Information processing system, image forming apparatus and program

Abstract

To enable operation settings to be set based on the type of a recording medium more easily than a configuration in which a user sets operation settings of an image forming apparatus on the basis of experience and knowledge of the user.SOLUTION: An information processing unit is configured to: acquire property information about a target sheet; display, on a display unit, a basic screen 131 including a scatter chart indicating sheets for which the property information is stored in a storage device and distribution of properties of the target sheet; and display, on the same screen on which the scatter chart is displayed or on another operation screen 132, an operation setting of an image forming apparatus for one of the sheets indicated in the scatter chart.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing system, an image forming apparatus, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] In an image forming apparatus, printing parameter settings such as transfer voltage and fixing temperature are individually stored according to the type of recording medium such as paper, and the image forming apparatus also accepts changes to the printing parameter settings made by a user.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses an image forming device that holds, for each type of paper, information on a first image formation speed when image formation is performed in a first operating mode and a second image formation speed when image formation is performed in a second operating mode, saves a setting value for changing the image formation speed when operating in the second operating mode, and performs image formation at the first image formation speed according to the type of paper when operating in the first operating mode, and performs image formation at a speed obtained by changing the second image formation speed according to the type of paper in accordance with the setting value when operating in the second operating mode.It also discloses that parameters such as transfer voltage and fixing temperature can be changed by the user. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2023-107322 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] When operation settings (printing parameters) of an image forming apparatus are not prepared for a recording medium that a user wants to use, it is difficult for the user to set appropriate operation settings by himself or herself.

[0006] The present invention has an object to make it easier to set operation settings according to the type of recording medium, compared to a configuration in which a user sets operation settings of an image forming apparatus based on experience or knowledge. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The present invention according to claim 1 is A storage device that stores physical property information of one or more types of recording media; one or more processors; The processor, Acquire physical property information of the target recording medium; displaying on a display device a scatter diagram showing the distribution of physical properties of each recording medium whose physical property information is stored in the storage device and the target recording medium; displaying, on the same screen as the scatter diagram or on a different screen, operation settings of an image forming apparatus for one of the recording media shown in the scatter diagram; The present invention relates to an information processing system. The present invention according to claim 2 is The processor, When the physical property of the target recording medium is included in a range including the physical properties of each recording medium whose physical property information is stored in the storage device in the distribution of the physical properties shown in the scatter diagram, an operation setting of the image forming apparatus for one of the recording media included in the range is displayed. The information processing system according to claim 1 is characterized in that: The present invention according to claim 3 is The processor, displaying an operation setting of an image forming apparatus for a recording medium having physical properties closest to those of the target recording medium among the recording media included in the range in the scatter diagram; The information processing system according to claim 2 is characterized in that: The present invention according to claim 4 is The processor, When the physical property of the target recording medium is outside the range in the scatter diagram, displaying an operation setting of the image forming apparatus for one of the recording media included in the range; The information processing system according to claim 2 is characterized in that: The present invention according to claim 5 is The processor, In the distribution of the physical properties shown in the scatter diagram, a range including the physical properties of each recording medium whose physical property information is stored in the storage device is displayed in a visually recognizable manner. The information processing system according to claim 1 is characterized in that: The present invention according to claim 6 is The processor, displaying the points plotted on the scatter diagram based on the physical properties of the target recording medium in a manner that distinguishes between points located within the range of the scatter diagram and points located outside the range of the scatter diagram; The information processing system according to claim 5 is characterized in that: The present invention according to claim 7 is The processor, When an approval operation by a user is accepted, the displayed operation setting is set as the operation setting of the target recording medium. The information processing system according to claim 1 is characterized in that: The present invention according to claim 8 is The processor, accepting an editing operation by a user on the displayed operation setting; When an approval operation by a user is received for the edited operation setting, the edited operation setting is set as the operation setting of the target recording medium. The information processing system according to claim 7 is characterized in that: The present invention according to claim 9 is The processor, Dividing the operation of forming an image on the recording medium into a plurality of steps, and creating a screen for displaying the scatter diagram for each step. The information processing system according to claim 1 is characterized in that: The present invention according to claim 10 comprises: The processor, creating an initial screen that displays a list of the plurality of steps and allows transition to the screen for each of the steps; Displaying the initial screen on the display device, and transitioning the display from the initial screen to the screen for each of the steps. The information processing system according to claim 9 is characterized in that: The present invention according to claim 11 comprises: The processor, On the initial screen, for each of the steps in the list of the steps, a display is performed indicating whether or not adjustment of operation settings for the step is required. The information processing system according to claim 10 is characterized in that: The present invention according to claim 12 comprises: The processor, On the screen for each of the plurality of steps, a display is performed indicating whether or not adjustment of operation settings is required for each of the plurality of steps. The information processing system according to claim 9 is characterized in that: The present invention according to claim 13 comprises: The processor, a switching means for switching a display on the screen for each of the plurality of steps to the screen for another step; The switching means displays whether or not adjustment of operation settings is required in each of the plurality of steps. The information processing system according to claim 12, The present invention according to claim 14 comprises: The processor, and displaying whether or not adjustment of operation settings in each of the plurality of steps is necessary depending on a distance between a position of a physical property of one recording medium, the physical property information of which is stored in the storage device, and a position of a physical property of the target recording medium in the scatter diagram. The information processing system according to any one of claims 11 to 13 is characterized in that: The present invention according to claim 15 comprises: The processor, According to the distance between the position of the physical property of one recording medium, the physical property information of which is stored in the storage device, and the position of the physical property of the target recording medium, a display is performed showing whether or not adjustment of the operation setting in the process corresponding to the scatter diagram is required. The information processing system according to claim 9 is characterized in that: The present invention according to claim 16 comprises: an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium; An information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 15; The image forming apparatus is characterized by comprising: The present invention according to claim 17 is an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium; A computer that controls the operation of the image forming unit; A program for controlling the computer of an image forming apparatus comprising: The computer includes: A function of acquiring physical property information of the target recording medium; a function of displaying, on a display device, a scatter diagram showing the distribution of physical properties of each recording medium whose physical property information is stored in the storage device of the computer and the target recording medium; a function of displaying, on the same screen as the scatter diagram or on a different screen, operation settings of an image forming apparatus for one of the recording media shown in the scatter diagram; The present invention is a program characterized by realizing the above. Effect of the Invention

[0008] According to the invention of claim 1, it is possible to easily set the operation according to the type of recording medium, compared to a configuration in which the user sets the operation of the image forming apparatus based on experience or knowledge. According to the invention of claim 2, it is possible to easily recognize the recording medium to be selected, as compared with a configuration in which the recording medium is selected without limiting the range. According to the invention of claim 3, it is possible to present operation settings for a recording medium having physical properties closest to those of the target recording medium. According to the invention of claim 4, even if it is difficult to specify a recording medium having similar physical properties, it is possible to present the physical properties of a recording medium as a reference. According to the invention of claim 5, it is possible to easily recognize the relationship between the physical properties of the target recording medium and the physical properties of other recording media, as compared with a configuration in which only a scatter diagram is displayed. According to the invention of claim 6, it is possible to easily recognize the relationship between the physical properties of the target recording medium and the physical properties of other recording media, compared to a configuration in which points plotted based on the physical properties of the target recording medium are displayed in the same manner regardless of position. According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, the time and effort required for setting up the operation of the image forming apparatus can be reduced, compared to a configuration in which the user sets up the operation of the image forming apparatus based on experience or knowledge. According to the invention of claim 8, compared to a configuration in which a user sets the operation settings of an image forming apparatus based on experience or knowledge, it is possible to refer to the operation settings of a recording medium having similar physical properties. According to the invention of claim 9, it is possible to perform finer operation settings than when settings are performed for the entire printing operation. According to the invention of claim 10, it is possible to reduce the effort required to display the screen to be referenced from among the screens created for each process, compared to the case where one of the screens for each process is initially displayed. According to the invention of claim 11, compared to the case where one of the screens for each process is displayed initially, it is possible to recognize whether or not adjustment is required before the screen for each process is displayed. According to the invention of claim 12, compared to a case where a list of a plurality of processes is displayed, it is possible to recognize whether or not adjustment is required for each process on a screen of one process. According to the invention of claim 13, compared to a case where the necessity of adjustment in a corresponding step is written on the screen of each step, it is possible to switch screens after checking the necessity of adjustment in each step. According to the invention of claim 14, compared to the case where the necessity of adjustment for the corresponding step is described on the screen of each step, it is possible to suggest that the setting needs to be adjusted for each step according to the physical properties of the recording medium. According to the invention of claim 15, in comparison with a configuration in which only a scatter diagram is displayed, it is possible to suggest that adjustments to the settings for the process displayed on the screen are required depending on the physical properties of the recording medium. According to the invention of claim 16, in the computer which is the control section of the image forming apparatus, it is possible to easily set the operation according to the type of recording medium. According to the invention of claim 17, in a computer having the program of the invention installed therein, which is a control section of an image forming apparatus, it is possible to easily set operations according to the type of recording medium. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of an image forming apparatus to which a first embodiment is applied. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of an information processing unit. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 shows an example of clustering based on the physical properties of paper. FIG. 3(A) shows a table in which physical property information of paper is registered, and FIG. 3(B) is a scatter plot showing an example of the results of clustering paper. [Figure 4] 4A and 4B are diagrams for explaining a method for determining setting values ​​for paper to be printed, in which FIG. 4A is a diagram showing a physical property information table, and FIG. 4B is a scatter plot showing the results of clustering. [Diagram 5] 5A and 5B are diagrams showing examples of UI screens, where FIG. 5(A) is a diagram showing a basic screen, FIG. 5(B) is a diagram showing an example of an operation screen that accepts changes to operation settings, and FIG. 5(C) is a diagram showing another example of an operation screen that accepts changes to operation settings. [Figure 6] 6A and 6B are diagrams for explaining a method for determining setting values ​​for paper to be printed, in which FIG. 6A is a diagram showing a physical property information table, and FIG. 6B is a scatter plot showing the results of clustering. [Figure 7] 7A and 7B are diagrams showing examples of UI screens, where FIG. 7(A) is a diagram showing a basic screen, FIG. 7(B) is a diagram showing an example of an operation screen that accepts changes to operation settings, and FIG. 7(C) is a diagram showing another example of an operation screen that accepts changes to operation settings. [Figure 8] 5 is a flowchart showing the operation of an information processing unit in the first embodiment. [Figure 9] 9A and 9B show examples of registered physical property ranges obtained by dividing the ranges by process, where FIG. 9(A) shows an example of a registered physical property range in a transfer process, FIG. 9(B) shows an example of a registered physical property range in a fixing process, and FIG. 9(C) shows an example of a registered physical property range in a paper feed process. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a UI screen for setting settings for a target sheet in a transfer process. [Figure 11] 13 is a diagram showing an example of a UI screen for setting setting values ​​of target paper in the fixing process. FIG. [Figure 12] 13 is a diagram showing an example of a UI screen for setting setting values ​​of target paper in a paper feeding process. FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a top page. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a modified example of the UI screen. [Figure 15] 13 is a diagram showing an example of a UI screen when the physical properties of the target paper are outside the registered physical property range. FIG. [Figure 16] 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of an information processing unit in the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. <System configuration> 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of an image forming apparatus to which the first embodiment is applied. The image forming apparatus 100 includes an image forming section 110, an information processing section 120, and a display section .

[0011] The image forming unit 110 forms an image based on image data on a recording medium such as paper P using an image forming material. Methods for forming an image on a recording medium include, for example, an electrophotographic method in which toner attached to a photoreceptor is transferred to a recording material to form an image, and an inkjet method in which ink is ejected onto a recording material to form an image. In the following, an example will be described in which the electrophotographic method is used as the image forming method. Also, an example will be described in which paper is used as the recording medium. In the following description, forming an image on paper, which is a recording medium, will be referred to as "printing".

[0012] The information processing unit 120 executes various processes performed for the image forming apparatus 100. Specifically, the information processing unit 120 performs processes such as control and setting of the image forming operation by the image forming unit 110, correction and other processes for the image to be output, and image display control for the display unit 130.

[0013] Display unit 130 displays a screen for providing a user with various types of information on image forming apparatus 100 and an operation screen for accepting operations on image forming apparatus 100. The display screen of display unit 130 may be configured as a touch panel and may be configured to accept a user's touch operation on the operation screen.

[0014] <Configuration of information processing unit 120> FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of the information processing unit 120. The information processing unit 120 includes one or more processors 121 as a calculation means, and a main storage device (main memory) 122 and an auxiliary storage device 123 as storage means. The processor 121 loads a program stored in the auxiliary storage device 123 into the main storage device 122 and executes it to control the image forming apparatus 100 and execute various processes. For example, a central processing unit (CPU), a micro processing unit (MPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or a digital signal processor (DSP) is used as the processor 121. For example, a random access memory (RAM) is used as the main storage device 122. For example, a magnetic disk device or a solid state drive (SSD) is used as the auxiliary storage device 123. The information processing unit 120 also includes an interface 124 for receiving various data such as sensor detection data from each part of the image forming apparatus 100 and for transmitting commands to each part. It should be noted that the configuration shown in FIG. 2 is merely an example, and the configuration of the information processing unit 120 is not limited to the example configuration shown in FIG.

[0015] When the image forming apparatus 100 prints on paper, operation settings determined according to the type of paper are applied to the operation of the image forming unit 110. The operation settings include, for example, a transfer voltage for transferring a toner image, which is an image forming material, onto paper, and a fixing temperature for fixing the toner image onto paper. The information processing unit 120 holds preset operation setting values ​​for each type of paper for major papers that are commonly used and papers that are frequently used by users. The setting value information is stored, for example, in the auxiliary storage device 123 shown in FIG. 2. The information processing unit 120 sets the operation of the image forming unit 110 based on the held setting value information according to the type of paper to be printed.

[0016] Here, when a paper sheet for which no setting value is held is used, it is necessary to obtain the setting value for that paper sheet in order to set the operation of the image forming unit 110. The information processing unit 120 specifies the setting value for the paper sheet to be used based on the information of the setting value held. Specifically, the information processing unit 120 performs pre-clustering of the paper sheets based on the information of the physical properties (hereinafter referred to as "physical property information") of the paper sheets for which the setting value is held (hereinafter referred to as "registered paper sheets"). Examples of the physical properties of the paper sheets include basis weight, thickness, and smoothness. The information processing unit 120 specifies the paper sheets having physical properties similar to those of the paper sheets to be used, and presents the setting value of the specified paper sheets as the setting value for the paper sheets to be used. The user refers to the presented setting value, and applies it if it is acceptable to use it as the setting value for the paper sheets to be used. On the other hand, if necessary, the user modifies the presented setting value to set it as the setting value for the paper sheets to be used. The physical property information and the information indicating the result of the clustering of the paper sheets (hereinafter referred to as "clustering information") are stored, for example, in the auxiliary storage device 123 shown in FIG. 2.

[0017] <Paper clustering> Fig. 3 shows an example of clustering based on the physical properties of paper, where Fig. 3(A) is a diagram showing a table in which physical property information of paper is registered, and Fig. 3(B) is a scatter plot showing an example of the result of performing paper clustering. With reference to Fig. 3, the clustering of paper by information processing unit 120 will be described.

[0018] In the table shown in FIG. 3(A) (hereinafter referred to as the "physical property information table"), physical property information is registered for paper whose setting values ​​are held in the information processing unit 120. The physical property information is obtained, for example, by measuring the basis weight, thickness, etc. of the target paper with a measuring tool or measuring device. In the illustrated example, four types of paper (paper A to D) and three types of physical properties (physical properties 1 to 3) are listed, but the papers and physical properties registered in the physical property information table are not limited to the numbers shown. The physical property information table is stored, for example, in the auxiliary storage device 123 shown in FIG. 2.

[0019] The information processing unit 120 performs principal component analysis on a data set of physical property information for each paper sheet, such as the physical property information table shown in FIG. 3(A), using a model based on unsupervised machine learning. In the principal component analysis, the physical property information for each paper sheet is synthesized into multiple principal components. The information processing unit 120 creates a scatter diagram as shown in FIG. 3(B) based on the results of the principal component analysis. In the illustrated example, the physical property information is synthesized into two principal components (first principal component and second principal component). The scatter diagram is configured as a graph with the first principal component on the horizontal axis and the second principal component on the vertical axis. Multiple physical properties contribute to each principal component at a specific ratio. For example, the contribution ratios of the first principal component are specified as follows: physical property 1 contributes 60%, physical property 2 contributes 40%, and physical property 3 contributes 15%.

[0020] The scatter diagram shown in FIG. 3(B) shows the distribution of each paper based on the physical properties. In the space (clustering space) shown by the scatter diagram, papers corresponding to points located close to each other have similar physical properties. In FIG. 3(B), the range 200 surrounded by a dashed line (hereinafter referred to as the "registered physical property range 200") is the learning data space in which the principal component analysis was performed. That is, the registered physical property range 200 includes points corresponding to the paper used in the learning of the machine learning model. The multiple white circles "○" arranged in the registered physical property range 200 in FIG. 3(B) are points indicating the paper, and the position of each white circle in the scatter diagram corresponds to the physical property of the paper indicated by each white circle. The paper used in the learning of the model is registered paper.

[0021] <Specify the settings for the operation settings> Here, consider a case where information on the setting values ​​of the operation settings is not held for the paper to be printed on by the image forming apparatus 100. In this case, the information processing unit 120 determines new setting values ​​for this paper based on the physical properties of the paper to be printed on and the clustering information of registered papers.

[0022] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining a method for determining the setting values ​​of the paper to be printed, in which FIG. 4(A) is a diagram showing a physical property information table, and FIG. 4(B) is a scatter plot showing the results of clustering. In the physical property information table shown in FIG. 4(A), the setting values ​​of the operation settings used when printing are associated with each paper along with the physical property information of each paper. In the example shown in FIG. 4(A), one setting value is shown associated with the paper, but in reality, setting values ​​in multiple operation settings used when printing are associated with the paper. Specifically, for example, the transfer voltage is associated with the operation settings in the transfer process, and the fixing temperature is associated with the operation settings in the fixing process.

[0023] The information processing unit 120 acquires physical property information of the paper to be printed, and synthesizes the acquired physical property information into each principal component by the principal component analysis described with reference to Fig. 3. Here, the physical property information of the paper to be printed is synthesized into a first principal component and a second principal component. Based on the acquired principal component information, the information processing unit 120 specifies the position of the paper to be printed in the scatter diagram, as shown in Fig. 4(B). In Fig. 4(B), the black circle "●" is the point indicating the paper to be printed.

[0024] When the information processing unit 120 holds information on the set value of the operation setting for the paper to be printed, the position of the black circle coincides with the position of any of the white circles in the scatter diagram. In contrast, when the information processing unit 120 does not hold information on the set value of the operation setting for the paper to be printed, the position of the black circle does not coincide with the position of any of the white circles, as shown in FIG. 4B. In this case, the information processing unit 120 selects a paper with the closest physical properties to the paper to be printed from among the registered papers, and sets the set value of the operation setting for the selected registered paper as the set value of the operation setting for the paper to be printed. The paper with the closest physical properties to the paper to be printed is the paper corresponding to the white circle located closest to the black circle in the scatter diagram shown in FIG. 4B. For example, Euclidean distance or Manhattan distance is used to calculate the distance between the black circle and the white circle in the scatter diagram. In the example shown in FIG. 4B, the white circle corresponding to the paper A is located closest to the black circle, so the information processing unit 120 sets the set value of the operation setting for the paper A as the set value of the operation setting for the paper to be printed.

[0025] <UI Screen> The information processing unit 120 presents to the user, via a user interface (UI) screen displayed on the display unit 130, the information on the operation settings for the paper to be printed specified as described above. The information processing unit 120 can receive an operation for changing the operation settings by the user on the UI screen.

[0026] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the UI screen. FIG. 5(A) is a diagram showing the basic screen, FIG. 5(B) is a diagram showing an example of an operation screen for receiving a change in the operation settings, and FIG. 5(C) is a diagram showing another example of an operation screen for receiving a change in the operation settings. The basic screen shown in FIG. 5(A) is displayed on the display unit 130, for example, when a print instruction is given with a paper for which the set value of the operation settings is not held as the print target. The operation screens shown in FIGS. 5(B) and 5(C) are displayed on the display unit 130 after transitioning from the basic screen shown in FIG. 5(A) when the user attempts to input the set value of the operation settings by their own operation.

[0027] The basic screen 131 shown in FIG. 5(A) is a screen that presents the clustering information described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4 and receives an instruction to execute printing on the paper to be printed. On the basic screen shown in FIG. 5(A), a scatter diagram display unit 131a, a message display unit 131b, a print button 131c, a screen change button 131d, and an end button 131e are displayed.

[0028] In the scatter diagram display unit 131a, a scatter diagram showing the result of the principal component analysis created by the information processing unit 120, as shown in FIG. 4(B) for example, is displayed. By referring to the scatter diagram displayed in the scatter diagram display unit 131a, the user can determine whether the paper to be printed is a registered paper, whether the paper is included in the registered physical property range 200 (see FIGS. 3(B) and 4(B)), the degree of similarity of the physical properties between the paper to be printed and the registered paper (distance in the scatter diagram), and the like.

[0029] Message display section 131b displays a message regarding the setting values ​​of the operation settings for the paper to be printed on (shown as "print parameters" in the figure). In the example shown, a message is displayed indicating that the setting values ​​have been automatically set, stating "The optimal print parameters have been automatically set. Check the image quality and adjust manually if necessary." Note that the setting values ​​set at this time are the setting values ​​for the registered paper (paper A in the example shown in FIG. 4(B)) whose physical properties are most similar to those of the paper to be printed on in the scatter diagram.

[0030] The print button 131c, the screen change button 131d, and the end button 131e are button objects. When the print button 131c is selected, the image forming unit 110 executes a print process. The print button 131c displays the character string "Print". When the screen change button 131d is selected, the display on the display unit 130 shifts to an operation screen for changing the operation settings. The screen change button 131d displays the character string "Manually set parameters". When the end button 131e is selected, the basic screen 131 closes, and the acceptance of operations for printing ends. The end button 131e displays the character string "Close".

[0031] The operation screen 132 shown in Fig. 5(B) and Fig. 5(C) is a screen used by the user to change the set values ​​of the operation settings determined by the information processing unit 120. A set value display section 132a, a setting button 132b, and an end button 132c are displayed on the operation screen 132. The type of operation settings displayed on the operation screen 132 can be switched by selecting a tab. In the example shown in Fig. 5(B) and (C), the operation settings for the transfer process and the operation settings for the fixing process can be switched.

[0032] The set value display section 132a is provided with a text box, and the current set value for the operation setting selected by the tab is displayed in this text box. In the example shown in FIG. 5(B), the set value for the transfer voltage, which is an operation setting for the transfer process, is shown to be 1500 V. The user can change the set value for the transfer voltage by rewriting (editing) the display in this text box. Similarly, in the example shown in FIG. 5(C), the set value for the fixing temperature, which is an operation setting for the fixing process, is shown to be 100° C. The user can change the set value for the fixing temperature by rewriting the display in this text box.

[0033] The setting button 132b and the end button 132c are button objects. When the setting button 132b is selected (approval operation), the set value of the operation setting is confirmed as the value displayed in the set value display section 132a. The character string "Setting" is displayed on the setting button 132b. When the end button 132c is selected, the operation screen 132 is closed, and the acceptance of manual settings related to the operation setting is terminated. The character string "Cancel" is displayed on the end button 132c.

[0034] <Other examples of specifying the settings for operation settings> In the example described with reference to Figures 4 and 5, the paper on which printing is to be performed does not hold any set values ​​for the operation settings, but the physical properties of the paper are included in the registered physical properties range 200 (see Figures 3(B) and 4(B)). In contrast to this, a case will be described where the physical properties of the paper on which printing is to be performed are not included in the registered physical properties range 200.

[0035] FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining a method of determining set values for sheets to be printed. FIG. 6(A) is a diagram showing a physical property information table, and FIG. 6(B) is a scatter diagram showing the result of clustering. In the physical property information table shown in FIG. 6(A), for each sheet, the set values of the operation settings used when printing are associated with the physical property information of each sheet. In the example shown in FIG. 6(A), one set value is shown associated with a sheet, but actually, the set values in a plurality of operation settings used at the time of printing are associated. Specifically, for example, in the operation setting in the transfer process, the transfer voltage is associated, and in the operation setting in the fixing process, the fixing temperature is associated, etc.

[0036] The information processing unit 120 acquires the physical property information of the sheet to be printed, and synthesizes the acquired physical property information into each principal component by the principal component analysis described with reference to FIG. 3. Here, the physical property information of the sheet to be printed is synthesized into the first principal component and the second principal component. Based on the information of the obtained principal components, the information processing unit 120 specifies the position of the sheet to be printed in the scatter diagram as shown in FIG. 6(B). In FIG. 6(B), the black circle "●" is the point indicating the sheet to be printed.

[0037] In the example shown in FIG. 6(B), the position of the black circle does not coincide with the position of any of the white circles and is located outside the registered physical property range 200. In this case, the information processing unit 120 cannot determine the set value of the operation setting for the sheet to be processed. Therefore, the information processing unit 120 specifies a reference set value (hereinafter referred to as "reference value") for the sheet to be printed. Here, among the registered sheets, the sheet with the closest physical properties to the sheet to be printed is selected, and the set value of the operation setting for the selected registered sheet is used as the reference value for the sheet to be printed. The sheet with the closest physical properties to the sheet to be printed is the sheet corresponding to the white circle at the position closest to the black circle in the scatter diagram shown in FIG. 6(B). In the example shown in FIG. 6(B), since the white circle corresponding to sheet B is at the position closest to the black circle, the information processing unit 120 uses the set value of the operation setting for sheet B as the reference value for the sheet to be printed.

[0038] <UI screen> The information processing unit 120 presents the information on the operation settings for the paper to be printed identified as described above to the user through a user interface (UI) screen displayed on the display unit 130. The information processing unit 120 can accept an operation by the user to change the operation settings on the UI screen.

[0039] Fig. 7 shows examples of UI screens, Fig. 7(A) shows a basic screen, Fig. 7(B) shows an example of an operation screen for accepting changes to operation settings, and Fig. 7(C) shows another example of an operation screen for accepting changes to operation settings. The basic screen shown in Fig. 7(A) is displayed on the display unit 130 when, for example, a print instruction is issued for a paper sheet on which no setting values ​​for operation settings are held. The operation screens shown in Fig. 7(B) and Fig. 7(C) are displayed on the display unit 130 after transitioning from the basic screen shown in Fig. 7(A) when the user is about to input setting values ​​for operation settings by his / her own operation.

[0040] The basic screen 131 shown in FIG. 7(A) is configured similarly to the basic screen shown in FIG. 5(A), and displays a scatter diagram display section 131a, a message display section 131b, a print button 131c, a screen change button 131d, and an end button 131e. In the basic screen 131 shown in FIG. 7(A), the message display section 131b displays a message indicating that a reference value has been assigned. In the illustrated example, a message is displayed saying, "Parameter settings of similar data have been assigned. Since this is unknown paper, the parameters may not be appropriate. Check the image quality and adjust manually if necessary." The reference value set at this time is the setting value for the registered paper B, which has the most similar physical properties to the paper to be printed in the scatter diagram.

[0041] The operation screen 132 shown in FIG. 7(B) and FIG. 7(C) is configured similarly to the operation screen 132 shown in FIG. 5(B) and FIG. 5(C), and displays a set value display section 132a, a set button 132b, and an end button 132c. The set value display section 132a is provided with a text box, and a reference value for the operation setting selected by the tab is displayed in this text box. In the example shown in FIG. 7(B), a set value of 1000V is displayed for the transfer voltage, which is an operation setting in the transfer process. The user can input a set value of the transfer voltage by rewriting (editing) the display of this text box. Similarly, in the example shown in FIG. 7(C), a set value of 125°C is displayed for the fixing temperature, which is an operation setting in the fixing process. The user can input a set value of the fixing temperature by rewriting the display of this text box.

[0042] <Operation of the information processing unit 120> Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing the operation of the information processing unit 120 of the first embodiment. The information processing unit 120 performs processes such as creating a physical property information table and principal component analysis in advance for paper that holds the setting values ​​of the operation settings, and holds various data of the processing results. This information is stored, for example, in the auxiliary storage device 123 shown in Fig. 2. In addition, the user measures the physical property information of the paper to be printed in advance using a measuring tool or measuring device.

[0043] The information processing unit 120 first receives an input operation by a user and acquires physical property information of the paper to be printed (hereinafter referred to as "target paper". The target paper is an example of a target recording medium) (S101). Then, the information processing unit 120 performs a principal component analysis of the acquired physical property information (S102) and creates a scatter diagram (S103). Next, if the physical property of the target paper is within the registered physical property range 200 in the created scatter diagram (YES in S104), the information processing unit 120 calculates the distance between the target paper and the registered paper in the scatter diagram (S105). Then, the information processing unit 120 sets the setting value of the operation setting for the registered paper that is closest to the target paper as the setting value of the operation setting for the target paper (S106), and displays a message (see FIG. 5(A)) indicating that the setting value has been automatically set and a basic screen 131 including the scatter diagram on the display unit 130 (S107). In this case, if the user performs an end operation without performing an operation to change the setting value, the information processing section 120 confirms the automatically set setting value as the setting value for the target paper sheet, and ends the process.

[0044] On the other hand, if the physical properties of the target paper are outside the registered physical property range 200 in the scatter diagram displayed on the display unit 130 (NO in S104), the information processing unit 120 calculates the distance between the target paper and the registered paper in the scatter diagram (S108). Then, the information processing unit 120 sets the setting value of the operation setting for the registered paper that is closest to the target paper (indicated as "reference value" in the figure) as the reference value of the operation setting for the target paper (S109), and displays a message (see FIG. 7(A)) indicating that the reference value for the target paper will be displayed and the basic screen 131 including the scatter diagram on the display unit 130 (S110). Here, if the information processing unit 120 receives an instruction to set the reference value as the setting value for the target paper by a user operation (YES in S111), it confirms the reference value as the setting value and ends the process. On the other hand, when an operation to change the reference value is performed by a user operation, the information processing unit 120 does not set the reference value as the setting value for the target paper (NO in S111), accepts the input of the setting value by the user operation (S112), confirms the input value as the setting value for the target paper, and ends the process. The user operation to change the reference value is performed, for example, using the operation screen 132 shown in Figures 5(B), (C), 7(B), and (C).

[0045] Although the first embodiment has been described above, the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment. For example, in the first embodiment, the registered physical property range 200 in the scatter diagram is shown by a broken line on the basic screen 131 shown in Fig. 5(A) and Fig. 7(A), but it can be displayed visibly in various display modes such as by using a different display color from other ranges.

[0046] In the above first embodiment, the operation screen 132 for the user to input the setting values ​​is provided separately from the basic screen 131, but the basic screen 131 may be configured to be able to accept the input operation of the setting values. Furthermore, the mark indicating the target paper (shown as a black circle "●" in Fig. 5(A) and Fig. 7(A)) may be displayed in a different manner depending on whether the physical properties of the target paper are within the registered physical property range 200 or outside it.

[0047] In the above first embodiment, when the physical properties of the target paper are outside the registered physical property range 200, the physical properties of the registered paper that are most similar to those of the target paper are used as the reference value, but the physical properties of other registered papers may be presented as the reference value. Also, the physical properties of multiple registered papers may be presented as the reference value.

[0048] In the above first embodiment, the electrophotographic method is assumed, and the settings are made for processes including a transfer process and a fixing process. In contrast, this embodiment can also be applied when settings are made for processes in other methods, such as an inkjet method. In this case, the settings using this embodiment may be made for settings that are affected by the physical properties of paper in the method to which the settings are applied. In addition, various modifications and alternative configurations that do not deviate from the scope of the technical concept of the present invention are included in the present invention.

[0049] <Other embodiments> A second embodiment will be described. In the second embodiment, the configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 is the same as that of the image forming apparatus 100 of the first embodiment described with reference to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the paper clustering and the UI screen. In the first embodiment, each paper is associated with physical property information and operation settings for the entire printing operation. In contrast, in the second embodiment, paper clustering is performed for each process in the printing operation.

[0050] The printing operation is divided into a plurality of processes, and the relationship between each process and the physical properties of the paper is considered. The physical properties of the paper are assumed to be properties 1, 2, and 3 shown in FIG. 3. In this case, the degree of influence of each physical property may differ depending on the process. For example, in one process, property 1 has a large influence, while properties 2 and 3 have a small influence. In another process, property 1 and property 2 have a large influence, while property 3 has a small influence. Therefore, by performing paper clustering for each process, it is possible to set operations more finely than when the entire printing operation is targeted. In the following, an example in which operations on the paper are classified into a transfer process, a fixing process, and a paper feed process will be described. However, this classification is merely an example, and other processes may be added or changed as necessary.

[0051] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing examples of registered physical property ranges obtained by dividing the ranges by process. FIG. 9(A) is a diagram showing an example of a registered physical property range in a transfer process. FIG. 9(B) is a diagram showing an example of a registered physical property range in a fixing process. FIG. 9(C) is a diagram showing an example of a registered physical property range in a paper feed process. In the examples shown in FIG. 9(A), (B), and (C), a registered physical property range 200 for each process is shown. As shown in FIG. 9(A), (B), and (C), the registered physical property range 200 differs for each process.

[0052] In each of Figures 9(A), (B), and (C), the proportions of the paper physical properties that contribute to the first and second principal components are not the same. As described above, the magnitude of the influence of each physical property differs for each process. For this reason, the first and second principal components shown in Figures 9(A), (B), and (C) are identified individually for each process.

[0053] In Figures 9(A), (B), and (C), a white circle "◯" in the registered physical property range 200 indicates the physical properties of paper A, which is one of the registered papers. A black circle "●" in the registered physical property range 200 indicates the physical properties of the paper to be printed (target paper). The distance between the white circle and the black circle indicated by the arrow in the figure represents the degree of similarity in the physical properties of paper A and the target paper. As shown in Figures 9(A), (B), and (C), the distance between the white circle and the black circle (the length of the arrow in the figure) differs for each process. Note that the distance between the white circle and the black circle is calculated using, for example, Euclidean distance or Manhattan distance.

[0054] In this example, the setting value of the operation setting for paper A is used as the value to be set as the setting value of the operation setting for the target paper. Paper A is paper identified as a registered paper that corresponds to the target paper. Identification of the registered paper that corresponds to the target paper may be performed in advance, for example, by a user or the like. Also, for example, as described with reference to Figures 4 to 6, identification may be performed by selecting a paper with the closest physical properties in the entire printing operation.

[0055] Figures 10 to 12 are diagrams showing examples of UI screens for setting the setting values ​​of target paper for each process. The UI screens 133 shown in Figures 10 to 12 are displayed on the display unit 130 when, for example, a print instruction is given for paper for which no setting values ​​for operation settings are held as the print target. The UI screens 133 shown in Figures 10 to 12 are configured to combine the basic screen 131 and the operation screen 132 shown in Figures 5(A), (B), and (C).

[0056] The UI screen 133 shown in Fig. 10 to Fig. 12 is a screen that presents clustering information of registered paper and accepts an instruction to print on a target paper. The UI screen 133 shown in Fig. 10 to Fig. 12 is a screen that is used by the user to change the setting value of the operation setting determined by the information processing unit 120. The UI screen 133 shown in Fig. 10 to Fig. 12 displays a scatter diagram display section 133a, a message display section 133b, a setting value display section 133c, a setting button 133d, a print button 133e, an end button 133f, and a tab 133g. The UI screen 133 can switch the display screen for each process for which the setting value is to be set by selecting the tab 133g.

[0057] FIG. 10 shows an example of a UI screen for setting the setting values ​​of the target paper in the transfer process. In the scatter diagram display section 133a in FIG. 10, a scatter diagram showing the results of the principal component analysis created by the information processing section 120 with respect to the transfer process is displayed. The user can determine the characteristics of the target paper in the transfer process by referring to the scatter diagram displayed in the scatter diagram display section 133a. Specifically, the user can determine the degree of similarity of the physical properties of the target paper and registered papers, whether the target paper is included in the registered physical property range 200, and the like. In the scatter diagram shown in the scatter diagram display section 133a in FIG. 10, the circles showing the physical properties of paper A are displayed with diagonal lines. Also, the circles showing the physical properties of the target paper are displayed as black circles.

[0058] In Fig. 10, the message display section 133b displays a message regarding the setting values ​​of the operation settings for the paper to be printed (shown as "printing parameters" in the figure). In the example shown, the message displayed indicates that the setting values ​​have been automatically set, stating "The optimal printing parameters have been calculated based on the measurement results of the paper properties. Adjustments are recommended. Check the image quality and adjust manually if necessary." Note that the setting values ​​set at this time are the setting values ​​for paper A, which has been specified in advance as a registered paper corresponding to the target paper.

[0059] Here, the message displayed in the message display section 133b differs depending on the degree of similarity of the physical properties between the paper A and the target paper. In other words, a different message is displayed depending on the distance between the hatched circle and the black circle in the scatter diagram displayed in the scatter diagram display section 133a. More specifically, the message differs depending on whether the distance Ln between the hatched circle and the black circle is greater than a predetermined threshold value Ls. If the distance Ln is greater than the threshold value Ls, a message is displayed to encourage the user to adjust the setting value. And if the distance Ln is less than the threshold value Ls, a message is displayed indicating that there is little need to adjust the setting value.

[0060] In the example shown in Fig. 10, the distance Ln between the hatched circle and the black circle in the scatter diagram shown in the scatter diagram display section 133a is assumed to be greater than the threshold value Ls. Therefore, the message display section 133b displays a message "Adjustment is recommended" to encourage the user to adjust the setting value. In the example shown in Fig. 10, the relevant part of the message displayed in the message display section 133b is displayed in bold.

[0061] A text box is provided in the set value display section 133c. A set value for paper A is displayed in this text box. Since FIG. 10 is the UI screen 133 for the transfer process, the set value for paper A in the transfer process is displayed. In the illustrated example, the transfer voltage is shown to be 1500 V (volts). The user can change the set value of the transfer voltage by rewriting the display in this text box (editing operation).

[0062] The setting button 133d, the print button 133e, and the end button 133f are button objects. When the setting button 133d is selected (approval operation), the set value of the operation setting is confirmed as the value displayed in the set value display section 133c. The setting button 133d displays the character string "Set". When the print button 133e is selected, the printing process is performed by the image forming section 110 with the confirmed set value. The print button 133e displays the character string "Print". When the end button 133f is selected, the UI screen 133 closes, and the acceptance of the operation for printing is terminated. The end button 133f displays the character string "Close".

[0063] The tab 133g is used to switch between UI screens 133 created for each process. The user can select a process based on the name of the process written in the tab 133g. When an operation to select the tab 133g of the selected process is performed, the UI screen 133 of the selected process is displayed. In FIG. 10, the tab 133g of "transcription" is selected, and the UI screen 133 relating to the transcription process is displayed. The tab 133g is an example of a switching means.

[0064] FIG. 11 shows an example of a UI screen for setting the setting values ​​of the target paper in the fixing process. The scatter diagram display section 133a in FIG. 11 displays a scatter diagram showing the results of the principal component analysis created by the information processing section 120 with respect to the fixing process. The user can determine the characteristics of the target paper in the fixing process by referring to the scatter diagram displayed in the scatter diagram display section 133a. Specifically, the user can determine the degree of similarity of the physical properties of the target paper and registered papers, whether the target paper is included in the registered physical property range 200, and the like. In the scatter diagram shown in the scatter diagram display section 133a in FIG. 11, the circles indicating the physical properties of paper A are displayed with diagonal lines. Also, the circles indicating the physical properties of the target paper are displayed as black circles.

[0065] In Fig. 11, the message display section 133b displays a message regarding the setting values ​​(printing parameters) of the operation settings for the paper to be printed. In the illustrated example, the message "The optimal printing parameters have been calculated based on the measurement results of the paper physical properties. There is little need for adjustment. Check the image quality and adjust manually if necessary" is displayed, indicating that the setting values ​​have been automatically set. Note that the setting values ​​set at this time are the setting values ​​for paper A, which has been specified in advance as a registered paper corresponding to the target paper.

[0066] In the example shown in Fig. 11, it is assumed that the distance Ln between the hatched circle and the black circle in the scatter diagram shown in the scatter diagram display section 133a is smaller than the threshold value Ls. Therefore, a message is displayed in the message display section 133b to encourage the user to maintain the setting value presented on the UI screen 133. In Fig. 11, the message "Need for adjustment is low" is displayed. In the example shown in Fig. 11, the relevant part of the message displayed in the message display section 133b is displayed in bold.

[0067] A text box is provided in the set value display section 133c. A set value for paper A is displayed in this text box. Since FIG. 11 shows the UI screen 133 for the fixing process, the set value for paper A in the fixing process is displayed. In the illustrated example, the fixing temperature is shown to be 125° C. (degrees). The user can change the set value for the fixing temperature by rewriting the display in this text box (editing operation).

[0068] The setting button 133d, the print button 133e, and the end button 133f are button objects. The functions of these button objects are similar to those of the corresponding button objects in Fig. 10, and therefore the description will be omitted. The tab 133g is also similar to the tab 133g described with reference to Fig. 10. In Fig. 11, the "Fixing" tab is selected, and a UI screen 133 relating to the fixing process is displayed.

[0069] FIG. 12 shows an example of a UI screen for setting the setting values ​​of the target paper in the paper feed process. In the scatter diagram display section 133a in FIG. 12, a scatter diagram showing the results of the principal component analysis created by the information processing section 120 with respect to the paper feed process is displayed. The user can determine the characteristics of the target paper in the paper feed process by referring to the scatter diagram displayed in the scatter diagram display section 133a. Specifically, the user can determine the degree of similarity of the physical properties of the target paper and registered papers, whether the target paper is included in the registered physical property range 200, and the like. In the scatter diagram shown in the scatter diagram display section 133a in FIG. 12, the circles showing the physical properties of paper A are displayed with diagonal lines. Also, the circles showing the physical properties of the target paper are displayed as black circles.

[0070] In the paper feeding process, the air volume for paper feeding (hereinafter referred to as "paper feeding air volume") is set as an operation setting. The paper feeding process is a process performed in a transport mechanism (not shown) of the image forming apparatus 100. Specifically, the paper feeding process is a process in which the paper P is sent from the paper tray to the transport path, transferred and fixed, and then discharged to an output tray. Although not shown, a fan for blowing air onto the paper P is provided at a predetermined location on the transport path. In the paper feeding process, in order to sort and separate the paper P, the fan provided on the transport path blows air onto the paper P. The appropriate air volume for the paper P differs depending on the physical properties of the paper P. Therefore, this air volume is set as a setting value for the target paper in the paper feeding process.

[0071] 12, the message display section 133b displays a message regarding the setting values ​​(printing parameters) of the operation settings for the paper to be printed. In the illustrated example, the message "The optimal printing parameters have been calculated based on the measurement results of the paper physical properties. Adjustments are recommended. Check the image quality and adjust manually if necessary" is displayed, indicating that the setting values ​​have been automatically set. Note that the setting values ​​set at this time are the setting values ​​for paper A, which has been specified in advance as a registered paper corresponding to the target paper.

[0072] In the example shown in Fig. 12, the distance Ln between the hatched circle and the black circle in the scatter diagram shown in the scatter diagram display section 133a is assumed to be greater than the threshold value Ls. Therefore, the message display section 133b displays a message "Adjustment is recommended" to encourage the user to adjust the setting value. In the example shown in Fig. 12, the relevant part of the message displayed in the message display section 133b is displayed in bold.

[0073] The setting value display section 133c is provided with a text box. In this text box, the setting value for paper A is displayed. Since FIG. 12 is the UI screen 133 for the paper feeding process, the setting value for paper A in the paper feeding process is displayed. In the illustrated example, the paper feeding air volume is 115 cm 3 The user can change the setting value of the paper feed air volume by rewriting the display in this text box (editing operation).

[0074] The setting button 133d, the print button 133e, and the end button 133f are button objects. The functions of these button objects are similar to those of the corresponding button objects in Fig. 10, and therefore the description will be omitted. The tab 133g is also similar to the tab 133g described with reference to Fig. 10. In Fig. 12, the "Paper Feed" tab is selected, and the UI screen 133 relating to the paper feed process is displayed.

[0075] Fig. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a top page. Top page 134 shown in Fig. 13 is a screen that is displayed before displaying UI screen 133 shown in Fig. 10 to Fig. 12. Process 134a, necessity of adjustment 134b, and display button 134c are displayed on top page 134 shown in Fig. 13. Top page 134 is an example of an initial screen.

[0076] In the process 134a, the type of UI screen 133 created for each process is displayed by the process name. In the example shown in Fig. 13, "transfer", "fixing", and "paper feed" are displayed. Therefore, from the display of the process 134a, it can be seen that the UI screens 133 for the transfer process, the fixing process, and the paper feed process have been created.

[0077] The necessity of adjustment 134b indicates the degree of necessity of adjustment in each process. In the example shown in FIG. 13, the word "high" is displayed for a process that is highly necessary for adjustment. Also, the word "low" is displayed for a process that is less necessary for adjustment. As described with reference to FIG. 10 to FIG. 12, a message regarding the necessity of adjustment is displayed on the UI screen 133. The necessity of adjustment is determined according to the relationship between the distance Ln between the diagonal line circle and the black circle in the scatter diagram and the threshold value Ls. Therefore, in the item of the necessity of adjustment 134b, the word "high" is displayed for a process whose distance Ln is greater than the threshold value Ls. Also, the word "low" is displayed for a process whose distance Ln is smaller than the threshold value Ls. In FIG. 13, "high" is displayed for the transfer process, "low" for the fixing process, and "high" for the paper feed process. These correspond to the necessity of adjustment described with reference to FIG. 10 to FIG. 12.

[0078] The display buttons 134c are button objects. When one of the display buttons 134c is selected, the display is switched to the UI screen 133 of the process corresponding to the selected display button 134c.

[0079] Top page 134 is not a required display screen. However, by using top page 134, the user can determine whether or not the setting values ​​of each process need to be adjusted before opening UI screen 133. The user can select a process on top page 134 and display UI screen 133 to obtain detailed information. Then, the user can change the setting values ​​on the displayed UI screen 133 as necessary. Note that top page 134 shown in FIG. 13 is merely an example, and is not limited to the screen configuration shown in the figure.

[0080] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a modified example of the UI screen 133. The UI screen 133 shown in FIG. 14 corresponds to the UI screen 133 shown in FIG. 10. That is, FIG. 14 shows an example of the UI screen 133 for the transfer process. In the UI screen shown in FIG. 14, a mark 133h is added to the tab 133g depending on whether or not the setting value needs to be adjusted. In FIG. 14, a star-shaped mark "★" is used as the mark 133h indicating whether or not the adjustment is needed. In the example shown in FIG. 14, the mark 133h is added to the tab 133g of "transfer" and the tab 133g of "paper feed". In the example described with reference to FIG. 10 to FIG. 12, the distance Ln was greater than the threshold value Ls in the transfer process and the paper feed process. Therefore, the mark 133h shown in FIG. 14 corresponds to whether or not the adjustment is needed in each process shown in FIG. 10 to FIG. 12. By displaying the mark 133h, the user can determine whether or not the setting value of each process needs to be adjusted on the UI screen 133 being displayed.

[0081] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of the UI screen 133 when the physical properties of the target paper are outside the registered physical property range 200. Consider a case where the physical properties of the target paper are included in the registered physical property range 200 in the entire printing operation. Even in such a case, in the second embodiment, the physical properties of the target paper may fall outside the registered physical property range 200 in each process. FIG. 15 shows an example of the UI screen 133 for the transfer process. In the UI screen shown in FIG. 14, the black circle "●" representing the physical properties of the target paper is located outside the registered physical property range. The registered physical property range is the range surrounded by the dashed line in the scatter diagram. In such a case, even if the distance Ln is smaller than the threshold value Ls, a message urging the user to adjust the setting value may be displayed. In the example shown in FIG. 15, a message "Adjustment is recommended" is displayed in the message display section 133b to urge the user to adjust the setting value.

[0082] Fig. 16 is a flowchart showing the operation of the information processing unit 120 of the second embodiment. The information processing unit 120 performs processes such as creating a physical property information table and principal component analysis in advance for registered paper. The information processing unit 120 then holds various data of the results of these processes. This information is stored, for example, in the auxiliary storage device 123 shown in Fig. 2. Furthermore, the user measures the physical property information of the target paper in advance using a measuring tool or measuring device.

[0083] First, the information processing unit 120 receives an input operation by the user and acquires physical property information of the target paper (S201). Then, the information processing unit 120 performs a principal component analysis of the physical property information (S202) and creates a scatter diagram for each process (S203). Next, the information processing unit 120 selects a registered paper (paper A in Figs. 10 to 12) to be associated with the target paper. Then, the information processing unit 120 calculates the distance Ln between the target paper and the selected registered paper for each process (S204). The following operations are performed for each process.

[0084] Consider a case where the distance Ln calculated in S204 is greater than the threshold Ls (YES in S205). In this case, the information processing unit 120 generates the UI screen 133 and displays it on the display unit 130 (S206). In this UI screen 133, the message displayed in the message display unit 133b includes a message that prompts the user to change the setting value.

[0085] Next, consider the case where the user operates the UI screen 133 to change the setting value (YES in S207). In this case, the information processing unit 120 sets the changed value as the setting value for this process (S208). On the other hand, consider the case where the setting value is not changed (NO in S207). In this case, the information processing unit 120 sets the value presented on the UI screen 133 as the setting value for this process (S209). The value presented on the UI screen 133 is the setting value for the process corresponding to the registered paper (paper A) associated with the target paper. Note that after the setting value is changed, the changed setting value becomes the value presented on the UI screen 133.

[0086] Next, consider the case where the user performs a setting completion operation on the UI screen 133 (YES in S210). In this case, the information processing unit 120 confirms the setting value of the target paper in this process and ends the processing. The setting value confirmed here is the value set in S208 or S209. The setting completion operation is performed, for example, by the user selecting the setting button 133d on the UI screen 133. If the user does not perform a setting completion operation (NO in S210), the process returns to S207 and the state in which the setting value can be changed continues.

[0087] Also consider the case where the distance Ln calculated in S204 is smaller than the threshold value Ls (NO in S205). In this case, the information processing unit 120 generates the UI screen 133 and displays it on the display unit 130 (S211). In this UI screen 133, the message displayed in the message display unit 133b includes a message urging the user to maintain the setting value. Next, when a setting completion operation is performed (YES in S210), the information processing unit 120 confirms the setting value and ends the process. When the user does not perform a setting completion operation (NO in S210), the process proceeds to S207, and the setting value becomes changeable.

[0088] Although the second embodiment has been described above, the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment. For example, in the above second embodiment, a scatter diagram and a message are displayed on the UI screen 133, and a user operation is accepted. However, as in the first embodiment, the basic screen and the operation screen may be configured separately.

[0089] In the second embodiment, the distance Ln and the threshold value Ls are compared in the scatter diagram for the target paper and the registered paper. If the distance Ln is greater than the threshold value Ls, the necessity of adjusting the settings is high. If the distance Ln is smaller than the threshold value Ls, the necessity of adjusting the settings is low. Then, depending on the necessity of adjusting the obtained settings, a display indicating the necessity of adjustment is performed. An example of a display indicating the necessity of adjustment is a message in the message display section 133b. Another example of a display indicating the necessity of adjustment is a display of "Necessity of adjustment" on the top page 134. Another example of a display indicating the necessity of adjustment is a mark 133h attached to the tab 133g of the UI screen 133. In the above example, the necessity of adjustment is simply indicated in two stages, high or low. In contrast, multiple threshold values ​​may be provided, and the necessity of adjustment may be presented in three or more stages depending on the relationship between the distance Ln and the multiple threshold values.

[0090] In the above second embodiment, the electrophotographic method is assumed, and the settings are made for the processes including the transfer, fixing, and paper feed processes. In contrast, this embodiment can also be applied when settings are made for processes in other methods such as the inkjet method. In this case, the settings using this embodiment may be made for settings that are affected by the physical properties of the paper in the method to which the settings are applied. In addition, various modifications and alternative configurations that do not deviate from the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present invention are included in the present invention.

[0091] <Additional Notes> (((1))) An information processing system comprising: a storage device that stores physical property information of one or more types of recording media; and one or more processors, wherein the processor acquires the physical property information of a target recording medium; displays on a display device a scatter diagram showing the distribution of physical properties of each recording medium whose physical property information is stored in the storage device and the target recording medium; and displays, on the same screen as the scatter diagram or on a different screen, operational settings of an image forming apparatus for one of the recording media shown in the scatter diagram. (((2))) The information processing system described in (((1))) is characterized in that, when the physical properties of the target recording medium are included in a range that includes the physical properties of each recording medium for which physical property information is stored in the storage device in the distribution of physical properties shown in the scatter plot, the processor displays operational settings of an image forming device for one of the recording media included in the range. (((3))) The information processing system described in (((2))) is characterized in that the processor displays operational settings of an image forming device for a recording medium that has physical properties closest to those of the target recording medium among the recording media that are encompassed in the range in the scatter plot. (((4))) The information processing system described in (((2))) or (((3))), characterized in that when the physical properties of the target recording medium are outside the range in the scatter plot, the processor displays operational settings of the image forming device for one of the recording media that are included in the range. (((5))) The information processing system of any one of (((1))) to (((4))), wherein the processor visually displays a range in the distribution of physical properties shown in the scatter plot that includes the physical properties of each recording medium for which physical property information is stored in the storage device. (((6))) The information processing system described in (((5))) is characterized in that the processor displays points plotted on the scatter diagram based on the physical properties of the target recording medium in a manner that allows distinction between points located within and outside the range of the scatter diagram. (((7))) The information processing system described in any one of (((1))) to (((6))) is characterized in that, when the processor receives an approval operation by a user, the displayed operation settings are set as the operation settings of the target recording medium. (((8))) The information processing system described in (((7))) is characterized in that the processor accepts an editing operation by a user on the displayed operation setting, and when an approval operation by the user is accepted on the edited operation setting, the edited operation setting is set as the operation setting of the target recording medium. (((9))) The information processing system described in (((1))) to (((8))) is characterized in that the processor creates a screen that displays the scatter plot for each of a plurality of steps into which an operation of forming an image on the recording medium is divided. (((10))) The information processing system described in (((9))) is characterized in that the processor displays a list of the multiple processes and creates an initial screen from which it is possible to transition to the screen for each of the processes, displays the initial screen on the display device, and transitions the display from the initial screen to the screen for each of the processes. (((11))) The information processing system described in (((10))) is characterized in that the processor displays on the initial screen, for each of the processes in the list of the multiple processes, a display indicating whether or not adjustment of operational settings for that process is required. (((12))) The information processing system described in (((9))) to (((11))), wherein the processor displays on the screen for each of the plurality of steps whether or not adjustment of operational settings is required for each of the plurality of steps. (((13))) The information processing system described in (((12))) is characterized in that the processor provides a switching means for switching the display on the screen for each of the plurality of steps to the screen for another step, and the switching means provides a display indicating whether or not adjustment of operation settings is required for each of the plurality of steps. (((14))) The information processing system described in (((((11))) to (((13))), wherein the processor displays a display indicating whether or not adjustment of operation settings is required in each of the plurality of steps depending on the distance in the scatter plot between the position of a physical property of a recording medium whose physical property information is stored in the storage device and the position of the physical property of the target recording medium. (((15))) The information processing system described in (((9))) to (((14))), characterized in that the processor displays a display indicating whether or not adjustment of operational settings is required in a process corresponding to the scatter diagram, depending on the distance in the scatter diagram between the position of a physical property of a recording medium whose physical property information is stored in the storage device and the position of the physical property of the target recording medium. (((16))) An image forming apparatus comprising: an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium; and an information processing system described in (((1))) to (((15))). (((17))) A program for controlling the computer of an image forming device having an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium and a computer that controls the operation of the image forming unit, the program causing the computer to realize the following functions: acquiring physical property information of a target recording medium; displaying on a display device a scatter diagram showing the distribution of physical properties of each recording medium whose physical property information is stored in the computer's memory device and the target recording medium; and displaying, on the same screen as the scatter diagram or on a different screen, the operation settings of the image forming device for one of the recording media shown in the scatter diagram.

[0092] According to the information processing system of (((1))), it is possible to easily set the operation of the image forming apparatus according to the type of recording medium, compared to a configuration in which a user sets the operation of the image forming apparatus based on experience or knowledge. According to the information processing system of (((2))), it is possible to easily recognize the recording media to be selected, compared to a configuration in which the recording media is selected without limiting the range. According to the information processing system of (((3))), it is possible to present operation settings for a recording medium having physical properties closest to those of the target recording medium. According to the information processing system of (((4))), even when it is difficult to specify a recording medium with similar physical properties, it is possible to present the physical properties of a recording medium that can serve as a reference. According to the information processing system of (((5))), it is easier to recognize the relationship between the physical properties of the target recording medium and the physical properties of other recording media, compared to a configuration that displays only a scatter diagram. According to the information processing system of (((6))), it is possible to easily recognize the relationship between the physical properties of the target recording medium and the physical properties of other recording media, compared to a configuration in which points plotted based on the physical properties of the target recording medium are displayed in the same manner regardless of position. According to the information processing system of (((7))), the time and effort required for setting up the operation of the image forming apparatus can be reduced, compared to a configuration in which a user sets up the operation of the image forming apparatus based on experience or knowledge. According to the information processing system of (((8))), compared to a configuration in which a user sets the operation settings of an image forming apparatus based on experience or knowledge, it is possible to refer to the operation settings of a recording medium having similar physical properties. According to the information processing system of (((9))), it is possible to perform finer operation settings than when settings are performed for the entire printing operation. According to the information processing system of (((10))), it is possible to reduce the effort required to display the screen that is to be referenced from among the screens created for each process, compared to the case where one of the screens for each process is initially displayed. According to the information processing system of (((11))), it is possible to recognize whether or not adjustment is required before displaying the screen for each process, as compared to when one of the screens for each process is initially displayed. According to the information processing system of (((12))), compared to a case where a list of a plurality of processes is displayed, it is possible to recognize whether or not adjustment is required for each process on a screen for one process. According to the information processing system of (((13))), compared to the case where the need for adjustment for a corresponding process is written on the screen for each process, it is possible to check the need for adjustment for each process and then switch screens. According to the information processing system of (((14))), it is possible to suggest that adjustment of settings is required for each process in accordance with the physical properties of the recording medium, as compared to the case where the need for adjustment for the corresponding process is indicated on the screen for each process. According to the information processing system of (((15))), in comparison with a configuration which displays only a scatter diagram, it is possible to suggest that adjustments to settings are required for the process displayed on the screen in accordance with the physical properties of the recording medium. According to the image forming apparatus of (((16))), it is possible to easily set the operation according to the type of recording medium in the computer that is the control section of the image forming apparatus. According to the program of (((17))), it is possible to easily set the operation according to the type of recording medium in a computer that is a control unit of an image forming apparatus and that has this program installed therein. [Explanation of symbols]

[0093] 100: image forming apparatus, 110: image forming section, 120: information processing section, 121: processor, 122: main storage device, 123: auxiliary storage device, 124: interface, 130: display section, 131: basic screen, 132: operation screen, 133: UI screen, 134: top page

Claims

1. A storage device that stores physical property information of one or more types of recording media; one or more processors; The processor, Acquire physical property information of the target recording medium; displaying on a display device a scatter diagram showing the distribution of physical properties of each recording medium whose physical property information is stored in the storage device and the target recording medium; displaying, on the same screen as the scatter diagram or on a different screen, operation settings of an image forming apparatus for one of the recording media shown in the scatter diagram; An information processing system comprising:

2. The processor, When the physical property of the target recording medium is included in a range including the physical properties of each recording medium whose physical property information is stored in the storage device in the distribution of the physical properties shown in the scatter diagram, an operation setting of the image forming apparatus for one of the recording media included in the range is displayed.

2. The information processing system according to claim 1 .

3. The processor, displaying operation settings of an image forming apparatus for a recording medium having physical properties closest to those of the target recording medium among the recording media included in the range in the scatter diagram; 3. The information processing system according to claim 2 .

4. The processor, When the physical property of the target recording medium is outside the range in the scatter diagram, displaying an operation setting of the image forming apparatus for one of the recording media included in the range; 3. The information processing system according to claim 2 .

5. The processor, In the distribution of the physical properties shown in the scatter diagram, a range including the physical properties of each recording medium whose physical property information is stored in the storage device is displayed in a visually recognizable manner.

2. The information processing system according to claim 1 .

6. The processor, displaying the points plotted on the scatter diagram based on the physical properties of the target recording medium in a manner that distinguishes between points located within the range of the scatter diagram and points located outside the range of the scatter diagram; 6. The information processing system according to claim 5 .

7. The processor, When an approval operation by a user is accepted, the displayed operation setting is set as the operation setting of the target recording medium.

2. The information processing system according to claim 1 .

8. The processor, accepting an editing operation by a user on the displayed operation setting; When an approval operation by a user is received for the edited operation setting, the edited operation setting is set as the operation setting of the target recording medium.

8. The information processing system according to claim 7,

9. The processor, Dividing the operation of forming an image on the recording medium into a plurality of steps, and creating a screen for displaying the scatter diagram for each step.

2. The information processing system according to claim 1 .

10. The processor, creating an initial screen that displays a list of the plurality of steps and allows transition to the screen for each of the steps; Displaying the initial screen on the display device, and transitioning the display from the initial screen to the screen for each of the steps.

10. The information processing system according to claim 9.

11. The processor, On the initial screen, a display is performed for each of the steps in the list of the steps, indicating whether or not adjustment of operation settings for the step is required. The information processing system according to claim 10 .

12. The processor, On the screen for each of the plurality of steps, a display is performed indicating whether or not adjustment of operation settings is required for each of the plurality of steps.

10. The information processing system according to claim 9.

13. The processor, a switching means for switching a display on the screen for each of the plurality of steps to the screen for another step; The switching means displays whether or not adjustment of operation settings is required in each of the plurality of steps.

13. The information processing system according to claim 12.

14. The processor, and displaying whether or not adjustment of operation settings in each of the plurality of steps is necessary depending on a distance between a position of a physical property of one recording medium, the physical property information of which is stored in the storage device, and a position of a physical property of the target recording medium in the scatter diagram.

14. The information processing system according to claim 11, wherein:

15. The processor, According to the distance between the position of the physical property of one recording medium, the physical property information of which is stored in the storage device, and the position of the physical property of the target recording medium, a display is performed showing whether or not adjustment of the operation setting in the process corresponding to the scatter diagram is required.

10. The information processing system according to claim 9.

16. an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium; An information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 15, An image forming apparatus comprising:

17. an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium; A computer that controls the operation of the image forming unit; A program for controlling the computer of an image forming apparatus comprising: The computer includes: A function of acquiring physical property information of the target recording medium; a function of displaying, on a display device, a scatter diagram showing the distribution of physical properties of each recording medium whose physical property information is stored in the storage device of the computer and the target recording medium; a function of displaying, on the same screen as the scatter diagram or on a different screen, operation settings of an image forming apparatus for one of the recording media shown in the scatter diagram; A program for realizing the above.

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