Image forming device, image forming device control method and program

Abstract

To enable an adjusted value for a printing control parameter to be easily registered in registering paper information.SOLUTION: An image forming device comprises: first determining means that determines whether paper having first paper information is a paper to which adjustment of a first printing control parameter can be executed; first obtaining means that when the paper having the first paper information is the paper to which adjustment of the first printing control parameter can be executed, performs control so that a first adjustment chart is printed thereon and so that the printed first adjustment chart is scanned, so as to obtain an adjusted value of the first printing control parameter on the basis of a scanned result of the chart; and registering means that when the first obtaining means obtains the adjusted value of the first printing control parameter, registers, on the first paper information, second paper information having the adjusted value of the first printing control parameter reflected therein.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 12

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an image forming apparatus, a control method for an image forming apparatus, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] By identifying the paper type (paper type) fed in a print job from a paper type database (media library) pre-stored in the image forming device, and using the print control parameters for that paper type for image formation control, high-quality results can be obtained.

[0003] In addition, in order to accommodate a wide variety of paper types, an image forming device is known that can duplicate pre-stored paper types and register user-defined paper types in a media library, allowing the user to change the print control parameters of the paper type as desired.

[0004] Patent document 1 discloses a technology in which a paper type detection sensor (media sensor) that measures characteristics of paper, such as the surface texture and basis weight of the paper, is installed on the paper transport path of an image forming device, and the media sensor measures and identifies the paper type that will be used to replicate a user-defined paper. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2022-26815 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The user must change the print control parameters after creating the user-defined paper. Therefore, it is difficult for a user who is not aware of the paper type to change the print control parameters. In addition, there are multiple adjustment menus for changing the print control parameters, and some adjustment menus cannot be implemented depending on the paper type, so it is difficult for the user to select a menu that can be adjusted for that paper type.

[0007] An object of the present disclosure is to enable easy registration of adjustment values ​​for print control parameters when registering paper information. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The image forming apparatus has a first determination means for determining whether the paper of the first paper information is a paper on which adjustment of a first print control parameter can be performed, a first acquisition means for controlling the printing of a first adjustment chart if the paper of the first paper information is a paper on which adjustment of a first print control parameter can be performed, controlling the scanning of the printed first adjustment chart, and acquiring an adjustment value of the first print control parameter based on a result of the scanning, and a registration means for registering second paper information in which the adjustment value of the first print control parameter is reflected in the first paper information if the first acquisition means acquires the adjustment value of the first print control parameter. Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to the present disclosure, adjustment values ​​of print control parameters can be easily registered when registering paper information. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of an image forming apparatus. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a main configuration controlled by a CPU. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of a fixing unit. [Figure 4]FIG. 2 illustrates an example of the configuration of a media sensor. [Diagram 5] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram of a user-defined paper. [Figure 6] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram of a user-defined paper. [Figure 7] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram of a user-defined paper. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram of a user-defined paper creation flow screen. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram of a user-defined paper creation flow screen. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram of a user-defined paper creation flow screen. [Figure 11] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram of a user-defined paper creation flow screen. [Figure 12] 10 is a flowchart showing new registration of a user-defined paper. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] Hereinafter, the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the embodiment described below is merely an example, and the present invention is not limited to the following embodiment. In addition, in the following embodiment, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0012] Fig. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of an image forming apparatus 201 according to this embodiment. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing a main configuration controlled by a CPU 10 of the image forming apparatus 201 according to this embodiment. First, the basic configuration and operation of the image forming apparatus 201 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 1 and 2.

[0013] In the image forming apparatus 201 of FIG. 2, the CPU 10 is connected to the instruction / display unit 13, the media sensor 14, the fixing unit 201E, the cassette feeding unit 230, the manual feeding unit 235, the image forming unit 201B, the ROM 11, and the RAM 12.

[0014] The CPU 10 is a control unit that controls the entire image forming apparatus 201. The ROM 11 stores a control program according to the present embodiment, initial values ​​of various settings, etc. The CPU 10 executes the control program according to the present embodiment read from the ROM 11, thereby implementing the image formation procedure and the procedures of each flowchart, which will be described later.

[0015] The RAM 12 stores various information under the control of the CPU 10. As will be described in detail later, the RAM 12 stores print control parameters for each paper type in a first storage area. It is preferable that the RAM 12 be a rewritable memory that does not require a storage holding operation.

[0016] As will be further described later, when the user changes the print control parameters corresponding to the referenced paper type, the CPU 10 additionally stores the changed print control parameters in the first memory area as user-defined print control parameters corresponding to the paper type.

[0017] The instruction / display unit 13 includes a panel, buttons, etc. capable of displaying an operation screen, and when an instruction such as starting a print operation is input, the instruction information is sent to the CPU 10. Note that the instruction information such as starting a print operation may be input by a user operating the instruction / display unit 13, or may be input from an external device such as a personal computer, tablet terminal, or smartphone connected via a network (not shown).

[0018] When instruction information to start a printing operation is input, the CPU 10 drives and controls a paper feed and transport motor (not shown) in accordance with the instruction information to feed and transport paper. The CPU 10 also sets print control parameters for the image forming unit 201B to control image formation (printing) by the image forming unit 201B. The image forming unit 201B prints on paper based on the print control parameters set by the CPU 10.

[0019] In Fig. 1, 201 is an image forming apparatus, 201A is an image forming apparatus main body, and 201B is an image forming section that forms an image on a sheet. 202 is an image reading apparatus installed substantially horizontally above the image forming apparatus main body 201A, and a discharge space S for discharging sheets is formed between this image reading apparatus 202 and the image forming apparatus main body 201A.

[0020] Reference numeral 230 denotes a cassette paper feed unit that feeds a sheet P from a paper feed cassette 1 that is a sheet storage means for storing a sheet P. The cassette paper feed unit 230 includes a pickup roller 2 that is a sheet feeding means, and a separation unit that includes a feed roller 3 and a retard roller 4 for separating the sheet P sent out from the pickup roller 2.

[0021] Also, reference numeral 235 denotes a manual feed unit that feeds a sheet P from a manual feed tray 5 that is a means for holding the sheet P. Similarly to the cassette feed unit 230, the manual feed unit 235 includes a sheet feeding means and a separation unit.

[0022] The image forming unit 201B, which is an image forming means, is of a four-drum full-color type and includes a laser scanner 210 and four process cartridges 211 that form toner images of four colors, yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K). Here, each process cartridge 211 includes a photosensitive drum 212, a charger 213 that is a charging means, and a developer 214 that is a developing means. In addition, the image forming unit 201B includes a secondary transfer unit 201D and a fixing unit 201E that are disposed above the process cartridges 211. Reference numeral 215 denotes a toner cartridge for supplying toner to the developer 214.

[0023] The secondary transfer unit 201D includes a transfer belt 216 wound around a drive roller 216a and a tension roller 216b. A primary transfer roller 219 is provided on the inner side of the transfer belt 216, and contacts the transfer belt 216 at a position opposite the photosensitive drum 212.

[0024] Here, the transfer belt 216 is rotated in the direction of the arrow by a drive roller 216a driven by a drive unit (not shown). A secondary transfer roller 217 that transfers the color image formed on the transfer belt 216 onto the sheet P is provided at a position facing the drive roller 216a of the secondary transfer unit 201D.

[0025] Furthermore, a fixing section 201E is disposed above the secondary transfer roller 217, and a first discharge roller pair 225a, a second discharge roller pair 225b, and a double-sided reversing section 201F are disposed at the upper left of the fixing section 201E. The double-sided reversing section 201F is provided with a reversible roller pair 222 and a re-conveying path R for conveying the sheet P, on one side of which an image has been formed, again to the image forming section 201B.

[0026] An instruction / display unit 13 for receiving operations from a user is provided on the upper portion of the image forming apparatus 201.

[0027] <Operation of the image forming device> Next, a description will be given of the image forming operation of the image forming apparatus 201. First, when the image forming apparatus 201 receives image data of an original to be printed, the image information is subjected to image processing, converted into an electrical signal, and transmitted to the laser scanner 210 of the image forming unit 201B.

[0028] In the image forming unit 201B, the surface of the photosensitive drum 212, which has been uniformly charged to a predetermined polarity and potential by the charger 213, is sequentially exposed to a laser. As a result, electrostatic latent images of yellow, magenta, cyan and black are sequentially formed on the photosensitive drum 212 of each process cartridge 211, respectively.

[0029] Thereafter, the electrostatic latent images are developed and visualized with toner of each color, and the toner images of each color on each photoconductor drum 212 are transferred in sequence onto the transfer belt 216 in a superimposed manner by a primary transfer bias applied to the primary transfer roller 219. As a result, a toner image is formed on the transfer belt 216.

[0030] In parallel with this toner image forming operation, the sheets P are transported one by one by the cassette paper feed unit 230 to the pair of registration rollers 240, and skew is corrected by the pair of registration rollers 240. After the skew is corrected, the sheet P is transported to the secondary transfer unit 201D by the pair of registration rollers 240, and the toner images are transferred all at once onto the sheet P by the secondary transfer bias applied to the secondary transfer roller 217 at the secondary transfer unit 201D.

[0031] Next, the sheet P onto which the toner image has been transferred is transported to the fixing section 201E, where the toner of each color melts and mixes with heat and pressure in the roller nip portion formed by the pressure roller 220a and the heating roller 220b, and is fixed onto the sheet P as a color image.

[0032] At this time, the adhesive force of the molten toner causes the sheet P to stick to the fixing heating roller 220b. If the sheet P is not stiff enough, it will be taken up by the rotating fixing heating roller 220b as it is. Therefore, a separation plate for separating the sheet P is provided downstream of the fixing heating roller 220b.

[0033] Thereafter, the sheet P on which the image has been fixed is discharged to the discharge space S by a first discharge roller pair 225a and a second discharge roller pair 225b provided downstream of the fixing unit 201E, and is stacked on a stacking unit 223 protruding from the bottom surface of the discharge space S. When images are formed on both sides of the sheet P, after the images are fixed, the sheet P is transported to a re-conveyance path R by a reversing roller pair 222, and is transported again to the image forming unit 201B.

[0034] The media sensor 14 is provided on the paper transport path of the manual paper feed unit 235, and is a paper type detection sensor that detects the type of paper (paper type) fed through the paper transport path. The paper type refers to the type of paper. The media sensor 14 detects the surface properties and thickness of the paper being transported, and the CPU 10 determines the paper type from the detection results. In this embodiment, the detection of the surface properties and thickness of the paper by the media sensor 14 and the determination of the paper type by the CPU 10 from the detection results is expressed as detecting or determining the paper type by the media sensor 14. Details will be described later.

[0035] <Explanation of the fixing unit> 3 is a diagram used to explain the configuration and fixing of fixing unit 201E. Fixing unit 201E is an assembly including heater holder 207, fixing heater 204 fixed and disposed on the lower surface of heater holder 207 along the longitudinal direction of the heater holder (perpendicular to the drawing), and fixing film 203 which is an elastic layer.

[0036] In addition, each arrow Q in Fig. 3 indicates the direction of rotation. Also, arrow T in Fig. 3 indicates the direction of movement of paper M carrying toner 301. Pressure roller 205 is disposed with both ends of its core metal bearing between side plates of fixing unit 201E so as to be freely rotatable.

[0037] The fixing unit 201E is arranged parallel to the pressure roller 205 with the fixing heater 204 side facing in contact with the pressure roller 205, and both end sides of the heater holder 207 are pressed with a predetermined pressure by a biasing mechanism (not shown). As a result, the surface of the fixing heater 204 is pressed against the elasticity of the pressure roller 205 with the fixing film 203 sandwiched therebetween, forming a fixing nip portion 206 of a predetermined width.

[0038] The pressure roller 205 is rotated at a predetermined peripheral speed in the counterclockwise direction indicated by the arrow Q by a driving mechanism (not shown). The fixing heater 204 is a ceramic substrate having a resistance heating element formed thereon. A temperature detection sensor 208 is in contact with the fixing heater 204.

[0039] The CPU 10 detects the temperature of the fixing heater 204 from the output of the temperature detection sensor 208, and controls the power supplied to the fixing heater 204 so that the temperature of the fixing heater 204 becomes a predetermined target temperature. The target temperature of the fixing heater 204 is determined by the type of paper being passed and the environmental temperature, etc.

[0040] The CPU 10 determines the target temperature of the fixing heater 204 according to the paper type set from the instruction / display unit 13 or the paper type detected by the media sensor 14. As described above, the target temperature of the fixing unit 201E is set to a lower temperature for thin paper compared to plain paper, and is set to a higher temperature for thick paper.

[0041] <Media sensor description> 4 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the media sensor 14. Inside the media sensor 14, an LED 481 as a light emitting element and a photodiode 480 as a light receiving element are arranged.

[0042] The amount of reflected light of the light emitted by the LED 481 can be detected by the photodiode 480. The media sensor 14 is also provided with a guide portion 483 into which the paper sheet M enters.

[0043] The CPU 10 receives the input signal of the photodiode 480 as the output value of the media sensor 14. The CPU 10 can determine the type of paper being fed according to the difference in the received value due to the surface property and thickness of each paper. Then, the CPU 10 optimally controls the image formation speed and the target temperature of the fixing unit 201E according to the paper type detected here.

[0044] As described above, in this embodiment, the CPU 10 uses the media sensor 14 to determine the paper type, eliminating the need for the user to consciously set the paper type. Therefore, the image forming apparatus 201 in this embodiment is provided with a mode (hereinafter referred to as an automatic media setting mode) in which the paper type is determined by the media sensor 14 and print control parameters and the like are automatically set according to the paper type.

[0045] On the other hand, the image forming apparatus 201 of this embodiment is also provided with a mode in which the user manually sets the paper type to be used (hereinafter, referred to as a manual media setting mode) as in the past. The user can operate the instruction / display unit 13 to set in advance either the automatic media setting mode or the manual media setting mode for each paper feed unit.

[0046] It is assumed that the default mode is set to the automatic media setting mode. A setting value indicating whether the setting mode is the automatic media setting mode or the manual media setting mode is stored in the RAM 12.

[0047] The above-described configuration of the media sensor 14 is merely an example, and the media sensor 14 is not limited to this configuration. For example, the media sensor 14 may be configured by combining an ultrasonic sensor such as a piezoelectric element in addition to a light emitting element and a light receiving element, or may be configured with other elements.

[0048] <User-defined paper description> Next, a method for creating a user-defined paper will be described with reference to Fig. 5 to Fig. 7. Fig. 5 to Fig. 7 are diagrams showing screens displayed on the instruction / display unit 13. In this embodiment, a user-defined paper is a paper type that is uniquely set by the user, and for that paper type, it is possible to define characteristics such as basis weight and surface properties, and set print control parameters (control parameters for image formation) such as fixing temperature.

[0049] In this embodiment, a user-defined paper is created based on the print control parameters of a basic paper prepared in advance, as described below. The print control parameters of the basic paper are stored in a first storage area of ​​the RAM 12, and the print control parameters of the user-defined paper are added to and stored in the first storage area of ​​the RAM 12 by the CPU 10.

[0050] FIG. 5(a) is a diagram showing an example of a screen 501 that displays a list of basic paper sheets that can be selected when setting a user-defined paper sheet. The user can select all three of the basic paper sheets, the user-defined paper sheets, and the user-defined paper sheets by using a pull-down menu 502 in FIG. 5(a). The CPU 10 reads out the paper sheet information stored in the RAM 12 in response to the selection made by the pull-down menu 502, and displays it in an area 503. The user can select any basic paper sheet from the papers displayed in the area 503, and by pressing a copy button 505, can assign a new name to the paper sheet based on the registration information of the user-defined paper sheet and register it as a new paper sheet. The user can select any basic paper sheet from the papers displayed in the area 503, and by pressing a details / edit button 504, can check the details of the basic paper sheet. The basic paper sheet cannot be deleted, so the delete button 506 is shaded so that it cannot be pressed.

[0051] FIG. 5B is a diagram showing an example of a screen 511 that is displayed when a user-defined paper is selected by a pull-down menu 512. A list of user-defined paper that the CPU 10 reads from the RAM 12 is displayed in an area 513. The user can change paper parameters such as basis weight and size by selecting any user-defined paper from the papers displayed in the area 513 and pressing a detail / edit button 514. Furthermore, the user can register a new user-defined paper based on a registered user-defined paper by selecting any user-defined paper from the papers displayed in the area 513 and pressing a copy button 515. The user can also delete the selected user-defined paper by selecting any user-defined paper from the papers displayed in the area 513 and pressing a delete button 516.

[0052] FIG. 6(a) is a diagram showing an example of a screen 621 that is displayed when the Details / Edit button 504 in FIG. 5(a) or the Details / Edit button 514 in FIG. 5(b) is pressed. In the screen 621, it is possible to confirm and edit the settings of parameters required to control each paper type. For the name, a name registered in advance is displayed in the case of basic paper, and for the user-defined paper, a name registered by the user is displayed. For the type, whether the paper is basic paper or user-defined paper is displayed. For the basis weight, the weight of the paper is displayed. For the size, the size of the paper is displayed. For the surface property, a type that represents the characteristics of the shape of the surface of the paper is displayed. For the adjustment of the secondary transfer voltage and the image position adjustment, either no setting or a setting is displayed. These adjustment values ​​are explained below.

[0053] <Adjustment Description> The secondary transfer voltage is a value required to transfer the toner on the intermediate transfer body, and is set to a value that does not cause abnormal discharge. For example, when using a type of paper whose moisture content or resistance value is significantly different from the standard value, optimal transfer may not be possible with the default value of the secondary transfer voltage.

[0054] When the resistance value of the paper used for printing is greater than the standard value, the secondary transfer voltage will be insufficient with the default value, and therefore it is necessary to apply a secondary transfer voltage with a value greater than the default value.

[0055] In addition, if the moisture content of the paper used for printing is smaller than the standard value, abnormal discharge is likely to occur, which can result in poor image quality, so it is necessary to apply a secondary transfer voltage that is smaller than the default value.

[0056] In this way, it is necessary to control the secondary transfer voltage to an appropriate value according to the type of paper used for printing. In order to register an appropriate adjustment value for the paper, a coarse adjustment chart or fine adjustment chart (not shown) is printed and by reading these charts, the adjustment value of the secondary transfer voltage is determined so that the transfer efficiency falls within a specified range.

[0057] When a new registration or re-registration of the secondary transfer voltage adjustment is desired, pressing the change button 622 in Fig. 6(a) will transition to a chart print screen 631 shown in Fig. 6(b). When the print start button 632 is pressed, the CPU 10 prints the chart and displays the screen 741 in Fig. 7.

[0058] The user places the printed chart in the feeder and presses the read start button 742. When the read start button 742 is pressed, the CPU 10 scans the chart, calculates the necessary adjustment values, associates them with the registered paper, and stores the adjustment values ​​in the RAM 12. When the adjustment values ​​are stored, "Secondary transfer voltage adjustment" on the screen 621 in FIG. 6(a) displays "Settings have been made."

[0059] The "image position adjustment" on the screen 621 is an adjustment item for adjusting the image position relative to the front and back sheets. In the image position adjustment, the adjustment value of the image position from the top and left ends relative to the front and back sheets is set as the amount of movement. For this image position adjustment, the image forming apparatus 201 prints a chart for adjusting the image position on the front and back sheets and calculates the adjustment value by reading the chart. When it is desired to newly register or re-register the image position adjustment, the change button 622 in FIG. 6(a) is pressed, and the chart for image position adjustment is printed and read by the screen 631 in FIG. 6(b) and the screen 741 in FIG. 7. This causes the CPU 10 to calculate the adjustment value, associate it with the paper being registered, and store the adjustment value in the RAM 12. When the adjustment value is stored, the "image position adjustment" on the screen 621 in FIG. 6(a) is displayed as "set."

[0060] Screen 621 lists the name, type, basis weight, size, surface properties, secondary transfer voltage adjustment, and image position adjustment as examples, but various other parameters are also recorded and can be checked by pressing button 623.

[0061] In the above, the flow for duplicating a user-defined paper by pressing the copy button 505 or 515 from a basic paper or user-defined paper has been explained, but a method is also provided that allows the user to more easily determine the paper type without having to be aware of it by using the media sensor 14. The details are explained below.

[0062] <Explanation of user-defined paper creation flow> 8 to 11 are diagrams showing examples of screens for creating a user-defined paper without the user having to be aware of the paper type, and show screens displayed on the instruction / display unit 13. FIG.

[0063] Fig. 8(a) is a diagram showing an example of a paper setting screen displayed on the instruction / display unit 13 when the CPU 10 detects that paper has been placed in the paper feed tray 5. In Fig. 8(a), it is possible to set the size and type of paper placed in the paper feed tray 5. When the user presses the "First time using paper" button 801 on the screen of Fig. 8(a), a flow for creating a user-defined paper starts, and the screen transitions to the screen of Fig. 8(b).

[0064] 8(b) displays a screen for selecting the base paper type for creating user-defined paper. An "Auto detect when printing" button 802 is a button for automatically detecting the paper type using the media sensor 14, and subsequently creating the user-defined paper according to the detected paper type.

[0065] When the “Select from List” button 803 is pressed, the user can select the base paper type from a paper type list 804, and by pressing the “Next” button 805, the secondary transfer adjustment screen of Figure 9(a) is displayed.

[0066] Fig. 9A is a screen for instructing the start of printing of the secondary transfer adjustment chart. By pressing a print start button 906 in Fig. 9A, a chart for performing secondary transfer adjustment can be printed.

[0067] If the "Auto detect when printing" button 802 is selected on the paper type selection screen in FIG. 8(b), when the first paper on which the secondary transfer adjustment chart is printed is fed, the paper is measured by the media sensor 14 to determine the paper type. The CPU 10 copies the determined paper type and registers the user-defined paper in the paper type database. At this point, the CPU 10 saves data that can be set as print control parameters, such as basis weight, from the measurement data obtained by measuring the paper with the media sensor 14, in the user-defined paper.

[0068] When the user presses the print start button 906 in Fig. 9(a), the CPU 10 prints the secondary transfer adjustment chart based on the print control parameters of the registered user-defined paper. After that, when the user presses the read start button 907 in Fig. 9(b), the CPU 10 displays a screen for instructing the user to start reading the printed secondary transfer adjustment chart.

[0069] 9B, the CPU 10 scans the secondary transfer adjustment chart and calculates adjustment values. The calculated adjustment values ​​are saved in the print control parameters of the user-defined paper.

[0070] Thereafter, similarly, CPU 10 prints an image position adjustment chart based on the print control parameters of the registered user-defined paper when print start button 1008 in Fig. 10(a) is pressed. Then, CPU 10 scans the printed image position adjustment chart when read start button 1009 in Fig. 10(b) is pressed, calculates adjustment values, and saves them in the print control parameters of the user-defined paper.

[0071] Here, in this embodiment, secondary transfer adjustment and image position adjustment are used as examples, but other adjustment menus can be used as long as the adjustments can be implemented in conjunction with the paper, and it is possible to perform multiple adjustments at once within the user-defined paper registration flow.

[0072] In this embodiment, both the secondary transfer voltage adjustment and the image position adjustment are performed, but depending on the size and type of paper, there are papers for which each adjustment can be performed and papers for which it cannot be performed. In such cases, the CPU 10 automatically determines the necessary adjustment depending on the size and type of paper, and controls the screen display for the secondary transfer voltage adjustment and image position adjustment.

[0073] However, if the "Auto detect when printing" button 802 is selected on the paper type selection screen in Fig. 8(b), the paper must be measured by the media sensor 14 when feeding the paper for printing the secondary transfer adjustment chart, and the paper type must be determined. Therefore, although secondary transfer adjustment may not be possible depending on the determined paper type, it is also possible to control so that only one sheet is fed before adjustment is performed and the adjustment menu thereafter is determined.

[0074] Next, the CPU 10 controls to display the user-defined paper name input screen of Fig. 11(a). The user ends the registration flow by inputting an arbitrary name in the name input field 1110 and pressing the OK button 1111. At this time, the CPU 10 changes the name of the user-defined paper in the paper type database to the name input in Fig. 11(a) and displays the screen of Fig. 11(b).

[0075] Fig. 11(b) is the same paper setting screen for paper feed tray 5 as Fig. 8(a), but after creating a user-defined paper, the paper type 1112 is set to the user-defined paper created in the user-defined paper creation flow. This concludes the explanation of the screen transitions in the user-defined paper creation flow.

[0076] Fig. 12 is a flowchart showing a control method for image forming apparatus 201. The control flow for creating a user-defined paper will be described with reference to the flowchart in Fig. 12. Each step in the flowchart in Fig. 12 is performed by CPU 10 executing a control program read from ROM 11 and loaded into RAM 12.

[0077] In step S1201, when the CPU 10 detects that paper has been placed on the paper feed tray 5, it controls the CPU 10 to display the paper setting screen of FIG. 8(a). When the "First paper to use" button 801 is pressed, the CPU 10 controls the CPU 10 to display the screen of FIG. 8(b). When the paper type to be used as the source of duplication is selected using the "Auto detect when printing" button 802 or the paper type list 804, and the "Next" button 805 is pressed, the CPU 10 advances the process to step S1202. Here, selection of the paper type to be used as the source of duplication means selection of the "Auto detect when printing" button 802 in FIG. 8(b) or selection from the paper type list 804.

[0078] In step S1202, the CPU 10 determines whether the paper type selected in step S1201 is a paper for which secondary transfer voltage adjustment is possible. If the CPU 10 determines in step S1202 that the paper type is one for which secondary transfer voltage adjustment is not possible, the CPU 10 skips secondary transfer adjustment and proceeds to step S1206. On the other hand, if the CPU 10 determines in step S1202 that the paper type is one for which secondary transfer voltage adjustment is possible, the CPU 10 proceeds to step S1203. Note that if the "Auto detect when printing" button 802 is selected in step S1201, the CPU 10 proceeds to step S1203.

[0079] In step S1203, the CPU 10 performs control to display the secondary transfer adjustment print screen of Fig. 9(a). When the print start button 906 is pressed, the CPU 10 feeds paper from the paper feed tray 5 and starts printing processing of the secondary transfer adjustment chart based on the print control parameters of the paper type selected in step S1201. Note that if the "automatic detection when printing" button 802 is selected in step S1201, the CPU 10 performs control to feed paper from the paper feed tray 5 into the transport path.

[0080] In step S1204, the CPU 10 determines whether or not the "Auto detect when printing" button 802 was selected in step S1201. That is, the CPU 10 determines whether the "Auto detect when printing" button 802 was selected in Fig. 8(b), or whether a paper type in the paper type list 804 was selected. If the CPU 10 determines that the "Auto detect when printing" button 802 was selected, the process proceeds to step S1210. On the other hand, if the CPU 10 determines that a paper type in the paper type list 804 was selected, the process proceeds to step S1205.

[0081] In step S1210, CPU 10 identifies the type of paper on the conveyance path of paper feed tray 5 detected by media sensor 14 when paper is fed from paper feed tray 5. After that, the process proceeds to step S1211.

[0082] In step S1211, the CPU 10 determines whether the paper type identified in step S1211 is a paper type for which secondary transfer voltage adjustment is possible. If the CPU 10 determines that the paper type is a paper type for which secondary transfer voltage adjustment is not possible, the CPU 10 proceeds to step S1206 without printing a secondary transfer adjustment chart. On the other hand, if the CPU 10 determines that the paper type is a paper type for which secondary transfer voltage adjustment is possible, the CPU 10 prints a secondary transfer adjustment chart based on the print control parameters for the paper type in the paper feed tray 5 detected by the media sensor 14, and proceeds to step S1205.

[0083] In step S1205, the CPU 10 displays the secondary transfer adjustment scan screen in FIG. 9B, scans the printed secondary transfer adjustment chart by pressing the read start button 907 in FIG. 9B, and calculates the adjustment value of the secondary transfer voltage based on the scan. The CPU 10 then saves the calculated adjustment value as a print control parameter for the paper type. After that, the process proceeds to step S1206.

[0084] In step S1206, if a paper type from the paper type list 804 was selected in step S1201, the CPU 10 determines whether or not the selected paper type is a paper type for which image position adjustment can be performed. Also, if the "Auto detect when printing" button 802 was selected in step S1201, the CPU 10 determines whether or not the paper type specified in step S1210 is a paper type for which image position adjustment can be performed. If the CPU 10 determines that the paper type is a paper type for which image position adjustment cannot be performed, the CPU 10 advances the process to step S1209. On the other hand, if the CPU 10 determines that the paper type is a paper type for which image position adjustment can be performed, the CPU 10 advances the process to step S1207.

[0085] In step S1207, the CPU 10 performs control to display the image position adjustment print screen of Fig. 10(a). When the print start button 1008 is pressed, the CPU 10 feeds paper from the paper feed tray 5 and prints an image position adjustment chart based on the print control parameters of the paper type selected in step S1201. If the "Auto detect when printing" button 802 is selected in step S1201, the CPU 10 prints the image position adjustment chart based on the print control parameters of the paper type specified in step S1210. Then, the process proceeds to step S1208.

[0086] In step S1208, CPU 10 displays the scan screen for image position adjustment in Fig. 10(b), scans the printed image position adjustment chart when start reading button 1009 in Fig. 10(b) is pressed, and calculates adjustment values ​​for image position adjustment based on the scan. CPU 10 then saves the calculated adjustment values ​​as print control parameters for the paper type. After that, the process proceeds to step S1209.

[0087] In step S1209, the CPU 10 performs control to display the screen of FIG. 11A and accepts input in the name input field 1110. Then, the CPU 10 registers the source paper type in step S1201 as a user-defined paper with the name input in the name input field 1110. If the adjustment value of the secondary transfer voltage is saved in step S1205, the CPU 10 reflects the adjustment value of the secondary transfer voltage in the source paper type and registers it as a user-defined paper with the name input in the name input field 1110. If the adjustment value of the image position adjustment is saved in step S1208, the CPU 10 reflects the adjustment value of the image position adjustment in the source paper type and registers it as a user-defined paper with the name input in the name input field 1110. Thereafter, the process of the flowchart in FIG. 12 ends.

[0088] In this embodiment, the secondary transfer voltage adjustment and the image position adjustment are described in this order, but the order may be reversed. Also, although only the examples of the secondary transfer voltage adjustment and the image position adjustment are described, it is possible to determine and implement the necessary adjustment according to the paper type in the other adjustment menus as well.

[0089] Furthermore, if adjustment is not possible in step S1202 or S1211, the CPU 10 may cancel the user-defined paper registration flow without naming in step S1209. Furthermore, if adjustment is not possible in step S1202 or S1211 and adjustment is not possible in step S1206, the CPU 10 may cancel the user-defined paper registration flow without naming in step S1209.

[0090] Also, in step S1201, the CPU 10 controls to display a paper setting screen of Fig. 8(a). In the paper setting screen of Fig. 8(a), the paper size and paper type of the paper feed tray 5 can be set. When the paper size is set to "automatic detection", the CPU 10 detects the paper size of the paper placed on the paper feed tray 5 based on the width of the slide guide of the paper feed tray 5 of Fig. 8(a). In steps S1202, S1206, and S1211, the CPU 10 may determine whether or not the secondary transfer voltage adjustment or the image position adjustment can be performed based on at least one of the paper type and the paper size.

[0091] As described above, in step S1202 or S1211, the CPU 10 functions as a determination unit and determines whether or not the paper of the first paper information is a paper for which the first print control parameter can be adjusted. The first print control parameter is, for example, the adjustment of the secondary transfer voltage or the image position.

[0092] Here, the first paper information is paper information selected in step S1202 from among the paper information registered in the paper type list 804 in FIG. 8(b). Also, the first paper information is paper information acquired by detecting paper placed on the paper feed tray 5 in step S1211. The first paper information is not limited to the paper type. The first paper information includes the paper type or the paper size. Also, the first paper information may include the paper type and the paper size.

[0093] If the paper of the first paper information is a paper for which adjustment of the first print control parameters can be performed, the CPU 10 controls to print a first adjustment chart in step S1203 or S1211. Thereafter, the CPU 10 functions as an acquisition unit in step S1205, controls to scan the printed first adjustment chart, and acquires adjustment values ​​of the first print control parameters based on the results of the scan.

[0094] In addition, if the paper of the first paper information is a paper for which adjustment of the first print control parameters cannot be performed, the CPU 10 controls so as not to print the first adjustment chart and controls so as not to scan the first adjustment chart.

[0095] In step S1209, the CPU 10 functions as a registration unit, and when an adjustment value of the first print control parameter is acquired in step S1205, the CPU 10 registers second paper information in which the adjustment value of the first print control parameter is reflected in the first paper information.

[0096] In step S1210, CPU 10 detects, as first paper information, the paper type of paper on the transport path transported from paper feed tray 5 when printing the first adjustment chart. In step S1201 or S1210, CPU 10 detects at least one of the paper type and paper size of the paper placed on paper feed tray 5 as the first paper information.

[0097] In step S1206, CPU 10 determines whether the paper of the first paper information is a paper for which adjustment of the second print control parameters can be performed. If the paper of the first paper information is a paper for which adjustment of the second print control parameters can be performed, CPU 10 controls to print a second adjustment chart in step S1207. Then, CPU 10 controls to scan the printed second adjustment chart in step S1208, and obtains adjustment values ​​for the second print control parameters based on the results of the scan.

[0098] In step S1209, if the CPU 10 has acquired the adjustment value of the second print control parameter in step S1208, the CPU 10 registers second paper information in which the adjustment value of the second print control parameter is reflected in the first paper information.

[0099] After the registration in step S1209, as shown in Fig. 11(b), the second paper information is set in the paper feed tray 5. Thereafter, the CPU 10 functions as a control unit and controls printing on the paper in the paper feed tray 5 based on the first print control parameter and the second print control parameter, based on the print job.

[0100] As described above, according to this embodiment, when registering a user-defined paper, the CPU 10 can perform necessary adjustments of print control parameters such as the secondary transfer voltage adjustment value and the image position adjustment value, and saves the optimal adjustment values ​​as print control parameters in the user-defined paper. This enables the image forming apparatus 201 to create a higher quality output.

[0101] (Other embodiments) The present disclosure can also be realized by a process in which a program for implementing one or more functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and one or more processors in a computer of the system or device read and execute the program. It can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., ASIC) for implementing one or more functions.

[0102] It should be noted that the above-described embodiments are merely illustrative of specific examples of implementing the present disclosure, and the technical scope of the present disclosure should not be interpreted as being limited by these embodiments. In other words, the present disclosure can be implemented in various forms without departing from its technical concept or main features.

[0103] The disclosure of this embodiment includes the following configuration, method, and program. (Configuration 1) a first determination means for determining whether or not the paper of the first paper information is a paper for which adjustment of the first print control parameter can be performed; a first acquisition means for controlling to print a first adjustment chart when the paper of the first paper information is a paper on which adjustment of a first print control parameter can be performed, controlling to scan the printed first adjustment chart, and acquiring an adjustment value of the first print control parameter based on a result of the scan; a registration means for registering second paper information in which the adjustment value of the first print control parameter is reflected in the first paper information when the first acquisition means acquires the adjustment value of the first print control parameter; An image forming apparatus comprising: (Configuration 2) 2. The image forming apparatus according to configuration 1, wherein the first paper information is paper information selected from registered paper information. (Configuration 3) 2. The image forming apparatus according to configuration 1, wherein the first paper information is paper information acquired by detecting a paper sheet placed in a paper feed unit. (Configuration 4) 2. The image forming apparatus according to configuration 1, wherein the first paper information includes a paper type or a paper size. (Configuration 5) 2. The image forming apparatus according to configuration 1, wherein the first paper information includes a paper type and a paper size. (Configuration 6) The image forming apparatus according to configuration 1, wherein the first acquisition means detects, as the first paper information, a paper type of paper on a transport path transported from a paper feed unit when printing the first adjustment chart. (Configuration 7) 2. The image forming apparatus according to configuration 1, wherein the first acquisition means detects at least one of a paper type and a paper size of the paper placed in a paper feed unit as the first paper information. (Configuration 8) a second determination means for determining whether or not the paper of the first paper information is a paper for which adjustment of a second print control parameter can be performed; and a second acquisition means for controlling to print a second adjustment chart when the paper of the first paper information is a paper on which adjustment of a second print control parameter can be performed, controlling to scan the printed second adjustment chart, and acquiring an adjustment value of the second print control parameter based on a result of the scanning, The image forming apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 7, wherein the registration means, when the second acquisition means acquires an adjustment value of the second print control parameter, registers second paper information in which the adjustment value of the second print control parameter is reflected in the first paper information. (Configuration 9) 9. The image forming apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 8, wherein the first print control parameter is a secondary transfer voltage adjustment or an image position adjustment. (Configuration 10) The image forming device according to any one of configurations 1 to 9, characterized in that the first acquisition means, when the paper of the first paper information is a paper on which adjustment of a first print control parameter cannot be performed, controls so as not to print the first adjustment chart and controls so as not to scan the first adjustment chart. (Configuration 11) 11. The image forming apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 10, further comprising a control unit that controls printing on paper based on the first print control parameters after the registration by the registration unit. (Configuration 12) The image forming device of any one of configurations 1 to 11, characterized in that when it detects that paper has been placed in the paper feed section, the first determination means determines whether the paper of the first paper information is a paper for which adjustment of a first printing control parameter can be performed. (Method 1) a first determination step of determining whether or not the paper of the first paper information is a paper for which adjustment of the first print control parameter can be performed; a first acquisition step of controlling to print a first adjustment chart when the paper of the first paper information is a paper on which adjustment of a first print control parameter can be performed, controlling to scan the printed first adjustment chart, and acquiring an adjustment value of the first print control parameter based on a result of the scanning; a registration step of registering second paper information in which the adjustment value of the first print control parameter is reflected in the first paper information when the adjustment value of the first print control parameter is acquired in the first acquisition step; 11. A method for controlling an image forming apparatus comprising: (Program 1) 13. A program for causing a computer to function as the image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 12. [Explanation of symbols]

[0104] 10 CPU, 11 ROM, 12 RAM, 14 media sensor, 201 image forming device, 201B image forming unit

Claims

1. a first determination means for determining whether or not the paper of the first paper information is a paper for which adjustment of the first print control parameter can be performed; a first acquisition means for controlling printing of a first adjustment chart when the paper of the first paper information is a paper on which adjustment of a first print control parameter can be performed, controlling scanning of the printed first adjustment chart, and acquiring an adjustment value of the first print control parameter based on a result of the scanning; a registration means for registering second paper information in which the adjustment value of the first print control parameter is reflected in the first paper information when the first acquisition means acquires the adjustment value of the first print control parameter; An image forming apparatus comprising:

2. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first paper information is paper information selected from registered paper information.

3. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first paper information is paper information acquired by detecting a paper sheet placed in a paper feed unit.

4. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first paper information includes a paper type or a paper size.

5. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first paper information includes a paper type and a paper size.

6. 2 . The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the first acquisition unit detects, as the first paper information, a paper type of paper on a transport path transported from a paper feed unit when the first adjustment chart is printed.

7. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first acquisition unit detects at least one of a paper type and a paper size of the paper placed in a paper feed unit as the first paper information.

8. a second determination means for determining whether or not the paper of the first paper information is a paper for which adjustment of a second print control parameter can be performed; and a second acquisition means for controlling the printing of a second adjustment chart when the paper of the first paper information is a paper on which adjustment of a second print control parameter can be performed, controlling the printing of the second adjustment chart, and scanning the printed second adjustment chart, and acquiring an adjustment value of the second print control parameter based on a result of the scanning, The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, when the second acquisition means acquires an adjustment value of the second print control parameter, the registration means registers second paper information in which the adjustment value of the second print control parameter is reflected in the first paper information.

9. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first print control parameter is a secondary transfer voltage adjustment or an image position adjustment.

10. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the first acquisition means, when the paper of the first paper information is a paper on which adjustment of the first print control parameters cannot be performed, controls so as not to print the first adjustment chart and controls so as not to scan the first adjustment chart.

11. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a control unit that controls printing on a sheet based on the first print control parameters after the registration by the registration unit.

12. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, when the first determination means detects that paper has been placed in the paper feed section, it determines whether the paper of the first paper information is a paper for which adjustment of a first printing control parameter can be performed.

13. a first determination step of determining whether or not the paper of the first paper information is a paper for which adjustment of the first print control parameter can be performed; a first acquisition step of controlling to print a first adjustment chart when the paper of the first paper information is a paper on which adjustment of a first print control parameter can be performed, controlling to scan the printed first adjustment chart, and acquiring an adjustment value of the first print control parameter based on a result of the scan; a registration step of registering second paper information in which the adjustment value of the first print control parameter is reflected in the first paper information when the adjustment value of the first print control parameter is acquired in the first acquisition step; 11. A method for controlling an image forming apparatus comprising:

14. A program for causing a computer to function as the image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

Images