Image forming apparatus

Abstract

The invention provides an image forming apparatus which reduces the occurrence of failure in image formation and label processing with respect to label paper. According to one embodiment, an image forming apparatus includes a first sheet feed cassette, a second sheet feed cassette, an image forming unit, a communication unit, and a control unit. The first sheet feed cassette stores a first sheet to which no wireless tag is attached. The second sheet feed cassette stores a second sheet to which a wireless tag is attached. The image forming section forms an image on the first sheet or the second sheet. The communication unit communicates with the wireless tag attached to the second sheet. The control unit acquires attribute information of a user identified by user authentication, and controls whether or not the second sheet stored in the second sheet feed cassette can be used on the basis of the acquired attribute information.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to an image processing device. Background Art

[0002] There is an image forming device that can form an image on the surface of a paper. The image forming device is, for example, a multifunction peripheral (MFP) or a printer. Among the image forming devices, there is an image forming device that has an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) reader / writer that communicates with an RFID tag. An image forming device that has an RFID reader / writer can form an image on the surface of a paper and write and read data with respect to an RFID tag that the paper has. Hereinafter, paper with an RFID tag is referred to as "label paper", and the process of writing and reading data with respect to an RFID tag is referred to as "label processing".

[0003] The RFID tag on a paper is generally affixed to a specified position on one side of the paper. Therefore, when placing the label paper in the paper feed box of the image forming device, the user needs to consider the front and back sides and the orientation of the label paper. However, users who are not familiar with the handling of label paper and users who have few opportunities to replenish label paper sometimes place the label paper in the paper feed box with the front and back sides or the orientation reversed. In this case, the label processing of the RFID reader / writer sometimes fails, or an image is formed in a location that is not in the expected printing range, such as on the RFID tag. Thus, in the conventional image forming device equipped with an RFID reader / writer, there is a problem that the label processing and image formation of the label paper are prone to failure. Summary of the invention

[0004] Technical problem to be solved by the invention

[0005] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus capable of reducing failures in label processing and image formation on label paper.

[0006] Technical solutions to solve problems

[0007] An image forming apparatus according to an embodiment includes a first paper feed cassette, a second paper feed cassette, an image forming unit, a communication unit, and a control unit. The first paper feed cassette stores a first sheet material without a wireless tag attached thereto. The second paper feed cassette stores a second sheet material with a wireless tag attached thereto. The image forming unit forms an image on the first sheet material or the second sheet material. The communication unit communicates with the wireless tag attached to the second sheet material. The control unit acquires attribute information of a user determined by user authentication, and controls whether the second sheet material stored in the second paper feed cassette can be used based on the acquired attribute information. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Figure 1 It is a diagram showing the overall configuration of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the embodiment.

[0009] Figure 2 It is a diagram showing the overall structure of label paper TP according to the embodiment.

[0010] Figure 3 It is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a control system in the image forming apparatus 1 according to the embodiment.

[0011] Figure 4 1 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the image forming system 200 according to the embodiment.

[0012] Figure 5 This is a flowchart showing the operation of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the embodiment.

[0013] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing an example of a paper feed cassette selection screen displayed on the control panel 21 according to the embodiment.

[0014] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing an example of a paper feed cassette selection screen displayed on the control panel 21 according to the embodiment.

[0015] Description of Reference Numerals

[0016] 1…image forming device, 2…toner cartridge, 11…housing, 12…communication interface, 13…system controller, 14…paper supply box, 15…paper discharge tray, 16…conveying mechanism, 17…image forming mechanism, 18…fixer, 19…label communication device, 20…scanner, 21…control panel, 22…touch panel, 23…keyboard, 30…motor, 31…paper supply conveying path, 32…paper discharge conveying path, 33…pick-up roller, 34…heating roller, 35…pressing roller, 36…registering roller, 40…RFID tag, 41…image forming station, 42…transfer mechanism , 71…photosensitive drum, 72…cleaner, 73…charger, 74…exposure device, 75…developer, 91…transfer belt, 92…driving roller, 93…primary transfer roller, 94…secondary transfer roller, 95, 97…power supply, 131…processor, 134…auxiliary storage device, 200…image forming system, 201…server, 202…user terminal, 211…processor, 214…data storage device, 215…communication interface, 221…processor, 224…data storage device, 225…communication interface, P…paper, NP…ordinary paper, TP…label paper. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] The image forming apparatus of the embodiment is described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The image forming apparatus of the embodiment has a structure that makes the paper feed box storing label paper unusable when the user determined by user authentication is a user who is not allowed to perform printing (printing) processing accompanied by label processing. By having such a structure, the image forming apparatus of the embodiment can prevent, for example, users who are not familiar with the handling of label paper from placing the label paper in the paper feed box with the wrong side or orientation. In addition, the image forming apparatus of the embodiment has a structure that does not perform label processing when instructed to perform a copying (copying) job instead of a printing (printing) job. By having such a structure, the image forming apparatus of the embodiment can prevent the use of label paper when performing a copying job that generally does not require label processing.

[0018] Hereinafter, the overall configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment will be described. Figure 1 1 is an overall configuration diagram of an image forming apparatus 1 according to an embodiment. The image forming apparatus 1 according to the embodiment is, for example, an MFP (Multi-Functional Peripheral) having an electrophotographic printer. Alternatively, the image forming apparatus 1 may be a printer. For example, the image forming apparatus 1 is disposed in a workplace.

[0019] The image forming apparatus 1 includes an image forming mechanism 17 and a tag communication device 19. The image forming mechanism 17 forms an image on a plain paper NP or a label paper TP as a printing medium. Plain paper NP is a plain paper without an RFID tag. On the other hand, label paper TP is a paper with an RFID tag. In addition, label paper TP can be a paper with an RFID tag affixed thereto or a paper with an RFID tag embedded therein. In addition, the paper is, for example, paper or label paper. However, the paper can be any object as long as it is an object of a material on which the image forming apparatus can form an image. For example, the paper can also be an object other than paper, such as a sheet material such as an OHP (Overhead Projector) film. Hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish between plain paper NP and label paper TP for explanation, it is referred to as "paper P".

[0020] Figure 2 1 is a diagram showing the overall structure of the label paper TP according to the embodiment. Figure 2 As shown in FIG. 1 , the RFID tag 40 is attached to the non-printing surface (back surface) of the label paper TP. Figure 2 As shown, when the conveying direction is set to the upper direction of the label paper TP, the RFID tag 40 is attached to the upper center of the label paper TP. In addition, the setting position of the RFID tag 40 in the label paper TP is arbitrary, but it needs to be matched with the reading position of the tag communication device 19 described later for positioning.

[0021] The tag communication device 19 is an RFID reader / writer that communicates with the RFID tag 40 provided on the label paper TP. Figure 1 As shown, the image forming apparatus 1 of the embodiment has a built-in tag communication device 19. However, the configuration is not limited to this, and the tag communication device 19 may be installed outside the image forming apparatus 1. The tag communication device 19 may be set at any position as long as it is within a distance range where it can communicate with the RFID tag 40 of the label paper transported inside the image forming apparatus 1.

[0022] The RFID tag 40 included in the label paper TP is a passive tag without a built-in battery. However, it may also be an active tag or a semi-active tag with a built-in battery. The RFID tag 40 included in the label paper TP has an internal memory, a wireless communication circuit, and an antenna. Alternatively, the RFID tag 40 may also have a processor, an internal memory, a wireless communication circuit, and an antenna. The processor is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The internal memory is composed of, for example, a semiconductor memory such as an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory) or a RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0023] Four memory areas such as EPC memory, USER memory, TID memory, and RESERVED memory are prepared in the internal memory. The EPC memory is an area for storing code information for identifying the RFID tag 40. The USER memory is an area where the user can freely read and write data. The TID memory is an area for the manufacturer to write when the RFID tag 40 is manufactured. The RESERVED memory is an area for storing password information used in the locking function and the invalidation function of the RFID tag 40.

[0024] The RFID tag 40 communicates with the tag communication device 19 of the image forming apparatus 1. The RFID tag 40 executes processing according to the command supplied from the tag communication device 19, and replies the execution result to the tag communication device 19. For example, when the RFID tag 40 receives a read command from the tag communication device 19, it reads out the data stored in the internal memory, and sends the read data to the tag communication device 19. In addition, when the RFID tag 40 receives a write command from the tag communication device 19, it writes the data received from the tag communication device 19 into the internal memory, and sends information indicating the writing result to the tag communication device 19.

[0025] Figure 1 The image forming mechanism 17 of the embodiment shown forms an image on the paper P using an electrophotographic image forming unit. However, the image forming unit used in the image forming mechanism 17 is not limited to the electrophotographic image forming unit. The image forming unit used in the image forming mechanism 17 may be, for example, an inkjet image forming unit.

[0026] Figure 1 The image forming mechanism 17 shown forms an image developed with toner (developer) on the paper P. The toner may be a single-color toner or a plurality of colors. In addition, the toner may be a decolorizable toner. Figure 1 The following is a configuration example of an image forming apparatus 1 that performs an image forming process using four color toners of yellow, magenta, cyan, and black.

[0027] like Figure 1 As shown, the image forming apparatus 1 includes, in addition to an image forming mechanism 17 and a tag communication device 19, a housing 11, a communication interface 12, a system controller 13, a plurality of paper feed cassettes 14, a paper discharge tray 15, a conveying mechanism 16, a fixing device 18, a scanner 20, and a control panel 21.

[0028] The housing 11 is a main body of the image forming apparatus 1 and accommodates, for example, a communication interface 12 , a system controller 13 , a plurality of paper feed cassettes 14 , a conveying mechanism 16 , an image forming mechanism 17 , and a fixing device 18 . A portion of the upper surface of the housing 11 serves as a paper discharge tray 15 . Figure 1 The image forming apparatus 1 shown in the figure has two paper feed cassettes 14 as an example, but may have three or more. The user specifies in advance for each paper feed cassette 14 whether to place the plain paper NP or the label paper TP.

[0029] The communication interface 12 is an interface for connecting to a network. The communication interface 12 communicates with external devices connected to the network. The external devices are, for example, user terminals such as PCs (Personal Computers) that instruct printing jobs, and servers that manage information or printing jobs that are sent and received by communicating with the RFID tag 40. The communication interface 12 has, for example, an interface for wired communication connection such as a LAN (Local Area Network) connector. However, the communication interface 12 may also be an interface for wireless communication connection that communicates with external devices according to wireless communication standards such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark).

[0030] The system controller 13 performs control of each part of the image forming apparatus 1 and data processing, etc. For example, the system controller 13 is a computer including a processor, a memory, and various interfaces. In the system controller 13, the control of each part and data processing are performed by the processor executing the program stored in the memory. The system controller 13 is connected to each part in the housing 11, for example, through various internal interfaces. For example, the system controller 13 is connected to the communication interface 12, the paper supply box 14, the paper discharge tray 15, the conveying mechanism 16, the image forming mechanism 17, the fixing device 18, the label communication device 19, and the scanner 20, etc. through a bus connection.

[0031] The system controller 13 acquires a print job including image data and the like from an external device via the communication interface 12. The image data included in the print job is data representing an image formed on the paper P. The image data may be data for forming an image on one paper P or may be data for forming an image on a plurality of paper P.

[0032] In addition, the print job may also include information indicating the content of the tag processing for the RFID tag 40 provided on the paper P. The content of the tag processing for the RFID tag 40 may be content indicating the writing of data to the RFID tag 40, or content indicating the reading of data from the RFID tag 40. In addition, the print job may also include information indicating the paper discharge position (paper discharge tray, paper discharge direction, etc.) where the paper P with the image formed thereon is discharged. In addition, the print job may also include information indicating whether it is color printing or monochrome printing, and information indicating printing conditions such as paper size.

[0033] The system controller 13 includes an engine controller that controls the operation of the conveying mechanism 16, the image forming mechanism 17, and the fixing device 18. For example, the system controller 13 controls the conveying of the paper P by the conveying mechanism 16. The system controller 13 controls the formation of a developer image and the transfer of the developer image to the paper P by the image forming mechanism 17. The system controller 13 controls the fixing of the developer image to the paper P by the fixing device 18. The system controller 13 forms an image of the image data included in the print job on the paper P by controlling the operation of the conveying mechanism 16, the image forming mechanism 17, and the fixing device 18.

[0034] In addition, the image forming apparatus 1 may be configured to include an engine controller separately from the system controller 13. For example, the image forming apparatus 1 may include an engine controller that controls at least one of the conveying mechanism 16, the image forming mechanism 17, the fixing device 18, etc. separately from the system controller 13. In this case, the engine controller that is provided separately from the system controller 13 only needs to obtain information required for control from the system controller 13.

[0035] The plurality of paper feed cassettes 14 are cassettes for accommodating paper P, respectively. The paper feed cassettes 14 are configured to accommodate plain paper NP and label paper TP. For example, the paper feed cassettes 14 are configured to be drawn out from the housing 11. The paper feed cassettes 14 are replenished with plain paper NP and label paper TP in the drawn-out state and are then stored again in the housing 11. In addition, as described above, the paper feed cassettes 14 for storing plain paper NP and the paper feed cassettes 14 for storing label paper TP are distinguished in advance by the user.

[0036] The conveying mechanism 16 is a mechanism for conveying the paper P in the image forming apparatus 1. Figure 1 As shown, the conveying mechanism 16 includes a plurality of conveying paths. The conveying mechanism 16 includes a paper supply conveying path 31 and a paper discharge conveying path 32 .

[0037] The paper feed conveying path 31 and the paper discharge conveying path 32 are composed of a plurality of rollers and a plurality of guides. The plurality of rollers rotate by power transmitted from a driving mechanism to convey the paper P. The plurality of guides control the conveying direction of the paper P conveyed by the rollers.

[0038] The paper feeding conveying path 31 takes in the paper P from the paper feeding cassette 14 and supplies the taken-in paper P to the image forming mechanism 17. The paper feeding conveying path 31 includes a plurality of pickup rollers 33 corresponding to the paper feeding cassettes 14. Each pickup roller 33 feeds a sheet of paper P taken out from the paper feeding cassette 14 into the paper feeding conveying path 31.

[0039] The paper feed conveying path 31 supplies the paper P to the transfer position of the image (toner image) generated by the image forming mechanism 17 using the toner (developer). The registration roller 36 is provided near the transfer position in the paper feed conveying path 31. The registration roller 36 sends the paper P supplied from the paper feed cassette 14 to the transfer position according to the transfer timing of the image at the transfer position. For example, the registration roller 36 temporarily stops the paper P supplied from the paper feed cassette 14. In addition, in the image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, the label communication device 19 provided near the registration roller 36 is configured to communicate with the label paper TP temporarily stopped there. The registration roller 36 sends the paper P to the transfer position at a timing corresponding to an instruction from the system controller 13.

[0040] The paper discharge conveying path 32 is a conveying path for discharging the paper P on which the image is formed by the image forming mechanism 17 from the housing 11. The paper discharge conveying path 32 discharges the paper P to the paper discharge tray 15. The paper discharge tray 15 is a tray for receiving the paper P discharged from the image forming apparatus 1. In addition, when the image forming apparatus 1 has a plurality of paper discharge positions, the paper discharge conveying path 32 operates so as to discharge the paper P to the paper discharge position designated by the system controller 13.

[0041] The image forming mechanism 17 has a configuration for forming an image on the paper P. The image forming mechanism 17 will be described in detail later.

[0042] The fixing device 18 includes a heating roller 34 and a pressure roller 35. The fixing device 18 heats the paper P conveyed in the paper discharge conveying path 32 at a predetermined temperature by the heating roller 34. The fixing device 18 also presses the paper P heated by the heating roller 34 by the pressure roller 35. The fixing device 18 fixes the image (developer image) on the paper P to the paper P by heating and pressing the paper P.

[0043] The tag communication device 19 communicates with the RFID tag 40 as a wireless communicator provided on the tag paper TP. The tag communication device 19 is, for example, disposed near the registration roller 36. The tag communication device 19 is disposed in the paper feed conveying path 31 so as to be able to communicate with the wireless tag of the paper P conveyed to a position near (upstream) the registration roller 36. However, the location of the registration roller 36 is not limited thereto, and it only needs to be disposed near the conveying path for conveying the paper P.

[0044] The tag communication device 19 transmits a command to the RFID tag 40 through wireless communication. The RFID tag 40 executes processing corresponding to the command received from the tag communication device 19, and transmits (replies) the execution result of the command to the tag communication device 19. The tag communication device 19 receives the command as a reply from the RFID tag 40.

[0045] The tag communication device 19 reads data from the RFID tag 40 or writes data to the RFID tag 40 according to the instruction from the system controller 13. When the tag communication device 19 is instructed by the system controller 13 to read data from the RFIF tag, it performs the process of reading data from the RFID tag 40. When the tag communication device 19 is instructed by the system controller 13 to write data to the RFIF tag, it performs the process of writing data to the RFID tag 40.

[0046] The scanner 20 is a device that reads a document and converts it into image data. The scanner 20 is disposed on the upper portion of the housing 11. The scanner 20 reads the image of the document placed on the document table glass disposed on the upper portion of the housing 11. In addition, the scanner 20 is provided with an automatic document feeder (ADF). The scanner 20 also has a function of reading the image of the document fed by the automatic document feeder (ADF).

[0047] The control panel 21 includes a touch panel 22 and a keyboard 23. The touch panel 22 is formed by laminating a display such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) or an organic EL (Electroluminescence) display and a touch sensor for detecting touch input. The display including the touch panel 22 is a display device of the image forming apparatus 1.

[0048] Information indicating whether each paper feed cassette 14 can be used, for example, is displayed on the touch panel 22. Whether each paper feed cassette 14 can be used differs for each user who uses the image forming apparatus 1. For example, whether the paper feed cassette 14 storing the label paper TP is displayed as being usable or unusable differs on the touch panel 22 depending on the authentication result of the user.

[0049] The keyboard 23 includes various keys for the user of the image forming apparatus 1 to operate. For example, the keyboard 23 includes numeric keys, a power key, a paper feed key, function keys, etc. Each key may also be called a button. The touch panel 22 and the keyboard 23 are input devices of the image forming apparatus 1 .

[0050] Next, the structure of the image forming mechanism 17 will be described. Figure 1 As shown in FIG. 1 , the image forming mechanism 17 includes a plurality of image forming stations 41 and a transfer mechanism 42. Each image forming station 41 forms a toner image. Each image forming station 41 is provided for each type of toner. Figure 1 In the illustrated example, the image forming stations 41 correspond to color toners of yellow, magenta, cyan, and black, respectively, from the left. Each image forming station 41 includes a toner cartridge 2 containing color toners of corresponding colors. Figure 1 The illustrated image forming apparatus 1 includes four image forming stations 41 corresponding to four color toners of yellow, magenta, cyan, and black, respectively.

[0051] Next, the configuration of each image forming station 41 will be described. Each image forming station 41 includes a photosensitive drum (photosensitive body) 71 , a cleaner 72 , a charger 73 , an exposure device 74 , a developer 75 , and a primary transfer roller (transfer device) 93 .

[0052] The photosensitive drum 71 includes a cylindrical drum and a photosensitive layer formed on the outer peripheral surface of the drum. The photosensitive drum 71 is a photosensitive body. The outer peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 71 is an image bearing body. The photosensitive drum 71 rotates at a constant speed by the power transmitted from the driving mechanism.

[0053] The cleaner 72 has a blade that contacts the surface of the photoconductor drum 71. The cleaner 72 removes the toner remaining on the surface of the photoconductor drum 71 using the blade.

[0054] The charger 73 uniformly charges the surface of the photosensitive drum 71. The charger 73 is also called a charging charger. The charger 73 applies a grid bias voltage (charging potential) output from a grid electrode to the photosensitive drum 71 to charge the photosensitive drum 71 to a uniform negative potential (surface potential).

[0055] The exposure device 74 includes a plurality of light emitting elements. The light emitting elements are, for example, laser diodes (LD), light emitting diodes (LED), or organic EL (OLED). The plurality of light emitting elements are arranged in a direction parallel to the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum 71, that is, in a main scanning direction. Each light emitting element is configured to irradiate light to a point on the photosensitive drum 71.

[0056] The exposure device 74 irradiates the charged surface of the photosensitive drum 71 with light from a plurality of light emitting elements arranged in the main scanning direction, thereby forming an electrostatic latent image for one line on the photosensitive drum 71. Furthermore, the exposure device 74 continuously irradiates light to the rotating photosensitive drum 71, thereby forming an electrostatic latent image for a plurality of lines.

[0057] The developer 75 is a device that makes the toner adhere to the photosensitive drum 71. The developer 75 contains a developer including a toner and a carrier. The developer 75 stirs the toner and the carrier supplied from the toner cartridge 2 by a stirring mechanism. The developer 75 supplies the toner to the photosensitive drum 71 from a developing roller to which the developer including the toner and the carrier stirred by the stirring mechanism is attached. The developer 75 develops the electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum 71 with the toner by supplying the toner to the photosensitive drum 71. The photosensitive drum 71 holds the toner image (developer image) developed with the toner by the developer 75. The photosensitive drum 71 conveys the toner image to the transfer position to be transferred toward the transfer belt 91 by rotating.

[0058] The transfer mechanism 42 transfers the toner image formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 71 to the paper P. Figure 1 In the illustrated configuration example, the transfer mechanism 42 includes a transfer belt (transfer body) 91 , a drive roller 92 , a plurality of primary transfer rollers (transfer devices) 93 , and a secondary transfer roller 94 .

[0059] The transfer belt 91 is a medium (transfer body) that transfers the toner image formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 71 of each image forming station 41. The transfer belt 91 is an intermediate transfer body that holds the image transferred to the paper P. Figure 1 In the illustrated configuration example, the transfer belt 91 is an endless belt wound around a driving roller 92 and a plurality of winding rollers. The inner surface, i.e., the back surface, of the transfer belt 91 contacts the driving roller 92 and the plurality of winding rollers. The outer surface, i.e., the front surface, of the transfer belt 91 faces the photosensitive drum 71 of each image forming station 41.

[0060] The driving roller 92 is rotated by the power transmitted from the driving mechanism. The driving roller 92 conveys the transfer belt 91 by rotating. Figure 1 In the illustrated configuration example, the drive roller 92 rotates counterclockwise. The transfer belt 91 as an endless belt is conveyed in a counterclockwise rotational manner by the rotation of the drive roller 92. The plurality of winding rollers are configured to be freely rotatable. The plurality of winding rollers rotate as the transfer belt 91 is moved by the drive roller 92.

[0061] A plurality of primary transfer rollers (transfer devices) 93 are provided for each image forming station 41. Each primary transfer roller 93 is provided so as to face the photosensitive drum 71 of the corresponding image forming station 41. Each primary transfer roller 93 is provided at a position facing the photosensitive drum 71 of the corresponding image forming station 41 via the transfer belt 91. The position where the primary transfer roller 93 faces the photosensitive drum 71 via the transfer belt 91 is referred to as a primary transfer section. In the primary transfer section, the image (toner image) on the photosensitive drum 71 is transferred to the transfer belt 91.

[0062] The primary transfer roller 93 is in contact with the inner peripheral surface side of the transfer belt 91. The primary transfer roller 93 presses the transfer belt 91 from the inner peripheral surface side toward the photosensitive drum 71. The surface (outer peripheral surface) of the transfer belt 91 pressed by the primary transfer roller 93 abuts against the photosensitive drum 71. When the primary transfer roller 93 transfers the image (toner image) from the photosensitive drum 71, it applies a transfer bias (primary transfer bias) to the photosensitive drum 71 via the transfer belt 91. The toner image is transferred from the photosensitive drum 71 to the transfer belt 91 by the transfer bias applied from the primary transfer roller 93.

[0063] The secondary transfer roller 94 is provided at a position opposite to the driving roller 92. The secondary transfer roller 94 contacts the surface of the transfer belt 91 whose inner circumference is conveyed by the driving roller 92. The secondary transfer roller 94 presses the transfer belt 91 toward the driving roller 92. The surface of the transfer belt 91 sandwiched by the driving roller 92 and the secondary transfer roller 94 is in close contact with the secondary transfer roller 94. A transfer nip is formed at a portion where the surface of the transfer belt 91 and the secondary transfer roller 94 are in close contact. The transfer nip is a transfer portion (transfer position) where the toner image (developer image) formed on the surface of the transfer belt 91 is transferred to the paper P.

[0064] The secondary transfer roller 94 conveys the paper P fed by the registration roller 36 while being sandwiched between the secondary transfer roller 94 and the transfer belt 91. The paper P passes through the transfer nip (transfer position). The secondary transfer roller 94 presses the paper P passing through the transfer nip against the surface of the transfer belt 91.

[0065] The secondary transfer roller 94 applies a bias voltage (secondary transfer bias) to the transfer belt 91 via the paper P at the transfer nip. The secondary transfer roller 94 applies a secondary transfer bias (hereinafter, also referred to as "transfer bias") of a potential specified by the system controller 13. When the paper P passes through the transfer nip with the transfer bias applied by the secondary transfer roller 94, the toner image on the transfer belt 91 is transferred to the paper P.

[0066] In this way, the transfer mechanism 42 transfers (primarily transfers) the toner image on the photosensitive drum 71 to the transfer belt 91 in contact with the photosensitive drum 71 using a transfer bias applied from the primary transfer roller 93 in the primary transfer section. When a plurality of image forming stations 41 are provided, the transfer mechanism 42 primarily transfers the toner images from the photosensitive drums 71 of the plurality of image forming stations 41 to the transfer belt 91.

[0067] The transfer mechanism 42 sends the toner image transferred primarily to the surface of the transfer belt 91 to the transfer nip (transfer position). The transfer mechanism 42 transfers the toner image transferred to the surface of the transfer belt 91 to the paper P passing through the transfer nip to which a transfer bias is applied from the secondary transfer roller 94. The transfer belt 91 is an example of an image carrier that holds the toner image transferred to the paper P.

[0068] Next, the configuration of a control system in the image forming apparatus 1 according to the embodiment will be described. Figure 3 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a control system of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the embodiment.

[0069] like Figure 3 As shown, the image forming apparatus 1 is connected to a system controller 13 with a communication interface 12 , an image forming mechanism 17 , a fixing device 18 , a label communication device 19 , a scanner 20 , a control panel 21 , and a motor 30 .

[0070] The system controller 13 includes a processor 131, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 132, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 133, and an auxiliary storage device 134. The system controller 13 constitutes a computer by the processor 131, the ROM 132, the RAM 133, and the auxiliary storage device 134. In addition, the system controller 13 may include an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or the like as a processor for image processing.

[0071] The processor 131 corresponds to the core part of the computer as the system controller 13. The processor 131 controls each part of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the operating system or the application program. The processor 131 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit).

[0072] ROM 132 and RAM 133 correspond to the main storage part of the computer as the system controller 13. ROM 132 is a non-volatile memory area, and RAM 133 is a volatile memory area. ROM 132 stores an operating system or an application program. ROM 132 stores control data required for the processor 131 to perform processing for controlling each part. RAM 133 is used as a work area for appropriately rewriting data by the processor 131. RAM 133 has a work area for storing image data, for example.

[0073] The auxiliary storage device 134 corresponds to the auxiliary storage part of the computer as the system controller 13. The auxiliary storage device 134 is composed of a storage device such as EEPROM (registered trademark) (Electric Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), HDD (Hard Disc Drive) or SSD (Solid State Drive). The auxiliary storage device 134 stores data such as setting data used in various processes performed by the processor 131. The auxiliary storage device 134 saves data generated in the process executed by the processor 131. The auxiliary storage device 134 can also store application programs.

[0074] In addition, the auxiliary storage device 134 stores authentication information for authenticating a user who uses the image forming apparatus 1 and the user terminal 202. The authentication information is information in which a user ID (Identifier) ​​that uniquely identifies a user and a password are associated with each other, for example. The processor 131 performs user authentication processing by, for example, comparing a user ID and a password sent from the user terminal 202 described later with the user ID and the password stored in the auxiliary storage device 134.

[0075] In addition, the auxiliary storage device 134 also stores attribute information of each user ID. The attribute information is information (e.g., flag information) indicating whether each user is an administrator. Here, an administrator is a user who is allowed to print on label paper TP, and users other than the administrator are users who are not allowed to print on label paper TP. Alternatively, the attribute information may also be information (e.g., flag information) indicating whether the user is allowed to print on label paper TP. Alternatively, the attribute information may also be information (e.g., flag information) indicating whether the user has many opportunities to print on label paper TP (i.e., whether the user is familiar with printing on label paper TP).

[0076] The processor 131 performs various controls for allowing or prohibiting printing on label paper TP, for example, based on the user ID and attribute information of the authenticated user. For example, the control for prohibiting printing on label paper TP refers to a control for switching a display so that the user cannot select a paper feed box 14 storing label paper TP in the selection screen of the paper feed box 14 displayed on the control panel 21. Or, for example, the control for prohibiting printing on label paper TP refers to a control for sounding an alarm when the user wants to select a paper feed box 14 storing label paper TP in the selection screen of the paper feed box 14 displayed on the control panel 21. Or, for example, the control for prohibiting printing on label paper TP refers to a control for preventing the pickup roller 33 that picks up label paper TP from the paper feed box 14 from operating when the user wants to select the paper feed box 14 storing label paper TP and execute printing.

[0077] In addition, for example, when copying instead of printing is instructed, the processor 131 performs various controls for prohibiting printing on the label paper TP. The control for prohibiting printing on the label paper TP is the same as the control performed based on the user ID and attribute information described above.

[0078] The system controller 13 is connected to the toner cartridge 2, the photosensitive drum 71, the cleaner 72, the charger 73, the exposer 74, and the developer 75 in each image forming station 41. The system controller 13 controls the toner cartridge 2, the photosensitive drum 71, the cleaner 72, the charger 73, the exposer 74, and the developer 75.

[0079] For example, the system controller 13 controls the on / off of charging for the charger 73 of each image forming station 41. Also, for example, the system controller 13 controls the on / off of irradiation (exposure) of laser light to the photosensitive drum 71 for the exposure device 74 of each image forming station 41. Also, for example, the system controller 13 controls the on / off of developing bias for the developer 75 of each image forming station 41.

[0080] The system controller 13 is connected to the transfer mechanism 42. The transfer mechanism 42 includes a transfer belt 91, a drive roller 92, a plurality of primary transfer rollers 93, a secondary transfer roller 94, a power source 95, and a power source 97. The plurality of primary transfer rollers 93 are primary transfer rollers provided in each image forming station 41.

[0081] The system controller 13 is connected to the registration roller 36. For example, the system controller 13 controls the on / off of the feeding of the paper P to the transfer position by the registration roller 36 according to the result of the tag processing of the RFID tag 40 with respect to the paper P. The registration roller 36 feeds the paper P to the transfer position at a timing based on an instruction from the system controller 13.

[0082] The power source 95 supplies a transfer bias (primary transfer bias) that the primary transfer roller 93 applies to the photosensitive drum 71 that faces the transfer belt 91. The power source 95 may be a current source or a voltage source.

[0083] The power supply 95 is connected to the system controller 13. The system controller 13 controls the on / off of the primary transfer bias applied by the primary transfer roller 93 to the opposing photosensitive drum 71 via the power supply 95. The system controller 13 controls the value of the primary transfer bias applied by the primary transfer roller 93 via the power supply 95.

[0084] The power supply 97 supplies a transfer bias voltage (secondary transfer bias voltage) applied by the secondary transfer roller 94 to the drive roller 92 opposite to the transfer belt 91. The power supply 97 is connected to the system controller 13. The system controller 13 controls the value of the bias voltage (secondary transfer bias voltage) applied by the secondary transfer roller 94 to the transfer belt 91 through the power supply 97. For example, the system controller 13 may determine the value of the transfer bias voltage based on the transfer setting corresponding to the result of the processing of the RFID tag 40 with respect to the label paper TP. In addition, the system controller 13 may also adjust the value of the bias voltage (secondary transfer bias voltage) based on the basis weight, thickness or type of the paper P, etc.

[0085] The motor 30 is a motor for causing each part to operate. The motor 30 is connected to the system controller 13. The motor 30 is driven according to the control from the system controller 13. The motor 30 includes, for example, a first motor, a second motor, and a third motor. The first motor of the motor 30 drives the conveying mechanism 16. The second motor of the motor 30 rotates the photosensitive drum 71. The third motor of the motor 30 rotates the driving roller 92. A plurality of second motors are provided corresponding to the photosensitive drums 71 respectively provided in the plurality of image forming stations 41. The motor 30 may also include motors other than the first, second, and third motors.

[0086] Next, the configuration of the image forming system 200 including the image forming apparatus 1 and the server 201 according to the embodiment will be described.

[0087] The image forming device 1 having the above-described configuration may also be a configuration used in the image forming system 200 connected to the server 201. For example, the server 201 is used as a management device for managing the data recorded on the RFID tag 40 of the label paper TP so as to manage the label paper TP. The server 201 may also instruct the image forming device 1 to write the data of the RFID tag 40 of the label paper TP.

[0088] The server 201 can manage the history of the label paper TP being processed by storing the data written by the image forming device 1 to the RFID tag 40 of the label paper TP together with information such as date and time. In addition, the server 201 obtains the data read from the RFID tag 40 of the label paper TP by the image forming device 1. The server 201 can manage the history of the label paper TP being processed by storing the data read from the RFID tag 40 of the label paper TP by the image forming device 1 together with information such as date and time.

[0089] Hereinafter, an example of the configuration of an image forming system including the image forming apparatus 1 , a server, and a user terminal will be described. Figure 4 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of an image forming system 200 including an image forming apparatus 1 according to an embodiment, a server 201, and a user terminal 202. Figure 4 In the configuration example shown, the image forming apparatus 1 is provided with the aforementioned Figure 1 and Figure 3 A multifunction device having the structure shown.

[0090] like Figure 4 As shown, the server 201 has a processor 211, a ROM 212, a RAM 213, a data storage 214, and a communication interface 215. The server 201 is, for example, a general-purpose computer.

[0091] The processor 211 is equivalent to the core part of the computer serving as the server 201. The processor 211 is, for example, a CPU. The processor 211 performs various processes by executing programs. For example, the processor 211 executes an operating system or an application program.

[0092] ROM 212 and RAM 213 correspond to the main storage part of the computer as server 201. ROM 212 is a non-volatile memory area. RAM 213 is a volatile memory area. ROM 212 stores, for example, an operating system or an application program. ROM 212 stores control data required for processor 211 to perform processing for controlling each part. RAM 213 is used as a work area for appropriately rewriting data by processor 211. RAM 213 has, for example, a work area for storing image data.

[0093] The data memory 214 is equivalent to the auxiliary storage part of the computer as the server 201. The data memory 214 is composed of a storage device such as an EEPROM, an HDD or an SSD. The data memory 214 stores data such as setting data used when the processor 211 performs various processes. The data memory 214 saves data generated by the processing executed by the processor 211. The data memory 214 can also store application programs.

[0094] In addition, as described above, in the present embodiment, the image forming apparatus 1 performs the user authentication process, but the server 201 may perform the user authentication process. In this case, the data storage 214 stores authentication information for authenticating the user who uses the image forming apparatus 1 and the user terminal 202. The authentication information is information that associates a user ID (Identifier) ​​that uniquely identifies the user with a password, for example.

[0095] In this case, the data storage 214 also stores attribute information of each user. As described above, the attribute information is a flag indicating whether each user is an administrator, information indicating whether each user is a user permitted to print on label paper TP (e.g., flag information), or information indicating whether each user is a user who has many opportunities to print on label paper TP (i.e., whether each user is a user familiar with printing on label paper TP) (e.g., flag information).

[0096] The communication interface 215 is an interface for communicating with other devices connected via a network. The communication interface 215 is used to communicate with the image forming apparatus 1. The communication interface 215 is, for example, an interface for LAN communication. In addition, the communication interface 215 may also be a wireless communication interface for communicating with other devices via a wireless communication standard such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark).

[0097] like Figure 4 As shown, the user terminal 202 has a processor 221, a ROM 222, a RAM 223, a data storage 224, and a communication interface 225. The user terminal 202 is, for example, a terminal device such as a PC, a tablet terminal, or a smart phone.

[0098] The processor 221 is equivalent to the core part of the computer of the user terminal 202. The processor 221 is, for example, a CPU. The processor 221 performs various processes by executing programs. For example, the processor 221 executes an operating system or an application program.

[0099] ROM 222 and RAM 223 are equivalent to the main storage part of the computer as the user terminal 202. ROM 222 is a non-volatile storage area. RAM 223 is a volatile storage area. ROM 222 stores, for example, an operating system or an application program. ROM 222 stores control data required for the processor 221 to perform processing for controlling each part. RAM 223 is used as a work area for appropriately rewriting data by the processor 221. RAM 223 has, for example, a work area for storing image data.

[0100] The data memory 224 is equivalent to an auxiliary storage part of the computer as the user terminal 202. The data memory 224 is composed of a storage device such as an EEPROM, an HDD, or an SSD. The data memory 224 stores data such as setting data used when the processor 221 performs various processes. The data memory 224 saves data generated by the processing executed by the processor 221. The data memory 224 can also store application programs.

[0101] The data memory 224 stores, for example, information indicating a print job. A print job is print instruction information that instructs the image forming device 1 to form an image on the paper P. In addition, the data memory 224 may store, for example, information written to the RFID tag 40 of the label paper TP processed by the image forming device 1. In addition, the data memory 224 may store, for example, data read from the RFID tag 40 of the label paper TP by the image forming device 1 together with information such as the reading date and time.

[0102] The communication interface 225 is an interface for communicating with other devices connected via a network. The communication interface 225 is used to communicate with the image forming apparatus 1. The communication interface 225 is, for example, an interface for LAN communication. In addition, the communication interface 225 may also be a wireless communication interface for communicating with other devices via a wireless communication standard such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark).

[0103] Hereinafter, an example of the operation related to the control of whether or not the label paper TP can be used by the image forming apparatus 1 according to the embodiment will be described. Figure 5 This is a flowchart showing the operation of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the embodiment. Figure 5 The operation of the image forming device 1 shown in the flowchart of , for example, starts when the user's authentication information transmitted from the user terminal 202 or the server 201 via the network is transmitted to the image forming device 1. Figure 5 The operation of the image forming apparatus 1 shown in the flowchart may also be started when the user inputs the user's authentication information to the control panel 21. The authentication information is, for example, a user ID and a password.

[0104] First, the communication interface 12 or the control panel 21 of the image forming apparatus 1 acquires user authentication information. The communication interface 12 or the control panel 21 outputs the acquired authentication information to the system controller 13. The processor 131 of the system controller 13 acquires the authentication information output from the communication interface 12 or the control panel 21 (ACT001).

[0105] Next, the processor 131 reads the authentication information pre-stored in the auxiliary storage device 134. The processor 131 performs user authentication processing (ACT 002) by comparing the authentication information obtained from the communication interface 12 or the control panel 21 with the authentication information read from the auxiliary storage device 134. In addition, it is assumed here that the authentication is successful. If the authentication fails, then Figure 5 The operation of the image forming apparatus 1 shown in the flowchart is completed.

[0106] The processor 131 also reads out the attribute information of the user pre-stored in the auxiliary storage device 134. As described above, the attribute information is information showing a flag indicating whether each user is an administrator. The processor 131 determines whether the user is an administrator by reading out the attribute information corresponding to the user ID of the user determined by the user authentication process.

[0107] In addition, as described above, the attribute information may also be information indicating whether the user is a user who is allowed to print on the label paper TP (e.g., flag information). Alternatively, the attribute information may also be information indicating whether the user is a user who has many opportunities to print on the label paper TP (i.e., whether the user is familiar with printing on the label paper TP) (e.g., flag information). In this case, the processor 131 determines whether the user is a user who is allowed to print on the label paper TP, or whether the user is a user who has many opportunities to print on the label paper TP. That is, the processor 131 determines whether the user determined by the user authentication process is a user who is allowed to perform printing accompanied by label processing.

[0108] Next, the communication interface 12 or the control panel 21 waits for the user to input a job to be executed (ACT003). The job referred to here is a printing job or a copying job. When a job is obtained (ACT003: Yes), the communication interface 12 or the control panel 21 outputs the job to the system controller 13. The processor 131 of the system controller 13 obtains the job output from the communication interface 12 or the control panel 21.

[0109] Next, the processor 131 confirms whether the attribute of the user determined by the process of ACT002 is an administrator (ACT004). When the attribute of the user is an administrator (ACT004: Yes), the processor 131 confirms whether the job (not a copy job) acquired by the process of ACT003 is a print job (ACT005). When the acquired job is a print job (ACT005: Yes), the processor 131 confirms whether the acquired print job includes an execution instruction for label processing (ACT006). When the acquired print job includes an execution instruction for label processing (ACT006: Yes), the processor 131 performs the subsequent processing for enabling the paper feed cassette 14 storing label paper TP to be used (ACT007-ACT008).

[0110] The processor 131 performs display control of the control panel 21. For example, the processor 131 causes the control panel 21 to display an operation button for selecting the paper feed cassette 14 storing the label paper TP.

[0111] Figure 6 FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a paper feed cassette selection screen displayed on the control panel 21 of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the embodiment. Figure 6 In the paper feed cassette selection screen shown, images of three paper feed cassettes are displayed, each of which is recorded with "A4", "A4-R label", and "A3". The image recorded with "A4" indicates a paper feed cassette 14 storing A4-sized plain paper NP. In addition, the image recorded with "A4-R label" indicates a paper feed cassette 14 storing A4-sized label paper TP. In addition, the image recorded with "A3" indicates a paper feed cassette 14 storing A3-sized plain paper NP.

[0112] exist Figure 6 In the paper cassette selection screen shown, all three paper cassettes 14 are displayed in a manner that allows easy identification that they can be selected (for example, the images are not not displayed or grayed out). Thus, when label processing is permitted, the processor 131 causes the control panel 21 to display an operation button for selecting the paper cassette 14 of "A4-R label" storing label paper TP (ACT007).

[0113] Next, the processor 131 executes a process for allowing the use of the paper feed box 14 storing the label paper TP (ACT 008). The process for allowing the use of the paper feed box 14 storing the label paper TP is, for example, a control process that enables the pickup roller 33 that picks up the label paper TP from the paper feed box 14 to operate. Alternatively, the process for allowing the use of the paper feed box 14 storing the label paper TP is, for example, a control process that enables the paper feed box 14 to be pulled out so that the label paper TP can be replenished.

[0114] Note that only one of the processes for allowing the use of the paper feed cassette 14 storing label paper TP may be executed, or a plurality of processes may be executed together. In addition, the process of ACT 008 for allowing the use of the paper feed cassette 14 storing label paper TP may be omitted.

[0115] On the other hand, when the user's attribute is not an administrator but an ordinary user (ACT004: No), when the acquired job is not a printing job but a copying job (ACT005: No), or when the acquired printing job does not include an execution instruction for label processing (ACT006: No), the processor 131 performs subsequent processing (ACT009~ACT010) for making the paper feed box 14 storing the label paper TP unusable.

[0116] The processor 131 performs display control of the control panel 21. For example, the processor 131 causes the control panel 21 to display an operation button that prohibits selection of the paper feed cassette 14 storing the label paper TP.

[0117] Figure 7 FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a paper feed cassette selection screen displayed on the control panel 21 of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the embodiment. Figure 7 The paper cassette selection screen shown is the same as the Figure 6 The illustrated paper feed cassette selection screen similarly displays images of three paper feed cassettes each described with "A4," "A4-R label," and "A3."

[0118] exist Figure 7 The paper cassette selection screen shown is the same as the Figure 6 The paper feed cassette selection screen shown is different, and only the paper feed cassette 14 storing the "A4-R label" of the label paper TP among the three paper feed cassettes 14 is displayed in gray. Thus, the user can easily recognize that the paper feed cassette 14 storing the "A4-R label" of the label paper TP is not selectable. In this way, when the label processing is prohibited, the processor 131 makes the operation button for selecting the paper feed cassette 14 storing the "A4-R label" of the label paper TP not displayed or displayed in gray on the control panel 21 (ACT009).

[0119] Next, the processor 131 executes a process for prohibiting the use of the paper feed box 14 storing the label paper TP (ACT 010). The process for prohibiting the use of the paper feed box 14 storing the label paper TP is, for example, a control process for preventing the pickup roller 33 that picks up the label paper TP from the paper feed box 14 from operating. Alternatively, the process for prohibiting the use of the paper feed box 14 storing the label paper TP is, for example, a control process for preventing the paper feed box 14 from being pulled out and thus preventing the label paper TP from being replenished.

[0120] Note that only one of these processes for prohibiting the use of the paper feed cassette 14 storing label paper TP may be executed, or a plurality of processes may be executed together. In addition, the process of ACT 010 for prohibiting the use of the paper feed cassette 14 storing label paper TP may be omitted.

[0121] Next, the processor 131 controls the image forming mechanism 17 to perform image forming processing according to the acquired print job or copy job. In addition, when label processing is permitted, the processor 131 controls the label communication device 19 to perform label processing on the RFID tag provided on the label paper TP.

[0122] Next, the processor 131 confirms whether the user has input a logout instruction (ACT011). If no logout instruction has been input (ACT011: No), the process returns to ACT008, and the processor 131 waits for the job to be acquired. On the other hand, if a logout instruction has been input (ACT011: Yes), the processor 131 executes the logout process. Figure 5 The operation of the image forming apparatus 1 related to the control of whether or not the label paper TP can be used as shown in the flowchart is completed.

[0123] As described above, the image forming device 1 of the embodiment has a structure for making the paper feed box 14 storing label paper TP unusable when the user determined by user authentication is a user who is not allowed to perform a printing job accompanied by label processing. By having such a structure, the image forming device 1 of the embodiment can prevent, for example, a user who is not familiar with handling label paper TP from placing the label paper TP on the paper feed box 14 with the wrong side or orientation. In addition, the image forming device 1 of the embodiment has a structure that does not perform label processing when an instruction is given to perform a copy (copy) job instead of a print (print) job. By having such a structure, the image forming device 1 of the embodiment can prevent the use of label paper TP during a copy job that generally does not require label processing. As a result, the image forming device 1 of the embodiment can reduce the occurrence of failures in label processing and image formation with respect to label paper TP.

[0124] According to the above embodiment, the image forming apparatus includes a first paper feed box, a second paper feed box, an image forming unit, a communication unit, and a control unit. For example, the image forming apparatus is the image forming apparatus 1 in the embodiment, the first paper feed box is the paper feed box 14 storing ordinary paper NP, the second paper feed box is the paper feed box 14 storing label paper TP, the image forming unit is the image forming mechanism 17 in the embodiment, the communication unit is the label communication device 19 in the embodiment, and the control unit is the system controller 13 in the embodiment.

[0125] The first paper feed box stores a first sheet material without a wireless tag attached. For example, the wireless tag is an RFID tag 40 in the embodiment, and the first sheet material is a plain paper NP in the embodiment. The second paper feed box stores a second sheet material with a wireless tag attached. For example, the second sheet material is a label paper TP in the embodiment. The image forming unit forms an image on the first sheet material or the second sheet material. The communication unit communicates with the wireless tag attached to the second sheet material. The control unit obtains attribute information of a user determined by user authentication, and controls whether the second sheet material stored in the second paper feed box can be used according to the obtained attribute information.

[0126] In addition, the image forming apparatus may further include a display unit. For example, the display unit is the control panel 21 in the embodiment. The display unit displays a selection input screen for allowing the user to select the paper feed box to be used. For example, the selection input screen is the paper feed box selection screen in the embodiment. In addition, when the control prohibiting the use of the second sheet is performed, the control unit causes the display unit to display a selection input screen in which the second paper feed box cannot be selected. For example, the selection input screen in which the second paper feed box cannot be selected refers to Figure 7 As shown, the paper feed cassette selection screen is displayed in which the display of the paper feed cassette 14 storing the label paper TP is not displayed or grayed out.

[0127] In addition, in the above-mentioned image forming apparatus, the control unit may control the conveying unit so as not to convey the second sheet stored in the second paper feed box when performing control to prohibit the use of the second sheet. For example, the control to control the conveying unit so as not to convey the second sheet stored in the second paper feed box refers to the control in the embodiment to prevent the pickup roller 33 that picks up the label paper TP from the paper feed box 14 storing the label paper TP from operating.

[0128] In the above-described image forming apparatus, the control unit may perform control to prohibit use of the second sheet when the acquired job is a job instructing a copy process. For example, the copy process refers to a copy (copy) job in the embodiment.

[0129] In addition, in the above-mentioned image forming device, the control unit can also perform control to allow the use of the second sheet material when the attribute information is attribute information indicating that the user determined by user authentication is an administrator, the attribute information is attribute information indicating that the user determined by user authentication is a user allowed to use the second sheet material, or the attribute information is attribute information indicating that the user determined by user authentication is a user who has many opportunities to use the second sheet material.

[0130] A part of the functions implemented by the image forming device 1 in each of the above-mentioned embodiments may also be implemented by a computer. In this case, the program for implementing the function may be stored in a computer-readable storage medium, and the computer system may read and execute the program stored in the storage medium. In addition, the "computer system" mentioned here includes hardware such as OS and peripheral devices. In addition, "computer-readable storage 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. Furthermore, "computer-readable storage medium" may also include a medium that dynamically maintains the program for a short period of time, such as a communication line when sending a program via a network such as the Internet or 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 is a server or client at this time. In addition, the above-mentioned program may also be a program for implementing a part of the above-mentioned function, or a program that can be combined with a program already stored in the computer system to implement the above-mentioned function.

[0131] Several embodiments of the present invention have been described, but these embodiments are provided 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 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 comprising: A first paper supply box for storing a first sheet material without a wireless tag attached thereto; A second paper supply box stores a second sheet material with a wireless tag attached thereto; an image forming unit for forming an image on the first sheet or the second sheet; a communication unit that communicates with the wireless tag attached to the second sheet; as well as The control unit acquires attribute information of a user identified by user authentication, and controls whether the second sheet stored in the second paper feeding cassette can be used based on the acquired attribute information.

2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: The image forming apparatus further includes a display unit that displays a selection input screen for allowing a user to select a paper feed cassette to be used. When performing control to prohibit use of the second sheet, the control unit causes the display unit to display the selection input screen indicating that the second paper feed cassette cannot be selected.

3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: When performing control to prohibit use of the second sheet, the control unit controls the conveying unit so as not to convey the second sheet stored in the second paper feeding cassette.

4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: The control unit performs control to prohibit use of the second sheet when the acquired job is a job instructing copy processing.

5. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: When the attribute information is the attribute information indicating that the user determined by the user authentication is an administrator, the attribute information is the attribute information indicating that the user determined by the user authentication is a user allowed to use the second sheet material, or the attribute information is the attribute information indicating that the user determined by the user authentication is a user who has many opportunities to use the second sheet material, the control unit performs control to allow the use of the second sheet material.

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