Device, printing device, method, and program product

Abstract

The present invention provides apparatuses, printing apparatuses, methods, and program products. A multifunction peripheral (MFP) displays paper attributes in a manner distinguishable from other paper attributes, where values of these paper attributes are not successfully determined due to being unassociated or only slightly associated with paper characteristics obtained based on detection results of a media sensor.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments relate to devices, printing devices, methods, and program products. Background Technology

[0002] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2010-217742 describes an automatic detection of sheet features by setting up a sensor (hereinafter also referred to as a medium sensor) in an image forming apparatus for detecting physical quantities corresponding to sheet features.

[0003] However, the technology described in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2010-217742 relies on the premise that the detection results based on the medium sensor always successfully identify the sheet features. For example, if the detection results based on the medium sensor do not identify some sheet features, the user may find it difficult to determine which features the medium sensor detection results have identified. This makes it difficult to improve user convenience when using the medium sensor detection results to determine the features of the sheet to be printed. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to one aspect of an embodiment, an apparatus includes: at least one memory storing instructions; and at least one processor, which, when executing the stored instructions, is configured to operate as: an identification unit configured to identify features of a sheet to be printed; and a display control unit configured to display sheet information including the features of the sheet on a display device, wherein the display control unit is configured to display the sheet information including the features of the sheet identified by the identification unit using different identification methods in a mutually distinguishable manner on the display device, and wherein the identification method for the features of the sheet using the identification unit includes an identification method based on the detection result of a detection unit configured to detect physical quantities corresponding to the features of the sheet during the transport of the sheet.

[0005] A printing apparatus according to an embodiment includes: the processing apparatus; a feed unit configured to feed a sheet; and a printing unit configured to form an image on the sheet.

[0006] The disclosed features will become apparent from the following description of embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following description of the embodiments is illustrated by way of example. Attached Figure Description

[0007] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating a printing processing system.

[0008] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a multifunction peripheral device (MFP).

[0009] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a digital front end (DFE).

[0010] Figure 4A This is a diagram illustrating the sheet transport path.

[0011] Figure 4B This is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a media sensor.

[0012] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the first example of the process when registering paper information.

[0013] Figure 6A and Figure 6B This is an example of a screen used for registering information on a paper.

[0014] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating paper information.

[0015] Figure 8A , Figure 8B and Figure 8C This is an example of a paper information registration / editing screen.

[0016] Figure 9A , Figure 9B and Figure 9C This is a first example of a screen used to change paper property values.

[0017] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating the process of changing paper property values.

[0018] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating the first example of the process when changing paper information.

[0019] Figure 12 This is an example of the paper feed unit settings screen.

[0020] Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating a second example of the process when registering paper information.

[0021] Figure 14A and Figure 14B This is a second example of a screen used to change paper property values.

[0022] Figure 15 This is a flowchart illustrating a second example of the process when changing paper information. Detailed Implementation

[0023] Embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following embodiments are not intended to limit the disclosure. All combinations of features described in the following embodiments are not necessarily required by the disclosed solutions.

[0024] In the following embodiments, the sensor used to detect physical quantities corresponding to the characteristics of the sheet will also be referred to as a medium sensor. The following embodiments address the case where the sheet is a sheet of paper.

[0025] However, the sheet is not limited to paper sheets. Examples of sheets may include other paper products (such as envelopes), plastic sheets such as overhead projector (OHP) films, and fabrics. In the description of the embodiments, paper may be replaced with such a sheet.

[0026] In the following embodiments, paper features represented as parameters used by an image forming apparatus for printing, etc., may be referred to as paper attributes when needed. Paper attributes include paper attributes that can be generated based on the detection results of the medium sensor and paper attributes that cannot be generated based on the detection results of the medium sensor. This is because paper features include those that are not associated with or only slightly associated with the sheet features obtained based on the detection results of the medium sensor. In the following embodiments, the set of paper attributes associated with a sheet of paper will be referred to as paper information when needed.

[0027] (First Embodiment) The first embodiment will be described initially.

[0028] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a printing processing system according to an embodiment. Figure 1 This example illustrates a scenario where a multifunction peripheral device (MFP) 101 and a personal computer (PC) 102 are communicatively connected to each other via a network 100. The embodiment addresses the case where the MFP 101 is both an image forming apparatus and a processing apparatus. However, other devices may possess only a portion of the functions of both an image forming apparatus and a processing apparatus. The processing apparatus does not need to include configurations for image formation. In this case, the processing of the embodiment described below can be achieved through mutual communication between the processing apparatus and the apparatus for image formation.

[0029] Figure 1 An example printing processing system includes an information processing device (in...) Figure 1 In the illustrated example, PC 102 is an example. However, the number of information processing devices included in a printing processing system is not limited to one. For example, an image forming device (in...) Figure 1 In the example shown, the MFP 101 and multiple information processing devices can be interconnected via network 100. Figure 1This example illustrates a printing processing system that includes both an image forming device and an information processing device. However, a printing processing system is not limited to systems that include both an image forming device and an information processing device. For example, an image forming device can be considered a printing processing system. If the image forming device performs image forming processing that can be performed independently, the information processing device connected to network 100 can be omitted. Examples of image forming processing that can be performed independently by the image forming device include printing copy jobs and storage jobs.

[0030] An example of PC 102 will be described initially. PC 102 can execute various programs, including applications. Various applications, such as printer drivers and workflow software, are installed on PC 102. The printer driver has the function of translating print data into a printer language compatible with MFP 101. Users wishing to print can issue print commands by inputting on a graphical user interface (GUI) displayed through the printer driver's processing. Using the printer driver and workflow software, PC 102 can translate data output from the application based on the user's print commands into print data that MFP 101 can interpret. PC 102 can then send the print data to MFP 101 connected to network 100.

[0031] This embodiment addresses the case where the information processing device is a PC 102. However, the information processing device is not limited to a PC. For example, the information processing device can be a portable information terminal, such as a smartphone or tablet. The method used by the information processing device to send print data to the image forming device is also not limited. For example, the information processing device can send print data to the image forming device via a printing application or printer driver. The information processing device can also send print data to the image forming device via a cloud server.

[0032] Next, an example of the MFP 101 will be described. For example, the MFP 101 has a function to read an image formed on paper and a function to print the image on the paper. The MFP 101 also has post-processing functions. The post-processing functions, for example, perform at least one of the following: binding multiple sheets of paper with printed images, aligning multiple sheets of paper, and paging sheets between multiple trays that serve as discharge destinations. The paper type is not particularly limited. Examples of paper include plain paper, thick paper, and coated paper. As mentioned above, sheets other than paper can be used.

[0033] This embodiment addresses the case where the image forming apparatus is an MFP 101. However, the image forming apparatus is not limited to an MFP. For example, the image forming apparatus can be an image forming apparatus such as a printer without read functionality.

[0034] The embodiment addresses a scenario where the print processing system includes a digital front-end (DFE) 103. The DFE 103 is a device that has at least some of the functions of the MFP 101 or other ancillary functions. In this case, the DFE 103 can be considered as providing the functionality of the MFP 101 to the PC 102 via network 100 rather than the MFP 101 itself.

[0035] The DFE 103 can be equipped with various input / output devices similar to those of the PC 102.

[0036] Figure 1 An example is shown where a monitor 105, as an input / output device, is communicatively connected to a DFE 103. Figure 1 The example also illustrates the scenario where MFP 101 and DFE 103 are connected in a communicative manner. Even with DFE 103 connected in this way, MFP 101 can be configured to connect directly to network 100 without the intervention of DFE 103. Figure 1 This example illustrates a scenario where the MFP 101 is directly connected to the network 100 using a network cable 104 that connects the MFP 101 and the network 100. The MFP 101 can also be wirelessly connected to external devices.

[0037] In a print processing system including DFE 103, monitor 105 can be used as both a display unit and an operation unit for DFE 103. In this case, the GUI provided by monitor 105 can be used as one of the operation units. Note that the display unit and operation unit of DFE 103 are not limited to those using monitor 105. For example, operation unit 204 of MFP 101 can be used as an operation unit for DFE 103. At least some of the functions of DFE 103 can be added to MFP 101. Monitor 105 is a computer monitor. Examples of computer monitors include liquid crystal displays (LCDs) and organic electroluminescent (EL) displays.

[0038] MFP 101 includes multiple devices with distinct functions. These devices are interconnected. The multiple devices enable complex processing. Examples of the devices constituting MFP 101 will now be described.

[0039] Printer unit 203 uses toner to form (print) an image on paper (sheet) fed from the paper feed unit, based on image data. An example describing the configuration and operating principle of printer unit 203 will follow.

[0040] Printer unit 203 modulates and outputs a light beam (e.g., laser) based on image data. Printer unit 203 uses scanning light to illuminate a photosensitive drum, which is obtained by reflecting the modulated beam using a rotating polygonal mirror. Printer unit 203 uses toner to develop the electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum using the scanning light. Then, printer unit 203 transfers the developed toner image onto paper attached to a transfer drum. Printer unit 203 performs this series of image processing processes sequentially for each of the yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K) toners. This forms a full-color image on the paper.

[0041] Printer unit 203 may include a configuration capable of transferring other toners to paper besides the four colors. Examples include toners for special colors and transparent toners. Paper with a full-color image formed on the transfer drum is fed to a fixing unit. The fixing unit includes rollers and a belt. The rollers of the fixing unit internally include a heat source (e.g., a halogen heater). In the fixing unit, printer unit 203 fixes the toner by using heat and pressure to melt the toner on the paper with the toner image transferred.

[0042] The printer unit 203 also selects the appropriate printing speed mode and image processing mode to be applied during printing based on the characteristics of the paper to be used during the printing process.

[0043] The embodiment addresses the case where the scanner unit 201 and the operation unit 204 are located on top of the printer unit 203. The scanner unit 201 reads the image formed on the paper (original) and performs image processing on the image data, which is data related to the read image. When the processed image data is output from the scanner unit 201, the printer unit 203 forms (prints) an image on the paper based on the image data in the manner described above. The operation unit 204 provides various interfaces for the user to perform various settings and operations on the printer unit 203.

[0044] The operation unit 204 includes a display unit and provides a GUI. The display unit included in the operation unit 204 is a computer monitor. Examples of computer monitors include liquid crystal displays (LCDs) and organic EL displays.

[0045] The embodiments address situations where the MFP 101 includes not only the printer unit 203 but also various devices described below.

[0046] The high-capacity paper feed device 220 is an example of a paper feed device for feeding sheets (in this embodiment, paper sheets) into the printer unit 203. The high-capacity paper feed device 220 can be detachably attached to the printer unit 203. The high-capacity paper feed device 220 includes a plurality of paper feed units 231 to 234. With this configuration, the printer unit 203 can process large volumes of paper. Figure 1 The example illustrates the case where paper feed units 231 to 233 are paper feed cassettes and paper feed unit 234 is a manual feed tray.

[0047] The sensing unit 221 reads the image (e.g., a test pattern) formed on the paper by the printer unit 203 and makes various adjustments based on these images. After reading the image formed on the paper, the sensing unit 221 discharges the paper into the first output tray 224. This prevents paper with images such as test patterns from being mixed with the output product as an actual printout. However, the paper whose image has been read by the sensing unit 221 does not necessarily need to be discharged into the first output tray 224. For example, the paper whose image has been read by the sensing unit 221 can be discharged into the tray of the processing device 223, which will be described below.

[0048] The inspection unit 229 reads the image formed on the printed paper fed to the inspection unit 229 and determines whether the image formed on the paper is normal (i.e., whether a printing failure exists or not) by comparing these images with pre-registered correct images. The correct image is also called the reference image. If the image formed on the paper is determined to include a printing failure, the inspection unit 229 notifies the central processing unit (CPU) 205 of the identifier of the paper that has experienced a printing failure. Based on this notification, the CPU 205 controls the discharge of the paper with the printing failure image to the second output tray 225. (Refer to the following...) Figure 2 As described, CPU 205 is an example of the control unit of MFP 101.

[0049] Stacker 222 is an output device configured to stack a large number of output products printed by printer unit 203. For example, stacker 222 includes one or more trays. In this case, printed sheets of paper are stacked in (one or more) trays. The embodiment addresses the case where sheets of paper not stacked in (one or more) trays are discharged to the second output tray 225. As described above, paper with printed failure images is not stacked in (one or more) trays and is discharged to the second output tray 225.

[0050] Processing device 223 is a device for binding bundles of multiple sheets of paper. The type of binding process is not particularly limited. For example, processing device 223 performs binding processes desired by the user, such as corner binding, two-point binding, and saddle stitching. The bound printouts are discharged into one of trays 226 to 228. For example, printouts after corner binding or two-point binding are discharged into trays 226 or 227. For example, printouts after saddle stitching are discharged into tray 228.

[0051] The MFP 101 can be broadly divided into three parts with the printer unit 203 in the middle. Figure 1 In this printer unit 203, the device on the right side is referred to as the paper feed system. The main function of the paper feed system is to continuously feed the paper loaded inside to the printer unit 203 at appropriate timings. The paper feed system also detects the remaining level of the paper loaded inside.

[0052] On the other hand, the equipment on the left side of the printer unit 203 is referred to as an automatic sheet handling device. The equipment on the left side of the printer unit 203 is also referred to as a sheet processing device or a post-processing device. For example, the automatic sheet handling device performs various types of automatic handling and accumulation of sheets (paper sheets in this embodiment) that have undergone printing processing. In the following description, the aforementioned paper feeding system device and the automatic sheet handling device will be collectively referred to as sheet processing equipment 200 when necessary.

[0053] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating an example configuration of MFP 101. Figure 2 The components of the MFP 101 are illustrated by function. In contrast, Figure 1 The components of the MFP 101 are illustrated in terms of device configuration. Therefore, Figure 2 Including not necessarily with Figure 1 The corresponding parts of the components of the illustrated MFP 101.

[0054] The MFP 101 includes non-volatile memory such as a hard disk drive (HDD) 209. Non-volatile memory can store data related to multiple jobs to be processed. Non-volatile memory is not limited to HDDs. For example, non-volatile memory can be a solid-state drive (SSD). Non-volatile memory can be a high-capacity storage device.

[0055] As described above, the scanner unit 201 reads the image formed on the paper, performs image processing on the image data, which is image-related data, and outputs the resulting image data. The printer unit 203 performs printing processing on the data related to the job to be printed stored in the HDD 209. The operation unit 204 is an example of the user interface unit of the MFP 101. The sheet processing device 200 corresponds to the aforementioned paper feeding system and sheet automatic handling device.

[0056] The CPU 205 comprehensively controls the processing and operation of various devices included in the MFP 101. For example, the CPU 205 controls the operation of the sheet handling device 200 and the printer unit 203. The external interface (I / F) 202 sends data such as image data to external devices (such as fax machines, network connection equipment, and external dedicated devices) and receives data such as image data from these external devices.

[0057] HDD 209 stores various types of information for permanent storage by MFP 101, as well as various types of information that need to be changed and managed by MFP 101.

[0058] The CPU 205 stores image data output from the scanner unit 201 in the HDD 209. The CPU 205 reads the image data stored in the HDD 209 and instructs the printer unit 203 to print based on that image data. This implements the copying function of the MFP 101. The CPU 205 also stores job data received from the external I / F 202 in the HDD 209. The CPU 205 reads the job data stored in the HDD 209 and instructs the printer unit 203 to print based on that job data. This implements the printing function of the MFP 101. The external I / F 202 sends various types of data to an external device based on instructions from the CPU 205. For example, the CPU 205 instructs the external I / F 202 to send job data read from the HDD 209 to an external device. In this way, the CPU 205 performs various types of input / output processing on the job data to be processed stored in the HDD 209. The MFP 101 is a multi-functional processing device with these multiple functions. The MFP 101 can perform color or monochrome printing. The HDD 209 also stores image data compressed by the compression / decompression unit 206, which is described below.

[0059] Read-only memory (ROM) 207 pre-stores boot sequences, font information, and various programs such as the aforementioned application programs. For example, ROM 207 stores various programs for performing the processes described in the embodiments. Specifically, the programs stored in ROM 207 include programs for performing the various types of processing illustrated in the flowcharts described below. The programs stored in ROM 207 also include programs for performing display control to display various user interface (UI) screens on the display unit included in operation unit 204. The programs stored in ROM 207 also include programs for performing operations to interpret page description language data received from external I / F 202 and render the data into raster image data (bitmap image data). The programs stored in ROM 207 also include programs for interpreting and processing print jobs received from external I / F 202. The embodiments address the case where the programs stored in ROM 207 are executed by CPU 205. Therefore, the CPU 205 reads and executes the program stored in the ROM 207, thereby causing the components of the MFP 101 to perform various types of processing according to the embodiment.

[0060] Random access memory (RAM) 208 is a readable and writable memory. RAM 208 temporarily stores image data, various programs, and setting information sent from scanner unit 201 and external I / F 202.

[0061] The compression / decompression unit 206 uses various compression methods to compress and decompress image data and other data stored in RAM 208 and HDD 209. The compression method is not particularly limited. Examples of compression methods include Joint Binary Image Experts Group (JBIG) and Joint Image Experts Group (JPEG).

[0062] The media sensor 210 is a sensor used to detect physical quantities corresponding to the characteristics (such as paper type and basis weight) of the paper used by the MFP 101 during printing. An example embodiment illustrates a case where the media sensor 210 is installed in a position facing the paper, with space between the sensor and the paper being transported through the transport path in the MFP 101. Examples of the arrangement and configuration of the media sensor 210 within the MFP 101 will be described below.

[0063] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating an example configuration of DFE 103.

[0064] exist Figure 3In this system, CPU 301 executes programs including an operating system (OS) and various applications (e.g., a bookbinding application). The software (OS and programs, etc.) to be executed by CPU 301 is stored, for example, in at least one of ROM 303 and HDD 311. CPU 301 loads the software stored in HDD 311 into RAM 302 and executes the software. ROM 303 includes a font ROM and a data ROM. RAM 302 serves as the main memory and working area of ​​CPU 301, etc. Keyboard controller (KBC) 305 controls input from keyboard (KB) 309 and pointing device (not shown).

[0065] Display controller 306 controls the display on display unit 310. Display unit 310 is a computer monitor. Examples of computer monitors include liquid crystal displays (LCDs) and organic EL displays (OLEDs).

[0066] The disk controller (DKC) 307 controls access to the bootloader and secondary storage devices such as the HDD 311. The HDD 311 stores the operating system and various applications, as well as font data and user files.

[0067] The network controller (NC) 312 is connected to the network 100. The NC 312 performs processing for controlling communication with external devices connected to the network 100.

[0068] Bus 304 is connected to CPU 301, RAM 302, ROM 303, KBC 305, display controller 306, DKC 307, and NC 312. CPU 301, RAM 302, ROM 303, KBC 305, display controller 306, DKC 307, and NC 312 can communicate with each other via bus 304.

[0069] For example, CPU 301, RAM 302, ROM 303, KBC 305, display controller 306, DKC 307 and NC 312 send and receive data signals and control signals via bus 304.

[0070] Figure 4A This is a diagram illustrating an example of a paper transport path.

[0071] Figure 4AExamples of media sensors 210a, 210b, 210c, and 210d are shown installed at positions that face the paper at a distance from the paper being conveyed through the exits corresponding to the paper feed units 231, 232, 233, and 234. To identify paper characteristics, the paper fed from paper feed units 231 to 234 needs to be conveyed until the media sensors 210a to 210d can detect its position. Examples of paper characteristics include surface gloss and basis weight (in the following description, surface gloss will be referred to as surface characteristics when necessary).

[0072] Paper detection sensors 240a to 240p detect the passage of paper being conveyed through the transport path. The paper detection sensors 240a to 240p are installed at positions relative to each other, with a certain distance between them and the paper being conveyed through the transport path.

[0073] The embodiments address the case where media sensors 210a to 210d have the same configuration. In the following description, unless specifically distinguished, media sensors 210a to 210d will therefore be referred to as media sensor 210 when necessary. The embodiments also address the case where paper detection sensors 240a to 240p have the same configuration. In the following description, unless specifically distinguished, paper detection sensors 240a to 240p will therefore be referred to as paper detection sensor 240 when necessary.

[0074] Figure 4B This is a diagram illustrating an example of a media sensor 210. Various forms of media sensors 210 exist. Figure 4B The illustrated media sensor 210 is merely an example of a sensor for detecting physical quantities corresponding to the characteristics of a sheet (in this embodiment, a sheet of paper). The media sensor 210 is not limited to... Figure 4B The illustrated medium sensor 210.

[0075] Figure 4B An example is the case where the medium sensor 210 includes a light-emitting diode (LED) 401, a line sensor 402, a transmitting unit 403, and a receiving unit 404.

[0076] The paper detection sensor 240 includes an illumination unit and a light-receiving unit. The illumination unit emits light toward the paper transport path. If paper is present in the transport path, the light emitted from the illumination unit is reflected at the paper. The light-receiving unit can receive the light reflected from the sheet. If the level of light received by the light-receiving unit is higher than or equal to a predetermined level, the CPU 205 determines that paper has been detected by the paper detection sensor 240.

[0077] If the paper detection sensor 240 detects that paper 406 is being fed past the position in front of the media sensor 210, the CPU 205 instructs the LED 401, line sensor 402, transmitting unit 403, and receiving unit 404 to begin measurement. If the paper detection sensor 240 detects that the paper is in a state that persists for a specific time or longer, or if no paper to be detected by the paper detection sensor 240 is detected for a specific time or longer, the CPU 205 determines that a jam has occurred.

[0078] LED 401 and line sensor 402 are used to estimate (calculate) the surface characteristics of the paper. When paper 406, which is being conveyed past a position in front of media sensor 210, is detected by paper detection sensor 240 and CPU 205 issues a command to start measurement, LED 401 illuminates the paper surface. The light emitted from LED 401 onto paper 406 is reflected at paper 406. When the light reflected from paper 406 is input to a pixel of line sensor 402, line sensor 402 outputs a voltage corresponding to the brightness value of that light. The surface non-uniformity of paper 406 can be calculated based on the difference between the brightness values ​​of two adjacent pixels. The surface characteristics of paper 406 can be calculated based on the sum of the brightness values ​​of the pixels.

[0079] The transmitting unit 403 and the receiving unit 404 are used to estimate (calculate) the basis weight and thickness of the paper 406. The transmitting unit 403 includes elements capable of transmitting sound waves (e.g., ultrasound) of a predetermined frequency based on a given signal input to the transmitting unit 403. The receiving unit 404 includes elements capable of receiving the sound waves transmitted from the transmitting unit 403. The receiving unit 404 outputs a received signal based on the sound pressure level of the received sound waves. When the paper 406, which is being conveyed past a position in front of the media sensor 210, is detected by the paper detection sensor 240 and the CPU 205 issues a command to begin measurement, the transmitting unit 403 transmits sound waves toward the surface of the paper 406. The sound waves transmitted from the transmitting unit 403 are incident on the paper 406. The receiving unit 404 receives the sound waves that have passed through the paper 406. The basis weight and thickness of the paper 406 can be calculated based on the difference between the level of the sound waves transmitted from the transmitting unit 403 and the level of the sound waves received by the receiving unit 404. Some types of paper may have non-uniform thickness. The transmission of a continuous wave from the transmitting unit 403 enables the calculation of the unevenness of paper thickness, thereby allowing the calculation of the average weight and thickness of the paper.

[0080] When the paper 406 being conveyed past the position in front of the media sensor 210 is detected by the paper detection sensor 240, the CPU 205 can begin measuring the time required to estimate (calculate) the paper characteristics. In this case, the CPU 205 ends the measurement of the time when the estimation (calculation) of the paper characteristics is complete. The time required to estimate (calculate) the paper characteristics is, for example, the time obtained by subtracting from the measured time the time required to convey the paper through the same distance without estimating the paper characteristics as when estimating them.

[0081] The embodiment addresses the following situation: The voltage (brightness) value output by the media sensor 210 from the line sensor 402 and the level of the sound wave received by the receiving unit 404 are used as examples of physical quantities corresponding to the characteristics of the paper 406 for detection. The embodiment also addresses the following situation: Based on the detection results of the media sensor 210, the CPU 205 estimates (calculates) the surface gloss, basis weight, and thickness of the paper 406 as examples of the characteristics of the paper 406. For high-quality printing, etc., paper information includes many parameters (paper properties). Paper information may also include paper properties that are not directly used for printing but facilitate paper management for the user. In the following description, the value of the physical quantity detected by the media sensor 210 will be referred to as the detection value of the media sensor 210 when necessary.

[0082] The embodiment addresses the case where the paper properties estimated from the detection values ​​of the media sensor 210 are only the surface characteristics, basis weight, and thickness of the paper. However, the paper properties estimated from the detection values ​​of the media sensor 210 are not limited to these. The CPU 205 can use various algorithms to estimate values ​​(content) of paper properties other than the surface characteristics, basis weight, and thickness of the paper based on the detection values ​​of the media sensor 210. On the other hand, paper information may include paper properties that are not at all (or only slightly related) to the paper properties estimated from the detection values ​​of the media sensor 210. For example, paper properties such as paper color, shape, and pre-printed paper (e.g., whether the paper is pre-printed) cannot be determined (or are difficult to determine) to be appropriate values ​​using any algorithm. Such paper properties must be set by the user.

[0083] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing of MFP 101 when given an instruction to register paper information using media sensor 210. Figure 5 The flowchart, for example, begins when the user operates the operation unit 204 to instruct the registration of paper information using the media sensor 210. Figure 6A and Figure 6B This is an example diagram illustrating a screen used for registering information on paper. Figure 6AThis is an example diagram illustrating a paper information management screen 600. Operations for registering new paper information and deleting or editing registered paper information are performed on the paper information management screen 600. Figure 6B This is an example diagram illustrating a paper selection screen 620. The paper selection screen 620 is displayed when the first registration button 601 of the paper information management screen 600 is selected. On the paper selection screen 620, an operation is performed to select the paper (paper feed unit) to be used when registering new paper information based on the detection value of the media sensor 210. The embodiment addresses the case where the paper information management screen 600 and the paper selection screen 620 are displayed on the display unit included in the operation unit 204. However, this is not necessarily required. For example, at least one of the paper information management screen 600 and the paper selection screen 620 can be displayed on the display unit 310 of the DFE 103. This also applies to screens other than the paper information management screen 600 and the paper selection screen 620.

[0084] The user initially operates the operation unit 204 to instruct the registration of new paper information. Based on this operation, the CPU 205 will... Figure 6A The illustrated paper information management screen 600 is displayed on the display unit included in the operation unit 204. Then, if the user selects the first registration button 601, the CPU 205 will display the paper selection screen 620 on the display unit included in the operation unit 204. The first registration button 601 is a button for registering new paper information using the media sensor 210.

[0085] exist Figure 6B In this paper selection unit, buttons 621 to 624 are used to select the paper to be used (fed) when registering new paper information. Buttons 621, 622, 623 and 624 correspond to paper feed units 231, 232, 233 and 234, respectively. Figure 6B This example illustrates a case where the user can select only one button at a time. The button selected by the user on paper selection buttons 621 to 624 is now in the selected state. Figure 6B This example illustrates the case where the paper selection button 623 is selected. The CPU 205 stores in RAM 208 identification information related to the paper feed unit corresponding to the button selected by the user among the paper selection buttons 621 to 624. If one of the paper selection buttons 621 to 624 is selected when another paper selection button is selected, the CPU 205 cancels the selection information associated with the first selected paper selection button. The CPU 205 also makes the subsequently selected paper selection button selected.

[0086] The Cancel button 625 is used to terminate the display of the paper selection screen 620. If the Cancel button 625 is selected, the CPU 205 will not register (generate) new paper information.

[0087] The OK button 626 is used to terminate the display of the paper selection screen 620.

[0088] In one embodiment, the OK button 626 becomes selectable only if one of the paper selection buttons 621 to 624 is selected. If the OK button 626 is selected, the CPU 205 begins... Figure 5 The processing of flowcharts.

[0089] In step S501, the CPU 205 identifies the button selected when the OK button 626 is selected among the paper selection buttons 621 to 624. Then, the CPU 205 feeds paper from the paper feed unit corresponding to the button in the paper feed units 231 to 234.

[0090] In step S502, the CPU 205 estimates the values ​​of paper properties based on the detection values ​​of the media sensor 210. The embodiment addresses the case where the surface characteristics, basis weight, and thickness of the paper 406 are estimated in step S502.

[0091] In step S503, CPU 205 determines the values ​​of paper properties that can be estimated. The paper properties whose values ​​are determined in step S503 (the values ​​of the paper properties that can be estimated) are the paper property values ​​estimated based on the detection values ​​of the media sensor 210 and the paper property values ​​further estimated based on these paper property values. The embodiment addresses the case where the values ​​estimated in step S502 are simply determined as the values ​​of the paper properties whose values ​​were estimated in step S502.

[0092] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating an example of paper information 700. For example, paper information 700 exists for each type of paper for which paper attribute values ​​have been set based on the detection results of the media sensor 210. Paper information 700 is stored, for example, in HDD 209 and is copied to RAM 208 and updated as needed. In this case, for example, the portion of paper information 700 updated in RAM 208 is reflected in the paper information 700 stored in HDD 209.

[0093] exist Figure 7In this context, the paper information identifier (ID) 701 is a unique ID assigned to each piece of paper information 700. The CPU 205 can retrieve a given piece of paper information from the HDD 209 based on the paper information ID 701. When changing information related to paper attributes included in the paper information 700, the CPU 205 can also identify, based on the paper information ID 701, the paper information in the HDD 209 that includes the paper attributes whose values ​​need to be changed. In this case, the CPU 205 can update the paper attribute-related information included in the identified paper information and store the updated information.

[0094] Paper attribute name 702, paper attribute value 703, and paper attribute setting status 704 are columns used to store the name, value, and setting status of the paper attribute, respectively. The information stored in these columns is used as parameters during printing, for example. Figure 7 An example is given where a single piece of paper information 700 includes 14 types of paper attributes 711 to 724.

[0095] The following describes the details of the paper property value settings.

[0096] As described above, the embodiments address the case where the paper property value is a sheet characteristic.

[0097] The embodiment also addresses the case where the information displayed based on the content of paper information 700 is sheet information. The embodiment also addresses the case where the setting state of the paper attribute values ​​depends on information about the method used to identify sheet features.

[0098] Various methods exist for determining paper attribute values. For example, using the paper attribute values ​​estimated based on the detection values ​​of the media sensor 210, the CPU 205 can select from a plurality of pre-registered paper information that includes the paper attribute with the value closest to the paper attribute value. In this case, the CPU 205 can determine the value of the paper attribute included in the selected paper information as a paper attribute value other than the paper attribute value estimated based on the detection values ​​of the media sensor 210. The CPU 205 can calculate the value of the paper attribute associated with the paper attribute value estimated based on the detection values ​​of the media sensor 210. For example, creep correction adjustment 718 is a paper attribute associated with paper thickness. Paper separation fan airflow adjustment 720 is a paper attribute associated with paper basis weight. Fixing speed adjustment 721 is a paper attribute associated with paper basis weight and surface characteristics. Therefore, the values ​​of creep correction adjustment 718, paper separation fan airflow adjustment 720, and fixing speed adjustment 721 can be calculated based on the paper thickness, paper basis weight, and paper basis weight and surface characteristics estimated in step S502, respectively. The method for determining paper properties is not limited to the aforementioned usage.

[0099] In step S504, CPU 205 sets "Judged Status" in the column of paper attribute setting status 704 corresponding to the paper attribute whose value was successfully determined in step S503.

[0100] In step S505, CPU 205 supplements the values ​​of paper attributes whose values ​​were not successfully determined in step S503. The embodiment addresses the situation where default values ​​are pre-set for each paper attribute as the values ​​of the paper attributes whose values ​​were not successfully determined in step S503. Here, CPU 205 supplements these values ​​by setting the values ​​of the paper attributes whose values ​​were not successfully determined in step S503 to the default values ​​set for these paper attributes. The embodiment addresses the situation where the values ​​of the paper attributes whose values ​​were not successfully determined in step S503 are set to the default values ​​set for these paper attributes, thereby identifying features not recognized according to the detection results of the detection unit as features of predetermined content.

[0101] In step S506, since the sheet properties are not associated with or are only slightly associated with the detection values ​​based on the medium sensor 210, the CPU 205 sets the "Undetermined State" in the column of the paper property setting state 704 corresponding to the paper properties whose values ​​have not been successfully determined and supplemented.

[0102] In step S507, the CPU 205 calculates the values ​​of paper properties through adjustment processing. For example, the adjustment values ​​in secondary transfer voltage adjustment 723 and image position adjustment 724 are calculated as follows: Initially, a test pattern is printed on the paper. Then, the printed test pattern on the paper is scanned to read the printing status and position. Then, the adjustment values ​​in secondary transfer voltage adjustment 723 and image position adjustment 724 are calculated based on the printing status and position. By performing this adjustment processing after the paper fed for paper property estimation has passed through the media sensor 210, the values ​​of paper properties whose values ​​were not successfully determined in step S503 can be calculated.

[0103] In step S508, CPU 205 sets "Normal State" in the column of paper attribute setting state 704 corresponding to the attribute value calculated by the adjustment process in step S507.

[0104] Note that adjustment processing is not necessarily required, and step S507 is not necessary. If step S507 is not performed, steps S507 and S508 are skipped. Steps S505 and S506, as well as steps S507 and S508, can be performed in reverse order.

[0105] In step S509, the CPU 205 displays on the display unit included in the operation unit 204. Figures 8A to 8C The illustrated paper information registration / editing screen 800 displays the content of the paper information obtained based on the processing results of steps S502 to S508. The paper information registration / editing screen 800 displays the content of the paper information, allowing the user to easily distinguish between paper attributes in an undetermined state and other paper attributes.

[0106] Now will describe Figure 6A The example is a paper information management screen 600.

[0107] As described above, the first registration button 601 is the button to be selected when registering new paper information. If the first registration button 601 is selected, the paper selection detection screen 620 is displayed.

[0108] The second registration button 602 is the button to be selected when copying registered paper information and registering new paper information. The second registration button 602 becomes selectable when any of the paper information selection buttons 604 to 609 are selected. If the second registration button 602 is selected, the CPU 205 copies the paper information corresponding to the button currently selected among the paper information selection buttons 604 to 609 at that point in time and registers the new paper information. The CPU 205 also displays a paper information registration / editing screen 800.

[0109] The paper information display area 603 is used to display paper information selection buttons 604 to 609. If all the paper information registered in MFP 101 cannot be displayed in the paper information display area 603 at once, CPU 205 displays a scroll bar 610 on the paper information management screen 600. By accepting operations on the scroll bar 610, CPU 205 changes the paper information selection button to be displayed in the paper information display area 603.

[0110] Paper information selection buttons 604 to 609 are used to select the paper information registered in MFP 101. Figure 6A This example illustrates the case where the user can select only one button from paper information selection buttons 604 to 609 at a time. The button selected by the user from paper information selection buttons 604 to 609 is selected. If, when another paper information selection button is selected, one of paper information selection buttons 604 to 609 is already selected, the CPU 205 cancels the selection information associated with the first selected paper information selection button. The CPU 205 also makes the subsequently selected paper information selection button selected.

[0111] The End button 611 is used to terminate the display of the paper information management screen 600.

[0112] If the End button 611 is selected, the CPU 205 terminates the display of the paper information management screen 600 and displays an unshown screen that was displayed before the display of the paper information management screen 600 on the display unit included in the operation unit 204.

[0113] The delete button 612 is used to delete the paper information registered in the MFP 101. The edit button 613 is used to edit the paper information registered in the MFP 101. When one of the paper information selection buttons 604 to 609 is selected, the delete button 612 and the edit button 613 become selectable. If the delete button 612 is selected, the CPU 205 deletes the paper information 700 corresponding to the button selected at that point in time from the HDD 209 among the paper information selection buttons 604 to 609.

[0114] If the edit button 613 is selected, the CPU 205 reads the paper information 700 corresponding to the button selected at that point in time from the HDD 209 among the paper information selection buttons 604 to 609, and stores the paper information 700 in the RAM 208. The CPU 205 also displays the information on the display unit included in the operation unit 204. Figures 8A to 8C The example shown is the paper information registration / editing screen 800.

[0115] As described above, the embodiment addresses the following situations: not only when processing step S509, but also when selecting the edit button 613 or the second registration button 602 on the paper information management screen 600, the display is shown. Figures 8A to 8C The example is the paper information registration / editing screen 800. The paper information registration / editing screen 800 is displayed when registering new paper information and when editing paper information.

[0116] When step S509 is performed or when the second registration button 602 is selected, the paper information registration / editing screen 800 is displayed to register new paper information.

[0117] On the other hand, when the edit button 613 is selected, the paper information registration / editing screen 800 is displayed to edit the registered paper information. The paper information registration / editing screen 800 will now be described. The embodiment addresses the situation where the paper information registration / editing screen 800 is displayed to provide a screen display capable of at least one of registering and editing sheet features.

[0118] Figure 8A The illustrated paper information registration / editing screen 800 and Figure 8B The illustrated paper information registration / editing screen 800 differs in the content of the displayed paper attribute items 801a to 801n. This embodiment addresses the situation where the number of paper attributes is too large for paper attribute items 801a to 801n to be displayed on a single screen; in this case, paper attribute items 801a to 801n are displayed across multiple pages. Switching is achieved by selecting page switching buttons 830 and 831. Figure 8A The illustrated paper information registration / editing screen 800 displays and Figure 8B The example shows the display of the paper information registration / editing screen 800.

[0119] The columns for paper property items 801a to 801n display the column for paper property name 820, the column for paper property value 821, the column for paper property setting status 822, and the paper property change buttons 823a to 823n.

[0120] The "Paper Attribute Name 820" field is the area used to display the names of paper attributes. The names of the paper attributes stored in "Paper Attribute Name 702" are displayed in the "Paper Attribute Name 820" field.

[0121] The column for paper attribute value 821 is the area used to display the values ​​of paper attributes. The paper attribute values ​​stored in the column for paper attribute value 703 are displayed in the column for paper attribute value 821.

[0122] The "Paper Property Settings Status 822" column is the area used to display the setting status of paper property values. Figure 7 The information stored in the column of the illustrated paper property setting state 704 is displayed in the column of paper property setting state 822. The embodiment addresses the following situation: in the column of paper property setting state 822 corresponding to a paper property whose value has been determined based on the detection value of the medium sensor 210, the text message "Judged" is displayed (see steps S502 to S504). The embodiment also addresses the following situation: in the column of paper property setting state 822 corresponding to a paper property whose appropriate value was not successfully determined, the text message "Not Judged" is displayed (see steps S505 and S506). The embodiment also addresses the following situation: in the column of paper property setting state 822 corresponding to a paper property whose value has been calculated through adjustment processing, no information is displayed (see steps S507 and S508). The embodiment also addresses the following situation: in the column of paper property setting state 822 corresponding to a paper property whose value has been set by user selection, no information is displayed. The absence of information in the column of paper property setting state 822 indicates that the setting state is normal. As described above, in this embodiment, the information in the paper attribute setting state 822 column changes based on changes in paper attribute values. This embodiment addresses the following situation: when the sheet feature changes due to a change in the sheet feature recognition method, the method by which the sheet information including the changed sheet feature is distinguished from other sheet information changes based on the changed recognition method. Changing the method of distinguishing from other sheet information includes the following situations: due to the change in the sheet feature recognition method, sheet information displayed in a way that is distinguishable from other sheet information is no longer displayed in a way that is distinguishable from other information. Changing this method also includes the following situations: due to the change in the sheet feature recognition method, sheet information that is not displayed in a way that is distinguishable from other sheet information is now displayed in a way that is distinguishable from other sheet information.

[0123] The method for displaying the setting status of paper attribute values ​​in the column of paper attribute setting status 822 is not particularly limited. However, paper attributes that are at least in an undetermined state and paper attributes that are not in an undetermined state can be displayed in a visually easily identifiable manner so that users can identify the paper attributes they want to set. Figure 8A and Figure 8B Examples of paper properties other than those in the undetermined state include basis weight 801b and secondary transfer voltage adjustment 801n. Examples of paper properties in the undetermined state include paper property name 801a. If the user changes the value of a paper property in the determined or undetermined state, or if the user confirms the value of a paper property in the undetermined state, no information is displayed in the corresponding paper property setting state 822 column. As described above, Figure 8Aand Figure 8B An example is shown below: the text message "Undetermined" is displayed in the paper property setting status 822 column corresponding to the paper property that was set to an undetermined state in step S506. Figure 8A and Figure 8B The following example is also illustrated: the text message "Judged" is displayed in the column of paper property setting status 822, which corresponds to the paper property that was set to the judged status in step S504. Figure 8A and Figure 8B The following example is also shown: no information is displayed in the paper property setting status 822 column corresponding to the paper property set to normal status.

[0124] The paper property change buttons 823a to 823n are used to change the paper property values ​​displayed in the columns of paper property items 801a to 801n (the values ​​stored in the column of paper property value 703). If one of the paper property change buttons 823a to 823n is selected, the CPU 205 displays a paper property change screen on the display unit included in the operation unit 204. Figure 9A This is an example of a paper property change screen 910. The paper property change screen 910 is a screen used to set or change the paper property values ​​stored in the column 703. Figure 9A Example of paper property change screen 901 when changing the surface properties of the paper (which is one of the paper properties). When in Figure 8A When you select the paper property change button 823d corresponding to the surface property 801d, the paper property change screen 910 is displayed here.

[0125] exist Figure 9A In the document, the surface property setting buttons 911a to 911k are used to select the content of the surface property (the value of the paper attribute). By selecting one of the surface property setting buttons 911a to 911k, the user can set the content displayed on that button to the content of the surface property (the value of the paper attribute). Figure 9A This example illustrates the case where the user can select only one of the surface characteristic setting buttons 911a to 911k at a time. If one of the surface characteristic setting buttons 911a to 911k is selected when another surface characteristic setting button is selected, the CPU 205 cancels the selection information associated with the first selected surface characteristic setting button. The CPU 205 also makes the subsequently selected surface characteristic setting button selected.

[0126] Cancel button 912 is used to terminate the display of paper property change screen 910. If cancel button 912 is selected, CPU 205 terminates the display of paper property change screen 910 without changing the paper property value stored in paper property value 903, and displays paper information registration / editing screen 800 on the display unit included in operation unit 204.

[0127] The OK button 913 is used to store the changed paper property values ​​in the paper property value 703 field. Selecting the OK button 913 will perform the operation described below. Figure 10 The processing of flowcharts.

[0128] An allowable range of variation can be preset for the content of at least one sheet feature (in this embodiment, paper properties) whose content is identified based on the detection results of the media sensor 210. In this case, the allowable range of variation can be determined based on the detection accuracy (measurement accuracy) of the media sensor 210. For example, the detection accuracy of the media sensor 210 can be defined as being within ±X% relative to the paper property value estimated based on the detection results of the media sensor 210. In this case, the paper property value can change within a range greater than or equal to (the paper property value estimated based on the detection results of the media sensor 210) × (1 - X / 100) and less than or equal to (the paper property value estimated based on the detection results of the media sensor 210) × (1 + X / 100). An example of a paper property whose value changes in this way is basis weight. Alternatively, the allowable range of variation can be defined based on the paper property value estimated based on the detection results of the media sensor 210. For example, if the value estimated based on the detection result of the media sensor 210 falls within one of the first to the nth range, the paper attribute value can be determined assuming that the paper attribute has a value (content) corresponding to that range. In this case, for example, if the value estimated based on the detection result of the media sensor 210 falls near the boundary between two adjacent ranges, the paper attribute value can be changed to either of the values ​​corresponding to those two ranges. An example of a paper attribute whose value changes in this way is surface characteristics. For example, if the obtained surface characteristic value (content) falls near the boundary between the range corresponding to coated paper and the range corresponding to uncoated paper, the surface characteristic value (content) can be changed to coated paper or uncoated paper. The permissible range of variation thus set can be within a range that has no or minimal impact on the printed matter.

[0129] Return to Figure 8AThe Cancel button 832 is used to terminate the display of the paper information registration / editing screen 800. If the Cancel button 832 is selected, the CPU 205 discards the paper information without reflecting the paper information temporarily stored in RAM 208 onto the paper information stored in HDD 209. The CPU 205 also terminates the processing for registering new paper information or editing paper information. In this case, the CPU 205 terminates the display of the paper information registration / editing screen 800 and displays the screen that was displayed before the display of the paper information registration / editing screen 800 (e.g., the paper information management screen 600) on the display unit included in the operation unit 204.

[0130] The OK button 833 is used to change the paper information already registered in the MFP 101 or to store new paper information. Selecting the OK button 833 will proceed as described below. Figure 11 The processing of flowcharts.

[0131] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of how the MFP 101 processes data when a command is issued to change paper property values. As described above, the embodiment addresses the situation where, when the OK button 913 displayed on the paper property change screen 910 is selected, Figure 10 The process of processing the flowchart begins.

[0132] In step S1001, CPU 205 determines whether the paper attribute value has been changed by the user. The embodiment addresses the following situation: CPU 205 determines whether the paper attribute value (the value (content) stored in the column of paper attribute value 703) included in the paper information 700 stored in RAM 208 is different from the value selected or entered by the user. As a result of this determination, if the paper attribute value has changed (the value (content) stored in the column of paper attribute value 703 is different from the value selected or entered by the user) ("Yes" in step S1001), the process proceeds to step S1002. On the other hand, if the paper attribute value has not changed ("No" in step S1001), the process proceeds to step S1008.

[0133] In step S1002, the CPU 205 determines whether the setting status of the paper attribute value to be changed is a determined state. It determines whether the setting status is determined based on whether the content (value) stored in the paper attribute setting status 704 column of the paper information 700 stored in RAM 208 is a determined state.

[0134] As a result of this determination, if the setting status of the paper attribute value to be changed is a determined state ("Yes" in step S1002), the process proceeds to step S1003. On the other hand, if the setting status of the paper attribute value to be changed is not a determined state ("No" in step S1002), the process skips steps S1003 and S1004 and proceeds to step S1005, which will be described below.

[0135] In step S1003, the CPU 205 displays a paper property change confirmation screen on the display unit included in the operation unit 204. Figure 9B This is an example diagram illustrating a paper property change confirmation screen 920. During step S1003, the user is attempting to change a paper property value (estimated to be the correct value) determined based on the detection value from the media sensor 210. The paper property change confirmation screen 920 is used to confirm with the user whether they are certain they wish to change the paper property value. Figure 9B For example, the paper property change confirmation screen 920 is displayed above the paper property change screen 910 as a subordinate screen to the paper property change screen 910. Note that when the display of the paper property change screen 910 ends, the display of the paper property change confirmation screen 920 also ends. This embodiment addresses the situation where the paper property change confirmation screen 920 is displayed to provide a confirmation prompt regarding whether to register or edit sheet features.

[0136] exist Figure 9B In the middle, the change button 921 is a button used to select and change the paper attribute value stored in the column storing paper attribute value 703 by using the paper attribute value selected or entered by the user.

[0137] The Cancel button 922 is used to terminate the display of the paper property change confirmation screen 920.

[0138] Return to Figure 10 The description is as follows: If the paper property change confirmation screen 920 is displayed in step S1003, the process proceeds to step S1004.

[0139] In step S1004, CPU 205 determines whether the Change button 921 has been selected on the paper property change confirmation screen 920. If the Change button 921 is selected (Yes in step S1004), the process proceeds to step S1005. If the Cancel button 922 is selected instead of the Change button 921 (No in step S1004), the process proceeds to step S1008, which will be described below.

[0140] In step S1005, CPU 205 changes the value (content) in the column of paper attribute setting state 704 corresponding to the paper attribute whose value has changed to the normal state.

[0141] In step S1006, CPU 205 changes the value (content) in the column of paper attribute value 703 to the value (content) specified on the paper attribute change screen 910.

[0142] In step S1007, the CPU 205 terminates the display of the paper property change screen 910 and displays the paper information registration / editing screen 900 on the display unit included in the operation unit 204. Once the processing of step S1007 is completed, Figure 10 The processing of the flowchart is now complete.

[0143] As described above, if the Cancel button 922 of the paper property change confirmation screen 920 is selected in step S1004 (which is "No" in step S1004), the process proceeds to step S1008.

[0144] In step S1008, the CPU 205 terminates the display of the paper property change confirmation screen 920. In this case, the display unit included in the operation unit 204 switches the display to the paper property change screen 910. Here, the values ​​(contents) of the paper properties stored in the paper property value 703 column of the paper information 700 stored in RAM 208 do not change. Once the processing of step S1008 is completed, Figure 10 The processing of the flowchart is now complete.

[0145] As described above, if the paper attribute value does not change in step S1001 (the value stored in the column of paper attribute value 703 is no different from the value selected or entered by the user) (No in step S1001), then the process proceeds to step S1009.

[0146] In step S1009, the CPU 205 determines whether the setting status of the paper attribute value to be changed is an undetermined state. This is determined based on whether the content (value) stored in the paper attribute setting status 704 column of the paper information 700 stored in RAM 208 is in an undetermined state. If, as a result of this determination, the setting status of the paper attribute value to be changed is not an undetermined state ("No" in step S1009), the process proceeds to the aforementioned step S1007.

[0147] On the other hand, if the setting status of the paper attribute value to be changed is undetermined ("Yes" in step S1009), the process proceeds to step S1010.

[0148] In step S1010, the CPU 205 displays a paper attribute value confirmation screen on the display unit included in the operation unit 204. Figure 9C This is an example diagram illustrating a paper attribute value confirmation screen 930. During step S1010, the user is attempting to update a paper attribute value that was not successfully determined based on the detection value of the media sensor 210 without altering that value. The paper attribute value confirmation screen 930 is used to confirm with the user whether to update the paper attribute value that was not successfully determined based on the detection value of the media sensor 210. Figure 9C For example, the paper property value confirmation screen 930 is displayed above the paper property change screen 910 as a subordinate screen. When the display of the paper property change screen 910 ends, the display of the paper property value confirmation screen 930 also ends.

[0149] exist Figure 9C In the middle, the "Confirm Update" button (first update button) 931 is a button used to confirm that the paper attribute value is correct.

[0150] The second update button 932 is used to confirm that the paper attribute value is correct but does not exist.

[0151] The Cancel button 933 is used to terminate the display of the paper property value confirmation screen 930.

[0152] Return to Figure 10 The description is as follows: If the paper attribute value confirmation screen 930 is displayed in step S1010, the process proceeds to step S1011.

[0153] In step S1011, CPU 205 determines whether the first update button 931 (confirmed and updated) is selected. As a result of this determination, if the first update button 931 is selected ("Yes" in step S1011), the process proceeds to the aforementioned step S1005. As described above, in step S1005, CPU 205 changes the value (content) in the column of paper attribute setting state 704 corresponding to the paper attribute whose value (content) has changed to the normal state.

[0154] On the other hand, if the first update button 931 is not selected ("No" in step S1011), the process proceeds to step S1012.

[0155] In step S1012, the CPU 205 determines whether the second update button 932 (update as is) is selected. If the second update button 932 is selected ("Yes" in step S1012), the process proceeds to the aforementioned step S1006. As described above, in step S1006, the CPU 205 changes the value (content) in the paper attribute value 703 field to the value (content) specified on the paper attribute change screen 910. Here, the value (content) in the paper attribute setting state 704 field corresponding to the paper attribute whose value (content) has changed is not changed to the normal state.

[0156] On the other hand, if the second update button 932 (update as is) is not selected but the cancel button 973 ("No" in step S1012) is selected, the process proceeds to step S1013. In step S1013, the CPU 205 terminates the display of the paper attribute value confirmation screen 930. Here, the display unit included in the operation unit 204 switches the display to the paper attribute change screen 910. Furthermore, in this case, the value (content) of the paper attribute stored in the paper attribute value 703 column of the paper information 700 stored in RAM 208 does not change. Once the process of step S1013 ends, Figure 10 The processing of the flowchart is now complete.

[0157] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of how the MFP 101 processes data when an instruction is issued to change existing paper information or register new paper information. As described above, the embodiment addresses the following situation: when the OK button 833 displayed on the paper information registration / editing screen 800 is selected... Figure 11 The process of processing the flowchart begins.

[0158] In step S1101, CPU 205 determines whether the paper attributes constituting the paper information include any paper attributes whose setting state is "undetermined". Based on whether the values ​​(contents) stored in the column of the paper attribute setting state 704 of the paper information 700 stored in RAM 208 include "undetermined", it is determined whether there are any paper attributes whose setting state is "undetermined". As a result of this determination, if the paper attributes constituting the paper information do not include any paper attributes whose setting state is "undetermined" ("No" in step S1101), then the process skips steps S1102 to S1105 and proceeds to step S1106, which will be described below.

[0159] On the other hand, if the paper attributes constituting the paper information include any paper attributes whose set value is in an undetermined state ("Yes" in step S1101), then the process proceeds to step S1102.

[0160] In step S1102, the CPU 205 displays a registration confirmation screen on the display unit included in the operation unit 204. Figure 8C This is an example diagram illustrating a registration confirmation screen 840. During step S1102, the paper attribute the user is attempting to re-register or update includes one or more paper attributes whose values ​​were not successfully determined based on the detection value of the media sensor 210 (paper attributes that still have the supplemented values ​​set). The content (value) in the column of the paper attribute setting status 704 corresponding to such paper attributes is in an undetermined state. The registration confirmation screen 840 is a screen used to confirm with the user whether they are certain they want to store (change or re-register) the paper attribute. The embodiment addresses situations where the registration confirmation screen 840 is displayed to provide a confirmation display prompting whether to register or edit sheet features.

[0161] exist Figure 8C In the middle, the first registration button 841 is a button used to select to store (re-register or change) paper information when the paper attribute value is in an undetermined state without confirming the setting status.

[0162] The second registration button 842 is used to confirm that the paper attribute value, which is in the undetermined state of the setting, is the correct value that matches the actual paper, and to select the button to store the paper information.

[0163] The cancel button 843 is used to terminate the display of the registration confirmation screen 840.

[0164] Return to Figure 11 The description is as follows. If the registration confirmation screen 840 is displayed in step S1102, the process proceeds to step S1103.

[0165] In step S1103, CPU 205 determines whether the second registration button 842 (confirmed and registered) is selected. As a result of this determination, if the second registration button 842 is selected ("yes" in step S1103), the process proceeds to step S1104.

[0166] In step S1104, the CPU 205 changes the value of the paper attribute setting state 704 corresponding to the paper attribute whose undetermined state was stored as the value (content) of the paper attribute setting state 704 in the paper information 700 stored in RAM 208 to a normal state. As a result, the setting state of such paper attribute values ​​is no longer undetermined. Therefore, the paper information registration / editing screen 800 will not display these paper attributes as the paper attributes to be changed the next time it is displayed. Once the processing of step S1104 is completed, the process proceeds to step S1106, which will be described below.

[0167] As a result of the judgment in step S1103, if the second registration button 842 is not selected (in step S1103 it is "No"), then the process proceeds to step S1105.

[0168] In step S1105, the CPU 205 determines whether the first registration button 841 (register as is) is selected. If the first registration button 841 is selected, the paper attributes whose settings are in the undetermined state (paper attribute setting state 704) may not have been set to the correct values. When the first registration button 841 is selected, these values ​​are stored while their settings are still in the undetermined state. Therefore, when the paper information registration / editing screen 800 is displayed again, the user can identify the potentially incorrect values ​​for these paper attributes based on the display of the paper attribute setting state 822 column.

[0169] As a result of the judgment in step S1105, if the first registration button 841 is not selected but the cancel button 843 is selected ("No" in step S1105), then the process proceeds to step S1108, which will be described below. On the other hand, if the first registration button 841 is selected ("Yes" in step S1105), then the process proceeds to step S1106.

[0170] In step S1106, CPU 205 stores the sheet information stored in RAM 208 into HDD 209. If the sheet information is not yet stored in HDD 209, CPU 205 stores the sheet information stored in RAM 208 as new sheet information into HDD 209. On the other hand, if the sheet information is already stored in HDD 209, CPU 205 overwrites the paper information stored in HDD 209 with the paper information stored in RAM 208. Once the paper information stored in RAM 208 is stored in HDD 209, CPU 205 can delete the paper information stored in RAM 208.

[0171] In step S1107, the CPU 205 terminates the display of the paper information registration / editing screen 800 and the registration confirmation screen 840. Here, the screen that was displayed before the display of the paper information registration / editing screen 800 is displayed on the display unit included in the operation unit 204. Once the processing of step S1107 is completed, Figure 11 The processing of the flowchart is now complete.

[0172] As described above, as a result of the judgment in step S1105, if the first registration button 841 (register as is) is not selected but the cancel button 843 ("No" in step S1105) is selected, the process proceeds to step S1108.

[0173] In step S1108, the CPU 205 terminates the display of the registration confirmation screen 940. In this case, the paper information registration / editing screen 800 is displayed on the display unit of the operation unit 204. Once the processing of step S1108 is complete, Figure 11 The processing of the flowchart is now complete.

[0174] once Figure 11 After the flowchart processing is completed, the CPU 205 displays the paper information registration / editing screen 800 on the display unit of the operation unit 204. The paper information registration / editing screen 800 includes... Figure 11 The flowchart illustrates the content displayed before the process begins.

[0175] Figure 12 This is an example diagram illustrating a paper feed unit setting screen 1200. The paper feed unit setting screen 1200 is a screen used to set paper information 700 for paper feed units 231 to 234. Figure 12 An example is shown in the paper feed unit setting screen 1200, which involves selecting the paper selection button 623 on the paper selection screen 620, registering the paper properties determined based on the detection results of the media sensor 210, and selecting the first registration button 841 to store the paper information 700. The paper feed unit setting screen 1200 is displayed, for example, on the display unit included in the operation unit 204. The paper information 700 set for the paper feed units 231 to 234 is stored in the RAM 208.

[0176] Paper feed unit selection buttons 1201 to 1204 are used to select the paper feed unit for which paper information is to be set. Paper feed unit selection buttons 1201, 1202, 1203 and 1204 correspond to paper feed units 231, 232, 233 and 234, respectively. Figure 12 This example illustrates the case where the user can select only one button from paper feed unit selection buttons 1201 to 1204 at a time. The button selected by the user from paper feed unit selection buttons 1201 to 1204 is selected. If, when another paper feed unit selection button is selected, one of paper feed unit selection buttons 1201 to 1204 is already selected, the CPU 205 cancels the selection information associated with the first selected paper feed unit selection button. The CPU 205 also makes the subsequently selected paper feed unit selection button selected.

[0177] Figure 12 For example, in the following situation: the paper feed unit selection button 1203 displays "Cannot be used" when the paper feed unit is the same as the paper feed unit 233 described below. Figure 6B The paper feed unit corresponding to the selected paper selection button 623 on the illustrated paper selection screen 620. This is because the generated paper information 700 includes paper attributes whose settings stored in the paper attribute setting state 704 field are in an undetermined state. The CPU 205 controls the process so that the paper in the third paper feed unit 233 is unavailable for printing during the printing process. To use the paper stored in the third paper feed unit 233 for printing, the settings of the paper attribute values ​​stored in the paper attribute setting state 704 field must be changed from an undetermined state to a normal state. (See reference...) Figures 8A to 11 An example of operation and processing for changing the setting state of paper attribute values ​​stored in the column of paper attribute setting state 704 to a normal state is described. As described above, in the embodiment, control is implemented such that paper in the paper feed unit 233 cannot be used for printing during the printing process. The embodiment addresses the case where a second prohibition process is performed to prohibit the printing of sheets for which sheet information is not provided, including at least sheet features identified by a predetermined identification method or sheet features whose content is confirmed by the user.

[0178] Selection button 1205 is used to set the paper information registered in MFP 101 for the paper feed unit. When selection button 1205 is selected, CPU 205 displays a (not shown) registered paper selection screen on the display unit included in operation unit 204. This registered paper selection screen displays information including a list of paper information registered in MFP 101. Here, CPU 205 can invalidate or hide the selection of paper information 700, which includes any paper attribute whose setting state is undetermined in the paper attribute setting state 704 column. This prevents the paper feed unit from being set to the paper identified by this paper information. CPU 205 stores the paper information selected by the user from the list of paper information as the paper information to be set for the paper feed unit corresponding to the paper feed unit selection button 1201 to 1204 that is currently selected, in RAM 208.

[0179] The automatic determination button 1206 is used to assign paper information to the paper feed unit using the media sensor 210. If the automatic determination button 1206 is selected, the CPU 205 stores the following selection in the RAM 208: the selection automatically determines (at least a portion) of the paper information to be set for the paper feed unit corresponding to the selected paper feed unit selection button based on the detection value of the media sensor 210.

[0180] Figure 12 For example, when one of the paper feed unit selection buttons 1201 to 1204 is selected, selection button 1205 and automatic judgment button 1206 are selectable.

[0181] Cancel button 1207 is used to terminate the display of paper feed unit setting screen 1200. If cancel button 1207 is selected, CPU 205 terminates the display of paper feed unit setting screen 1200 and displays an unshown screen that was displayed before the display of paper feed unit setting screen 1200 on the display unit included in operation unit 204.

[0182] The OK button 1208 is used to terminate the paper feed unit setting screen 1200. If the OK button 1208 is selected, the CPU 205 will store the information stored in RAM 208 based on the operation of the paper feed unit setting screen 1200 into HDD 209.

[0183] The first embodiment has been described above. As described in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2010-217742, for example, paper properties can be generated based on the detection results of the media sensor 210. However, as mentioned above, the paper properties used to manage paper may include paper properties that cannot be generated based on the detection results of the media sensor 210. This is because paper features include features that are not related to or are only slightly related to the sheet features obtained based on the detection results of the media sensor 210.

[0184] In this scenario, for example, paper information could be generated by supplementing paper properties that cannot be generated based on the detection results of the media sensor 210 with default values. However, using this method, the user must change the supplemented default values ​​of the paper properties to match the actual paper before applying the paper information, including the paper properties supplemented with default values, to the print job. The paper properties generated based on the detection results of the media sensor 210 depend, for example, on the performance of the media sensor 210 and the algorithm for calculating the paper properties. Therefore, it is not easy for the user to determine which paper properties their values ​​should be changed. Furthermore, the user may forget to change the paper property value to the correct value, or may change the correct value of the paper property generated based on the detection results of the media sensor 210 to an incorrect value.

[0185] For example, if the algorithm for calculating paper properties uses machine learning, or if paper properties are inferred from already registered paper information, the generated paper properties may vary depending on the training or registration status. This makes it more difficult for users to determine which paper properties their values ​​should change.

[0186] As mentioned above, it is not easy for users to distinguish between paper properties generated based on the detection results of the media sensor 210 and paper properties that cannot be generated based on the detection results of the media sensor 210 and must be set by the user. This reduces user convenience.

[0187] In view of this, in this embodiment, the MFP 101 displays paper attributes that are not associated with or are only slightly associated with the paper characteristics obtained from the detection results of the media sensor 210, and whose values ​​cannot be determined, in a manner distinguishable from other paper attributes. For example, the MFP 101 displays paper attributes supplemented with default values ​​on the paper information editing screen in a manner distinguishable from the paper attributes obtained from the detection results of the media sensor 210. This improves user convenience when determining the characteristics of the paper to be printed based on the detection results of the media sensor 210. For example, the user can clearly identify the paper attribute whose value needs to be changed. Therefore, the user can appropriately change the paper attribute value. The user can also register the correct paper information. This enables the user to manage the paper properly. Furthermore, in this embodiment, if the user attempts to complete the registration of paper information without setting the default paper attribute value, the MFP 101 issues a warning. This prevents the omission of paper information settings. Furthermore, in this embodiment, if the user attempts to change the paper attribute value determined by the detection results of the media sensor 210, the MFP 101 confirms with the user whether to continue the change. This prevents paper property values ​​from being changed to incorrect values.

[0188] In this embodiment, if paper attribute values ​​that cannot be determined based on the detection results of the media sensor 210 have not been changed or confirmed by the user, the MFP 101 invalidates the paper with those paper attributes for printing. This prevents printing on paper with incorrect paper information. With the above configuration, erroneous registration of paper information using the media sensor 210 is prevented, and proper paper management is achieved.

[0189] (Second Embodiment) Next, the second embodiment will be described. The first embodiment addresses the situation where a column for paper attribute setting status 822 is provided on the paper information registration / editing screen 800, thereby displaying paper attributes whose values ​​are to be set by the user in a way that distinguishes them from other paper attributes. Paper attributes whose values ​​are to be set by the user refer to paper attributes whose values ​​were not successfully determined based on the detection value of the media sensor 210. Here, paper attributes whose values ​​were successfully determined based on the detection value of the media sensor 210 and paper attributes whose values ​​were not successfully determined based on the detection value of the media sensor 210 (paper attributes whose values ​​are to be set by the user) are displayed in a mixed manner. For example, when there are many types of paper attributes, this may increase the burden on the user when searching for paper attributes whose values ​​are to be set by the user.

[0190] In this embodiment, the values ​​of paper properties set by the user and other paper properties are therefore displayed separately, making it easier to check the values ​​of paper properties set by the user. This reduces the effort required by the user to search for the paper properties to be set and prevents the user from forgetting to change the paper property values. Therefore, this embodiment differs from the first embodiment in a portion of the method for displaying information related to paper properties. In the description of the embodiment, portions similar to the first embodiment are therefore... Figures 1 to 12 The same reference numerals are used in the accompanying drawings, and detailed descriptions will be omitted.

[0191] Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing of MFP101 when an instruction is issued to register paper information using media sensor 210. In the first embodiment, with Figure 13 The flowchart shown corresponds to the flowchart in question. Figure 5 The flowchart shown is an example.

[0192] The processing of steps S1301 to S1306 is similar to the processing of steps S501 to S506.

[0193] In step S1307, the CPU 205 displays a paper attribute confirmation screen indicating the determined status on the display unit included in the operation unit 204. Figure 14A This is an example diagram illustrating the paper property confirmation screen 1400 with a determined state. The paper property confirmation screen 1400 is used to confirm that the value of the paper property with a determined state has been set in the paper property setting state 704 column through the processing in step S1304. The paper property with a determined state set in the paper property setting state 704 column through the processing in step S1304 is a paper property whose value was successfully determined in step S1303 based on the detection value of the media sensor 210.

[0194] Figure 14AFor example, as in the paper information registration / editing screen 800, the paper attribute confirmation screen 1400 includes columns for paper attribute items 1401a to 1401h, which display columns for paper attribute name 1410 and paper attribute value 1411. However, in one embodiment, the paper attributes displayed in the columns for paper attribute items 1401a to 1401h are only those whose values ​​have been successfully determined based on the detection value of the media sensor 210 (i.e., the paper attributes whose status has been determined are stored in the column for paper attribute setting status 704). The paper attribute values ​​(values ​​stored in the column for paper attribute value 703) that indicate the value (content) of the determined status are stored in the column for paper attribute setting status 704 and are the paper attribute values ​​determined based on the detection value of the media sensor 210 (values ​​estimated to be correct). Therefore, Figure 14A The example of the paper property confirmation screen at state 1400 not being displayed is... Figure 8A and Figure 8B The illustrated paper property change buttons 823a to 823n correspond to the paper property change buttons. This prevents the user from accidentally changing the value stored in the paper property value 703 field, which is the paper property value determined based on the detection value of the media sensor 210 (the value estimated to be correct). The embodiment addresses the situation where the value of the paper property stored in the paper property setting state 704 field, which is the value of the paper property with the determined state, can be changed on the paper information registration / editing screen 800 displayed after the paper information is registered. However, the value of the paper property stored in the paper property setting state 704 field (the value stored in the paper property value 703 field) can be made unchangeable. The embodiment addresses the situation where the sheet property change button is not displayed on the paper property confirmation screen 1400 with the determined state, thereby implementing a first prohibition process to prevent editing of the sheet features identified by the predetermined recognition method.

[0195] Page switching buttons 1412 and 1413 are used to switch between paper property items to be displayed. If the paper property item to be switched and displayed using page switching buttons 1412 and 1413 does not exist, page switching buttons 1412 and 1413 become unselectable.

[0196] The registration cancellation button 1414 is used to cancel the registration of paper information using the media sensor 210.

[0197] The OK button 1415 is used to terminate the display of the paper property confirmation screen 1400, which indicates that the paper property has been determined.

[0198] Return to Figure 13The description is as follows. In step S1307, CPU 205 waits until the registration cancellation button 1414 or the OK button 1415 is selected on the paper property confirmation screen 1400. When the registration cancellation button 1414 or the OK button 1415 is selected, the process proceeds to step S1308.

[0199] In step S1308, CPU 205 determines whether the OK button 1415 is selected. As a result of this determination, if the OK button 1415 is not selected but the registration cancellation button 1414 is selected (in step S1308, it is "No"), then the process proceeds to step S1312, which will be described below.

[0200] On the other hand, if the OK button 1415 is selected ("Yes" in step S1308), the CPU 205 terminates the display of the paper property confirmation screen 1400. Then, the process proceeds to step S1309. The processing of steps S1309 and S1310 is similar. Figure 5 The processing of steps S507 and S508 in the process.

[0201] In step S1310, CPU 205 sets the paper attribute setting state 704 to normal in the column corresponding to the paper attribute whose value was calculated through the adjustment process in step S1309. The process then proceeds to step S1311.

[0202] In step S1311, the CPU 205 displays on the display unit included in the operation unit 204. Figure 14B The illustrated undetermined paper property setting screen 1420. Undetermined paper property setting screen 1420 is used to set the value of paper properties that were set to an undetermined state in the paper property setting state 704 column after the processing in step S1306. Setting an undetermined paper property in the paper property setting state 704 column is based on the fact that the value of the paper property was not successfully determined by the media sensor 210. Once the processing in step S1311 is completed, Figure 13 The processing of the flowchart is now complete.

[0203] As described above, as a result of the judgment in step S1308, if the registration cancellation button 1414 is selected ("No" in step S1308), the process proceeds to step S1312. In step S1312, the CPU 205 cancels the registration of paper information. In this case, the CPU 205 terminates the display of the paper attribute confirmation screen 1400 with the judged status and displays the paper information management screen 600 on the display unit included in the operation unit 204. Here, the CPU 205 may discard the data related to the paper information stored in the RAM 208. Once the processing of step S1312 ends, Figure 13 The processing of the flowchart is now complete.

[0204] Then, the user performs an operation to set a paper property value for a setting where the status is undetermined. An example of CPU 205 processing related to the user operation is similar to... Figure 10 The illustrated flowchart illustrates the processing. Therefore, detailed descriptions of the operations and processes will be omitted.

[0205] Now will describe Figure 14B The example shown is the paper property settings screen 1420 in the undetermined state.

[0206] Figure 14B For example, the undetermined paper attribute setting screen 1420 includes columns for paper attribute items 1421a to 1421d. These columns display a column for the paper attribute name 1430, a column for the paper attribute value 1431, and paper attribute change buttons 1432a to 1432d. This configuration is similar to that of the paper information registration / editing screen 800. However, in one embodiment, the paper attributes displayed in the columns for paper attribute items 1421a to 1421d are only those whose values ​​were not successfully determined based on the detection value of the media sensor 210 (the undetermined paper attributes are stored in the column for paper attribute setting state 704). The value (content) stored in the column for paper attribute setting state 704 is the value of the undetermined paper attribute, which must be entered or selected by the user. In one embodiment, since the undetermined paper attribute setting screen 1420 only displays paper attributes whose value setting state is undetermined, the burden on the user when searching for the paper attribute whose value needs to be set can be reduced.

[0207] Page switching buttons 1433 and 1434 are used to switch between paper property items to be displayed. If the paper property item to be switched and displayed using page switching buttons 1433 and 1434 does not exist, page switching buttons 1433 and 1434 become unselectable.

[0208] Paper property change buttons 1432a to 1432d are used to change the paper property values ​​displayed in the columns of paper property items 1421a to 1421d (the values ​​stored in the column of paper property value 703). If one of the paper property change buttons 1432a to 1432d is selected, a paper property change screen 910 is displayed to change the value of the paper property corresponding to the selected button. The example of this process is similar to... Figure 10 The flowchart processing is described below. Therefore, a description of an example of this processing will be omitted here.

[0209] The registration cancellation button 1435 is used to cancel the registration of paper information using the media sensor 210.

[0210] The first registration button 1436 is used to select to store (re-register or change) paper information when the paper attribute value is in an undetermined state without confirming the setting status.

[0211] The second registration button 1437 is used to confirm that the paper attribute value, which is in the undetermined setting state, is the correct value that matches the actual paper, and to select to store the paper information.

[0212] Figure 15 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of how MFP 101 processes data when it receives an operation to terminate the undetermined paper properties setting screen 1420. The operation to terminate the undetermined paper properties setting screen 1420 refers to selecting one of the first registration button 1436, the second registration button 1437, or the registration cancellation button 1435.

[0213] In step S1501, the CPU 205 determines whether the second registration button 1437 (confirmed and registered) is selected. If the second registration button 1437 is not selected ("No" in step S1501), the process proceeds to step S1505. Conversely, if the second registration button 1437 is selected ("Yes" in step S1501), the process proceeds to step S1502.

[0214] In step S1502, the CPU 205 changes the undetermined state stored in the paper attribute setting state 704 column of the paper information 700 stored in RAM 208 to the normal state.

[0215] In step S1503, CPU 205 stores the paper information 700 stored in RAM 208 as new paper information 700 into HDD 209.

[0216] In step S1504, the CPU 205 terminates the display of the undetermined paper attribute setting screen 1420 and displays the paper information registration / editing screen 800 on the display unit included in the operation unit 204. For example, by combining Figures 8A to 9C Use the illustrated images for reference. Figure 10 and Figure 11 The flowchart described is used to process and edit the paper information 700 after it has been registered.

[0217] As described above, if it is determined in step S1501 that the second registration button 1437 (confirmed and registered) is not selected (No in step S1501), then the process proceeds to step S1505.

[0218] In step S1505, the CPU 205 determines whether to select the first registration button 1436 (register as is). If the first registration button 1436 is selected ("Yes" in step S1505), the process proceeds to the aforementioned step S1503. In this case, paper information 700, including paper attributes whose setting state is undetermined, can be stored in the HDD 209. If there are paper attributes whose setting state is undetermined, then, as in the first embodiment, the user can identify from the display of the paper attribute setting state 822 column that the paper attribute may not have been set to the correct value.

[0219] On the other hand, if the first registration button 1436 (register as is) is not selected but the registration cancellation button 1435 ("No" in step S1505) is selected, the process proceeds to step S1506. In step S1506, the CPU 205 discards the paper information 700 stored in the RAM 208. Once the processing in step S1506 is completed, the process proceeds to the aforementioned step S1504.

[0220] In an embodiment, Figure 12 The illustrated paper feed unit setting screen 1200 is a display example when the first registration button 1436 is selected instead of the first registration button 841. In an embodiment, for example, the process of changing the paper property setting state 704 to a normal state is performed by using the undetermined state paper property setting screen 1420, etc.

[0221] The second embodiment has been described above. In this embodiment, the MFP 101 displays only the paper attributes whose values ​​are to be set by the user (paper attributes whose values ​​were not successfully determined based on the detection results of the media sensor 210) included in the paper information 700. This reduces the burden on the user when searching for paper attributes whose values ​​are to be set by the user. In this embodiment, the MFP 101 also displays information related to the paper attributes whose values ​​were determined based on the detection results of the media sensor 210 in a way that the user cannot change the values ​​of these paper attributes. This reduces the possibility that the user may accidentally change the paper attribute values ​​determined by the detection results of the media sensor 210.

[0222] According to the disclosed embodiments, user convenience can be improved when identifying features of the sheet to be printed based on sensor detection results.

[0223] Other embodiments The disclosed (one or more) embodiments can also be implemented by a computer that reads and executes computer-executable instructions (e.g., one or more programs) recorded on a storage medium (which may also be more fully referred to as a "non-transitory computer-readable storage medium") to perform the functions of one or more of the above embodiments and / or includes one or more circuits (e.g., application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs)) for performing the functions of one or more of the above embodiments, and by a method performed by the computer of the system or device by, for example, reading and executing computer-executable instructions from the storage medium to perform the functions of one or more of the above embodiments and / or controlling one or more circuits to perform the functions of one or more of the above embodiments. The computer may include one or more processors (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor unit (MPU)) and may include a network of separate computers or separate processors for reading and executing the computer-executable instructions. The computer-executable instructions may be provided to the computer, for example, from a network or storage medium. The storage medium may include one or more of the following: hard disk, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), storage unit of a distributed computing system, optical disc (such as compact disc (CD), digital versatile disc (DVD) or Blu-ray disc (BD)™), flash memory device, and memory card.

[0224] While the disclosure has been described with reference to embodiments, it should be understood that the disclosure is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. The scope of the appended claims should be given the broadest interpretation to cover all such modifications and equivalent configurations and functions.

Claims

1. An apparatus comprising: At least one memory that stores instructions; as well as At least one processor, when executing stored instructions, is configured to operate as a unit of operation: The identification unit is configured to identify features of the sheet to be printed, and A display control unit is configured to display sheet information, including the features of the sheet, on a display device. The display control unit is configured to display sheet information, including the features of the sheet identified by the recognition units using their respective different recognition methods, on the display device in a mutually distinguishable manner. The identification method for the features of the sheet using the identification unit includes an identification method based on the detection results of a detection unit, wherein the detection unit is configured to detect physical quantities corresponding to the features of the sheet during the transport of the sheet.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein, The display control unit is configured to display features of the sheet and information on the display device, the content of which depends on the feature recognition method.

3. The device according to claim 1, wherein, The display control unit is configured to individually display sheet information on the display device, including the features of the sheet using their respective different recognition methods.

4. The device according to claim 1, wherein, The method for identifying features of the thin sheet using the identification unit also includes a method for identifying features not identified based on the detection results of the detection unit as features of predetermined content.

5. The device according to claim 1, wherein, The display control unit is configured to display the sheet information on a screen capable of registering and editing at least one of the features of the sheet.

6. The device according to claim 5, in, The display control unit is configured to provide a display that prompts for confirmation regarding whether the registration or editing of the feature is required when performing an operation for registering or editing features of the sheet identified using a predetermined identification method. The predetermined identification method includes an identification method based on the detection results of the detection unit.

7. The device according to claim 5, wherein, The display control unit is configured to, when the characteristics of the sheet are changed by changing the identification method of the identification features of the sheet, change a mode based on the changed identification method, in which sheet information including the changed characteristics of the sheet is distinguished from other sheet information.

8. The device of claim 1, further comprising a first prohibition unit configured to prohibit editing of features of the sheet identified using a predetermined identification method. in, The predetermined identification method includes an identification method based on the detection results of the detection unit.

9. The device according to claim 1, wherein, It also includes a second prohibition unit configured to prohibit printing of sheets for which no sheet information is set, the sheet information including at least one of the features of the sheet identified using a predetermined identification method and the features of the sheet whose content is confirmed by the user. The predetermined identification method includes an identification method based on the detection results of the detection unit.

10. A printing device, comprising: At least one memory that stores instructions; as well as At least one processor, when executing stored instructions, is configured to operate as a unit of operation: The feed unit is configured to feed the sheet. A printing unit, configured to form an image on the sheet, The identification unit is configured to identify features of the sheet to be printed, and A display control unit is configured to display sheet information, including the features of the sheet, on a display device. The display control unit is configured to display sheet information, including the features of the sheet identified by the recognition units using their respective different recognition methods, on the display device in a mutually distinguishable manner. The method for identifying the features of the sheet using the identification unit includes an identification method based on the detection results of a detection unit, wherein the detection unit is configured to detect physical quantities corresponding to the features of the sheet during the transport of the sheet.

11. A method comprising: Identify the features of the sheet to be used for printing; as well as The sheet information, including the features of the sheet, is displayed on the display device. This includes displaying sheet information, including features of the sheet identified using different identification methods, on the display device in a mutually distinguishable manner, and... The method for identifying the features of the sheet includes an identification method based on the detection results of a detection unit, wherein the detection unit is configured to detect physical quantities corresponding to the features of the sheet during the transport of the sheet.

12. The method of claim 11, further comprising displaying on the display device features of the sheet and information thereof, the content of which depends on the method for identifying the features.

13. The method of claim 11, further comprising displaying on the display device individually sheet information including features of the sheet using different identification methods.

14. The method according to claim 11, wherein, The method for identifying features of the thin sheet using the identification unit also includes a method for identifying features not identified based on the detection results of the detection unit as features of predetermined content.

15. The method of claim 11, further comprising displaying the sheet information on a screen capable of registering and editing at least one of the features of the sheet.

16. A program product comprising instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform a method comprising: Identify the features of the sheet to be used for printing; as well as The sheet information, including the features of the sheet, is displayed on the display device. This includes displaying sheet information, including features of the sheet identified using different identification methods, on the display device in a mutually distinguishable manner, and... The method for identifying the features of the sheet includes an identification method based on the detection results of a detection unit, wherein the detection unit is configured to detect physical quantities corresponding to the features of the sheet during the transport of the sheet.

17. The program product of claim 16 further includes displaying features of the sheet and information on the display device, the content of which depends on the method for identifying the features.

18. The program product of claim 16 further includes displaying on the display device individually sheet information comprising features of the sheet using respective different identification methods.

19. The program product according to claim 16, wherein, The method for identifying features of the thin sheet using the identification unit also includes a method for identifying features not identified based on the detection results of the detection unit as features of predetermined content.

20. The program product of claim 16 further includes displaying the sheet information on a screen capable of registering and editing at least one of the features of the sheet.

Images