perform the checking print every 20 copies.
[0480] If the cumulative number of print sheets of the print job in
execution meets this condition, the control unit 205 advances from
step S119 to step S121 to stop the print job in execution and start
the checking print. If the cumulative number of print sheets of the
print job in execution satisfies does not meet this condition, the
control unit 205 advances to step S120 in order to determine the
automatic checking print execution condition based on the print
execution time.
[0481] In step S120, the control unit 205 determines whether the
cumulative print time of the print job in execution meets the
automatic checking print execution condition set in step S106. The
control unit 205 compares the execution time till this
determination after the start of printing of the print job in
execution with the automatic checking print execution condition set
in step S106 or S107. If the cumulative print time of the print job
in execution meets the automatic checking print execution condition
as a result of the comparison, the control unit 205 advances to
step S121. If the cumulative print time of the print job in
execution does not meet the automatic checking print execution
condition, the control unit 205 returns the process to step S112
without performing the checking print.
[0482] In step S121, the control unit 205 interrupts the actual
print operation of the checking print-requested job. This actual
print operation is the print operation which has already started
from the stage of step S111 in the printing system 1000. The
control unit 205 controls the printing system 1000 to interrupt the
actual print operation.
[0483] In step S122, the control unit 205 controls the printing
system 1000 to automatically start the checking print operation of
outputting the checking print material of the job immediately after
interrupting (suspending) the actual print operation.
[0484] The control unit 205 controls the printing system 1000 to
print the same print data as print data subjected to the actual
print operation of the job on a print medium (also called print
paper or a sheet) necessary for the checking print operation
performed in step S122.
[0485] For this purpose, the control unit 205 controls the printing
apparatus 100 to utilize, even in step S122, print data which has
already been held in the HDD 209 by the process of step S110 and is
necessary for the actual print operation of the job, as described
above.
[0486] In the checking print operation performed in step S122,
print data of all pages necessary for the actual print operation
can be printed. This case corresponds to a case where the control
unit 205 controls the printing system 1000 to perform the first
type checking print operation in response to selection of the key
2301B.
[0487] In the checking print operation performed in step S122,
print data of one page out of print data necessary for the actual
print operation can also be printed. This case corresponds to a
case where the control unit 205 controls the printing system 1000
to perform the second type checking print operation in response to
selection of the key 2302B.
[0488] In this way, in step S122, the control unit 205 causes the
printing system 1000 to perform an operation designated by the
operator out of the first and second type checking print operations
described above.
[0489] After step S122, the control unit 205 executes the process
in step S123.
[0490] In step S123, the control unit 205 determines, based on
information from various sensors arranged on the sheet feeding path
in the printing system 1000, whether the checking print operation
of the job that has started in step S122 is complete.
[0491] If the control unit 205 determines in step S123 that the
checking print operation is not complete, it waits for the
completion of the checking print operation without shifting to the
next step.
[0492] If the control unit 205 determines in step S123 that the
checking print operation is complete, it advances the process from
step S123 to step S124.
[0493] In step S124, the control unit 205 executes a predetermined
notification means. By this operation, the control unit 205
notifies the operator at a distance from the printing apparatus 100
that the checking print has been performed. Upon receiving the
notification, the operator checks the quality of output
materials.
[0494] The notification means executed by the control unit 205 to
the operator in step S124 includes the following examples. That is,
there are a notification on the UI (User Interface) of an
application installed in the PC 104, and a notification on the UI
of a Web application activated on a Web browser which runs in a PC
on the network 101. There is also a notification by sending e-mail
to the operator. There are further notifications by notification
means such as the printing apparatus 100, a lamp or buzzer attached
to the printing apparatus 100, a display on the UI, and a display
on the UI of a terminal carried by the operator. A combination of
these notification means can more reliably notify the operator that
the checking print has been performed.
[0495] After notifying the operator by the notification means in
step S124 that the checking print has been performed, the control
unit 205 advances to step S125.
[0496] In step S125, the control unit 205 controls the printing
system 1000 to perform (continue) the actual print operation of the
job having undergone the checking print operation again from this
timing.
[0497] In the actual print operation of the job that resumes in
step S125, the control unit 205 controls the printing system 1000
not to print the print data of the job that have been processed
immediately before interrupting the print operation of the job in
step S121.
[0498] In step S125, the control unit 205 controls the printing
system 1000 to print only the remaining print data of the job that
have not been processed in the stage of step S121.
[0499] When performing again the actual print operation in step
S125, the control unit 205 controls the printing apparatus 100 to
utilize, even in step S125, print data which have already been held
in the HDD 209 in step S110 or the like and are necessary for the
actual print operation of the job, as described above.
[0500] After the process in step S125, the control unit 205
controls to return the process from step S125 to step S112.
[0501] If the process returns from step S125 to step S112, the
control unit 205 controls the touch panel section 401 to display
the window 2300A again on condition that the actual print operation
is not complete, as described with reference to FIG. 9F.
[0502] The control unit 205 controls the printing system 1000 to
shift the process again from step S113 to step S115 and perform the
processes in steps S115 to S125 again.
[0503] [Other Mechanisms]
[0504] A host computer (e.g., the PC 103 or 104) may also execute
an externally installed program to achieve the functions shown in
the drawings. In this case, data for displaying the same windows as
those described in the embodiment including respective windows are
externally installed to provide various user interface windows on
the display of the host computer.
[0505] For this purpose, a computer-readable storage medium which
stores software program codes for implementing the functions of the
above-described embodiment is supplied to a system or apparatus.
The computer (CPU or MPU) of the system or apparatus reads out and
executes the program codes stored in the storage medium, achieving
the object of the present invention. In this case, the program
codes read out from the storage medium implement new functions of
the present invention, and the storage medium which stores the
program codes constitutes the present invention. The program form
is arbitrary such as an object code, a program executed by an
interpreter, or script data supplied to an OS as long as a program
function is attained.
[0506] The storage medium for supplying the program includes a
flexible disk, hard disk, optical disk, magnetooptical disk, MO,
CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, magnetic tape, nonvolatile memory card, ROM,
and DVD. In this case, the program codes read out from the storage
medium implement the functions of the above-described embodiment,
and the storage medium which stores the program codes constitutes
the present invention.
[0507] As another program supply method, a client computer connects
to an Internet homepage via the browser of the client computer.
Then, the computer program of the present invention or a compressed
file containing an automatic installing function is downloaded from
the homepage to a recording medium such as a hard disk, thereby
supplying the program. The program can also be supplied by grouping
program codes which form the program of the present invention into
a plurality of files, and downloading the files from different
homepages. That is, the present invention also incorporates a WWW
server, FTP server, and the like which prompt a plurality of users
to download the program files for implementing functional processes
of the present invention by a computer.
[0508] The program of the present invention can be encrypted,
stored in a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, and distributed to a
user. A user who satisfies predetermined conditions is prompted to
download decryption key information from a homepage via the
Internet. The user executes the encrypted program using the key
information, and installs the program in the computer.
[0509] The functions of the above-described embodiment are
implemented when the computer executes the readout program codes.
Also, the functions of the above-described embodiment are
implemented when an OS (Operating System) or the like running on
the computer performs some or all of actual processes on the basis
of the instructions of the program codes.
[0510] Further, the functions of the above-described embodiment are
implemented in the following case. That is, the program codes read
out from the storage medium are written in the memory of a function
expansion board inserted into the computer or the memory of a
function expansion unit connected to the computer. The CPU of the
function expansion board or function expansion unit performs some
or all of actual processes on the basis of the instructions of the
program codes.
[0511] The present invention may also be applied to a system
including a plurality of devices or an apparatus formed by a single
device. The present invention can also be achieved by supplying a
program to the system or apparatus. In this case, the system or
apparatus can obtain the effects of the present invention by
providing, to the system or apparatus, a storage medium which
stores a software program for achieving the present invention.
[0512] The present invention is not limited to the above-described
embodiment, and various modifications (including organic
combinations of embodiments) can be made without departing from the
gist of the invention, and are not excluded from the scope of the
invention.
[0513] For example, in the embodiment, jobs controlled by the
checking print function may also include a "print job for printing"
issued from a PC application. In this case, the job also contains a
form of instructing the checking print for the print job saved in
the hard disk.
[0514] The embodiment has exemplified a configuration in which the
control unit 205 of the printing apparatus 100 performs the
above-described control operations. However, another control unit
different from the control unit 205 may also execute some or all of
the control operations described above. Examples of another control
unit different from the control unit 205 are the external
controller of a housing different from the printing apparatus 100,
the CPU of a remote external apparatus such as the PC 104, and the
CPU of an inline finisher. This configuration can further improve
the effect capable of building a flexible printing environment
complying with a printing environment where the printing system
1000 may be installed.
[0515] The embodiment can provide a convenient printing system with
an eye toward a future digital printing system. For example, the
embodiment can establish a convenient, flexible printing
environment capable of coping with use cases and needs assumed in a
POD environment described in Description of the Related Art. The
embodiment can provide various mechanisms toward practical
application of the printing system.
[0516] Various examples and embodiments of the present invention
have been described. It is apparent to those skilled in the art
that the spirit and scope of the invention are not limited to a
specific description in this specification.
[0517] While the present invention has been described with
reference to exemplary embodiments, it is to be understood that the
invention is not limited to the disclosed exemplary embodiments.
The scope of the following claims is to be accorded the broadest
interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and
equivalent structures and functions. This application claims the
benefit of Japanese Patent Application No. 2007-229457 filed Sep.
4, 2007, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its
entirety.
* * * * *