Printing processing system, printing processing method and printing processing program

Abstract

To provide a printing processing system that can notify a user of contents of an abnormality when detecting abnormal sound, even when conveyance of a recording medium is not stopped during printing and printing processing ends.SOLUTION: A printing processing system 10 comprises a printing part 12 that conveys a plurality of papers and prints images on the papers respectively, and at least one processor. The processor obtains sound data representing information on collection of operation sound generated accompanying the conveyance of the paper and printing on the papers, detects abnormal sound that is different from sound generated at a normal time, from an operation log in the printing part 12 and the sound data, and estimates contents of an abnormality by executing frequency analysis of comparing the abnormal sound with reference data on contents of abnormalities to output the contents of the abnormality.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a print processing system, a print processing method, and a print processing program. [Background technology]

[0002] The following Patent Document 1 discloses a printing processing system that includes a data storage means that stores data on at least one of sound patterns and vibration values ​​during normal operation, a sensor that detects at least one of sounds and vibrations inside the printing device corresponding to the stored data in the storage means, and an abnormality detection means that detects abnormalities inside the device from the detected value of the sensor and the data during normal operation stored in the data storage means.

[0003] The following Patent Document 2 discloses an image forming system that has a control unit that acquires the reading results of reading a recording medium with an image reading unit, and the control unit recognizes the outer edge shape of the recording medium based on the reading results, determines the parallelism of at least one pair of two opposing sides of the outer edge shape, and makes it possible to determine whether wrinkles have occurred on the recording medium in relation to the parallelism.

[0004] Patent Document 3 listed below discloses an image forming device having an operation sound acquisition unit that acquires the operation sounds of one or more units within the device, and which includes an abnormal sound detection unit that determines whether the operation sounds of each of the units within the device acquired by the operation sound acquisition unit are abnormal sounds, a scanner unit that reads printed matter formed by the image forming device, an image inspection unit that determines whether there are any defects in print quality from the read image of the printed matter, and an image formation control unit that controls whether to continue or stop image formation based on the determination result of the image inspection unit, on condition that the abnormal sound detection unit has determined that there is an abnormal sound. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-205449 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-102824 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-114778 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The present invention aims to provide a printing processing system, a printing processing method, and a printing processing program that can notify a user of the details of an abnormality when an abnormal sound is detected, even if the printing process ends without the transport of the recording medium being stopped during printing. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The printing processing system according to the first aspect includes a printing unit that transports a plurality of recording media and prints an image on each of the recording media, and at least one processor. The processor acquires sound data representing collected information on operating sounds generated in association with the transport and printing of the recording media, detects abnormal sounds that differ from sounds emitted under normal conditions from the operation history of the printing unit and the sound data, performs frequency analysis to compare the abnormal sounds with reference data on the abnormality content, estimates the content of the abnormality, and outputs the content of the abnormality.

[0008] A print processing system according to a second aspect is the print processing system according to the first aspect, wherein the content of the abnormality is an abnormality that does not impede the transport of the recording medium.

[0009] The printing processing system described in the third aspect is the printing processing system described in the first aspect, in which the processor estimates, based on the operation history and the sound data, which of the multiple printed materials printed on the multiple recording media by the printing unit corresponds to the recording medium on which the abnormal sound occurred, and outputs the location of the corresponding printed material along with the content of the abnormality.

[0010] The printing processing system described in the fourth aspect is the printing processing system described in the first aspect, in which after the final page of multiple printed materials printed on multiple recording media by the printing unit, the processor transports the recording media to the printing unit and prints the contents of the abnormality on the recording media.

[0011] The printing processing system described in the fifth aspect is the printing processing system described in the third aspect, in which the processor transports the recording medium to the printing unit after the final page of the printed material and prints the position of the corresponding printed material on the recording medium along with the details of the abnormality.

[0012] A sixth aspect of the print processing system is the print processing system of the first aspect, wherein the processor outputs details of the abnormality to a display unit that displays information.

[0013] A seventh aspect of the print processing system is the print processing system of the third aspect, wherein the processor outputs the location of the corresponding printed material along with the content of the abnormality to a display unit that displays information.

[0014] In the print processing system according to an eighth aspect, in the print processing system according to the third aspect, the processor outputs the location of the corresponding printed material together with the content of the abnormality to a display unit that displays information.

[0015] A ninth aspect of the present invention relates to a printing processing system according to the eighth aspect, wherein the predetermined number of sheets is set by a user's input operation.

[0016] A printing processing system according to a tenth aspect is the printing processing system according to the eighth aspect, in which, if the abnormality is the occurrence of wrinkles in the recording medium, the processor interrupts the transport and printing of the recording medium and then notifies the user to check the storage unit in which the wrinkled recording medium is stored.

[0017] In the printing processing method described in the eleventh aspect, a computer acquires sound data representing collected information on operating sounds generated in association with the transport and printing of multiple recording media by a printing unit, detects abnormal sounds that differ from sounds emitted under normal conditions from the operation history of the printing unit and the sound data, performs frequency analysis to compare the abnormal sounds with reference data on the abnormality content, thereby estimating the content of the abnormality, and performs processing to output the content of the abnormality.

[0018] The printing processing program described in the twelfth aspect causes a computer to acquire sound data representing collected information on operating sounds generated in association with the transport and printing of multiple recording media by a printing unit, detect abnormal sounds that differ from sounds emitted under normal conditions from the operation history of the printing unit and the sound data, perform frequency analysis to compare the abnormal sounds with reference data on the abnormality content, thereby estimating the content of the abnormality, and outputting the content of the abnormality. [Effects of the Invention]

[0019] According to the printing processing system described in the first aspect, even if the printing process ends without the transport of the recording medium being stopped during printing, the user can be notified of the nature of the abnormality when an abnormal sound is detected.

[0020] According to the printing processing system described in the second aspect, even if the printing process ends without the transport of the recording medium being stopped during printing, the user can be notified of the nature of the abnormality when an abnormal sound is detected.

[0021] According to the printing processing system described in the third aspect, even if the printing process ends without the transport of the recording medium being stopped during printing, the user can check the content of the abnormality as well as the position of the corresponding printed material.

[0022] According to the print processing system of the fourth aspect, the user can check the details of the abnormality when checking the printed matter, compared to when the details of the abnormality are displayed on the display unit.

[0023] According to the print processing system of the fifth aspect, the user can confirm the content of the abnormality and the location of the corresponding printed matter, compared to when only the content of the abnormality is printed on a recording medium.

[0024] According to the print processing system of the sixth aspect, it is possible to prevent an increase in the number of printed materials to be discarded, compared to when the content of the abnormality is printed on a recording medium.

[0025] According to the print processing system of the seventh aspect, it is possible to reduce the number of printed materials to be discarded, compared to when the content of the abnormality and the position of the corresponding printed material are printed on a recording medium.

[0026] According to the printing processing system described in the eighth aspect, when similar abnormalities are detected consecutively for multiple recording media that are transported in sequence, the number of printed materials that have abnormalities can be reduced compared to when the transport of the recording media is continued.

[0027] According to the print processing system of the ninth aspect, user convenience is improved compared to when the predetermined number of sheets is uniformly determined by initial setting.

[0028] According to the printing processing system described in the tenth aspect, after interrupting the transport and printing of the recording medium, the user can repair the abnormality more smoothly than if the user had to search for the abnormality in the system that corresponds to the content of the abnormality.

[0029] According to the printing processing method described in the eleventh aspect, even if the printing process ends without the transport of the recording medium being stopped during printing, the user can be notified of the nature of the abnormality when an abnormal sound is detected.

[0030] According to the printing processing program described in the 12th aspect, even if the printing process ends without the transport of the recording medium being stopped during printing, the user can be notified of the nature of the abnormality when an abnormal sound is detected. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0031] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a print processing system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of a processing device in a print processing system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of sound pressure versus time and an operation log in a print processing system. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of profile data obtained by calculating noise levels for each time period and for each frequency period from frequency analysis data. [Figure 5] 5 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing that is handled by a processing device of the print processing system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart showing a part of the flow of processing that is handled by a processing device of a print processing system according to a second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0032] Hereinafter, an example of an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0033] [First embodiment] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a print processing system according to the first embodiment.

[0034] 1, the print processing system 10 includes, as an example, a printing unit 12, a processing unit 14, a sound sensor 16, and a paper sensor 40. Furthermore, the processing unit 14 includes a print processing control unit 17, an abnormal sound detection processing unit 18, a display unit 32, an operation unit 34, and a communication interface 36.

[0035] The printing unit 12 prints data such as image information to be printed on paper, which is an example of a recording medium. The data such as image information may be received via an external server 50 through the communication interface 36, or may be obtained by reading an original document with an image reading unit (not shown). The print processing system 10 shown in FIG. 1 does not include an image reading unit, but may be configured to include an image reading unit.

[0036] Printing unit 12 performs processes such as transporting multiple sheets of paper one by one to the printing position of printing unit 12, printing on the paper, and discharging the printed paper. Specifically, printing unit 12 has an electrophotographic printing mechanism and a paper transport mechanism, and when image data indicating an image to be printed and various operation commands are input from print processing control unit 17, printing is performed on one or both sides of the paper and the paper is discharged to the discharge unit.

[0037] The paper sensor 40 is a sensor that detects the position of paper when the paper is transported to the printing position of the printing unit 12 and discharged to the discharge unit. As an example, the paper is stored in a paper tray of the storage unit, the paper in the paper tray is transported to the printing position of the printing unit 12 by a transport mechanism, and the paper is then discharged to the discharge unit. For example, multiple paper sensors 40 are arranged, and the position of the paper being transported is detected by the multiple paper sensors 40. For example, if a paper jam occurs while the paper is being transported, the paper sensor 40 detects the paper jam.

[0038] The sound sensor 16 collects operating sounds generated in association with the printing operation by the printing unit 12. That is, the sound sensor 16 collects operating sounds generated in the printing unit 12 as the paper is transported and printed.

[0039] The print processing control unit 17 outputs an operation command to print data such as image information to the print unit 12, and controls the operation of the print unit 12. The print processing control unit 17 acquires an operation log of the print unit 12, which will be described later.

[0040] The display unit 32 displays various information. As an example, the display unit 32 is configured with a liquid crystal display. The print processing control unit 17 controls the screen displayed on the display unit 32.

[0041] The operation unit 34 performs operations such as operation instructions from the user. The print processing control unit 17 accepts operation instructions from the user from the operation unit 34. The operation unit 34 may be, for example, an operation button, or may be a touch panel UI (user interface) configured with a liquid crystal display or the like that the user can operate by touching the display. Note that, although the display unit 32 and the operation unit 34 are separate in the first embodiment, they may also be configured with an operation panel that has the function of displaying various information and the function of accepting operations by the user.

[0042] The communication interface 36 is an interface for communicating with a network, and uses standards such as Ethernet (registered trademark), FDDI, and Wi-Fi (registered trademark). The network may be, for example, the Internet, or a wired or wireless network. The print processing system 10 can be connected to an external server 50 via the communication interface 36. The print processing system 10 may be connected to a user terminal via the external server 50. This allows, for example, the user terminal to print data such as image information on the printing unit 12 of the print processing system 10.

[0043] The abnormal sound detection processor 18 acquires sound data representing collected information on the operating sounds of the printing unit 12, and detects abnormal sounds that differ from sounds emitted under normal conditions from the sound data and an operation log (described later) of the printing unit 12. The abnormal sounds are an example of abnormal sounds. Furthermore, the abnormal sound detection processor 18 estimates the nature of the abnormality by performing frequency analysis to compare the abnormal sounds with reference data on the nature of the abnormality.

[0044] Specifically, the abnormal sound detection processing unit 18 has the functions of an abnormal sound detection control unit 20, a sound sensor control unit 22, a frequency analysis unit 24, an abnormal sound detection unit 26, an abnormality content estimation unit 28, and a memory unit 30. The memory unit 30 includes a sound data storage area 30A, an abnormal sound determination data storage area 30B, and an operation log storage area 30C.

[0045] The abnormal sound detection control unit 20 controls each unit of the abnormal sound detection processing unit 18. As an example, after the abnormal sound detection control unit 20 is notified of the position information of the paper from the print processing control unit 17, it notifies the sound sensor control unit 22 to start collecting sound data.

[0046] Furthermore, the abnormal sound detection control unit 20 writes the operation log notified by the print processing control unit 17 to the operation log storage area 30C of the memory unit 30. Here, the operation log refers to information on the operation history that records the operating status. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the sound pressure of the operating sound over time and the operation log in the print processing system 10. As shown in FIG. 3, the operation log is information on the operation history that indicates which parts (e.g., one or more of parts A, B, C, and D) are operating in response to paper position information. For example, the abnormal sound detection control unit 20 refers to the operation log, and when it recognizes that the printing process on multiple papers has ended, it notifies the sound sensor control unit 22 that the collection of sound data has ended.

[0047] The sound sensor control unit 22 controls the collection of operation sounds (i.e., sound data) by the sound sensor 16. For example, when the sound sensor control unit 22 is notified by the abnormal sound detection control unit 20 to start collecting sound data, it acquires the sound data from the sound sensor 16 and writes it to the sound data storage area 30A of the memory unit 30. Furthermore, when the sound sensor control unit 22 is notified by the abnormal sound detection control unit 20 that the collection of sound data has ended, the sound sensor control unit 22 ends writing the sound data. For example, if there are multiple pages of paper, the sound sensor control unit 22 may continuously collect sound data from multiple sheets of paper and, based on the collected sound data, extract the sound data corresponding to one page.

[0048] The frequency analysis unit 24 performs frequency analysis on the sound data collected by the sound sensor 16. For example, when the frequency analysis unit 24 receives a frequency analysis request from the abnormal sound detection control unit 20, it reads the sound data from the sound data storage area 30A of the memory unit 30 and performs frequency analysis. As an example, the frequency analysis data resulting from the frequency analysis is short-time Fourier transform (STFT) data, i.e., data obtained by Fourier transforming sound data for each predetermined time period to extract frequency data and showing time-series changes in this frequency data for each predetermined time period. The frequency analysis unit 24 writes the frequency analysis data resulting from the frequency analysis to the abnormal sound determination data storage area 30B of the memory unit 30. Furthermore, in the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, the frequency analysis unit 24 analyzes the frequency analysis data for one page of paper in the time axis and frequency axis directions to create profile data (i.e., noise levels, which are sound pressures for each frequency, and noise levels, which are sound pressures for each time period). The frequency analysis unit 24 writes the profile data into the abnormal sound detection data storage area 30B of the storage unit 30 as abnormal sound detection data.

[0049] The abnormal sound detection unit 26 detects the presence or absence of an abnormal sound that differs from sounds emitted under normal conditions from the sound data. For example, when the abnormal sound detection unit 26 receives an abnormal sound detection request from the abnormal sound detection control unit 20, the abnormal sound detection unit 26 detects the presence or absence of an abnormal sound. For example, the abnormal sound detection unit 26 reads the sound data from the sound data storage area 30A of the memory unit 30, and detects (detects) the presence or absence of an abnormal sound that differs from sounds emitted under normal conditions from the operation log and sound data of the printing unit 12. Normal sound data, which is an example of sounds emitted under normal conditions, is stored in advance in the abnormal sound determination data storage area 30B.

[0050] As an example, the abnormal sound detection processing unit 18 may be equipped with a machine learning function and use sound data and learning data to detect the presence or absence of an abnormal sound. Learning data is information required for training a machine learning model. The machine learning function can use this information multiple times to adjust predictions, thereby increasing the accuracy rate.

[0051] As another example, the abnormal sound detection unit 26 estimates the corresponding printed matter corresponding to the paper on which the abnormal sound occurred, from among multiple printed matters printed on multiple papers by the printing unit 12. Specifically, when the abnormal sound detection unit 26 detects the occurrence of an abnormal sound, it identifies the timing of the occurrence of the abnormal sound by combining the acquired sound data with the data in the operation log. This allows it to estimate the corresponding printed matter corresponding to the paper on which the abnormal sound occurred.

[0052] For example, the abnormal sound detection unit 26 identifies the period during which the detection target part is operating from the operation log. As shown in Fig. 3, by referring to the operation log and transport time information from a reference position indicating the transport position information of the paper, the abnormal sound detection unit 26 identifies the period from when the paper reaches the reference position where the operation sound is collected until the detection target part starts operating, and the period from when the detection target part starts operating until it stops operating.

[0053] For example, when the abnormal sound detection unit 26 detects the occurrence of an abnormal sound, it notifies the abnormal sound detection control unit 20 of the occurrence of the abnormal sound.

[0054] When an abnormal sound is detected, the abnormality content estimation unit 28 estimates the content of the abnormality by performing frequency analysis to compare the abnormal sound with reference data for the abnormality content. For example, when the abnormal sound detection control unit 20 is notified of the occurrence of an abnormal sound by the abnormal sound detection unit 26, it notifies the abnormality content estimation unit 28 of a request to estimate the content of the abnormality.

[0055] As an example, the abnormality content estimation unit 28 reads frequency analysis data (profile data shown in FIG. 4 in the first embodiment) from the abnormal sound determination data storage area 30B of the memory unit 30, and compares the frequency analysis data with reference data for the abnormality content to estimate the content of the abnormality. The reference data for the abnormality content is stored in advance in the abnormal sound determination data storage area 30B. Examples of the reference data for the abnormality content include abnormal sound information (information such as frequency) when paper wrinkles occur, abnormal sound information when paper damage occurs, abnormal sound information when paper edge folds occur, abnormal sound information when paper types are mixed, and abnormal sound information when a toner abnormality occurs.

[0056] For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the identified part to be detected is part B, which is highly likely to cause wrinkles and creases, and the period during which the part to be detected is in operation is the period of signal 1.

[0057] Information about the detection target parts (i.e., which parts are to be detected) may be acquired from outside by connecting to an external server 50 via the communication interface 36. The detection target parts of interest may change depending on the time of installation and the operating time after installation. The abnormality content estimation unit 28 may extract and read out frequency analysis data for the period during which the detection target parts are operating from the abnormal sound determination data storage area 30B, based on the period during which the identified detection target parts are operating.

[0058] For example, when the timing of the abnormal sound occurrence coincides with the timing of the paper transport (i.e., it is in the middle of the paper transport path) and the abnormal sound that occurs is the same as the frequency band and waveform of the abnormal sound information when wrinkles occur in the paper, the abnormality content estimation unit 28 estimates that wrinkles have occurred in the paper.

[0059] As an example, abnormal sound information (information such as frequency) when paper wrinkles occur is data obtained by collecting and frequency-analyzing sounds collected during paper transport for various paper types and types of wrinkles during the design and development of the printing device.Furthermore, data obtained by frequency-analyzing sounds collected during paper transport for various paper types and types of wrinkles may be trained as a large amount of machine learning data, and this training data may be used to determine the nature of the abnormality.

[0060] For example, the abnormality content estimation unit 28 outputs the estimated content of the abnormality to the abnormal sound detection control unit 20.

[0061] As an example, the abnormality is an abnormality that does not hinder paper transport. For example, if print processing control unit 17 detects a paper jam during paper transport, it stops printing on the paper by printing unit 12. For example, a paper jam is detected by a signal from paper sensor 40. Abnormality content estimation unit 28 may be configured to estimate the abnormality if a paper jam does not occur during paper transport.

[0062] For example, the abnormal sound detection control unit 20 outputs the details of the abnormality estimated by the abnormality details estimation unit 28 to the printing unit 12. For example, after the final page of multiple printouts printed on multiple sheets of paper by the printing unit 12, the paper is conveyed to the printing unit 12, and the details of the abnormality are printed on this paper.

[0063] For example, if it is estimated based on the operation log and sound data that a corresponding printed matter corresponds to the sheet on which the abnormal noise occurred among multiple printed matters printed on multiple sheets of paper by the printing unit 12, the abnormal sound detection control unit 20 may output the location of the corresponding printed matter along with the details of the abnormality to the printing unit 12. For example, after the final page of the multiple printed matters printed on multiple sheets of paper by the printing unit 12, the sheet may be transported to the printing unit 12, and the location of the corresponding printed matter along with the details of the abnormality may be printed on the sheet.

[0064] Furthermore, the abnormal sound detection control unit 20 may suspend paper transport and printing when it detects the same abnormality repeatedly for a predetermined number of sheets of paper being transported in sequence. For example, the predetermined number of sheets is set by a user input operation. For example, the user can input the predetermined number of sheets from the operation unit 34.

[0065] Furthermore, if the abnormality is the occurrence of wrinkles in the paper, the abnormal sound detection control unit 20 may interrupt the transport and printing of the paper and then notify the user to check the storage unit that contains the wrinkled paper. The notification may be displayed on the display unit 32, or may be printed on the paper transported to the printing unit 12 after the final page of multiple printouts printed on multiple sheets of paper by the printing unit 12.

[0066] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the processing device 14 in the print processing system 10 according to the first embodiment.

[0067] 2, the print processing system 10 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 111, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 112, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 113, a storage 114, a display unit 32, an operation unit 34, a communication interface 36, and an input / output interface 115. Each component is connected to each other via a bus 119 so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0068] The CPU 111 is a central processing unit that executes various programs and controls each component. The CPU 111 is an example of a processor. The CPU 111 reads a program from the ROM 112 or the storage 114, and executes the program using the RAM 113 as a work area. The CPU 111 controls the above components and performs various arithmetic processing in accordance with the program recorded in the ROM 112 or the storage 114. In this embodiment, an information processing program is stored in the ROM 112 or the storage 114.

[0069] The CPU 111 functions as the print processing control unit 17, the abnormal sound detection control unit 20 in the abnormal sound detection processing unit 18, the sound sensor control unit 22, the frequency analysis unit 24, the abnormal sound detection unit 26, and the abnormality content estimation unit 28. In other words, the CPU 111 performs various processes by the print processing control unit 17, and various processes by the abnormal sound detection control unit 20, the sound sensor control unit 22, the frequency analysis unit 24, the abnormal sound detection unit 26, and the abnormality content estimation unit 28. As an example, the print processing system 10 is configured such that each unit is controlled by a single CPU 111.

[0070] The ROM 112 stores various programs and various data. The RAM 113 temporarily stores programs or data as a working area. The storage 114 is configured with an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or an SSD (Solid State Drive) and stores various programs including an operating system and various data.

[0071] In the first embodiment, the RAM 113 or the storage 114 functions as the storage unit 30. The processing device 14 shown in FIG.

[0072] The input / output interface 115 is an interface for transmitting and receiving information to and from peripheral devices. In the first embodiment, information is transmitted and received to and from the printing unit 12, sound sensor 16, paper sensor 40, etc. via the input / output interface 115. Note that any one or more of the printing unit 12, sound sensor 16, and paper sensor 40 may be directly connected via the bus 119.

[0073] (Operation of the first embodiment) Next, the operation of the print processing system 10 of the first embodiment will be described.

[0074] 5 is a flowchart showing the flow of information processing handled by the processing device 14 of the print processing system 10 of the first embodiment. In the processing device 14, the CPU 111 reads an information processing program from the ROM 112 or the storage 114, expands it in the RAM 113, and executes it, thereby performing information processing.

[0075] The CPU 111 starts a print job by the printing unit 12 (step S201). For example, when a user issues an instruction to start printing from the operation unit 34, the CPU 11 receives the instruction to start printing and outputs an operation command to start printing to the printing unit 12. As a result, paper is transported to the printing position of the printing unit 12, and image data is printed on the paper.

[0076] The CPU 111 starts recording the operation sound by the sound sensor 16 (step S202). Recording the operation sound is an example of collecting the operation sound, and the CPU 111 writes the recorded sound data into the sound data storage area 30A of the storage unit 30.

[0077] The CPU 111 detects abnormal sounds (step S203). For example, the CPU 111 acquires an operation log of the printing unit 12 and writes the operation log to the operation log storage area 30C of the memory unit 30. Also, for example, the CPU 111 acquires normal sound data, which is a sound generated under normal conditions and corresponds to the operation log of the printing unit 12, from the abnormal sound determination data storage area 30B of the memory unit 30. The CPU 111 detects abnormal sounds that differ from the normal sound data from the operation log and the sound data.

[0078] The CPU 111 determines whether or not an abnormal sound has occurred (step S204). If the CPU 111 detects an abnormal sound that differs from the normal sound data from the operation log and sound data, it determines that an abnormal sound has occurred.

[0079] If an abnormal sound occurs (step S204: YES), CPU 111 determines whether the paper is wrinkled (step S205). The occurrence of wrinkles in the paper is one example of the type of abnormality, and an example of determining whether the paper is wrinkled will be described here. When an abnormal sound occurs, CPU 111 identifies the timing of the abnormal sound by combining the acquired sound data with data from the operation log. Furthermore, CPU 111 determines whether the paper is wrinkled by performing frequency analysis to compare the abnormal sound with reference data for the type of abnormality (reference data for abnormal sounds when the paper is wrinkled). The reference data is acquired from abnormal sound determination data storage area 30B of memory unit 30.

[0080] The CPU 111 determines whether or not wrinkles have occurred in the paper (step S206). For example, when the timing of the abnormal noise occurrence coincides with the timing of the paper transport (i.e., the timing is midway along the paper transport path) and the generated abnormal noise is equivalent to reference data (e.g., frequency band and waveform) of abnormal noise when wrinkles have occurred in the paper, the CPU 111 determines that wrinkles have occurred in the paper.

[0081] On the other hand, if no abnormal noise occurs (step S204: NO), CPU 111 determines whether or not the conveyance of the last page of paper has been completed (step S207).

[0082] If the paper is wrinkled (step S206: YES), CPU 111 records the page number of the paper on which the wrinkles occurred (step S208). The page number corresponds to the timing of when the wrinkles occurred on the paper, and is, for example, the number of the paper among multiple printed sheets. This makes it possible to identify the printed matter corresponding to the paper on which the noise occurred.

[0083] The CPU 111 increments the NG count by one (step S209). The NG count corresponds to the number of sheets when wrinkles occur in the paper, and when wrinkles occur in the paper, the NG count is incremented by one. The NG count is stored in the memory unit 30, for example.

[0084] On the other hand, if the paper is not wrinkled (step S206: NO), CPU 111 determines whether a paper jam has occurred (step S210). For example, if paper sensor 40 does not detect paper within a specified time, CPU 111 determines that a paper jam has occurred.

[0085] Furthermore, the CPU 111 determines whether the NG count is greater than a set value N (step S211). The set value N is a value preset by the user, and is the number of sheets that serves as a threshold for interrupting paper transport and printing when abnormalities are detected consecutively for multiple sheets of paper that are transported in sequence.

[0086] If the NG count is equal to or less than the set value N (step S211: NO), the CPU 111 determines whether a paper jam has occurred (step S210).

[0087] If the NG count is greater than the set value N (step S211: YES), the CPU 111 determines whether or not continuous wrinkles in the paper have been detected (step S212).

[0088] If continuous wrinkles in the paper are detected (step S212: YES), the CPU 111 interrupts the job (step S213).

[0089] CPU 111 outputs an instruction to the user to check the tray of the storage unit to display unit 32 (step S214). The user can check whether there are any abnormalities in the paper stored in the tray of the storage unit by following the instruction to check the tray of the storage unit displayed on display unit 32. This ends the processing based on the information processing program.

[0090] If continuous wrinkles in the paper are not detected (step S212: NO), the CPU 111 determines whether a paper jam has occurred (step S210).

[0091] If a paper jam occurs (step S210: YES), CPU 111 interrupts the job (step S215), thereby ending the processing based on the information processing program.

[0092] If no paper jam occurs (step S210: NO), CPU 111 determines whether or not the transport of the last page of paper has been completed (step S207).

[0093] If the conveyance of the final page of paper has not been completed (step S207: NO), CPU 111 returns to the process of step S203.

[0094] If the transport of the final page of paper has been completed (step S207: YES), the CPU 111 determines whether the NG count is 0 (step S216).

[0095] If the NG count is not 0 (step S216: NO), CPU 111 prints a report describing the position of the page on which the paper wrinkles occur (step S217). For example, after the final page of multiple printouts printed by printing unit 12, a report describing the occurrence of paper wrinkles and the position of the page on which the paper wrinkles occur is printed. This ends the processing based on the information processing program.

[0096] If the NG count is 0 (step S216: YES), CPU 111 ends the print job (step S218). For example, CPU 111 may end recording of the operation sound when the print job ends, or may end recording of the operation sound when the transport of the last page of paper is completed. This ends the processing based on the information processing program.

[0097] For example, in a printing processing system, if the printing process ends without stopping the paper feed during printing, the user may later notice defects such as wrinkles in the paper when looking at the image printed on the paper. In particular, when printing images on a large number of sheets of paper, the user may not notice a defect in the paper even if one occurs during printing.

[0098] In the print processing system 10 described above, the CPU 111 acquires sound data representing collected information on operating sounds generated during paper transport and printing, and detects abnormal sounds that differ from sounds emitted under normal conditions from the operation log and sound data of the printing unit 12. Furthermore, the CPU 111 performs frequency analysis to compare the abnormal sounds with reference data on the abnormality content, thereby estimating the nature of the abnormality and outputting the nature of the abnormality. Therefore, in the print processing system 10, even if the print processing ends without paper transport being stopped during printing, the user can be notified of the nature of the abnormality when an abnormal sound is detected.

[0099] Furthermore, in the print processing system 10, the abnormality is one that does not impede the transport of the document. Therefore, in the print processing system 10, even if the print processing ends without paper transport being stopped during printing, the user can be notified of the abnormality when an abnormal noise is detected.

[0100] Furthermore, in print processing system 10, CPU 111 estimates, based on the operation log and sound data, which of the multiple prints printed on multiple sheets of paper by printing unit 12 corresponds to the sheet on which the abnormal noise occurred, and outputs the location of the corresponding print along with the details of the abnormality. Therefore, in print processing system 10, even if the print process ends without paper transport being stopped during printing, the user can confirm the location of the corresponding print along with the details of the abnormality.

[0101] Furthermore, in the print processing system 10, after the final page of multiple printouts printed on multiple sheets of paper by the print unit 12, the CPU 111 transports the paper to the print unit 12 and causes the print unit 12 to print the details of the abnormality on the paper. Therefore, in the print processing system 10, the user can check the details of the abnormality when checking the printouts, compared to when the details of the abnormality are displayed on the display unit.

[0102] Furthermore, in the print processing system 10, after the final page of the printed matter, the CPU 111 transports paper to the printing unit 12 and prints the content of the abnormality and the location of the corresponding printed matter on the paper. Therefore, in the print processing system 10, the user can confirm the content of the abnormality and the location of the corresponding printed matter, compared to when only the content of the abnormality is printed on the recording medium.

[0103] Furthermore, in the print processing system 10, when the CPU 111 detects the same abnormality (creases in the paper) consecutively for a predetermined number of sheets of paper being conveyed in sequence, it suspends paper conveyance and printing. Therefore, when the print processing system 10 detects the same abnormality consecutively for multiple sheets of paper being conveyed in sequence, it is possible to reduce the number of printed materials with abnormalities compared to when paper conveyance is continued.

[0104] Furthermore, in the print processing system 10, the CPU 111 sets the predetermined number of sheets through an input operation by the user. Therefore, in the print processing system 10, user convenience is improved compared to when the predetermined number of sheets is uniformly set by initial setting.

[0105] Furthermore, in print processing system 10, if the abnormality is the occurrence of wrinkles in the paper, CPU 111 suspends paper transport and printing and then notifies the user to check the storage unit that contains the wrinkled paper. Therefore, in print processing system 10, the user can repair the abnormality more smoothly than if the user suspended paper transport and printing and then searched for the abnormality in the system that corresponds to the abnormality.

[0106] In the print processing system 10, instead of the above configuration, the CPU 111 may output the details of the abnormality to the display unit 32. This causes the details of the abnormality to be displayed on the display unit 32. In the print processing system 10, it is possible to prevent an increase in the amount of printed matter to be discarded, compared to when the details of the abnormality are printed on paper.

[0107] Furthermore, in the print processing system 10, instead of the above configuration, the CPU 111 may output the content of the abnormality as well as the location of the corresponding printed material on which the abnormality occurred to the display unit 32. This causes the content of the abnormality as well as the location of the corresponding printed material on which the abnormality occurred to be displayed on the display unit 32. Therefore, in the print processing system 10, it is possible to prevent an increase in the number of printed materials to be discarded compared to when the content of the abnormality is printed on a recording medium.

[0108] Second Embodiment Next, a print processing system 10 according to a second embodiment will be described. Note that the same components as those in the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be omitted.

[0109] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing part of the flow of information processing that is handled by the processing device 14 of the print processing system 10 of the second embodiment.

[0110] As shown in FIG. 6, the print processing system 10 of the second embodiment is similar to the flowchart shown in FIG. 5 up to a certain point, and the CPU 111 determines whether or not an abnormal noise has occurred (step S204).

[0111] If an abnormal noise occurs (step S204: YES), the CPU 111 determines whether the paper is wrinkled (step S301).

[0112] The CPU 111 determines whether or not the paper is wrinkled (step S302).

[0113] If the paper is wrinkled (step S302: YES), CPU 111 executes processing for the paper wrinkles (step S303). The processing for the paper wrinkles is the same as the processing for the paper wrinkles shown in FIG.

[0114] If the paper is not wrinkled (step S302: NO), CPU 111 determines whether the paper is damaged (step S304). Examples of paper damage include when the paper is torn or damaged while being transported, or when the paper is set in a paper tray in a damaged state. CPU 111 determines whether the paper is damaged by performing frequency analysis to compare the abnormal sound with reference data for the abnormality (reference data for abnormal sounds when paper is damaged). The reference data is obtained from abnormal sound determination data storage area 30B of memory unit 30.

[0115] The CPU 111 determines whether or not the paper is damaged (step S305).

[0116] If the paper is damaged (step S305: YES), CPU 111 executes processing for the paper being damaged (step S306). The processing for the paper being damaged is the same as the processing for the paper being wrinkled.

[0117] If the paper is not damaged (step S305: NO), CPU 111 determines whether the paper has bent at its edge (step S307). Examples of paper bent at its edge include when the paper bends at its edge while being transported, or when the paper is placed in a paper tray with the edge bent. CPU 111 determines whether the paper has bent at its edge by performing frequency analysis to compare the abnormal sound with reference data for the abnormality (reference data for abnormal sounds when the paper has bent at its edge). The reference data is obtained from abnormal sound determination data storage area 30B in memory unit 30.

[0118] The CPU 111 determines whether or not the edge of the paper has been folded (step S308).

[0119] If the edge of the paper is bent (step S308: YES), CPU 111 executes processing for the edge of the paper (step S309). The processing for the edge of the paper is the same as the processing for the wrinkled paper.

[0120] If the paper edge is not folded (step S308: NO), CPU 111 determines whether an abnormal paper type has occurred (step S310). Examples of abnormal paper types include different types of paper being mixed in one paper tray, or the type of paper changing when the paper tray is switched. CPU 111 determines whether an abnormal paper type has occurred by performing frequency analysis to compare the abnormal sound with reference data for the abnormality (reference data for abnormal sounds when an abnormal paper type has occurred). The reference data is obtained from abnormal sound determination data storage area 30B in memory unit 30.

[0121] The CPU 111 determines whether an abnormality in the paper type has occurred (step S311).

[0122] If an abnormality in the paper type has occurred (step S311: YES), CPU 111 executes processing for the abnormality in the paper type (step S312). The processing for the abnormality in the paper type is the same as the processing for the wrinkled paper.

[0123] If no abnormality in the paper type has occurred (step S311: NO), CPU 111 determines whether an abnormality in the toner has occurred during printing on the paper (step S313). An example of an abnormality in the toner is when the image printed on the paper has an abnormal image quality due to clumps of toner.

[0124] The CPU 111 determines whether a toner abnormality has occurred during printing on paper (step S314).

[0125] If a toner abnormality has occurred during printing on paper (step S314: YES), CPU 111 executes processing for the toner abnormality (step S315). The processing for the toner abnormality is the same as the processing for the occurrence of wrinkles in paper.

[0126] If a toner abnormality has not occurred during printing on paper (step S314: NO), CPU 111 proceeds to the process of step S210 in the flowchart shown in FIG.

[0127] If no abnormal noise occurs (step S204: YES), the CPU 111 proceeds to the process of step S207 in the flowchart shown in Fig. 5. The subsequent processes are the same as those in the flowchart shown in Fig. 5.

[0128] The print processing system 10 of the second embodiment has the same configuration as the print processing system 10 of the first embodiment, and can provide the same functions and effects.

[0129] In the print processing system 10 of the second embodiment, the types of abnormality determinations are not limited to the above configuration, and can be changed or added.

[0130] 〔others〕 Although the print processing system 10 has been described in the above embodiment, the present disclosure is not limited to the print processing system 10 and can be modified as appropriate.

[0131] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the term "processor" refers to a processor in a broad sense, and includes general-purpose processors (e.g., CPUs, etc.) and dedicated processors (e.g., GPU: Graphics Processing Unit, ASIC: Application Specific Integrated Circuit, FPGA: Field Programmable Gate Array, programmable logic device, etc.).

[0132] Furthermore, the operations of the processors in the above embodiments may not only be performed by a single processor, but may also be performed by multiple processors located at physically separate locations working together. Furthermore, the order of the operations of the processors is not limited to the order described in the above embodiments, and may be changed as appropriate.

[0133] The processing performed by the processor according to the above embodiment may be software, hardware, or a combination of both. The processing performed by the processor may be stored as a program on a storage medium and distributed.

[0134] Furthermore, the present disclosure is not limited to the above, and it goes without saying that various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure.

[0135] The following additional notes are provided regarding the above-described embodiments. (((1))) a printing unit that conveys a plurality of recording media and prints an image on each of the recording media; at least one processor; The processor: Acquire sound data representing collected information of operation sounds generated in association with the transport and printing of the recording medium; detecting an abnormal sound that differs from a sound emitted under normal conditions from the operation history of the printing unit and the sound data; Estimating the content of the abnormality by performing a frequency analysis that compares the abnormal sound with reference data of the content of the abnormality; The print processing system outputs the details of the abnormality.

[0136] (((2))) The printing processing system according to (((1))), wherein the content of the abnormality is an abnormality that does not impede the transport of the recording medium.

[0137] (((3))) The processor: based on the operation history and the sound data, estimating a corresponding printed product corresponding to the recording medium on which the abnormal sound occurred, from among a plurality of printed products printed on the plurality of recording media by the printing unit; The print processing system according to (((1))) or (((2))), wherein the position of the corresponding printed material is output together with the content of the abnormality.

[0138] (((4))) The printing processing system described in any one of (((1))) to (((3))) wherein, after the final page of multiple printed materials printed on multiple recording media by the printing unit, the processor transports the recording media to the printing unit and causes the content of the abnormality to be printed on the recording media.

[0139] (((5))) The printing processing system described in (((3)))), wherein after the final page of the printed material, the processor transports the recording medium to the printing unit and prints the position of the corresponding printed material along with the content of the abnormality on the recording medium.

[0140] (((6))) The print processing system according to any one of (((1))) to (((5))), wherein the processor outputs details of the abnormality to a display unit that displays information.

[0141] (((7))) The print processing system according to (((3))), wherein the processor outputs the location of the corresponding printed material together with the content of the abnormality to a display unit that displays information.

[0142] (((8))) The processor: A printing processing system described in any one of (((1))) to (((7))), in which when the same abnormality is detected consecutively for a predetermined number of recording media that are transported in sequence, the transport and printing of the recording media are interrupted.

[0143] (((9))) The print processing system according to (((8))), wherein the predetermined number of sheets is set by a user's input operation.

[0144] (((10))) The processor: The printing processing system described in (((8))) further includes a step of interrupting the transport and printing of the recording medium when the abnormality is the occurrence of wrinkles in the recording medium, and then notifying the user to check the storage unit in which the wrinkled recording medium is stored.

[0145] (((11))) The computer Acquire sound data representing collected information of operation sounds generated in association with the conveyance and printing of the plurality of recording media by the printing unit; detecting an abnormal sound that differs from a sound emitted under normal conditions from the operation history of the printing unit and the sound data; Estimating the content of the abnormality by performing a frequency analysis that compares the abnormal sound with reference data of the content of the abnormality; A printing processing method that performs processing to output the details of the abnormality.

[0146] (((12))) On the computer, Acquire sound data representing collected information of operation sounds generated in association with the conveyance and printing of the plurality of recording media by the printing unit; detecting an abnormal sound that differs from a sound emitted under normal conditions from the operation history of the printing unit and the sound data; Estimating the content of the abnormality by performing a frequency analysis that compares the abnormal sound with reference data of the content of the abnormality; A printing processing program for executing a process for outputting the details of the abnormality.

[0147] According to the printing processing system described in (((1))), even if the printing process ends without the transport of the recording medium being stopped during printing, the user can be notified of the nature of the abnormality when an abnormal sound is detected.

[0148] According to the printing processing system described in (((2))), even if the printing process ends without the transport of the recording medium being stopped during printing, the user can be notified of the nature of the abnormality when an abnormal sound is detected.

[0149] According to the printing processing system described in (((3))), even if the printing process ends without the transport of the recording medium being stopped during printing, the user can check the content of the abnormality as well as the position of the corresponding printed material.

[0150] According to the print processing system described in (((4))), the user can check the details of the abnormality when checking the printed matter, compared to when the details of the abnormality are displayed on the display unit.

[0151] According to the print processing system described in (((5))), the user can confirm the details of the abnormality and the location of the corresponding printed matter, compared to when only the details of the abnormality are printed on a recording medium.

[0152] According to the print processing system described in (((6))), it is possible to suppress an increase in the amount of printed matter to be discarded, compared to when the content of the abnormality is printed on a recording medium.

[0153] According to the print processing system described in (((7))), it is possible to reduce the number of printed materials to be discarded compared to when the content of the abnormality and the position of the corresponding printed material are printed on a recording medium.

[0154] According to the printing processing system described in (((8))), when similar abnormalities are detected consecutively for multiple recording media that are transported in sequence, the number of printed materials that have abnormalities can be reduced compared to when the transport of the recording media is continued.

[0155] According to the print processing system described in (((9))), user convenience is improved compared to when the predetermined number of sheets is uniformly determined by initial setting.

[0156] According to the printing processing system described in (((10))), after the transport and printing of the recording medium are interrupted, the user can repair the abnormality more smoothly than if the user had to search for the abnormality in the system that corresponds to the content of the abnormality.

[0157] According to the printing processing method described in (((11))), even if the printing process ends without the transport of the recording medium being stopped during printing, the user can be notified of the nature of the abnormality when an abnormal sound is detected.

[0158] According to the print processing program described in (((12))), even if the print processing ends without the transport of the recording medium being stopped during printing, the user can be notified of the nature of the abnormality when an abnormal sound is detected. [Explanation of symbols]

[0159] 10 Printing Processing System 12 Printing Department 14 Processing equipment 16 Sound Sensor 17 Printing process control unit 18 Abnormal sound detection processing unit 20 Abnormal noise detection control unit 22 Sound sensor control unit 24 Frequency analysis section 26 Abnormal noise detection unit 28 Abnormal content estimation part 30 Storage section 30A Sound data storage area 30B Data storage area for abnormal noise detection 30C Operation log storage area 32 Display section 34 Control section 40 Paper sensor 111 CPU (an example of a processor)

Claims

1. a printing unit that conveys a plurality of recording media and prints an image on each of the recording media; at least one processor; The processor: Acquire sound data representing collected information of operation sounds generated in association with the transport and printing of the recording medium; detecting an abnormal sound that differs from a sound emitted under normal conditions from the operation history of the printing unit and the sound data; Estimating the content of the abnormality by performing a frequency analysis that compares the abnormal sound with reference data of the content of the abnormality; The print processing system outputs the details of the abnormality.

2. The print processing system according to claim 1 , wherein the abnormality is an abnormality that does not impede the transport of the recording medium.

3. The processor: based on the operation history and the sound data, estimating a corresponding printed product corresponding to the recording medium on which the abnormal sound occurred, from among a plurality of printed products printed on the plurality of recording media by the printing unit; The print processing system according to claim 1 , further comprising: a location of the corresponding printed material output together with the content of the abnormality.

4. The printing processing system according to claim 1, wherein the processor transports the recording medium to the printing unit after the final page of a plurality of printed materials printed on the plurality of recording media by the printing unit and causes the printing unit to print the contents of the abnormality on the recording medium.

5. 4. The print processing system according to claim 3, wherein the processor transports the recording medium to the printing unit after the final page of the printed material and prints the position of the corresponding printed material together with the content of the abnormality on the recording medium.

6. The printing processing system according to claim 1 , wherein the processor outputs the details of the abnormality to a display unit that displays information.

7. The print processing system according to claim 3 , wherein the processor outputs the location of the corresponding printed material along with the content of the abnormality to a display unit that displays information.

8. The processor:

2. The printing processing system according to claim 1, wherein when the same type of abnormality is detected consecutively for a predetermined number of the recording media being conveyed in order, conveyance of the recording media and printing are suspended.

9. The print processing system according to claim 8 , wherein the predetermined number of sheets is set by a user's input operation.

10. The processor:

9. The printing processing system of claim 8, wherein if the abnormality is the occurrence of wrinkles in the recording medium, the transport and printing of the recording medium is interrupted, and then the user is notified to check the storage unit in which the wrinkled recording medium is stored.

11. The computer Acquire sound data representing collected information of operation sounds generated in association with the conveyance and printing of the plurality of recording media by the printing unit; detecting an abnormal sound that differs from a sound emitted under normal conditions from the operation history of the printing unit and the sound data; Estimating the content of the abnormality by performing a frequency analysis that compares the abnormal sound with reference data of the content of the abnormality; A printing processing method that performs processing to output the details of the abnormality.

12. On the computer, Acquire sound data representing collected information of operation sounds generated in association with the conveyance and printing of the plurality of recording media by the printing unit; detecting an abnormal sound that differs from a sound emitted under normal conditions from the operation history of the printing unit and the sound data; Estimating the content of the abnormality by performing a frequency analysis that compares the abnormal sound with reference data of the content of the abnormality; A printing processing program for executing a process for outputting the details of the abnormality.

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