Image forming apparatus and method of operating image forming apparatus

Abstract

The invention provides an image forming apparatus which can clearly distinguish and operate a plurality of fusers. An image forming apparatus includes a control section, a display section, and a fixing unit. The image forming apparatus is capable of attaching and detaching a fixing unit, and a control section causes a display section to display a fixing unit designation request that requests an input for designating another fixing unit when the fixing unit is replaced with the other fixing unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an image forming apparatus and an operating method of the image forming apparatus. Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, as a printing method for image forming apparatuses such as printers and multifunction machines, there is a dry electrophotographic method (laser printer method). In the laser printer method, after a toner is transferred to form an image on a paper, the image on the paper is heated and pressurized to fix the image on the paper. Therefore, an image forming apparatus that prints using the laser printer method includes a fuser for heating and pressurizing the image on the paper.

[0003] The fuser has a fixing component that contacts the paper, and the paper forms an image to be fixed. The fixing component is, for example, a fixing belt. The fixing belt is arranged in a manner that its long side direction is orthogonal to the conveying direction of the paper. In the present application, the width of the paper in the direction orthogonal to the conveying direction of the paper is referred to as the paper width. For example, in a general MFP (Multi Function Printer) with a scanning function, the sub-scanning direction of the scanner is consistent with the conveying direction of the paper, and the main scanning direction of the scanner is orthogonal to the conveying direction of the paper. Therefore, in a general MFP, the paper width refers to the paper width in the main scanning direction.

[0004] Fig.29 (a) is a diagram for explaining scratches generated on the fixing belt when an A5 paper repeatedly passes through. When an A5 paper 301 repeatedly passes through the fixing belt 303, scratches 305 and 307 are generated on the fixing belt 303 at positions corresponding to the paper width of the A5 paper 301. After these scratches are generated, consider that an A3 paper 309 larger than the A5 paper repeatedly passes through the same fixing belt 303.

[0005] At this time, if Fig.29 As shown in (b), on the fixing belt 303, scratches 311 and 313 are also generated at positions corresponding to the paper width of the A3 paper 309, but since the scratches 311 and 313 are located substantially outside the A3 paper 309, they do not affect the printing quality of the A3 paper 309. However, the scratches 305 and 307 caused by the A5 paper 301 are contained within the paper width of the A3 paper 309, and thus have an adverse effect on the printing quality of the A3 paper 309. Specifically, stains 315 and 317 are generated in the A3 paper 309 at positions corresponding to the scratches 305 and 307 caused by the A5 paper 301.

[0006] In order to avoid this problem, it is considered to use the fixing belt only for printing of a specific paper width. Fig.30As shown in (a), when printing A5 paper 301, a fixing belt 303 is used. On the other hand, as shown in Fig.30 As shown in (b), when printing A3 paper 309, another fixing belt 321 is used. Although scratches 305 and 307 are generated on the fixing belt 303 and scratches 311 and 313 are generated on the fixing belt 321 due to repeated printing, since the fixing belt is prepared for each paper width, it is possible to avoid the scratches generated by printing other paper widths and thus avoid adverse effects on printing quality.

[0007] Thus, other application methods of replacing the fixing belt or fixing device are disclosed in Japanese Patent Publication No. 2017-003725. The types of media that can pass paper are diverse, and the fixing conditions that determine the final image quality also need to be carefully adjusted according to the thickness, surface properties, concentration and glossiness of the image of the desired product of the medium. As a countermeasure for these, Japanese Patent Publication No. 2017-003725 proposes a solution that prepares a dedicated fixing device corresponding to the size of the paper and the type of the medium, and the user can replace the fixing device as needed to obtain the best image quality.

[0008] However, generally, the temperature of the fixing device after operation becomes high, and therefore, when replacing the fixing device, it is required to perform the replacement operation in consideration of the high temperature.

[0009] In response to this, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-003725 proposes notifying a user whether the temperature of a mounted fixing device has dropped below a predetermined temperature. Summary of the invention

[0010] Thus, for example, Japanese Patent Publication No. 2017-003725 discloses a scheme for replacing and operating a fuser of an image forming device. When multiple fusers of the same model are used separately according to the paper width, these multiple fusers are completely identical in appearance and cannot be distinguished at first glance. In addition, as described in Japanese Patent Publication No. 2017-003725, even when special fusers corresponding to the size of paper and the type of medium are prepared, the appearance of the fusers is extremely similar and still difficult to distinguish.

[0011] One aspect of the present disclosure has been made in view of such a situation, and provides an image forming apparatus and an operating method of the image forming apparatus that can operate a plurality of fixing devices clearly distinguished from each other.

[0012] In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, one method of the present invention provides an image forming device, characterized in that, in the image forming device, it includes a control unit, a display unit and a fixing unit, the image forming device is capable of loading and unloading the fixing unit, the control unit displays a fixing unit designation request on the display unit, and the fixing unit designation request requests an input for designating the other fixing unit when the fixing unit is replaced with another fixing unit.

[0013] In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, one embodiment of the present invention provides an operation method of an image forming device, characterized in that, in the operation method of the image forming device, the image forming device includes a control unit, a display unit and a fixing unit, and is capable of loading and unloading the fixing unit, and the operation method of the image forming device includes: a stage of removing a first fixing unit being installed from the image forming device; a stage of installing a second fixing unit different from the first fixing unit to the image forming device; and a stage in which the control unit causes the display unit to display a fixing unit designation request for inputting a request for designating the second fixing unit.

[0014] According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus capable of operating a plurality of fixing devices while being clearly distinguished from each other. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] Figure 1 This is a functional block diagram of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 This is a flowchart for explaining a replacement operation of a fixing unit in the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3 This is a flowchart for explaining a replacement operation of a fixing unit in the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 4 This is a diagram showing an example of a home screen displayed on the display unit of the image forming apparatus when replacing the fixing unit in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5 This is a diagram showing an example of a machine adjustment screen displayed on the display unit of the image forming apparatus when replacing the fixing unit in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 6 This is a diagram showing an example of an image quality adjustment screen displayed on the display unit of the image forming apparatus when replacing the fixing unit in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 7 This is a diagram showing an example of another function screen displayed on the display unit of the image forming apparatus when replacing the fixing unit in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 8This is a diagram showing an example of a fuser type display screen displayed on a display unit of an image forming apparatus when replacing a fuser unit in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 9 This is a diagram showing an example of a precaution confirmation screen displayed on the display unit of the image forming apparatus when replacing the fixing unit in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.10 This is a diagram showing an example of a precaution confirmation screen displayed on the display unit of the image forming apparatus when replacing the fixing unit in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.11 This is a diagram showing an example of a replacement preparation start screen displayed on the display unit of the image forming apparatus when replacing the fixing unit in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.12 This is a diagram showing an example of a fuser type designation request screen (before designation) displayed on the display unit of the image forming apparatus when replacing the fuser unit in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.13 This is a diagram showing an example of a fuser type designation request screen (after designation) displayed on the display unit of the image forming apparatus when replacing the fuser unit in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.14 This is a diagram showing an example of a cooling time display screen displayed on the display unit of the image forming apparatus when replacing the fixing unit in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.15 This is a diagram showing an example of a cooling-down screen displayed on the display unit of the image forming apparatus when replacing the fixing unit in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.16 This is a diagram showing an example of a restart screen displayed on a replacement display unit of the image forming apparatus when a replacement operation of a fixing unit is suspended in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.17 This is a diagram showing an example of a preparation completion screen displayed on the display unit of the image forming apparatus when replacing the fixing unit in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.18 This is a diagram showing an example of a restart screen displayed on the display unit of the image forming apparatus when the replacement work of the fixing unit is suspended in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.19 This is a diagram showing an example of a power off screen displayed on the display unit of the image forming apparatus when replacing the fixing unit in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 20 It is a perspective view of a fixing unit used in the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.21 This is a flowchart for explaining a replacement operation of a fixing unit in the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 22 This is a flowchart for explaining a replacement operation of a fixing unit in the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.23 This is a flowchart for explaining a replacement operation of a fixing unit in the image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.24 1 is a diagram showing an example of a fuser type confirmation request screen displayed on a display unit of an image forming apparatus when replacing a fuser unit in a third embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.25 This is a functional block diagram of an image forming apparatus according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.26 It is a perspective view of a fixing unit used in the image forming apparatus according to the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 27 This is a flowchart for explaining a replacement operation of a fixing unit in the image forming apparatus according to the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.28 This is a diagram showing an example of an identification number input screen displayed on the display unit of the image forming apparatus when replacing the fixing unit in the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.29 (a) is a diagram for explaining scratches generated on the fixing belt when an A5 paper passes through. Fig.29 (b) is a diagram for explaining stains generated on an A3 paper when the paper passes through a fixing belt having scratches. Fig.30 (a) is a diagram for explaining scratches generated on a fixing belt for A5 paper when A5 paper passes through. Fig.30 (b) is a diagram for explaining scratches generated on the fixing belt for A3 paper when A3 paper passes. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] 1. Implementation Method 1 1.1 Functional Configuration of Image Forming Apparatus 1 Figure 1 1 is a functional block diagram of an image forming device 1 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. The image forming device 1 is an MFP (Multi-Function Printer) or a compound machine, and typically has a copy function, an image scanning function, a fax function, and a printer function. The image forming device 1 may also have other functions, such as an email sending and receiving function, a file server function, etc.

[0017] The image forming apparatus 1 includes a display unit 3, an operation unit 5, an image input unit 9, a paper feed unit 11, an image forming unit 13, a communication unit 19, a connection unit 21, a storage unit 23, and a control unit 29. The operation unit 5 includes a main power SW7. The image forming unit 13 includes a fixing unit 15 and a temperature sensor 17. The storage unit 23 includes an installation unit type storage unit 25 and a setting information storage unit 27 for each unit type. The control unit 29 includes a cooling time estimation unit 31 and a temperature monitoring unit 33.

[0018] The display unit 3 is a functional unit for displaying images and texts. For example, it is composed of a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) panel, etc. The display unit 3 can be a separate display device, or can include a display device connected to the outside.

[0019] The operation unit 5 receives operation input from the user. For example, the operation unit 5 is composed of hardware keys and software keys. In addition, the operation unit 5 includes, for example, a task key for executing tasks such as fax transmission and image reading, and a stop key for stopping the operation. In addition, the operation unit may also include physical operation keys such as a task key, a stop key, a power key, and a power saving key. The main power SW7 is a switch for turning on and off the main power of the image forming apparatus 1.

[0020] The display unit 3 and the operation unit 5 may be integrally configured. For example, a touch panel display may be used as the display unit 3 and the operation unit 5 .

[0021] The image input unit 9 reads an image (manuscript) and outputs it as image data. The image input unit 9 is composed of a general scanner (image input device). In addition, the image input unit 9 can input image data from an external storage medium such as a USB memory, or can receive images via a network. The sub-scanning direction of the image input unit 9 is consistent with the conveying direction of the paper of the paper feeding unit 11.

[0022] The paper supply unit 11 includes a paper supply tray for storing media such as paper, and a conveying mechanism for conveying the media from the paper supply tray to the image forming unit 13. In addition, the paper supply unit 11 may also include a sorting mechanism for sorting media (paper) with images formed thereon, a paper discharge tray for discharging the media with images formed thereon, and a conveying mechanism for conveying the media with images formed thereon to the sorting mechanism and the paper discharge tray. Furthermore, the paper supply unit 11 may also include a conveying mechanism for conveying the media with images formed thereon to the image input unit 9, and a conveying mechanism for conveying the media whose images are read by the image input unit 9 to the paper discharge tray, the sorting mechanism, and the like.

[0023] The paper feed unit 11 conveys the medium along the sub-scanning direction of the image input unit 9. In the present application, as described above, the width of the paper in the direction perpendicular to the conveying direction of the medium (paper) is referred to as the paper width. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the paper width may also be referred to as the width of the paper in the main scanning direction of the image input unit 9. The paper feed unit 11 conveys the medium in such a manner that the long side direction of the fixing belt (not shown) of the fixing unit 15 and the conveying direction of the medium are perpendicular to each other.

[0024] The image forming unit 13 forms (prints) an image on a medium such as copy paper based on the image data. The printing method of the image forming unit 13 is laser printing. The image forming unit 13 can be a monochrome laser printer or a color laser printer. The image forming unit 13 can also include a paper feeding mechanism for feeding the medium, a conveying mechanism for conveying the medium, a classification mechanism for classifying the medium after the image is formed, etc. The fixing unit 15 is a fixing device that heats and pressurizes the colorant image transferred to the paper so that the colorant image is melted on the paper. The temperature sensor 17 is a sensor that measures the temperature of the fixing unit 15. The temperature sensor 17 converts the temperature of the fixing unit 15 into a physical quantity such as voltage and resistance value and outputs it.

[0025] The communication unit 19 is a functional unit for connecting to a network. The communication unit 19 is composed of an interface that can connect to a wired LAN (Local Area Network), a wireless LAN, or an LTE (Long Term Evolution) network, for example. The communication unit 19 is connected to the network to connect to other devices or an external network.

[0026] The connection unit 21 connects the image forming apparatus 1 and other devices. For example, the connection unit 21 is a USB interface, and a USB memory or the like is connected. In addition, the connection unit 21 may also be configured to include a device (such as an antenna, etc.) for performing short-range wireless communication, such as NFC (Near field communication) and Bluetooth (registered trademark).

[0027] In addition, the communication unit 19 and the connection unit 21 may be integrally configured. For example, they may be provided as one wireless communication interface, and wireless LAN or Bluetooth may be utilized.

[0028] The storage unit 23 is a functional unit that stores various programs and various data required for the operation of the image forming device 1. The storage unit 23 includes a recording device that can temporarily store data, such as a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory), and a non-temporary recording device, such as an SSD (Solid State Drive) composed of a semiconductor memory and an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) composed of a magnetic disk. In addition, for the sake of convenience of explanation, the storage unit 23 is set as one structure, but it can also be configured as a different device for each purpose, such as an area for executing programs (main storage area), an area for storing programs and data (auxiliary storage area), and an area for cache.

[0029] The installation unit type storage unit 25 stores the type (unit type) of the fixing unit 15 currently installed in the image forming apparatus 1. The unit type corresponds to the type of paper on which the image is fixed using the fixing unit. The type of paper refers to, for example, any one of the paper width, the material, thickness, shape (envelope), etc., or a combination thereof. The type of paper based on the paper width refers to, for example, the long side of A3 size (420 mm), the short side of A3 size and the long side of A4 size (297 mm), the short side of A4 size and the long side of A5 size (210 mm), etc. Similarly, there are the long side of B3 size (515 mm), the short side of B3 size and the long side of B4 size (364 mm), the short side of B4 size and the long side of B5 size (257 mm), etc.

[0030] The unit type setting information storage unit 27 stores setting information of the image forming device 1 determined by each unit type. The unit type setting information includes, for example, unit area weight setting, paper type, paper attribute, fixing temperature setting, fixing pressure setting, primary transfer current value setting, secondary transfer current value setting, and PTC (Pre Transfer Charger) current value setting. Unit area weight setting refers to the setting of the weight of one sheet of paper per square meter. Paper type refers to the setting of the type of paper, such as uncoated paper, glossy coated paper, matte adhesive paper, embossed paper, etc. Paper attribute refers to the setting of the attribute of the paper, such as setting the front and back of the paper, not being able to print on both sides, etc. The fixing temperature setting is the setting of the temperature generated by the fixing unit 15 when fixing the colorant image. The fixing pressure setting is the setting of the intensity of the pressure applied to the paper by the fixing unit 15 when fixing the colorant image. The primary transfer current value setting is the setting of the magnitude of the current used to make the toner adhere to the intermediate transfer belt of the fixing unit 15, and is set for each color of black (Bk), cyan (C), magenta (M), and yellow (Y). The secondary transfer current value setting is the setting of the magnitude of the current used to make the toner formed on the intermediate transfer belt adhere to the paper, and is set for the front and back sides of the paper respectively. The PTC current value setting is the setting of the magnitude of the current that gives the transferred toner a charge.

[0031] The control unit 29 is a functional unit for controlling the entire image forming apparatus 1. The control unit 29 is composed of one or more control devices and control circuits, such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a SoC (System on a Chip).

[0032] Furthermore, the control unit 29 can realize each function by reading out a program stored in the storage unit 23 and executing the program.

[0033] The cooling time estimation unit 31 estimates the time required for the temperature of the fixing unit 15 to drop to a level that allows the fixing unit 15 to be detached from the image forming unit 13 , based on the current temperature of the fixing unit 15 measured by the temperature sensor 17 .

[0034] The temperature monitoring section 33 monitors the current temperature of the fixing unit 15 measured by the temperature sensor 17 in real time.

[0035] 1.2 Operation of the Image Forming Apparatus 1 in Embodiment 1 Figure 2 , Figure 3 1 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the image forming apparatus 1 when replacing the fixing unit 15. The replacement explained here is replacement for changing the unit type of the fixing unit.

[0036] The control unit 29 displays the home screen on the display unit 3 (step S1). Then, the control unit 29 displays the machine adjustment screen on the display unit 3 (step S3). Then, the control unit 29 displays the image quality adjustment screen on the display unit 3 (step S5). Then, the control unit 29 displays other function screens on the display unit 3 (step S7). Then, the control unit 29 displays the fuser type display screen before replacement on the display unit 3 (step S9). Then, the control unit 29 displays the precautions confirmation screen on the display unit 3 (step S10). Then, the control unit 29 displays the replacement preparation start screen on the display unit 3 (step S11). Then, the control unit 29 displays the fuser type designation request screen on the display unit 3 (step S13). Then, the control unit 29 displays a message indicating the time required for cooling of the fuser unit 15 on the display unit 3 (step S15). Then, the control unit 29 displays a message indicating waiting for the temperature of the currently installed fuser unit 15 to drop to a specified value on the display unit 3 (step S17).

[0037] Here, the control unit 29 compares the current temperature of the fixing unit 15 measured by the temperature sensor 17 with a predetermined threshold temperature pre-stored in the storage unit 23 (step S18). If the temperature of the fixing unit 15 is higher than the threshold temperature ("No" in step S18) and there is no input indicating the intention to stop the replacement job ("No" in step S19), the control unit 29 returns to step S18.

[0038] When the temperature of the fixing unit 15 is higher than the threshold temperature (No in step S18) and there is an input indicating that the replacement job is to be stopped (Yes in step S19), the control unit 29 displays a message indicating that the image forming apparatus 1 is to be restarted on the display unit 3 (step S21), and restarts the image forming apparatus 1 (step S23). After the restart, the control unit 29 displays the home screen on the display unit 3 (step S25).

[0039] When the temperature of the fixing unit 15 is equal to or lower than the threshold temperature (YES in step S18 ), the control unit 29 displays the preparation completion screen on the display unit 3 (step S29 ).

[0040] If the replacement of the fixing unit 15 is not performed after the preparation completion screen is displayed ("No" in step S31), the control unit 29 displays a message indicating that the image forming apparatus 1 is restarted on the display unit 3 (step S33), and restarts the image forming apparatus 1 (step S35). After the restart, the control unit 29 displays the home screen on the display unit 3 (step S37).

[0041] When the replacement of the fixing unit 15 is executed after the preparation completion screen is displayed ("Yes" in step S31), the control unit 29 displays a message indicating that the power of the image forming apparatus 1 is being turned off on the display unit 3 (step S39), and the control unit 29 shifts the image forming apparatus 1 to the standby state (step S41). In addition, in the standby state, the display unit 3 is turned off. The user cannot use the functions related to printing, such as the copy function and the printer function. However, it is also possible to accept only the jobs of the fax function and the printer function and keep the data related to the job.

[0042] After the image forming apparatus 1 is transferred to the standby state, the control unit 29 turns off the main power of the image forming apparatus 1 (power-off state) based on the user operating the main power switch 7 of the image forming apparatus 1 (step S43). In the power-off state, the operation of the entire image forming apparatus 1 stops. At this time, the user cannot use all the functions of the image forming apparatus 1.

[0043] After the power is turned off, the user performs a replacement operation of the fixing unit 15 (step S45). More specifically, the user opens a housing (not shown) of the image forming apparatus 1, and the fixing unit 15 currently mounted on the image forming section 13 is replaced with another fixing unit 15. After the fixing unit 15 is replaced, when the user closes the housing (not shown) of the image forming apparatus 1, the replacement operation is completed.

[0044] After the replacement operation is completed, the control unit 29 turns on the main power of the image forming apparatus 1 (power-on state) based on the user operating the main power switch 7 again (step S47). After the transition to the power-on state, the control unit 29 autonomously or in response to a predetermined operation performed by the user via the operation unit 5, transitions to the normal operation state and displays the home screen on the display unit 3 (step S49).

[0045] 1.3 Example of Screen Display of Image Forming Device 1 in Embodiment 1 The following describes an example of a screen displayed on the display unit 3 when replacing the fixing unit 15. Here, it is assumed that the display unit 3 and the operation unit 5 are integrally configured as a touch panel display.

[0046] Figure 4 1 is a diagram showing an example of a home screen displayed on the display unit 3 of the image forming apparatus 1 when the fixing unit 15 is replaced in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The home screen 51 is a screen displayed on the display unit 3 by the control unit 29 after the main power of the image forming apparatus 1 is turned on from the off state. The home screen 51 includes a machine adjustment button 53. The control unit 29 displays the home screen 51 on the display unit 3, for example, in step S1. When the user touches the machine adjustment button 53, the control unit 29 displays a machine adjustment screen 55 described below.

[0047] Figure 5 1 is a diagram showing an example of a machine adjustment screen displayed on the display unit 3 of the image forming apparatus 1 when the fixing unit 15 is replaced in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. In step S1, when the home screen 51 is displayed on the display unit 3, if the user touches the machine adjustment button 53, the control unit 29 proceeds to step S3 and displays a machine adjustment screen 55 on the display unit 3. The machine adjustment screen 55 is a menu screen related to various adjustment operations of the image forming apparatus 1. The machine adjustment screen 55 includes an image quality adjustment button 57. The image quality adjustment button 57 is an area that is touched when entering the image quality adjustment screen described below.

[0048] Figure 6 1 is a diagram showing an example of an image quality adjustment screen displayed on the display unit 3 of the image forming device 1 when the fixing unit 15 is replaced in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. In step S3, when the machine adjustment screen 55 is displayed on the display unit 3, if the user touches the image quality adjustment button 57, the control unit 29 enters step S5 and displays the image quality adjustment screen 61 on the display unit 3. The image quality adjustment screen 61 is a menu screen related to the image quality adjustment of the image formed on the paper by the image forming unit 13. The image quality adjustment screen 61 includes other function buttons 63. The other function button 63 is an area that is touched when entering the other function screen 67 described below.

[0049] Figure 7 1 is a diagram showing an example of an other function screen displayed on the display unit 3 of the image forming apparatus 1 when the fixing unit 15 is replaced in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. In step S5, when the image quality adjustment screen 61 is displayed on the display unit 3, if the user touches the other function button 63, the control unit 29 proceeds to step S7 to display the other function screen 67 on the display unit 3. The other function screen 67 is a menu screen related to the image quality adjustment of the image formed on the paper by the image forming unit 13. The other function screen 67 includes a fixing unit replacement button 69. The fixing unit replacement button 69 is an area that is touched when entering the fixing device type display screen 73 described below.

[0050] Figure 8 1 is a diagram showing an example of a fuser type display screen displayed on the display unit 3 of the image forming apparatus 1 when replacing the fuser unit 15 in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. In step S7, when the other function screen 67 is displayed on the display unit 3, if the user touches the fuser unit replacement button 69, the control unit 29 proceeds to step S9 and displays the fuser type display screen 73 on the display unit 3.

[0051] The fuser type display screen 73 is a screen that displays the unit type of the fuser unit 15 currently mounted on the image forming apparatus 1. The fuser type display screen 73 includes a unit type list 75. The unit type list 75 displays unit types A 75a, B 75b, and C 75c.

[0052] Among these unit types, the control unit 29 displays the unit type of the currently mounted fixing unit 15 in a selected state (e.g., reverse display, emphasized display) on the display unit 3 based on the unit types stored in the mounted unit type storage unit 25. The fixing unit type display screen 73 is a display example when the fixing unit 15 currently mounted on the image forming apparatus 1 is the unit type A. The unit type stored in the mounted unit type storage unit 25 is registered, for example, via the operation unit 5 when the user performs initial settings of the image forming apparatus 1. Thereafter, the unit type stored in the mounted unit type storage unit 25 is updated according to the unit type specified in the fixing unit type specification request screen in step S13 described later.

[0053] Thus, by displaying the unit type of the currently mounted fixing unit 15, the user can easily recognize which unit type the currently mounted fixing unit 15 is. In addition, this can prevent the fixing unit 15 from being mistakenly replaced with another unit type.

[0054] If it is determined that the unit type of the fixing unit 15 does not need to be changed at the time of this confirmation, the user can touch the return button 79 to cancel the replacement of the fixing unit. If the fixing unit needs to be replaced even after this confirmation, the user touches the next button 77. If the next button 77 is touched, the control unit 29 proceeds to step S11.

[0055] Fig. 9 1 is a diagram showing an example of a precaution confirmation screen displayed on the display unit 3 of the image forming apparatus 1 when replacing the fixing unit 15 in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. In step S9, when the fixing unit type display screen 73 is displayed on the display unit 3, if the user touches the next button 77, the control unit 29 proceeds to step S10 and displays the precaution confirmation screen 80 on the display unit 3.

[0056] The precaution confirmation screen 80 is a screen for notifying the user who is performing the replacement operation of the fixing unit 15 of various precautions related to the replacement operation before the replacement operation, and requesting the user to confirm the contents of the notification. The precaution confirmation screen 80 includes a precaution display column 80a, a declaration display column 80b, a check column 80c, a return button 80d, a next button 80e, and a scroll bar 80f.

[0057] The precaution display column 80a displays a message sent to the user who is performing the replacement operation. The message in the precaution display column 80a may also list precautions related to the replacement operation. Together with or instead of such a message, the message in the precaution display column 80a may also inform the user who is performing the replacement operation that there is a risk of injury, burns, etc. in the replacement operation. The precaution display column 80a may not display the entire message at once. The message displayed in the precaution display column 80a scrolls up and down according to the operation of the scroll bar 80f via the operating unit 5. In the precaution display column 80a, the entire message can be read by scrolling.

[0058] In the oath display column 80b, a message is recorded for the user who performs the replacement operation to indicate that, before the replacement operation, the user has received sufficient training on the appropriate handling method of the fixing unit and understands the risks associated with the replacement operation. In the case of agreeing with the message in the oath display column 80b, the user checks the check box 80c via the operation unit 5. In the precaution confirmation screen 80, the check box 80c is not checked. When the check box 80c is not checked, the next button 80e is grayed out. The gray display indicates that the next button 80e is currently in a state where it cannot be selected.

[0059] The scroll bar 80f includes an up arrow button 80g, a down arrow button 80h, and a knob 80i. The scroll bar 80f is operated by the user via the operation unit 5 to scroll the messages displayed in the note display column 80a. When the up arrow button 80g is touched via the operation unit 5, the messages displayed in the note display column 80a are scrolled upward. Similarly, when the down arrow button 80h is touched, the messages are scrolled downward. Instead of touching the up arrow button 80g or the down arrow button 80h, the message displayed in the note display column 80a can be scrolled up and down by keeping the knob 80i touched and moving it up and down via the operation unit 5.

[0060] In the precaution confirmation screen 80, when a check box 80c is checked via the operation unit 5, the control unit 29 switches the screen displayed on the display unit 3 from the precaution confirmation screen 80 to the screen displayed on the display unit 3. Fig.10 The precaution confirmation screen 80-2 is shown. Fig.10This is another example of a precaution confirmation screen displayed on the display unit 3 of the image forming apparatus 1 when replacing the fixing unit 15 in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The check box 80c that is empty in the precaution confirmation screen 80 is checked, and the check box 80c-2 that is checked is changed to a checked check box 80c-2 in the precaution confirmation screen 80-2. In addition, in response to the checked check box 80c-2, the next button 80e displayed in gray in the precaution confirmation screen 80 is displayed, and the precaution confirmation screen 80-2 is transferred to a normal display state like the next button 80e-2, and is in a selectable state.

[0061] Fig.11 1 is a diagram showing an example of a replacement preparation start screen displayed on the display unit 3 of the image forming apparatus 1 when replacing the fixing unit 15 in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. In step S11, the control unit 29 displays the replacement preparation start screen 81 on the display unit 3. The replacement preparation start screen 81 includes messages 83, 85, 87, a return button 89, a two-dimensional barcode 91, and a next button 93.

[0062] The message 83 is a message for notifying the user that advance preparation is required before replacing the fixing unit.

[0063] Message 85 is a message for informing the user that the fixing unit may reach a high temperature. In particular, after the image forming apparatus 1 outputs the medium with the image formed thereon, the fixing component of the fixing unit 15 is at a high temperature (e.g., 160 to 180 degrees). Message 85 is a message for reminding the user not to directly contact the fixing unit 15 at such a high temperature.

[0064] Message 87 notifies the user of information for accessing the operation manual for the replacement operation. Message 87 contains address information of the operation manual data that can be downloaded by a device other than the image forming device 1. Specifically, the device other than the image forming device 1 is, for example, a smartphone, a tablet computer, a personal computer, etc. (hereinafter referred to as a user terminal) of a user who performs the replacement operation of the fixing unit. By performing the operation while reading the operation manual on the user terminal, even a user who has no knowledge of the fixing unit and the replacement procedure can safely perform the replacement operation.

[0065] Usually, the display unit 3 of the image forming device 1 displays the current state of the image forming device 1, commands or various numerical values ​​that can be used to instruct and set the image forming device 1, etc. Since the display size of the display unit 3 is limited, it is difficult to display these displays and the operation manual at the same time. It is also possible to switch between these displays and the display of the operation manual as needed, but in this case, the operation is likely to become complicated. Such a problem can be avoided by displaying the operation manual on the user terminal.

[0066] In addition, as described later, the replacement operation of the fixing unit includes a process of turning on and off the main power of the image forming apparatus 1. Therefore, when the operation manual is displayed on the display unit 3 of the image forming apparatus 1, there is a time during the operation when the operation manual cannot be checked. However, since the user who has read the message 87 can download the operation manual to the user terminal, the operation manual can be checked regardless of the on / off state of the power of the image forming apparatus 1.

[0067] In message 87, the URL (Uniform Resource Locator) on the Internet is recorded as address information, but the address information recorded here is not limited to the address information of resources on the Internet, as long as it is the address information of resources that can be accessed from the user terminal and can download the data of the operation procedure manual. For example, when the user terminal and the image forming device 1 can both be connected to the same LAN (Local Area Network), the operation procedure manual can also be stored in the storage unit 23 of the image forming device 1, and the control unit 29 acts as a file server to provide the data of the operation procedure manual to the user terminal via the LAN. In addition, by providing a Bluetooth communication function in the communication unit 19 and / or the connection unit 21, files can be shared with user terminals that also have the Bluetooth communication function, so that the user terminal downloads the operation procedure manual data from the image forming device 1 via the Bluetooth communication function.

[0068] Alternatively, the operation manual may be displayed on the display unit 3 of the image forming apparatus 1 instead of on the user terminal. In this case, as described above, the operation manual cannot be viewed while the main power of the image forming apparatus 1 is on and off, but there is no need to prepare a separate user terminal.

[0069] The two-dimensional barcode 91 displays the address information of the operation procedure manual data as a two-dimensional barcode. The address information represented by the two-dimensional barcode 91 may be the same address as the address information recorded in the message 87, or may be a different address.

[0070] When the user touches the return button 89, the control unit 29 displays the fuser type display screen 73 on the display unit 3. When the user touches the next button 93, the control unit 29 proceeds to the next step S13.

[0071] Fig.121 is a diagram showing an example of a fuser type designation request screen (before designation) displayed on the display unit 3 of the image forming device 1 when replacing the fuser unit 15 in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The fuser type designation request screen 95 is a state displayed immediately after the next button 93 of the replacement preparation start screen 81 is pressed in step S11. In step S13, the control unit 29 displays the fuser type designation request screen 95 on the display unit 3. The fuser type designation request screen 95 includes a unit type list 97. The unit type list 97 displays unit types A97a, B97b, and C97c. The fuser type designation request screen 95 includes a return button 99 and a next button 101.

[0072] After the fuser type designation request screen 95 is displayed, at a point in time when there is no input from the user, the fuser type designation request screen 95 is directly displayed. At this time, the unit type A of the currently mounted fuser unit 15 is reflected, and the unit type A 97a is displayed in a selected state.

[0073] In addition, the next button 101 is grayed out to indicate that it is in a state where it cannot be selected. As described above, in the fuser type designation request screen 95, the unit type A97a corresponding to the currently installed fuser unit 15 is selected. At this time, the control unit 29 is in a state where the next button 101 cannot be selected (grayed out). This prevents the user from mistakenly replacing the fuser unit with a fuser unit of the same unit type as the currently installed fuser unit.

[0074] Fig.13 1 is a diagram showing an example of a fuser type designation request screen (after designation) displayed on the display unit 3 of the image forming apparatus 1 when replacing the fuser unit 15 in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. After the user touches the unit type B 97 b on the fuser type designation request screen 95, the fuser type designation request screen 103 is displayed. In the fuser type designation request screen 95, the unit type A (unit type A 97 a) is selected, and in the fuser type designation request screen 103, the unit type B (unit type B 107 b) is selected.

[0075] As in the fuser type designation request screen 103, when the unit type in the selected state is changed from the original value (unit type A), the control unit 29 displays the next button 101 displayed in gray in the fuser type designation request screen 95 in the display unit 3 in a selectable state (next button 111).

[0076] When the user touches the next button 111 which becomes selectable, the control unit 29 selects the unit type which is in the selected state at this time, proceeds to the next step S15, and performs the cooling time display described below. In addition, at this time, the control unit 29 updates the unit type stored in the installation unit type storage unit 25 with the selected unit type. In the case where the next button 111 is touched in the fuser type designation request screen 103, the control unit 29 updates the unit type stored in the installation unit type storage unit 25 to unit type B.

[0077] By requesting the user to input the unit type of the replaced fixing unit as in the fixing unit type designation request screen 103 , it is possible to prevent the fixing unit from being replaced by another unit type by mistake.

[0078] Fig.14 1 is a diagram showing an example of a cooling time display screen displayed on the display unit 3 of the image forming apparatus 1 when replacing the fixing unit 15 in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The cooling time display screen 113 has a message area 115. The message area 115 displays: a message 115a confirming that the user has started preparations for replacing the fixing unit 15 and a message 115b informing the user of the estimated time required for the preparations.

[0079] The maximum predicted required time is displayed as “about 80 minutes” in the message 115b. The maximum predicted required time is calculated by the cooling time estimation unit 31 of the control unit 29 based on the current temperature of the fixing unit 15 measured by the temperature sensor 17. Thus, the user can know when to start the replacement work of the fixing unit 15.

[0080] Alternatively, the image forming apparatus 1 may be operated continuously, the fixing unit 15 may be placed at a temperature that has reached the design upper limit, the time required for the fixing unit 15 to return to room temperature may be measured multiple times, and the estimated time may be calculated based on the statistical value of the actual time required, and displayed in the message 115b. In this case, the temperature sensor 17 and the cooling time estimating unit 31 may be omitted.

[0081] Fig.15 1 is a diagram showing an example of a cooling screen displayed on the display unit 3 of the image forming apparatus 1 when replacing the fixing unit 15 in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The cooling screen 121 includes a message area 123. In the message area 123, a message notifying the user that the temperature of the fixing unit 15 is currently waiting to drop and a stop button 125 are displayed.

[0082] The control unit 29 starts displaying the cooling screen 121 (step S17), and measures the temperature of the fixing unit 15 using the temperature sensor 17 through the temperature monitoring unit 33, and periodically compares it with a predetermined threshold temperature. The threshold temperature is set to about 30 to 40 degrees, for example, based on the fact that a person will not get burned even if touched. In addition, it is considered to be set to about 20 to 30 degrees based on the room temperature. When the temperature of the fixing unit 15 reaches below the threshold temperature and the stop button 125 is not touched ("Yes" in step S18), the control unit 29 proceeds to step S29.

[0083] If the stop button 125 is touched while the cooling screen 121 is displayed (YES in step S19 ), the control unit 29 stops the replacement work and proceeds to step S21 .

[0084] Fig.16 1 is a diagram showing an example of a restart screen displayed on the display unit 3 of the image forming apparatus 1 when the replacement operation of the fixing unit 15 is stopped in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. In step S21, the control unit 29 displays a restart screen 133 on the display unit 3. The restart screen 133 includes a message area 135. The message area 135 includes a message notifying the user to restart the image forming apparatus 1, a cancel button 137, and an OK (confirmation) button 139.

[0085] When cancel button 137 is touched, control unit 29 displays cooling screen 121 again on display unit 3. When OK button 139 is touched, control unit 29 restarts image forming apparatus 1 (step S23), and then displays home screen 51 on display unit 3 (step S25).

[0086] Fig.17 1 is a diagram showing an example of a preparation completion screen displayed on the display unit 3 of the image forming apparatus 1 when replacing the fixing unit 15 in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The control unit 29 displays the preparation completion screen 145 in step S29. The preparation completion screen 145 includes messages 147, 85, 87, a cancel button 151, a two-dimensional barcode 91, and a replacement start button 153.

[0087] The message 147 includes a message notifying the user that the temperature of the fixing unit 15 has dropped to a level low enough to be touched, and that the fixing unit 15 is ready for replacement. The message 147 also includes a message notifying the user that when the replacement start button 153 is touched, the power of the operation panel (display unit 3 and operation unit 5) is turned off, and the image forming apparatus 1 is transferred to the standby state. The message 147 also includes a message instructing the user to turn off the main power switch 7 after the image forming apparatus 1 is transferred to the standby state, so that the power of the image forming apparatus 1 is turned off.

[0088] The cancel button 151 is a button for instructing the image forming apparatus 1 to stop the replacement of the fixing unit 15. If the cancel button 151 is touched (No in step S31), the control unit 29 proceeds to step S33.

[0089] The replacement start button 153 is a button for finally instructing the image forming apparatus 1 to replace the fixing unit 15. Fig.11 The relevant description is given in , so it is omitted here.

[0090] Fig.18 FIG. 155 is a diagram showing an example of a restart screen displayed on the display unit 3 of the image forming apparatus 1 when the replacement operation of the fixing unit 15 is stopped in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The restart screen 155 is a screen displayed in step S33, and is a screen in which the message area 135 is superimposed on the preparation completion screen 145 displayed in steps S29 and S31. Fig.16 The message area 135 is described, so its description is omitted here.

[0091] Fig.19 1 is a diagram showing an example of a power-off screen displayed in the display unit 3 of the image forming device 1 when the fixing unit 15 is replaced in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. In step S39, the control unit 29 displays the power-off screen 156 on the display unit 3. The power-off screen 156 is a screen in which the message area 157 is superimposed on the preparation completion screen 145. The message area 157 displays a message to inform the user that the power of the operation panel (display unit 3 and operation unit 5) is turned off and is being transferred to the standby state. In the message area 157, a message can also be displayed to indicate to the user: after the display unit 3 is turned off, the main power of the image forming device 1 is turned off by operating the main power SW7, and after the replacement operation of replacing the fixing unit with the fixing unit of the unit type specified in step S13 is performed, the main power of the image forming device 1 is turned on by operating the main power SW7.

[0092] Furthermore, based on the unit type of the replaced fixing unit 15 specified by the user in step S13 , the control unit 29 reads out the setting information of the image forming apparatus 1 specified for the unit type from the setting information storage unit 27 for each unit type, and updates the corresponding setting information.

[0093] After the power off screen 156 is displayed, the image forming apparatus 1 is transferred to the standby state, and the control unit 29 turns off the main power of the image forming apparatus 1 based on the user operating the main power SW7 (step S43). Then, the user replaces the currently installed fixing unit 15 with a fixing unit of the unit type specified in step S7 (step S45). After replacing the fixing unit, the main power of the image forming apparatus 1 is turned on based on the user operating the main power SW7 (step S47). When the main power is turned on, the control unit 29 displays the home screen 51 on the display unit 3 (step S49).

[0094] 1.4 Effects of Implementation Method 1 According to the first embodiment, the following effects are achieved.

[0095] In step S9 , since the fixing unit type display screen 73 is displayed, the user can confirm the unit type of the currently mounted fixing unit 15 before replacement.

[0096] In step S13, since the fuser type designation request screen 103 is displayed and the user is requested to input the unit type, the user can be prompted to reliably identify the unit type after replacement. In addition, this can prevent the fuser unit 15 from being replaced with an incorrect unit type.

[0097] In step S13, the unit type of the currently installed fixing unit 15 is compared with the unit type after replacement. If the two are the same, the next button 101 is grayed out and cannot be selected, thereby preventing the unit type from being unchanged before and after replacement.

[0098] In step S11, the user is notified of information for accessing the operation manual for the replacement operation as a message 87 of the replacement preparation start screen 81, so that the user can perform the replacement operation of the fixing unit 15 while watching the user terminal. Therefore, even a user who does not know the structure of the image forming apparatus 1 or the details of the replacement operation of the fixing unit 15 can safely perform the replacement operation. In addition, since the operation manual can be viewed on the user terminal, the user can view the operation manual regardless of whether the power of the image forming apparatus 1 is turned on or off.

[0099] In step S15, the maximum expected time required for cooling the fixing unit 15 may be displayed. Thus, even if the user temporarily leaves the image forming apparatus 1, the user can replace the fixing unit 15 without delay if he returns to the image forming apparatus 1 after the maximum expected time has passed.

[0100] 1.5 Variations of Implementation Method 1 1.5.1 Transformation 1 In step S11, the replacement preparation start screen is displayed, and the operation procedure manual of the replacement operation can be displayed on the user terminal, but instead of executing step S11, or while executing step S11, the control unit 29 can display the operation procedure manual on the display unit 3 as follows. That is, the control unit 29 can also display the operation procedure manual on the display unit 3 after the replacement preparation is completed and before the user performs the replacement operation, specifically, after selecting "Yes" (execute replacement) in step S31 and before transferring to the standby state in step S41.

[0101] In this case, although the user cannot check the operation procedure manual during the replacement work in step S45, the user can check the work content before the replacement work.

[0102] 1.5.2 Transformation 2 In step S11, the replacement preparation start screen is displayed, and the operation procedure manual of the replacement operation can be displayed on the user terminal. However, instead of executing step S11, or while executing step S11, the control unit 29 may print the operation procedure manual or a part of the operation procedure manual in the image forming unit 13. In this case, the data of the operation procedure manual or a part of the operation procedure manual is pre-stored in the storage unit 23. The operation procedure manual can be printed at any time before the state is transferred to the standby state in step S41. For example, it can be printed when the replacement preparation start screen is displayed in step S11.

[0103] 2. Embodiment 2 In Embodiment 2, an image forming apparatus 1 having the same functional configuration as that of Embodiment 1 is used. However, a fixing unit 15 is replaced with a Fig. 20 The fixing unit 161. Fig.21 and Fig. 22 Flowchart instead of following Figure 2 and Figure 3 The flowchart takes action.

[0104] and Figure 2 and Figure 3 Compared with the flowchart, Fig.21 and Fig. 22 The flowcharts of are different in the following ways. ·exist Fig.21 and Fig. 22 In step S9, the fuser type display screen 73 is not displayed. The steps of executing the fuser type designation request screens 95 and 103 in the first embodiment are: Figure 2 In step S13, in the second embodiment, Fig. 22 Step S61. Step S10 in which the precaution confirmation screen is not displayed.

[0105] The following description will focus on the differences between step S9 and step S61, and the descriptions that are the same as those in Embodiment 1 will be omitted. As for step S10, only the function is omitted.

[0106] 2.1 Fixing unit 161 The fixing unit 161 has a unit type display 163. The unit type display 163 is a display of the unit type of the fixing unit 161. The unit type display 163 is provided in an area (non-paper-passing area) other than an area (paper-passing area) through which a medium transported for image fixing passes when the fixing unit 161 is mounted on the image forming apparatus 1. The form of the display is not particularly limited. For example, it may be directly recorded on the housing surface of the fixing unit 161 located in the non-paper-passing area by ink or the like. Alternatively, a sheet on which the unit type is recorded may be attached to the non-paper-passing area of ​​the housing surface as the unit type display 163. The unit type described in the unit type display 163 may be arbitrarily determined by the user.

[0107] 2.2 Operation of Embodiment 2 When the fixing unit replacement button 69 is touched in the other function screen 67 displayed in step S7 , the control unit 29 displays the replacement preparation start screen 81 on the display unit 3 (step S11 ).

[0108] When the preparation completion screen 145 is displayed and the replacement start button 153 is touched in step S29 (YES in step S31 ), the control portion 29 displays the fixing device type designation request screen 95 (step S61 ).

[0109] The fuser type designation request screen 95 is in the state immediately after the transition from step S31, reflecting the unit type A of the currently mounted fuser unit 15, and displays the unit type A 97a in a selected state. Therefore, the next button 101 is displayed in a grayed-out state such as being unselectable.

[0110] When the user selects unit type B as the unit type after replacement, the fuser type designation request screen 103 is displayed. Here, the next button 111 is displayed in a selectable state. In addition, when the fuser type designation request screen 103 is displayed, it is preferred that the user confirm the unit type of the fuser unit 161 by visually viewing the unit type display 163 of the fuser unit 161.

[0111] When the next button 111 is touched, the control unit 29 proceeds to step S39 and displays the power off screen 156 on the display unit 3 (step S61 ).

[0112] According to the second embodiment, since step S9 of the first embodiment is omitted, the fuser type display screen 73 is not displayed. However, in step S61, when the fuser type designation request screen 95 is displayed, the unit type A of the currently mounted fuser unit 15 is reflected, and the unit type A 97a is displayed in a selected state. Therefore, the user can confirm the unit type of the currently mounted fuser unit 15 by checking the display of the fuser type designation request screen 95.

[0113] In addition, in the first embodiment, the shortest number of steps required from step S13 of specifying the type of the fuser to step S45 of actually performing the replacement operation is 9. Therefore, the user may forget the type of the fuser specified by himself and replace the fuser unit 15 with a wrong unit type. In contrast, in the second embodiment, the number of steps required from step S61 of specifying the type of the fuser to step S45 of actually performing the replacement operation is 4. Thus, in the second embodiment, the time required from specifying the type of the fuser to the replacement operation is short. Therefore, in the second embodiment, it is difficult to cause a wrong installation such as replacing the fuser unit with a unit type different from the unit type specified by the user.

[0114] When the fuser type designation request screen 103 is displayed, the user can visually check the unit type display 163 of the fuser unit 161. Therefore, the user can perform the replacement operation while visually checking the unit type of the fuser unit 161, thereby preventing the fuser unit 161 from being mistakenly installed when the fuser type designation request screen 103 is displayed.

[0115] 3. Implementation Method 3 This implementation method is similar to Implementation Method 2. Figure 1 In the image forming apparatus 1, using Fig. 20 The fixing unit 161 replaces the fixing unit 15. Regarding the operation, according to the second embodiment Fig.21 Flowchart and Fig.23 More specifically, Fig.23 Flow chart and implementation method 2 Fig. 22 The difference of the flowchart is that there is step S71. Fig.23 The description will focus on the differences from the second embodiment.

[0116] In step S61, when the user selects unit type B as the unit type of the replaced fixing unit while the fixing unit type designation request 95 is displayed, the fixing unit type designation request screen 103 is displayed, and the unit type B 107b is selected. In this state, if the next button 111 is touched, the control unit 29 displays the fixing unit type confirmation request screen 171 on the display unit 3 (step S71).

[0117] Fig.24 1 shows an example of a fuser type confirmation request screen 171. The fuser type confirmation request screen 171 is a screen in which a message area 173 is superimposed on the Fig.13 The screen is displayed on the fuser type designation request screen 103. In the message area 173, a message 175 is recorded, which prompts the user to confirm the unit type recorded in the unit type display 163 of the fuser unit 161 used after replacement. In addition, the message area 173 includes a cancel button 177 and an OK button 179.

[0118] The unit type displayed in the message 175 is determined according to the unit type specified in step S61. The control unit 29 displays the unit type specified in step S61 as the unit type to be confirmed in the message 175. Fig.24 In the illustrated fixing device type confirmation request screen 171 , “B” is described as the unit type in the message 175 because it is assumed that the user selects the unit type B in step S61 .

[0119] The message 175 can prompt the user who is performing the replacement operation to confirm whether the unit type of the fixing unit 161 to be used after replacement is the type desired by the user.

[0120] Thus, it is possible to prevent a fuser of a type different from that set for the fuser to be replaced from being installed by mistake. In addition, by displaying the fuser type confirmation request screen 171, it is possible to remind the user to prepare the fuser to be replaced before the replacement operation. Thus, the user can quickly start the replacement operation after turning off the main power supply. As a result, it is possible to prevent a fuser of a wrong unit type from being installed, compared with a case where the user is not reminded to prepare the fuser to be replaced before the replacement operation.

[0121] 4. Implementation Method 4 Fig.25 1 is a functional block diagram of an image forming apparatus 200 according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure. The image forming apparatus 200 includes an identification number-fixer type correspondence table 201 based on the functional configuration of the image forming apparatus 1 described above. In addition, a fixing unit 203 is included instead of the fixing unit 15. The identification number-fixer type correspondence table 201 is a table that stores the correspondence between the identification number (identification information) of the fixing unit 203 and the unit type of the fixing unit.

[0122] Fig.26 2 is a perspective view of a fixing unit 203 used in the image forming apparatus 200. The fixing unit 203 has an identification number display 205. The identification number display 205 corresponds to the unit type display 163 in the second and third embodiments.

[0123] The unit type display 163 displays the unit type of the fixing unit 161, and the identification number display 205 displays the identification number of the fixing unit 203. The identification number may be assigned when the fixing unit 203 is shipped from the factory, and displayed as the identification number display 205 when shipped from the factory. Alternatively, the identification number may be arbitrarily determined by the user, similarly to the unit type display 163. Similar to the unit type display 163, the identification number display 205 is provided in the non-paper-passing area of ​​the fixing unit 203.

[0124] Fig. 27 FIG. 2 is a flowchart for explaining a replacement operation of the fixing unit 203 in the image forming apparatus 200. Fig.21 and Fig. 27 Therefore, Fig.21 The steps of are the same as those of the second embodiment. Fig. 22 Compared with the flowchart of implementation mode 4, Fig. 27 The flowchart of is different in that there is no step S61, and instead there are steps S81, S83, S85 and S87.

[0125] If the replacement start button 153 is touched in step S31 on the preparation completion screen 145 displayed in step S29 (YES in step S31 ), the control unit 29 displays the identification number input screen on the display unit 3 (step S81 ).

[0126] Fig.28 1 is a diagram showing an example of an identification number input screen displayed on the display unit 3 of the image forming apparatus 200 when the fixing unit 203 is replaced in the fourth embodiment, and is a diagram showing an identification number input screen 211. The identification number input screen 211 has a message 213 and an input field 215. The message 213 is a message requesting the user to input the identification number of the fixing unit to be used after replacement. The input field 215 is an input field for inputting the identification number of the fixing unit to be used after replacement.

[0127] When the identification number of the replaced fixing unit 203 is input via the operation unit 5 , the control unit 29 obtains the unit type of the fixing unit 203 having the input identification number based on the identification number-fixing device type correspondence table 201 and displays it on the display unit 3 (step S83 ).

[0128] The user checks the displayed unit type to determine whether it is the desired unit type. If the fixing unit 203 having the identification number is not the desired unit type, and the user inputs this intention via the operation unit 5 ("No" in step S85), the control unit 29 displays a message prompting the display unit 3 to change the fixing unit 203 to be replaced to another fixing unit (step S87).

[0129] On the other hand, if the fixing unit 203 having the identification number is the desired unit type and the user inputs this intention via the operation unit 5 (YES in step S85 ), the control unit 29 proceeds to step S39 and displays the power off screen 156 .

[0130] According to the fourth embodiment, the user is prompted to input the identification number of the fixing unit 203 to be replaced. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the fixing unit 203 from being installed by mistake, which is different from the type of the fixing unit to be replaced. In addition, by requesting the user to input the identification number, the user is reminded to prepare the fixing unit to be replaced. Therefore, by allowing the user to prepare the fixing unit to be replaced before the power is turned off, it is possible to prevent the fixing unit 203 from being installed by mistake.

[0131] The present disclosure is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments and modifications, and various changes can be made. That is, embodiments obtained by combining appropriately changed technical means within the scope of the present disclosure are also included in the technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0132] In the embodiments, the program running in each device is a program that controls the CPU and the like (a program that enables the computer to function) to realize the functions of the above-mentioned embodiments. In addition, the information processed by these devices is temporarily stored in a temporary storage device (e.g., RAM) while being processed, and then stored in various ROM (Read Only Memory), HDD, SSD storage devices and read, modified, and written by the CPU as needed.

[0133] Here, the recording medium for storing the program may be any one of a semiconductor medium (e.g., a ROM, a nonvolatile memory card, etc.), an optical recording medium / magneto-optical recording medium (e.g., a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), an MO (Magneto Optical Disc), an MD (Mini Disc), a CD (Compact Disc), a BD (Blu-ray (registered trademark) Disc), etc.), a magnetic recording medium (e.g., a magnetic tape, a floppy disk, etc.). In addition, by executing the downloaded program, not only the functions of the above-mentioned embodiments can be realized, but also the functions of the present disclosure can be realized through joint processing by an operating system or other application programs based on the instructions of the program.

[0134] Furthermore, when the program is distributed to the market, it can be stored in a portable recording medium and distributed, or transferred to a server computer connected via a network such as the Internet. In this case, the storage device of the server computer is of course also included in the present invention.

Claims

1. An image forming device, characterized in that: include: Control unit, display unit and fixing unit, The image forming device is capable of attaching and detaching the fixing unit. The control unit displays a fixing unit designation request on the display unit, the fixing unit designation request requesting an input for designating another fixing unit when the fixing unit is replaced with the other fixing unit.

2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: The control unit displays a fixing unit display on the display unit, the fixing unit display indicating the fixing unit being mounted.

3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein: The control unit displays the fixing unit designation request on the display unit before the temperature of the fixing unit being mounted drops to a predetermined temperature.

4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein: The control unit displays the fixing unit designation request on the display unit after the temperature of the fixing unit being mounted drops to a predetermined temperature.

5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: The fixing unit designation request requests an input for designating a type of a replaced fixing unit.

6. The image forming apparatus according to claim 5, wherein: The types include types determined by a user based on a paper width perpendicular to a conveying direction of the paper, the paper being paper on which an image is fixed using the fixing unit.

7. The image forming apparatus according to claim 5 or 6, wherein: The types include types determined based on differences in the configurations of the fixing units.

8. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein: The fixing unit display shows the type of fixing unit being installed.

9. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: the fixing unit has a type display indicating a type of the fixing unit, The control unit displays a fixing unit type confirmation request requesting confirmation of the description of the type display on the display unit.

10. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: The fixing unit has an identification information display indicating identification information of the fixing unit, The control section determines a type of the replaced fixing unit based on the identification information inputted according to the identification information display.

11. An operating method of an image forming apparatus, characterized in that: The image forming apparatus includes a control unit, a display unit, and a fixing unit, and the fixing unit can be attached and detached. The operation method of the image forming device includes: a step of removing the first fixing unit being installed from the image forming apparatus; A stage of installing a second fixing unit different from the first fixing unit in the image forming apparatus; and The control section causes the display section to display a stage of a fixing unit designation request requesting an input for designating the second fixing unit.

Images