Image forming apparatus, image forming method, and program

Abstract

To provide an image forming apparatus, method, and program that can execute, as a series of print processing, processing of printing a first type test chart image covering all paper feed units and a second type test chart image covering a first paper feed unit.SOLUTION: An image forming apparatus comprises a control unit, an output unit that prints an image, and a plurality of paper feed units that feed sheets. The control unit receives print settings for a first type test chart image to be printed on the sheets fed from all the paper feed units and a second type test chart image to be printed on the sheet fed from at least one paper feed unit. In response to the reception of the print settings, the control unit controls the paper feed units and the output unit to feed the sheet from each of all the paper feed units and print the first type test chart image on the sheet, and subsequently, feed the sheet from at least one paper feed unit, of the plurality of paper feed units, and print the second type test chart image on the sheet.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an image forming system, an image forming method, and a program for performing a printing process to confirm an operation of forming an image on a sheet. The image forming apparatus used in this image forming system can be applied to various apparatuses such as copiers, printers, FAX machines, and multifunctional machines thereof.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in a printing apparatus (image processing apparatus) that forms an image on a sheet (paper), a function for confirming whether the operation of forming an image on the sheet is being performed normally (hereinafter referred to as "test chart print") has been used. The test chart print is also used as an operation of printing an adjustment image on a sheet in the function of adjusting the image formation on the sheet. Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for executing adjustment for all designated paper feed cassettes. In this technique, in order to perform adjustment, an operation of printing an adjustment image from all paper feed cassettes is performed.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] An image for confirmation to be printed on a test chart print (hereinafter referred to as "test chart image") needs to select a test chart image suitable for it and perform printing from the perspective of confirmation in the printing operation. Depending on the confirmation perspective of the printing operation, there are test chart images that require printing from all the paper feed cassettes installed in the image forming apparatus. For example, in the case of a test chart image for confirming the image position formed on the sheet, it is necessary to print and confirm the test chart image for each paper feed set. On the other hand, there are also test chart images that can confirm the printing operation by printing from one of the paper feed cassettes installed in the image forming apparatus. For example, in the case of a test chart image for confirming color misregistration, density of each color, and gradation in color printing, it is not necessary to print the test chart image from all the paper feed cassettes, and confirmation can be achieved by printing the test chart image from one paper feed cassette.

[0005] And in the confirmation of the printing operation, there may be a case where it is necessary to use both a test chart image that requires printing from all the paper feed cassettes and a test chart image that requires printing only from one paper feed cassette. However, in the above prior art, when selecting all the paper feed cassettes and continuously executing the printing of a specific test chart image, it was not possible to continuously execute the printing of a plurality of different types of test chart images. Therefore, there is a problem that the confirmation work takes time.

[0006] In view of the above problems, an object of the present invention is to enable continuous printing when printing a plurality of test chart images with different confirmation perspectives of the printing operation.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] The image forming apparatus of the present invention includes a control unit, an output unit that prints an image, and a plurality of paper feeding units that feed paper. The control unit accepts print settings for a first type of test chart image to be printed on paper fed from all of the plurality of paper feeding units, and a second type of test chart image to be printed on paper fed from at least one paper feeding unit, and in response to the acceptance of the print settings, feeds paper from each of the plurality of paper feeding units to print the first type of test chart image, and then subsequently feeds paper from the at least one paper feeding unit among the plurality of paper feeding units to print the second type of test chart image, and controls the paper feeding unit and the output unit.

Effect of the Invention

[0008] According to the present invention, by performing, as a series of processes, a test chart print that prints a test chart image from all the paper cassettes mounted on the image forming apparatus and a test chart print that prints a test chart image different from the test chart print from a specific paper cassette, it is possible to shorten the processing time required for the test chart print.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0009]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the invention according to the claims. Although a plurality of features are described in the embodiments, not all of these plurality of features are essential to the invention, and the plurality of features may be arbitrarily combined. Further, in the accompanying drawings, the same or similar configurations are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

Example

[0011] Referring to FIG. 1, the configuration of the MFP100, which is an image forming apparatus according to the present invention, will be described. The MFP100 of the present invention includes a control unit 110, a scanner 130, a printer 140, and an operation unit 150.

[0012] The control unit 110 includes a CPU 111, a RAM 112, a ROM 113, a storage unit 114, a network I / F 115, a device I / F 116, an operation unit I / F, an image processing unit 118, and an image memory 119. The control unit 110 is connected to a scanner 130, which is an image input device, and a printer 140, which is an image output device, and controls the input / output of image information. On the other hand, the control unit 110 is connected to a LAN and receives print jobs via the LAN.

[0013] The CPU 111 controls the operation of the MFP100 and operates based on a program temporarily stored in the RAM 112. The ROM 113 is a boot ROM and stores a system boot program. The storage unit 114 stores system software, image data, programs for controlling the operation of the MFP100, and the like. The program stored in the storage unit 114 is loaded into the RAM 112, and the CPU 111 controls the operation of the MFP100 based on this program.

[0014] The network I / F 115 is connected to a LAN and is responsible for input / output of various types of information via the network. The device I / F 116 connects the scanner 130 and the printer 140, which are image input / output devices, to the control unit 110 and performs synchronous / asynchronous conversion of image data. The operation unit I / F 117 is an interface that connects the operation unit 150 and the control unit 110, and outputs image data for display on the operation unit 150 to the operation unit 150. Also, the operation unit I / F 117 transmits information input by the user from the operation unit 150 to the CPU 111. The image processing unit 118 performs image processing on the print data received via the LAN, and also performs image processing on the image data input / output from the device I / F 116. The image memory 119 is a memory for temporarily expanding the image data processed by the image processing unit 118.

[0015] The paper used for printing in the MFP 100 is managed by an operator using a database called a cassette library. The cassette library is stored in the storage unit 114 or the RAM 112, and is read and written as needed by each software module. Details of the cassette library are omitted because they are well-known content.

[0016] Next, the structure and operation of the image forming apparatus of the present invention will be described. Referring to FIG. 2, the structure of the MFP 100, which is an image forming apparatus in the present embodiment, will be described. As shown in the drawing, the MFP 100 includes a housing 201. The housing 201 incorporates each mechanism for constituting the engine unit, an engine control unit that controls each printing process (for example, paper feeding process, etc.) by each mechanism, and a control board housing unit that houses a printer controller.

[0017] The engine unit has an optical processing mechanism for forming an electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum 205 by scanning with laser light, visualizing the electrostatic latent image, multi-transferring the visualized image onto the intermediate transfer member 252, and further transferring the multi-transferred color image onto the sheet P. Further, the engine unit has a fixing processing mechanism for fixing the toner image transferred onto the sheet P, a paper feeding processing mechanism for feeding the sheet P, and a conveyance processing mechanism for conveying the sheet P.

[0018] The optical processing mechanism has a laser scanner unit 207. This laser scanner unit 207 has a laser driver that drives the laser light emitted from a semiconductor laser (not shown) to be turned on and off according to the image data supplied from the printer controller. The laser light emitted from the semiconductor laser is deflected in the scanning direction by the rotating polygon mirror 208. The laser light deflected in the main scanning direction is guided to the photosensitive drum 205 via the reflecting polygon mirror 209 and exposes the photosensitive drum 205 in the main scanning direction. The photosensitive drum 205 is charged by the primary charger 211. As a result, an electrostatic latent image is formed on the photosensitive drum 205 by the scanning exposure of the laser light. The electrostatic latent image is visualized into a toner image by the toner supplied by the developing unit 212. Then, the visualized toner image on the photosensitive drum 205 is transferred (first transfer) onto the intermediate transfer member 252 to which a voltage of the opposite polarity to that of the toner image is applied. When forming a color image, images of each color are sequentially formed on the intermediate transfer member 252 from the Y (yellow) station 220, M (magenta) station 221, C (cyan) station 222, and K (black) station 223. As a result, a full-color visible image is formed on the intermediate transfer member 252.

[0019] Also, a sheet P is conveyed from a storage (paper feed cassette) 210 of a transfer material (output sheet) by a conveyance processing mechanism. The sheet P is pressed against an intermediate transfer member 252 by a transfer roller 251, and a voltage of the opposite polarity to the toner is applied to the transfer roller 251. Thereby, the visible image formed on the intermediate transfer member 252 is transferred to the sheet P conveyed in synchronization with the conveyance direction (sub-scanning direction) of the sheet P by the paper feed processing mechanism (secondary transfer). This paper feed cassette is an example of the paper feed unit of the present invention.

[0020] The sheet P that has completed the secondary transfer passes through a fuser 260 of the fixing processing mechanism. Thereby, the toner transferred onto the sheet P is heated and melted, and is fixed as an image on the sheet P. In the case of double-sided printing, the sheet P passes through an inversion unit 270, is switched back and inverted, and is introduced again into the fixing processing mechanism, whereby the backside image is transferred to the sheet P. Thereafter, the sheet P passes through the fuser 260 as described above, the toner image on the sheet P is heat-fixed, and the printing process is completed by discharging the sheet P to a paper discharge unit 280.

[0021] The operation unit 150 has a touch panel, a keyboard, a mouse, etc. for the user to operate the MFP 100. Also, the operation unit 150 also has a liquid crystal, an LED, etc. for displaying the state and operation screen of the MFP 100.

[0022] Also, the MFP 100 includes a scanner 202. The scanner 202 corresponds to the scanner 130 shown in FIG. 1. The scanner 202 incorporates each mechanism constituting the scanner, a scanner control unit for performing control regarding the original reading process by each mechanism (for example, original conveyance process, etc.), and a control board storage unit for storing the scanner control unit.

[0023] As each mechanism for constituting the scanner, conveyance rollers 231 and 232 for conveying an original 237 installed in an automatic document feeder (ADF) are provided. In addition, detection sensors 233 for detecting the passage of the conveyed original, a reading sensor 235 for reading the original image, etc. are also provided.

[0024] Referring to FIG. 3, a sequence showing a series of processes in an existing test chart print will be described. Hereinafter, the step numbers of each process included in the sequence are indicated by numbers starting with "S". The same applies to the following sequences. In the test chart print, the main communication between the operator and the MFP 100, which is an image forming apparatus, is performed via the operation unit 150.

[0025] First, in S301, when the operator operates the test print button for printing the test chart image, the MFP 100 determines to start the test chart print. In S302, the MFP 100 displays a test chart print setting screen on the operation unit 150 via the CPU 111. Next, in S303 to S307, the operator performs the settings for the test chart print.

[0026] In S303, the type of the test chart image to be printed in the test chart print is specified. The test chart images specified here are test chart images for performing printing on all paper feed cassettes to confirm the printing operation. As an example, it is a test chart image for confirming whether the correct margins are added around the printing paper for image printing. The test chart image is one that can confirm the image position in the printing operation. For example, it prints a grid image on the entire printing paper. In addition, it may be one that prints an image with a density specified by the operator on the entire printing paper, one that prints geometric figures other than the grid, or a combination of a plurality of such images.

[0027] In S304, the image processing mode such as error diffusion or screen for printing the intermediate tone density is specified. In S305, one paper feed cassette for feeding the paper for the test chart print is specified.

[0028] In S306, it is specified whether to perform test chart printing by single-sided printing or double-sided printing. When double-sided printing is specified, the MFP100 prints the same test chart image specified in S303 on both the front and back sides. In S307, the number of test chart images to be printed is specified. When printing multiple copies is specified, the MFP100 feeds the paper repeatedly from the paper cassette specified in S305 and prints the test chart image.

[0029] When the setting of the test chart print is completed, in S308, the operator operates the test print execution button for printing the test chart print to execute the test chart print. When the test chart print is executed, in S309, the MFP100 prints the test chart image via the CPU111. The printed test chart image (printed matter) is stacked and placed on the paper discharge unit 280 of the printer 140. This printer 140 is an example of the output unit in the present invention.

[0030] When the operator feeds paper from a paper cassette different from the paper cassette specified in S305 to perform test chart printing, the operator specifies the paper cassette again in S310. Then, in S311, the operator operates the test print execution button to execute the test chart print. As a result, in S312, the MFP100 feeds paper from the paper cassette specified in S310 via the CPU111 and prints the test chart image. The operator repeats the setting and execution until the printing is completed from all the paper cassettes for which the test chart print is to be performed.

[0031] When printing from all paper feed cassettes of the test chart image specified in S303 is completed, in S313, the operator specifies a test chart image type different from that specified in S303 in order to check the printing operation from different viewpoints. The test chart image specified here is a test chart image for which printing operation can be confirmed by printing with any one of the paper feed cassettes of MFP100. As an example, it is a test chart image for confirming that when printing in color, the printing positions of each of the YMCK colors match and there is no color shift. Additionally, it may be a test chart image for confirming that the 100% density images of each of the YMCK colors are printed at the correct density, a test chart image for confirming that the gradations of each of the YMCK colors are printed at the correct density, or a combination of a plurality of such images.

[0032] In S314, the operator specifies an image processing mode such as error diffusion or screening for printing the test chart image specified in S313 with a halftone density. In S315, the operator designates one paper feed cassette that feeds the paper for printing the test chart print specified in S313. In S316, the operator designates whether to perform the test chart print in single-sided printing or double-sided printing. When double-sided printing is designated, MFP100 prints the same test chart image specified in S313 on both the front and back sides. In S317, the number of test chart images to be printed is specified. When printing multiple copies is specified, MFP100 repeatedly feeds paper from the paper feed cassette designated in S315 and prints the test chart image.

[0033] When the setting of the test chart print is completed, at S318, the operator operates the test chart print execution button to execute the test chart print. When the test chart print is executed, at S319, the MFP 100 prints the test chart image via the CPU 111. The printed test chart image (printout) is placed on the paper discharge unit 280 of the printer 140 in an overlapping manner.

[0034] When the printing of the test chart image specified at S313 from one paper feed cassette is completed, at S321, the operator specifies, in the same manner as S313, a test chart image type for confirming the printing operation from a different perspective. Then, by repeatedly executing S313 to S319, a plurality of types of test chart images necessary for confirming the printing operation are printed. When all the necessary test chart prints are completed, at S321, the operator operates the test print end button to end the test chart print operation.

[0035] Referring to FIG. 4, a sequence showing a series of processes in the test chart print of the present embodiment will be described. In the test chart print, main communication takes place between the operator and the MFP 100 which is an image forming apparatus via the operation unit 150. In the test chart print of the present embodiment, after printing the test chart image from all the paper feed cassettes installed in the MFP 100, the test chart image is printed from one paper feed cassette in a different manner.

[0036] First, at S401, when the operator operates the test print button for printing the test chart image, the MFP 100 determines to start the test chart print. At S402, the MFP 100 which is an image forming apparatus displays the test chart print setting screen via the CPU 111. Next, at S403 to S406, the operator sets the test chart print.

[0037] In S403, the operator specifies the type of test chart image to be printed on the test chart print. Also, in S404, the operator specifies the image processing mode such as error diffusion or screening for printing the halftone density. Here, the operator prints the test chart image from all paper feed cassettes and then prints the test chart image from one paper feed cassette (hereinafter referred to as "continuous operation"). The operator specifies a combination of setting values indicating this.

[0038] When the set values of the test chart image type and the image processing mode specified by the operator are a specific combination, the MFP100 determines that continuous operation is specified. In this embodiment, continuous operation can be specified using the existing test chart image type and image processing mode, but a dedicated mode specification button may be provided to enable specification of continuous operation.

[0039] In S405, the operator specifies whether to perform the test chart print in single-sided printing or double-sided printing. When double-sided printing is specified, the MFP100 prints the same test chart image on both the front and back sides. In S406, the operator specifies the number of test chart images to be printed. When printing multiple copies is specified, the MFP100 feeds the specified number of sheets of paper for each of all paper feed cassettes and prints the test chart image.

[0040] When the setting of the test chart print is completed, at S407, the operator operates the test print execution button to execute the test chart print, and the test chart print is executed. When the test chart print is executed, the MFP100 prints the test chart image in order from the paper feed cassette 1 via the CPU111. First, at S408, the MFP100 feeds paper from the paper feed cassette 1 and prints and outputs the test chart image. Next, at S409, the MFP100 feeds paper from the paper feed cassette 2 and prints and outputs the test chart image. Further, at S410, the MFP100 similarly feeds paper from the paper feed cassette 3 and prints and outputs the test chart image. In this way, the paper feed cassette is switched in order to execute the printing and output of the test chart image. Then, at S411, the printing and output of the test chart image are executed from the last paper feed cassette N installed in the MFP100. The output test chart image (printout) is placed on the paper discharge unit 280 of the printer 140 in a stacked manner.

[0041] If printing of a plurality of test chart images is specified at S406, the test chart images are printed again in order from the paper feed cassette 1, and the specified number of test chart images are printed. In this process from S408 to S411, the test chart images to be printed are test chart images for performing the printing operation confirmation by printing on all paper feed cassettes. As an example, it is a test chart image for confirming whether or not the correct margin is added around the printing paper with respect to the printing of the image. The test chart image is one that can confirm the image position in the printing operation, for example, it prints a grid image on the entire printing paper. In addition, it may be one that prints an image with a density specified by the operator on the entire printing paper, one that prints geometric figures other than the grid, or a combination of those multiple images. Hereinafter, the test chart image for performing the printing operation confirmation by printing on all paper feed cassettes is referred to as the first type of test chart image.

[0042] In S408 to S411, when printing of test chart images from all the paper feed cassettes mounted on the MFP100 is completed, printing of different test chart images is subsequently performed. The test chart images printed here are test chart images that enable confirmation of the printing operation by printing with any one of the paper feed cassettes of the MFP100. As an example, when printing in color, it is a test chart image for confirming that the printing positions of each color of YMCK match and there is no color misregistration. Additionally, it may be a test chart image for confirming that the 100% density images of each color of YMCK are printed at the correct density, a test chart image for confirming that the gradations of each color of YMCK are printed at the correct density, or a combination of a plurality of these images. Hereinafter, a test chart image that enables confirmation of the printing operation by printing with any one of the paper feed cassettes is referred to as a second type of test chart image.

[0043] First, in S412, the MFP100 feeds paper from paper feed cassette 1 and prints and outputs a second type of test chart image different from the second type of test chart image printed in S408 to S411. Here, the paper feed cassette from which paper is fed may be other than paper feed cassette 1, and it is to select any one of the paper feed cassettes mounted on the MFP100.

[0044] Subsequently, in S413, the MFP100 feeds paper from paper feed cassette 1 and prints and outputs a second type of test chart image different from the second type of test chart image in S412. Similar to S412, the paper feed cassette from which paper is fed may be other than paper feed cassette 1, and it may also be a paper feed cassette different from the paper feed cassette from which paper was fed in S412.

[0045] In S414, similarly, the MFP100 further prints a different second type of test chart image on the paper fed from any one of the paper feed cassettes mounted on the MFP100 and outputs it. When this operation is repeatedly executed and all executions of the test chart prints of the necessary second type of test chart image are completed, in S412, the operator operates the test print end button to end the test chart print operation.

[0046] Referring to FIG. 5, the test chart print setting screen displayed on the operation unit 150 in S302 of FIG. 3 or S402 of FIG. 4 will be described. In S301 or S401, when the operator operates the test chart print button, the CPU 111 displays the test chart print setting screen 501 on the operation unit 150.

[0047] The chart type numbers 502, 503, and 504 are items for setting the test chart image type specified by the operator in S303 or S403. 502 displays the setting item, 504 displays the range of the set value, and 503 is the item for inputting the set value. Similarly, the image modes 505, 506, and 507 are items for setting the image processing mode specified by the operator in S304 or S404. Also, similarly, the paper feed cassettes 508, 509, and 510 are items for setting the paper feed cassette specified by the operator in S305. Similarly, the duplex printing 511, 512, and 513 are items for setting the duplex printing specified by the operator in S306 or S405. Further, the number of prints 514, 515, and 516 are items for setting the number of test chart prints specified by the operator in S307 or S406. The print start button 517 is an example of a test print execution button for executing the test chart print operated by the operator in S308 or S407.

[0048] Referring to FIG. 6, the test chart image in the test chart print of the present embodiment will be described. The test chart image 601 in Fig. 6(a) shows an example of printing a first type of test chart image that prints a grid image as a test chart image for performing printing on all paper feed cassettes and confirming the printing operation. As described above, the test chart image printed in this embodiment is not limited to a grid, and may be other geometric figures, an image with a density specified by an operator, or a combination of a plurality of these images.

[0049] The identification string 602 "cassette No.1" is a string indicating the number of the paper feed cassette that fed the paper for printing the test chart image. In the test chart print of this embodiment, a string that can identify the paper feed cassette that fed the paper is printed on the test chart image and output. The string to be printed may be other than the example shown in 602 as long as it can identify the paper feed cassette, and may be only the number or symbol of the paper feed cassette.

[0050] Arrow 603 indicates the paper conveyance direction when printing the test chart image on the MFP 100. The identification string 602 of the paper feed cassette can identify the printing orientation of the test chart image by always printing at a specific position with respect to the paper conveyance direction. Fig. 6 shows an example of printing the identification string 602 of the paper feed cassette at the upper left position with respect to the paper conveyance direction.

[0051] The test chart image 604 in Fig. 6(b) shows an example of printing a color shift confirmation image as a second type of test chart image for performing printing on any one of the paper feed cassettes of the MFP 100 and confirming the printing operation. The grid images 605 to 608 show the grid images of each of the YMCK colors. By printing each grid image in contact with each other, it becomes a test chart image that can confirm color shift. Arrow 609 indicates the paper conveyance direction when printing the test chart image on the MFP 100.

[0052] The test chart image 610 in FIG. 6(c) shows an example of printing an image for checking the printing density of the 100% density images of each of the YMCK colors as a second type of test chart image. The band images 611 to 614 respectively show the band images of 100% density of each of the YMCK colors. By repeatedly printing the band image of the paper width in the paper conveyance direction, it becomes a test chart image for which the printing density can be confirmed. The arrow 615 indicates the paper conveyance direction when printing the test chart image by the MFP 100.

[0053] The test chart image 616 in FIG. 6(d) shows an example of printing an image for checking the gradation of each of the YMCK colors as a second type of test chart image. The patch images 617 to 620 respectively show the patch images of 0% to 100% density of each of the YMCK colors. Thus, it becomes a test chart image for which the gradation of each color can be confirmed. The arrow 621 indicates the paper conveyance direction when printing the test chart image by the MFP 100.

[0054] Next, with reference to FIG. 7, the test chart print process of the present embodiment whose sequence is shown in FIG. 4 will be described. The processes described below are realized, for example, by the CPU 111 of the MFP 100 reading out the program stored in the storage unit 114 to the RAM 112 and executing it. Below, the step numbers of each process included in the flowchart are indicated by numbers starting with "S". The same applies to the subsequent flowcharts.

[0055] In S701 to S704, the CPU 111 displays the test chart print setting screen 501 on the operation unit 150 and accepts the setting of test chart printing from the operator via the operation unit 150. In S701, it accepts the setting of the test chart image type described in S303 or S403, and in S702, it accepts the setting of the image processing mode described in S304 or S404, and stores the set values in the RAM 112. Also, in S703, it accepts the setting of the paper feed cassette described in S305, and in S704, it accepts the setting of the number of test chart prints described in S307 or S406, and stores the set values in the RAM 112.

[0056] Next, when the operator operates the test print execution button (print start button) 517 on the operation unit 150, the CPU 111 proceeds to S705. In S705, the CPU 111 makes a determination regarding the settings of the test chart image type and the image processing mode accepted in S701 and S702. Here, the CPU 111 determines whether the setting is for printing test chart images from all paper feed cassettes described in S403 and S404, or for a continuous operation of printing different test chart images from one paper feed cassette.

[0057] In S705, if the setting does not specify a continuous operation (No), it proceeds to S706, and the CPU 111 generates a test chart image of the type set in S701. Then, in S706, the CPU 111 performs image processing in the image processing mode set in S702 in the image processing unit 118, and stores the processed image data in the image memory 119.

[0058] Then, in S707, the CPU 111 feeds one sheet of output paper from the paper feed cassette set in S703. In S708, the CPU 111 reads the test chart image data generated in S706 from the image memory 119 for the paper fed in S707, transmits it to the printer 140, and prints the test chart image on the output paper.

[0059] In S709, the CPU 111 determines whether the printing of the test chart image with the number of printed sheets set in S704 is completed. If the printing of the set number of sheets is not completed (No), it returns to S706, and the CPU 111 executes the process from S706 again. If the printing of the set number of sheets is completed (Yes), the CPU 111 ends the test chart print process.

[0060] On the other hand, in S705, if it is determined that the setting is to specify continuous operation (Yes), it proceeds to S710, and the CPU 111 acquires information on all the paper feed cassettes installed in the MFP 100. Then, it proceeds to S711, and the CPU 111 selects one paper feed cassette that has not yet printed the test chart image. Next, in S712, it acquires the paper feed cassette number that identifies the selected paper feed cassette. Here, the paper feed cassette number indicates information that can identify the paper feed cassette, and it may be a symbol other than a number. Also, the MFP 100 may be configured with only one paper feed cassette.

[0061] Next, in S713, the CPU 111 performs test chart image generation and image processing in the image processing unit 118, and stores the processed image data in the image memory 119. The test chart image to be generated here is the first type of test chart image for performing printing with all the above-mentioned paper feed cassettes and confirming the printing operation. As an example, it may be the test chart image 601 described in FIG. 6(a). In the example of this embodiment, when performing continuous operation of test chart image printing from all paper feed cassettes and printing different test chart images from one paper feed cassette, the test chart image type and the image processing mode use predetermined types and modes. However, even when printing test chart images from all paper feed cassettes, the test chart image type and the image processing mode may be settable, and the test chart image may be generated with the set test chart image type and image processing mode.

[0062] Next, in S714, the CPU 111 generates a character string image of an identification string (paper feed cassette number) 602 for printing the paper feed cassette number acquired in S712 on the test chart image. As described above, the identification string (paper feed cassette number) 602 may consist of only numbers or symbols as long as it can identify the paper feed cassette. Then, in S715, the CPU 111 synthesizes the character string image of the identification string 602, which is the generated paper feed cassette number, with the test chart image generated in S713, and stores the synthesized image data in the image memory 119.

[0063] Next, in S716, the CPU 111 feeds one sheet of output paper from the paper feed cassette selected in S711. Then, in S717, the CPU 111 reads out the test chart image data synthesized in S715 from the image memory 119 for the paper fed in S716 and transmits it to the printer 140, and the printer 140 prints the test chart image on the output paper.

[0064] Then, in S718, the CPU 111 determines whether the printing of the test chart image has been completed for all the paper feed cassettes installed in the MFP 100. If there is a paper feed cassette for which the printing of the test chart image has not been performed (No), the process returns to S711, and the CPU 111 selects one paper feed cassette for which the test chart image has not been printed again, and performs the printing process of the test chart image.

[0065] On the other hand, if the printing of the test chart image has been completed for all the paper feed cassettes (Yes), the process proceeds to S719, and the CPU 111 determines whether the printing of the test chart image for the number of printed sheets set in S704 has been completed. If the printing for the set number of sheets has not been completed (No), the process returns to S710, and the CPU 111 executes the process of printing the test chart image from all the paper feed cassettes again.

[0066] In S710, if the printing of the set number of copies is completed (Yes), the process proceeds to S720, and the CPU 111 prints a test chart image of the second type. In S720, the CPU 111 selects one paper feed cassette for printing the test chart image. The selection of the paper feed cassette may be to select the first paper feed cassette using the identification information of the paper feed cassette such as the number, or another selection method may be used. Also, each time the process of S720 is performed, a different paper feed cassette may be selected each time.

[0067] Next, in S721, the CPU 111 performs test chart image generation and image processing in the image processing unit 118, and stores the processed image data in the image memory 119. The test chart image for image confirmation generated here is a second type of test chart image for confirming the printing operation by printing with any one of the paper feed cassettes mounted on the aforementioned MFP 100. As an example, it may be any of the test chart images described in FIGS. 6(b), (c), and (d). In the example of the present embodiment, the above test chart image type and image processing mode use predetermined types and modes. The test chart image type and image processing mode may be settable, and the test chart image may be generated with the set test chart image type and image processing mode.

[0068] Next, in S722, the CPU 111 feeds one output sheet from the paper feed cassette selected in S720. In S723, the CPU 111 reads the test chart image data from the image memory 119 for the sheet fed in S722 and transmits it to the printer 140. Then, the printer 140 prints the test chart image on the output sheet.

[0069] Then, in S724, the CPU 111 determines whether the printing of all the test chart images for image confirmation to be printed is completed. If there is a test chart image for image confirmation that has not been printed yet (No), the process returns to S720, and the CPU 111 executes the process of printing the test chart image again from the selection of the paper feed cassette for printing the test chart image. On the other hand, in S724, when the printing of all the test chart images for image confirmation to be printed is completed (Yes), the CPU 111 ends the test chart print process.

[0070] As described above, the test chart print for printing the first type of test chart images from all the paper feed cassettes and the test chart print for printing the second type of test chart images from one paper feed cassette can be executed as a continuous operation in a single operation. Note that in this embodiment, the case of executing as a test chart print function operated by an operator, that is, a service person, has been described, but it can be similarly applied to functions operated by a user.

Embodiment

[0071] Hereinafter, a second embodiment for implementing the present invention in the case of printing, in addition to the character string for identifying the paper feed cassette, the character string for identifying the main body of the MFP 100 and the execution date and time of the test chart image on the test chart image will be described with reference to the drawings. Descriptions of parts overlapping with the first embodiment will be omitted, and only differences will be described.

[0072] FIG. 8 is an example of a test chart image printed in the test chart print of this embodiment. The test chart image 801 in FIG. 8(a) shows an example of printing an image with a halftone density as the first type of test chart image. As described in Example 1, the test chart image printed in this embodiment is not limited to a specific image, and may be a geometric figure such as a grid or a combination of a plurality of images.

[0073] The identification character string 802 “cassette No.1 R” is a character string indicating the number of the paper feed cassette that fed the paper for printing the test chart image. In the test chart print of this embodiment, a character string capable of identifying the paper feed cassette that fed the paper is printed on the test chart image and output. The character string to be printed may be other than the example shown in 802 as long as it can identify the paper feed cassette, and may be only the number or symbol of the paper feed cassette.

[0074] The machine number 803 "ABC12345" is a character string indicating the machine number for identifying the machine body of the MFP100. In the test chart print of this embodiment, in an environment where a plurality of image forming apparatuses are installed, the machine number is printed and output as a character string that can identify the image forming apparatus that printed the test chart image. Information other than the machine number shown in 803 may be used as long as it can identify the machine body of the image forming apparatus.

[0075] The print date and time 804 "2023 / 01 / 01 13:45" is a character string indicating the date and time when the test chart print was executed. In the test chart print of this embodiment, when the test chart print is executed multiple times on the same image forming apparatus, the date and time are printed and output as a character string that can identify the date and time when the print was executed. The date and time may be a character string other than the format shown in 804.

[0076] The arrow 805 indicates the paper conveyance direction when printing the test chart image on the MFP100. The identification character string 802 of the paper feed cassette, the machine number 803 of the image forming apparatus, and the print date and time 804 of the test chart are always printed at specific positions with respect to the paper conveyance direction, making it possible to identify the print orientation of the test chart image. FIG. 8 shows an example in which each identification information (802, 803, 804) is printed at the upper left position with respect to the paper conveyance direction.

[0077] The test chart image 806 in Fig. 8(b) shows an example of printing an image with intermediate tone density in 4-color as the second type of test chart image. As in this example, the test chart image printed in this embodiment may be not only monochrome but also an image printed in color. The band image 807 in Fig. 8(b) shows an image with intermediate tone density printed in yellow. Similarly, the band image 808 shows an image printed in magenta, the band image 809 shows an image printed in cyan, and the band image 810 shows an image printed in each color of black. The test chart image is not limited to an image with intermediate tone density, and may be a geometric figure such as a 4-color grid, a combination of a plurality of images, or a color figure of only one of YMCK.

[0078] Similar to Fig. 8(a), the identification string 811 "cassette No.1 R" is a string indicating the number of the paper feed cassette that fed the paper for printing the test chart image. In the test chart print of this embodiment, a string that can identify the paper feed cassette that fed the paper is printed on and output from the test chart image. The string to be printed may be other than the example shown in 811 as long as it can identify the paper feed cassette, and it may be a print of only the number or symbol of the paper feed cassette.

[0079] Similarly, the machine number 812 "ABC12345" is a string indicating the machine number that identifies the machine of the MFP 100. In the test chart print of this embodiment, in an environment where a plurality of image forming apparatuses are installed, the machine number is printed and output as a string that can identify the image forming apparatus that printed the test chart image. Information other than the machine number shown in 812 may be used as long as it can identify the machine of the image forming apparatus.

[0080] The print date and time 813 is a string indicating the date and time when the test chart print was executed. In the test chart print of this embodiment, when the test chart print is executed multiple times on the same image forming apparatus, the date and time are printed and output as a string that can identify the date and time of the print execution. The date and time may be a string other than the format shown in 813.

[0081] Arrow 814 indicates the paper conveyance direction when printing a test chart image on the MFP 100. The identification string 811 of the paper feed cassette, the machine number 812 of the image forming apparatus, and the print date and time 813 of the test chart image are printed at specific positions relative to the paper conveyance direction at all times, making it possible to identify the print orientation of the test chart image. In Fig. 8(b), an example is shown where each identification information (811, 812, 813) is printed at the upper left position relative to the paper conveyance direction.

[0082] The test chart image 815 in Fig. 8(c) shows an example of printing an image for adjusting the print position as the first type of test chart image. The image for adjusting the print position holds an image created in advance as image data in the storage unit 114 of the MFP 100, and when the test chart print is executed, this image data is read from the storage unit 114 and printed on the output paper. Thus, as the test chart image printed in this embodiment, an image obtained by printing image data may be used. The scale 816 in Fig. 8(c) represents a scale for checking the deviation of the print position. Depending on the print state of this scale, it becomes an image capable of checking the deviation of the print position of the image. The display 817 is an explanation of the method for checking the print position confirmation scale 816. A method for discriminating the amount of deviation of the print position corresponding to the print state of the print position confirmation scale is explained. The operator can refer to the displays of the scales 816 and 817 of the printed test chart image to discriminate the amount of deviation of the print position. The display 818 indicates whether the printed surface of the test chart image is the front surface, thereby making it possible to discriminate which surface of the output paper on which the test chart image is printed is the front surface and which is the back surface. As the test chart image for printing image data, it may be other than the image for adjusting the print position shown in 815, and it is also conceivable to print an image for adjusting items other than the print position of the image or an image for operation confirmation.

[0083] Similar to FIG. 8(a), the identification string 819 "cassette No.1 R" is a string indicating the number of the paper feed cassette that feeds the paper for printing the test chart image. In the test chart print of this embodiment, a string that can identify the paper feed cassette that feeds the paper is printed on and output from the test chart image. The string to be printed may be other than the example shown in 819 as long as it can identify the paper feed cassette, or it may be a print of only the number or symbol of the paper feed cassette.

[0084] Similarly, the machine number 820 "ABC12345" is a string indicating the machine number that identifies the machine body of the MFP100. In the test chart print of this embodiment, in an environment where a plurality of image forming apparatuses are installed, the machine number is printed and output as a string that can identify the image forming apparatus that printed the test chart image. Information other than the machine number shown in 820 may be used as long as it can identify the machine body of the image forming apparatus.

[0085] The print date and time 821 is a string indicating the date and time when the test chart print was executed. In the test chart print of this embodiment, when the test chart print is executed multiple times on the same image forming apparatus, the date and time are printed and output as a string that can identify the date and time of the print execution. The print date and time may be a string other than the format shown in 821.

[0086] The arrow 822 indicates the paper conveyance direction when printing the test chart image on the MFP100. By always printing the identification string 819 of the paper feed cassette, the machine number 820 of the image forming apparatus, and the print date and time 821 of the test chart image at specific positions with respect to the paper conveyance direction, the print orientation of the test chart image can be identified. FIG. 8(c) shows an example in which each identification information (819, 820, 821) is printed at the upper left position with respect to the paper conveyance direction.

[0087] Referring to FIG. 9, the test chart print process for printing the test chart image of FIG. 8 in this embodiment will be described according to the sequence of FIG. 4. The processes described below are realized, for example, by the CPU 111 of the MFP 100 reading out the program stored in the storage unit 114 to the RAM 112 and executing it.

[0088] In S901 to S904, the CPU 111 displays the test chart print setting screen 501 on the operation unit 150 and accepts the setting of test chart printing from the operator via the operation unit 150. In S901, the setting of the test chart image type described in S303 or S403 is accepted, in S902, the setting of the image processing mode described in S304 or S404 is accepted, and the set values are stored in the RAM 112. Also, in S903, the setting of the paper feed cassette described in S305 is accepted, and in S904, the setting of the number of printed test chart images described in S307 or S406 is accepted, and the set values are stored in the RAM 112.

[0089] Next, when the operator operates the test print execution button (print start button) 517 on the operation unit 150, the CPU 111 proceeds to S905. In S905, the CPU 111 determines the settings of the test chart image type and the image processing mode accepted in S901 and S902. Here, the CPU 111 determines whether the setting is a setting that designates printing test chart images from all paper feed cassettes and continuous operation of printing different test chart images from one paper feed cassette, as described in S403 and S404.

[0090] In S905, if the setting is not a setting that designates continuous operation (No), it proceeds to S906, and the CPU 111 generates a test chart image of the type set in S901. Then, in S906, the CPU 111 performs image processing in the image processing mode set in S902 in the image processing unit 118 and stores the processed image data in the image memory 119.

[0091] Then, in S907, the CPU 111 feeds one output sheet from the paper feed cassette set in S903. In S908, the CPU 111 reads the test chart image data generated in S906 from the image memory 119 for the fed sheet and transmits it to the printer 140 to print the test chart image on the output sheet.

[0092] In S909, the CPU 111 determines whether the printing of the test chart images for the number of prints set in S904 is completed. If the printing for the set number of sheets is not completed (No), it returns to S906 and the CPU 111 executes the process from S906 again. If the printing for the set number of sheets is completed (Yes), the CPU 111 ends the test chart print process.

[0093] On the other hand, in S905, if it is determined that the setting is for specifying continuous operation (Yes), it proceeds to S910 and the CPU 111 acquires information on all the paper feed cassettes installed in the MFP 100. Then, it proceeds to S911 and the CPU 111 selects one paper feed cassette for which the test chart image has not been printed yet. Next, in S912, it acquires the paper feed cassette number that identifies the paper feed cassette. Here, the paper feed cassette number indicates information that can identify the paper feed cassette and may be symbols other than numbers. Also, the MFP 100 may be configured with only one paper feed cassette.

[0094] Next, in S913, the CPU 111 generates a test chart image and performs image processing in the image processing unit 118, and stores the image data of the processed test chart image 801 in the image memory 119. The test chart image generated here is a first type of test chart image for performing printing on all the above-described paper feed cassettes and checking the printing operation. As an example, it may be the test chart images described in FIGS. 6(a), 8(a), and 8(c). In the example of the present embodiment, when performing continuous operations of printing test chart images from all paper feed cassettes and printing different test chart images from one paper feed cassette, the test chart image type and the image processing mode use predetermined types and modes. However, even when printing test chart images from all paper feed cassettes, the test chart image type and the image processing mode can be set, and the test chart images may be generated with the set test chart image type and image processing mode.

[0095] Next, in S914, the CPU 111 generates a character string image of an identification character string (paper feed cassette number) 802 for printing the paper feed cassette number acquired in S912 on the test chart image. As described above, the identification character string (paper feed cassette number) 802 may be only numbers or symbols as long as it can identify the paper feed cassette.

[0096] Next, in S915, the CPU 111 generates a character string image of a machine number 803 for printing the machine number for identifying the body of the MFP 100 on the test chart image. As described above, the machine number 803 may be a character string indicating information other than the machine number as long as it can identify the body of the image forming apparatus.

[0097] Next, in S916, the CPU 111 generates a character string image of a print date and time 804 for printing the execution date and time of the test chart print on the test chart image. As described above, the print date and time 804 may be a character string in any format as long as it can identify the date and time when the printing was executed.

[0098] Then, in S917, the CPU 111 synthesizes the identification character string 802, which is the paper feed cassette number, the machine number 803, and the character string image of the printing date and time 804 generated in S914 to S916, into the test chart image generated in S913. Then, the CPU 111 stores the synthesized image data in the image memory 119.

[0099] Next, in S918, the CPU 111 feeds one sheet of output paper from the paper feed cassette selected in S911. Then, in S919, the CPU 111 reads out the test chart image data synthesized in S917 from the image memory 119 and transmits it to the printer 140 for the paper fed in S918, and the printer 140 prints the test chart image on the output paper.

[0100] Then, in S920, the CPU 111 determines whether the printing of the test chart image has been completed from all the paper feed cassettes installed in the MFP 100. If there is a paper feed cassette for which the printing of the test chart image has not been performed (No), it returns to S911, and the CPU 111 selects one paper feed cassette for which the test chart image has not been printed again, and performs the printing process of the test chart image.

[0101] On the other hand, in S920, if the printing of the test chart image has been completed from all the paper feed cassettes (Yes), it proceeds to S921, and the CPU 111 determines whether the printing of the test chart image for the number of printed sheets set in S904 has been completed. If the printing for the set number of sheets has not been completed (No), it returns to S910, and the CPU 111 executes the process of printing the test chart image from all the paper feed cassettes again.

[0102] In S921, when the printing of the set number of copies is completed (Yes), the CPU 111 proceeds to S922 and prints a test chart image of the second type. In S922, the CPU 111 selects one paper feed cassette for test chart printing. The selection of the paper feed cassette may be to select the first paper feed cassette using the identification information of the paper feed cassette such as the number, or another selection method may be used. Also, each time the process of S922 is performed, a different paper feed cassette may be selected each time.

[0103] Next, in S923, the CPU 111 generates a test chart image and performs image processing in the image processing unit 118, and stores the processed image data in the image memory 119. The second type of test chart image generated here is a test chart image for confirming the printing operation by printing with any one of the paper feed cassettes mounted on the aforementioned MFP 100. As an example, it may be any of the test chart images described in FIGS. 6(b) 604, (c) 610, (d) 616, and FIG. 8(b) 806. In the example of the embodiment, the above test chart image type and image processing mode use predetermined types and modes. It is also possible to make the test chart image type and image processing mode configurable and generate a test chart image with the set test chart image type and image processing mode.

[0104] Next, in S924, the CPU 111 feeds one output sheet from the paper feed cassette selected in S922. In S925, the CPU 111 reads the test chart image data from the image memory 119 for the sheet fed in S924 and transmits it to the printer 140, and the printer 140 prints the test chart image on the output sheet.

[0105] Then, in S926, the CPU 111 determines whether the printing of all the image confirmation test chart images to be printed is completed. If there is an image confirmation test chart image that has not been printed yet (No), it returns to S922, and the CPU 111 executes the process of printing the test chart image again from the selection of the paper feed cassette for test chart printing. On the other hand, in S926, when the printing of all the test chart images for image confirmation to be printed is completed (Yes), the CPU 111 ends the test chart print process.

[0106] As described above, it becomes possible to continuously execute, in a single operation, the test chart print for printing the test chart images from all the paper feed cassettes and the test chart print for printing a different test chart image from one paper feed cassette. Note that, in this embodiment, the case of executing as a test chart print function operated by a service person has been described, but it is similarly applicable to a function operated by a user.

[0107] <Other Embodiments> The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that realizes one or more functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or apparatus via a network or a storage medium, and having one or more processors in a computer of the system or apparatus read and execute the program. Further, it can also be realized by a circuit (for example, ASIC) that realizes one or more functions.

[0108] The invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various changes and modifications are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the claims are attached to disclose the scope of the invention.

[0109] The disclosure of this specification includes the following image forming apparatus, image forming method, and program. (Item 1) An image forming apparatus, comprising: a control unit, an output unit that prints an image, and a plurality of paper feed units that feed paper; wherein the control unit: receives print settings for a first type of test chart image to be printed on paper fed from all of the plurality of paper feed units and a second type of test chart image to be printed on paper fed from at least one paper feed unit; In response to receiving the printing settings, paper is fed from each of the plurality of paper feeding units to print the test chart image of the first type, and then, subsequently, paper is fed from at least one of the plurality of paper feeding units to print the test chart image of the second type, and the paper feeding unit and the output unit are controlled accordingly. An image forming apparatus characterized by the above. (Item 2) The test chart image of the first type is a test chart image for confirming the image position formed on the paper. The image forming apparatus according to Item 1. (Item 3) The test chart image of the second type is a test chart image for confirming the printing position or color deviation of each color of a plurality of toners for forming a color image. The image forming apparatus according to Item 1 or 2. (Item 4) At least one of the test chart image of the first type and the test chart image of the second type includes a plurality of test chart images with different confirmation viewpoints. The image forming apparatus according to any one of Items 1 to 3. (Item 5) The image forming apparatus includes an image synthesizing unit. At least one of the test chart image of the first type and the test chart image of the second type is synthesized with information for identifying the paper feeding unit to which the paper is fed by the image synthesizing unit. The image forming apparatus according to any one of Items 1 to 4. (Item 6) At least one of the test chart image of the first type and the test chart image of the second type is further synthesized with at least one of information for identifying the image forming apparatus and the printing date and time by the image synthesizing unit. The image forming apparatus according to Item 5. (Item 7) The printing settings for the first type of test chart image printed on the paper fed from all of the plurality of paper feeding units and the second type of test chart image printed on the at least one paper feeding unit are set by a combination of a specific type of test chart and a specific image processing mode. The image forming apparatus according to any one of Items 1 to 6. (Item 8) The printing settings for the first type of test chart image printed on the paper fed from all of the plurality of paper feeding units and the second type of test chart image printed on the at least one paper feeding unit are set by mode designation. The image forming apparatus according to any one of Items 1 to 7. (Item 9) The printing settings include setting the number of printed sheets of at least one of the first type of test chart image and the second type of test chart image. The control unit repeats printing the number of printed sheets of at least one of the first type of test chart image and the second type of test chart image. The image forming apparatus according to any one of Items 1 to 8. (Item 10) An image forming method in an image forming apparatus including a control unit, an output unit that prints an image, and a plurality of paper feeding units that feed paper, the method comprising: The control unit: receives printing settings for a first type of test chart image printed on paper fed from all of the plurality of paper feeding units and a second type of test chart image printed on paper fed from at least one paper feeding unit; in response to receiving the printing settings, controls the paper feeding units and the output unit to feed paper from each of the plurality of paper feeding units to print the first type of test chart image, and then subsequently feed paper from the at least one paper feeding unit among the plurality of paper feeding units to print the second type of test chart image. An image forming method characterized by the above. (Item 11) A program executed by a computer of an image forming apparatus including a control unit, an output unit that prints an image, and a plurality of paper feeding units that feed paper, The program causes the computer to, Receive print settings for a first type of test chart image printed on paper fed from all of the plurality of paper feeding units, and a second type of test chart image printed on paper fed from at least one paper feeding unit, In response to receiving the print settings, control the paper feeding unit and the output unit to feed paper from each of the plurality of paper feeding units to print the first type of test chart image, and then subsequently feed paper from the at least one paper feeding unit among the plurality of paper feeding units to print the second type of test chart image, A program for that purpose.

Explanation of Signs

[0110] 100: MFP, 111: CPU, 118: Image processing unit, 140: Printer, 150: Operation unit, 210: Paper feed cassette, 501: Test chart print setting screen

Claims

1. An image forming apparatus, comprising a control unit, an output unit that prints an image, and a plurality of paper feeding units that feed paper, wherein the control unit, receives print settings for a first type of test chart image to be printed on paper fed from all of the plurality of paper feeding units, and a second type of test chart image to be printed on paper fed from at least one paper feeding unit, and controls the paper feeding unit and the output unit to feed paper from each of the plurality of paper feeding units to print the first type of test chart image in response to receiving the print settings, and then subsequently feed paper from the at least one paper feeding unit among the plurality of paper feeding units to print the second type of test chart image. An image forming apparatus characterized by the above.

2. The first type of test chart image is a test chart image for confirming the image position formed on the paper. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The second type of test chart image is a test chart image for confirming the printing position or color misregistration of each color of a plurality of toners for forming a color image. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

4. At least one of the first type of test chart image and the second type of test chart image includes a plurality of test chart images with different confirmation viewpoints. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

5. The image forming apparatus includes an image synthesizing unit, and information for identifying the paper feeding unit from which the paper is fed is synthesized by the image synthesizing unit into at least one of the first type of test chart image and the second type of test chart image. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

6. At least one of the test chart images of the first type and the test chart images of the second type is further synthesized by the image synthesizing unit with at least one of information for identifying the image forming apparatus and the printing date and time. The image forming apparatus according to claim 5.

7. The printing settings for the test chart images of the first type printed on the sheets fed from all of the plurality of paper feeding units and the test chart images of the second type printed on the at least one paper feeding unit are set by a combination of a specific test chart type and a specific image processing mode. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

8. The printing settings for the test chart images of the first type printed on the sheets fed from all of the plurality of paper feeding units and the test chart images of the second type printed on the at least one paper feeding unit are set by mode designation. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

9. The printing settings include setting the number of printed sheets of at least one of the test chart images of the first type and the test chart images of the second type. The control unit repeats printing the number of printed sheets of at least one of the test chart images of the first type and the test chart images of the second type. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

10. An image forming method in an image forming apparatus including a control unit, an output unit that prints an image, and a plurality of paper feeding units that feed paper, the method comprising: The control unit: receives printing settings for a test chart image of the first type printed on sheets fed from all of the plurality of paper feeding units and a test chart image of the second type printed on sheets fed from at least one paper feeding unit. In response to receiving the printing settings, feed paper from each of the plurality of paper feeding units to print the first type of test chart image, and then, subsequently, feed paper from at least one of the plurality of paper feeding units to print the second type of test chart image, and control the paper feeding unit and the output unit accordingly. An image forming method characterized by the above.

11. A program executed by a computer of an image forming apparatus including a control unit, an output unit that prints an image, and a plurality of paper feeding units that feed paper, The program causes the computer to receive printing settings for a first type of test chart image to be printed on paper fed from all of the plurality of paper feeding units and a second type of test chart image to be printed on paper fed from at least one of the paper feeding units, in response to receiving the printing settings, feed paper from each of the plurality of paper feeding units to print the first type of test chart image, and then, subsequently, feed paper from at least one of the plurality of paper feeding units to print the second type of test chart image, and control the paper feeding unit and the output unit accordingly. A program for the above.

Images