Image formation device

Abstract

To provide an image formation device which enables reduction of labor for medium refill work while respecting user's intention.SOLUTION: According to an embodiment, an image formation device has a display device, an input device, a supply unit, a controller, and a printer. The input device detects an input command. The supply unit supplies a set medium. The controller acquires medium setting information indicating the medium set in the supply unit and causes the display device to display first group medium selection buttons for selecting the medium set in the supply unit and second group medium selection buttons for selecting the medium which is not set in the supply unit while distinguishing the first group medium selection buttons from the second group medium selection buttons. When the input device detects one button being selected from the first group medium selection buttons or the second group medium selection buttons displayed by the display device, the printer prints an image on the medium indicated by the selected medium selection button.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to an image forming apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, image forming apparatuses such as digital multi-function peripherals have a function of printing images not only on ordinary paper but also on a plurality of types of special media (special paper). The image forming apparatus does not have all the compatible special papers set in advance. However, conventional image processing apparatuses present a paper selection screen on which any special paper can be selected regardless of whether it is set or not. For this reason, it is easy for the user to select special paper that is not set in the image forming apparatus. When the user selects special paper that is not set, there is a problem that it is necessary to replenish the selected special paper to the image forming apparatus.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] An object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus that can reduce the labor of medium replenishment work while respecting the user's intention in order to solve the above-described problems.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] According to an embodiment, an image forming apparatus includes a display device, an input device, a supply unit, a controller, and a printer. The input device detects an input instruction. The supply unit supplies a set medium. The controller acquires medium setting information indicating the medium set in the supply unit, and differentiates between a first group of medium selection buttons for selecting the medium set in the supply unit and a second group of medium selection buttons for selecting a medium not set in the supply unit, and displays them on the display device. When the input device detects that any one button has been instructed from the first group of medium selection buttons or the second group of medium selection buttons displayed on the display device, the printer prints an image on the medium indicated by the instructed medium selection button.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0006]

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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] Hereinafter, this embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. First, the configuration of a digital multifunction peripheral (MFP; Multi-Functional Peripheral) 1 as an image forming apparatus according to the embodiment will be described.

[0008] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a configuration example of a digital multifunction peripheral 1 as an image forming apparatus according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the digital multifunction peripheral 1 has a scanner 2, a printer 3, and an operation panel 4.

[0009] The scanner 2 is installed on the upper part of the main body of the digital multifunction peripheral 1. The scanner 2 is a device that optically reads an image of a document. The scanner 2 has a document table glass on which a document to be scanned is placed. The scanner 2 has an image reading mechanism for scanning a document on the document table glass. The image reading mechanism of the scanner 2 is composed of a carriage and a photoelectric conversion unit installed below the document table glass. Further, the scanner 2 may be provided with an automatic document feeder (ADF).

[0010] The printer (image forming unit) 3 has paper feed cassettes 211, 212, 213, 214. These paper feed cassettes 211, 212, 213, 214 store media such as paper on which images are to be formed. The manual tray 22 is a supply unit that supplies the set media to the printer 3. The media stored in the paper feed cassettes 211, 212, 213, 214 may be any media that can be conveyed by the conveyance system described later. For example, each of the paper feed cassettes 211, 212, 213, 214 is detachable from the lower part of the digital multifunction device main body.

[0011] Furthermore, the printer 3 has a manual tray 22. The manual tray 22 places media such as paper on which images are to be formed. The manual tray 22 is a supply unit that supplies the set media to the printer 3. The media set on the manual tray 22 may be any media that can be conveyed by the conveyance system described later.

[0012] Each of the paper feed cassettes 211, 212, 213, 214 has a paper feed roller 231, 232, 233, 234 respectively. Each of the paper feed rollers 231, 232, 233, 234 takes out media one by one from each of the paper feed cassettes 211, 212, 213, 214. Also, the manual tray 22 has a paper feed roller 235. The paper feed roller 235 takes out the media set on the manual tray 22 one by one.

[0013] Various media Pa, Pb, Pc, Pd on which the printer 3 can print images are respectively set in the paper feed cassettes 211, 212, 213, 214 as supply units. Also, a media on which the printer 3 can print images is set in the manual tray 215 as a supply unit. The types of media that can be set in the paper feed cassettes 211, 212, 213, 214 and the manual tray 215 are determined in advance. For example, there are media that cannot be stored in the paper feed cassettes 211 - 214 but can be set in the manual tray 215.

[0014] The conveyance system (conveyance mechanism) 23 conveys a medium (hereinafter referred to as paper) within the printer 3. The conveyance system 23 is composed of a plurality of conveyance rollers and the like. The conveyance system 23 conveys the paper taken out by the paper feed rollers 231, 232, 233, 234, 235 by the conveyance rollers provided at various locations on the conveyance path. The conveyance rollers constituting the conveyance system 23 include the registration roller 24. The registration roller 24 is provided in front of the image transfer position where an image is transferred onto the paper on the conveyance path. The registration roller 24 supplies the paper to the image transfer position at the timing of transferring the image.

[0015] The image forming unit 25 is composed of a plurality of image forming units 251, 252, 253, 254. The plurality of image forming units 251, 252, 253, 254 form images with the toner set in each of them. For example, the image forming units 251, 252, 253, 254 form images with toner of yellow, magenta, cyan, and black colors respectively.

[0016] The exposure device 26 forms an electrostatic latent image as an image to be developed in each color on each image carrier in each image forming unit 251, 252, 253, 254. The exposure device 26 forms an electrostatic latent image on the image carrier by scanning the image carrier with light that emits according to the image data. For example, the exposure device 26 irradiates the photosensitive drum as the image carrier through a polygon mirror that rotates the light emitted from the light emitting unit, thereby scanning in the main scanning direction. Also, the irradiation position of the light from the exposure device 26 moves in the sub-scanning direction as the photosensitive drum rotates. The position and magnification of the image formed by the image forming unit 25 are adjusted by controlling the exposure device 26.

[0017] Each image forming unit 251, 252, 253, 254 develops the electrostatic latent image on each image carrier with toner of each color (yellow, magenta, cyan, black). The intermediate transfer belt 27 is an intermediate transfer body. Each image forming unit 25 transfers (performs primary transfer) the toner images of each color developed with toner of each color on each image carrier onto the intermediate transfer belt 27.

[0018] The intermediate transfer belt 27 holds the transferred toner image and conveys it to the secondary transfer position (the image transfer position onto the paper). The secondary transfer position is the position where the toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 27 is transferred onto the paper. The secondary transfer position is the position where one support roller that supports the intermediate transfer belt 27 and the secondary transfer roller 28 face each other. The secondary transfer roller 28 and the support roller facing the secondary transfer roller constitute the image transfer unit. The registration roller 24 conveys the paper to the secondary transfer position in synchronization with the toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 27. The transfer unit composed of the secondary transfer roller 28 and the support roller transfers the toner image held on the intermediate transfer belt 27 onto the paper at the secondary transfer position (image transfer position).

[0019] For example, when forming a color image, each image forming unit 251, 252, 253, and 254 transfers the toner images developed with toner of each color (yellow, magenta, cyan, black) onto the intermediate transfer belt 27 in an overlapping manner. The intermediate transfer belt 27 holds the color image in which the toner images of each color overlap. The transfer unit 28 transfers the color image formed by the toner of multiple colors on the intermediate transfer belt 27 onto the paper at the secondary transfer position. The registration roller 24 conveys the paper to the secondary transfer position in synchronization with the toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 27. Thereby, the color image is transferred onto the paper.

[0020] The transfer unit composed of the secondary transfer roller 28 and the support roller supplies the paper onto which the toner image has been transferred to the fuser 29. The fuser 29 fixes the toner image onto the paper. The fuser 29 includes a heating unit, a heat roller, a pressure roller, etc. The heating unit heats the heat roller. The heat roller and the pressure roller perform a fixing process of heating the paper onto which the toner image has been transferred by the transfer unit in a pressurized state. The paper that has been fixed by the heat roller and the pressure roller in the fuser 29 is conveyed to the paper discharge tray 30 or the duplex unit 31 via the conveying roller.

[0021] The paper discharge tray 30 is a platform where the medium on which the printing process including image transfer and fixing processing has been completed is discharged. The duplex unit 31 re-supplies the medium on which image formation on the first side (front side) has been completed in a state where image formation can be performed on the second side (back side). For example, the duplex unit 31 reverses the front and back of the medium by switching back the medium after the fixing process using a roller or the like and re-supplies it to the registration roller 24.

[0022] The operation panel 4 is a user interface. The operation panel 4 displays guidance and accepts input to operation buttons. For example, the user inputs setting information on the operation panel 4. The operation panel 4 has a display unit (display device) 41 and an operation unit (input device) 42. For example, the display unit 41 and the operation unit 42 are configured by a display device with a touch panel. The touch panel as the operation unit 42 is provided on the display screen of the display device as the display unit 41. The touch panel as the operation unit 42 detects the part touched by the user on the display screen of the display unit 41.

[0023] Next, the configuration of the control system in the digital multifunction machine 1 configured as described above will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram for explaining a configuration example of the control system in the digital multifunction machine 1 as an image forming apparatus according to the embodiment. The digital multifunction machine 1 has a system control unit (controller) 5 that controls the entire apparatus. The system control unit 5 is connected to the scanner 2, the printer 3, and the operation panel 4. In the configuration example shown in FIG. 2, the system control unit 5 includes a processor 50, a memory 51, an image memory 52, an image processing unit 53, a storage device 54, and a communication interface (I / F) 55.

[0024] The processor 50 is connected to the processor 70 of the scanner 2 and the printer 3 and the processor 80 of the operation panel 4 via an interface. The processor 50 realizes various processing functions by executing a program stored in the memory 51 or the storage device 54. For example, the processor 50 outputs operation instructions to each unit and processes various information from each unit by executing a program stored in the memory 51.

[0025] The memory 51 includes memories such as RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), and NVM. The RAM functions as a working memory or a buffer memory. The ROM is a non-rewritable non-volatile memory. The ROM functions as a program memory. The NVM is a rewritable non-volatile memory. The NVM stores setting data and the like. The image memory 52 stores image data. For example, the image memory 52 functions as a page memory for expanding the image data to be processed.

[0026] The image processing unit 53 processes the image data. The image processing unit 53 outputs, for example, the image data obtained by performing image processing such as correction, compression, or expansion on the input image data. For example, the image processing unit 53 may include a processor for image processing. The image processing unit 53 may perform image processing on the print image according to the characteristics of a medium such as special paper for printing the image.

[0027] The storage device 54 stores data such as control data, control programs, and setting information. The storage device 54 is composed of a rewritable non-volatile memory. For example, the storage device 54 is composed of a storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or an SSD (Solid State Drive). In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the storage device 54 has a paper (medium) setting table 541. The paper setting table 541 stores paper setting information (medium setting information) regarding various papers in the digital multifunction device 1.

[0028] The communication I / F 55 is an interface for performing data communication with an external device. For example, the communication I / F 55 is also an interface for receiving a print image from an external device by means of a network printing function. Further, the communication I / F 55 is an interface for communicating with an external device as an output destination for outputting a scanned image by means of a network scanning function. Also, the communication I / F 55 may include an interface for transmitting FAX data generated from a scanned image by means of a FAX function to a FAX transmission destination.

[0029] Also, in the digital multifunction machine 1 according to the embodiment, it is assumed that the communication I / F 55 includes an interface for connecting to an external device that serves as a notification destination for notifying a request for paper replenishment. The external device that notifies a request for paper replenishment connected to the communication I / F 55 is, for example, a terminal device such as a cash register terminal operated by a store clerk or a handy terminal carried by a store clerk.

[0030] Furthermore, the communication I / F 55 may include an interface for communicating with a server connected to the digital multifunction machine 1. The server connected to the communication I / F 55 may be a device that provides the digital multifunction machine 1 with an image group to be a candidate for an image to be printed. Also, the server connected to the communication I / F 55 may be a device that stores various setting information in the digital multifunction machine 1 and log data indicating the operation history of the digital multifunction machine 1. For example, the server connected to the communication I / F 55 may hold a paper setting table 541 that stores the paper setting information in the digital multifunction machine 1 as described above.

[0031] Next, a configuration example of the control system in the printer 3 will be described. As shown in FIG. 2, the printer 3 includes a processor 70, a memory 71, a conveyance system 23, an image forming unit 25, an exposure device 26, a transfer unit 28, and a fixing device 29, etc. The processor 70 realizes various processes by executing the programs stored in the memory 71. For example, the processor 70 controls the operations of each part in the printer 3 and monitors the operation status of each part by executing the program. Also, the processor 70 is connected to the processor 50 of the system control unit 5 via an interface. The processor 70 executes printing processes and the like according to the operation instructions from the system control unit 5.

[0032] The memory 71 includes memories such as RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), and data memory. The RAM functions as a working memory or a buffer memory. The ROM is a non-rewritable non-volatile memory. The ROM functions as a program memory. The data memory is a rewritable non-volatile memory.

[0033] The conveyance system 23 conveys paper within the printer 3 under the control of the processor 70. The conveyance system 23 drives the paper feed rollers 231, 232, 233, 234, 235 provided in the paper feed cassette 21 (211, 212, 213, 214) or the manual feed tray 22 in which the paper selected by the user is stored according to the operation instructions from the processor 70. The conveyance system 23 conveys the paper picked up by specific paper feed rollers 231, 232, 233, 234, 235 by driving the conveyance rollers of each part.

[0034] The exposure device 26 irradiates light (laser light) for forming an electrostatic latent image on each photosensitive drum of the image forming unit 25 according to the operation instructions from the processor 70. The processor 70 adjusts the printing position, magnification, etc. by controlling the irradiation position of the laser light on the photosensitive drum by the exposure device 26. The processor 70 executes image adjustment so as to obtain a desired printing range by operation control according to the printing range starting from the printing reference described later.

[0035] Each image forming unit 25 (251, 252, 253, 254) develops the electrostatic latent image formed on the photoreceptor drum with toner of each color in response to an operation instruction from the processor 70. Further, the image forming unit 25 transfers (primary transfer) the toner formed on the photoreceptor drum to the intermediate transfer belt 27.

[0036] The transfer roller as the transfer unit 28 transfers (secondary transfer) the toner image transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 27 to the paper in response to an operation instruction from the processor 70. The fixing unit 29 drives the heat roller and the pressure roller in response to an operation instruction from the processor 70. Further, the heating unit of the fixing unit 29 sets the surface temperature of the heat roller to a desired fixing temperature according to the control by the processor 70. The fixing unit 29 fixes the toner image transferred to the paper to the paper in a state where it is controlled to the fixing temperature.

[0037] Next, a configuration example of the control system in the operation panel 4 will be described. As shown in FIG. 2, the operation panel 4 includes a processor 80, a memory 81, a display unit (display) 41, an operation unit 42, and the like. The processor 80 realizes various processes by executing the programs stored in the memory 81. For example, the processor 80 controls the operations of each part of the operation panel 4 and monitors the operation status of each part by executing the program. Further, the processor 80 is connected to the processor 50 of the system control unit 5 via an interface. For example, the processor 80 notifies the system control unit 5 of the information input by the user.

[0038] The memory 81 includes memories such as a RAM (Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read Only Memory), and a data memory. The RAM functions as a working memory or a buffer memory. The ROM is a non-rewritable non-volatile memory. The ROM functions as a program memory. The data memory is a rewritable non-volatile memory.

[0039] The display unit 41 has its display content controlled in response to an operation instruction from the processor 80. The touch panel as the operation unit 42 is provided on the display screen of the display unit 41 and detects the touched position on the display screen. For example, the processor 80 displays icons selectable by the operation unit (touch panel) 42 together with operation guidance on the display screen of the display unit 41. The processor 80 discriminates the information input by the user according to the touch position detected by the touch panel as the operation unit 42. Further, the operation panel 4 may be provided with operation buttons such as hard keys like a start key and a reset key.

[0040] Next, the paper setting information stored in the paper setting table 541 of the digital multi-function peripheral 1 as the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment will be described. When the system control unit 5 of the digital multi-function peripheral 1 executes a printing process using the printer 3, it prints an image on the medium (paper) instructed by the user. The system control unit 5 manages the papers (paper types) set in each paper feeding location (paper feeding cassette or manual feed tray) using the paper setting table 541. Further, the system control unit 5 presents to the user not only the papers set in the paper feeding location but also the papers available for printing.

[0041] FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 are diagrams showing a configuration example of the paper setting table 541 managed by the digital multi-function peripheral 1 as the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment. In the configuration example shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the paper setting table 541 stores information associating "paper type", "paper setting", and "paper setting location".

[0042] "Paper type" indicates the type of paper as the medium for printing an image. "Paper type" generally indicates the type of paper used as the medium on which an image is printed using a printer. The paper setting table 541 shown in FIG. 3 stores information regarding not only ordinary paper but also various special media (special paper) used for special purposes. In the example shown in FIG. 3, clear file, waterproof paper, sticker, cross paper, magnetic sheet, paper file, OHP, plastic plate, etc. are set as the "paper type" of the special paper.

[0043] "Paper setting" is information indicating the setting state of the paper. "Paper setting" indicates whether the corresponding type of paper (the type of paper indicated by the paper type) is set in any of the paper feeding locations (paper feed cassette 21 or manual feed tray 22) in the digital multi-function machine 1. Also, "paper setting" indicates whether the corresponding type of paper is a medium that can be used for printing processing as a specification of the digital multi-function machine 1.

[0044] For example, when "paper setting" is "set", it indicates that the corresponding type of paper is set in either of the paper feeding locations (paper feed cassette 21 or manual feed tray 22) within the digital multi-function machine 1. When "paper setting" is "not set (unset)", it indicates that the corresponding type of paper is not set anywhere in the paper feeding locations (paper feed cassette 21 or manual feed tray 22) of the digital multi-function machine 1.

[0045] "Paper setting" may be set to indicate that it cannot be used for printing processing in the printer 3 of the digital multi-function machine 1. For example, when "paper setting" is "not supported", it indicates that the corresponding type of paper cannot be used for printing processing in the printer 3 of the digital multi-function machine 1. Also, "paper setting" may be set to indicate the presence or absence of stock. For example, when "paper setting" is "out of stock", it indicates that the corresponding type of paper cannot be used for printing processing in the printer 3 of the digital multi-function machine 1.

[0046] "Paper setting location" indicates the location where the paper is set (paper feed location). "Paper setting location" indicates the paper feed cassette 21 or the manual tray 22 where the corresponding type of paper is set. Also, for papers with "not set" or "not supported" in "paper setting", no information is stored as the "paper setting location".

[0047] According to the paper setting table 541 shown in FIG. 3, the processor 50 of the system control unit 5 can determine where various papers are set in the digital multifunction machine 1. Also, the processor 50 of the system control unit 5 can determine the types of papers that are not set and the types of papers that are not supported according to the paper setting table 541.

[0048] When the processor 50 executes a printing process using special paper, it displays on the operation panel 4 a paper selection screen to allow the user to select the paper to be used for printing. The processor 50 creates a paper selection screen based on the paper setting information stored in the paper setting table 541. The processor 50 sets the paper selected by the user on the paper selection screen as the paper to be used for the printing process.

[0049] The paper setting information stored in the paper setting table 541 is updated each time the paper set in the paper feed cassette 21 or the manual tray 22 is changed. For example, when a magnetic sheet is set in the manual tray of the digital multifunction machine 1, the paper setting table 541 is updated with the paper setting information as shown in FIG. 4. The update of the paper setting information stored in the paper setting table 541 is updated according to the setting operation by the user (staff member).

[0050] As an example, a staff member who sets a magnetic sheet in the manual tray uses the operation panel 4 to instruct that a magnetic sheet has been set in the manual tray. In this case, the system control unit 5 updates the paper setting of the magnetic sheet in the paper setting table 541 to "set", and updates the paper setting location to the manual tray. As a result, the paper setting information stored in the paper setting table 541 is updated with the paper setting information as shown in FIG. 4.

[0051] Note that the digital multifunction peripheral 1 may be provided with a media sensor for detecting the type of special paper set in a paper feeding location such as the paper feed cassette 21 or the manual feed tray 22. In this case, the system control unit 5 may update the paper setting information stored in the paper setting table 541 according to the detection result by the media sensor.

[0052] Also, when indicating the presence or absence of stock as "paper setting", the digital multifunction peripheral 1 may acquire information indicating the stock of special paper managed by an external device. In this case, the system control unit 5 may set the "paper setting" of the special paper with no stock managed by the external device to "out of stock". Further, the system control unit 5 may prevent the user from selecting the special paper with no stock.

[0053] FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 are diagrams showing a display example (first display example) of a paper selection screen based on the paper setting table 541 managed by the digital multifunction peripheral 1 as an image forming apparatus according to the embodiment. FIG. 5 shows a display example of the first page of the paper selection screen (first paper selection screen) displayed on the display unit 41 of the operation panel 4 when selecting special media (special paper) as the medium used for the printing process. The first paper selection screen shown in FIG. 5 displays an image area 101, a plurality of buttons 111-114 constituting a first group of button groups (first button group) 110, and other buttons (switching buttons) 102.

[0054] The image area 101 is a display area for displaying an image to be printed. An image set by the user as the printing target is displayed in the image area 101. Each of the buttons 111-114 of the first group (first group) 110 is a paper selection button for selecting the paper set in the digital multifunction peripheral 1. That is, on the first paper selection screen, the display unit 41 displays a paper selection button group for selecting the paper already set in the digital multifunction peripheral 1.

[0055] The other button 102 is a button for instructing to switch from the first paper selection screen that displays the paper selection buttons of the first group to the second paper selection screen that displays the paper selection buttons of the second group. The first group of paper selection buttons 111 - 114 displayed on the first paper selection screen are buttons for selecting the papers already set in the digital multifunction machine 1. Therefore, it can also be said that the other button 102 is a button for instructing to display the paper selection buttons (the paper selection buttons of the second group) for selecting the unset papers. That is, the other button 102 is a switching button for instructing to switch the paper selection buttons displayed on the paper selection screen.

[0056] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the display of the second - page paper selection screen (the second paper selection screen) displayed on the display unit 41 when selecting special paper as the medium used for the printing process. The second paper selection screen shown in FIG. 6 displays an image area 101, a plurality of buttons 121 - 123 that constitute a second group of button groups (the second button group) 120, and a return button (switching button) 103.

[0057] The image area 101 is a display area for displaying the image to be printed, similar to the first paper selection screen shown in FIG. 5. The buttons 120 of the second group (the second group) include a plurality of buttons 121 - 123. The buttons 121 - 123 are paper selection buttons for selecting the papers not set in the digital multifunction machine 1. The display unit 41 displays, on the second paper selection screen, the paper selection buttons 121 - 123 for selecting the papers not set in the digital multifunction machine 1 as the second group of buttons 120.

[0058] The return button 103 is a button that instructs to switch the second paper selection screen that displays the second group of paper selection buttons to the first paper selection screen that displays the first group of paper selection buttons. The second group of paper selection buttons 121-123 displayed on the second paper selection screen are buttons for selecting papers not set in the digital multi-function peripheral 1. Therefore, it can also be said that the return button 103 is a button that instructs to display the paper selection buttons (the first group of paper selection buttons) for selecting the set papers. That is, the return button 103 is a switching button that instructs to switch the paper selection buttons displayed on the paper selection screen.

[0059] The digital multi-function peripheral 1 according to the embodiment first displays a first paper selection screen that displays the first group of paper selection buttons on the display unit 41. The digital multi-function peripheral 1 switches the paper selection screen displayed on the display unit 41 to a second paper selection screen that displays the second group of paper selection buttons according to the user's operation instruction.

[0060] By first displaying the first paper selection screen, it becomes easier for the user to select the first group of paper selection buttons. Also, in order to display the second paper selection screen, an operation instruction by the user in the state where the first paper selection screen is displayed is required. Therefore, it becomes difficult for the user to indicate the second group of paper selection buttons for selecting the unset papers. That is, the digital multi-function peripheral 1 can guide the user so that the first group of paper selection buttons for selecting the set papers are preferentially selected. By making it difficult to select the unset papers that require paper replenishment, the service provider can reduce the labor of replenishing special papers in the digital multi-function peripheral, and the user can also reduce the waiting time for replenishment.

[0061] Note that the paper selection screen for special papers displayed by the digital multi-function peripheral 1 is not limited to the first display example shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. That is, the digital multi-function peripheral 1 is not limited to switching the first paper selection screen displayed first to the next paper selection screen (second paper selection screen) according to the user's instruction to the switching button. Hereinafter, as other display examples of the paper selection screen, the second and third display examples will be described.

[0062] Figures 7 and 8 are diagrams showing a second display example of the paper selection screen. The second display example shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 is an example in which a scroll bar 201 for switching paper selection buttons displayed on the paper selection screen for special paper is displayed. The paper selection screen shown in FIG. 7 has a configuration in which the scroll bar 201 is displayed instead of the other button 102 on the first paper selection screen of FIG. 5 described above. In the paper selection screen shown in FIG. 7, the scroll bar 201 is displayed upward, and the first group of paper selection buttons 111-114 are displayed as paper selection buttons.

[0063] Also, the paper selection screen shown in FIG. 8 has a configuration in which the scroll bar 201 is displayed instead of the back button 103 on the second paper selection screen of FIG. 6 described above. In the paper selection screen shown in FIG. 8, the scroll bar 201 is displayed downward, and the second group of paper selection buttons 121-123 are displayed as paper selection buttons.

[0064] The paper selection screen displayed as the second display example is first displayed in the display state shown in FIG. 7. That is, the paper selection screen of the second display example is first controlled to display the first group of paper selection buttons 111-114. Also, the paper selection screen of the second display example is controlled to change the paper selection buttons displayed according to the movement of the scroll bar 201 by user operation.

[0065] The scroll bar 201 shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 transitions upward or downward according to user operation. For example, when the scroll bar 201 changes from the state of FIG. 7 to the state of FIG. 8, the paper selection buttons displayed on the paper selection screen switch from the first group of buttons to the second group of buttons. For example, when the scroll bar 201 is moved downward, the paper selection buttons displayed on the paper selection screen are gradually replaced from the first group of buttons to the second group of buttons. As illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8, the paper selection buttons displayed on the paper selection screen may gradually transition from the first group of buttons to the second group of buttons according to the user's instruction.

[0066] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a third display example of the paper selection screen. The third display example shown in FIG. 9 is an example of a paper selection screen for special paper that is displayed so that the buttons in the first group are easier to select preferentially than the buttons in the second group. In the paper selection screen of the third display example shown in FIG. 9, the paper selection buttons 311-314 in the first group are displayed larger than the paper selection buttons 321-323 in the second group. According to the paper selection screen shown in FIG. 9, the paper selection buttons in the first group that are displayed larger can be displayed so that they are more likely to be selected preferentially than the paper selection buttons in the second group. Also, the paper selection buttons 311-314 in the first group and the paper selection buttons 321-323 in the second group may be displayed in different colors or different densities. That is, as the paper selection screen of the third display example, it is displayed in a display state where the paper selection buttons in the first group are more likely to be selected preferentially than the paper selection buttons in the second group.

[0067] As illustrated in FIGS. 5 to 9, the digital multifunction peripheral according to the embodiment displays on the display unit a paper selection screen that makes it easier to select the set paper. As a result, the digital multifunction peripheral can provide a user interface that allows the user to freely select special paper while preferentially considering the set special paper that does not require new replenishment.

[0068] Next, the operation of the printing process using special paper by the digital multifunction peripheral 1 as the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining an operation example of the printing process using special paper by the digital multifunction peripheral 1 as the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment. Here, it is assumed that the digital multifunction peripheral 1 is installed in a store such as a convenience store. In such an operation mode, the replenishment work of replenishing the digital multifunction peripheral 1 with special paper is carried out by a store clerk or the like. The user is assumed to specify the operation mode for printing an image on special paper using the operation panel 4 of the digital multifunction peripheral 1.

[0069] The processor 50 of the system control unit 5 in the digital multi-function device 1 sets an operation mode for printing on special paper according to a user instruction on the operation panel 4. When the processor 50 sets the operation mode for printing on special paper, it performs a process of setting an image to be printed (print target image).

[0070] The processor 50 of the system control unit 5 acquires an image group that is a candidate for the print target image according to a user operation, and displays the acquired image group on the display unit 41 (ACT11). For example, the processor 50 may acquire the image group stored in the storage device 54 as a candidate for the print target image. Further, the processor 50 may acquire a candidate for the print target image from a specific server communicatively connected via the communication I / F 55. Moreover, the processor 50 may acquire a candidate for the print target image from a terminal device connected via an interface such as the communication I / F 55. Furthermore, the processor 50 may acquire the image of the document read by the scanner 2 as a candidate for the print target image according to a user operation.

[0071] When the processor 50 displays an image (image group) as a candidate for the print target image on the display unit 41, it accepts the designation of the print target image (ACT12). For example, the processor 50 detects, by the touch panel as the operation unit 42, the image selected by the user from the candidates displayed on the display unit 41. When the user designates the print target image (ACT12, YES), the processor 50 sets the image designated by the user as the print target image.

[0072] Also, when the processor 50 sets the operation mode for printing on special paper, it acquires the paper setting information in the digital multi-function device 1 (ACT13). For example, the processor 50 acquires the paper setting information regarding various papers from the paper setting table 541 provided in the storage device 54. Note that the paper setting table 541 may be provided in a server that can communicate via the communication I / F 55. In this case, the processor 50 may acquire the paper setting information from the paper setting table 541 in the server communicating via the communication I / F 55.

[0073] When the processor 50 acquires the paper setting information in the digital multifunction machine 1, it generates a paper selection screen for selecting the paper to be displayed on the display unit 41 (ACT14). For example, the processor 50 generates a paper selection screen having a configuration (layout) as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6.

[0074] Further, the processor 50 identifies the paper selection buttons in the first group (first group) to be first displayed on the paper selection screen based on the paper setting information of the digital multifunction machine 1. The paper selection buttons in the first group to be first displayed on the paper selection screen are buttons for selecting any special paper already set in the digital multifunction machine 1. The processor 50 identifies the special paper (already set special paper) set in the digital multifunction machine 1 based on the paper setting information. The processor 50 displays each paper selection button for selecting each already set special paper on the paper selection screen as the paper selection buttons in the first group (ACT15).

[0075] For example, when the processor 50 acquires the paper setting information shown in FIG. 3, it identifies the special paper (clear file, water-resistant paper, seal, cross paper) already set in each paper feed cassette 211-214 of the digital multifunction machine 1. In this case, as shown in FIG. 5, the processor 50 displays the paper selection buttons 111-114 for selecting each already set special paper (clear file, water-resistant paper, seal, cross paper). Note that the processor 50 also displays a switching button (for example, the other button 102) to be displayed together with the paper selection buttons 111-114 in the paper selection screen.

[0076] When the paper selection screen including the paper selection buttons in the first group is being displayed, the processor 50 accepts a selection instruction for any of the paper selection buttons (ACT16). For example, when the processor 50 displays the first paper selection screen shown in FIG. 5, it detects that any of the paper selection buttons 111-114 or the switching button (other button) 102 is instructed.

[0077] When any of the first group of paper selection buttons is instructed by the user (ACT16, YES), the processor 50 sets the paper corresponding to the instructed paper selection button (special paper) as the paper to be used for printing (ACT17). When the special paper for printing the image is set, the processor 50 executes a printing process of printing the print target image on the set special paper (ACT18). For example, when the paper selection button 111 shown in FIG. 5 is selected, the processor 50 executes a printing process of printing an image on a clear file.

[0078] Also, when a switching is instructed while the first group of paper selection buttons is being displayed (ACT16, NO), the processor 50 displays the second group of paper selection buttons on the paper selection screen instead of the first group of paper selection buttons (ACT19). For example, when the other button 102 shown in FIG. 5 is instructed, the processor 50 displays the second group of paper selection buttons 120 on the paper selection screen instead of the first group of paper selection buttons 110. In this case, the processor 50 identifies the special papers not set in the digital multifunction machine 1 based on the paper setting information, excluding the special papers not supported by the digital multifunction machine 1. When the processor 50 identifies each unset special paper, the processor 50 displays each paper selection button for selecting each unset special paper as the second group of buttons on the paper selection screen.

[0079] For example, the processor 50 identifies the special papers (magnet sheet, paper file, OHP) not set in the digital multifunction machine 1 excluding the non - supported ones according to the paper setting information in the paper setting table 541 shown in FIG. 3. In this case, as shown in FIG. 6, the processor 50 displays the paper selection buttons 121 - 123 for selecting each unset special paper (magnet sheet, paper file, OHP). Here, the processor 50 displays a return button (switching button) 103 for instructing the switching of the screen (paper selection buttons to be displayed) on the paper selection screen together with the second group of paper selection buttons 121 - 123.

[0080] When the processor 50 displays a paper selection screen including the second group of paper selection buttons and receives a selection instruction for any of the paper selection buttons (ACT20). For example, when the processor 50 displays the second paper selection screen shown in FIG. 6, it detects that any of the paper selection buttons 121 - 123 or the back button (switching button) 103 is instructed.

[0081] When a switching is instructed during the display of the second group of paper selection buttons (ACT20, NO), the processor 50 returns to ACT15. In this case, the processor 50 causes the display unit 41 to display the first group of paper selection buttons instead of the second group of paper selection buttons on the paper selection screen.

[0082] Also, when any of the second group of paper selection buttons is instructed by the user (ACT20, YES), the processor 50 displays a warning indicating that the staff needs to replenish the selected special paper (ACT21). The processor 50 determines whether the user approves of the replenishment work of the special paper by the staff (ACT22).

[0083] Here, the processor 50 is assumed to display a warning indicating that the staff needs to replenish the special paper and request confirmation from the user. For example, the processor 50 causes the display unit 41 to display a display screen that requests a selection of "OK" or "Cancel" along with a warning indicating that the staff needs to replenish the special paper. The user is to instruct "OK" when approving the replenishment work of the special paper by the staff and instruct "Cancel" when canceling the instructed special paper.

[0084] When the cancellation of the selected special paper is instructed (ACT22, NO), the processor 50 returns to ACT15 and causes the display unit 41 to display a paper selection screen that displays the first group of buttons. Note that when the cancellation of the selected special paper is instructed, the processor 50 may return to ACT19 and display a paper selection screen that displays the second group of buttons.

[0085] When the processor 50 is instructed by the staff to approve the replenishment operation of the special paper (ACT22, YES), it sends a notice to request the staff to replenish (set) the selected special paper (ACT23). The processor 50 sends a notice requesting the replenishment of the special paper to the preset notification destination.

[0086] For example, when a cash register terminal for settlement processing operated by a staff member (store clerk) is connected via the communication I / F 55, the processor 50 sends a notice requesting the replenishment of the special paper to the cash register terminal. Also, the processor 50 may send a notice requesting the replenishment of the special paper to a handy terminal carried by a staff member (store clerk) that can communicate via the communication I / F 55. Further, the processor 50 may be connected to the in-store broadcast system via the communication I / F 55 and output a notice requesting the replenishment of the special paper as an audio through the in-store broadcast system.

[0087] After requesting the replenishment of the special paper, the processor 50 waits for the replenished special paper to be set in any of the paper feed locations (paper feed cassette or manual feed tray) (ACT24). For example, when the staff receives a notice requesting the replenishment of the special paper, the staff performs a replenishment operation to replenish the special paper requested for replenishment to the paper feed location of the digital multifunction machine 1. After setting the designated special paper in the paper feed cassettes 211 - 214 or the manual feed tray 22, the staff instructs the update of the paper setting information using the operation panel 4.

[0088] In response to the update instruction of the paper setting information after the staff sets the special paper, the processor 50 updates the paper setting table 541. For example, when replenishing the magnet sheet in the manual feed tray 22, the paper setting table 541 is updated in response to the update instruction of the paper setting information on the operation panel 4. As a result, as shown in FIG. 4, information (paper setting information) indicating that the magnet sheet is already set in the manual feed tray 22 is stored in the paper setting table 541.

[0089] When the paper setting information is updated, the processor 50 proceeds to ACT17 and sets the selected (replenished) paper (special paper) as the paper (medium) to be used for printing. When a special paper for printing an image is set, the processor 50 executes a printing process of printing the image to be printed on the set special paper (ACT18). Thereby, the digital multifunction peripheral can print an image on the special paper replenished by the staff member.

[0090] As described above, the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment acquires paper setting information indicating the special paper set at the paper supply location. The image forming apparatus preferentially displays, on the display unit, a first group of paper selection buttons for selecting the set special paper identified based on the paper setting information. Further, the image forming apparatus displays, on the paper selection screen, a second group of media selection buttons for selecting unset special papers in response to an operation instruction of the user for switching the display of the paper selection buttons.

[0091] Thereby, the image forming apparatus can make it possible to preferentially select the set special paper and also make it possible to select the unset special paper according to the operation of the user. That is, the image forming apparatus can prompt the selection of the special paper that does not require a replenishment operation while accepting the selection of the special paper that respects the user's intention. As a result, according to the image forming apparatus, it is possible to reduce the trouble such as the replenishment operation of the special paper.

[0092] Although some embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are included in the invention described in the claims and the equivalent scope thereof.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0093] 1... Digital multi-function device (image forming apparatus), 2... Scanner, 3... Printer, 4... Operation panel, 5... System control unit (controller), 21(211, 212, 213, 214)... Paper cassette (supply unit), 22... Manual feed tray (supply unit), 23... Conveyor system (conveying mechanism), 41... Display unit (display device), 42... Operation unit (input device), 50... Processor, 51... Memory, 52... Image memory, 53... Image processing unit, 54... Storage device, 55... Communication interface, 541... Paper (medium) setting table.

Claims

1. A display device, an input device that detects an input instruction, a supply unit that supplies a set medium, a controller that acquires medium setting information indicating the medium set in the supply unit, and displays on the display device by distinguishing a first group of medium selection buttons for selecting the medium set in the supply unit and a second group of medium selection buttons for selecting a medium not set in the supply unit, a printer that prints an image on the medium indicated by the instructed medium selection button when the input device detects that any one button has been instructed from the first group of medium selection buttons or the second group of medium selection buttons displayed on the display device, An image forming apparatus comprising:

2. Further comprising a communication interface for communicating with an external device, When the second group of medium selection buttons is instructed, the controller transmits, via the communication interface, a notification requesting that the medium indicated by the instructed medium selection button be set in the supply unit, and prints an image using the printer after the medium indicated by the instructed medium selection button is set in the supply unit. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

3. When switching of the displayed medium selection buttons is instructed in a state where the first group of medium selection buttons indicating the medium set in the supply unit are displayed on the display device, the controller displays the second group of medium selection buttons on the display device. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

4. Further comprising a memory for storing medium setting information indicating the medium set in the supply unit, The controller acquires the medium setting information indicating the medium set in the supply unit from the memory. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

5. Further, it has a communication interface for communicating with an external device, and the controller acquires medium setting information indicating the medium set in the supply unit from an external device that communicates via the communication interface. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

Images