Image forming apparatus and image forming method, and program

Abstract

To provide an image forming apparatus that can perform predetermined printing operations easily in a short time without requiring, for sheet information automatically detected by a user in the past, another automatic detection and complicated settings for sheet information performed by the user.SOLUTION: An image forming apparatus 100 comprises: sensor means 14 that acquires sheet characteristics; selection means 500 that selects sheet information corresponding to the sheet characteristics acquired by the sensor means 13; storage means 800 that stores sheet information selected by the selection means 500 in the past; and setting means 830 that displays the sheet information stored in the storage means 800 so that it can be set by a user's selection.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] Image forming devices develop electrostatic latent images formed on a photoreceptor using a laser beam with toner, transfer the toner image to paper, and thermally fuse it. By setting optimal conveyance speeds and fuser temperatures for each paper type, such as plain paper or thick paper, they can produce high-quality prints. For example, image forming devices achieve high-quality image formation by switching control according to pre-stored print control parameters for each paper type. A known method involves manually setting the paper type via a user's operation panel or the screen of a personal computer (PC) connected to the image forming device. Recently, image forming devices have been introduced that incorporate a paper type detection sensor (media sensor) that detects the surface texture and thickness of the paper and automatically sets the paper type based on the detection results of the paper type detection sensor. For example, a method has been proposed for automatically determining the appropriate paper type during printing using a media sensor (see Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-70877 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In image forming apparatuses equipped with a media sensor, there are currently two methods for setting the paper type: (1) Wait until the execution of the media sensor is completed, and the paper type is automatically set based on the execution result. (2) The user sets the paper type by themselves.

[0005] Now, consider the case where you run the media sensor once to set the paper type, and then later want to set the paper type again for the same type of paper. Even in this case, you must choose between (1) and (2). In the case of (1), even though you have run the media sensor once, you must run it again, which from the user's perspective takes time to run the media sensor again. In the case of (2), the user must select and set the paper type, and since the paper type options presented are for the number of paper types that the image forming device can handle, and it is also possible to add paper types, there are many options, and it takes time to display and select. Therefore, whether you choose (1) or (2) above, it takes a long time, which interferes with the user's printing work.

[0006] The present disclosure aims to provide an image forming device and method that can easily perform the desired printing work in a short amount of time, without the user having to automatically detect paper information that has been automatically detected in the past or having to set complicated paper information. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The image forming apparatus of the present disclosure has a sensor means for acquiring paper characteristics, a selection means for selecting paper information corresponding to the paper characteristics acquired by the sensor means, a storage means for storing paper information previously selected by the selection means, and a setting means for displaying the paper information stored in the storage means so that it can be set by user selection.

[0008] The image forming method disclosed herein includes a first step of checking whether or not paper information that was automatically detected in the past is stored; a second step of displaying the paper information so that it can be set by user selection if it is confirmed in the first step that paper information that was automatically detected in the past is stored; and a third step of automatically detecting and setting current paper information if it is confirmed in the first step that paper information that was automatically detected in the past is not stored. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present disclosure, the user can easily perform the desired printing work in a short time without having to automatically detect paper information that was automatically detected in the past or having to set complicated paper information by the user again. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the overall configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic diagram showing a main configuration controlled by a central processing unit (CPU) of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram used to explain the configuration of a fixing unit and fixing. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram for explaining a media sensor. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a functional configuration diagram for explaining a paper information selection function in the present embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a paper type setting screen according to the present embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing details of a history setting button in the present embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a functional configuration diagram for explaining an automatic detection and storage function and a favorite storage function in the present embodiment. [Figure 9] 3 is a flowchart showing an image forming method according to the present embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a functional configuration diagram for explaining an automatic detection and storage function and a favorite storage function in the image forming apparatus according to first and second modified examples of the present embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] -Basic configuration of image forming apparatus in embodiment- Before specifically disclosing the embodiments, the basic configuration of an image forming apparatus in the embodiments will be described.

[0012] The image forming apparatus according to the present disclosure includes a sensor means, a selection means, a storage means, and a setting means. The sensor means is, for example, a so-called media sensor, and acquires paper characteristics (for example, paper basis weight and surface properties). The selection means selects paper information, for example, paper type, corresponding to the paper characteristics acquired by the sensor means. The storage means stores paper information previously selected by the selection means. The display setting means displays the paper type information stored in the storage means so that it can be set by selection by a user (so-called authenticated user). A display means is provided separately, and the paper information instructed to be displayed by the setting means is displayed on the display means so that it can be selected.

[0013] In the image forming apparatus according to the present disclosure, if there is paper type information stored in the storage means, the setting means displays this information on the display means. The displayed information is information on paper types previously selected by the selection means. The user can select a desired paper type from the displayed paper types. When a paper type is selected, the selected paper type is set. If the user wishes to automatically set the paper type, for example, by selecting this on the display screen, the selection means selects a paper type corresponding to the paper properties detected by the sensor means, and the selected paper type is set.

[0014] In conventional image forming devices, automatic detection of paper type requires a relatively long detection time. On the other hand, when a user manually sets the paper type, the user must go through the setting procedure from scratch, which requires time and effort. In the present disclosure, information on all paper types previously selected by the user is instantly displayed, allowing the user to easily and quickly set the paper type by simply selecting the desired paper type from the displayed information. This realizes a highly convenient image forming device that allows the user to easily perform the desired printing job in a short time without having to re-detect paper information automatically detected by the user or having to manually set complicated paper information.

[0015] The image forming apparatus according to the present disclosure further includes a measuring unit for measuring paper size, and the setting unit displays the paper size information measured by the measuring unit together with the paper information stored in the storage unit so that the user can select and set it. With this configuration, the user does not need to automatically detect paper types and paper sizes that have been automatically detected in the past, or to manually set the paper types and paper sizes.

[0016] Furthermore, the present disclosure takes into consideration the following multiple usage patterns of users of image forming apparatuses. (1) A mode of use in which the selection means stores paper information previously selected as information common to all users, and the setting means displays the paper information stored in the storage means in a settable manner. (2) A usage mode in which paper information previously selected by the selection means is stored for each user group as information common to users belonging to each of multiple user groups, and the setting means displays paper information corresponding to the user group to which the user belongs in a settable manner. (3) A mode of use in which the selection means stores paper information previously selected for each individual user, and the setting means displays the paper information stored in the storage means in a settable manner. By configuring the image forming apparatus in this way, it becomes possible to set a display mode that corresponds to the characteristics of the user who uses the image forming apparatus, and a more convenient image forming apparatus can be realized.

[0017] -Specific Description of the Embodiments- Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the invention according to the claims. Although multiple features are described in the embodiments, not all of these multiple features are necessarily essential, and multiple features may be combined arbitrarily. Furthermore, in the drawings, the same reference numerals are used to designate the same or similar components, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0018] [Overall configuration of image forming apparatus] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing the overall configuration of an image forming apparatus according to this embodiment. The image forming apparatus according to this embodiment prints on paper, which is a print medium, using an electrophotographic method, an electrostatic recording method, or the like. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the main components controlled by a central processing unit (CPU) of the image forming apparatus according to this embodiment. First, the basic configuration and operation of an image forming apparatus 100 according to this embodiment will be described using FIGS. 1 and 2.

[0019] The CPU 10 is a control unit that controls the entire image forming apparatus 100. The ROM 11 stores a control program according to this embodiment, initial values ​​of various settings, and the like. The CPU 10 executes the control program according to this embodiment read from the ROM 11 to implement the image formation procedures and the procedures of each flowchart, which will be described later. The RAM 12 stores various information under the control of the CPU 10. As will be described in detail later, the RAM 12 stores print control parameters for each paper type in a first storage area, and stores a history of paper types detected by a media sensor for each paper feed cassette in a second storage area. As will be described later, if a user changes the print control parameters corresponding to a referenced paper type, the CPU 10 additionally stores the changed print control parameters in the first storage area as user-defined print control parameters corresponding to the paper type.

[0020] The permanent area 21 refers to a storage device that can permanently store data, such as an HDD or SSD. The permanent area 21 stores basic paper information 521, user-defined paper information 522, favorite paper information data 811 (described later), and automatic detection execution data 821. In addition, the permanent area 21 stores identifiers and password hash values ​​required for user authentication, user attribute information, and paper type priority settings.

[0021] The instruction / display unit 13 includes a panel, buttons, etc. that can display an operation screen, and when an instruction such as starting a print operation is input, the instruction information is sent to the CPU 10. Note that the instruction information such as starting a print operation may be input by a user operating the instruction / display unit 13, or may be input from an external device such as a personal computer, tablet terminal, or smartphone connected via a network (not shown).

[0022] When instruction information to start a print operation is input, CPU 10 drives and controls a paper feed / conveyance motor (not shown) in accordance with the instruction information to feed and convey paper. CPU 10 also sets print control parameters for image forming unit 17 to control image formation (printing) by image forming unit 17.

[0023] Image forming unit 17 prints on paper based on print control parameters set by CPU 10. Image forming unit 17 is configured to include cartridges 120a-120d, intermediate transfer belt 130, primary transfer units 123a-123d, secondary transfer unit 140, and laser scanners 122a-122d shown in Fig. 1. Image forming unit 17 drives cartridges 120a-120d, intermediate transfer belt 130, primary transfer units 123a-123d, secondary transfer unit 140, etc., and drives laser scanners 122a-122d, in accordance with the print control parameters.

[0024] The CPU 10 also controls the fixing unit 170 for fixing the image formed by the image forming unit 17, and monitors the sensor output from the paper feed cassette open / close sensors 180 and 181, which are open / close detection sensors that detect the open / close state of the paper feed cassette. The CPU 10 can detect the open / close state of the paper feed cassette based on the sensor output from the paper feed cassette open / close sensors 180 and 181. The media sensor 14 is a paper type detection sensor that is provided on the paper transport path and detects the type of paper (paper type) fed through the paper transport path. The paper type refers to the type of paper.

[0025] The media sensor 14 detects the surface properties, thickness, etc. of the paper being conveyed, and the CPU 10 determines the paper type from the detection results. In this embodiment, the act of the media sensor 14 detecting the surface properties, thickness, etc. of the paper and the CPU 10 determining the paper type from the detection results is expressed as detecting or determining the paper type with the media sensor 14. Details will be described later. The media sensor 14 is composed of an ultrasonic sensor 19 and an optical sensor 20.

[0026] The information processing unit 18 processes the measurement instructions and measurement results of the media sensor 14. When the information processing unit 18 detects paper, it starts the measurement sequence. The ultrasonic sensor 19 performs ultrasonic measurements and outputs a voltage corresponding to the ultrasonic output. The information processing unit 18 then calculates the transmittance from the output voltage when paper is present and calculates the basis weight from the transmittance. The optical sensor 20 is a CIS, and the imaging results obtained by the CIS are stored in the information processing unit 18 as brightness values ​​for each pixel. The information processing unit 18 then converts these into adjacent pixel difference values ​​and brightness surface property information. The information processing unit 18 sends the basis weight information and surface property information to the CPU 10, which is the control unit of the image forming apparatus 100. The CPU 10 determines the paper type from the received surface property information. The control unit then determines the type of paper measured based on the paper type and basis weight information from the paper information 901 in RAM 12.

[0027] [Basic operation of image forming device] Next, the basic image forming operation of the image forming apparatus 100 will be described. When an instruction to start a print operation is input from the instruction / display unit 13 or the like, the CPU 10 starts the operation of feeding paper from the specified paper feed cassette. In the case of paper feed cassette 220 of image forming apparatus 100 shown in FIG. 1, the CPU 10 drives a paper feed transport motor (not shown) that serves as the drive source for paper feed pickup roller 151. This causes paper feed pickup roller 151 to rotate, and paper sheets in paper feed cassette 220 are fed and transported one by one along the paper transport path. In the case of paper feed cassette 221, the CPU 10 drives a paper feed transport motor (not shown) that serves as the drive source for paper feed pickup roller 152. This causes paper feed pickup roller 152 to rotate, and paper sheets in paper feed cassette 221 are fed and transported one by one along the paper transport path.

[0028] When the paper type is set to the automatic detection setting, the media sensor 14 detects the type of paper that is fed and transported. Then, the CPU 10 optimally controls the image formation speed and the target temperature of the fixing unit 170 according to the paper type detected here or the paper type set via the instruction / display unit 13. Regarding the image formation speed, the CPU 10 controls the image formation and transport at a speed predetermined for the material. For example, if the image formation speed (transport speed) for plain paper or thin paper is 1, image formation is performed at half the speed for thick paper. Furthermore, the CPU 10 sets the target temperature of the fixing unit 170 to a lower temperature for thin paper than for plain paper, and to a higher temperature for thick paper.

[0029] The CPU 10 starts the image forming operation by the cartridges 120a, 120b, 120c, and 120d so that the cartridges are ready in time for the paper to arrive at the secondary transfer unit 140. The cartridge 120a is for forming a yellow image, followed by the cartridge 120b for forming a magenta image, the cartridge 120c for forming a cyan image, and the cartridge 120d for forming a black image. These cartridges are configured to be attachable and detachable by the user.

[0030] After the surface of the photoconductor is charged by the charging roller, a latent image is formed on the photoconductor by a laser irradiated from laser scanner 122a. The formed latent image is then developed on the photoconductor by toner in a developing device. After that, a primary transfer voltage is applied to the developed toner image at primary transfer units 123a to 123d in FIG. 1, and the toner image is transferred to intermediate transfer belt 130 in FIG. 1. The toner image transferred to intermediate transfer belt 130 reaches secondary transfer unit 140 as intermediate transfer belt 130 rotates.

[0031] CPU 10 detects the position of the paper transported by transport rollers 155 by monitoring the output from pre-registration transport sensor 160. Then, CPU 10 takes into consideration the timing when the leading edge of the paper reaches pre-registration transport sensor 160 and controls the transport of the paper so that the leading edge of the paper and the leading edge of the toner image on intermediate transfer belt 130 coincide at secondary transfer unit 140. For example, if the paper arrives earlier than the toner image, CPU 10 stops the paper at pre-registration transport rollers 161 for a predetermined time and then resumes transport. By applying a secondary transfer voltage to the paper and toner image that have arrived at secondary transfer unit 140 in this manner, the toner image is transferred to the paper.

[0032] After the secondary transfer, the paper is transported to the fixing device 170. Details of the fixing device 170 will be described later. After the fixing device 170 heats and fixes the toner image on the paper to the paper, the CPU 10 transports the paper further downstream of the device. When the leading edge of the paper after fixing reaches the paper transport sensor 171, the CPU 10 determines whether to transport the paper to the paper transport path 230 or the paper transport path 231, in accordance with an instruction specified in advance from the instruction / display unit 13. Then, the CPU 10 switches the destination of the paper by switching the transport flapper 172 in accordance with that determination. For example, when the instruction from the instruction / display unit 13 is a double-sided printing instruction and the front side is being printed, the CPU 10 transports the paper to the paper transport path 230, and when the instruction from the instruction / display unit 13 is a double-sided printing instruction and the front side is being printed, the CPU 10 transports the paper to the paper transport path 231.

[0033] When the paper is conveyed to paper conveyance path 231, the conveyed paper is conveyed further downstream by conveyance rollers 232 and discharged to paper discharge tray 196. On the other hand, when the paper is conveyed to paper conveyance path 230, the paper is conveyed by reversing conveyance rollers 162 located downstream and drawn into reversing unit A. After the paper is drawn into reversing unit A, CPU 10 switches conveyance flapper 173 and reverses the rotation of reversing conveyance rollers 162 to switch back the paper and convey it toward secondary transfer unit 140. Then, CPU 10 again detects the position of the paper by monitoring the output of pre-register conveyance sensor 160, and controls the conveyance of the paper so that the leading edge of the paper and the leading edge of the toner image on intermediate transfer belt 130 coincide at secondary transfer unit 140.

[0034] After the toner image has been transferred, the paper passes through the fixing unit 170, and the CPU 10 switches the transport flapper 172. Then, after the toner image has been transferred, the paper is transported to the paper transport path 231 and discharged to the paper discharge tray 196. This allows double-sided printing to be achieved.

[0035] When switching back the paper at the reversing unit A, the length of the paper in the transport direction must be shorter than the length L of the reversing unit A. Also, by monitoring the output of the paper feed cassette open / close sensors 180 and 181, the CPU 10 can detect whether the corresponding paper feed cassettes 220 and 221 are open or closed. This allows the CPU 10 to perform control so that the paper feed operation is not started when the paper feed cassette is open.

[0036] The paper size measurement sensor 22 is a sensor that reads the set paper size from the guide position set in the paper feed cassette when paper is set in the cassette. The server communication unit 23 is used to pass some of the information acquired by the image forming apparatus 100 to the server in the event of a malfunction or when replacing with a new model. It is also used to receive data extracted from the previous image forming apparatus when a new apparatus is installed. The basic image formation operation described above is an example, and the present invention is not limited to the above configuration.

[0037] [Explanation of the fixing unit] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram used to explain the configuration of the fixing device 170 and fixing. The fixing unit 170 is an assembly including a heater holder 207, a fixing heater 204 fixedly disposed on the underside of the heater holder 207 along the longitudinal direction of the heater holder (vertical to the drawing), and an elastic fixing film 203. Note that each arrow R in FIG. 3 indicates the direction of rotation. Also, arrow T in FIG. 3 indicates the direction of movement of paper M carrying toner 301. The pressure roller 205 is disposed with both ends of its core metal rotatably mounted between the side plates of the fixing device.

[0038] The fixing unit 170 is arranged parallel to the pressure roller 205 with the fixing heater 204 facing in contact with the pressure roller 205, and both ends of the heater holder 207 are pressed with a predetermined pressure by a biasing mechanism (not shown). As a result, the surface of the fixing heater 204 is pressed against the pressure roller 205, sandwiching the fixing film 203, against the elasticity of the pressure roller 205, forming a fixing nip 206 of a predetermined width. The pressure roller 205 is rotated at a predetermined peripheral speed in the counterclockwise direction indicated by arrow R by a drive mechanism (not shown). The fixing heater 204 is formed by forming a resistance heating element on a ceramic substrate. A temperature detection sensor 208 abuts against the fixing heater 204.

[0039] CPU 10 detects the temperature of fixing heater 204 from the output of temperature detection sensor 208, and controls the power supplied to fixing heater 204 so that the temperature of fixing heater 204 becomes a predetermined target temperature. The target temperature of fixing heater 204 is determined by the type of paper being fed and the ambient temperature, etc. CPU 10 determines the target temperature of fixing heater 204 according to the paper type set via instruction / display unit 13 or the paper type detected by media sensor 14. As mentioned above, the target temperature of fixing unit 170 is set lower for thin paper than for plain paper, and higher for thick paper.

[0040] [Media sensor explanation] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram for explaining the media sensor 14. As shown in FIG. An LED 481 as a light-emitting element and a photodiode 480 as a light-receiving element are arranged inside the media sensor 14. The amount of reflected light emitted by the LED 481 can be detected by the photodiode 480. The media sensor 14 also has a guide section 483 into which the paper sheet M enters.

[0041] The CPU 10 receives the input signal from the photodiode 480 as the output value of the media sensor 14. The CPU 10 can determine the type of paper being fed according to the differences in the received value, which depend on the surface texture and thickness of each sheet of paper. The CPU 10 then optimally controls the image formation speed and the target temperature of the fixing unit 170 according to the detected paper type.

[0042] As described above, in this embodiment, CPU 10 uses media sensor 14 to determine the paper type, eliminating the need for the user to consciously set the paper type. For this reason, image forming apparatus 100 in this embodiment is provided with a mode (hereinafter referred to as "automatic media setting mode") in which the paper type is determined by media sensor 14 and print control parameters and the like are automatically set according to that paper type. On the other hand, image forming apparatus 100 in this embodiment is also provided with a mode (hereinafter referred to as "manual media setting mode") in which the user manually sets the paper type to be used, as in the past. By operating instruction / display unit 13, the user can set either the automatic media setting mode or the manual media setting mode in advance for each paper feed cassette.

[0043] The above-described configuration of the media sensor 14 is an example, and the present invention is not limited to this configuration. For example, the media sensor 14 may be configured by combining an ultrasonic sensor such as a piezoelectric element in addition to a light-emitting element and a light-receiving element, or may have other components.

[0044] [Explanation of the paper type selection function] 5 is a functional configuration diagram for explaining the paper information selection function in this embodiment. The CPU 10 executes each component. The paper type selection unit 500 uses the basis weight information and surface property information acquired by the information processing unit 18 of the media sensor 14 and the user attribute information acquired via the authentication unit 510 to select the type of paper to be fed based on paper information management data 523 acquired from the media management unit 520. The authentication unit 510 has a user authentication function and performs authentication processing based on a user name and password. The authentication unit 510 can also restrict various functions of the image forming apparatus, such as the copy function and scan function, based on the user and user role. The authentication unit 510 manages user attribute information for each user. The media management unit 520 references the basic paper information storage unit 521 and the user-defined paper information storage unit 522, and provides the generated paper information management data 523 to the paper type selection unit 500.

[0045] [Explanation of the paper type setting screen] 6 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a paper type setting screen in this embodiment. This paper type setting screen is a screen displayed on the instruction / display unit 13. In this embodiment, when paper is placed in the paper feed cassette, the CPU 10 checks the output of the paper feed cassette open / close sensors 180, 181 and displays the paper type setting screen 600 on the instruction / display unit 13. The paper type setting screen 600 is roughly divided into three sections: a history display section 610, a paper type display section 620, and a button setting section 630.

[0046] The history display section 610 has a history button 612 and a history display slider 611. The history display slider 611 is displayed when the number of history buttons 612 reaches a certain number, and moving the slider displays the history of past automatic detection executions. The history button 612 is a button that displays the history of past automatic detection executions. Details of the displayed history will be explained in FIG. 7. When the history button 612 is pressed on the paper type setting screen 600, the paper type and paper size are set according to the history used in the past. If there is no history of automatic detection execution, the entire history display section 610 is hidden.

[0047] The paper type display section 620 has a paper size setting method description section 621, a paper type setting method description section 622, a paper size change button 623, and a paper type change button 624. The paper size setting method description section 621 is an area that is written when the size of the fed paper is set. When the paper size is set based on information from the fed paper size measurement sensor 22, the paper size setting method description section 621 displays "automatic detection." When the user determines the screen size using the paper size setting button 623, postcard setting button 633, envelope setting button 634, etc., the paper size setting method description section 621 displays "user setting."

[0048] The paper type setting method description section 622 is an area where information is written when the type of paper fed is set. When the paper type is set based on information from the media sensor 14, "automatic detection" is displayed in the paper type setting method description section 622. When the user determines the paper type using the paper type setting button 624, postcard setting button 633, envelope setting button 634, etc., the paper type setting method description section 622 displays "user setting."

[0049] The paper size setting button 623 is selected when the user knows the paper size, and the appropriate paper size is selected from the paper size list screen that is displayed after selection.The paper type setting button 624 is selected when the user knows the paper type, and the appropriate paper type is selected from the paper type list screen that is displayed after selection.

[0050] The button setting section 630 has a favorites selection button 631, an automatic detection setting button 632, a postcard setting button 633, and an envelope setting button 634. The favorites selection button 631 is a button that displays a list of stored paper size and paper type settings when previously set paper size and paper type settings are stored. When the user presses this button, a list of paper types and paper sizes is displayed, and the paper type and paper size are set by selecting a combination. When the user presses the automatic detection setting button 632, automatic detection of the paper size and paper type is performed, and the paper size and paper type are set. The postcard setting button 633 and the envelope setting button 634 are buttons that set the paper size and paper type simultaneously. When the user knows that the paper set in the paper feed cassette is a postcard or an envelope, pressing this button sets the previously stored paper size and paper type.

[0051] [History Settings button explanation] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing details of the history setting button in this embodiment. The history setting button 612 is displayed on the paper type setting screen 600 in the instruction / display unit 13. The history number display unit 711 is written in the order of display, and in this embodiment, the most recent history is displayed as History 1, History 2, .... The history time display unit 712 displays the time when the history was set. The paper size history display unit 713 and paper type history display unit 714 display the paper size and paper type set by automatic detection.

[0052] 8 is a functional configuration diagram for explaining the automatic detection and storage function and the favorite storage function in this embodiment. The CPU 10 executes each component. When paper is placed in the paper feed cassette, the CPU 10 checks the outputs of the paper feed cassette open / close sensors 180 and 181 and displays the paper type setting screen 600 on the instruction / display unit 13 .

[0053] When a user presses the favorite selection button 631, the favorite setting paper information management unit 810 queries the authentication unit 510 and displays the information that the user has registered in favorite paper information data 811. The favorite paper information data 811 is a section that stores, for each user, the paper sizes and paper types that the user has previously registered as favorites.

[0054] When a specific user presses the favorite selection button 631, the favorite setting paper information management unit 810 displays a list of paper sizes and paper types on the instruction / display unit 13. The displayed paper sizes and paper types are those registered by the user (the so-called authenticated user) from the information registered in the favorite paper information data 811 based on the user attribute information managed by the authentication unit 510.

[0055] The image forming apparatus 100 has a storage unit 800 that stores paper information previously selected by the paper type selection unit 500. The storage unit 800 is configured with an automatic detection management unit 820 and an automatic detection execution data storage unit 821. When paper settings are made in the paper type selection unit 500, the automatic detection management unit 820 manages the paper size and paper type at that time and the date data at the time of execution, and stores these in automatic detection execution data 821. The automatic detection execution data 821 stores the paper size and paper type obtained from the automatic detection management unit 820 and the date data at the time of execution, and is accessed by an automatic detection information display data creation unit 830. The automatic detection information display data creation unit 830 creates the history button 612 when the paper type setting screen 600 is displayed. The history time display unit 712, paper size history display unit 713, and paper type history display unit 714 of the history button 612 are created based on the data in the automatic detection execution data 821.

[0056] In this embodiment, regardless of the user who used the image forming apparatus 100 at that time, by pressing the history button 612, the paper size and paper type selected by the paper type selection unit 500 and the date data at the time of execution are stored in the automatic detection execution data 821. That is, the automatic detection execution data 821 stores all paper sizes and paper types previously selected by the paper type selection unit 500 and the date data at the time of execution, regardless of the user of the image forming apparatus 100. Furthermore, when the image forming apparatus 100 is newly installed, the automatic detection execution data 821 may also store data transferred from the server communication unit 23, which stores data extracted from a previously used image forming apparatus. By pressing the history button 612 selected by the user from among the history buttons 612 displayed on the paper type setting screen 600, the paper size and paper type used in the past are set according to the history.

[0057] [Explanation of image formation method] 9 is a flowchart showing the image forming method according to this embodiment. Here, we will explain the method from when a user places paper in a paper feed cassette until a print job is executed. This flowchart is realized by the CPU 10 reading and executing a program stored in the ROM 11 and adjustment and setting values ​​set in the RAM 12.

[0058] First, in step S901, the paper feed cassette open / close sensors 180 and 181 detect that paper has been set in the paper feed cassettes 220 and 221. The CPU 10 displays the paper selection screen 600 on the instruction / display unit 13.

[0059] Next, in S902, the paper type selection unit 500 determines whether the image forming apparatus is set to the automatic media setting mode or the manual media setting mode. If the automatic media setting mode is set, the process proceeds to S903.

[0060] In S903, the automatic detection information display data creation unit 830 checks whether or not there is history information on paper size and paper type in the automatic detection execution data 821, and determines whether or not to display the history display area 610 on the paper selection screen 600. If history information on paper size and paper type is stored in the automatic detection execution data 821, the process proceeds to S904.

[0061] In S904, the automatic detection information display data creation unit 830 displays the history information of the paper size and paper type stored in the automatic detection execution data 821 as each history button 612 of the history display unit 610 on the paper selection screen 600 of the instruction / display unit 13.

[0062] Next, in S905, the CPU 10 checks whether or not the user has pressed the history button 612. If the history button 612 has been pressed, the process proceeds to S906.

[0063] In S906 , the automatic detection information display data creating unit 830 sets the same paper size and paper type as those in the paper size history display section 713 and paper type history display section 714 of the selected history button 612 .

[0064] Then, in S907, the CPU 10 waits until the user's operation is completed, and then the job is executed.

[0065] If the manual media setting mode is selected in S902, or if the paper size and paper type history information is not stored in the automatic detection execution data 821 in S903, the process proceeds to S910. In S910, the automatic detection information display data creation unit 830 does not display the history display area 610 on the paper selection screen 600.

[0066] In S911, the CPU 10 waits until the user sets the paper size and paper type by a method other than pressing the history button 612, including the case where the history button 612 was not pressed in S905.

[0067] As a method other than pressing the history button 612, various buttons are provided on the paper selection screen 600. In this embodiment, the user selects and presses one of a paper size setting button 623, a paper type setting button 624, a favorite selection button 631, an automatic detection setting button 632, a postcard setting button 633, and an envelope setting button 634.

[0068] When the user presses the paper size setting button 623, a list of various paper sizes is displayed on the instruction / display unit 13. The paper size is set when the user selects the desired paper size from this list. When the user presses the paper type setting button 624, a list of paper types is displayed on the instruction / display unit 13. The paper type is set when the user selects the desired paper type.

[0069] When the user presses the favorites selection button 631, the favorites setting paper information management unit 810 queries the authentication unit 510 to confirm whether the user who pressed the favorites selection button 631 has registered paper information in the favorites paper information data 811. If the paper size and paper type information registered by the user is stored in the favorites paper information data 811, the following occurs. That is, the favorites setting paper information management unit 810 displays a list of the paper sizes and paper types registered by the user that are stored in the favorites paper information data 811 on the instruction / display unit 13. When the user selects the desired paper size and paper type from this list display, the paper size and paper type are registered.

[0070] When the user presses the automatic detection setting button 632, automatic detection of the paper size and paper type is activated, and the paper size read by the paper feed size measurement sensor 22 and the paper type selected by the media sensor 14 and paper type selection unit 500 are set.

[0071] When the user presses postcard setting button 633, CPU 10 sets the paper size and paper type to those corresponding to postcards, which are stored in advance in image forming apparatus 100. Similarly, when the user presses envelope setting button 634, CPU 10 sets the paper size and paper type to those corresponding to envelopes, which are stored in advance in image forming apparatus 100.

[0072] Once the paper size and paper type are set as described above, the job is executed in S912.

[0073] Thereafter, in S913, the automatic detection management unit 820 determines whether the paper size and paper type have been set using the automatic detection function using the automatic detection setting button 632. If the automatic detection function has not been used, the process ends. On the other hand, if the automatic detection function has been used, the process proceeds to S914.

[0074] In S914, the automatic detection management unit 820 stores information on the paper size and paper type used in the job execution in the automatic detection execution data 821.

[0075] Then, in S915, the favorite setting paper information management unit 810 determines whether or not information on the paper size and paper type used in the job execution is stored in the favorite paper information data 811. If it is stored, the process ends. On the other hand, if it is not stored, the process proceeds to S916.

[0076] In S916, if the paper size and paper type are not stored in the favorite paper information data 811, the favorite setting paper information management section 810 displays a message on the instruction / display section 13 urging the user to register the paper size and paper type information.

[0077] In this embodiment, the paper types and paper sizes that have been automatically detected in the past for all users of image forming apparatus 100 are displayed on a screen to the user currently using image forming apparatus 100. On the display screen, the paper types and paper sizes that have been automatically detected in the past are displayed selectably along with automatic detection settings, favorite settings, etc., and when the user selects a desired paper type and paper size, those paper type and paper size are immediately set. In this way, according to this embodiment, the desired printing job can be performed easily and quickly for paper types and paper sizes that have been automatically detected in the past, without having to perform automatic detection again or perform the complicated process of setting paper types and paper sizes.

[0078] -Variations- The following describes various modified examples of the image forming apparatus according to this embodiment. In this embodiment, the paper type and paper size obtained by automatic detection are displayed on the screen by all users of the image forming apparatus, regardless of the user. However, the following modified examples differ from this embodiment in this respect.

[0079] [Variation 1] 10 is a functional configuration diagram for explaining the automatic detection and storage function and the favorite storage function in the image forming apparatus according to Modification 1 of this embodiment. The CPU 10 executes each component.

[0080] In Variation 1, when paper settings are made in the paper type selection unit 500, the automatic detection management unit 820 queries the authentication unit 510. The automatic detection management unit 820 manages the user attribute information of the user who used the image forming apparatus 100 when the paper settings were made, the paper size and paper type, and the date data at the time of execution, and stores these in automatic detection execution data 821. The authentication unit 510 has a user authentication function for each individual user, and performs authentication processing based on the user name and password. The automatic detection execution data 821 stores paper information previously selected by the paper type selection unit 500, categorized for each user based on the user attribute information.

[0081] In Modification 1, when the user presses History button 612, the following occurs: That is, the user attribute information of the user who used image forming apparatus 100 when the paper settings were made, the paper size and paper type selected by paper type selection unit 500, and the date data at the time of execution are stored in automatic detection execution data 821. In automatic detection execution data 821, the paper size and paper type previously selected by paper type selection unit 500 in image forming apparatus 100 and the date data at the time of execution are stored, categorized for each individual user who used image forming apparatus 100 at each time. Other automatic detection storage functions, favorite storage functions, etc. are the same as in this embodiment.

[0082] A method of using the image forming apparatus according to the first modification will be described. First, as in FIG. 9 shown in this embodiment, in S901 the paper selection screen 600 is displayed on the instruction / display unit 13, and in S902 it is determined whether the automatic media setting mode or the manual media setting mode is set.

[0083] 9, the automatic detection information display data creation unit 830 queries the authentication unit 510, checks the automatic detection execution data 821, and confirms whether or not to display the history display unit 610 on the paper selection screen 600. If the automatic detection execution data 821 stores history information about paper sizes and paper types previously used by the user (authenticated user) currently using the image forming apparatus 100, the process proceeds to S904 in FIG.

[0084] In S904, the automatic detection information display data creation unit 830 displays specific history information as each history button 612 of the history display unit 610. The specific history information is history information of paper sizes and paper types previously used by the authenticated user, which is stored in the automatic detection execution data 821 on the paper selection screen 600 of the instruction / display unit 13.

[0085] Thereafter, as in the present embodiment, pressing of the history button 612 is confirmed in S905 of FIG. 9, the paper size and paper type corresponding to the history button 612 are set in S906, and the job is executed in S907.

[0086] If the manual media setting mode is selected in S902 of Fig. 9, or if the history information of the paper size and paper type previously used by the authenticated user is not stored in the automatic detection execution data 821 in S903, the process proceeds to S910 of Fig. 9. In S910, the automatic detection information display data creation unit 830 does not display the history display area 610 on the paper selection screen 600.

[0087] 9, even if the history button 612 was not pressed in S905, the CPU 10 waits until the user sets the paper size and paper type by a method other than pressing the history button 612. Once the paper size and paper type are set, the job is executed in S912 in FIG.

[0088] 9, the automatic detection management unit 820 determines whether the paper size and paper type were set using the automatic detection function using the automatic detection setting button 632. If the automatic detection function was not used, the process ends. On the other hand, if the automatic detection function was used, in S914 of FIG. 9, the automatic detection management unit 820 classifies and stores information about the paper size and paper type used in the job as history information about the user who used the image forming apparatus 100 this time in the automatic detection execution data 821.

[0089] Thereafter, as in the present embodiment, in S915 of Fig. 9 it is determined whether the paper size and paper type information used in the job execution is stored in the favorite paper information data 811. If it is stored, the process ends. On the other hand, if it is not stored, in S916 of Fig. 9 a message is displayed on the instruction / display unit 13 urging the user to register the paper size and paper type information.

[0090] In Modification 1, the paper type and paper size that were automatically detected in the past by the user currently using image forming apparatus 100 are displayed on a screen to the user. On the display screen, the paper type and paper size that were automatically detected in the past by the user are displayed selectably along with automatic detection settings, favorite settings, etc., and when the user selects a desired paper type and paper size, the paper type and paper size are immediately set. The paper type and paper size usage habits vary greatly among users of image forming apparatus 100, and individual users often desire their own unique automatic detection settings for their own paper type and paper size. In such cases, the function of Modification 1 described above is highly convenient. Thus, Modification 1 allows the user to easily perform the desired printing job in a short time without having to perform automatic detection again or perform the cumbersome process of setting the paper type and paper size for the paper type and paper size that were automatically detected in the past.

[0091] [Variation 2] In Variation 2, similar to FIG. 10 of Variation 1, when paper settings are made in the paper type selection unit 500, the automatic detection management unit 820 queries the authentication unit 510. The automatic detection management unit 820 manages user attribute information, including user group information to which the user who used the image forming apparatus 100 when the paper settings were made belongs, as well as paper size and paper type, and execution date data, and stores these in automatic detection execution data 821. The authentication unit 510 has a user authentication function for each individual user and a user group authentication function for each user group to which each user belongs, and performs authentication processing based on the user name, user group name, and password. The automatic detection execution data 821 stores paper information previously selected by the paper type selection unit 500, categorized by user group based on user attribute information.

[0092] In the second modification, when the user presses the history button 612, information about the user, the paper size and paper type selected by the paper type selection unit 500, and the date data at the time of execution are stored in the automatic detection execution data 821. The information about the user is user attribute information including the user group information of the user (authenticated user) who used the image forming apparatus 100 when the paper settings were made. In other words, the automatic detection execution data 821 stores the paper size and paper type previously selected by the paper type selection unit 500 and the date data at the time of execution, categorized by the user group to which each individual user who used the image forming apparatus 100 at that time belongs. Other functions such as the automatic detection storage function and favorite storage function are the same as those in this embodiment.

[0093] A method of using the image forming apparatus according to the second modification will be described. First, as in FIG. 9 shown in this embodiment, in S901 the paper selection screen 600 is displayed on the instruction / display unit 13, and in S902 it is determined whether the automatic media setting mode or the manual media setting mode is set.

[0094] 9, the automatic detection information display data creation unit 830 queries the authentication unit 510, checks the automatic detection execution data 821, and confirms whether or not to display the history display unit 610 on the paper selection screen 600. If the automatic detection execution data 821 stores history information about paper sizes and paper types used in the past by users of the user group to which the user currently using the image forming apparatus 100 (authenticated user) belongs, the process proceeds to S904 in FIG.

[0095] In S904, the automatic detection information display data creation unit 830 displays the user group history information stored in the automatic detection execution data 821 as each history button 612 of the history display unit 610 on the paper selection screen 600 of the instruction / display unit 13. The history information is information on paper sizes and paper types used in the past by users of the user group to which the currently authenticated user belongs.

[0096] Thereafter, as in the present embodiment, pressing of the history button 612 is confirmed in S905 of FIG. 9, the paper size and paper type corresponding to the history button 612 are set in S906, and the job is executed in S907.

[0097] 9, if the manual media setting mode is selected, or if the automatic detection execution data 821 does not store history information about paper sizes and paper types used in the past by users in the user group to which the currently authenticated user belongs in S903, the process proceeds to S910 in Fig. 9. In S910, the automatic detection information display data creation unit 830 does not display the history display area 610 on the paper selection screen 600.

[0098] 9, even if the history button 612 was not pressed in S905, the CPU 10 waits until the user sets the paper size and paper type by a method other than pressing the history button 612. Once the paper size and paper type are set, the job is executed in S912 in FIG.

[0099] 9, the automatic detection management unit 820 determines whether the paper size and paper type were set using the automatic detection function using the automatic detection setting button 632. If the automatic detection function was not used, the process ends. On the other hand, if the automatic detection function was used, in S914 of FIG. 9, the automatic detection management unit 820 classifies and stores information about the paper size and paper type used in the job as history information about the user who used the image forming apparatus 100 this time in the automatic detection execution data 821.

[0100] Thereafter, as in the present embodiment, in S915 of Fig. 9 it is determined whether the paper size and paper type information used in the job execution is stored in the favorite paper information data 811. If it is stored, the process ends. On the other hand, if it is not stored, in S916 of Fig. 9 a message is displayed on the instruction / display unit 13 urging the user to register the paper size and paper type information.

[0101] In Variation 2, the paper types and paper sizes automatically detected in the past by each user in the user group to which the user currently using image forming apparatus 100 belongs are displayed on a screen to the user. On the display screen, the paper types and paper sizes automatically detected in the past by each user in the user group to which the user belongs are displayed as selectable options, along with automatic detection settings, favorite settings, and the like. When the user selects a desired paper type and paper size, the paper type and paper size are immediately set. There are significant differences in the paper type and paper size usage trends among users of image forming apparatus 100 for each specific group, and users belonging to each group often desire automatic detection settings for their own group-specific paper type and paper size. In such cases, the function of Variation 2 described above is highly convenient. Thus, Variation 2 allows users in the user group to easily and quickly perform the desired printing job using paper types and paper sizes automatically detected in the past without having to perform automatic detection again or perform tedious paper type and paper size settings.

[0102] As described above, the present disclosure contemplates three display modes: Usage Mode 1 in the present embodiment, Usage Mode 2 in Modification 1, and Usage Mode 3 in Modification 2. In Usage Mode 1, the paper types and paper sizes obtained by automatic detection by all users who use the image forming apparatus are displayed on a screen so that the users can select them. In Usage Mode 2, the paper types and paper sizes obtained by automatic detection by each user who uses the image forming apparatus are displayed on a screen so that the users can select them. In Usage Mode 3, the paper types and paper sizes obtained by automatic detection by each user in a user group to which the user who uses the image forming apparatus belongs are displayed on a screen so that the users can select them. The image forming apparatus of the present disclosure is equipped with all of Usage Modes 1 to 3, and may also be configured so that the user can select one of Usage Modes 1 to 3. This configuration enables the display mode to be set in a way that precisely suits the characteristics of the users who use the image forming apparatus, resulting in a more convenient image forming apparatus.

[0103] -Other embodiments- In the above-described embodiment and various modifications, a computer program for controlling the image forming apparatus 100 is stored in the ROM 11 or a storage medium such as an HDD or SSD in the permanent area 21. This computer program is a program for implementing the functions of the components of the image forming apparatus 100, such as the paper type selection unit 500, authentication unit 510, and media management unit 520 shown in FIG. 5, and the favorite setting paper information management unit 810, automatic detection management unit 820, and automatic detection information display data creation unit 830 shown in FIGS. 8 and 10, for example, a program corresponding to steps S901 to S916 in FIG. 9. The CPU 10 then reads and executes the computer program from the ROM 11 or the storage medium. This allows the CPU 10 to control the image forming apparatus 100.

[0104] The disclosure of this embodiment and various modifications includes the following configurations and methods. (Configuration 1) a sensor means for acquiring paper characteristics; a selection means for selecting paper information corresponding to the paper characteristics acquired by the sensor means; a storage means for storing information on paper sheets previously selected by the selection means; a setting means for displaying the paper information stored in the storage means so that the paper information can be set by a user; having Image forming device. (Configuration 2) the selection means selects a paper type as the paper information; 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1. (Configuration 3) The printer further includes a display unit that displays the paper information instructed to be displayed by the setting unit on a screen so that the paper information can be set by a user's selection. 3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 or 2. (Configuration 4) The storage means stores paper information previously selected by the selection means as information common to all users. The image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to third aspects. (Configuration 5) the storage means stores, for each individual user, paper information previously selected by the selection means; the setting means displays the paper information stored in the storage means in a settable manner corresponding to the user; The image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to third aspects. (Configuration 6) the storage means stores, for each user group, paper information previously selected by the selection means as information common to users belonging to each of a plurality of user groups; the setting means displays the paper information stored in the storage means in a settable manner in correspondence with the user group to which the user belongs. The image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to third aspects. (Configuration 7) The storage means receives paper information from a server communication unit. The image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to sixth aspects. (Configuration 8) Further, the measuring device has a measuring means for measuring the paper size. The image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to seventh aspects. (Configuration 9) the setting means displays information on the paper size measured by the measuring means together with the paper information stored in the storage means so that the information can be set by a user's selection; 9. The image forming apparatus according to configuration 8. (Configuration 10) The storage means has a storage section in which the paper information selected by the selection means is stored. 10. The image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to ninth aspects. (Method 1) The first step is to check whether there is any paper information that has been automatically detected in the past. a second step of displaying the paper information so that it can be set by a user when it is confirmed in the first step that the paper information automatically detected in the past has been stored; a third step of automatically detecting and setting current paper information when it is confirmed in the first step that the paper information automatically detected in the past has not been stored; having Image forming method. (Configuration 11) A program for causing a computer to execute each step of method 1. [Explanation of symbols]

[0105] 100 Image forming device 10 CPU 11 ROI 12 RAMS 17 Image forming unit 14 Media Sensor 500 Paper type selection section 820 Automatic Detection Management Department 830 Automatic detection information display data creation unit

Claims

1. a sensor means for acquiring paper characteristics; a selection means for selecting paper information corresponding to the paper characteristics acquired by the sensor means; a storage means for storing information on paper sheets previously selected by the selection means; a setting means for displaying the paper information stored in the storage means so that the paper information can be set by a user; having Image forming device.

2. the selection means selects a paper type as the paper information; The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 .

3. The printer further includes a display unit that displays the paper information instructed to be displayed by the setting unit on a screen so that the paper information can be set by a user's selection. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 .

4. The storage means stores paper information previously selected by the selection means as information common to all users. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 .

5. the storage means stores, for each individual user, paper information previously selected by the selection means; the setting means displays the paper information stored in the storage means in a settable manner corresponding to the user; The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 .

6. the storage means stores, for each user group, paper information previously selected by the selection means as information common to users belonging to each of a plurality of user groups; the setting means displays the paper information stored in the storage means in a settable manner in correspondence with the user group to which the user belongs. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 .

7. The storage means receives paper information from a server communication unit. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 .

8. Further, the measuring device has a measuring means for measuring the paper size. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 .

9. the setting means displays information on the paper size measured by the measuring means together with the paper information stored in the storage means so that the information can be set by a user's selection; The image forming apparatus according to claim 8 .

10. The storage means has a storage section in which the paper information selected by the selection means is stored. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 .

11. The first step is to check whether there is any paper information that has been automatically detected in the past. a second step of displaying the paper information so that it can be set by a user when it is confirmed in the first step that the paper information automatically detected in the past has been stored; a third step of automatically detecting and setting current paper information when it is confirmed in the first step that paper information automatically detected in the past has not been stored; having Image forming method.

12. A program for causing a computer to execute the steps recited in claim 11.

Images