JP3673542B2 - Image forming apparatus and system - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
[Industrial application fields]
The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus and system for outputting image data created by, for example, an image scanner or a computer that optically reads a document.
[0002]
[Prior art]
An image forming apparatus provided with a document reading unit can be used alone as an image reading apparatus and an image output apparatus. Therefore, the image forming apparatus is connected to a general computer system using an external I / F device, for example. A system is proposed that can be used as an input / output device or divided into a plurality of sets of image forming devices and provided with a central control means for controlling them, and used simultaneously as a plurality of printers to ensure high CV. ing.
[0003]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, considering the case where the above-described image forming apparatuses are connected and deployed as a system, the apparatus state and operation settings of each image forming apparatus are only displayed on the display unit of each image forming apparatus. Met. Therefore, there is a problem that it is difficult to know the operation information of a plurality of units at the same time.
[0004]
The present invention has been made in view of the above conventional example, and an object thereof is to provide an image forming apparatus and system that can easily grasp the state of the entire system.
[0005]
[Means for Solving the Problems] and
[Action]
In order to solve the above-described problems, the present invention is configured such that the apparatus state and operation settings of the image forming apparatus can be output or captured by a control signal of the image forming apparatus. A function for displaying the information on the display unit of the image forming apparatus is added, and a function for displaying a plurality of information on the display unit is added, so that a plurality of units are displayed on the display unit of one image forming apparatus. The operability is improved by simultaneously obtaining the information of the image forming apparatus.
[0006]
  Further, the image forming system of the present invention has the following configuration.
  That is, an image forming system comprising a plurality of image forming apparatuses that have communication means connected to each other and that form an image on a print medium based on input image data by the communication means,
  A master having print instruction means for instructing start of print processing, status information receiving means for receiving status information indicating a state, and display means for displaying the status information on the operation panel so that the transmission source can be identified Equipment,
  In accordance with an instruction from the print instruction means, the printing apparatus starts printing and includes a slave apparatus having status transmission means for transmitting status information to the master apparatus,
  The master device further includes status request command transmission means for transmitting a status request command for requesting the status information to the slave device via the communication means,
  In response to the status request command transmitted from the master device by the status request command transmission unit, the status transmission unit transmits the status information to the master device via the communication unit,
  The status information receiving means receives the status information transmitted from the slave device in response to the status request command via the communication means,
  The display meansMoreThe simultaneous display button on the operation panel of the master device is selected by the user.When, At least a slave device connected to the master deviceIncluding the display of setting keysFirst displayscreenOn the operation panel of the master device.Display,
  Further, the display means is provided on the operation panel of the master device.,Said first displayWhen a setting key included in the screen is selected, the display of the setting key is switched to a display indicating that the slave device is a display setting slave device.
  Further, the display means is configured such that the simultaneous display button is selected by a user on the operation panel of the master device.TheSaid first displayThe screen is displayedAnd said first1Display ofScreen setting keysAfter the slave device is selected by the user viaWhen setting end is selectedA sender of the status information and the first1Display ofscreenTo enable the state of the slave device selected by the user via the user to be identified by the user in real time.2Display ofscreenOn the operation panel of the master device based on the status information of the slave device received by the status information receiving means.indicate.
[0007]
More preferably, the master device and the slave device further include storage means for storing image data.
More preferably, the master device further includes reading means for reading a document image.
More preferably, the image processing apparatus further includes an image generation device that generates image data, and the master device and the slave device receive the image data from the image generation device.
More preferably, the status information includes a paper size to be printed, a magnification, the number of copies, paper, that is, a state of running out of toner and running out of paper.
More preferably, when displaying the received status information, the master device selects a transmission source and displays information from the selected transmission source.
More preferably, the master device further includes distribution means for distributing image data to the slave device.
[0008]
  According to another aspect, the present invention has the following configuration.
  A control method for an image forming system comprising: a plurality of image forming apparatuses having communication means connected to each other and forming an image on a print medium based on input image data by the communication means;
  A print instruction step for instructing the start of the printing process at the master device;
  Status information receiving step for receiving status information indicating the status of the slave device at the master device;
  A display step for displaying the status information on the operation panel of the master device so that the sender can be identified;
  In accordance with an instruction in the printing instruction step, starting printing in the slave device;
  A status transmission step of transmitting the status information from the slave device to the master device via the communication means;
  A status request command transmission step for transmitting a status request command for requesting the status information from the master device via the communication means,
  In the status transmission step, in response to the status request command transmitted from the master device in the status request command transmission step, the status information is transmitted to the master device via the communication unit,
  The status information receiving step receives the status information transmitted from the slave device in response to the status request command via the communication means,
  The display step includesMoreThe simultaneous display button on the operation panel of the master device is selected by the user.When, At least a slave device connected to the master deviceIncluding the display of setting keysFirst displayscreenOn the operation panel of the master device.Display,
  Further, the display step is performed on the operation panel of the master device.,Said first displayWhen a setting key included in the screen is selected, the display of the setting key is switched to a display indicating that the slave device is a display setting slave device.
  Further, in the display step, the simultaneous display button is selected by a user on the operation panel of the master device.TheSaid first displayThe screen is displayedAnd said first1Display ofScreen setting keysAfter the slave device is selected by the user viaWhen setting end is selectedA sender of the status information and the first1Display ofscreenTo enable the state of the slave device selected by the user via the user to be identified by the user in real time.2Display ofscreenThe status information receivedStepOn the operation panel of the master device based on the status information of the slave device received byindicate.
[0009]
【Example】
FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the copying apparatus according to the present invention. This copying apparatus has a color reader unit 351 that reads a color original and performs digital editing processing and the like and an image carrier for each color element, and outputs a color image according to a digital image signal of each color sent from the reader unit 351. It is divided into a printer unit 352 to be reproduced.
[0010]
(Configuration of reader unit)
FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a digital image processing unit in the reader 351. A color document on a document table (not shown) is exposed with a halogen lamp (not shown). As a result, the reflected image is picked up by the CCD 101, further sample-held by 102, and then A / D converted to generate RGB three-color digital signals. Each color separation data is subjected to shading and black correction at 103, correction to an NTSC signal at 104, selection of an image signal of a reflection original or an external image signal at 124, and the result is input to 105. Reference numeral 105 denotes an enlargement or reduction of the main scanning, and the result is input to the LOG 123 and the selector 125 (127 is controlled by a CPU (not shown)). Further, the output of the LOG 123 is input to the memory unit 106, and the video data is stored here. The memory 1 is stored as YMC data, and is read according to the timing of each of the four drums.
[0011]
In 107, the masking and UCR for four colors are applied to the output signal of the selector 125 (127 is controlled by a CPU (not shown)). In 109, γ correction is performed, and in 110, edge enhancement is performed. It is output to the color LBP 352.
[0012]
In 105, the output DTOP of the image tip sensor, the horizontal synchronization signal HSNC1 generated internally or the horizontal synchronization signal HSNC2 generated externally, the output ITOP1 of the paper tip sensor, based on the sub-scan write enable signal from the outside, A main scanning write enable signal and a read enable signal 122 for the memory 106 are generated, and further, a sub-scan write enable signal and four sub-scan read enable signals 121 for each color are generated.
[0013]
Reference numeral 130 denotes a video bus selector section for outputting video to the outside and inputting external video.
[0014]
(Description of bus selector)
FIG. 5 is a block diagram of the video bus selector 130 and its peripheral part.
[0015]
Bidirectional buffers 504 and 505, 514 and 515, 519 and 520, 526 and 527, 524 and 525, output buffer 530, signal lines 506, 513, 521, 528 and 529 for controlling the buffer by a CPU (not shown), frequency conversion A circuit (implemented by FIFO) 523, a DF that receives the output of selectors 508 and 508 that select and output the input from the A terminal 503 (A terminal input) or the input from the C terminal 502 (C terminal input) / F507, DF / F512 that selects and outputs the input from the A terminal or B terminal 501 (B terminal input) and the output of the selectors 510 and 510, and the selector 516 that selects the B terminal input or the C terminal input DF / F 518 having the outputs of 516 and 516 as inputs, and sub-scanning synchronization signal ITOP2 (53 of the memory unit (IPU)) ) And is composed of (3-state) output buffer 530, OR gate 542 of the main scanning synchronization signal (532).
[0016]
VVE1 (533) is a sub-scan write enable signal to another device (reader printer), 536 is a sub-scan write enable signal from another device (master device), and 534 is a main scan enable signal to another device. , 541 is a main scan enable signal (low active) from another device, and is used as a write enable signal and a write reset signal (inverted signal of 541) of the frequency converter 523, 535 is a signal to the inside of the device and to other devices A video clock 540 is a video clock from another device that is used as a write clock for the frequency converter 523, and a signal 532 is an inverted signal of the main scanning synchronization signal, here a signal used as a read reset signal for the frequency converter 523, 522 and 539 are binarized when there is a bitmap memory in the device, and bitmaps are stored. Signals written to the memory are sent to the outside or from outside, 529, 528, 537, 506, 509, 511, 513, 521, 517 are I / O ports set by a CPU (not shown), 538 is a frequency This signal is used as an enable signal for the converter 523.
[0017]
Further, the A terminal 503, the B terminal 501, and the C terminal 502 correspond to A1 to A3, B1 to B3, and C1 to C3 in the video bus selector 130 of FIG.
[0018]
(Description of signal flow and synchronization signal in each mode)
The video signal flow and I / O port setting in each mode will be described with reference to FIGS.
[0019]
[Normal copy]
(1) Video signal flow
101 → 102 → 103 → 104 → 124 (126 is set to 0 by CPU not shown and A input is selected) → 105 → 123 → 106 → 125 (0 is set by CPU not shown and A input is selected) → 107 → 109 → 110 → 129 → 352
(2) I / O setting of video selector and its peripheral circuits
506 → High “1”
509 → X ("X" indicates that no value is specified)
511 → X
513-> High "1"
517 → X
521 → X
528 → High “1”
529 → High “1”
537 → High “1”
[Output to external interface]
(1) Video signal flow
101 → 102 → 103 → 104 → 124 (126 is set to 0 by CPU not shown and A input is selected) → 105 → 125 (127 is set by CPU not shown and B input is selected) → 107 → 109 → 110 → 130 → 205
(2) I / O setting of video selector and its peripheral circuits
506 → High “1”
509 → X
511 → X
513-> High "1"
517 → Low “0”
521 → Low “0”
528 → Low “0”
529 → Low “0”
537 → High “1”
[Input from external interface]
▲ 1 ▼ Video flow
205 → 130 → 124 (126 is set by CPU (not shown)) → 105 → 123 → 106 → 125 (127 is set by CPU (not shown) is 0) → 107 → 109 → 110 → 129 → 352
Further, here, the sub scanning write enable of the memory 106 uses 536 which is input to the region generation unit.
[0020]
(2) I / O setting of video selector and its peripheral circuits
506 → Low “0”
509 → Low “0”
511 → X
513-> High "1"
517 → Low “0”
521 → High “1”
528 → High “1”
529 → Low “0”
537 → Low “0”
By setting the signals as described above, the signal flow in each mode can be realized. Next, the configuration of the printer unit 352 that forms an image based on the image signal will be described.
[0021]
(Configuration of printer unit)
In FIG. 3, reference numeral 301 denotes a polygon scanner that scans a photosensitive drum with laser light, and 302 denotes an initial magenta (M) image forming unit, which has the same configuration and cyan (C), yellow (Y), and black. Reference numerals 303, 304, and 305 denote image forming units for the respective colors of (K). As shown in FIG. 4, the polygon scanner 301 scans the photosensitive drums of the respective colors with laser beams from laser elements 401 to 404 that are independently driven by MCYK by a laser control unit (not shown). Reference numerals 405 to 408 denote BD detection means for detecting a scanned laser beam and generating a main scanning synchronization signal. When two polygon mirrors are arranged on the same axis and rotated by a single motor as in this embodiment, for example, the main scanning scan directions are opposite to each other for M, C, Y, and K laser beams. become. Therefore, normally, the other Y, K image data is made to be a mirror image with respect to the main scanning direction for one M, C image.
[0022]
In the image forming unit 302, 318 is a photosensitive drum that forms a latent image by laser light exposure, 313 is a developing unit that develops toner on the drum 318, and 314 in the developing unit 313 applies a developing bias. A sleeve for developing toner, 315 is a primary charger for charging the photosensitive drum 318 to a desired potential, 317 is a cleaner for cleaning the surface of the drum 318 after transfer, and 316 is cleaned by the cleaner 317. An auxiliary charger that neutralizes the surface of the drum 318 so as to obtain good charge in the primary charger 315, 330 is a pre-exposure lamp for erasing residual charges on the drum 318, 319 is a transfer This is a transfer charger that discharges from the back surface of the belt 306 and transfers the toner image on the drum 318 to a transfer member.
[0023]
Reference numerals 309 and 310 denote cassettes for storing transfer members. Reference numeral 308 denotes a sheet feeding unit that supplies the transfer members from the cassettes 309 and 310. Reference numeral 311 denotes an adsorption that attracts the transfer members fed by the sheet feeding unit to the transfer members. A charging unit 312 is a transfer belt roller that is used to rotate the transfer belt 306 and at the same time is paired with an adsorption charger to charge the transfer member to the transfer belt 306 by adsorption.
[0024]
Reference numeral 324 denotes a static elimination charger for facilitating separation of the transfer member from the transfer belt 306, and reference numeral 325 denotes a peeling charger for preventing image disturbance due to peeling discharge when the transfer member is separated from the transfer belt. Is a pre-fixing charger that compensates for the toner adsorption force on the transfer member after separation and prevents image disturbance. 322 and 323 are used to neutralize the transfer belt 306 and electrostatically initialize the transfer belt 306. 308 is a belt cleaner that removes dirt on the transfer belt 306. Reference numeral 307 denotes a fixing unit that thermally separates the toner image on the transfer member separated from the transfer belt 306 and recharged by the pre-fixing chargers 326 and 327 onto the transfer member. Reference numeral 340 denotes a paper discharge sensor that detects a transfer member on the conveyance path passing through the fixing device. Reference numeral 329 denotes a paper front end sensor that detects the front end of the transfer member fed onto the transfer belt by the paper supply unit 308. A detection signal from the paper front end sensor is sent from the printer unit to the reader unit, and the reader unit prints the printer unit. This is used to generate a sub-scanning synchronization signal when a video signal is sent to the.
[0025]
FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an interface unit with other apparatuses and a flow of video and synchronization signals in each mode.
[0026]
The interface includes an interface 201 (IPU interface) with a memory unit (IPU), interfaces 202 (R interface 1) and 203 (R interface 2) with other devices (copiers), and a CPU that controls communication with other devices. The interface 204 and the interface 205 (video interface) with the main body are configured. The block diagram further comprises tristate buffers 206, 211, 212, 214, 216, bidirectional buffers 207, 209, 210, a special bidirectional buffer 208 described later, and D flip-flops 213, 215 having a tristate function. BTCN0 to BTCN10 are I / O ports set by a CPU (not shown), 218 is a communication line (4 bits) between the IPU and the main body, 219 is a main scanning synchronization signal HSNC and a sub scanning synchronization signal ITOP, and 220 is 8 bits. 3 video signals + binary signal BI + image clock + main scanning enable signal HVE total 27 bits, 221 is a signal similar to 219, 222 is a signal similar to 220, 224 is a communication line with another device (copier) 8 bits, 223 is a communication line with another apparatus (copier) 4 bits (both will be described later in detail), 226 is an image clock and sub-scanning video enable signal VVE total 2 bits (of 236 and 220) 228 is 3 video signals + BI + HVE total 26 bits, 225 is 226 and 228 and 233 are video signals 3 systems + BI + HVE total 26 bits, 234 is image clock and sub-scan enable signal total 2 bits, 235 is image clock (1 bit of 235), 237 is 233 and 234, 236 is VVE, 232 is image clock (226 of 238 is 220 and HSNC, HVE, VVE, ITOP total 30 bits.
[0027]
Next, I / O port control and signal flow in each mode will be described. Here, the tri-state buffers (206, 214, 216, 211, 212) are enabled by a low “0”, and a high impedance state by a high “1”, and the bidirectional buffer is realized by an element such as LS245. G is low “0”, D is low “0”, data flow is B → A, G is low “0”, D is high “1”, data flow is A → B, and G is high “1”. The D flip-flop is enabled when the enable signal is low “0” and is high impedance when the signal is high “1”.
[0028]
[IPU interface → R interface 1 (mode 1)]
BTCN0 ← High “1”
BTCN1 ← Low “0”
BTCN2 ← Low “0”
BTCN3 ← Low “0”
BTCN4 ← Low “0”
BTCN5 ← X
BTCN6 ← X
BTCN7 ← High “1”
BTCN8 ← X
BTCN9 ← High “1”
BTCN10 ← Low “0”
However, X is don't care, but the signal is controlled so as not to collide. The signal flow is 238 → 219 → 221, 222 → 220 → 228 → 228 → 225 and 238 → 236 + 220 → 226 → 225.
[0029]
[IPU interface → R interface 2 (mode 2)]
BTCN0 ← High “1”
BTCN1 ← Low “0”
BTCN2 ← Low “0”
BTCN3 ← X
BTCN4 ← High “1”
BTCN5 ← Low “0”
BTCN6 ← Low “0”
BTCN7 ← High “1”
BTCN8 ← Low “0”
BTCN9 ← High “1”
BTCN10 ← Low “0”
The signal flow is 238 → 219 → 221 and 222 → 220 → 228 → 233 → 237 and 238 → 236 + 220 → 226 → 234 → 237.
[0030]
[IPU interface-> video interface (mode 3)]
BTCN0 ← High “1”
BTCN1 ← Low “0”
BTCN2 ← Low “0”
BTCN3 ← X
BTCN4 ← X
BTCN5 ← X
BTCN6 ← X
BTCN7 ← X
BTCN8 ← X
BTCN9 ← High “1”
BTCN10 ← Low “0”
The signal flow is 238 → 219 → 221 and 222 → 220 → 238.
[0031]
[R interface → R interface 2 (mode 4)]
BTCN0 ← X
BTCN1 ← X
BTCN2 ← X
BTCN3 ← High “1”
BTCN4 ← Low “0”
BTCN5 ← Low “0”
BTCN6 ← Low “0”
BTCN7 ← High “1”
BTCN8 ← Low “0”
BTCN9 ← X
BTCN10 ← High “1”
The signal flow is 225 → 238 → 233 → 237, 225 → 226 → 234 → 237.
[0032]
[R interface 1 → video interface (mode 5)]
BTCN0 ← X
BTCN1 ← High “1”
BTCN2 ← X
BTCN3 ← High “1”
BTCN4 ← Low “0”
BTCN5 ← X
BTCN6 ← High “1”
BTCN7 ← High “1”
BTCN8 ← Low “0”
BTCN9 ← Low “0”
BTCN10 ← High “1”
The signal flow is 225 → 228 + 226 → 233 + 234 → 220 → 238, 225 → 226 → 234 → 236 → 238.
[0033]
[R interface 2 → R interface 1 (mode 6)]
BTCN0 ← X
BTCN1 ← X
BTCN2 ← X
BTCN3 ← Low “0”
BTCN4 ← Low “0”
BTCN5 ← High “1”
BTCN6 ← Low “0”
BTCN7 ← Low “0”
BTCN8 ← High “1”
BTCN9 ← X
BTCN10 ← High “1”
The signal flow is 237 → 233 → 228 → 225 and 237 → 234 → 226 → 225.
[0034]
[R interface 2 → video interface (mode 7)]
BTCN0 ← X
BTCN1 ← High “1”
BTCN2 ← X
BTCN3 ← X
BTCN4 ← X
BTCN5 ← High “1”
BTCN6 ← Low “0”
BTCN7 ← X
BTCN8 ← High “1”
BTCN9 ← Low “0”
BTCN10 ← X
The signal flow is 237 → 233 + 234 → 220 → 238 and 237 → 234 → 236 → 238.
[0035]
[Video interface-> IPU interface (mode 8)]
BTCN0 ← Low “0”
BTCN1 ← Low “0”
BTCN2 ← Low “0”
BTCN3 ← X
BTCN4 ← X
BTCN5 ← X
BTCN6 ← X
BTCN7 ← X
BTCN8 ← X
BTCN9 ← High “1”
BTCN10 ← X
The signal flow is 238 → 220 → 222 and 238 → 219 → 221.
[0036]
[Video interface-> R interface 1 (mode 9)]
BTCN0 ← X
BTCN1 ← High “1”
BTCN2 ← X
BTCN3 ← Low “0”
BTCN4 ← Low “0”
BTCN5 ← X
BTCN6 ← X
BTCN7 ← Low “0”
BTCN8 ← X
BTCN9 ← High “1”
BTCN10 ← Low “0”
The signal flow is 238 → 220 → 228 → 225 and 238 → 236 + 220 → 226 → 225.
[0037]
[Video interface-> R interface 2 (mode 10)]
BTCN0 ← X
BTCN1 ← High “1”
BTCN2 ← X
BTCN3 ← X
BTCN4 ← High “1”
BTCN5 ← Low “0”
BTCN6 ← Low “0”
BTCN7 ← High “1”
BTCN8 ← Low “0”
BTCN9 ← High “1”
BTCN10 ← Low “0”
The signal flow is 238 → 220 → 228 → 233 → 237 and 238 → 236 + 220 → 226 → 234 → 237.
[0038]
[Mode 1 + Mode 2 (Mode 11)]
BTCN0 ← High “1”
BTCN1 ← Low “0”
BTCN2 ← Low “0”
BTCN3 ← Low “0”
BTCN4 ← Low “0”
BTCN5 ← Low “0”
BTCN6 ← Low “0”
BTCN7 ← High “1”
BTCN8 ← Low “0”
BTCN9 ← High “1”
BTCN10 ← Low “0”
The signal flow is 238 → 219 → 221, 222 → 220 → 228 → 225, 222 → 220 → 228 → 233 → 237, 238 → 236 + 220 → 226 → 225 and 238 → 236 + 220 → 226 → 234 → 237.
[0039]
[Mode 1 + Mode 3 (Mode 12)]
BTCN0 ← High “1”
BTCN1 ← Low “0”
BTCN2 ← Low “0”
BTCN3 ← Low “0”
BTCN4 ← Low “0”
BTCN5 ← X
BTCN6 ← High “1”
BTCN7 ← High “1”
BTCN8 ← X
BTCN9 ← High “1”
BTCN10 ← Low “0”
The signal flow is 238 → 219 → 221, 222 → 220 → 238, 222 → 220 → 228 → 225 and 238 → 236 + 220 → 226 → 225.
[0040]
[Mode 2 + Mode 3 (Mode 13)]
BTCN0 ← High “1”
BTCN1 ← Low “0”
BTCN2 ← Low “0”
BTCN3 ← X
BTCN4 ← High “1”
BTCN5 ← Low “0”
BTCN6 ← Low “0”
BTCN7 ← High “1”
BTCN8 ← Low “0”
BTCN9 ← High “1”
BTCN10 ← Low “0”
The signal flow is 238 → 219 → 221, 222 → 220 → 238, 222 → 220 → 228 → 233 → 237 and 238 → 236 + 220 → 226 → 234 → 237.
[0041]
[Mode 1 + Mode 2 + Mode 3 (Mode 14)]
BTCN0 ← High “1”
BTCN1 ← Low “0”
BTCN2 ← Low “0”
BTCN3 ← Low “0”
BTCN4 ← Low “0”
BTCN5 ← Low “0”
BTCN6 ← Low “0”
BTCN7 ← High “1”
BTCN8 ← Low “0”
BTCN9 ← High “1”
BTCN10 ← Low “0”
The signal flow is 238 → 219 → 221,222 → 220 → 238, 222 → 238 → 225, 222 → 220 → 238 → 233 → 237, 238 → 236 + 220 → 226 → 225 and 238 → 236 + 220 → 226 → 234 → 237 It becomes.
[0042]
[Mode 4 + Mode 5 (Mode 15)]
BTCN0 ← X
BTCN1 ← X
BTCN2 ← High “1”
BTCN3 ← High “1”
BTCN4 ← Low “0”
BTCN5 ← Low “0”
BTCN6 ← Low “0”
BTCN7 ← High “1”
BTCN8 ← Low “0”
BTCN9 ← Low “0”
BTCN10 ← High “1”
The signal flow is 225 → 228 → 233 → 237, 225 → 226 → 234 → 237, 225 → 226 + 228 → 234 + 233 → 220 → 238 and 225 → 226 → 234 → 236 → 238.
[0043]
[Mode 6 + Mode 7 (Mode 16)]
BTCN0 ← X
BTCN1 ← High “1”
BTCN2 ← X
BTCN3 ← Low “0”
BTCN4 ← Low “0”
BTCN5 ← High “1”
BTCN6 ← Low “0”
BTCN7 ← Low “0”
BTCN8 ← High “1”
BTCN9 ← X
BTCN10 ← High “1”
The signal flow is 237 → 233 → 228 → 225, 237 → 234 → 226 → 225, 237 → 233 + 234 → 220 → 238 and 237 → 234 → 236 → 238.
[0044]
[Mode 8 + Mode 9 (Mode 17)]
BTCN0 ← Low “0”
BTCN1 ← Low “0”
BTCN2 ← Low “0”
BTCN3 ← Low “0”
BTCN4 ← Low “0”
BTCN5 ← X
BTCN6 ← X
BTCN7 ← High “1”
BTCN8 ← X
BTCN9 ← High “1”
BTCN10 ← Low “0”
The signal flow is 238 → 219 → 221, 238 → 228 → 225 and 238 → 220 + 236 → 226 → 225.
[0045]
[Mode 8 + Mode 10 (Mode 18)]
BTCN0 ← Low “0”
BTCN1 ← Low “0”
BTCN2 ← Low “0”
BTCN3 ← X
BTCN4 ← High “1”
BTCN5 ← Low “0”
BTCN6 ← Low “0”
BTCN7 ← High “1”
BTCN8 ← Low “0”
BTCN9 ← High “1”
BTCN10 ← Low “0”
The signal flow is 238 → 219 → 221, 238 → 220 → 222, 238 → 228 → 233 → 237 and 238 → 220 + 236 → 226 → 234 → 210.
[0046]
[Mode 9 + Mode 10 (Mode 19)]
BTCN0 ← X
BTCN1 ← High “1”
BTCN2 ← X
BTCN3 ← Low “0”
BTCN4 ← Low “0”
BTCN5 ← Low “0”
BTCN6 ← Low “0”
BTCN7 ← High “1”
BTCN8 ← Low “0”
BTCN9 ← High “1”
BTCN10 ← Low “0”
The signal flow is 238 → 228 → 225, 238 → 228 → 233 → 237, 238 → 220 + 236 → 226 → 225 and 238 → 220 + 236 → 226 → 234 → 237.
[0047]
[Mode 8 + Mode 9 + Mode 10 (Mode 20)]
BTCN0 ← Low “0”
BTCN1 ← Low “0”
BTCN2 ← Low “0”
BTCN3 ← Low “0”
BTCN4 ← Low “0”
BTCN5 ← Low “0”
BTCN6 ← Low “0”
BTCN7 ← High “1”
BTCN8 ← Low “0”
BTCN9 ← High “1”
BTCN10 ← Low “0”
The signal flow is 238 → 219 → 221,238 → 220 → 222, 238 → 228 → 225, 238 → 228 → 233 → 237, 238 → 220 + 236 → 226 → 225 and 238 → 220 + 236 → 226 → 234 → 237. .
[0048]
FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing the internal structure of the image memory unit (IPU). This unit stores image signals from the outside (image data from the scanner 351 and image data from the computer) in the image memory 604 and synchronizes with an external device (here, the scanner unit 351). It has a function of outputting data stored in the image memory.
[0049]
Next, each function will be described.
[0050]
(Write to image memory)
The RGB signals 616 to 618 (8 bits each) input from the external interface 609 set to the input mode are sent to the frequency converter 613 (here, FIFO is used) via the three-state buffer 610 and further 620 to 622. Is sent). At this time, the CPU 603 controls the 3-state buffers 610 and 612 to be enabled and the 3-state buffer 611 to be disabled. Next, the frequency converter 613 uses an external clock (1 bit in 618) as a write clock signal, an external main scanning synchronization signal (1 bit in 618) as a write reset signal, and an external main scanning synchronization signal as a write enable signal. (1 bit of 618), internal clock (VCKIPU) as a read clock signal, internal main scanning synchronization signal as a read reset signal (HSYNCIPU generated by the internal SYNC generator 614 by the external main scanning synchronization signal and the internal clock VCKIPU) The read enable signal (ENIPU2 generated by an area enable generator (not shown) by the internal main scanning synchronization signal and the internal clock) is used as a control signal to synchronize the external image clock and the image clock in the memory unit ( Same as main scan Signal is used as the scanner 351), the output signals 623-625 from here are written in the image memory 604 via the data controller 607.
[0051]
Here, the memory has a capacity of 24 bits for RGB per pixel, and the memory control signal at this time is based on the external sub-scan enable signal (1 bit in 619), the internal main scan synchronization signal HSYNCIPU, and the like. This is performed by the address controller 605 (selected by the selector 608).
[0052]
Next, writing from the computer to the image memory will be described. From the computer to the CPU 603, for example, image data sent by GPIB or the like is stored in a memory in the CPU via the external interface 609 and the signal line 601. This is realized by the CPU controlling the address controller 605, the data controller 607, and the selector 608 to write the image data from the computer into the image memory 604 (image transfer may use DMA).
[0053]
(Image data output to external device)
Data stored in the external memory 604 passes through the data controller 607 and the three-state buffer 611, and is input from the external interface of the scanner 351, the external interface 609, and the three-state buffer 612 via the external interface 609. The image data is read from the image memory 604 by an address generated by the address controller 606 based on the scanning synchronization signal and the sub-scanning synchronization signal. At this time, ENIPU 2 is disabled, the 3-state buffers 611 and 612 are enabled, and 610 is controlled by the disable CPU 603.
[0054]
FIG. 8 shows a system connection form of the digital copying machine of the present invention (hereinafter referred to as a tandem system).
[0055]
Reference numerals 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004 are all one set of digital copiers (hereinafter, this one set is called one station) shown in FIG. 3, and each has a system address. This system address is not the same when connected as a tandem system, and it is necessary that there is always a zero address. Further, in order to switch the video signal, the connection order of the system addresses is determined. In this implementation system, the station with address 0 is placed at the end, and connections are made so that the system address is increased in order from there. Reference numerals 1005, 1006, and 1007 denote cables for tandem system connection, and the contents thereof are cables for RGB video signals as indicated by 1010. The contents thereof are RGB video signals as indicated by 1010. It includes 24 signal lines, 3 video control lines, and 4 serial communication lines. Reference numeral 1008 denotes an interface device for connecting these digital copying machines and a general computer 1009.
[0056]
Further, FIG. 9 shows a connection form of video signals in the system.
[0057]
1101, 1102, 1103, and 1104 are obtained by extracting only the interface units in the stations 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004 in FIG. Cables 1105, 1106, and 1107 include 24 RGB video signal lines and 3 video control lines.
[0058]
As described above, in the current implementation system, the relationship between the contact points with other stations (1 and 2 of each I / F section) and the system address is that the station with an address lower than itself is set to be one contact point. Stations with higher addresses than themselves connect to the two contacts. Incidentally, if the above relationship is maintained, there is no inconvenience even if the system addresses are not necessarily continuous.
[0059]
Further, FIG. 10 shows a connection form of serial communication lines in the system.
[0060]
Reference numerals 1201, 1202, and 1203 are obtained by extracting only the interface units in the respective stations 1001, 1002, and 1003 in FIG. There are four signal lines for serial communication: ATN * (1207), SiD * (1206), DACK * (1205), OFFER * (1204). ATN * is a synchronization signal indicating that data is being transferred from the master station of the tandem system (defined as that of system address 0), and data transfer is performed when ATN * = low. In stations other than the master station (hereinafter referred to as slave stations), the ATN * line is always input. OFFER * is OFFER * = low when the slave station transmits data to the master station, and is always input at the master station. A plurality of slave stations are connected by wired OR. DACK * is a signal indicating that data reception is completed on the data receiving side, and the stations are connected by wired OR. Therefore, when there are multiple stations on the receiving side, the DACK * on the line becomes inactive when the station that has completed the latest data reception inactivates DACK *. As a result, data exchange between stations is synchronized. SiD * is bidirectional serial data, and data is exchanged in synchronization with ATN * (master to slave) and OFFER * (slave to master). The data transfer method is a half-duplex asynchronous method, and the baud rate and data format are set in advance when the system is started. Eight signal lines are output from the interface unit (1201, 1202, 1203) to the controller of each station. TxD / RxD is used for transmission / reception of serial communication, and ATN0, DACK0, OFFER0 is input I / O. ATNi, DACKi, and OFFERi are connected to the output I / O ports, respectively. FIG. 11 shows a timing chart of each signal at the time of data transmission.
[0061]
When a tandem system is constructed using the interface configured as described above, communication is performed via the above-described serial communication line. FIG. 12 shows main commands used at that time.
[0062]
The interface clear command is for resetting the parameters related to the tandem system, and is issued after the initialization of the master station whose system address is defined as 0 and fixes OFFER * to the input. Each slave station receives this command, fixes ATN * to the input, and initializes internal parameters.
[0063]
The status request command is a polling command for collecting information such as the status of the slave connected to the tandem system, and is issued to each slave after a certain time from the master station issuing the interface clear command. This command includes a request destination address for specifying a slave as a parameter.
[0064]
The status transfer command is a command for the slave specified by the previous status request command to report its own state to each station in the tandem system. If there is a designation from the master station, this command must be issued within a certain time. This command includes parameters such as its own system address, whether there is an error, various flags indicating waiting or copying, the type of paper, and the presence or absence of paper.
[0065]
If the slave designated by the status request command from the master station does not issue the status transfer command even after a predetermined time has elapsed, the master station determines that the designated slave station is not connected in the tandem system.
[0066]
The print start command specifies which station the image transfer station uses, and how to distribute the number of sheets to each used station. It is a command to make it. This command includes, as parameters, an image transfer source address, a request address, a paper size, the number of sheets, and the like.
[0067]
The image transfer end command is for the image transfer source station to report the end of the image transfer to other stations.
[0068]
First, a procedure for outputting document images placed on a document table of one reader using a tandem system from a plurality of printers will be described.
[0069]
Assume that four stations A, B, C, and D are connected to the tandem system as shown in FIG. After confirming that the station B / C / D can be used without any abnormality by operating the reader unit operation panel of station A, set to output using all stations A / B / C / D. Set the number of copies. When the copy start key of the station A is pressed, the station A distributes the set number of copies to each station and issues a print start command to all the stations. Upon receiving this print start command, the B, C, and D stations set parameters such as the number of copies and paper size that come with this command, and the system address of this command issuer and its own system address. The video signal is switched based on the above, and the control for writing to the image memory of itself is switched to the VIDEO control lines (VCLK, HSYNC, VE) on the I / F, and the image signal waiting state is entered. Station A, on the other hand, performs settings for image reading, switches so that the control signal for writing to its own image memory is also output to the VIDEO control line on the I / F, and starts the image reading operation. To do. The stations B, C, and D use the control signal issued by the station A to perform writing to each image memory. When the image reading operation of the station A is completed, an image transfer end command is issued from the station A, and the stations A, B, C, and D enter the printout operation.
[0070]
By taking the same procedure, output using multiple stations can be obtained by operating the operation panel on the station, even if there is a document on the document table on the reader section of any station A, B, C, or D. Things are possible.
[0071]
Next, a procedure for outputting an output from a host computer connected to one station connected to the tandem system via an external I / F device such as an IPU using a plurality of stations will be described.
[0072]
The states of all stations connected to the tandem system are aggregated in the host computer 1009 via an external I / F device 1008 (hereinafter referred to as IPU). The operation on the host computer 1009 sets the station, number of copies, paper, etc. to be used according to the state of the tandem system, and transfers the output image to the IPU. The IPU communicates these settings to the connected station (station A in this case) 1001. Receiving this notification, the station 1001 issues a print start command to other stations to be used. The station that has received the print start command waits for an image signal in accordance with the same procedure as that for outputting a document on the platen described above. The station 1001 to which the IPU is connected switches the video signal to the “input from the IPU” and “output to another station” mode, and then issues a command to send an image to the IPU. VIDEO control signals used for image reading from the IPU and image writing for the remaining stations are all generated by the station 1001 to which the IPU is connected, and the entire system is controlled. Accordingly, the image data read from the IPU is written into the image memory of another station at the same time as being written into the image memory of the station 1001. After the image writing, an image transfer end command is issued from the station 1001, and a printout operation is started at each station.
[0073]
In either case, the print start command is issued to a station that was not selected in the operation of selecting a station to be used. In this case, for example, it is considered that means such as “determining that a print start command including 0 copies has not been selected when received” is effective. By doing so, it is possible to switch the I / F unit even in a station not selected so that the image signal reaches the target station. Since the start request source address is included in the print start command, it is possible to determine how to switch the I / F unit by comparing with the own address.
[0074]
In addition, in an individual station, the initial environment setting of the station “can be an image source, and can also be specified as an image destination from other stations”, “is an image source Can't accept designation as an image destination from other stations "," Cannot be an image source, but is allowed as an image destination from other stations ", Any setting of “cannot be an image transmission source and does not accept designation as an image transmission destination from another station” can be performed.
[0075]
Also, when copying at one station connected in the tandem system locally (meaning that other stations are not used together), interrupts due to serial communication in the tandem system are masked and If it is a master station, it issues its own status transfer command and a status request command for each slave station at regular intervals. If it is a slave station, it issues only its own status transfer command for a certain period of time. Set to be issued every other time. By doing this, it is possible to prevent unnecessary interrupt processing from occurring during copying, and to notify other stations of their own status. When the local copy is completed, the interrupt processing by serial communication in the tandem system is permitted again, and the processing returns to the processing for issuing the status transfer command in response to the status request command issued by the master station.
[0076]
Also, the status transfer command issued when performing local copy includes information indicating that copying is in progress.
[0077]
Furthermore, an apparatus that causes a service error or the like and cannot be used by a single copying machine is configured to close an I / F related to a tandem system at that time. Stations that can be selected based on the contents of the status transfer command from each station are displayed at a glance, but the station that is displayed as unavailable cannot be specified as an image destination. This includes those that have been copied, those that are performing local copies, and stations that have caused errors.
[0078]
(About the display)
FIG. 13 is an external view of the operation panel, where 50000 is a numeric key, 50001 is a copy start key, 50002 is a stop key, 50003 is a preheating key, and 50004 is a display unit using liquid crystal display means. FIG. 14 shows the basic screen of the display unit in FIG.
[0079]
As each display on the basic screen of the display unit 50004, 50101 indicates the apparatus status, 50102 indicates the number of copies, 50103 indicates the paper size, 50104 indicates each set value of the copy magnification, and 50105 is a tandem mode touch key.
[0080]
FIG. 15 shows an example of a station selection screen when the display units of a plurality of stations are simultaneously displayed on one display unit in the case of tandem connection.
[0081]
FIG. 16 shows a legend of setting keys for each station on the setting screen of FIG. The connection information of each station connected in tandem is displayed as a touch key 50301 on the display unit in FIG. There are five types of connection information from 50303 to 50307. For example, if it is indicated as a touch key 50303, it indicates the station itself currently set. Of the 18 stations that can be connected to the station, the station that is actually connected in tandem is displayed by the touch key 50304, and the other unconnected stations are displayed on the display unit by 50306. A trouble station such as no paper, JAM, or no toner is indicated as 50307. When the display unit of another connected station is set to be displayed on the currently operated display unit, the station is switched to the display of 50305.
[0082]
Further, each station connected in tandem is classified by a station number such as 50302. For example, station A is displayed as station number 1, and similarly, stations B, C, D,... Are indicated as 2, 3, 4,.
[0083]
Now, as shown in FIG. 8, four stations A, B, C, and D are connected to the tandem system, and each of the originals is placed on the reader unit platen of station A or connected to station A. The image can be taken into the station A through the IPU by the computer. At this time, the tandem mode of station A is selected. When the simultaneous display mode (50105) is selected on the operation panel of the station A, the display unit of the station A is switched to FIG. For example, FIG. 15 shows that, among 18 connectable stations, four stations including the tandem station A are connected in tandem, and each of the stations A, B, C, and D is 1, 2, 3 and 4 are displayed. At this time, it can be seen that the station D is a station where some trouble has occurred. In addition, stations other than stations A, B, C, and D are not connected.
[0084]
When displaying the display section of another station on the display section of this station A, the display is switched to the display setting station 50305 when the touch key corresponding to the station number is pressed. In the case of FIG. 15, the station numbers 2 and 3 are set as the simultaneous display setting stations. When the setting is completed, if the touch key for setting end 50201 is pressed, the display unit of the station A is switched to the simultaneous display screen of FIG. Also, when canceling 50202 is selected, the setting screen of FIG. 15 is displayed again. In FIG. 1, 50401 indicates a station number, 50402 indicates a paper size, 50403 indicates a magnification, and 50404 indicates the number of copies obtained by distributing the number of copies set by station A to each station. A trouble state such as 50405 is displayed for the trouble station. When four or more stations are connected to the station A, other simultaneous display setting station states not currently displayed can be viewed by 50406 or 50407. If it is desired to change the simultaneous display setting, if canceling 50408 is selected, the setting screen of FIG. 15 is displayed again and the setting can be made again. If the end of 50409 is selected, the screen shown in FIG.
[0085]
When the copy start key of station A is pressed, the copy operation is started. That is, station A issues a print start command to each station. Upon receiving this print start command, each station sets parameters such as the number of copies and paper size assigned to each station that comes with this command, the system address of this command issuer, and its own system. The video signal is switched based on the address, the control for writing to the image memory of itself is switched to the VIDEO control lines (VCLK, HSYNC, VE) on the I / F, and the image signal waiting state is entered. Station A, on the other hand, performs settings for image reading, switches so that the control signal for writing to its own image memory is also output to the VIDEO control line on the I / F, and starts the image reading operation. To do. Each station uses the control signal from station A to write to each image memory. When the image reading operation of station A is completed, an image transfer end command is issued from station A, and each station enters a printout operation.
[0086]
During the printout, the station A, which is the master station, sends a status request command to each station via the communication line, and copies information (50404) from each station and trouble information such as no paper and no toner (50405). When the simultaneous display is set, the status information received in real time is displayed in the portion where the status of the station that is the status information transmission source is displayed. The transmission of the status request from the master to the slave may be performed every predetermined time, or may be performed when the previous page button 50407, the next page button 50406, or the simultaneous display button 50105 is pressed.
[0087]
Furthermore, the current print status can be returned as status information from the slave to the master and displayed on the master. If the number of sheets set as the print status and the number of sheets currently processed are included, the progress of processing can be grasped from the master station.
[0088]
As described above, by connecting a plurality of digital copying machines, image data read by a reader or image data created by a computer can be quickly output even if the number of copies is large.
[0089]
Further, as described above, the status information of the stations connected by the master station can be confirmed. Therefore, since it is possible to know from the master the occurrence of a failure and the progress of processing without having to look around each station, it is possible to configure a copy system with good operability.
[0090]
The present invention may be applied to a system composed of a plurality of devices or an apparatus composed of one device. Needless to say, the present invention can also be applied to a case where the present invention is achieved by supplying a program to a system or apparatus.
[0091]
【The invention's effect】
  As described above, in the image forming apparatus and the image forming system according to the present invention, when an image forming system is configured by connecting a plurality of image forming apparatuses, a highly efficient system using a plurality of apparatuses in parallel. In addition to realizing the above, since the state of the entire system can be grasped by one device in the system, there is an effect that a system with high operability can be configured.
  According to the invention of claim 1 or 9, the user selects at least the slave device connected to the master device after the simultaneous display button on the operation panel of the master device of the image forming system is selected by the user. First display to be specified is executed on the operation panel of the master device, and the simultaneous display button is selected by the user and the first display is made on the operation panel of the master device. And causing the operation panel of the master device to execute a second display for making the slave device selectable by the user, wherein the simultaneous display button is selected by the user on the operation panel of the master device and After the first display is made and the slave device is selected by the user via the second display, the status is displayed. The status information receiving means has received a third display for enabling the user to identify in real time the status of the slave device that is the source of the information and is selected by the user via the second display. Since the operation panel of the master device is executed based on the status information of the slave device, the user selects the first display button by using the operation panel of the master device in the system. In addition, the slave device can be selected via the second display, and the state of the selected slave device can be confirmed, and a system with good operability can be configured. There is also an effect that a special device for controlling the image forming apparatus is not required.
[0092]
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a display example in which states of a plurality of stations are displayed at the same time.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an external interface in a reader implementing a tandem system.
FIG. 3 is an external view of a reader printer that implements a tandem system.
FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an overview of a polygon scanner in a printer that implements a tandem system.
FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a bus selector in a reader that implements a tandem system.
FIG. 6 is a block diagram of digital image processing in a reader that implements a tandem system.
FIG. 7 is a block diagram of an internal structure of an image memory unit (IPU).
FIG. 8 is a conceptual diagram showing a connection form of a tandem system.
FIG. 9 is a conceptual diagram showing a connection form related to a video signal in a tandem system.
FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing a connection form of serial communication lines in a tandem system.
FIG. 11 is a timing chart of signals at the time of data transmission by serial communication in the tandem system.
FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a main command system used in serial communication in a tandem system.
FIG. 13 is an external view of a display unit of a digital copying machine.
FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a display example of a display unit of a digital copying machine.
FIG. 15 is a diagram of a setting screen for displaying a display unit of a plurality of stations using a tandem system.
FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a legend indicating the state of each station.

Claims (9)

An image forming system comprising a plurality of image forming apparatuses having communication means connected to each other and forming an image on a print medium based on input image data by the communication means,
A master having print instruction means for instructing start of print processing, status information receiving means for receiving status information indicating a state, and display means for displaying the status information on the operation panel so that the transmission source can be identified Equipment,
In accordance with an instruction from the print instruction means, the printing apparatus starts printing and includes a slave apparatus having status transmission means for transmitting status information to the master apparatus,
The master device further includes status request command transmission means for transmitting a status request command for requesting the status information to the slave device via the communication means,
In response to the status request command transmitted from the master device by the status request command transmission unit, the status transmission unit transmits the status information to the master device via the communication unit,
The status information receiving means receives the status information transmitted from the slave device in response to the status request command via the communication means,
The display means further when simultaneous display button of the operation panel of the master device Ru is selected by the user, the first display screen including the display of the setting key of the slave device connected to at least the master device, wherein Display on the operation panel of the master device,
Further, the display means at the operation panel of the master device, when the setting key included in the first display screen is selected, the display of the setting key, in the slave device display setting slave device Switch to the display that shows,
Further, the display means, said at the operation panel of the master device, via the setting keys of the simultaneous display button is displayed the selected first display screen by the user and the first display screen user When the slave device is selected and the setting end is selected , the status of the slave device that is the transmission source of the status information and is selected by the user via the first display screen is real-time by the user. a second display screen for enabling identification, based on the status information of the slave device received by the status information receiving unit, an image forming system and displaying on the operation panel of the master device. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the master device and the slave device further include storage means for storing image data. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the master device further includes a reading unit that reads a document image. The image forming system according to claim 1, further comprising an image generation device that generates image data, wherein the master device and the slave device receive image data from the image generation device. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the status information includes a paper size to be printed, a magnification, a number of copies, a paper, that is, a toner out condition, a paper out condition. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein, when displaying the received status information, the master device selects a transmission source and displays information from the selected transmission source. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the master device further includes distribution means for distributing image data to the slave device. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the display device further displays a current print status of the slave device. A control method of an image forming system comprising a plurality of image forming apparatuses connected to each other by means of the communication means, the communication means connecting each other and forming an image on a print medium based on input image data,
A print instruction step for instructing the start of the printing process at the master device;
Status information receiving step for receiving status information indicating the status of the slave device at the master device;
A display step of displaying the status information on the operation panel of the master device so that the source can be identified;
In accordance with an instruction in the print instruction step, starting printing in the slave device;
A status transmission step of transmitting the status information from the slave device to the master device via the communication means;
A status request command transmission step of transmitting a status request command for requesting the status information from the master device via the communication means,
In the status transmission step, in response to the status request command transmitted from the master device in the status request command transmission step, the status information is transmitted to the master device via the communication unit,
The status information receiving step receives the status information transmitted from the slave device in response to the status request command via the communication means,
The display step further, the simultaneous display button of the operation panel of the master device Ru is selected by the user, the first display screen including the display of the setting key of the slave device connected to at least the master device, wherein Display on the operation panel of the master device,
Furthermore, the display step, at the operation panel of the master device, when the setting key included in the first display screen is selected, the display of the setting key, in the slave device display setting slave device Switch to the display that shows,
Furthermore, the display step, the at the operation panel of the master device, via the setting keys of the simultaneous display button is displayed is selected and the first display screen by the user and the first display screen user When the slave device is selected and the setting end is selected , the status of the slave device that is the transmission source of the status information and is selected by the user via the first display screen is real-time by the user. a second display screen for enabling identification, the status based on the status information of the information the slave device received by the receiving step, the image forming system, characterized by displaying on the operation panel of the master device Control method.

Images