Image forming apparatus

Abstract

The invention provides an image forming apparatus which can easily inherit data. The image forming apparatus includes an image forming section, a sheet supply section, and a control section. The image forming section forms an image on a sheet. The sheet supply section supplies the sheet to the image forming section. The control unit controls the image forming unit and the sheet supply unit. The control unit has a first control substrate on which a first control element and a first storage element are mounted. The sheet supply section has a second control substrate on which a second control element and a second storage element are mounted. The first control element causes one of the first storage element and the second storage element to store data relating to the sheet supply unit, and causes the other of the first storage element and the second storage element to back up the data relating to the sheet supply unit at a predetermined timing.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] In an image forming apparatus such as a digital multifunction machine, by backing up data, the image forming apparatus can be easily restored even if a failure occurs in the image forming apparatus. Therefore, a technology for backing up device information of a digital multifunction machine to another digital multifunction machine is being studied. For example, a configuration for backing up identification information in digital multifunction machines that can communicate with each other is known. With this configuration, device information can be easily inherited even when a digital multifunction machine is replaced.

[0003] Generally, an image forming apparatus is equipped with a plurality of substrates, on which a storage element storing sequence information and data is mounted. In the above configuration, when a substrate is replaced due to a failure or the like, if the data stored in the storage element mounted on the substrate is not backed up in another digital multifunction machine, the previous data cannot be stored in the storage element of the newly replaced substrate. Summary of the invention

[0004] The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus capable of easily inheriting data within the image forming apparatus.

[0005] The image forming apparatus of the present invention comprises: an image forming unit for forming an image on a sheet; a sheet feeding unit for feeding the sheet to the image forming unit; and a control unit for controlling the image forming unit and the sheet feeding unit. The control unit has a first control substrate on which a first control element and a first storage element are mounted, and the sheet feeding unit has a second control substrate on which a second control element and a second storage element are mounted, wherein the first control element causes one of the first storage element and the second storage element to store data related to the sheet feeding unit, and causes the other of the first storage element and the second storage element to back up data related to the sheet feeding unit at a predetermined timing.

[0006] According to the present invention, data can be easily inherited in the image forming apparatus.

[0007] This specification is presented in a simplified form, with appropriate reference to the accompanying drawings, to summarize the concepts described in the following detailed description. This specification is not intended to limit the important features and essential features of the subject matter described in the claims, nor is it intended to limit the scope of the subject matter described in the claims. In addition, the subject matter described in the claims is not limited to implementations that solve some or all of the disadvantages described in any part of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram of the image forming apparatus according to this embodiment.

[0009] Figure 2 This is a schematic block diagram of the image forming apparatus according to this embodiment.

[0010] Figure 3A This is a table showing an example of items of count values.

[0011] Figure 3B This is a table showing an example of items of adjustment values.

[0012] Figure 4 It is a schematic diagram showing the storage location of data in the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment.

[0013] Figure 5 It is a schematic diagram showing the storage locations of data and backup data in the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment.

[0014] Figure 6 It is a schematic diagram showing the storage locations of data and backup data in the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment.

[0015] Fig. 7A This is a schematic diagram for explaining the rewriting of backup data and data A.

[0016] Figure 7B This is a schematic diagram for explaining the rewriting of backup data and data A.

[0017] Fig. 8A This is a schematic diagram for explaining the rewriting of backup data and data A.

[0018] Figure 8B This is a schematic diagram for explaining the rewriting of backup data and data A.

[0019] Figure 8C This is a schematic diagram for explaining the rewriting of backup data and data A.

[0020] Fig. 9 It is a schematic diagram of the image forming apparatus according to this embodiment.

[0021] Fig.10 This is a schematic block diagram of the image forming apparatus according to this embodiment.

[0022] Fig.11 It is a schematic diagram showing the storage location of data in the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment.

[0023] Fig.12This is an example of a table indicating the serial number of data A, data B, alarms, and actions in the image forming apparatus of this embodiment.

[0024] Fig.13 It is a schematic diagram of an image forming system including the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment.

[0025] Fig.14 This is a flowchart of rewriting data A and data B in the image forming apparatus of this embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the image forming apparatus of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, in the drawings, the same reference numerals are attached to the same or corresponding parts, and the description thereof will not be repeated.

[0027] First, refer to Figure 1 An image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the image forming apparatus 100 .

[0028] The image forming apparatus 100 forms an image on a sheet. The image forming apparatus 100 is, for example, a printer, a copier, or a multifunction peripheral. The image forming apparatus 100 may also have a facsimile function. In addition, the image forming apparatus 100 may be an electrophotographic method or an inkjet method.

[0029] In addition, the image forming apparatus 100 can operate in conjunction with another device. In addition, the image forming apparatus 100 can read a document and generate image data.

[0030] Next, refer to Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 The configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. Figure 2 2 is a schematic block diagram of the image forming apparatus 100 .

[0031] like Figure 2 As shown, the image forming apparatus 100 includes a control unit 110, an image forming unit 120, a sheet feeding unit 130, a display unit 140, an input unit 150, a conveying unit 160, and a reading unit 170. The control unit 110 controls the image forming unit 120, the sheet feeding unit 130, the display unit 140, the input unit 150, the conveying unit 160, and the reading unit 170.

[0032] The image forming unit 120 forms an image on a sheet according to image data. The image forming unit 120 may form an image on a sheet using toner or ink.

[0033] The sheet supply unit 130 stores sheets to be supplied to the image forming unit 120. The sheets stored in the sheet supply unit 130 are supplied to the image forming unit 120 when an image is to be formed.

[0034] The display unit 140 has a screen for displaying an image. The display unit 140 displays an image based on image data. Therefore, before the image forming unit 120 forms an image on a sheet, an operator of the image forming apparatus 100 can visually check the image data.

[0035] The display unit 140 includes a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display, or a plasma display.

[0036] The input unit 150 inputs an instruction of the operator. The operator can operate the image forming apparatus 100 through the input unit 150. For example, the operator can operate a screen displayed on the display unit 140 through the input unit 150.

[0037] The input unit 150 includes buttons or a keyboard. Alternatively, the input unit 150 may include a touch sensor. The display unit 140 and the input unit 150 may be an integrated touch panel.

[0038] The conveying unit 160 conveys the document to the reading unit 170. Typically, the conveying unit 160 conveys the document placed at a predetermined position to the reading unit 170. The conveying unit 160 functions as an automatic document feeder (Automatic Document Feeder: ADF).

[0039] The reading unit 170 reads a document to generate image data. The reading unit 170 may read a document transported by the transport unit 160. Alternatively, the reading unit 170 may read a document placed on a table.

[0040] Typically, the reading unit 170 includes an imaging element. The imaging element is, for example, a Charged Coupled Detector (CCD). Alternatively, the imaging element may be a Contact Image Sensor (CIS).

[0041] The image forming apparatus 100 may also include a communication unit 180. The communication unit 180 communicates with an external device. For example, the communication unit 180 receives image data from an external device. In addition, the communication unit 180 receives an operation signal from an external device. If the communication unit 180 receives an operation signal from an external device, the control unit 110 operates according to the instruction of the operation signal. Thereafter, the communication unit 180 sends information to the external device as needed.

[0042] exist Figure 2 In the embodiment of the present invention, the control unit 110 includes an engine control unit 110a and a main control unit 110b. The engine control unit 110a controls the mechanical operation of the image forming apparatus 100. The main control unit 110b controls the overall operation of the image forming apparatus 100.

[0043] The engine control unit 110a includes an engine control substrate 112a. The engine control substrate 112a is an example of a "first control substrate". An engine control element 114a and an engine storage element 116a are mounted on the engine control substrate 112a. The engine control element 114a controls the dynamic drive of the image forming device 100. The engine control element 114a includes an operating element. The operating element includes a processor. In one example, the processor includes a central processing unit (CPU). In addition, the processor may also include an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0044] The engine storage device 116 a stores data and computer programs. The engine control device 114 a controls the sheet supply unit 130 and the conveying unit 160 using the data.

[0045] For example, the engine storage element 116a is non-volatile. In one example, the engine storage element 116a is a flash memory. Typically, the engine storage element 116a is a NOR flash memory.

[0046] The main control unit 110b includes a main control substrate 112b. The main control substrate 112b is an example of a "first control substrate". A main control element 114b and a main storage element 116b are mounted on the main control substrate 112b. The main control element 114b controls the driving of the image forming apparatus 100. The main control element 114b includes a computing element similar to the engine control element 114a.

[0047] The main control unit 114b uses data to control the image forming unit 120, the sheet feeding unit 130, the display unit 140, the input unit 150, the conveying unit 160, the reading unit 170, and the communication unit 180. The main control unit 114b controls the sheet feeding unit 130 and the conveying unit 160 through the engine control unit 114a. The main control unit 114b does not control the image forming unit 120, the display unit 140, the input unit 150, the reading unit 170, and the communication unit 180 through the engine control unit 114a.

[0048] For example, the primary storage element 116 b is non-volatile. In one example, the primary storage element 116 b is an SSD memory.

[0049] The sheet feeding unit 130 includes a second control substrate 132. A second control element 134 and a second storage element 136 are mounted on the second control substrate 132. The second storage element 136 stores a program required for the second control element 134 of the sheet feeding unit 130 to control. The second control element 134 controls the mechanism of the sheet feeding unit 130 using the program and data. The second control element 134 includes a computing element similar to the engine control element 114a.

[0050] For example, the second storage element 136 is non-volatile. In one example, the second storage element 136 is a flash memory. Typically, the second storage element 136 is an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory).

[0051] The conveying unit 160 includes a third control substrate 162. A third control element 164 and a third storage element 166 are mounted on the third control substrate 162. The third storage element 166 stores a program required for the third control element 164 of the conveying unit 160 to control. The third control element 164 controls the mechanism of the conveying unit 160 using the program and data. The third control element 164 includes a computing element similar to the engine control element 114a.

[0052] The third storage element 166 is non-volatile. In one example, the third storage element 166 is an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory).

[0053] Next, refer to Figures 1 to 3B An image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. Figure 3A is a table showing an example of items of count values, Figure 3B Count value and adjustment value are examples of “data” for controlling the mechanism of the conveying unit 160 .

[0054] like Figure 3A As shown, count values ​​are stored for a plurality of items of the conveying unit 160. Count values ​​updated each time an event of the object occurs in the conveying unit 160 are stored. For example, count values ​​of paper feed drive time, time distance counter retreat area, single-side counter, double-side counter, white stripe detection count value, and CIS lamp lighting time are stored.

[0055] like Figure 3BAs shown, the adjustment values ​​of the conveying unit 160 are stored. Here, the line adjustment values ​​of the conveying unit 160 are stored. In detail, the system-related adjustment values, the motor adjustment values, and the timing adjustment values ​​are stored. In more detail, the equal-magnification adjustment values ​​are stored as the system-related adjustment values. As the motor adjustment values, the supply deflection adjustment amount when conveying the surface of the sheet, the supply deflection adjustment amount when conveying the back of the sheet, and the supply deflection adjustment amount of the mixed surface and back of the sheet are stored. As the timing adjustment values, the front-end CIS timing adjustment value, the rear-end CIS timing adjustment value, the front-end CCD timing adjustment value, and the rear-end CCD timing adjustment value are stored.

[0056] Here, refer to Figures 1 to 4 An example of the configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. Figure 4 Schematic diagram showing the storage location of data in image forming apparatus 100 .

[0057] like Figure 4 As shown, the control unit 110, the sheet feeding unit 130 and the conveying unit 160 respectively include an engine control board 112a, a main control board 112b, a second control board 132 and a third control board 162. An engine control element 114a, a main control element 114b, a second control element 134 and a third control element 164 and an engine storage element 116a, a main storage element 116b, a second storage element 136 and a third storage element 166 are mounted on the engine control board 112a, the main control board 112b, the second control board 132 and the third control board 162 respectively.

[0058] The engine control board 112a, the main control board 112b, the second control board 132, and the third control board 162 communicate with each other. For example, the engine control board 112a, the main control board 112b, the second control board 132, and the third control board 162 communicate with each other in accordance with UART or KDC 3-wire synchronous communication.

[0059] The second control board 132 has a second control element 134 and a second storage element 136 mounted thereon. The second storage element 136 stores, for example, the serial number of the second control board 132 and the count value and setting value of the sheet feeding unit 130. The serial number, count value and setting value are examples of “data”.

[0060] Typically, the serial number indicates the identification number of the second control board 132. In addition, the count value indicates a value obtained by counting the number of times an action is performed. Here, the count value indicates a value obtained by counting the number of times a predetermined action is performed by the sheet feeding unit 130. In addition, the set value indicates an adjustable value set for performing an action. Here, the set value indicates an adjustable value set when a sheet is fed into the sheet feeding unit 130.

[0061] Similarly, a third control element 164 and a third storage element 166 are mounted on the third control substrate 162. The third storage element 166 stores, for example, the serial number of the third control substrate 162, the count value and the set value of the conveying unit 160. The serial number, the count value and the set value are examples of "data".

[0062] The engine control board 112a has an engine control element 114a and an engine storage element 116a mounted thereon. The engine storage element 116a stores a program required for the engine control element 114a of the engine control board 112a to control the engine. The engine storage element 116a stores, for example, the serial number of the engine control board 112a, the count value and the setting value of the engine control unit 110a.

[0063] The main control board 112b has a main control element 114b and a main storage element 116b mounted thereon. The main storage element 116b stores a program required for controlling the main control element 114b of the main control board 112b. The main storage element 116b stores, for example, the serial number of the main control board 112b, the count value of the main control unit 110b, and the set value.

[0064] In the image forming apparatus 100 of this embodiment, data stored in the engine storage element 116a, the main storage element 116b, the second storage element 136, and the third storage element 166 are backed up to another storage element by backup processing. Thus, even when the target control board is replaced, data can be easily inherited.

[0065] For example, in the image forming apparatus 100 of the present embodiment, the engine storage element 116a stores the data stored in the second storage element 136 as backup data. For example, the engine storage element 116a stores the serial number, count value, and setting value of the second control substrate 132 stored in the second storage element 136 as backup data. In addition, the engine storage element 116a stores the data stored in the third storage element 166 as backup data. For example, the engine storage element 116a stores the serial number of the third control substrate 162, the count value, and setting value of the conveying unit 160 stored in the third storage element 166 as backup data.

[0066] In the image forming apparatus 100 of the present embodiment, the main storage element 116b stores the data stored in the engine storage element 116a as backup data. For example, the main storage element 116b stores the serial number of the engine control board 112a, the count value and the setting value of the engine control unit 110a stored in the engine storage element 116a as backup data.

[0067] Here, refer to Figures 1 to 5The configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. Figure 5 Schematic diagram showing the storage location of data after the backup process in the image forming apparatus 100. Figure 5 The engine storage element 116a, the main storage element 116b, the second storage element 136 and the third storage element 166 are shown.

[0068] like Figure 5 As shown, the engine storage element 116a stores the data of the second storage element 136 and the third storage element 166 as backup data in addition to the serial number of the engine control board 112a, the count value and the set value of the engine control unit 110a. In addition, the main storage element 116b of the main control board 112b stores the data of the engine storage element 116a as backup data in addition to the serial number of the main control board 112b, the count value and the set value of the main control unit 110b.

[0069] In this way, the data stored in the storage element of the target control substrate (target control substrate) is stored as backup data in the storage element of the control substrate different from the target control substrate. Even when the target control substrate is replaced, the data of the target control substrate can be smoothly inherited.

[0070] For example, after the second control board 132 in use is replaced with a new second control board 132, the second storage element 136 of the new second control board 132 stores the backup data stored in the engine storage element 116a. Thus, data can be easily inherited.

[0071] Furthermore, after the engine control board 112a in use is replaced with a new engine control board 112a, the engine storage element 116a of the new engine control board 112a stores the data stored in the second storage element 136. Thus, data can be easily inherited.

[0072] In addition, the backup process is performed at a specified timing. For example, the backup process can be performed when the image forming apparatus 100 is restored from a sleep mode or when the power is turned on. In addition, the specified timing for performing the backup process can be set by the user or the administrator. The administrator can be a representative of the user or a person who performs maintenance on the image forming apparatus 100. Furthermore, the backup process can also be performed automatically when a new substrate is installed. Alternatively, the backup process can also be performed by the administrator according to a simulation. In addition, when the backup process is performed according to a simulation, the backup process can be performed according to the input from the input unit 150.

[0073] In addition, the predetermined timing may be when the number of times the data is stored reaches a first set number of times. The number of times the data is stored is the total value of the count value and the number of times the set value is changed. In addition, the first set number of times is, for example, 10,000 times.

[0074] When the number of times data is stored reaches the second set number, the engine control element 114a or the main control element 114b can switch the storage element for storing data and the storage element for backing up data. The second set number is, for example, 90,000 times. Thus, when the memory life of the storage element for storing data is, for example, 100,000 times, for example, it is switched to a storage element for backup at 90,000 times, thereby suppressing the number of times the storage element that is close to the memory life is stored, and the life of the storage element can be extended. In other words, by observing the number of times the storage element is stored to switch the storage element for storing data and the storage element for backing up data, it is possible to cope with the long-life product in a manner that does not cause an increase in capacity or a cost increase caused by changing to a storage element with a long rewrite life for the purpose of emission reduction.

[0075] Here, refer to Figures 1 to 6 The configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. Figure 6 Schematic diagram showing the storage location of data after the backup process in the image forming apparatus 100. Figure 6 The engine storage element 116a, the main storage element 116b, the second storage element 136 and the third storage element 166 are shown.

[0076] like Figure 6 As shown, since the number of times the second storage element 136 stores data reaches the second set number (eg, 90,000 times), the main control element 114b switches between the storage element storing data and the storage element backing up data.

[0077] Specifically, the engine storage element 116 a stores, for example, the serial number of the second control board 132 , and the count value and setting value of the sheet feeding unit 130 .

[0078] The second storage element 136 stores the data of the engine storage element 116a as backup data. For example, the second storage element 136 stores the serial number of the second control board 132, the count value and the setting value of the sheet feeding unit 130 stored in the engine storage element 116a as backup data.

[0079] In this way, the data stored in the storage element of the target control substrate (target control substrate) is stored as backup data in the storage element of the control substrate different from the target control substrate. Even when the target control substrate is replaced, the data of the target control substrate can be smoothly inherited.

[0080] In addition, Figure 6 In the image forming apparatus 100 shown in FIG. 1 , the main control element 114 b switches between the storage element for storing data and the storage element for backing up data because the number of times the second storage element 136 stores data reaches the second set number of times (e.g., 90,000 times), but the present embodiment is not limited thereto. Since the number of times the third storage element 166 stores data reaches the second set number of times (e.g., 90,000 times), the main control element 114 b may switch between the storage element for storing data and the storage element for backing up data.

[0081] In addition, Figures 1 to 6 In the image forming apparatus 100 shown in FIG. 1 , the second storage element 136 stores the serial number of the second control board 132, the count value and the set value of the sheet feeding unit 130, and the engine storage element 116 a stores the data of the second storage element 136 as backup data, but the present embodiment is not limited thereto. Alternatively, the engine storage element 116 a may store the serial number of the second control board 132, the count value and the set value of the sheet feeding unit 130, and the second storage element 136 may store the serial number of the second control board 132, the count value and the set value of the sheet feeding unit 130 stored in the engine storage element 116 a as backup data.

[0082] Furthermore, since the number of times the engine storage element 116a stores data reaches the second set number (eg, 90,000 times), the main control element 114b may switch between the storage element for storing data and the storage element for backing up data.

[0083] Next, refer to FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B The configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B This is a schematic diagram for explaining rewriting of data (data A) stored in a target storage element and data (data B) stored in a backup storage element that is to back up data A.

[0084] Typically, when data A and data B do not coincide with each other, one of data A and data B is selected, and the unselected data is rewritten with the selected data.

[0085] like Fig. 7A As shown, when the data B stored in the backup storage element is the initial data, the initial data is rewritten as the data A stored in the target storage element. For example, when the substrate storing the backup data is replaced with a new substrate, the initial data of the new substrate is rewritten as the data A stored in the target storage element, and the data A is backed up.

[0086] like Figure 7BAs shown, when data A stored in the target storage element is initial data, the initial data is rewritten with the backed-up data B.

[0087] Next, refer to FIG. 8A to FIG. 8C The configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 8A to FIG. 8C This is a schematic diagram for explaining rewriting of data (data A) stored in a target storage element and data (data B) stored in a backup storage element.

[0088] For example, Fig. 8A As shown, when the backup control board is replaced with the already used board, data B indicates third data that is not related to the data of the target image forming apparatus 100. In this case, in the manual operation mode, the display unit 140 displays a screen for selecting either data A or data B. The operator selects data A. In this case, data B is rewritten to data A, and data A is backed up.

[0089] like Figure 8B As shown in FIG. 1 , when the target control substrate is replaced with an already used substrate, data A represents third data that is not associated with the data of the target image forming apparatus. In this case, in the manual operation mode, the display unit 140 displays a screen for selecting either data A or data B. The operator selects data B. In this case, data A is rewritten with the backed-up data B.

[0090] like Figure 8C As shown in FIG. 1 , when both the backup control substrate and the target control substrate are replaced with the already used substrates, both the data A and the data B represent third data that is not related to the data of the target image forming apparatus. In this case, in the manual operation mode, the display unit 140 displays a screen for rewriting both the data A and the data B. The operator inputs data on both the data A and the data B through the input unit 150.

[0091] In addition, in reference Figures 2 to 8C In the above description, the control unit 110 includes the engine control unit 110a and the main control unit 110b, and the engine control unit 110a and the main control unit 110b respectively include the engine control substrate 112a and the main control substrate 112b, but the present embodiment is not limited thereto. The control unit 110 may also include a control substrate on which a control element and a storage element are mounted.

[0092] In addition, in reference Figures 1 to 8C In the above description, the image forming apparatus 100 has an image forming function and an image reading function, but the present embodiment is not limited thereto. The image forming apparatus 100 may not have an image reading function.

[0093] In addition, in reference Figures 1 to 8C In the above description, the image forming apparatus 100 is a device surrounded by a housing, but the present embodiment is not limited thereto. The image forming apparatus 100 may also be a device formed by connecting devices respectively surrounded by housings. For example, the image forming apparatus 100 may be a device that forms an image on a sheet and an expansion device that processes the sheet or the device before or after the image is formed on the sheet. As an example, the image forming apparatus 100 may also include a device that forms an image on a sheet and a post-processing machine that post-processes the sheet on which the image is formed by the device.

[0094] Next, refer to Fig. 9 The configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram of the image forming apparatus 100 .

[0095] like Fig. 9 As shown, the image forming apparatus 100 includes an image forming machine 100A and a post-processing machine 200. The post-processing machine 200 is disposed adjacent to the image forming machine 100A. Here, the post-processing machine 200 directly communicates with the image forming machine 100A.

[0096] The image forming machine 100A forms an image on a sheet. The image forming machine 100A is, for example, a printer, a copier, or a multifunction printer. The image forming machine 100A may also have a fax function. In addition, the image forming machine 100A may be an electronic photographic machine or an inkjet machine. In addition, the image forming machine 100A may also be used in conjunction with the reference Figures 1 to 6 The above-mentioned image forming apparatus 100 functions in the same manner.

[0097] The post-processor 200 performs post-processing on the sheets on which the images are formed in the image forming machine 100A. The post-processor 200 can perform at least one of sorting, inserting other sheets, punching, folding, and stapling sheets on the sheets on which the images are formed in the image forming machine 100A.

[0098] In addition, Fig. 9 In the image forming apparatus 100 shown in FIG. 1 , one post-processing machine 200 is directly connected to the image forming machine 100A, but the present embodiment is not limited thereto. A plurality of post-processing machines may be connected to the image forming machine 100A. In this case, a part of the plurality of post-processing machines may be directly connected to the image forming machine 100A, and the remaining post-processing machines may be indirectly connected to the image forming machine 100A. In this case, it is preferred that the post-processing machine indirectly connected to the image forming machine 100A and the post-processing machine directly connected to the image forming machine 100A communicate directly.

[0099] Next, refer to Fig. 9 as well as Fig.10 The configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. Fig.10 2 is a schematic block diagram of the image forming apparatus 100 .

[0100] like Fig.10 As shown, the image forming apparatus 100 includes an image forming machine 100A and a post-processing machine 200. The image forming machine 100A includes a control unit 110, an image forming unit 120, a sheet supply unit 130, an additional sheet supply unit 130A, a display unit 140, an input unit 150, a conveying unit 160, a reading unit 170, and a communication unit 180. In the image forming machine 100A, the control unit 110, the image forming unit 120, the sheet supply unit 130, the display unit 140, the input unit 150, the conveying unit 160, the reading unit 170, and the communication unit 180 are connected to the reference unit 180. Figures 1 to 6 The control unit 110, image forming unit 120, sheet feeding unit 130, display unit 140, input unit 150, conveying unit 160, reading unit 170 and communication unit 180 of the above-mentioned image forming apparatus 100 are the same, and repeated description is omitted for the purpose of avoiding redundancy.

[0101] The control unit 110 controls the image forming unit 120 , the sheet feeding unit 130 , the additional sheet feeding unit 130A, the display unit 140 , the input unit 150 , and the conveying unit 160 .

[0102] The additional sheet supply unit 130A stores sheets to be supplied to the image forming unit 120. The sheets stored in the additional sheet supply unit 130A are supplied to the image forming unit 120 when an image is formed.

[0103] The additional sheet supply unit 130A has a control substrate 132a. A control element 134a and a storage element 136a are mounted on the control substrate 132a. The storage element 136a stores a program required for the control element 134a of the additional sheet supply unit 130A to control. The control element 134a controls the mechanism of the additional sheet supply unit 130A using the program and data. The control element 134a includes a computing element similar to the engine control element 114a.

[0104] The post-processing machine 200 includes a post-processing control unit 210, a sorting unit 220, an inserting unit 230, an opening unit 240, a folding unit 250, and a sheet binding unit 260. The post-processing control unit 210 controls the sorting unit 220, the inserting unit 230, the opening unit 240, the folding unit 250, and the sheet binding unit 260.

[0105] The sorting unit 220 sorts the sheets into a plurality of sheets. Typically, the sorting unit 220 sorts the sheets into a plurality of trays.

[0106] The insertion portion 230 supplies a sheet. The sheet supplied from the insertion portion 230 is used in combination with a sheet on which an image has been formed in the image forming apparatus 100A.

[0107] The opening portion 240 supplies the sheet. The opening portion 240 supplies the sheet to the image forming machine 100A.

[0108] The folding unit 250 folds the sheet on which the image is formed at an appropriate position. For example, the folding unit 250 folds a sheet of paper size A3 into a sheet of the same size as paper size A4.

[0109] The sheet binding unit 260 bundles a plurality of sheets on which images are formed to create a book. The sheet binding unit 260 can bind a plurality of sheets.

[0110] Next, refer to Figures 9 to 11 The configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. Fig.11 2 is a schematic block diagram of the image forming apparatus 100 .

[0111] like Fig.10 As shown in FIG. 1 , in the image forming machine 100A, the additional sheet supply unit 130A includes a control board 132a, and a control element 134a and a storage element 136a are mounted on the control board 132a. The storage element 136a stores a program required for the control board 132a of the additional sheet supply unit 130A to control. In addition, the storage element 136a stores, for example, a serial number of the control board 132a, a count value of the additional sheet supply unit 130A, and a set value.

[0112] The post-processing machine 200 includes a post-processing control unit 210 , a sorting unit 220 , an insertion unit 230 , a hole opening unit 240 , a folding unit 250 , and a sheet binding unit 260 .

[0113] The control element 224 and the storage element 226 are mounted on the control substrate 222. The storage element 226 stores a program required for the control element 224 to control the sorting unit 220. The storage element 226 stores, for example, the serial number of the control substrate 222, the count value of the sorting unit 220, and the set value.

[0114] Likewise, control element 234 and storage element 236 are mounted on control board 232. Storage element 236 stores a program required for control element 234 of insertion unit 230 to control. Storage element 236 stores, for example, a serial number of control board 232, a count value of insertion unit 230, and a set value.

[0115] Similarly, control element 244 and storage element 246 are mounted on control board 242. Storage element 246 stores a program required for control element 244 to control opening 240. Storage element 246 stores, for example, the serial number of control board 242, count value of opening 240, and set value.

[0116] Similarly, a control element 254 and a storage element 256 are mounted on the control substrate 252. The storage element 256 stores a program required for the control element 254 to control the bending unit 250. The storage element 256 stores, for example, the serial number of the control substrate 252, the count value of the bending unit 250, and the set value.

[0117] Similarly, a control element 264 and a storage element 266 are mounted on the control board 261. The storage element 266 stores a program required for the control element 264 to control the sheet binding unit 260. The storage element 266 stores, for example, a serial number of the control board 261, a count value of the sheet binding unit 260, and a set value.

[0118] A control element 214 and a storage element 216 are mounted on the control substrate 212. The storage element 216 stores a program required for the control element 214 of the post-processing control unit 210 to control. The storage element 216 stores, for example, the serial number of the control substrate 212, the count value of the post-processing control unit 210, and the set value.

[0119] like Fig.11 As shown, the storage element 216 stores the data of the storage elements 226, 236, 246, 256, and 266 as backup data in addition to the serial number of the control board 212, the count value and the setting value of the post-processing control unit 210. In addition, the storage element 116a stores the data of the storage elements 136, 136a, 166, and 216 as backup data in addition to the serial number of the control board 112a, the count value and the setting value of the engine control unit 110a. In addition, the storage element 116b of the control board 112b stores the data of the storage element 116a as backup data in addition to the serial number of the control board 112b, the count value and the setting value of the main control unit 110b.

[0120] Next, refer to Fig.12 The configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. Fig.12 This is a table showing an example of the relationship between the serial number of data A (serial number of data A), data B (serial number of data B), alarms, and actions. Here, data A represents the serial number stored in the storage element of the target control substrate, and data B represents the serial number stored in the storage element of another substrate that backs up the serial number of the target control substrate.

[0121] like Fig.12 As shown in the storage element 116a, when the serial number of data A and the serial number of data B are different, the display unit 140 displays a screen for selecting which of the serial number of data A and the serial number of data B is to be used as the serial number of the control board 112a.

[0122] Specifically, the control element 114a reads the serial number stored in the storage element 116a as the serial number of data A, and reads the serial number stored in the storage element 116b as the serial number of data B. Then, the control element 114a determines whether the serial number of data A is consistent with the serial number of data B. When the serial number of data A is different from the serial number of data B, the control element 114a causes the display unit 140 to display a screen for selecting which of the serial number of data A and the serial number of data B is to be used as the serial number of the control substrate 112a. In this case, the operator selects either the serial number of data A or the serial number of data B as the serial number of the control substrate 112a through the input unit 150.

[0123] In addition, if Fig.12 As shown in the storage element 136 of FIG. 1 , when the serial number of data A indicates the initially set serial number, the control element 134 rewrites the serial number of data A stored in the control substrate 132 into data B stored in the storage element 116 a.

[0124] Specifically, the control element 134 reads the serial number stored in the storage element 136 as the serial number of data A, and reads the serial number stored in the storage element 116a as the serial number of data B. When the serial number of data A is a number set for an unmounted substrate, the control element 134 sets data B as the serial number of the control substrate 132. In this case, the control element 134 rewrites the serial number of data A stored in the storage element 136 with the serial number of data B.

[0125] In addition, if Fig.12 As shown in the storage element 136a, when data B represents the initially set serial number, the control element 114a rewrites the serial number of data B stored in the storage element 116a with the serial number of data A of the storage element 136a and backs it up.

[0126] Specifically, the control element 134a reads the serial number stored in the storage element 136a as the serial number of data A, and reads the serial number stored in the storage element 116a as the serial number of data B. When data B is a number set for an unmounted substrate, the control element 134a sets the serial number stored in the storage element 136a as the serial number of the control substrate 132. In this case, the control element 134a issues an instruction to rewrite the serial number of data B stored in the storage element 116a to the serial number of data A stored in the storage element 136a and back it up.

[0127] like Fig.12 As shown in the storage element 166, when the serial number of data B is consistent with the serial number of data A, the control element 164 does not rewrite either data A or data B.

[0128] Specifically, the control element 164 reads the serial number stored in the storage element 166 as the serial number of data A, and reads the serial number stored in the storage element 116 a storing the backup data as the serial number of data B.

[0129] Then, the control element 164 determines whether the sequence number of data A matches the sequence number of data B. If the sequence number of data A matches the sequence number of data B, the control element 164 does not rewrite either data A or data B.

[0130] like Fig.12 As shown in the storage element 246, when the serial number of data A cannot be read, the control element 244 determines that it is not connected to the storage element 246 and does not rewrite either data A or data B.

[0131] In addition, Figures 1 to 12 In the image forming apparatus 100 shown in FIG. 1 , the operation is not performed in conjunction with an external device, but the present embodiment is not limited thereto. The image forming apparatus 100 may also operate in conjunction with an external device.

[0132] Next, refer to Figures 1 to 13 An image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. Fig.13 1 is a schematic diagram of an image forming system 10 including an image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment.

[0133] In the present embodiment, the image forming system 10 includes an image forming apparatus 100 and an information processing apparatus 300. The information processing apparatus 300 is a so-called server.

[0134] In the image forming apparatus 100 of the present embodiment, since the backup data is stored inside the image forming apparatus 100, here, the information processing apparatus 300 does not store the backup data of the image forming apparatus 100. In this case, the information processing apparatus 300 can instruct the image forming apparatus 100 to store the backup data internally. In addition to storing the backup data inside the image forming apparatus 100, the information processing apparatus 300 can also store the backup data of the image forming apparatus 100.

[0135] Next, refer to Fig.14 Rewriting of data A and data B in image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. Fig.14 This is a flowchart of rewriting data A and data B in image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment.

[0136] like Fig.14 As shown, in step S102, the object control element reads data A from the object storage element.

[0137] In step S104, the target control element reads data B from the backup storage element.

[0138] In step S106, the object control element determines whether both data A and data B are initial data.

[0139] If both data A and data B are determined to be initial data ("Yes" in step S106), the process proceeds to step S122. If at least one of data A and data B is determined not to be initial data ("No" in step S106), the process proceeds to step 108.

[0140] In step S108, the object control element determines whether data A is initial data. If it is determined that data A is initial data ("Yes" in step S108), the process proceeds to step S124. If it is determined that data A is not initial data ("No" in step S108), the process proceeds to step S110.

[0141] In step S110, the object control element determines whether data B is initial data. If it is determined that data B is initial data ("Yes" in step S110), the process proceeds to step S126. If it is determined that data B is not initial data ("No" in step S110), the process proceeds to step S112.

[0142] In step S112, the object control element determines whether data A and data B are consistent. If it is determined that data A and data B are consistent ("Yes" in step S112), the process ends. If it is determined that data A and data B are inconsistent ("No" in step S112), the process proceeds to step 128.

[0143] In step S122, the target control element switches to the manual operation mode for inputting data. In the manual operation mode, the administrator inputs data to the target storage element through the input unit 150. Then, the process ends.

[0144] In step S124, the target control element rewrites the data A stored in the target storage element with the data B stored in the backup storage element. Thereafter, the process ends.

[0145] In step S126, the target control element rewrites the data B stored in the backup storage element with the data A stored in the target storage element. Thereafter, the process ends.

[0146] In step S128, the target control element switches to the manual operation mode to select data. In the manual operation mode, the administrator selects one of data A and data B through the input unit 150, and inputs the selected data to the target storage element. Then, the process ends.

[0147] According to the present embodiment, even when data A stored in the target storage element and data B stored in the backup storage element do not match, appropriate data can be stored in the target storage element and the backup storage element.

[0148] Above, the embodiments of the present invention have been described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments, and can be implemented in various ways without departing from the scope of its main purpose. In addition, various inventions can be formed by appropriately combining the multiple constituent elements disclosed in the above-mentioned embodiments. For example, several constituent elements can be deleted from the full constituent elements shown in the embodiments. In addition, the constituent elements of different embodiments can be appropriately combined. For easy understanding, the accompanying drawings schematically represent each constituent element on the main body, and the thickness, length, number, interval, etc. of each constituent element shown in the drawings are sometimes different from the actual ones according to the situation of making the drawings. In addition, the material, shape, size, etc. of each constituent element shown in the above-mentioned embodiments are examples, and are not particularly limited. Various deformations can be performed within the scope that does not substantially depart from the effect of the present invention.

[0149] In reference Figure 2In the description of this embodiment, when both the backup control substrate and the target control substrate are replaced with the already used substrates and the data of either of them is not related to the data of the target image forming apparatus, in the manual operation mode, the display unit 140 displays a screen for rewriting both the data A and the data B. However, the present invention is not limited to this.

[0150] The present invention is applicable to an image forming apparatus.

[0151] The scope of the present invention is not limited to the above content, but is defined by the description of the claims, so it can be considered that the embodiments described in this specification are only illustrative, not limiting. Therefore, all changes that do not depart from the scope and limits of the claims, as well as contents that are equivalent to the scope and limits of the claims, are included in the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An image forming device, characterized in that: The image forming device comprises: An image forming unit that forms an image on a sheet; a sheet supplying unit that supplies the sheet to the image forming unit; and a control unit that controls the image forming unit and the sheet feeding unit, The control unit includes a first control substrate on which a first control element and a first storage element are mounted. The sheet feeding unit includes a second control substrate on which a second control element and a second storage element are mounted. The first control element causes one of the first storage element and the second storage element to store data related to the sheet feeding unit, and causes the other of the first storage element and the second storage element to back up the data related to the sheet feeding unit at a predetermined timing.

2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: The predetermined timing is when the number of times the data related to the sheet feeding unit is stored reaches a first set number of times, When the number of times the data related to the sheet feeding unit is stored reaches a second set number of times, the first control element switches between the storage element storing the data and the storage element backing up the data.

3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The image forming device further comprises: a conveying unit for conveying the original document; and a reading unit for reading the document conveyed by the conveying unit, The conveying unit has a third control substrate on which a third control element and a third storage element are mounted. The first control element causes one of the first storage element and the third storage element to store data related to the transport unit, and causes the other of the first storage element and the third storage element to back up the data related to the transport unit.

4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The image forming device further comprises: A display unit that displays an image on a screen; and The input unit inputs the operator's operation. The control unit includes: an engine control unit that controls the sheet feeding unit; and a main control unit that controls the display unit, the input unit, and the engine control unit, The engine control unit includes an engine control substrate on which an engine control element and an engine storage element are mounted. The main control unit includes a main control substrate on which a main control element and a main storage element are mounted. The main control element causes one of the main storage element and the engine storage element to store data related to the engine control unit, and causes the other of the main storage element and the engine storage element to back up data related to the engine control unit, and The main control element causes one of the main storage element and the engine storage element to store data related to the main control unit, and causes the other of the main storage element and the engine storage element to back up the data related to the main control unit.

5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The image forming apparatus further includes a post-processing unit that processes the sheet. The post-processing unit includes a fourth control substrate on which a fourth control element and a fourth storage element are mounted. The first control element causes one of the first storage element and the fourth storage element to store data related to the post-processing unit, and causes the other of the first storage element and the fourth storage element to back up the data related to the post-processing unit.

6. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The image forming apparatus further includes a communication unit capable of communicating with the information processing apparatus. Based on an instruction from the information processing device received by the communication unit, the first control element causes one of the first storage element and the second storage element to store data related to the sheet feeding unit, and causes the other of the first storage element and the second storage element to back up data related to the sheet feeding unit.

7. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: When the data stored in the second storage element is inconsistent with the data stored in the first storage element, one of the data stored in the second storage element and the data stored in the first storage element is rewritten.

8. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: When one of the data stored in the second storage element and the data stored in the first storage element is initial data, the control unit rewrites the initial data with the other of the data in the second storage element and the data in the first storage element.

Images