Patent ID: 12261987

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Exemplary embodiment of the disclosure is described with reference to the attached drawings.FIG.1illustrates an example of a configuration of an image forming system1in accordance with the exemplary embodiment.FIG.2illustrates an example of a hardware configuration of a terminal apparatus9.FIG.3illustrates an example of an internal structure of an image forming apparatus2.FIG.4illustrates an example of a functional configuration of the terminal apparatus9and image forming apparatus2. The image forming system1includes the image forming apparatus2and the terminal apparatuses9connected to the image forming apparatus2via a communication network5. The communication network5is not limited to any type of network used for data communication between apparatuses. For example, the communication network5may include a wide-area network (WAN) and/or a local-area network (LAN). The communication network S may be a wired network, a wireless network, or a combination thereof. For example, wireless LAN may be WiFi (registered trademark).

The image forming apparatus2includes, in a single housing3, two image formers forming images onto a single paper sheet S, namely, a first image former10and second image former20, first controller100controlling the first image former10, and second controller200controlling the second image former20. In the image forming apparatus2, the first controller100controls a paper conveyance device40that conveys the paper sheet S. The image forming apparatus2will be described below in greater detail.

Terminal Apparatus

The terminal apparatus9includes a controller91controlling the whole terminal apparatus9, storage92used to store data, display93used to display an operation reception screen and an image, operation unit94used to receive an input operation from a user, and communication unit95used to communicate with the outside.

The controller91includes a central processing unit (CPU)91a, read-only memory (ROM)91b, and random-access memory (RAM)91c. The ROM91bstores a basic program (operating system) executed by the CPU91aand a variety of settings. The CPU91autilizes the RAM91cas a working area and executes an application program read from the ROM91bor storage92. Each element of the terminal apparatus9is controlled by the CPU91athat executes the programs.

The storage92may be, for example, a semiconductor memory. The storage92stores application programs including a word-processing application and a printer driver. The storage92also stores compositions of colors utilized by the first image former10and second image former20in the image forming apparatus2.

The word-processing application generates an instruction to form in a paper sheet S an image of an original document M that has been created using the word-processing application. The printer driver acquires the instruction to generate an image output from the application and converts the instruction into a command that, may be analyzed by the image forming apparatus2.

Specifically, after acquiring the image formation instruction of the original document M output from the application, the printer driver converts the image formation instruction into a first, image formation instruction and second image formation instruction in view of characteristics of the first image former10and the second image former20. The first image formation instruction serves as a command to form an image on the first image former10and the second image formation instruction serves as a command to form an image on the second image former20. The printer driver then outputs the first image formation instruction and second image formation instruction to the first controller100. The first image formation instruction and the second image formation instruction, if not differentiated from each other, are sometimes collectively referred to as an “image formation instruction.”

The image formation instruction includes identification information identifying the image formation instruction, image data serving as data of an image to be formed, and a setting of image formation specified. The setting of the image formation indicates the size and material of the paper sheet S on which an image is to be formed, and a designate of color of a color material to be utilized. The image formation instruction includes information indicating whether the image formation instruction is a cooperation instruction or an individual instruction. For example, the identification information may include information on the terminal apparatus9from which the identification information has been output, and time when the image formation instruction is output.

The display93displays a still image or a video. For example, the display93is a liquid-crystal display or an organic electroluminescent (EL) display.

The operation unit94is an input device that receives an operation from the user. For example, the operation unit94includes buttons, switches, and a touch panel. The communication unit95is, for example, a communication interface.

The terminal apparatus9thus constructed may be a notebook personal computer (PC), desktop PC, tablet PC, tablet terminal, multi-function cell phone (such as smart phone), cell phone (such as feature phone), or personal digital assistant (PDA).

Image Forming Apparatus

The image forming apparatus2includes the first image former10that forms an image on the paper sheet S serving as an example of a recording medium and the second image former20that forms an image on the paper sheet S. The image forming apparatus2further includes a paper sheet tray30that holds the paper sheet S, and paper conveyance device40that conveys the paper sheet S from the paper sheet tray30to the first image former10. The image forming apparatus2further includes a fixing device50, paper sheet discharge tray60, and user interface (UI)70. The fixing device50heats and presses a toner image on the paper sheet S to fix the toner image on the paper sheet S. The paper sheet discharge tray60receives and stacks the paper sheets S having images formed by the fixing device50that have fixed the toner images on the paper sheets S. The UI70displays information. The image forming apparatus2further includes the first controller100that controls the first image former10, paper conveyance device40, and fixing device50, and the second controller200that controls the second image former20.

The first image former10includes four image forming units11that are arranged side by side with regular intervals therebetween and form respective toner images of toner colors serving as color materials. Each image forming unit11includes a photoconductor drum12holding a toner image, charging device13that charges the surface of the photoconductor drum12, and light-emitting diode (LED) print head14that forms an electrostatic latent image on the photoconductor drum12by exposing the photoconductor drum12charged by the charger13in accordance with image data of each color. Each image forming unit11includes a development device15that develops the electrostatic latent image on the photoconductor drum12with toner and drum cleaner16that cleans the photoconductor drum12after transferring. The development devices15in the four image forming units11of the exemplary embodiment respectively hold yellow (Y) toner, magenta (M) toner, cyan (C) toner, and black (K) toner and thus form respective color toner images. The composition of the toner colors (for example, yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K)) held by the four image forming units11in the first image former10may be referred to as a “first color composition.”

The first image former10also includes an intermediate transfer belt17to which toner images formed by the photoconductor drums12in the image forming units11are transferred. The first image former10also includes first transfer rollers18and second transfer roller19. The first transfer rollers18successively first-transfer to the intermediate transfer belt17the color toner images formed on the image forming units11(a first transfer operation). The second transfer roller19second-transfer the color toner images in batch, superimposed and transferred on the intermediate transfer belt17, to the paper sheet S (a second transfer operation).

Like the first image former10, the second image former20includes four image forming units21, intermediate transfer belt27, first transfer rollers28, and second transfer roller29. Like the image forming unit11, each image forming unit21includes a photoconductor drum22, charging device23, LED print head24, development device25, and dry cleaner26. The development devices25in the four image forming units21of the exemplary embodiment respectively hold white-colored, gold-colored, silver-colored and clear-colored toners and forms white-colored, gold-colored, silver-colored and clear-colored toner images. The colors of toner held by the development devices25in the image forming units21are not limited to the colors described above. The toner colors may be red, blue, and green. The composition of the toner colors (for example, white color, gold color, silver color, and clear color) held by the four image forming units21in the second image former20may be also referred to as a “second color composition.”

The paper conveyance device40includes an upper roller41and lower roller42vertically spaced apart from each other and a conveyor belt43that is entrained about the upper roller41and lower roller42. The paper conveyance device40further includes a feed roller44that feeds the paper sheet S at the paper sheet tray30toward the conveyor belt43and a conveyor roller45that is arranged between the feed roller44and conveyor belt43. The paper conveyance device40also includes multiple sensors46that detect the passage of the paper sheet S conveyed.

The fixing device50includes a heat roller51that heats the incoming paper sheet S and belt module52that is pressed against the heat roller51and forms a pressure section with the heat roller51. The fixing device50fixes the toner image onto the paper sheet S by pressing and heating the pressure section on the paper sheet S bearing the toner image.

The UI70is a touch panel that is a combination of a display, such as a liquid-crystal display or organic EL display, and a position input device, such as a touch pad. The UI70receives information from the user while also displaying information to the user.

The image forming apparatus2thus constructed operates as described below. Four color toner images formed on the photoconductor drums12in the image forming units11in the first image former10are first-transferred to the intermediate transfer belt17via the first transfer rollers18and a superimposed toner image in which four color toner images are superimposed is thus formed. As the intermediate transfer belt17moves, the superimposed toner image on the intermediate transfer belt17is conveyed to a second transfer section where the second transfer roller19is arranged.

The paper sheet S is fed to the second transfer section from the paper sheet tray30in synchronization with when the superimposed toner image in the first image former10is conveyed to the second transfer section. Electric field created by the second transfer roller19second-transfers the superimposed toner image in batch to the incoming paper sheet S in the second transfer section. The superimposed toner image formed by the first image former10is hereinafter referred to as a “first image I1.”

Other four color toner images formed on the photoconductor drums22in the image forming units21in the second image former20are first-transferred to the intermediate transfer belt27by the first transfer rollers28and a superimposed toner image on which the other four color toner images are superimposed is formed on the intermediate transfer belt27. As the intermediate transfer belt27moves, the superimposed toner image on the intermediate transfer belt27is conveyed to a second transfer section where the second transfer roller29is arranged.

The paper sheet S, having the superimposed toner image that has been electrostatic-transferred in the first image former10, is fed to the second transfer section in synchronization with when the superimposed toner image in the second image former20is conveyed to the second transfer section. In the second transfer section, electric field created by the second transfer roller29second-transfers the superimposed toner images in batch on the incoming paper sheet S having the superimposed toner image that has been electrostatically transferred in the first image former10. The superimposed toner image formed by the second image former20is hereinafter also referred to as a “second image I2.”

A superimposed toner image on which the superimposed toner image in the first image former10and the superimposed toner image in the second image former20are superimposed is electrostatically transferred to the paper sheet S. The resulting paper sheet S is conveyed to the fixing device50. The toner image on the paper sheet S conveyed to the fixing device50is heated and pressed by the fixing device50and is thus fixed onto the paper sheet S. The paper sheet S bearing the fixed image is conveyed to the paper sheet discharge tray60in the image forming apparatus2.

FIG.5illustrates an example of a hardware configuration of the first controller100and the second controller200.

First Controller100

The first controller100includes a first basic controller110chat controls operations of the first image former10, paper conveyance device40, fixing device50, and the like, and first subordinate controller120that controls, under the control of the first basic controller110, the operations of the first image former10, paper conveyance device40, fixing device50, and the like.

The first basic controller110includes a central processing unit (CPU)111, read-only memory (ROM)112, random-access memory (RAM)113, storage114, such as a semiconductor memory, and communication unit115used to communicate with the outside. The communication unit115is a communication interface.

The ROM112stores a basic program (operating system) executed by the CPU111, and a variety of settings. The CPU111executes programs read from the ROM112or the storage114using the RAH113as a working area. The functions of the first basic controller110are performed as described below when the CPU111executes the program.

The first basic controller110transmits or receives information to or from the first subordinate controller120, second controller200and UI70via the communication unit115.

The first basic controller110also receives, via the communication unit115, an image formation instruction from the outside, such as the terminal apparatus9. The first basic controller110analyzes the received image formation instruction. The image formation instruction includes identification information, image data, setting of image formation, and information indicating whether the image formation instruction is a cooperation instruction or an individual instruction described below.

The first basic controller110performs a predetermined image processing operation on the received image data. The first basic controller110converts the image data into reproduction colors of the first image former10, namely, toner colors of the first image former10(yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K)) as YMCK data and then outputs the YMCK data. The YMCK data includes Y color data, M color data, C color data, and K color data, separated color by color.

The first basic controller110notifies the first subordinate controller120of the size and material of the paper sheet S related to the received image formation instruction.

The first basic controller110also transfers the received image formation instruction to the second controller200.

Like the first basic controller110, the first subordinate controller120includes a CPU121, ROM122, RAM123, storage124, and communication unit125. Using the RAM123as a working area, the CPU121executes a program read from the ROM122or the storage124and thus performs the functions of the first subordinate controller120.

By exchanging control information with the first basic controller110, the first subordinate controller120controls feeding and conveying operations of the paper sheet S and a toner image fixing operation of the fixing device50in synchronization with exposure, development, and transfer operations on the first image former10and a transfer timing of the paper conveyance device40.

The first subordinate controller120acquires error information about the occurrence of an error, for example, the first image former10running out of toner or paper jamming on the paper conveyance device40. The first subordinate controller120notifies the first basic controller110of these pieces of error information. The first basic controller110causes a display panel of the UI70to display the error information, thereby notifying the user of the error information. If the first image former10runs out of toner and toner is then replenished, the first subordinate controller120acquires information indicating that the error has been resolved. For example, if paper jamming indicated by the error information is resolved, the first subordinate controller120acquires information indicating that the error created has been resolved. The first subordinate controller120then notifies the first basic controller110of the elimination of the error. The first basic controller110notifies the user of the elimination of the error by displaying the elimination of the error on the display panel of the UI70.

Second Controller200

The second controller200includes a second basic controller210controlling the operation of the second image former20and second subordinate controller220controlling, under the control of the second basic controller210, the operation of the second image former20. The second basic controller210transmits or receives information to or from the first basic controller110via a connection line150.

The second basic controller210includes a CPU211, ROM212, RAM213, storage214, such as a semiconductor memory, and communication unit215used to communicate with the outside.

The ROM212stores a basic program (such as an operating system) executed by the CPU211, Using the RAM213as a working area, the CPU211executes a program read from the ROM212and the storage214. The functions of the second basic controller210are performed when the CPU211executes the program.

The second basic controller210transmits or receives information to or from the second subordinate controller220, first controller100and UI70via the communication unit215.

The second basic controller210performs a predetermined image processing operation on the received image data. The second basic controller210converts the image data into reproduction colors of the second image former20, namely, toner colors of the second image former20(white color, gold color, silver color, and clear color) as white-colored data, gold-colored data, silver-colored data, and clear-colored data, and outputs the resulting color data.

The second basic controller210also notifies the second subordinate controller220of the size and material of the paper sheet S related to the received image formation instruction.

The second subordinate controller220includes a CPU221, ROM222, RAM223, storage224, and communication unit225. Using the RAM223as a working area, the CPU221executes a program read from the ROM222or storage224, thereby performing the functions of the second subordinate controller220.

By exchanging control information with the second basic controller210, the second subordinate controller220controls the operations of the second image former20including exposure, development, and transfer.

The second subordinate controller220acquires error information about the occurrence of an error, for example, about the second image former20running out of toner. The second subordinate controller220notifies the second basic controller210of this piece of error information. The second basic controller210causes the display panel of the UI70to display the error information, thereby notifying the user of the error information. If the error indicates out of toner and toner is then replenished, the second subordinate controller220acquires information indicating chat the error has been resolved. The second subordinate controller220notifies the second basic controller210of the elimination of the error. The second basic controller210notifies the user of the elimination of the error by causing the display panel of the UI70to display the elimination of the error.

Cooperation Between First Controller100and Second Controller200

After startup, the first controller100and second controller200exchange information. The first image former10second-transfers the four-color superimposed toner image onto the paper sheet S conveyed by the paper conveyance device40that operates under the control of the first controller100while the second image former20second-transfers the other four-color toner image to the paper sheet S. The operation of the first image former10that performs the second transfer of the four-color superimposed toner image onto the paper sheet S is also stated as “the first image former10forms an image.” Furthermore, the operation of the second image former20that performs the second transfer of the other four-color superimposed toner image onto the paper sheet S is also stated as “the second image former20forms an image.”

The process performed by the first controller100and second controller200is described below. After acquiring an image formation instruction output from an application, the printer driver in the terminal apparatus9converts the image formation instruction into a command for the first basic controller110and second basic controller210if the image formation instruction is an instruction causing the first image former10and second image former20to form an image. The printer driver outputs the command to the first basic controller110. The terminal apparatus9outputs the image formation instruction to the first basic controller110. The image formation instruction causing the first image former10and second image former20to form an image is also referred to as a “cooperation instruction.” The terminal apparatus9transmits the cooperation instruction to the first basic controller110. The terminal apparatus9includes, in the cooperation instruction, information indicating that an image is to be formed on the first image former10and second image former20.

The instruction output from the application may indicate that an image is to be formed on the first image former10but is not to be formed on the second image former20(for example, an instruction is that an image is to be formed using the toners on the first image former10without using the toners of the second image former20or the user instructs, using the printer driver on the terminal apparatus9, image formation to be performed only on the first image former10). In such a case, the printer driver in the terminal apparatus9converts the image formation instruction into the command for the first basic controller110. The printer driver thus outputs the command to the first basic controller110. In this way, the terminal apparatus9transmits the image formation instruction to the first basic controller110. In the discussion that follows, the image formation instruction indicating that an image is to be formed on the first image former10but is not to be formed on the second image former20is hereinafter referred to as a “first individual instruction.” The terminal apparatus9transmits the first individual instruction to the first basic controller110. The terminal apparatus9includes, in the first individual instruction, information indicating that an image is to be formed on the first image former10but is not to be formed on the second image former20.

The instruction output from the application may indicate that an image is to be formed on the second image former20but is not to be formed on the first image former10(for example, an instruction is that an image is to be formed using the toners on the second image former20without using the toners of the first image former10or the user instructs, using the printer driver on the terminal apparatus9, image formation to be performed only on the second image former20). In such a case, the printer driver in the terminal apparatus9converts the image formation instruction into the command for the first basic controller110and the second basic controller210. The printer driver thus outputs the command to the first basic controller110. If the image formation is to be performed on the second image former20but is not to be performed on the first image former10, the first basic controller110may still control the paper conveyance device40, fixing device50, and the like. The printer driver thus converts the instruction output from the application into the command used for the first basic controller110to control the paper conveyance device40, fixing device50, and the like. The printer driver outputs the command to the first basic controller110. The terminal apparatus9transmits the image formation instruction to the first basic controller110. In the following discussion, the image formation instruction indicating that an image is to be formed on the second image former20and indicating that an image is not formed on the first image former10may be referred to as a “second individual instruction.” The terminal apparatus9transmits the second individual instruction to the first basic controller110. If the first individual instruction and second individual instruction, if not differentiated from each other, are simply referred to as an “individual instruction.”

In accordance with information included in the image formation instruction from the terminal apparatus9, the first basic controller110determines whether the image formation instruction is a cooperation instruction, first individual instruction, or second individual instruction. If the image formation instruction is a first individual instruction, the first basic controller110performs an image formation process responsive to the first individual instruction. If the image formation instruction is a second individual instruction, the first basic controller110transfers the second individual instruction to the second basic controller210. The first basic controller110and second basic controller210perform the image formation process responsive to the second individual instruction. These processes are described below in greater detail.

If the image formation instruction is a cooperation instruction, the first basic controller110waits until another cooperation instruction having the same identification information arrives. The first basic controller110then transfers to the second basic controller210the cooperation instruction responsive to a used color material having a second color composition out of the two cooperation instructions having the same identification information. The first basic controller110and second basic controller210then perform the image formation process responsive to the cooperation instruction.

FIGS.6A and6Billustrate an example of the process performed by the first controller100and second controller200. The process inFIGS.6A and6Bis performed when the first controller100receives the cooperation instruction. Referring toFIGS.6A and6B, another cooperation instruction having the same (identical) identification information is received within a predetermined period of time from the reception of one cooperation instruction.

Upon receiving the image formation instruction from the terminal apparatus9via the communication unit115, the first basic controller110verifies whether the image formation instruction is a cooperation instruction or an individual instruction (S601). If the image formation instruction is a cooperation instruction, the first basic controller110determines whether a cooperation instruction having the same identification information has beer, received within the predetermined period of time. If the first basic controller110determines that the cooperation instruction having the same identification information has been received, the first basic controller110transfers to the second basic controller210the cooperation instruction, with the used color material having the second color composition, out of the two cooperation instructions having the same identification information (S602). The second basic controller210receives the cooperation instruction from the first basic controller110(S603).

The first basic controller110notifies the first subordinate controller120of the setting of the specified image formation (S604). The first subordinate controller120acquires the setting of the image formation and instructs preparation for the image formation (S605). The preparation for the image formation includes an operation to make the paper conveyance device40ready to convey the paper sheet S (hereinafter referred to as “conveyance preparation”) and, for example, includes starting motor's that drive a variety of rollers including the feed roller44. The preparation for the image formation also includes an operation to make the fixing device50ready to fix a toner image onto the paper sheet S and, for example, includes raising temperature of the heat roller51.

The first basic controller110determines whether an error, such as the first image former10being running out of toner, or paper jamming, has occurred (S606). If no error has occurred (no path in S606), the first basic controller110transmits to the second basic controller210a preparation instruction indicating that the image formation preparation is to be performed on the second image former20(S607). On the other hand, if an error has occurred (yes path in S606), the first basic controller110waits on standby until the error is resolved.

The second basic controller210receives the preparation instruction from the first basic controller110(S608). The second basic controller210notifies the second subordinate controller220of the setting of the image formation (S609). In this way, the second subordinate controller220acquires the setting of the image formation (S610).

The second basic controller210determines whether an error, such as the second image former20running out of tonner, has occurred (S611). If no error has occurred (no path in S611), the second basic controller210notifies the second subordinate controller220of the preparation instruction indicating that the image formation preparation is to be performed on the second image former20(S612). After acquiring the preparation instruction (S613), the second subordinate controller220instructs the second image former20to prepare for the image formation (S614). The image formation preparation includes an operation to make the second image former20ready to form an image on the paper sheet S and, for example, includes warmup, image quality adjustment operation, and automatic disposal of deteriorated toner of the development device25. Each of these operations involves consuming power or consuming toner. Upon completing the image formation preparation, the second image former20shifts to a standby state. If an error has occurred (yes path in S611), the second basic controller210waits on standby until the error is resolved.

When the information formation preparation of the second image former20is complete, the second basic controller210transmits to the first basic controller110a completion notification indicating that the preparation is complete (S615). If the second basic controller210receives the notification of the preparation completion from the second image former20after the second subordinate controller220instructs to prepare for the image formation (S614), the second basic controller210may determine that the image formation preparation of the second image former20is complete. If a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the instruction of the second subordinate controller220for the image formation preparation (S614), the second basic controller210may determine that the image formation preparation of the second image former20is complete.

After receiving the completion notification from the second basic controller210(S616), the first basic controller110notifies the first subordinate controller120of a preparation instruction indicating that the image formation preparation of the first image former10is to be performed (S617). After acquiring the preparation instruction (S618), the first subordinate controller120instructs the first image former10to prepare for the image formation (S619). The image formation preparation may include warmup, image quality adjustment operation, and automatic disposal of deteriorated toner of the development device15. Upon completing the image formation preparation, the first image former10shifts to a standby state.

When the image formation preparation of the first image former10is complete, the first subordinate controller120causes the paper conveyance device40to start conveying the paper sheet S (S620) and causes the first image former10to form an image on the incoming paper sheet S (S621). If the first basic controller110receives the notification of the preparation completion after instructing the image formation preparation (S617), the first basic controller110may determine that the image formation preparation of the first image former10is complete. If a predetermined period of time has elapsed since instructing the image formation preparation (S617), the first basic controller110may determine that the image formation preparation of the first image former10is complete.

The second subordinate controller220causes the second image former20to form an image on the incoming paper sheet S (S622).

The first subordinate controller120causes the fixing device50to fix the toner image onto the incoming paper sheet S, and completes the image formation by discharging the paper sheet S having undergone fixing into the paper sheet discharge tray60(S623).

The first subordinate controller120notifies the first basic controller110of a notification that the image formation is complete (S624). After acquiring the completion notification (S625), the first basic controller110transmits to the second basic controller210the completion notification indicating the completion of the image formation (S626).

After receiving the completion notification (S627), the second basic controller210transmits to the first basic controller110a notification that the completion notification has been received (S628).

After receiving the notification that the completion notification has been received (S629), the first basic controller110ends the image formation process (S630). The end of the image formation process includes the end of the formation operation of the toner image on the first image former10and a deletion operation deleting information related to the image formation at the present cycle and stored on the RAM113or the storage114.

The second basic controller210ends the image formation process (S631) after transmitting to the first basic controller110the notification that the completion notification has been received (S628). The end of the image formation process includes the end of the formation of the toner image on the second image former20and the deletion operation deleting information related to the image formation at the present cycle and stored on the RAM213or the storage214.

According to the exemplary embodiment, the image formation is performed with the first controller100and second controller200operating in cooperation.

For example, if no error has occurred in the first image former10and the paper conveyance device40, serving as a control target of the first basic controller110, the first basic controller110transmits to the second basic controller210the preparation instruction indicating that the image formation preparation of the second image former20is to be performed (S607). If no error has occurred on the second image former20, serving as a control target of the second basic controller210, after the preparation instruction is received (S608), the second basic controller210notifies the second subordinate controller220of the preparation instruction indicating that the image formation preparation of the second image former20is to be performed (S612). When the image formation preparation of the second image former20is complete, the second basic controller210transmits to the first basic controller110the completion notification indicating that the preparation is complete (S615). After receiving the completion notification (S616), the first basic controller110notifies the first subordinate controller120of the preparation instruction indicating that the image formation preparation of the first image former10is to be performed (S617).

If the first controller100and second controller200do not cooperate but operate independently from each ocher, a time lag may occur between the image formation process start timing in the first image former10and the image formation process start timing in the second image former20. The arrangement described above may control such a timing problem. For example, although the image formation preparation of the second image former20is unfinished, the paper conveyance on the paper conveyance device40or the image formation process on the first image former10may start, leading to causing the image formation process on the second image former20to be not in time. The arrangement described above may control such a timing problem.

Power may be wasted if the second image former20may be left in a standby state for a longer period of time with an error present on the first image former10or the paper conveyance device40. The arrangement described above may control such waste of power. Power may be wasted if the first image former10may be left in a standby state for a longer period of time with an error present on the second image former20. The arrangement described above may control such waste of power.

According to the exemplary embodiment, when the image formation is complete, the first basic controller110transmits to the second basic controller210the completion notification indicating that the image formation is complete (S626). After receiving the completion notification (S627), the second basic controller210transmits to the first basic controller110the notification that the completion notification has been received (S628).

In this way, the arrangement described above may control the situation that the second controller200goes unnoticed of the completion of the image formation after the fixing operation on the fixing device50.

Process Performed in Response to Reception of First Individual Instruction

FIG.7illustrates an example of the process performed by the first controller100when the first basic controller110receives the first individual instruction.

When the first individual instruction is received (S701), the first basic controller110notifies the first subordinate controller120of the setting of the image formation responsive to the first individual instruction (S702). In this way, the first subordinate controller120acquires the setting of the image formation responsive to the first individual instruction and instructs to prepare for the image formation (S703), The first basic controller110then determines whether an error has occurred (S704). If an error has occurred (yes path in S704), the first basic controller110waits until the error is resolved. On the other hand, if no error has occurred (no path in S704), the first basic controller110notifies the first subordinate controller120of a preparation instruction indicating that the image formation preparation of the first image former10is to be performed in response to the individual instruction (S705).

After acquiring the preparation instruction (S706), the first subordinate controller120instructs the first image former10to prepare for the image formation (S707). When the image formation preparation of the first image former10is complete, the first subordinate controller120causes the paper conveyance device40to start conveying the paper sheet S (S708) and causes the first image former10to form an image on the incoming paper sheet S (S709). The first subordinate controller120causes the fixing device50to fix a toner image onto the incoming paper sheet S and completes the image formation by discharging the paper sheet S having undergone the fixing to the paper sheet discharge tray60(S710). The first subordinate controller120notifies the first basic controller110of a notification that the image formation is complete (S711). After acquiring the completion notification (S712), the first basic controller110ends the image formation process (S713).

Process Performed in Response to Reception of Second Individual Instruction

FIGS.8A and8Billustrate an example of a process performed by the first controller100and second controller200when the first basic controller110receives the second individual instruction. Referring toFIGS.8A and8B, like operations inFIGS.6A and6Bare designated with like reference numerals and the discussion thereof is omitted herein.

Upon receiving the second individual instruction (S801), the first basic controller110transmits the second individual instruction to the second basic controller210via the connection line150(S802). The second basic controller210receives the second individual instruction from the first basic controller110(S803). The first basic controller110notifies the first subordinate controller120of a setting responsive to the second individual instruction (S804).

The first subordinate controller120acquires the setting responsive to the second individual instruction and provides an instruction to prepare for the image formation (S805). In this way, the paper conveyance device40and fixing device50performs preparation for the image formation, such as preparation for paper conveyance and fixing.

The first controller100and second controller200perform steps S606through S616as described above.

After receiving the completion notification (S616), the first basic controller110notifies the first subordinate controller120of a notification of no preparation indicating that the paper conveyance and fixing are to be performed in the image formation on the second image former20with the image formation preparation not performed on the first image former10(S817). After acquiring the notification of no preparation (S818), the first subordinate controller120causes the paper conveyance device40to start conveying the paper sheet S (S819).

The second subordinate controller220causes the second image former20to form an image on the incoming paper sheet S (S622).

The first controller100and second controller200performs operations in S623through S631as described above.

Process Performed When Cooperation Instruction Having Same Identification Information is Not Received Within Predetermined Period of Time

In the process inFIGS.6A and6B, after one cooperation instruction is received, another cooperation instruction having the same identification information is received within a predetermined period of time. However, the cooperation instructions for the first image I1and the second image I2to be superimposed are different in identification information and two cooperation instructions having the same identification information may not be received within the predetermined period of time. For example, the predetermined period of time may be 1 minute.

The original document M created using an application may be the letter A with a silver-colored rectangular background as illustrated inFIG.4. The image formation instruction of the original document M includes the first image formation instruction for the letter A and the second image formation instruction for the silver-colored rectangular background. The first image formation instruction and second image formation instruction for the original document M created using the one application includes the same identification information.

An image of characters created using different applications may be formed on the paper sheet S. The same identification information may not be included in the two image formation instructions output from the different applications. For example, if the application having created the letter A is different from the application having created the silver-colored background, the same identification information may not be included in the first image formation instruction to form the image of the letter A and the second image formation instruction to form the image of the silver-colored background.

Similarly, even if the image of the letter created on different terminal apparatuses9is formed on a single paper sheet S, the same identification information may not be included in the two image formation instructions respectively output from the different terminal apparatuses9. For example, if the terminal apparatus9having created the letter A is different from the terminal apparatus9having created the silver-colored background, the same identification information may not be included in the first image formation instruction output from one terminal apparatus9to form the image of the letter A on the paper sheet S and the second image formation instruction output from the ocher terminal apparatus9which is different from the one terminal apparatus9and forms the silver-colored background on the same paper sheet S. Even when the image is created using the same application (such as Microsoft Powerpoint (registered trademark)) with the different terminal apparatuses9utilized, the same identification information may not be included.

In view of the discussion above, the first basic controller110performs a process described below if two cooperation instructions having the same identification information are not received within the predetermined period of time.

If another cooperation instruction having the same identification information is not received during a predetermined period of time after the reception of one cooperation instruction, the first basic controller110stores information on the one cooperation instruction on the memory region of the RAM113, the storage114or the like. The first basic controller110prompts selection of a combination of images responsive to the cooperation instructions by causing the display panel of the UI70to display information related to the cooperation instruction stored the memory region.

FIGS.9A and9Billustrate an example of a first selection screen71displayed on the UI70.

The first basic controller110causes the UI70to display, as related information, a first corresponding image81responsive to the first image I1formed by the first image former10and a second corresponding image82responsive to the second image I2formed by the second image former20. The first basic controller110also causes the UI70to display a message83prompting selection of two images to be superimposed. The first corresponding image81and second corresponding image82, if not differentiated, are collectively referred to as a “corresponding image.”

A preview image may be displayed on the display93on the terminal apparatus9as a result of simulating an image to be formed on the paper sheet S before outputting a created document responsive to an image formation instruction. Like the preview image, the corresponding images are the first image I1and second image I2that are displayed on the UI70as a result of simulation. Referring toFIG.9A, the first basic controller110displays the corresponding images in the order of reception in a direction from top right to left on the UI70. The order of displaying the corresponding images on the UI70is not limited to the order of reception. Referring toFIG.9B, the first basic controller110may display the corresponding images on the UI70with the row for the first corresponding image81being different from the row for the second corresponding image82.

The message83prompts the user to select a combination of the first image I1and second image I2that are to be superimposed to each other on a single paper sheet S. For example, the message83may be “Select images that are to be combined,” or “Select images that are to be superimposed to each other.” The message83is not limited to these messages.

If one corresponding image is selected from multiple corresponding images displayed on the first selection screen71of the UI70, the first basic controller110causes the UI70to display a second selection screen72. The second selection screen72is utilised to select a corresponding image responsive to an image (the second image I2or the first image I1) that is to be superimposed to an image (the first image I1or the second image I2) responsive to the one corresponding image. The selection of the corresponding image signifies that the corresponding image displayed on the UI70is pressed or touched.

FIGS.10A and10Billustrate an example of the second selection screen72displayed on the UI70. The first basic controller110does not cause the second selection screen72to display a corresponding image having the same color composition as the color composition of the corresponding image selected on the first selection screen71but causes the second selection screen72to display a corresponding image having a color composition different from the color composition of the corresponding image selected on the first selection screen71. Specifically, the first basic controller110causes the first selection screen71to display both the first corresponding image81responsive to the first image I1and the second corresponding image82responsive to the second image I2. If one corresponding image is selected from the corresponding images displayed on the first selection screen71, the first basic controller110determines whether the one corresponding image is the first corresponding image81or the second corresponding image82. If the first basic controller110determines that the one corresponding image is the first corresponding image81, the first basic controller110causes the second selection screen72to display not the first corresponding image81but the second corresponding image82as illustrated inFIG.10. On the other hand, if the first basic controller110determines that the one corresponding image is the second corresponding image82, the first basic controller110causes the second selection screen72to display not the second corresponding image82but the first corresponding image81. This may control erroneous selection by the user.

If one of the corresponding images displayed on the second selection screen72is selected, the first basic controller110equalizes the identification information of two cooperation instructions respectively responsive to the corresponding image selected on the first selection screen71and the corresponding image selected on the second selection screen72. The first basic controller110transmits to the second basic controller210the cooperation instruction, responsive to the second color composition, out of the two cooperation instructions having the same identification information.

The first controller100and second controller200perform operations in S604and subsequent steps described with reference toFIG.6A.

The process of the first basic controller110is described with reference to flowcharts.

FIGS.11and12are the flowcharts illustrating an example of the process of the first basic controller110. The first basic controller110iterates the process every predetermined period of time (for example, every 1 millisecond).

The first basic controller110determines whether an image formation instruction has been received from the terminal apparatus9via the communication unit115(S1101). If the image formation instruction has been received (yes path in S1101), the first basic controller110checks whether the image formation instructions is a cooperation instruction or individual information and thus determines whether the cooperation instruction has been received (S1102). If the image formation instruction is a cooperation instruction (yes path in S1102), the first basic controller110determines whether another cooperation instruction having the same identification information has been received (S1103). If another cooperation instruction having the same identification information has not been received (no path in S1103), the first basic controller110determines whether a predetermined period of time has elapsed (S1104). If the predetermined period of time has not elapsed (no path in S1104), the first basic controller110performs operations in S1102and subsequent operations. On the other hand, if the predetermined period of time has elapsed (yes path in S1104), the first basic controller110stores information on the cooperation instruction onto a memory region, such as the RAM113, the storage114, or the like (S1105). The process thus ends.

If another cooperation instruction having the same identification information has been received (yes path in S1103), the first basic controller110transmits to the second basic controller210the cooperation instruction (an example of the second image formation instruction), corresponding to the second color composition, out of the two image formation instructions having the same identification information (S1106). The first basic controller110notifies the first subordinate controller120of the setting of the image formation responsive to the cooperation instruction in order to cause the first image former10to form the first image I1in accordance with the cooperation instruction responsive to the first color composition (an example of the first image formation instruction) (S1107). The operation in S1107corresponds to the operation in S604described with reference toFIG.6A.

The first basic controller110determines whether an error has occurred (S1108). If an error has occurred (yes path in S1108), the first basic controller110waits on standby until the error is resolved. On the other hand, if no error has occurred (no path in S1108), the first basic controller110transmits to the second basic controller210a preparation instruction indicating that the image formation preparation of the second image former20is to be performed (S1109). The operations in S1108and S1109respectively correspond to the operations in S606and S607described with reference toFIG.6A.

The first basic controller110determines whether a completion notification has been received from the second basic controller210(S1110). If the completion notification has not been received (no path in S1110), the first basic controller110waits on standby until the completion notification is received. On the other hand, if the completion notification has been received (yes path in S1110(corresponding to the operation in S616described with reference toFIG.6B)), the first basic controller110notifies the first subordinate controller120of a preparation instruction indicating that the image formation preparation of the first image former10is to be performed (S1111). The operation in S1111corresponds to the operation in step S617described with reference toFIG.6B.

The first basic controller110determines whether a completion notification indicating the completion of the image formation has been acquired from the first subordinate controller120(S1112). If the completion notification has not been acquired (no path in S1112), the first basic controller110waits on standby until the completion notification is acquired. On the other hand, if the completion notification has been acquired (yes path in S1112), the first basic controller110transmits to the second basic controller210the completion notification indicating the completion of the image formation (S1113). The operation in S1113corresponds to the operation in S626described with reference toFIG.6B.

The first basic controller110determines whether a notification indicating the reception of the completion notification has been received from the second basic controller210(S1114). If the notification indicating the reception of the completion notification has not been received (no path in S1114), the first basic controller110waits on standby until the completion notification is received. On the other hand, if the completion notification has been received (yes path in S1114(corresponding to the operation in S629described with reference toFIG.6B)), the first basic controller110ends the image formation process (S1115).

If the image formation instruction is not a cooperation instruction (no path in S1102), the first basic controller110determines whether a first individual instruction has been received (S1116). If a first individual instruction has not been received (no path in S1116), the image formation instruction received in S1101is a second individual instruction. The first basic controller110thus transmits the second individual instruction to the second basic controller210(S1117). The first basic controller110notifies the first subordinate controller120of the setting for the image formation responsive to the second individual instruction (S1118). The operation in S1118corresponds to the operation in S802described with reference toFIG.8A. The first basic controller110determines whether a transmission request for preparation instruction has been received (S1119). If the transmission request for preparation instruction has not been received (no path in S1119), the first basic controller110waits on standby until the transmission request is received. On the other hand, if the transmission request for preparation instruction has been received (yes path in S1119(corresponding to the operation in S605described with reference toFIG.6A)), the first basic controller110determines whether an error has occurred (S1120). If an error has occurred (yes path in S1120), the first basic controller110waits on standby until the error is resolved. On the other hand, if no error has occurred (no path in S1120), the first basic controller110transmits to the second basic controller210a preparation instruction indicating that the image formation preparation of the second image former20is to be performed (S1121). The operations in S1120and S1121correspond to the operations in S606and S607, respectively, inFIG.6A.

The first basic controller110determines whether a completion notification has been received from the second basic controller210(S1122). If the completion notification has not been received (no path in S1122), the first basic controller110waits on standby until the completion notification is received. On the other hand, if the completion notification has been received (yes path in S1122(corresponding to the operation in S616inFIG.8B)), the first basic controller110transmits to the first subordinate controller120a notification that no preparation is to be performed (S1123), and then performs operations in S1124and subsequent steps. The operation in S1123corresponds to the operation in S817inFIG.8B.

The first basic controller110determines whether a completion notification indicating the completion of the image formation has been acquired from the first subordinate controller120(S1124). If the completion notification has not been acquired (no path in S1124), the first basic controller110waits on standby until the completion notification is acquired. On the other hand, if the completion notification has been acquired (yes path in S1124), the first basic controller110transmits to the second basic controller210the completion notification indicating the completion of the image formation (S1125). The operation in S1125corresponds to the operation in S626described with reference toFIG.8B.

The first basic controller110determines whether the completion notification has been received from the second basic controller210(S1126). If the completion notification has not been received (no path in S1126), the first basic controller110waits on standby until the completion notification is received. On the other hand, if the completion notification has been received (yes path in S1126(corresponding to the operation in S629described with reference toFIG.8B)), the first basic controller110ends the image formation process (S1115).

If the first individual instruction has been received (yes path in S1116), the first basic controller110notifies the first subordinate controller120of the setting for the image formation responsive to the first individual instruction (S1127). The operation in S1127corresponds to the operation in S702described with reference toFIG.7.

The first basic controller110determines whether an error has occurred (S1128). If an error has occurred (yes path in S1128), the first basic controller110waits on standby until the error is resolved. If no error has occurred (no path in S1128), the first basic controller110notifies the first subordinate controller120of a preparation instruction indicating that the image formation preparation of the first image former10is to be performed (S1129). The operation in S1129corresponds to the operation in S705with reference toFIG.7.

The first basic controller110determines whether the completion notification indicating the completion of the image formation has been acquired from the first subordinate controller120(S1130). If the completion notification has not been acquired (no path in S1130), the first basic controller110waits on standby until the completion notification is acquired. On the other hand, if the completion notification has been received (yes path in S1130(corresponding to the operation in S712described with reference toFIG.7)), the first basic controller110ends the image formation process (S1115).

If the image formation instruction has net been received (no path in S1101), the first basic controller110determines whether a decision to equalize two pieces of the identification information, as described below with reference to S1306inFIG.13, has been made (S1131). If the decision has not been made (no path in S1131), the first basic controller110ends the process. On the other hand, if the decision has been made (yes path in S1131), the first basic controller110performs operations in S1106and subsequent steps. Specifically, the first basic controller110transmits to the second basic controller210the cooperation instruction (S1106), responsive to the second color composition, out of the two cooperation instructions having the same identification information that the first basic controller110has decided to equalize in S1306. In order for the first image former10to form the first image I1in accordance with the cooperation instruction responsive to the first color composition, the first basic controller110notifies the first subordinate controller120of the setting of the image formation responsive to the cooperation instruction (S1107). The first basic controller110then performs operations in step S1108and subsequent steps.

A combination determination process performed by the first basic controller110is described with reference to a flowchart.

FIG.13is the flowchart illustrating an example of the combination determination process of the first basic controller110. The first basic controller110iterates this process every predetermined period of time (for example 1 millisecond).

The first basic controller110determines whether information on the cooperation instruction is stored on a memory region of the RAM113, storage114, or the like (S1301). If the information on the cooperation instruction is not stored (no path in S1301), the first basic controller110ends the process. On the other hand, if the information on the cooperation instruction is stored (yes path in S1301) the first basic controller110causes the UI70to display the first selection screen71(S1302). The first, basic controller110then determines which of the corresponding images displayed on the first selection screen71has been selected (S1303). If no corresponding image has been selected (no path in S1303), the first basic controller110ends the process.

If a corresponding image has been selected (yes path in S1303), the first basic controller110causes the UI70to display the second selection screen72(S1304). The first basic controller110causes the second selection screen72to display a corresponding image responsive to an image (the second image I2if the corresponding image responsive to the first image I1is selected or the first image I1if the corresponding image responsive to the second image I2is selected) that may be superimposed on an image (the first image I1or second image I2) responsive to the corresponding image selected in S1303. The first basic controller110determines whether which of the corresponding images displayed on the second selection screen72has been selected (S1305). If no corresponding image has been selected (no path in S1305), the first basic controller110performs operations in S1304and subsequent steps.

If a corresponding image has been selected (yes path in S1305), the first basic controller110equalizes the identification information on the cooperation instruction responsive to the corresponding image selected in S1303and the identification information on the cooperation instruction responsive to the corresponding image selected in S1305(S1306).

A process performed by the second basic controller210is described with reference to a flowchart.

FIG.14is the flowchart illustrating an example of the process of the second basic controller210. The second basic controller210iterates this process every predetermined period of time (for example, 1 millisecond).

The second basic controller210determines whether a cooperation instruction has been received from the first basic controller110(S1401). If a cooperation instruction has been received (yes path in S1401(corresponding to the operation in S603described with reference toFIG.6A)), the second basic controller210determines whether a preparation instruction has been received from the first basic controller110(S1402). If a preparation instruction has not been received (no path in S1402), the second basic controller210waits on standby until a preparation instruction is received. On the other hand, if a preparation instruction has been received (yes path in S1402(corresponding to the operation in S608described with reference toFIG.6A)), the second basic controller210notifies the second subordinate controller220of the instructed setting of the image formation (S1403). The operation in step S1403corresponds to the operation in S609inFIG.6A.

The second basic controller210determines whether an error has occurred on, the second image former20(S1404). The operation in S1404corresponds to the operation in S611inFIG.6A. If an error has occurred (yes path in S1404), the second basic controller210waits on standby until the error is resolved. If no error has occurred (no path in S1404), the second basic controller210notifies the second subordinate controller220of a preparation instruction indicating the image formation preparation of the second image former20is to be performed (S1405). The operation in step S1405corresponds to the operation in S612inFIG.6A. The second basic controller210then transmits a completion notification to the first basic controller110(S1406). The operation in S1406corresponds to the operation in S615inFIG.6B.

The second basic controller210determines whether the completion notification indicating that the image formation is complete has been received from the first basic controller110(S1407). If the completion notification has not been received (no path in S1407), the second basic controller210waits on standby until the completion notification is received. On the other hand, if the completion notification has been received (yes path in S1407(corresponding to the operation in S627inFIG.6B)), the second basic controller210transmits to the first basic controller110a notification that the completion notification has been received (S1408). The operation in S1408corresponds to the operation in S628inFIG.6B. The second basic controller210ends the image formation process (S1409).

If a cooperation instruction has not received in the operation in S1401(no path in S1401), the second basic controller210determines whether a second individual instruction has been received from the first basic controller110(S1410). If a second individual instruction has not been received (no path in S1410), the second basic controller210ends the process. On the other hand, if a second individual instruction has been received (yes path in S1410(corresponding to the operation in S803described with reference toFIG.8A)), the second basic controller210performs operations in S1402and subsequent steps.

In the exemplary embodiment described above, the process of the first controller100is performed by the CPU111in the first basic controller110and CPU121in the first subordinate controller120that work cooperatively. The disclosure is not limited to this configuration. For example, the process of the first controller100may be performed by a single processor or by three or more processors. According to the exemplary embodiment, likewise, the process of the second controller200is performed by the CPU211in the second basic controller210and the CPU221in the second subordinate controller220that work cooperatively. The disclosure is not limited to this configuration. For example, the process of the second controller200may be performed by a single processor or by three or more processors. The term “processor” refers to hardware in a broad sense. Examples of the processor include general processors (e.g., CPU: Central Processing Unit) and dedicated processors (e.g., GPU: Graphics Processing Unit, ASIC: Application Specific Integrated Circuit, FPGA: Field Programmable Gate Array, and programmable logic device).

The image forming apparatus2includes the CPU111and CPU121as examples of first processors that control the first image former10that forms the first image I1using toner as an example of the color material having the first color composition. The image forming apparatus2also includes the CPU211and CPU221as examples of second processors that control the second image former20that forms, using toner having the second color composition, the second image I2to be superimposed to the first image I1. The image forming apparatus2also includes the UI70as an example of a display displaying information.

If an image formation instruction including information indicating that the first image I1and the second image I2are to be superimposed is received with another image formation instruction having the same identification information being received, the first processor causes the first image former10to form the first image I1in accordance with a first image formation instruction, responsive to the first color composition, out of the image formation instruction and the other image formation instruction. The first processor transmits to the second processor a second image formation instruction, responsive to the second color composition, out of the image formation instruction and the other image formation instruction (S1106). The second processor causes the second image former20to form the second image I2in accordance with the second image formation instruction.

If the image formation instruction including the information indicating that the first image I1and the second image I2are to be superimposed is received with the other image formation instruction having the same identification information not being received (no path in S1103), the first processor causes the UI70to display a corresponding image as an example of information related to the image formation instruction in order to prompt the selection of the first image I1and second image I2that are to be superimposed (S1302).

If two corresponding images are selected from multiple corresponding images displayed on the UI70(yes path in S1303and S1305), the first processor equalizes the identification information for two image formation instructions responsive to the two corresponding images, causes the first image former10to form the first image I1in accordance with an image formation instruction, responsive to the first color composition, out of the two image formation instructions, and transmits to the second processor an image formation instruction responsive to the second color composition (S1106).

The second selection screen72serves as an example of a selection screen for a corresponding image responsive to an image that is to be superimposed to an image responsive to one corresponding image. If the one corresponding image is selected from the corresponding images displayed on the first selection screen71, the first processor does not cause the second selection screen72to display a corresponding image having the same color composition as the color composition of the one corresponding image selected on the first selection screen71, but causes the second selection screen72to display a corresponding image having a color composition different from the color composition of the one corresponding image (seeFIG.10).

The image forming apparatus2thus constructed may more likely superimpose two images that are to be superimposed even if the image formation instruction demanding the two images to be superimposed to each other on a single paper sheet S does not include information about the two images.

First Modification of Display on UI70

FIG.15Aillustrates an example of a first selection screen74of a first modification.FIG.15Billustrates an example of a second selection screen75of the first modification.

If the corresponding image responsive to the first image I1formed on the first image former10and the corresponding image responsive to the second image I2formed on the second image former20is displayed on the UI70, the first basic controller110displays the corresponding images in a size that corresponds to the size of the paper sheet S on which the first image I1and second image I2are formed. For example, if the size of the paper sheet S on which the letters A and C as the first image I1are formed is a sheet size of A4 and the size of the paper sheet S on which the letter B as the second image I2is formed is a sheet size of A3, the first corresponding image81responsive to the letter B is set to be larger than the first corresponding image81responsive to the letters A and C.

If one corresponding image is selected from multiple corresponding images displayed on the first selection screen74on the UI70of the first modification, the first basic controller110causes the corresponding images to be displayed in view of the color composition and the size of the paper sheet S on the second selection screen75for corresponding images responsive to an image that is to be superimposed to an image responsive to the one corresponding image. Specifically, the first basic controller110does not cause the second selection screen75to display a corresponding image having the same color composition as the color composition of the one corresponding image selected on the first selection screen74and a corresponding image having a size different from the size of the paper sheet S on which the image (the first image I1or second image I2) responsive to the one corresponding image is formed. The first basic controller110causes the second selection screen75to display a corresponding image that has a color composition different from the color composition of the one corresponding image selected on the first selection screen74and has the same size as the size of the paper sheet S on which the image responsive to the one corresponding image is formed.

As illustrated inFIG.15A, the first basic controller110causes the first selection screen74of the first modification on the UI70to display both the first corresponding image81responsive to the first image I1and the second corresponding image82responsive to the second image I2in a size that corresponds to the size of the paper sheet S on which the first image I1and second image I2are formed. If one of displayed corresponding images is selected, the first basic controller110determines whether the one corresponding image is the first corresponding image81responsive to the first image I1or the second corresponding image82responsive to the second image I2. Upon determining that the one corresponding image is the first corresponding image81responsive to the first image I1, the first basic controller110does not cause the second selection screen75of the first modification on the UI70to display the first corresponding image81responsive to the first image I1as illustrated inFIG.15B. The first basic controller110causes the second selection screen75of the first modification to display the second corresponding image82that corresponds to the second image I2and is formed on a paper sheet S having the same size as the paper sheet S on which the first image I1is formed. In this way, the arrangement described above may thus control the possibility that the user makes an erroneous selection.

As described above, according to the first modification, if one corresponding image is selected from multiple corresponding images, the first processor does not cause a corresponding image different in size from the paper sheet S responsive to the one corresponding image to be displayed but causes a corresponding image identical in size to the paper sheet S responsive to the one corresponding image to be displayed. This may control the possibility that the user makes an erroneous selection.

Second Modification of Display on UI70

FIG.16illustrates an example of a selection screen76of a second modification.

The first basic controller110may cause the UI70to display a combination image64where the first corresponding image81responsive to the first image I1formed on the first image former10is superimposed to the second corresponding image82responsive to the second image I2formed on the second image former20.

If there are multiple first corresponding screens81and multiple second corresponding screens82, the first basic controller110causes the UI70to display combination screens84for all combinations of the first corresponding screens81and second corresponding screens82. For example, if there are three first corresponding screens81and three second corresponding screens82, the first basic controller110causes the UI70to display nine combination images84as illustrated inFIG.16.

If one of the displayed combination images84is selected, it is decided that the cooperation instruction responsive to the first corresponding image81and the cooperation instruction responsive to the second corresponding image82, forming the selected combination image84, are equalized in identification information.

In order to prompt the user to select two images that art to be superimposed, the first basic controller110may cause the selection screen76of the second modification to display a message85reading “Select an image to be output.”

According to the second modification, the first processor causes the UI70to display the combination image84. The combination image84is obtained by superimposing a corresponding image (for example, the first corresponding image81), responsive to an image (for example, the first image I1) formed in accordance with an image formation instruction, onto another corresponding image (for example, the second corresponding image82) responsive to another image (for example, the second image I2) having a color composition (for example, the second color composition) different from a color composition (for example, the first color composition) of the image. The two images are superimposed into the combination image84, like the image formed on the paper sheet S. This arrangement may control the possibility that the user makes an erroneous selection.

Third Modification of Display on UI70

FIG.17illustrates an example of a selection screen77of a third modification.

When the combination image84is displayed as in the second modification, the first basic controller110may superimpose the first corresponding image81and second corresponding image82that are equal in size to the paper sheet S. For example, if there are two first corresponding screens81having a sheet size of A4, one first corresponding image81having a sheet size of A3, two second corresponding screens82having a sheet size of A4, and one second corresponding image82having a sheet size of A3, the first basic controller110may cause the UI70to display a total of five combination images84including four A4 combination images84and one A3 combination image84as illustrated inFIG.17.

According to the third modification, if the size of the paper sheet S having an image (for example, the first image I1) is equal to the size of the paper sheet S having another image (for example, the second image I2), the first processor superimposes a corresponding image (for example, the first corresponding image81) onto another corresponding image (for example, the second corresponding image82). This arrangement may reduce the user's choices and thus control the possibility that the user makes an erroneous selection.

When the combination image84is displayed as in the second modification, information on the terminal apparatus9included in the identification information of the cooperation instruction of one image (for example, the first image I1) may be identical to information on the terminal apparatus9included in the identification information of the cooperation instruction of another image (for example, the second image I2). In such a case, the first basic controller110may superimpose one corresponding image (for example, the first corresponding image81) onto another corresponding image (for example, the second corresponding screen82). This arrangement may reduce the user's choices and thus control the possibility that the user makes an erroneous selection.

Information on the user having output the image formation instruction may be included in the identification information on the cooperation instruction. When the combination image84is displayed as in the second modification, information on the user included in the identification information on the cooperation instruction of an image may be identical to information on the user included in the identification information on the cooperation instruction of another image. In such a case, the first basic controller110may superimpose one corresponding image onto another corresponding image. The user having output the cooperation instruction of the image responsive to the corresponding image is the same user having output the cooperation instruction of the other image responsive to the other corresponding image and the combination image84in which the corresponding image and the ether corresponding image are superimposed is displayed on the UI70. This arrangement may control the possibility that the user makes an erroneous selection.

Fourth Modification of Display on UI70

FIG.18Aillustrates an example of a first selection screen78of a fourth modification.FIG.18Billustrates a second selection screen79of the fourth modification.

The first basic controller110may display, in the form of characters87, information included in the identification information on the cooperation instruction, as information related to the cooperation instruction stored on the storage114. For example, referring toFIG.18A, the first basic controller110may display, in the form of the characters87, information on the terminal apparatus9having output the cooperation instruction and time (for example, time and date) when the cooperation instruction is output.

If one of the characters87displayed on the first selection screen78of the UI70is selected, the first basic controller110may cause the UI70to display the second selection screen79that is used to select a character87responsive to an image that is superimposed to an image responsive to the one character87. Referring toFIG.18B, the first basic controller110does not cause the second selection screen79to display a character37responsive to the cooperation instruction having the same color composition as the color composition of the cooperation instruction responsive to a character87selected on the first selection screen78. The first basic controller110causes the second selection screen79to display a character87responsive to the cooperation instruction having a different color composition.

The first basic controller110does not cause the second selection, screen79to display a character87of the cooperation instruction having a paper sheet S different in size from the paper sheet for the cooperation instruction responsive to a character87selected on the first selection screen78but may cause the second selection screen79to display a character87responsive to the cooperation instruction having the same size of the paper sheet S.

The first basic controller110does not cause the second selection screen79to display a character87responsive to the cooperation instruction having the same color composition as the color composition of the cooperation instruction responsive to a character87selected on the first selection screen78or a character87responsive to the cooperation instruction having a paper sheet S different in size from the paper sheet S of the cooperation instruction responsive to a character87selected on the first selection screen76. The first basic controller110may cause the second selection screen79to display a character87responsive to the cooperation instruction having a different color composition and the same size of the paper sheet S.

According to the fourth modification, two images that are to be superimposed may be more likely superimposed even if the image formation instruction demanding the two images to be superimposed on the paper sheet S does not include information about the two images.

Each program to be executed by the CPU111in the first basic controller110, CPU121in the first subordinate controller120, CPU211in the second basic controller210, and CPU221in the second subordinate controller220may be delivered in a recorded state on one of computer readable recording media. The computer readable recording media include a magnetic recording medium (magnetic tape or magnetic disk), optical recording medium (optical disk), magneto-optical recording medium, and semiconductor recording memory. The program may be downloaded via a communication medium, such as the Internet.

The program causes the first processer and second processor to perform functions described below. The first processor is configured to control the first image former10that forms the first image I1using the color material of the first color composition. If an image formation instruction including information indicating that the first image I1is to be superimposed onto the second image I2that the second image former20forms using the color material of the second color composition is received, with another image formation instruction having the same identification information being received, the first processor: causes the first image former10to form the first image I1in accordance with a first image formation instruction, responsive to the first color composition, out of the image formation instruction and the other image formation instruction; and transmits a second image formation instruction responsive to the second color composition to the second processor that is configured to control the second image former20.

The program of the exemplary embodiment of the disclosure causes the second processor to perform a function to cause the second image former20to form the second image I2in accordance with the second image formation instruction.

An image formation instruction including information demanding the first image I1and the second image I2to be superimposed to each other may be received but another image formation instruction having the same identification information may not be received. In such a case, the program of the exemplary embodiment of the disclosure causes the first processor to perform a function to cause the UI70to display information related to the image formation instruction in order to prompt selection of the first image I1and the second image I2that are to be superimposed.

In the embodiments above, the term “processor” is broad enough to encompass one processor or plural processors in collaboration which are located physically apart from each other but may work cooperatively. The order of operations of the processor is not limited to one described in the embodiments above, and may be changed.

The foregoing description of the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure has been provided for the purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise forms disclosed. Obviously, many modifications and variations will be apparent to practitioners skilled in the art. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the disclosure and its practical applications, thereby enabling others skilled in the art to understand the disclosure for various embodiments and with the various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is intended that the scope of the disclosure be defined by the following claims and their equivalents.