Information processing device, information processing system, information processing method, information processing program, image forming system, image forming method and image forming program

Abstract

To enable a paper profile set on a tray to be reused.SOLUTION: A control part of an image forming device (an information processing device) sets paper profiles whose items are selected by a user, on respective / each trays selected by the user (a step S21). The control part makes a RAM (an association memorizing part) memorize the paper profiles and identification information for identifying the trays storing papers, while associating the profiles with the information. The control part receives selection of at least either of the paper profiles and the identification information, and registers at least either of the received paper profiles and the received identification while associating the either to the tray. When registering a correspondence relation between the tray used in a job and profiles collectively for instance (a step S24; YES), combinations of tray numbers of all trays used in a job and profile numbers of profiles set on the trays are registered collectively while being associated with parent profile names (a step S26).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] In production printing, higher quality than office printing is required. Therefore, in production printing, by finely setting the printing conditions for each sheet of paper, it is possible to cope with the diversification of paper types without degrading the print quality. Since the appropriate printing conditions vary for each sheet of paper, it may take several hours even for a skilled operator to narrow down the settings suitable for the paper. Therefore, setting the printing conditions every time printing is performed is very inefficient.

[0003] Therefore, a technique has been proposed in which the printing conditions narrowed down by the user are stored as a paper profile in the main body of the image forming apparatus and called as needed (see Patent Document 1). With this technique, it becomes possible to reuse the printing conditions once narrowed down for a sheet of paper, and the efficiency is improved in setting the printing conditions.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, the ideal printing conditions vary depending on the tray in which the paper is loaded. For example, in the case of a three-stage paper feed tray, due to differences in the conveyance path and the like, the ideal paper feed conditions are different between the uppermost tray and the lowermost tray. Therefore, when a skilled operator calls and sets the refined printing conditions for the paper supplied from a specific tray, and an unskilled operator calls and sets them for a different tray, the expected quality may not be obtained, and there is a risk of reprinting.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems in the prior art, and an object thereof is to make the paper profile set for a tray reusable.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] In order to solve the above problems, the invention according to claim 1 includes a correspondence storage unit that stores, in association with each other, a paper profile and identification information for identifying a tray that houses the paper, a reception unit that receives at least one selection of the paper profile and the identification information, and a registration unit that registers at least one of the received paper profile and the identification information in association with a tray. The invention is an information processing apparatus.

[0008] The invention according to claim 2 is the information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the registration unit registers the paper profile and the tray corresponding to the identification information in association with each other based on the association between the paper profile and the identification information stored in the correspondence storage unit.

[0009] The invention according to claim 3 is the information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the registration unit identifies the tray corresponding to the identification information based on at least one of the received paper profile and the identification information, and sets at least one of the received paper profile and the identification information for the identified tray.

[0010] The invention according to claim 4 is the information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein there are a plurality of sets of the paper profile and the identification information stored in association with the association storage unit, and the registration unit registers by associating at least one of the received plurality of the paper profiles and the identification information with each tray.

[0011] The invention according to claim 5 is the information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a calling unit that calls at least one of the paper profile and the identification information to the tray by receiving at least one of the paper profile and the identification information registered in association with the tray by the registration unit.

[0012] The invention according to claim 6 is the information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the registration unit registers at least one of the paper profile and the identification information in association with information regarding a job when the paper profile and the identification information are stored in association with the association storage unit, or when the registration unit registers at least one of the paper profile and the identification information in association with the tray.

[0013] The invention according to claim 7 is the information processing apparatus according to claim 6, further comprising a calling unit that calls at least one of the paper profile and the identification information to the tray by receiving the information regarding the job registered by the registration unit.

[0014] The invention according to claim 8 is the information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the paper profile is a profile associating the paper with an attribute of the paper read by the sensor unit.

[0015] The invention according to claim 9 is the information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the registration unit stores the paper profile and the identification information in the association storage unit in an associated manner, or when the registration unit registers at least one of the paper profile and the identification information in association with the tray, the registration unit registers at least one of the paper profile and the identification information in association with the tray based on a conveyance path along which the paper is conveyed at that time.

[0016] The invention according to claim 10 is the information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the registration unit associates at least one of the received paper profile and the identification information with the tray, the registration unit registers the information in association with the registrant.

[0017] The invention according to claim 11 is the information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein after completion of a job executed in a state where the paper profile and the identification information are stored in the association storage unit in an associated manner, the registration unit registers at least one of the received paper profile and the identification information in association with the tray.

[0018] The invention according to claim 12 is the information processing apparatus according to claim 5 or 7, further comprising a notification unit that notifies to place, based on a call by the calling unit, the paper related to the paper profile or the paper related to the paper profile corresponding to the identification information in the tray.

[0019] An information processing apparatus includes an association storage unit that stores first information associating a paper profile with identification information for identifying a tray that houses the paper; a reception unit that receives a selection of the first information stored in the association storage unit; and a registration unit that, for the first information received by the reception unit, associates and registers the paper profile included in the first information with the tray corresponding to the identification information included in the first information.

[0020] The invention according to claim 14 is the information processing apparatus according to claim 13, wherein there are a plurality of pieces of the first information stored in the association storage unit, and the registration unit registers at least two or more pieces of the first information as the second information.

[0021] The invention according to claim 15 is the information processing apparatus according to claim 14, further comprising a calling unit that, by receiving the first information registered by the registration unit, calls the paper profile included in the received first information for the tray corresponding to the identification information included in the first information.

[0022] The invention according to claim 16 is the information processing apparatus according to claim 14, further comprising a calling unit that, by receiving the second information registered by the registration unit, calls the paper profile included in each of the first information included in the received second information for the tray corresponding to the identification information included in the first information.

[0023] The invention according to claim 17 is an information processing system including an association storage unit that stores in association a paper profile and identification information for identifying a tray for storing paper, a reception unit that receives at least one selection of the paper profile and the identification information, and a registration unit that registers at least one of the received paper profile and the identification information in association with the tray.

[0024] The invention according to claim 18 is an information processing method including a step of storing in an association storage unit in association a paper profile and identification information for identifying a tray for storing paper, a step of receiving at least one selection of the paper profile and the identification information, and a step of registering at least one of the received paper profile and the identification information in association with the tray.

[0025] The invention according to claim 19 is an information processing program for causing a computer that controls an information processing apparatus to execute the information processing method according to claim 18.

[0026] The invention according to claim 20 is an image forming system having an image forming unit that forms an image on a sheet, an associative storage unit that stores, in association with each other, a sheet profile and identification information for identifying a tray that houses the sheet, a reception unit that receives a selection of at least one of the sheet profile and the identification information, and a registration unit that registers at least one of the received sheet profile and the identification information in association with a tray.

[0027] The invention according to claim 21 is the image forming system according to claim 20, wherein there are a plurality of sets of the sheet profile and the identification information stored in association with the associative storage unit, and the registration unit registers at least one of the received plurality of sheet profiles and the identification information in association with each tray.

[0028] The invention according to claim 22 is the image forming system according to claim 20, further comprising a calling unit that calls at least one of the sheet profile and the identification information for the tray by receiving at least one of the sheet profile and the identification information registered in association with the tray by the registration unit.

[0029] The invention according to claim 23 is an image forming method in an image forming apparatus having an image forming unit that forms an image on a sheet, the method including a step of storing, in an associative storage unit, in association with each other, a sheet profile and identification information for identifying a tray that houses the sheet, a step of receiving a selection of at least one of the sheet profile and the identification information, and a step of registering at least one of the received sheet profile and the identification information in association with a tray.

[0030] The invention according to claim 24 is an image forming program for causing a computer that controls the image forming apparatus to execute the image forming method according to claim 23.

Advantages of the Invention

[0031] According to the present invention, the paper profile set for the tray can be reused.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0032]

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[0033] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments or drawings.

[0034] [First Embodiment] First, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0035] (Configuration of Image Forming System) FIG. 1 is a system configuration diagram of an image forming system 100 (information processing system) in the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming system 100 includes an image forming apparatus 10 (information processing apparatus), a controller 20, a cloud server 30, and a personal computer (PC) 40. Each apparatus constituting the image forming system 100 is connected via a communication network N such as a LAN (Local Area Network) or the Internet. Further, the image forming apparatus 10 and the controller 20 are connected via a dedicated line L for transmitting and receiving data.

[0036] The image forming apparatus 10 forms an image on a sheet based on image data. For example, the image forming apparatus 10 executes a copy job, a print job, etc.

[0037] The controller 20 receives print data created by various application softwares from a PC 40 or the like. The controller 20 performs RIP (Raster Image Processor) processing on the print data and converts it into raster data. The controller 20 outputs the raster data to the image forming apparatus 10.

[0038] The cloud server 30 is a server provided in a cloud environment. The cloud server 30 stores data and the like generated by the image forming apparatus 10.

[0039] The PC 40 runs various applications for creating print data. The PC 40 runs a program for outputting print data, such as a printer driver. Based on a user's operation, the PC 40 accepts settings for a print job to be executed by the image forming apparatus 10 and outputs the print data to the controller 20.

[0040] (Configuration of the image forming apparatus) As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming apparatus 10 includes a control unit 11, a random access memory (RAM) 12, a storage unit 13, a communication unit 14, an operation unit 15, a display unit 16, an image forming unit 17, an image reading unit 18, a paper feeding unit 19, a media sensor 50, and the like.

[0041] The control unit 11 includes a central processing unit (CPU) and the like. The control unit 11 reads out various programs stored in the storage unit 13 and expands them in the RAM 12, and performs various processes in cooperation with the programs.

[0042] The RAM 12 temporarily stores various programs, various data, parameters, etc. read from the storage unit 13 in various processes executed by the control unit 11.

[0043] The storage unit 13 is a storage device composed of a hard disk, a non-volatile semiconductor memory, etc. For example, various programs, parameters and data necessary for executing various programs are stored in the storage unit 13. Also, data generated in various processes is stored in the storage unit 13.

[0044] The communication unit 14 transmits and receives data to and from an external device connected via a communication network N or a dedicated line L.

[0045] The operation unit 15 receives operation instructions from the user. The operation unit 15 includes numeric input keys, various function keys, a touch screen laminated on the display unit 16, etc. The operation unit 15 outputs an operation signal corresponding to each key to the control unit 11. The operation unit 15 outputs an operation signal corresponding to the position of a touch operation on the touch screen to the control unit 11.

[0046] The display unit 16 includes a liquid crystal display (LCD), etc. The display unit 16 displays various screens according to an instruction of a display signal from the control unit 11.

[0047] The image forming unit 17 forms a color image on paper based on image data corresponding to each color of yellow, magenta, cyan, and black, for example, by an electrophotographic method. The image data may be image data obtained by reading an image from a document, or image data received from an external device.

[0048] The image reading unit 18 includes an automatic document feeder (ADF), a scanner, etc. The image reading unit 18 outputs image data obtained by reading an image of a document to the control unit 11.

[0049] The paper feeding unit 19 supplies paper to the image forming unit 17. Fig. 2 shows a configuration example of the paper feeding unit 19 of the image forming apparatus 10. The paper feeding unit 19 includes a plurality of paper feeding trays T1 to T4, and feeds the paper accommodated in the paper feeding trays T1 to T4 to the image forming unit 17. In the paper feeding trays T1 to T4, various types or sizes of paper are accommodated for each paper feeding tray. In Fig. 2, the paper feeding tray T1 is provided at the upper stage of the paper feeding unit main body having a three-stage configuration. The paper feeding tray T2 is provided in the middle stage of the paper feeding unit main body. The paper feeding tray T3 is provided at the lower stage of the paper feeding unit main body. The paper feeding tray T4 is a manual feed tray. The paper accommodated in the paper feeding trays T1, T2, and T4 is bent in the vertical direction immediately after the conveyance starts in the substantially horizontal direction, and then bent again in the horizontal direction. On the other hand, since the paper accommodated in the paper feeding tray T3 is conveyed in the substantially horizontal direction, it is hardly bent and is supplied to the image forming unit 17. Hereinafter, the "paper feeding tray" may be simply referred to as a "tray".

[0050] The media sensor 50 (sensor unit) reads the attributes of the paper and outputs the obtained attribute data to the control unit 11. The media sensor 50 is provided, for example, on the path where the paper is conveyed from the paper feeding unit 19 to the image forming unit 17 as shown in Fig. 2. The media sensor 50 is composed of various sensors including a paper thickness sensor, a basis weight sensor, a surface property sensor, etc. The paper thickness sensor measures the thickness of the paper by detecting the axial position of the driven roller that is displaced according to the thickness of the paper when the paper is conveyed by the nip of the pair of conveying rollers. The basis weight sensor is a transmissive optical sensor, and measures the basis weight of the paper by detecting the attenuation amount (transmittance) of the light transmitted through the paper. The surface property sensor is a reflective optical sensor, and measures the surface property of the paper by detecting the specularly reflected light and the diffusely reflected light from the paper surface. Further, the media sensor 50 may include a color sensor for detecting the color of the paper, an optical sensor for detecting the size of the paper, etc.

[0051] The control unit 11 associates a paper profile with identification information (tray identification information) for identifying the tray that accommodates the paper, and stores it in the RAM 12 (association storage unit). The RAM 12 can store a plurality of sets in which paper profiles and tray identification information are associated with each other.

[0052] The paper profile includes a profile that associates paper with the attributes of the paper read by the media sensor 50. The paper profile includes items such as a paper ID, a paper name, a paper type, a paper size, a basis weight, a paper color, a punch, a front / back adjustment, and printing conditions. The "paper ID" is identification information for identifying paper. The "paper name" is the name of the paper. The "paper type" is set from plain paper, high-quality paper, color paper, coated paper, etc. The "paper size" is set from A3, A4, A5, B4, B5, an irregular size (any size input by the user), etc. The "basis weight" is 62 - 74 g / m 2 、75 - 80 g / m 2 、81 - 91 g / m 2 、92 - 105 g / m 2 and is set from etc. The "paper color" is information indicating the color of the paper. The "paper color" is set from white, blue, green, red, yellow, gray, etc. For "punch", it is set whether the paper has punch holes. For "front / back adjustment", adjustment values such as magnification, shift, and skew for each of the front and back sides of the paper during double-sided printing are set. For "printing conditions", adjustment values such as paper feeding, density, transfer, and fixing are set.

[0053] The control unit 11 (reception unit) receives at least one selection of the paper profile and the tray identification information stored in the RAM 12. That is, the control unit 11 may receive a selection of the paper profile, may receive a selection of the tray identification information, or may receive a selection of the paper profile and the tray identification information.

[0054] The control unit 11 (registration unit) registers at least one of the selected paper profile and tray identification information by associating it with the tray.

[0055] In the RAM 12, the paper profile and the tray identification information are stored in association with each other. Therefore, if the user selects a paper profile, the control unit 11 can also acquire the tray identification information from the correspondence relationship stored in the RAM 12. Conversely, if the user selects the tray identification information, the control unit 11 can also acquire the paper profile from the correspondence relationship stored in the RAM 12.

[0056] Based on the association between the paper profile and the tray identification information stored in the RAM 12, the control unit 11 registers by associating the tray corresponding to the paper profile and the tray identification information.

[0057] The control unit 11 identifies the tray corresponding to the tray identification information based on at least one of the selected paper profile and tray identification information. The control unit 11 sets at least one of the selected paper profile and tray identification information for the identified tray. Specifically, when the paper profile is selected, the control unit 11 refers to the correspondence relationship between the paper profile and the tray identification information stored in the RAM 12, acquires the tray identification information associated with the paper profile, and identifies the tray corresponding to the tray identification information. When the tray identification information is selected, the control unit 11 identifies the tray corresponding to the tray identification information.

[0058] After the completion of the job executed with the paper profile and the tray identification information stored in association with each other in the RAM 12, the control unit 11 registers by associating at least one of the selected paper profile and tray identification information with the tray.

[0059] The control unit 11 (calling unit) calls at least one of the paper profile and the tray identification information for the tray by receiving at least one of the paper profile and the tray identification information registered in association with the tray.

[0060] The control unit 11 stores, in the RAM 12 (association storage unit), first information associating a paper profile with identification information (tray identification information) for identifying a tray that houses the paper. A plurality of pieces of first information can be stored in the RAM 12. The control unit 11 (reception unit) receives a selection of the first information stored in the RAM 12. The control unit 11 (registration unit) registers, for the selected first information, by associating, with the tray corresponding to the tray identification information included in the first information, the paper profile included in the first information.

[0061] (Configuration of the controller) As shown in FIG. 1, the controller 20 includes a control unit 21, a RAM 22, a storage unit 23, a communication unit 24, an operation unit 25, a display unit 26, and the like.

[0062] The control unit 21 includes a CPU and the like. The control unit 21 reads out various programs stored in the storage unit 23 and expands them in the RAM 22, and performs various processes in cooperation with the programs.

[0063] The RAM 22 temporarily stores various programs, various data, parameters, and the like read out from the storage unit 23 in various processes executed by the control unit 21.

[0064] The storage unit 23 is a storage device constituted by a hard disk, a non-volatile semiconductor memory, or the like. For example, the storage unit 23 stores various programs, parameters, and data necessary for executing the various programs.

[0065] The communication unit 24 transmits and receives data to and from an external device connected via a communication network N or a dedicated line L.

[0066] The operation unit 25 receives operation instructions from the user. The operation unit 25 includes a keyboard, a mouse, etc. The keyboard includes cursor keys, character input keys, various function keys, etc. The operation unit 25 outputs an operation signal corresponding to a key operation on the keyboard to the control unit 21. The operation unit 25 outputs an operation signal corresponding to a mouse operation to the control unit 21.

[0067] The display unit 26 includes a monitor such as an LCD. The display unit 26 displays various screens according to the instruction of the display signal from the control unit 21.

[0068] Note that, as the operation unit 25 and the display unit 26 of the controller 20, the operation unit and the display unit of the PC 40 may be used. Also, as the operation unit 25 and the display unit 26 of the controller 20, the operation unit 15 and the display unit 16 of the image forming apparatus 10 may be used.

[0069] (Operation of the image forming system) Next, the operation in the image forming system 100 will be described.

[0070] <Profile registration process> Figure 3 is a flowchart showing the profile registration process executed in the image forming apparatus 10. The profile registration process is a process of registering the correspondence relationship between the paper feed tray and the paper profile temporarily stored in the RAM 12 in the storage unit 13.

[0071] The user selects each item of the paper profile for a specific paper feed tray of the paper feed unit 19 by an operation from the operation unit 15. Hereinafter, the "paper profile" may also be simply referred to as the "profile". The control unit 11 sets a profile in which each item is selected by the user for the tray selected by the user (step S1). Specifically, the control unit 11 stores the data of the set profile in the RAM 12. Here, regarding the attributes of the paper among the profiles, data obtained by previously reading the paper with the media sensor 50 may be used. Further, the control unit 11 stores in the RAM 12 in association with each other the identification information (tray No.) of the tray in which the profile is set and the identification information (profile No.) of the profile. Here, the RAM 12 stores the profile and the tray identification information in association with each other.

[0072] FIG. 4A shows an example of the tray setting status table 121 stored in the RAM 12. In FIG. 4A, in the tray setting status table 121, the profile of profile No. 3 is associated with the tray of tray No. 4. The information associating the profile and the tray identification information stored in the tray setting status table 121 is the "first information".

[0073] Next, the user instructs the operation unit 15 to execute a job. In response to the execution instruction, the control unit 11 causes the image forming unit 17 to execute the job based on the set profile (printing conditions, etc.) using the paper stored in the tray selected by the user (step S2).

[0074] The control unit 11 determines whether the job has been completed (step S3). If the job has not been completed (step S3; NO), the process returns to step S2. The control unit 11 continues the job.

[0075] In step S3, when the job is completed (step S3; YES), the control unit 11 proceeds to step S4. In step S4, the control unit 11 associates and registers the tray No. of the tray used in the job with the profile No. of the profile set in the tray (step S4). That is, the control unit 11 registers the correspondence relationship stored in the RAM 12 in step S1 in the storage unit 13. Further, the control unit 11 also stores the profile data including the setting contents of the profile in the storage unit 13.

[0076] FIG. 4B shows an example of the profile registration table 131 stored in the storage unit 13. In FIG. 4B, in the profile registration table 131, the profile of profile No. 3 is associated with the tray of tray No. 4. No tray is associated with the profiles of profile Nos. other than profile No. 3. The above completes the profile registration process.

[0077] Note that the data of the tray setting status table 121 temporarily stored in the RAM 12 and the profile data are erased when the power of the image forming apparatus 10 is turned off, when the paper setting for the tray is changed, etc. On the other hand, the data of the profile registration table 131 stored in the storage unit 13 and the profile data are retained non-volatily even when the power of the image forming apparatus 10 is turned off.

[0078] Also, in the profile registration process (see FIG. 3), since the tray settings used in the job are the registration targets, the step of selecting "at least one of the paper profile and the tray identification information" to be registered is omitted. That is, the combination of the profile and the tray set in step S1 is treated as automatically selected. When a plurality of correspondence relationships are set in step S1, the control unit 11 may determine the registration target in step S4 by allowing the user to select one or a plurality of correspondence relationships from the plurality of set correspondence relationships.

[0079] Note that in the profile registration process, the case where, after the job is completed, the control unit 11 registers by associating the tray No. of the tray used in the job with the profile No. of the profile set in the tray has been described. Instead of this, when the paper setting or the like for the tray is not changed during job execution, the control unit 11 may register by associating the profile and the tray identification information stored in association with the RAM 12 before or during job execution. Further, even when the paper setting or the like for the tray is changed during job execution, the control unit 11 registers by associating the profile and the tray identification information stored in association with the RAM 12 before or during job execution, and after the job is executed, the tray No. of the tray used in the job and the profile No. of the profile set in the tray are associated and registered again. By doing so, finally, the same effect as the profile registration process can be obtained. The same applies to the batch registration process at the time of job completion (see FIG. 7) described later.

[0080] <Profile Call Process> FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the profile call process executed in the image forming apparatus 10. The profile call process is a process of calling data in which the paper feed tray and the paper profile are associated and registered in the storage unit 13.

[0081] The user selects any profile from the profiles registered in the storage unit 13 by an operation from the operation unit 15. Specifically, the control unit 11 causes the display unit 16 to display the profiles registered in the storage unit 13. The control unit 11 accepts the selection of the profile by the user (step S11).

[0082] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether the tray No. is associated with the profile No. of the selected profile in the profile registration table 131 (see FIG. 4B) of the storage unit 13 (step S12). For example, when the profile No. of the selected profile is "3", tray No. 4 is associated.

[0083] If the tray No. is associated with the profile No. of the selected profile (step S12; YES), the process proceeds to step S13. In step S13, the control unit 11 notifies the user of the tray corresponding to the tray No. associated with the profile No. of the selected profile as the recommended tray. For example, the control unit 11 causes the display unit 16 to display a message for notifying the recommended tray.

[0084] FIG. 6 shows an example of the recommended tray notification screen 161 displayed on the display unit 16. The recommended tray notification screen 161 includes a message area 161A, a "Call to Recommended Tray" button 161B, and a "Call to Selected Tray" button 161C. In the message area 161A, it is displayed that the recommended tray is tray 4 (the tray with tray No. 4). The "Call to Recommended Tray" button 161B is a button for instructing to call the selected profile to the recommended tray. The "Call to Selected Tray" button 161C is a button for instructing to call the selected profile to a tray other than the recommended tray.

[0085] After step S13, the control unit 11 determines whether to select the recommended tray as the setting destination of the selected profile (step S14). When the recommended tray is selected as the destination for the selected profile (step S14; YES), that is, when the "Call to Recommended Tray" button 161B on the recommended tray notification screen 161 is pressed, the process proceeds to step S15. In step S15, the control unit 11 calls the selected profile to the recommended tray. The control unit 11 acquires the data of the selected profile from the storage unit 13 and sets it for the recommended tray.

[0086] In step S12, if the tray No. is not associated with the profile No. of the selected profile (step S12; NO), the process proceeds to step S16. Also, in step S14, if the recommended tray is not selected as the destination for the selected profile (step S14; NO), the process proceeds to step S16. The fact that it is "NO" in step S14 corresponds to the case where the "Call to Selected Tray" button 161C on the recommended tray notification screen 161 is pressed. In step S16, the control unit 11 causes the display unit 16 to display a list of trays (in the case of "NO" in step S14, a list of trays other than the recommended tray) and accepts the selection of a tray by the user.

[0087] Next, the control unit 11 calls the selected profile to the selected tray (step S17). The control unit 11 acquires the data of the selected profile from the storage unit 13 and sets it for the selected tray. After step S15 or step S17, the profile call process ends.

[0088] As described above, according to the first embodiment, the control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 10 registers the paper profile in association with the tray. Thereby, the user does not need to select the tray every time for the paper profile to be used, and the labor of tray setting is reduced. Therefore, the control unit 11 can reuse the paper profile set for the tray.

[0089] Further, the control unit 11 receives a paper profile registered in association with a tray. Then, the control unit 11 calls the paper profile for the tray. The user does not need to consider the paper type, printing conditions, etc. for the tray every time. That is, the user can execute a job without associating the tray with the paper profile. In other words, it is possible to reproduce which paper profile was used for which tray by past users. Also, the paper profile adjusted for a specific tray is not accidentally called for another tray, improving the print quality. The control unit 11 can call the past tray setting state and reproduce a state with guaranteed quality.

[0090] Also, after the completion of the job, the control unit 11 registers at least one of the paper profile and the tray identification information in association with the tray. Thereby, the control unit 11 can register the correspondence relationship between the paper profile set in the job and the tray.

[0091] [Second Embodiment] Next, a second embodiment to which the present invention is applied will be described. In the second embodiment, a case will be described where states in which paper profiles are respectively set for a plurality of trays are collectively registered and the registered data is used later. Since the image forming system in the second embodiment has the same configuration as the image forming system 100 shown in the first embodiment, FIG. 1 is incorporated and detailed description is omitted. Hereinafter, the characteristic configuration and processing in the second embodiment will be described.

[0092] (Configuration of Image Forming Apparatus) The control unit 11 (registration unit) of the image forming apparatus 10 selects at least one of a plurality of paper profiles and tray identification information received from among a set of a plurality of paper profiles and tray identification information stored in the RAM 12, associates it with each tray, and registers it in the storage unit 13.

[0093] The control unit 11 (registration unit) registers, as second information, at least two or more pieces of first information for which selection has been received from among a plurality of pieces of first information (pairs of paper profiles and tray identification information) stored in the RAM 12.

[0094] The control unit 11 (calling unit) calls, for the received first information, the paper profile included in the first information for the tray corresponding to the tray identification information included in the first information by receiving the first information registered in the storage unit 13. The control unit 11 (calling unit) calls, for each piece of first information included in the received second information, the paper profile included in the first information for the tray corresponding to the tray identification information included in the first information by receiving the second information registered in the storage unit 13.

[0095] The control unit 11 (registration unit) registers at least one of the paper profile and the tray identification information in association with information regarding a job when the paper profile and the tray identification information are stored in the RAM 12 in a correlated manner. Alternatively, the control unit 11 may register at least one of the paper profile and the tray identification information in association with information regarding a job when at least one of the paper profile and the tray identification information is registered in association with a tray.

[0096] The control unit 11 (calling unit) calls at least one of the paper profile and the tray identification information for the tray by receiving the information regarding the job registered in the storage unit 13.

[0097] The control unit 11 (registration unit) registers the tray corresponding to the tray identification information and the paper profile in association with information regarding a job when the first information is stored in the RAM 12. Alternatively, the control unit 11 may register the tray corresponding to the tray identification information and the paper profile in association with information regarding a job when the paper profile is registered in association with the tray corresponding to the tray identification information.

[0098] The control unit 11 (calling unit) receives information about a job registered in the storage unit 13, and thereby calls up a paper profile for a tray corresponding to the tray identification information registered in association with the received information about the job.

[0099] Based on the call of data registered in the memory unit 13, the control unit 11 (notification unit) notifies the tray to place paper related to the called paper profile, or paper related to the paper profile corresponding to the called tray identification information.

[0100] (Operation of image forming system) Next, the operation of the image forming system in the second embodiment will be described.

[0101] <Bulk registration process when jobs are completed> 7 is a flowchart showing a batch registration process at job completion executed in the image forming apparatus 10. The batch registration process at job completion is a process that can collectively register, in the storage unit 13, a plurality of correspondences between paper feed trays and paper profiles that are temporarily stored in the RAM 12 upon completion of a job.

[0102] The user operates operation unit 15 to select each item of the profile for each tray to be set among the multiple trays in paper feed unit 19 . The control unit 11 sets a profile in which each item is selected by the user for each tray selected by the user (step S21). Specifically, the control unit 11 stores data of each set profile in the RAM 12. Here, for the paper attributes in the profile, data obtained by reading the paper in advance with the media sensor 50 may be used. The control unit 11 also associates the identification information (tray number) of the tray in which the profile is set with the identification information (profile number) of the profile, and stores each pair in the RAM 12.

[0103] FIG. 8A shows an example of a tray setting status table 122 stored in the RAM 12. In FIG. 8A, in the tray setting status table 122, the tray of tray No. 1 and the profile of profile No. 1 are associated with each other. The tray of tray No. 2 and the profile of profile No. 4 are associated with each other. The tray of tray No. 3 and the profile of profile No. 6 are associated with each other. The tray of tray No. 4 and the profile of profile No. 7 are associated with each other. The information for one row stored in the tray setting status table 122, that is, the information associating the profile and the tray identification information, is the "first information".

[0104] For example, in a job of creating a booklet, a cover profile, a main body profile, a back cover profile, an insert paper profile, etc. are set for each tray.

[0105] The user instructs the execution of the job from the operation unit 15. In response to the execution instruction, the control unit 11 causes the image forming unit 17 to execute the job (step S22) based on the profiles (printing conditions, etc.) set for each tray using the papers accommodated in each tray selected by the user.

[0106] The control unit 11 determines whether the job is completed (step S23). If the job is not completed (step S23; NO), the process returns to step S22. The control unit 11 continues the job.

[0107] In step S23, if the job is completed (step S23; YES), the control unit 11 determines whether to batch-register the correspondence between the trays and the profiles used in the job (step S24). For example, the control unit 11 causes the display unit 16 to display a message asking whether to batch-register the profile setting status for each tray during job execution. As described above, the control unit 11 may batch-register the profile setting status for each tray before or during job execution.

[0108] FIG. 9 shows an example of the batch registration confirmation screen 162 displayed on the display unit 16. The batch registration confirmation screen 162 includes a message area 162A, a YES button 162B, and a NO button 162C. In the message area 162A, a message for confirming whether to register the setting contents of each tray collectively is displayed. The YES button 162B is a button for instructing to register the setting contents of each tray collectively. That is, pressing the YES button 162B corresponds to selecting all of the correspondence relationships between the tray No. and the profile No. included in the tray setting status table 122 stored in the RAM 12. The NO button 162C is a button for instructing not to register the setting contents of each tray collectively.

[0109] In step S24, when registering collectively (step S24; YES), that is, when the YES button 162B of the batch registration confirmation screen 162 is pressed, the control unit 11 causes the display unit 16 to display the parent profile name input screen. Here, the "parent profile" is data obtained by collectively registering the profile setting statuses for each tray. The control unit 11 accepts the input of the parent profile name (step S25).

[0110] FIG. 10 shows an example of the parent profile name input screen 163 displayed on the display unit 16. The parent profile name input screen 163 includes a software keyboard area 163A and a parent profile name display area 163B. In the software keyboard area 163A, a keyboard for inputting numbers and characters is displayed. The user touches the software keyboard area 163A via the operation unit 15 (touch screen) to input the parent profile name. In the parent profile name display area 163B, the parent profile name input from the software keyboard area 163A is displayed.

[0111] Next, the control unit 11 collectively registers, in association with the parent profile name, the set of the tray No. of all the trays used in the job and the profile No. of the profile set in the tray (step S26). That is, the control unit 11 registers the plurality of correspondence relationships stored in the RAM 12 in step S21 in the storage unit 13 in association with the parent profile name. Further, the control unit 11 also stores in the storage unit 13 the profile data including the setting contents of each profile (the profile specified by the profile No.).

[0112] FIG. 8B shows an example of the parent profile registration table 132 stored in the storage unit 13. In the parent profile registration table 132, a parent profile including a plurality of sets of a tray No. and a profile No., a parent profile name, and a parent profile No. are associated with each other. In the parent profile registration table 132, each set of the tray No. and the profile No. set in a certain parent profile is "first information". The plurality of "first information" constituting a certain parent profile is "second information".

[0113] Next, the control unit 11 registers in the storage unit 13 in association with the job ID corresponding to the job executed in step S22 and the parent profile No. (step S27).

[0114] FIG. 8C shows an example of the job history table 133 stored in the storage unit 13. In the job history table 133, a parent profile No. and a job ID are associated with each other. For example, in FIG. 8C, the parent profile No. "1" and the job ID "6055" are associated with each other.

[0115] After step S27, or in step S24 when batch registration is not performed (step S24; NO), that is, when the NO button 162C of the batch registration confirmation screen 162 is pressed, the batch registration process at job completion ends.

[0116] In addition, in the batch registration process at the time of job completion (see Fig. 7), the control unit 11 explained the case of registering the parent profile after the job was completed. Instead of this, the control unit 11 may execute the job according to the settings of this parent profile after registering the contents set in step S1 as a parent profile all at once. That is, before executing the job, the control unit 11 may register a plurality of sets of a profile and tray identification information stored in association with the RAM 12 all at once. Further, the control unit 11 may register information regarding the job executed after the registration of the parent profile in association with the parent profile. Also, during the execution of the job, the control unit 11 may register a plurality of sets of a profile and tray identification information stored in association with the RAM 12 all at once.

[0117] <Manual batch registration process> Fig. 11 is a flowchart showing a manual batch registration process executed in the image forming apparatus 10. The manual batch registration process is a process capable of registering a plurality of correspondence relationships between a paper feed tray and a paper profile temporarily stored in the RAM 12 all at once in the storage unit 13 according to a user operation.

[0118] The process of step S31 is the same as the process of step S21 in the batch registration process at the time of job completion (see Fig. 7), so the description is omitted. In step S31, for example, as in the tray setting status table 122 shown in Fig. 8A, a plurality of sets of correspondence relationships between tray No. and profile No. are stored in the RAM 12.

[0119] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether to register the set correspondence relationship between the set tray and profile all at once (step S32). For example, the control unit 11 causes a batch registration button to be displayed on the paper setting screen displayed on the display unit 16.

[0120] FIG. 12 shows an example of a paper setting screen 164 displayed on the display unit 16. The paper setting screen 164 includes a batch registration button 164A. The batch registration button 164A is a button for instructing to register the setting contents of each tray collectively. When the user presses the batch registration button 164A, it is equivalent to selecting all of the plurality of corresponding relationships included in the tray setting status table 122 stored in the RAM 12.

[0121] In step S32, when batch registration is performed (step S32; YES), that is, when the batch registration button 164A on the paper setting screen 164 is pressed, the control unit 11 causes the display unit 16 to display a parent profile name input screen. The parent profile name input screen is the same as the parent profile name input screen 163 shown in FIG. 10. The control unit 11 accepts the input of the parent profile name (step S33).

[0122] Next, the control unit 11 collectively registers the set of the tray No. of all the set trays and the profile No. of the profile set in the tray in association with the parent profile name (step S34). That is, the control unit 11 registers the plurality of corresponding relationships stored in the RAM 12 in step S31 in the storage unit 13 in association with the parent profile name. Also, the control unit 11 causes the storage unit 13 to store the profile data including the setting contents of each profile.

[0123] The parent profile registration table in which data is registered in step S34 is the same as the parent profile registration table 132 shown in FIG. 8B.

[0124] After step S34, or in step S32, when batch registration is not performed (step S32; NO), the manual batch registration process ends.

[0125] <Automatic Call Processing> FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the automatic call process executed in the image forming apparatus 10. The automatic call process is a process of collectively reproducing the same tray settings as the job selected by the user from the jobs registered in the past.

[0126] At the time of job execution, the user selects a job ID at the controller 20 by operating the operation unit 25. The control unit 21 of the controller 20 notifies the image forming apparatus 10 of the selected job ID via the communication unit 24.

[0127] In the image forming apparatus 10, the control unit 11 receives the job ID selected at the controller 20 via the communication unit 14 (step S41). The "receiving of the job ID" in step S41 corresponds to the "receiving of information regarding the job", the "receiving of the parent profile (second information) associated with the job ID", and the "receiving of the paper profile and tray identification information (first information)".

[0128] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether or not data of the selected job ID exists in the job history table 133 (see FIG. 8C) stored in the storage unit 13 (step S42). If data of the selected job ID exists in the job history table 133 (step S42; YES), the process proceeds to step S43. In step S43, the control unit 11 acquires the parent profile No. associated with the selected job ID from the job history table 133 stored in the storage unit 13. For example, when the user selects the job ID "6055", the control unit 11 acquires the parent profile No. "1" associated with the selected job ID "6055" from the job history table 133.

[0129] Next, the control unit 11 calls each profile for each tray based on the set of tray No. and profile No. associated with the parent profile No. (step S44). For example, the control unit 11 refers to the parent profile registration table 132 (see FIG. 8B) stored in the storage unit 13, and acquires all sets of tray No. and profile No. associated with the parent profile No. "1". For each acquired set, the control unit 11 collectively sets the profile corresponding to the profile No. in the tray corresponding to the tray No.

[0130] Here, when the control unit 11 performs the collective setting, for the trays in which the setting has changed, the control unit 11 causes the display unit 16 to display a message prompting paper replacement (step S45).

[0131] FIG. 14 shows an example of the paper replacement instruction screen 165 displayed on the display unit 16. The paper replacement instruction screen 165 includes a message area 165A. In the message area 165A, it is displayed that the tray settings have been collectively changed, and the paper attributes (type, size, basis weight, etc.) before and after the change for each tray.

[0132] In step S42, if the data of the selected job ID does not exist in the job history table 133 (step S42; NO), the control unit 11 prompts for manual paper setting (step S46). For example, the control unit 11 causes the display unit 16 to display a screen for setting trays and profiles, and accepts operations from the operation unit 15. After step S45 or step S46, the automatic call process ends.

[0133] Note that on the PC 40 connected to the image forming apparatus 10 via the communication network N, a display indicating that each profile has been collectively set for each tray, or a display prompting paper replacement may be performed.

[0134] <Manual Call Process from Controller> FIG. 15 is a ladder chart showing the manual call processing from the controller executed in the image forming apparatus 10 and the controller 20. This processing is a process of collectively reproducing the tray settings based on the parent profile registered in the past according to the operation from the controller 20.

[0135] At the time of job execution, the user selects a job to be processed by operating the operation unit 25 in the controller 20. The job selected here is the job to be executed this time and is the job to be executed using the parent profile. The control unit 21 of the controller 20 acquires information indicating the selected job (step S51).

[0136] FIG. 16 shows an example of the tray setting screen 261 displayed on the display unit 26 of the controller 20. The tray setting screen 261 includes a batch tray setting call button 261A in addition to the setting areas for each item of the paper profile for each tray.

[0137] The user presses the batch tray setting call button 261A by operating the operation unit 25 in the controller 20. The control unit 21 of the controller 20 transmits information indicating that the batch tray setting call button 261A has been pressed to the image forming apparatus 10 via the communication unit 24 (step S52).

[0138] In the image forming apparatus 10, the control unit 11 refers to the parent profile registration table 132 (see FIG. 8B) stored in the storage unit 13 and extracts the registered parent profile names (step S53). Then, the control unit 11 transmits display data for displaying a list of the parent profile names to the controller 20 via the communication unit 14.

[0139] In the controller 20, the control unit 21 displays a list of the parent profile names on the display unit 26 (step S54).

[0140] FIG. 17 shows an example of a parent profile list screen 262 displayed on the display unit 26 of the controller 20. The parent profile list screen 262 includes a list area 262A, a "Set to Main Tray" button 262B, and the like. In the list area 262A, a list of the parent profile names registered in the storage unit 13 is displayed. When any one of the parent profile names is selected in the list area 262A, a detailed confirmation button 262C is displayed for the selected parent profile name. When the detailed confirmation button 262C is pressed, the details of the data of the corresponding parent profile are acquired from the image forming apparatus 10 and displayed on the display unit 26. The data of the parent profile includes a plurality of sets in which the tray No. and the profile No. are associated with each other. The "Set to Main Tray" button 262B is a button for instructing to set the parent profile related to the parent profile name selected in the list area 262A to the tray of the main body (image forming apparatus 10).

[0141] The user selects any one of the parent profile names from the list of the parent profile names by operating the operation unit 25 in the controller 20. Specifically, the user selects any one of the parent profile names in the list area 262A of the parent profile list screen 262. The control unit 21 of the controller 20 transmits the selected parent profile name to the image forming apparatus 10 via the communication unit 24 (step S55). On the other hand, the control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 10 is to "receive the parent profile (second information)".

[0142] Next, the user instructs the controller 20 to set the selected parent profile to the main tray of the image forming apparatus 10 by operating the operation unit 25. Specifically, the user presses the "Set to Main Tray" button 262B on the parent profile list screen 262. The control unit 21 of the controller 20 transmits to the image forming apparatus 10 via the communication unit 24 that the setting to the main tray has been instructed (step S56).

[0143] In the image forming apparatus 10, the control unit 11 calls each profile for each tray based on the set of the tray No. and the profile No. associated with the selected parent profile name (step S57). For example, the control unit 11 acquires all the sets of the tray No. and the profile No. associated with the selected parent profile name from the parent profile registration table 132 (see FIG. 8B) stored in the storage unit 13. The control unit 11 collectively sets the profile corresponding to the profile No. in the tray corresponding to the tray No. for each acquired set. Thus, the manual call process from the controller ends.

[0144] Note that also in the manual call process from the controller, similar to the automatic call process (see FIG. 13), the control unit 11 may cause the display unit 16 to display a message prompting for paper replacement for the tray in which the setting has changed.

[0145] <Manual Call Process from the Main Body Panel> FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the manual call process from the main body panel executed in the image forming apparatus 10. This process is a process of collectively reproducing the tray settings based on the parent profiles registered in the past according to the operation from the main body panel (operation unit 15) of the image forming apparatus 10.

[0146] The control unit 11 causes the display unit 16 to display a paper setting screen. The paper setting screen is the same as the paper setting screen 164 shown in FIG. 12. The paper setting screen 164 includes a batch call button 164B. The batch call button 164B is a button for instructing to collectively call the setting contents of each tray.

[0147] The user presses the batch call button 164B on the paper setting screen 164 by operating the operation unit 15. The control unit 11 accepts that the batch call button 164B has been pressed (step S61).

[0148] The control unit 11 refers to the parent profile registration table 132 (see FIG. 8B) stored in the storage unit 13, and extracts the registered parent profile name (step S62). Then, the control unit 11 causes the display unit 16 to display a list of the parent profile names (step S63).

[0149] FIG. 19 shows an example of the parent profile list screen 166 displayed on the display unit 16. The parent profile list screen 166 includes a list area 166A and the like. In the list area 166A, a list of the parent profile names registered in the storage unit 13 is displayed.

[0150] The user selects any one of the parent profile names from the list of the parent profile names by an operation from the operation unit 15. The control unit 11 accepts the selection of the selected parent profile name (step S64). That is, the control unit 11 receives the second information.

[0151] Next, the control unit 11 calls each profile for each tray based on the set of the tray No. and the profile No. associated with the selected parent profile name (step S65). For example, the control unit 11 acquires all the sets of the tray No. and the profile No. associated with the selected parent profile name from the parent profile registration table 132 (see FIG. 8B) stored in the storage unit 13. For each of the acquired sets, the control unit 11 collectively sets the profile corresponding to the profile No. in the tray corresponding to the tray No. Thus, the main body panel manual call process ends.

[0152] Note that also in the main body panel manual call process, similar to the automatic call process (see FIG. 13), the control unit 11 may cause the display unit 16 to display a message prompting paper replacement for the tray in which the setting has changed.

[0153] As described above, according to the second embodiment, the control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 10 collectively registers a plurality of sets each associating a paper profile with a tray. Thereby, the user does not need to select each tray for a plurality of paper profiles. Therefore, the control unit 11 can reuse the paper profiles set for each tray. In particular, in the case of a booklet job in which a plurality of types of paper are loaded in a plurality of trays and printed, a high effect can be obtained by collectively registering the plurality of trays and associating the trays with the paper profiles.

[0154] Further, the control unit 11 registers, as second information, at least two or more pieces of first information for which selection has been received from among a plurality of pieces of first information (sets of paper profiles and tray identification information) stored in the RAM 12. For example, the first information is data indicating the correspondence of one row of the tray setting status table 122 shown in FIG. 8A. The second information is data indicating a plurality of correspondences included in the data regarding one parent profile in the parent profile registration table 132 shown in FIG. 8B. Since the control unit 11 collectively registers a plurality of sets of a paper profile and tray identification information, it becomes available in units (parent profiles) registered later. Note that the control unit 11 may select a plurality of pieces of first information (a part of the stored first information) by the user from among the plurality of pieces of first information stored in the RAM 12 and collectively register the selected plurality of pieces of first information.

[0155] Further, the control unit 11 receives the parent profile (second information) registered in the storage unit 13, and calls each paper profile for each tray based on the correspondence (set of paper profile and tray identification information) included in the parent profile. Thereby, the user does not need to select each tray for a plurality of paper profiles. Note that the control unit 11 may allow the user to select a part of the correspondence relationship (first information) included in the parent profile (second information) registered in the storage unit 13, and make the parent profile partially available. The control unit 11 calls the paper profile included in the first information for the tray corresponding to the tray identification information included in the first information based on the selected first information.

[0156] In addition, the control unit 11 associates and registers the paper profile with the tray in association with the information related to the job. Thereby, by receiving the information related to the job, the paper profile can be called for the tray.

[0157] In addition, the control unit 11 can prompt the installation of the paper to be used based on the paper profile called for the tray.

[0158] [Modification Example 1] In Modification Example 1, the transport path is considered in the setting of the paper profile and the tray. The control unit 11 (registration unit) of the image forming apparatus 10 registers at least one of the selected paper profile and the tray identification information in association with the tray based on the transport path through which the paper is transported when the paper profile and the tray identification information are stored in the RAM 12 in association with each other. Alternatively, the control unit 11 may register at least one of the selected paper profile and the tray identification information in association with the tray based on the transport path through which the paper is transported when at least one of the paper profile and the tray identification information is registered in association with the tray. As shown in FIG. 2, in the paper feeding unit 19 of the image forming apparatus 10, the transport path of the paper is different depending on which tray is used. The transport path of the paper affects the degree of bending of the paper.

[0159] When the correspondence between the paper profile and the tray identification information is set in the RAM 12, the conveyance path has already been considered. The control unit 11 registers by associating the tray with the profile in a state where the optimal profile for each tray has been selected based on the conveyance path corresponding to each tray. For example, when there is a desire to finish with high quality, a tray with a low possibility of the paper bending (for example, the paper feed tray T3 shown in FIG. 2) is selected. Further, when the control unit 11 stores the paper profile and the tray identification information in association with each other in the RAM 12, it may determine the optimal conveyance path based on the rigidity, basis weight, etc. of the paper, and select the tray corresponding to the conveyance path.

[0160] The control unit 11 registers by associating the paper profile and the tray identification information in the storage unit 13 using the correspondence between the paper profile and the tray identification information stored (set) in the RAM 12 based on the conveyance path. Further, the control unit 11 may store the correspondence between the paper profile and the tray identification information in the RAM 12 based on the conveyance path when registering by associating the paper profile and the tray identification information. That is, there may be almost no time difference between the temporary storage in the RAM 12 and the official registration in the storage unit 13.

[0161] According to Modification 1, the control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 10 can set an appropriate paper profile for the tray based on the conveyance path.

[0162] For example, the control unit 11 registers by associating the set of the paper profile and the tray stored in the RAM 12, which is set in consideration of the conveyance path. The correspondence between the paper profile stored in the RAM 12 and the tray identification information may be set by a skilled operator considering the conveyance path, or may be set by the control unit 11 considering the conveyance path.

[0163] [Modification 2] In Modification 2, when registering the profile, information regarding the registrant is also registered in association.

[0164] When the image forming apparatus 10 is used by a user, the control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 10 identifies the user by acquiring the user's login information (such as user ID). For example, the control unit 11 acquires the user ID input by the user from the operation unit 15. The control unit 11 may also acquire the user ID from a card reader that reads the user ID recorded on the IC card possessed by the user. Further, the control unit 11 may identify the user by face authentication, fingerprint authentication, voiceprint authentication, or the like.

[0165] In the storage unit 13 of the image forming apparatus 10, information about the user (user information) is stored for each user. The user information includes information regarding proficiency and the like.

[0166] When the control unit 11 (registration unit) of the image forming apparatus 10 associates at least one of the selected paper profile and the tray identification information with the tray, it associates and registers the information regarding the registrant. The information regarding the registrant includes at least the information regarding the proficiency of the registrant. To select the optimal profile for the tray, a proficiency level of a certain level or higher is required. The proficiency may be, for example, the number of years of service in the printing technology field of the registrant, the number of years of continuous service in the company, or the like.

[0167] Further, the control unit 11 may use the reliability of the registrant as information regarding the registrant. In this case, for a user with a high proficiency even with little experience, the reliability is set high.

[0168] FIG. 20 shows an example of the parent profile registration table 134 stored in the storage unit 13. The parent profile registration table 134 includes a plurality of pairs of tray No. and profile No. as parent profiles. Further, in the parent profile registration table 134, this plurality of correspondence relationships, the parent profile name, the parent profile No., the user ID of the registrant, and the proficiency of the registrant are associated.

[0169] When registering the data of the parent profile (a set of a profile and a tray), the control unit 11 associates and registers the user ID acquired as login information with the proficiency level. Regarding the proficiency level, the control unit 11 may acquire the proficiency level corresponding to the user (logged-in user) using the image forming apparatus 10 from the user information stored in the storage unit 13.

[0170] The control unit 11 (calling unit) calls at least one of the paper profile and the tray identification information based on the information about the registrant.

[0171] For example, when there are a plurality of data with different proficiency levels of the registrant for the usage desired by the user (such as the setting for booklet A) among the parent profiles registered in the parent profile registration table 134, the control unit 11 preferentially calls the data with a higher proficiency level of the registrant.

[0172] In addition, the control unit 11 may exclude the parent profile set by a registrant with a low proficiency level from the presented selection candidates. Alternatively, the control unit 11 may display the parent profile set by a registrant with a low proficiency level together with a warning.

[0173] Further, the control unit 11 may make a specific calling process unavailable according to the proficiency level of the registrant.

[0174] According to Modification 2, since the control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus associates and registers the information about the registrant in addition to the paper profile and the tray, when using the data later, corresponding actions according to the registrant can be taken. For example, by using the information set and registered by a skilled person, a beginner can improve the print quality.

[0175] Note that the descriptions in the above embodiments and modifications are for illustrative purposes and do not limit the present invention. The detailed configurations and detailed operations of each device constituting the system can also be appropriately changed without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0176] For example, the respective processes described in the above embodiments and modifications may be executed in appropriate combinations. Also, part or all of the respective processes described in the above embodiments and modifications may be executed by other devices within the system. Further, part or all of the respective processes described in the above embodiments and modifications may be performed in cooperation by a plurality of devices within the system.

[0177] Also, in the above embodiments, the case where data (registration data) in which at least one of the paper profile and the tray identification information is associated with the tray is registered in the storage unit 13 of the image forming apparatus 10 has been described as an example. Instead of this, the registration data may be registered in the cloud server 30 or the PC 40.

[0178] Also, in the profile calling process of FIG. 5, the case where a paper profile is received (step S11) and data is called has been described. In the automatic calling process of FIG. 13, the case where information regarding a job is received (step S41) and data is called has been described. In the manual calling process from the controller in FIG. 15, the case where a paper profile and tray identification information (parent profile) are received (step S55) and data is called has been described. In the manual calling process from the main body panel in FIG. 18, the case where a paper profile and tray identification information (parent profile) are received (step S64) and data is called has been described. The control unit 11 may receive the tray identification information selected by the user and call the paper profile associated with the tray for the tray corresponding to the tray identification information.

[0179] Also, the controller 20 may be a part of the image forming apparatus 10.

[0180] Also, the types or numbers of various sensors included in the media sensor 50 and the position where the media sensor 50 is provided are not limited to the above examples. The media sensor 50 can be provided at any position within the image forming apparatus 10. For example, the media sensor 50 may be configured to be provided in each tray. Further, the media sensor 50 is not limited to the conveyance path within the paper feeding unit 19, and may be provided in the conveyance path within the image forming unit 17 or in the conveyance path through which the paper is conveyed after the image is formed by the image forming unit 17. Alternatively, the media sensor 50 may be provided stand-alone outside the image forming apparatus 10. In this case, the data of the paper attributes read by the media sensor 50 may be input into the image forming apparatus 10 via the communication network N or the storage medium, or may be manually input into the image forming apparatus 10 by the user.

[0181] The "information processing apparatus" according to the present invention only needs to include a functional unit excluding the image forming unit 17, the image reading unit 18, and the paper feeding unit 19 from the image forming apparatus 10. The "information processing system" according to the present invention only needs to include the above "information processing apparatus" and at least one of the controller 20, the cloud server 30, and the PC 40. The "image forming system" according to the present invention does not need to include all the components of the image forming system 100 shown in FIG. 1. For example, the "image forming system" according to the present invention only needs to include at least one of the controller 20, the cloud server 30, and the PC 40 in addition to the image forming apparatus 10.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0182] 10 Image forming apparatus 11 Control unit 12 RAM 13 Storage unit 14 Communication unit 15 Operation unit 16 Display unit 17 Image forming unit 19 Paper feeding unit 20 Controller 21 Control unit 22 RAM 23 Memory unit 24 Communication unit 25 Operation unit 26 Display unit 30 Cloud server 40 PC 50 Media sensor 100 Image forming system L Dedicated line N Communication network T1~T4 Paper feed tray

Claims

1. An association storage unit that stores in association with each other a paper profile and identification information for identifying a tray that stores the paper; A reception unit that receives a selection of at least one of the paper profile and the identification information; A registration unit that registers by associating at least one of the received paper profile and the identification information with a tray; An information processing apparatus comprising the above.

2. The registration unit registers by associating the paper profile with a tray corresponding to the paper profile and the identification information, based on the association between the paper profile and the identification information stored in the association storage unit. The information processing apparatus according to Claim 1.

3. The registration unit identifies a tray corresponding to the identification information based on at least one of the received paper profile and the identification information, and sets at least one of the received paper profile and the identification information for the identified tray. The information processing apparatus according to Claim 1.

4. There are a plurality of sets of the paper profile and the identification information stored in association with the association storage unit, The registration unit registers by associating at least one of the received plurality of paper profiles and the identification information with each tray. The information processing apparatus according to Claim 1.

5. The information processing apparatus according to Claim 1, further comprising a calling unit that calls at least one of the paper profile and the identification information for the tray by receiving at least one of the paper profile and the identification information registered in association with the tray by the registration unit.

6. The registration unit registers at least one of the paper profile and the identification information in association with information related to a job when the paper profile and the identification information are stored in association with the association storage unit, or when the registration unit registers at least one of the paper profile and the identification information in association with the tray. The information processing apparatus according to Claim 1.

7. The information processing apparatus according to Claim 6, further comprising a calling unit that calls at least one of the paper profile and the identification information for the tray by receiving the information related to the job registered by the registration unit.

8. The paper profile is a profile that associates the paper with an attribute of the paper read by a sensor unit. The information processing apparatus according to Claim 1.

9. When the registration unit stores the paper profile and the identification information in the association storage unit in an associated manner, or when the registration unit registers at least one of the paper profile and the identification information in association with the tray, based on the conveyance path along which the paper is conveyed at that time, the information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the registration unit registers at least one of the paper profile and the identification information in association with the tray.

10. When the registration unit associates at least one of the received paper profile and the identification information with the tray, the information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the registration unit registers the information related to the registrant in association therewith.

11. After the completion of a job executed in a state where the paper profile and the identification information are stored in the association storage unit in an associated manner, the registration unit registers at least one of the received paper profile and the identification information in association with the tray. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

12. Based on the call by the calling unit, the information processing apparatus according to claim 5 or 7, further comprising a notification unit that notifies to place on the tray the paper related to the paper profile or the paper related to the paper profile corresponding to the identification information.

13. An association storage unit that stores first information associating a paper profile with identification information for identifying a tray for storing paper; A reception unit that receives a selection of the first information stored in the association storage unit; A registration unit that, for the first information received by the reception unit, associates and registers the paper profile included in the first information with the tray corresponding to the identification information included in the first information; An information processing apparatus comprising:

14. There are a plurality of the first information stored in the association storage unit, The information processing apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the registration unit registers at least two or more of the first information as second information.

15. By receiving the first information registered by the registration unit, the information processing apparatus according to claim 14, further comprising a calling unit that calls the paper profile included in the first information to the tray corresponding to the identification information included in the received first information.

16. By receiving the second information registered by the registration unit, for each of the first information included in the received second information, a calling unit that calls the paper profile included in the first information to a tray corresponding to the identification information included in the first information, the information processing apparatus according to claim 14.

17. An association storage unit that stores in association a paper profile and identification information for identifying a tray that houses the paper, A reception unit that receives a selection of at least one of the paper profile and the identification information, A registration unit that registers by associating at least one of the received paper profile and the identification information with a tray, An information processing system having the above.

18. A step of storing in association in an association storage unit a paper profile and identification information for identifying a tray that houses the paper, A step of receiving a selection of at least one of the paper profile and the identification information, A step of registering by associating at least one of the received paper profile and the identification information with a tray, An information processing method including the above.

19. An information processing program for causing a computer that controls an information processing apparatus to execute the information processing method according to claim 18.

20. An image forming unit that forms an image on a paper, An association storage unit that stores in association a paper profile and identification information for identifying a tray that houses the paper, A reception unit that receives a selection of at least one of the paper profile and the identification information, A registration unit that registers by associating at least one of the received paper profile and the identification information with a tray, An image forming system having the above.

21. There are a plurality of sets of the paper profile and the identification information stored in association with the association storage unit, The registration unit registers by associating at least one of the received plurality of paper profiles and the identification information with each tray, the image forming system according to claim 20.

22. By receiving at least one of the paper profile and the identification information registered in association with the tray by the registration unit, a calling unit that calls at least one of the paper profile and the identification information to the tray, the image forming system according to claim 20.

23. An image forming method in an image forming apparatus having an image forming unit that forms an image on a paper, A step of associating a paper profile with identification information for identifying a tray that houses the paper and storing the association in an association storage unit; A step of accepting a selection of at least one of the paper profile and the identification information; A step of registering by associating at least one of the accepted paper profile and the identification information with a tray; An image forming method including the above.

24. An image forming program for causing a computer that controls the image forming apparatus to execute the image forming method according to claim 23. ​

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