Image formation device

Abstract

To make it possible to easily hand over data in an image formation device.SOLUTION: An image formation device (100) comprises a control part (110) for controlling an image formation part (120) and a sheet supply part (130). The control part (110) has a first control board (112a, 112b) onto which a first control element (114a, 114b) and a first storage element (116a, 116b) are mounted, and the sheet supply part (130) has a second control board (132) onto which a second control element (134) and a second storage element (136) are mounted. The first control element (114a, 114b) causes any one of the first storage element (116a, 116b) and the second storage element (136) to store data concerning the sheet supply part (130), and causes the other of the first storage element (116a, 116b) and the second storage element (136) to back up data concerning the sheet supply part (130).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical field]

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

[0002] In an image forming apparatus such as a multifunction peripheral, by backing up data, the image forming apparatus can be easily restored even if the image forming apparatus breaks down. For this reason, a method of backing up device information of a multifunction peripheral to another multifunction peripheral has been considered (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Patent Document 1 describes backing up identification information in multifunction peripherals that can communicate with each other. With the multifunction peripheral of Patent Document 1, device information can be easily taken over even when the multifunction peripheral is replaced. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-60934 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In general, an image forming device is equipped with a plurality of circuit boards, and memory elements that store serial information and data are mounted on these circuit boards. In the multifunction device of Patent Document 1, when a circuit board is replaced due to a malfunction or the like, if the data stored in the memory elements mounted on the circuit boards has not been backed up in another multifunction device, the previous data cannot be stored in the memory element of the newly replaced circuit board.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus that allows easy transfer of data within the image forming apparatus. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to the present invention, an image forming apparatus includes an image forming unit that forms an image on a sheet, a sheet supplying unit that supplies the sheet to the image forming unit, and a control unit that controls the image forming unit and the sheet supplying unit. The control unit has a first control board on which a first control element and a first memory element are mounted, the sheet supplying unit has a second control board on which a second control element and a second memory element are mounted, and the first control element stores data related to the sheet supplying unit in one of the first memory element and the second memory element and backs up the data related to the sheet supplying unit in the other of the first memory element and the second memory element at a predetermined timing. Effect of the Invention

[0007] According to the present invention, data can be easily transferred within the image forming apparatus. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] 1 is a schematic block diagram of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Diagram 3] 13A is a table showing an example of count value items, and FIG. 13B is a table showing an example of adjustment value items. [Figure 4] 2 is a schematic diagram showing a data storage location in the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment; FIG. [Diagram 5] 2 is a schematic diagram showing storage locations of data and backup data in the image forming apparatus of the present embodiment. FIG. [Figure 6] 2 is a schematic diagram showing storage locations of data and backup data in the image forming apparatus of the present embodiment. FIG. [Figure 7] 13A and 13B are schematic diagrams for explaining rewriting of backup data and data A. FIG. [Figure 8] 13A to 13C are schematic diagrams for explaining rewriting of backup data and data A. [Figure 9]1 is a schematic diagram of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] 1 is a schematic block diagram of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 11] 2 is a schematic diagram showing a data storage location in the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment; FIG. [Figure 12] 13 is an example of a table showing the serial number of data A, data B, an alarm, and an action in the image forming apparatus of this embodiment. [Figure 13] 1 is a schematic diagram of an image forming system including an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] 4 is a flow diagram of rewriting data A and data B in the image forming apparatus of the present embodiment. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Hereinafter, an embodiment of an image forming apparatus according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are designated by the same reference characters and description thereof will not be repeated.

[0010] First, an image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram of the image forming apparatus 100.

[0011] The image forming apparatus 100 forms an image on a sheet. The image forming apparatus 100 is, for example, a printer, a copier, or a multifunction device. The image forming apparatus 100 may have a facsimile function. The image forming apparatus 100 may be of an electrophotographic type or an inkjet type.

[0012] The image forming apparatus 100 may operate in conjunction with another device. The image forming apparatus 100 may also read an original document and generate image data.

[0013] Next, the configuration of an image forming apparatus 100 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. Figure 2 is a schematic block diagram of the image forming apparatus 100.

[0014] 2, image forming apparatus 100 includes control unit 110, image forming unit 120, sheet supply unit 130, display unit 140, input unit 150, conveying unit 160, and reading unit 170. Control unit 110 controls image forming unit 120, sheet supply unit 130, display unit 140, input unit 150, conveying unit 160, and reading unit 170.

[0015] The image forming unit 120 forms an image on a sheet according to image data. The image forming unit 120 may form an image on a sheet with toner. Alternatively, the image forming unit 120 may form an image on a sheet with ink.

[0016] The sheet supply section 130 stores sheets to be supplied to the image forming section 120. The sheets stored in the sheet supply section 130 are supplied to the image forming section 120 when an image is formed on the sheets.

[0017] The display unit 140 has a screen for displaying an image. The display unit 140 displays the image according to the image data. Therefore, an operator of the image forming apparatus 100 can visually confirm the image data before the image forming unit 120 forms the image on a sheet.

[0018] The display unit 140 includes a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display, or a plasma display.

[0019] An operator's instructions are input through input unit 150. The operator can operate image forming apparatus 100 through input unit 150. For example, the operator can operate a screen displayed on display unit 140 through input unit 150.

[0020] The input unit 150 includes a button or a keyboard. Alternatively, the input unit 150 may include a touch sensor. The display unit 140 and the input unit 150 may be integrated into a touch panel.

[0021] The transport unit 160 transports the document to the reading unit 170. Typically, the transport unit 160 transports the document placed at a predetermined position to the reading unit 170. The transport unit 160 functions as an automatic document feeder (ADF).

[0022] The reading unit 170 reads the document and generates image data. The reading unit 170 may read the document transported by the transport unit 160. Alternatively, the reading unit 170 may read the document placed on a table.

[0023] Typically, the reading unit 170 includes an imaging element. The imaging element is, for example, a Charge Coupled Detector (CCD). Alternatively, the imaging element may be a Contact Image Sensor (CIS).

[0024] Image forming apparatus 100 may further include a communication unit 180. Communication unit 180 communicates with an external device. For example, communication unit 180 receives image data from the external device. Communication unit 180 also receives an operation signal from the external device. When communication unit 180 receives an operation signal from the external device, control unit 110 operates according to the instruction of the operation signal. Thereafter, communication unit 180 transmits information to the external device as necessary.

[0025] 2, the control unit 110 includes an engine control unit 110a and a main control unit 110b. The engine control unit 110a controls the mechanical operation of the image forming apparatus 100. The main control unit 110b controls the operation of the image forming apparatus 100 as a whole.

[0026] The engine control unit 110a has an engine control board 112a. The engine control board 112a is an example of a "first control board." An engine control element 114a and an engine memory element 116a are mounted on the engine control board 112a. The engine control element 114a controls dynamic driving of the image forming apparatus 100. The engine control element 114a includes an arithmetic element. The arithmetic element includes a processor. In one example, the processor includes a central processing unit (CPU). The processor may also include an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0027] The engine memory element 116a stores data and computer programs. The engine control element 114a uses the data to control the sheet supply element 130 and the transport element 160.

[0028] For example, the engine memory element 116a is non-volatile. In one example, the engine memory element 116a is a flash memory. Typically, the engine memory element 116a is a NOR type flash memory.

[0029] The main control unit 110b has a main control board 112b. The main control board 112b is an example of a "first control board." A main control element 114b and a main memory element 116b are mounted on the main control board 112b. The main control element 114b controls the driving of the image forming apparatus 100. The main control element 114b includes a calculation element, similar to the engine control element 114a.

[0030] The main control element 114b uses the data to control the image forming unit 120, the sheet supply unit 130, the display unit 140, the input unit 150, the transport unit 160, the reading unit 170, and the communication unit 180. The main control element 114b controls the sheet supply unit 130 and the transport unit 160 via the engine control element 114a. In addition, the main control element 114b controls the image forming unit 120, the display unit 140, the input unit 150, the reading unit 170, and the communication unit 180 without going through the engine control element 114a.

[0031] For example, the main memory element 116b is non-volatile. In one example, the main memory element 116b is an SSD memory.

[0032] The sheet supply unit 130 has a second control board 132. A second control element 134 and a second memory element 136 are mounted on the second control board 132. The second memory element 136 stores a program required for the control of the sheet supply unit 130 by the second control element 134. The second control element 134 controls the mechanism of the sheet supply unit 130 using the program and data. The second control element 134 includes a calculation element, similar to the engine control element 114a.

[0033] For example, the second memory element 136 is non-volatile. In one example, the second memory element 136 is a flash memory. Typically, the second memory element 136 is an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory).

[0034] The transfer unit 160 has a third control board 162. A third control element 164 and a third memory element 166 are mounted on the third control board 162. The third memory element 166 stores a program required for control of the transfer unit 160 by the third control element 164. The third control element 164 controls the mechanism of the transfer unit 160 using the program and data. The third control element 164 includes a calculation element, similar to the engine control element 114a.

[0035] The third memory element 166 is non-volatile. In one example, the third memory element 166 is an Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM).

[0036] Next, the image forming apparatus 100 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1 to Fig. 3. Fig. 3(a) is a table showing an example of count value items, and Fig. 3(b) is a table showing an example of adjustment value items. The count value and adjustment value are examples of "data" for controlling the mechanism of the conveying unit 160.

[0037] 3(a), count values ​​are stored for a plurality of items in the conveying unit 160. Count values ​​updated each time a target event occurs in the conveying unit 160 are stored. For example, count values ​​of the paper feed drive time, the time-distance counter evacuation area, the single-sided counter, the double-sided counter, the white streak detection count value, and the CIS lamp illumination time are stored.

[0038] As shown in FIG. 3(b), the adjustment values ​​of the conveying unit 160 are stored. Here, the line adjustment values ​​of the conveying unit 160 are stored. In detail, the system-related adjustment values, the motor adjustment values, and the timing adjustment values ​​are stored. More specifically, the equal-magnification adjustment value is stored as the system-related adjustment value. As the motor adjustment value, the feed deflection adjustment amount when conveying the front side of the sheet, the feed deflection adjustment amount when conveying the back side of the sheet, and the feed deflection adjustment amount when the front side and back side of the sheet are mixed are stored. As the timing adjustment values, the leading edge CIS timing adjustment value, the trailing edge CIS timing adjustment value, the leading edge CCD timing adjustment value, and the trailing edge CCD timing adjustment value are stored.

[0039] An example of the configuration of an image forming apparatus 100 according to this embodiment will now be described with reference to Figures 1 to 4. Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing storage locations of data in the image forming apparatus 100.

[0040] 4, the control unit 110, the sheet supply unit 130, and the transport unit 160 each have an engine control board 112a, a main control board 112b, a second control board 132, and a third control board 162. An engine control element 114a, a main control element 114b, a second control element 134, a third control element 164, an engine memory element 116a, a main memory element 116b, a second memory element 136, and a third memory element 166 are mounted on the engine control board 112a, the main control board 112b, the second control board 132, and the third control board 162, respectively.

[0041] The engine control board 112a, the main control board 112b, the second control board 132, and the third control board 162 communicate with each other. For example, the engine control board 112a, the main control board 112b, the second control board 132, and the third control board 162 communicate with each other in accordance with a UART or KDC three-wire synchronous communication method.

[0042] A second control element 134 and a second memory element 136 are mounted on the second control board 132. The second memory element 136 stores, for example, the serial number of the second control board 132, and a count value and a setting value in the sheet supply unit 130. Each of the serial number, the count value, and the setting value is an example of "data".

[0043] Typically, the serial number indicates an identification number of the second control board 132. The count value indicates a count value of the number of times an operation has been performed. Here, the count value indicates a count value of the number of times a predetermined operation has been performed by the sheet supplying unit 130. The set value indicates an adjustable value that is set to perform an operation. Here, the set value indicates an adjustable value that is set when the sheet is supplied in the sheet supplying unit 130.

[0044] Similarly, a third control element 164 and a third memory element 166 are mounted on the third control board 162. The third memory element 166 stores, for example, the serial number of the third control board 162, and a count value and a setting value in the transport section 160. Each of the serial number, the count value, and the setting value is an example of "data".

[0045] An engine control element 114a and an engine memory element 116a are mounted on the engine control board 112a. The engine memory element 116a stores a program required for control by the engine control element 114a of the engine control board 112a. The engine memory element 116a stores, for example, the serial number of the engine control board 112a, and the count value and setting value of the engine control unit 110a.

[0046] A main control element 114b and a main memory element 116b are mounted on the main control board 112b. The main memory element 116b stores programs required for controlling the main control element 114b of the main control board 112b. The main memory element 116b stores, for example, the serial number of the main control board 112b, and the count value and setting value of the main control unit 110b.

[0047] In the image forming apparatus 100 of this embodiment, the data stored in the engine memory element 116a, the main memory element 116b, the second memory element 136, and the third memory element 166 are backed up in another memory element by a backup process. This makes it possible to easily transfer the data even when the target control board is replaced.

[0048] For example, in the image forming apparatus 100 of this embodiment, the engine memory element 116a stores the data stored in the second memory element 136 as backup data. For example, the engine memory element 116a stores the serial number, count value, and setting value of the second control board 132 stored in the second memory element 136 as backup data. In addition, the engine memory element 116a stores the data stored in the third memory element 166 as backup data. For example, the engine memory element 116a stores the serial number of the third control board 162, the count value, and setting value of the transport unit 160 stored in the third memory element 166 as backup data.

[0049] In the image forming apparatus 100 of the present embodiment, the main memory element 116b stores the data stored in the engine memory element 116a as backup data. For example, the main memory element 116b stores the serial number of the engine control board 112a, the count value and the setting value of the engine control unit 110a stored in the engine memory element 116a as backup data.

[0050] Here, the configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1 to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram showing the storage location of data after backup processing is performed in the image forming apparatus 100. Fig. 5 shows the engine storage element 116a, the main storage element 116b, the second storage element 136, and the third storage element 166.

[0051] 5, the engine memory element 116a stores, as backup data, the serial number of the engine control board 112a, the count value and the setting value of the engine control unit 110a, as well as the data of the second memory element 136 and the third memory element 166. The main memory element 116b of the main control board 112b stores, as backup data, the data of the engine memory element 116a, as well as the serial number of the main control board 112b, the count value and the setting value of the main control unit 110b.

[0052] In this way, the data stored in the memory element of the target control board (target control board) is stored as backup data in a memory element of a control board other than the target control board, so that the data of the target control board can be smoothly transferred even when the target control board is replaced.

[0053] For example, after the second control board 132 in use is replaced with a new second control board 132, the second memory element 136 of the new second control board 132 stores the backup data stored in the engine memory element 116a. This makes it possible to easily take over the data.

[0054] Moreover, after the engine control board 112a in use is replaced with a new engine control board 112a, the engine memory element 116a of the new engine control board 112a stores the data stored in the second memory element 136. This makes it possible to easily transfer the data.

[0055] The backup process is performed at a predetermined timing. For example, the backup process may be performed when the image forming apparatus 100 returns from a sleep mode or when the power is turned on. The predetermined timing for performing the backup process may be set by a user or an administrator. The administrator may be a representative of the users or a person who handles maintenance of the image forming apparatus 100. The backup process may be performed automatically when a new board is mounted. Alternatively, the backup process may be performed according to a simulation performed by the administrator. When the backup process is performed according to a simulation, the backup process may be performed according to an input from the input unit 150.

[0056] Furthermore, the predetermined timing may be when the number of times the data has been stored reaches a first set number of times. The number of times the data has been stored is the sum of the count value and the number of times the set value has been changed. The first set number of times is, for example, 10,000 times.

[0057] When the first set number of times becomes the second set number of times, the engine control element 114a or the main control element 114b may switch between a storage element for storing data and a storage element for backing up data. The second set number of times is, for example, 90,000 times. In this way, when the memory life of the storage element for storing data is, for example, 100,000 times, by switching to a storage element for backing up data at, for example, 90,000 times, the number of times data is stored in the storage element approaching the end of its memory life can be suppressed, and the life of the storage element can be extended. In other words, by checking the number of times data is stored in the storage element and switching between a storage element for storing data and a storage element for backing up data, it is possible to reduce costs and to respond to long-life products without increasing capacity or changing to a storage element with a long rewrite life.

[0058] Here, the configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1 to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 is a schematic diagram showing the storage location of data after backup processing is performed in the image forming apparatus 100. Fig. 6 shows the engine storage element 116a, the main storage element 116b, the second storage element 136, and the third storage element 166.

[0059] As shown in FIG. 6, since the number of times that the second memory element 136 has stored data has reached a second set number of times (e.g., 90,000 times), the main control element 114b switches between the memory element that stores the data and the memory element that backs up the data.

[0060] Specifically, the engine memory element 116a stores, for example, the serial number of the second control board 132, the count value in the sheet supply unit 130, and the setting value.

[0061] In addition, the second memory element 136 stores the data stored in the engine memory element 116a as backup data. For example, the second memory element 136 stores the serial number of the second control board 132, the count value and the setting value in the sheet supply unit 130, which are stored in the engine memory element 116a, as backup data.

[0062] In this way, the data stored in the memory element of the target control board (target control board) is stored as backup data in a memory element of a control board other than the target control board, so that the data of the target control board can be smoothly transferred even when the target control board is replaced.

[0063] 6, the main control element 114b switches between the storage element for storing data and the storage element for backing up the data when the number of times the second storage element 136 has stored data reaches the second set number of times (e.g., 90,000 times), but this embodiment is not limited to this. The main control element 114b may switch between the storage element for storing data and the storage element for backing up the data when the number of times the third storage element 166 has stored data reaches the second set number of times (e.g., 90,000 times).

[0064] 1 to 6, the second memory element 136 stores the serial number of the second control board 132, and the count value and the setting value in the sheet supply unit 130, and the engine memory element 116a stores the data of the second memory element 136 as backup data, but the present embodiment is not limited to this. The engine memory element 116a may store the serial number of the second control board 132, and the count value and the setting value in the sheet supply unit 130, and the second memory element 136 may store the serial number of the second control board 132, and the count value and the setting value in the sheet supply unit 130 stored in the engine memory element 116a as backup data.

[0065] Then, since the number of times that the engine memory element 116a has stored data reaches a second set number of times (for example, 90,000 times), the main control element 114b may switch between the memory element that stores the data and the memory element that backs up the data.

[0066] Next, the configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 7. Fig. 7(a) and Fig. 7(b) are schematic diagrams for explaining rewriting of data (data A) stored in a target storage element and data (data B) stored in a backup storage element that is to back up data A.

[0067] Typically, when data A and data B do not match, either data A or data B is selected, and the non-selected data is overwritten with the selected data.

[0068] 7(a), when data B stored in the backup storage element is initial data, the initial data is rewritten to data A stored in the target storage element. For example, when the board storing the backup data is replaced with a new board, the initial data of the new board is rewritten to data A stored in the target storage element, and data A is backed up.

[0069] As shown in FIG. 7(b), if the data A stored in the target storage element is initial data, the initial data is rewritten with the data B that has been backed up.

[0070] Next, the configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8(a) to Fig. 8(c) are schematic diagrams for explaining rewriting of data (data A) stored in a target storage element and data (data B) stored in a backup storage element.

[0071] For example, as shown in Fig. 8(a), when the backup control board is replaced with a used board, data B indicates third data that is not related to the data of the target image forming apparatus 100. In this case, in the manual mode, display unit 140 displays a screen for selecting either data A or data B. The operator selects data A. In this case, data B is overwritten with data A, and data A is backed up.

[0072] As shown in Fig. 8(b), when the target control board is replaced with a used board, data A indicates third data that is not related to the data of the target image forming device. In this case, in the manual mode, display unit 140 displays a screen for selecting either data A or data B. The operator selects data B. In this case, data A is overwritten with data B that was backed up.

[0073] 8(c), when both the backup control board and the target control board are replaced with used boards, both data A and data B indicate third data that is not related to the data of the target image forming device. In this case, in the manual mode, the display unit 140 displays a screen for rewriting both data A and data B. The operator inputs data for both data A and data B via the input unit 150.

[0074] 2 to 8, the control unit 110 has the engine control unit 110a and the main control unit 110b, and the engine control unit 110a and the main control unit 110b have the engine control board 112a and the main control board 112b, respectively, but this embodiment is not limited to this. The control unit 110 may have one control board on which a control element and a memory element are mounted.

[0075] 1 to 8, the image forming apparatus 100 has an image reading function in addition to an image forming function, but the present embodiment is not limited to this. The image forming apparatus 100 does not necessarily have to have an image reading function.

[0076] In the above description with reference to Figs. 1 to 8, the image forming apparatus 100 is an apparatus enclosed in a single housing, but this embodiment is not limited to this. The image forming apparatus 100 may be an apparatus in which devices enclosed in respective housings are connected. For example, the image forming apparatus 100 may be an apparatus in which a device that forms an image on a sheet is connected to an extension device that performs processing on the sheet or the device before or after the image is formed on the sheet. As an example, the image forming apparatus 100 may include a device that forms an image on a sheet and a post-processing machine that performs post-processing on the sheet on which the image has been formed by the device.

[0077] Next, the configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram of the image forming apparatus 100.

[0078] 9, the image forming apparatus 100 includes an image forming machine 100A and a post-processing machine 200. The post-processing machine 200 is disposed adjacent to the image forming machine 100A. Here, the post-processing machine 200 communicates directly with the image forming machine 100A.

[0079] The image forming machine 100A forms an image on a sheet. The image forming machine 100A is, for example, a printer, a copier, or a multifunction machine. The image forming machine 100A may have a facsimile function. The image forming machine 100A may be of an electrophotographic type or an inkjet type. The image forming machine 100A may function in the same manner as the image forming apparatus 100 described above with reference to FIGS. 1 to 6.

[0080] The post-processing device 200 performs post-processing on the sheets on which images have been formed in the image forming device 100A. The post-processing device 200 may perform at least one of sorting, inserting another sheet, punching holes, folding, and sheet binding on the sheets on which images have been formed in the image forming device 100A.

[0081] In the image forming apparatus 100 shown in FIG. 9, one post-processor 200 is directly connected to the image forming machine 100A, but this embodiment is not limited to this. A plurality of post-processors may be connected to the image forming machine 100A. In this case, some of the plurality of post-processors may be directly connected to the image forming machine 100A, and the remaining post-processors may be indirectly connected to the image forming machine 100A. In this case, it is preferable that the post-processor indirectly connected to the image forming machine 100A directly communicates with the post-processor directly connected to the image forming machine 100A.

[0082] Next, the configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 9 and 10. Figure 10 is a schematic block diagram of the image forming apparatus 100.

[0083] 10, image forming apparatus 100 includes image forming machine 100A and post-processing machine 200. Image forming machine 100A includes control unit 110, image forming unit 120, sheet supply unit 130, additional sheet supply unit 130A, display unit 140, input unit 150, conveying unit 160, reading unit 170, and communication unit 180. In image forming machine 100A, control unit 110, image forming unit 120, sheet supply unit 130, display unit 140, input unit 150, conveying unit 160, reading unit 170 and communication unit 180 are similar to control unit 110, image forming unit 120, sheet supply unit 130, display unit 140, input unit 150, conveying unit 160, reading unit 170 and communication unit 180 of image forming apparatus 100 described above with reference to Figures 1 to 6, and duplicated descriptions will be omitted to avoid redundancy.

[0084] The control unit 110 controls the image forming unit 120 , the sheet supply unit 130 , the additional sheet supply unit 130 A, the display unit 140 , the input unit 150 , and the conveying unit 160 .

[0085] The additional sheet supply section 130A stores sheets to be supplied to the image forming section 120. The sheets stored in the additional sheet supply section 130A are supplied to the image forming section 120 when an image is formed on the sheets.

[0086] The additional sheet supply unit 130A has a control board 132a. A control element 134a and a memory element 136a are mounted on the control board 132a. The control element 134a stores a program required for control by the control element 134a of the additional sheet supply unit 130A. The control element 134a controls the mechanism of the additional sheet supply unit 130A using the program and data. The control element 134a includes a calculation element, similar to the engine control element 114a.

[0087] The post-processing machine 200 includes a post-processing control unit 210, a sorting unit 220, an insertion unit 230, a hole punching unit 240, a folding unit 250, and a sheet binding unit 260. The post-processing control unit 210 controls the sorting unit 220, the insertion unit 230, the hole punching unit 240, the folding unit 250, and the sheet binding unit 260.

[0088] The sorting unit 220 sorts the sheets into a plurality of groups. Typically, the sorting unit 220 sorts the sheets into a plurality of trays.

[0089] The inserting unit 230 supplies a sheet. The sheet supplied from the inserting unit 230 is used in combination with a sheet on which an image has been formed in the image forming apparatus 100A.

[0090] The hole punching section 240 supplies a sheet to the image forming apparatus 100A.

[0091] The folding unit 250 folds the sheet on which the image is formed at an appropriate position. For example, the folding unit 250 folds a sheet of paper size A3 into a sheet of the same size as paper size A4.

[0092] The sheet binding unit 260 binds a plurality of sheets on which images are formed to create a book. The sheet binding unit 260 can bind a plurality of sheets.

[0093] Next, the configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 9 to 11. Figure 11 is a schematic block diagram of the image forming apparatus 100.

[0094] 11, in the image forming apparatus 100A, the additional sheet supply unit 130A has a control board 132a, and a control element 134a and a memory element 136b are mounted on the control board 132a. The memory element 136b stores a program required for control by the control board 132a of the additional sheet supply unit 130A. The memory element 136b also stores, for example, the serial number of the control board 132a, and a count value and a setting value in the additional sheet supply unit 130A.

[0095] The post-processing machine 200 has a post-processing control section 210 , a sorting section 220 , an insertion section 230 , a hole punching section 240 , a folding section 250 , and a sheet binding section 260 .

[0096] A control element 224 and a memory element 226 are mounted on the control board 222. The memory element 226 stores a program required for control by the control element 224 of the sorting unit 220. The memory element 226 also stores, for example, the serial number of the control board 222, and a count value and a setting value in the sorting unit 220.

[0097] Similarly, a control element 234 and a memory element 236 are mounted on the control board 232. The memory element 236 stores a program required for control by the control element 234 of the insertion portion 230. The memory element 236 also stores, for example, the serial number of the control board 232, and a count value and a setting value in the insertion portion 230.

[0098] Similarly, a control element 244 and a memory element 246 are mounted on the control board 242. The memory element 246 stores a program required for the control of the hole punching unit 240 by the control element 244. The memory element 246 also stores, for example, the serial number of the control board 242, and a count value and a setting value in the hole punching unit 240.

[0099] Similarly, a control element 254 and a memory element 256 are mounted on the control board 252. The memory element 256 stores a program required for control by the control element 254 of the bending unit 250. The memory element 256 also stores, for example, the serial number of the control board 252, and a count value and a setting value in the bending unit 250.

[0100] Similarly, a control element 264 and a memory element 266 are mounted on the control board 262. The memory element 266 stores a program required for control by the control element 264 of the sheet binding unit 260. The memory element 266 also stores, for example, the serial number of the control board 262, and a count value and a setting value in the sheet binding unit 260.

[0101] A control element 214 and a memory element 216 are mounted on the control board 212. The memory element 216 stores a program required for control by the control element 214 of the post-processing control unit 210. The memory element 216 also stores, for example, the serial number of the control board 212, and a count value and a setting value in the post-processing control unit 210.

[0102] 11, the storage element 216 stores the data of the storage elements 226, 236, 246, 256, and 266 as backup data, in addition to the serial number of the control board 212 and the count value and setting value of the post-treatment control unit 210. The storage element 116a stores the data of the storage elements 136, 136a, 166, and 216 as backup data, in addition to the serial number of the control board 112a and the count value and setting value of the engine control unit 110a. The storage element 116b of the control board 112b stores the data of the storage element 116a as backup data, in addition to the serial number of the control board 112b and the count value and setting value of the main control unit 110b.

[0103] Next, the configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 12. Fig. 12 is a table showing an example of the relationship between the serial number of data A (serial number of data A), data B (serial number of data B), alarms, and actions. Here, data A indicates the serial number stored in the memory element of the target control board, and data B indicates the serial number stored in the memory element of another board that has backed up the serial number of the target control board.

[0104] As shown in memory element 116a in FIG. 12, when the serial number of data A and the serial number of data B are different, display unit 140 displays a screen for selecting whether the serial number of data A or the serial number of data B should be used as the serial number of control board 112a.

[0105] In detail, the control element 114a reads out the serial number stored in the storage element 116a as the serial number of data A, and reads out the serial number stored in the storage element 116b as the serial number of data B. Thereafter, the control element 114a judges whether the serial number of data A matches the serial number of data B. If the serial number of data A differs from the serial number of data B, the control element 114a causes the display unit 140 to display a screen for selecting whether the serial number of data A or the serial number of data B should be set as the serial number of the control board 112a. In this case, the operator selects either the serial number of data A or the serial number of data B via the input unit 150 as the serial number of the control board 112a.

[0106] Also, as shown in memory element 136 in FIG. 12, when the serial number of data A indicates an initially set serial number, control element 134 rewrites the serial number of data A stored in control board 132 to data B stored in memory element 116a.

[0107] In detail, the control element 134 reads out the serial number stored in the memory element 136 as the serial number of data A, and reads out the serial number stored in the memory element 116a as the serial number of data B. If the serial number of data A is the number set for an unmounted board, the control element 134 sets data B as the serial number of the control board 132. In this case, the control element 134 rewrites the serial number of data A stored in the memory element 136 to the serial number of data B.

[0108] Also, as shown in the memory element 136a of FIG. 12, when data B indicates an initially set serial number, the control element 114a rewrites the serial number of data A stored in the memory element 136a to the serial number of data B of the control board 132a and backs it up.

[0109] In detail, the control element 134a reads out the serial number stored in the storage element 136a as the serial number of data A, and reads out the serial number stored in the storage element 116a as the serial number of data B. If data B is a number set for an unmounted board, the control element 134a sets the serial number stored in the storage element 136a as the serial number of the control board 132. In this case, the control element 134a issues an instruction to rewrite the serial number of data B stored in the storage element 116a to the serial number of the storage element 136a and back it up.

[0110] As shown in the memory element 166 of FIG. 12, if the serial number of data B matches the serial number of data A, the control element 164 does not rewrite either data A or data B.

[0111] In detail, the control element 164 reads the serial number stored in the storage element 166 as the serial number of data A, and reads the serial number stored in the storage element 116a that stores the backup data as the serial number of data B.

[0112] Thereafter, the control element 164 determines whether the serial number of data A matches the serial number of data B. If the serial number of data A matches the serial number of data B, the control element 164 does not rewrite either data A or data B.

[0113] As shown in the memory element 246 in FIG. 12, if the serial number of data A cannot be read, the control element 244 determines that the memory element 246 is not connected, and does not rewrite either data A or data B.

[0114] 1 to 12 operate without interlocking with an external device, the present embodiment is not limited to this. Image forming apparatus 100 may operate in interlocking with an external device.

[0115] Next, an image forming apparatus 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 13. Figure 13 is a schematic diagram of an image forming system 10 including the image forming apparatus 100 of this embodiment.

[0116] In this embodiment, the image forming system 10 includes an image forming apparatus 100 and an information processing apparatus 300. The information processing apparatus 300 is a so-called server.

[0117] In the image forming apparatus 100 of this embodiment, the backup data is stored inside the image forming apparatus 100, so here, the information processing device 300 does not store the backup data of the image forming apparatus 100. In this case, the information processing device 300 may instruct the timing when the image forming apparatus 100 stores the backup data inside. Note that, in addition to storing the backup data inside the image forming apparatus 100, the information processing device 300 may store the backup data of the image forming apparatus 100.

[0118] Next, rewriting of data A and data B in image forming apparatus 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 14. Fig. 14 is a flow diagram of rewriting of data A and data B in image forming apparatus 100 of this embodiment.

[0119] As shown in FIG. 14, in step S102, data A is read from a target storage element.

[0120] In step S104, data B is read from the backup storage element.

[0121] In step S106, it is determined whether or not both data A and data B are initial data.

[0122] If it is determined that both data A and data B are initial data (Yes in step S106), the process proceeds to step S122. If it is determined that at least one of data A and data B is not initial data (No in step S106), the process proceeds to step .

[0123] In step S108, it is determined whether or not data A is initial data. If it is determined that data A is initial data (Yes in step S108), the process proceeds to step S124. If it is determined that data A is not initial data (No in step S108), the process proceeds to step S110.

[0124] In step S110, it is determined whether data B is initial data. If it is determined that data B is initial data (Yes in step S110), the process proceeds to step S126. If it is determined that data B is not initial data (No in step S110), the process proceeds to step S112.

[0125] In step S112, it is determined whether or not data A and data B match. If it is determined that data A and data B match (Yes in step S112), the process ends. If it is determined that data A and data B do not match (No in step S112), the process proceeds to step S128.

[0126] In step S122, the process transitions to manual mode to input data. In manual mode, the administrator inputs data into the target storage element via input unit 150. Then, the process ends.

[0127] In step S124, the data A stored in the target storage element is overwritten with the data B stored in the backup storage element, and then the process ends.

[0128] In step S126, the data B stored in the backup storage element is overwritten with the data A stored in the target storage element, and then the process ends.

[0129] In step S128, the system transitions to a manual mode to select data. In the manual mode, the administrator selects either data A or data B via input unit 150 and inputs the selected data into the target storage element. Then, the process ends.

[0130] According to this embodiment, even if the data A stored in the target memory element and the data B stored in the backup memory element do not match, it is possible to store appropriate data in the target memory element and the backup memory element.

[0131] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and can be implemented in various aspects without departing from the gist of the present invention. In addition, various inventions can be formed by appropriately combining multiple components disclosed in the above embodiments. For example, some components may be deleted from all components shown in the embodiments. Furthermore, components across different embodiments may be appropriately combined. The drawings are mainly shown schematically for ease of understanding, and the thickness, length, number, spacing, etc. of each component shown in the drawings may differ from the actual ones due to the convenience of drawing. In addition, the material, shape, dimensions, etc. of each component shown in the above embodiments are examples and are not particularly limited, and various changes are possible within a range that does not substantially deviate from the effects of the present invention.

[0132] 2, when both the backup control board and the target control board are replaced with used boards and neither data is related to data of the target image forming apparatus, in the manual mode, the display unit 140 displays a screen for rewriting both data A and data B. However, the present invention is not limited to this. [Industrial Applicability]

[0133] The present invention is suitably used in an image forming apparatus. [Explanation of symbols]

[0134] 100 Image forming device 100A Image forming machine 120 Image forming section 130 Sheet supply unit 130A Additional sheet supply unit 140 Display section 150 Input section 160 Conveyor 170 Reading unit 180 Communications Department 200 Post-processing machine 210 Post-processing control section 220 Sorting Department 230 Insertion section 240 Hole punch 250 Bend section 260 Sheet binding section

Claims

1. an image forming unit that forms an image on a sheet; a sheet supplying section for supplying the sheet to the image forming section; a control unit that controls the image forming unit and the sheet supply unit; Equipped with the control unit includes a first control board on which a first control element and a first memory element are mounted, the sheet supply unit includes a second control board on which a second control element and a second memory element are mounted, An image forming apparatus, wherein the first control element stores data regarding the sheet supply unit in either the first memory element or the second memory element, and backs up the data regarding the sheet supply unit in the other of the first memory element and the second memory element at a predetermined timing.

2. the predetermined timing is when the number of times the data related to the sheet supply unit is stored reaches a first set number of times; 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, when the first set number of times reaches a second set number of times, the first control element switches between a storage element that stores the data and a storage element that backs up the data.

3. A conveying unit that conveys the document; a reading unit that reads the document conveyed to the conveying unit; Further comprising: the transport unit includes a third control board on which a third control element and a third memory element are mounted, 3. The image forming apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first control element stores data regarding the conveying unit in one of the first memory element and the third memory element, and backs up the data regarding the conveying unit in the other of the first memory element and the third memory element.

4. A display unit that displays an image on a screen; an input unit for inputting operations by an operator; Further comprising: The control unit is an engine control unit that controls the sheet supply unit; a main control unit which controls the display unit, the input unit, and the engine control unit; having The engine control unit has an engine control board on which an engine control element and an engine memory element are mounted, the main control unit has a main control board on which a main control element and a main memory element are mounted, The main control element is storing data related to the engine control unit in one of the main storage element and the engine storage element, and backing up the data related to the engine control unit in the other of the main storage element and the engine storage element; 3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein data relating to the main control unit is stored in one of the main memory element and the engine memory element, and data relating to the main control unit is backed up in the other of the main memory element and the engine memory element.

5. A post-processing unit for processing the sheet is further provided, the post-processing unit includes a fourth control board on which a fourth control element and a fourth memory element are mounted, 3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first memory element stores data relating to the post-processing unit in either the first memory element or the fourth memory element, and backs up data relating to the post-processing unit in the other of the first memory element and the fourth memory element.

6. Further comprising a communication unit capable of communicating with the information processing device, The image forming apparatus of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first memory element stores data regarding the sheet supply unit in either the first memory element or the second memory element based on instructions from the information processing device received by the communication unit, and backs up the data regarding the sheet supply unit in the other of the first memory element and the second memory element.

7. 3. An image forming apparatus as described in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein if the data stored in the second memory element does not match the data stored in the first memory element, one of the data stored in the second memory element and the data stored in the first memory element is rewritten.

8. The image forming apparatus of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein when either the data stored in the second memory element or the data stored in the first memory element is initial data, the control unit rewrites the initial data to the other of the data in the second memory element and the data in the first memory element.

Images