Information processing device and program

Abstract

To provide an information processing apparatus and the like that can make identification information on an image forming instruction for forming an image the same as identification information on an image forming instruction for forming the other image to be superimposed in an image forming apparatus.SOLUTION: When a processor transmits, to an image forming apparatus comprising a first image forming unit that forms a first image by using color materials of a first color configuration, and a second image forming unit that forms a second image to be superimposed on the first image by using color materials of a second color configuration, one image forming instruction including information indicating that the second image should be superimposed on the first image, if the other image forming instruction including information indicating that the second image should be superimposed on the first image is not stored in a storage unit, the processor transmits one image forming instruction while storing it in the storage unit, and if the other image forming instruction is stored in the storage unit, transmits one image forming instruction while causing it to include the same identification information as the identification information on the other image forming instruction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 16

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing device and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, a technique has been proposed in which two image forming units form an image on one sheet of paper. For example, the image forming apparatus described in Patent Document 1 includes, in a single housing, a first image forming unit that forms a first image, a second image forming unit that forms a second image, a first control unit that controls the first image forming unit, and a second control unit that controls the second image forming unit. This image forming apparatus then superimposes the first image and the second image on a single sheet of paper. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-170038 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] For example, in order for the image forming device described in Patent Document 1 to be able to superimpose a first image and a second image to be superimposed on the first image onto a single sheet of paper, the first control unit and the second control unit need to recognize that the image forming instructions correspond to the respective images to be superimposed. For example, if the identification information of an image formation instruction to form a first image and the identification information of an image formation instruction to form a second image to be superimposed on the first image are the same, it is easy to recognize that the image formation instruction is to superimpose the first image and the second image. On the other hand, if the identification information of an image formation instruction to form the first image and the identification information of an image formation instruction to form the second image to be superimposed on the first image are different, it is difficult to recognize that they are image formation instructions to superimpose the first image and the second image. Therefore, it is desirable for an information processing device that transmits image formation instructions to an image forming device to use the same identification information for the image formation instructions to form each of the images to be superimposed in the image forming device. On the other hand, for example, if the documents are created using one application, it is easy to make the identification information of the image formation instructions for forming each of the images to be superimposed on the image forming device the same. However, for example, if the images to be superimposed are formed using different applications, it is difficult to make the identification information of the image formation instructions for forming each of the images to be superimposed the same. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide an information processing apparatus and the like that can make the identification information of image formation instructions for forming the respective images to be superimposed in the image forming apparatus the same. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The invention of claim 1 includes a processor, and when transmitting an image formation instruction including information to superimpose the first image and the second image to an image forming apparatus including a first image forming unit that forms a first image using color materials of a first color configuration and a second image forming unit that forms a second image to be superimposed on the first image using color materials of a second color configuration, if another image formation instruction including information to superimpose the first image and the second image is not stored in a storage unit, the processor stores the one image formation instruction in the storage unit and transmits it, and if the other image formation instruction is stored in the storage unit, transmits it including identification information that is the same as the identification information of the other image formation instruction. and when the other image formation instruction is stored in the storage unit when the one image formation instruction is received, the color configuration of the other image formation instruction, of the first color configuration and the second color configuration, is not accepted.It is an information processing device. Claim 2 The invention described in claim 2 is characterized in that, when the processor receives the one image formation instruction, if the other image formation instruction is not stored in the storage unit, the processor can receive the first color configuration and the second color configuration. 1 The information processing device is described in the above. Claim 3 In the invention described in claim 1, when the processor receives the one image formation instruction, if the other image formation instruction is stored in the storage unit, the processor does not accept a paper size different from the size of the other image formation instruction. 1 The information processing device is described in the above. Claim 4 The invention described in claim 1 is such that the processor cannot accept an image formation mode different from the image formation mode of the other image formation instruction. 3 The information processing device is described in the above. Claim 5 The invention described in claim 1 is characterized in that the processor is configured to not accept a tray different from the tray that supplies paper for the other image formation instruction. 3 or 4 The information processing device is described in the above. Claim 6 In the invention described in claim 1 to claim 2, when the processor transmits the one image formation instruction including the same identification information as the identification information of the other image formation instruction, the processor deletes the other image formation instruction from the storage unit. 5 The information processing device according to any one of the above items. Claim 7 The invention described in claim 1 to claim 2 further comprises the step of: when a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the other image formation instruction was stored in the storage unit, the processor deletes the other image formation instruction from the storage unit. 5 The information processing device according to any one of the above items. Claim 8The invention described in the item (1) is directed to an image forming apparatus including a first image forming unit that forms a first image using color materials of a first color configuration and a second image forming unit that forms a second image that is superimposed on the first image using color materials of a second color configuration, and when transmitting an image formation instruction including information to superimpose the first image and the second image to a processor, if another image formation instruction including information to superimpose the first image and the second image is not stored in a storage unit, the processor stores the one image formation instruction in the storage unit and transmits it, and if the other image formation instruction is stored in the storage unit, transmits it including identification information that is the same as the identification information of the other image formation instruction. When the one image formation instruction is accepted, if the other image formation instruction is stored in the storage unit, the color configuration of the other image formation instruction, of the first color configuration and the second color configuration, cannot be accepted. It is a program that executes a function. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] According to the invention of claim 1, the identification information of the image formation instruction for forming each of the images to be superimposed in the image forming device can be made the same. Furthermore, according to the invention of claim 1, This can prevent the user from making an erroneous selection. Claim 2 According to the invention, the image forming device can superimpose the first image and the second image. Claim 3 According to the invention, it is possible to prevent the user from making an erroneous selection. Claim 4 According to the invention, it is possible to prevent the user from making an erroneous selection. Claim 5 According to the invention, it is possible to prevent the user from making an erroneous selection. Claim 6 According to the invention, it is possible to make the identification information of two image formation instructions, which are image formation instructions for forming the images to be superimposed in the image forming apparatus, the same with a high degree of certainty. Claim 7 According to the invention, it is possible to make the identification information of two image formation instructions, which are image formation instructions for forming the images to be superimposed in the image forming apparatus, the same with a high degree of certainty. Claim 8According to the invention, the identification information of the image formation instruction for forming each of the images to be superimposed in the image forming apparatus can be made the same. Furthermore, according to the invention of claim 8, it is possible to prevent the user from making an erroneous selection. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of an image forming system according to an embodiment; [Figure 2] FIG. 2 illustrates an example of a hardware configuration of a terminal device. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of an internal structure of an image forming apparatus. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of functions of a terminal device and an image forming device. [Figure 5] 3 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of a first control unit and a second control unit. FIG. [Figure 6] 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a processing procedure performed by a first control unit and a second control unit. FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a processing procedure performed by the first control unit when the first main control unit receives a first independent instruction. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a processing procedure performed by the first control unit and the second control unit when the first main control unit receives a second independent instruction. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of processing by a first main control unit. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of processing by a first main control unit. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of processing by a second main control unit. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the functions of a control unit. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen displayed on a display unit. [Figure 14] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of processing when a cooperative instruction is included in information on image formation settings stored in a setting storage unit. [Figure 15]10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a setting process performed by a setting unit. [Figure 16] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a start process performed by a start unit. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen according to a first modified example displayed on a display unit. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen according to a second modified example displayed on a display unit. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen according to a third modified example displayed on a display unit. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen according to a fourth modified example displayed on a display unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of an image forming system 1 according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of the terminal device 9. As shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of the internal structure of the image forming apparatus 2. As shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the functions of the terminal device 9 and the image forming device 2. As shown in FIG. The image forming system 1 includes an image forming apparatus 2 and a terminal device 9 connected to the image forming apparatus 2 via a communication line 5. The communication line 5 is not particularly limited as long as it is a line used for data communication between apparatuses, and examples thereof include the Internet, a wide area network (WAN), and a local area network (LAN). The communication line 5 may be either wired or wireless, or a combination of these may be used. An example of a wireless LAN is WiFi (registered trademark).

[0009] The image forming apparatus 2 includes, within a single housing 3, two image forming units, a first image forming unit 10 and a second image forming unit 20, which together form an image on a single sheet of paper S, a first control unit 100 that controls the first image forming unit 10, and a second control unit 200 that controls the second image forming unit 20. In the image forming apparatus 2, the first control unit 100 also controls a paper transport device 40 that transports the sheet of paper S. Details of the image forming apparatus 2 will be described later.

[0010] (Terminal Device) The terminal device 9 includes a control unit 91 that controls the entire device, a memory unit 92 used to store data, etc., a display unit 93 used to display an operation reception screen and images, an operation unit 94 that accepts user input operations, and a communication unit 95 used to communicate with external devices.

[0011] The control unit 91 is composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 91a, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 91b, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 91c. The ROM 91b stores a basic program (operating system) executed by the CPU 91a, various settings, etc. The CPU 91a uses the RAM 91c as a working area and executes application programs, etc. read from the ROM 91b or the storage unit 92. The CPU 91a executes the programs to control each unit of the terminal device 9.

[0012] The storage unit 92 can be exemplified by a storage device such as a semiconductor memory. The storage unit 92 stores, for example, application programs such as document creation applications, printer drivers, etc. The storage unit 92 also stores the configurations of color materials installed in the first image forming unit 10 and the second image forming unit 20 of the image forming apparatus 2.

[0013] For example, a document creation application generates instructions for forming an image of an original M created using the application on paper S. The printer driver acquires the image formation instructions output from the application and converts them into commands in a format that can be interpreted by the image forming device 2. More specifically, after acquiring an instruction to form an image of a document M output from an application, for example, the printer driver takes into consideration the respective characteristics of the first image forming unit 10 and the second image forming unit 20 and converts the instruction into a first image forming instruction, which is a command for forming an image in the first image forming unit 10, and a second image forming instruction, which is a command for forming an image in the second image forming unit 20. The printer driver then outputs the first image forming instruction and the second image forming instruction to the first control unit 100. Hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish between the first image forming instruction and the second image forming instruction, they may be collectively referred to as "image forming instructions."

[0014] An image formation instruction includes identification information that identifies the image formation instruction, image data that is data of the image to be formed, and instructed image formation settings. The image formation settings can be, for example, the size and material of the paper S on which the image is to be formed, and the color of the colorant to be used. The image formation instruction also includes information on whether it is a collaborative instruction or a single instruction, which will be described later. The identification information can be, for example, information on the terminal device 9 to which the image formation instruction was output, the time the image formation instruction was output, etc.

[0015] The display unit 93 is a display device that displays still images, moving images, etc. The display unit 93 can be exemplified by a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display. The operation unit 94 is an input device that accepts operations from the user, and examples of the operation unit 94 include buttons, switches, and a touch panel. The communication unit 95 can be exemplified as a communication interface.

[0016] Examples of the terminal device 9 configured as described above include a notebook PC, a desktop PC, a tablet PC, a tablet terminal, a multi-function mobile phone (a so-called "smartphone"), a mobile phone (a so-called "feature phone"), a personal digital assistant (PDA), etc.

[0017] (Image forming device) The image forming apparatus 2 includes a first image forming unit 10 that forms an image on paper S, which is an example of a recording material, and a second image forming unit 20 that forms an image on the paper S. The image forming apparatus 2 also includes a paper holding unit 30 that holds the paper S, and a paper transport device 40 that transports the paper S held in the paper holding unit 30 to the first image forming unit 10, etc. The image forming apparatus 2 also includes a fixing unit 50 that applies heat and pressure to fix a toner image formed on the paper S, a paper stacking unit 60 that stacks the paper S on which an image has been formed by fixing the toner image by the fixing device 50, and a user interface (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "UI") 70 that displays information, etc. The image forming apparatus 2 also includes a first control unit 100 that controls the first image forming unit 10, the paper transport device 40, the fixing device 50, etc., and a second control unit 200 that controls the second image forming unit 20.

[0018] The first image forming section 10 includes four image forming units 11 arranged in parallel at regular intervals and forming toner images of the colors of toner, which is an example of a color material stored therein. Each image forming unit 11 includes a photosensitive drum 12 that holds a toner image, a charger 13 that charges the surface of the photosensitive drum 12, and an LED (Light Emitting Diode) print head 14 that exposes the photosensitive drum 12 charged by the charger 13 based on image data for each color to form an electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum 12. Each image forming unit 11 also includes a developer 15 that develops the electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 12 and a drum cleaner 16 that cleans the photosensitive drum 12 after transfer. In the four image forming units 11 according to this embodiment, the developer 15 stores yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K) toner, respectively, and forms a toner image of the respective color. Hereinafter, the color configuration of the toner stored in the four image forming units 11 of the first image forming section 10 (e.g., yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), black (K)) may be referred to as the "first color configuration."

[0019] Furthermore, the first image forming section 10 is provided with an intermediate transfer belt 17 onto which the color toner images formed on the photosensitive drums 12 of the image forming units 11 are transferred in a multi-layered manner. The first image forming section 10 is also provided with a primary transfer roll 18 that sequentially transfers (primary transfer) the color toner images formed on the image forming units 11 onto the intermediate transfer belt 17, and a secondary transfer roll 19 that collectively transfers (secondary transfer) the color toner images transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 17 in a superimposed state onto the paper S.

[0020] Similar to the first image forming unit 10, the second image forming unit 20 includes four image forming units 21, an intermediate transfer belt 27, a primary transfer roll 28, and a secondary transfer roll 29. Similar to the image forming unit 11, each image forming unit 21 includes a photosensitive drum 22, a charger 23, an LED print head 24, a developer 25, and a drum cleaner 26. In the present embodiment, the four image forming units 21 each include a developer 25 containing white, gold, silver, or clear toner, forming a toner image of the corresponding color. The toner colors contained in the developer 25 of each image forming unit 21 are not limited to the above colors. For example, they may be red, blue, or green. Hereinafter, the color configuration of the toners contained in the four image forming units 21 of the second image forming unit 20 (e.g., white, gold, silver, and clear) may be referred to as the "second color configuration."

[0021] The paper transport device 40 includes an upper roll 41 and a lower roll 42 that are arranged vertically apart, and a transport belt 43 that is stretched across the upper roll 41 and the lower roll 42. The paper transport device 40 also includes a supply roll 44 that supplies the paper S held in the paper holding unit 30 toward the transport belt 43, and a transport roll 45 that is arranged between the supply roll 44 and the transport belt 43. The paper transport device 40 also includes multiple sensors 46 that detect the passage of the paper S being transported.

[0022] The fixing device 50 includes a heating roll 51 that heats the conveyed paper S, and a belt module 52 that is pressed against the heating roll 51 to form a pressure section between the heating roll 51 and the belt module 52. The fixing device 50 fixes the toner image to the paper S by applying pressure and heat to the paper S on which the toner image has been formed in the pressure section. The UI 70 is configured with a touch panel or the like that combines a display device such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display with a position input device such as a touchpad, and receives information from the user and displays the information to the user.

[0023] The image forming apparatus 2 configured as above operates as follows. The four-color toner image formed on the photosensitive drum 12 of the image forming unit 11 of the first image forming section 10 is primarily transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 17 by the primary transfer roll 18, and a superimposed toner image in which the four color toners are superimposed is formed on the intermediate transfer belt 17. Then, as the intermediate transfer belt 17 moves, this superimposed toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 17 is transported to a secondary transfer section in which a secondary transfer roll 19 is arranged.

[0024] When the superimposed toner image of the first image forming unit 10 is transported to the secondary transfer unit, paper S is supplied to the secondary transfer unit from the paper holding unit 30 in time with this. Then, at the secondary transfer unit, the superimposed toner images are secondarily transferred all at once onto the transported paper S by a transfer electric field formed by the secondary transfer roll 19. Hereinafter, the superimposed toner image formed by the first image forming unit 10 may be referred to as the "first image I1."

[0025] Meanwhile, the toner images of the other four colors formed on the photosensitive drums 22 of the image forming units 21 of the second image forming section 20 are primarily transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 27 by the primary transfer rolls 28, and a superimposed toner image in which the other four color toners are superimposed is formed on the intermediate transfer belt 27. Then, this superimposed toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 27 is transported to a secondary transfer section in which a secondary transfer roll 29 is arranged as the intermediate transfer belt 27 moves.

[0026] When the superimposed toner image of the second image forming unit 20 is transported to the secondary transfer unit, the sheet S onto which the superimposed toner image has been electrostatically transferred in the first image forming unit 10 is supplied to this secondary transfer unit at the same timing. Then, in the secondary transfer unit, the superimposed toner image of the second image forming unit 20 is secondarily transferred all at once onto the superimposed toner image on the sheet S onto which the superimposed toner image has been electrostatically transferred in the first image forming unit 10, by a transfer electric field formed by the secondary transfer roll 29. Hereinafter, the superimposed toner image formed by the second image forming unit 20 may be referred to as the "second image I2."

[0027] Thereafter, the paper S onto which the superimposed toner image, in which the superimposed toner image of the first image forming unit 10 and the superimposed toner image of the second image forming unit 20 are electrostatically transferred, is transported to the fixing device 50. The toner image on the paper S transported to the fixing device 50 is heated and pressurized by the fixing device 50, and is fixed onto the paper S. Then, the paper S with the fixed image thereon is transported to the paper stacking unit 60 of the image forming apparatus 2.

[0028] FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the first control unit 100 and the second control unit 200. As shown in FIG. (First control unit 100) The first control unit 100 includes a first main control unit 110 that controls the operation of the first image forming unit 10, paper conveying device 40, fixing device 50, etc., and a first subordinate control unit 120 that controls the operation of these devices under the control of the first main control unit 110.

[0029] The first main control unit 110 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 111, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 112, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 113, a storage unit 114 such as a semiconductor memory, and a communication unit 115 used for communication with external devices. The communication unit 115 can be exemplified as a communication interface (communication I / F). The ROM 112 stores a basic program (operating system) executed by the CPU 111, various settings, etc. The CPU 111 uses the RAM 113 as a work area and executes programs read from the ROM 112 or the storage unit 114. The CPU 111 executes the programs to realize the functions of the first main control unit 110 described below.

[0030] The first main control unit 110 transmits and receives information to and from the first subordinate control unit 120, the second control unit 200, and the UI 70 via the communication unit 115. The first main control unit 110 also receives an image formation instruction from the outside, for example, from the terminal device 9, via the communication unit 115. The first main control unit 110 analyzes the received image formation instruction. The image formation instruction includes identification information, image data, image formation settings, and information as to whether it is a collaborative instruction or an individual instruction, which will be described later.

[0031] The first main control unit 110 also performs predetermined image processing on the received image data. The first main control unit 110 converts the image data into YMCK data, which are the colors reproduced by the first image forming unit 10, that is, the toner colors (yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K)) of the first image forming unit 10, and outputs the converted data. This YMCK data is composed of Y color data, M color data, C color data, and K color data separated for each color. The first main control unit 110 also notifies the first subordinate control unit 120 of the size and material of the sheet S related to the received image formation instruction. The first main control unit 110 also transfers the received image formation instruction to the second control unit 200.

[0032] Like first main control unit 110, first slave control unit 120 includes CPU 121, ROM 122, RAM 123, storage unit 124, and communication unit 125. CPU 121 uses RAM 123 as a work area and executes programs read from ROM 122 or storage unit 124, thereby realizing the functions of first slave control unit 120 described below. The first subordinate control unit 120 exchanges control information with the first main control unit 110, and controls the exposure, development, and transfer processes in the first image forming unit 10, the feeding and transport of the paper S in accordance with the transfer timing by the paper transport device 40, and the fixing of the toner image by the fixing device 50.

[0033] The first slave control unit 120 also acquires information about the occurrence of an error, such as the toner in the first image forming unit 10 running out of toner or a paper jam in the paper transport device 40. The first slave control unit 120 notifies the first main control unit 110 of this error information. The first main control unit 110 notifies the user of this error information by displaying it on the display panel of the UI 70. For example, if the error is running out of toner, the first slave control unit 120 acquires information that the error has been resolved once toner is replenished. For example, if the error is a paper jam, the first slave control unit 120 acquires information that the error has been resolved once the paper jam is cleared. The first slave control unit 120 then notifies the first main control unit 110 that the error has been cleared. The first main control unit 110 notifies the user that the error has been cleared by displaying it on the display panel of the UI 70.

[0034] (Second control unit 200) The second control unit 200 includes a second main control unit 210 that controls the operation of the second image forming unit 20, and a second subordinate control unit 220 that controls the operation of the second image forming unit 20 under the control of the second main control unit 210. The second main control unit 210 transmits and receives information to and from the first main control unit 110 via a connection line 150.

[0035] The second main control unit 210 includes a CPU 211, a ROM 212, a RAM 213, a storage unit 214 such as a semiconductor memory, and a communication unit 215 used for communication with external devices. The ROM 212 stores a basic program (operating system) executed by the CPU 211, various settings, etc. The CPU 211 uses the RAM 213 as a work area and executes programs read from the ROM 212 or the storage unit 214. The CPU 211 executes the programs to realize the functions of the second main control unit 210 described below.

[0036] The second main control unit 210 transmits and receives information to and from the second subordinate control unit 220, the first control unit 100, and the UI 70 via the communication unit 215. The second main control unit 210 also performs predetermined image processing on the received image data. The second main control unit 210 converts the data into white data, gold data, silver data, and clear data, which are the reproduction colors of the second image forming unit 20, that is, the toner colors of the second image forming unit 20 (white, gold, silver, and clear), and outputs the converted data. In addition, the second main control unit 210 notifies the second subordinate control unit 220 of the size and material of the sheet S related to the received image formation instruction.

[0037] Second secondary control unit 220 includes CPU 221, ROM 222, RAM 223, storage unit 224, and communication unit 225. CPU 221 uses RAM 223 as a work area and executes programs read from ROM 222 or storage unit 224, thereby realizing the functions of second secondary control unit 220 described below. The second slave control unit 220 exchanges control information with the second main control unit 210 and controls exposure, development, transfer, and the like in the second image forming unit 20. Furthermore, the second slave control unit 220 acquires information that a toner out-of-toner error has occurred in the second image forming unit 20. The second slave control unit 220 notifies the second main control unit 210 of the error information. The second main control unit 210 notifies the user of the error information by displaying it on the display panel of the UI 70. Then, for example, if the error is out of toner, once toner is replenished, the second slave control unit 220 acquires information that the error that has occurred has been resolved. The second slave control unit 220 then notifies the second main control unit 210 that the error has been resolved. The second main control unit 210 notifies the user that the error has been resolved by displaying it on the display panel of the UI 70.

[0038] (Regarding cooperation between the first control unit 100 and the second control unit 200) After startup, the first control unit 100 and the second control unit 200 send and receive information to each other, and the first image forming unit 10 performs second transfer of a four-color superimposed toner image onto the paper S conveyed by the paper conveying device 40, which operates under the control of the first control unit 100, and the second image forming unit 20 performs second transfer of the other four-color superimposed toner images onto the paper S. Hereinafter, the second transfer of the four-color superimposed toner images onto the paper S by the first image forming unit 10 may be referred to as "the first image forming unit 10 forming an image." Furthermore, the second transfer of the other four-color superimposed toner images onto the paper S by the second image forming unit 20 may be referred to as "the second image forming unit 20 forming an image."

[0039] The processing procedures performed by the first control unit 100 and the second control unit 200 will be described below. Here, the printer driver of the terminal device 9, for example, acquires an image formation instruction output from an application, and then converts the instruction into a command for the first main control unit 110 and the second main control unit 210 if the instruction requires the first image forming unit 10 and the second image forming unit 20 to form an image. The printer driver then outputs the command to the first main control unit 110. In this manner, the terminal device 9 transmits an image formation instruction to the first main control unit 110. Hereinafter, an image formation instruction requiring the first image forming unit 10 and the second image forming unit 20 to form an image may be referred to as a "cooperative instruction." The terminal device 9 transmits the cooperative instruction to the first main control unit 110. The terminal device 9 includes, in the cooperative instruction, information indicating that the first image forming unit 10 and the second image forming unit 20 must form an image.

[0040] On the other hand, if an instruction output from an application, for example, is an instruction to form an image in the first image forming unit 10 but not in the second image forming unit 20 (for example, an instruction to form an image using toner in the first image forming unit 10 but not in the second image forming unit 20, or if a user specifies image formation only in the first image forming unit 10 via the printer driver on the terminal device 9), the printer driver of the terminal device 9 converts the instruction into a command for the first main control unit 110. The printer driver then outputs the command to the first main control unit 110. In this manner, the terminal device 9 transmits an image formation instruction to the first main control unit 110. Hereinafter, an image formation instruction that requires an image to be formed in the first image forming unit 10 but not in the second image forming unit 20 may be referred to as a "first independent instruction." The terminal device 9 transmits the first independent instruction to the first main control unit 110. The terminal device 9 includes, in the first individual instruction, information that an image needs to be formed in the first image forming unit 10 but does not need to be formed in the second image forming unit 20.

[0041] Furthermore, if an instruction output from an application, for example, indicates that an image needs to be formed in the second image forming unit 20 but not in the first image forming unit 10 (for example, an instruction to form an image using the toner in the second image forming unit 20 without using the toner in the first image forming unit 10, or if a user specifies only image formation in the second image forming unit 20 via the printer driver on the terminal device 9), the printer driver of the terminal device 9 converts the instruction into a command for the first main control unit 110 and the second main control unit 210. The printer driver then outputs the command to the first main control unit 110. If an image needs to be formed in the second image forming unit 20 even if an image does not need to be formed in the first image forming unit 10, the first main control unit 110 needs to control the paper transport device 40, the fixing device 50, etc., and therefore the printer driver converts the instruction output from the application, for example, into a command for the first main control unit 110 to control the paper transport device 40, the fixing device 50, etc. The printer driver then outputs the command to the first main control unit 110. In this way, the terminal device 9 sends an image formation instruction to the first main control unit 110. Hereinafter, an image formation instruction that requires the second image forming unit 20 to form an image but does not require the first image forming unit 10 to form an image may be referred to as a "second individual instruction." The terminal device 9 sends the second individual instruction to the first main control unit 110. The terminal device 9 includes in the second individual instruction information that requires the second image forming unit 20 to form an image but does not require the first image forming unit 10 to form an image. Note that when there is no need to distinguish between a "first individual instruction" and a "second individual instruction," they may be collectively referred to as an "individual instruction."

[0042] The first main control unit 110 determines whether the image formation instruction sent from the terminal device 9 is a cooperative instruction, a first individual instruction, or a second individual instruction based on information included in the instruction. If the instruction is a first individual instruction, the first main control unit 110 performs image formation processing corresponding to the first individual instruction. If the instruction is a second individual instruction, the first main control unit 110 transfers the second individual instruction to the second main control unit 210. The first main control unit 110 and the second main control unit 210 then perform image formation processing corresponding to the second individual instruction. These processes will be described in detail later.

[0043] On the other hand, if the instruction is a cooperative instruction, the first main control unit 110 waits for another cooperative instruction with the same identification information to arrive. Thereafter, the first main control unit 110 transfers the cooperative instruction with the second color configuration, out of the two cooperative instructions with the same identification information, to the second main control unit 210. Thereafter, the first main control unit 110 and the second main control unit 210 perform image formation processing corresponding to the cooperative instruction.

[0044] Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a processing procedure performed by the first control unit 100 and the second control unit 200. Fig. 6 shows processing when the first control unit 100 receives a cooperation instruction. Fig. 6 also shows processing when, after receiving a cooperation instruction, another cooperation instruction with the same identification information is received within a predetermined period of time. When the first main control unit 110 receives an image formation instruction from, for example, the terminal device 9 via the communication unit 115, it checks whether the image formation instruction is a cooperative instruction or a sole instruction (S601). If it is a cooperative instruction, it determines whether a cooperative instruction with the same identification information has been received within a predetermined period of time. If so, the first main control unit 110 transfers the cooperative instruction with the second color configuration, of the two cooperative instructions with the same identification information, to the second main control unit 210 (S602). The second main control unit 210 receives the cooperative instruction transferred by the first main control unit 110 (S603).

[0045] The first main control unit 110 notifies the first slave control unit 120 of the instructed image formation settings (S604). As a result, the first slave control unit 120 acquires the image formation settings and instructs preparations for image formation (S605). Preparations for image formation include, for example, preparations required to enable the paper transport device 40 to transport paper S (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as "transport preparations"), such as starting motors that rotate various rolls such as the supply roll 44. Furthermore, preparations required for the fixing device 50 to fix the toner image on paper S include, for example, raising the temperature of the heating roll 51.

[0046] Thereafter, the first main control unit 110 determines whether an error such as a toner shortage or a paper jam has occurred in the first image forming unit 10 (S606). If no error has occurred (no in S606), the first main control unit 110 sends a preparation instruction to the second main control unit 210 to prepare for image formation in the second image forming unit 20 (S607). On the other hand, if an error has occurred (yes in S606), the first main control unit 110 waits until the error is resolved.

[0047] The second main control unit 210 receives the preparation instruction sent by the first main control unit 110 (S608). Thereafter, the second main control unit 210 notifies the second slave control unit 220 of the image formation settings (S609). As a result, the second slave control unit 220 acquires the image formation settings (S610).

[0048] Thereafter, the second main control unit 210 determines whether an error such as a toner shortage has occurred in the second image forming unit 20 (S611). If no error has occurred (no in S611), the second main control unit 210 notifies the second slave control unit 220 of a preparation instruction to prepare the second image forming unit 20 for image formation (S612). After receiving the preparation instruction (S613), the second slave control unit 220 instructs the second image forming unit 20 to prepare for image formation (S614). The image formation preparation is a preparatory operation performed by the second image forming unit 20 before forming an image on paper S, and examples of such preparation include warming up the developing unit 25, image quality adjustment processing, and voluntary disposal of degraded toner. All of these operations consume power, and some operations consume toner. The second image forming unit 20 then enters a standby state once image formation preparation is complete. On the other hand, if an error has occurred (yes in S611), the second main control unit 210 waits until the error is resolved.

[0049] When the second image forming unit 20 has completed preparation for image formation, the second main control unit 210 transmits a completion notification to the first main control unit 110 indicating that preparation has been completed (S615). Note that the second main control unit 210 may determine that the second image forming unit 20 has completed preparation for image formation when it receives a notification from the second image forming unit 20 indicating that preparation has been completed after the second slave control unit 220 has instructed preparation for image formation (S614). Alternatively, the second main control unit 210 may determine that the second image forming unit 20 has completed preparation for image formation when a predetermined period has elapsed after the second slave control unit 220 instructed preparation for image formation (S614).

[0050] After receiving a completion notification from the second main control unit 210 (S616), the first main control unit 110 sends a preparation instruction to the first slave control unit 120 to prepare the first image forming unit 10 for image formation (S617). After receiving the preparation instruction (S618), the first slave control unit 120 instructs the first image forming unit 10 to prepare for image formation (S619). Examples of preparation for image formation include warming up the developing unit 15, etc., image quality adjustment processing, and voluntary disposal of degraded toner. Then, the first image forming unit 10 enters a standby state as soon as preparation for image formation is completed.

[0051] When the first image forming unit 10 is ready to form an image, the first slave control unit 120 causes the paper transport device 40 to start transporting the paper S (S620) and causes the first image forming unit 10 to form an image on the transported paper S (S621). After instructing the first image forming unit 10 to prepare for image formation (S617), the first main control unit 110 may determine that the first image forming unit 10 is ready to form an image when it receives a notification from the first image forming unit 10 that the preparation is complete. Alternatively, the first main control unit 110 may determine that the first image forming unit 10 is ready to form an image when a predetermined period has elapsed after instructing the first image forming unit 10 to prepare for image formation (S617).

[0052] The second secondary control unit 220 causes the second image forming unit 20 to form an image on the conveyed paper S (S622). Then, the first subordinate control unit 120 causes the fixing device 50 to fix the toner image on the conveyed paper S, and discharges the paper S after fixing onto the paper stacking unit 60, thereby completing the image formation (S623). Thereafter, the first slave control unit 120 notifies the first main control unit 110 that image formation is complete (S624). After receiving the completion notification (S625), the first main control unit 110 transmits a completion notification to the second main control unit 210 that image formation is complete (S626). After receiving the completion notification (S627), the second main control unit 210 transmits a notification that the completion notification has been received to the first main control unit 110 (S628).

[0053] After receiving the completion notification (S629), the first main control unit 110 ends the image forming operation (S630). Note that the end of the image forming operation includes the end of the toner image formation operation in the first image forming unit 10 and the deletion process of information related to this image formation that is stored in the RAM 113 and the storage unit 114. The second main control unit 210 transmits a notification of receipt of the completion to the first main control unit 110 (S628), and then ends the image forming operation (S631). Note that the end of the image forming operation includes the end of the toner image forming operation in the second image forming unit 20 and the deletion process of information related to this image formation that is stored in the RAM 213 and the storage unit 214.

[0054] In this manner, in this embodiment, the first control unit 100 and the second control unit 200 cooperate with each other to form an image. For example, if no error has occurred in the first image forming unit 10 or the paper transport device 40, which are controlled by the first main control unit 110, the first main control unit 110 transmits a preparation instruction to the second main control unit 210 to prepare the second image forming unit 20 for image formation (S607). After receiving this preparation instruction (S608), if no error has occurred in the second image forming unit 20, which is controlled by the first main control unit 110, the second main control unit 210 notifies the second slave control unit 220 of a preparation instruction to prepare the second image forming unit 20 for image formation (S612). Furthermore, when the second image forming unit 20 has completed its preparation for image formation, the second main control unit 210 transmits a completion notification to the first main control unit 110 indicating that preparation has been completed (S615). After receiving this completion notification (S616), the first main control unit 110 notifies the first slave control unit 120 of a preparation instruction to prepare the first image forming unit 10 for image formation (S617).

[0055] This prevents a mismatch between the start of image formation operation by the first image forming unit 10 and the start of image formation operation by the second image forming unit 20, which may occur, for example, when the first control unit 100 and the second control unit 200 are operated independently without being linked together. For example, it prevents a situation in which paper transport by the paper transport device 40 or the image formation operation by the first image forming unit 10 is started even though the second image forming unit 20 is not yet ready to start image formation, causing the image formation operation by the second image forming unit 20 to be late. It also suppresses unnecessary power consumption caused by the second image forming unit 20 being in a standby state for a long period of time despite an error occurring in the first image forming unit 10 or the paper transport device 40. It also suppresses unnecessary power consumption caused by the first image forming unit 10 being in a standby state for a long period of time despite an error occurring in the second image forming unit 20.

[0056] In this embodiment, after image formation is completed, the first main control unit 110 transmits a completion notification to the second main control unit 210 to notify the completion of image formation (S626). After receiving the completion notification (S627), the second main control unit 210 transmits a notification to the first main control unit 110 that the completion notification has been received (S628). This prevents the second control unit 200 from failing to recognize that the fixing by the fixing device 50 has also ended and image formation has been completed.

[0057] (Processing when the first independent instruction is received) FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a processing procedure performed by the first control unit 100 and the second control unit 200 when the first main control unit 110 receives a first independent instruction. When the first main control unit 110 receives a first individual instruction (S701), it notifies the first slave control unit 120 of the image formation settings corresponding to the first individual instruction (S702). As a result, the first slave control unit 120 acquires the image formation settings corresponding to the first individual instruction and instructs the first slave control unit 120 to prepare for image formation (S703). The first main control unit 110 then determines whether an error has occurred (S704). If an error has occurred (yes in S704), the first main control unit 110 waits until the error is resolved. On the other hand, if no error has occurred (no in S704), the first main control unit 110 notifies the first slave control unit 120 of a preparation instruction to prepare the first image forming unit 10 for image formation, corresponding to the individual instruction (S705).

[0058] After receiving the preparation instruction (S706), the first slave control unit 120 instructs the first image forming unit 10 to prepare for image formation (S707). When the first image forming unit 10 has completed the image formation preparation, the first slave control unit 120 causes the paper transport device 40 to start transporting the paper S (S708) and causes the first image forming unit 10 to form an image on the transported paper S (S709). The first slave control unit 120 then causes the fixing device 50 to fix the toner image on the transported paper S and discharges the fixed paper S to the paper stacking unit 60, thereby completing the image formation (S710). Thereafter, the first slave control unit 120 notifies the first main control unit 110 that the image formation is complete (S711). The first main control unit 110 then receives a completion notification (S712) and ends the image forming operation (S713).

[0059] (Processing when a second independent instruction is received) Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a processing procedure performed by the first control unit 100 and the second control unit 200 when the first main control unit 110 receives a second independent instruction. In Fig. 8, the same processes as those shown in Fig. 6 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted. When the first main control unit 110 receives a second individual instruction (S801), it transmits the second individual instruction to the second main control unit 210 via the connection line 150 (S802). The second main control unit 210 receives the second individual instruction transmitted by the first main control unit 110 (S803). The first main control unit 110 notifies the first slave control unit 120 of the setting corresponding to the second individual instruction (S804).

[0060] The first subordinate control unit 120 acquires the setting corresponding to the second independent instruction and instructs preparations for image formation (S805). As a result, the paper transport device 40 and the fixing device 50 make preparations for image formation, such as preparations for paper transport and fixing. Thereafter, the first control unit 100 and the second control unit 200 perform the processes of S606 to S616 described above.

[0061] After receiving the completion notification in S616 (S616), the first main control unit 110 notifies the first subordinate control unit 120 that no preparation will be made, which is a notification to the effect that paper conveyance and fixing will be performed in conjunction with image formation in the second image forming unit 20 without making preparations for image formation in the first image forming unit 10 (S817). After receiving the notification that no preparation will be made (S818), the first subordinate control unit 120 causes the paper conveying device 40 to start conveying the paper S (S819).

[0062] The second secondary control unit 220 causes the second image forming unit 20 to form an image on the conveyed paper S (S622). Thereafter, the first control unit 100 and the second control unit 200 perform the above-mentioned processes of S623 to S631.

[0063] (Processing when a collaboration instruction with the same identification information is not received within a predetermined period) 6 shows the process when, after receiving a cooperative instruction, another cooperative instruction with the same identification information is received within a predetermined period of time. However, it is possible that two cooperative instructions with the same identification information will not be received within the predetermined period of time because the identification information of the cooperative instructions for the first image I1 and the second image I2 to be superimposed is different. The predetermined period can be, for example, five minutes. In this embodiment, if no other cooperation instruction with the same identification information is received within a predetermined period of time, the received cooperation instruction is deleted and the terminal device 9 that sent the cooperation instruction is notified of the deletion. As a result, the cooperation instruction is deleted in the terminal device 9.

[0064] The processing performed by first main control unit 110 will be explained below using a flowchart. 9 and 10 are flowcharts showing an example of the processing of the first main control unit 110. The first main control unit 110 repeatedly executes this processing at predetermined intervals (for example, every 1 millisecond). The first main control unit 110 determines whether an image formation instruction has been received from, for example, the terminal device 9 via the communication unit 115 (S901). If an image formation instruction has not been received in S901 (no in S901), the first main control unit 110 terminates this process. On the other hand, if the image formation instruction has been received (yes in S901), the first main control unit 110 checks whether the image formation instruction is a cooperative instruction or an individual instruction, and determines whether a cooperative instruction has been received (S902). If it is a cooperative instruction (yes in S902), the first main control unit 110 determines whether another cooperative instruction with the same identification information has been received (S903). If an image formation instruction has not been received (no in S903), the first main control unit 110 determines whether a predetermined period has elapsed (S904). If the predetermined period has not elapsed (no in S904), the first main control unit 110 performs the processes from S902 onward. On the other hand, if the predetermined period has elapsed (yes in S904), the first main control unit 110 deletes the image formation instruction received in S901 and notifies the terminal device 9 that sent the collaboration instruction of the deletion (S905).

[0065] On the other hand, if another cooperative instruction with the same identification information is received in S903 (yes in S903), the first main control unit 110 transmits the cooperative instruction corresponding to the second color configuration (an example of a second image formation instruction) of the two cooperative instructions with the same identification information to the second main control unit 210 (S906). Then, in order to have the first image forming unit 10 form the first image I1 in accordance with the cooperative instruction corresponding to the first color configuration (an example of a first image formation instruction), the first main control unit 110 notifies the first slave control unit 120 of the image formation settings corresponding to the cooperative instruction (S907). The processing of S907 corresponds to the processing of S604 described with reference to FIG. 6.

[0066] Thereafter, the first main control unit 110 determines whether an error has occurred (S908). If an error has occurred (yes in S908), the first main control unit 110 waits until the error is resolved. On the other hand, if an error has not occurred (no in S908), the first main control unit 110 sends a preparation instruction to the second main control unit 210 to prepare the second image forming unit 20 for image formation (S909). The processes of S908 and S909 correspond to the processes of S606 and S607, respectively, described with reference to FIG. 6.

[0067] Thereafter, the first main control unit 110 determines whether or not a completion notification has been received from the second main control unit 210 (S910). If a completion notification has not been received (no in S910), the first main control unit 110 waits until a completion notification is received. On the other hand, if a completion notification has been received (yes in S910 (this process corresponds to the process of S616 described with reference to FIG. 6)), the first main control unit 110 notifies the first slave control unit 120 of a preparation instruction to prepare the first image forming unit 10 for image formation (S911). The process of S911 corresponds to the process of S617 described with reference to FIG. 6.

[0068] Thereafter, the first main control unit 110 determines whether or not a completion notification indicating that image formation is complete has been received from the first slave control unit 120 (S912). If a completion notification has not been received (no in S912), the first main control unit 110 waits until it is received. On the other hand, if a completion notification has been received (yes in S912), the first main control unit 110 transmits a completion notification indicating that image formation is complete to the second main control unit 210 (S913). The processing of S913 corresponds to the processing of S626 described with reference to FIG. 6. Thereafter, the first main control unit 110 determines whether or not a completion notification has been received from the second main control unit 210 (S914). If a completion notification has not been received (no in S914), the first main control unit 110 waits until it is received. On the other hand, if a completion notification has been received (yes in S914 (this process corresponds to the process of S629 described with reference to FIG. 6)), the first main control unit 110 ends the image forming operation (S915).

[0069] On the other hand, if the instruction is not a cooperative instruction (no in S902), the first main control unit 110 determines whether or not a first individual instruction has been received (S916). If the first individual instruction has not been received (no in S916), the image formation instruction received in S901 is the second individual instruction, and therefore the first main control unit 110 transmits the second individual instruction to the second main control unit 210 (S917). Then, the first main control unit 110 notifies the first slave control unit 120 of the image formation settings corresponding to the second individual instruction (S918). This processing in S918 corresponds to the processing in S802 described with reference to FIG. 8. Thereafter, the first main control unit 110 determines whether or not a request to transmit a preparation instruction has been received (S919). If a request to transmit a preparation instruction has not been received (no in S919), the first main control unit 110 waits until it is received. On the other hand, if a request to send a preparation instruction has been received (yes in S919 (this process corresponds to the process of S605 described with reference to FIG. 6)), it is determined whether an error has occurred (S920). If an error has occurred (yes in S920), the first main control unit 110 waits until the error is resolved. On the other hand, if no error has occurred (no in S920), the first main control unit 110 sends a preparation instruction to the second main control unit 210 to prepare for image formation at the second image forming unit 20 (S921). The processes of S920 and S921 correspond to the processes of S606 and S607 in FIG. 6, respectively.

[0070] Thereafter, the first main control unit 110 determines whether or not a completion notification has been received from the second main control unit 210 (S922). If a completion notification has not been received (no in S922), the first main control unit 110 waits until a completion notification is received. On the other hand, if a completion notification has been received (yes in S922 (this process corresponds to the process of S616 in FIG. 8)), the first main control unit 110 transmits the above-mentioned notification that preparation is not being made to the first slave control unit 120 (S923), and performs the processes from S912 onwards. This process of S923 corresponds to the process of S817 in FIG. 8.

[0071] Thereafter, the first main control unit 110 determines whether or not a completion notification indicating that image formation is complete has been received from the first slave control unit 120 (S924). If a completion notification has not been received (no in S924), the first main control unit 110 waits until it is received. On the other hand, if a completion notification has been received (yes in S924), the first main control unit 110 transmits a completion notification indicating that image formation is complete to the second main control unit 210 (S925). The processing of S925 corresponds to the processing of S626 described with reference to FIG. 8. Thereafter, the first main control unit 110 determines whether or not a completion notification has been received from the second main control unit 210 (S926). If a completion notification has not been received (no in S926), the first main control unit 110 waits until it is received. On the other hand, if a completion notification has been received (yes in S926 (this process corresponds to the process of S629 described with reference to FIG. 8)), the first main control unit 110 ends the image forming operation (S915).

[0072] On the other hand, if the first individual instruction has been received (yes in S916), the first main control unit 110 notifies the first subordinate control unit 120 of the image formation settings corresponding to the first individual instruction (S927). The processing of S927 corresponds to the processing of S702 described with reference to FIG. Thereafter, the first main control unit 110 determines whether an error has occurred (S928). If an error has occurred (yes in S928), the first main control unit 110 waits until the error is resolved. On the other hand, if an error has not occurred (no in S928), the first main control unit 110 notifies the first slave control unit 120 of a preparation instruction to prepare the first image forming unit 10 for image formation (S929). The processing of S929 corresponds to the processing of S705 described with reference to FIG. 7.

[0073] Thereafter, the first main control unit 110 determines whether or not a completion notification indicating that image formation has been completed has been received from the first slave control unit 120 (S930). If a completion notification has not been received (no in S930), the first main control unit 110 waits until the completion notification is received. On the other hand, if a completion notification has been received (yes in S930 (this process corresponds to the process of S712 described with reference to FIG. 7)), the first main control unit 110 ends the image formation operation (S915).

[0074] The processing performed by the second main control unit 210 will be explained below using a flowchart. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing of the second main control unit 210. The second main control unit 210 repeatedly executes this processing at predetermined fixed time intervals (for example, every 1 millisecond). The second main control unit 210 determines whether or not a cooperation instruction has been received from the first main control unit 110 (S1101). If a cooperation instruction has been received (yes in S1101 (this process corresponds to the process of S603 described with reference to FIG. 6)), the second main control unit 210 determines whether or not a preparation instruction has been received from the first main control unit 110 (S1102). If a preparation instruction has not been received (no in S1102), the second main control unit 210 waits until it is received. On the other hand, if a preparation instruction has been received (yes in S1102 (this process corresponds to the process of S608 described with reference to FIG. 6)), the second main control unit 210 notifies the second slave control unit 220 of the instructed image formation settings (S1103). This process of S1103 corresponds to the process of S609 in FIG. 6.

[0075] Thereafter, it is determined whether an error has occurred in the second image forming unit 20 (S1104). The processing of S1104 corresponds to the processing of S611 in FIG. 6. If an error has occurred (yes in S1104), the second main control unit 210 waits until the error is resolved. On the other hand, if an error has not occurred (no in S1104), the second main control unit 210 notifies the second slave control unit 220 of a preparation instruction to prepare the second image forming unit 20 for image formation (S1105). The processing of S1105 corresponds to the processing of S612 in FIG. 6. Thereafter, the second main control unit 210 transmits a completion notification to the first main control unit 110 (S1106). The processing of S1106 corresponds to the processing of S615 in FIG. 6.

[0076] Thereafter, the second main control unit 210 determines whether or not a completion notification indicating that image formation is complete has been received from the first main control unit 110 (S1107). If the completion notification has not been received (no in S1107), the second main control unit 210 waits until it is received. On the other hand, if the completion notification has been received (yes in S1107 (this process corresponds to the process of S627 in FIG. 6)), the second main control unit 210 transmits to the first main control unit 110 a notification that the completion notification has been received (S1108). This process of S1108 corresponds to the process of S628 in FIG. 6. Then, the second main control unit 210 ends the image formation operation (S1109).

[0077] On the other hand, if a cooperative instruction has not been received in the processing of S1101 (no in S1101), the second main control unit 210 determines whether or not a second independent instruction has been received from the first main control unit 110 (S1110). If a second independent instruction has not been received (no in S1110), the second main control unit 210 ends this processing. On the other hand, if a second independent instruction has been received (yes in S1110 (this processing corresponds to the processing of S803 described using FIG. 8)), the second main control unit 210 performs the processing from S1102 onwards.

[0078] In the above-described embodiment, the functions of the first control unit 100 are executed by the CPU 111 of the first main control unit 110 and the CPU 121 of the first subordinate control unit 120 in cooperation with each other. However, this is not a limitation. For example, the functions of the first control unit 100 may be implemented by a single processor, or by three or more processors. Similarly, in the above-described embodiment, the functions of the second control unit 200 are executed by the CPU 211 of the second main control unit 210 and the CPU 221 of the second subordinate control unit 220 in cooperation with each other. However, this is not a limitation. For example, the functions of the second control unit 200 may be implemented by a single processor, or by three or more processors. The term "processor" refers to a processor in a broad sense and includes general-purpose processors (e.g., CPUs) as well as dedicated processors (e.g., GPUs (Graphical Processing Units), ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits), FPGAs (Field Programmable Gate Arrays), programmable logic devices, etc.).

[0079] The image forming device 2 described above includes a first image forming unit 10 that forms a first image I1 using toner as an example of a color material having a first color composition, and a second image forming unit 20 that forms a second image I2 that is superimposed on the first image I1 using toner having a second color composition.

[0080] The programs executed by CPU 111 of first main control unit 110, CPU 121 of first slave control unit 120, CPU 211 of second main control unit 210, and CPU 221 of second slave control unit 220 may be provided in a state stored in a computer-readable recording medium such as a magnetic recording medium (magnetic tape, magnetic disk, etc.), an optical recording medium (optical disk, etc.), a magneto-optical recording medium, a semiconductor memory, etc. Alternatively, they may be downloaded using a communication means such as the Internet.

[0081] The program constituting the present invention executes a function in which, when a first processor controlling a first image forming unit 10 that forms a first image I1 using color materials of a first color composition receives an image formation instruction including information indicating that the first image I1 should be superimposed on a second image I2 formed by a second image forming unit 20 using color materials of a second color composition, if another image formation instruction with the same identification information has been received, the first processor causes the first image forming unit 10 to form the first image I1 in accordance with the first image formation instruction corresponding to the first color composition out of the one image formation instruction and the other image formation instructions, and sends a second image formation instruction corresponding to the second color composition to a second processor that controls the second image forming unit 20. The program constituting the present invention also causes the second processor to execute a function of causing the second image forming unit 20 to form the second image I2 in accordance with the second image formation instruction.

[0082] (Functions of terminal device 9) As described above, in the image forming device 2, in order to superimpose the first image I1 formed by the first image forming unit 10 in accordance with a cooperative instruction corresponding to the first color configuration and the second image I2 formed by the second image forming unit 20 in accordance with a cooperative instruction corresponding to the second color configuration, the identification information contained in these two cooperative instructions must be the same.

[0083] FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing an example of the functions of the control unit 91. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the setting screen 931 displayed on the display unit 93. As shown in FIG. The control unit 91 executes the printer driver stored in the storage unit 92 to have the following functions. The control unit 91 has a setting unit 911 that performs setting processing for image formation, a setting storage unit 912 that stores the image formation settings set by the setting unit 911, an initiation unit 913 that performs processing to start an image formation instruction, and an identification information storage unit 914 that stores identification information for a collaborative instruction initiated by the initiation unit 913. The setting storage unit 912 and the identification information storage unit 914 can be exemplified as storage areas provided in at least one of the ROM 91b and the RAM 91c, respectively.

[0084] When a predetermined operation for printing (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as a "predetermined operation") is performed, the setting unit 911 causes the display unit 93 to display a setting screen 931 shown in Fig. 13. Examples of the predetermined operation include pressing a "Print" button in an application, or pressing a specific key on a keyboard (for example, pressing the "Ctrl" key and the "P" key at the same time) as an example of the operation unit 94.

[0085] For example, the setting unit 911 displays an individual instruction button 941 displaying the word "individual" to enable the user to select an individual instruction, and a cooperative instruction button 942 displaying the word "cooperative" to enable the user to select a cooperative instruction, on the setting screen 931. Note that the setting unit 911 initially sets the individual instruction button 941 to a pressed state.

[0086] The setting unit 911 also displays a black and white button 943 displaying the words "black and white" to enable selection of black and white printing on the setting screen 931. The setting unit 911 also displays a first color configuration button 944 to enable selection of a first color configuration and a second color configuration button 945 to enable selection of a second color configuration on the setting screen 931. The setting unit 911 displays the color material configurations of the first color configuration button 944 and the second color configuration button 945 based on the color material configurations installed in the first image forming unit 10 and the second image forming unit 20 of the image forming apparatus 2, which are stored in the storage unit 92. For example, information on the first color configuration and the second color configuration may be notified from the image forming apparatus 2 and stored in advance in a storage area such as the ROM 91b, the RAM 91c, or the storage unit 92. In this embodiment, when the first color configuration is yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K), the first color configuration button 944 may, for example, have the words Y, M, C, and K displayed on it, as shown in FIG. 13. When the second color configuration is white, gold, silver, and clear, the second color configuration button 945 may, for example, be composed of four buttons with the words white, gold, silver, and clear displayed on them, as shown in FIG. 13. Note that the setting unit 911 is initially set to a state in which the black and white button 943 is pressed. However, the initial setting may also be a state in which the first color configuration button 944 or the second color configuration button 945 is pressed.

[0087] When the collaborative instruction button 942 displayed on the setting screen 931 is pressed, the setting unit 911 determines whether color information is stored in the identification information storage unit 914 in association with the identification information of another image formation instruction. If color information is stored, the setting unit 911 disables pressing of either the first color configuration button 944 or the second color configuration button 945, whichever corresponds to the same color configuration as the stored color configuration, and enables pressing of a button corresponding to a color configuration different from the stored color configuration. For example, when the color information stored in the identification information storage unit 914 is the first color configuration, the setting unit 911 disables pressing of the first color configuration button 944, but enables pressing of the second color configuration button 945. When the color information stored in the identification information storage unit 914 is the second color configuration, the setting unit 911 disables pressing of the second color configuration button 945, but enables pressing of the first color configuration button 944. On the other hand, when the collaborative instruction button 942 is pressed and no color information is stored in the identification information storage unit 914, the setting unit 911 enables the first color configuration button 944 and the second color configuration button 945 to be pressed.

[0088] Furthermore, the setting unit 911 displays a print button 946 displaying the word "print," which is a button to be pressed to execute printing, on the setting screen 931. When the print button 946 is pressed, the setting unit 911 recognizes that various buttons displayed on the setting screen 931 are pressed, and stores in the setting storage unit 912 the image formation settings corresponding to the pressed button.

[0089] For example, if the print button 946 is pressed without pressing a button such as the collaborative instruction button 942 after the setting screen 931 is displayed on the display unit 93, the setting unit 911 determines the initial settings of single instruction and black and white as the image formation settings, and stores this setting information in the setting memory unit 912. For example, when the print button 946 is pressed while the collaborative instruction button 942 and the first color composition button 944 are pressed, the setting unit 911 confirms the collaborative instruction and the designation of the color materials for the first color composition as image formation settings, and stores this setting information in the setting memory unit 912. For example, when the print button 946 is pressed while the cooperative instruction button 942 and the silver second color configuration button 945 are pressed, the setting unit 911 confirms the cooperative instruction and the designation of silver as the second color configuration as the image formation settings, and stores this setting information in the setting memory unit 912. For example, when the print button 946 is pressed while the cooperative instruction button 942, the first color configuration button 944, and the silver second color configuration button 945 are pressed, the setting unit 911 confirms the cooperative instruction, the first color configuration, and the silver second color configuration as the image formation settings, and stores this setting information in the setting memory unit 912.

[0090] When the print button 946 is pressed, the start unit 913 assigns identification information and performs the following processing depending on whether the type of image formation set by the setting unit 911 is a single instruction or a collaborative instruction, which is one of the pieces of information included in the image formation settings stored in the setting memory unit 912. If it is a single instruction, the initiation unit 913 generates an image formation instruction including the information set by the setting unit 911 and the assigned identification information, and transmits this image formation instruction to the first control unit 100.

[0091] FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining an example of processing when a cooperative instruction is included in the information on image formation settings stored in the setting storage unit 912. In FIG. When a cooperative instruction is included in the information on image formation settings stored in the setting storage unit 912, the start unit 913 determines whether or not identification information, etc. of other image formation instructions is stored in the identification information storage unit 914. Then, when no identification information, etc. is stored in the identification information storage unit 914, the start unit 913 determines whether or not the color designation in the information set by the setting unit 911 is a first color configuration and a second color configuration.

[0092] Here, if the document M created using one application has a black letter "A" displayed against a gold rectangular background, as shown in FIG. 14(a), it is considered that the print button 946 is pressed on the setting screen 931 while the collaborative instruction button 942, the first color configuration button 944, and the gold second color configuration button 945 are pressed. Therefore, the image formation settings stored in the setting storage unit 912 include the collaborative instruction, the first color configuration, and the gold second color configuration. In this way, when the color specifications in the information set by the setting unit 911 are the first color configuration and the second color configuration, the initiation unit 913 transmits to the first control unit 100 a first image formation instruction for the letter "A" and a second image formation instruction for the gold background, which include the same assigned identification information.

[0093] On the other hand, when an image of characters or the like created using different applications is formed on one sheet of paper S, a predetermined operation is performed in each of the different applications. For example, as shown in FIG. 14(b), if a first application creates the character “A” and a second application creates the gold background, a predetermined operation is performed in the first application, and the print button 946 is pressed while the collaborative instruction button 942 and the first color configuration button 944 are pressed on the setting screen 931 displayed. In this case, the image formation settings stored in the setting storage unit 912 include the collaborative instruction and the first color configuration designation, but not the second color configuration designation. If the color designation in the information set by the setting unit 911 is not the first color configuration and the second color configuration, but only the first color configuration, the initiation unit 913 stores the identification information and the first color configuration set by the setting unit 911 in the identification information storage unit 914, and transmits a first image formation instruction for the character “A” including the assigned identification information to the first control unit 100.

[0094] On the other hand, it is considered that, on the setting screen 931 displayed as a result of a predetermined operation being performed in the second application, the print button 946 is pressed with the collaborative instruction button 942 and the gold second color configuration button 945 pressed. In such a case, it is considered that the image formation settings stored in the setting storage unit 912 include the collaborative instruction and the second color configuration designation, but not the first color configuration. Then, if the color designation in the information set by the setting unit 911 is not the first color configuration and the second color configuration, but only the second color configuration, the initiation unit 913 stores the identification information and the second color configuration set by the setting unit 911 in the identification information storage unit 914, and transmits a second image formation instruction for a gold background, including the assigned identification information, to the first control unit 100.

[0095] On the other hand, if the identification information etc. of another image formation instruction is stored in the identification information storage unit 914, the initiation unit 913 replaces the assigned identification information with the identification information stored in the identification information storage unit 914 and erases the identification information etc. stored in the identification information storage unit 914. Then, the initiation unit 913 generates an image formation instruction including the replaced identification information and the information set by the setting unit 911, and transmits this image formation instruction to the first control unit 100.

[0096] The initiation unit 913 deletes the identification information and other information of other image formation instructions stored in the identification information storage unit 914 after a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the identification information and other information were stored. The predetermined period of time may be, for example, five minutes. For example, if five minutes have elapsed, it is considered that the user's collaborative instruction is incorrect or that the user wishes to stop the image formation of the superimposed first image I1 and second image I2. Therefore, by having the initiation unit 913 delete the identification information and other information after the predetermined period of time has elapsed, it is possible to prevent the amount of information stored in the identification information storage unit 914 from becoming unnecessarily large. Furthermore, reducing the amount of information stored in the identification information storage unit 914 can speed up the processing of the setting unit 911 and the initiation unit 913. Furthermore, it is preferable that the predetermined period of time be equal to or shorter than the period of time until the first main control unit 110 of the image forming apparatus 2 deletes the image formation instruction in the processing of S905. If the period is longer than the period until the first main control unit 110 deletes the image formation instruction in the processing of S905, the image formation processing will not be executed even if the image formation instruction including the identification information replaced in S1607 is sent to the first control unit 100 in the processing of S1606.

[0097] The setting process performed by the setting unit 911 will be described below with reference to a flowchart. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of the setting process performed by the setting unit 911. The setting unit 911 repeatedly executes this process at predetermined intervals (for example, every 1 millisecond). The setting unit 911 determines whether a predetermined operation has been performed (S1501). If the predetermined operation has not been performed (no in S1501), the setting unit 911 ends this processing. If the predetermined operation has been performed (yes in S1501), the setting unit 911 displays the setting screen 931 on the display unit 93 (S1502). Thereafter, the setting unit 911 determines whether the instruction is a collaborative instruction (S1503). This is processing for determining whether the collaborative instruction button 942 on the setting screen 931 has been pressed. If the instruction is a collaborative instruction (yes in S1503), the setting unit 911 determines whether color information is stored in the identification information storage unit 914 in association with the identification information of another image formation instruction (S1504). If color information is not stored (no in S1504), the setting unit 911 makes all colors selectable (S1505). In this embodiment, the setting unit 911 displays a black and white button 943, a first color configuration button 944, and a second color configuration button 945 on the setting screen 931 so that they can be pressed.

[0098] Then, the setting unit 911 determines whether the print button 946 has been pressed (S1506). If the print button 946 has not been pressed (no in S1506), the setting unit 911 waits until the print button 946 is pressed. On the other hand, if the print button 946 has been pressed (yes in S1506), the setting unit 911 stores the image formation settings in the setting storage unit 912 (S1507) and ends this process.

[0099] On the other hand, if color information is stored (yes in S1504), the setting unit 911 enables selection of a color configuration different from the color configuration related to the stored color information (S1508). For example, if a first color configuration is stored in the identification information storage unit 914, the setting unit 911 displays on the setting screen 931 that the first color configuration button 944 cannot be pressed and that the second color configuration button 945 can be pressed. On the other hand, if a second color configuration is stored in the identification information storage unit 914, the setting unit 911 displays on the setting screen 931 that the second color configuration button 945 cannot be pressed and that the first color configuration button 944 can be pressed. Thereafter, the setting unit 911 performs the processes from S1506 onwards. In S1503, if the instruction is not a collaborative instruction (no in S1503), the setting unit 911 performs the processing from S1505 onwards.

[0100] The image formation instruction start process performed by the start unit 913 will be described below with reference to a flowchart. FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of the start process performed by the start unit 913. The start unit 913 executes the start process when the print button 946 is pressed. The initiation unit 913 assigns identification information for the image formation instruction (S1601). Thereafter, the initiation unit 913 determines whether or not the instruction is a collaborative instruction (S1602). If the instruction is a collaborative instruction (yes in S1602), the initiation unit 913 determines whether or not the identification information of another image formation instruction is stored in the identification information storage unit 914 (S1603). If the identification information is not stored (no in S1603), the initiation unit 913 determines whether or not the image formation settings stored in the setting storage unit 912 are the first color configuration and the second color configuration (S1604). If the color configuration is not the first or second color configuration (no in S1604), the initiation unit 913 stores, in the identification information storage unit 914, the identification information, which is information about the image formation instruction to which the identification information was assigned in S1601, and the image formation settings (e.g., color information such as the size of the paper S and the colors of the color materials to be used) stored in the setting storage unit 912 (S1605). Thereafter, the initiation unit 913 transmits the image formation instruction including the identification information and the image formation settings to the first control unit 100 (S1606). If the color configuration is the first or second color configuration (yes in S1604), the initiation unit 913 transmits the image formation instruction including the identification information and the image formation settings, i.e., two coordinated instructions having the same identification information, to the first control unit 100 (S1606).

[0101] On the other hand, if it is stored (yes in S1603), the initiation unit 913 replaces the identification information assigned in S1601 with the identification information stored in the identification information storage unit 914 (S1607), and deletes the image formation settings including the identification information and color information, which are information on the image formation instruction stored in the identification information storage unit 914 (S1608). Thereafter, the initiation unit 913 transmits the image formation instruction including the identification information and image formation settings replaced in S1607 to the first control unit 100 (S1606). On the other hand, if the instruction is not a collaborative instruction (no in S1602), the initiation unit 913 transmits the individual instruction including the identification information and image formation settings to the first control unit 100 (S1606).

[0102] The terminal device 9 configured as described above is an example of an information processing device having a CPU 91a as an example of a processor. When transmitting an image formation instruction to the image forming apparatus 2, including information indicating that the first image I1 and the second image I2 should be superimposed on each other, if no other image formation instruction including information indicating that the first image I1 and the second image I2 should be superimposed on each other is stored in the identification information storage unit 914 as an example of a storage unit, the CPU 91a stores the image formation instruction in the identification information storage unit 914 (S1605) and transmits the image formation instruction (S1606). On the other hand, if the other image formation instruction is stored in the identification information storage unit 914, the CPU 91a replaces the identification information stored in the image formation instruction with the same identification information as that of the other image formation instruction (S1607). In other words, the CPU 91a transmits the image formation instruction including the same identification information as that of the other image formation instruction (S1606). According to the terminal device 9 configured in this manner, it is possible to make the identification information of two image formation instructions (cooperative instructions), which are image formation instructions for forming the respective images to be superimposed in the image forming device 2, the same.

[0103] Furthermore, when accepting one image formation instruction, if another image formation instruction is stored in the identification information storage unit 914, the CPU 91a does not accept the color configuration of the other image formation instruction, either the first color configuration or the second color configuration (S1508), thereby preventing the user from making an erroneous selection. On the other hand, when receiving one image formation instruction, if no other image formation instructions are stored in the identification information storage unit 914, the CPU 91a enables the first color configuration and the second color configuration to be received (S1505). This enables the image forming device 2 to superimpose the first image I1 and the second image I2.

[0104] Furthermore, when transmitting one image formation instruction including the same identification information as that of another image formation instruction, the CPU 91a deletes the other image formation instruction from the identification information storage unit 914 (S1608). This makes it possible to make the identification information of two image formation instructions (cooperative instructions), which are image formation instructions for forming the respective images to be superimposed in the image forming device 2, the same with a high degree of accuracy.

[0105] The program executed by the CPU 91a may be provided in a state stored in a computer-readable recording medium such as a magnetic recording medium (such as a magnetic tape or a magnetic disk), an optical recording medium (such as an optical disk), a magneto-optical recording medium, a semiconductor memory, etc. Alternatively, the program may be downloaded via a communication means such as the Internet.

[0106] The program constituting the present invention causes the CPU 91a to execute a function of, when transmitting an image formation instruction including information to superimpose the first image I1 and the second image I2 to the image forming apparatus 2 including a first image forming unit 10 that forms a first image I1 using color materials of a first color composition and a second image forming unit 20 that forms a second image I2 that is superimposed on the first image I1 using color materials of a second color composition, storing the image formation instruction in the identification information storage unit 914 (S1605) and transmitting the image formation instruction (S1606) if no other image formation instruction including information to superimpose the first image I1 and the second image I2 is stored in the identification information storage unit 914. Furthermore, the program constituting the present invention causes the CPU 91a to execute a function of, when the other image formation instruction is stored in the identification information storage unit 914, transmitting the image formation instruction including the same identification information as the identification information of the other image formation instruction (S1606).

[0107] <Modification> FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen 971 according to the first modified example displayed on the display unit 93. As shown in FIG. In addition to the items displayed on the setting screen 931, the setting unit 911 displays on the setting screen 971 an A3 button 951 for selecting A3, an A4 button 952 for selecting A4, and a B5 button 953 for selecting B5 as buttons for selecting the size of the paper S. Note that "A3," "A4," and "B5" are merely examples, and the setting unit 911 sets the size notation (e.g., A4) on the buttons for selecting the size of the paper S based on the size of the paper S held in the paper holding unit 30 of the image forming apparatus 2, which is stored in the storage unit 92. For example, information on the size of the paper S can be notified from the image forming apparatus 2 and stored in advance in a storage area such as the ROM 91b, RAM 91c, or storage unit 92. Note that the setting unit 911 initially sets the A4 button 952 to a pressed state.

[0108] After the setting screen 971 is displayed on the display unit 93, if the print button 946 is pressed while the A4 button 952 is pressed, for example, the start unit 913 determines the paper size to A4 as one of the image formation settings, and associates the determined size of the paper S with identification information and stores it in the identification information storage unit 914.

[0109] When the collaborative instruction button 942 displayed on the setting screen 971 is pressed, the setting unit 911 determines whether the size of the paper S is stored in the identification information storage unit 914 in association with the identification information of another image formation instruction. If the size of the paper S is stored, the setting unit 911 prevents a button corresponding to a size different from the stored size of the paper S from being pressed, among the multiple buttons indicating the size of the paper S, from being pressed, and allows a button corresponding to the same size as the stored size of the paper S to be pressed. For example, when the size of the paper S stored in the identification information storage unit 914 is A4, the setting unit 911 prevents the A3 button 951 and the B5 button 953 from being pressed, but allows the A4 button 952 to be pressed. This prevents the user from accidentally selecting the wrong size of the paper S.

[0110] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen 972 according to the second modified example displayed on the display unit 93. As shown in FIG. The setting unit 911 displays on the setting screen 972, in addition to the items displayed on the setting screen 971, a single-sided button 955 for selecting single-sided printing and a double-sided button 956 for selecting double-sided printing as buttons for selecting the printing mode. Note that, for example, information on whether the image forming apparatus 2 can perform single-sided printing or double-sided printing is notified from the image forming apparatus 2 and stored in advance in a storage area such as the ROM 91b, RAM 91c, or storage unit 92. Note that the setting unit 911 sets the single-sided button 955 to a pressed state as an initial setting.

[0111] After the setting screen 972 is displayed on the display unit 93, if the print button 946 is pressed while the single-sided button 955 is pressed, for example, the start unit 913 determines single-sided printing as one of the image formation settings, associates the determined single-sided printing with identification information, and stores it in the identification information storage unit 914.

[0112] When the collaborative instruction button 942 displayed on the setting screen 972 is pressed, the setting unit 911 determines whether single-sided printing is stored in association with the identification information of another image formation instruction in the identification information storage unit 914. If single-sided printing is stored, the setting unit 911 prevents the user from pressing the double-sided button 956, which corresponds to double-sided printing different from the stored single-sided printing, out of the single-sided button 955 and the double-sided button 956, and allows the user to press the single-sided button 955, which corresponds to the same single-sided printing as the stored single-sided printing. This prevents the user from accidentally selecting a different printing mode.

[0113] FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen 973 according to the third modified example displayed on the display unit 93. As shown in FIG. The setting unit 911 displays on the setting screen 973, in addition to the items displayed on the setting screen 972, buttons for selecting the number of pages to be printed per sheet of paper S as buttons for selecting the print mode. For example, the setting unit 911 displays on the setting screen 973 a 1 page / sheet button 957 for selecting printing one page per sheet of paper S, and a 2 pages / sheet button 958 for selecting printing two pages per sheet of paper S. Note that "1 page / sheet" and "2 pages / sheet" are merely examples, and it can be exemplified that information on the number of pages that the image forming apparatus 2 can print per sheet of paper S is notified from the image forming apparatus 2 and stored in advance in a storage area such as the ROM 91b, RAM 91c, or storage unit 92. Note that the setting unit 911 sets the 1 page / sheet button 957 to a pressed state as an initial setting.

[0114] After the setting screen 973 is displayed on the display unit 93, if the print button 946 is pressed while the 1 page / 1 sheet button 957 is pressed, the start unit 913 determines that one page will be printed per sheet of paper S as one of the image formation settings, and associates the determined single-sided mode with identification information and stores it in the identification information memory unit 914.

[0115] When the collaborative instruction button 942 displayed on the setting screen 973 is pressed, the setting unit 911 determines whether the number of pages that can be printed per sheet of paper S is stored in association with the identification information of another image formation instruction in the identification information storage unit 914. If 1 page per sheet of paper S is stored, the setting unit 911 prevents the 2 pages / 1 sheet button 958, which corresponds to a page number different from the stored page number, from being pressed, out of the 1 page / 1 sheet button 957 and the 2 pages / 1 sheet button 958, and allows the 1 page / 1 sheet button 957, which corresponds to the stored page number, to be pressed. This prevents the user from accidentally selecting a different page number.

[0116] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen 974 according to the fourth modified example displayed on the display unit 93. As shown in FIG. The setting unit 911 displays, on the setting screen 974, a plurality of buttons for selecting a holding unit that holds the sheet S on which image formation is to be performed, in addition to the items displayed on the setting screen 973. For example, the setting unit 911 displays, on the setting screen 974, an A3 button 961 for selecting a holding unit that holds A3 sheet S, an A4 button 962 for selecting a holding unit that holds A4 sheet S, a B5 button 963 for selecting a holding unit that holds B5 sheet S, and a manual feed button 964 for selecting a manual feed tray into which the sheet S can be inserted. Note that, for example, information on the sheet S held by the sheet holding unit 30 of the image forming apparatus 2 is notified from the image forming apparatus 2 and is stored in advance in a storage area such as the ROM 91b, the RAM 91c, or the storage unit 92. Note that the setting unit 911 initially sets the A4 button 962 to a pressed state.

[0117] After the setting screen 974 is displayed on the display unit 93, if the print button 946 is pressed while the A4 button 962 is pressed, for example, the start unit 913 determines the holding unit to hold A4 paper S as one of the image formation settings, and associates the determined holding unit with identification information and stores it in the identification information memory unit 914.

[0118] When the collaborative instruction button 942 displayed on the setting screen 973 is pressed, the setting unit 911 determines whether a holding unit in which paper S is held is stored in association with the identification information of another image formation instruction in the identification information storage unit 914. If a holding unit in which paper S is held is stored, the setting unit 911 disables pressing of the A3 button 961, A4 button 962, B5 button 963, and manual feed button 964 corresponding to a holding unit different from the stored holding unit, but enables pressing of the button corresponding to the stored holding unit. For example, when the holding unit stored in the identification information storage unit 914 is A4, the setting unit 911 disables pressing of the A3 button 961, B5 button 963, and manual feed button 964, but enables pressing of the A4 button 962. This prevents the user from accidentally selecting the wrong holding unit. [Explanation of symbols]

[0119] 1...image forming system, 2...image forming device, 5...communication line, 9...terminal device, 10...first image forming section, 20...second image forming section, 40...paper conveying device, 91...control section, 100...first control section, 110...first main control section, 120...first subordinate control section, 150...connection line, 200...second control section, 210...second main control section, 220...second subordinate control section, 911...setting section, 912...setting storage section, 913...starting section, 914...identification information storage section

Claims

1. a processor; The processor: an image forming apparatus including a first image forming unit that forms a first image using color materials of a first color composition and a second image forming unit that forms a second image that is superimposed on the first image using color materials of a second color composition, wherein when transmitting an image formation instruction including information to superimpose the first image and the second image to an image forming apparatus including a first image forming unit that forms a first image using color materials of a first color composition and a second image forming unit that forms a second image that is superimposed on the first image, if another image formation instruction including information to superimpose the first image and the second image is not stored in a storage unit, the image formation instruction is stored in the storage unit and transmitted; if the other image formation instruction is stored in the storage unit, the image formation instruction is transmitted including identification information that is the same as the identification information of the other image formation instruction; When the one image formation instruction is accepted, if the other image formation instruction is stored in the storage unit, the color configuration of the other image formation instruction, of the first color configuration and the second color configuration, cannot be accepted. Information processing device.

2. when the processor receives the one image formation instruction, if the other image formation instruction is not stored in the storage unit, the processor is able to receive the first color configuration and the second color configuration. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

3. When the processor receives the one image formation instruction, if the other image formation instruction is stored in the storage unit, the processor does not accept a paper size different from the size of the other image formation instruction. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

4. the processor prevents the reception of an image formation mode different from the image formation mode of the other image formation instruction; The information processing device according to claim 3 .

5. the processor prevents a tray different from a tray for supplying paper for the other image forming instruction from being accepted; 5. The information processing device according to claim 3.

6. 6. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein when the processor transmits the one image formation instruction including the same identification information as the identification information of the other image formation instruction, the processor deletes the other image formation instruction from the storage unit.

7. the processor deletes the other image formation instruction from the storage unit when a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the other image formation instruction was stored in the storage unit; The information processing device according to claim 1 .

8. The processor When transmitting an image formation instruction including information indicating that the first image and the second image should be superimposed to an image forming device equipped with a first image forming unit that forms a first image using color materials of a first color configuration and a second image forming unit that forms a second image that is superimposed on the first image using color materials of a second color configuration, if another image formation instruction including information indicating that the first image and the second image should be superimposed is not stored in a storage unit, the image formation instruction is stored in the storage unit and transmitted, and if the other image formation instruction is stored in the storage unit, the image formation instruction is transmitted with the same identification information as the identification information of the other image formation instruction included, a function of preventing the color configuration of the other image formation instruction from being accepted when the other image formation instruction is stored in the storage unit when accepting the one image formation instruction, from being accepted, of the first color configuration and the second color configuration; The program to be executed.

Images