DE3428724A1 - Programmable copier - Google Patents

Abstract

A programmable copier, having a high degree of convenience, has a display section on which the remaining number of copies to be produced and the remaining time are optionally displayed before programmed copying jobs or tasks are complete. On the basis of this design, an operator can perform any other work in a precisely defined manner.

Description

Attorney's file: 33 642

description

The invention relates to a programmable copier according to the preamble of claim 1 and in particular relates to a programmable copier having a plurality of Types or modes of copying which can be programmed by an operator to operate in a desired manner expire, and with a display device for displaying the amount of copies to be made as programmed are.

A programmable copier with a number of copier functions, which can be programmed by an operator to automatically operate in a desired manner expire is known. Such a programmable copier is advantageous and convenient to use as a variety of copying work that differs in the number of copies to be made and / or in the type of copy, can be carried out automatically one after the other. However, as programmed in such a programmable copier It can become that the copying operation with or without a change in a copying mode for a relatively long period of time can be carried out continuously, the copier may be due to a lack of copy paper and / or developer, which is usually toner, come to a standstill during operation. To the occurrence of such an unintended To prevent stalling, the operator needs to know such conditions as the length of time and the number of the copies required to complete a copy as programmed.

According to the invention, therefore, a programmable copier is to be created which can be programmed accordingly can to automatically perform a number of copying jobs and the total amount of copying jobs such as

it is programmed to display. Furthermore, according to the invention, a programmable copier is to be created, which shows the remaining amount of copies to be made during a copy process. Furthermore, according to According to the invention, a programmable copier can be provided which has more free time for an operator is provided. According to the invention, this is in a programmable copier according to the preamble of Claim 1 by the features in the characterizing part of the Claim 1 achieved. Advantageous further developments of the invention are specified in the subclaims.

The invention is explained in detail below on the basis of preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. It ^- ^ show:

Fig. 1 is a front view showing the overall structure of a programmable copier according to an embodiment the invention; 20th

Figure 2 is a top plan view of the arrangement of various keys on one on top of the copier the control panel attached to FIG. 1;

3 is part of an enlarged view of a

Part of a display section provided on the copier of Fig. 1;

4 and 5 are block diagrams showing the programming sequence of copy modes in the copier of Fig.

1 is shown;

FIGS. 6 to 8 show schematic representations of memory allocations;
35

FIG. 9 is a block diagram of a control circuit which is advantageously used in the copier of FIG can be introduced; - 5 -

10 through 13 are flow charts useful in understanding the

Operation of the copier according to the invention are useful, and

14 shows a memory allocation.

1 shows the overall view of a programmable copier according to an embodiment of the invention. As will be explained later, the copier is provided with a variety of copying functions, which can be programmed by an operator to operate in a desired manner. Such a multitude Copy functions include shrinking, automatic double-sided copying, sorting, stacking, multi-job processing, as well as an automatic feed of a Template. In the programmable copier of Fig. 1, a variety of copying operations can be performed by one operator can be programmed before initiating a copying operation, and the copying work programmed in this way or jobs can then be carried out automatically one after the other without any supervision on the part of the operator. For example, the copier can perform a copying process continuously over a longer period of time, which can last, for example, a few minutes to several tens of minutes without intervention by the operator is required so that the operator this time in an advantageous manner for any can use other tasks. As can be seen clearly from the following description, it is important according to the invention, that the length of time and / or the number of copies to be made to complete the programmed copy work or jobs, is displayed to allow the operator to interact with any others in a specified manner to deal with desired tasks. The display contents, i.e. a length of time and / or a number of copies can be changed as the programmed copy operation progresses, so that the operator can use the remaining time

can check duration and / or the remaining number of copies during a copy process so that the operator can redefine their work schedule.

As shown in Fig. 1, the programmable copier according to the invention comprises a main part 1, a sorter 2, which is a separate unit, but with the main part 1 can be connected to carry out a related operation, an automatic document feeder 3, wel-

IQ feeds sheet-shaped originals stacked one by one for scanning, a control panel 4 having a number of operation keys which can be used for setting types or modes of copying, and a display section 5 ¹ on which the state of a copying condition as it is pro-

2g is programmed, is displayed.

FIG. 2 shows the arrangement of various elements, such as buttons and lamps, on the control panel 4. As in FIG. 2 shown are a button 5 for an enlargement of

2Q one-to-one plus two buttons 6 and 7 for one of one different magnifications are provided (whereby in the example shown there are different reductions Lights 8 to 10 are provided next to the corresponding buttons 5 to 7, and they light up

oc when the corresponding keys are pressed. Direct next to the keys 5 to 7 there is a three-digit original counter 11, which shows the number of originals fed, and a three-digit copy counter 12 is provided which indicates the number of copies made. One

„Λ key 13 can be used to activate a corresponding Programming to set the number or number of originals to be fed; next to button 13 is a Lamp 14 is provided. Furthermore, there is also a collection of ten numeric keys 15 for the digits zero to nine

ο, - in a special arrangement in connection with a function key 16 and an enter key 17 are provided.

j A delete / stop button 18 is provided to through their Press to delete the information entered by means of the numeric keys 15 or to interrupt a copy operation. There is a copy button below the delete / stop button

c 19 arranged, by pressing a copy operation is initiated. Three selection keys 20 to 22, with which is selectable from three runs, on which a stack of copy paper of a desired size are stacked, are seen along with each button associated with lamps 23 to 25 _in front. An automatic two-sided copying button 26 is also provided which, when pressed, causes the copier to make a copy of each side of an original; In addition to the button 26, a lamp 27 assigned to it is provided. A multi-job processing mode button 28 and an associated lamp 29 are also provided. Furthermore, a sort key 30, a stack key 31 and a key 32 indicating the remaining time, with which the remaining time is displayed in order to complete a programmed copying task, are provided together with lamps 33 to 35 assigned to the respective keys.

Fig. 3 shows in detail the structure of part of the display section 5 ', which has a display device 36, for example a luminous or liquid crystal display,

_._ with various messages such as "waiting" 37 and "copying" 38 2 B

as well as four-digit numbers 39 to 43, each consisting of seven segments, and a colon 41 between the numbers 40 and 42 is provided can be displayed. As will be explained later, this can be four-digit

Display can be used to show the remaining time 30th

to end a programmed copy operation.

FIG. 9 shows a control system 60 which is advantageously accommodated in the copier of FIG

can be to control its copier operation. The control system 35

60 has a microcomputer (μΟΡϋ) 44, for example one Intel 8085, a coupling unit 45 to connect one to the operator

Power panel 4 attached keyboard / display 46 and a display section 5 'to be coupled to one another, a read-only memory (ROM) 47 / in which a predetermined control program and various data are stored, a random memory (RAM) 48 for storing information such as copy mode data, and of different characters and a pair of I / O coupling circuits 4C and 49 on to different ones Link inputs and outputs.

Also in Fig. 9 are paper size detectors 56 and 57 shown to determine the size of copy paper stacked on a tray and to determine Information as an input of the I / O coupling circuit 49 feed. A photocoupler 58 serves as a paper discharge gate, and also supplies an input signal to the circuit 49. Furthermore, for each of the input elements', as described above, terminating resistors 55 are provided. A clock generator is also provided, which by resistors 51 and 52, a photo coupler 58 and an integrated Schmitt trigger circuit 54 is set and which pulses corresponding to the rotational movement of a (not shown) in the main part 4 provided photosensitive drum supplies.

Fig. 14 is a memory map showing a part of the internal memory structure of read-only memory (ROM) 47 which has areas 61 to 64 for storing a copy processing period T ₁ for each of four different sizes A3, B4, A4 and B5, an area 65 for storing an original replacement time period T. for replacing originals in the automatic document guide 3, and has an area 66 to indicate a time period

T save the amount required to change the magnification κ

Now that is the way to program a number of copy jobs or work described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5.

- 9 -

For purposes of illustration it is assumed that the following The copying jobs or work listed in the table are to be programmed.

5 number of the templates Tabel Copies Edition no. Forg 1 5 Number of 1 100% 2 7th 10 3 86% 3 1 3 1 100% 100

The above-mentioned first work or the first job is programmed following the sequence of steps shown in FIG. As shown, the JOB key 28 is first pressed to set a multi-job processing mode; when the multi-job processing mode is set, a JOB character F _{T is} stored in the random memory (RAM)

48 established, as shown in the memory allocation of FIG is. Then the template button 13 is pressed to

get it ready for an input of the number of templates N _Q.

In the present example the number 5 is entered, by selecting the corresponding one of the numeric keys 15. If the button 13 is pressed again, then the mode for entering the number of templates removed. When the number "10" is entered using the numeric keys 15 thus, it is stored as the number of copies N to be made. Then the button 20 pressed to select the No. 1 edition containing copy paper of a desired size; subsequently becomes on

pressed the 5 key for a magnification of one to

so set the enlargement ratio to one. Finally, the enter key 17 is pressed in order to terminate the inputting of operating conditions for the first batch of a copying process. When the enter key is pressed 17, ^above the subsequent input data is viewed by pressing the appropriate buttons as input information for the next copying operation. The result of a key press

- 10 -

for programming the third copy operation is shown in FIG. If the key 13 is not pressed as in this case, it is assumed that the number of originals N _{ß is} one. The number "100" entered by means of the numeric keys 15 is regarded as the number N of copies to be made. Then the button 20 for edition # 1 is pressed to select the desired edition; then the key 5 is pressed for a magnification of one and the enter key 17, whereby the programming of the third block (batch) of a copy operation is completed. After completing the programming of all the copy jobs or works, they are sequentially stored in the random memory (RAM) 48 as shown in FIG. Fig. 7 shows another area of the random memory (RAM) 48 "" having a different address in which copy mode data other than that to be used in the multiprocessing mode is stored. During the multi-processing mode, the copy mode data for one of the blocks (batches) that have now been put into operation are transferred to this address.

Fig. 8 shows another area of random memory (RAM) 48 for storing four-digit data indicating the number of copies N for storing data indicating the time T (in minutes and seconds) required to perform a desired copying operation is required, a timer setting character (F) which is set when one (one) second is reached by counting clock pulses supplied from the clock generator 51 to 54 and indicating a copy processing time period T ₁ for each copy what has been determined by a program described later.

With reference to the flow charts shown in FIGS. 10 to 13, it will now be described how the remaining number of copies N and the processing time segment can be determined and reduced, when copying proceeds. Figures 10 and 11 show

- 11 -

Programs for determining the remaining number of copies N and the remaining processing time T in different copy modes. In the first place, it is checked whether the JOB character F _{T is} equal to one or not and if the result

is negative, the flowchart of FIG. 11 is proceeded to. On the other hand, when it is positive, the multi-job processing mode becomes confirmed. Since in the multiple job processing mode the depression of the enter key 17 as the end of entering copy conditions for an individual Block of a copy process is viewed, it is checked whether the enter key is turned on or not. If it is negative, the program for determining N and T starts. If, on the other hand, it is positive, will a product of the number of copies N and the number of

15- ", N _{Q was set} as a value for N ₁ .

Then, a product of the processing time T ₁ per copy and the value N ₁ obtained above is set as the actual copying time T. On the other hand, a product of a time T _T indicating the time required for replacing originals in the automatic document _{feeder and N n is set} as the value of an entire original replacement period T.

In the next step, it is checked whether there is any change in the enlargement ratio (in the present example in the reduction ratio); if the result is negative, the recently entered number of copies N _T and the processing time T are added to the cumulative values of N and T entered so far. On the other hand, if the result indicates a change in the magnification ratio, _{the optical system change period T n is} also added to the processing time T before new values N and T are added to cumulative values of N and T, respectively. Finally, it is checked whether the remaining time days 32 has been pressed or not and either the remaining number of copies N or the

- 12 -

remaining processing time T is indicated by numerals 39 to 43 in the display section 5 depending on the Judgment result is displayed at this step.

Fig. 11 shows the sequence of steps which takes place in a mode which is not the multi-job processing mode. In this flowchart it is checked in the first place, whether or not the automatic document feeder (ADF) is set. If this is negative, it is then checked, whether or not double-sided copying is set. If the result of this assessment step is positive, is continued in a sequence of steps which are identical is with that performed in the automatic document feed (ADF) mode. In this case it will then double-sided copying is carried out to make double-sided copies from single-sided originals A, B, C, D ..., so that a first sheet has a copy of template A on one side and a copy of template B on the other Side, and a second sheet has a copy of original C on one side and a copy of original D on the other hand, etc. This double-sided copying can be carried out by a known method. For example, after a copy is placed on one side of a copy sheet, it does not go to the sorter or fed to the paper discharge tray, but is placed in a buffer tray which is inside the copier main body is provided, and the copy sheet, one side of which has been used for copying, is a second time for a copy from the Pufferab-3Q fed out to make a copy on the other side.

In the ADF and double-sided copy modes, it is first checked whether the number of originals is one (single) or more (multiple). It should be noted here that the arrangement is such that the number of originals N _{Q is set} to "1" when the operator is at the

- 13 -

ADF and double-sided modes did not enter the number of originals. The judgment as to whether it is the ADF mode or not can be easily made depending on the presence or absence of an original in the automatic document feeder 3. In the event that the number of originals N _{Q is} not "1", a product of the number of copies N and N _{Q is} calculated; on the other hand, when the number N- is "1", the number N itself is set equal to the total number of copies (the remaining number) of copies N.

The actual copying time T is seen as a product between

Copy processing time T ₁ per copy and N calculated; this is then followed by a calculation of a product from the number of copies N ₀ and a template replacement time segment T, similar to that in the multi-job processing mode. The entire processing section T is then a sum of T and T. In the end

Ά. Ο

it is checked whether the remaining time key 32 is turned on or not, and depending on the result of this judgment either T or N is displayed.

In Fig. 12, there is shown a program for setting T ..; this program is executed every time the overlay keys 20 to 22 are turned on. That is, if one of the Edition buttons 20 to 22 is switched on, the access

25 stands or requirements on the size detectors 56 and entered, so that a corresponding paper size, which corresponds to the selected edition key. A reasonable time T- whichever of the size thus chosen is selected from read-only memory (ROM) 47

30 and at a predetermined location in the random memory (RAM) 48 stored.

Fig. 13 shows a sequence of steps illustrating, such as N or T, which is determined by copy mode data 35 have been entered in various input modes while performing a copying process is subjected to a subtraction. At the first step

- 14 -

It is checked whether the above-mentioned timer setting flag F is set or not, and if the result is positive then one second is subtracted from T and then that Character F reset. Then it is checked whether the paper discharge sensor 58, 59 is turned on or not; if the answer is affirmative, "1" is subtracted from N. Then it is checked whether or not the return key 32 is on; if button 32 is not on, then N is displayed. If, on the other hand, button 32 is switched on,

10 checks whether N is equal to zero or not. If then figured out it has been established that N is not equal to zero, then this is set as T = O because of, there, itself when an error appears to be subtracted between the actual duration of a copying process and the time T,

this error is eliminated by setting T = O, when N = O occurs. Then T is displayed.

As described above, according to the invention, the operator can the remaining amount of programmed jobs or working

20th figure out which of the copiers are fairly easy and can perform exactly. Consequently, the operator can take advantage of the displayed remaining time To spend on performing any other work. By providing the remaining time key, the operator can

25 select whether the remaining number of copies or the remaining time is displayed will. In this way the invention provides greater convenience in using a programmable copier.

However, the present invention can be applied not only to a certain type of copier including electrophotographic Copier devices are used in which one or more copy jobs can be programmed at the beginning. Thus, the copier main body 1 includes a certain kind

35 an imaging system such as an electrophotographic Imaging system known to those skilled in the art, although not specifically in the present case is shown.

Claims (1)

BERG · STAPF ,, SCHWABE .; SANDMAIR F-ATENTANWÄLT £> "I - I -":.:. WALL CLARCHEROIRASSt 45 6uD0 MUNICH Attorney's file: 33 642 Ricoh Company, Ltd. Tokyo / Japan Programmable copier Claims 1. A programmable copier having a number of copy modes; and in which one or more copy jobs or -working in the same or in a different copy mode is programmable are marked by a Input device (4) for inputting copy conditions / whereby one or more copy jobs or works are entered in each case be programmed; by a first storage device (48) for storing the copying conditions inputted through the input means (4); second storage means (47) for storing a predetermined program; processing means (60) for processing the copying conditions stored in the first storage means (48) in accordance with the predetermined program stored in the second storage means (47) in connection with the progress of a copying operation of the copier, and by a display device (5 ¹ ) for displaying a state of the copier, the display ^{device (5 1} ) displaying a remaining number of copies to be produced before the programmed copy jobs are ended in accordance with information supplied by the processing device (60).
VII / XX / Ktz - 2 - • (089) 98 82 72 - 74 Telex: 5 24 560 BERG d Bank accounts: Bayer. Vereinsbank Munich 453100 (bank code 700 202 70) Telegrams (cable): Fax: (055) 9B3049 Hypo-Bank Munich 4410122850 (BLZ 70020011) Swift Code- HYPO DE MM BERGSTAPFPATENT Munich! Ölte! Nfole- 6350 Gr. Il + III Postscheck Munich 653 43-808 (BLZ 700 100 80) 12. Copier according to claim 1, characterized in that the display device (5 ¹ ) displays a remaining time segment (T) before the programmed copy jobs are completed in accordance with information supplied by the processing device (60) * 3. Copier according to claim 2, characterized in that that the input device (4) has a selector switch to either the remaining number of copies or the To select the remaining time segment to be ^{displayed by the display device (5 1} ). 4. Copier according to claim 3, characterized in that that the selector switch is a manually operated switch 5. Copier according to claim 2, characterized net that the remaining period when the remaining number is on Copies.0 will be entered, corresponding to the one in the second memory 2orrichtung (48) stored program is set to 0 will. 6. Copier according to claim 1, characterized net that the processing device (60) has a micro 25 processor (iiCPU), the second memory device en a read-only memory (47) and the first memory device comprises a random memory (48).