Image formation device

Abstract

To provide an image formation device that adequately prevents printing on a wrong sheet compared to a conventional one when printing by designating a manual feed tray.SOLUTION: An image formation device comprises: a communication part which receives print data from an external terminal via a network; a paper feeding part having at least one paper feeding tray which accommodates a sheet for image formation by size and type; an image formation part which forms an image on the sheet on the basis of the print data; a display part which displays various screens to a user; and a control part which controls the communication part, the paper feeding part, the image formation part and the display part. The print data includes image data, a document size, a paper type and paper feeding tray designation information. The control part determines existence or absence of designation of the paper type when the communication part receives the print data from the external terminal, and when the paper type is not designated, causes the display part to display a predetermined confirmation screen for promoting confirmation of the paper type in the paper feeding tray designated by the paper feeding tray designation information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an image forming apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there is an image forming apparatus such as a multifunction peripheral that has a manual print function for performing printing by designating a manual tray with a driver.

[0003] When performing such manual printing, the user may not notice that the type of paper placed in the manual tray is different from the set one, give a printing instruction designating the manual tray with the driver, and print on the wrong paper.

[0004] In relation to such problems, conventionally, paper size detection means for detecting the size of the supplied recording paper, paper size comparison means for comparing the detected paper size with the designated paper size and detecting a mismatch between the two paper sizes as a paper size error, means for the user to set whether to ignore the paper size mismatch, and when a setting to ignore the paper size mismatch is made at the time of detection of the paper size error, controlling the image forming unit to continue the image forming operation, and when no setting to ignore the paper size mismatch is made, controlling the image forming unit to abort the image forming operation and an image forming apparatus characterized by comprising the same is disclosed (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] However, many users specify the manual tray using the driver, but do not set the paper type. Therefore, even when the paper size in the manual tray is the same as the setting, there is a risk of incorrect printing if the paper type, such as the paper thickness and type, is different.

[0007] This disclosure has been made in view of such problems, and provides an image forming apparatus that more appropriately prevents printing on incorrect paper when printing by specifying a manual tray.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0008] The image forming apparatus according to this disclosure includes a communication unit that receives print data from an external terminal via a network, a paper feeding unit having at least one paper feeding tray that stores image forming paper for each paper size and paper type, an image forming unit that forms an image on the paper based on the print data, a display unit that displays various screens to the user, and a control unit that controls the communication unit, the paper feeding unit, the image forming unit, and the display unit. The print data includes image data, original size, paper type, and paper feeding tray designation information. When the communication unit receives the print data from the external terminal, the control unit determines whether the paper type is designated, and when the paper type is not designated, causes the display unit to display a predetermined confirmation screen that prompts confirmation of the paper type of the paper feeding tray designated by the paper feeding tray designation information. In addition, the image forming apparatus according to this disclosure includes a communication unit that receives print data from an external terminal via a network, a paper feeding unit having at least one paper feeding tray that stores paper for image formation for each paper size and paper type, an image forming unit that forms an image on the paper based on the print data, a display unit that displays various screens for a user, and a control unit that controls the communication unit, the paper feeding unit, the image forming unit, and the display unit. The print data includes image data, original size, job name, paper type, and paper feeding tray designation information. When the communication unit receives the print data from the external terminal, the control unit determines whether the paper type is specified. If the paper type is not specified, the control unit determines whether a predetermined character is included in the job name. If the character is included in the job name, the control unit specifies the paper type associated with the character and causes the image forming unit to form an image based on the image data.

Advantages of the Invention

[0009] According to this disclosure, when printing is performed by specifying a paper feeding tray, in the case where the paper type is not specified, a confirmation screen for prompting confirmation of the paper type is displayed, so that an image forming apparatus can be realized that more appropriately prevents printing on incorrect paper than in the prior art. In addition, when printing is performed by specifying a paper feeding tray, in the case where the paper type is not specified and a predetermined character is included in the job name, printing is performed by setting the paper type associated with the character, so that an image forming apparatus can be realized that more appropriately prevents printing on incorrect paper than in the prior art.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0010]

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Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] In this disclosure, an "image forming apparatus" is a copier or a multifunction device having a copying function (copying function) such as a printer that uses an electrophotographic method for image formation by toner, or an MFP (Multifunctional Peripheral) that also includes functions other than copying, etc., and is a device that forms and outputs an image. The "paper feed tray" may include a manual feed tray. "Paper type" refers to the type of paper other than the size of paper such as plain paper, thick paper, thin paper, glossy paper, label paper, printed paper, punched paper, recycled paper, and colored paper. The confirmation screen is not limited to being "displayed on the display unit", and the confirmation screen may be displayed on the printer driver of an external terminal.

[0012] Furthermore, a preferred embodiment of this disclosure will be described.

[0013] In the image forming apparatus according to this disclosure, it further includes an operation unit that receives a user's instruction. After the control unit displays the confirmation screen on the display unit, when the operation unit receives an instruction to print on the paper stored in the paper feed tray, the image forming unit may form an image based on the image data.

[0014] In this way, after the confirmation screen is displayed, when a print instruction is received from the user, printing is performed. Therefore, when printing by specifying a paper feed tray, an image forming apparatus can be realized that more appropriately prevents printing on the wrong paper than in the past.

[0015] In the image forming apparatus according to this disclosure, the paper feed tray includes a manual feed tray. When the communication unit receives the print data from the external terminal, the control unit determines whether or not the paper type is specified. When the paper type is not specified, it determines whether or not the paper feed tray specified by the paper feed tray designation information is the manual feed tray. If the paper feed tray is the manual feed tray, the confirmation screen is displayed on the display unit. On the other hand, if it is not the manual feed tray, an image based on the image data may be formed on the image forming unit without displaying the confirmation screen.

[0016] In this way, when printing by specifying the manual feed tray, a confirmation screen that prompts the confirmation of the paper type is displayed when the paper type is not specified. Therefore, an image forming apparatus can be realized that more appropriately prevents printing on the wrong paper than in the past.

[0017] In the image forming apparatus according to this disclosure, a storage unit for storing a setting as to whether or not to display the confirmation screen for each user is further provided, and when the communication unit receives the print data from the external terminal, the control unit determines whether or not the paper type is specified. When the paper type is not specified, the control unit determines whether or not the user who transmitted the print data has set to display the confirmation screen. When the setting is to display the confirmation screen, the control unit causes the display unit to display the confirmation screen of the paper feed tray specified by the paper feed tray designation information. On the other hand, when the setting is not to display the confirmation screen, the control unit may cause the image forming unit to form an image based on the image data without displaying the confirmation screen.

[0018] In this way, when printing is performed by specifying a paper feed tray, when the paper type is not specified, referring to the setting as to whether or not to display the confirmation screen for each user, and when the setting is to display the confirmation screen, the confirmation screen is displayed. Thus, an image forming apparatus can be realized that more appropriately prevents printing on the wrong paper than in the prior art.

[0019] In the image forming apparatus according to this disclosure, the print data further includes a job name. When the communication unit receives the print data from the external terminal, the control unit determines whether or not the paper type is specified. When the paper type is not specified, the control unit determines whether or not a predetermined character is included in the job name. When the character is included in the job name, the control unit may cause the image forming unit to form an image based on the image data by specifying the paper type associated with the character.

[0020] In this way, when printing is performed by specifying a paper feed tray, when the paper type is not specified and a predetermined character is included in the job name, the paper type associated with the character is set and printing is performed. Thus, an image forming apparatus can be realized that more appropriately prevents printing on the wrong paper than in the prior art.

[0021] The following further details this disclosure with reference to the drawings. It should be noted that the following description is illustrative in all respects and should not be construed as limiting this disclosure.

[0022] [Embodiment 1] <Schematic Configuration of Image Forming System 100> Based on FIGS. 1 to 3, a digital multifunction printer 1, which is an embodiment of the image forming apparatus of this disclosure, will be described.

[0023] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the configuration of an image forming system 100 including the digital multifunction printer 1 according to Embodiment 1 of this disclosure. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the schematic configuration of the digital multifunction printer 1 in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the schematic configuration of the user terminal 2 in FIG. 1.

[0024] As shown in FIG. 1, in the image forming system 100 of this disclosure, the digital multifunction printer 1 is connected to the user terminal 2 through a wired or wireless network 3.

[0025] The digital multifunction printer 1 is a device such as a multifunction printer or an MFP (Multifunction Peripheral) that digitally processes image data and has functions such as a copying function, a printing function, a scanning function, and a facsimile function.

[0026] The user terminal 2 is a terminal such as a personal computer (PC), a tablet, or a mobile terminal such as a smartphone. The user terminal 2 transmits and receives image data to and from the digital multifunction printer 1 through the network 3.

[0027] <Schematic Configuration of Digital Multifunction Printer 1> Next, based on FIG. 2, the schematic configuration of the digital multifunction printer 1 will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the schematic configuration of the digital multifunction printer 1 shown in FIG. 1.

[0028] As shown in FIG. 2, the digital multifunction peripheral 1 includes a control unit 10, an image data acquisition unit 11, an image forming unit 12, a storage unit 13, an image processing unit 14, a communication unit 15, a timer 16, and an operation panel 17.

[0029] Each component of the digital multifunction peripheral 1 will be described below.

[0030] The control unit 10 controls the digital multifunction peripheral 1 in an integrated manner, and is made up of at least one CPU (Central Processing Unit), RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), various interface circuits, and the like.

[0031] The control unit 10 monitors and controls all loads such as the detection of each sensor, motor, clutch, operation panel 17, etc., in order to control the overall operation of the digital multifunction peripheral 1.

[0032] The image data acquisition unit 11 is a part that acquires image data from the user terminal 2 via the communication unit 15. The image data acquisition unit 11 also detects an original placed on an original table (not shown) or an original conveyed from a paper tray, and acquires read image data.

[0033] The image forming unit 12 is a part that prints out the image data acquired by the image data acquiring unit 11 and processed by the image processing unit 14 onto paper.

[0034] The storage unit 13 is an element or storage medium that stores information, control programs, etc., necessary to realize various functions of the digital multifunction peripheral 1. For example, a storage medium such as a semiconductor element such as a RAM or a ROM, a hard disk, a flash storage unit, or an SSD (Solid State Drive) is used.

[0035] The storage unit 13 stores intermediate data such as information relating to a job command (print job) such as printing, and internal data (work memory) necessary for executing a job, such as image data. In addition, the memory unit 103 has a spool area for temporarily storing print / FAX data.

[0036] Note that the program and data may be stored in different devices, such as the area for holding data being a hard disk drive and the area for holding programs being a flash memory unit.

[0037] The image processing unit 14 is a part that converts the image data input from the image data acquisition unit 11 into an appropriate electrical signal and performs processing suitable for output such as enlargement and reduction based on the analysis result of the print job command acquired from the user terminal 2 or the like through the communication unit 15 or the print job command input from the operation unit 172.

[0038] The communication unit 15 communicates with external devices such as the user terminal 2 via the network 3 and transmits and receives data and the like to and from these external devices.

[0039] The timer 16 measures and counts time, and acquires the time through, for example, a built-in clock or the network 3. The timer 16 acquires, for example, the time for timing the display of the screen 300 that prompts the confirmation of the paper type 202.

[0040] The operation panel 17 is composed of a display panel made of a liquid crystal panel or the like and a touch panel such as a capacitance type that is arranged over the display panel and detects the position where a finger touches, and includes a display unit 171 and an operation unit 172.

[0041] The display unit 171 is a part that displays various kinds of information. The display unit 171 is composed of, for example, a CRT display, a liquid crystal display, an EL display, etc., and is a display device such as a monitor or a line display for displaying electronic data such as the processing state of the operating system and application software.

[0042] The control unit 10 displays the operations and status of the digital multi-function device 1 through the display unit 171.

[0043] The operation unit 172 is an interface for operating the digital multi-function device 1 and is a part that receives commands from the user.

[0044] <Schematic configuration of the user terminal 2> Next, based on FIG. 3, the schematic configuration of the user terminal 2 will be described.

[0045] As shown in FIG. 3, the user terminal 2 includes a control unit 20, a storage unit 21, an image processing unit 22, a communication unit 23, a display unit 24, and an operation unit 25.

[0046] Hereinafter, each component of the user terminal 2 will be described.

[0047] The control unit 20 is a part that integrally controls the user terminal 2 and consists of at least one CPU, RAM, ROM, various interface circuits, etc.

[0048] The storage unit 21 is an element or storage medium that stores information necessary to realize various functions of the user terminal 2, control programs, etc. For example, semiconductor elements such as RAM and ROM, storage media such as hard disks, flash memory units, and SSDs are used.

[0049] The image processing unit 22 is a part that converts the image data to be displayed on the display unit 24 into an appropriate electrical signal based on an operation instruction from the operation unit 25 and performs processing suitable for output such as enlargement and reduction.

[0050] The communication unit 23 communicates with the digital multi-function device 1 through the network 3 and transmits and receives data such as setting information necessary for printing.

[0051] The display unit 24 is a part that displays various information of the user terminal 2.

[0052] The operation unit 25 is an interface for operating the user terminal 2 and is a part that receives commands from the user.

[0053] Note that the display unit 24 and the operation unit 25 may be realized by a display panel composed of a liquid crystal panel or the like and a touch panel such as a capacitance type that is arranged on top of the display panel and detects the position where a finger touches.

[0054] <An example of the printing process of the digital multifunction device 1 according to Embodiment 1 of this disclosure> Next, based on FIGS. 4 to 11, an example of the printing process of the digital multifunction device 1 according to Embodiment 1 of this disclosure will be described. In Embodiment 1, it is assumed that the communication unit 15 of the digital multifunction device 1 has received print data 200 from the user terminal 2.

[0055] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the information of the print data 200 of the digital multifunction device 1 in FIG. 1. In the example of FIG. 4, the print data 200 includes information on the original size 201, paper type 202, job name 203, paper feed tray designation information 204, and image data 205. Note that the print data 200 may include information other than the above.

[0056] FIGS. 5 and 9 to 11 are flowchart diagrams showing an example of the printing process of the digital multifunction device 1 in FIG. 1.

[0057] In step S1 of FIG. 5, the control unit 10 determines whether the communication unit 15 has received the print data 200 (step S1).

[0058] When the communication unit 15 has received the print data 200 (when the determination in step S1 is Yes), in step S2, the control unit 10 determines whether there is paper feed tray designation information 204 in the print data 200 (step S2).

[0059] When there is no paper feed tray designation information 204 in the print data 200 (if the determination in step S2 is No), the control unit 10 makes the determination in step S11 of FIG. 9 (described later).

[0060] When there is paper feed tray designation information 204 in the print data 200 (if the determination in step S2 is Yes), in step S3, the control unit 10 determines whether the original size 201 of the print data 200 is the same as the paper size of the paper feed tray designated by the paper feed tray designation information 204 (step S3).

[0061] When the original size 201 of the print data 200 is not the same as the paper size of the paper feed tray designated by the paper feed tray designation information 204 (if the determination in step S3 is No), the control unit 10 performs the process in step S21 of FIG. 10 (described later).

[0062] On the other hand, when the original size 201 of the print data 200 is the same as the paper size of the paper feed tray designated by the paper feed tray designation information 204 (if the determination in step S3 is Yes), in step S4, the control unit 10 determines whether there is a designation of the paper type 202 (step S4).

[0063] When there is a designation of the paper type 202 (if the determination in step S4 is Yes), in step S5, the control unit 10 determines whether the paper type 202 of the print data 200 is the same as the paper type of the paper feed tray designated by the paper feed tray designation information 204 (step S5).

[0064] When the paper type 202 of the print data 200 is not the same as the paper type of the paper feed tray designated by the paper feed tray designation information 204 (if the determination in step S5 is No), the control unit 10 performs the process in step S31 of FIG. 11 (described later).

[0065] On the one hand, when the paper type 202 of the print data 200 is the same as the paper type of the paper feed tray specified by the paper feed tray designation information 204 (when the determination in step S5 is Yes), in step S9, the control unit 10 causes the image forming unit 12 to print the image data 205 based on the print data 200 (step S9). Thereafter, the control unit 10 ends the process.

[0066] In the determination of step S4, when the paper type 202 is not specified (when the determination in step S4 is No), in step S6, the control unit 10 causes the display unit 171 to display a screen 300 prompting confirmation of the paper type of the paper feed tray (step S6).

[0067] FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen 300 prompting confirmation of the paper type of the paper feed tray displayed on the display unit 171 of the digital multi-function machine 1 in FIG. 1.

[0068] In the example of FIG. 6, a confirmation message "The following job has no specified paper type. Do you want to print on the paper in Tray 1?" is displayed. Below the confirmation message, as job information 301, "· Paper size: A4", "· Paper type: Not specified", "· Paper feed tray: Not specified", and "· Job name: Sending label" are displayed. Also, as tray information 302, "Tray 1", "· Paper size: A4", and "Paper type: Plain paper" are displayed.

[0069] The user can press any one of the paper feed tray setting button 303, the other tray designation button 304, and the print button 305 on Tray 1 displayed at the bottom of this screen.

[0070] Next, in step S7 of FIG. 5, it is determined whether the operation unit 172 has received a print instruction (step S7).

[0071] When the operation unit 172 receives a print instruction (when the determination in step S7 is Yes), in step S9, the control unit 10 causes the image forming unit 12 to print the image data 205 based on the print data 200 (step S9). Thereafter, the control unit 10 ends the process.

[0072] On the other hand, when the operation unit 172 has not received a print instruction (when the determination in step S7 is No), in step S8, the control unit 10 determines whether it has received a change in the paper feed tray setting or a designation of another paper feed tray (step S8).

[0073] FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a paper feed tray setting screen displayed on the display unit 171 of the digital multi-functional machine 1 in FIG. 1.

[0074] When the paper feed tray setting button 303 in FIG. 6 is pressed, a paper feed tray setting screen as shown in FIG. 7 is displayed on the display unit 171.

[0075] As shown in the example of FIG. 7, the user can change the settings of the paper size (A3 - A5, A4R, A5R, B4 - B5, B4R, B5R, etc.), paper type (plain paper, thick paper, thin paper, glossy paper, label paper, printed paper, punched paper, recycled paper, colored paper, etc.) for the four paper feed trays 1 - 4 and the manual feed tray by pressing the "Change" button.

[0076] FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a paper feed tray designation screen displayed on the display unit 171 of the digital multi-functional machine 1 in FIG. 1.

[0077] When the other tray designation button 304 in FIG. 6 is pressed, a paper feed tray designation screen as shown in FIG. 8 is displayed on the display unit **********171.

[0078] In the example of FIG. 8, along with the message "Which tray do you want to print from?", the information of each tray is displayed in the same way as in FIG. 7. The user can specify the tray to be printed by pressing the button such as "Print on Tray 1" on the right side.

[0079] In step S8 of FIG. 5, when a setting change of the paper feed tray or a designation of another paper feed tray is received (when the determination in step S8 is Yes), in step S9, the control unit 10 causes the image forming unit 12 to print the image data 205 based on the print data 200 (step S9). Thereafter, the control unit 10 ends the process.

[0080] On the other hand, when a setting change of the paper feed tray or a designation of another paper feed tray is not received (when the determination in step S8 is No), the control unit 10 returns the process to the determination in step S7.

[0081] Next, after receiving the print data in step S1 of FIG. 5, when there is no method for designating the paper feed tray (when the determination in step S2 is No), in step S11 of FIG. 9, it is determined whether there is a paper feed tray having the same paper size as the original size 201 (step S11).

[0082] When there is a paper feed tray having the same paper size as the original size 201 (when the determination in step S11 is Yes), in step S12, the control unit 10 determines whether there is a designation of the paper size (step S12).

[0083] When there is no designation of the paper size (when the determination in step S12 is No), the control unit 10 performs the process of step S6 of FIG. 5.

[0084] On the other hand, when there is a designation of the paper size (when the determination in step S12 is Yes), in step S13, the control unit 10 determines whether the paper type of the paper feed tray designated by the paper type 202 of the print data 200 and the paper feed tray designation information 204 is the same (step S13).

[0085] When the paper type of the paper feed tray designated by the paper type 202 of the print data 200 and the paper feed tray designation information 204 is not the same (when the determination in step S13 is No), the control unit 10 performs the process of step S31 of FIG. 11 (described later).

[0086] On the other hand, when the paper type of the paper tray designated by the paper type 202 of the print data 200 and the paper feed tray designation information 204 is the same (when the determination in step S13 is Yes), in step S17, the control unit 10 causes the image forming unit 12 to print the image data 205 based on the print data 200 (step S17). Then, the control unit 10 ends the process.

[0087] In the determination of step S11, when there is no paper feed tray with the same paper size as the original size 201 (when the determination in step S11 is No), in step S14, the control unit 10 displays on the display unit 171 that there is no paper of the same size as the original size 201 (step S14).

[0088] Next, in step S15, the control unit 10 determines whether the user has set a paper of the same size as the original size 201 (step S15).

[0089] When the user has set a paper of the same size as the original size 201 (when the determination in step S15 is Yes), in step S17, the control unit 10 causes the image forming unit 12 to print the image data 205 based on the print data 200 (step S17). Then, the control unit 10 ends the process.

[0090] On the other hand, when the user has not set a paper of the same size as the original size 201 (when the determination in step S15 is No), in step S16, the control unit 10 determines whether the user has designated a paper feed tray (step S16).

[0091] When the user has designated a paper feed tray (when the determination in step S16 is Yes), in step S17, the control unit 10 causes the image forming unit 12 to print the image data 205 based on the print data 200 (step S17). Then, the control unit 10 ends the process.

[0092] On the other hand, when the user does not specify a paper feed tray (when the determination in step S16 is No), the control unit 10 returns the process to the determination in step S15.

[0093] Next, in step S3 of FIG. 5, when the document size 201 and the paper size are not the same (when the determination in step S3 is No), in step S21 of FIG. 10, the control unit 10 causes the display unit 171 to display that the paper size is different from the document size 201 (step S21).

[0094] Next, in step S22, the control unit 10 determines whether the user has set a paper of the same size as the document size 201 (step S22).

[0095] When the user has set a paper of the same size as the document size 201 (when the determination in step S22 is Yes), in step S4, the control unit 10 determines whether there is a specification of the paper type 202 (step S4).

[0096] On the other hand, when the user has not set a paper of the same size as the document size 201 (when the determination in step S22 is No), in step S23, the control unit 10 determines whether the user has specified a paper feed tray (step S23).

[0097] When the user has specified a paper feed tray (when the determination in step S23 is Yes), in step S24, the control unit 10 causes the image forming unit 12 to print the image data 205 based on the print data 200 (step S24). Then, the control unit 10 ends the process.

[0098] On the other hand, when the user has not specified a paper feed tray (when the determination in step S23 is No), the control unit 10 returns the process to the determination in step S22.

[0099] (Modification example) As a modification of the first embodiment, a confirmation screen 300 for prompting the confirmation of the paper type may be displayed on the printer driver of the user terminal 2, that is, on the display unit 24.

[0100] In this way, when printing by specifying the paper feed tray, if the paper type 202 is not specified, a confirmation screen 300 for prompting the confirmation of the paper type is displayed, so that a digital multifunction peripheral 1 can be realized that more appropriately prevents printing on the wrong paper than in the prior art.

[0101] [Embodiment 2] <An example of the printing process of the digital multifunction peripheral 1 according to the second embodiment of this disclosure> Next, based on FIG. 12, an example of the printing process of the digital multifunction peripheral 1 according to the second embodiment of this disclosure will be described.

[0102] The manual feed tray is often used by replacing various papers. However, it is rare for the user to specify the paper type 202 when printing by specifying the manual feed tray.

[0103] Therefore, since it is considered that a display for checking the paper in the manual feed tray before starting printing is particularly effective, in the second embodiment, it is characterized in that it is determined whether the paper feed tray is the manual feed tray, and in the case of the manual feed tray, a screen 300 for prompting confirmation is displayed.

[0104] Since the schematic configuration of the image forming system 100 according to the second embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment (FIGS. 1 to 3), the description thereof will be omitted.

[0105] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the printing process of the digital multifunction peripheral 1 according to the second embodiment of this disclosure.

[0106] Steps S41 to S45 and S47 to S50 in FIG. 12 are the same as steps S1 to S9 in FIG. 5 (the first embodiment), respectively, and thus the description thereof will be omitted. In addition, since the other flowchart diagrams (Figs. 9 to 11) of Embodiment 1 are the same in Embodiment 2, the description thereof is omitted. Here, the determination of step S46 in Fig. 12, which is not described in Embodiment 1, will be explained.

[0107] In step S44 of Fig. 12, when there is no designation of paper type 202 (when the determination in step S44 is No), in step S46, the control unit 10 determines whether the designated paper feed tray is the manual feed tray (step S46).

[0108] When the designated paper feed tray is the manual feed tray (when the determination in step S4 is Yes), in step S47, the control unit 10 causes the display unit 171 to display a screen 300 prompting confirmation of the paper type of the paper feed tray (step S47).

[0109] [[ID=]14]On the other hand, when the designated paper feed tray is not the manual feed tray (when the determination in step S46 is No), in step S50, the control unit 10 causes the image forming unit 12 to print the image data 205 based on the print data 200 (step S50). Then, the control unit 10 ends the process. [[ID=]16]

[0110] In this way, when printing is performed by designating the manual feed tray, since a confirmation screen 300 prompting confirmation of the paper type is displayed when the paper type 202 is not designated, the digital multi-functional machine 1 that can more appropriately prevent printing on incorrect paper than in the prior art can be realized.

[0111] [Embodiment 3] <An example of the printing process of the digital multi-functional machine 1 according to Embodiment 3 of this disclosure> Next, with reference to Fig. 13, an example of the printing process of the digital multi-functional machine 1 according to Embodiment 3 of this disclosure will be described. In Embodiment 3, it is characterized in that, based on the setting of permission / non-permission of display of the confirmation screen, it is determined whether to display a screen 300 prompting confirmation of the paper type of the paper feed tray on the display unit 171.

[0112] Since the schematic configuration of the image forming system 100 according to Embodiment 3 is the same as that of Embodiment 1 (Figs. 1 to 3), the description thereof is omitted.

[0113] FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the printing process of the digital multifunction machine 1 according to Embodiment 3 of this disclosure.

[0114] Since steps S51 to S55 and S57 to S60 in FIG. 13 are the same as steps S1 to S9 in FIG. 5 (Embodiment 1), respectively, the description thereof is omitted. In addition, since the other flowchart diagrams (Figs. 9 to 11) of Embodiment 1 are the same in Embodiment 3, the description thereof is omitted. Here, the determination of step S56 in FIG. 13, which is not described in Embodiment 1, will be described.

[0115] In step S54 of FIG. 13, when there is no designation of the paper type 202 (when the determination in step S54 is No), in step S56, the control unit 10 determines whether or not the display of the confirmation screen is permitted (step S56).

[0116] The storage unit 13 shall store in advance the setting of permission / non - permission for displaying the confirmation screen. The storage unit 13 may store the setting of permission / non - permission for displaying the confirmation screen for each logged - in user.

[0117] When the display of the confirmation screen is permitted (when the determination in step S56 is Yes), in step S57, the control unit 10 causes the display unit 171 to display a screen 300 prompting confirmation of the paper type of the paper feed tray (step S57).

[0118] On the other hand, when the display of the confirmation screen is not permitted (when the determination in step S56 is No), in step S60, the control unit 10 causes the image forming unit 12 to print the image data 205 based on the print data 200 (step S60). Then, the control unit 10 ends the process.

[0119] (Modification example) As a modification of Embodiment 3, after setting the permission / non - permission to display the confirmation screen on the printer driver of the user terminal 2, it may be stored in the storage unit 21.

[0120] In this way, when printing by specifying a paper feed tray, when the paper type 202 is not specified, referring to the setting of whether to display the confirmation screen for each user, and when the setting is to display the confirmation screen, the confirmation screen is displayed. Therefore, it is possible to realize the digital multi - function peripheral 1 that more appropriately prevents printing on incorrect paper than in the prior art.

[0121] 〔Embodiment 4〕 <An example of the printing process of the digital multi - function peripheral 1 according to Embodiment 4 of this disclosure> Next, based on FIG. 14, an example of the printing process of the digital multi - function peripheral 1 according to Embodiment 4 of this disclosure will be described.

[0122] Generally, the job name 203 is automatically generated by the application of the user terminal 2, but the user can also specify it with the printer driver. Therefore, in Embodiment 4, when the paper type 202 is not specified, it is characterized in that the paper type is set based on the job name 203 specified by the user.

[0123] Since the schematic configuration of the image forming system 100 according to Embodiment 4 is the same as that of Embodiment 1 (FIGS. 1 to 3), the description thereof is omitted.

[0124] FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an example of the printing process of the digital multi - function peripheral 1 according to Embodiment 4 of this disclosure.

[0125] Steps S61 to S65 and S68 to S71 in FIG. 14 are the same as steps S1 to S9 in FIG. 5 (Embodiment 1), respectively, so the description thereof is omitted. In addition, since the other flowchart diagrams (FIGS. 9 to 11) of Embodiment 1 are the same in Embodiment 4, the description thereof is omitted. Here, the processes of steps S66 and S67 in FIG. 14, which are not described in Embodiment 1, will be explained.

[0126] In step S64 of FIG. 14, when there is no designation of paper type 202 (when the determination in step S64 is No), in step S66, the control unit 10 determines whether there is a predetermined character in the job name 203 (step S66).

[0127] When there is a predetermined character in the job name 203 (when the determination in step S66 is Yes), in step S67, the control unit 10 sets the paper type associated with the character (step S67).

[0128] As an example of the association between the job name 203 and the paper type, when there is a character such as "label" in the job name 203, since there is a high possibility that label paper will be printed, the paper type is set to "label paper". Also, when there is a character such as "postcard" in the job name 203, since there is a high possibility that it will be printed on thick paper, the paper type is set to "thick paper". Also, when there are characters such as "family photo" or "group photo" in the job name 203, since there is a high possibility that a photo will be printed, the paper type is set to "glossy paper".

[0129] Note that the information on the association between the characters included in the job name 203 and the paper type may be stored in the storage unit 13.

[0130] In the subsequent step S71, the control unit 10 causes the image forming unit 12 to print the image data 205 based on the print data 200 (step S71). Then, the control unit 10 ends the process.

[0131] On the other hand, when there is no predetermined character in the job name 203 (when the determination in step S66 is No), in step S69, the control unit 10 causes the display unit 171 to display a screen 300 prompting the confirmation of the paper type of the paper feed tray (step S69).

[0132] (Modification example) As a modification of the fourth embodiment, in the printer driver of the user terminal 2, information on the association between the characters included in the job name 203 and the paper type may be stored in the storage unit 21.

[0133] In this way, when printing is performed by specifying a paper feed tray, if a predetermined character is included in the job name 203 when the paper type 202 is not specified, the digital multifunction peripheral 1 that can more appropriately prevent printing on the wrong paper by setting the paper type associated with the character and performing printing can be realized.

[0134] Preferred aspects of this disclosure also include combinations of any of the above-described aspects. In addition to the above-described embodiments, there can be various modifications to this disclosure. Those modifications should not be construed as not belonging to the scope of this disclosure. This disclosure should include the meaning equivalent to the claims and all modifications within the scope.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0135] 1: Digital multifunction peripheral, 2: User terminal, 3: Network, 10, 20: Control unit, 11: Image data acquisition unit, 12: Image forming unit, 13, 21: Storage unit, 14, 22: Image processing unit, 15, 23: Communication unit, 16: Timer, 17: Operation panel, 24, 171: Display unit, 25, 172: Operation unit, 100: Image forming system, 200: Print data, 201: Original size, 202: Paper type, 203: Job name, 204: Paper feed tray designation information, 205: Image data, 300: Screen prompting confirmation, 301: Job information, 302: Tray information, 303: Paper feed tray setting button, 304: Button for designating another tray, 305: Print button on Tray 1

Claims

1. A communication unit that receives print data from an external terminal via a network; A paper feeding unit having at least one paper feeding tray for storing image forming paper for each paper size and paper type; An image forming unit that forms an image on the paper based on the print data; A display unit that displays various screens for the user; A control unit that controls the communication unit, the paper feeding unit, the image forming unit, and the display unit; The print data includes image data, original size, paper type, and paper tray designation information; When the communication unit receives the print data from the external terminal, the control unit determines whether the paper type is specified. If the paper type is not specified, the control unit causes the display unit to display a predetermined confirmation screen prompting confirmation of the paper type of the paper tray designated by the paper tray designation information. An image forming apparatus characterized by this.

2. Further comprising an operation unit that receives a user's instruction; After the control unit causes the display unit to display the confirmation screen, when the operation unit receives an instruction to print on the paper stored in the paper tray, the control unit causes the image forming unit to form an image based on the image data. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The paper feeding tray includes a manual feed tray; When the communication unit receives the print data from the external terminal, the control unit determines whether the paper type is specified. If the paper type is not specified, the control unit determines whether the paper tray designated by the paper tray designation information is the manual feed tray. If the paper tray is the manual feed tray, the control unit causes the display unit to display the confirmation screen. On the other hand, if it is not the manual feed tray, the control unit causes the image forming unit to form an image based on the image data without displaying the confirmation screen. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

4. Further comprising a storage unit that stores a setting as to whether to display the confirmation screen for each user; When the communication unit receives the print data from the external terminal, the control unit determines whether or not the paper type is specified. When the paper type is not specified, the control unit determines whether or not the user who transmitted the print data has set to display the confirmation screen. When the setting to display the confirmation screen is made, the control unit causes the display unit to display the confirmation screen of the paper feed tray specified by the paper feed tray designation information. On the other hand, when the setting to display the confirmation screen is not made, the control unit causes the image forming unit to form an image based on the image data without displaying the confirmation screen. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

5. The print data further includes a job name. When the communication unit receives the print data from the external terminal, the control unit determines whether or not the paper type is specified. When the paper type is not specified, the control unit determines whether or not a predetermined character is included in the job name. When the character is included in the job name, the control unit specifies the paper type associated with the character and causes the image forming unit to form an image based on the image data. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

6. A communication unit that receives print data from an external terminal via a network; A paper feed unit having at least one paper feed tray for storing image forming paper for each paper size and paper type; An image forming unit that forms an image on the paper based on the print data; A display unit that displays various screens for a user; A control unit that controls the communication unit, the paper feed unit, the image forming unit, and the display unit; The print data includes image data, original size, job name, paper type, and paper feed tray designation information. When the communication unit receives the print data from the external terminal, the control unit determines whether or not the paper type is specified. When the paper type is not specified, the control unit determines whether or not a predetermined character is included in the job name. When the character is included in the job name, the control unit specifies the paper type associated with the character and causes the image forming unit to form an image based on the image data. An image forming apparatus characterized by the above.

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