JP2633880B2 - Image forming device - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus capable of forming an image of a document on a sheet and forming an image on an image sheet according to image data stored in a storage medium. Related to the device.

[Conventional technology]

Conventionally, ROM that stores images in fixed format
An image forming apparatus has been proposed in which an image read from a document and an image of a document placed on a document table are formed on one sheet. The images stored in the ROM include company logos and ruled lines for table creation.

[Problems to be solved by the invention]

However, since the image stored in the ROM can be read for any reason, the logo and the ruled lines of the table are left in a state where anyone can use it, which is a problem in managing important company information. There is.

[Means for solving the problem]

In view of the above problems, the present invention provides an exposure unit that exposes an image of a document, an image forming unit that forms an image exposed by the exposure unit on a sheet, and a first storage medium that stores a predetermined code. First reading means for reading from
First permitting means for permitting image formation by the image forming means in response to reading of the predetermined code by the first reading means, image data of an image to be formed by the image forming means, and Second reading means for reading from a second storage medium storing use restriction information for restricting use of image data, a predetermined code read by the first reading means, and a predetermined code read by the second reading means; A second permission unit that permits reading of the image data stored in the second storage medium based on the use restriction information; and the image forming unit can form an image in response to the permission by the first permission unit. And control means for setting a state in which an image can be formed on the second storage medium in accordance with permission by the second permission means. There is provided an image forming apparatus.

〔Example〕

FIG. 1 is a sectional view for explaining an example of an image forming apparatus showing one embodiment of the present invention, and is roughly divided into a main unit A, a pedestal unit B, an editor unit C, and an IC serving as a unit means of the present invention.
It comprises a card unit D, a management unit E and the like. In addition, each part B-E is comprised so that selection connection is possible to the main-body part A.

In the main unit A, reference numeral 1 denotes a system controller (sequence controller), which is composed of a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, an interface, and the like serving as controllers for controlling the above-described units A to E. Also serves as.

Reference numeral 2 denotes a platen glass on which a document is placed on a flat surface. Reference numeral 3 denotes an irradiation lamp (exposure lamp) for exposing a document placed on the document table glass 2. Reference numerals 4 to 6 denote scanning mirrors (scanning mirrors) for changing the optical path of the reflected light of the original document exposed by the irradiation lamp 3. The irradiation lamp 3 and the reflection mirror 4
Is a scanning unit that moves together with document scanning.

Reference numeral 7 denotes a lens for adjusting the optical path length and focusing of the reflected light scanned by the scanning mirror 6. Note that the lens 7 is positioned at a position corresponding to a magnification between the dotted lines in the figure according to a magnification changed by an operation unit described later.

Reference numeral 8 denotes a reflection mirror (scanning mirror) that returns the reflected light of the document projected through the lens 7 to the photoreceptor 17. Reference numeral 9 denotes an optical system motor which changes the speed of the scanning unit according to the magnification and moves and scans the scanning unit at a constant speed corresponding to the magnification. Reference numeral 10 denotes a sensor which detects the moving state of the scanning unit and notifies the sequence controller 1 of the detected state. Reference numeral 13 denotes a semiconductor laser, which is inserted into the IC card unit D by the system controller 1 also serving as drawing control means of the present invention and read from an IC card (described later) serving as external storage means of the present invention, for example, a standard format image Polygon mirror 14 that is ON / OFF modulated based on image data such as data and is rotated at a constant speed by a scanner motor 15
To form a fixed format image on the photoreceptor 17 by the reflection mirror (scanning mirror) 16. In addition,
The laser unit 13 serving as the image drawing means of the present invention is constituted by the above 13 to 16. 11 and 12 are image light sensors.

Reference numeral 18 denotes a main motor which rotates the photoconductor 17 at a constant speed (in the direction of the arrow). A high-voltage unit 19 charges the photoconductor 17 to a latent image forming level potential. A developing unit 20 develops a document image and a fixed-format image formed on the photoreceptor 17 by using a developing material (toner) supplied from a toner hopper.

Reference numeral 21 denotes a transfer charger which transfers the toner image developed on the photoreceptor 17 to a recording sheet to be conveyed. Reference numeral 22 denotes a separation charger, which separates the recording paper after the transfer process from the photoreceptor 17. Reference numeral 23 denotes a cleaner for collecting toner remaining on the photoreceptor 17.

Reference numeral 24a denotes an upper cassette in which recording paper is fed to the main unit A by driving a paper feed roller 25. 24b is the lower cassette,
The recording paper is fed to the main unit A by driving the paper feed roller 26. Reference numeral 27 denotes a registration roller for performing image matching between the leading edge of the image formed on the photoreceptor 17 and the leading edge of the fed recording paper, and feeds the stopped recording paper to the main body A at a predetermined timing. Numeral 28 denotes a transport belt which transports the recording paper after the transfer process to the fixing device 29. The fixing device 29 fixes the conveyed recording paper by thermocompression.

 First, the operation of the main unit A will be described.

The surface of the photoconductor 17 is composed of a photoconductor layer and a seamless photoconductor using a conductor, is rotatably supported by a shaft, and operates in response to pressing of a copy start key described later.
By 18, rotation is started at a constant speed in the direction of the arrow in the figure. Next, when the predetermined rotation control and potential control processing (pre-processing) of the photoconductor 17 is completed, the original placed on the original table glass 2 is scanned by the scanning unit including the irradiation lamp 3 integrated with the scanning mirror 4. The document is illuminated, and the reflected light of the original forms an image on the photosensitive member 17 via the scanning mirrors 4 to 6, the lens 7, and the scanning mirror 8. The photoconductor 17 is a high-voltage unit 19
After that, the image (original image) irradiated by the irradiation lamp 3 is slit-exposed, and is then exposed to a known NP.
An electrostatic latent image is formed on the photoconductor 17 by a method (electrophotographic process).

Next, the electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum 17 is
The toner image is developed by a developing roller 20a and visualized as a toner image, and the toner image is transferred to a recording sheet by a transfer charger 21 as described later. That is, the upper cassette 24
a or the transfer paper in the lower cassette 24b
Alternatively, the photosensitive drum 17 is fed into the main unit by a paper feed roller 26,
And the leading edge of the latent image coincides with the leading edge of the recording paper. After that, the recording paper passes between the transfer charger 21 and the photoconductor 17, whereby the toner image on the photoconductor 17 is transferred onto the recording paper. After this transfer step, the recording paper is
The sheet 17 is separated by the separation charger 22 and guided to the fixing unit 29 by the conveyor belt 28. Thereafter, the sheet is discharged to the outside of the main body A by the discharge roller 44.

After the transfer, the photoreceptor 17 continues to rotate as it is, and its surface is cleaned by a cleaner device 23 including a cleaning roller and an elastic blade to collect the residual toner.

In the pedestal section B, a paper deck 31 stores, for example, about 2000 recording papers. Reference numeral 32 denotes an intermediate tray on which recording paper is temporarily placed so that the surface of the recording paper on which the image has been formed becomes the upper surface during double-sided copying, and that the surface of the recording paper on which the image has been formed becomes the lower surface during multiple copying. Place. Reference numeral 33 denotes a lifter, and the topmost recording paper is fed by a paper feed roller 34 according to the amount of recording paper stored in the paper deck 31.
Slowly lift up so that it abuts.

35 is a discharge flapper (directional flapper),
The path between the paper conveyance path and the discharge conveyance path on the double-sided recording side or the multiplex recording side of the recording paper conveyed via is switched. 36,3
Reference numeral 7 denotes a conveyance path through which the recording paper conveyed passes when the paper conveyance path on the double-sided recording side or the multiplex recording side is selected. Reference numeral 38 denotes an intermediate tray weight. By driving the intermediate tray weight 38, the recording paper passing through the paper discharge flapper 35 and the transport paths 36 and 37 is reversed and stored in the intermediate tray 32.

39 is a multiplex flapper, which switches the conveyance path of the recording paper between double-sided recording and multiplex recording and is disposed between the conveyance paths 36 and 37,
By rotating the transfer paper upward, the transfer paper is guided to the multiple recording conveyance path 40. Reference numeral 41 denotes a multi-discharge sensor which detects the end of the transfer paper of the recording paper passing through the multi-flapper 39 and notifies the system controller 1. Reference numeral 42 denotes a paper feed roller, which feeds the recording paper to the photosensitive member 17 through a path 43. A paper discharge roller 44 discharges the recording paper on which image formation has been completed from the pedestal section B.
Reference numeral 45 denotes a paper discharge tray on which stacks of recording paper on which image formation has been completed are placed.

 Next, the operation of the pedestal unit B will be described.

At the time of double-sided recording (double-sided copying) or multiple recording (multiple copying), first, the discharge flapper 35 of the pedestal unit B is raised upward in the drawing, and the recording paper on which image formation has been completed is conveyed to the transport paths 36 and 37 of the pedestal unit B. Is stored in the intermediate tray 32 via the. At this time, the multiple flapper 39 is lowered during double-sided recording,
At the time of multiplex recording, the multiplex flapper 39 is lifted up in the figure. The intermediate tray 32 can store, for example, up to 99 recording sheets. The recording paper stored in the intermediate tray 32 is pressed by the intermediate tray weight 38.

At the time of the next backside recording or multiplex recording, the recording paper stored in the intermediate tray 32 is moved one by one from the bottom by the action of the paper feed roller 42 and the intermediate tray weight 38 to the path 43.
Is guided to the registration roller 27 of the main body A via the

The editor section C will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 2 is a plan view for explaining the configuration of the editor section C shown in FIG.
Set a manuscript when performing character add-on or handwriting input,
Input coordinates. Reference numeral 52 denotes a reference mark which indicates a position where the reference mark abuts on the end of the document. Reference numeral 53 denotes a stylus pen for inputting coordinate information by pressing the digitizer unit 51 when performing area designation, character add-on, and handwriting input. Numeral 54 denotes an input information area, and alphabet information, numbers, symbols, and date information (year, month, day) in the area by the stylus pen 53.
Is input to the system controller 1. Reference numeral 55 denotes an area mode designating key. By pressing the area mode designating key 55, the system controller 1 is instructed to enter the area designating mode. 56 is a memory key, a stylus pen
Press this button to store an area specified by 53, for example, an area closed by two diagonal points. 57 is the mode key,
Specify whether to trim or mask the area specified by the stylus pen 53. Reference numeral 58 denotes a clear key, which is depressed when instructing release of area designation.
Is pressed, the area information registered in the internal memory of the system controller 1 is cleared. Reference numeral 59 denotes an area designation mode display which is turned on when the area mode designation key 55 is pressed, and notifies the operator of this. Numeral 60 denotes an area storage number display, which is turned on in sequence each time the stylus pen 53 and the memory key 56 are pressed. For example, when three pieces of area information are stored, all are turned on. Reference numeral 61 denotes a mode display, which sequentially turns on the masking or trimming mode each time the mode key 57 is pressed.

Reference numeral 62 denotes an add-on mode key, which is depressed when writing characters on an image, and notifies the system controller 1 of the add-on mode. Reference numeral 63 denotes a font size key. When the font size key 63 is depressed, the size of a character to be written, for example, any one of 4 mm and 8 mm square is input to the system controller 1. 64 is a direction designation key, and this direction designation key 64
Is pressed to instruct the system controller 1 to input the direction of the character to be written in a direction parallel or perpendicular to the direction in which the recording paper is conveyed. Reference numeral 65 denotes a character writing position designation key. By pressing this character writing position designation key 65, a character writing start position is instructed and input to the system controller 1.

Reference numeral 66 denotes an enter key. When the enter key 66 is pressed, the end of the writing character is instructed and input to the system controller 1. Reference numeral 67 denotes a character clear key. When the character clear key 67 is pressed, an instruction is input to the system controller 1 to clear the input character information. 68
Is a character input display, which is turned on when the add-on mode key 62 is pressed, to notify the operator of the character input mode. 69 is a font size display, and a font size key
When the button 63 is depressed, the light turns on alternately to notify the selected font size. Reference numeral 70 denotes a writing direction display, which is alternately turned on when the direction designation key 64 is pressed, and displays the selected writing direction. Reference numeral 71 denotes a position input end indicator, which lights when the enter key 66 is depressed, and indicates the end of position input. Reference numeral 72 denotes a handwriting input mode key. When the handwriting mode key 72 is pressed, the display 75 is turned on to notify the operator of the fact and to input an instruction to the system controller 1 to that effect.

An enter key 73 instructs the system controller 1 to input a handwriting input mode end. A handwriting mode clear key 74 clears the handwriting mode by depressing the handwriting mode clear key 74.

Next, the configuration of the IC card unit D shown in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 (a) and 3 (b).

FIGS. 3 (a) and 3 (b) are a perspective view and a sectional view for explaining the configuration of the IC card unit D shown in FIG.

In these figures, reference numeral 81 denotes a card insertion slot, which is an IC card.
84 is inserted. The IC card 84 has a semiconductor integrated circuit (CPU, RAM, ROM) and the like built in a base such as a plastic card. In the IC card 84 (external storage means), one or a plurality of fixed format sheet images (one line data group composed of a set of 1,0) for forming a fixed format sheet (a fixed format sheet having a different fixed size) is provided. Image) is stored in advance. The IC card 84 also stores a department code that prohibits copying of the stored fixed-format sheet image. If the department code matches a department card stored on a magnetic card described later, the fixed-format The sequence controller 1 prohibits (suppresses) the copying of the format sheet image based on a flowchart described later.

Reference numeral 82 denotes a card ejection button, which is depressed when ejecting the inserted IC card 84. Reference numeral 83 denotes a display which is turned on when the IC card 84 is inserted, and turned off after the ejection. Reference numerals 85 and 86 denote card position sensors. The card position sensor 85 detects the insertion of the IC card 84, and the card position sensor 86 detects the end of the insertion of the IC card 84, and notifies the sequence controller 1 of the detection. Reference numeral 87 denotes a connector.
Connected to. Reference numeral 88 denotes a contact point, which contacts a port of the IC card 84. Reference numeral 89 denotes a transport motor which, when the insertion of the IC card 84 is detected by the card position sensor 85, rotates forward to drive the IC card 84.
And stops when the card position sensor 86 detects the IC card 84. Also, remove card button 82
When the card position sensor 85 cannot detect the IC card 84, the IC card 84 stops.

Next, the configuration of the management unit E shown in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 (a) to 4 (c).

4 (a) to 4 (c) are a perspective view, a cross-sectional view, and a control block diagram illustrating the configuration of the management unit E shown in FIG. In these figures, reference numeral 91 denotes a card insertion slot into which a magnetic card 94 is inserted. A card ejection button 92 is depressed when ejecting the inserted magnetic card 94.

Reference numeral 93 denotes a display which is turned on when the magnetic card 94 is inserted, and is turned off after ejection. Reference numerals 95 and 96 denote card position detection sensors. The card position detection sensor 95 detects the insertion of the magnetic card 94, and the card position detection sensor 96 detects the end of the insertion of the magnetic card 94, and notifies the sequence controller 1 of the detection. .

A connector 97 is connected to the main unit A via the connector 97. Reference numeral 98 denotes a magnetic head for reading data (department code) written on the magnetic card 94 and for writing division data output from the sequence controller 1. Reference numeral 99 denotes a card transport motor, which rotates forward when the insertion of the magnetic card 94 is detected by the card position detection sensor 95 to load the magnetic card 94, and when the card position detection sensor 96 detects the magnetic card 94. Stop. When the card ejection button 92 is pressed, the magnetic card 94 is pulled out by being driven in reverse rotation, and stopped when the card position detection sensor 95 cannot detect the magnetic card 94.

A control unit 100 includes a CPU 100a, a ROM 100b, a RAM 100c, and interface units (I / O) 100d and 100e.
00a controls each unit based on a control procedure (control program) stored in the ROM 100b in advance. RAM1
00c functions as a work memory of the CPU 100a and temporarily stores input data. Interface unit 100d
Outputs a control signal of the CPU 100a to loads such as the card transport motor 99 and the display 93, and sends detection signals input from the card position detection sensors 95 and 96 to the CPU 100a. The interface unit 100e outputs a write signal to the magnetic head 98, and outputs data read by the magnetic head 98 to the CP.
Output to U100a.

The CPU 100a determines data read from the magnetic card 94 inserted into the card insertion slot 91 of the management unit E via the interface 100e, and if the data is a department code, the CPU 100a A copy enable signal is sent to the sequence controller 1 of A to manage the number of copies. If the upper limit of the number of copies is set, it is determined whether or not the number of copies is exceeded. When the number of copies is exceeded, a copy additional signal is sent to the sequence controller 1 of the main unit A. Also, the data read from the magnetic card 94 is not a preset department code,
If the code information reads the function, the CPU 100a
Specifies the processing required for the function (details will be described later)
Run. Further, if the data read from the magnetic card 94 is a preset department code, it is determined whether or not the data is a department code which prohibits copying of the fixed format sheet image stored in the IC card 84. Then, based on a flowchart described later, the control unit controls the copy processing of the fixed format sheet image stored in the IC card 84 to be suppressed.

Next, the operation unit of the main unit A shown in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 5 is a plan view for explaining the operation unit of the main unit A shown in FIG. 1, and 111 is an asterisk key (* key).
The button is pressed when the operator (user) inputs a setting mode such as setting of a margin for binding or setting of a size for erasing a document frame. An all-reset key 112 is depressed when an arbitrary mode being established is forcibly set to a standard mode (1 ×, automatic density, automatic paper feed, copy set sheet value (“one sheet”)). Reference numeral 113 denotes a preheating key, which is pressed to set the print engine of the main unit A to the preheating state and to cancel the setting. The preheating key 113 is also pressed when returning from the auto shut-off state to the standard mode.

114 is a copy start key (copy start key),
Press to start copying operation. 115 is clear /
A stop key, which functions as a clear key during standby and as a copy stop key during copying and recording. The clear / stop key 115 is also pressed when canceling the number of copies set as the clear function, and also when canceling the asterisk mode. Further, the clear / stop key 115 is depressed when the continuous copying is interrupted as a stop function, and the copying operation is stopped after the copying operation at the time of depressing is completed.

A numeric keypad 116 is pressed to set the number of copies. It is also used when setting the asterisk mode. A memory key 117 can register a mode frequently used by the user. 118a and 118b are copy density keys which are depressed when manually adjusting the copy density. 119 is an automatic density setting key (AE key) for automatically adjusting the copy density according to the density of the original, and canceling the automatic density adjustment (AE) to set the density manually. Press to switch.

Reference numeral 120 denotes a cassette selection key, which is depressed when a paper feed from the upper cassette 24a, the lower cassette 24b, and the paver deck 31 is selected. When the cassette selection key 120 is pressed when a document is placed on the editor section C, automatic paper cassette selection (APS) is set, and a cassette containing paper of a size matching the document size is set. Is automatically selected.

Reference numeral 121 denotes an equal-size key, which is depressed when making an actual-size (original-size) copy. Reference numeral 122 denotes an automatic scaling key, which is depressed when automatically reducing or enlarging the image of the original according to the designated size of the transfer paper. Reference numerals 123 and 124 denote zoom keys which are depressed when designating an arbitrary magnification between 64% and 142% for a document. 125 and 126 are fixed-size variable keys,
Press to specify reduction / enlargement of the standard size. 127
Is a double-sided key, which is pressed to make double-sided copying from a single-sided original, double-sided copying from a double-sided original, or single-sided copying from a double-sided original. A binding margin key 128 is pressed to create a binding margin of a designated length on the left side of the recording paper. A photo key 129 is depressed when copying a photo document. A multiplex key 130 is depressed when an image is created (combined) on the same side of the recording paper from two originals.

Reference numeral 131 denotes a document frame erase key, which is pressed when the user erases a frame of a standard size document, and the size of the document at that time is set by the asterisk key 111. Reference numeral 132 denotes a sheet frame erasing key which is depressed when erasing a document frame in accordance with the size of a cassette. Reference numeral 133 denotes a continuous page copy key which is depressed when copying the left and right pages of a document on separate sheets.

Reference numeral 140 denotes an LCD (liquid crystal) type message display (display). For example, one character is composed of 5 × 7 dots, and a 40-character message can be displayed. The display 140 is a translucent liquid crystal, and uses two colors for the backlight. Normally, a green backlight is turned on, and an orange backlight is turned on in an abnormal state or in a copying disabled state. 141 is a magnification display, zoom key 12
The copy magnification set in 3,124 is displayed in%. Reference numeral 142 denotes an equal-magnification display, which lights when the equal-magnification is selected. A color development display 143 is turned on when a sepia development device is set. A copy number display 144 displays the copy number or a self-diagnosis code. Reference numeral 145 denotes a cassette display, which includes an upper cassette 24a, a lower cassette 24b, and a paper deck 31.
Displays which one is selected.

Reference numeral 146 denotes a document direction display, which displays a document setting direction (vertical rising / horizontal rising). An AE display 147 is turned on when AE (automatic density adjustment) is selected by the AE key 119. 14
Reference numeral 8 denotes a preheating indicator, which is lit when in a preheating state. Note that the preheat indicator 148 is turned off during the auto shut-off state. 1
Reference numeral 49 denotes a ready / weight indicator, which is a two-color LED of green and orange, which lights green when ready (when copying is possible) and lights orange when waiting (when copying is impossible). Reference numeral 150 denotes a double-sided copy display which is turned on when one of double-sided copy from a double-sided original and double-sided copy from a single-sided original is selected.

In the standard mode, the number of copies is one, the density AE mode, the auto paper selection, the same size, and the setting of one-sided original to one-sided copy.

Next, the configuration of the system controller 1 shown in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the system controller 1 shown in FIG. 1, and the same components as those in FIGS. 1 to 5 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

In this figure, reference numeral 1a denotes a CPU, which is composed of, for example, μCOM87AD (manufactured by NEC Corporation), and controls each unit as a whole based on a control program stored in a ROM 1b. Reference numeral 1c denotes a RAM serving as a main storage device, which functions as a storage for input data and a work storage area. 1d is an output interface circuit (I / O output) composed of an input / output circuit port μPD8255 (manufactured by NEC Corporation), etc.
The control signal output from the CPU 1a is output. Reference numeral 1e denotes an input interface circuit (I / O input) which includes an input / output circuit port μPD8255 (manufactured by NEC Corporation) or the like, and sends a detection input signal detected by the image sensor 12 or the like to the CPU 1a. 1
f is the interface circuit and the input / output circuit port μPD8255
(Manufactured by NEC Corporation) or the like, and controls the input / output of the display group DS and the key group K of the operation unit shown in FIG. The display group DS is each of the display units shown in FIG. 5, and is a general term for an LED and an LCD.
The key group K corresponds to each key shown in FIG. 5, and the identification of the pressed state of each key is determined by the CPU 1a using a known key matrix.

Reference numeral 1g denotes a laser driver which outputs a drive signal for driving the semiconductor laser 13 and the scanner motor 15 based on a drive control signal output from the CPU 1a. Reference numeral 27a denotes a registration clutch for driving the registration motor 27 shown in FIG. S is a peddy sensor corresponding to the sensor in the pedestal section B.

Next, an image writing / erasing operation by the drawing means according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view for explaining the driving operation of the semiconductor laser 13 shown in FIG. 1, and the same components as those in FIGS. 1 and 6 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

In this figure, reference numeral 151 denotes a collimator lens which adjusts a laser beam emitted from the semiconductor laser 13 to parallel light. 152 is a cylindrical lens, and a collimator lens 1
The optical axis of the laser beam irradiated through 51 is adjusted on the scanning mirror 16 so as to be parallel to the axial direction of the photoconductor 17. Reference numeral 153 denotes an imaging lens for adjusting a scanning speed of the laser beam deflected by the polygon mirror 14 on the photoconductor 17 to a constant value.

The CPU 1a loads the fixed format sheet image data stored in advance in the memory section of the IC card 84 inserted into the IC card unit D into the RAM 1c, and outputs a video signal VD corresponding to the fixed format sheet image data to the laser driver 1g. . In response to this, a laser drive signal LD for driving the semiconductor laser 13 is transmitted from the laser driver 1g, and the laser beam decentered on / off by the laser drive signal LD is oscillated by the semiconductor laser 13. The oscillated laser beam is converted into parallel light by a collimator lens 151, and is scanned by a scanning lens 1 by a cylindrical lens 152.
On 6 it is converted to be a straight line parallel to the drum axis. Furthermore, a polygon mirror 14 rotating at a constant speed
The laser beam deflected by the laser beam forms an electrostatic latent image on the photoreceptor 17 via the imaging lens 153.

As described above, by controlling the video signal VD output from the CPU 1a, an electrostatic latent image can be accurately formed at an arbitrary position on the photosensitive member 17 with high accuracy.
In this embodiment, since the image can be formed with 4 pels (4 dots / mm), the fixed format sheet image developed in the RAM 1c can be accurately reproduced on the recording paper when necessary.

Next, an operation of reading a fixed format sheet image from the IC cart 84 will be described.

The IC card 84 stores image data constituting a fixed format sheet including a table, a logo, and the like. When the IC card 84 is inserted into the card insertion slot 81 of the IC card unit D, the IC card 84 is connected via the contact 88. Then, the stored fixed format sheet image data is read out for each scanning line, and is developed on the RAM 1b of the sequence controller 1.

Next, the fixed format image forming processing operation according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining a fixed format image forming processing procedure according to the present invention. (1)-
(10) shows each step.

The dot information corresponding to the first scan line is read out from the IC card 84, developed in the RAM 1c, and the value of the address counter is set to the first address (1). Next, it waits for vertical synchronization (synchronization of the recording paper in the paper feed direction) (vertical synchronization OK) (2), and if it is OK, then waits for horizontal synchronization (synchronization in the scanning direction) ( Horizontal synchronization OK) Wait (3). Next, it is determined whether or not the content of the address indicated by the address counter is "1" (black dot) (4).
The video signal VD from 1a is turned off (5), a black electrostatic latent image is formed on the photoreceptor 17, and the process proceeds to step (7) and thereafter. If NO, the video signal VD from the CPU 1a is turned on (6). ), Photoconductor 1
A white electrostatic latent image is formed on 7.

Next, an address counter (not shown) is incremented (7), and it is determined whether one scan line is completed (8). If NO, the process returns to step (3).
The dot information of the next scan line is expanded from the card 84 into the RAM 1c, and the value of the address counter is set to the start address of the scan line (9). Next, it is determined whether the scanning in the vertical direction is completed (10), and if NO, the process returns to step (2),
If YES, the process ends. Thereafter, under the control of the CPU 1a, a standard format sheet image can be formed,
Image formation is performed according to a known electrophotographic process.

Next, the fixed format sheet image selection processing operation by the sequence controller 1 shown in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 9 shows the sequence controller 1 shown in FIG.
Is a flowchart for explaining a fixed format sheet image selection processing procedure according to the first embodiment. Note that (1) to (12) indicate each step.

First, it waits for the asterisk key 111 to be pressed (1), and when the asterisk key 111 is pressed, enters the standard format sheet image selection mode, waits for the ten key 116 to be pressed (2), and presses the ten key 116 Then, the numeric keypad 1 is displayed on the display 140 shown in FIG.
Standard format sheet image (IC card)
84) are displayed.

Next, it is determined whether or not the zoom key 123, that is, zoom enlargement has been requested (3).
Is displayed on the display 140 (4).

Next, it is determined whether or not the asterisk key 111 has been pressed (5). If YES, the selected fixed format sheet image is developed on the RAM 100b (6), and the process is terminated.

On the other hand, if the determination in step (5) is NO, the address of the fixed format sheet image area stored in the IC card 84 is moved backward (7), and the title of the moved fixed format sheet image is displayed on the display 140. (8), and return to step (5).

On the other hand, if the determination in step (3) is NO, the title of the fixed-format sheet image in the front row is displayed on the display 14.
It is displayed at 0 (9).

Next, it is determined whether or not the asterisk key 111 has been pressed (10). If YES, the process returns to step (6), and NO
If so, the address of the fixed format sheet image area stored in the IC card 84 is advanced (11), and the title of the advanced fixed format sheet image is displayed on the display 14.
Displayed at 0 (12), and returns to step (10).

Thereafter, the formation of the standard format sheet image is performed according to the above-described procedure. In this way, by storing a plurality of fixed format sheet images in the IC card 84, a desired fixed format sheet can be selected and created by a single IC card 84.

Next, the fixed format sheet image copy inhibition control operation by the sequence controller 1 shown in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 10 shows the sequence controller 1 shown in FIG.
Is a flowchart for explaining a fixed format sheet image copy inhibition control procedure according to the first embodiment. (1) to (7)
Indicates each step.

First, it waits for the asterisk key 111 to be pressed (1), and when the asterisk key 111 is pressed, enters the standard format sheet image selection mode, waits for the ten key 116 to be pressed (2), and presses the ten key 116 Then, the department code written in advance is read from the magnetic card 94 inserted in the management unit E (3),
Write to the work area of RAM1c. Next, IC card 84
Waits for the prohibited department card that prohibits copying of the fixed-format sheet image selected from (4) to be read (4), and when it is read, the department code read from the magnetic card 94 is registered in the IC card 84. It is determined whether or not the code matches the prohibited section code (5). If YES, the processing is terminated without executing the RAM development processing of the selected fixed format sheet image.

On the other hand, if the determination in step (5) is NO, the title of the selected fixed format sheet image is displayed on the display 140 (6), and the fixed format sheet image is developed in the RAM 1b of the sequence controller 1 (7), The process ends.

This makes it possible to restrict copying of a fixed-format sheet image in a specific department, thereby preventing erroneous fixed-format sheet creation processing.

Next, with reference to FIGS. 11 and 12, an operation of prohibiting the removal of the IC card 84 by the sequence controller 1 shown in FIG. 1 will be described.

FIG. 11 shows the sequence controller 1 shown in FIG.
9 is a flowchart illustrating a first removal prohibition processing procedure of the IC card 84 according to the first embodiment. Note that (1) to (7) indicate each step.

The CPU 1a waits for the IC card 84 to be inserted into the IC card unit D that can be connected to the main body A serving as an image forming unit, and when it is inserted, sends a card removal disable signal from the CPU 1a to the IC card unit D. Send it out (2). Next, the reading of the fixed format sheet image data stored in the IC card 84 is started (3), and the data is developed in the RAM 1c.

Next, the CPU 1a waits for the insertion of a card (such as the magnetic card 94) storing the code information for permitting the extraction function of the IC card 84 (4). The transmitted card removal disable signal is released (5). Next, it waits for the card ejection button 82 to be pressed (6), and when pressed, ejects the IC card 84 (7).

FIG. 12 shows the sequence controller 1 shown in FIG.
Is a flowchart for explaining a second removal prohibition processing procedure of the IC card 84 according to the first embodiment. Note that (1) to (7) indicate each step.

It waits for the IC card 84 to be inserted into the IC card unit 1D that can be connected to the main unit A serving as an image forming unit (1), and when inserted, waits for the magnetic card 94 to be inserted into the management unit E. (2) When the magnetic card 94 is inserted, the IC
A card removal disable signal is sent from the CPU 1a to the card unit D (3). Next, the reading of the fixed format sheet image data stored in the IC card 84 is started, and the data is expanded in the RAM 1c.

Next, the magnetic card 94 inserted into the management unit E
Is waited for to be ejected (4). When the card is ejected, the card removal disable signal sent from the CPU 1a to the IC card unit D is released (5). Next, it waits for the card ejection button 82 to be pressed (6), and when pressed, ejects the IC card 84 (7).

In the above embodiment, the case where the drawing unit according to the present invention is constituted by the laser unit and the fixed format sheet image data stored in the IC card 84 is drawn on the photoreceptor 17 has been described. The drawing means may be constituted by a shutter.

In the above embodiment, the IC card 84 is used as the external storage means.
Although the description has been given of the case where the storage medium is configured by a storage medium such as a memory card, a magnetic storage device, and a laser card,
Similar effects can be obtained.

Further, in the above embodiment, the fixed format sheet image data stored in the IC card 84 is stored in the RA
Although the description has been given of the case where the data is expanded to the M1c, the control may be performed such that the data is expanded in one format unit or the fixed format data is directly transferred from the IC card 84 to the laser driver 1g without passing through the RAM 1c.

Further, in the above embodiment, the case where the fixed format sheet image is processed as the dot information has been described. However, the character information and the predetermined image data (logo mark,
(External character) may be used.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the case where the cancellation of the extraction impossible signal of the IC card 84 is controlled by the magnetic card 94 has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to the magnetic card 94, but may be an optical card, an IC card, a barcode, or the like. Alternatively, the cancellation of the IC card 84 extraction disable signal may be instructed by a reference number input process from the operation unit.

〔The invention's effect〕

As described above, according to the present invention, the first permission unit for permitting image formation by the image forming unit in response to reading of a predetermined code from the first storage medium, Based on the read predetermined code and the use restriction information read from the second storage medium, a second
A second permission unit for permitting reading of the image data stored in the storage medium, and an image forming unit in a state in which the image forming unit can form an image in response to the permission by the first permission unit. Control means for enabling the formation of an image on the second storage medium in accordance with the condition, the restriction on the use of the image forming apparatus and the restriction on the use of the image on the second storage medium are performed based on different conditions. The use of the image on the second storage medium can be strictly controlled. That is,
Either a state where the image forming apparatus cannot be used, a state where the image forming apparatus can be used but the image on the second storage medium cannot be used, or a state where the image forming apparatus can be used and the image on the second storage medium can be used. As a result, the use management of the image forming apparatus and the use management of the image on the second storage medium can be separately performed.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a plan view illustrating the configuration of an editor unit illustrated in FIG. 1, and FIG. , (B)
FIG. 4 is a perspective view and a sectional view for explaining the configuration of the IC card unit shown in FIG. 1, and FIG. 4 (a) is a perspective view for explaining the configuration of the management unit shown in FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of the management unit shown in FIG. 1, and FIG. 4C is a control block diagram illustrating the configuration of the management unit shown in FIG. FIG. 6 is a plan view illustrating an operation unit of the main body unit shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the system controller shown in FIG. 1, and FIG. 7 is a diagram shown in FIG. FIG. 8 is a perspective view for explaining a driving operation of the semiconductor laser, FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining a standard format image forming process according to the present invention, and FIG. 9 is a standard format sheet image selecting process by the sequence controller shown in FIG. Flow chart explaining the procedure FIG. 10 is a flow chart for explaining a control procedure for inhibiting the copying of a fixed-format sheet image by the sequence controller shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a first IC card removal prohibition processing procedure by the sequence controller shown in FIG. FIG. 12 is a flowchart for explaining a second removal prohibition processing procedure of the IC card by the sequence controller shown in FIG. In the figure, 1 is a system controller, 1a is a CPU, 1b is a ROM,
1c is RAM, 1g is laser driver, 13 is semiconductor laser, 84
A is an IC card, A is a main body, B is a pedestal, C is an editor, D is an IC card unit, and E is a management unit.

Continuation of the front page (56) References JP-A-62-119555 (JP, A) JP-A-62-160382 (JP, A) JP-A-61-95175 (JP, A) JP-A-54-72057 (JP) JP-A-57-163228 (JP, A) JP-A-62-23061 (JP, A) JP-A-62-15658 (JP, A) JP-A-61-184661 (JP, A) 62-96968 (JP, A) JP-A-1-131579 (JP, A) Japanese Utility Model Application Laid-Open No. 49-33729 (JP, U)

Claims (1)

(57) [Claims] An exposure unit configured to expose an image of a document; an image forming unit configured to form an image exposed by the exposure unit on a sheet; a first unit configured to read from a first storage medium storing a predetermined code; Reading means, a first permission means for permitting the image forming means to form an image in response to reading the predetermined code by the first reading means, and an image to be formed by the image forming means. Second reading means for reading from a second storage medium storing the image data of the image data and use restriction information for restricting the use of the image data; a predetermined code read by the first reading means; A second permission unit that permits reading of the image data stored in the second storage medium based on the use restriction information read by the reading unit; Control means for setting the image forming means in a state capable of forming an image in accordance with permission by the permission means, and further in a state capable of forming an image on the second storage medium in accordance with permission of the second permission means; An image forming apparatus comprising: