Image forming apparatus and computer-readable medium

Abstract

The present invention provides an image forming apparatus and a computer-readable medium. The image forming apparatus includes: a reading unit that reads an image from a first sheet of paper; a standby unit that puts the first sheet of paper into standby mode; and a processor that, after the reading unit has read the image, puts the first sheet of paper into standby mode in the standby unit, and after putting the first sheet of paper into standby mode in the standby unit, outputs a second sheet of paper containing first information, the first information being determined based on an evaluation result obtained from evaluating the first sheet of paper.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to image forming apparatus and computer-readable medium. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, problem generation devices that generate questions based on the correctness of learners' answers have been proposed (for example, see Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-106082).

[0003] The question generation apparatus disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-106082 comprises: an image reading unit that reads an answer sheet containing the learner's answers and a correct answer sheet pre-displayed with the correct answers, and generates answer data and correct answer data respectively; a scoring processing unit that scores the answer data based on the correct answer data to determine a score; a question selection unit that adjusts at least one of the number of questions and difficulty level based on the determined score, selecting questions with higher difficulty levels for higher scores and selecting questions with fewer questions for higher scores; and a question editing unit that edits questions using at least one of the selected questions. Summary of the Invention

[0004] If a second sheet is output based on the evaluation result of the first sheet read, there is a possibility that the user who performed the read may forget to retrieve the second sheet.

[0005] The objective of this invention is to provide an image forming apparatus and a computer-readable medium that, compared to a structure that discontinuously outputs a first sheet and records a second sheet containing first information determined based on the evaluation results of the first sheet, can prevent the user from forgetting to remove the second sheet.

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present invention, an image forming apparatus is provided, comprising: a reading unit that reads an image from a first sheet of paper; a standby unit that puts the first sheet of paper into standby mode; and a processor that, after the reading unit performs reading, puts the first sheet of paper into standby mode in the standby unit, and after putting the first sheet of paper into standby mode in the standby unit, outputs a second sheet of paper containing first information continuously along with the first sheet of paper, the first information being determined based on an evaluation result obtained from evaluating the first sheet of paper.

[0007] According to the second aspect of this disclosure, the processor evaluates the second information contained in the image read from the first paper regarding the first information, outputs the evaluation result, pulls in the first paper waiting in the standby section, appends the evaluation result, and outputs the first paper.

[0008] According to a third aspect of the present invention, the processor outputs the second sheet of paper when predetermined conditions are met.

[0009] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, if the evaluation result meets a predetermined standard as a predetermined condition, the processor outputs the second sheet.

[0010] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the processor outputs the second paper before outputting the first paper.

[0011] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the processor simultaneously outputs the first sheet and the second sheet.

[0012] According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the processor outputs the first sheet and the second sheet in an integrated manner.

[0013] According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, a computer-readable medium is provided, which stores a program that causes a computer to perform processing. The processing causes a processor that controls a reading unit that reads an image from a first sheet of paper and a standby unit that puts the first sheet of paper into standby mode to perform the following processing: after the reading unit reads an image, the first sheet of paper is put into standby mode; after the first sheet of paper is put into standby mode, a second sheet of paper containing first information is continuously output along with the first sheet of paper, the first information being determined based on an evaluation result obtained from evaluating the first sheet of paper.

[0014] (Effect)

[0015] According to the first or eighth scheme, compared to a structure that discontinuously outputs a first sheet and records a second sheet containing first information determined based on the evaluation results of the first sheet, it is possible to prevent the user from forgetting to take out the second sheet.

[0016] According to the second scheme, the evaluation results of the first paper can be further output.

[0017] According to the third solution, a second sheet of paper can be dispensed without outputting it.

[0018] According to the fourth scheme, a second sheet can be omitted based on the evaluation results.

[0019] According to the fifth scheme, a second sheet can be output before the first sheet with the evaluation results is output.

[0020] According to the sixth and seventh schemes, the second sheet can be removed together with the first sheet containing the evaluation results. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figure 1This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment of this disclosure.

[0022] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of a control system for an image forming apparatus.

[0023] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating an example of how answer sheets and new question sheets are arranged.

[0024] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment.

[0025] Figure 5 It is a flowchart representing an example of the actions involved in the variation.

[0026] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of an image forming system according to the second embodiment of this disclosure.

[0027] Figure 7 This is a block diagram representing an example of a control system for a server device.

[0028] Figure 8 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of a control system for an image forming apparatus.

[0029] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of an image forming apparatus.

[0030] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the actions of a server device.

[0031] Figure 11 This is a timing diagram representing an example of the actions of an image forming system. Detailed Implementation

[0032] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in the drawings, constituent elements having substantially the same function are labeled with the same symbols, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0033] [Summary of Implementation Methods]

[0034] The image forming apparatus according to this embodiment includes: a reading unit that reads an image from a first sheet; a standby unit that puts the first sheet into standby mode; and a processor, wherein the processor puts the first sheet into standby mode in the standby unit after the reading unit reads the image, and after putting the first sheet into standby mode in the standby unit, continuously outputs a second sheet containing first information determined based on the evaluation result of the first sheet.

[0035] "First paper" refers to the paper that becomes the object of image reading by the reading unit of the image forming apparatus. The first paper is the paper that becomes the object of evaluation. "Second paper" refers to the paper printed and output by the output unit of this image forming apparatus. The second paper is the paper that records the first information.

[0036] "First information" is determined based on the evaluation results obtained from evaluating the first sheet of paper. Furthermore, first information also includes the evaluation results themselves. Specifically, "first information" includes, for example, information requiring user answers such as learning questions or questionnaire questions, and information notifying the user of diagnostic results such as stress tests.

[0037] The first sheet of paper contains the second information that will be evaluated. The "second information" refers to the information provided by the user in response to the first information.

[0038] "Continuously" refers to a state in which two or more sheets of paper are in succession without any other medium such as paper between them, and within a certain period of time (e.g., a few seconds). Furthermore, "within a certain period of time" includes simultaneous situations.

[0039] That is, "continuous output" includes, for example, outputting two or more sheets of paper in sequence, or outputting two or more sheets of paper together as a single unit.

[0040] [First Implementation]

[0041] Figure 1 This diagram illustrates an example of the structure of an image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention. This image forming apparatus 3 is, for example, a multifunction printer with multiple functions such as scanning, printing, copying, faxing, email, and server functions. Furthermore, the image forming apparatus 3 is not limited to being a multifunction printer, as long as it has at least scanning and printing functions. This image forming apparatus 3 is primarily suitable for educational settings such as schools, classrooms, and tutoring centers. This image forming apparatus 3 is particularly suitable for providing a learning method that adjusts the difficulty of questions according to the learner's ability or level.

[0042] (Structure of image forming apparatus 3)

[0043] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the control system of the image forming apparatus 3. For example... Figure 2As shown, the image forming apparatus 3 includes: a control unit 30 for controlling various parts; a storage unit 31 for storing various data; an operation unit 32 for inputting and displaying information; a paper feeding unit 33 for feeding paper to the document table; an image reading unit 34 for reading images from paper; a paper supply unit 35 for supplying paper for printing (hereinafter referred to as "printing paper"); a conveying unit 36 ​​for conveying paper; an image output unit 37 for printing and outputting images; and a paper discharge unit 38 for discharging paper.

[0044] Image reading unit 34 is an example of a reading unit. Image output unit 37 is an example of an output unit. In addition, image forming apparatus 3 may also include a fax communication unit that transmits and receives faxes to an external fax device via a public line network.

[0045] The control unit 30 consists of a processor 30a (such as a CPU) and interfaces. The processor 30a operates according to the program 310 stored in the storage unit 31, thereby functioning as an execution unit 300, a standby unit 301, a scoring processing unit 302, a recording unit 303, a first generation unit 304, a calculation unit 305, a judgment unit 306, a determination unit 307, a second generation unit 308, and a notification unit 309. Details about each unit 300 to 309 will be described later.

[0046] The storage unit 31 consists of ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), hard disk, etc., and stores various data such as program 310, problem paper information 311, problem database 312, and scoring result information 313.

[0047] Question paper information 311 is a record of information contained on a sheet of paper with all answer fields left blank (hereinafter also referred to as the "question paper"). The respondent is an example of a user.

[0048] The following information is recorded in the problem paper information 311, for example, in association with the format ID that identifies the writing format (hereinafter also referred to as format) of the problem paper.

[0049] (a) Images relating to the problematic paper (hereinafter also referred to as "problem paper images").

[0050] (b) Supplementary information for correcting images of problematic paper

[0051] (c) Information related to the entry column

[0052] • Information indicating the type of entry field

[0053] • Position information indicating the location on the paper in the entry column

[0054] • Information indicating the method of recording (e.g., whether it is declarative or optional).

[0055] Information such as the type of script used

[0056] Here, the "Types of Records" include, for example,: a printable format ID field, a respondent's attribute field (e.g., the respondent's grade or group, the respondent's name, etc.), a score field, a question field with printed question text, an answer field, and a QR code (registered trademark) field (e.g., which can be used for re-scoring).

[0057] Problem database 312 records information related to problems. For example, problem database 312 records information related to the following:

[0058] (a) The level of the object (hereinafter also referred to as "level". For example, academic year, etc.)

[0059] (b) Discipline

[0060] (c) Classification of questions (e.g., classification of the scope of questions, such as questions based on fractions).

[0061] (d) Correct answers, example answers, etc.

[0062] (e) Difficulty

[0063] Scoring result information 313 records the scoring results for the sheet of paper with answers written in the answer column (hereinafter also referred to as the "answer sheet"). The answer is an example of second information. The answer sheet is an example of first information.

[0064] In the scoring result information 313, information related to the following is recorded, for example, in association with the respondent ID that identifies the respondent and the format ID of the question paper (or, the question paper ID that identifies the question paper).

[0065] (a) Date and time of scoring

[0066] (b) The results of the scoring (hereinafter also referred to as "scoring results").

[0067] (c) Images related to the answer sheet (hereinafter also referred to as "answer images"), etc.

[0068] In addition, the "answer sheet" includes a sheet containing only the answer column and no questions (hereinafter also referred to as the "answer sheet"), as well as a sheet containing both questions and answer columns. Furthermore, the scoring results include, for example, information indicating the correctness of each answer and information indicating the respondent's ability. Details regarding ability will be described later. The scoring results are an example of an evaluation result.

[0069] The operation unit 32 includes an input unit 320 consisting of operation buttons and an operation display unit 321 for inputting and displaying information. The operation display unit 321 is, for example, a touch panel display, having a structure in which a touch panel is superimposed on a display such as an LCD.

[0070] The paper feed unit 33 is, for example, composed of an automatic document feeder (ADF) or a dual-auto document feeder (DADF). The paper feed unit 33 is installed on the document tray. The paper feed unit 33 includes a paper tray 330, such as an insertion tray, for configuring (hereinafter also referred to as "setting") the paper to be read (hereinafter also referred to as "scanning").

[0071] The image reading unit 34 reads images from paper and is equipped with a scanner (not shown) that optically reads images from paper that is manually placed on the document table or from paper that is fed to the reading position on the document table by the paper feed unit 33.

[0072] The paper supply unit 35 holds the printing paper and supplies the held printing paper to the image output unit 37 during printing.

[0073] The transport unit 36 ​​transports the printing paper supplied from the paper supply unit 35 (hereinafter also referred to as "paper supply"). The transport unit 36 ​​is composed of a transport path 360, a double-sided transport path 361, etc. The double-sided transport path 361 is a path that, in the case of double-sided printing with both the front and back sides specified, temporarily holds the printing paper after printing on one side is completed, and reverses the front and back sides in preparation for printing on the other side. The double-sided transport path 361 is large enough to hold several sheets (e.g., one sheet) of printing paper. The double-sided transport path 361 is an example of a standby unit.

[0074] The image output unit 37 prints color or black-and-white images onto a recording medium such as paper, for example, using electrophotography or inkjet printing. In this embodiment, the image output unit 37 performs normal printing on unprinted paper and "additional printing" on printed paper after normal printing has been performed.

[0075] The paper ejection unit 38 ejects the paper that has been printed by the image output unit 37. The paper ejection unit 38 includes a paper ejection tray 380 for storing the ejected paper. The paper ejection tray 380 is an example of a standby unit.

[0076] In addition, the paper output section 38 is not limited to Figure 1 The device shown can also be a small-capacity device, such as a stacked tray, trimming tray, trimming paper tray, external trimmer, etc., which are large-capacity devices.

[0077] (Regarding units 300-309 of the control unit 30)

[0078] The execution unit 300 performs various processes. Specifically, the execution unit 300 controls the paper feeding unit 33 to deliver the paper to the reading position of the original document table. Additionally, the execution unit 300 controls the image reading unit 34 to read the image from the paper. Furthermore, the execution unit 300 controls the paper feeding unit 35 to supply printing paper, controls the transport unit 36 ​​to deliver the printing paper to the image output unit 37, and controls the image output unit 37 to print the image on the printing paper. Finally, the execution unit 300 controls the paper discharge unit 38 to discharge the printing paper to the paper discharge tray 380. Details regarding the paper discharge method will be described later.

[0079] The standby unit 301 controls the transport unit 36 ​​and the paper discharge unit 38 to send the paper that has finished reading the image to the standby unit and to temporarily put the paper into standby mode in the standby unit. As described above, the standby unit may, for example, be a double-sided transport path 361 or a paper discharge tray 380.

[0080] The scoring processing unit 302 extracts the respondent ID and question paper information 311 from the answer image read by the image reading unit 34, and scores the answers contained in the answer image with reference to the question database 312. The scoring includes, for example, a determination of whether the answer is correct or incorrect.

[0081] The recording unit 303 records the scoring result of the scoring processing unit 302 in the scoring result information 313 of the storage unit 31.

[0082] The first generation unit 304 generates an image related to the scoring result (hereinafter referred to as the "scoring result image") by assigning accompanying information (hereinafter also referred to as "metadata") based on the scoring result. This scoring result image is used for additional printing.

[0083] For example, metadata includes the following information.

[0084] (a) Information indicating the print format (specifically, information indicating additional printing).

[0085] (b) Information indicating the number of faces

[0086] (c) Single-sided / Double-sided information

[0087] (d) Page information (color information, etc.)

[0088] The calculation unit 305 calculates the respondent's ability based on the scoring results. For example, the calculation unit 305 calculates the category ID for each category of questions and the correct answer rate for each difficulty level based on the scoring results. It then adjusts the correct answer rate by weighting the number of questions at each difficulty level, calculates the difficulty level weighted according to the correct answer rate, and uses this value as a representation of the respondent's ability (hereinafter also referred to as the "ability value").

[0089] Furthermore, the calculation unit 305 adjusts the number of questions for each category ID and each difficulty level based on the ability value. The calculation unit 305 adjusts, for example, according to a normal distribution that averages the ability values.

[0090] The determination unit 306 determines whether to provide the respondent with a new question sheet. Specifically, the determination unit 306 determines whether to provide a new question sheet based on the following determination criteria. More specifically, if any one of the following determination criteria is met, the determination unit 306 determines that a new question sheet should be provided to the respondent; if none of the following determination criteria is met, the determination unit 306 determines that a new question sheet should not be provided to the respondent. A new question sheet is an example of a second sheet of paper. The determination criteria are examples of predetermined conditions.

[0091] (a) Time-related criteria

[0092] • When the answer sheet is being scanned, there is more than the scheduled time remaining in the class (or quiz). For example, this is equivalent to determining that the student has time to answer a new question (hereinafter referred to as the "next question") within the remaining time of the lesson (or quiz). The "next question" is an example of the first piece of information.

[0093] (b) Judgment criteria related to the scoring results

[0094] • The score is full marks

[0095] • For cases where the difficulty level of the questions asked by the respondent is above a predetermined benchmark value.

[0096] Additionally, if the score is not perfect, the question can be re-answered and re-scored by erasing only the incorrect parts using an eraser. Furthermore, the "difficulty level of the question for the respondent" can be determined, for example, by comparing the difficulty level of the question itself with the respondent's ability score.

[0097] (c) Judgment criteria related to the respondent's requirements

[0098] • There are pre-set columns on the answer sheet containing information such as whether the answer is expected to be followed by a question, or the level of difficulty.

[0099] If the determination unit 306 determines that a new problem sheet needs to be provided, the determination unit 307 determines the difficulty level of the next problem recorded on the newly output problem sheet based on the scoring results. That is, the "next problem" is determined based on the evaluation results of the solutions.

[0100] When the determination unit 306 determines that a new problem paper has been provided, the second generation unit 308 refers to the problem database 312 and generates a problem paper image related to the new problem paper.

[0101] As an example, the second generation unit 308 selects the "next question" from the question database 312, which has been adjusted in terms of difficulty or question tendency as determined by the determination unit 307, and assigns metadata to generate a question paper image related to the "new question paper" composed of the next question.

[0102] The metadata assigned to the image of the problematic paper may include, for example, the following information.

[0103] (a) Information indicating the print format (specifically, information indicating that it is not an additional print (i.e., normal print)).

[0104] (b) Information indicating the number of faces

[0105] (c) Page information (single-sided / double-sided information, paper size, portrait / landscape information, color information, etc.)

[0106] Furthermore, the second generation unit 308 can refer to the scoring result information 313 in the storage unit 31 and further consider past scoring results to generate a question paper image related to the new question paper. Additionally, for example, when the determination unit 306 determines that the difficulty level of the question for the respondent is greater than or equal to a predetermined benchmark value, the second generation unit 308 can generate a question paper image consisting of questions whose difficulty level is less than the difficulty level of the questions related to the scored question paper.

[0107] The notification unit 309 notifies the respondent to prevent them from forgetting to pick up the new question sheet when it is printed. For example, the notification unit 309 notifies the respondent by displaying a record of the printed new question sheet on the display screen of the operation display unit 321.

[0108] (Regarding the paper ejection method)

[0109] Figure 3This diagram schematically illustrates an example of how the answer sheets and new question sheets are arranged. Additionally, to further illustrate the order in which the answer sheets and new question sheets are arranged, Figure 3 The figures show the positions slightly offset from each other or rotated, but this does not necessarily result in a positional shift or rotation. Note the overlap between the two in the top view.

[0110] like Figure 3 As shown in (a), the execution unit 300 can also add answer sheets P with the scoring results printed on them. A Compared to the new problem paper P Q First, eliminate it. In other words, the new problematic paper P can be removed. Q Additional answer sheets P containing the scoring results were printed. A Then it is discharged. In this case, the new problem paper P Q The results are continuously output to answer sheets P that are subsequently printed with the scoring results. A superior.

[0111] In addition, such as Figure 3 As shown in (b), the execution unit 300 can generate new problem paper P. Q Compared to the additional printed answer sheets with scoring results, P A First, eliminate it. In other words, it can be placed on a new problem sheet P. Q Then, answer sheets P, which were subsequently printed with additional scoring results, were produced. A In this situation, on the new problem paper P Q The answer sheet P, which is continuously printed with the scoring results, is continuously output. A By comparing the answer sheet P A First, output the new problem sheet P. Q This can prevent forgetting to take out the problem paper P Q .

[0112] In addition, such as Figure 3 (c) and Figure 3 As shown in (d), the execution unit 300 can generate new problem paper P. Q And additional printed answer sheets with scoring results P A Output in one piece. As an example, execution unit 300 can use a post-processing device (not shown) to output new problem paper P. Q And the answer sheet P with the additional printed scoring results A Output in a bound state using binding components (hereinafter also referred to as "binding devices") 5, etc. By making the answer sheet P A And new problem paper P Q Outputting in an integrated manner can prevent the problem paper from being forgotten to be removed. Q .

[0113] In the case of binding, such as Figure 3 As shown in (c), the new problem paper P can be... Q Placed on top, or as... Figure 3 As shown in (d), additional answer sheets P with the scoring results will be printed on them. A Place it on top.

[0114] In addition, when the printing execution order is different from the discharge order, in order to change the discharge order, the paper that has been printed first can be put on standby on the double-sided transport path 361, for example.

[0115] (Operation of the first embodiment)

[0116] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the image forming apparatus 3 according to the first embodiment. When the respondent places the answer sheet on the document tray and instructs scanning to be performed, the execution unit 300 controls the image reading unit 34 to read the answer image from the answer sheet (S1). Alternatively, when the respondent places the answer sheet on the paper tray 330, the execution unit 300 controls the paper feeding unit 33 to deliver the answer sheet to the reading position on the document tray, and controls the image reading unit 34 to read the answer image from the answer sheet.

[0117] The standby unit 301 sends the answer sheet to the standby section (S2) of the double-sided conveying path 361 or the paper tray 380, so that the answer sheet is temporarily put into standby mode in the standby section.

[0118] Next, the scoring processing unit 302 performs scoring processing on the answer image (S3). The recording unit 303 records the scoring result in the scoring result information 313 of the storage unit 31 (S4). In addition, the recording unit 303 records the question paper information 311 (S5).

[0119] The first generation unit 304 generates a score result image for additional printing based on the score result (S6).

[0120] The calculation unit 305 calculates the respondent's ability score based on the scoring results (S7). The judgment unit 306 determines whether to provide the respondent with a new question sheet (S8).

[0121] If the determination unit 306 determines that a new problem sheet is to be provided (S8: Yes), the determination unit 307 determines the difficulty level of the next problem recorded on the new problem sheet (S9). In addition, the second generation unit 308 selects a problem with the determined difficulty level from the problem database 312 and generates a problem sheet image related to the new problem sheet (S10).

[0122] The execution unit 300 pulls the waiting answer sheet from the paper tray 380 (S11) and controls the image output unit 37 to perform additional printing of the scoring result image on the answer sheet (S12). In addition, the execution unit 300 controls the paper discharge unit 38 to discharge the answer sheet with the additional printed scoring result image back to the paper tray 380.

[0123] Then, the execution unit 300 controls the image output unit 37 to print the image of the problem paper (S13), and the execution unit 300 controls the paper discharge unit 38 to discharge the paper into the paper discharge tray 380. The notification unit 309 issues a notification to suppress the forgetting to remove the new problem paper (S14).

[0124] If the determination unit 306 determines that no new problem paper should be provided (S8: No), the image forming apparatus 3 does not print new problem paper, but only performs additional printing and output of the scoring results. Specifically, the execution unit 300 pulls the answer paper that is temporarily waiting on the paper tray 380 from the paper tray 380 (S15), and controls the image output unit 37 to perform additional printing of the scoring result image on the answer paper (S16).

[0125] Alternatively, if no new problem sheets are output, the step of sending the answer sheet to the paper output tray 380 and putting it into standby mode, which is related to step S2, can be omitted. In this case, the determination step of step S8 can be performed between steps S1 and S2.

[0126] Furthermore, for ease of explanation, the structure with only one paper tray 380 is described as an example, but two or more paper trays 380 can also be provided. In this case, any one of the multiple paper trays 380 can be used as a dedicated tray for the standby section, while the other paper trays 380 can be used as the destination for the paper after printing is completed.

[0127] (Modified Example)

[0128] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating one example of the actions involved in the modified example. The present invention can be applied to double-sided printed answer sheets. In the following description of the actions, unless otherwise specified, the following processes are repeatedly performed on each output surface as processes performed by the processor 30a provided in the control unit 30 of the image forming apparatus 3.

[0129] When both the front and back sides are designated as processing objects (S30: Yes), and the side designated as the first to be printed (e.g., the front side; it could also be the back side) has been printed (S31: Yes), the double-sided transport path 361 is set as the paper supply source (hereinafter also referred to as "supply source") (S32).

[0130] If neither the front nor the back side is designated as the processing object (S30: No) or if the side designated as the initial printing surface is not printed (S31: No), and if it is an object to be printed additionally (S33: Yes), the standby section of the answer sheet (e.g., the paper tray 380) is designated as the supply source (S34).

[0131] If neither the front nor the back side is designated as the processing object (S30: No), or if the side designated as the initial printing surface has not been printed (S31: No), and it is not an object for additional printing (S33: No), that is, if normal printing is specified, the output tray (hereinafter also referred to as "appropriate tray") determined according to the paper size, portrait / landscape information, etc. in the output surface is designated as the supply source (S35).

[0132] Next, paper is introduced from the designated supply source (S36). Printing is then performed on the introduced paper (S37).

[0133] [Second Implementation]

[0134] Figure 6 This diagram illustrates an example of the structure of an image forming system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that it includes a server device 2. Hereinafter, elements having the same structure and function as those in the first embodiment will be given the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions will be omitted; the description will focus on the differences from the first embodiment.

[0135] The image forming system 1 includes a server device 2, an image forming apparatus 3, and a network 4 communicatively connecting the server device 2 and the image forming apparatus 3. Furthermore, the image forming apparatus 3 may also include a terminal device for controlling the server device 2 and the image forming apparatus 3. This image forming system 1 is primarily suitable for educational settings such as schools, classrooms, and tutoring centers.

[0136] Server device 2 is a scoring service device with answer sheet scoring functionality, such as a DFE (Digital Front End) device. Details of server device 2 will be described later. Alternatively, in the second embodiment, image forming apparatus 3 may not necessarily have server functionality.

[0137] Network 4 is a communication network such as a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), the Internet, or an intranet, which can be wired or wireless.

[0138] (Structure of server device 2)

[0139] Figure 7This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the control system of server device 2. The server device 2 includes: a control unit 20 for controlling various components; a storage unit 21 for storing various data; and a network communication unit 28 for communicating with image forming apparatus 3 via network 4.

[0140] The control unit 20 consists of a processor 20a, such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), and interfaces. The processor 20a operates according to the program 210 stored in the storage unit 21, thereby performing functions as a receiving unit 200, a sending unit 201, a scoring processing unit 302, a recording unit 303, a first generation unit 304, a calculation unit 305, a judgment unit 306, a determination unit 307, and a second generation unit 308.

[0141] The receiving unit 200 receives information and signals sent from external devices such as the image forming apparatus 3 via the network 4. The sending unit 201 sends information and signals to external devices such as the image forming apparatus 3 via the network 4. The scoring processing unit 302, the recording unit 303, the first generation unit 304, the calculation unit 305, the judgment unit 306, the determination unit 307, and the second generation unit 308 have the same functions as those described in the first embodiment, so detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0142] The storage unit 21 consists of ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), hard disk, etc., and stores various data such as program 210, problem paper information 311, problem database 312, and scoring result information 313. The problem paper information 311, problem database 312, and scoring result information 313 are the same as those described in the first embodiment, so their detailed description is omitted.

[0143] The network communication unit 28 transmits and receives signals with the image forming apparatus 3 via the network.

[0144] (Structure of image forming apparatus 3)

[0145] Figure 8 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the control system of the image forming apparatus 3. The control unit 30 of the image forming apparatus 3 according to the second embodiment differs from that of the image forming apparatus 3 according to the first embodiment in that the control unit 30 further includes a transmitting unit 318 and a receiving unit 319. Furthermore, the control unit 30 of the image forming apparatus 3 according to the second embodiment may not necessarily include the scoring processing unit 302, the recording unit 303, the first generation unit 304, the calculation unit 305, the determination unit 306, the determination unit 307, and the second generation unit 308.

[0146] The processor 30a operates according to the program 310 stored in the storage unit 31, thereby performing functions as an execution unit 300, a standby unit 301, a sending unit 318, a receiving unit 319, etc. The execution unit 300 and the standby unit 301 have the same functions as those described in the first embodiment, so detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0147] The receiving unit 319 receives information and signals sent from external devices such as server device 2 via network 4. The sending unit 318 sends information and signals to external devices such as server device 2 via network 4.

[0148] Furthermore, the image forming apparatus 3 of the second embodiment also includes a network communication unit 39, which is implemented by a NIC (Network Interface Card) or the like, and transmits and receives signals with external devices via a network 4.

[0149] (Operation of the second embodiment)

[0150] Next, refer to Figure 9 , Figure 10 and Figure 11 An example of the operation of this image forming system 1 will be described. The image forming apparatus 3 performs steps S1, S2, S11, S12, S13, S14, S15, and S16 as described in the first embodiment, and the server device 2 performs the remaining steps S3 to S10. Hereinafter, the operation of (1) the image forming apparatus 3, (2) the server device 2, and (3) the image forming system 1 will be described separately.

[0151] (1) Operation of image forming apparatus 3

[0152] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the image forming apparatus 3. Steps S41 and S42 are performed in the same manner as steps S1 and S2 in the first embodiment. That is, when the respondent places the answer sheet on the document table and instructs scanning to be performed, the execution unit 300 controls the image reading unit 34 to read the answer image from the answer sheet (S41), the standby unit 301 sends the answer sheet to the standby unit (S42), and puts the answer sheet into temporary standby in the standby unit.

[0153] The sending unit 318 sends the read answer image to the server device 2 via the network 4 (S43).

[0154] Next, when the receiving unit 319 receives a new problem paper image sent from the server device 2 (S44: Yes), steps S45 to S48 are performed in the same manner as steps S11 to S14 in the first embodiment. That is, the execution unit 300 pulls the answer paper from the paper tray 380 (S45), performs additional printing of the scoring result image on the answer paper (S46), discharges the answer paper with the additionally printed scoring result image back to the paper tray 380, prints the problem paper image (S47), discharges it back to the paper tray 380, and the notification unit 309 sends a notification to suppress the forgetting to take out the new problem paper (S48).

[0155] If the receiving unit 319 does not receive a new question paper image sent from the server device 2 (S44: No), the execution unit 300 pulls the answer paper from the paper tray 380 (S49), and controls the image output unit 37 to perform additional printing of the scoring result image on the answer paper (S50).

[0156] In addition, “the receiving unit 319 does not accept the new problem paper image sent from the server device 2” includes, for example, the case where no new problem paper image is sent from the server device 2 within a predetermined period, and the case where the server device 2 accepts information indicating that no new problem paper has been provided.

[0157] (2) Operation of server device 2

[0158] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of server device 2. The receiving unit 200 receives the answer image sent from the image forming apparatus 3 (S60). Next, from step S61 to step S68, the operation is the same as steps S3 to S10 described in the first embodiment.

[0159] That is, the scoring processing unit 302 performs scoring processing on the received answer image (S61), the recording unit 303 records the scoring result in the scoring result information 313 in the storage unit 31 (S62), and records the question paper information 311 (S63), the first generation unit 304 generates a scoring result image for additional printing corresponding to the scoring result (S64), the calculation unit 305 calculates the respondent's ability value (S65), and the determination unit 306 determines whether to provide a new question paper (S66).

[0160] If the determination unit 306 determines that a new problem paper is to be provided (S66: Yes), the determination unit 307 determines the difficulty of the next problem (S67), and the second generation unit 308 generates the problem paper image involved in the new problem paper (S68).

[0161] Next, the sending unit 201 sends the scoring result image and the problem paper image to the image forming apparatus 3 (S69). Alternatively, the sending unit 201 may send a message indicating that no new problem paper will be provided, without sending a new problem paper image.

[0162] (3) Operation of image forming system 1

[0163] Figure 11 This is a timing diagram illustrating an example of the operation of image forming system 1. In Figure 11 For ease of explanation, regarding the branches included in the operation of the server device 2 and the image forming device 3 described above, only the process of becoming "yes" is shown.

[0164] When the respondent places the answer sheet on the document tray or paper tray 330 of the image forming apparatus 3 and instructs to perform scanning, the execution unit 300 of the image forming apparatus 3 reads the answer image from the answer sheet (S71) and sends the answer sheet to the waiting unit to put it into standby mode (S72). The sending unit 318 of the image forming apparatus 3 sends the answer image to the server device 2 (S73).

[0165] The receiving unit 200 of server device 2 receives the answer image (S74). The scoring processing unit 302 of server device 2 performs scoring processing (S75). The recording unit 303 of server device 2 records the scoring result (S76) and records the question paper information (S77).

[0166] The first generation unit 304 of server device 2 generates a scoring result image (S78). The second generation unit 308 of server device 2 generates an image of the problem paper involved in the new problem paper (S79). The sending unit 201 of server device 2 sends the new problem paper image to image forming apparatus 3 (S80).

[0167] The receiving unit 319 of the image forming apparatus 3 receives a new problem paper image (S81). The execution unit 300 of the image forming apparatus 3 introduces the answer paper from the standby unit (S82) and performs additional printing of the scoring results (S83). Additionally, the execution unit 300 of the image forming apparatus 3 prints a new problem paper (S84) and outputs it to a paper discharge destination such as the paper discharge tray 380. The notification unit 309 of the image forming apparatus 3 sends a notification to suppress the forgetting of the paper (S85).

[0168] While the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the embodiments of the present invention are not limited to those described above, and various modifications and implementations can be made without changing the spirit of the present invention. For example, the image forming system 1 and the image forming apparatus 3 are not necessarily suitable for educational settings; they may also be suitable for health diagnosis performed in hospitals, clinics, or public health centers.

[0169] Specifically, the image forming system 1 and the image forming apparatus 3 can also be used for questionnaire surveys such as stress tests. More specifically, the image forming system 1 or the image forming apparatus 3 can diagnose the responses recorded by respondents on questionnaire paper and output a results paper printed with the diagnostic results. The questionnaire paper is an example of a first type of paper. The results paper is an example of a second type of paper. The diagnostic results are an example of first information and evaluation results. The responses are an example of second information. The respondent is an example of a user.

[0170] Each unit of the control section 20 and 30 may be composed of part or all of hardware circuits such as reconfigurable circuits (FPGA: Field Programmable Gate Array) and application-specific integrated circuits (ASIC: Application Specific Integrated Circuit).

[0171] Furthermore, some structural elements of the above embodiments can be omitted or modified. Moreover, without altering the spirit of the invention, steps can be added, deleted, modified, or replaced in the process of the above embodiments. Additionally, the program used in the above embodiments can be provided by recording it on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM, or it can be stored on an external server such as a cloud server and accessed via a network.

Claims

1. An image forming apparatus, the image forming apparatus comprising: The reading unit reads the image from the first sheet of paper; The standby unit, which puts the first sheet into standby mode; and processor, After the processor performs a read operation in the reading unit, it puts the first paper into standby mode in the standby unit. Based on the evaluation result obtained from the evaluation information contained in the image, it determines first information and records the first information on the second paper. After putting the first paper into standby mode in the standby unit, it pulls in the first paper, attaches the evaluation result to the first paper, and outputs the second paper continuously along with the first paper.

2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The processor outputs the second sheet of paper when predetermined conditions are met.

3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, If, as a predetermined condition, the evaluation result meets a predetermined standard, the processor outputs the second sheet of paper.

4. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The processor outputs the second paper before outputting the first paper.

5. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The processor outputs the first sheet and the second sheet simultaneously.

6. The image forming apparatus according to claim 5, wherein, The processor outputs the first sheet and the second sheet in one go.

7. A computer-readable medium storing a program that causes a computer to perform processing. The process involves a processor that controls the reading unit that reads an image from the first sheet and the standby unit that puts the first sheet into standby mode, performing the following operations: After the reading unit performs the reading, the first paper is put into standby mode in the standby mode. First information is determined based on the evaluation result obtained from the evaluation information contained in the image. The first information is recorded on the second paper. After the first paper is put into standby mode in the standby mode, the first paper is pulled in and the evaluation result is attached to the first paper. The second paper is output continuously along with the first paper.

Images