Image forming device, control method of image forming device, and program

Abstract

To provide an image forming device, which is configured to effectively utilize a nesting function.SOLUTION: An image forming device, which perform printing using a nesting function, comprises control means that sets printing settings relating to a plurality of stand-by printing jobs to the same setting, by changing some of the printing settings relating to at least one stand-by printing job of the plurality of inputted stand-by printing jobs, on the basis of a result of comparison of the printing settings relating to the plurality of stand-by printing jobs inputted in a given time, and prints respective image data relating to the plurality of stand-by printing jobs, while arranging the image data in a direction that is orthogonal to a conveying direction of a continuous sheet.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a nesting function in printing.

Background Art

[0002] There is an image forming apparatus that conveys a roll paper at a constant speed and continuously forms images. In such an image forming apparatus, image data related to an input print job is sequentially arranged in the sheet conveyance direction (sub-scanning direction) and printing is performed using the roll paper. A nesting function is known in which image data is stored in a non-volatile memory in an image forming apparatus, and image data having the same print settings is arranged in a direction (main scanning direction) orthogonal to the sheet conveyance direction of continuous sheets to suppress waste of sheets. In printing using the nesting function, when a predetermined waiting time has elapsed, or when a print job having different print settings is received, printing is started even if the margin width in the main scanning direction of the continuous sheets is large. In order to improve convenience, Patent Document 1 discloses an image forming apparatus that performs printing using a nesting function by applying the same print quality to all image data when different print qualities are specified for a plurality of image data.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] For each piece of image data, there are many printing setting items in addition to print quality, such as color mode and resolution. In the technology of Patent Document 1, in the printing settings for each of the plurality of input image data, when items other than print quality are different, the nesting function cannot be used, and the plurality of image data are arranged in the sheet conveyance direction (sub-scanning direction). In this case, it is not possible to sufficiently suppress waste of sheets. Also, the time required for printing becomes longer.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is to effectively utilize the nesting function in an image forming apparatus using roll paper.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] An image forming apparatus according to the present disclosure is an image forming apparatus that performs printing using a nesting function, and based on the result of comparing the printing settings for a plurality of standby print jobs input within a certain time, by changing a part of the printing settings related to at least one standby print job among the plurality of input standby print jobs, the printing settings of the plurality of standby print jobs are made the same, and control means for arranging and printing each piece of image data related to the plurality of standby print jobs in a direction orthogonal to the conveyance direction of the continuous sheet.

Effects of the Invention

[0007] According to the technology of the present disclosure, it is possible to effectively utilize the nesting function in an image forming apparatus using roll paper.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008]

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Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the present disclosure, and not all combinations of features described in the embodiments are essential for the solution means of the present disclosure. For the same configuration, the same reference numerals will be used for description. Also, each step (step) in the flowchart is indicated by a symbol starting with "S".

[0010] [First Embodiment] 《Device Configuration》 FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of the hardware of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment. The image forming apparatus 100 includes a controller unit 110 and a print engine unit 120. Further, the image forming apparatus 100 can be connected to the host apparatus 190 via the network 191.

[0011] The controller unit 110 includes a main controller 111, a host IF 112, a print engine IF 113, a RAM 114, a ROM 115, an image processing unit 116, an input / output device 117, and an HDD 118. Each of the above devices is connected via a system bus 119. The main controller 111 including a CPU controls the operation of the entire image forming apparatus 100. The main controller 111 uses the RAM 114 as a work area according to the programs and various parameters stored in the ROM 115 to perform a printing operation. For example, when a print job is input from the host apparatus 190 to the controller unit 110 via the host IF 112 and the image data included in the print job is input to the image processing unit 116, the main controller 111 performs the following processing. The main controller 111 performs predetermined image processing on the image data received by the image processing unit 116. Then, the main controller 111 transmits the image data on which the image processing has been performed to the print engine unit 120 via the print engine IF 113.

[0012] The RAM 114 is used as a work area of the main controller 111, a temporary storage area for various received data, and stores various setting data and the like. The ROM 115 stores programs executed by the main controller 111 and various data necessary for various operations of the image forming apparatus 100. The image processing unit 116 performs various image processes. For example, it performs a process of converting image data described in a page description language into bitmap image data. For example, it performs a process of converting the color space (e.g., YCbCr) of the input image data into a standard RGB color space (e.g., sRGB). Specifically, the image processing unit 116 performs various image processes as needed, such as resolution conversion to the number of pixels that the image forming apparatus 100 can print, image analysis, image correction, and generating one image data by synthesizing a plurality of image data. The image data obtained by these image processes is stored in the RAM 114.

[0013] The input / output device 117 includes hard keys, a panel, and a display unit for the user to perform various operations and to display (notify) various information to the user. Further, the input / output device 117 may display information to the user by outputting sound (such as a buzzer and voice) based on acoustic information from the sound generator. The HDD 118 is a non-volatile storage area, stores programs for the main controller 111 to execute, image data, and setting information necessary for various operations of the image forming apparatus 100, and can read the stored data. Note that instead of the HDD 118, an SSD, a flash memory, or other large-capacity storage devices may be used.

[0014] The print engine unit 120 is a printing unit that performs image formation. The print engine unit 120 includes a controller IF 121, a print controller 122, a ROM 123, a RAM 124, and an image processing controller 125. Further, the print engine unit 120 includes a maintenance control unit 126, an ink supply control unit 127, a head carriage control unit 128, a conveyance control unit 129, and a recording head 130. The above devices are connected via a system bus 131.

[0015] The print controller 122 composed of a CPU controls various mechanisms of the print engine unit 120 by using the RAM 124 as a work area according to the programs and various parameters stored in the ROM 123. When the print controller 122 receives various commands and image data via the controller IF 121, it stores these data in the RAM 124. In order to make the image data stored by the recording head 130 available for the recording operation, the print controller 122 uses the image processing controller 125 to convert the stored image data into recording data. When the recording data is generated, the print controller 122 executes a recording operation based on the recording data by using the recording head 130. At this time, the print controller 122 transports the continuous sheet (paper) by using the conveyance control unit 129. According to the instructions of the print controller 122, the recording operation is executed by the recording head 130 in conjunction with the conveyance operation of the continuous sheet, and the printing process is performed.

[0016] The head carriage control unit 128 changes the orientation and position of the recording head 130 according to the operating states such as the maintenance state and the recording state of the image forming apparatus 100. The ink supply control unit 127 controls so that the pressure of the ink supplied to the recording head 130 is within an appropriate range. The maintenance control unit 126 controls the cleaning of the conveyance roller and the recording head 130 controlled by the conveyance control unit 129. The recording head 130 is a printing unit that prints an image, and prints an image on a continuous sheet based on the image data. The recording head 130 holds, for example, a plurality of print heads for a plurality of colors, and ejects ink in synchronization with the conveyance of the continuous sheet to form an image on the continuous sheet. Note that the image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment is described by taking an inkjet printer using ink as a recording material as an example, but is not limited thereto. The present disclosure is applicable to printing apparatuses of various printing methods such as thermal printers (sublimation type or thermal transfer type, etc.), dot impact printers, LED printers, and electrophotographic printers such as laser printers.

[0017] Note that in this embodiment, the input / output device 117 exists inside the image forming apparatus 100, but it is not limited thereto. For example, it may be connected as an external configuration via the network 191. Further, the host device 190 may also serve as the input / output device 117. In addition to the input / output device 117, the image forming apparatus 100 may be further connectable to other input / output devices via the network 191 or the like. Also, in this embodiment, the image data is temporarily stored in the RAMs 114 and 124, but it may be temporarily stored in a non-volatile device such as an HDD or an SSD.

[0018] Further, the host device 190 is, for example, an external device that is a source of image data, and a printer driver is installed therein. Instead of the host device 190, the image forming apparatus 100 may be provided with a data providing device that serves as a source of image data, such as a digital camera, a smartphone, or a tablet terminal. The connection form between each device and the image forming apparatus 100 is not limited to that via the network 191, and for example, it may be directly connected by USB connection, LAN connection, or wireless communication.

[0019] Note that a program for realizing the functions of this embodiment may be supplied to a system or a device via a network or various storage media. Also, the computer (such as a CPU or an MPU) of the system or the device may read the program and execute the functions, or cause various mechanisms (various devices) to execute them. Further, this program may be executed by one computer or by the cooperation of a plurality of computers. In addition, it is not necessary to realize all of the above-described processing by software, and part or all of the processing may be realized by hardware such as an ASIC. Furthermore, it is not limited to a form in which all processing is performed by one CPU, and a form in which a plurality of CPUs perform processing while appropriately cooperating, or a form in which one CPU executes some processing and a plurality of CPUs cooperate to perform other processing may also be adopted.

[0020] 《Function Blocks of Software》 FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of the software of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment. The software of the image forming apparatus 100 includes a print setting acquisition unit 201, a transmission unit 202, a reception unit 203, a display control unit 204, and a control unit 205. The print setting acquisition unit 201 acquires the print settings of a print job (pending print job) that is waiting for printing. The transmission unit 202 transmits various data and the like. The reception unit 203 receives various data and the like. The display control unit 204 causes the display unit to display the comparison result of the print settings of the print job, hard keys, a panel, and the like for the user to perform various operations. The control unit 205 performs control such as changing the print order of the print job (pending print job) that is waiting for printing by changing the print settings of the print job based on the comparison result of the print settings of the print job.

[0021] <<Regarding the processing in the present embodiment>> An example of the flow of processing executed by the image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. In the present embodiment, a case will be described in which a first print job including first image data is received, a second print job including second image data is received while the first image data is being printed, and a third print job having print settings different from those of the second print job is received. A case will be described in which, while the first print data is being printed and the second and third image data are waiting for printing, the print settings and the print order of the third print job are changed, and printing is performed using a nesting function in which the second image data and the third image data are arranged in the main scanning direction. Here, the main scanning direction refers to a direction orthogonal to the conveyance direction of the continuous sheet.

[0022] FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the process from receiving a print job to starting printing in the image forming apparatus 100. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the process from a print order change request to print settings and print order change in the image forming apparatus 100. FIG. 5(a) is a schematic diagram showing image data arranged on a continuous sheet in the image forming apparatus 100. The first image data 501, the second image data 502, and the third image data 503 are received in this order and arranged on the continuous sheet 500. The first print job 511 and the second print job 512 are print jobs with the same print settings, and the third print job 513 has print settings different from those of the first print job 511 and the second print job 512. In this embodiment, print quality is taken as an example of print settings. The print quality of the first print job 511 and the second print job 512 is "high quality", and the print quality of the third print job 513 is "standard". The sheet width in which image data can be arranged in the main scanning direction of the continuous sheet 500 is defined as the sheet width 504, and the image data widths of the first image data 501, the second image data 502, and the third image data 503 are defined as the image data width 505. The image data width 505 includes the margin on the left side of the image data. As an example of the sheet width, in this embodiment, the sheet width 504 is "1000" and is held in the RAM 114.

[0023] FIGS. 6(a) to 6(g) are tables showing an example of a print job management table for managing print jobs. The print job management table 600 holds information on the print order 601, the print job ID 602, the print quality 603, the image data width 604, and the print status 605. The print order 601 is the order in which image data is arranged and printed in the sheet conveyance direction (sub-scanning direction). The print job management table 600 is held in the RAM 114. FIGS. 7(a) to 7(d) are tables showing an example of a margin width management table for managing the margin width of the continuous sheet 500 after arranging image data for each print order in the sheet conveyance direction (sub-scanning direction). The margin width management table 700 includes information on the print order 701 and the margin width 702.

[0024] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing print job list information displayed on the display unit of the input / output device 117 in the image forming apparatus 100. The print job list screen 800 includes a print order 801, a print job ID 802, a print status 803, a rollover button 804 for selecting image data to be the target of print order change, and a print order change button 805 for sending a print order change request. The print job list screen 800 displays information corresponding to the print jobs in the print job management table 600.

[0025] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing print order change information displayed on the display unit of the input / output device 117 in the image forming apparatus 100. The print order change screen 900 includes an input field 901 for inputting a desired print order, a cancel button 902 for canceling the print order change, an OK button 903 for permitting the print order change, and a confirmation field 904 for displaying an explanation and confirmation of the print order change. Further, the print order change screen 900 includes print setting items 905 that need to be changed to change the print order, the print setting values 906 before the change that need to be changed to change the print order, and the print setting values 907 after the change that need to be changed to change the print order.

[0026] Hereinafter, the following example will be described with reference to the above figures. The example is a case where a first print job including first image data is received, and while the first image data is being printed, a second print job including second image data is received, and further a third print job including third image data having a print quality different from that of the second image data is received.

[0027] 《Regarding the First Print Job》 With reference to the flowchart of FIG. 3, the processing related to the first print job will be described. In S301, the main controller 111 checks whether a print job has been received via the receiving unit 203. If a print job has been received, the process proceeds to S302. If a print job has not been received, the process of S301 is executed again. In S302, the main controller 111 stores the content of the print job received via the host IF 112 in the RAM 114. When the content of the print job is stored in the RAM 114, the process proceeds to S303. When the first print job is received, the content of the first print job including the first image data 501 is stored in the RAM 114.

[0028] In S303, the main controller 111 acquires the print settings of the print job via the print setting acquisition unit 201, registers them in the print job management table 600, and the process proceeds to S304. When the main controller 111 receives the print settings of the first print job, the print job management table 600 is in the state shown in FIG. 6(a). That is, the print order 601 is "1", the print job ID 602 is "511", the print quality 603 is "high quality", the image data width 604 is "250", and the print status 605 is "waiting for printing". In S304, the main controller 111 refers to the print job management table 600 via the control unit 205, compares the print settings of the previously received print job waiting for printing with the print settings of the received print job, and determines whether the print settings of both are the same. If the print settings of the previously received print job waiting for printing are different from the print settings of the received print job, the process proceeds to S306. If the print settings of the previously received print job waiting for printing are the same as the print settings of the received print job, or if there is no previously received print job waiting for printing, the process proceeds to S305. When the first print job is received, the print job management table 600 is in the state shown in FIG. 6(a), and since there is no previously received print job waiting for printing, the process proceeds to S305.

[0029] In S305, the main controller 111 determines, via the control unit 205, with reference to the margin width management table 700, whether the image data included in the print job can be printed by arranging it in the main scanning direction of the continuous sheet 500. If the margin width of the continuous sheet 500 is longer than the width required for arranging the image data, the process proceeds to S307. If the margin width of the continuous sheet 500 is not longer than the width required for arranging the image data, the process proceeds to S306. In the case of the first print job, since no image data is arranged on the continuous sheet 500, it is possible to arrange and print the first image data 501 included in the first print job in the main scanning direction of the continuous sheet 500. In this case, the process proceeds to S307.

[0030] In S306, the main controller 111 arranges, via the control unit 205, the image data included in the received print job by shifting it in the sheet conveyance direction (sub-scanning direction) (see the image data 502 in Fig. 5(a)). When the image data is arranged by shifting it in the sheet conveyance direction (sub-scanning direction), the process proceeds to S311. In step S307, the main controller 111 holds, in the HDD 118, the image data in which the image data included in the received print job is arranged side by side in the sub-scanning direction, and the process proceeds to S308. In the case of the first print job 511, it is held in the HDD 118 as an image to be arranged in the main scanning direction with the first print job 511 in the printing order "1".

[0031] In S308, the main controller 111 refers to the print job management table 600, and calculates the margin width by subtracting the length required for arranging the image data arranged in S306 from the sheet width 504 in which the image data can be arranged in the main scanning direction of the continuous sheet 500. The main controller 111 registers the calculated margin width in the margin width management table 700, and the process proceeds to S309. In the case of the first image data 501, the margin width management table 700 becomes the state shown in FIG. 7(a). That is, since the sheet width 504 is "1000" and the image data width 604 of the print job ID 602 "511" is "250", the margin width after arranging the print job ID 602 "511" on the continuous sheet 500 is "750". Therefore, the margin width 602 with the print order 701 being "1" is "750".

[0032] In S309, the main controller 111 refers to the margin width management table 700 via the control unit 205, and checks whether there is any margin for arranging more images in the main scanning direction of the continuous sheet 500. If there is margin, the process proceeds to S310. If there is no margin for arranging more images, the process proceeds to S311. In the case of the first print job 511, the margin width management table 700 is in the state shown in FIG. 7(a), the margin width 702 with the print order 701 being "1" is "750", and since there is margin, the process proceeds to S310. In S310, the main controller 111 waits for a certain period of time for receiving the next print job. The waiting time is stored as a parameter in the ROM 115. The ROM 105 may be a rewritable EEPROM or the like, and the setting of the waiting time may be changeable. If the next print job is received within a certain period of time, the process returns to S302. If the next print job is not received within a certain period of time, the process proceeds to S311. In the example of the first print job 511, assuming that the next print job is not received within a certain period of time, the process proceeds to S311.

[0033] In S311, the main controller 111 refers to the print job management table 600 via the transmission unit 202, requests the print controller 122 to start printing, and the process returns to S301. The print job management table 600 is in the state shown in FIG. 6(a). Since there is no print job in progress, the printing of the first print job 511 is started, and the print job management table 600 becomes the state shown in FIG. 6(b). That is, the print status 605 of the first print job with the print job ID 602 being "511" becomes "printing". According to the instruction of the main controller 111, the image processing unit 116 performs image processing on the first image data 501 and stores the image-processed data in the RAM 114. The main controller 111 transmits a print command for the first image data 501 to the print controller 122 via the print engine IF 113 and the controller IF 121. The print controller 122 stores the received image-processed data in the RAM 124. The print controller 122 uses the image processing controller 125 to convert the image-processed data into recording data so that the recording head 130 can be used for the recording operation. When the recording data is generated, the print controller 122 uses the conveyance control unit 129 to convey the continuous sheet 500 and performs a recording operation based on the recording data using the recording head 130 in conjunction with the conveyance.

[0034] 《Regarding the Second Print Job》 Referring to the flowchart of FIG. 3, the processing regarding the second print job will be described. Assume that the print settings of the first print job and the second print job are the same, and the third print job is received within a certain period of time. In S301, the main controller 111 checks whether a print job has been received via the reception unit 203. Here, it is assumed that in S301, the main controller 111 has received the second print job. In S302, the main controller 111 stores the content of the second print job received via the host IF 112 in the RAM 114. The second print job includes the second image data 502.

[0035] In S303, the main controller 111 acquires the print settings of the second print job via the print setting acquisition unit 201 and registers them in the print job management table 600. Before registering the print settings of the second print job, the print job management table 600 is in the state shown in FIG. 6(b). After registering the print settings of the second print job, since the print order 601 is "1" and the print state 605 of the first image data with the print job ID 602 being "511" is "printing", the print job management table 600 becomes the state shown in FIG. 6(c). That is, the print order 601 of the second print job with the print job ID 602 being "512" is "2", the print quality 603 is "high quality", the image data width 604 is "250", and the print state 605 is "waiting for printing".

[0036] In S304, the print job management table 600 is in the state shown in FIG. 6(c). Since there is no previously received print job waiting for printing, the process proceeds to S305. In S305, the margin width management table 700 is in the state shown in FIG. 7(a), and the image data with the print order "2" is not arranged on the continuous sheet 500. Therefore, the main controller 111 determines that it is possible to print the second image data 502 arranged in the main scanning direction, and the process proceeds to S307.

[0037] In S307, the main controller 111 holds the second print job 512 in the HDD 118 as an image arranged in the main scanning direction in the print order "2" via the control unit 205. In S308, the main controller 111 refers to the print job management table 600 and calculates the margin width of the continuous sheet 500. The calculated margin width is registered in the margin width management table 700. Therefore, the margin width management table 700 becomes the state shown in FIG. 7(b). That is, the sheet width 504 is "1000", and the image data width 604 of the second print job with the print job ID 602 being "512" is "250". After arranging the second image data 502 of the second print job with the print job ID 602 being "512" on the continuous sheet 500, the margin width becomes "750", and the margin width 702 with the print order 701 being "2" is "750".

[0038] In S309, the main controller 111 refers to the margin width management table 700 via the control unit 205 to check whether there is any margin for further arranging an image in the main scanning direction of the continuous sheet 500. The margin width management table 700 is in the state shown in FIG. 7(b). The margin width 702 with the printing order 701 being "2" is "750". Since there is a margin for arranging an image, the process proceeds to S310. In S310, the main controller 111 waits for a certain period of time to receive the next printing job. In the example of the second printing job, in order to receive the next printing job (the third printing job) within a certain period of time, the process returns to S302.

[0039] 《Regarding the Third Printing Job》 Referring to the flowchart of FIG. 3, the process regarding the third printing job will be described. Assume that the printing settings of the second printing job and the third printing job are different, and assume that the next printing job is not received within a certain period of time after receiving the third printing job. In S301, the main controller 111 checks via the receiving unit 203 whether a printing job has been received. Here, assume that in S301, the main controller 111 has received the third printing job. In S302, the main controller 111 stores the content of the third printing job received via the host IF 112 in the RAM 114. The third printing job includes the third image data 503.

[0040] In S303, the main controller 111 acquires the print settings of the third print job via the print setting acquisition unit 201 and registers them in the print job management table 600. Before registering the print settings of the third print job, the print job management table 600 is in the state shown in FIG. 6(c). After registering the print settings of the third print job, since the previous print order 601 is "2" and the print status 605 of the second print job with the print job ID 602 "512" is "awaiting printing", the print job management table 600 becomes the state shown in FIG. 6(d). That is, the third print job with the print job ID 602 "513" is in the state where the print order 601 is "undetermined", the print quality 603 is "standard", the image data width 604 is "250", and the print status 605 is "awaiting printing".

[0041] In S304, the main controller 111 refers to the print job management table 600 via the control unit 205, compares the print settings of the second print job awaiting printing with the print settings of the received third print job, and determines whether the print settings of both are the same. The print job management table 600 is in the state shown in FIG. 6(d). The print quality 603 of the second image data 502 awaiting printing received previously is "high quality", and the print quality 603 of the received third image data 503 is "standard". Since the print settings of both are different, the process proceeds to S306.

[0042] In S306, the main controller 111 arranges the received third image data 503 not side by side with the previously received second image data 502 in the main scanning direction via the control unit 205, but shifts it in the sheet conveyance direction (sub-scanning direction) and arranges it on the continuous sheet 500. The main controller 111 holds the print setting of the third print job including the third image data 503 as image data to be printed in the next print order "3" in the HDD 118. The main controller 111 updates the print job management table 600 and the margin width management table 700, and the process proceeds to S311. The print job management table 600 becomes the state shown in FIG. 6(e). That is, the third print job with the print job ID 602 being "513" has a print order 601 of "3", a print quality 603 of "standard", an image data width 604 of "250", and a print status 605 of "awaiting printing". The margin width management table 700 becomes the state shown in FIG. 7(c). The sheet width 504 is "1000", and the image data width 604 of the third print job with the print job ID 602 being "513" is "250". After arranging the third image data 503 of the third print job with the print job ID 602 being "513" on the continuous sheet 500, the margin width becomes "750", and the margin width 702 with the print order 701 being "3" is "750". The image data arranged on the continuous sheet 500 becomes the state shown in FIG. 5(a). The first image data 501, the second image data 502, and the third image data 503 are arranged shifted in the sheet conveyance direction (sub-scanning direction).

[0043] In S311, the main controller 111 refers to the print job management table 600 via the transmission unit 202 and requests the print controller 122 to start printing. The print job management table 600 is in the state shown in FIG. 6(e). Since the printing state 605 of the first print job 511 is "printing", the print start request for the second print job 512 is in a waiting state. When the recording operation of the first print job 511 is completed, the print controller 122 notifies the main controller 111 of "printing completed". The main controller 111 refers to the print job management table 600, updates the printing state 605 of the first print job 511 whose printing is completed to "printing completed", and starts the next print start request that has been waiting.

[0044] As will be described later, in this embodiment, before the printing of the first print job 511 is completed, after changing the print settings and print order of the third print job 513 including the third image data 503 by a user operation (see FIG. 6(f)), the printing of the first print job 511 is completed. The print job management table 600 becomes the state shown in FIG. 6(g), and the printing state 605 of the first print job 511 becomes "printing completed". The image data arranged on the continuous sheet 500 becomes the state shown in FIG. 5(b). The first image data 501 and the second image data 502 are arranged shifted in the sheet conveyance direction (sub-scanning direction), and the third image data 503 is arranged side by side in the main scanning direction of the second image data 502. The main controller 111 starts the print start request for the next print job that has been waiting. The main controller 111 refers to the print job management table 600 and starts the printing of the second print job 512 and the third print job 513.

[0045] The main controller 111 performs image processing on the second image data 502 and the third image data 503 using the image processing unit 116, generates one piece of image-processed composite data, and stores it in the RAM 114. The main controller 111 transmits a print command for the image-processed composite data to the print controller 122 via the print engine IF 113 and the controller IF 121. The print controller 122 stores the received image-processed composite data in the RAM 124. The print controller 122 converts the image-processed composite data into recording data using the image processing controller 125 so that the recording head 130 can be used for the recording operation. When the recording data is generated, the print controller 122 conveys the continuous sheet 500 using the conveyance control unit 129, and executes a recording operation based on the recording data using the recording head 130 in conjunction with the conveyance of the continuous sheet.

[0046] "Regarding the processing for changing the printing order" Next, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 4, a case will be described in which printing is performed using a nesting function that changes the print quality and print order of the third print job 513 during print standby and arranges the third image data in the main scanning direction of the second image data. In S401, the main controller 111 refers to the print job management table 600 via the display control unit 204 and displays a print job list screen 800 shown in FIG. 8 on the display unit of the input / output device 117. The print job management table 600 is in the state shown in FIG. 6(e), and information corresponding to the state shown in FIG. 6(e) is displayed on the print job list screen 800. The user operates the input / output device 117 and selects the third print job 513 using the rollover button 804 for selecting a print job whose print order is to be changed. A print order change request is notified from the input / output device 117 to the main controller 111 when the print order change button 805 is pressed. The main controller 111 displays a print order change screen 900 as shown in FIG. 9 on the display unit of the input / output device 117. The user operates the input / output device 117 and inputs or selects "2" in the input field 901 for inputting the print order. The main controller 111 receives the print order change request via the reception unit 203, and the process proceeds to S402. The ID of the selected third print job 513 and the requested print order are held in the RAM 114.

[0047] In S402, the main controller 111 makes the following determination with reference to the print job management table 600 and the margin width management table 700 via the control unit 205. That is, it changes the selected third print job 513 to the print order "2" and determines whether it is possible to print while arranging them in the main scanning direction of the continuous sheet 500. If it is possible to print while arranging them in the main scanning direction, the process proceeds to S403. If it is not possible to print while arranging them in the main scanning direction, the main controller 111 displays, via the display control unit 204, a message indicating that the print order cannot be changed on the display unit of the input / output device 117, and ends the processing flow of the flowchart shown in FIG. 4. In the present embodiment, the margin width management table 700 is in the state shown in FIG. 7(c), and the margin width 702 with the requested print order 701 being "2" is "750". The print job management table 600 is in the state shown in FIG. 6(e), and the image data width 604 of the third image data 503 is "250". Since the "750" of the margin width 702 is longer than the "250" of the image data width 604 and the third image data 503 can be arranged and printed in the main scanning direction of the continuous sheet 500, the process proceeds to S403.

[0048] In S403, the main controller 111 compares, with reference to the print job management table 600 via the control unit 205, the print settings of the third print job 513 with the print settings of the second print job 512 arranged in the requested print order "2". The main controller 111 extracts the differences between the print settings of the second print job 512 and the third print job 513, and the process proceeds to S404. In the present embodiment, the print job management table 600 is in the state shown in FIG. 6(e), the print quality 603 of the second print job 512 is "high quality", and the print quality 603 of the third print job 513 is "standard". The "high quality" of the print quality 603 of the second print job 512 and the "standard" of the print quality 603 of the third print job 513 are extracted as the differences in the print settings. The extracted differences are held in the RAM 114.

[0049] In S404, the main controller 111 displays, via the display control unit 204, the printing setting items and printing setting values for which setting changes are necessary to change the printing order on the display unit of the input / output device 117, and the process proceeds to S405. To change the printing order of the third image data 503 from "3" to "2", it is necessary to print the third image data 503 arranged in the main scanning direction of the second image data 502. Since it is necessary to change the printing settings of the third print job 513 to match the printing settings of the second print job 512, the extracted differences in the printing settings are displayed as the printing setting items and printing setting values necessary for changing the printing order. The main controller 111 displays the details of the change for changing the printing order on the display unit of the input / output device 117. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 9, the main controller 111 displays on the display unit of the input / output device 117 the printing setting item 905 "print quality" necessary for changing the printing order, the printing setting value 906 "standard" before the change, and the printing setting value 907 "high quality" after the change.

[0050] In S405, the main controller 111 determines, via the control unit 205, whether the user has permitted the change of the printing settings. If the user has permitted the change of the printing settings (when there is an instruction to change the printing settings), the process proceeds to S406. If the user has not permitted the change of the printing settings (when there is no instruction to change the printing settings), the processing flow of the flowchart shown in FIG. 4 ends. The main controller 111 displays on the display unit of the input / output device 117, as shown in FIG. 9, an explanation that printing setting changes are necessary to change the printing setting order, and a confirmation field 904 for confirming whether to change the printing settings. The main controller 111 waits until the cancel button 902 for canceling the change of the printing order or the OK button 903 for permitting the change of the printing order is pressed by the user. In this embodiment, when the OK button 903 for permitting the change of the printing order is pressed by the user, the process proceeds to S406.

[0051] In S406, based on the specified printing order and the differences between the printing settings of the second print job 512 and the printing settings of the third print job 513, the main controller 111 changes the printing settings and the printing setting order of the third print job 513 via the control unit 205. Further, the main controller 111 updates the print job management table 600 and the margin width management table 700. The print job management table 600 before the update is in the state shown in FIG. 6(e), and the print job management table 600 after the update is in the state shown in FIG. 6(f). The printing order 601 of the third print job with the print job ID 602 being "513" becomes "2", and the print quality 603 becomes "high quality". The margin width management table 700 before the update is in the state shown in FIG. 7(c), and the margin width management table 700 after the update is in the state shown in FIG. 7(d). The margin width 702 with the printing order 701 before the update being "2" is "750", and the image data width 604 of the third print job with the print job ID 602 being "513" is "250". After changing the printing order of the third print job with the print job ID 602 being "513" to "2", the margin width 702 with the printing order 701 being "2" becomes "500".

[0052] In addition, in this embodiment, the print quality has been described as an example of the print setting items. As long as the image data is arranged side by side in the main scanning direction of the continuous sheet 500, the printing purpose, print quality, color mode, resolution, paper feed port, cutting method, cutting speed, layout, or horizontal flipping, etc. are set as print setting items. Printing may be performed using the nesting function by changing the above print setting items. The details of the main items of the print setting items will be described below. The printing purpose includes the standard setting, the purpose of printing such as a photo, and the user sets the desired printing purpose in the item "printing purpose". In the case of an image forming apparatus that can set a plurality of rolls of paper, in order to select the roll of paper to be used, the user sets the desired roll of paper in the item "paper feed port". After cutting the roll paper, dirt may adhere to the cut sheet. In order to avoid dirt adhering to the sheet, the user sets whether to cut the roll paper in the item "cutting method". Also, in order to cut the continuous sheet with high quality, it is necessary to lower the cutting speed. When setting the finish of the cut surface, the user selects the desired cutting speed in the item "cutting speed".

[0053] As described above, according to this embodiment, it is possible to effectively utilize the nesting function in an image forming apparatus using a continuous sheet (roll paper).

[0054] [Second Embodiment] An example of the flow of processing executed by the image forming apparatus 100 according to this embodiment will be described. In the following, the differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described, and the description of the same parts as the first embodiment will be omitted. Also, the same reference numerals will be given to the parts corresponding to the first embodiment and described.

[0055] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing from a print order display request to print settings and print order changes in the image forming apparatus 100. FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing image data arranged on a continuous sheet in the image forming apparatus 100. The first image data 1101, the second image data 1102, the third image data 1103, the fourth image data 1104, and the fifth image data 1105 are received in this order, and each image data is arranged on the continuous sheet 1100.

[0056] The first print job including the first image data 1101 and the second print job including the second image data 1102 have the same print settings. The second print job including the second image data 1102 to the fifth print job including the fifth image data 1105 each have print settings different from those of the previous print job. First, the first print job is received. While the first print job is being printed, the second print job to the fifth print job are received. Therefore, the first image data 1101 to the fifth image data 1105 are arranged shifted in the sheet conveyance direction (sub-scanning direction).

[0057] In the present embodiment, the color mode and print quality are taken as examples of print settings. The color mode of the first print job 1111 is "color" and the print quality is "high quality". The color mode of the second print job 1112 is "monochrome" and the print quality is "high quality". The color mode of the third print job 1113 is "monochrome" and the print quality is "standard". The color mode of the fourth print job 1114 is "monochrome" and the print quality is "standard". The color mode of the fifth print job 1115 is "color" and the print quality is "high quality". The sheet width in which the image data can be arranged in the main scanning direction of the continuous sheet 1100 is indicated by a sheet width 1108. The image data widths of the first image data 1101, the second image data 1102, the third image data 1103, and the fifth image data 1105 are indicated by an image data width 1106. The image data width of the fourth image data 1104 is indicated by an image data width 1107. The image data width shall include the margin on the left side of the image data. As an example of the sheet width, in the present embodiment, the sheet width 1108 is "1000" and is held in the RAM 114.

[0058] FIG. 12 is a table showing an example of a print job management table for managing print jobs. The print job management table 1200 holds information on a print order 1201, a print job ID 1202, a color mode 1203, a print quality 1204, an image data width 1205, and a print status 1206. The print order 1201 is the order in which image data is arranged and printed in the sheet conveyance direction (sub-scanning direction). The print job management table 1200 is held in the RAM 114.

[0059] FIG. 13 is a table showing an example of a margin width management table for managing the margin width of continuous sheets after arranging image data for each print order in the sheet conveyance direction (sub-scanning direction). The margin width management table 1300 holds information on a print order 1301 and a margin width 1302. FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram showing print job list information displayed on the display unit of the input / output device 117 in the image forming apparatus 100. The print job list screen 1400 includes a print order 1401, a print job ID 1402, a print status 1403, and a print order display button 1404 for sending a print order display request, and displays information corresponding to a part of the information of the print jobs in the print job management table 1200.

[0060] FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram showing print order information displayed on the display unit of the input / output device 117 in the image forming apparatus 100. The print order display screen 1500 includes a print order 1501 requested by the user, a print job ID 1502, a print status 1503, a changeable print order 1504, and a print setting item 1505 that needs to be changed in order to change the print order. The print order display screen 1500 includes a print setting value 1506 that needs to be changed in order to change the print order, and a rollover button 1507 for selecting a print job to be the target of changing the print order. Further, the print order display screen 1500 includes a cancel button 1508 for canceling the print order change and a print order change button 1509 for sending a print order change request. The print order display screen 1500 displays the information of the print jobs in the print job management table 1200.

[0061] The following describes a case where the first print job 1111 is received, and while the first print job 1111 is being printed, the second print job 1112 to the fifth print job 1115 are received. That is, a case will be described as an example where, during the print standby, the print order of each print job and the print settings required for the print order change are displayed in association with each other. The processing flow of receiving the first print job 1111 and receiving the second print job 1112 to the fifth print job 1115 while the first print job 1111 is being printed is the same as the processing of the first embodiment, and the processing shown in the flowchart of FIG. 3 is performed. After receiving the first print job 1111 and receiving the second print job 1112 to the fifth print job 1115 while the first print job 1111 is being printed, the print job management table 1200 is in the state shown in FIG. 12(a), and the margin width management table 1300 is in the state shown in FIG. 13(a).

[0062] 《Regarding the Second Print Job》 In S1001, the main controller 111 displays the print job list screen 1400 shown in FIG. 14 on the display unit of the input / output device 117 via the display control unit 204. When the user operates the input / output device 117 and presses the print order display button 1404 to request print order display, the input / output device 117 notifies the main controller 111 of the request for the print order display, and the process proceeds to S1002.

[0063] In S1002, the main controller 111 refers to the print job management table 1200 via the control unit 205 to determine whether there is a print job in the print standby state. If there is a print job in the print standby state, the process proceeds to S1003. If there is no print job in the print standby state, the process proceeds to step S1006. The print job management table 1200 is in the state shown in FIG. 12(a), and since there is a second print job 1112 whose print state 1206 is "print standby", the process proceeds to S1003. The ID of the second print job 1112 is held in the RAM 114 as the print job whose print order is to be changed.

[0064] In S1003, the main controller 111 refers to the print job management table 1200 via the control unit 205 to determine whether there is a print job waiting for printing before the second print job 1112 whose print order is to be changed. If there is a print job waiting for printing before, the process proceeds to S1004. If there is no print job waiting for printing before, the process proceeds to S1002. The print job management table 1200 is in the state shown in Fig. 12(a). Since there is no print job with the print status 1206 being "waiting for printing" before the second print job 1112, the process returns to S1002.

[0065] 《Regarding the Third Print Job》 Next, the main controller 111 performs processing regarding the third print job. The print job management table 1200 is in the state shown in Fig. 12(a). Since there is a third print job 1113 with the print status 1206 being "waiting for printing", the process proceeds to S1003. The ID of the third print job 1113 is held in the RAM 114 as the print job whose print order is to be changed. In S1003, the main controller 111 refers to the print job management table 1200 via the control unit 205 to determine whether there is a print job waiting for printing before the third print job 1113 whose print order is to be changed. The print job management table 1200 is in the state shown in Fig. 12(a). Since there is a second print job 1112 with the print status 1206 being "waiting for printing" before the third print job 1113, the process proceeds to S1004.

[0066] In S1004, the main controller 111 refers to the print job management table 1200 and the margin width management table 1300, and makes the following determination for the third print job 1113 whose print order is to be changed. It determines whether it is possible to change the print order of the third print job 1113 to the same print order "2" as that of the second print job 1112 and arrange the third image data 1103 and the second image data 1102 side by side in the main scanning direction of the continuous sheet 1100 for printing. If it is possible to print them side by side in the main scanning direction, the process proceeds to S1005. If it is not possible to print them side by side in the main scanning direction, the process proceeds to S1003. The margin width management table 1300 is in the state shown in Fig. 13(a), and the margin width 1302 for the print order 1301 "2" is "750". The print job management table 1200 is in the state shown in Fig. 12(a), and the image data width 1205 of the third image data 1103 of the third print job 1113 is "250". Therefore, the image data width 1205 of the third image data 1103 is equal to or less than the margin width in the direction orthogonal to the conveyance direction of the continuous sheet 1100 at the location where the second image data 1102 is arranged. Since it is possible to arrange and print the third image data 1103 side by side in the main scanning direction of the continuous sheet 1100 with the print order "2", the process proceeds to S1005.

[0067] In S1005, the main controller 111 refers to the print job management table 1200 via the control unit 205, and compares the print settings of the third print job whose print order is to be changed with the print settings of the second print job whose print order is "2". While comparing the print settings of both, it extracts the differences between the print settings of both. The print job management table 1200 is in the state shown in Fig. 12(a). The print quality 1204 of the second print job 1112 is "high quality", and the print quality 1204 of the third print job 1113 is "standard". The "high quality" of the print quality 1204 of the second print job 1112 and the "standard" of the print quality 1204 of the third print job 1113 are extracted as differences in print settings. Based on the extracted differences, the print job management table 1200 is updated, and the process returns to S1002. The print job management table 1200 before update is in the state shown in Fig. 12(a), and the print job management table 1200 after update is in the state shown in Fig. 12(b). That is, the changeable print order 1207 of the print job ID 1202 "1113" is "2", the print setting item that needs to be changed 1208 is "print quality", and the print setting value that needs to be changed 1209 is in the state of "high quality".

[0068] 《Regarding the Fourth Print Job》 In S1002, the main controller 111 refers to the print job management table 1200 via the control unit 205, and determines whether there is image data waiting to be printed. The print job management table 1200 is in the state shown in Fig. 12(b). Since there is a fourth print job 1114 whose print status 1206 is "waiting to be printed", the process proceeds to S1003. The ID of the fourth print job 1114 is held in the RAM 114 as the print job whose print order is to be changed.

[0069] In S1003, the main controller 111 refers to the print job management table 1200 via the control unit 205 to determine whether there is a print job waiting for printing before the fourth print job 1114 whose printing order is to be changed. The print job management table 1200 is in the state shown in Fig. 12(b). Since there is a second print job 1112 whose printing status 1206 is "waiting for printing" before the fourth print job 1114, the process proceeds to S1004.

[0070] In S1004, the main controller 111 refers to the print job management table 1200 and the margin width management table 1300 to make the following determination for the fourth print job 1114 whose printing order is to be changed. It is determined whether it is possible to change the fourth print job 1114 to the same printing order "2" as the second print job 1112 and arrange the fourth image data 1104 side by side with the second image data 1102 in the main scanning direction of the continuous sheet 1100 for printing. The margin width management table 1300 is in the state shown in Fig. 13(a), and the margin width 1302 for the printing order 1301 "2" is "750". The print job management table 1200 is in the state shown in Fig. 12(b), and the image data width 1205 of the fourth image data 1104 of the fourth print job 1114 is "800". Therefore, the image data width 1205 of the fourth image data 1104 is longer than the margin width in the direction orthogonal to the conveyance direction of the continuous sheet 1100 at the location where the second image data 1102 is arranged. Since it is impossible to arrange and print the fourth image data 1104 side by side in the main scanning direction of the continuous sheet 1100 with the printing order 1301 "2", the process returns to S1003. In the above, the comparison of the margin widths was made using the margin width of the continuous sheet 1100 when the second image data 1102 was arranged, but it is not limited to this. The comparison of the margin widths may be made using the margin width of the continuous sheet 1100 when the second image data 1102 and the third image data 1103 are arranged.

[0071] In S1003, the main controller 111 refers to the print job management table 1200 via the control unit 205 to determine whether there is a print job waiting for printing before the fourth print job 1114 whose printing order is to be changed. The print job management table 1200 is in the state shown in FIG. 12(b). Since there is a third print job 1113 whose printing state 1206 is "waiting for printing" before the fourth print job 1114, the process proceeds to S1004.

[0072] In S1004, since it is impossible to print the fourth image data 1104 of the fourth print job 1114 in the main scanning direction of the printing order "3" of the continuous sheet 1100, the process returns to S1003. In S1003, since there is no print job whose printing state 1206 is "waiting for printing" before the fourth print job 1114, the process returns to S1002.

[0073] 《Regarding the Fifth Print Job》 In S1002, the main controller 111 refers to the print job management table 1200 via the control unit 205 to determine whether there is image data waiting for printing. The print job management table 1200 is in the state shown in FIG. 11(b). Since there is a fifth print job 1115 whose printing state 1206 is "waiting for printing", the process proceeds to S1003. The ID of the fifth print job 1115 is held in the RAM 114 as the print job whose printing order is to be changed.

[0074] In S1003, the main controller 111 refers to the print job management table 1200 via the control unit 205 to determine whether there is a print job waiting for printing before the fifth print job 1115 whose printing order is to be changed. The print job management table 1200 is in the state shown in FIG. 12(b). Since there is a second print job 1112 whose printing state 1206 is "waiting for printing" before the fifth print job 1115, the process proceeds to S1004.

[0075] In S1004, the main controller 111 refers to the print job management table 1200 and the margin width management table 1300, and makes the following determination regarding the fifth print job 1115 for which the print order is to be changed. It determines whether it is possible to change the fifth print job 1115 to the same print order "2" as the second print job 1112 and arrange the fifth image data 1105 side by side with the second image data 1102 in the main scanning direction of the continuous sheet 1100 for printing. The margin width management table 1300 is in the state shown in Fig. 13(a), and the margin width 1302 for the print order 1301 "2" is "250". The print job management table 1200 is in the state shown in Fig. 12(b), and the image data width 1205 of the fifth image data 1105 of the fifth print job 1115 is "250". Therefore, the image data width 1205 of the fifth image data 1105 is equal to or less than the margin width in the direction orthogonal to the conveyance direction of the continuous sheet 1100 at the location where the second image data 1102 is arranged. Since it is possible to arrange and print the fifth image data 1105 side by side with the second image data 1102 in the main scanning direction of the continuous sheet 1100 in the print order "2", the process proceeds to S1005. In the above, the comparison of the margin widths was made using the margin width of the continuous sheet 1100 when the second image data 1102 was arranged, but it is not limited to this. The comparison of the margin widths may be made using the margin width of the continuous sheet 1100 when the second image data 1102 and the third image data 1103 are arranged.

[0076] In S1005, the main controller 111 refers to the print job management table 1200 via the control unit 205, and compares the print settings of the fifth print job for which the print order is to be changed with the print settings of the second print job whose print order is "2". While comparing the print settings of both, the differences in the print settings of both are extracted. The print job management table 1200 is in the state shown in FIG. 11(b). The color mode 1203 of the second print job 1112 is "monochrome", and the color mode 1203 of the fifth print job 1115 is "color". The "monochrome" of the color mode 1203 of the second print job 1112 and the "color" of the color mode 1203 of the fifth print job 1115 are extracted as the differences in the print settings. Based on the extracted differences, the print job management table 1200 is updated, and the process returns to S1002. The print job management table 1200 before the update is in the state shown in FIG. 12(b), and the print job management table 1200 after the update is in the state shown in FIG. 12(c). That is, the changeable print order 1207 of the print job ID 1202 "1115" is "2", the print setting item 1208 that needs to be changed is "color mode", and the print setting value 1209 that needs to be changed is in the state of "monochrome".

[0077] 《Regarding the print order change process》 In S1006, the main controller 111 refers to the print job management table 1200 via the display control unit 204, and displays the print order display screen 1500 shown in FIG. 15 on the display unit of the input / output device 117. When the print order display screen 1500 is displayed, the process proceeds to S1007. In the print order display screen 1500 shown in FIG. 15, the print job management table 1200 is in the state shown in FIG. 12(c), and information corresponding to the state shown in FIG. 12(c) is displayed on the print order display screen 1500.

[0078] In S1007, the main controller 111 determines, via the control unit 205, whether there is a request to change the printing order. If there is a request to change the printing order, the process proceeds to S1008. If there is no request to change the printing order, the processing flow of the flowchart shown in FIG. 10 ends. In the present embodiment, since there are requests to change the printing order of the third print job 1113 and the fifth print job 1115, the process proceeds to S1008.

[0079] As shown in FIG. 15(a), the user operates the input / output device 117, and selects the third print job 1113 by the rollover button 1507 for selecting a print job whose printing order is to be changed. When the print order change button 1509 is pressed, a print order change request is notified from the input / output device 117 to the main controller 111. As shown in FIG. 15(b), the user operates the input / output device 117, and selects the fifth print job 1115 by the rollover button 1507 for selecting a print job whose printing order is to be changed. When the print order change button 1509 is pressed, a print order change request is notified from the input / output device 117 to the main controller 111. The IDs of the selected third print job 1113 and fifth print job 1115 are held in the RAM 114. When a print job whose printing order is to be changed is selected, the process proceeds to S1008.

[0080] In S1008, the main controller 111 refers to the print job management table 1200 and the print order change request via the control unit 205, and performs the following processes. That is, the main controller 111 changes the print order and print settings of the third print job 1113 and the fifth print job 1115 that are the targets of print order change, and updates the print job management table 1200. Further, along with the change of the print order of the third print job 1113 that is the target of print order change, the print order of the fourth print job 1114 is advanced, and the print job management table 1200 is updated. The print job management table 1200 becomes the state shown in FIG. 12(d). That is, the print order 1201 of the print job ID 1202 "1113" is "2", and the print quality 1204 is in the state of "high quality". The print order 1201 of the print job ID 1202 "1114" is in the state of "3". The print order 1201 of the print job ID 1102 "1115" is "2", and the print quality 1204 is in the state of "monochrome".

[0081] The main controller 111 refers to the print job management table 1200 and also updates the margin width management table 1300. The margin width management table 1300 becomes the state shown in FIG. 13(b). That is, the margin width 1302 for the print order 1301 "2" is "250", and the margin width 1302 for the print order 1301 "3" is "200". The information for the print orders 1301 "4" and "5" is deleted. In the above, the states of the print job management table 1200 and the margin width management table 1300 after changing the print orders of the third print job 1113 and the fifth print job 1115 have been described. Actually, the print job management table 1200 and the margin width management table 1300 are updated every time the print order of a print job is changed. The image data arranged on the continuous sheet 1100 after changing the print order becomes the state shown in FIG. 11(b). That is, the third image data 1103 and the fifth image data 1105 are arranged side by side in the main scanning direction of the second image data 1102, and the fourth image data 1104 is arranged shifted in the sheet conveyance direction (sub-scanning direction).

[0082] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a case has been described in which the printing order and printing settings are displayed based on the printing settings of the print jobs in the image forming apparatus 100 that are waiting for printing, and the printing order and printing settings of the print jobs in the print queue are changed. As another example, the following changes may be made based on the printing settings of the print jobs scheduled for printing in the host apparatus 190 and the printing settings of the print jobs in the image forming apparatus 100 that are waiting for printing. That is, the printing order and printing settings may be displayed on the display unit of the image forming apparatus 100, and the printing order and printing settings of the print jobs scheduled for printing may be changed.

[0083] Also, in this embodiment, as an example of the changeable printing order, an example has been described in which the earliest printing order among the print jobs waiting for printing is extracted and displayed. However, all changeable printing orders may be extracted and displayed. This allows the user to select the desired printing order. The display format may be such that all changeable printing orders are displayed in a pull-down menu. Then, the printing settings that need to be changed may be displayed according to the printing order selected by the user.

[0084] In this embodiment, an example has been described in which a single printing item that needs to be changed in order to change the printing order of the print job is displayed, and the printing order and printing settings are changed. When a plurality of printing items differ between the print jobs waiting for printing and the print job to be changed, a plurality of printing items may be displayed and the printing items may be changed.

[0085] As described above, by associating and displaying the changeable printing order of the print job and the printing setting changes required to change the printing order of the print job, it is possible to reduce the complexity of the printing setting changes associated with changing the printing order. Even when print jobs with different printing settings are received, by changing the printing order and printing settings of the print jobs and arranging the image data in the main scanning direction for printing, it is possible to effectively utilize the nesting function in an image forming apparatus using continuous sheets (roll paper).

[0086] [Third Embodiment] With reference to the drawings, an example of the processing flow executed by the image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. In the following, the description will focus on the differences from the first and second embodiments, and the description of the same parts will be omitted. Also, parts corresponding to the first and second embodiments will be described with the same reference numerals.

[0087] In the present embodiment, a first print job is received, and while the first print job is being printed, a second print job is received. Then, a case will be described as an example in which a third print job with print settings different from those of the second print job is received, and then a fourth print job with the same print settings as the third print job is received. And a case will be described as an example in which when the print order of the third print job is changed during the print standby, the print order of the fourth print job with the same print settings as the third print job is also changed accordingly.

[0088] FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the process from the print order display request to the print order change in the image forming apparatus 100. FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram showing image data arranged on a continuous sheet in the image forming apparatus 100. The first image data 1701, the second image data 1702, the third image data 1703, and the fourth image data 1704 are received in this order, and each image data is arranged on the continuous sheet 1700. The print settings of the first print job including the first image data 1701 are different from the print settings of the second print job including the second image data 1702. Also, the print settings of the second print job including the second image data 1702 are different from the print settings of the third image data 1703. The print settings of the third print job including the third image data 1703 and the print settings of the fourth print job including the fourth image data 1704 are the same.

[0089] As shown in FIG. 17(a), the first image data 1701 and the second image data 1702 are arranged with a shift in the sheet conveyance direction (sub-scanning direction). Also, the third image data 1703 and the fourth image data 1704 are arranged side by side in the main scanning direction. In the present embodiment, the resolution is taken as an example of the print setting. The resolutions of the first print job 1711, the third print job 1713, and the fourth print job 1714 are "600 dpi". The resolution of the second print job 1712 is "1200 dpi". Let the sheet width in which the image data can be arranged in the main scanning direction of the continuous sheet 1700 be the sheet width 1706. Let the image data widths of the first image data 1701, the second image data 1702, the third image data 1703, and the fourth image data 1704 be the image data width 1705. The image data width includes the margin on the left side of the image data. As an example of the sheet width, in the present embodiment, the sheet width 1706 is set to "1000" and held in the RAM 114.

[0090] FIG. 18(a) is a table showing an example of a print job management table for managing print jobs. The print job management table 1800 includes a print order 1801, a print job ID 1802, a resolution 1803, an image data width 1804, and a print status 1805. The print order 1801 is the order in which the image data is arranged and printed in the sheet conveyance direction (sub-scanning direction). The print job management table 1800 is held in the RAM 114.

[0091] In the prior art, when the order of the third print job 1713 is changed to be printed before the second print job 1712, the print order is changed to the following order. The print order becomes the first print job 1711, the third print job 1713, the second print job 1712, and the fourth print job 1714. Since the print settings of the second print job 1712 and the fourth print job are different, the nesting function is not effectively utilized, and the image data of each print job is arranged in the conveyance direction (sub-scanning direction) of the continuous sheet 1700. Therefore, the time required for printing was also long. In the present embodiment, the nesting function is effectively utilized, and the print control described below is performed to shorten the time required for printing. Details will be described below.

[0092] FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram showing print job list information displayed on the display unit of the input / output device 117 in the image forming apparatus 100. The print job list screen 1900 includes a print order 1901, a print job ID 1902, and a print status 1903. Further, the print job list screen 1900 includes a rollover button 1904 for selecting a print job whose print order is to be changed, and a priority print button 1905 for sending a request to change the print order of the selected print job to the head of the print jobs waiting for printing. The print job list screen 1900 displays information on the image data in the print job management table 1800. In the present embodiment, information corresponding to the state shown in FIG. 18(a) is displayed.

[0093] Hereinafter, with reference to the drawings, a case will be described in which a first print job is received, and a second print job, a third print job, and a fourth print job are received during the printing of the first print job. The flow of the process of receiving the first print job 1711 to the fourth print job 1714 and starting the printing of the first print job is the same as that in the first embodiment, and the process shown in the flowchart of FIG. 2 is executed. After receiving the first print job 1711 and receiving the second print job 1712, the third print job 1713, and the fourth print job 1714 during the printing of the first print job 1711, the print job management table 1800 becomes the state shown in FIG. 18(a).

[0094] Referring to the drawings, a case will be described where, when changing the print order of the third print job 1713 during print standby, the print order of the fourth print job 1714 with the same print settings is also changed accordingly. In S1601 of the flowchart in FIG. 16, the main controller 111 refers to the print job management table 1800 via the display control unit 204, and displays a print job list screen 1900 shown in FIG. 19 on the display unit of the input / output device 117. The print job management table 1800 is in the state shown in FIG. 18(a), and the print job list screen 1900 displays information corresponding to the print job management table 1800 shown in FIG. 18(a). When the user operates the input / output device 117, selects the third print job 1713 using the rollover button 1904, and requests priority printing using the priority print button 1905, the input / output device 117 notifies the main controller 111 of the priority print request. When the main controller 111 receives the priority print request via the receiving unit 203, the process proceeds to S1602. The ID of the selected third print job 1713 is held in the RAM 114.

[0095] In S1602, the main controller 111 refers to the print job management table 1800 via the control unit 205, and compares the print settings of the selected third print job 1713 with the print settings of the print jobs in print standby. The main controller 111 extracts the print jobs in print standby with the same print settings as the third print job 1713, and the process proceeds to S1603. The print job management table 1800 is in the state shown in FIG. 17(a), and the resolution 1803 of the third print job is "600 dpi". Among the print jobs in standby, the fourth print job 1714 is extracted as the image data with a resolution 1803 of "600 dpi". The ID of the extracted fourth print job 1714 is held in the RAM 114.

[0096] In S1603, the main controller 111 changes the print order of the selected third print job 1713 and the fourth print job 1714 with the same print settings as the third print job 1713 to the top of the print jobs waiting for printing. After changing the print order, the main controller 111 updates the print job management table 1800. The print job management table 1800 becomes the state shown in FIG. 18(b). That is, the print orders 1801 of print job ID 1802 "1713" and print job ID 1802 "1714" are "2", and the print order 1801 of print job ID 1802 "1712" is "3". Specifically, before the print change, the image data was arranged as shown in FIG. 17(a). After the print order change, it is changed to the arrangement of the image data shown in FIG. 17(b).

[0097] As described above, by collectively changing the print order of print jobs having the same print settings during printing standby, it is possible to reduce the complexity when changing the print order of a plurality of print jobs. Thereby, the nesting function is effectively utilized and the time required for printing is also shortened.

[0098] [Other Embodiments] The present disclosure can also be realized by supplying a program that realizes one or more functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and having one or more processors in the computer of the system or device read and execute the program. It can also be realized by a circuit (for example, ASIC) that realizes one or more functions.

[0099] The disclosure of the above-described embodiments includes the following configurations.

[0100] An image forming apparatus that performs printing using a nesting function, based on the result of comparing the printing settings for a plurality of standby print jobs input within a certain period of time, by changing part of the printing settings related to at least one standby print job among the input plurality of standby print jobs to make the printing settings of the plurality of standby print jobs the same, and arranging and printing each piece of image data related to the plurality of standby print jobs in a direction orthogonal to the conveyance direction of the continuous sheet, and control means therefor. The image forming apparatus is characterized by comprising the above.

[0101] The image forming apparatus according to Configuration 1, wherein the printing settings include at least one of a printing purpose, print quality, color mode, resolution, paper feed port, cutting method, cutting speed, layout, and horizontal flipping.

[0102] The image forming apparatus according to Configuration 2, further comprising display control means for displaying on a display means the changeable print order of the selected standby print job when the standby print job for changing the print order is selected from among the plurality of standby print jobs, and the change content of the printing settings necessary for changing the print order.

[0103] The image forming apparatus according to Configuration 3, wherein when the display control means receives an instruction to change the print order for the standby print job by a user operation, the control means changes the printing settings of the standby print job that has received the instruction to change the print order, and arranges and prints each piece of the image data related to the plurality of standby print jobs including the standby print job in a direction orthogonal to the conveyance direction of the continuous sheet.

[0104] The image forming apparatus according to Configuration 4, wherein the display control means receives an instruction to change the print order of a plurality of standby print jobs having different printing settings by a user operation.

[0105] Configuration 6: If there are multiple changeable print orders for the selected standby print job, the display control means displays, on the display means, the print order selected by a user operation and the print settings necessary to change the print order, in the image forming apparatus according to Configuration 3.

[0106] Configuration 7: If the image data width of the image data of one standby print job is longer than the margin width in the direction orthogonal to the conveyance direction of the continuous sheet at the location where the image data of one or more other standby print jobs are arranged, the control means does not arrange the image data of the one standby print job in the direction orthogonal to the conveyance direction at the location where the image data of the one or more other standby print jobs are arranged, in the image forming apparatus according to Configuration 1.

[0107] Configuration 8: If there exists a second standby print job whose print settings are different from those of a first standby print job and a third standby print job whose print settings are the same as those of the second standby print job, and if the display control means receives, by a user operation, an instruction to change the print order between the first standby print job and the second standby print job, the control means arranges and prints, in the direction orthogonal to the conveyance direction of the continuous sheet, the image data of the second standby print job and the image data of the third standby print job before the first standby print job, in the image forming apparatus according to Configuration 3.

[0108] Configuration 9: A control method for an image forming apparatus that performs printing using a nesting function, the method including: a step of making the print settings of a plurality of standby print jobs input within a certain time identical by changing a part of the print settings related to at least one of the plurality of input standby print jobs based on a result of comparing the print settings of the plurality of standby print jobs; and a step of arranging and printing the respective image data related to the plurality of standby print jobs in a direction orthogonal to the conveyance direction of a continuous sheet.

[0109] A program for causing a computer to function as an image forming apparatus according to any one of Configurations 1 to 8 (Configuration 10).

Claims

1. An image forming apparatus that performs printing using a nesting function, based on the result of comparing the print settings for a plurality of standby print jobs input within a certain period of time, by changing a part of the print settings related to at least one standby print job among the input plurality of standby print jobs to make the print settings of the plurality of standby print jobs the same, and arranging and printing each image data related to the plurality of standby print jobs in a direction orthogonal to the conveyance direction of the continuous sheet, control means; An image forming apparatus, characterized by comprising the above.

2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the print settings include at least one of a printing purpose, print quality, color mode, resolution, paper feed port, cutting method, cutting speed, layout, and horizontal flipping.

3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising display control means for displaying, on a display means, the changeable print order of the selected standby print job and the change content of the print settings necessary for changing the print order when the standby print job for changing the print order is selected from among the plurality of standby print jobs.

4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein when the display control means receives a print order change instruction for the standby print job by a user operation, the control means changes the print settings of the standby print job that has received the print order change instruction, and arranges and prints each of the image data related to the plurality of standby print jobs including the standby print job in a direction orthogonal to the conveyance direction of the continuous sheet.

5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the display control means receives a print order change instruction for a plurality of standby print jobs with different print settings by a user operation.

6. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein when there are a plurality of changeable print orders for the selected standby print job, the display control means displays, on the display means, the print order selected by a user operation and the print settings necessary for changing the print order.

7. When the image data width of the image data of one waiting print job is longer than the margin width in the direction orthogonal to the conveyance direction of the continuous sheet at the location where the image data of one or more other waiting print jobs are arranged, the control means does not arrange the image data of the one waiting print job in the direction orthogonal to the conveyance direction at the location where the image data of the one or more other waiting print jobs are arranged. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that.

8. There is a second waiting print job whose print settings are different from those of the first waiting print job, and a third waiting print job whose print settings are the same as those of the second waiting print job, and the display control means changes the print order between the first waiting print job and the second waiting print job. When an instruction is received by a user operation, the control means arranges and prints the image data of the second waiting print job and the image data of the third waiting print job in a direction orthogonal to the conveyance direction of the continuous sheet before the first waiting print job. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that.

9. A control method for an image forming apparatus that performs printing using a nesting function, Based on the result of comparing the print settings for a plurality of waiting print jobs input within a certain period of time, by changing a part of the print settings related to at least one waiting print job among the plurality of input waiting print jobs, the print settings of the plurality of waiting print jobs are made the same. A step of making them the same, A step of arranging and printing the respective image data related to the plurality of waiting print jobs in a direction orthogonal to the conveyance direction of the continuous sheet, A control method for an image forming apparatus, characterized by comprising:

10. A program for causing a computer to function as the image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

Images