Image formation device, and method and program for controlling image formation device

Abstract

To perform suitable selection according to the designated binding process when selecting a holding part to use out of multiple holding parts that hold a sheet on the basis of the sheet size.SOLUTION: An MFP 101 accepts a job execution order (S1302). In a job where a holding part is automatically selected, holding parts subject to search for the automatic selection are holding parts holding sheets that can be executed by the binding process designated by the job (S1404 to 1409). APS is executed on the holding parts subject to search (S1411), and if there is a holding part to be the candidate, the holding part feeds the sheet to be used for printing and the printing is executed (S1307). Meanwhile, if there is no holding part to be the candidate, a predetermined message is displayed and the job is canceled (S1305 to S1306).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 13

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus that executes a print job for which a binding process is set. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a binding process for aligning and binding a plurality of printed sheets is known as one of post-processing functions that can be performed by an image forming apparatus.

[0003] Conventionally, as a method of binding sheets, there is an image forming apparatus equipped with a binding means that binds a stack of multiple sheets using materials such as staples. There are also image forming apparatuses equipped with binding means that bind sheets without using materials such as staples (for example, Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2). The image forming apparatus of Patent Document 1 proposes a binding means that, in consideration of the environment, does not use materials such as staples, but pinches the sheet stack with teeth and applies pressure to entangle the fibers between the sheets to bind them. Furthermore, the image forming apparatus of Patent Document 2 proposes a binding means that forms tongue-shaped pieces and cut holes in the sheet stack and inserts the tongue-shaped pieces into the cut holes to bind the sheet stack.

[0004] In addition, conventionally, image forming devices have been known that have a function to automatically select a holding unit to be used for printing based on the sheet size from multiple holding units (e.g., paper feed cassettes) that hold sheets provided in the image forming device (e.g., Patent Document 3). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2010-189101 A [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-025499 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 10-240078 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] Here, a binding means that binds a sheet bundle without using a material has a feature that the types of sheets that can be bound are limited.

[0007] If the types of sheets to be automatically selected are limited to those that can be bound using a stapleless binding process, there is a problem in that the number of selectable holding units will be reduced. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In order to achieve the above object, an image forming apparatus of the present invention comprises a plurality of holding units that hold sheets, an image forming means that forms images on sheets fed from the plurality of holding units, and a selection means that automatically selects one of the plurality of holding units as a sheet feed source for an image formation job without being designated by a user, and is connected to a processing device that can perform a pressure binding process for binding a stack of sheets made up of a plurality of sheets on which images have been formed by the image forming means by applying pressure to the stack of sheets without using staples to press the sheets together, and a staple binding process for binding the sheets using staples, wherein when the pressure binding process is set to be performed, an image forming operation for sheets in the holding unit that is set to hold a first type of sheet is permitted, and when the pressure binding process is set to be performed, an image forming operation for sheets in the holding unit that is set to hold a second type of sheet is prohibited, and when the pressure binding process is set to be performed, an image forming operation for sheets in the holding unit that is set to hold a third type of sheet is prohibited, and when the pressure binding process is set to be performed, an image forming operation for sheets in the holding unit that is set to hold a third type of sheet is prohibited, and when the pressure binding process is set to be performed, an image forming operation for sheets in the holding unit that is set to hold a third type of sheet is prohibited, When the staple binding process is set to be performed, image formation operation on paper in the holding unit set to hold the first type of paper is permitted, and when the staple binding process is set to be performed, image formation operation on paper in the holding unit set to hold the second type of paper is permitted, and when the staple binding process is set to be performed, image formation operation on paper in the holding unit set to hold the third type of paper is prohibited, and when the pressure binding process is not set to be performed, the holding unit set to hold the first type of paper is selected by the selection means as a feeding source, and image formation can be performed on paper fed from the selected holding unit, and when the pressure binding process is not set to be performed, the holding unit set to hold the second type of paper is selected by the selection means as a feeding source, and image formation can be performed on paper fed from the selected holding unit, and when the pressure binding process is not set to be performed, the holding unit set to hold the third type of paper is prohibited from being selected by the selection means as a feeding source. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, when a holding unit that is to be the feeding source is automatically selected, an appropriate selection is made in accordance with the designated binding process. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a print processing system. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an operation unit 116. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the MFP 101. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the sheet processing unit 122 as seen from above. [Figure 5] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating a staple-free binding process 314b. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an operation screen displayed on a panel 201. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an operation screen displayed on a panel 201. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an operation screen displayed on a panel 201. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an operation screen displayed on a panel 201. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an operation screen displayed on a panel 201. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a data model of a paper information database. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an operation screen displayed on a panel 201. [Figure 13] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a printing process. [Figure 14] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a printing process. [Figure 15] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a printing process. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] The following describes in detail the embodiments of the present invention with reference to the drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the scope of the invention as claimed, and not all of the combinations of features described in the embodiments are necessarily essential to the solution of the invention.

[0012] First Embodiment First, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described. Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing a print processing system according to this embodiment. In this embodiment, an MFP (Multifunction Peripheral) 101 will be described as an example of an image forming apparatus, and a PC 102 will be described as an example of an information processing apparatus. The MFP 101 and PC 102 are connected to each other via a network 100 so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0013] 1 illustrates an example in which one information processing device is provided in the print processing system, but the MFP 101 and multiple information processing devices may be communicably connected via the network 100. Also, although the print processing system of the present embodiment illustrates an example in which the MFP 101 and the PC 102 are included, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, only the MFP 101 may be called the print processing system.

[0014] First, the PC 102 will be described. The PC 102 can execute various programs such as application programs. A printer driver is also installed in the PC 102, which has the function of converting print content into print data to be sent to the MFP 101. A user who wishes to print can issue a print instruction from various applications. The printer driver can convert data output by the application based on the print instruction into print data that can be interpreted by the MFP 101, and send the print data to the MFP 101 connected to the network 100.

[0015] In this embodiment, a PC is used as an example of an information processing device, but a mobile information terminal such as a smartphone or a tablet terminal may also be used. The method of transmitting print data to the image forming device can be modified as appropriate. The print data may be transmitted to the image forming device via a printing application or driver, or the print data may be transmitted to the image forming device via a cloud server.

[0016] Next, we will explain the MFP 101. The MFP 101 has a reading function that reads images on sheets and a printing function that prints images on sheets. The MFP 101 also has a post-processing function that binds multiple sheets with printed images and aligns multiple sheets.

[0017] In this embodiment, the MFP 101 is described as an example of an image forming apparatus, but it may be an image forming apparatus such as a printer that does not have a reading function. In this embodiment, as an example, the image forming apparatus is assumed to have the various components described below.

[0018] The control unit 110, including the CPU 111, controls the overall operation of the MFP 101. The CPU 111 reads control programs stored in the ROM 112 or the storage 114 and performs various types of control, such as reading control and printing control. The ROM 112 stores control programs executable by the CPU 111. The ROM 112 also stores boot sequence and font information. The RAM 113 is the main memory of the CPU 111 and is used as a work area and a temporary storage area for expanding the various control programs stored in the ROM 112 and the storage 114. The storage 114 stores image data, print data, various programs, and various setting information. In this embodiment, an auxiliary storage device such as an HDD is assumed as the storage 114, but a flash disk, such as an SSD, may be used instead of the HDD.

[0019] In the MFP 101 of this embodiment, one CPU 111 executes each process shown in the flowcharts described below using one memory (RAM 113), but other configurations are also possible. For example, multiple CPUs, RAMs, ROMs, and storages can work together to execute each process shown in the flowcharts described below. Also, some of the processes may be executed using hardware circuits such as ASICs and FPGAs.

[0020] The operation unit I / F 115 connects the operation unit 116 to the control unit 110. The operation unit 116 displays information to the user and inputs instructions from the user. FIG. 2 is an external view of the operation unit 116. The operation unit 116 includes a panel 201 that displays an operation screen (described later) and a hard key input unit 202. The panel 201 is, for example, a touch panel display. The hard key input unit 202 has various hard keys such as a setting button 211 and a start button 212. The user inputs instructions by touching keys displayed on the panel 201 or by pressing various hard keys on the hard key input unit 202. Note that the panel 201 may be a display without a touch panel function. In this case, instead of key input by touch operation, the hard key input unit may include scroll keys for selecting keys displayed on the display and a confirmation key for selecting the selected key. The operation unit 116 accepts instructions from the user via the panel 201 and the input unit 202 and displays an operation screen on the panel 201 as necessary.

[0021] The reading unit I / F 117 connects the reading unit 118 and the control unit 110. The reading unit 118 reads an image on a sheet and converts the image into image data such as binary data. The image data generated by the reading unit 118 is transferred to the compression / decompression unit 124 via the reading unit I / F 117. The image data compressed by the compression / decompression unit 124 is stored in the storage 114 or RAM 113 of the control unit 110. The stored image data is transmitted to an external device via the communication unit I / F 123 or printed on a sheet.

[0022] The printing unit I / F 119 connects the printing unit 120 and the control unit 110. Image data to be printed (image data to be printed) is transferred from the control unit 110 to the printing unit 120 via the printing unit I / F 119. The printing unit 120 receives a control command and the image data to be printed via the control unit 110, and prints an image based on the image data on a sheet.

[0023] The sheet processing unit I / F 121 connects the sheet processing unit 122 and the control unit 110. The sheet processing unit 122 receives control commands via the control unit 110 and performs post-processing on sheets printed by the printing unit 120 in accordance with the control commands. For example, the sheet processing unit 122 performs post-processing such as aligning multiple sheets and binding multiple sheets. The post-processing functions and capabilities of the sheet processing unit are notified to the control unit 110 in advance (for example, when the MFP 101 is started) via the sheet processing unit I / F 121 and are notified to the storage 114 or the RAM 113. In this embodiment, the sheet processing unit 122 can perform at least a binding process that binds sheets using a material such as staples (hereinafter referred to as a staple-using binding process) and a binding process that binds sheets without using a material (hereinafter referred to as a staple-less binding process).

[0024] The control unit 110 is also connected to the network 100 via a communication unit I / F 123. The communication unit I / F 123 transmits image data and information to external devices on the network 100, and receives print data and information from information processing devices on the network 100. The communication unit I / F 123 also communicates with external devices via a local interface such as a USB. The print data received by the communication unit I / F 123 is stored in the storage 114.

[0025] The print data received via the communication unit I / F 123 is analyzed by a software module (PDL analysis unit, not shown) for analyzing print data stored in storage 114 or ROM 112. The PDL analysis unit analyzes print data expressed in various types of page description languages ​​(PDLs) stored in storage 114. The print data consists of code related to print attributes and code related to drawing. The PDL analysis unit temporarily stores settings related to print attributes (print attribute information) obtained by analyzing the print data in RAM 113 or storage 114. The PDL analysis unit also analyzes the drawing code included in the print data and converts it into intermediate code.

[0026] Furthermore, the PDL analysis unit calculates the number of sheets to be output and the like based on the results of analyzing the PDL, and stores the calculated information as print attribute information in the RAM 113 or the storage 114. The print attribute information acquired or calculated by the PDL analysis unit is referenced as appropriate when performing print processing based on the print data or post-processing by the sheet processing unit 122.

[0027] Furthermore, the intermediate code generated by the PDL analysis unit is converted into image data by the RIP 125. The RIP 125 performs rendering processing on the intermediate code generated by the PDL analysis unit, and generates image data to be printed by the printing unit 120. The image data generated by the RIP 125 is printed by the printing unit 120 based on print settings.

[0028] Next, printing processing and post-processing on sheets will be described. Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of MFP 101. In Fig. 3, sheet processing unit 122 is arranged inside the housing of MFP 101. However, the arrangement of sheet processing unit 122 is not limited to the example in Fig. 3. For example, sheet processing unit 122 may be connected adjacent to MFP 101. Also, for example, as in this embodiment, MFP 101 itself may have a device configuration equipped with sheet processing unit 122 as standard equipment, or may have a device configuration in which sheet processing unit 122 is connected as an option.

[0029] Cassettes 301a, 301b, 301c, and 301d hold sheets. In FIG. 3, MFP 101 has four cassettes, but the number of cassettes is not limited to four. For example, the MFP may be provided with a manual feed tray (not shown) or another paper feed deck that can be connected to the image forming apparatus as an option. Hereinafter, the cassettes, manual feed tray, paper feed deck, etc. will be referred to as "holding units."

[0030] When the user specifies a holding unit to be used for printing, CPU 111 feeds the sheet held in the holding unit specified by the user to perform printing. Furthermore, when the user does not specify a holding unit to be used for printing, CPU 111 can automatically select from among multiple holding units the sheet will be fed based on the output size (sheet size) of the printed matter. Hereinafter, automatically selecting from among multiple holding units the sheet will be fed will be referred to as APS (Auto Paper Select). In this case, the sheet held in the selected holding unit can be fed to perform printing.

[0031] The feed roller 303 feeds the sheets held in each holder to the printing unit 120. The printing unit 120 prints an image on the first side of the fed sheet. The printing unit 120 may employ an inkjet method in which ink is ejected onto the sheet to print an image. Alternatively, the printing unit 120 may employ an electrophotographic method in which an electrostatic latent image is formed on a photosensitive member, then developed with toner, the toner image is transferred to the sheet, and the transferred toner image is fixed to print the image.

[0032] In the case of single-sided printing, the printed sheet is guided by conveyance rollers 305 and 306 to the sheet processing unit 122 and discharged to the intermediate tray 320. In the case of double-sided printing, the sheet whose first side has been printed in the printing unit 120 is guided by conveyance rollers 308 and conveyed to the reversal path 310. When the trailing edge of the sheet reaches the conveyance rollers 309, the conveyance rollers 309 begin to rotate in the reverse direction, and the sheet is conveyed to the printing unit 120 via a conveyance path 312 for double-sided printing. The printing unit 120 prints an image on the second side of the sheet. The double-sided printed sheet is guided by conveyance rollers 305 and 306 and discharged to the intermediate tray 320.

[0033] Intermediate tray 320 is inclined by positioning the downstream side (left side in the figure) in the sheet conveyance direction vertically upward and the upstream side (right side in the figure) vertically downward, and can hold multiple sheets. Intermediate tray 320 also has a pair of bundle discharge rollers 318 consisting of upper and lower bundle discharge rollers 318a, 318b arranged downstream, and a retractable paddle 315 arranged above the middle portion. Upper bundle discharge roller 318a is supported by guide 317.

[0034] This guide 317 is configured to be movable up and down by a motor (not shown). Therefore, an upper bundle discharge roller 318a provided on the guide 317 can move toward and away from a lower bundle discharge roller 318b in accordance with the vertical movement of the guide 317. Therefore, the distance between the rollers of the pair of bundle discharge rollers 318 can be adjusted according to the thickness of the sheet bundle held on the intermediate tray.

[0035] The CPU 111 receives the sheet P discharged by the conveying rollers 306 onto the intermediate tray 320 in a state in which the guide 317 is moved upward so that the lower bundle discharge rollers 318b are spaced apart from the upper bundle discharge rollers 318a.

[0036] Alignment members 321 are provided on the front and rear sides of intermediate tray 320 in the width direction perpendicular to the sheet conveyance direction. Alignment members 321 are moved in the width direction by a front alignment motor (not shown) and a rear alignment motor (not shown). Here, "front" refers to the part that is in front of the page when MFP 101 is viewed in the orientation shown in FIG. 3, and "rear" refers to the part that is at the rear of the page. Retraction paddle 315 rotates around its rotation axis in a direction that presses the sheet toward stopper 316 (for example, counterclockwise in FIG. 3).

[0037] The sheet P, which has been guided by the conveying rollers 306 and discharged onto the intermediate tray 320, slides down on the stacking surface of the intermediate tray 320 or on the sheets stacked on the intermediate tray 320 due to the inclination of the intermediate tray 320 and the action of the retraction paddle 315 pressing against the sheet. The sheet discharged onto the intermediate tray 320 is aligned by an alignment member 321 while sliding down, and is stopped when the rear end of the sheet (the upstream end in the discharge direction) hits a stopper 316.

[0038] The sheet bundle aligned on the intermediate tray 320 is subjected to a staple-using stapling process 314a or staple-free stapling process 314b as necessary. 314a and 314b can bind the trailing end of the sheet bundle in the conveying direction held on the intermediate tray 320. Note that in this embodiment, the trailing end of the sheet bundle in the conveying direction is bound, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the leading end of the sheet bundle in the conveying direction held on the intermediate tray 320 may be bound.

[0039] The sheet bundle that has been subjected to post-processing such as binding by the sheet processing unit 122 is discharged to the discharge unit 307. Specifically, the guide 317 is moved so that the bundle discharge roller 318a contacts the uppermost sheet on the intermediate tray 320, and in this contact state, the pair of bundle discharge rollers 318 is driven to rotate, thereby discharging the sheet bundle that has been subjected to post-processing onto the discharge unit 307.

[0040] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the sheet processing unit 122 seen from above, illustrating the position where the binding process is performed by 314a or 314b. Reference numeral 403 denotes multiple sheets. The sheet processing unit 122 can bind multiple sheets according to information about the binding process received from the control unit 110. The staple holder 314a is configured to slide in the direction indicated by the arrow 410 in the figure, driven by a motor (not shown). The CPU 111 drives the motor (not shown) to move the staple holder 314a in a direction perpendicular to the conveyance direction to bind the corner of the trailing edge of the sheet stack relative to the conveyance direction, or to bind two points at the trailing edge. Therefore, by moving 314a and flipping the printed image upside down (rotating it 180 degrees), two points on sides that are perpendicular to the conveyance direction can be bound. Similarly, any one of the four corners (upper left, upper right, lower right, or lower left) of the sheets can be bound.

[0041] Staple usage 314a performs a binding process by driving staples (not shown) into the sheet stack to bind it together. A cartridge (not shown) filled with staples is stored in staple usage 314a. The user can replenish staples by replacing the cartridge.

[0042] On the other hand, staple-free 314b is fixed at a position toward the rear when viewed from the front of MFP 101. Therefore, when binding a sheet stack using staple-free 314b, the following process is performed. CPU 111 slides alignment member 321 in the "rear" direction where staple-free 314b is located. CPU 111 also controls the printed sheet stack to be discharged to the rear side of the intermediate tray. Staple-free 314b staples the sheet stack aligned by alignment member 321 at one location toward the rear of the rear end. In this embodiment, when binding a sheet stack using staple-free 314b, corner binding can be performed on all four corners (top right, top left, bottom left, bottom right) of the printed material by combining the rotation of the image to be printed and the printing order.

[0043] In this embodiment, the staple-free 314b is fixed at the rear position, but this is not limiting. For example, the staple-free 314b may move like the staple-using 314a to bind two sides or each corner.

[0044] 5(a) and (b) are diagrams illustrating the staple-free binding process using the staple-free binding machine 314b. The staple-free binding machine 314b of this embodiment applies pressure from above and below the multiple sheets, binding the sheet stack 403 together. Therefore, the binding process can be performed without using any materials. FIG. 5(a) shows the vicinity of the position where the staple-free binding machine 314b binds the sheet stack 403. The upper die 501 presses down on the multiple sheets from above. The upper die 501 has an array of multiple convex blades 502, and each blade 502 applies pressure to the sheets. The lower die 505 presses down on the multiple sheets from below. The lower die 505 has an array of multiple recesses 504 corresponding to the multiple blades 502, and each recess 504 receives a blade 502.

[0045] 5(b) shows the state in which the upper mold 501 and the lower mold 505 pressurize the multiple sheets from above and below. By pressing the multiple sheets together with the upper mold 501 and the lower mold 505, it is possible to bind the sheets by intertwining the fibers between them. In addition, because the multiple blades 502 and multiple recesses 504 pressurize the sheets at multiple points, the sheets are less likely to peel off.

[0046] Next, the settings related to the APS in this embodiment will be described. The user can press the setting button 211 of the operation unit 116 to change settings related to the functions of the MFP 101 and the operation of the MFP 101 when various events occur. Figures 6(a), 6(b), and 7 are diagrams showing examples of operation screens that the CPU 111 displays on the panel 201 of the operation unit 116.

[0047] FIG. 6(a) shows a setting screen related to the sheet feeding operation. The user can select each item shown in FIG. 6(a) to configure settings related to the sheet feeding operation of the MFP 101. The setting key 601 is a key for setting the holding unit to be automatically selected in APS and auto cassette change (ACC). The APS is a function that automatically selects the holding unit to be used based on the output size (sheet size) of the printed matter when performing printing processing. The ACC is a function that automatically selects another holding unit that holds sheets of the same size and continues printing when the printer runs out of sheets during printing.

[0048] The user can set the storage unit to be automatically selected by touching the setting key 601. When the setting key 601 is touched, the CPU 111 displays a pop-up screen for setting the storage unit to be automatically selected. Figure 6(b) shows an example of the pop-up screen displayed on the panel 201.

[0049] 6(b), the user can set the storage unit to be automatically selected for each function of the MFP 101, such as copy processing, print processing based on print data, or FAX reception processing. The copy key 602 is a key for setting the storage unit to be automatically selected in copy processing. In the following description of this embodiment, the copy processing will be used as an example. The OK key 617 is a key used to end the settings related to automatic selection and close the pop-up screen.

[0050] When copy key 602 is selected, CPU 111 transitions to a screen for setting a storage unit to be automatically selected in copy processing. Fig. 7 shows a setting screen for setting a storage unit to be automatically selected in copy processing, and illustrates a case where the third storage unit (cassette 301c) and the fourth storage unit (cassette 301d) are to be automatically selected. The user can set, via the screen in Fig. 7, whether or not each of the storage units included in MFP 101 is to be automatically selected. MFP 101 of this embodiment has four storage units as described in Fig. 3, and therefore can switch whether or not each of the four storage units is to be automatically selected.

[0051] The ON button 701 is a key used when the target storage unit is to be subject to automatic selection, and the OFF button 702 is a key used when the target storage unit is not to be subject to automatic selection. The ON button 701 and the OFF button 702 are set to be exclusive, and only one of the buttons is in a selected state. The CPU 111 also accepts a setting so that one or more storage units are subject to automatic selection. Specifically, for example, when all storage units are set not to be subject to automatic selection (when all storage units are set to the OFF state), the CPU 111 controls so that the OK key 717 cannot be pressed.

[0052] In this embodiment, when APS and ACC are executed, the holding units that are set as the target of automatic selection via the screens of Figures 6 and 7 and that hold sheets of the type targeted by APS are automatically selected. Examples of the type of sheets targeted by APS include types of sheets that are widely used for printing, such as thin paper, plain paper, thick paper with a relatively low basis weight, recycled paper, or user-defined sheets. This is because, even if a holding unit that is set as the target of automatic selection is automatically selected to hold sheets of a type such as tab paper or label paper, there is a high possibility that the output will differ from what the user intended.

[0053] 11 is a diagram showing a data model of the sheet information database in this embodiment. The sheet information database stores referenceable information about sheets, such as the basis weight and surface properties, for each type of sheet that can be used by the MFP 101. Also, referenceable information about whether various settings for copy processing and print processing are to be applied is stored for each type of sheet.

[0054] Note that Fig. 11 shows an example of a portion of the sheet information database. Fig. 11 shows five types of sheets, but other sheets not shown are also managed. Similarly, information regarding whether other settings not shown are possible is also managed as appropriate.

[0055] In this embodiment, examples of sheet types that are subject to APS in copy processing include plain paper 1, thin paper 1, and thick paper 1. Examples of sheet types that are not subject to APS in copy processing include thick paper 2 and label paper. These sheet information databases will also be referenced as appropriate in the flowcharts described below.

[0056] Incidentally, the MFP 101 of this embodiment limits the types of sheets that can be bound depending on the type of binding to prevent binding defects when performing binding by stapleless binding. As described above, in stapleless binding by stapleless binding 314b, sheets are bound by pressing them together. Therefore, compared to stapleless binding by stapleless binding 314a, stapleless binding is more susceptible to the effects of the surface texture and basis weight of the sheets. Therefore, in stapleless binding, the types of sheets that can be bound are more limited than in stapleless binding. For example, as shown in item 1113 of FIG. 11, in stapleless binding, taking into account the binding strength of the sheet stack, binding is restricted so that cardboard is not bound.

[0057] However, when a holding unit is automatically selected by the APS, a holding unit holding a type of sheet that cannot be bound using staple-less binding (for example, cardboard 1 in FIG. 11) may be automatically selected. In this case, even though the user is expecting printed materials that have been properly bound, there is a risk that sheets of a type that cannot be bound will be fed, and the sheets will be output without being bound.

[0058] On the other hand, if the sheets that are automatically selected by APS are limited to types that can be bound using a stapleless binding process (for example, plain paper 1, thin paper 1), the above problem does not occur. However, when outputting a sheet stack without binding or when outputting a sheet stack using a stapled binding process, there is a problem in that the number of sheet types that can be selected by APS is reduced.

[0059] In consideration of these problems, this embodiment describes control for selecting a holding unit according to a specified binding process when automatically selecting a holding unit to use for printing from multiple holding units.

[0060] When the user starts using the MFP 101, a home screen (not shown) for selecting a process to be executed is displayed. The user can select a function provided in the MFP 101, such as a copy function or a transmission function, via the operation unit 116.

[0061] 8 is a diagram showing an example of an operation screen that the CPU 111 displays on the panel 201 of the operation unit 116. When the user selects a copy function via a home screen (not shown), the CPU 111 displays a copy job setting screen shown in FIG.

[0062] There are many setting items for copy jobs, so it is difficult to set all of them on the same screen. Therefore, you need to move to a separate setting screen for each setting item and set multiple functions.

[0063] The finishing key 801 is a key used when setting finishing processing for copy processing. FIGS. 9(a) and 9(b) are diagrams showing an example of a setting screen related to finishing processing. When the finishing key 801 is touched, the CPU 111 displays a screen for setting finishing processing. FIG. 9(a) shows an example of a screen for setting finishing processing, showing a state in which the stapleless binding key 904 is selected. Keys 901, 903, and 904 are set to be exclusive, and any one of them can be selected. Furthermore, when none of the keys is selected, the setting is to output without performing finishing processing.

[0064] Finishing refers to all processing performed on printed materials to be output. Here, processing related to binding is shown as an example, but it is not limited to this and may include settings for other processing (for example, group sort, shift sort, etc.).

[0065] The corner binding key 901 is a key used when using staples to bind a printed material at one of the four corners (top right, top left, bottom left, and bottom right). The double binding key 903 is a key used when using staples to bind a printed material at two points on one side. The stapleless binding key 904 is a key used when using staples to bind a printed material at one of the four corners (top right, top left, bottom left, and bottom right).

[0066] The Next key 905 is a key used when making detailed settings for the selected finishing process. When the Next key 905 is touched, the CPU 111 transitions to a detailed setting screen for the finishing process. Furthermore, the Cancel Settings key 916 is a key used when discarding the settings related to the finishing process made via the screens of Figures 9(a) and 9(b). When the Cancel Settings key 916 is touched, the CPU 111 discards the settings related to the finishing process and transitions to the setting screen for the copy function (Figure 8).

[0067] When the Next key 905 is touched while the Corner Binding key 901 or the Stapleless Binding key 904 is selected, the CPU 111 sets the binding position via a screen for selecting one of the four corners as shown in FIG. 9(b).

[0068] Figure 9(b) shows an example of a detailed setting screen for finishing that is displayed when the Next key 905 is touched while the Corner Binding key 901 or Stapleless Binding key 904 is selected, and shows the state in which the upper left corner is selected. The user specifies the binding position via the screen in Figure 9(b). The keys corresponding to the upper left, upper right, lower right, and lower left are mutually exclusive, and any one key can be selected.

[0069] The OK key 917 is a key used when applying the settings for the finishing process selected via the screens of Figures 9(a) and 9(b). When the OK key 917 is touched, the CPU 111 applies the settings for the finishing process made via the screens of Figures 9(a) and 9(b) as copy settings, and returns to the copy setting screen (Figure 8).

[0070] In this embodiment, the setting of the finishing process is performed on two screens, one shown in Fig. 9(a) and the other shown in Fig. 9(b), but the present invention is not limited to this and any screen may be used as long as it allows the user to specify the type of binding process and the binding position. For example, the type of binding process and the binding position may be specified on one screen, or a window for selecting the binding position may be displayed as a pop-up.

[0071] Returning to the explanation of Fig. 8, the paper selection key 802 is a key used to select the storage unit to be used for printing. When the paper selection key 802 is touched, the CPU 111 displays a screen for selecting the storage unit to be used for printing. Figs. 10(a) and (b) are diagrams showing examples of the operation screen that the CPU 111 displays on the panel 201 of the operation unit 116.

[0072] Figure 10(a) shows a screen for selecting the holding unit to be used for printing, and is an example of a screen that is displayed when a binding process using staples is specified as the finishing setting or when a binding process is not specified as the finishing setting.

[0073] The user can specify the holding unit to be used for printing via the screen in Fig. 10(a). Area 1010 shows the holding units displayed so that they can be selected by the user, and the user can specify the holding unit to be used for printing by touching each row. For example, in a binding process that uses staples, as shown in items 1111 and 1112 in Fig. 11, the same binding process can be performed on plain paper 1, thin paper 1, thick paper 1, and thick paper 2, so all holding units can be selected.

[0074] On the other hand, FIG. 10(b) shows a screen for selecting sheets to be used for printing, and shows an example of the screen displayed when stapleless binding is specified as the finishing setting. Area 1010 shows holding units displayed as selectable by the user, and area 1011 shows holding units displayed as not selectable by the user. The user can specify the holding unit to be used for printing by touching a row displayed as selectable. For example, in stapleless binding, as shown in item 1113 in FIG. 11, binding can be performed on plain paper 1 and thin paper 1, but binding cannot be performed on thick paper 1 and thick paper 2. Therefore, when stapleless binding is specified, the CPU 111 displays holding units holding sheets that cannot be bound using staples so that they cannot be selected.

[0075] 10(a) and 10(b), the CPU 111 acquires the type of sheet held in the holding unit and refers to the sheet information database (FIG. 11) based on the acquired sheet type. The CPU 111 also compares the various settings made via the copy setting screen with the sheet information database, and determines whether to display the holding unit as selectable or unselectable.

[0076] Furthermore, the automatic key 1002 is a key to be selected when the APS automatically selects a storage unit. In this embodiment, the default setting for copying is set to automatically select a storage unit by the APS. In other words, if the user does not specify a storage unit, the automatic selection of a storage unit is performed based on the settings made in advance via the screens of Figures 6(a), (b) and 7.

[0077] The OK key 1017 is a key used when applying the settings of the storage unit (sheet) to be used for printing made via the screen. When the OK key 1017 is touched, the CPU 111 applies the settings related to the storage unit made via Fig. 11 as the copy settings, and returns to the copy setting screen (Fig. 8).

[0078] Next, the control of the copy process of this embodiment will be described. Figures 13 and 14 are flowcharts showing the control of the copy process. Each operation (step) of the flowcharts shown in Figures 13 and 14 is realized by the CPU 111 reading a control program stored in the ROM 112 or storage 114 into the RAM 113 and executing it. When the user selects a copy function via a home screen (not shown), the CPU 111 executes the control corresponding to the flowcharts of Figures 13 and 14.

[0079] In step S1301, the CPU 111 accepts copy job settings via the panel 201. The copy job settings include settings related to the binding process described above and the designation of a holding unit to be used for printing on sheets to be used for printing. In addition, various other settings such as the number of copies to be printed and the magnification setting are accepted in accordance with user instructions.

[0080] In step S1302, CPU 111 determines whether start button 212 has been pressed. If start button 212 has been pressed, the process proceeds to step S1303. If start button 212 has not been pressed, the process returns to step S1301, and the settings for the copy job made via panel 201 are accepted.

[0081] In step S1303, CPU 111 determines the storage unit to be used for printing. Details will be explained in the flowchart of FIG. 14. In step S1401, CPU 111 determines whether or not a setting has been made to automatically determine the storage unit. If a setting has been made in the copy job settings to automatically select a storage unit by APS, the process proceeds to step S1403. On the other hand, if a storage unit to be used for printing has been specified in the copy job settings, the process proceeds to step S1402. In step S1402, CPU 111 selects the storage unit specified in the copy settings, and proceeds to step S1414.

[0082] In step S1403, CPU 111 determines the optimum sheet size for copying printed matter based on the copy job settings and the size of the document set in reading unit 118. In step S1404, CPU 111 determines whether stapleless binding processing is specified as a copy job setting. If stapleless binding processing is specified, the process proceeds to step S1405; if stapleless binding processing is not specified, the process proceeds to step S1407.

[0083] In step S1405, CPU 111 acquires the types of sheets held in the holders set as targets for automatic selection. Taking the targets for automatic selection shown in Fig. 7 as an example, cardboard 1 held in the third holder and cardboard 2 held in the fourth holder are acquired.

[0084] Next, CPU 111 refers to the sheet information database based on the acquired sheet type and determines whether the sheet can be bound without staples. If the sheets held in the holding unit are of a type that can be bound without staples, the holding unit that holds the sheets is set as a search target for the APS processing described below. Taking the automatic selection targets shown in Figure 7 as an example, cardboard 1 and cardboard 2 are types of sheets that cannot be bound using staple-free binding, so there are no holding units that can be searched for in the APS processing.

[0085] Meanwhile, in step S1407, CPU 111 determines whether staple-based binding is specified as a setting for the copy job. If staple-based binding is specified, the process proceeds to step S1408. If staple-based binding is not specified, the process proceeds to step S1409. In step S1408, CPU 111 acquires the type of sheets held in the holding unit set as targets for automatic selection. Next, CPU 111 determines, based on the acquired sheet type, whether the sheets can be stapled. If the sheets held in the holding unit are of a type that can be stapled, the holding unit that holds the sheets is set as a search target for APS processing, which will be described later. Taking the target for automatic selection shown in FIG. 7 as an example, cardboard 1 and cardboard 2 are types of sheets that can be stapled, so the third and fourth holding units are the search targets for APS processing.

[0086] On the other hand, in step S1409, CPU 111 sets all of the storage units set as targets for automatic selection as search targets for APS processing. For example, in the case of the targets for automatic selection shown in Fig. 7, the third storage unit and the fourth storage unit are search targets for APS processing.

[0087] Next, in step S1411, CPU 111 executes APS processing based on the optimal size for the storage unit to be searched. In the APS processing, if a storage unit to be selected holds sheets of the same size as the optimal size calculated in step S1403 and that are the target of automatic selection, CPU 111 designates that storage unit as a candidate for the storage unit to be used for printing. If there are multiple candidate storage units, they are prioritized based on the time required for feeding, the amount of sheets held in the cassette, and the like. Note that the APS processing described here is an example and can be modified as appropriate. For example, storage units of sizes close to the optimal size may also be listed as candidates for use in printing.

[0088] In step S1412, CPU 111 determines whether a candidate storage unit to be used for printing was found in step S1411. If a candidate storage unit was found, the process proceeds to step S1413; if a candidate storage unit was not found, the process proceeds to step S1415. In step S1413, CPU 111 selects the storage unit with the highest priority as the storage unit to be used for printing, and proceeds to step S1414. In step S1414, CPU 111 sets the copy job to the effect that printing-related processing can be executed, and returns to step S1304.

[0089] On the other hand, in step S1415, CPU 111 sets the copy job to the effect that processing related to printing is not executable, and the process returns to step S1304.

[0090] 13, in step S1304, CPU 111 determines whether the copy job is executable. If the copy job is set to allow printing-related processing to be executed, CPU 111 proceeds to step S1307. On the other hand, if the copy job is set to prevent printing-related processing from being executed, CPU 111 proceeds to step S1305.

[0091] In step S1305, the CPU 111 displays a predetermined message on the panel 201. Fig. 12 shows an example of a screen displayed on the panel 201. Information 1201 is information for notifying the user that binding processing cannot be performed. A stop key 1216 is a key used to close the predetermined message.

[0092] Returning to the explanation of Fig. 13, in step S1306, if CPU 111 determines that stop key 1216 has been touched, it stops the job, avoids execution of the print process, and ends the process. Note that if stop key 1216 is pressed, the process may return to step S1301. In this case, the message "Copying possible" in Fig. 9(a) may be changed to a message such as "Settings need to be changed."

[0093] On the other hand, in step S1307, CPU 111 controls reading unit 118 and printing unit 120 to execute copy processing based on the settings of the copy job. If binding processing is specified in the copy job, CPU 111 rotates the image read by reading unit 118 as appropriate according to the binding position and prints it.

[0094] In step S1308, CPU 111 determines whether binding processing is specified in the copy job settings. If any binding processing is specified, the process proceeds to step S1309; if no binding processing is specified, the sheet bundle is discharged to discharge unit 307 and the process ends. In step S1309, CPU 111 controls sheet processing unit 122 to perform binding processing according to the binding processing specification. Next, CPU 111 discharges the bound sheet bundle to discharge unit 307 and the process ends.

[0095] In this embodiment, the decision in step S1303 is made after the judgment in step S1302, but this is not limiting. For example, the processing in step S1303 may be performed when it is detected that a document has been set on the reading unit 118, or whenever a change in the copy job settings is accepted in step S1301.

[0096] As described above, in this embodiment, when a holding unit is automatically selected, a holding unit that holds sheets that can be bound using the binding process specified for the job can be set as the holding unit to be searched for by the APS. Therefore, when a holding unit is automatically selected and printing processing is performed, it is possible to prevent sheets that cannot be bound from being fed from the holding unit. <Second embodiment> In the first embodiment, a control is performed so that a holding unit that holds sheets that can be bound by the binding process specified in the job is set as a holding unit to be searched for by APS. In the second embodiment, a control is performed so that a holding unit that holds sheets that cannot be bound by the binding process specified in the job is not selected after APS is performed on a holding unit set as a target for automatic selection.

[0097] In the second embodiment, the hardware configuration of the device that is the premise is the same as that of the first embodiment. Detailed description of the configuration that is the same as that of the first embodiment will be omitted. In the second embodiment, the flowchart shown in FIG. 15 is executed instead of the flowchart in FIG. 14 described in the first embodiment. Each operation (step) of the flowchart shown in FIG. 15 is realized by the CPU 111 reading a control program stored in the ROM 112 or storage 114 into the RAM 113 and executing it.

[0098] The CPU 111 executes the flowchart of FIG. 13 when the user selects the copy function via the home screen (not shown).

[0099] In step S1301, CPU 111 accepts copy job settings via panel 201. In step S1302, if the start button is pressed, CPU 111 proceeds to step S1303, and if not, CPU 111 returns to step S1301. In step S1303, CPU 111 determines the storage unit to be used for printing. Details will be explained using the flowchart in FIG.

[0100] Steps S1501 to S1503 are the same as steps S1401 to S1403 in the first embodiment, and therefore will be omitted.

[0101] In step S1504, CPU 111 executes APS processing based on the optimal size for the storage unit set as the target for automatic selection. Selection of candidates for storage units to be used for printing in APS processing is the same as step S1411 in the first embodiment.

[0102] Next, in step S1505, CPU 111 determines whether there are any candidates for storage units to be used for printing. If there are any candidate storage units, the process proceeds to step S1506. If there are no candidate storage units, the process proceeds to step S1515. In step S1515, CPU 111 sets the copy job to the effect that printing-related processing cannot be executed, and the process returns to step S1304.

[0103] Meanwhile, in step S1506, CPU 111 determines whether stapleless binding is specified as a setting for the copy job. If stapleless binding is specified, the process proceeds to step S1507. If stapleless binding is not specified, the process proceeds to step S1511. In step S1507, CPU 111 acquires the type of sheets held in a holding unit with a higher priority from among the candidate holding units. Next, CPU 111 references the sheet information database based on the acquired sheet type and determines whether the sheets can be bound without staples. If the sheets held in the holding unit are of a type that can be bound without staples, the process proceeds to step S1516. On the other hand, if the sheets held in the holding unit are not of a type that can be bound without staples, the holding unit is removed from the candidate holding units, and the process returns to step S1505.

[0104] In step S1516, CPU 111 selects the storage unit as the storage unit to be used for printing, and proceeds to step S1517. In step S1517, CPU 111 sets the copy job to the effect that processing related to printing is executable, and returns to step S1304.

[0105] Meanwhile, in step S1511, CPU 111 determines whether staple-using binding processing is specified as a setting for the copy job. If staple-using binding processing is specified, the process proceeds to step S1512. On the other hand, if staple-using binding processing is not specified, the process proceeds to step S1516, where the storage unit is selected as the storage unit to be used for printing.

[0106] In step S1512, CPU 111 acquires the type of sheets held in a holding unit with a high priority from among the candidate holding units. Next, CPU 111 references the sheet information database based on the acquired sheet type, and determines whether the sheets can be bound using staples. If the sheets held in the holding unit are of a type that can be bound using staples, the process proceeds to step S1516. If the sheets held in the holding unit are not of a type that can be bound using staples, the process removes the holding unit from the candidate holding units and returns to step S1505.

[0107] The processing from step S1304 onwards is the same as in the first embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0108] In this way, in the second embodiment, after a holding unit is automatically selected, control can be performed so that a holding unit that holds sheets that can be bound by the binding process specified for the job is not selected. Therefore, when a holding unit is automatically selected and printing processing is performed, it is possible to prevent sheets that cannot be bound from being fed from the holding unit. <Other embodiments> In the first and second embodiments, the control of automatic selection of a storage unit in the copy process of the MFP 101 has been exemplified, but the present invention can also be applied to the control of automatic selection of a storage unit in other functions. For example, the present invention can be applied to a print process that receives print data from an information processing device such as the PC 102 and performs print processing, print control when printing a saved file stored in the storage 114, and a reception process that receives a fax or email and performs print processing.

[0109] When applied to print processing, CPU 111 executes control for determining a storage unit from step S1303 onward in Fig. 13 based on print attribute information (print settings) obtained by analyzing the print data. Note that PC 102 may transmit print data with a specified sheet type via a printer driver, or may transmit print data without specifying a sheet type. Therefore, in steps S1411 and S1504, if a sheet type is specified as a print setting, CPU 111 controls to search for a storage unit that stores the sheet specified as the print setting as a candidate storage unit. On the other hand, if a sheet type is not specified as a print setting, CPU 111 controls to search for a candidate storage unit based on the sheet type that is the target of APS in print processing, which is stored in advance in MFP 101.

[0110] When applied to reception processing, the control for determining the storage unit from step S1303 onward may be executed based on the print settings at the time of reception processing.

[0111] The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that realizes one or more functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and having one or more processors in the computer of the system or device read and execute the program.The present invention can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., ASIC) that realizes one or more functions. [Explanation of symbols]

[0112] 101 MFP 111 CPU 120 Printing Department 122 Sheet processing section 314a needle used 314b Needle free

Claims

1. a plurality of holders for holding sheets; an image forming unit for forming an image on the paper fed from the plurality of holding units; a selection unit that automatically selects one of the plurality of holding units as a paper feed source for an image forming job without being designated by a user, An image forming apparatus to which a processing device is connected that can perform a pressure binding process in which a bundle of sheets of paper made up of a plurality of sheets of paper on which images have been formed by the image forming means is bound by applying pressure to the bundle of sheets of paper without using staples to press the sheets together, and a staple binding process in which the sheets are bound using staples, When the pressure binding process is set to be performed, an image forming operation is permitted on the paper in the holding unit set to hold the first type of paper, When the pressure binding process is set to be performed, image formation operations on sheets in a holding section set to hold sheets of the second type are prohibited, When the pressure binding process is set to be performed, image formation operations on sheets in a holding section set to hold sheets of the third type are prohibited, When the staple binding process is set to be performed, an image forming operation is permitted on the paper in the holding unit set to hold the first type of paper, When the staple binding process is set to be performed, an image forming operation is permitted on the paper in the holding unit set to hold the second type of paper, When the staple binding process is set to be performed, image formation operations on the sheets in the holding section set to hold the third type of sheets are prohibited, When the pressure binding process is not set to be performed, the holding unit set to hold the first type of paper is selected by the selection means as the paper feed source, and an image can be formed on the paper fed from the selected holding unit. When the pressure binding process is not set to be performed, the holding unit set to hold the second type of paper is selected by the selection means as the paper feed source, and an image can be formed on the paper fed from the selected holding unit. An image forming apparatus characterized in that, when the pressure binding process is not set to be performed, a holding section set to hold the third type of paper is prohibited from being selected as a feeding source by the selection means.

2. the first type of paper is plain paper, 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second type of paper is cardboard.

3. 3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein an automatic mode can be set via an operation unit to automatically select a holding unit that will be the feeding source without a user having to specify the holding unit that will be the feeding source.

Images