U.S. patent application number 13/345794 was filed with the patent office on 2012-05-03 for image processing apparatus, computer program product, and preview image displaying method.
Invention is credited to Hiroko MANO, Takanori NAGAHARA, Iwao SAEKI, Tetsuya SAKAYORI, Yoshifumi SAKURAMATA, Junichi TAKAMI, Takashi YANO.
Application Number | 20120105891 13/345794 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39762369 |
Filed Date | 2012-05-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120105891 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
MANO; Hiroko ; et
al. |
May 3, 2012 |
Image Processing Apparatus, Computer Program Product, and Preview
Image Displaying Method
Abstract
In an image processing apparatus, preview images are generating
by continuously scanning both sides of originals. The page
scrolling unit scrolls the preview images while pairing a first
preview image to be processed with a second preview image that is
not processed as pages of front and back sides of an original or a
two-page spread, and a preview displaying unit displays at least
one of the first preview image and the second image.
Inventors: |
MANO; Hiroko; (Tokyo,
JP) ; SAKAYORI; Tetsuya; (Tokyo, JP) ; YANO;
Takashi; (Tokyo, JP) ; TAKAMI; Junichi;
(Kanagawa, JP) ; SAEKI; Iwao; (Kanagawa, JP)
; SAKURAMATA; Yoshifumi; (Tokyo, JP) ; NAGAHARA;
Takanori; (Kanagawa, JP) |
Family ID: |
39762369 |
Appl. No.: |
13/345794 |
Filed: |
January 9, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12043195 |
Mar 6, 2008 |
8115968 |
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13345794 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
358/1.13 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04N 1/40 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
358/1.13 |
International
Class: |
G06F 15/00 20060101
G06F015/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Mar 14, 2007 |
JP |
2007-065694 |
Claims
1. An image processing apparatus comprising: a preview image
generating unit that generates preview images by continuously
scanning both sides of originals; a page scrolling unit that
scrolls the preview images while pairing a first preview image to
be processed according to a predetermined setting with a second
preview image that is not processed as pages of any one of front
and back sides of an original and a two-page spread; and a preview
displaying unit that displays at least one of the first preview
image and the second image.
2. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further
comprising a process setting position changing unit that changes a
process setting position on the first preview image for performing
a process according to the predetermined setting depending on
whether the first preview image is on a front side or a back side
of the original when the process setting position changes between
the front side and the back side in the process.
3. The image processing apparatus according to claim 2, further
comprising a notifying unit that notifies a user of a variation in
the process setting position between the front side and the back
side.
4. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the
page scrolling unit scrolls the preview images in units of any one
of front and back sides of an original and the two-page spread,
while switching the first preview image and the second preview
image.
5. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further
comprising a switching unit that switches the first preview image
and the second preview image that is paired with the first preview
image.
6. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the
preview displaying unit displays the first preview image and the
second preview image to be arranged adjacent to each other.
7. The image processing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the
preview displaying unit displays the first preview image and the
second preview image in a shape like a folding screen.
8. The image processing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the
preview displaying unit displays the first preview image to be
larger than the second preview image.
9. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the
preview displaying unit entirely displays the first preview image,
and partially displays the second preview image.
10. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein
the preview displaying unit displays the second preview image
transparently with respect to the first preview image.
11. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein
the preview displaying unit displays the second preview image as a
mirrored image with respect to the first preview image.
12. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein
the preview displaying unit displays only the first preview
image.
13. The image processing apparatus according to claim 12, further
comprising a replacing unit that replaces the first preview image
with the second preview image.
14. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein
the preview displaying unit further displays other preview images
on prior and next pages of a pair of the first preview image and
the second preview image.
15. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein
the preview displaying unit displays the second preview image with
a symbol image.
16. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further
comprising a rotation unit that rotates, when a shorter side of a
preview image is specified as an axis of the two-page spread, the
preview image by 90 degrees with respect to a preview image whose
longer side is specified as an axis of the two-page spread.
17. A computer program product comprising a computer usable medium
having computer readable program codes embodied in the medium that,
when executed, causes an image processing apparatus to execute:
generating preview images by continuously scanning both sides of
originals; scrolling the preview images while pairing a first
preview image to be processed according to a predetermined setting
with a second preview image that is not processed as pages of any
one of front and back sides of an original and a two-page spread;
and displaying at least one of the first preview image and the
second image.
18. The computer program product according to claim 17, further
causing the image processing apparatus to execute, changing a
process setting position on the first preview image for performing
a process according to the predetermined setting depending on
whether the first preview image is on a front side or a back side
of the original when the process setting position changes between
the front side and the back side in the process.
19. The computer program product according to claim 18, further
causing the image processing apparatus to execute, notifying a user
of a variation in the process setting position between the front
side and the back side.
20. A preview image displaying method comprising: generating
preview images by continuously scanning both sides of originals;
scrolling the preview images while pairing a first preview image to
be processed according to a predetermined setting with a second
preview image that is not processed as pages of any one of front
and back sides of an original and a two-page spread; and displaying
at least one of the first preview image and the second image.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application claims priority to and incorporates
by reference the entire contents of Japanese priority document
2007-065694 filed in Japan on March 14, 2007.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to an image processing
apparatus, a computer program product, and a preview image
displaying method.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] A multi-function product, which is a so-called
multi-function peripheral (MFP), has recently become widely used.
An MFP includes a scanning unit that scans an image of an original,
a copying unit that prints out an image read by the scanning unit,
a printing unit or a facsimile unit that prints out image data that
has been input externally, or provided with functions of the
foregoing units.
[0006] With such an MFP, a user can enter settings for various
functions. These functions include: settings relating to conditions
of an original, such as a type or density thereof; settings
relating to various imaging processes, such as an
enlargement/reduction ratio, one-sided or double-sided printing, or
margin sizes; and settings relating to finishing processes, such as
stamping, stapling, or punching.
[0007] However, even if the user specifies settings for these
finishing functions, known MFPs do not allow the user to check how
a resultant printout will be until the resultant printout is
actually output. For example, if the user attempts to punch holes
on the printout, the holes may end up being punched on an output
image. However, because the user cannot check such an end result
before executing the actual printing, the operation may result in a
misprint, and the paper may be wasted.
[0008] Japanese Patent Application Laid-open No. 2001-67347
discloses an image processing apparatus developed in an attempt to
solve this problem. The image processing apparatus displays a
preview image of end results of various functions (such as a
printing paper size, a printed side(s) thereof, punching, or
stapling) provided using a pre-scanned image of an original before
executing actual printing. This preview feature allows the user to
check how the output result will be, and to change the settings if
necessary.
[0009] The applicant of the present application has developed an
intuitive and convenient user interface in Japanese Patent
Application Laid-open No. 2006-003568. This interface enables the
user to touch a specific area of the preview image of an original
to cause a menu related to that area to be displayed, and to select
functions related thereto (such as a printing paper, a printed
side(s), punching, stapling, output color, output density,
enlargement/reduction ratio, printing multiple pages per sheet, and
sorting/stacking), and the selected settings are immediately
reflected onto the preview image.
[0010] Upon printing images onto a plurality of printing paper
sheets, the front side and the back side of the paper need to be
distinguished because images printed thereon are interrelated to
each other. However, it is difficult for the user to determine if
the image displayed on a screen is a front side image or a back
side image. In addition, upon binding a plurality of sheets, such
as by stapling, the user needs to be able to check if each of the
sheets is oriented correctly, and if a given page is in a correct
position with respect to the page prior to or the page next to that
page in question.
[0011] In addition, upon scanning and processing originals with
images printed thereon, pages of the originals could be arranged
out of order, unlike image data that is created on a computer and
is arranged in order. For example, the front side images and the
back side images may be mixed up; some pages may be oriented
incorrectly; or some pages may be placed in an incorrect position
with respect to the page prior to or next to the page in question.
Therefore, it is important for the user to be able to check how an
end result will be.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0012] It is an object of the present invention to at least
partially solve the problems in the conventional technology.
[0013] According to an aspect of the present invention, there is
provided an image processing apparatus including a preview image
generating unit that generates preview images by continuously
scanning both sides of originals; a page scrolling unit that
scrolls the preview images while pairing a first preview image to
be processed according to a predetermined setting with a second
preview image that is not processed as pages of any one of front
and back sides of an original and a two-page spread; and a preview
displaying unit that displays at least one of the first preview
image and the second image.
[0014] According to another aspect of the present invention, there
is provided a preview image displaying method including generating
preview images by continuously scanning both sides of originals;
scrolling the preview images while pairing a first preview image to
be processed according to a predetermined setting with a second
preview image that is not processed as pages of any one of front
and back sides of an original and a two-page spread; and displaying
at least one of the first preview image and the second image.
[0015] According to still another aspect of the present invention,
there is provided a computer program product including a computer
usable medium having computer readable program codes embodied in
the medium that, when executed, causes an image processing
apparatus to execute: the above preview image displaying
method.
[0016] The above and other objects, features, advantages and
technical and industrial significance of this invention will be
better understood by reading the following detailed description of
presently preferred embodiments of the invention, when considered
in connection with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of a MFP according to a
first embodiment of the present invention;
[0018] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an example of end result
information (preview image);
[0019] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of the example end result
information shown in FIG. 2 after a setting menu item has been
selected;
[0020] FIG. 4 is a table showing relation between a setting item
and a settable area;
[0021] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of an example of the end
result information shown in FIG. 3 with holes punched;
[0022] FIGS. 6A to 6C are schematic diagrams for explaining an
exemplary preview image scrolling method according to the first
embodiment;
[0023] FIGS. 7A and 7B are schematic diagrams of preview images
displayed as two-page spreads with the shorter sides of the preview
images used as an axis;
[0024] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of preview images having a
detailed image and summary images, both of which are zoomed-in;
[0025] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of preview images where a
summary image is displayed transparently with respect to a detailed
image;
[0026] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of preview images where a
summary image is displayed as a mirrored image with respect to a
detailed image;
[0027] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of preview images where a
summary image is displayed adjacent to a detailed image to form a
shape like a folding screen;
[0028] FIGS. 12A to 12C are schematic diagrams for explaining an
exemplary preview image scrolling method according to a second
embodiment of the present invention;
[0029] FIGS. 13A to 13C are schematic diagrams for explaining an
exemplary preview image scrolling method according to a third
embodiment of the present invention;
[0030] FIGS. 14A to 14C are schematic diagrams for explaining an
exemplary preview image scrolling method according to a fourth
embodiment of the present invention;
[0031] FIGS. 15A and 15B are schematic diagrams for explaining an
exemplary preview image scrolling method according to a fifth
embodiment of the present invention;
[0032] FIG. 16 is a block diagram of a schematic structure of a
printing system according to a sixth embodiment of the present
invention;
[0033] FIG. 17 is a block diagram of a schematic structure of a
personal computer shown in FIG. 16;
[0034] FIG. 18 is a block diagram of a schematic structure of a
printer shown in FIG. 16;
[0035] FIG. 19 is a block diagram of a relevant portion of the
personal computer shown in FIG. 17; and
[0036] FIG. 20 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary display
screen presented by a printer driver according to the sixth
embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0037] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention are explained
in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0038] A first embodiment of the present invention is explained
with reference to FIGS. 1 to 6. In the first embodiment, a
multifunction peripheral (MFP), including functions such as coping,
facsimile, printing, scanning, and distributing, is used as the
image processing apparatus. The distributing function is a function
that distributes an input image (such as an image of an original
scanned by the scanning function, or an image input via the
printing or the facsimile function).
[0039] FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of an MFP 10 according
to the first embodiment. The MFP 10 includes a scanner 11, an auto
document feeder (ADF) 111, a scanner controller 112, an image
storage unit 12, an image processing unit 13, a printer 14, a
printer controller 142, a finishing processor 141, an operation
displaying unit 15, an operation displaying unit controller 151, a
system controlling unit 16, and a communication controlling unit
17. The MFP 10 is connected to a network 18 via the communication
controlling unit 17. The MFP 10 scans an image of an original 19,
performs imaging processes thereto, and outputs the image as a
printout 20.
[0040] The system controlling unit 16 is connected to each of the
above-described components, and controls the entire MFP 10. One
example of the controls performed by the system controlling unit 16
is to provide the scanner 11 with information indicative of a
scanning area suitable for a selected paper size. The system
controlling unit 16 includes a central processing unit (CPU), a
read-only memory (ROM), and a random access memory (RAM), each of
which is not shown. The CPU operates according to computer programs
that are stored in the ROM, using a working area in the RAM, to
execute various functions.
[0041] The computer programs executed in the MFP 10 can be stored
in a computer-readable storage medium, such as a compact disc-read
only memory (CD-ROM), a flexible disk (FD), a compact
disc-recordable (CD-R), or a digital versatile disk (DVD) as files
in an installable or an executable format. If the computer programs
are stored in such a storage medium, the CPU in the system
controlling unit 16 reads and loads the computer programs from the
storage medium onto a main storage device (not shown), to realize
the various functions of the MFP 10. The computer programs can be
stored in another computer connected to the network 18, such as an
Internet, and downloaded over the network 18. Alternatively, the
computer programs can be provided or distributed via a network,
such as the Internet.
[0042] The communication controlling unit 17 is connected to the
network 18, such as a local area network (LAN) or the Internet, and
exchanges image data and control data with other apparatus
connected to the network, following communication protocols.
[0043] The scanner controller 112 receives instructions from the
system controlling unit 16 to control the scanner 11. The scanner
11 is controlled by the scanner controller 112 to convert an image
of the original 19 to digital image data. The ADF 111 can feed a
plurality of originals to a scanning position of the scanner 11 one
by one, so that the scanner 11 can automatically scan the originals
continuously. The ADF 111 can reverse both an original with an
image printed on one side and an original with images printed on
both sides, and send them to the scanner 11. Therefore, the scanner
11 can scan images printed on both sides of an original.
[0044] The image storage unit 12 is a buffer memory that receives
an instruction from the system controlling unit 16 to temporarily
store therein image data scanned by the scanner 11, image data
externally input via the network 18, or the like. The MFP 10 is
capable of processing and providing an image forming process to
either the image data scanned by the scanner 11, or the image data
that is externally input, for example, via the network 18.
[0045] The image processing unit 13 receives an instruction from
the system controlling unit 16 to provide a y correction, a
modulation transfer function (MTF) correction, or the like, and
then to provide gradation processes, such as slicing or dithering
to binarize (or multi-value) multi-valued data sent from the
scanner 11 and stored temporarily in the image storage unit 12. In
addition to the above, the image processing unit 13 performs
various image processes (such as enlargement/reduction of an image,
adjustment of density/colors of an image) for the functions set by
a user. Furthermore, the image processing unit 13 performs an image
area editing process (such as removing, moving, and reversing an
image area), a layout process (such as double-sided/single-sided
printing, multiple-pages-per-sheet printing, and margin
adjustment), and an end-result information generating process for
generating a preview image of the resultant printout.
[0046] The image processing unit 13 includes an end-result
information generator 131, an input-screen information generator
132, and a setting unit 133. The end-result information generator
131 basically functions to generate the end result information
(preview images) to be displayed on a display panel 15b. The end
result information is generated by providing various processes and
settings to the image data of a pre-scanned original, based on the
various settings input for that image data. The end-result
information generator 131 uses the multi-valued data temporarily
stored in the image storage unit 12. The input-screen information
generator 132 generates information about an input screen to be
displayed on the display panel 15b. The information includes
setting items for receiving therethrough various settings relating
to the end result information generated by the end-result
information generator 131.
[0047] If a user enters settings via an input screen 400 that is
displayed on the display panel 15b, using a touch panel 15a, the
setting unit 133 not only receives the input signals, but also
obtains coordinate information in the input image stored in the
image storage unit 12.
[0048] When the setting unit 133 receives the input setting
signals, the end-result information generator 131 generates updated
end result information again based on the input setting signals
received by the setting unit 133, and an expected end result image,
updated by the updated end result information, is displayed on the
display panel 15b.
[0049] The input-screen information generator 132 generates input
screen information for generating a screen for receiving settings
input by the user, again, based on the input setting signals
received by the setting unit 133. The input screen 400 is then
updated based on the input screen information generated by the
input-screen information generator 132, and displayed on the
display panel 15b.
[0050] The printer controller 142 receives an instruction from the
system controlling unit 16 to control the printer 14. The printer
14 includes the finishing processor 141. The finishing processor
141 receives automatic settings or settings by the user to perform
finishing processes such as sorting, stamping, stapling, or
punching. Sorting is a process to sort the printouts 20 into sets
or units of pages after printing is completed. Stamping is a
process to provide a given stamp to a printed medium. Stapling is a
process to align a plurality of printed media and to staple
together. Punching is a process to punch holes so that the printed
media can be filed in a binder or a file.
[0051] The operation displaying unit controller 151 functions as a
displaying unit, and controls inputs and outputs to/from the
operation displaying unit 15 in response to the instructions
received from the system controlling unit 16. For example, the
operation displaying unit controller 151 controls to output data
processed in the image processing unit 13 therefrom to the touch
panel 15a and the display panel 15b that are provided to the
operation displaying unit 15. More specifically, the operation
displaying unit controller 151 causes the generated end result
information (preview image) to be displayed on the display panel
15b, and controls inputs entered by the user via the touch panel
15a. The display panel 15b and the touch panel 15a are shown to be
separate units in FIG. 1. However, they are integrated in the first
embodiment.
[0052] The touch panel 15a electrically or magnetically detects a
position of a pointer in contact therewith. A human finger, a
stylus pen, and other contact-type input instruments (hereinafter,
"pointer") can be used as a pointing unit (not shown) for the touch
panel 15a. The user enters various settings, including those for
the printing, by touching the touch panel 15a using one of these
pointers.
[0053] In the first embodiment, the settings are explained to be
input by the user touching the touch panel 15a, however, it is not
limited to such an inputting method. For example, in addition to
the touch panel 15a, the operation displaying unit 15 can include
hardware keys to allow the user to input the settings by pushing
the physical keys to provide instructions, such as a print
instruction. Moreover, the MFP 10 can include the display panel 15b
as a dedicated displaying unit.
[0054] Under the control of the operation displaying unit
controller 151, the operation displaying unit 15 receives the
settings input by the user via the touch panel 15a, and displays
the end result information (preview image) or menu items in a
setting area for setting finishing processes on the display panel
15b as a displaying unit.
[0055] The operation displaying unit 15 displays functions that the
user wishes to execute with the MFP 10 as menu items in the setting
screen. The user can enter settings through these menu items, and
the operation displaying unit 15 receives the settings entered by
the user. When the user touches the touch panel 15a with a pointer
in a section where a menu item can be selected, the operation
displaying unit controller 151 detects coordinates of the touched
point. If the operation displaying unit controller 151 detects that
the touched point is within an area where a given menu item can be
selected, then the operation displaying unit controller 151 assumes
that the menu item has been selected, and accepts the input for the
menu item. The operation displaying unit 15 receives settings, such
as: condition settings for scanning a specific original with the
scanner 11; settings for the image processing unit 13 for
performing processes such as image quality adjustment of the
scanned image data; printing condition settings for the printer 14;
or settings for the finishing processor 141 for performing
finishing processes such as sorting, stapling, or punching, to the
printouts after printing is completed.
[0056] The system controlling unit 16 receives various settings
such as those described above via the operation displaying unit
controller 151, and causes the image processing unit 13 to process
the original image data that is stored in the image storage unit 12
based on the specified settings, and to generate end result
information (preview image). The end result information (preview
image) is sent to the operation displaying unit 15, and displayed
on the display panel 15b.
[0057] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an example of end result
information (preview image) generated when image data is input to
the MFP 10. FIG. 2 is an example of displayed end result
information obtained by continuously scanning both sides of the
originals by the scanner 11. End result information (preview image)
401 and setting menu items 402 are displayed on the display panel
15b in the operation displaying unit 15. Page-forward and page-back
buttons 600 enable the user to scroll the pages in a back and
forward direction.
[0058] In this example, as mentioned above, both sides of the
originals are scanned by the scanner 11. Therefore, the input
screen 400, displayed on the display panel 15b, includes a
plurality of end result information (preview images) 401, and the
images are arranged in the order scanned by the scanner 11. The
user can input various settings to end result information (preview
image) 401a among the end result information (preview images) 401.
The end result information (preview image) 401a is enlarged in size
and is called a "detailed image". Other secondary end result
information (preview images) 401, except for the end result
information (preview image) 401a, are called "summary images". In
FIG. 2, the end result information (preview image) 401a shows an
image of the front side of a first sheet (the first page); the end
result information (preview image) 401b shows an image of the back
side of the first sheet (the second page); the end result
information (preview image) 401c shows an image of the front side
of a second sheet (the third page); and the end result information
(preview image) 401d shows an image of the back side of the second
sheet (the fourth page). In this manner, a preview displaying unit
is realized.
[0059] According to the first embodiment, the detailed image is
positioned adjacent to one of the summary images to form a pair, at
an approximate center of the input screen 400. Nearby this pair,
the remaining pair of the summary images is arranged. In FIG. 2,
which is showing an initial state of the input screen 400, a pair
of summary images is shown only at the right side at the center.
However, the pair of summary images can be also displayed at the
left upon the user scrolling the pages.
[0060] The setting menu items 402 include those for a menu 402a and
a menu 402b. The menu 402a is displayed on the right side of the
screen, and includes position-dependent setting menu items that are
dependent on positions in the end result information (preview
image) 401. Examples of the position-dependent setting menu items
include finishing processes, such as stapling, punching, adjusting
binding margins, erasing a frame, stamping, or assigning page
numbers. The menu 402b is displayed on the left side of the
display, and includes setting menu items that are not dependent on
content, such as output color, output density, paper size,
enlargement/reduction ratio, double-sided/single-sided printing,
multiple-pages-per-sheet printing, sorting/stacking, or
background.
[0061] The user touches the touch panel 15a with the pointer while
looking at the end result information (preview image) 401 displayed
on the display panel 15b. The touch panel 15a accepts the touch
made by the pointer as an input of position information, which is a
spatial position of the resultant printout on the end result
information (preview image) 401. The setting unit 133 analyzes the
position information accepted by the touch panel 15a, and obtains
coordinate information of the position that the pointer touched on
the image.
[0062] With such structure, the MFP 10 can display the end result
information (preview image) 401 on the display panel 15b provided
to the operation displaying unit 15 of the MFP 10 before actually
printing a copy. Therefore, the user can visually check the end
result information (preview image) and change the settings, if
necessary, before executing the actual printing.
[0063] As shown in FIG. 3, it is assumed that the user selects a
punching operation 403 from the setting menu items 402 (402a),
displayed on the operation displaying unit 15, by touching it.
[0064] The operation displaying unit 15 detects the input for the
punching operation 403, and the system controlling unit 16 accepts
the setting of the punching operation 403 via the operation
displaying unit controller 151. The input-screen information
generator 132 in the image processing unit 13 obtains settable
areas 404 and 405, corresponding to the "punching", from a table
shown in FIG. 4 in which each of the setting menu items 402 and its
settable positions are associated with each other, and displays the
settable areas 404 and 405 on the operation displaying unit 15. The
settable areas 404 and 405, where the holes can be punched, can be
displayed in the end result information (preview image) 401 in any
manner. For example, the settable areas 404 and 405 can be
displayed so that they are superposed on the end result information
401 or they are overwritten on the end result information 401.
Alternatively, the settable areas 404 and 405 can be provided with
a color different from that of the end result information 401,
blinked, or the area except the settable areas 404 and 405 can be
darkened. The settable positions in the table shown in FIG. 4 are
defined as two coordinate points defining a diagonal. The diagonal
connecting these two coordinate points defines a rectangle having
one side parallel to a main scanning direction and the other side
parallel to a sub-scanning direction. For example, the settable
areas for the "stapling" operation are defined by coordinates (0,
0) and (40, 40), and (120, 0) and (160, 40).
[0065] The user selects and touches the settable area 404 as shown
in FIG. 3 with the pointer. When the operation displaying unit 15
accepts the input by way of the pointer touching the settable area
404 for the punching operation 403, the end-result information
generator 131 in the image processing unit 13 generates end result
information (preview image) with holes punched in the accepted
area, and sends the information to the operation displaying unit
15. In response, the information is displayed on the operation
displaying unit 15. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of the end result
information (preview image) 401 with holes 406 punched. The end
result information (preview image) 401, displayed in the process
described above, can accept further inputs for settings, for
example, to make corrections. The accepted settings are reflected
to the end result information (preview image) 401 again, and
displayed on the operation displaying unit 15. If no further
setting inputs are accepted, a print instruction is accepted.
[0066] In FIG. 5, the end result information (preview images) 401
are shown to be punched with the holes 406. The end result
information (preview image) 401 of the first page has the holes on
the left side, and the end result information (preview image) 401
of the second page has the holes on the right side. In other words,
according to the first embodiment, a processed position or area, or
a position where a given process is affected, can be displayed on
both pages of front and back sides of an original, or of a two-page
spread, at areas associated with that given process. In addition,
as shown in FIG. 5, if the processes are those whose processed
position changes depending on whether the page is a front side or a
back side of an original, or a right page or a left page of a
two-page spread, the processed position can be changed depending on
whether the page selected for operation is on the front side or the
back side. Example of such a process, for which the processed
position changes depending on whether the page is on the front side
or the back side, include settings for binding (stapling or
punching), margins, and those for moving or deleting an image. In
this manner, a process setting position changing unit is
realized.
[0067] When a user selects a function that leads to different
results depending on which side of an original the process is
provided to, a message can be provided in a pop-up window, a
dialogue, or a description section, prompting the user to
distinguish the sides of the page or to check the settings for the
selected function. Furthermore, not only prompting the user, but
the settable information can be also displayed for the function
whose processed position changes depending on which side of an
original the process is provided to. For example, it is assumed
herein that the user touched the upper end of the end result
information (preview image) 401 (401a) when a back side is being
displayed. It is acceptable to provide staples to the specified
position if the displayed page were a front side. However, it is
not acceptable to provide staples to the specified position on a
back side. Therefore, other functions that are acceptable to
provide at the upper end of the back side can be displayed, as well
as a dialogue saying "the current image is a back side". In
addition, the stapling menu can be provided at the bottom end of
the end result information (preview image) 401 (401a). It is also
effective to prompt the user, for example using a dialogue, for a
function, such as margin settings, whose settings affect the
settings of the other side. In this manner, a notifying unit is
realized.
[0068] The configuration can be such that when the user touches a
specific area (not shown) in the preview image, menu items relating
to the area is displayed. When the user selects one of the menu
items, the selection can be immediately reflected to the preview
image.
[0069] A preview image scrolling process, which is a characterizing
process performed by the CPU in the system controlling unit 16
executing the computer programs stored in the ROM is explained.
[0070] As shown in FIG. 2, at an initial state, a detailed image is
positioned adjacent to a summary image to form a pair, at the
approximate center of the input screen 400. Nearby this pair,
another pair of the summary images is arranged.
[0071] At this initial state, if the user operates any of the
page-forward and page-back buttons 600, the operation displaying
unit 15 detects the input to the page-forward and page-back buttons
600 by way of the user touching thereto. Via the operation
displaying unit controller 151, the system controlling unit 16
receives the operation of the page-forward and page-back buttons
600. Upon receiving the operation performed by the page-forward and
page-back buttons 600, the system controlling unit 16 controls the
input-screen information generator 132 in the image processing unit
13, and causes the input-screen information generator 132 to
generate the input screen 400 having the end result information
(preview images) 401 with a page scrolled in a forward or backward
direction. The resultant input screen 400 is then displayed on the
operation displaying unit 15 via the operation displaying unit
controller 151.
[0072] One example of a method for generating the input screen 400
in the input-screen information generator 132 is explained. The
input screen 400 includes the end result information (preview
images) 401 with a page scrolled in a forward or backward
direction. FIGS. 6A to 6C are schematic diagrams for explaining an
exemplary preview image scrolling method. When the user operates
the page-forward and page-back buttons 600 and the system
controlling unit 16 accepts a page-forward operation for scrolling
one page at a time, the input-screen information generator 132
generates the input screen 400 having end result information
(preview images) 401 with one page scrolled forward at a time in
the detailed image 401a, as shown in FIGS. 6A to 6C. In other
words, every time the user scrolls one page at a time while the
double-sided printing is selected in the manner described in the
first embodiment, images of front and back side of an original
(FIGS. 6A and 6C) and those of a two-page spread (FIG. 6B) are
alternately displayed as a pair of a detailed image and a summary
image. In this manner, a page scrolling unit is realized.
[0073] As described above, according to the first embodiment, upon
performing a double-sided printing, images of the front and the
back sides of an original, or images on the two-page spread can be
paired as a detailed image and a summary image, and at least one of
the paired images to be processed can be displayed. Therefore, the
user can easily imagine how the end result will be, including pages
of the front and back sides of an original and pages on the
two-page spread. In addition, because only one page is enlarged as
a detailed image within a limited space in the display, the
detailed image helps the user to understand the page layout easily.
Therefore, the user can easily check how the end result will be
with the double-sided printing within a limited space in the
display, as well as which side of the original is to be bounded
together.
[0074] As to which side of the original image is to be used as an
axis of two-page spread, the user makes a decision whether the
shorter side or the longer side thereof should be used. According
to the first embodiment, it is explained that the user specifies
the longer side of the original image as the axis. If the user
selects the shorter side of the original image as the axis of the
two-page spread while the display panel 15b of the operation
displaying unit 15 is long in the horizontal direction, it is
difficult to display such end result information (preview images)
401 within the display panel 15b in the same direction as shown in
FIG. 2. More specifically, if the end result information (preview
images) 401 are to be arranged in the vertical direction (the two
pages are to be spread out vertically) on the display panel 15b in
the same direction as shown in FIG. 2, it is necessary to reduce
the size of the end result information (preview images) 401
greatly. Therefore, according to the first embodiment, as shown in
FIGS. 7A and 7B, if the user specifies the shorter side of the
original image as the axis of the two-page spread, the end result
information (preview images) 401 are rotated, upon being displayed,
by 90 degrees with respect to the image having the axis of the
two-page spread on the longer side thereof. In FIG. 7A, the display
panel 15b of the operation displaying unit 15 is used as a
horizontally-long panel. In FIG. 7B, the display panel 15b of the
operation displaying unit 15 is used as a vertically-long panel.
Therefore, the display panel 15b can easily display a two-page
spread image having an axis on the shorter side of the original
image. In this manner, a rotation unit is realized. If the user
selects the shorter side of the preview image to be the axis of the
two-page spread, the rotation unit rotates the preview image by 90
degrees with respect to a two-page spread image having its axis on
the longer side of the preview image.
[0075] According to the first embodiment, the summary image paired
with the detailed image is displayed reduced in size. However, a
displaying method of the summary image is not limited to the above,
and the summary image can also be displayed as a symbol or an icon
(hereinafter, "symbol image"). If the summary image is displayed as
a symbol image, it is possible to omit the process for reducing the
image size, making a processing time faster. In addition, by
providing a plurality of symbol images, the user can easily scroll
to a page away from a currently-selected page. The symbol image
representing the page prior to or next to the current page can also
be shown in different colors, each color corresponding to the front
side and the back side, respectively, facilitating the user to
scroll through pages of the same side.
[0076] According to the first embodiment, a detailed image and a
summary image that are pages of the front side and the back side of
an original or pages of a two-page spread, are displayed adjacently
as a pair. However, a displaying method of these images is not
limited to the above. For example, alternatives below are also
possible.
[0077] To begin with, if a pair of the pages is the front side and
the back side of an original, or makes up a two-page spread, a
zoom-in images of the detailed image and the summary image can be
provided, as shown in FIG. 8. At this time, the detailed image is
shown in its entirety, and the summary image shown only partly.
Then, if a pair of the pages is the front side and the back side of
an original, the summary image can be displayed transparently with
respect to the detailed image, as shown in FIG. 9. Then, if a pair
of the pages is the front side and the back side of an original,
the summary image can be displayed as a mirrored image with respect
to the detailed image, as shown in FIG. 10. Then, if a pair of the
pages is the front side and the back side of an original, or makes
up a two-page spread, the summary image can be arranged adjacent to
the detailed image in a shape like a folding screen, as shown in
FIG. 11.
[0078] A second embodiment of the present invention is explained
with reference to FIGS. 12A to 12C. The same components as in the
first embodiment are provided with the same reference numbers, and
the explanations thereof are omitted herein. In the second
embodiment, another preview image scrolling method is proposed, in
addition to that in the first embodiment.
[0079] FIGS. 12A to 12C are schematic diagrams for explaining an
exemplary preview image scrolling method according to the second
embodiment. When the user operates the page-forward and page-back
buttons 600 and the system controlling unit 16 accepts the
page-forward operation to scroll one page at a time, the
input-screen information generator 132 generates the input screen
400 having end result information (preview image) 401 with one page
scrolled forward at a time in the detailed image 401a, as shown in
FIGS. 12A to 12C. The second embodiment is different from the first
different in that the pairs of summary images, representing the
front side and the back side of an original, are always scrolled
together in pairs near the detailed image 401a. In other words, if
one page is scrolled at a time according to the second embodiment
while a double-sided printing is selected, the pages are scrolled
in pairs, each representing the front side and the back side of an
original. More specifically, to begin with, the front side of the
first sheet (the first page) is displayed as a detailed image, and
the back side of the first sheet (the second page) is displayed as
a summary image, as shown in FIG. 12A. When the page is scrolled,
the front side of the first sheet (the first page) is displayed as
a summary image, and the back side of the first sheet (the second
page) is displayed as a detailed image, as shown in FIG. 12B. When
the page is scrolled further, the front side of the second sheet
(the third page) is displayed as a detailed image, and the back
side of the second sheet (the forth page) is displayed as a summary
image, as shown in FIG. 12C.
[0080] As described above, according to the second embodiment, when
a double-sided printing is specified, the pairs of pages, each
corresponding to the front side and the back side of an original,
are displayed as pairs of the detailed image and the summary image
within a limited space on the display screen. This displaying
method does not only facilitate the user to imagine how the end
result will be, but also enables the user to check contents of an
enlarged page more easily, because each page in the page pair is
enlarged as the detailed image. In this manner, the user can check
how the end result will be with double-sided printing.
[0081] A third embodiment of the present invention is explained
with reference to FIGS. 13A to 13C. The same components as in the
first embodiment are provided with the same reference numbers, and
the explanations thereof are omitted herein. In the third
embodiment, another preview image scrolling method is proposed for
the preview image, in addition to that in the first embodiment.
[0082] FIGS. 13A to 13C are schematic diagrams for explaining an
exemplary preview image scrolling method according to the third
embodiment. When the user operates the page-forward and page-back
buttons 600 and the system controlling unit 16 accepts the page
scrolling operation to scroll one page at a time, the input-screen
information generator 132 generates the input screen 400 having the
end result information (preview images) 401 with one page scrolled
forward at a time in the detailed image 401a, as shown in FIGS. 13A
to 13C. The third embodiment is different from the first embodiment
in that pairs of summary images, representing a two-page spread of
the original, are always scrolled together in pairs near the
detailed image 401a. In other words, if the pages are scrolled one
page at a time according to the third embodiment while double-sided
printing is selected, the pages are scrolled in pairs, each
representing a two-page spread. More specifically, to begin with,
the front side of the first sheet (the first page) is displayed as
a summary image, the back side of the first sheet (the second page)
is displayed as a detailed image, and the front side of the second
sheet is displayed as a summary image, as shown in FIG. 13A. When
the page is scrolled, the back side of the first sheet (the second
page) is displayed as a summary image, and the front side of the
second sheet (the third page) is displayed as a detailed image, as
shown in FIG. 13B. When the page is scrolled further, the back side
of the second sheet (the fourth page) is displayed as a detailed
image, and the front side of the third sheet (the fifth page) is
displayed as a summary image, as shown in FIG. 13C.
[0083] According to the third embodiment, when the double-printing
is selected, a two-page spread is displayed as a pair of a detailed
image and a summary image within a limited space of the display
screen, facilitating the user to imagine how the end result will
be. Furthermore, each of the pages is enlarged as a detailed image,
so that the user can easily check the contents thereof. In this
manner, the user can easily check which side of the original is to
be bounded, within the limited space on the display screen.
[0084] A fourth embodiment of the present invention is explained
with reference to FIGS. 14A to 14C. The same components as in the
first embodiment are provided with the same reference numbers, and
the explanations thereof are omitted herein. In the first
embodiment, only one page is scrolled at a time. On the contrary,
in the forth embodiment, two pages are scrolled at a time when the
user operates the page-forward and page-back buttons 600.
[0085] FIGS. 14A to 14C are schematic diagrams for explaining an
exemplary preview image scrolling method according to the fourth
embodiment. When the user operates the page-forward and page-back
buttons 600 and the system controlling unit 16 accepts the page
scrolling operation to scroll two pages at a time, then the page
displayed in the detailed image 401a is scrolled by a two-page
unit, as shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B. In addition, according to the
fourth embodiment, a "turn over" button 601 is provided as one of
the functions of the page-forward and page-back buttons 600. The
"turn over" button 601 allows the user to switch between the
detailed image and the summary image paired with the detailed
image. When the system controlling unit 16 accepts the operation
performed by the "turn over" button 601, the detailed image and the
summary image are switched as shown in FIG. 14C. In this manner, a
switching unit is realized. The switching unit switches a detailed
image to be processed and a summary image paired with the detailed
image.
[0086] A fifth embodiment of the present invention is explained
with reference to FIGS. 15A and 15B. The same components as in the
first embodiment are provided with the same reference numbers, and
the explanations thereof are omitted herein. In the first
embodiment, only one page is scrolled at a time. On the contrary,
in the fifth embodiment, two pages are scrolled at a time when the
user operates the page-forward and page-back buttons 600.
[0087] FIGS. 15A and 15B are schematic diagrams for explaining an
exemplary preview image scrolling method according to the fifth
embodiment. To begin with, only pages of front side images on
originals are displayed as the end result information (preview
images) 401, including the detailed image 401a, as shown in FIG.
15A. When the user operates the page-forward and page-back buttons
600 and the system controlling unit 16 accepts the page scrolling
operation to scroll two pages at a time, the images displayed as
the end result information (preview images) 401, including the
detailed image 401a, are scrolled for two pages. In addition,
according to the fifth embodiment, the "turn over" button 601 is
provided as one of the functions of the page-forward and page-back
buttons 600. The "turn over" button 601 allows the user to switch
between the detailed image and the summary image paired with the
detailed image. When the system controlling unit 16 accepts the
operation performed by the "turn over" button 601, only pages of
back side images on originals are displayed as the end result
information (preview images) 401, including the detailed image
401a, as shown in FIG. 15B. In this manner, a replacing unit is
realized. The replacing unit replaces a displayed primary preview
image to be processed with a secondary preview image paired with
the primary image.
[0088] A sixth embodiment of the present invention is explained
with reference to FIGS. 16 to 20. The same components as in the
first to the fifth embodiments are provided with the same reference
numbers, and the explanations thereof are omitted herein.
[0089] In the first to the fifth embodiments, the MFP 10 is used as
the image processing apparatus, however, the image processing
apparatus is not limited to an MFP. For example, an image
processing apparatus, such as a printer, can be connected to a
personal computer (PC), and predetermined computer programs can be
installed to a storage device, such as a hard disk drive (HDD), of
the PC. A CPU of the PC is operated following the computer programs
installed thereto to achieve the same various advantages as those
described above.
[0090] FIG. 16 is a block diagram of a schematic structure of a
printing system 1200 according to the sixth embodiment. The
printing system 1200 shown in FIG. 16 includes a PC 1201 and a
printer 1202 that are connected via a cable 1203. The PC 1201 sends
out a print job, including print data and print conditions for
printing the print data to the printer 1202. The printer 1202
prints out the print data.
[0091] As mentioned above, the PC 1201 sends print data and a print
condition data as a print job to the printer 1202. The print data
corresponds to a document created in the PC 1201. The print
condition data is set for printing out the document, and examples
of such conditions include orientation of a printing paper,
double-sided printing, multiple-pages-per-sheet printing, binding,
stapling, punching, and enlargement/reduction of the image
size.
[0092] The printer 1202 performs a printing operation based on the
print job sent from the PC 1201. Specifically, the printer 1202
prints out the print data, contained in the print job, onto a
medium such as a paper, based on the print condition data also
contained in the print job.
[0093] Specific structures of the PC 1201 and the printer 1202 are
explained in the order. FIG. 17 is a block diagram of a schematic
structure of the PC 1201. In FIG. 17, the PC 1201 includes: an
input unit 1211 for inputting data; a displaying unit 1212; a
communication unit 1213 for data communication; a CPU 1214 that
controls the entire system; a RAM 1215 that is used as a working
area for the CPU 1214; a storage medium accessing unit 1216 that
performs read/write operations to a storage medium 1217; and the
storage medium 1217 that stores therein various computer programs
that causes the CPU 1214 to operate.
[0094] The input unit 1211 is a user interface that allows a user
to provide the CPU 1214 with instructions for operations, or to
input data. The input unit 1211 includes a keyboard including
cursor keys, numeric keys, and other various keys, a mouse or a
touchpad for selecting the keys or the like on the display screen
of the displaying unit 1212, and the like.
[0095] The displaying unit 1212 includes a cathode ray tube (CRT)
or a liquid crystal display (LCD), and provides the user with a
screen that is displayed based on the display data received from
the CPU 1214. The communication unit 1213 is provided to exchange
data externally, for example, to exchange data with the printer
1202 via the cable 1203.
[0096] The CPU 1214 is a central control unit that controls the
entire system based on computer programs stored in the storage
medium 1217. The CPU 1214 is connected to the input unit 1211, the
displaying unit 1212, the communication unit 1213, the RAM 1215,
and the storage medium accessing unit 1216. The CPU 1214 controls
data communication, read of application programs by accessing a
memory, read and write various data, input of data/commands,
display, and the like. The CPU 1214 also receives print data and
print condition data associated thereto from the input unit 1211,
and transfers the print data and the print condition data to the
printer 1202 as a print job via the communication unit 1213.
[0097] The RAM 1215 includes a working memory and a display memory.
The working memory stores therein specified computer programs,
input instructions, input data, processed results, or the like. The
display memory temporarily stores therein display data to be
displayed on the display screen of the displaying unit 1212.
[0098] The storage medium 1217 stores therein various computer
programs and data. Examples of computer programs stored in the
storage medium 1217 include those executable by the CPU 1214, such
as an operation system (OS) program 1217a (for example, Windows
(registered trademark)), a document preparation application program
1217b, and a printer driver 1217c that is compatible with the
printer 1202. The storage medium 1217 includes various optical,
magnetic, or electrical storage media, such as a flexible disk, a
hard disk, a CD-ROM, a DVD-ROM, a magnetic optical disk (MO), and a
PC card. Various computer programs are stored in the storage medium
1217 in a data format readable by the CPU 1214. The various
computer programs can be stored in the storage medium in advance,
or downloaded over a communication line to be stored in the storage
medium. The various computer programs can be also distributed over
a communication line.
[0099] FIG. 18 is a block diagram of a schematic structure of the
printer 1202. As shown in FIG. 18, the printer 1202 includes: a
communication unit 1221 for data communication; a CPU 1222 that
controls the entire printer 1202; a ROM 1223 that stores therein
various control programs to cause the CPU 1222 to operate; a RAM
1224 that acts as a working area for the various control programs
and temporarily stores therein the print data and the print
condition data received as a print job from the PC 1201 or the
like; a printer engine 1225 for printing the print data onto a
printing paper; a stapling unit 1226 for stapling the paper sheets
printed with the print data; and a punching unit 1227 for punching
holes onto the printing paper(s) printed with the print data. In
other words, the printer 1202 includes the double-sided printing
function, the punching function, and the stapling function.
[0100] The communication unit 1221 performs data communication
externally, for example, with the PC 1201.
[0101] The CPU 1222 is a central processing unit that controls the
entire system based on computer programs stored in the ROM 1223.
The CPU 1222 is connected to the communication unit 1221, the ROM
1223, the RAM 1224, the printer engine 1225, the stapling unit
1226, and the punching unit 1227, and controls data communications,
operations of the printer, and the like.
[0102] The ROM 1223 stores therein various control programs to
cause the CPU 1222 to operate, and parameters used for the
processes in the control programs. The RAM 1224 includes a working
memory that stores therein specified control programs, process
results, received print data, and the like.
[0103] The printer engine 1225 includes an electrophotographic
printer engine, and prints print data onto a printing paper. The
printer 1202 can use any printing method in addition to the
electrophotographic printing, such as ink-jet printing, sublimation
dye thermal transfer, silver halide photographic, direct
thermosensitive recording, or thermal wax transfer.
[0104] The printer driver 1217c installed in the PC 1201 is
explained. The printer driver 1217c is a software program that
controls the printer 1202, and performs operations such as
processing output data. The printer driver 1217c is designed so
that computer programs, with respect to a specific program, can be
operated independently from hardware or internal "language" of the
printer 1202.
[0105] Under the controls of the printer driver 1217c, the CPU 1214
in the PC 1201 generates and displays the end result information
(preview image) based on the print data and the print condition
data associated thereto input via the input unit 1211. The CPU 1214
then transfers the print data, created with the document
preparation application program 1217b, to the printer 1202.
[0106] As shown in FIG. 19, the image storage unit 12, the image
processing unit 13, the operation displaying unit controller 151,
and the system controlling unit 16 are implemented in the PC 1201,
by operating the CPU 1214 under the control of the printer driver
1217c.
[0107] In this manner, because the CPU 1214 operates under the
control of the printer driver 1217c, the system configuration of
the PC 1201 becomes equivalent to that of the MFP 10 shown in FIG.
1. Therefore, those various advantages explained for the first to
the fifth embodiments can be also achieved in the third
embodiment.
[0108] FIG. 20 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary display
screen presented by the printer driver 1217c. The screen shown in
FIG. 20 is displayed when the printer driver 1217c is started, for
example, on the screen of the document preparation application
program 1217b or the startup screen of the OS program 1217a. In the
screen shown in FIG. 20, the input screen 400 (the same screen as
the input screen 400 displayed on the MFP 10) can be selected in
addition to a basic condition setting screen, an editing condition
setting screen, a finishing condition setting screen, and the like.
In the input screen 400, a preview image can be generated and
displayed based on the print data and the print condition data
associated thereto input via the input unit 1211.
[0109] According to the present embodiment, by causing the CPU 1214
in the PC 1201 to operate under the control of the printer driver
1217c, the input screen 400 is displayed. In the input screen 400,
the expected end result is generated and displayed based on the
print data and the print condition data associated thereto input
via the input unit 1211. However, the input screen 400 can also be
displayed, without limitation, by causing the CPU 1214 in the PC
1201 to operate under the control of the document preparation
application program 1217b or the OS program 1217a.
[0110] According to an aspect of the present invention, the user
can easily imagine how an end result will be, including pages of
the front and back sides of the original, or pages on the two-page
spread.
[0111] Although the invention has been described with respect to
specific embodiments for a complete and clear disclosure, the
appended claims are not to be thus limited but are to be construed
as embodying all modifications and alternative constructions that
may occur to one skilled in the art that fairly fall within the
basic teaching herein set forth.
* * * * *