Image forming device and storage medium

Abstract

The present invention provides an image forming device and a storage medium. Regarding the notification of the opening state of an opening and closing part, it is possible to avoid notification that a user may misidentify. The image forming device has a first input unit, a second input unit, a third input unit, and a notification control unit. In order to notify the opening state of a first opening and closing part that can be opened and closed freely of a covering device, a first signal indicating the opening and closing state of the first opening and closing part is input to the first input unit. In order to notify the opening state of a second opening and closing part different from the first opening and closing part, a second signal indicating the opening and closing state of the second opening and closing part is input to the second input unit. In order to cut off the power supply in the device, a third signal indicating the opening and closing state of either the first opening and closing part or the second opening and closing part is input to the third input unit. When any one of the first to third signals indicates an opening state, the notification control unit does not notify the opening state of the first opening and closing part and the second opening and closing part until a prescribed period has passed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to an image forming apparatus and a storage medium. Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, an image forming apparatus is provided with an opening and closing portion (cover) that covers the apparatus and can be opened and closed freely. Such covers include a front cover, an ADU (Auto Duplex Unit) cover, and the like. For example, when replacing toner, the front cover is opened. For example, when a sheet jam occurs, the ADU cover is opened.

[0003] In addition, the image forming apparatus is provided with a cover switch for detecting that the cover is in an open state when various covers are in an open state. Thus, for example, when the front cover is in an open state, this fact can be displayed on the display and notified. As a related technology, it is known that when a first sound is emitted from a speaker and an operation of an operated member (opening and closing a cover, etc.) is detected by any one of the sensors 37, a second sound corresponding to the operated member whose operation is detected is emitted from the speaker.

[0004] The image forming apparatus is also provided with an interlock switch (also called a safety switch) for cutting off the power supply of the driving unit in the apparatus when the cover is opened. The interlock switch includes an interlock switch on the front cover side and an interlock switch on the ADU cover side.

[0005] In addition, depending on the model, for the convenience of the configuration structure of each component in the device, the substrate structure, etc., the signal line of the interlock switch may be a type that is shared by the front cover and the ADU cover. Specifically, the signal (safety signal) detected by each interlock switch is input to the control unit through one signal line. In addition, for convenience, the safety signal is allocated to either the interlock switch on the front cover side or the interlock switch on the ADU cover side (for example, the front cover).

[0006] In addition, when the image forming apparatus is in use, a situation may occur where the open state is detected by either the interlock switch or the cover switch. Specifically, in the case of an ADU cover, a situation may occur where the open state is detected by the interlock switch on the ADU cover side and the closed state is detected by the switch on the ADU cover. Here, when the safety signal is assigned to the interlock switch on the front cover side, the image forming apparatus determines that the front cover is in the open state.

[0007] However, for example, if such a determination result is used to directly notify, even though the ADU cover is open, the front cover 300 is notified to be open. Thus, in the conventional image forming apparatus, wrong information may be notified to the user regarding the open state of the cover. Summary of the invention

[0008] An object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus and a storage medium that can provide notification of the open state of an opening and closing portion without providing a notification that may be misrecognized by a user.

[0009] An image forming device according to an embodiment comprises: a first input unit, to which a first signal indicating the opening and closing state of a first opening and closing unit that covers the device and can be opened and closed freely is inputted; a second input unit, to which a second signal indicating the opening and closing state of a second opening and closing unit that is different from the first opening and closing unit is inputted, to which a third signal indicating the opening and closing state of the second opening and closing unit is inputted, to which a third signal indicating the opening and closing state of either the first opening and closing unit or the second opening and closing unit is inputted, to which a notification control unit is configured to not notify the opening state of a first opening and closing unit that covers the device and can be opened and closed freely in order to cut off power supply in the device; and a notification control unit, wherein, when any one of the first to third signals indicates an opening state, the notification control unit does not notify the opening state of the first opening and closing unit and the second opening and closing unit until a prescribed period has elapsed.

[0010] An image forming device in an embodiment comprises: a first input unit, to which a first signal indicating the opening and closing state of a first opening and closing unit that covers the device is input in order to notify the opening state of the first opening and closing unit that can be opened and closed freely; a second input unit, to which a second signal indicating the opening and closing state of a second opening and closing unit that is different from the first opening and closing unit is input in order to notify the opening state of the second opening and closing unit; a third input unit, to which a third signal indicating the opening and closing state of either the first opening and closing unit or the second opening and closing unit is input in order to cut off power in the device; and a notification control unit, which notifies the opening states of the first opening and closing unit and the second opening and closing unit based on the first signal to the third signal.

[0011] A storage medium of an embodiment stores a program, wherein the program causes a computer of an image forming device to execute processing, the image forming device comprising: a first input unit, to which a first signal indicating the opening and closing state of a first opening and closing unit that can be opened and closed freely of a covering device is inputted; a second input unit, to which a second signal indicating the opening and closing state of a second opening and closing unit that is different from the first opening and closing unit is inputted, to which a third signal indicating the opening and closing state of either the first opening and closing unit or the second opening and closing unit is inputted, to which a third signal indicating the opening and closing state of either the first opening and closing unit or the second opening and closing unit is inputted, to which a third signal indicating the opening and closing state of either the first opening and closing unit or the second opening and closing unit is inputted, to cut off power in the device. The program causes the computer of the image forming device to execute processing that, when any one of the first to third signals indicates an open state, does not notify the opening state of the first opening and closing unit or the second opening and closing unit until a prescribed period has elapsed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] Figure 1 It is an external view showing an example of the overall configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment.

[0013] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing an example of the internal structure of the image forming apparatus.

[0014] Figure 3 It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the structure of the front cover and the ADU cover.

[0015] Figure 4 This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a notification screen in which, when the front cover is in the open state, the notification of the open state is not temporarily performed.

[0016] Figure 5 This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a notification screen in which, when the ADU cover is in the open state, the notification of the open state is not temporarily performed.

[0017] Figure 6 This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a notification screen in which the previous notification can be continued for a certain period of time when the front cover is changed from the open state to the closed state.

[0018] Figure 7 This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a notification screen on which notifications so far can be continued for a certain period of time when the ADU cover is changed from an open state to a closed state.

[0019] Figure 8 This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment.

[0020] Fig. 9 This is a flowchart showing an example of notification processing performed by the image forming apparatus when the cover is in the open state.

[0021] Fig.10 This is a flowchart showing an example of notification processing performed by the image forming apparatus when the cover changes from the open state to the closed state.

[0022] Description of reference numerals:

[0023] 100: image forming device; 110: display; 300: front cover; 301: front cover switch; 302: front side interlock switch; 310: ADU cover; 311: ADU cover switch; 312: ADU side interlock switch; 810: control unit; 811: first input unit; 812: second input unit; 813: third input unit; 820: power supply unit; 821: first signal line; 822: second signal line; 823: third signal line. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] Hereinafter, the image forming apparatus and the program according to the embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same reference numerals are given to the components having the same or similar functions. In addition, the description of the duplicated components may be omitted.

[0025] First, use Figure 1 The overall structure of the image forming apparatus 100 will be described. Figure 1 1 is an external view showing an example of the overall configuration of an image forming apparatus 100 according to the embodiment. The image forming apparatus 100 is, for example, a multifunction peripheral and includes a display 110 , a control panel 120 , a printer 130 , a sheet storage unit 140 , and an image reading unit 150 .

[0026] The display 110 is, for example, a liquid crystal display with a touch panel. The display 110 displays various information. In addition, the display 110 receives operations from the user.

[0027] The control panel 120 includes various operation keys such as a numeric keypad and a start key. The control panel 120 receives various input operations from the user. In addition, the control panel 120 outputs operation signals corresponding to the various input operations received from the user to the control unit.

[0028] The printer 130 performs a series of printing operations using various information output from the display 110, the control panel 120, and the image reading unit 150. The series of printing operations includes inputting image information, forming an image, transferring the formed image to a sheet, and conveying the sheet.

[0029] The sheet storage unit 140 includes a plurality of sheet cassettes, each of which stores a sheet.

[0030] The image reading unit 150 includes an automatic document feeding device and a scanning device. The automatic document feeding device feeds the document placed on the document tray to the scanning device. The scanning device optically scans the document on the document glass stage, so that the reflected light from the document is imaged on the light receiving surface of the CCD (Charge Coupled Device) sensor. Thus, the scanning device reads the document image on the document glass stage. The image reading unit 150 generates image information (image data) using the reading result read by the scanning device.

[0031] Figure 2 1 is a diagram showing an example of the internal structure of the image forming apparatus 100. Figure 2As shown, the image forming apparatus 100 (printer 130) includes four image forming units 20a to 20d in parallel. The image forming apparatus 100 is a so-called four-drum tandem type image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus 100 includes an image processing unit 10, image forming units 20 (20a to 20d), an intermediate transfer unit 30, a fixing device 40, and a sheet conveying unit 50.

[0032] The image processing unit 10 inputs image information. The input image information is image information generated by the image reading unit 150 or image information sent from other devices. The image processing unit 10 performs digital image processing to process the input image information according to initial settings or user settings. For example, digital image processing includes grayscale correction based on grayscale correction data. In addition to grayscale correction, digital image processing also includes various correction processes such as color correction and shadow correction of image data, compression, and the like.

[0033] Next, the image forming unit 20 (image forming units 20a to 20d) will be described. The image forming unit 20 includes an image forming unit 20a corresponding to Y (yellow), an image forming unit 20b corresponding to M (magenta), an image forming unit 20c corresponding to C (cyan), and an image forming unit 20d corresponding to K (black). Each of the image forming units 20a to 20d includes a photosensitive drum 21a to 21d, a charger 22a to 22d, an exposure device 23, a developer 24a to 24d, a toner cartridge 25a to 25d, and a drum cleaning device (not shown). In addition, in the following description, the symbols a to d are omitted.

[0034] The photoconductor drum 21 is a charged type organic photoconductor (OPC) in which a primer layer, a charge generating layer, and a charge transporting layer are sequentially laminated on the circumferential surface of a conductive cylindrical body made of aluminum, for example. The photoconductor drum 21 has photoconductivity.

[0035] The charger 22 generates corona discharge and uniformly charges the surface of the photoreceptor drum 21 .

[0036] The exposure device 23 is, for example, a semiconductor laser. The exposure device 23 irradiates the photosensitive drum 21 with laser light corresponding to the image of each color component. When the exposure device 23 irradiates the photosensitive drum 21 with laser light, the potential of the area irradiated with laser light in the area on the surface of the photosensitive drum 21 changes. The electrostatic latent image is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 21 by the change in potential (potential difference).

[0037] The developing device 24 stores a developer. The developing device 24 causes the toner of each color component to adhere to the surface of the photosensitive drum 21. Thus, a toner image is formed on the photosensitive drum 21. That is, the electrostatic latent image formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 21 is visualized.

[0038] Here, the developer is described. For example, a two-component developer is used as the developer. The two-component developer has a non-magnetic colorant and a carrier. For example, iron powder or polymer ferrite particles with a particle size of several tens of μm are used as the carrier. The carrier is mixed with the colorant in the developer 24, and an electric charge (for example, a negative charge) is given to the colorant by friction charging. In addition, the carrier transports the colorant to the electrostatic latent image portion by magnetic force.

[0039] Here, the supply of toner into the developing device 24 is described. When the toner cartridge 25 is inserted, the drive motor on the main body side of the image forming apparatus 100 and the toner stirring / supplying screw conveyor 26 (26a to 26d) in the toner cartridge 25 are connected. When the toner stirring / supplying screw conveyor 26 rotates with the rotation of the drive motor, the toner is supplied into the developing device 24 through the supply port.

[0040] The drum cleaning device (not shown) includes a cleaning blade that contacts the surface of the photosensitive drum 21. The cleaning blade removes residual toner remaining on the surface of the photosensitive drum 21 after the primary transfer. The removed residual toner is recovered in a storage portion of the drum cleaning device.

[0041] Next, the intermediate transfer unit 30 will be described. The intermediate transfer unit 30 includes an intermediate transfer body 31, a primary transfer roller 32, a plurality of backup rollers 33, a secondary transfer roller 34, a belt cleaning device 35, and the like.

[0042] The intermediate transfer body 31 is, for example, an endless belt (transfer belt). The intermediate transfer body 31 is a belt that does not have conductivity and elasticity. Specifically, for example, the intermediate transfer body 31 is a belt made of polyimide. However, the intermediate transfer body 31 may also have conductivity and elasticity.

[0043] The support rollers 33a to 33c support the intermediate transfer body 31 in such a manner that tension is applied to the intermediate transfer body 31. Thus, the intermediate transfer body 31 is formed into a ring shape. Any one of the plurality of support rollers 33a to 33c (for example, the support roller 33a) is a driving roller. Rollers other than the driving roller are driven rollers. The driving roller is driven to rotate, so that the intermediate transfer body 31 runs at a predetermined speed and a predetermined cycle in the direction A in the figure.

[0044] Here, the direction in which the intermediate transfer body 31 moves can be defined as an upstream direction and a downstream direction. Specifically, the direction in which the intermediate transfer body 31 moves can be defined with the image forming unit 20a being the most upstream and the belt cleaning device 35 being the most downstream.

[0045] The primary transfer roller 32 is disposed opposite to the photosensitive drum 21 via the intermediate transfer body 31. Specifically, the primary transfer roller 32 is disposed to apply pressure to the photosensitive drum 21 via the intermediate transfer body 31. Thus, the primary transfer roller 32 and the photosensitive drum 21 form a primary transfer portion that sandwiches the intermediate transfer body 31.

[0046] When the intermediate transfer body 31 passes through the primary transfer section, the toner image formed on the photosensitive drum 21 is transferred to the intermediate transfer body 31. When the intermediate transfer body 31 passes through the primary transfer section, a primary transfer bias is applied to the primary transfer roller 32. Specifically, for example, a charge of a polarity opposite to that of the toner (positive polarity) is given to the primary transfer roller 32. Thus, the toner image formed on the photosensitive drum 21 is electrostatically transferred to the intermediate transfer body 31.

[0047] The secondary transfer roller 34 is disposed opposite to the support roller 33a via the intermediate transfer body 31. Specifically, the secondary transfer roller 34 is disposed so as to apply pressure to the support roller 33a across the intermediate transfer body 31. Thus, the secondary transfer roller 34 and the support roller 33a form a secondary transfer section 38 that sandwiches the intermediate transfer body 31 and the sheet.

[0048] When the sheet passes through the secondary transfer section 38, the toner image formed on the intermediate transfer body 31 is transferred to the sheet. When the sheet passes through the secondary transfer section 38, a secondary transfer bias is applied to the support roller 33a. Specifically, a charge of the same polarity (negative polarity) as the toner is given to the support roller 33a. Thus, the toner image on the intermediate transfer body 31 is electrostatically transferred to the sheet.

[0049] In addition, the secondary transfer roller 34 is configured to be separable from the backup roller 33 a . Thus, when a sheet is jammed in the secondary transfer portion 38 , the user can remove the sheet.

[0050] The belt cleaning device 35 includes a cleaning blade that contacts the surface of the intermediate transfer body 31. The cleaning blade removes residual toner remaining on the surface of the intermediate transfer body 31 after the secondary transfer. The removed residual toner is collected in a storage portion of the belt cleaning device 35.

[0051] The fixing device 40 heats and pressurizes the sheet to which the toner image is transferred. Thus, the fixing device 40 fixes the toner image to the sheet. In addition, a method of fixing the toner image to the sheet by heating via a film-like member can also be applied to the fixing device 40.

[0052] Next, the sheet conveying section 50 will be described. The sheet conveying section 50 includes a paper feeding section 51 , an alignment section 52 , a first guide section 53 , a second guide section 54 , and a paper discharge section 55 .

[0053] The paper feed section 51 conveys the sheets stored in the sheet storage section 140 one by one to the registration section 52. The registration section 52 stops the sheets conveyed from the paper feed section 51 and sends them toward the secondary transfer section 38 at a predetermined timing. The predetermined timing is the timing at which the toner image formed on the intermediate transfer body 31 is secondarily transferred by the secondary transfer section 38. The first guide section 53 restricts the conveying direction of the sheets sent from the registration section 52 to the secondary transfer section 38.

[0054] The secondary transfer section 38 transfers the toner image to the sheet whose conveying direction is restricted by the first guide section 53. Furthermore, the secondary transfer section 38 sends the sheet to which the toner image has been transferred toward the fixing device 40.

[0055] The second guide 54 regulates the conveying direction of the sheet fed from the secondary transfer unit 38 to the fixing device 40. The fixing device 40 heats and presses the sheet whose conveying direction is regulated by the second guide 54, and feeds it to the paper discharge unit 55. The paper discharge unit 55 feeds the sheet to a discharge tray.

[0056] Next, use Figure 3 , the structure of the front cover and the ADU (Auto Duplex Unit) cover is explained. Figure 3 : is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the structure of the front cover and the ADU cover. Figure 3 As shown in (A) to (D) of FIG. 1 , the image forming apparatus 100 includes a front cover 300 and an ADU cover 310. A direction A shown in the figure is a direction facing a user (a direction viewed from the front).

[0057] The front cover 300 is a cover that covers the front side of the device and can be opened and closed freely. A grip portion 305 is provided on the front cover 300. When a user places his hand on the grip portion 305 and pulls the front cover 300 toward the front side, the front cover 300 is opened. Figure 3 As shown in (B) of FIG. 1 , the front cover 300 is in an open state. By opening the front cover 300, for example, the user can replace the toner. The front cover 300 is an example of a first opening and closing portion.

[0058] In addition, the ADU cover 310 is a cover that covers the right side of the device when viewed from the front. The ADU cover 310 is provided with an operating lever 315. When the user places his hand on the operating lever 315 to open the ADU cover 310, Figure 3As shown in (C), the ADU cover 310 is in an open state. By opening the ADU cover 310, for example, when a sheet is jammed, the user can remove the sheet. The ADU cover 310 is an example of a second opening and closing portion. Figure 3 As shown in (D), the front cover 300 and the ADU cover 310 can also be opened at the same time.

[0059] Next, various switches are explained. Figure 3 As shown in (B) of FIG. 1 , the image forming apparatus 100 includes a front cover switch 301 and a front side interlock switch 302. Figure 3 As shown in (C) of FIG. 1 , the image forming apparatus 100 includes an ADU cover switch 311 and an ADU side interlock switch 312. Each switch is, for example, a push-button switch, which is turned on by being pressed when the cover is closed, and is turned off when the cover is opened without being pressed. In the following, when there is no need to distinguish between the front side interlock switch 302 and the ADU side interlock switch 312, they are sometimes referred to as "interlock switches".

[0060] The front cover switch 301 detects the open / closed state of the front cover 300. In addition, the front cover switch 301 outputs a switch signal for detecting that the front cover 300 is in the open state.

[0061] The ADU cover switch 311 detects the open / closed state of the ADU cover 310. The ADU cover switch 311 outputs a switch signal for detecting that the ADU cover 310 is in the open state.

[0062] The front-side interlock switch 302 is a safety switch for turning off the internal power supply when the front cover 300 is in the open state. The ADU-side interlock switch 312 is a safety switch for turning off the internal power supply when the ADU cover 310 is in the open state.

[0063] Here, the image forming apparatus 100 of the present embodiment transmits a signal (hereinafter referred to as a “safety signal”) detected when the front-side interlock switch 302 is off (cover open) and a safety signal detected when the ADU-side interlock switch 312 is off (cover open) to the control unit 810 (using the circuit board) through one signal line according to the structure of the circuit board. Figure 8 This is due to the structural convenience of the model such as the configuration structure of each component in the device and the substrate structure.

[0064] The control unit 810 cannot determine whether the front cover 300 or the ADU cover 310 is in the open state only through the safety signal. However, for convenience, the control unit 810 determines that one cover is in the open state when the safety signal is input. In other words, the safety signal is preferentially assigned to the interlock switch of one cover. In this embodiment, the safety signal is preferentially assigned to the front side interlock switch 302. In addition, the safety signal can also be preferentially assigned to the ADU side interlock switch 312.

[0065] Here, the behavior of the user when opening the ADU cover 310 is described. The user standing in front of the image forming apparatus 100 places his right hand on the operation lever 315. In addition, the user may twist the ADU cover 310 to open it. When the ADU cover 310 is twisted to open it, there is a possibility that the ADU cover 310 is closer to the front side ( Figure 3 The ADU side interlock switch 312 side of (C) is opened first, and the inner side ( Figure 3 That is, there is a case where the ADU side interlock switch 312 becomes disconnected (opened), thereby inputting a safety signal first, after which the ADU cover switch 311 becomes disconnected (opened).

[0066] Therefore, when the ADU cover 310 is opened, there is a case where only the safety signal is temporarily input to the control unit 810. When only the safety signal is input, as described above, the safety signal is preferentially assigned to the front interlock switch 302, so the control unit 810 determines that the front interlock switch 302 is in the open state. Therefore, if no control is applied, and only the safety signal is input, the image forming apparatus 100 may notify that the front cover 300 has become open. That is, if no control is applied, the image forming apparatus 100 may notify that a cover (front cover 300) different from the cover (ADU cover 310) that has become open has become open.

[0067] Therefore, in this embodiment, when the cover is in the open state, the open state of the cover is not notified temporarily, and inappropriate notification is not made. Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 , details of the notification screen for notifying of the cover open state temporarily are described.

[0068] Figure 4 This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a notification screen in which, when the front cover 300 is in the open state, the notification of the open state is not temporarily performed. Figure 4 (A) to (I) show the transition of the screen displayed on the display 110 (dynamic image). Figure 4 The images of (A) to (I). Figure 4 The series of images shown in (A) to (I) are the UI (User Interface) displays when the front cover is opened.

[0069] When the front cover 300 is in the open state, as shown in FIG. Figure 4 As shown in (A) to (C) of FIG. 1, the open state non-notification screen indicating that none of the covers has been opened is displayed for 1.5 seconds (0.5 seconds × 3 frames). Figure 4 As shown in (D) to (I) of FIG. 1 , a screen reminding the user to close the front cover 300 is displayed for 3 seconds (0.5 seconds x 6 frames). Specifically, Figure 4 (D)~ Figure 4 (I) shows a picture in which the opening degree of the front cover 300 gradually decreases. Figure 4 (D)~ Figure 4 The series of pictures shown in (I) is displayed 5 times.

[0070] After this, for example, the continuous display Figure 4 The screen (still image) shown in (D) is not limited to Figure 4 The screen shown in (D) of FIG. 1 may be any screen as long as it can notify that the front cover 300 is in the open state. For example, Figure 4 (D)~ Figure 4 A series of pictures shown in (I).

[0071] Figure 5 This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a notification screen in which, when the ADU cover 310 is in the open state, the notification of the open state is not temporarily performed. Figure 5 (A) to (I) show the transition of the screen displayed on the display 110 (dynamic image). Figure 5 The images of (A) to (I). Figure 5 The series of images shown in (A) to (I) are the ADU cover open UI displays.

[0072] When the ADU cover 310 is in the open state, Figure 5 As shown in (A) to (C) of FIG. 1, a screen indicating that none of the covers has been opened (hereinafter referred to as an "opened state non-notification screen") is displayed for 1.5 seconds (0.5 seconds x 3 frames). Figure 5 As shown in (D) to (I) of FIG. 1 , a screen is displayed for 3 seconds (0.5 seconds × 6 frames) to remind the user to close the ADU cover 310. Specifically, Figure 5 (D)~ Figure 5 (I) shows a screen in which the opening degree of the ADU cover 310 gradually decreases. Figure 5 (D)~ Figure 5The series of pictures shown in (I) is displayed 5 times.

[0073] After this, for example, the continuous display Figure 5 The screen (still image) shown in (D) is not limited to Figure 5 The screen shown in (D) of FIG. 1 may be any screen as long as it can notify that the ADU cover 310 is in the open state. For example, Figure 5 (D)~ Figure 5 A series of pictures shown in (I).

[0074] Next, the notification when each cover changes from an open state to a closed state is described. When each cover is closed, there is also a situation where only the safety signal is input. Specifically, for example, when the ADU cover 310 is changed from an open state to a closed state, there is a situation where the ADU cover switch 311 is first turned on (closed state), and then the ADU side interlock switch 312 is turned on (closed state). That is, there is a situation where after the ADU cover switch 311 is first turned on, until the ADU side interlock switch 312 is turned on, it is a state where only the safety signal is input (semi-locked state).

[0075] Therefore, if no control is applied and only the safety signal is input, it may be notified that the front cover 300 is in the open state. That is, if no control is applied, although the ADU cover 310 is in the open state (semi-locked state), it may be notified that the front cover 300 is in the open state.

[0076] Therefore, in this embodiment, when the front cover 300 or the ADU cover 310 changes from an open state to a closed state, the notification so far can be continued for a certain period of time. Figure 6 as well as Figure 7 , details of the notification screen that allows current notifications to continue for a certain period of time are explained.

[0077] Figure 6 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a notification screen in which the notification so far can be continued for a certain period of time when the front cover 300 changes from the open state to the closed state. Figure 6 (A) is the same as Figure 4 The screen displayed after the series of screens shown is displayed (refer to Figure 4 (D)) The same picture. In addition, Figure 6 The screen shown in (A) shows a screen when the front cover 300 changes from the open state to the closed state, the front cover switch 301 changes to the on state (closed state), and the front side interlock switch 302 changes to the off state (open state).

[0078] Until the front interlock switch 302 is turned on (closed), the display continues. Figure 6 The screen shown in (A) (refer to Figure 6 (B)). When the front-side interlock switch 302 becomes on (closed state), the Figure 6 The screen shown in (A) returns to the normal screen (standby screen, etc.).

[0079] In addition, the front interlock switch 302 remains disconnected (opened) until 10 seconds have passed, and the display continues. Figure 6 When the front interlock switch 302 remains off (opened) for 10 seconds, the image forming apparatus 100 determines that there is a possibility that the ADU cover 310 may be opened. Figure 6 As shown in (C) of FIG. 1 , a screen showing that both the front cover 300 and the ADU cover 310 are in the open state is displayed.

[0080] Figure 7 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a notification screen in which the notification so far can be continued for a certain period of time when the ADU cover 310 changes from an open state to a closed state. Figure 7 (A) is the same as Figure 5 The screen displayed after the series of screens shown is displayed (refer to Figure 5 (D)) The same picture. In addition, Figure 7 The screen shown in (A) shows a screen when the ADU cover 310 changes from the open state to the closed state, the ADU cover switch 311 changes to the on state (closed state), and the ADU-side interlock switch 312 changes to the off state (open state).

[0081] Until the ADU side interlock switch 312 is turned on (closed state), the display continues. Figure 7 The screen shown in (A) (refer to Figure 7 (B)). When the ADU-side interlock switch 312 is turned on (closed), the Figure 7 The screen shown in (A) returns to the normal screen (standby screen, etc.).

[0082] In addition, the ADU-side interlock switch 312 remains disconnected (opened) until 10 seconds have passed, and the display continues. Figure 7 When the ADU-side interlock switch 312 remains off (opened) for 10 seconds, the image forming apparatus 100 determines that there is a possibility that the front cover 300 may be opened. Figure 7 As shown in (C) of FIG. 1 , a screen showing that both the front cover 300 and the ADU cover 310 are in the open state is displayed.

[0083] Next, use Figure 8 , the functional structure of the image forming apparatus 100 of this embodiment is described. Figure 8 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the functional structure of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment. Figure 8 As shown, the image forming apparatus 100 includes a display 110, a front side interlock switch 302, a front cover switch 301, an ADU side interlock switch 312, an ADU cover switch 311, a first input unit 811, a second input unit 812, a third input unit 813, a control unit 810 and a power supply unit 820.

[0084] In the present embodiment, the first opening and closing part is the front cover 300 and the second opening and closing part is the ADU cover 310 , but they may be reversed. That is, the first opening and closing part may be the ADU cover 310 and the second opening and closing part may be the front cover 300 .

[0085] The first input unit 811, the second input unit 812, and the third input unit 813 are input units configured on the substrate. The first input unit 811 is connected to the front cover switch 301 one-to-one through the first signal line 821. The second switch unit 812 is connected to the ADU cover switch 311 one-to-one through the second signal line 822. The third input unit 813 is connected to the front side interlock switch 302 and the ADU side interlock switch 312 one-to-two through the third signal line 823. That is, the third input unit 813 inputs signals to two switches through one signal line (third signal line 823).

[0086] The detection result of the front cover switch 301 is input to the first input unit 811. Specifically, a first signal for notifying that the front cover 300 is in the open state is input to the first input unit 811. The first signal is, for example, a signal indicating the open or closed state of the front cover 300, and specifically includes a signal indicating that the front cover 300 is in the open state and a signal indicating that the front cover 300 is in the closed state. Hereinafter, the first signal is referred to as a "front cover SW (Switch) signal".

[0087] The detection result of the ADU cover switch 311 is input to the second input unit 812. Specifically, a second signal for notifying that the ADU cover 310 is in the open state is input to the second input unit 812. The second signal is, for example, a signal indicating the open / closed state of the ADU cover 310, and specifically includes a signal indicating that the ADU cover 310 is in the open state and a signal indicating that the ADU cover 310 is in the closed state. Hereinafter, the second signal is referred to as an "ADU cover SW signal".

[0088] The detection results of the front-side interlock switch 302 and the ADU-side interlock switch 312 are input to the third input unit 813. Specifically, a third signal for cutting off the power supply in the device (power supply unit 820) when either the front cover 300 or the ADU cover 310 is in an open state is input to the third input unit 813. The third signal includes, for example, a signal indicating that at least either the front cover 300 or the ADU cover 310 is in an open state (safety signal) and a signal indicating that both covers are in a closed state. Hereinafter, the third signal is referred to as an "interlock SW signal".

[0089] The power supply unit 820 supplies power to various motors, the image forming unit 20, the fixing device 40 and other driving units. The control unit 810 cuts off the power supply unit 820 when a safety signal is input to the third input unit 813. The control unit 810 is an example of a notification control unit.

[0090] The control unit 810 notifies the open state of the front cover 300 and the ADU cover 310 based on the front cover SW signal, the ADU cover SW signal, and the interlock SW signal. The notification of the open state of the front cover 300 and the ADU cover 310 by the control unit 810 will be specifically described.

[0091] The control unit 810 does not notify the front cover 300 and the ADU cover 310 of the open state until a prescribed period has passed when any one of the front cover SW signal, the ADU cover SW signal, and the interlock SW signal indicates an open state. For example, in the present embodiment, the control unit 810 does not notify the front cover 300 and the ADU cover 310 of the open state until a prescribed period has passed when both the front cover SW signal and the ADU cover SW signal indicate a closed state and the interlock SW signal indicates an open state. In addition, the control unit 810 does not notify the front cover 300 and the ADU cover 310 of the open state until a prescribed period has passed when the front cover SW signal indicates an open state and when the ADU cover SW signal indicates an open state. In the following, not notifying the front cover 300 and the ADU cover 310 of the open state until a prescribed period has passed is sometimes referred to as "non-notification control."

[0092] In this embodiment, the control unit 810 performs non-notification control when any one of the front cover SW signal, the ADU cover SW signal, and the interlock SW signal indicates an open state. That is, regardless of whether the interlock SW signal indicates an open state, the control unit 810 performs non-notification control when any one of the front cover SW signal and the ADU cover SW signal indicates an open state. Specifically, the control unit 810 displays the status of the front cover SW signal and the interlock SW signal when one of the front cover SW signal and the interlock SW signal indicates an open state. Figure 4 In addition, the control unit 810 displays the front cover open UI display when the ADU cover SW signal indicates the open state. Figure 5 ADU cover open UI display shown.

[0093] The control unit 810 may not perform non-notification control when either the front cover SW signal or the ADU cover SW signal indicates an open state. That is, the control unit 810 may not display the open state non-notification screen (see FIG. 1 ) when either the front cover SW signal or the ADU cover SW signal indicates an open state, specifically, for example, when the ADU cover switch 311 is disconnected (cover open) before the ADU side interlock switch 312. Figure 5 (A)~(C)), and display Figure 5 A series of screens shown in (D) to (I).

[0094] The prescribed period during which the open state is not notified is 1.5 seconds in this embodiment (see Figure 4 (A)~(C) and Figure 5 (A) to (C)). The prescribed period can be any period that is longer than the estimated period for the front cover SW signal to indicate an open state and the ADU cover SW signal to indicate an open state after the safety signal is input. More specifically, the prescribed period can be, for example, any period that is longer than the time interval between when the ADU cover 310 is opened, when the ADU side interlock switch 312 side is opened first and when the ADU cover switch 311 side is opened later. In addition, the prescribed period is not limited to 1.5 seconds, and can be set to any time.

[0095] Next, the notification after the prescribed period has passed will be described. The control unit 810 notifies the open state corresponding to either the front cover SW signal or the ADU cover SW signal when either the front cover SW signal or the ADU cover SW signal indicates the open state during the prescribed period. For example, the control unit 810 notifies that the front cover 300 is in the open state when the front cover SW signal indicates the open state during the prescribed period. In addition, for example, the control unit 810 notifies that the ADU cover 310 is in the open state when the ADU cover SW signal indicates the open state during the prescribed period.

[0096] In this embodiment, the notification of the open state corresponding to either the front cover SW signal or the ADU cover SW signal is made after a prescribed period (1.5 seconds) has passed, but the notification may be made before the prescribed period has passed. For example, the control unit 810 may also make the notification of the open state corresponding to either the front cover SW signal or the ADU cover SW signal at the timing when either the front cover SW signal or the ADU cover SW signal indicates the open state. More specifically, the notification may also be made when the front cover open UI (see Figure 4) is not displayed as an open state notification screen, when the ADU cover switch 311 is turned on (closed state) first, the ADU cover is displayed as an open state ( Figure 5 (D)~ Figure 5 A series of pictures shown in (I)).

[0097] In addition, during a predetermined period, when both the front cover SW signal and the ADU cover SW signal indicate a closed state, a notification indicating that either cover is open may be given. Specifically, the front cover open UI (see Figure 4 ) is displayed, a screen indicating that both the front cover 300 and the ADU cover 310 are in the open state is displayed (refer to Figure 6 (C)).

[0098] The notification by the control unit 810 is, for example, a notification on the screen to the display 110. However, the notification may include a notification by outputting sound from the sound output unit or a notification by lighting a predetermined lamp on the control panel 120.

[0099] Next, a specific example of non-notification control is described. The control unit 810 notifies that both the front cover 300 and the ADU cover 310 are not in the open state. Specifically, the control unit 810 displays the open state non-notification screen (see Figure 4 (A)~(C) and Figure 5 (A) to (C)). However, the screen displayed during the predetermined period is not limited to such a screen, and for example, it may be a normal standby screen or a "waiting" screen.

[0100] In addition, it is also conceivable to display a screen indicating that any cover is in the open state (see Figure 6 However, in this case, a cover that is not actually opened will be notified as being opened. Therefore, the user may want to close the cover that is not actually opened, and it is difficult to say that this is an appropriate notification. In this embodiment, a cover that is closed will not be notified as being opened.

[0101] Next, the notification when each cover changes from the open state to the closed state is described. After the control unit 810 issues the first notification indicating the open state of the front cover 300, if the front cover SW signal indicates the closed state and the interlock SW signal continues to indicate the open state, the control unit 810 continues the first notification. The first notification is, for example, Figure 6 The screen shown in (A).

[0102] Furthermore, after the control unit 810 issues the second notification indicating the open state of the ADU cover 310, if the ADU cover SW signal indicates the closed state and the interlock SW signal continues to indicate the open state, the control unit 810 continues the second notification. Figure 7 The screen shown in (A).

[0103] In addition, after continuing to issue either the first notification or the second notification, the control unit 810 issues a third notification indicating that both the front cover 300 and the ADU cover 310 are in the open state within a certain period (e.g., 10 seconds) when the interlock SW signal indicates the open state. The third notification is, for example, Figure 6 The screen shown in (C) and Figure 7 The screen shown in (C).

[0104] In addition, the certain period may be, for example, a period longer than the time interval between when the ADU cover switch 311 is closed first and the ADU side interlock switch 312 is closed later when at least the ADU cover 310 is closed. More specifically, the certain period may be a period longer than the period estimated for the interlock SW signal to indicate the closed state after either the front cover SW signal or the ADU cover SW signal indicates the closed state. In addition, the certain period is not limited to 10 seconds, and may be set to any time.

[0105] The control unit 810 is implemented, for example, by a CPU (Central Processing Unit). That is, the CPU executes a program to implement the functions of the control unit 810. In addition, the processing of this embodiment is not limited to the CPU executing the program. For example, the processing of this embodiment can be performed using hardware (circuitry; including circuitry) such as LSI (Large Scale Integration), ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), etc., or the processing of this embodiment can be performed through the collaboration of software and hardware.

[0106] (Notification Processing Performed by Image Forming Apparatus 100 When Cover Enters Open State)

[0107] Next, use Fig. 9 , an example of notification processing performed by image forming apparatus 100 when the cover is in the open state is described. Fig. 9FIG. 1 is a flowchart showing an example of a notification process performed by the image forming apparatus 100 when the cover is in the open state. In addition, in the image forming apparatus 100, a notification process is always started (regularly at very short time intervals). Fig. 9 In the following flowchart, for the sake of simplicity, the description of the simultaneous opening of the front cover 300 and the ADU cover 310 is omitted.

[0108] In addition, the details will be described later, and the priority of the cover open UI display (front cover open UI display and ADU cover open UI display) when each switch (front cover switch 301, ADU cover switch 311 and interlock switch) becomes disconnected (cover open) will be explained. The cover open UI display with the highest priority is the front cover open UI display based on the front cover switch 301 becoming disconnected. The cover open UI display with the second highest priority is the ADU cover open UI display based on the ADU cover switch 311 becoming disconnected. The cover open UI display with the lowest priority is the front cover open UI display based on the interlock switch becoming disconnected.

[0109] exist Fig. 9 In ACT 901, the image forming apparatus 100 determines whether the front cover switch 301 is off (cover open). If the front cover switch 301 is off (cover open) (ACT 901: Yes), the image forming apparatus 100 proceeds to ACT 904. If the front cover switch 301 is not off (cover open) (ACT 901: No), the image forming apparatus 100 determines whether the ADU cover switch 311 is off (cover open) (ACT 902).

[0110] When the ADU cover switch 311 is not disconnected (cover open) (ACT902: No), that is, when the ADU cover 310 is closed, the image forming apparatus 100 determines whether the interlock switch (either the front side interlock switch 302 or the ADU side interlock switch 312) is disconnected (cover open) (ACT903).

[0111] If the interlock switch is not off (cover open) (ACT 903: No), that is, if any cover is closed, the image forming apparatus 100 directly terminates the process. On the other hand, if the interlock switch is off (cover open) (ACT 903: Yes), the image forming apparatus 100 determines whether the front cover open UI display (see Figure 4 )(ACT 904 ). When the front cover open UI display is being displayed ( ACT 904 : Yes), the image forming apparatus 100 directly terminates the processing.

[0112] In ACT 904, if the front cover open UI display is not being displayed (ACT 904: No), the image forming apparatus 100 displays the front cover open UI display on the display 110 (ACT 905), and ends the series of processing. The first 1.5 seconds of the front cover open UI display displays the open state non-notification screen (see Figure 4 (A)~(C)).

[0113] Furthermore, since the safety signal is preferentially assigned to the front interlock switch 302 , when only the interlock switch is OFF (lid open) ( ACT 901 : No → ACT 903 : Yes), the front lid open UI display is displayed.

[0114] In ACT 902, when the ADU cover switch 311 is OFF (cover open) (ACT 902: YES), the image forming apparatus 100 determines whether the front cover open UI display is performed based on the interlock switch being OFF (cover open) only (refer to Figure 4 ) is being displayed (ACT906). In addition, the front cover open UI display in ACT906 is the cover open UI display with the lowest priority. In ACT906, the first 1.5 seconds of the front cover open UI display displays the open state non-notification screen (refer to Figure 4 (A)~(C)).

[0115] In ACT 906, when the front cover open UI display (for example, the open state non-notification screen) is not being displayed (ACT 906: Yes), the image forming apparatus 100 determines whether the ADU cover open UI display (see Figure 5 )(ACT 907 ). When the ADU cover open UI display is being displayed ( ACT 907 : Yes), the image forming apparatus 100 ends the series of processing.

[0116] On the other hand, if the ADU cover open UI display is not being displayed (ACT907: No), the image forming apparatus 100 displays the ADU cover open UI display on the display 110 (ACT908), and ends the series of processes. Furthermore, in ACT906, if the front cover open UI display (for example, the opening state non-notification screen) is being displayed (ACT906: Yes), the image forming apparatus 100 proceeds to ACT908, displays the ADU cover open UI display on the display 110, and ends the series of processes.

[0117] In addition, after the front cover open UI display in ACT 906 is completed, when the ADU cover open UI display in ACT 908 is performed, the opening state non-notification screen is displayed at the beginning of the ADU cover open UI display (refer to Figure 5(A) to (C)), so the maximum display is 1.5 seconds (0.5 seconds × 3 frames). Therefore, suppose that in the previously displayed front cover open UI display, the open state non-notification screen (refer to Figure 4 In the case of (A) to (C)), in combination with the open state non-notification screen, the open state non-notification screen may be displayed for a maximum of 3.0 seconds (0.5 seconds×6 frames).

[0118] In addition, after the front cover open UI display ends, when the ADU cover open UI display is performed, since the open state non-notification screen is already displayed in the front cover open UI display, the open state non-notification screen may not be displayed at the beginning of the ADU cover open UI display. In order not to display the open state non-notification screen, it is sufficient to prepare data for the ADU cover open UI display that does not include the open state non-notification screen in advance. And, when entering ACT908 from ACT906, the image forming apparatus 100 only needs to display the ADU cover open UI display represented by the data in ACT908.

[0119] In addition, the priority of the cover open UI display when each switch is turned off is supplemented. As shown in ACT901: Yes → ACT904, ACT905, when the front cover switch 301 is turned off (cover open), the front cover open UI display based on the front cover switch 301 turning off is performed (hereinafter referred to as "first UI display"). That is, when the first UI display is performed, the judgment of whether the ADU cover switch 311 is turned off in ACT902 and the judgment of whether the interlock switch is turned off in ACT903 are not performed. Therefore, the first UI display is the cover open UI display with the highest priority.

[0120] The ADU cover open UI display (hereinafter referred to as the "second UI display") based on the ADU cover switch 311 being turned off is, as shown in ACT901: No → ACT902 → ACT908, a cover open UI display performed when the ADU cover switch 311 is turned off (cover open) in ACT902 when the front cover switch 301 is turned on (cover closed). That is, when the second UI display is performed, the judgment of whether the interlock switch is turned off in ACT903 is not performed. Therefore, the second UI display is a cover open UI display with the second highest priority immediately following the first UI display.

[0121] The front cover open UI display based on the interlock switch being turned off (hereinafter referred to as the "third UI display") is a UI display performed when the interlock switch is turned off (cover open) in ACT903, when both the front cover switch 301 and the ADU cover switch 311 are turned on (cover closed), as shown in ACT901→ACT902→ACT903→ACT904→ACT905. That is, the third UI display is a cover open UI display that is not performed when either the front cover switch 301 or the ADU cover switch 311 is turned off (cover open). Therefore, the third UI display is the cover open UI display with the lowest priority.

[0122] (Notification Processing Performed by Image Forming Apparatus 100 When Cover Changes from Open State to Closed State)

[0123] Next, use Fig.10 , an example of notification processing performed by image forming apparatus 100 when the cover changes from the open state to the closed state will be described. Fig.10 FIG. 1 is a flowchart showing an example of a notification process performed by the image forming apparatus 100 when the cover changes from the open state to the closed state. In addition, in the image forming apparatus 100, a notification process is always started (regularly at very short time intervals). Fig.10 In the following flowchart, for the sake of simplicity, the description of the simultaneous opening of the front cover 300 and the ADU cover 310 is omitted.

[0124] exist Fig.10 In the image forming apparatus 100, it is determined whether the front cover is open or not. Figure 4 When the front cover open UI display is displayed (ACT1001), the image forming apparatus 100 determines whether the front cover switch 301 is on (cover closed) (ACT1002). When the front cover switch 301 is not on (cover closed) (ACT1002: No), the image forming apparatus 100 proceeds to ACT1004.

[0125] On the other hand, when the front cover switch 301 is on (cover closed) (ACT1002: Yes), the image forming apparatus 100 determines whether the interlock switch (either the front side interlock switch 302 or the ADU side interlock switch 312) is off (cover open) (ACT1003).

[0126] When the interlock switch is OFF (cover open) (ACT 1003: YES), the image forming apparatus 100 continues to display the front cover open UI display (ACT 1004), and a series of processes are terminated. That is, when the front cover 300 is in a semi-locked state where the front cover switch 301 side is first closed and the front interlock switch 302 side is opened, the image forming apparatus 100 continues to display the front cover open UI display.

[0127] On the other hand, when the interlock switch is not off (lid open) (ACT1003: No), that is, when any switch is on (lid closed), the image forming apparatus 100 determines whether the ADU cover switch 311 is on (lid closed) (ACT1005). When the ADU cover switch 311 is not on (lid closed) (ACT1005: No), the image forming apparatus 100 displays the ADU cover open UI display (ACT1006) and directly ends the processing. When the ADU cover switch 311 is off (lid open) (ACT1005: No), the image forming apparatus 100 displays the standby screen (ACT1007) and ends a series of processing.

[0128] In ACT 1001, when the front cover open UI display is not being displayed (ACT 1001: No), the image forming apparatus 100 determines whether the ADU cover open UI display (for example, Figure 5 When the ADU cover open UI display is not being displayed (ACT 1008: No), the image forming apparatus 100 proceeds to ACT 1007 and displays a standby screen.

[0129] On the other hand, when the ADU cover open UI display is being displayed (ACT 1008: YES), the image forming apparatus 100 determines whether the ADU cover switch 311 is on (cover closed) (ACT 1009). When the ADU cover switch 311 is not on (cover closed) (ACT 1009: NO), the image forming apparatus 100 continues to display the ADU cover open UI display (ACT 1010) and directly ends the processing.

[0130] On the other hand, when the ADU cover switch 311 is on (cover closed) (ACT1009: Yes), the image forming apparatus 100 determines whether the interlock switch (either the front interlock switch 302 or the ADU side interlock switch 312) is off (cover open) (ACT1011).

[0131] When the interlock switch is OFF (cover open) (ACT 1011 : YES), the image forming apparatus 100 displays the front cover open UI display (ACT 1012 ), and ends the series of processing.

[0132] On the other hand, when the interlock switch is not off (cover open) (ACT 1011: No), that is, when any switch is on (cover closed), the image forming apparatus 100 proceeds to ACT 1007, displays the standby screen, and ends a series of processes.

[0133] In the above-described embodiment, when any one of the front cover switch 301, the ADU cover switch 311, and the interlock switch indicates an open state, the open state of the front cover 300 and the ADU cover 310 is not notified until a predetermined period (1.5 seconds) has passed. Specifically, in the present embodiment, when both the front cover switch 301 and the ADU cover switch 311 indicate a closed state and the interlock switch indicates an open state, the open state of the front cover 300 and the ADU cover 310 is not notified until a predetermined period (1.5 seconds) has passed. Thus, when only the interlock switch indicates an open state, it is possible not to make a notification indicating that the cover corresponding to the switch to which the safety signal is preferentially assigned (for example, the front cover 300) has become an open state. Specifically, when the ADU cover 310 is in an open state, when the ADU-side interlock switch 312 becomes disconnected (cover open) before the ADU cover switch 311, it is possible not to notify the user of the following erroneous information: the meaning of notifying that the front cover 300 has become an open state. Therefore, since appropriate notification can be made, notification of the open state of the cover can be prevented from being misrecognized by the user.

[0134] In addition, in the present embodiment, when the open state non-notification screen ( Figure 4 In the 1.5 seconds between (A) to (C) of FIG. 11 , when either the front cover switch 301 or the ADU cover switch 311 indicates an open state, the open state notification corresponding to the switch indicating the open state is performed. Therefore, for example, even if the front cover open UI display ( Figure 4 ) display starts, you can also switch to the ADU cover open UI display ( Figure 5 ). Thus, the cover that has been opened can be appropriately notified.

[0135] In addition, in the present embodiment, as the open state non-notification screen ( Figure 4 In (A) to (C)), a notification is made indicating that both the front cover 300 and the ADU cover 310 are not in the open state. This can avoid notifying a cover that is actually in the closed state as being in the open state.

[0136] In addition, in the present embodiment, after the first notification indicating the open state of the front cover 300 is made (see Figure 6After the second notification indicating the open state of the ADU cover 310, if the ADU cover switch 311 indicates the closed state and the interlock switch continues to be open, the second notification is continued (see Figure 7 (A)). Thus, for example, in the semi-locked state when the ADU cover 310 is in the closed state, it is possible to avoid making a notification indicating that the front cover 300, to which the safety signal is preferentially assigned, has become open. Specifically, although the ADU cover 310 is in the semi-locked state, it is possible to avoid making an inappropriate notification indicating that the front cover 300 has become open. Therefore, since it is possible to make an appropriate notification, it is possible to avoid making a notification about the open state of the cover that the user may misidentify.

[0137] After continuing the first notification and the second notification, a third notification is made for a certain period of time to indicate that both the front cover 300 and the ADU cover 310 are in the open state when the interlock switch is in the open state. Thus, when it is no longer possible to determine which cover is in the open state, the image forming apparatus 100 can remind the user to close both covers.

[0138] The functions of the image forming device 100 in the above-mentioned embodiment can also be realized by a computer. In this case, the program for realizing the function can also be recorded in a computer-readable recording medium, and the program recorded in the recording medium can be read into the computer system for execution. In addition, the "computer system" referred to here includes hardware such as OS and peripheral devices. In addition, "computer-readable recording medium" refers to removable media such as floppy disks, optical magnetic disks, ROMs, CD-ROMs, and storage devices such as hard disks built into the computer system. Further, "computer-readable recording medium" can also include: a medium that dynamically maintains the program in a short period of time, such as a communication line in the case of sending a program via a network such as the Internet, a communication line such as a telephone line, and a medium that maintains the program for a certain period of time, such as a volatile memory inside a computer system that becomes a server or a user end in this case. In addition, the above-mentioned program can be a program for realizing a part of the above-mentioned function, and further, it can also be a program that realizes the above-mentioned function by combining with a program already recorded in the computer system.

[0139] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are only presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other ways, and various omissions, substitutions, and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the purpose of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and purpose of the invention, and are also included in the invention described in the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An image forming device, characterized in that: have: a first input unit, to which a first signal indicating the open / closed state of a first opening / closing unit that covers the device is input in order to notify the user of the open state of the first opening / closing unit; a second input unit, to which a second signal indicating the open / closed state of a second opening / closing unit different from the first opening / closing unit is inputted in order to notify the user of the open state of the second opening / closing unit; a third input unit to which a third signal indicating an open / closed state of either the first opening / closing unit or the second opening / closing unit is input in order to cut off power in the device; as well as a notification control unit that does not notify the first opening and closing unit and the second opening and closing unit of the open state until a predetermined period of time has passed when any one of the first to third signals indicates an open state, The notification control unit: After the first notification indicating the open state of the first opening and closing portion is made, if the first signal indicates the closed state and the third signal continues to indicate the open state, the first notification is continued, After the second notification indicating the open state of the second opening and closing portion is performed, when the second signal indicates the closed state and the third signal continues to indicate the open state, the second notification is continued.

2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: When either the first signal or the second signal indicates an open state during the predetermined period, the notification control unit performs notification of the open state corresponding to either the first signal or the second signal.

3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The notification control unit performs notification indicating that both the first opening and closing unit and the second opening and closing unit are not in the open state during the predetermined period.

4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: After continuing to issue either the first notification or the second notification, the notification control unit issues a third notification indicating that both the first opening and closing unit and the second opening and closing unit are in the open state within a predetermined period when the third signal indicates an open state.

5. A storage medium storing a program, characterized in that: The program causes a computer of the image forming apparatus to execute a process. The image forming device comprises: a first input unit, to which a first signal indicating the open / closed state of a first opening / closing unit that is freely openable and closable is inputted in order to notify the cover device of the open state of the first opening / closing unit; a second input unit, to which a second signal indicating the open / closed state of a second opening / closing unit different from the first opening / closing unit is inputted in order to notify the user of the open state of the second opening / closing unit; as well as a third input unit to which a third signal indicating the open / closed state of either the first opening / closing unit or the second opening / closing unit is input for shutting off power in the device, The program causes the computer of the image forming apparatus to execute, as a notification control unit, the following processing: When any one of the first to third signals indicates an open state, the open states of the first opening and closing section and the second opening and closing section are not notified until a predetermined period of time has passed, The notification control unit: After the first notification indicating the open state of the first opening and closing portion is made, if the first signal indicates the closed state and the third signal continues to indicate the open state, the first notification is continued, After the second notification indicating the open state of the second opening and closing portion is performed, when the second signal indicates the closed state and the third signal continues to indicate the open state, the second notification is continued.

Images