Image forming device

Abstract

To maintain a copying function of an image forming device even when a controller unit cannot generate print data.SOLUTION: An image forming device 1 includes: a scanner unit 2 that reads an image of a manuscript; a printer unit 3 that prints an image on recording media based on print data; and a controller unit 4 that communicates with the scanner unit 2 and the printer unit 3 and generates first print data based on scan data from the scanner unit 2 in a normal mode. The scanner unit 2 generates second print data based on the acquired scan data when the controller unit 4 generates no first print data, and the printer unit 3 prints an image on the recording media based on the first print data in a first state, and prints the image on the recording media based on the second print data in a second state.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, an electrophotographic or inkjet image forming apparatus includes a scanner unit that acquires image data by scanning a document, a controller unit that generates print data based on the image data, and a printer unit that forms an image on a recording medium based on the print data.

[0003] Furthermore, some image forming apparatuses are provided with a configuration that allows them to maintain their functionality even if a malfunction such as a breakdown occurs. For example, in the image forming device described in Patent Document 1, an external storage device is connected to the controller unit (the main body of the image processing device) to back up the built-in storage device, and in the event of a malfunction in the built-in storage device, functionality is maintained by switching to the external storage device.

[0004] Furthermore, some image forming apparatuses transition to an energy saving mode (energy saving mode, standby state) that consumes less power than the normal mode if no operation is performed for a specified time or if a user instructs the apparatus to do so. When a copying instruction is given to an image forming apparatus in the energy saving mode, the image forming apparatus transitions to the normal mode and performs a series of operations related to copying in the normal mode.

[0005] The image forming device described in Patent Document 1 uses a backup external storage device in the event of a failure of the internal storage device, so if a malfunction occurs in the controller unit itself, print data cannot be generated and copying cannot be performed. Furthermore, in an image forming apparatus that can be switched to an energy saving mode, the controller unit cannot generate print data unless it switches from the energy saving mode to the normal mode, and copying cannot be performed in the energy saving mode. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] In short, in a conventional image forming apparatus having a copying function, the copying function cannot be maintained when the controller unit cannot generate print data. The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and its object is to maintain the copying function of an image forming apparatus even when the controller unit is in a state where it cannot generate print data. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to solve the above problem, the image forming apparatus of the present invention comprises a scanner unit that reads an image of an original document and acquires image data, a printer unit that prints an image on a recording medium based on print data, and a controller unit that communicates with the scanner unit and the printer unit via an electrical interface and generates first print data based on the image data from the scanner unit in a first state, wherein the scanner unit generates second print data based on the acquired image data in a second state in which the controller unit does not generate the first print data, and the printer unit prints an image on the recording medium based on the first print data in the first state, and prints an image on the recording medium based on the second print data in the second state. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, even if the controller unit is in a state where it cannot generate print data, the copying function of the image forming apparatus can be maintained. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an overall configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2]1 is a functional block diagram of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 3] FIG. 1A is a diagram for explaining the data flow in a normal mode, and FIG. 1B is a diagram for explaining the data flow in a main controller failure state. [Figure 4] 10 is a flowchart illustrating control of a scanner controller. [Figure 5] 10A is a flowchart illustrating the process of connecting to the main controller, and FIG. 10B is a flowchart illustrating the process of connecting to the printer controller. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart illustrating processing during scanning. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart illustrating the control of the main controller. [Figure 8] 10A is a flowchart illustrating the control of the printer controller, and FIG. 10B is a flowchart illustrating the process when print data is received. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of an image forming apparatus according to a second embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 1A is a diagram for explaining the data flow in a normal mode, and FIG. 1B is a diagram for explaining the data flow in a main controller failure state. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of an image forming apparatus according to a third embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 1A is a diagram for explaining the data flow in the normal mode, and FIG. 1B is a diagram for explaining the data flow in the energy saving mode. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] <Outline of image forming apparatus 1> First, an overview of the image forming apparatus 1 will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 3. Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of the image forming apparatus 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention, Figure 2 is a functional block diagram of the image forming apparatus 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention, Figure 3(a) is a diagram schematically explaining the flow of data in normal mode, and Figure 3(b) is a diagram schematically explaining the flow of data when the main controller is in a faulty state. In the following description, a multifunction printer is taken as an example of the image forming apparatus 1, but the image forming apparatus 1 is not limited to a multifunction printer. Furthermore, unless specifically stated otherwise, the components, types, combinations, shapes, relative positions, etc. described in the following embodiments are merely illustrative examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0011] The image forming device 1 illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 includes a scanner unit 2 that reads an image of a document and obtains scan data (read image data, for example, image data in RGB format), a printer unit 3 that forms an image on a recording medium (for example, copy paper), and a controller unit 4 that is communicatively connected to the scanner unit 2 and the printer unit 3. The scanner unit 2 includes an image reading unit 21 that reads an image of a document, a first signal transmission / reception unit 22 that transmits and receives signals between the image reading unit 2 and a third signal transmission / reception unit 42 provided in the controller unit 4, and a scanner controller 23 that is the main control unit for the scanner unit 2. The printer unit 3 includes an image printing unit 31 that prints an image on a recording medium, a second signal transmission / reception unit 32 that transmits and receives signals to and from a fourth signal transmission / reception unit 43 provided in the controller unit 4, and a printer controller 33 that is the main control unit in the printer unit 3.

[0012] The controller unit 4 includes a third signal transmission / reception unit 42 that communicates with the first signal transmission / reception unit 22 provided in the scanner unit 2, a fourth signal transmission / reception unit 43 that communicates with the second signal transmission / reception unit 32 provided in the printer unit 3, a main controller 41 that is the main control unit in the image forming apparatus 1, a first bus switch 44 (path changing means) provided between the third signal transmission / reception unit 42 and the main controller 41, and a second bus switch 45 (path changing means) provided between the fourth signal transmission / reception unit 43 and the main controller 41. The first bus switch 44 connects the third signal transceiver 42 to the main controller 41 (ASIC 41e) and connects the third signal transceiver 42 to the second bus switch 45. The second bus switch 45 connects the main controller 41 to the fourth signal transceiver 43 and connects the first bus switch 44 to the fourth signal transceiver 43. The first bus switch 44 and the second bus switch 45 can switch their connection destinations by a control signal from the scanner controller 23, for example.

[0013] As shown in Figure 3(a), in normal mode (first state in which the controller unit 4 generates the first print data described below), the first bus switch 44 connects the third signal transmission / reception unit 42 to the main controller 41, and the second bus switch 45 connects the main controller 41 to the fourth signal transmission / reception unit 43. When an instruction to copy an original is given in the normal mode, the scanner controller 23 controls the image reading unit 21 to read the image of the original. The scanner controller 23 (detection means) also communicates with the main controller 41 provided in the controller unit 4 to detect whether or not there is a malfunction in the main controller 41. The image reading unit 21 reads an image of a document, obtains scan data (for example, image data in RGB format), and outputs the data to the scanner controller 23.

[0014] If the scanner controller 23 does not detect a failure in the main controller 41, it outputs the scan data to the first signal transmitting / receiving unit 22. The scan data is input to the main controller 41 via the third signal transmitting / receiving unit 42 and the first bus switch 44. The main controller 41 generates first print data based on the scan data. For example, the main controller 41 converts the scan data into image data in CMYK format and performs processing such as page editing to generate the first print data. The first print data is input to the printer controller 33 via the second bus switch 45, the fourth signal transceiver 43, and the second signal transceiver 32. The printer controller 33 controls the image printing unit 31 based on the first print data to print an image on a recording medium.

[0015] As shown in Figure 3(b), when the scanner controller 23 detects a failure in at least a part of the main controller 41, in other words, when it determines that the main controller 41 is in a second state in which it does not generate the first print data, the scanner controller 23 connects the first bus switch 44 and the second bus switch 45 so that they can communicate with each other. Furthermore, the scanner controller 23 generates second print data based on the scan data. For example, the scanner controller 23 converts the scan data into image data in JPEG format and performs processing to make the data printable by the printer unit 3, thereby generating the second print data. The second print data is input to the printer controller 33 via the first signal transceiver 22, the third signal transceiver 42, the first bus switch 44, the second bus switch 45, the fourth signal transceiver 43, and the second signal transceiver 32. In other words, the second print data is input to the printer controller 33 without passing through the main controller 41. The printer controller 33 controls the image printing unit 31 based on the second print data to print an image on a recording medium.

[0016] As can be understood from the above description, according to this image forming apparatus 1, the copying function can be maintained even in the second state in which the controller unit 4 does not generate print data.

[0017] <Details of Image Forming Apparatus 1> The configuration of the image forming apparatus 1 will be described in detail below. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the image forming device 1 (MFP) includes a scanner unit 2, a printer unit 3, a controller unit 4, an operation unit 5, a network I / F (InterFace) 6, a fifth signal transmitting / receiving unit 7, a short-range communication circuit 8, and a sixth signal transmitting / receiving unit 9. The hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus 1 is not limited to the configuration shown in FIG.

[0018] <Scanner unit 2> The image reading unit 21 includes, for example, a contact glass, an ADF (Auto Document Feeder), and a line image sensor, and reads the image of a document placed on the surface of the contact glass using a line image sensor that is movable along the sub-scanning direction on the back side of the contact glass, and reads the document transported by the ADF using the line image sensor. The line image sensor acquires and outputs scan data corresponding to the read document. The scan data output by the line image sensor is input to the scanner controller 23. The scan data is, for example, image data in RGB format, but is not limited to this format. The first signal transmitting / receiving unit 22 is, for example, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) interface, but may be a communication interface of another type.

[0019] The scanner controller 23 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 23a, which is the main part of a computer, and a memory 23b that stores programs for operating the CPU 23a and various data. As shown in FIG. 2, the scanner controller 23 functions, by the CPU 23a executing a program stored in the memory 23b, as, for example, a reading control unit 231 that controls the operation of the image reading unit 21, a read image data processing unit 232 that processes the scan data acquired by the image reading unit 21, a scanner side communication control unit 233 that controls communication between the scanner unit 2 and other units 3 and 4, an abnormality detection unit 234 that detects whether or not there is an abnormality in the controller unit 4, and a switch control unit 235 that controls each of the bus switches 44 and 45 provided in the controller unit 4.

[0020] Among the above-mentioned components, the read image data processing unit 232 performs image processing such as error diffusion and gamma conversion on input scan data. Furthermore, when the controller unit 4 is in the first state in which it can generate the first print data, the read image data processing unit 232 accumulates the scan data acquired by the image reading unit 21 (line image sensor) and transmits the data in predetermined data amounts. The transmitted scan data is received by the controller unit 4, and the first print data is generated (described later). Furthermore, when the controller unit 4 is in a second state in which the first print data is not generated, the read image data processing unit 232 generates and transmits second print data (e.g., print data including image data in JPEG format) based on the scan data acquired by the image reading unit 21. The transmitted second print data is received by the printer unit 3.

[0021] <Printer Unit 3> The image printing unit 31 may be, for example, an electrophotographic or inkjet type, but is not limited to these types. As an example, an electrophotographic image printing unit 31 will be described. The electrophotographic image printing unit 31 prints an image (i.e., forms an image) on a recording medium through the following process. First, a photosensitive drum, which serves as an image carrier, is uniformly charged, and a laser beam or the like is irradiated onto the surface of the photosensitive drum to form an electrostatic latent image. Next, toner is attached to the electrostatic latent image to form a toner image, which is then transferred and fixed to the recording medium. Once the toner image is fixed, the image is printed on the recording medium. The second signal transmitting / receiving unit 32 is, for example, a USB interface, but may be a communication interface of another type.

[0022] The printer controller 33 also includes a CPU 33a, which is the main part of the computer, and a memory 33b that stores programs for operating the CPU 33a and various data. As shown in FIG. 2, the printer controller 33 functions as, for example, a print control unit 331 that controls the operation of the image printing unit 31, a print data processing unit 332 that performs processes such as error diffusion and gamma conversion on each piece of print data (first print data, second print data) sent from the controller unit 4 and the scanner controller 23, and a printer-side communication control unit 333 that controls communication between the printer unit 3 and the other units 2 and 4, by having the CPU 33a execute a program stored in the memory 33b.

[0023] <Controller unit 4> As shown in FIG. 1, the controller unit 4 includes a main controller 41, a third signal transmitting / receiving unit 42, a fourth signal transmitting / receiving unit 43, a first bus switch 44, and a second bus switch 45.

[0024] The main controller 41 controls drawing, communication, input, and the like in the image forming apparatus 1. The main controller 41 has a CPU 41a, which is the main part of the computer, a system memory (MEM-P) 41b, a north bridge (NB) 41c, a south bridge (SB) 41d, an ASIC 41e, a local memory (MEM-C) 41f, which is a storage unit, an HDD controller 41g, and a magnetic disk (HDD) 41h, which is also a storage unit, and is configured such that the NB 41c and the ASIC 41e are connected by an AGP (Accelerated Graphics Port) bus 41i. However, the configuration of the main controller 41 is not limited to this. For example, two or more components such as the CPU 41a, NB 41c, and SB 41d may be realized by an SoC (System on Chip). In this case, the SoC and the ASIC 41e may be connected by a PCI-express (registered trademark) bus.

[0025] Of these, the CPU 41a is a control unit that performs overall control of the image forming apparatus 1. The NB 41c is a bridge that connects the CPU 41a with the MEM-P 41b, the SB 41d, and the AGP bus 41i, and includes a memory controller that controls reading and writing to the MEM-P 41b, a PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) master, and an AGP target.

[0026] The MEM-P 41b comprises a ROM 41j, which is a memory for storing programs and data that realize the functions of the main controller 41, and a RAM 41k, which is used as a memory for developing programs and data and for drawing during memory printing. The programs stored in the RAM 41k may be provided by being recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM, CD-R, or DVD in an installable or executable format.

[0027] The SB 41d is a bridge for connecting the NB 41c with PCI devices and peripheral devices. The ASIC 41e is an integrated circuit (IC) for image processing applications that has hardware elements for image processing and acts as a bridge connecting the AGP bus 41i, the HDD controller 41g, and the MEM-C 41f. The ASIC 41e consists of a PCI target and AGP master, an arbiter (ARB) that forms the core of the ASIC 41e, a memory controller that controls the MEM-C 41f, multiple direct memory access controllers (DMACs) that rotate image data using hardware logic, and a transfer unit that transfers data between the scanner unit 2 and the printer unit 3. In this embodiment, the ASIC 41e is connected to a USB interface (a third signal transceiver 42 and a fourth signal transceiver 43) via a bus and bus switches (a first bus switch 44 and a second bus switch 45). Note that the ASIC 41e may be connected to other interfaces such as an IEEE1394 (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers 1394) interface.

[0028] The MEM-C 41f is a local memory used as an image buffer for copying and a code buffer. The HDD 41h is a storage for storing image data, font data used during printing, and forms. The HDD controller 41g controls the reading and writing of data from and to the HDD 41h under the control of the CPU 41a.

[0029] The AGP bus 41i is a bus interface for a graphics accelerator card proposed to speed up graphics processing. By directly accessing the MEM-P 41b at high throughput, the graphics accelerator card can be made faster. However, the MEM-C 41f does not have to be installed.

[0030] The third signal transmitting / receiving unit 42 is, for example, a USB interface, and is connected to the first signal transmitting / receiving unit 22 provided in the scanner unit 2 so as to be able to communicate with it. The fourth signal transmitting / receiving unit 43 is also, for example, a USB interface, and is connected to the second signal transmitting / receiving unit 32 provided in the printer unit 3 so as to be able to communicate with it. The third signal transmitting / receiving unit 42 and the fourth signal transmitting / receiving unit 43 may be other types of communication interfaces.

[0031] The first bus switch 44 is provided between the third signal transmission / reception unit 42 and the main controller 41, and between the third signal transmission / reception unit 42 and the second bus switch 45, and communicatively connects the third signal transmission / reception unit 42 and the main controller 41, and communicatively connects the third signal transmission / reception unit 42 and the second bus switch 45. For example, in a first state in which the main controller 41 can generate the first print data, the first bus switch 44 communicatively connects the third signal transmitting / receiving unit 42 and the ASIC 41e included in the main controller 41. In addition, in a second state in which the main controller 41 does not generate the first print data, the first bus switch 44 communicatively connects the third signal transmitting / receiving unit 42 and the second bus switch 45.

[0032] The second bus switch 45 is provided between the main controller 41 and the fourth signal transmission / reception unit 43, and between the first bus switch 44 and the fourth signal transmission / reception unit 43, and communicatively connects the main controller 41 and the fourth signal transmission / reception unit 43, and communicatively connects the first bus switch 44 and the fourth signal transmission / reception unit 43. For example, in the first state, the second bus switch 45 communicatively connects the ASIC 41e provided in the main controller 41 to the fourth signal transceiver unit 43, and in the second state, it communicatively connects the first bus switch 44 to the fourth signal transceiver unit 43.

[0033] As shown in FIG. 2, the main controller 41 functions as an image data conversion unit 411 that converts scan data into first print data by the CPU 41a executing a program stored in the MEM-P 41b, and as a controller-side communication control unit 412 that controls communication between the controller unit 4 and the other units 2 and 3. The image data conversion unit 411 generates first print data by, for example, converting scan data into image data in CMYK format and, if necessary, performing page editing such as changing the page order for saddle-stitch printing or page aggregation. Therefore, the image data conversion unit 411 can also be called a first print data generation unit that generates the first print data. The controller side communication control unit 412 receives, for example, scan data transmitted from the scanner unit 2 via the third signal transmission / reception unit 42, and transmits the first print data generated by the image data conversion unit 411 (first print data generation unit) to the printer unit 3 via the fourth signal transmission / reception unit 43.

[0034] <Operation unit 5, network I / F 6, short-range communication circuit 8> The operation unit 5 shown in FIG. 1 receives input from an operator and displays various images and messages for input. The operation unit 5 includes a panel display section 51 such as a touch panel that displays, for example, current setting values and selection screens and accepts input from the operator, and a panel operation section 52 that includes a numeric keypad that accepts setting values for image formation conditions such as density setting conditions, a start key that accepts instructions to start copying, and an application switching key that accepts instructions to switch functions performed by the image forming apparatus 1. The operation unit 5 is communicably connected to the ASIC 41e included in the main controller 41, the scanner controller 23 included in the scanner unit 2, and the printer controller 33 included in the printer unit 3. The operation unit 5 may be connected to the SB 41d instead of the ASIC 41e.

[0035] The image forming apparatus 1 can sequentially switch among the document box function, copy function, printer function, and facsimile function using, for example, an application switching key provided on the panel operation unit 52. When the document box function is selected, the mode becomes document box mode, when the copy function is selected, the mode becomes copy mode, when the printer function is selected, the mode becomes printer mode, and when the facsimile mode is selected, the mode becomes facsimile mode. The panel display unit 51 may be configured with a display device such as an LCD that displays various information or an LED that displays the operating status by turning it on or off, and if the panel display unit 51 is configured with a touch panel, the panel operation unit 52 may be omitted.

[0036] The network I / F 6 is an interface for performing data communication using a communication network. In this embodiment, the network I / F 6 is connected to the second signal transmitting / receiving unit 32 via a fifth signal transmitting / receiving unit 7 configured by, for example, a USB interface. do. The short-range communication circuit 8 is provided with an antenna 8a for transmitting and receiving data. The short-range communication circuit 8 is a communication circuit such as NFC or Bluetooth (registered trademark). In this embodiment, the short-range communication circuit 8 is connected to the fifth signal transceiver unit 7 via a sixth signal transceiver unit 9 configured by, for example, a USB interface. In this embodiment, the network I / F 6 and the short-range communication circuit 8 are connected via the USB 41d, but are not limited to this. For example, they may be connected to the ASIC 41e provided in the main controller 41 via a PCI bus.

[0037] <Example of normal operation> An example of the operation of the image forming apparatus 1 according to this embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS. For example, when an operator operates the panel operation section 52 or the panel display section 51 (touch panel) of the operation unit 5 to select the copy function, and then instructs copying, a copy command is sent from the operation unit 5 to the scanner controller 23, the printer controller 33, and the main controller 41.

[0038] The scanner controller 23 starts communication processing with the main controller 41. At this time, the scanner controller 23 functions as an abnormality detection unit 234 and detects whether or not an abnormality has occurred in the main controller 41. For example, if the scanner controller 23 can establish communication with the main controller 41 and does not receive any notification from the main controller 41 that an abnormality has occurred in a part (e.g., HDD 41h or MEM-C 41f), the scanner controller 23 determines that there is no abnormality in the main controller 41. It should be noted that the detection of the presence or absence of an abnormality in the main controller 41 is not limited to this example.

[0039] If there is no abnormality in the main controller 41, the scanner controller 23 functions as a reading control unit 231 and causes the image reading unit 21 to read the image of the document. Thereafter, the scanner controller 23 functions as a scanner-side communication control section 233 and transmits the scan data acquired by the image reading section 21 to the controller unit 4 .

[0040] 3(a), the first bus switch 44 connects the third signal transmitting / receiving unit 42 and the main controller 41 (ASIC 41e) when there is no abnormality in the main controller 41. Therefore, the main controller 41 functions as a controller-side communication control unit 412 and receives scan data transmitted by the scanner controller 23. Thereafter, the main controller 41 functions as an image data conversion unit 411 and performs image processing such as error diffusion and gamma conversion on the input scan data, converts the image-processed scan data into CMYK format data, and further performs editing processing such as page editing to generate first print data. Then, the main controller 41 functions again as the controller-side communication control section 412 and transmits the first print data to the printer unit 3.

[0041] The second bus switch 45 connects the main controller 41 (ASIC 41e) and the fourth signal transmitting / receiving unit 43 when there is no abnormality in the main controller 41. The printer controller 33 functions as a printer-side communication control unit 333 and receives the first print data sent by the main controller 41 . Thereafter, the printer controller 33 functions as a print data processing unit 332, and performs necessary processing on the first print data to cause the image printing unit 31 to perform a printing operation based on the first print data. Furthermore, the printer controller 33 functions as a print control unit 331, and controls the operation of the image printing unit 31 based on the processed first print data to print an image on a recording medium.

[0042] <Example of operation when an abnormality is detected> The scanner controller 23 functions as an abnormality detection unit 234 after starting communication processing with the main controller 41. For example, when the scanner controller 23 is unable to establish communication with the main controller 41 or when the main controller 41 notifies the scanner controller 23 that an abnormality has occurred in a part of the main controller 41 (such as the HDD 41h or the MEM-C 41f), the scanner controller 23 determines that an abnormality has occurred in at least a part of the main controller 41.

[0043] As shown in FIG. 3(b), when the scanner controller 23 determines that there is an abnormality in at least a part of the main controller 41, it functions as a switch control unit 235 and connects the first bus switch 44 and the second bus switch 45. In the controller unit 4, the first bus switch 44 and the second bus switch 45 are connected, so the third signal transmitting / receiving unit 42 and the fourth signal transmitting / receiving unit 43 are connected without going through the main controller 41. In other words, the scanner unit 2 and the printer unit 3 are connected so as to be able to communicate with each other via the bus within the controller unit 4.

[0044] Even when it is determined that at least a part of the main controller 41 is abnormal, the scanner controller 23 functions as the reading control section 231 and causes the image reading section 21 to read the image of the document. Thereafter, the scanner controller 23 functions as the read image data processing unit 232, and performs image processing such as error diffusion and gamma conversion on the input scan data (RGB format image data), converts the processed scan data into JPEG format data, and generates second print data by performing processing to make it printable by the printer unit 3. Thereafter, the scanner controller 23 functions as the scanner-side communication control section 233 and transmits the second print data to the controller unit 4.

[0045] As described above, the scanner unit 2 and the printer unit 3 are connected so as to be able to communicate with each other, and therefore the second print data is sent to the printer unit 3. The printer controller 33 functions as a printer-side communication control unit 333, receives the second print data sent by the scanner controller 23, and then functions as a print data processing unit 332, performing processing such as error diffusion and gamma conversion on the second print data. Thereafter, the printer controller 33 functions as a print control unit 331, and controls the operation of the image printing unit 31 based on the processed second print data to print an image on a recording medium.

[0046] As can be understood from the above explanation, according to the image forming apparatus 1 of this embodiment, if an abnormality occurs in at least a part of the controller unit 4, although advanced editing cannot be performed by the controller unit 4, a minimum copying function can be maintained.

[0047] <Specific examples of control> Next, a specific example of control will be described. Figure 4 is a flowchart explaining the control of the scanner controller 23, Figure 5(a) is a flowchart explaining the connection process with the main controller 41, Figure 5(b) is a flowchart explaining the connection process with the printer controller 33, Figure 6 is a flowchart explaining the processing during scanning, Figure 7 is a flowchart explaining the control of the main controller 41, Figure 8(a) is a flowchart explaining the control of the printer controller 33, and Figure 8(b) is a flowchart explaining the processing when print data is received.

[0048] <Control of scanner controller 23> The scanner controller 23 monitors whether a command has been received from the operation unit 5 (S1), and when a command is received (S1, Yes), the scanner controller 23 determines whether the received command is a copy command (S2). If the received command is a copy command (S2, Yes), the scanner controller 23 starts the connection process with the main controller 41 (S3), and if it is not a copy command (S2, No), it performs processing according to the content of the command (S4).

[0049] If the scanner controller 23 does not receive a command in the process of step S1 (S1, No), it determines whether or not connection processing with the main controller 41 is in progress (S5). For example, the scanner controller 23 starts the connection process with the main controller 41 in step S3, or if the processing of step S6 described below has not been completed, it determines that the connection process with the main controller 41 is in progress (S5, Yes), and proceeds to the processing of step S6. In step S6, the scanner controller 23 executes a process for connecting with the main controller 41.

[0050] In the connection process with the main controller 41 shown in FIG. 5(a), the scanner controller 23 performs a connection request process (S21) to the main controller 41 and determines whether the connection with the main controller 41 is successful (S22). If the scanner controller 23 determines that the connection with the main controller 41 is successful (S22, Yes), it sets the scanner controller 23 to the first copy mode (S23) and then controls the image reading unit 21 to start scanning the document (S24). The first copy mode is a mode in which, for example, no abnormality occurs in the main controller 41 and normal copy operations can be performed. In other words, the first copy mode can be considered a normal state. As will be described later, in the first copy mode, the main controller 41 generates first print data and sends it to the printer controller 33.

[0051] On the other hand, if the scanner controller 23 determines that the connection with the main controller 41 has not been successful (S22, No), it determines whether the connection with the main controller 41 has failed, in other words, whether at least a part of the main controller 41 has failed (S25). If the scanner controller 23 determines that the connection with the main controller 41 has not failed (S25, No), it ends the processing of the current cycle and moves on to the processing of the next cycle (return). On the other hand, if the scanner controller 23 determines that the connection with the main controller 41 has failed (S25, Yes), it performs switching processing of the first bus switch 44 and the second bus switch 45 (S26). For example, as described with reference to FIG. 3(b), the first bus switch 44 and the second bus switch 45 are connected to each other. As a result, in the controller unit 4, a signal transmission path is formed that connects the third signal transmitting / receiving unit 42 and the fourth signal transmitting / receiving unit 43 without going through the main controller 41. After switching the bus switches 44 and 45, the scanner controller 23 starts the process of connecting with the printer controller 33 (S27).

[0052] As shown in FIG. 4, if the scanner controller 23 does not receive a command in the processing of step S1 (S1, No) and determines in the processing of step S5 that it is not currently processing a connection with the main controller 41 (S5, No), it determines whether it is currently processing a connection with the printer controller 33 (S7). For example, the scanner controller 23 starts the connection process with the printer controller 33 in step S27 (see FIG. 5(a)), or if the processing of step S8 described below has not been completed, it determines that the connection process with the printer controller 33 is in progress (S7, Yes), and proceeds to the processing of step S8. In step S8, the scanner controller 23 executes a process for connecting with the printer controller 33.

[0053] In the connection process with the printer controller 33 shown in FIG. 5(b), the scanner controller 23 performs a connection request process (S31) to the printer controller 33, and determines whether the connection with the printer controller 33 is successful (S32). If the scanner controller 23 determines that the connection with the printer controller 33 is successful (S32, Yes), it sets the scanner controller 23 to the second copy mode (S33) and then controls the image reading unit 21 to start scanning the document (S34). The second copy mode is a mode in which, for example, an abnormality has occurred in at least a part of the main controller 41 and normal copy operations cannot be performed. The main controller 41 does not generate the first print data in the second copy mode.

[0054] On the other hand, if the scanner controller 23 determines that the connection with the printer controller 33 has not been successful (S32, No), it determines whether the connection with the printer controller 33 has failed (S35). If the scanner controller 23 determines that the connection with the printer controller 33 has not failed (S35, No), it ends the processing of the current cycle and moves on to the processing of the next cycle (return). On the other hand, if the scanner controller 23 determines that the connection with the printer controller 33 has failed (S35, Yes), it performs error processing as it is unable to perform copying (S36). In the error processing, the scanner controller 23 sends, for example, a command to the operation unit 5 to cause the panel display unit 51 to display an error message.

[0055] As shown in FIG. 4, if the scanner controller 23 does not receive a command in the processing of step S1 (S1, No), determines in the processing of step S5 that it is not currently processing a connection with the main controller 41 (S5, No), and determines in the processing of step S7 that it is not currently processing a connection with the printer controller 33 (S7, No), then it determines whether or not a document is being scanned (S9). For example, when the scanner controller 23 starts scanning in step S24 of FIG. 5(a) or step S34 of FIG. 5(b), or when the processing of step S10 described later has not been completed, the scanner controller 23 determines that the document is being scanned (S9, Yes) and proceeds to the processing of step S10. In step S10, the scanner controller 23 executes a process during scanning.

[0056] In the scanning process shown in FIG. 6, the scanner controller 23 determines whether or not the first copy mode is being used (S41). For example, if the first copy mode is set in the above-mentioned step S23, the scanner controller 23 determines that it is the first copy mode (S41, Yes), and if the second copy mode is set in the above-mentioned step S33, it determines that it is not the first copy mode (S41, No).

[0057] When the scanner controller 23 determines that the first copy mode is selected, it acquires scan data from the image reading unit 21 (S42). The scanner controller 23 stores the acquired scan data in the memory 23b. The scanner controller 23 determines whether the scan data can be transmitted to the main controller 41 (S43). For example, the scanner controller 23 determines that the scan data can be transmitted when the amount of scan data stored in the memory 23b reaches a predetermined amount of data required for transmission.

[0058] If the scanner controller 23 determines that the scan data cannot be transmitted (S43, No), it ends the processing of the current cycle and moves to the processing of the next cycle (return). On the other hand, if the scanner controller 23 determines that the scan data can be transmitted (Yes in S43), it transmits the scan data to the main controller 41 (S44). Thereafter, scanner controller 23 determines whether or not transmission of all scan data required for copying to main controller 41 is complete (S45). If scanner controller 23 determines that transmission is not complete (S45, No), it ends the processing for the current cycle and moves on to processing for the next cycle (return), and if it determines that transmission is complete (S45, Yes), it ends the processing during scanning (S46) and moves on to processing for the next cycle (return).

[0059] If the scanner controller 23 determines that the first copy mode is not selected, it acquires the scan data from the image reading unit 21 and stores it in the memory 23b (S47), and generates second print data that can be printed by the printer unit 3 based on the scan data (S48). In this embodiment, the generated second print data is stored in, for example, the memory 23b. The scanner controller 23 determines whether the second print data can be transmitted to the main controller 41 (S49). For example, the scanner controller 23 determines that the second print data can be transmitted when the second print data stored in the memory 23b reaches a predetermined data amount required for transmission.

[0060] If the scanner controller 23 determines that the second print data cannot be transmitted (S49, No), it ends the processing of the current cycle and moves to the processing of the next cycle (return). On the other hand, if the scanner controller 23 determines that the second print data can be transmitted (S49, Yes), it transmits the second print data to the main controller 41 (S50). Thereafter, the scanner controller 23 determines whether or not transmission of all the second print data required for copying to the main controller 41 has been completed (S51). If the scanner controller 23 determines that transmission has not been completed (S51, No), it ends the processing for the current cycle and moves on to processing for the next cycle (return), and if it determines that transmission has been completed (S51, Yes), it ends the processing during scanning (S52) and moves on to processing for the next cycle (return).

[0061] As shown in FIG. 4, the scanner controller 23 repeatedly executes the above-described processes until the image forming apparatus 1 is powered off (S11).

[0062] <Control of main controller 41> 7, the main controller 41 monitors whether scan data has been received from the scanner unit 2 (S61), and if scan data has been received (S61, Yes), the main controller 41 stores the received scan data in a memory (for example, MEM-C 41f) or HDD 41h. In the following description, the MEM-C 41f and HDD 41h may be collectively referred to as memory, etc. Thereafter, the main controller 41 converts the scan data (S62). For example, the RGB format image data, which is the scan data, is converted into CMYK format image data. The CMYK format image data is then stored in a memory or the like.

[0063] The main controller 41 determines whether page editing, such as rearranging the pages for saddle-stitch printing or page aggregation, is necessary (S63), and if it determines that page editing is necessary (S63, Yes), it performs page editing (S64). The determination of whether page editing is necessary can be made based on, for example, a copy command sent by the operation unit 5. On the other hand, if the main controller 41 determines that page editing is not necessary (S63, No), it does not perform the page editing process (S64). Next, the main controller 41 determines whether the first print data can be generated (S65). For example, if the amount of CMYK format image data stored in a memory or the like is equal to or greater than a specified amount, the main controller 41 determines that the first print data can be generated (S65, Yes). If the main controller 41 determines that the first print data can be generated, it generates the first print data (S66). The generated first print data is stored in a memory or the like. On the other hand, if the main controller 41 determines that the first print data cannot be generated (S65, No), it ends the processing of the current cycle and moves on to the processing of the next cycle (that is, moves on to the processing of step S61).

[0064] The main controller 41 determines whether the first print data can be transmitted (S67). For example, if the amount of first print data stored in a memory or the like is equal to or greater than a specified amount, the main controller 41 determines that the first print data can be transmitted (Yes in S67). If the main controller 41 determines that the first print data can be transmitted, it transmits the first print data to the printer unit 3 (S68). Next, the main controller 41 determines whether transmission of all the first print data has been completed (S69). If the main controller 41 determines that transmission of the first print data has not been completed (S69, No), it ends the processing of the current cycle and proceeds to processing of the next cycle (i.e., proceeds to processing of step S61). On the other hand, if the main controller 41 determines that transmission of all the first print data has been completed, it proceeds to processing of step S74, which will be described later.

[0065] If the main controller 41 has not received any scan data in the process of step S61 described above (S61, No), it determines whether or not there is unconverted scan data (S70). If there is unconverted scan data (S70, Yes), the main controller 41 proceeds to step S62 and performs the processes after conversion of the scan data. If the main controller 41 determines that there is no unconverted scan data (S70, No), it proceeds to step S71 to determine whether there is unprocessed CMYK data. If there is unprocessed CMYK data (S71, Yes), the main controller 41 proceeds to step S63 to perform the processes after determining whether page editing is necessary.

[0066] If the main controller 41 determines that there is no unprocessed CMYK data (S71, No), it proceeds to step S72 and determines whether all of the first print data has been generated (S72). If there is ungenerated first print data (S72, No), the main controller 41 proceeds to step S65 and determines whether the first print data can be generated. If the main controller 41 determines that all of the first print data has been generated (S72, Yes), the process proceeds to step S73 to determine whether or not there is any unsent first print data. If there is unsent first print data (S73, Yes), the main controller 41 proceeds to step S67 to determine whether or not the first print data can be transmitted. On the other hand, if the main controller 41 determines that there is no unsent first print data (S73, No), the process proceeds to step S74. Then, the main controller 41 repeatedly executes the above-described processes until the image forming apparatus 1 is powered off (S74).

[0067] <Control of the printer controller 33> As shown in FIG. 8(a), the printer controller 33 monitors whether print data (first print data, second print data) has been received from the controller unit 4 or the scanner unit 2 (S81), and if print data has been received (S81, Yes), it stores the received print data in memory 33b and performs print data reception processing (S82). On the other hand, if the printer controller 33 does not receive print data (S81, No), it monitors whether the power to the image forming device 1 has been turned off (S83) and continues to monitor whether print data has been received until the power is turned off.

[0068] 8(b), the printer controller 33 determines whether the first copy mode is set (S91), and if it determines that the first copy mode is not set (S91, No), it determines whether the second copy mode is set (S96). The first copy mode and the second copy mode are set by the copy mode setting process in step S101. For example, if the printer controller 33 determines that no copy mode is set (S91, No and S96, No), it determines the type of the received print data in the copy mode setting process (S101). The printer controller 33 sets the first copy mode when the received print data is the first print data, and sets the second copy mode when the received print data is the second print data.

[0069] After setting the copy mode, the printer controller 33 proceeds to the process of step S91. The setting of the copy mode is not limited to the above process. For example, the printer controller 33 may be configured to operate in the first copy mode under normal circumstances, and to set the second copy mode when it receives an instruction to change to the second copy mode from the scanner unit 2 or the controller unit 4.

[0070] When the printer controller 33 determines that the first copy mode is set (S91, Yes), it determines whether the first print data can be printed (S92). For example, the printer controller 33 determines that the first print data can be printed when the first print data stored in the memory 33b reaches a predetermined data amount required for printing. If the printer controller 33 determines that the first print data cannot be printed (S92, No), it ends the processing of the current cycle and moves on to the processing of the next cycle (return). On the other hand, if the printer controller 33 determines that the first print data can be printed (S92, Yes), it performs printing processing based on the first print data (S93).

[0071] Thereafter, the printer controller 33 determines whether printing of all the first print data required for copying has been completed (S94). If the scanner controller 23 determines that printing has not been completed (S94, No), it ends the processing of the current cycle and moves on to processing of the next cycle (return), and if it determines that printing has been completed (S94, Yes), it cancels the first copy mode (S95) and moves on to processing of the next cycle (return).

[0072] If the printer controller 33 determines that the second copy mode is set (S96, Yes), it determines whether the second print data can be printed (S97). For example, the printer controller 33 determines that the second print data can be printed when the second print data stored in the memory 33b reaches a predetermined data amount required for printing. If the printer controller 33 determines that the second print data cannot be printed (S97, No), it ends the processing of the current cycle and moves to the processing of the next cycle (return). On the other hand, if the printer controller 33 determines that the second print data can be printed (S97, Yes), it performs printing processing based on the second print data (S98).

[0073] Thereafter, the printer controller 33 determines whether printing of all the second print data required for copying has been completed (S99). If the scanner controller 23 determines that printing has not been completed (S99, No), it ends the processing of the current cycle and moves on to processing of the next cycle (return), and if it determines that printing has been completed (S99, Yes), it cancels the first copy mode (S100) and moves on to processing of the next cycle (return).

[0074] Although specific examples of control have been described above, other control may be used as long as the processing shown in FIGS. 3(a) and 3(b) can be realized.

[0075] <Modification of the first embodiment> In the first embodiment described above, the first bus switch 44 and the second bus switch 45 are controlled by the scanner controller 23, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration. For example, as shown by the dotted lines in Fig. 1, the first bus switch 44 and the second bus switch 45 may be controlled by the printer controller 33. In this case, the printer controller 33 (detection means) communicates with the main controller 41 upon receiving a copy command, and if communication with the main controller 41 cannot be established, the printer controller 33 switches the first bus switch 44 and the second bus switch 45 to the state shown in Fig. 3(b). Even with this configuration, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be achieved.

[0076] 1, the first bus switch 44 and the second bus switch 45 may be controlled by the main controller 41. For example, if a failure occurs in the MEM-C 41f or the HDD 41h provided in the main controller 41 and the ASIC 41e is operating normally, the first bus switch 44 and the second bus switch 45 may be controlled by the ASIC 41e. Even with this configuration, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be achieved.

[0077] Second Embodiment In the image forming apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment described above, the first bus switch 44 is provided between the third signal transmission / reception unit 42 and the main controller 41, and the second bus switch 45 is provided between the main controller 41 and the fourth signal transmission / reception unit 43, but this configuration is not limited to this. Figure 9 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of the image forming apparatus 1A according to the second embodiment, Figure 10(a) is a diagram illustrating the data flow in normal mode, and Figure 10(b) is a diagram illustrating the data flow in a failure state of the main controller 41. The image forming apparatus 1A according to the second embodiment is characterized in that the scanner unit 2 is provided with a first switching unit 24 (path changing means) and the printer unit 3 is provided with a second switching unit 34 (path changing means).

[0078] The first switching unit 24 has a configuration that allows it to freely switch between the first signal transmitting / receiving unit 22 and the third signal transmitting / receiving unit 42 provided in the controller unit 4 or the second switching unit 34 provided in the printer unit 3. The second switching unit 34 has a configuration that allows it to freely switch between the second signal transmitting / receiving unit 32 and the fourth signal transmitting / receiving unit 43 provided in the controller unit 4 or the first switching unit 24 provided in the scanner unit 2. The first switching unit 24 and the second switching unit 34 are controlled by, for example, the scanner controller 23, but may also be controlled by the main controller 41 or the printer controller 33.

[0079] 10(a), when the controller unit 4 is in a first state in which it can generate first print data, the first switching unit 24 communicatively connects the first signal transmitting / receiving unit 22 and the third signal transmitting / receiving unit 42. Similarly, when in the first state, the second switching unit 34 communicatively connects the fourth signal transmitting / receiving unit 43 and the second signal transmitting / receiving unit 32. Therefore, in the first state, scan data from scanner controller 23 is input to main controller 41 (ASIC 41e) through first signal transmitting / receiving unit 22, first switching unit 24, and third signal transmitting / receiving unit 42. Then, first print data generated by main controller 41 is input to printer controller 33 through fourth signal transmitting / receiving unit 43, second switching unit 34, and second signal transmitting / receiving unit 32. Printer controller 33 controls image printing unit 31 based on the first print data to print an image on a recording medium.

[0080] 10(b), in the second state in which the controller unit 4 does not generate the first print data, the first switching unit 24 communicatively connects the first signal transmitting / receiving unit 22 and the second switching unit 34. Similarly, in the second state, the second switching unit 34 communicatively connects the first switching unit 24 and the second signal transmitting / receiving unit 32. Therefore, in the second state, the second print data generated by the scanner controller 23 is input to the printer controller 33 via the first signal transmitting / receiving unit 22, the first switching unit 24, the second switching unit 34, and the second signal transmitting / receiving unit 32. The printer controller 33 controls the image printing unit 31 based on the second print data to print an image on a recording medium.

[0081] In this way, the image forming apparatus 1A according to the second embodiment can also maintain the copying function in the second state in which the controller unit 4 does not generate print data.

[0082] <Third embodiment> The image forming apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment described above includes the first bus switch 44 and the second bus switch 45, and the image forming apparatus 1A according to the second embodiment includes the first switching unit 24 and the second switching unit 34, but they are not limited to this configuration. For example, in the energy saving mode (standby state), copying may be performed without going through the printer controller 33. Figure 11 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of image forming apparatus 1B according to the third embodiment, Figure 12(a) is a diagram illustrating the flow of data in normal mode, and Figure 12(b) is a diagram illustrating the flow of data in energy saving mode. The image forming apparatus 1B according to the third embodiment is characterized in that the main controller 41 connects the third signal transmitting / receiving unit 42 and the fourth signal transmitting / receiving unit 43 in the energy saving mode.

[0083] 12(a), in normal mode, the main controller 41 receives scan data (e.g., image data in RGB format) denoted by the symbol SCD from the scanner unit 2. Thereafter, the main controller 41 generates first print data denoted by the symbol PD1 based on the scan data SCD and transmits the first print data PD1 to the printer unit 3. The printer controller 33 included in the printer unit 3 controls the image printing section 31 based on the first print data PD1 to print an image on a recording medium.

[0084] For example, if no operation is performed for a specified time in the normal mode, the main controller 41 transitions to an energy saving mode (standby state) that consumes less power than the normal mode. In the image forming apparatus 1B according to the third embodiment, the main controller 41 connects the third signal transmitting / receiving unit 42 and the fourth signal transmitting / receiving unit 43 so that they can communicate with each other immediately before switching to the energy saving mode. When an operation is performed on the panel operation unit 52 in the energy saving mode and a copy mode is selected, the operation unit 5 allows the operator to select either a normal copy mode in which copying is performed by switching to the normal mode, or a simple copy mode in which copying is performed while remaining in the energy saving mode.

[0085] When the normal copy mode is selected, the main controller 41 shifts to the normal mode, and copying is performed according to the flow explained in FIG. 12(a). On the other hand, when the simple copy mode is selected, the main controller 41 maintains the energy saving mode. Then, as shown in FIG. 12(b), the scanner controller 23 generates second print data denoted by symbol PD2 based on the scan data denoted by symbol SCD and transmits the second print data PD2 to the controller unit 4. In the controller unit 4, the third signal transmitting / receiving unit 42 and the fourth signal transmitting / receiving unit 43 are communicably connected by the main controller 41. Therefore, the second print data PD2 is sent to the printer unit 3. The printer controller 33 included in the printer unit 3 controls the image printing unit 31 based on the second print data PD2, and prints an image on a recording medium.

[0086] In this way, the image forming apparatus 1B according to the third embodiment can perform copying while maintaining the power saving mode (standby state, second state in which the controller unit 4 does not generate print data).

[0087] <Other variations> In the above-described embodiments, the image printing unit 31 is exemplified as an electrophotographic printing unit or an inkjet printing unit, but is not limited to these types. The image printing unit 31 may be, for example, a thermal recording type or a thermal transfer recording type. Although copy paper is used as an example of the recording medium, it is not limited to copy paper. The recording medium may be, for example, a postcard, an envelope, coated paper (coated paper, art paper, etc.), tracing paper, an OHP sheet, an OHP film, or a prepreg.

[0088] Furthermore, the scanner controller 23, the printer controller 33, and the main controller 41 are not limited to the configurations shown in the examples. For example, some of the components of each of the controllers 23, 33, and 41 may be realized by an SoC or hardware logic, or may be realized by software.

[0089] [Summary of embodiments, actions, and effects of the present invention] <First embodiment> This embodiment comprises a scanner unit 2 that reads an image of an original and acquires scan data (e.g., image data in RGB format), a printer unit 3 that prints an image on a recording medium (such as copy paper) based on print data (first print data, second print data), and a controller unit 4 that communicates with the scanner unit 2 and the printer unit 3 via an electrical interface (first signal transmission / reception unit 22 to fourth signal transmission / reception unit 43, e.g., a USB interface) and generates first print data based on the scan data from the scanner unit 2 in a first state (e.g., normal mode), wherein the scanner unit 2 generates second print data based on the acquired scan data when the controller unit 4 is in a second state (a failure state or standby mode of the controller unit 4) in which the controller unit 4 does not generate the first print data, and the printer unit 3 prints an image on a recording medium based on the first print data when in the first state, and prints an image on a recording medium based on the second print data when in the second state. According to this aspect, even if the controller unit 4 is in a state where it cannot generate the first print data, the copying function of the image forming apparatuses 1, 1A, and 1B can be maintained.

[0090] <Second embodiment> In this embodiment, the second state is characterized by a state in which at least a portion of the controller unit 4 has failed. According to this aspect, even if at least a part of the controller unit 4 is broken, the copying function of the image forming apparatus 1, 1A can be maintained.

[0091] <Third embodiment> In this aspect, the second state is a power saving mode (standby state) that consumes less power than the normal mode (first state). According to this aspect, even if the image forming apparatus 1B is in the power saving mode, it is possible to perform copying while remaining in the power saving mode.

[0092] <Fourth embodiment> This embodiment is characterized in that it includes a detection means (scanner controller 23 or printer controller 33) that detects a transition from the first state to the second state, and the controller unit 4 includes a main controller 41 that generates first print data, and a path change means (first bus switch 44, second bus switch 45, first switching unit 24, second switching unit 34) that forms a first path for communication via the main controller 41 in the first state, and changes to a second path for communication not via the main controller 41 when the detection means detects that the second state has been reached. According to this aspect, even if at least a part of the controller unit 4 is broken, the copying function of the image forming apparatus 1 can be maintained.

[0093] <Fifth embodiment> In this aspect, the second print data includes image data in JPEG format. According to this aspect, even if the controller unit 4 is in a state where it cannot generate the first print data, the copying function of the image forming apparatuses 1, 1A, and 1B can be maintained.

[0094] <Sixth embodiment> In this embodiment, the electrical interface is a USB interface. According to this aspect, even if the controller unit 4 is in a state where it cannot generate the first print data, the copying function of the image forming apparatuses 1, 1A, and 1B can be maintained. [Explanation of symbols]

[0095] 1, 1A, 1B...image forming apparatus, 2...scanner unit, 21...image reading section, 22...first signal transmitting / receiving section, 23...scanner controller, 23a...CPU, 23b...memory, 231...reading control section, 232...read image data processing section, 233...scanner side communication control section, 234...abnormality detection section, 235...switch control section, 24...first switching section, 3...printer unit, 31...image printing section, 32...second signal transmitting / receiving section, 33...printer controller, 331...printing control section, 332...print data processing section, 333...printer side communication control section, 34...second switching section, 4...controller unit, 41...main computer controller, 41a...CPU, 41b...MEM-P, 41c...NB, 41d...SB, 41e...ASIC, 41f...MEM-C, 41g...HDD controller, 41h...HDD, 41i...AGP bus, 41j...ROM, 41k...RAM, 411...image data conversion unit, 412...controller side communication control unit, 42...third signal transmitting / receiving unit, 43...fourth signal transmitting / receiving unit, 44...first bus switch, 45...second bus switch, 5...operation unit, 51...panel display unit, 52...panel operation unit, 6...network I / F, 7...fifth signal transmitting / receiving unit, 8...short-range communication circuit, 8a...antenna, 9...sixth signal transmitting / receiving unit, [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0096] [Patent Document 1] JP 2009-015635 A

Claims

1. a scanner unit that reads an image of a document and acquires image data; a printer unit that prints an image on a recording medium based on print data; a controller unit that communicates with the scanner unit and the printer unit via an electrical interface and generates first print data based on the image data from the scanner unit in a first state; the scanner unit generates second print data based on the acquired image data when the controller unit is in a second state in which the controller unit does not generate the first print data; The image forming apparatus is characterized in that the printer unit prints an image on the recording medium based on the first print data when in the first state, and prints an image on the recording medium based on the second print data when in the second state.

2. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second state is a state in which at least a part of the controller unit is broken.

3. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second state is a standby state consuming less power than the first state.

4. a detection means for detecting a transition from the first state to the second state, The controller unit a main controller that generates the first print data; 3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising a path change means for forming a first path for communication via the main controller in the first state, and for changing to a second path for communication not via the main controller when the detection means detects that the image forming apparatus has entered the second state.

5. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second print data includes image data in JPEG format.

6. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the electrical interface is a USB interface.

Images