Image forming apparatus and server

Abstract

To provide an image forming apparatus that determines the degree of wear of a photoreceptor drum, while preventing an increase in cost.SOLUTION: An image forming apparatus according to an embodiment comprises a temperature acquisition unit, a printing unit, a storage unit, and a processor. The temperature acquisition unit acquires temperature. The printing unit executes printing by using a photoreceptor. The storage unit stores total printing history linked to temperature for a plurality of temperatures. The processor updates the total printing history corresponding to the temperature acquired by the temperature acquisition unit on the basis of the execution of printing by the printing unit. The processor estimates the degree of wear of the photoreceptor on the basis of the plurality of total printing histories.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] There is known an image forming apparatus that determines the degree of wear of a photosensitive drum by using a circuit that measures the characteristics of the photosensitive drum, such as a surface potential sensor or a current detection circuit, etc. However, providing a circuit that measures the characteristics of the photosensitive drum, such as a surface potential sensor or a current detection circuit, increases costs. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 8-220950 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] An embodiment of the present invention provides an image forming apparatus and a server that determine the degree of wear of a photosensitive drum while suppressing an increase in costs. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] An image forming apparatus according to an embodiment includes a temperature acquisition unit, a printing unit, a storage unit, and a processor. The temperature acquisition unit acquires temperatures. The printing unit performs printing using a photosensitive element. The storage unit stores a total printing history linked to the temperatures for multiple temperatures. The processor updates the total printing history corresponding to the temperatures acquired by the temperature acquisition unit based on the printing performed by the printing unit. The processor estimates the degree of wear of the photosensitive element based on the multiple total printing histories. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1]1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a printing system including a plurality of image forming apparatuses according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an example of an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a main part of an image forming unit of an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a circuit configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram showing stored data in an auxiliary storage device of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] 5A and 5B are views showing a specific example of first print history information stored in an auxiliary storage device of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a server according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a serviceman terminal according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] 6 is a flowchart showing an example of a history update process executed by the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] 6 is a flowchart showing an example of a wear determination process executed by the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 11] 6 is a flowchart showing an example of a remaining life estimation process executed by the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 12] 6 is a graph showing an example of the relationship between the number of sheets of paper passed and the amount of film scraped off the photosensitive drum of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 13] 6 is a graph showing an example of the relationship between the temperature of the photosensitive drum and the film scraping rate of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation of a printing system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a specific example of first print history information according to a modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. In the description, components having substantially the same functions and configurations are designated by the same reference numerals. The embodiments shown below are merely examples of technical ideas. The embodiments do not specify the materials, shapes, structures, arrangements, etc. of the components. Various modifications can be made to the embodiments.

[0008] First Embodiment <Configuration> FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a printing system including multiple image forming apparatuses according to the first embodiment. The printing system further includes multiple user terminals 200, a server 300, and a serviceman terminal 400. Each image forming apparatus 100 is placed in a workplace and can be communicatively connected to a user terminal 200 located in the same workplace via an internal network 500 such as a LAN (Local Area Network). This connection may be wired or wireless. The internal network 500 is also connected to an external network 600 such as the Internet. The server 300 and the serviceman terminal 400 are connected to the external network 600. As a result, the image forming apparatus 100 can be communicatively connected to the server 300 via the internal network 500 and the external network 600.

[0009] The user terminal 200 is an information processing device, such as a personal computer (PC), smartphone, tablet terminal, or digital camera, that instructs printing on one of the image forming apparatuses 100. The user terminal 200 may be communicatively connected to the image forming apparatus 100 via an external network 600 and an internal network 500. That is, the user terminal 200 may be located outside the workplace where the image forming apparatus 100 is located. The user terminal 200 may also be directly connected to the image forming apparatus 100, i.e., locally connected, without going through the external network 600 and the internal network 500. This local connection may also be a wired connection or a wireless connection.

[0010] Server 300 is a computer device operated directly or by a management company contracted to perform maintenance and inspections of image forming apparatuses 100, either through direct operation or through a service provider. Server 300 periodically or as needed acquires data indicating the operating status of each image forming apparatus 100. Based on the acquired data, server 300 determines whether each image forming apparatus 100 needs to be inspected or repaired. If an image forming apparatus 100 needs to be inspected or repaired, server 300 transmits information identifying that image forming apparatus 100 to serviceman terminal 400, thereby enabling a serviceman to inspect or repair that image forming apparatus 100.

[0011] The serviceman terminal 400 is an information processing device such as a smartphone or tablet terminal carried by a serviceman who inspects and repairs the image forming apparatus 100. Although only one serviceman terminal 400 is shown in Fig. 1, the printing system may include multiple serviceman terminals 400. In this case, the server 300 can assign an appropriate serviceman to the image forming apparatus 100 that requires inspection or repair, based on information such as the availability of each serviceman.

[0012] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an example of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment.

[0013] The image forming apparatus 100 performs printing by electrophotography and is, for example, an MFP (multifunction peripheral), a copier, a printer, or a facsimile machine.

[0014] The image forming apparatus 100 conveys a print medium P and forms an image on the print medium P by electrophotography. The print medium P is also referred to as a recording medium, a transfer medium, or paper. The image forming apparatus 100 may be, for example, an MFP (multifunction peripheral), a copier, a printer, or a facsimile. FIG. 2 shows the image forming apparatus 100, which is an MFP. The image forming apparatus 100 receives toner from a toner cartridge 2 and forms an image on the print medium P using the received toner. The toner may be, for example, four color toners: yellow, magenta, cyan, and black. The combination of color toners is not limited to this. Other colors may be combined. Furthermore, a single color toner may be used instead of combining multiple color toners. The toner may also be a special toner. For example, the toner may be erasable toner, which is erased and becomes invisible at temperatures higher than a predetermined temperature.

[0015] As shown in FIG. 2, the image forming apparatus 100 includes, as an example, a housing 11, a communication interface 12, a system controller 13, multiple paper trays 14, a paper output tray 15, a conveying unit 16, an image forming unit 17, a fixing unit 18, a scanner unit 19, and a control panel 20.

[0016] The housing 11 is the main body of the image forming apparatus 100. The housing 11 houses, for example, a communication interface 12, a system controller 13, a plurality of paper trays 14, a conveying unit 16, an image forming unit 17, and a fixing unit 18. A part of the top surface of the housing 11 serves as a paper output tray 15.

[0017] The communication interface 12 is an interface for communicating with other devices connected via a network. The communication interface 12 is used for communication with external devices. The external devices include, for example, a user terminal 200 and a server 300. The communication interface 12 is configured, for example, with a LAN connector or the like. The communication interface 12 may be configured to perform wireless communication with other devices in accordance with standards such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark).

[0018] The system controller 13 functions as a control unit of the image forming apparatus 100. The system controller 13 is connected to the communication interface 12. The system controller 13 generates a print job based on print data acquired from the user terminal 200, which is an external device, via the communication interface 12, for example. The print job includes image data indicating an image to be formed on a print medium P. The image data may be data for forming an image on one sheet of print medium P, or may be data for forming images on multiple sheets of print media P. The print job may include information indicating whether color printing or monochrome printing is to be performed.

[0019] The system controller 13, which has generated the print job, controls the operations of the conveying unit 16, the image forming unit 17, and the fixing unit 18 to form an image of the image data included in the print job on the print medium P. Specifically, the system controller 13 controls the conveying of the print medium P by the conveying unit 16, the formation of an image on the print medium P by the image forming unit 17, and the fixing of the image on the print medium P by the fixing unit 18. In this way, the system controller 13 also functions as an engine controller for the image forming apparatus 100.

[0020] The image forming apparatus 100 may be configured to include an engine controller separate from the system controller 13. In this case, the engine controller controls at least one of the following: transportation of the print medium P by the transport unit 16, image formation on the print medium P by the image forming unit 17, and fixing of the image on the print medium P by the fixing unit 18. The system controller 13 supplies the engine controller with information necessary for control by the engine controller.

[0021] Each of the multiple paper trays 14 is a cassette that stores print media P. The paper trays 14 are configured so that print media P can be supplied from outside the housing 11. For example, the paper trays 14 are configured so that they can be pulled out from the housing 11.

[0022] The paper discharge tray 15 is a tray that receives the print medium P discharged from the image forming apparatus 100.

[0023] The transport unit 16 is a mechanism that transports the print medium P within the image forming apparatus 100. As shown in FIG. 2, the transport unit 16 has multiple transport paths. Specifically, the transport unit 16 has a paper feed transport path 31 and a paper discharge transport path 32. The paper feed transport path 31 and the paper discharge transport path 32 are composed of multiple rollers, multiple guides, etc. The multiple rollers transport the print medium P by rotating using power transmitted from a drive mechanism. The multiple guides control the transport direction of the print medium P transported by the rollers.

[0024] The paper feed conveying path 31 takes in the print medium P from the paper tray 14 and supplies the taken-in print medium P to the image forming unit 17. The paper feed conveying path 31 is provided with a plurality of pickup rollers 33 corresponding to each paper tray 14. Each pickup roller 33 takes in the print medium P from the respective paper tray 14 into the paper feed conveying path 31.

[0025] The paper discharge transport path 32 is a transport path that discharges the print medium P, on which an image has been formed by the image forming unit 17, from the housing 11. The print medium P discharged by the paper discharge transport path 32 is supported by the paper discharge tray 15.

[0026] The image forming unit 17 has a configuration for forming an image on the print medium P. Details of the image forming unit 17 will be described later.

[0027] The fixing unit 18 has a heat roller 34 and a pressure roller 35. The fixing unit 18 heats the print medium P being transported through the paper discharge transport path 32 to a predetermined temperature with the heat roller 34, and further applies pressure with the pressure roller 35, thereby fixing the image transferred onto the print medium P to the print medium P.

[0028] The scanner unit 19 is a device that reads a document and converts it into image data, and is installed on the top of the housing 11. The scanner unit 19 is equipped with an automatic document feeder 21, and is also capable of reading documents transported by the automatic document feeder 21.

[0029] The control panel 20 includes a touch panel 22 and a keyboard 23. The touch panel 22 is configured by stacking a display such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display and a touch sensor that detects touch input. The display displays information to be notified to the user of the image forming apparatus 100, such as images for setting various functions of the image forming apparatus 100 and an image indicating the remaining toner amount.

[0030] The keyboard 23 has various keys for operation by a user of the image forming apparatus 100. For example, the keyboard 23 has a numeric keypad, a power key, a paper feed key, function keys, etc. Each key may also be called a button. In this way, the touch panel 22 and the keyboard 23 function as input devices for the image forming apparatus 100. The display provided in the touch panel 22 functions as a display device for the image forming apparatus 100.

[0031] Next, the image forming unit 17 will be described.

[0032] As shown in FIG. 2, the image forming unit 17 includes a plurality of process units 41, a transfer unit 42, and a thermometer 88. Each process unit 41 is a unit for forming a toner image. Each process unit 41 is provided for each type of toner. For example, from the left in FIG. 2, each process unit 41 corresponds to a yellow, magenta, cyan, and black color toner, respectively. Each process unit 41 includes a toner cartridge 2 having a corresponding color toner. The thermometer 88 is provided between the process unit 41 corresponding to the cyan color toner and the process unit 41 corresponding to the black color toner. The thermometer 88 acquires the temperature of the image forming unit 17.

[0033] 3 is a schematic diagram showing the main configuration of the image forming unit of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. Each toner cartridge 2 and each process unit 41 have the same configuration. Therefore, FIG. 3 shows one toner cartridge 2 and one process unit 41 as an example.

[0034] First, a description will be given of the toner cartridge 2. As shown in Fig. 3, the toner cartridge 2 includes a toner storage container 51, a toner delivery mechanism 52, and a memory 53.

[0035] The toner storage container 51 is a container that stores toner. The toner delivery mechanism 52 is a mechanism that delivers the toner in the toner storage container 51. The toner delivery mechanism 52 is, for example, a screw provided in the toner storage container 51. When the screw rotates, the toner in the toner storage container 51 is delivered.

[0036] The toner storage container 51 is loaded into the loading unit 60. The loading unit 60 is a module into which the toner cartridge 2 filled with toner is attached. The loading unit 60 includes a toner supply motor 61. The loading unit 60 also includes a connector that connects the memory 53 of the toner cartridge 2 to the system controller 13.

[0037] When the toner cartridge 2 is loaded into the loading section 60, the toner supply motor 61 is connected to the toner feeding mechanism 52 of the toner cartridge 2. The toner supply motor 61 drives the toner feeding mechanism 52 under the control of the system controller 13. When the toner supply motor 61 drives the toner feeding mechanism 52, the toner in the toner storage container 51 is supplied to the developing device 75, which will be described later. The memory 53 of the toner cartridge 2 stores information such as the number of times that the toner feeding mechanism 52 has driven to supply toner to the developing device 75, the date and time of supply, etc.

[0038] Next, a description will be given of the process unit 41. As shown in Fig. 3, the process unit 41 includes a photosensitive drum 71, a cleaner 72, a charging unit 73, an exposure head 74, and a developing unit 75.

[0039] The photosensitive drum 71 is a photosensitive member that includes a cylindrical drum and a photosensitive layer formed on the outer peripheral surface of the drum. The photosensitive drum 71 rotates at a constant speed by power transmitted from a drive mechanism. The photosensitive drum 71 is an example of an image carrier.

[0040] The cleaner 72 has a blade 721 that comes into contact with the surface of the photosensitive drum 71. The cleaner 72 uses the blade 721 to remove toner remaining on the surface of the photosensitive drum 71.

[0041] The charging unit 73 is a device that uniformly charges the surface of the photosensitive drum 71. For example, the charging unit 73 applies a grid bias voltage output from a grid electrode 731 to the photosensitive drum 71, thereby charging the photosensitive drum 71 to a uniform negative potential. Such a charging unit 73 is also called a charging charger.

[0042] The exposure head 74 includes a plurality of light-emitting elements. The light-emitting elements are, for example, laser diodes (LD), light-emitting diodes (LED), or organic light-emitting diodes (OLED). The plurality of light-emitting elements are arranged in the main scanning direction, which is a direction parallel to the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum 71. Each light-emitting element is configured to irradiate light onto one point on the photosensitive drum 71.

[0043] The exposure head 74 forms one line of latent image on the photosensitive drum 71 by irradiating the surface of the charged photosensitive drum 71 with light from a plurality of light-emitting elements arranged in the main scanning direction. Furthermore, the exposure head 74 forms multiple lines of latent images by continuously irradiating the rotating photosensitive drum 71 with light.

[0044] The developing device 75 is a device that deposits toner onto the photosensitive drum 71 to form a toner image on the photosensitive drum 71. The developing device 75 includes a developer container 81, an agitation-side mixer 82, a developing roller-side mixer 83, a developing roller 84, a doctor blade 85, an auto toner control (ATC) sensor 86, and the like.

[0045] The developer container 81 is a container that contains a developer containing toner and a carrier. The developer container 81 receives the toner that is delivered from the toner cartridge 2 by the toner delivery mechanism 52. The carrier is delivered to the developer container 81 when the developing unit 75 is manufactured.

[0046] The agitation-side mixer 82 and the development roller-side mixer 83 are located inside the developer container 81. The agitation-side mixer 82 and the development roller-side mixer 83 agitate the toner and carrier inside the developer container 81 as an agitation mechanism.

[0047] The developing roller 84 rotates in the developer container 81, causing the developer to adhere to the surface of the roller.

[0048] The doctor blade 85 is a member disposed at a predetermined distance from the surface of the developing roller 84. The doctor blade 85 removes a portion of the developer adhering to the surface of the rotating developing roller 84. As a result, a layer of developer having a thickness corresponding to the distance between the doctor blade 85 and the surface of the developing roller 84 is formed on the surface of the developing roller 84.

[0049] The ATC sensor 86 has, for example, a coil and detects the voltage value generated in the coil. The detected voltage of the ATC sensor 86 changes depending on the density of the magnetic flux from the toner in the developer container 81. That is, the ATC sensor 86 detects a voltage corresponding to the toner concentration in the developer container 81. The system controller 13 can determine the toner concentration in the developer container 81 based on the detected voltage of the ATC sensor 86.

[0050] As described above, when light is irradiated from the exposure head 74 onto the surface of the photosensitive drum 71, which has been charged by the charging unit 73, a latent image is formed. Thereafter, when the layer of developer formed on the surface of the developing roller 84 in the developing device 75 approaches the surface of the photosensitive drum 71, the toner contained in the developer adheres to the latent image formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 71. As a result, a toner image is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 71. In other words, the exposure head 74 and the developing device 75 constitute an image forming unit 76.

[0051] The transfer unit 42 is configured to transfer the toner image formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 71 onto the print medium P. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the transfer unit 42 includes, for example, a transfer belt 91, a secondary transfer opposing roller 92, a plurality of primary transfer rollers 93, and a secondary transfer roller 94.

[0052] The transfer belt 91 is an endless belt wound around a secondary transfer opposing roller 92 and a plurality of winding rollers. The back surface, which is the inner surface of the transfer belt 91, contacts the secondary transfer opposing roller 92 and the plurality of winding rollers, and the front surface, which is the outer surface, faces the photosensitive drum 71 of the process unit 41.

[0053] The secondary transfer opposing roller 92 rotates by power transmitted from a drive mechanism, thereby transporting the transfer belt 91. The secondary transfer opposing roller 92 rotates counterclockwise in FIG. 2. This rotation causes the transfer belt 91, which is an endless belt, to rotate counterclockwise in FIG. 2. The multiple winding rollers are configured to be freely rotatable. The multiple winding rollers rotate in accordance with the movement of the transfer belt 91 by the secondary transfer opposing roller 92.

[0054] A plurality of primary transfer rollers 93 are provided for each process unit 41. The plurality of primary transfer rollers 93 are arranged to face the photosensitive drums 71 of the corresponding process units 41. Specifically, the plurality of primary transfer rollers 93 are arranged at positions facing the photosensitive drums 71 of the corresponding process units 41, with the transfer belt 91 sandwiched between them. The primary transfer rollers 93 come into contact with the inner circumferential surface of the transfer belt 91, displacing the transfer belt 91 toward the photosensitive drum 71. This displacement causes the surface of the transfer belt 91 to come into contact with the photosensitive drum 71.

[0055] The secondary transfer roller 94 is disposed at a position opposite to the secondary transfer opposing roller 92. The secondary transfer roller 94 contacts and applies pressure to the surface of the transfer belt 91 that is conveyed along the circumferential surface of the secondary transfer opposing roller 92. This contact and pressure form a transfer nip where the secondary transfer roller 94 and the surface of the transfer belt 91 are in close contact with each other.

[0056] The secondary transfer roller 94 and the secondary transfer opposing roller 92 rotate to sandwich and transport the printing medium P supplied from the paper feed path 31. As a result, the printing medium P passes through the transfer nip. The secondary transfer roller 94 presses the printing medium P passing through the transfer nip against the surface of the transfer belt 91.

[0057] In the transfer unit 42 configured as described above, when the surface of the transfer belt 91 comes into contact with the photosensitive drum 71, the toner image formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 71 is transferred (primary transfer) onto the surface of the transfer belt 91. As shown in FIG. 2, when the image forming section 17 includes multiple process units 41, toner images are transferred onto the transfer belt 91 from the photosensitive drums 71 of the multiple process units 41, respectively. The toner image transferred onto the surface of the transfer belt 91 is transported by the transfer belt 91 to the transfer nip. At this time, if a print medium P is present in the transfer nip, the toner image transferred onto the surface of the transfer belt 91 is transferred (secondary transfer) to the print medium P at the transfer nip.

[0058] Next, the circuit configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 will be described.

[0059] 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the circuit configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. As shown in the figure, the image forming apparatus 100 configures a circuit by connecting a system controller 13 with a communication interface 12, an image forming unit 17, a fixing unit 18, a scanner unit 19, a control panel 20, a motor 30, etc. via signal lines.

[0060] The system controller 13 includes a processor 131, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 132, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 133, and an auxiliary storage device 134. The system controller 13 configures a computer by connecting the processor 131, the ROM 132, the RAM 133, and the auxiliary storage device 134 with signal lines.

[0061] The processor 131 corresponds to the central part of the computer. The processor 131 controls each part to realize various functions of the image forming apparatus 100 in accordance with an operating system or an application program. The processor 131 is, for example, a central processing unit (CPU). The processor 131 may be, for example, a micro processing unit (MPU), a system on a chip (SoC), a digital signal processor (DSP), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (PLD), or a field-programmable gate array (FPGA). Alternatively, the processor 131 may be a combination of two or more of these.

[0062] The ROM 132 and RAM 133 correspond to the main memory of the computer. The ROM 132 is a non-volatile memory area, and the RAM 133 is a volatile memory area. The ROM 132 can also be considered a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. The ROM 132 stores an operating system or application programs. The ROM 132 also stores data required for the processor 131 to execute processes for controlling each unit. The RAM 133 is used as a work area where data is rewritten by the processor 131 as needed.

[0063] The auxiliary storage device 134 is a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium and corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer. As the auxiliary storage device 134, for example, well-known storage devices such as an EEPROM (registered trademark) (Electric Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), an HDD (Hard Disc Drive), or an SSD (Solid State Drive) are used singly or in combination. The auxiliary storage device 134 stores data used by the processor 131 when performing various processes and data generated by the processes in the processor 131. The auxiliary storage device 134 may also store application programs.

[0064] In addition, instead of or in addition to the auxiliary storage device 134, the image forming apparatus 100 may be provided with an interface into which a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium such as a removable optical disk, a memory card, or a USB (universal serial bus) memory can be inserted.

[0065] The application program stored in ROM 132 or auxiliary storage device 134 includes a program for executing the processes described below. As an example, image forming apparatus 100 is transferred to an administrator or the like of image forming apparatus 100 with the program stored in ROM 132 or auxiliary storage device 134. However, image forming apparatus 100 may also be transferred to the administrator or the like without the program stored in ROM 132 or auxiliary storage device 134. The program for executing the processes described below may then be transferred separately to the administrator or the like and written into ROM 132 or auxiliary storage device 134 under the operation of the administrator or a service technician or the like. The program can be transferred in this case by recording it on a removable, non-transitory computer-readable storage medium such as a magnetic disk, a magneto-optical disk, an optical disk, or a semiconductor memory, or by downloading it via a network or the like.

[0066] The system controller 13 connects the toner cartridge 2, thermometer 88, photosensitive drum 71, cleaner 72, charging unit 73, image forming unit (exposure head 74, developing device 75 (ATC sensor 86)) 76, and transfer unit (transfer belt 91, secondary transfer opposing roller 92, primary transfer roller 93, and secondary transfer roller 94) 42 of the image forming section 17 with signal lines. The system controller 13 then controls the toner cartridge 2, photosensitive drum 71, cleaner 72, charging unit 73, and image forming unit 76 provided for each process unit 41, as well as the transfer unit 42 and fixing unit 18, to form an image on the print medium P.

[0067] The motor 30 includes a first motor used in the drive mechanism that drives the conveying unit 16, a second motor used in the drive mechanism that rotates the photosensitive drum 71, and a third motor used in the drive mechanism that rotates the secondary transfer opposing roller 92. A plurality of second motors are provided corresponding to the photosensitive drums 71 provided in the plurality of process units 41, respectively. The motor 30 may also include motors used in drive mechanisms other than the drive mechanisms described above. The motor 30 is, for example, a brushless motor. The motor 30 may also be a brush motor.

[0068] 5 is a conceptual diagram showing data stored in the auxiliary storage device of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 5, first print history information 1341 and second print history information 1342 are stored in advance in the auxiliary storage device 134.

[0069] The first print history information 1341 stores a total print history, a film scraping rate, and a film scraping amount associated with a temperature for a plurality of temperatures. The total print history is a total of the print history. The first print history information 1341 will be described in detail later.

[0070] The second print history information 1342 stores print history information necessary for calculating the average number of printed sheets per day. For example, the second print history information 1342 stores pairs of dates and the number of sheets printed on those dates for multiple dates.

[0071] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a specific example of first print history information stored in the auxiliary storage device of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6, the first print history information 1341 stores the number of jobs, the number of sheets passed, the drive time, the drive distance, the film abrasion rate, and the amount of film abrasion, all of which are linked to temperatures, for multiple temperatures. The number of jobs, the number of sheets passed, the drive time, and the drive distance are examples of a total print history. The number of jobs is the total number of print jobs executed. The number of sheets passed is the total number of sheets of paper that have passed through the image forming unit 17. The drive time is the total time the second motor used in the drive mechanism that rotates the photosensitive drum 71 is driven. The drive distance is the total distance traveled by the outer periphery of the photosensitive drum 71 as the photosensitive drum 71 rotates. The film abrasion rate is a value indicating how much of the photosensitive drum 71 is abraded when the photosensitive drum 71 is rotated a certain distance. The film abrasion amount is a value indicating how much the photosensitive drum 71 has been abraded at a given temperature. Temperatures are stored in categories of 5°C or less, 6°C, 7°C, ..., 38°C, 39°C, and 40°C or more. For each temperature, the number of jobs, number of sheets passed, drive time, drive distance, film abrasion rate, and film abrasion amount are stored. In the example shown in Figure 6, the number of jobs, number of sheets passed, drive time, and drive distance are all 0 for all temperature categories. For the film abrasion rate, values ​​corresponding to each temperature are stored in advance. In the example shown in Figure 6, the film abrasion rate Srx is stored for the x°C category (x is 5 to 40). The film abrasion amount is a value calculated in the process described below. In the example shown in Figure 6, the film abrasion amount Sax is stored for the x°C category.

[0072] Fig. 7 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a server according to the first embodiment. As shown in Fig. 7, the server 300 configures a circuit by connecting a processor 301 to a ROM 302, a RAM 303, an auxiliary storage device 304, and a communication interface 305 via signal lines.

[0073] The server 300 constitutes a computer by connecting a processor 301, a ROM 302, a RAM 303, and an auxiliary storage device 304 with signal lines.

[0074] The processor 301 corresponds to the central part of the computer. The processor 301 controls each part to realize various functions of the server 300 in accordance with an operating system or an application program. The processor 301 is, for example, a CPU. The processor 301 may be, for example, an MPU, an SoC, a DSP, a GPU, an ASIC, a PLD, or an FPGA. Alternatively, the processor 301 may be a combination of two or more of these.

[0075] ROM 302 and RAM 303 correspond to the main memory of the computer. ROM 302 is a non-volatile memory area, and RAM 303 is a volatile memory area. ROM 302 can also be considered a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. ROM 302 stores an operating system or application programs. ROM 302 also stores data necessary for processor 301 to execute processes for controlling each unit. RAM 303 is used as a work area where data is rewritten by processor 301 as needed.

[0076] The auxiliary storage device 304 is a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium and corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer. The auxiliary storage device 304 may be a well-known storage device such as an EEPROM (registered trademark), HDD, or SSD, either singly or in combination. The auxiliary storage device 304 stores data used by the processor 301 when performing various processes and data generated by the processes performed by the processor 301. The auxiliary storage device 304 may also store application programs.

[0077] In addition, instead of or in addition to the auxiliary storage device 304, the server 300 may be provided with an interface into which a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium such as a removable optical disk, a memory card, or a USB memory can be inserted.

[0078] The application program stored in ROM 302 or the auxiliary storage device 304 includes a program for executing the processes described below. As an example, the server 300 is transferred to an administrator or the like of the server 300 with the program stored in ROM 302 or the auxiliary storage device 304. However, the server 300 may also be transferred to the administrator or the like without the program stored in ROM 302 or the auxiliary storage device 304. The program for executing the processes described below may then be transferred separately to the administrator or the like and written into ROM 302 or the auxiliary storage device 304 under the operation of the administrator or a service technician or the like. The program can be transferred in this case by recording it on a removable, non-transitory computer-readable storage medium such as a magnetic disk, a magneto-optical disk, an optical disk, or a semiconductor memory, or by downloading it via a network or the like.

[0079] The communication interface 305 is an interface for communicating with other devices connected via a network. The communication interface 305 is used for communication with external devices. The external devices include, for example, the image forming apparatus 100, the user terminal 200, and the serviceman terminal 400. The communication interface 305 is configured, for example, with a LAN connector or the like. The communication interface 305 may be configured to perform wireless communication with other devices in accordance with standards such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark).

[0080] Fig. 8 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a serviceman terminal according to the first embodiment. As shown in Fig. 8, the serviceman terminal 400 has a circuit formed by connecting a processor 401, a ROM 402, a RAM 403, an auxiliary storage device 404, a communication interface 405, and a user interface 406 via signal lines.

[0081] The serviceman terminal 400 is configured as a computer by connecting a processor 401, a ROM 402, a RAM 403, and an auxiliary storage device 404 via signal lines.

[0082] The processor 401 corresponds to the central part of the computer. The processor 401 controls each part to realize various functions of the serviceman terminal 400 in accordance with an operating system or an application program. The processor 401 is, for example, a CPU. The processor 401 may be, for example, an MPU, an SoC, a DSP, a GPU, an ASIC, a PLD, or an FPGA. Alternatively, the processor 401 may be a combination of two or more of these.

[0083] The ROM 402 and RAM 403 correspond to the main memory of the computer. The ROM 402 is a non-volatile memory area, and the RAM 403 is a volatile memory area. The ROM 402 can also be considered a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. The ROM 402 stores an operating system or application programs. The ROM 402 also stores data necessary for the processor 401 to execute processes for controlling each unit. The RAM 403 is used as a work area where data is rewritten by the processor 401 as needed.

[0084] The auxiliary storage device 404 is a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium and corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer. As the auxiliary storage device 404, for example, well-known storage devices such as an EEPROM (registered trademark), an HDD, or an SSD are used alone or in combination. The auxiliary storage device 404 stores data used by the processor 401 when performing various processes and data generated by the processes in the processor 401. The auxiliary storage device 404 may also store application programs.

[0085] In addition, the serviceman terminal 400 may be provided with an interface into which a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium such as a removable optical disk, a memory card, or a USB memory can be inserted, instead of or in addition to the auxiliary storage device 404.

[0086] The application programs stored in ROM 402 or the auxiliary storage device 404 include programs for executing the processes described below. As an example, the serviceman terminal 400 is transferred to an administrator or the like of the serviceman terminal 400 with the programs stored in ROM 402 or the auxiliary storage device 404. However, the serviceman terminal 400 may also be transferred to the administrator or the like without the programs stored in ROM 402 or the auxiliary storage device 404. The programs for executing the processes described below may then be transferred separately to the administrator or the like and written into ROM 402 or the auxiliary storage device 404 under the operation of the administrator or serviceman or the like. The transfer of the programs in this case may be realized by recording them on a removable, non-transitory computer-readable storage medium such as a magnetic disk, a magneto-optical disk, an optical disk, or a semiconductor memory, or by downloading them via a network or the like.

[0087] The communication interface 405 is an interface for communicating with other devices connected via a network. The communication interface 405 is used for communication with external devices. Examples of external devices include the image forming apparatus 100, the user terminal 200, and the server 300. The communication interface 405 is configured, for example, with a LAN connector or the like. The communication interface 405 may be configured to perform wireless communication with other devices in accordance with standards such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark).

[0088] The user interface 406 provides information to the user and accepts input from the user. The user interface 406 is, for example, a touch panel display. The user interface 406 may include a display, a keyboard, and a mouse.

[0089] <Operation> The operation of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment will be described. The image forming apparatus 100 executes a history update process every time printing is performed. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the history update process executed by the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. The image forming apparatus 100 acquires the temperature (ACT11). In detail, the processor 131 acquires temperature information from the thermometer 88.

[0090] The image forming apparatus 100 updates the first print history information (ACT 12). Specifically, the processor 131 updates the cumulative print history for the corresponding temperature in the first print history information 1341 based on the information on the printing that was executed immediately before and the temperature information acquired in ACT 11.

[0091] The image forming apparatus 100 updates the second print history information (ACT 13). In detail, the processor 131 updates the second print history information 1342 based on information about the printing that was executed immediately before.

[0092] When the processing of ACT13 is completed, the history update processing shown in FIG. 9 is completed.

[0093] Although the case where the history update process is executed after printing has been performed has been described, the timing at which the history update process is executed may be immediately before printing is performed or while printing is being performed.

[0094] By executing the history update process each time printing is performed, the total print history of the first print history information 1341 and the second print history information 1342 are updated to the latest state that reflects the usage status of the image forming device 100.

[0095] The image forming apparatus 100 executes the wear-out determination process at a certain frequency, for example, once a day. Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the wear-out determination process executed by the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. The image forming apparatus 100 sets i to an initial value (ACT21). In detail, the processor 131 sets the variable i, which corresponds to the temperature, to an initial value, for example, 5.

[0096] The image forming apparatus 100 calculates the amount of film abrasion at i° C. (ACT22). In detail, the processor 131 calculates the amount of film abrasion at i° C. based on the total printing history corresponding to i° C. and the film abrasion rate, and updates the first printing history information 1341.

[0097] Details of film abrasion amount calculation will be explained below. Here, an example will be explained in which the driving distance from the total printing history is used. The driving distance at i°C is Di, the film abrasion rate is Sri, and the film abrasion amount is Sai. Furthermore, the outer diameter of the photosensitive drum 71 is Od. The film abrasion amount Sai can be calculated as follows.

[0098] Sai=Di / Od*Sri Returning to the explanation of FIG. 10, upon completing the processing of ACT22, the image forming apparatus 100 determines whether calculations have been completed for all temperatures (ACT23). Specifically, the processor 131 determines whether the variable i is a final value, for example, 40. If calculations have not been completed for all temperatures (ACT23, No), the image forming apparatus 100 sets i to the next temperature (ACT24). Specifically, the processor 131 sets the variable i to a value corresponding to the next temperature; for example, if the current i is 5, the processor 131 sets i to 6.

[0099] While the determination in ACT23 continues to be No, ACT22, ACT23, and ACT24 are repeatedly executed, and the amount of film scraping at each temperature is calculated and updated.

[0100] In ACT23, if calculations have been performed for all temperatures (ACT23, Yes), the image forming apparatus 100 calculates the sum of the film scraping amounts (ACT25). In detail, the processor 131 reads the first print history information 1341 and calculates the sum of the film scraping amounts Sa5 to Sa40.

[0101] The image forming apparatus 100 determines whether the sum is greater than a threshold value (ACT26). Specifically, the processor 131 determines whether the sum of the film scraping amounts calculated in ACT23 is greater than a threshold value. If the sum is not greater than the threshold value (ACT26, No), the image forming apparatus 100 executes a remaining life estimation process (ACT27). The remaining life estimation process will be described in detail later.

[0102] In ACT26, if the sum is greater than the threshold value (ACT26, Yes), the image forming apparatus 100 notifies the user of the image forming apparatus 100 that the degree of wear of the photosensitive drum 71 is high (ACT28). In detail, the processor 131 controls the control panel 20 to notify the user of the image forming apparatus 100 that the degree of wear of the photosensitive drum 71 is high.

[0103] When the processing in ACT27 or ACT28 is completed, the wear determination processing shown in FIG. 10 ends.

[0104] 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a remaining life estimation process executed by the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. When the remaining life estimation process starts, the image forming apparatus 100 selects a representative temperature value (ACT31). In detail, the processor 131 calculates the median temperature value from, for example, the number of jobs among the temperatures stored in the first print history information 1341, and selects the calculated temperature as the representative temperature value.

[0105] The image forming apparatus 100 acquires the number of printed sheets per day (ACT32). In detail, the processor 131 reads the second print history information 1342 and acquires the average number of printed sheets per day.

[0106] The image forming apparatus 100 calculates the remaining life (ACT 33). In detail, the processor 131 calculates the remaining life of the photosensitive drum 71 based on the total amount of film scraping calculated before executing the remaining life estimation process, a threshold value, the film scraping rate at the temperature selected in ACT 31, and the average number of printed sheets per day acquired in ACT 32.

[0107] The method for calculating the remaining life will now be described in detail. Here, the total amount of film abrasion is Sa, the threshold is C, the film abrasion rate at the selected temperature is Sr(Tc), the average number of sheets printed per day is D, the number of days until the end of life is Ls, and the coefficient for converting the driving distance of the photosensitive drum 71 into a unit number of sheets is α. The number of days until the end of life, Ls, can be calculated as follows:

[0108] Ls = (C-Sa) / Sr(Tc)*α / D That is, the difference between the threshold and the total amount of film abrasion is divided by the film abrasion rate at the selected temperature to obtain the driving distance required for the amount of film abrasion to reach the threshold. This driving distance is multiplied by a coefficient α, which converts it to per unit number of sheets, and then divided by the average number of sheets printed per day D to obtain the number of days until the end of life Ls.

[0109] Returning to the explanation of Fig. 11, when the processing of ACT 33 is completed, the image forming apparatus 100 notifies the user of the image forming apparatus 100 of the remaining lifespan Ls calculated in ACT 33.

[0110] When the processing in ACT34 is completed, the remaining life estimation processing shown in FIG. 11 is completed.

[0111] <Effects> The photosensitive layer of the photosensitive drum 71 of the image forming apparatus 100 is gradually worn away each time printing is performed. FIG. 12 is a graph showing an example of the relationship between the number of sheets of paper passed and the amount of film abrasion on the photosensitive drum of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 12 shows the relationship between the number of sheets of paper passed and the amount of film abrasion when the photosensitive drum 71 is at 10°C and when it is at 23°C. As shown in FIG. 12, there is a proportional relationship between the number of sheets of paper passed and the amount of film abrasion. Also, as shown in FIG. 12, when the number of sheets of paper passed is the same, the amount of film abrasion at 10°C is greater than the amount of film abrasion at 23°C. Thus, it can be seen that the amount of film abrasion on the photosensitive drum 71 is proportional to the number of sheets of paper passed, and that the rate of film abrasion varies depending on the temperature.

[0112] 13 is a graph showing an example of the relationship between the temperature of the photosensitive drum of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment and the film abrasion rate. As shown in FIG. 13, the film abrasion rate increases as the temperature decreases and decreases as the temperature increases. Furthermore, the film abrasion rate changes more with temperature as the temperature decreases and decreases more with increasing temperature.

[0113] Based on these characteristics of the photosensitive drum 71, the image forming apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment stores the temperature and the total printing history, such as the number of sheets printed, in association with each other. The apparatus calculates the amount of film abrasion at each temperature, and then calculates the total amount of film abrasion at all temperatures, thereby estimating the current amount of film abrasion on the photosensitive drum 71. Furthermore, for example, the amount of film abrasion corresponding to the life of the photosensitive drum 71 can be set as a threshold value, and the lifespan can be determined by comparing the amount of film abrasion with the threshold value. Furthermore, the difference between the threshold value and the current amount of film abrasion can be divided by the film abrasion rate at a representative temperature, and then divided by the average number of sheets printed per day, thereby estimating the number of days remaining until the end of the lifespan of the photosensitive drum 71. In other words, the degree of wear on the photosensitive drum can be determined.

[0114] Furthermore, the image forming apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment performs the above-described operations by utilizing a thermometer 88 provided in the image forming unit 17. The thermometer 88 is a configuration that is generally provided for monitoring the image forming unit 17. By utilizing the thermometer 88, it is possible to suppress an increase in costs compared to the case where a circuit for measuring the characteristics of the photosensitive drum 71, such as a surface potential sensor or a current detection circuit, is provided.

[0115] Second Embodiment A printing system according to the second embodiment will be described. The printing system according to the second embodiment differs from the printing system according to the first embodiment in that the wear determination process and remaining life estimation process are performed jointly by the image forming apparatus 100, the server 300, and the serviceman terminal 400. The differences between the printing system according to the second embodiment and the first embodiment will be described below.

[0116] <Configuration> The configuration of the printing system according to the second embodiment is similar to the configuration of the printing system according to the first embodiment.

[0117] <Operation> The operation of the printing system according to the second embodiment differs from the operation of the printing system according to the first embodiment in that the wear determination process and remaining life estimation process are performed jointly by the image forming apparatus 100, the server 300, and the serviceman terminal 400. The operation of the printing system according to the second embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG.

[0118] 14 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation of the printing system according to the second embodiment. The image forming apparatus 100 transmits first print history information 1341 and second print history information 1342 (ACT41). In detail, the processor 131 of the image forming apparatus 100 controls the communication interface 12 to transmit the first print history information 1341 and second print history information 1342 stored in the auxiliary storage device 134 to the server 300. The processor 301 of the server 300 receives the data and saves the received data in the auxiliary storage device 304.

[0119] The server 300 executes a wear-out determination process (ACT42). Specifically, the processor 301 of the server 300 executes the wear-out determination process using the first print history information and the second print history information stored in the auxiliary storage device 304. If a condition is met during the wear-out determination process, the server 300 executes a remaining life estimation process. The wear-out determination process and remaining life estimation process by the server 300 are the same as the processes by the image forming apparatus 100 described in the first embodiment, except that the process of issuing a notification is replaced with a process of issuing a notification command to the serviceman terminal 400. When the wear-out determination process is executed in ACT42, the server 300 sends a command to the serviceman terminal 400 to notify that the degree of wear is high or the remaining life.

[0120] The serviceman terminal 400 notifies the user in accordance with the received command (ACT 43). In detail, the processor 401 of the serviceman terminal 400 controls the user interface 406 to notify the user of the serviceman terminal 400 that the degree of wear is high or the remaining life.

[0121] When the processing in ACT43 is completed, the series of processing shown in FIG. 14 is completed.

[0122] <Effects> As described above, according to the second embodiment, the first print history information and the second print history information are updated in the image forming apparatus 100 and transmitted to the server 300. The server 300 receives the data, executes a wear determination process and a remaining life estimation process, and transmits a command to the serviceman terminal 400 to notify the results. The serviceman terminal 400, upon receiving the command, notifies the user. Thus, the user of the serviceman terminal 400 can know the estimated results of the wear level of the photosensitive drum 71 based on the temperature and usage status of the image forming apparatus 100. These processes are executed in a general configuration. Thus, according to the second embodiment, as with the first embodiment, the wear level of the photosensitive drum can be determined while suppressing increases in costs.

[0123] <Other variations, etc.> In the above embodiment, the first print history information 1341 was described as an example in which temperatures were divided into 1°C increments, such as 5°C or less, 6°C, 7°C, ..., 38°C, 39°C, and 40°C or more. The temperatures may be divided into any units, or multiple units may be used. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a specific example of first print history information according to a modified example. In the example shown in FIG. 15, temperatures are divided into multiple units. In the range from 5°C or less to 15°C, temperatures are divided into 1°C increments, such as 5°C or less, 6°C, 7°C, ..., 13°C, 14°C, and 15°C. In the range from 16°C to 29°C, temperatures are divided into 2°C increments, such as 16-17°C, 18-19°C, ..., 26-27°C, and 28-29°C. In the range of 30°C to 40°C or higher, temperatures are divided in 5°C increments, such as 30-34°C, 35-39°C, and 40°C or higher. As explained with reference to Figure 13, the relationship between the film scraping rate of the photosensitive drum 71 and temperature tends to increase significantly at low temperatures, while changing little and the value tends to be low at high temperatures. Therefore, by setting high resolution for low temperatures, coarse resolution for high temperatures, and an intermediate resolution between those, it is possible to reduce the total number of temperature categories and the data volume while suppressing the impact on the wear determination process.

[0124] One way to determine whether the distribution of temperature ranges is denser on the high or low side is to divide the temperature range into upper and lower halves and compare the number of temperature ranges on the low side with the number on the high side. When dividing the temperature range, temperature ranges below X°C are treated as X°C, and temperature ranges above Y°C are treated as Y°C. This allows the temperature range to be defined even if the upper or lower temperature range includes both upper and lower temperature ranges. For example, using Figure 15 as an example, the temperature range is 5°C to 40°C, and half is 22.5°C. If the 22-23°C range, which includes the half of 22.5°C, is excluded from the count, the low side can be counted as 14 ranges and the high side as 6 ranges. This confirms that the distribution of temperature ranges is denser on the low side in the example of Figure 15.

[0125] In the above embodiment, the wear determination process and remaining life estimation process were described using the driving distance from the total printing history. The wear determination process and remaining life determination process can also be performed using other examples of the total printing history, such as the number of jobs, the number of sheets passed, and the driving time. For example, when the number of jobs is used, the number of jobs can be converted into driving distance by determining the driving distance per job. When the number of sheets passed is used, the number of sheets passed can be converted into driving distance by determining the driving distance per sheet. When the driving time is used, the driving time can be converted into driving distance by determining the driving distance per unit time.

[0126] In the above embodiment, the representative temperature value is calculated from the number of jobs in the remaining life estimation process. The elements referenced when calculating the representative temperature value are not limited to the number of jobs, and other elements of the total printing history, such as the number of sheets passed, the driving time, and the driving distance, may also be used. Furthermore, the representative temperature value is not limited to being selected by calculating the median value, and may be, for example, the average value.

[0127] In the above embodiment, the thermometer 88 that measures temperature in a non-contact manner is provided in the image forming unit 17. However, the thermometer may be, for example, a thermometer that measures temperature by contacting the photosensitive drum 71. Alternatively, a thermometer may be provided in each photosensitive drum 71.

[0128] The thermometer 88 in the above embodiment may be called a temperature acquisition unit. The image forming unit 17 in the above embodiment may be called a printing unit. The auxiliary storage device 134 in the above embodiment may be called a storage unit.

[0129] Note that some or all of the embodiments and modified examples may be described as in the following notes, but are not limited to the following. [Appendix 1] a temperature acquisition unit that acquires a temperature; a printing unit that performs printing using a photosensitive member; a storage unit that stores a total print history associated with a temperature for a plurality of temperatures; a processor that updates the total print history corresponding to the temperature acquired by the temperature acquisition unit based on the execution of printing by the printing unit; Equipped with The processor estimates a degree of wear of the photosensitive member based on a plurality of the total print histories. [Appendix 2] The image forming apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processor performs the estimation by calculating a multiplication value for each of the plurality of total printing histories by multiplying the total printing history by a coefficient corresponding to the associated temperature, and then calculating the sum of the multiplication values. [Appendix 3] The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the processor compares the result of the estimation with a threshold value, and if the result of the estimation is greater than the threshold value, notifies that the degree of wear of the photosensitive member is high. [Appendix 4] The image forming apparatus of claim 3, wherein, when the result of the estimation is equal to or less than the threshold, the processor further estimates the number of days it will take for the estimation result to exceed the threshold based on a plurality of the total printing histories. [Appendix 5] The storage unit further stores a print execution status for a certain period of time, The image forming apparatus of claim 4, wherein the processor calculates a representative temperature value based on a plurality of the total printing histories, and estimates the number of days based on the representative temperature value and the printing execution status per the certain period. [Appendix 6] 6. The image forming apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the representative temperature value is a median value of the plurality of temperatures. [Appendix 7] 6. The image forming apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the representative temperature value is an average value of the plurality of temperatures. [Appendix 8] An image forming apparatus as described in Appendix 1, wherein when the temperature range covered by the multiple temperatures is divided into upper and lower halves, the number of temperature divisions included on the low temperature side is greater than the number of temperature divisions included on the high temperature side. [Appendix 9] The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein each of the total printing histories includes at least one of the number of jobs, the number of printed sheets, the driving distance of the photosensitive member, and the driving time of the photosensitive member. [Appendix 10] a communication interface for receiving a plurality of total print histories stored in association with temperatures at the time of printing from an image forming apparatus that performs printing using a photosensitive member; a processor that estimates a degree of wear of the photoconductor based on a plurality of the total print histories, and controls the communication interface based on the result of the estimation to transmit a command to an external information terminal to notify the wear of the photoconductor; A server comprising:

[0130] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, and are also included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents as defined in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0131] 100...image forming apparatus, 2...toner cartridge, 11...casing, 12...communication interface, 13...system controller, 14...paper tray, 15...output tray, 16...conveyor, 17...image forming unit, 18...fixing unit, 19...scanner unit, 20...control panel, 21...automatic document feeder, 22...touch panel, 23...keyboard, 30...motor, 31...paper feed path, 32...output path, 33...pickup roller, 34...heat roller, 35...pressure roller, 41...process unit, 42...transfer unit, 51...toner storage container, 52...toner delivery mechanism, 53...memory, 60...loading unit, 61...toner supply motor, 71...photosensitive drum, 72...cleaner, 73...charging unit, 74...exposure head, 75...developer, 76...image forming unit, 81...developer container, 82...mixing side mixer, 83...developer Image roller side mixer, 84...developing roller, 85...doctor blade, 86...ATC sensor, 88...thermometer, 91...transfer belt, 92...secondary transfer opposing roller, 93...first transfer roller, 94...second transfer roller, 131...processor, 132...ROM, 133...RAM, 134...auxiliary storage device, 721...blade, 731...grid electrode, 1341...first printing history information, 1342...second printing history information, 200...user terminal, 300...server, 301...processor, 302...ROM, 303...RAM, 304...auxiliary storage device, 305...communication interface, 400...serviceman terminal, 401...processor, 402...ROM, 403...RAM, 404...auxiliary storage device, 405...communication interface, 406...user interface, 500...internal network, 600...external network.

Claims

1. a temperature acquisition unit that acquires a temperature; a printing unit that performs printing using a photosensitive member; a storage unit that stores a total print history associated with a temperature for a plurality of temperatures; a processor that updates the total print history corresponding to the temperature acquired by the temperature acquisition unit based on the execution of printing by the printing unit; Equipped with The processor estimates a degree of wear of the photosensitive member based on a plurality of the total print histories.

2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the processor performs the estimation by calculating a multiplication value for each of the plurality of total printing histories by multiplying the total printing history by a coefficient corresponding to the associated temperature, and then calculating a sum of the multiplication values.

3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the processor compares the result of the estimation with a threshold value, and when the result of the estimation is greater than the threshold value, notifies that the degree of wear of the photosensitive member is high.

4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3 , wherein, when the result of the estimation is equal to or less than the threshold value, the processor further estimates the number of days required for the result of the estimation to exceed the threshold value based on a plurality of the total print histories.

5. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when a temperature range covered by the plurality of temperatures is divided into upper and lower halves, the number of temperature sections included on the low temperature side is greater than the number of temperature sections included on the high temperature side.

6. a communication interface for receiving a plurality of total print histories stored in association with temperatures at the time of printing from an image forming apparatus that performs printing using a photosensitive member; a processor that estimates a degree of wear of the photoconductor based on a plurality of the total print histories, and controls the communication interface based on the result of the estimation to transmit a command to an external information terminal to notify the wear of the photoconductor; A server comprising:

Images