Processing apparatus, processing method, and program

Abstract

To reduce a user's workload when the user sets values of print adjustment parameters corresponding to the sheet type.SOLUTION: An image forming apparatus 100 selects, from already-existing media, a medium with a characteristic similar to a characteristic of a sheet included in a sheet type detection result. The image forming apparatus 100 creates a new user defined medium by combining contents of the characteristic of the sheet included in the sheet type detection result with a print adjustment value set to the selected medium.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a processing apparatus, a processing method, and a program, and is particularly suitable for use in forming an image on a sheet. [Background technology]

[0002] In an image forming apparatus, the quality of an image formed on a sheet is improved by setting print adjustment parameter values ​​such as conveyance speed, fixing temperature, image position, etc. according to the type of sheet, such as plain paper, thick paper, etc. Patent Document 1 describes a technology for selecting print adjustment parameter values ​​prepared in advance for each type of sheet. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-026815 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, with the technology described in Patent Document 1, the user needs to check and manually set the values ​​of each print adjustment parameter when printing, which makes it difficult to set print adjustment parameter values ​​according to the type of sheet.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and has as its object to reduce the burden on the user when setting print adjustment parameter values ​​according to the type of sheet. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The processing device of the present invention comprises an identification means for identifying the characteristics of a sheet based on the detection results of a detection means that detects a physical quantity having a value corresponding to the characteristics of the sheet while the sheet is being transported, and a creation means for creating sheet type information including information indicating the characteristics of the sheet and print adjustment parameters corresponding to the characteristics, wherein the creation means creates new sheet type information based on the characteristics of the sheet identified by the identification means and the print adjustment parameters included in existing sheet type information that includes characteristics similar to the characteristics identified by the identification means. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to reduce the burden on the user when setting print adjustment parameter values ​​according to the type of sheet. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of an image forming apparatus (a configuration related to sheet conveyance). [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the configuration (configuration related to control) of the image forming apparatus. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a media sensor. [Figure 4] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing display screens when creating basic media and user-defined media. [Figure 5] 10 is a flowchart showing a first example of a process for creating user-defined media. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 shows a display screen when creating new user-defined media. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing a second example of a process for creating user-defined media. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a display screen of a list of paper types. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart showing a third example of a process for creating user-defined media. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a login screen. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the present invention. Furthermore, not all of the combinations of features described in the following embodiments are necessarily essential to the solution of the present invention.

[0010] First Embodiment Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration related to sheet conveyance among the configurations of the image forming apparatus 100 of this embodiment. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration related to control among the configurations of the image forming apparatus 100 of this embodiment. Note that in each figure, only the configuration necessary for explanation is shown in a simplified form as necessary.

[0011] In FIG. 2(a), a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 201 is a control unit that controls the entire image forming apparatus 100. Note that the image forming apparatus 100 may have one or more dedicated hardware components different from the CPU 201, and the dedicated hardware components may execute at least some of the processing performed by the CPU 201. Examples of the dedicated hardware components include an ASIC (application specific integrated circuit), an FPGA (field programmable gate array), and a DSP (digital signal processor). Furthermore, the image forming apparatus 100 may have a hardware processor other than a CPU (e.g., a GPU) instead of or in addition to the CPU 201.

[0012] The CPU 201 loads a control program stored in a storage unit 202 into a RAM (Random Access Memory) 203 and executes the loaded program to comprehensively control various devices connected to a system bus 211 . The storage unit 202 stores a control program according to this embodiment, initial values ​​of various setting values, etc. The CPU 201 executes the control program according to this embodiment read from the storage unit 202, thereby implementing the image formation procedure and the procedures of each flowchart, which will be described later.

[0013] RAM 203 stores various information under the control of CPU 201. As will be described in detail later, a first storage area of ​​RAM 203 stores values ​​of print adjustment parameters used to control printing for each type of sheet on which an image is formed. In this embodiment, a case is exemplified in which the sheet is paper. However, the sheet is not limited to paper. For example, the sheet may be paper other than paper (e.g., an envelope), a plastic film such as an overhead projector (OHP) sheet, or cloth. In the following description, the values ​​of the print adjustment parameters will be referred to as print adjustment values ​​as necessary.

[0014] Furthermore, a second storage area of ​​RAM 203 stores a history of paper type. In this embodiment, an example is shown in which the paper type is determined based on the detection results of media sensors 207a-207c on paper that has been sent from paper feed cassettes 210a-210b and manual paper feed tray 210c to the paper transport path and is being transported. In the following description, paper type will be referred to as paper type or media as needed. In the following description, when there is no need to distinguish between paper feed cassettes 210a-210b and manual paper feed tray 210c, they will be referred to as paper feed unit 210 as needed.

[0015] It is desirable that RAM 203 be a rewritable memory that does not require storage. As will be described later, CPU 201 references the paper type corresponding to the paper feed unit selected by the user from the paper type history stored in the second storage area. As will be further described later, if the user changes the print adjustment values ​​corresponding to the paper type referenced from the second storage area, CPU 201 adds and stores the changed print adjustment values ​​in the first storage area as print adjustment values ​​corresponding to the paper type. These print adjustment values ​​are print adjustment values ​​defined by the user.

[0016] An operation unit interface (hereinafter referred to as operation unit I / F) 204 controls the interface between an instruction / display unit 205 and the image forming apparatus 100 . The instruction / display unit 205 has a user interface used when a user inputs various information. For example, the instruction / display unit 205 has a panel capable of displaying an operation screen, buttons, and the like. When the instruction / display unit 205 receives an instruction such as an instruction to start a printing operation, the instruction / display unit 205 outputs instruction information indicating the content of the instruction to the CPU 201. For example, the instruction / display unit 205 has a touch panel display (e.g., a liquid crystal display) connected to the image forming apparatus 100. The instruction / display unit 205 receives user input to the image forming apparatus 100 and displays the status of the image forming apparatus 100. Note that the image forming apparatus 100 may input an instruction such as an instruction to start a printing operation from an external device connected to the image forming apparatus 100 via a network (not shown) in addition to or instead of receiving the instruction in accordance with a user's operation of the instruction / display unit 205. The external device may be, for example, a personal computer, a tablet terminal, a smartphone, or the like.

[0017] When an instruction to start a printing operation is input, the CPU 201 drives and controls a paper feed and transport motor (not shown) in accordance with the instruction to discharge (feed) and transport paper. The CPU 201 also controls image formation (printing) by the print engine 209 by setting print adjustment values ​​for the print engine 209 via the print I / F 208.

[0018] A media reading interface (hereinafter referred to as media reading I / F) 206 controls the interface between a media sensor 207 and the image forming apparatus 100. The media sensor 207 shown in Fig. 2(a) corresponds to the media sensors 207a to 207c shown in Fig. 1. When there is no need to distinguish between the media sensors 207a to 207c, they will be collectively referred to as the media sensor 207 as necessary.

[0019] By driving the paper feed motor, paper sheets in paper feed unit 210 (paper feed cassettes 210a-210b, manual paper feed tray 210c) are sent from paper feed unit 210 to a paper transport path within image forming apparatus 100 and transported along the paper transport path. Media sensors 207 (207a-207c) detect physical quantities of paper sheets transported along the paper transport path, the physical quantities having values ​​corresponding to the characteristics of the paper sheets. Examples of paper characteristics include surface properties (surface shape characteristics) and thickness. Note that paper characteristics are not limited to these. For example, in addition to or instead of these characteristics, at least one of basis weight and size (length and width) may be included in the paper characteristics. Note that paper characteristics may be expressed numerically or by information other than numerical values.

[0020] As described above, this embodiment illustrates a case in which CPU 201 identifies the characteristics of paper based on the detection results of media sensor 207 and determines the paper type based on the characteristics of the paper. In the following description, determining the paper type in this manner will be expressed as "detecting the paper type with media sensor 207" or simply "detecting the paper type" as necessary. Details of detecting the paper type will be described later. Furthermore, it is sufficient that media sensor 207 is provided for at least one paper feed unit 210. For example, image forming apparatus 100 may have media sensors 207a-207b but not media sensor 207c. Furthermore, image forming apparatus 100 may have media sensor 207c but not media sensors 207a-207b.

[0021] A print interface (hereinafter, print I / F) 208 controls the interface between a print engine 209 and the image forming apparatus 100 . The print engine 209 prints on paper based on print adjustment values ​​set by the CPU 201. The print engine 209 has, for example, the developing units 101 to 104, the intermediate transfer belt 105, the secondary transfer unit 106, and the laser scanner shown in Fig. 1. The print engine 209 drives the developing units 101 to 104, the intermediate transfer belt 105, the secondary transfer unit 106, etc., and also drives the laser scanner, in accordance with the print adjustment values.

[0022] The CPU 201 also controls the fixing unit 107 for fixing an image formed by the print engine 209 via the print I / F 208, and monitors the output of a paper feed cassette open / close sensor that detects the open / close state of the paper feed cassettes 210a to 210b. The CPU 201 can detect the open / close state of the paper feed cassettes 210a to 210b based on the sensor output from the paper feed cassette open / close sensor.

[0023] Paper feed cassettes 210a-210b are devices for storing paper sheets used for printing. Manual paper feed tray 210c is a tray on which paper sheets other than those stored in paper feed cassettes 210a-210b are placed. When CPU 201 receives a print instruction indicating the start of a printing operation, it selects one paper feed unit 210. Paper sheets are sent out to the paper transport path from paper feed unit 210 selected by CPU 201. The number of paper feed cassettes 210a-210b may increase or decrease depending on optional components connected to image forming apparatus 100.

[0024] 2(b) is a block diagram showing an example of the software configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 according to this embodiment. Note that the functions of the units shown in FIG. 2(b) are achieved, for example, by the CPU 201 executing a control program loaded in the RAM 203.

[0025] 2(b) illustrates an example in which system software 250 that controls image forming apparatus 100 includes an image formation processing unit 251, a paper type management processing unit 252, a paper type detection processing unit 253, and a paper type selection processing unit 254. Also, FIG. 2(b) illustrates an example in which system software 250 further includes a paper type determination processing unit 255, a paper type synthesis processing unit 256, a job processing unit 257, and a display instruction processing unit 258.

[0026] Image formation processing unit 251 performs processing for generating an image to be formed on paper when a print job input to image forming apparatus 100 is output onto paper by print engine 209. The print job may be a print job sent from an external device to image forming apparatus 100, or may be a print job stored in image forming apparatus 100. Paper type management processing unit 252 performs processing for managing paper types registered in image forming apparatus 100. Paper type detection processing unit 253 performs processing for detecting the type of paper sent out from paper feed unit 210.

[0027] The paper type selection processing unit 254 performs processing to select a paper type similar to the paper type detected by the paper type detection processing unit 253 from among the paper types held in the image forming apparatus 100. The paper type determination processing unit 255 performs processing to determine whether or not there is a paper type selected by the paper type selection processing unit 254. As described above, this embodiment illustrates a case where the paper type history is stored in the second storage area of ​​RAM 203. In this case, the paper type determination processing unit 255 determines whether or not the paper type selected by the paper type selection processing unit 254 is stored in the second storage area of ​​RAM 203. Note that the storage medium in which the paper type history is stored is not limited to RAM 203.

[0028] The paper type synthesis processing unit 256 performs processing to synthesize similar paper types determined by the paper type determination processing unit 255 and the paper type detected by the paper type detection processing unit 253. The job processing unit 257 performs processing to manage print jobs input to the image forming apparatus 100. The job processing unit 257 manages print jobs, for example, by managing jobs including registering paper types detected by the media sensor 207.

[0029] The display instruction processing unit 258 performs various display controls. For example, the display instruction processing unit 258 performs processing to display on the instruction / display unit 205 a list of the paper type detected by the paper type detection processing unit 253 and similar paper types selected by the paper type selection processing unit 254. Furthermore, when a paper type is selected by the user from the list of paper types displayed on the instruction / display unit 205, the display instruction processing unit 258 outputs information indicating the selected paper type. Furthermore, when the user accesses the image forming apparatus 100, the display instruction processing unit 258 performs processing to identify the user.

[0030] Next, an example of a basic image forming operation will be described with reference to FIGS. When an instruction to start a printing operation is input from instruction / display unit 205 or the like, CPU 201 starts an operation of sending paper sheets from paper feed unit 210 identified based on the instruction to a paper transport path. For example, if paper feed cassette 210a or 210b is identified as paper feed unit 210 by the instruction to start a printing operation, CPU 201 rotates the paper feed pickup roller of paper feed cassette 210a or 210b. This causes paper sheets stored in paper feed cassette 210a or 210b to be sent one by one to the paper transport path. Also, for example, if manual paper feed tray 210c is identified as paper feed unit 210 by the instruction to start a printing operation, CPU 201 rotates the paper feed roller of manual paper feed tray 210c. This causes paper sheets placed in manual paper feed tray 210c to be sent one by one to the paper transport path.

[0031] When the instruction to start a printing operation specifies that the paper type be set automatically, CPU 201 identifies the characteristics of the paper based on the output value of media sensor 207 and determines the paper type based on the characteristics of the paper. CPU 201 controls print adjustment parameters according to the paper type determined in this manner or the paper type set via instruction / display unit 205. For example, CPU 201 optimally controls print adjustment parameters including at least one of the image formation speed and the target temperature of fuser 107.

[0032] When controlling the image formation speed, CPU 201 controls the image formation and paper transport at a speed predetermined depending on the paper material, for example. More specifically, when the paper type is thick paper, CPU 201 controls the image formation and paper transport at a speed that is half the image formation speed (transport speed) for normal paper or thin paper, for example.

[0033] When controlling the target temperature of the fixing unit 107, if the paper type is thin paper, the CPU 201 sets the target temperature of the fixing unit 107 to a temperature lower than that for plain paper. If the paper type is thick paper, the CPU 201 sets the target temperature of the fixing unit 107 to a temperature higher than that for plain paper.

[0034] Furthermore, the CPU 201 starts the image forming operation by the developing units 101, 102, 103, and 104 so as to be ready in time for the paper to arrive at the secondary transfer unit 106. The developing unit 101 is for forming a yellow image, while the developing units 102, 103, and 104 are for forming magenta, cyan, and black images, respectively.

[0035] After the surface of the photoconductor is charged by the charging roller, a latent image is formed on the surface of the photoconductor by a laser irradiated from a laser scanner. The latent image formed on the surface of the photoconductor is then developed onto the surface of the photoconductor by toner in a developing device. The toner image developed on the surface of the photoconductor is then transferred to intermediate transfer belt 105 shown in FIG. 1. The toner image transferred to intermediate transfer belt 105 reaches secondary transfer unit 106 as intermediate transfer belt 105 rotates.

[0036] CPU 201 detects the position of the paper being transported along the paper transport path by the transport rollers by monitoring the output from the pre-register transport sensor. CPU 201 then controls the transport of the paper, taking into account the timing when the leading edge of the paper reaches the pre-register transport sensor, so that the leading edge of the paper and the leading edge of the toner image transferred to intermediate transfer belt 105 coincide with each other at secondary transfer unit 106. For example, if the paper arrives at the detection position of the pre-register transport sensor earlier than the toner image, CPU 201 stops the paper with the pre-register transport rollers for a predetermined time and then resumes transport of the paper.

[0037] As described above, the toner image is transferred onto the paper by applying a transfer voltage to the paper and toner image that have reached the secondary transfer unit 106. After transfer, the paper is transported to a fixing unit 107. After the toner image transferred onto the paper is heated and fixed to the paper by the fixing device 107, the CPU 201 ejects the paper on which the toner image (image) has been fixed.

[0038] Next, an example of the configuration of the media sensor 207 will be described using Figure 3. The media sensor 207 includes a light-emitting element 302 and a light-receiving element 303. The light-emitting element 302 is, for example, an LED. The light-receiving element 303 is, for example, a photodiode. The light-emitting element 302 and the light-receiving element 303 are provided so that the light-receiving element 303 can detect the amount of light emitted by the light-emitting element 302 and reflected from the paper. In this case, the amount of light emitted by the light-emitting element 302 and reflected from the paper is an example of a physical quantity having a value corresponding to the characteristics of the paper. The media sensor 207 also includes a guide unit 304 that guides the paper to the transport path within the media sensor 207.

[0039] The CPU 201 receives the input signal of the light receiving element 303 as the output value of the media sensor 207. The output value of the media sensor 207 varies depending on the characteristics of the paper (for example, surface texture, thickness, etc.). The CPU 201 can identify the characteristics of the paper based on the output value of the media sensor 207 and determine the paper type based on the identified characteristics of the paper. For example, the CPU 201 determines the paper type using a paper type database in which information that can identify the type of paper and the characteristics of the paper are stored in association with each other. An example of information that can identify the type of paper is the name of the paper (type name). For example, the CPU 201 identifies the characteristics of the paper based on the output value of the media sensor 207 and determines the paper type by reading the paper type associated with the identified characteristics from the paper type database.

[0040] The above-described configuration of the media sensor 207 is an example and is not limited to the above configuration. For example, the media sensor 207 may have a configuration that combines a light-emitting element, a light-receiving element, and an ultrasonic sensor such as a piezoelectric element. The media sensor 207 may also have other configurations.

[0041] Next, an example of a process for creating paper types (basic media prepared in advance in the image forming apparatus 100 and user-defined media created by the user) will be described with reference to Figures 4(a) to 4(d). Figures 4(a) to 4(d) are diagrams that schematically show an example of a screen displayed on the instruction / display unit 205.

[0042] In this embodiment, user-defined media refers to a paper type that is uniquely set by the user, and for that paper type, it is possible to define paper characteristics such as basis weight and surface texture, and set print adjustment values ​​such as fixing temperature. This embodiment illustrates a case in which a new user-defined medium is created as an example of new sheet type information based on the print adjustment values ​​of existing media (basic media and created user-defined media) as described below. The print adjustment values ​​of the basic media are stored, for example, in a first storage area of ​​RAM 203. The print adjustment values ​​of the user-defined media are added to and stored in the first storage area of ​​RAM 203 by CPU 201, for example.

[0043] The CPU 201 causes the instruction / display unit 205 to display a screen showing a list of basic media that the user can select when setting user-defined media. The basic media list 401 shown in FIG. 4(a) and the basic media list 402 shown in FIG. 4(b) are examples of screens that display a list of basic media contents that the user can select when setting user-defined media. The basic media lists 401 and 402 are lists of paper characteristics and print adjustment parameters included in the same basic media. The display of the basic media lists 401 and 402 can be switched by, for example, pressing buttons 411 to 414.

[0044] When the user selects a basic medium by operating basic media lists 401 and 402, CPU 201 performs the following process. That is, CPU 201 displays a user-defined media creation screen on instruction / display unit 205 based on the settings of the selected basic medium (contents of paper characteristics and print adjustment values). The user-defined media creation screen includes user-defined media list 403 shown in FIG. 4(c) and user-defined media list 404 shown in FIG. 4(d).

[0045] The user changes at least one of the paper characteristics and print setting values ​​in user-defined media lists 403 and 404. CPU 201 makes the changes to the basic media to create user-defined media that meets the user's preferences. Note that user-defined media lists 403 and 404 are lists of paper characteristics and print adjustment parameters included in the same user-defined media. The display of basic media lists 403 and 404 can be switched by pressing buttons 421 to 424, for example.

[0046] FIG. 4(c) illustrates an example where a name 405, basis weight 406, size 407, etc. can be set as characteristics of the paper type, while FIG. 4(d) illustrates an example where a saddle stitch fold position adjustment 408, etc. can be set as a print adjustment value for that paper type. For example, due to the individual characteristics of the image forming apparatus 100, there is a possibility that the seams between sheets of paper will not align when the book is output. Therefore, by adjusting the saddle stitch fold position adjustment 408 in advance, it is possible to expect an improvement in the seams between sheets of paper. Note that the items shown in the user-defined media lists 403 and 404 are merely examples, and the paper types and their contents (paper characteristics and print adjustment parameter setting items) are not limited to the example shown in FIG. 4.

[0047] Next, an example of the process for creating user-defined media will be described using Figures 5 and 6. Figure 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the process for creating new user-defined media using the paper type detected by media sensor 207. Figure 6 is a diagram schematically showing an example of a screen displayed when creating new user-defined media using the paper type detected by media sensor 207. Figures 6(a) to 6(c) are diagrams schematically showing an example of a screen displayed on instruction / display unit 205.

[0048] The flowchart in FIG. 5 is implemented, for example, by the CPU 201 reading out a control program stored in the storage unit 202, loading it into the RAM 203, and executing it.

[0049] When the user selects the paper type creation button 601 shown in FIG. 6(a), the CPU 201 starts the process according to the flowchart of FIG.

[0050] In S501, the job processing unit 257 checks the settings of the paper registration job. The paper registration job includes a setting indicating which of the paper feed units 210 (paper feed cassettes 210a, 210b, and manual feed tray 210c) paper will be fed from. The paper registration job also includes a setting indicating whether to register the paper type detected by the media sensor 207. The job processing unit 257 reads the settings of the paper registration job and stores them in RAM 203. Then, the process proceeds to S502.

[0051] In S502, the job processing section 257 feeds paper in accordance with the settings of the paper registration job, and then the process proceeds to S503. In S503, the paper type detection processing unit 253 operates the media sensor 207 via the media reading I / F 206. The media sensor 207 detects the amount of light reflected from the paper 301 by the light emitting element 302. The paper type detection processing unit 253 identifies the characteristics of the paper 301 based on the amount of reflected light, and determines the type of paper 301 based on the characteristics of the paper 301. The paper type detection processing unit 253 stores the paper type detection results obtained in this manner (for example, the characteristics and paper type of the paper 310) in the RAM 203. Then, the process proceeds to S504.

[0052] In S504, the paper type selection processing unit 254 reads out the paper type detection results stored in the RAM 203. Then, the paper type selection processing unit 254 selects one medium whose characteristics are similar to the characteristics of the paper included in the paper type detection results from the basic media and user-defined media stored in the storage unit 202. Then, the processing proceeds to S505.

[0053] Here, the similar media selected in S504 are media (paper types) that have characteristics similar to the characteristics of the paper included in the paper type detection result. In this embodiment, the case where the number of similar media selected in S504 is 1 is illustrated as an example.

[0054] The paper characteristics included in the paper type detection results are compared with the paper characteristics set for the media (paper type), for example, for each type of characteristic. For all types of basic media and user-defined media, media for which the paper characteristics set for that media are the same as the paper characteristics included in the paper type detection results are excluded from selection in S504. Note that "all types" may refer to all types of paper characteristics included in both the basic media and user-defined media and the paper type detection results. In this case, paper types included only in the basic media and user-defined media or the paper type detection results are not included in the comparison to determine whether the paper type contents are the same.

[0055] For some types of basic media and user-defined media, media whose paper characteristics set for that media (paper type) are the same as the paper characteristics included in the paper type detection results can be selected in S504. Also, for all types of basic media and user-defined media, media whose paper characteristics set for that media (paper type) are different from the paper characteristics included in the paper type detection results can also be selected in S504. This is because even in such cases, the characteristics of both media may be similar when viewed as a whole.

[0056] For example, if the paper characteristics set for a medium and the paper characteristics included in the paper type detection result differ in surface property but are the same in basis weight, the medium may be selected in S504. Conversely, if the paper characteristics set for a medium and the paper characteristics included in the paper type detection result differ in basis weight but are the same in surface property, the medium may be selected in S504. Furthermore, if the paper characteristics set for a medium and the paper characteristics included in the paper type detection result differ in surface property and basis weight, but the differences between the contents are within a predetermined range, the medium may be selected in S504.

[0057] In this embodiment, a case will be exemplified in which the conditions for similar media to be selected in S504 are determined so that the number of similar media selected in S504 is one. For example, the media (paper type) selected in S504 may be determined by evaluating the difference between the content of the paper characteristics set for the media and the content of the paper characteristics included in the paper type detection result.

[0058] In this case, the paper type selection processing unit 254 may calculate the absolute value of the difference between the paper characteristic value set for the media and the paper characteristic value included in the paper type detection result, for each type of paper characteristic, and then calculate a weighted average value of these. In this case, the paper type selection processing unit 254 may select the medium (paper type) with the smallest weighted average value from among the basic media and user-defined media. Note that if the content of the paper characteristic is not expressed numerically, the paper type selection processing unit 254 may simply convert the content of the characteristic into a numerical value. Furthermore, for media with a weighted average value of 0, the content of the paper characteristic of that media matches the content of the paper characteristic included in the paper type detection result for all types, and therefore is excluded from the selection targets in S504, as described above.

[0059] In addition, the paper type selection processing unit 254 may select the media among the basic media and user-defined media that has the same content set for the characteristics of the paper in the most types of paper as the characteristics of the paper included in the paper type detection result as the media to be selected in S504.

[0060] The paper type selection processing unit 254 may select one medium to be selected in S504 from among the basic media and user-defined media for which the same content as the paper characteristics included in the paper type detection results is set in a predetermined number or more of the characteristics of the type. The paper type selection processing unit 254 may select one medium to be selected in S504 from among the basic media and user-defined media for which the same content as the paper characteristics included in the paper type detection results is set in a predetermined number or more of the characteristics of the type. The paper type selection processing unit 254 may select one medium to be selected in S504 from among the basic media and user-defined media for which the difference between the content of the paper characteristics included in the paper type detection results and the content of the characteristics of the type of the type is within a predetermined range. The paper type selection processing unit 254 may select one medium to be selected in S504 from among the basic media and user-defined media for which the difference between the content of the paper characteristics included in the paper type detection results and the content of the characteristics of the type is within a predetermined range. The predetermined number may be one or more. The predetermined type of characteristics may be determined, for example, based on the degree of impact on print quality.

[0061] Furthermore, if a single medium cannot be selected based on a single condition, the paper type selection processing unit 254 may, for example, combine multiple conditions to select a single medium. For example, suppose that there are multiple media, including basic media and user-defined media, for which a predetermined number or more of the characteristics of the types are set to be the same as the characteristics of the paper included in the paper type detection result. In this case, the paper type selection processing unit 254 may search for a medium from among the multiple media whose characteristics differ from the characteristics of the paper included in the paper type detection result and whose difference between the characteristics is within a predetermined range. If the paper type selection processing unit 254 finds only one medium in this search, it selects that medium.

[0062] Then, the display instruction processing unit 258 causes the instruction / display unit 205 to display a list 602 of the paper types selected in S504. In Figure 6(b), the basis weight is 165 to 176 g / m 2 In this example, the paper type detection result includes the characteristics of the paper, and the surface is coated paper. Also, in FIG. 6(b), a media (paper type) with a basis weight of 176 g / m2 is included as a paper with characteristics similar to those of the paper included in the paper type detection result. 2 In this example, a case where a medium having a surface property of fine paper is selected in S504 is illustrated.

[0063] In addition, in S504, the paper type selection processing unit 254 may determine that there is no media among the basic media and user-defined media whose characteristics are similar to those of the paper included in the paper type detection result. In this case, the display instruction processing unit 258 may cause the instruction / display unit 205 to display information indicating this.

[0064] Returning to the explanation of Fig. 5, in S505, the paper type determination processing unit 255 determines whether or not a medium (paper type) with characteristics similar to the characteristics of the paper included in the paper type detection result was selected in S504. If the result of this determination is that a medium (paper type) with characteristics similar to the characteristics of the paper included in the paper type detection result was selected (S505: YES), the process proceeds to S506. On the other hand, if a medium (paper type) with characteristics similar to the characteristics of the paper included in the paper type detection result was not selected (S505: NO), the process according to the flowchart in Fig. 5 ends.

[0065] In S506, the paper type synthesis processor 256 creates a new user-defined media based on the print adjustment values ​​set for the media (paper type) selected in S504 and the paper characteristics included in the paper type detection results. For example, assume that the paper characteristics and print adjustment values ​​set for the media selected in S504 are as shown in FIGS. 4(c) and 4(d). In this case, the paper type synthesis processor 256 copies the values ​​(print adjustment values) of the print adjustment parameters (such as saddle stitch folding position adjustment 408) shown in FIG. 4(d) as the print adjustment values ​​of the newly created user-defined media. The paper type synthesis processor 256 also sets the paper characteristics included in the paper type detection results as the paper characteristics of the newly created user-defined media. In this case, the paper characteristics (such as name 405, basis weight 406, and size 407) shown in FIG. 4(c) are not reflected in the paper characteristics of the newly created user-defined media.

[0066] The display instruction processor 258 then causes the instruction / display unit 205 to display the new user-defined media name 603. The processing according to the flowchart in Fig. 5 then ends. Fig. 6(c) illustrates an example in which the new user-defined media name 603 is "Thick paper 4|A4_3 modified." The name of the new user-defined media may be automatically created by the paper type synthesis processor 256, or may be a name specified by the user.

[0067] Note that, for all types of basic media and user-defined media, if there is a media whose paper characteristics set for that media are identical to the paper characteristics included in the paper type detection result, for example, the following processing may be performed. That is, the display instruction processing unit 258 causes the instruction / display unit 205 to display that a paper type (media) with exactly the same paper characteristics as the paper type detection result already exists. This allows the user to recognize that registering a new paper type (media) is unnecessary. At this time, the display instruction processing unit 258 may cause the instruction / display unit 205 to display a GUI (Graphical User Interface) that allows the user to select whether or not to continue creating a new user-defined media. These processing steps are performed, for example, between steps S504 and S505 or between S505 and S506. When the user is prompted to select whether or not to continue creating a new user-defined media, if the selection is made, the processing of S506 is performed. On the other hand, if the selection is not made, the subsequent processing according to the flowchart of FIG. 5 is not performed.

[0068] A wide variety of paper types are used in the printing industry. For this reason, it is impossible to have the image forming apparatus 100 store print adjustment values ​​for all paper types in advance. For this reason, the image forming apparatus 100 stores basic media (print adjustment values ​​for typical paper types frequently used by users). However, because the print adjustment values ​​set for the basic media stored in the image forming apparatus 100 are print adjustment values ​​for typical paper types, they may not match the print adjustment values ​​required for the paper to be actually printed.

[0069] To obtain the best possible print quality, it is preferable to create and use media (paper type) with print adjustment values ​​set to match the paper used for printing each time printing is performed. Therefore, by creating user-defined media and storing it in the image forming apparatus 100, the user can obtain print results that conform to the print adjustment values ​​that the user has set. However, if the user manually sets the paper characteristics and print adjustment values ​​separately, this increases the burden on the user (see FIGS. 4(c) and 4(d)). Furthermore, the user may not know which items (paper characteristics and print adjustment parameters) to change.

[0070] In contrast, in this embodiment, image forming apparatus 100 selects one medium from existing media (basic media and user-defined media) that has characteristics similar to the characteristics of the paper included in the paper type detection result. Then, image forming apparatus 100 creates a new user-defined medium by combining the contents of the paper characteristics included in the paper type detection result with the print adjustment values ​​set for that medium. This reduces the burden on the user when setting print adjustment parameter values ​​according to the paper type.

[0071] <Second embodiment> Next, a second embodiment will be described. In the first embodiment, a case was illustrated in which one medium with characteristics similar to those of the paper included in the paper type detection result was selected, and new user-defined media was created unconditionally using the print adjustment values ​​set for the selected medium (paper type). In contrast, this embodiment illustrates a case in which a medium selected by the user from among media with characteristics similar to those of the paper included in the paper type detection result is used as the medium to be used to create the new user-defined media. As such, the main difference between this embodiment and the first embodiment is the process used to select the media to be used to create the new user-defined media. Therefore, in the description of this embodiment, parts that are the same as those in the first embodiment will be assigned the same reference numerals as those in FIGS. 1 to 6, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0072] An example of the process for creating user-defined media according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 6 to 8. Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the process for creating new user-defined media. Figure 8 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed when a user selects media having characteristics similar to those of paper included in the paper type detection result. Note that Figure 8 is a diagram schematically showing an example of a screen displayed on the instruction / display unit 205.

[0073] The flowchart in FIG. 7 is implemented, for example, by the CPU 201 reading out a program stored in the storage unit 202, expanding it in the RAM 203, and executing it. S501 to S503 in FIG. 7 may be the same as S501 to S503 in FIG. That is, in S501, the job processing unit 257 checks the settings of the paper registration job. Next, in S502, the job processing unit 257 feeds paper according to the settings of the paper registration job. Next, in S503, the paper type detection processing unit 253 stores the paper type detection result in RAM 203. When the processing of S503 ends, the processing proceeds to S701.

[0074] In S701, the paper type selection processing unit 254 reads out the paper type detection results stored in the RAM 203. Then, the paper type selection processing unit 254 selects one or more (preferably multiple) media whose characteristics are similar to the characteristics of the paper included in the paper type detection results from the basic media and user-defined media stored in the storage unit 202. Then, the processing proceeds to S702.

[0075] 5, the similar media selected in S701 are media (paper types) for which characteristics similar to the characteristics of the paper included in the paper type detection results are set. Also, in S701, for all types of basic media and user-defined media, media for which the content of the paper characteristics set for that media is the same as the content of the paper characteristics included in the paper type detection results is excluded from selection.

[0076] The number of similar media selected in S504 is one, but the number of similar media selected in S701 is not limited to 1. Conditions for similar media selected in S701 are defined so that the number of similar media selected in S701 may be two or more.

[0077] For example, the paper type selection processing unit 254 may select a medium (paper type) for which the weighted average value described in the first embodiment is equal to or less than a predetermined value in S701. The paper type selection processing unit 254 may also select, in S701, media from among the basic media and user-defined media for which the same characteristics as the paper characteristics included in the paper type detection results are set for a predetermined number or more of the characteristics of the basic media and user-defined media. The paper type selection processing unit 254 may also select, in S701, media from among the basic media and user-defined media for which the same characteristics as the paper characteristics included in the paper type detection results are set for a predetermined number or more of the characteristics of the basic media and user-defined media. The paper type selection processing unit 254 may also select, in S701, media from among the basic media and user-defined media for which the difference between the values ​​of the paper characteristics included in the paper type detection results and the values ​​of the paper characteristics included in the paper type detection results is within a predetermined range. The paper type selection processing unit 254 may also select, in S701, media from among the basic media and user-defined media for which the difference between the values ​​of the paper characteristics included in the paper type detection results and the values ​​of the paper characteristics included in the paper type detection results is within a predetermined range. The predetermined number may be 1 or 2 or more. The predetermined type of characteristics may be determined, for example, based on the degree of impact on print quality.

[0078] The paper type selection processing unit 254 may also select one medium by combining multiple conditions, for example. For example, the paper type selection processing unit 254 first selects, from among the basic media and user-defined media, media for which the same content as the paper characteristics included in the paper type detection result is set for a predetermined number or more of type characteristics. Next, the paper type selection processing unit 254 searches among the multiple media for media whose content differs from the paper characteristics included in the paper type detection result and whose content differs from the paper characteristics included in the paper type detection result within a predetermined range. The paper type selection processing unit 254 selects the media searched in this way as the media selected in S701.

[0079] Next, in S505, the paper type determination processing unit 255 determines whether or not a medium (paper type) with characteristics similar to the characteristics of the paper included in the paper type detection result was selected in S701. If the result of this determination is that a medium (paper type) with characteristics similar to the characteristics of the paper included in the paper type detection result was selected (S505: YES), the process proceeds to S702. On the other hand, if a medium (paper type) with characteristics similar to the characteristics of the paper included in the paper type detection result was not selected (S505: NO), the process according to the flowchart in Fig. 7 ends. Note that the process of S505 does not have to be performed.

[0080] Next, in S702, the display instruction processing unit 258 causes the list 801 of paper types selected in S701 to be displayed on the instruction / display unit 205. Then, the process proceeds to S703. In the paper type list 602 displayed in S504 of Fig. 5, one paper type (media) that has been confirmed to be used to create the new user-defined media is displayed in the "Similar Paper Types" column (see Fig. 6(b)). In contrast, as shown in Fig. 8, the paper type list 801 displayed in S702 displays candidate paper types (media) that can be used to create the new user-defined media in the "Similar Paper Types" column. Note that Fig. 8 illustrates the case where three paper types (media) are selected in S701.

[0081] In S701, the paper type selection processing unit 254 may determine that there is no media among the basic media and user-defined media whose characteristics are similar to those of the paper included in the paper type detection result. In this case, the display instruction processing unit 258 may cause the instruction / display unit 205 to display information indicating this.

[0082] Next, in S703, the display instruction processing unit 258 waits until the user selects one of the paper types (media) from the list of paper types 801 displayed on the instruction / display unit 205 in S702. The paper type in the list of paper types 801 is selected by selecting one of the paper types displayed in the list of paper types 801 and then pressing the OK button 802. Then, when the user selects one of the paper types from the list of paper types 801 (S703: YES), the process proceeds to S506.

[0083] In S506, the paper type synthesis processing unit 256 creates a new user-defined medium based on the print adjustment values ​​set for the paper type (media) selected in S703 and the contents of the paper characteristics included in the paper type detection result. Then, the display instruction processing unit 258 causes the instruction / display unit 205 to display the new user-defined media name 603. Then, the processing according to the flowchart of FIG.

[0084] As described above, in this embodiment, the image forming apparatus 100 selects, from among the basic media and user-defined media, media whose characteristics are similar to those of the paper included in the paper type detection result as candidates for media to be used to create new user-defined media. The image forming apparatus 100 creates new user-defined media by combining the paper characteristics included in the paper type detection result with the print adjustment values ​​set for the media selected by the user from the candidates. This reduces the burden on the user when setting print adjustment parameter values ​​according to the paper type compared to manually setting the values ​​of each adjustment parameter. Furthermore, in this embodiment, print adjustment values ​​close to the print adjustment values ​​desired by the user can be set for the new user-defined media.

[0085] The display format of the list 801 of paper types selected in S701 is not limited. For example, the list 801 of paper types shown in Fig. 8 may display information indicating criteria for selecting a paper type (media). For example, information indicating the difference between the paper characteristics set for the paper type (media) and the paper characteristics included in the paper type detection results may be displayed for each paper type (media) included in the list 801 of paper types. The user can select a paper type from the list 801 of paper types by referring to this information.

[0086] <Third embodiment> Next, a third embodiment will be described. In the second embodiment, a case was illustrated in which a media (paper type) selected by a user from among media (paper types) with characteristics similar to those of the paper included in the paper type detection result is used to create a new user-defined media. When there are many media (paper types) with characteristics similar to those of the paper included in the paper type detection result, the user must select one medium from among the many media. Therefore, in this embodiment, a case is illustrated in which the paper types (media) displayed in the list of paper types are limited to make it easier for the user to select a media (paper type). Thus, the main difference between this embodiment and the second embodiment is the process for selecting media to use in creating a new user-defined media. Therefore, in the description of this embodiment, the same parts as those in the first and second embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in FIGS. 1 to 8, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0087] An example of user-defined media creation processing according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 6, 9, and 10. Figure 9 is a flowchart showing an example of processing when creating new user-defined media. Figure 10 is a diagram showing an example of a login screen 1001. Note that Figure 10 is a diagram schematically showing an example of a screen displayed on instruction / display unit 205.

[0088] 9 is realized, for example, by the CPU 201 reading out a program stored in the storage unit 202, expanding it in the RAM 203, and executing it. The flowchart in Fig. 9 starts, for example, when a user performs an operation to log in to the image forming apparatus 100 and selects a login screen 1001 shown in Fig. 10 displayed on the instruction / display unit 205.

[0089] In S901, a user login process is performed. When the user inputs a login name 1002 and a password 1003 into a login screen 1001 and then presses a login button 1004, the display instruction processing unit 258 performs the login process using the input login name 1002 and password 1003. In the login process, the display instruction processing unit 258 identifies the user of the image forming apparatus 100. Then, the process proceeds to S902. Note that if a cancel button 1005 is pressed, the login process is not performed. In this case, the processes from S902 onwards are not performed, and the process according to the flowchart in FIG. 9 ends.

[0090] In S902, the paper type management processing unit 252 determines whether or not an operation to instruct the execution of paper type registration processing has been performed by the user on the instruction / display unit 205. If an operation to instruct the execution of paper type registration processing has been performed (S902: YES), the display instruction processing unit 258 causes the instruction / display unit 205 to display the paper type creation button 601 shown in FIG. 6( a). Then, if the paper type creation button 601 is selected by the user, the process proceeds to S501. If an operation to instruct the execution of paper type registration processing has not been performed (if an operation to instruct the execution of paper type registration processing has been performed, S902: NO), the process according to the flowchart in FIG. 9 ends.

[0091] S501 to S503 in FIG. 9 may be the same as S501 to S503 in FIGS. That is, in S501, the job processing unit 257 checks the settings of the paper registration job. Next, in S502, the job processing unit 257 feeds paper according to the settings of the paper registration job. Next, in S503, the paper type detection processing unit 253 stores the paper type detection result in RAM 203. When the processing of S503 ends, the processing proceeds to S701.

[0092] S701 in Fig. 9 may be the same as S701 in Fig. 7. That is, in S701, the paper type selection processing unit 254 selects one or more (preferably multiple) media from the basic media and user-defined media whose characteristics are similar to the characteristics of the paper included in the paper type detection result. Then, the process proceeds to S903.

[0093] In S903, the display instruction processing unit 258 causes the instruction / display unit 205 to display a list of paper types (user-defined media) created by the user with login name 1002 acquired in the login process of S901, from among the paper types (media) selected in S701. Then, the process proceeds to S702. For this reason, this embodiment illustrates a case in which each user-defined media is stored in association with the identification information of the user who created the user-defined media. In S702 of FIG. 7, a list of all paper types (media) selected in S701 is displayed on the instruction / display unit 205. In contrast, in S903, a list of some of the paper types out of all the paper types (media) selected in S701 may be displayed on the instruction / display unit 205. This makes it possible to reduce the number of paper types to be selected.

[0094] Next, in S703, the display instruction processing unit 258 waits until the user selects one of the paper types (media) from the list of paper types 801 displayed on the instruction / display unit 205 in S903. Then, when the user selects one of the paper types from the list of paper types 801 (S703: YES), the process proceeds to S506.

[0095] In S506, the paper type synthesis processing unit 256 creates a new user-defined medium based on the print adjustment values ​​set for the paper type (media) selected in S703 and the contents of the paper characteristics included in the paper type detection result. Then, the display instruction processing unit 258 causes the instruction / display unit 205 to display the new user-defined media name 603. Then, the processing according to the flowchart of FIG.

[0096] As described above, in this embodiment, image forming apparatus 100 selects, from among the basic media and user-defined media, user-defined media created by the logged-in user that have similar characteristics to the characteristics of the paper included in the paper type detection results. This makes it possible to narrow down the media candidates to be used for the new user-defined media. This further reduces the burden on the user when setting print adjustment values ​​close to the print adjustment values ​​desired by the user for the new user-defined media.

[0097] In this embodiment, in S903, the display instruction processing unit 258 displays on the instruction / display unit 205 a list of paper types (media) created by the user with the login name 1002 acquired in the login process, from among the paper types (media) selected in S701. However, the selection conditions for selecting paper types to display from the paper types (media) selected in S701 are not limited to these conditions. For example, the display instruction processing unit 258 may prioritize new paper types (media) in the list of paper types based on the update history of the print adjustment values. Furthermore, the display instruction processing unit 258 may prioritize paper types (media) with many updated print adjustment values ​​in the list of paper types based on the usage history of the print adjustment values. In this case, the user name, update history, and usage history are examples of information that is stored in association with a paper type when the paper type is created or updated.

[0098] (Other embodiments) The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that realizes one or more functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and having one or more processors in the computer of the system or device read and execute the program.The present invention can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., ASIC or FPGA) that realizes one or more functions. Furthermore, the above-described embodiments of the present invention are merely examples of specific embodiments for carrying out the present invention, and the technical scope of the present invention should not be construed as being limited by these. In other words, the present invention can be embodied in various forms without departing from its technical concept or main features.

[0099] The disclosure of the present embodiment also includes, for example, the following configurations, methods, and programs. (Configuration 1) a detecting unit that detects a physical quantity having a value corresponding to the characteristics of the sheet while the sheet is being conveyed, and based on the result of the detection by the detecting unit, identifies the characteristics of the sheet; a creating means for creating sheet type information including information indicating characteristics of the sheet and print adjustment parameters corresponding to the characteristics; The creating means is A processing device characterized in that new sheet type information is created based on the characteristics of the sheet identified by the identification means and the print adjustment parameters included in sheet type information that includes characteristics similar to the characteristics identified by the identification means, among existing sheet type information. (Configuration 2) The processing device described in configuration 1 is characterized in that the similar features include features that satisfy at least one of the following: the content of some types of features is the same as that of the features of the sheet identified by the identification means; and the content difference of at least some types of features is within a predetermined range compared to that of the features of the sheet identified by the identification means. (Configuration 3) The processing device according to configuration 1 or 2, wherein the creation means copies values ​​of print adjustment parameters included in sheet type information that includes characteristics similar to the characteristics of the sheet identified by the identification means as values ​​of the print adjustment parameters to be included in the new sheet type information. (Configuration 4) 4. The processing apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 3, wherein the creating unit includes the characteristics of the sheet identified by the identifying unit in the new sheet type information. (Configuration 5) The processing device described in any one of configurations 1 to 4, characterized in that the creation means selects one of the existing sheet type information pieces that includes characteristics similar to the characteristics of the sheet identified by the identification means, and automatically creates new sheet type information based on the characteristics of the sheet identified by the identification means and the values ​​of the print adjustment parameters included in the sheet type information. (Configuration 6) a display control means for displaying, on a display device, information indicating sheet type information that includes characteristics similar to the characteristics of the sheet identified by the identification means, among the existing sheet type information, as information indicating candidates for sheet type information to be used in creating the new sheet type information; The processing device described in any one of configurations 1 to 5, characterized in that the creation means creates new sheet type information based on the characteristics of the sheet identified by the identification means and the values ​​of print adjustment parameters included in the sheet type information selected from the candidates. (Configuration 7) a selection means for selecting the candidate sheet type information from among sheet type information in which characteristics similar to the characteristics of the sheet identified by the identification means are set; 7. The processing device according to configuration 6, wherein the display control means causes a display device to display information indicating the candidate selected by the selection means. (Configuration 8) The processing device according to configuration 7, wherein the conditions for the candidate sheet type information include conditions using information stored in association with the sheet type information at least one of when the sheet type information is created and when it is updated. (Method 1) a determining step of determining characteristics of the sheet based on a result of detection by a detecting means that detects a physical quantity having a value corresponding to the characteristics of the sheet while the sheet is being conveyed; a creating step of creating sheet type information including information indicating characteristics of the sheet and print adjustment parameters corresponding to the characteristics; A processing method characterized in that in the creation process, new sheet type information is created based on the characteristics of the sheet identified in the identification process and the print adjustment parameters included in sheet type information that includes characteristics similar to the characteristics identified in the existing sheet type information. (Program 1) A program for causing a computer to function as each means of the processing device according to any one of configurations 1 to 8. [Explanation of symbols]

[0100] 100: Image forming apparatus, 201: CPU, 202: Storage unit, 203: RAM, 207: Media sensor, 250: System software

Claims

1. a detecting unit that detects a physical quantity having a value corresponding to the characteristics of the sheet while the sheet is being conveyed, and based on the result of the detection by the detecting unit, identifies the characteristics of the sheet; a creating means for creating sheet type information including information indicating characteristics of the sheet and print adjustment parameters corresponding to the characteristics; The creating means A processing device characterized in that new sheet type information is created based on the characteristics of the sheet identified by the identification means and the print adjustment parameters included in sheet type information that includes characteristics similar to the characteristics identified by the identification means, among existing sheet type information.

2. The processing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the similar features include features that satisfy at least one of the following: the content of some types of features is the same as that of the features of the sheet identified by the identification means; and the content difference of at least some types of features is within a predetermined range as compared to the features of the sheet identified by the identification means.

3. 3. The processing device according to claim 1, wherein the creation unit copies the values ​​of the print adjustment parameters included in the sheet type information that includes characteristics similar to the characteristics of the sheet identified by the identification unit as the values ​​of the print adjustment parameters to be included in the new sheet type information.

4. 3. The processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the creating unit includes the characteristics of the sheet identified by the identifying unit in the new sheet type information.

5. 3. The processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the creation unit selects one of the existing sheet type information items that includes characteristics similar to the characteristics of the sheet identified by the identification unit, and automatically creates new sheet type information based on the characteristics of the sheet identified by the identification unit and the values ​​of the print adjustment parameters included in the sheet type information.

6. a display control means for displaying, on a display device, information indicating sheet type information that includes characteristics similar to the characteristics of the sheet identified by the identification means, among the existing sheet type information, as information indicating candidates for sheet type information to be used in creating the new sheet type information; 3. The processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the creation unit creates new sheet type information based on the characteristics of the sheet identified by the identification unit and the values ​​of print adjustment parameters included in the sheet type information selected from the candidates.

7. a selection means for selecting the candidate sheet type information from among sheet type information in which characteristics similar to the characteristics of the sheet identified by the identification means are set; 7. The processing device according to claim 6, wherein the display control means causes a display device to display information indicating the candidate selected by the selection means.

8. 8. The processing apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the conditions for the candidate sheet type information include a condition using information stored in association with the sheet type information at least one of when the sheet type information is created and when the sheet type information is updated.

9. a determining step of determining characteristics of the sheet based on a result of detection by a detecting means that detects a physical quantity having a value corresponding to the characteristics of the sheet while the sheet is being conveyed; a creating step of creating sheet type information including information indicating characteristics of the sheet and print adjustment parameters corresponding to the characteristics; A processing method characterized in that in the creation process, new sheet type information is created based on the characteristics of the sheet identified in the identification process and the print adjustment parameters included in sheet type information that includes characteristics similar to the characteristics identified in the existing sheet type information.

10. 3. A program for causing a computer to function as each of the means of the processing device according to claim 1 or 2.

Images