Image forming apparatus, image control method and program

Abstract

To enable a provision destination device to suitably take over information on a unit removed from a provision source device.SOLUTION: There is provided an image forming apparatus 1 comprising: a plurality of units; and an image forming apparatus main body to which the plurality of units are attached. The image forming apparatus further comprises: a storage unit 15 that stores information on the plurality of units; a detection unit (attachment / detachment detection unit 20) that detects detachment of at least one of the plurality of units from the image forming apparatus main body; and a control unit 11 that displays, on a display unit 13, information on the unit whose detachment is detected by the detection unit in a display mode different from that of information on the other units.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, a display control method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Generally, an image forming apparatus is configured by attaching a plurality of units to an image forming apparatus main body. Each unit is a consumable and is replaced at an appropriate timing. Regarding this, Patent Document 1 describes an image forming apparatus that notifies a user that a unit that has not reached the end of its life and is still usable has been removed.

[0003] In recent years, in order to realize a recycling-oriented society, it has been desired to eliminate wasteful disposal. Therefore, a reusable unit with remaining life is removed from the discarded image forming apparatus main body, and a recycling operation is performed in which the unit is attached to the image forming apparatus main body of another image forming apparatus as a recycling apparatus. In the recycling operation, it is necessary to inherit the count value regarding the usage history of the used unit when attaching the used unit to the recycling apparatus. Regarding this, Patent Document 2 describes the following image forming apparatus. Specifically, both the unit and the image forming apparatus main body are provided with a storage device, and each storage device stores a counter value regarding the usage history of the unit. When a unit is attached to the image forming apparatus main body, the image forming apparatus compares the counter values stored in the storage devices of the unit and the image forming apparatus main body. Next, the image forming apparatus determines whether to read the counter value stored in the storage device of the unit into the storage device of the image forming apparatus main body based on the comparison result.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] When the counter value is stored only in the storage device of the image forming apparatus main body, in the playback operation, the operator transfers the counter value in the following manner. Specifically, the operator causes the image forming apparatus of the unit provider to display the count value of the unit to be removed, and records the count value on a recording sheet. Next, the operator inputs the counter value recorded on the recording sheet in the image forming apparatus of the unit destination.

[0006] FIG. 19A shows an example of displaying a counter value, which is information regarding a unit, for each unit on the display unit of a conventional image forming apparatus. The conventional image forming apparatus displays a list of a plurality of types of units mounted on the image forming apparatus main body on the display screen M1. When any unit is selected by the user on the display screen M1, the conventional image forming apparatus transitions to the display screen M2 and displays the counter value of the unit selected by the user. The example shown in FIG. 19A is the case where the fixing unit is selected by the user. Since there are many units mounted on the image forming apparatus main body and the names of the units are similar, it is difficult for the user to distinguish the names of the respective units. Therefore, in the example shown in FIG. 19A, the user may accidentally select a unit different from the unit removed from the image forming apparatus of the provider on the display screen M1. Or, the user may accidentally select a unit different from the unit to be attached to the image forming apparatus of the destination on the display screen M1.

[0007] FIG. 19B shows an example in which, on the display unit of a conventional image forming apparatus, counter values, which are information regarding units of a plurality of types of units mounted on the image forming apparatus main body, are mixed and displayed on the same screen (display screen M3). In the example shown in FIG. 19B, the conventional image forming apparatus displays the counter value M3a of the fixing unit, the counter value M3b of the transfer belt unit, and the counter value M3c of the transfer roller unit on the display screen M3. As described above, since it is difficult for the user to distinguish the names of the respective units, in this case, there is a possibility that the counter value of a unit different from the unit removed from the original image forming apparatus may be erroneously recorded on the recording paper. Or, the user may erroneously input the counter value recorded on the recording paper as the counter value of a unit different from the unit to be attached to the destination image forming apparatus.

[0008] The invention described in Patent Document 1 does not describe the inheritance of counter values in the reproduction operation and cannot solve the above problems. In the invention described in Patent Document 2, it is necessary to provide a storage device in the unit, which increases the cost of the image forming apparatus.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus, a display control method, and a program that can suitably transfer information regarding a unit removed from a source apparatus to a destination apparatus.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0010] To solve the above problems, the image forming apparatus according to claim 1 is an image forming apparatus including a plurality of units and an image forming apparatus main body on which the plurality of units are mounted, a storage unit that stores information regarding the units of the plurality of units; a detection unit that detects the removal of at least any one of the plurality of units from the image forming apparatus main body; In the display unit, a control unit that displays information regarding the unit whose removal has been detected by the detection unit in a display mode different from the information regarding the units of other units. It includes.

[0011] The invention according to claim 2 is the image forming apparatus according to claim 1, The control unit displays information regarding the unit whose removal has been detected by the detection unit so as not to block the information displayed on the display unit.

[0012] The invention according to claim 3 is the image forming apparatus according to claim 1, The control unit highlights the unit whose removal has been detected by the detection unit among the list of the plurality of units displayed on the display unit.

[0013] The invention according to claim 4 is the image forming apparatus according to claim 1, The control unit highlights the information regarding the unit whose removal has been detected by the detection unit.

[0014] The invention according to claim 5 is the image forming apparatus according to claim 1, When the control unit detects the removal of the plurality of units by the detection unit, the control unit displays the information regarding the units of the plurality of units with a display indicating the order in which each unit has been removed.

[0015] The invention according to claim 6 is the image forming apparatus according to claim 1, The control unit switches from the screen displayed on the display unit to a screen that displays information regarding the unit whose removal has been detected by the detection unit.

[0016] The invention according to claim 7 is the image forming apparatus according to claim 1, The control unit controls the display of information regarding the unit based on the information regarding the unit of which removal has been detected by the detection unit.

[0017] The invention according to claim 8 is an image forming apparatus according to claim 1, The control unit controls the display of information regarding the unit of which removal has been detected by the detection unit based on the information regarding the apparatus main body of the image forming apparatus main body.

[0018] The invention according to claim 9 is an image forming apparatus according to claim 1, The control unit controls the display of information regarding the unit of which removal has been detected by the detection unit based on the operation mode of the image forming apparatus.

[0019] The invention according to claim 10 is an image forming apparatus according to claim 1, Of the information regarding a plurality of units of the unit of which removal has been detected by the detection unit, the control unit displays the information regarding the unit selected by the user and the information regarding other units in different display modes.

[0020] The display control method according to claim 11 is An image forming apparatus including a plurality of units and an image forming apparatus main body to which the plurality of units are attached, A storage unit that stores information regarding the units of the plurality of units, A display control method executed by a computer of an image forming apparatus including a detection unit that detects removal of at least any one of the plurality of units from the image forming apparatus main body, In a display unit, there is a control step of displaying information regarding the unit of which removal has been detected by the detection unit in a display mode different from the information regarding other units.

[0021] The program according to claim 12 is An image forming apparatus including a plurality of units and an image forming apparatus main body to which the plurality of units are attached, a storage unit that stores information about the units of the plurality of units, a computer of the image forming apparatus including a detection unit that detects removal of at least any one of the plurality of units from the image forming apparatus main body, causes a display unit to function as a control unit that displays information about the unit whose removal has been detected by the detection unit in a display mode different from the information about the other units.

[0022] The image forming apparatus according to claim 13 is an image forming apparatus including a plurality of units and an image forming apparatus main body to which the plurality of units are attached, a storage unit that stores information about the units of the plurality of units, a detection unit that detects attachment of a unit to the image forming apparatus main body, a control unit that causes a display unit to display, in a display mode different from the area for displaying information about the other units, an area for inputting information about the unit whose attachment has been detected by the detection unit, and includes.

[0023] The invention according to claim 14 is the image forming apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the control unit displays an area for inputting information about the unit whose attachment has been detected by the detection unit so as not to block the information displayed on the display unit.

[0024] The invention according to claim 15 is the image forming apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the control unit highlights the unit whose attachment has been detected by the detection unit among the list of the plurality of units displayed on the display unit.

[0025] The invention according to claim 16 is the image forming apparatus according to claim 13, The control unit highlights the area for inputting information regarding the unit of the unit whose attachment has been detected by the detection unit.

[0026] The invention according to claim 17 is the image forming apparatus according to claim 13, wherein When the control unit detects the attachment of the plurality of units by the detection unit, the control unit displays a display indicating the order in which each unit is attached in the area for inputting information regarding the units of the plurality of units.

[0027] The invention according to claim 18 is the image forming apparatus according to claim 13, wherein The control unit switches the screen displayed on the display unit to a screen for displaying the area for inputting information regarding the unit of the unit whose attachment has been detected by the detection unit.

[0028] The invention according to claim 19 is the image forming apparatus according to claim 13, wherein Based on the information regarding the units of the same type as the unit whose attachment has been detected by the detection unit and the information regarding the units stored in the storage unit, the control unit controls the display of the area for inputting information regarding the unit.

[0029] The invention according to claim 20 is the image forming apparatus according to claim 13, wherein Based on the information regarding the apparatus main body of the image forming apparatus main body, the control unit controls the display of the area for inputting information regarding the unit of the unit whose attachment has been detected by the detection unit.

[0030] The invention according to claim 21 is the image forming apparatus according to claim 13, wherein Based on the operation mode of the image forming apparatus, the control unit controls the display of the area for inputting information regarding the unit of the unit whose attachment has been detected by the detection unit.

[0031] The invention according to claim 22 is the image forming apparatus according to claim 13, wherein among the respective areas for inputting information regarding a plurality of units of the unit detected to be attached by the detection unit, the control unit displays, in a different display mode, the area in which information regarding the unit has been input by the user and the other areas.

[0032] The display control method according to claim 23 is an image forming apparatus including a plurality of units and an image forming apparatus main body to which the plurality of units are attached, a storage unit that stores information regarding the units of the plurality of units, and a detection unit that detects attachment of a unit to the image forming apparatus main body, and is a display control method executed by a computer of the image forming apparatus, the method including a control step of displaying, on a display unit, an area for inputting information regarding the unit detected to be attached by the detection unit in a different display mode from an area for displaying information regarding other units.

[0033] The program according to claim 24 is an image forming apparatus including a plurality of units and an image forming apparatus main body to which the plurality of units are attached, a storage unit that stores information regarding the units of the plurality of units, and a detection unit that detects attachment of a unit to the image forming apparatus main body, and causes a computer of the image forming apparatus to function as a control unit that displays, on a display unit, an area for inputting information regarding the unit detected to be attached by the detection unit in a different display mode from an area for displaying information regarding other units.

Advantages of the Invention

[0034] According to the present invention, information regarding a unit removed from a source device can be suitably transferred to a destination device.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0035]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4A

Figure 4B

Figure 4C

Figure 5

Figure 6A

Figure 6B

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

Figure 17

Figure 18

Figure 19A

Figure 19B

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0036] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the scope of the invention is not limited to the illustrated examples.

[0037] <1. Configuration of the Image Forming Apparatus> FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of the image forming apparatus 1 in the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the image forming apparatus 1. The image forming apparatus 1 is an MFP (Multi-Function Peripheral) having a copy function, a scan function, a facsimile function, etc. in addition to the image forming function.

[0038] The image forming apparatus 1 includes a control unit 11, an operation unit 12, a display unit 13, a communication unit 14, a storage unit 15, an original reading unit 16, an image forming unit 17, a conveyance unit 18, a waste toner collection unit 19, and a detachment detection unit 20.

[0039] The control unit 11 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a RAM (Random Access Memory), etc. The CPU of the control unit 11 reads out the program stored in the storage unit 15, expands it in the RAM, and controls each part of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the expanded program. For example, the control unit 11 processes the image data of a job based on the settings of the job input from the outside via the communication unit 14. Next, the control unit 11 causes the conveyance unit 18 to feed paper, and causes the image forming unit 17 to form and fix an image on the paper.

[0040] The operation unit 12 includes operation keys 12A, a touch panel integrated with the display unit 13, etc., and outputs an operation signal corresponding to these operations to the control unit 11.

[0041] The display unit 13 includes an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) panel 13A, etc., and displays display information such as an operation screen according to an instruction from the control unit 11.

[0042] The communication unit 14 includes a network card, etc., is connected to a communication network, and transmits and receives information to and from external devices on the communication network.

[0043] The storage unit 15 includes a storage device such as a non-volatile semiconductor memory and a hard disk. The storage unit 15 stores programs, files, etc. that can be read by the control unit 11. The storage unit 15 stores information regarding the apparatus main body of the image forming apparatus 1 (image forming apparatus main body). The information regarding the apparatus main body of the image forming apparatus main body is, for example, the counter information of the image forming apparatus main body. The counter information of the image forming apparatus main body is, for example, a counter value indicating the number of sheets of paper output by the image forming apparatus 1 so far, and this counter value is a value that is not initialized halfway. The storage unit 15 stores information regarding each detachable unit provided in the image forming apparatus 1. The information regarding each unit is, for example, the counter information for each unit. The counter information for each unit is initialized, for example, when replaced with a new unit and becomes "0" again. The counter information for each unit will be described in detail later. Information about the unit may be a value detected by a sensor for deterioration of a main part of the unit or the like.

[0044] The original document reading unit 16 includes an automatic document feeder, a scanner unit 161, a placement tray 162 for placing the original document paper, a platen glass 163, and the like. The automatic document feeder includes a mechanism for feeding the original document paper, a document feed roller, and the like, and conveys the original document paper along a predetermined conveyance path under the control of the control unit 11. The scanner unit 161 includes an optical system such as a light source and a reflecting mirror, and an imaging element, and reads an image of the original document paper conveyed along a predetermined conveyance path or the original document paper placed on the platen glass 163.

[0045] The image forming unit 17 forms and fixes an image composed of four colors on the paper according to the pixel values of four colors C, M, Y, and K of each pixel of the image-processed image data. As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming unit 17 includes four writing units 171, an intermediate transfer belt 172, a secondary transfer roller 173, and a fixing unit 174.

[0046] The four writing units 171 are arranged in series (tandem) along the belt surface of the intermediate transfer belt 172 for each of the four colors C, M, Y, and K as four single colors, and form images of the respective colors C, M, Y, and K on the paper. The writing unit 171 includes an exposure unit 171a, a photosensitive drum unit 171b, a developing unit 171c, a charging unit 171d, a cleaning unit 171e, and a primary transfer roller 171f.

[0047] The photoreceptor drum unit 171b includes a rotatable conductive cylindrical body (photoreceptor). The charging unit 171d charges the photoreceptor. The exposure unit 171a has a semiconductor laser light source, and under the control of the control unit 11, drives the semiconductor laser light source and the like based on image data, scans and irradiates the charged photoreceptor with laser light for exposure. The developing unit 171c supplies toner onto the photoreceptor by a charged developing roller under the control of the control unit 11, and develops the electrostatic latent image formed on the photoreceptor by exposure. The images respectively formed on the photoreceptors of the four writing units 171 are sequentially superimposed and transferred (primary transfer) onto the intermediate transfer belt 172 by their respective primary transfer rollers 171f. A color toner image composed of each color is formed on the intermediate transfer belt 172. After the primary transfer, the cleaning unit 171e removes the toner remaining on the photoreceptor.

[0048] The intermediate transfer belt 172 is an endless belt spanned over a plurality of rollers, and rotates according to the rotation of each roller under the control of the control unit 11. The secondary transfer roller 173 transfers (secondary transfer) the toner image formed on the intermediate transfer belt 172 onto the paper conveyed from the manual tray T1 or the paper feed tray T2 under the control of the control unit 11.

[0049] The fixing unit 174 includes a heating roller and a pressure roller. The fixing unit 174 fixes the image on the paper by heating and pressing the paper with the image formed thereon under the control of the control unit 11.

[0050] The conveying unit 18 includes a paper feed roller and the like, and conveys the paper from the manual tray T1 or the paper feed tray T2 to the image forming unit 17 by the paper feed roller according to the instruction of the control unit 11. The conveying unit 18 discharges the paper after fixing by the fixing unit 174 to the discharge tray T3. The conveying unit 18 has an inversion unit serving as an inversion path for the paper, and when performing double-sided printing, inverts the paper with the image on the surface fixed and conveys it to the image forming unit 17 again.

[0051] The waste toner collection unit 19 includes a waste toner conveyance unit, a waste toner collection container, and the like. The waste toner collection unit 19 conveys the waste toner removed in the image forming unit 17 by the waste toner conveyance unit and accumulates it in the waste toner collection container.

[0052] The attachment / detachment detection unit 20 detects, for each detachable unit, that the unit is attached to the main body of the image forming apparatus 1 and that the unit is removed from the main body of the image forming apparatus 1. The attachment / detachment detection unit 20 outputs the detection result to the control unit 11.

[0053] <2. Counter Information for Each Unit> The counter information for each unit stored in the storage unit 15 is information indicating the degree of wear of each unit. The units detachable from the main body of the image forming apparatus 1 are the operation key 12A, the LCD panel 13A, the photosensitive drum unit 171b, the developing unit of the developing unit 171c, the toner unit of the developing unit 171c, the transfer belt unit having the intermediate transfer belt 172, the transfer roller unit having the secondary transfer roller 173, the fixing unit 174, the waste toner conveyance unit of the waste toner collection unit 19, and the like.

[0054] The counter information for each unit includes at least one of the number of press contacts, the running distance, the running time, the cumulative time at a predetermined temperature, the maximum paper feed distance, the number of printed (image formed) sheets, and the energization time.

[0055] The number of press contacts is the cumulative number of press contacts at the current time since the unit was in a new state. The number of press contacts is information corresponding to, for example, the fixing unit 174 and the like. The running distance is the cumulative running distance at the current time since the unit was in a new state. The running distance is information corresponding to, for example, the photosensitive drum unit 171b, the transfer belt unit, the transfer roller unit, the fixing unit 174, and the like. The running time is the cumulative running time from when the unit was new to the current time. The running time is information corresponding to, for example, the photoreceptor drum unit 171b, the transfer belt unit, the transfer roller unit, the fixing unit 174, etc. The predetermined temperature cumulative time is the cumulative time of the predetermined temperature from when the unit was new to the current time. The predetermined temperature cumulative time is information corresponding to, for example, the fixing unit 174, etc. The maximum paper feed distance is the maximum distance the paper has been fed from when the unit was new to the current time. For example, it is information corresponding to the fixing unit 174, etc. The number of printed sheets is the cumulative number of sheets printed from when the unit was new to the current time. The number of printed sheets is information corresponding to, for example, the photoreceptor drum unit 171b, the developing unit, the toner unit, the transfer belt unit, the transfer roller unit, the fixing unit 174, the waste toner conveyance unit, etc. The energization time is the cumulative operating time from when the unit was new to the current time. The energization time is information corresponding to, for example, the operation key 12A, the LCD panel 13A, etc.

[0056] <3. Operation of the Image Forming Apparatus> Next, the operation of the image forming apparatus 1 will be described. FIG. 3 is a flowchart of the counter information display process executed by the image forming apparatus 1.

[0057] (Counter Information Display Process) In the reproduction work of the image forming apparatus 1, the manufacturer's operator removes the unit from the main body of the image forming apparatus 1 (disposal apparatus) whose main body is to be discarded. When the unit is removed, the control unit 11 of the disposal apparatus acquires a detection result indicating that the unit has been removed from the detachment detection unit 20 (step A1).

[0058] Next, the control unit 11 acquires the counter information of the removed unit from the storage unit 15 (step A2). Next, the control unit 11 determines whether important information with a high priority is currently being displayed on the display unit 13 (step A3). The important information with a high priority is, for example, a serious error occurrence notification indicating that image formation processing cannot be performed, an error code, or the like. When important information with a high priority is being displayed on the current display unit 13 (step A3; YES), the control unit 11 displays the counter information of the unit acquired in step A2 on the display unit 13 so as not to block the important information being displayed on the display unit 13 (step A4), and ends the process.

[0059] FIGS. 4A and 4B show examples of displaying the counter information of the unit so as not to block the important information. In the examples shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the unit removed from the waste device main body is the fixing unit 174. In the example shown in FIG. 4A, important information 131a, which is a serious error occurrence notification, is being displayed on the display screen 131 of the display unit 13. In this case, the control unit 11 reduces and displays the counter information 131b of the fixing unit 174 in an area outside the area where the important information 131a is being displayed within the display screen 131. In the example shown in FIG. 4B, important information 132a, which is a serious error occurrence notification, is being displayed on the display screen 132 of the display unit 13. In this case, the control unit 11 displays a pop-up notification 132b for displaying the counter information of the fixing unit 174 within the display screen 132. When the control unit 11 receives a touch operation on the pop-up notification 132b by the user via the operation unit 12, it causes a transition from the display screen 132 to the display screen 133. The control unit 11 displays the counter information 133a of the fixing unit 174 larger on the display screen 133 than in the example shown in FIG. 4A.

[0060] On the other hand, when important information with a high priority is not being displayed on the current display unit 13 (step A3; NO), the control unit 11 displays the counter information of the unit acquired in step A2 on the display unit 13 larger than in the example shown in FIG. 4A (step A5), and ends the process. In step A4 or A5 of the counter information display process, the control unit 11 displays, on the display unit 13, the counter information of the unit detected as removed by the attachment / detachment detection unit 20, and does not display the counter information of the unit not detected as removed by the attachment / detachment detection unit 20. That is, the control unit 11 displays the counter information of the unit detected as removed by the attachment / detachment detection unit 20 in a display mode different from the counter information of other units. Steps A4 and A5 are control steps.

[0061] The operator records the counter information of the unit displayed on the display unit 13 by the counter information display process on a recording sheet or the like. Next, the operator sets the removed unit and the recording sheet on which the counter information of the removed unit is recorded, and stores them as inventory of used units.

[0062] In step A4 or A5 of the counter information display process, the control unit 11 may display the counter information of a plurality of types of units on the same screen. FIG. 4C shows an example of displaying the counter information of a plurality of types of units on the same screen (display screen 134). The control unit 11 displays, on the display screen 134, the counter information 134a of the fixing unit 174, which is the removed unit, and the counter information 134b of the unit not removed in different display modes (for example, different background colors). That is, the control unit 11 displays the counter information of the unit detected as removed by the attachment / detachment detection unit 20 in a display mode different from the counter information of other units. In other words, the control unit 11 highlights the counter information of the unit detected as removed by the attachment / detachment detection unit 20.

[0063] In the counter information display process, the control unit 11 may omit steps A3 and A4.

[0064] Next, the counter information input process executed by the image forming apparatus 1 shown in FIG. 5 will be described.

[0065] (Counter Information Input Process) In the reproduction operation of the image forming apparatus 1, the operator takes out a used unit stored as inventory and a recording sheet on which the counter information of the unit is recorded from the storage location. Next, the operator attaches the taken-out used unit to the main body of another image forming apparatus 1 (reproduction apparatus). When the unit is attached, the control unit 11 of the reproduction apparatus acquires a detection result indicating that the unit has been attached from the attachment / detachment detection unit 20 (step B1).

[0066] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether important information with a high priority is displayed on the current display unit 13 (step B2). The important information with a high priority is, for example, a serious error occurrence notification such as inability to perform image forming processing, an error code, and the like. When important information with a high priority is displayed on the current display unit 13 (step B2; YES), the control unit 11 displays an area for inputting the counter information of the attached unit on the display unit 13 so as not to block the important information displayed on the display unit 13 (step B3).

[0067] FIGS. 6A and 6B show an example of displaying an area (counter information input field) for inputting the counter information of the attached unit so as not to block the important information. In the example shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the unit attached to the main body of the reproduction apparatus is the fixing unit 174. In the example shown in FIG. 6A, important information 135a, which is a serious error occurrence notification, is displayed on the input screen 135 of the display unit 13. In this case, the control unit 11 reduces and displays the input field 135b of the counter information of the fixing unit 174 in an area outside the area where the important information 135a is displayed within the input screen 135. In the example shown in FIG. 6B, important information 136a, which is a serious error occurrence notification, is displayed on the display screen 136 of the display unit 13. In this case, the control unit 11 displays a pop-up notification 136b for displaying the input field of the counter information of the fixing unit 174 within the display screen 136. When the control unit 11 receives a touch operation on the pop-up notification 136b by the user via the operation unit 12, it causes a transition from the display screen 136 to the input screen 137. The control unit 11 displays the input field 137a of the counter information of the fixing unit 174 on the input screen 137 larger than in the example shown in FIG. 6A.

[0068] As shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the control unit 11 may display, in the input field of the counter information of the unit, the counter information of a unit of the same type as the attached unit and that was attached to the main body of the image forming apparatus 1 in the past and stored in the storage unit 15. In this case, in step B5 described later, the control unit 11 changes the counter information displayed in the input field of the counter information of the unit by receiving an input operation of the counter information via the operation unit 12 by the user. Alternatively, the control unit 11 may not display the counter information in the input field of the counter information of the unit.

[0069] On the other hand, when important information with a high priority is not currently displayed on the display unit 13 (step B2; NO), the control unit 11 displays, on the display unit 13, a region for inputting the counter information of the attached unit larger than in the example shown in FIG. 6A (step B4).

[0070] After step B3 or B4, the control unit 11 receives an input operation of the counter information of the unit via the operation unit 12 by the user. The control unit 11 stores the received counter information of the unit in the storage unit 15 (step B5) and ends the counter information input process. Thereby, in the playback apparatus, the counter information of the attached used unit can be taken over.

[0071] In step B3 or B4 of the counter information input process described above, the control unit 11 displays, on the display unit 13, an area for inputting the counter information of the unit whose attachment has been detected by the attachment / detachment detection unit 20, and does not display an area for displaying the counter information of the unit whose attachment has not been detected by the attachment / detachment detection unit 20. That is, the control unit 11 displays the area for inputting the counter information of the unit whose attachment has been detected by the attachment / detachment detection unit 20 in a display mode different from the area for displaying the counter information of other units. Steps B3 and B4 are control steps.

[0072] In step B3 or B4 of the counter information display process described above, the control unit 11 may display, on the same screen, an area for inputting the counter information of the attached unit and an area for displaying the counter information of other units. In this case, the control unit 11, in the same manner as in FIG. 4C, displays the area for inputting the counter information of the fixing unit 174, which is the attached unit, and the area for displaying the counter information of the non-attached unit in different display modes (for example, different background colors). That is, the control unit 11 displays the area for inputting the counter information of the unit whose attachment has been detected by the attachment / detachment detection unit 20 in a display mode different from the area for displaying the counter information of other units. In other words, the control unit 11 highlights the area for inputting the counter information of the unit whose attachment has been detected by the attachment / detachment detection unit 20.

[0073] In the counter information input process described above, the control unit 11 may omit steps B2 and B3.

[0074] <4. Modification Example> As described above, the present embodiment has been explained. However, the specific configuration is not limited to the above-described present embodiment and can be changed without departing from the gist of the invention. Hereinafter, modification examples of the present embodiment will be explained. In the modification examples, the same reference numerals are given to the same configurations as those in the above-described embodiment, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0075] (Modification Example 1) In Modification 1, the operator removes a plurality of reusable units from the main body of the disposal device. Fig. 7 shows a flowchart of the counter information display process of Modification 1.

[0076] (Counter information display process of Modification 1) When a plurality of units are removed, the control unit 11 of the disposal device acquires, from the attachment / detachment detection unit 20, a detection result indicating that a unit has been removed for each removed unit (step C1). Next, the control unit 11 determines the order in which the units were removed based on the detection result acquired in step C1 (step C2). Next, the control unit 11 executes step C3 similar to step A2 of the counter information display process of the above embodiment. Next, the control unit 11 attaches a display indicating the order in which the units were removed determined in step C2, and displays a list of detachable units on the display unit 13 (step C4). In step C4, the control unit 11 displays the units removed from the main body of the disposal device and the units not removed in a display mode that allows discrimination.

[0077] Fig. 8 shows an example of a display screen 138 that displays the unit list 138a. As shown in Fig. 8, the control unit 11 displays a display 138b indicating that the unit has been removed from the main body of the disposal device and the order in which the unit was removed in the unit list 138a. That is, the control unit 11 highlights the units detected as removed by the attachment / detachment detection unit 20 among the list of a plurality of units displayed on the display unit 13 by the display 138b. In the example shown in Fig. 8, the removed units are, in the order of removal, the developing unit, the waste toner transport unit, and the fixing unit 174.

[0078] Next, the control unit 11 receives a selection operation of any unit to be removed via the operation unit 12 by the user in the list of units displayed in step C4. Next, the control unit 11 displays the counter information of the unit selected by the user on the display unit 13 (step C5), and ends the counter information display process.

[0079] In step C4 of the counter information display process of the above-described modification 1, the control unit 11 may display the counter information of a plurality of types of units on the same screen. In this case, the control unit 11 attaches a display indicating the order in which the units determined in step C2 were removed, and displays the counter information of the plurality of types of units on the display unit 13.

[0080] In modification 1, the operator attaches a plurality of used units to the main body of the playback device. FIG. 9 shows a flowchart of the counter information input process executed by the image forming apparatus 1 of modification 1.

[0081] (Counter information input process of modification 1) When a plurality of units are attached, the control unit 11 of the playback device acquires, from the attachment / detachment detection unit 20, a detection result indicating that the unit has been attached for each attached unit (step D1). Next, the control unit 11 determines the order in which the units were attached based on the detection result acquired in step D1 (step D2). Next, the control unit 11, in the same manner as the example shown in FIG. 8, attaches a display indicating the order in which the units determined in step D2 were attached, and displays a list of units on the display unit 13 (step D3). In step D3, the control unit 11 displays in a display mode that can distinguish between the units attached to the main body of the playback device and the units that are not attached. That is, the control unit 11 highlights the units detected as being attached by the attachment / detachment detection unit 20 among the list of the plurality of units displayed on the display unit 13.

[0082] Next, the control unit 11 accepts a selection operation of any unit to be attached by the user via the operation unit 12 in the list of units displayed in step D3. Next, the control unit 11 displays in the display unit 13 an area for inputting the counter information of the unit selected by the user (step D4). Next, the control unit 11 executes step D5 similar to step B5 of the counter information input process of the above embodiment, and ends the counter information input process.

[0083] In step D4 of the counter information input process of the above modification 1, the control unit 11 may display in the same screen an area for inputting the counter information of a plurality of types of units. In this case, the control unit 11 attaches a display indicating the order in which the units determined in step D2 are attached, and displays in the display unit 13 an area for inputting the counter information of a plurality of types of units.

[0084] (Modification 2) FIG. 10 shows a flowchart of the counter information display process of Modification 2.

[0085] (Counter information display process of Modification 2) The control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 from which the unit has been removed executes steps E1 and E2 similar to steps A1 and A2 of the counter information display process of the above embodiment. Next, the control unit 11 determines whether the counter information of the unit acquired in step E2 is less than a predetermined unit threshold value (step E3). The predetermined unit threshold value is set in advance. When all the counter information of the unit is less than the predetermined unit threshold value (step E3; YES), the control unit 11 displays in the display unit 13 the counter information of the unit acquired in step E4 (step E4), and ends the counter information display process. When all the counter information of the unit is less than the predetermined unit threshold value, it means that the unit is reusable. Therefore, by displaying the counter information in the display unit 13 in this case, the counter information can be recorded for carrying over the counter information in the reproduction work.

[0086] On the other hand, when the counter information of any one of the units is equal to or greater than a predetermined unit threshold value (step E3; NO), the control unit 11 ends the counter information display process. That is, in this case, the control unit 11 does not display the counter information of the unit on the display unit 13. When the counter information of any one of the units is equal to or greater than a predetermined unit threshold value, it means that the unit cannot be reused. In this case, since the removed unit will not be attached to the main body of the playback device, there is no need to record the counter information, and the process of displaying the counter information on the display unit 13 can be omitted.

[0087] In the counter information display process of the above Modification 2, the control unit 11 controls the display of the counter information based on the counter information of the unit detected as removed by the attachment / detachment detection unit 20.

[0088] (Modification 3) In Modification 3, there are cases where the image forming apparatus 1 from which the unit is removed is a disposal apparatus and cases where it is not a disposal apparatus. In Modification 3, the image forming apparatus 1 from which the unit is removed is referred to as the first apparatus. FIG. 11 shows a flowchart of the counter information display process of Modification 3.

[0089] (Counter information display process of Modification 3) The control unit 11 of the first apparatus executes a step F1 similar to step A1 of the counter information display process of the above embodiment. Next, the control unit 11 acquires the counter information of the first apparatus main body from the storage unit 15 (step F2).

[0090] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether the counter information of the first apparatus main body acquired in step F2 is equal to or greater than a predetermined main body threshold value (step F3). The predetermined main body threshold value is set in advance. When the counter information of the first apparatus main body is equal to or greater than a predetermined main body threshold value (step F3; YES), the control unit 11 acquires the counter information of the removed unit from the storage unit 15 (step F4). Next, the control unit 11 displays the counter information of the unit acquired in step F4 on the display unit 13 (step F5), and ends the counter information display process. When the counter information of the first apparatus main body is equal to or greater than a predetermined main body threshold value, the first apparatus is a disposal apparatus. Therefore, by displaying the counter information on the display unit 13 in this case, the counter information can be recorded for inheritance of the counter information in the reproduction operation.

[0091] On the other hand, when the counter information of the first apparatus main body is less than the predetermined main body threshold value (step F3; NO), the control unit 11 ends the counter information display process. That is, in this case, the control unit 11 does not display the counter information of the unit on the display unit 13. When the counter information of the first apparatus main body is less than the predetermined main body threshold value, the first apparatus is not a disposal apparatus. Therefore, it is highly likely that the unit was removed for disposal, not for reuse in the reproduction operation. When disposing of the removed unit, since the unit is not attached to the reproduction apparatus, there is no need to record the counter information. Therefore, the process of displaying the counter information on the display unit 13 can be omitted.

[0092] In the counter information display process of the above Modification 3, the control unit 11 controls the display of the counter information of the unit detected as removed by the attachment / detachment detection unit 20 based on the counter information of the first apparatus (image forming apparatus 1) main body.

[0093] (Modification 4) FIG. 12 shows a flowchart of the counter information input process of Modification 4.

[0094] (Counter Information Input Process of Modification 4) The control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 to which the unit is attached executes a step G1 similar to step B1 of the counter information input process of the above embodiment. Next, the control unit 11 acquires, from the storage unit 15, the counter information of units of the same type as the attached unit (step G2). The counter information of units of the same type as the attached unit is the counter information of units that were attached to the main body of the image forming apparatus 1 in the past. Next, the control unit 11 determines whether the counter information of the unit acquired in step G2 is less than a predetermined unit threshold value (step G3). When all the counter information acquired in step G2 is less than the predetermined unit threshold value (step E3; YES), the control unit 11 ends the counter information input process. That is, in this case, the control unit 11 does not display, on the display unit 13, the area for inputting the counter information of the unit. When all the counter information acquired in step G2 is less than the predetermined unit threshold value, it means that a unit that was temporarily removed for purposes other than unit replacement has been attached to the main body of the image forming apparatus 1 again. In this case, since there is no need to inherit the counter information, the process of displaying the area for inputting the counter information on the display unit 13 can be omitted.

[0095] On the other hand, when any of the counter information acquired in step G2 is greater than or equal to the predetermined unit threshold value (step G3; NO), the control unit 11 displays, on the display unit 13, the area for inputting the counter information of the attached unit (step G4). Next, the control unit 11 accepts an input operation of the counter information of the unit via the operation unit 12 by the user. The control unit 11 stores the accepted counter information of the unit in the storage unit 15 (step G5), and ends the counter information input process. Thereby, in the playback device, the counter information of the attached used unit can be inherited.

[0096] In the counter information input process of the above-described modification 4, the control unit 11 controls the display of the area for inputting the counter information based on the counter information of units of the same type as the unit detected as being attached by the attachment / detachment detection unit 20 and the counter information stored in the storage unit 15.

[0097] (Modification Example 5) In Modification Example 5, the image forming apparatus 1 to which the unit is attached may be a disposal apparatus or a recycling apparatus. In Modification Example 5, the image forming apparatus 1 to which the unit is attached is referred to as the second apparatus. FIG. 13 shows a flowchart of the counter information input process of Modification Example 5.

[0098] (Counter Information Input Process of Modification Example 5) When the unit is attached, the control unit 11 of the second apparatus executes a step H1 similar to step B1 of the counter information input process of the above embodiment. Next, the control unit 11 acquires the counter information of the second apparatus main body from the storage unit 15 (step H2).

[0099] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether the counter information of the second apparatus main body acquired in step H2 is equal to or greater than a predetermined main body threshold value (step H3). When the counter information of the second apparatus main body is equal to or greater than the predetermined main body threshold value (step H3; YES), the control unit 11 ends the counter information input process. That is, in this case, the control unit 11 does not display the area for inputting the counter information of the unit on the display unit 13. When the counter information of the second apparatus main body is equal to or greater than the predetermined main body threshold value, it means that the second apparatus is a disposal apparatus. Therefore, in the second apparatus, it is not necessary to inherit the counter information of the attached unit. Accordingly, the process of displaying the area for inputting the counter information of the unit on the display unit 13 and accepting and storing the input of the counter information can be omitted.

[0100] On the other hand, when the counter information of the second apparatus main body is less than the predetermined main body threshold value (step H3; NO), the control unit 11 displays the area for inputting the counter information of the attached unit on the display unit 13 (step H4). Next, the control unit 11 executes a step H5 similar to step B5 of the counter information input process of the above embodiment, and ends the counter information input process. When the counter information of the second device main body is smaller than a predetermined main body threshold value, the second device is a recycling device rather than a disposal device. Therefore, by displaying the area for inputting the counter information on the display unit 13 in this case, the recycling device can inherit the counter information of the attached used unit.

[0101] In the counter information input process of the above-described Modification 5, the control unit 11 controls the display of the area for inputting the counter information of the unit detected to be attached by the attachment / detachment detection unit 20 based on the counter information of the second device (image forming apparatus 1) main body.

[0102] (Modification 6) FIG. 14 shows a flowchart of the counter information display process of Modification 6.

[0103] (Counter information display process of Modification 6) The control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 from which the unit has been removed executes steps I1 and I2 similar to steps A1 and A2 of the counter information display process of the above-described embodiment. Next, the control unit 11 displays the counter information of the unit acquired in step I2 on the display unit 13 (step I3). Next, the control unit 11 receives a selection operation of the counter information displayed in step I3 via the operation unit 12 by the user (step I4). Next, the control unit 11 displays the counter information selected in step I4 in a display mode different from the other counter information displayed on the display unit 13 (step I5), and ends the counter information display process. That is, the control unit 11 displays the counter information selected by the user and the other counter information in different display modes among the plurality of counter information of the unit detected to be removed by the attachment / detachment detection unit 20.

[0104] FIG. 15 shows an example of a display screen 139 for displaying the counter information of the unit of Modification 6. In the example shown in FIG. 15, the unit removed from the main body of the image forming apparatus 1 is the fixing unit 174. In step I3, the control unit 11 displays the counter information 139a of the fixing unit 174 on the display screen 139. In step I5, the control unit 11 displays the counter information 139b selected by the user in a different display mode, for example, with a different background color from other counter information. This makes it easier for the user to distinguish between the counter information already recorded on the recording paper and the counter information that has not yet been recorded. Therefore, it is possible to prevent omission of recording of counter information.

[0105] FIG. 16 shows a flowchart of the counter information input process of Modification 6.

[0106] (Counter information input process of Modification 6) The control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 to which the unit is attached executes a step J1 similar to step B1 of the counter information input process of the above embodiment. Next, the control unit 11 displays on the display unit 13 an area for inputting the counter information of the attached unit (step J2). Next, the control unit 11 receives an input operation of any counter information via the operation unit 12 by the user. The control unit 11 stores the received counter information in the storage unit 15 (step J3). Next, the control unit 11, in the same manner as the example shown in FIG. 15, displays the counter information received in step J3 in a display mode different from the area for inputting other counter information displayed on the display unit 13 (step J4), and ends the counter information input process. That is, the control unit 11 displays, in different display modes, among the respective areas for inputting a plurality of counter information of the unit detected as being attached by the attachment / detachment detection unit 20, the area in which the counter information has been input by the user and the other areas. This makes it easier for the user to distinguish between the counter information already input in the playback device and the counter information that has not yet been input. Therefore, it is possible to prevent double input of counter information.

[0107] (Modification 7) In Modification 7, the control unit 11 displays the counter information of the units according to the operation mode of the image forming apparatus 1. The operation modes of the image forming apparatus 1 include a normal mode in which image forming processing can be executed, a refurb mode during reproduction work, and the like. FIG. 17 shows a flowchart of the counter information display process of Modification 7.

[0108] (Counter information display process of Modification 7) The control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 from which a unit has been removed executes a step K1 similar to step A1 of the counter information display process of the above embodiment. Next, the control unit 11 determines the operation mode of the image forming apparatus 1 and determines whether the operation mode is the refurb mode (step K2). When the operation mode is the refurb mode (step K2; YES), the control unit 11 acquires the counter information of the removed unit from the storage unit 15 (step K3). Next, the control unit 11 displays the counter information acquired in step K3 on the display unit 13 (step K4), and ends the counter information display process.

[0109] On the other hand, when the operation mode is not the refurb mode (step K2; NO), the control unit 11 ends the counter information display process. That is, in this case, the control unit 11 does not display the counter information of the unit on the display unit 13.

[0110] In the counter information display process of Modification 7 above, the control unit 11 controls the display of the counter information of the unit detected as removed by the attachment / detachment detection unit 20 based on the operation mode of the image forming apparatus 1.

[0111] FIG. 18 shows a flowchart of the counter information input process of Modification 7.

[0112] (Counter information input process of Modification 7) The control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 to which the unit is attached executes step L1 similar to step B1 of the counter information display process of the above embodiment. Next, the control unit 11 determines the operation mode of the image forming apparatus 1 and judges whether the operation mode is the refurbishment mode (step L2). When the operation mode is the refurbishment mode (step L2; YES), the control unit 11 displays on the display unit 13 an area for inputting the counter information of the attached unit (step L3). Next, the control unit 11 receives an input operation of the counter information of the unit via the operation unit 12 by the user. The control unit 11 stores the received counter information in the storage unit 15 (step L4) and ends the counter information input process.

[0113] On the other hand, when the operation mode is not the refurbishment mode (step L2; NO), the control unit 11 ends the counter information input process. That is, in this case, the control unit 11 does not display on the display unit 13 an area for inputting the counter information of the unit.

[0114] In the counter information input process of the above modification 7, the control unit 11 controls the display of the area for inputting the counter information of the unit detected by the attachment / detachment detection unit 20 based on the operation mode of the image forming apparatus 1.

[0115] <5. Effects> As described above, the image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment is an image forming apparatus including a plurality of units and an image forming apparatus main body to which the plurality of units are attached. The image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment includes a storage unit 15 that stores information regarding the plurality of units. The image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment includes a detection unit (attachment / detachment detection unit 20) that detects the removal of at least any one of the plurality of units from the image forming apparatus main body. In the image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, the display unit 13 includes a control unit 11 that displays information regarding the unit detected as being removed by the detection unit in a display mode different from the information regarding the units of other units. This can prevent the user from accidentally recording information (such as counter information) regarding a unit different from the unit removed from the original image forming apparatus on the recording paper. Therefore, the information regarding the unit removed from the original apparatus can be suitably transferred to the destination apparatus.

[0116] In the image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, the control unit 11 displays information regarding the unit detected as being removed by the detection unit (detachment detection unit 20) so as not to block the information displayed on the display unit 13. Thereby, the user can confirm the important information with high priority displayed on the display unit 13 and perform the operation of recording information (such as counter information) regarding the unit removed from the image forming apparatus on the recording paper.

[0117] In the image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, the control unit 11 highlights the unit detected as being removed by the detection unit (detachment detection unit 20) among the list of a plurality of units displayed on the display unit 13. This can prevent the user from accidentally recording information (such as counter information) regarding a unit different from the unit removed from the original image forming apparatus on the recording paper.

[0118] In the image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, the control unit 11 highlights the information regarding the unit detected as being removed by the detection unit (detachment detection unit 20). This can prevent the user from accidentally recording information (such as counter information) regarding a unit different from the unit removed from the original image forming apparatus on the recording paper.

[0119] In the image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, when the control unit 11 detects the removal of a plurality of units by the detection unit (detachment detection unit 20), it attaches and displays an indication showing the order in which each unit was removed to the information regarding the units of the plurality of units. Thereby, even when a plurality of units are removed from the image forming apparatus, the user can accurately record on a recording sheet the information (such as counter information) regarding the units corresponding to the removed units.

[0120] In the image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, the control unit 11 switches from the screen displayed on the display unit 13 to a screen that displays the information regarding the unit whose removal has been detected by the detection unit (detachment detection unit 20). Thereby, after the user confirms the important information with high priority displayed on the display unit 13, the user can perform the operation of recording on a recording sheet the information (such as counter information) regarding the unit removed from the image forming apparatus.

[0121] In the image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, the control unit 11 controls the display of the information regarding the unit based on the information regarding the unit whose removal has been detected by the detection unit (detachment detection unit 20). Thereby, when the information (such as counter information) regarding the unit is less than a predetermined unit threshold value and the unit is reusable, the information regarding the unit can be recorded for inheritance of the information regarding the unit in the reproduction operation. On the other hand, when the information regarding the unit is equal to or greater than the predetermined unit threshold value and the unit cannot be reused, the process of displaying the information regarding the unit on the display unit 13 can be omitted.

[0122] In the image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, the control unit 11 controls the display of the information regarding the unit whose removal has been detected by the detection unit (detachment detection unit 20) based on the information regarding the apparatus main body of the image forming apparatus main body. As a result, when information regarding the apparatus main body of the image forming apparatus main body (such as counter information) is equal to or greater than a predetermined main body threshold value and the image forming apparatus is a disposal apparatus, information regarding the unit (such as counter information) can be recorded for inheritance in the reproduction work. On the other hand, when the information regarding the apparatus main body of the image forming apparatus main body is less than the predetermined main body threshold value and the image forming apparatus is not a disposal apparatus, the process of displaying the information regarding the unit on the display unit 13 can be omitted.

[0123] In the image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, the control unit 11 controls the display of information regarding the unit of the unit detected as being removed by the detection unit (detachment detection unit 20) based on the operation mode of the image forming apparatus 1. As a result, the information (such as counter information) regarding the removed unit can be displayed only in the refurb mode in which the reproduction work is performed.

[0124] In the image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, the control unit 11 displays the information regarding the unit selected by the user and the information regarding the other units among the information regarding the plurality of units of the unit detected as being removed by the detection unit (detachment detection unit 20) in different display modes. As a result, it is possible to easily distinguish the information (such as counter information) regarding the unit on which the recording paper has been recorded from the information regarding the unit that has not been recorded yet by the user. Therefore, it is possible to prevent omission of recording of information regarding the unit.

[0125] The image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment is an image forming apparatus including a plurality of units and an image forming apparatus main body to which the plurality of units are attached. The image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment includes a storage unit 15 that stores information regarding the units of the plurality of units. The image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment includes a detection unit (detachment detection unit 20) that detects attachment of a unit to the image forming apparatus main body. In the image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, the control unit 11 displays, on the display unit 13, an area for inputting information regarding the unit detected by the detection unit to be attached, in a display mode different from the area for displaying information regarding the units of other units. This prevents the user from accidentally inputting, as information regarding a unit different from the unit to be attached to the destination image forming apparatus, information regarding the unit recorded on the recording paper at the time of transferring information regarding the unit (such as counter information). Therefore, the information regarding the unit removed from the source apparatus can be suitably transferred to the destination apparatus.

[0126] In the image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, the control unit 11 displays, so as not to block the information displayed on the display unit 13, an area for inputting information regarding the unit detected by the detection unit (attachment / detachment detection unit 20) to be attached. This allows the user to confirm the important information with high priority displayed on the display unit 13 and perform the operation of inputting information regarding the unit (such as counter information) to be attached to the image forming apparatus.

[0127] In the image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, the control unit 11 highlights the unit detected by the detection unit (attachment / detachment detection unit 20) to be attached among the list of a plurality of units displayed on the display unit 13. This prevents the user from accidentally inputting, as information regarding a unit different from the unit to be attached to the destination image forming apparatus, information regarding the unit recorded on the recording paper (such as counter information).

[0128] In the image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, the control unit 11 highlights the area for inputting information regarding the unit detected by the detection unit (attachment / detachment detection unit 20) to be attached. This can prevent the user from mistakenly inputting information (such as counter information) regarding the unit recorded on the recording paper as information regarding a unit different from the unit attached to the image forming apparatus at the destination.

[0129] In the image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, when the attachment of a plurality of units is detected by the detection unit (attachment / detachment detection unit 20), the control unit 11 displays a display indicating the order in which the units are attached in the area for inputting information regarding the units of the plurality of units. This enables the user to accurately input information (such as counter information) regarding the unit corresponding to the attached unit even when a plurality of units are attached to the image forming apparatus.

[0130] In the image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, the control unit 11 switches the screen displayed on the display unit 13 to a screen that displays the area for inputting information regarding the unit detected by the detection unit (attachment / detachment detection unit 20). This allows the user to perform the operation of inputting information (such as counter information) regarding the unit to be attached to the image forming apparatus after confirming the important information with high priority displayed on the display unit 13.

[0131] In the image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, the control unit 11 controls the display of the area for inputting information regarding the unit based on the information regarding the unit that is of the same type as the unit detected by the detection unit (attachment / detachment detection unit 20) and is stored in the storage unit 15. As a result, when the information (such as counter information) regarding the unit stored in the storage unit 15 is smaller than a predetermined unit threshold value and the unit temporarily removed for purposes other than unit replacement is attached to the main body of the image forming apparatus 1 again, the process of displaying the area for inputting the information regarding the unit on the display unit 13 can be omitted. On the other hand, when the information regarding the unit stored in the storage unit 15 is equal to or greater than the predetermined unit threshold value, the information regarding the unit of the unit attached to the main body of the image forming apparatus 1 can be inherited.

[0132] In the image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, the control unit 11 controls the display of the area for inputting the information regarding the unit detected by the detection unit (detachment detection unit 20) based on the information regarding the apparatus main body of the image forming apparatus main body. As a result, when the information (such as counter information) regarding the apparatus main body of the image forming apparatus main body is equal to or greater than a predetermined main body threshold value and the image forming apparatus 1 is a disposal apparatus, the process of displaying the area for inputting the information (such as counter information) regarding the unit on the display unit 13 can be omitted. On the other hand, when the information regarding the apparatus main body of the image forming apparatus main body is smaller than the predetermined main body threshold value and the image forming apparatus 1 is a reproduction apparatus, the information regarding the unit of the unit attached to the main body of the image forming apparatus 1 can be inherited.

[0133] In the image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, the control unit 11 controls the display of the area for inputting the information regarding the unit detected by the detection unit (detachment detection unit 20) based on the operation mode of the image forming apparatus 1. As a result, the information (such as counter information) regarding the unit attached to the image forming apparatus 1 can be input only in the refurb mode in which the reproduction work is performed.

[0134] In the image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, the control unit 11 displays, in different display modes, the area in which the user has input the information regarding the unit and the other areas among the respective areas for inputting the information regarding the plurality of units detected by the detection unit (detachment detection unit 20). This makes it easier for the user to distinguish between information (such as counter information) related to units that have already been input and information related to units that have not yet been input. Therefore, it is possible to prevent duplicate input of information related to units.

[0135] The description in the above embodiment is an example of the image forming apparatus, display control method, and program according to the present invention, and is not limited thereto. The detailed configuration and detailed operation of each device constituting the system can be appropriately changed without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0136] For example, the program for executing each process in each device may be stored in a portable recording medium. Also, a carrier wave may be applied as a medium for providing program data via a communication line.

Description of Reference Numerals

[0137] 1 Image forming apparatus 11 Control unit 12 Operation unit 12A Operation key 13 Display unit 13A LCD panel 14 Communication unit 15 Storage unit 16 Document reading unit 17 Image forming unit 18 Conveying unit 19 Waste toner collection unit 20 Detachment detection unit (detection unit)

Claims

1. An image forming apparatus including a plurality of units and an image forming apparatus main body to which the plurality of units are attached, a storage unit that stores information regarding the units of the plurality of units, a detection unit that detects removal of at least any one of the plurality of units from the image forming apparatus main body, a control unit that causes a display unit to display information regarding the unit detected as removed by the detection unit in a display mode different from the information regarding other units. An image forming apparatus comprising the above elements.

2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit causes the display unit to display information regarding the unit detected as removed by the detection unit so as not to block the information displayed on the display unit.

3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit highlights the unit detected as removed by the detection unit in a list of the plurality of units displayed on the display unit.

4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit highlights the information regarding the unit detected as removed by the detection unit.

5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the detection unit detects removal of the plurality of units, the control unit causes the information regarding the units of the plurality of units to be displayed with an indication of the order in which each unit was removed.

6. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit switches the screen displayed on the display unit to a screen for displaying information regarding the unit detected as removed by the detection unit.

7. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit controls the display of the information regarding the unit based on the information regarding the unit detected as removed by the detection unit.

8. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit controls the display of the information regarding the unit detected as removed by the detection unit based on the information regarding the apparatus main body of the image forming apparatus main body.

9. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit controls the display of the information regarding the unit detected as removed by the detection unit based on the operation mode of the image forming apparatus.

10. The control unit of the image forming apparatus according to claim 1 displays information regarding a unit selected by a user and information regarding other units in different display modes among information regarding a plurality of units of the unit whose removal has been detected by the detection unit.

11. An image forming apparatus including a plurality of units and an image forming apparatus main body to which the plurality of units are attached, a storage unit that stores information regarding the units of the plurality of units; A display control method executed by a computer of an image forming apparatus including a detection unit that detects removal of at least one of the plurality of units from the image forming apparatus main body, The display control method includes a control step of displaying, on a display unit, information regarding the unit whose removal has been detected by the detection unit in a display mode different from information regarding other units.

12. An image forming apparatus including a plurality of units and an image forming apparatus main body to which the plurality of units are attached, a storage unit that stores information regarding the units of the plurality of units; A computer of an image forming apparatus including a detection unit that detects removal of at least one of the plurality of units from the image forming apparatus main body, A program that causes the computer to function as a control unit that displays, on a display unit, information regarding the unit whose removal has been detected by the detection unit in a display mode different from information regarding other units.

13. An image forming apparatus including a plurality of units and an image forming apparatus main body to which the plurality of units are attached, a storage unit that stores information regarding the units of the plurality of units; a detection unit that detects attachment of a unit to the image forming apparatus main body; a control unit that displays, on a display unit, a region for inputting information regarding the unit whose attachment has been detected by the detection unit in a display mode different from a region for displaying information regarding other units; An image forming apparatus comprising:

14. The image forming apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the control unit displays a region for inputting information regarding the unit whose attachment has been detected by the detection unit so as not to block the information displayed on the display unit.

15. The image forming apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the control unit highlights the unit detected by the detection unit for attachment among the list of the plurality of units displayed on the display unit.

16. The image forming apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the control unit highlights an area for inputting information regarding the unit detected by the detection unit for attachment.

17. The image forming apparatus according to claim 13, wherein when the detection unit detects the attachment of the plurality of units, the control unit displays a display indicating the order in which the respective units are attached in an area for inputting information regarding the units of the plurality of units.

18. The image forming apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the control unit switches from the screen displayed on the display unit to a screen for displaying an area for inputting information regarding the unit detected by the detection unit for attachment.

19. The image forming apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the control unit controls the display of an area for inputting information regarding the unit based on information regarding units of the same type as the unit detected by the detection unit for attachment and information regarding units stored in the storage unit.

20. The image forming apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the control unit controls the display of an area for inputting information regarding the unit detected by the detection unit for attachment based on information regarding the apparatus main body of the image forming apparatus main body.

21. The image forming apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the control unit controls the display of an area for inputting information regarding the unit detected by the detection unit for attachment based on the operation mode of the image forming apparatus.

22. The image forming apparatus according to claim 13, wherein among the respective areas for inputting information regarding the plurality of units detected by the detection unit for attachment, the control unit displays the area in which the user has input information regarding the unit and other areas in different display modes.

23. An image forming apparatus including a plurality of units and an image forming apparatus main body to which the plurality of units are attached, a storage unit that stores information regarding the units of the plurality of units, a display control method executed by a computer of the image forming apparatus including a detection unit that detects the attachment of a unit to the image forming apparatus main body. A display control method having a control step of displaying, in a display unit, an area for inputting information regarding a unit of the unit detected by the detection unit to be attached in a display mode different from an area for displaying information regarding a unit of another unit.

24. An image forming apparatus including a plurality of units and an image forming apparatus main body to which the plurality of units are attached, a storage unit that stores information regarding the units of the plurality of units, a detection unit that detects attachment of a unit to the image forming apparatus main body, and a computer of the image forming apparatus including the detection unit, a program that causes the computer to function as a control unit that displays, in a display unit, an area for inputting information regarding a unit of the unit detected by the detection unit to be attached in a display mode different from an area for displaying information regarding a unit of another unit.

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